Heritage bodies said on Friday that UNESCO would throw a “harsher spotlight” on the UK’s other 31 listed sites after Liverpool became only the third place in nearly 50 years to be stripped of its world heritage status.&nbsp;

Sites expected to come under the scrutiny of the body include Stonehenge, Edinburgh’s new and old towns, the Tower of London and Cornwall’s historic mining area.

The president of World Heritage UK, Chris Blandford, has complained that there was a “low awareness at the government level” of the importance of the country’s Unesco sites.&nbsp;

He further said many were critically underfunded and that ministers had shown a “great reluctance to want to make the most of our World Heritage offer”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liverpool-removed-from-unescos-heritage-list-due-to-overdevelopment-399460">Also read |&nbsp;Liverpool removed from UNESCO's heritage list due to 'overdevelopment'</a>

However, the UNESCO chiefs criticised the UK government for failing to “fulfil its obligations” to protect Liverpool’s Victorian waterfront. They also&nbsp;blamed years of development for an “irreversible loss” to its historic value.

Liverpool has been removed from the UNESCO’s world heritage list as experts think there has been overdevelopment in the British city in the last few years.

"It means that the site of Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City is deleted from the World Heritage List," Tian Xuejun, chairman of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, said.

Liverpool had been on this heritage list due to its charm and the rich past related to the historic port in northwest England city.

However, the delegates believe the city has been indulging in overdevelopment. The committee spent two days discussing the plans for redevelopment and introduction of more ‘high-rise’ buildings as well as a new football stadium. 
&nbsp;

Heritage bodies said on Friday that UNESCO would throw a “harsher spotlight” on the UK’s other 31 listed sites after Liverpool became only the third place in nearly 50 years to be stripped of its world heritage status.

Heritage bodies said on Friday that UNESCO would throw a “harsher spotlight” on the UK’s other 31 listed sites after Liverpool became only the third place in nearly 50 years to be stripped of its world heritage status. Sites expected to come under the scrutiny of the body include Stonehenge, Edinburgh’s new and old towns, the Tower of London and Cornwall’s historic mining area. The president of World Heritage UK, Chris Blandford, has complained that there was a “low awareness at the government level” of the importance of the country’s Unesco sites. He further said many were critically underfunded and that ministers had shown a “great reluctance to want to make the most of our World Heritage offer”. Also read | Liverpool removed from UNESCO's heritage list due to 'overdevelopment' However, the UNESCO chiefs criticised the UK government for failing to “fulfil its obligations” to protect Liverpool’s Victorian waterfront. They also blamed years of development for an “irreversible loss” to its historic value. Liverpool has been removed from the UNESCO’s world heritage list as experts think there has been overdevelopment in the British city in the last few years. "It means that the site of Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City is deleted from the World Heritage List," Tian Xuejun, chairman of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, said. Liverpool had been on this heritage list due to its charm and the rich past related to the historic port in northwest England city. However, the delegates believe the city has been indulging in overdevelopment. The committee spent two days discussing the plans for redevelopment and introduction of more ‘high-rise’ buildings as well as a new football stadium.

Stonehenge could lose world heritage status, here is why

Liverpool has been removed from the UNESCO’s world heritage list as experts think there has been overdevelopment in the British city in the last few years.

"It means that the site of Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City is deleted from the World Heritage List," Tian Xuejun, chairman of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, said.

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The decision was taken after 13 delegates of the committee, chaired by China, voted in favour of the plan and only five delegates gave a negative reply. This&nbsp;was one more than the two-thirds majority that is required to delete a site from the world heritage site.

Liverpool had been on this heritage list due to its charm and the rich past related to the historic port in northwest England city. However, the delegates believe the city has been indulging in overdevelopment. The committee spent two days discussing the plans for redevelopment and introduction of more ‘high-rise’ buildings as well as a new football stadium.

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After the days-long discussions, the committee decided these developments would "irreversibly damage" the heritage the city offers in terms of the historic port.

The committee also feels that the new Everton football stadium, which was approved without considering public opinion, "is the most recent example of a major project that is completely contrary" to the UNESCO values.

However, the decision has rocked the emotions of Liverpool authorities who feel it will be a “huge loss” and a big disappointment.

"It's quite difficult for me to comprehend how UNESCO would rather have us having an empty dock site rather than the Everton stadium at Bramley Moore Dock," the city’s newly elected mayor Joanne Anderson said.

Australia, Brazil, Hungary, and Nigeria stood in support of Liverpool and argued that the decision should be deferred by at least a year and the authorities should be given some time to show a changed behaviour.&nbsp;Norway, however, argued that the important balance between development and heritage conversation was missing in Liverpool.

Liverpool has been removed from the UNESCO’s world heritage list as experts think there has been overdevelopment in the British city in the last few years. "It means that the site of Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City is deleted from the World Heritage List," Tian Xuejun, chairman of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, said.

Liverpool has been removed from the UNESCO’s world heritage list as experts think there has been overdevelopment in the British city in the last few years. "It means that the site of Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City is deleted from the World Heritage List," Tian Xuejun, chairman of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, said. Also read | Australia to challenge UNESCO downgrade of Great Barrier Reef The decision was taken after 13 delegates of the committee, chaired by China, voted in favour of the plan and only five delegates gave a negative reply. This was one more than the two-thirds majority that is required to delete a site from the world heritage site. Liverpool had been on this heritage list due to its charm and the rich past related to the historic port in northwest England city. However, the delegates believe the city has been indulging in overdevelopment. The committee spent two days discussing the plans for redevelopment and introduction of more ‘high-rise’ buildings as well as a new football stadium. Also read | Dance battle: Peru and Bolivia fight over origin of 'La Morenada' After the days-long discussions, the committee decided these developments would "irreversibly damage" the heritage the city offers in terms of the historic port. The committee also feels that the new Everton football stadium, which was approved without considering public opinion, "is the most recent example of a major project that is completely contrary" to the UNESCO values. However, the decision has rocked the emotions of Liverpool authorities who feel it will be a “huge loss” and a big disappointment. "It's quite difficult for me to comprehend how UNESCO would rather have us having an empty dock site rather than the Everton stadium at Bramley Moore Dock," the city’s newly elected mayor Joanne Anderson said. Australia, Brazil, Hungary, and Nigeria stood in support of Liverpool and argued that the decision should be deferred by at least a year and the authorities should be given some time to show a changed behaviour. Norway, however, argued that the important balance between development and heritage conversation was missing in Liverpool.

Liverpool removed from UNESCO's heritage list due to 'overdevelopment'

Liverpool players paid tribute to a nine-year-old fan who was killed by a lightning strike by wearing t-shirts bearing his name during the warm-up ahead of Thursday's 4-2 win at Manchester United.

Jordan Banks was rushed to hospital after he was seriously injured in a lightning strike during a coaching session with Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club in Blackpool on Tuesday. He died soon after.

"You'll never walk alone, Jordan Banks," Liverpool said on Twitter. "Nicknamed 'mini-Milner' by his coaches, Jordan was a brilliant person, as well as a passionate footballer. We're all thinking of his loved ones tonight."

United also paid tribute, saying: "The thoughts of everyone at #MUFC are with Jordan's loved ones tonight."

In January, Banks raised 2,500 pounds ($3,511) by running 30 miles for mental health services after his uncle took his own life in 2018.

Liverpool vice-captain James Milner had sent him two shirts at the time, one for Banks himself and another to raise money for the cause. Milner dedicated Thursday's win to Banks, which moved Liverpool up to fifth in the Premier League.

Liverpool players paid tribute to a nine-year-old fan who was killed by a lightning strike by wearing t-shirts bearing his name during the warm-up ahead of Thursday's 4-2 win at Manchester United.

Liverpool players paid tribute to a nine-year-old fan who was killed by a lightning strike by wearing t-shirts bearing his name during the warm-up ahead of Thursday's 4-2 win at Manchester United. Jordan Banks was rushed to hospital after he was seriously injured in a lightning strike during a coaching session with Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club in Blackpool on Tuesday. He died soon after. "You'll never walk alone, Jordan Banks," Liverpool said on Twitter. "Nicknamed 'mini-Milner' by his coaches, Jordan was a brilliant person, as well as a passionate footballer. We're all thinking of his loved ones tonight." United also paid tribute, saying: "The thoughts of everyone at #MUFC are with Jordan's loved ones tonight." In January, Banks raised 2,500 pounds ($3,511) by running 30 miles for mental health services after his uncle took his own life in 2018. Liverpool vice-captain James Milner had sent him two shirts at the time, one for Banks himself and another to raise money for the cause. Milner dedicated Thursday's win to Banks, which moved Liverpool up to fifth in the Premier League.

Liverpool pay tribute to young fan killed by lightning strike

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled.&nbsp;

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On May 2, several Manchester United fans broke into Old Trafford demanding change in the club's ownership after the European Super League incident. These protests took place before the high-profile match against arch-rivals Liverpool. Greater Manchester Police has since said that six of its officers were injured during the protest, which ended up postponing the much-awaited match.

"There are no concerns. We trust the authorities, we were not in danger last time," Klopp told a news conference. "I have no idea what happens tomorrow but I am not concerned."

Jurgen Klopp's side is having a rough year, his side is currently sixth on 57 points from 34 games, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand and are barely in the race for the Champions League spot.&nbsp;

"Our plan was to win all the games," he said. "But do we have to take more risks? Possible but it's not planned. If you play a game and think only about attacking, you have lost before the first whistle."

Klopp talked about Van Dijk, who ruled himself out of the European Championships in order to fully recover for Liverpool.&nbsp;

"I never wanted to cut the Euros off but I always knew with common sense, it was never possible," he added.

Klopp also said captain Jordan Henderson, who has not played since late February after undergoing surgery on a groin injury, could be fit for the Euros.

"I think there's a chance - unfortunately not for us but for England," he said.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled. IN PICS| 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win On May 2, several Manchester United fans broke into Old Trafford demanding change in the club's ownership after the European Super League incident. These protests took place before the high-profile match against arch-rivals Liverpool. Greater Manchester Police has since said that six of its officers were injured during the protest, which ended up postponing the much-awaited match. "There are no concerns. We trust the authorities, we were not in danger last time," Klopp told a news conference. "I have no idea what happens tomorrow but I am not concerned." Jurgen Klopp's side is having a rough year, his side is currently sixth on 57 points from 34 games, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand and are barely in the race for the Champions League spot. "Our plan was to win all the games," he said. "But do we have to take more risks? Possible but it's not planned. If you play a game and think only about attacking, you have lost before the first whistle." Klopp talked about Van Dijk, who ruled himself out of the European Championships in order to fully recover for Liverpool. "I never wanted to cut the Euros off but I always knew with common sense, it was never possible," he added. Klopp also said captain Jordan Henderson, who has not played since late February after undergoing surgery on a groin injury, could be fit for the Euros. "I think there's a chance - unfortunately not for us but for England," he said. (Inputs from Reuters)

'We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule.

United travel to Aston Villa on Sunday before hosting Leicester City on Tuesday. The rearranged fixture with Liverpool, postponed last weekend following fan protests, has been scheduled for 48 hours later on Thursday.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he may have no other option but to rotate his squad heavily because of the fixture pile-up.

But Klopp expects a tough test against United, who are second in the league on 67 points after 33 games, 10 points ahead of sixth-placed Liverpool who have played a game more.

"I expect a strong team against us," Klopp said after Saturday's 2-0 win over Southampton. "I think Man United has only good players.

"If I think about the players they could play, they have a really strong side available. Midfield, wow. Up front, all good players. They might be young but they are good.

"What they do in other games, we obviously have no influence but we would have played the strongest Manchester United side last Sunday and that's what we expect now."

Liverpool kept themselves in the hunt for a top-four finish after Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara scored in Saturday's win at Anfield.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule. United travel to Aston Villa on Sunday before hosting Leicester City on Tuesday. The rearranged fixture with Liverpool, postponed last weekend following fan protests, has been scheduled for 48 hours later on Thursday. United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he may have no other option but to rotate his squad heavily because of the fixture pile-up. But Klopp expects a tough test against United, who are second in the league on 67 points after 33 games, 10 points ahead of sixth-placed Liverpool who have played a game more. "I expect a strong team against us," Klopp said after Saturday's 2-0 win over Southampton. "I think Man United has only good players. "If I think about the players they could play, they have a really strong side available. Midfield, wow. Up front, all good players. They might be young but they are good. "What they do in other games, we obviously have no influence but we would have played the strongest Manchester United side last Sunday and that's what we expect now." Liverpool kept themselves in the hunt for a top-four finish after Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara scored in Saturday's win at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp expects strong United squad in rearranged game despite fixture pile-up

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk`s recovery and return to full fitness will determine whether he can play for the Netherlands in this year`s European Championship, and the 29-year-old must not be rushed back to action, manager Juergen Klopp said. 
 
Van Dijk had surgery on a knee injury in October and Klopp had previously said he thought the European tournament starting in June would likely come too early for the centre back. 
 
Netherlands coach Frank de Boer had said he will not count on the team`s captain being ready for the tournament but it would be a "fantastic bonus" if he is fit. 
 
Asked who will decide if Van Dijk can play at the European Championship, Klopp told reporters: "Virgil`s knee. I don`t want to hold him back, but you can`t force it as well. 
 
"You can`t after 10-11 months out, train a week and play football. That`s just not possible, it shouldn`t be possible. 
 
"Nobody holds him back, I can promise all the people in the Netherlands or wherever. But we can`t force it as well and we`ll not. We speak about a player and his career." 
 
Van Dijk is yet to return to full training with Liverpool but is making steady progress. 
 
"He just tries to get fit as quick as possible," Klopp said. 
 
"In the moment, nobody knows when that (his return) will be exactly but you can imagine it`ll be tight with the Euros ... because he`s not in team training yet and will not be in the next weeks. So, I don`t know. 
 
"But in the end it`s the decision of Virgil and he`ll get massively influenced by the feeling in his knee."

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk`s recovery and return to full fitness will determine whether he can play for the Netherlands in this year`s European Championship, and the 29-year-old must not be rushed back to action, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk`s recovery and return to full fitness will determine whether he can play for the Netherlands in this year`s European Championship, and the 29-year-old must not be rushed back to action, manager Juergen Klopp said. Van Dijk had surgery on a knee injury in October and Klopp had previously said he thought the European tournament starting in June would likely come too early for the centre back. Netherlands coach Frank de Boer had said he will not count on the team`s captain being ready for the tournament but it would be a "fantastic bonus" if he is fit. Asked who will decide if Van Dijk can play at the European Championship, Klopp told reporters: "Virgil`s knee. I don`t want to hold him back, but you can`t force it as well. "You can`t after 10-11 months out, train a week and play football. That`s just not possible, it shouldn`t be possible. "Nobody holds him back, I can promise all the people in the Netherlands or wherever. But we can`t force it as well and we`ll not. We speak about a player and his career." Van Dijk is yet to return to full training with Liverpool but is making steady progress. "He just tries to get fit as quick as possible," Klopp said. "In the moment, nobody knows when that (his return) will be exactly but you can imagine it`ll be tight with the Euros ... because he`s not in team training yet and will not be in the next weeks. So, I don`t know. "But in the end it`s the decision of Virgil and he`ll get massively influenced by the feeling in his knee."

Liverpool's Klopp says Van Dijk cannot be rushed back from injury

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. 
 
Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. 
 
But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. 
 
Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. 
 
They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. 
 
"We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. 
 
"Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." 
 
The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. 
 
Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. 
 
"We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. 
 
"It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." 
 
Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone.

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes.

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. "We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. "Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. "We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. "It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone.

Late Willock strike earns Newcastle 1-1 draw against wasteful Liverpool

Having been major players in the doomed plan to wreck the Champions League this week, Chelsea and Liverpool face a crucial weekend trying to ensure they qualify for next season`s edition via a top-four finish in the Premier League. 
 
Chelsea edged back into the top four with a draw against Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday, but only by virtue of goal difference over West Ham United who they face on Saturday. 
 
West Ham, were one of the most vocal clubs in criticising Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal`s decision to jump on board the European Super League ship, calling it an "attack on football". 
 
Chelsea and the other five English renegades all made dramatic U-turns on Tuesday, effectively killing off the new 20-club league in which 15 founder members would have been guaranteed permanent residence. 
 
The sense of outrage lingers, however, and West Ham will have acquired an army of new fans for their home clash with Chelsea -- those left bitter at the thought of a European closed shop replacing hard-earned rewards. 
 
Newcastle United might also have a little added motivation when they travel to Anfield to play Liverpool a few hours earlier as they seek an unlikely victory that would surely banish their relegation fears. 
 
David Moyes` West Ham have been a revelation this season but with the prize of a top-four finish tantalisingly close they suffered a fit of nerves last week in a 3-2 defeat at Newcastle. 
 
But the fact that Chelsea drew 0-0 draw with Brighton on Tuesday and Liverpool also failed to beat Leeds United on Monday let them off the hook and left the top-four battle on a knife edge with Chelsea and West Ham on 55 points and Liverpool on 53, all having six games remaining. 
 
Tottenham Hotspur also have 53 after a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Wednesday, but only have five games left. 
 
Tottenham face Manchester City in the League Cup final on Sunday with interim manager Ryan Mason in charge following Monday`s sacking of Jose Mourinho. 
 
It is a measure of West Ham`s improvement that when they hosted Chelsea at an almost identical stage last season they were scrapping for their top-flight lives -- a 3-2 win proving the catalyst for their escape. 
 
This time they are chasing a very different prize. 
 
West Ham will most likely be missing the injured Declan Rice and Michail Antonio while Craig Dawson is suspended and there are doubts over Aaron Cresswell and Arthur Masuaku. 
 
While that is not ideal, Chelsea may have one eye on their Champions League semi-final, first leg at Real Madrid three days later. 
 
"We are in fourth place, it`s in our hands. It`s a tight race," Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said after the Brighton draw. "We`ve missed two opportunities in home matches and this worries me a little bit. But we have to keep going." 
 
Leicester City (56 points) are in action against West Bromwich Albion later on Thursday when victory would cement them in third place. They then host Crystal Palace on Monday. 
 
In view of the events of this week, second-placed Manchester United will be happy that they do not have to face Leeds United in front of a baying Elland Road crowd on Saturday. 
 
A sixth successive league win for United would make Champions League football next season a virtual certainty. 
 
At the bottom, Burnley still have a six-point cushion over 18th-placed Fulham but three successive defeats have left them looking nervously over their shoulders and they will be desperate to get something at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.

Having been major players in the doomed plan to wreck the Champions League this week, Chelsea and Liverpool face a crucial weekend trying to ensure they qualify for next season`s edition via a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Having been major players in the doomed plan to wreck the Champions League this week, Chelsea and Liverpool face a crucial weekend trying to ensure they qualify for next season`s edition via a top-four finish in the Premier League. Chelsea edged back into the top four with a draw against Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday, but only by virtue of goal difference over West Ham United who they face on Saturday. West Ham, were one of the most vocal clubs in criticising Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal`s decision to jump on board the European Super League ship, calling it an "attack on football". Chelsea and the other five English renegades all made dramatic U-turns on Tuesday, effectively killing off the new 20-club league in which 15 founder members would have been guaranteed permanent residence. The sense of outrage lingers, however, and West Ham will have acquired an army of new fans for their home clash with Chelsea -- those left bitter at the thought of a European closed shop replacing hard-earned rewards. Newcastle United might also have a little added motivation when they travel to Anfield to play Liverpool a few hours earlier as they seek an unlikely victory that would surely banish their relegation fears. David Moyes` West Ham have been a revelation this season but with the prize of a top-four finish tantalisingly close they suffered a fit of nerves last week in a 3-2 defeat at Newcastle. But the fact that Chelsea drew 0-0 draw with Brighton on Tuesday and Liverpool also failed to beat Leeds United on Monday let them off the hook and left the top-four battle on a knife edge with Chelsea and West Ham on 55 points and Liverpool on 53, all having six games remaining. Tottenham Hotspur also have 53 after a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Wednesday, but only have five games left. Tottenham face Manchester City in the League Cup final on Sunday with interim manager Ryan Mason in charge following Monday`s sacking of Jose Mourinho. It is a measure of West Ham`s improvement that when they hosted Chelsea at an almost identical stage last season they were scrapping for their top-flight lives -- a 3-2 win proving the catalyst for their escape. This time they are chasing a very different prize. West Ham will most likely be missing the injured Declan Rice and Michail Antonio while Craig Dawson is suspended and there are doubts over Aaron Cresswell and Arthur Masuaku. While that is not ideal, Chelsea may have one eye on their Champions League semi-final, first leg at Real Madrid three days later. "We are in fourth place, it`s in our hands. It`s a tight race," Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said after the Brighton draw. "We`ve missed two opportunities in home matches and this worries me a little bit. But we have to keep going." Leicester City (56 points) are in action against West Bromwich Albion later on Thursday when victory would cement them in third place. They then host Crystal Palace on Monday. In view of the events of this week, second-placed Manchester United will be happy that they do not have to face Leeds United in front of a baying Elland Road crowd on Saturday. A sixth successive league win for United would make Champions League football next season a virtual certainty. At the bottom, Burnley still have a six-point cushion over 18th-placed Fulham but three successive defeats have left them looking nervously over their shoulders and they will be desperate to get something at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.

Chelsea and Liverpool face fight to qualify for Champions League on merit

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

If the English champions are to reach the semi-finals for the third time in four years, they will instead need their manager Jurgen Klopp to conjure the motivation and tactical masterplan to once again eliminate one of Spanish football's giants.

Klopp has earned near God-like status on Merseyside for delivering a sixth European Cup and a first league title for 30 years to Liverpool.

But the charismatic German has been unable to halt the Reds' fall from grace this season.

With seven games to play in the Premier League, it is already mathematically impossible for Liverpool to retain their title as they lie 22 points adrift of Manchester City in fifth.

Hopes the Champions League could prove the salvation of a disappointing season were also dashed as Real ran riot in the first 45 minutes in Madrid last week to open up a commanding first-leg lead.

Liverpool's deficit is not as steep as when Barcelona visited two years ago in the semi-finals in what turned out to be arguably the greatest of all the memorable European nights at Anfield.

Depleted by injuries, Klopp's men still rolled over Barca's stellar cast of star names 4-0 on their way to winning the trophy.

But Klopp hinted that the task may be even greater now in front of the sterile atmosphere of an empty stadium due to coronavirus restrictions.

"If you want to have some emotional memories, then you watch the Barcelona game back and 80 percent of this game was the atmosphere in the stadium, so yes, we have to do it without that," said Klopp after the first leg.

<h2>- Klopp's Kop collapse -</h2>

Liverpool can claim to have suffered more than most from an entire season behind closed doors.

Prior to January, they were unbeaten in 68 home Premier League games. That club-record run was followed by a less treasured one as for the first time Liverpool then lost six consecutive games at Anfield.

A late winner to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Saturday snapped that streak, but only served to reinforce that Liverpool are not the force of the past two seasons.

On top of empty stadiums, injuries have also played a major role. Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip will again be missing for the visit of Madrid, while Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota's first season at the club has been disrupted by lengthy layoffs.

Yet, Klopp has to also take his share of the blame for some of his side's failings. The decision to drop Thiago in favour of Naby Keita, in just his second start since December, for the first leg last week backfired big time.

Keita was substituted for the Spanish international after just 42 minutes with Liverpool 2-0 down and chasing the shadows of Madrid's midfield trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

The decision to shunt Fabinho into central defence to cover for the loss of three centre-backs to season-ending injuries for much of the campaign also served to destabilise two areas of the field rather than one.

Thiago and Fabinho are expected to be paired together on Wednesday to try and wrestle control from Madrid's talented triumvirate, but Klopp also has a big decision to make up front.

His patience with the poor form of Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino has finally ran out as each has been benched for one of the past two games.

With Liverpool in need of goals, whoever Klopp puts his faith in alongside Jota and Mohamed Salah in attack needs to be clinical if their manager is to rediscover his midas touch.

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday. If the English champions are to reach the semi-finals for the third time in four years, they will instead need their manager Jurgen Klopp to conjure the motivation and tactical masterplan to once again eliminate one of Spanish football's giants. Klopp has earned near God-like status on Merseyside for delivering a sixth European Cup and a first league title for 30 years to Liverpool. But the charismatic German has been unable to halt the Reds' fall from grace this season. With seven games to play in the Premier League, it is already mathematically impossible for Liverpool to retain their title as they lie 22 points adrift of Manchester City in fifth. Hopes the Champions League could prove the salvation of a disappointing season were also dashed as Real ran riot in the first 45 minutes in Madrid last week to open up a commanding first-leg lead. Liverpool's deficit is not as steep as when Barcelona visited two years ago in the semi-finals in what turned out to be arguably the greatest of all the memorable European nights at Anfield. Depleted by injuries, Klopp's men still rolled over Barca's stellar cast of star names 4-0 on their way to winning the trophy. But Klopp hinted that the task may be even greater now in front of the sterile atmosphere of an empty stadium due to coronavirus restrictions. "If you want to have some emotional memories, then you watch the Barcelona game back and 80 percent of this game was the atmosphere in the stadium, so yes, we have to do it without that," said Klopp after the first leg. - Klopp's Kop collapse - Liverpool can claim to have suffered more than most from an entire season behind closed doors. Prior to January, they were unbeaten in 68 home Premier League games. That club-record run was followed by a less treasured one as for the first time Liverpool then lost six consecutive games at Anfield. A late winner to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Saturday snapped that streak, but only served to reinforce that Liverpool are not the force of the past two seasons. On top of empty stadiums, injuries have also played a major role. Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip will again be missing for the visit of Madrid, while Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota's first season at the club has been disrupted by lengthy layoffs. Yet, Klopp has to also take his share of the blame for some of his side's failings. The decision to drop Thiago in favour of Naby Keita, in just his second start since December, for the first leg last week backfired big time. Keita was substituted for the Spanish international after just 42 minutes with Liverpool 2-0 down and chasing the shadows of Madrid's midfield trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. The decision to shunt Fabinho into central defence to cover for the loss of three centre-backs to season-ending injuries for much of the campaign also served to destabilise two areas of the field rather than one. Thiago and Fabinho are expected to be paired together on Wednesday to try and wrestle control from Madrid's talented triumvirate, but Klopp also has a big decision to make up front. His patience with the poor form of Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino has finally ran out as each has been benched for one of the past two games. With Liverpool in need of goals, whoever Klopp puts his faith in alongside Jota and Mohamed Salah in attack needs to be clinical if their manager is to rediscover his midas touch.

Liverpool need Klopp to rediscover magic touch for Real Madrid rescue act

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season.

It is a loss that lingers in the memory for Klopp, who dismissed suggestions a 4-1 FA Cup win in January counted as any sort of payback as Villa fielded an academy side following a coronavirus outbreak among the first-team ranks.

"No, we played a different Aston Villa that night," he said on Friday. "Of course we have to put things right, that's clear. You cannot put a game like this to one side immediately, that's not possible.

"We had to work with it. A lot of things showed us in that game which were a problem that day, some of the problems we had before, some of the problems we never had before."

"Things like this should not happen but it happened to us," he added.&nbsp;

"It was a really strange game. I have the game in my mind and which way I will use it I am not sure yet."

Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick in Villa's 7-2 win and his goals have helped his team establish themselves in the top half of the table, just five points behind faltering champions Liverpool.

Liverpool are desperate to end their Anfield jinx as they seek to return to the top four, at least temporarily -- Klopp's men have lost their past six Premier League games at home.

They will also be looking to bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final this week, when Naby Keita was withdrawn before half-time.

It was just the Guinean's second European start of the season but the gamble backfired as he was replaced by Thiago Alcantara with Liverpool's midfield in disarray.

"The substitution in the last game was a decision I made in that moment," said Klopp. "We had to sort the game for us and it was difficult to do that without making a change.

"After the game, yesterday, we spoke and everything is OK. I explained the decision and he accepted it, obviously, so now we carry on."

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season.

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season. It is a loss that lingers in the memory for Klopp, who dismissed suggestions a 4-1 FA Cup win in January counted as any sort of payback as Villa fielded an academy side following a coronavirus outbreak among the first-team ranks. "No, we played a different Aston Villa that night," he said on Friday. "Of course we have to put things right, that's clear. You cannot put a game like this to one side immediately, that's not possible. "We had to work with it. A lot of things showed us in that game which were a problem that day, some of the problems we had before, some of the problems we never had before." "Things like this should not happen but it happened to us," he added. "It was a really strange game. I have the game in my mind and which way I will use it I am not sure yet." Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick in Villa's 7-2 win and his goals have helped his team establish themselves in the top half of the table, just five points behind faltering champions Liverpool. Liverpool are desperate to end their Anfield jinx as they seek to return to the top four, at least temporarily -- Klopp's men have lost their past six Premier League games at home. They will also be looking to bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final this week, when Naby Keita was withdrawn before half-time. It was just the Guinean's second European start of the season but the gamble backfired as he was replaced by Thiago Alcantara with Liverpool's midfield in disarray. "The substitution in the last game was a decision I made in that moment," said Klopp. "We had to sort the game for us and it was difficult to do that without making a change. "After the game, yesterday, we spoke and everything is OK. I explained the decision and he accepted it, obviously, so now we carry on."

Liverpool seek to avenge Aston Villa mauling

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016.

At the bottom, Fulham have a chance to lift themselves out of the relegation zone while Manchester United will seek revenge at Tottenham after their 6-1 humiliation earlier this season.

AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the English top-flight.

<h2>Can Liverpool stop Anfield rot?</h2>

When Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1 at Anfield in mid-December it appeared to be business as usual for Jurgen Klopp's side.

But little did they know that they would reach April with no further wins on their home turf and a paltry two goals to show for their efforts.

The Premier League champions take on mid-table Aston Villa on Saturday with a chance to clamber back into the top four, at least temporarily.

Liverpool suffered a chastening 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek but results in the Premier League last weekend went in their favour.

Klopp described their 3-0 win at sorry Arsenal as a "very important statement" but his side must rediscover the winning formula at home after six successive defeats in the league.

<h2>Lingard leads charge for hungry West Ham</h2>

Jesse Lingard is a revitalised player since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester United, where he had become a forgotten man.

The England midfielder flourished in the early days of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's reign at Old Trafford but became an increasingly peripheral figure as Bruno Fernandes assumed the main creative role.

But the 28-year-old has made up for lost time since arriving at the London Stadium in January, scoring six goals in eight Premier League matches.

He has also won back his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad.

West Ham, who host Leicester on Sunday, are fourth in the Premier League table, one point clear of Chelsea with eight games remaining.

Lingard, who scored a spectacular goal and played a part in the other two in Monday's 3-2 win against Wolves, has urged his team-mates to stay level-headed.

"We need to maintain our focus in each game," he said. "We've got a tough run of fixtures but the lads are ready and we'll prepare for the next game."

<h2>Newcastle fight to stay clear of drop zone</h2>

Newcastle, who have been flirting with the relegation places, could find themselves in the bottom three by the time they kick off on Sunday if Fulham beat Wolves.

Steve Bruce's side have won just two of their past 21 games in all competitions but the manager has dismissed suggestions of a split in the camp.

"That is the big thing that frustrates us all, a so-called mole in the dressing room, certain players unhappy, blah, blah, blah, the spirit is not good, this nonsense," he said.

The Magpies can take some confidence ahead of the game against Burnley from last weekend's 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

Fulham themselves have not taken advantage of Newcastle's struggles but would climb above them on goal difference if they beat Wolves on Friday.

Manager Scott Parker said his team would "fight and scrap" to stay in the division.

Bottom-placed Sheffield United appear doomed but there is a flicker of hope at 19th-placed West Brom, who hammered 10-man Chelsea 5-2 last week.

<h2>Fixtures (GMT)</h2>

Friday

Fulham v Wolves (1900)

Saturday

Manchester City v Leeds (1130), Liverpool v Aston Villa (1400), Crystal Palace v Chelsea (1630)

Sunday

Burnley v Newcastle (1100), West Ham v Leicester (1305), Tottenham v Manchester United (1530), Sheffield United v Arsenal (1800)

Monday

West Brom v Southampton (1700), Brighton v Everton (1915)

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday knowing they must rediscover the magic at home or risk finishing outside the top four for the first time since 2016. At the bottom, Fulham have a chance to lift themselves out of the relegation zone while Manchester United will seek revenge at Tottenham after their 6-1 humiliation earlier this season. AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the English top-flight. Can Liverpool stop Anfield rot? When Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1 at Anfield in mid-December it appeared to be business as usual for Jurgen Klopp's side. But little did they know that they would reach April with no further wins on their home turf and a paltry two goals to show for their efforts. The Premier League champions take on mid-table Aston Villa on Saturday with a chance to clamber back into the top four, at least temporarily. Liverpool suffered a chastening 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek but results in the Premier League last weekend went in their favour. Klopp described their 3-0 win at sorry Arsenal as a "very important statement" but his side must rediscover the winning formula at home after six successive defeats in the league. Lingard leads charge for hungry West Ham Jesse Lingard is a revitalised player since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester United, where he had become a forgotten man. The England midfielder flourished in the early days of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's reign at Old Trafford but became an increasingly peripheral figure as Bruno Fernandes assumed the main creative role. But the 28-year-old has made up for lost time since arriving at the London Stadium in January, scoring six goals in eight Premier League matches. He has also won back his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad. West Ham, who host Leicester on Sunday, are fourth in the Premier League table, one point clear of Chelsea with eight games remaining. Lingard, who scored a spectacular goal and played a part in the other two in Monday's 3-2 win against Wolves, has urged his team-mates to stay level-headed. "We need to maintain our focus in each game," he said. "We've got a tough run of fixtures but the lads are ready and we'll prepare for the next game." Newcastle fight to stay clear of drop zone Newcastle, who have been flirting with the relegation places, could find themselves in the bottom three by the time they kick off on Sunday if Fulham beat Wolves. Steve Bruce's side have won just two of their past 21 games in all competitions but the manager has dismissed suggestions of a split in the camp. "That is the big thing that frustrates us all, a so-called mole in the dressing room, certain players unhappy, blah, blah, blah, the spirit is not good, this nonsense," he said. The Magpies can take some confidence ahead of the game against Burnley from last weekend's 2-2 draw with Tottenham. Fulham themselves have not taken advantage of Newcastle's struggles but would climb above them on goal difference if they beat Wolves on Friday. Manager Scott Parker said his team would "fight and scrap" to stay in the division. Bottom-placed Sheffield United appear doomed but there is a flicker of hope at 19th-placed West Brom, who hammered 10-man Chelsea 5-2 last week. Fixtures (GMT) Friday Fulham v Wolves (1900) Saturday Manchester City v Leeds (1130), Liverpool v Aston Villa (1400), Crystal Palace v Chelsea (1630) Sunday Burnley v Newcastle (1100), West Ham v Leicester (1305), Tottenham v Manchester United (1530), Sheffield United v Arsenal (1800) Monday West Brom v Southampton (1700), Brighton v Everton (1915)

Liverpool bid to end home pain as Lingard fires West Ham push

Liverpool star Sadio Mane feels that the club should fight right through to the end of the season rather than dwell on excuses for their poor title defence in the Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arteta-is-doing-great-job-willian-feels-arsenal-on-track-to-become-powerhouse-373608" hreflang="en">'Arteta is doing great job': Willian feels Arsenal on track to become powerhouse</a>

The Reds under Klopp won their Premier League after 30 long years last season, however, poor form and injuries have placed them seventh in the current season of the league.&nbsp;

"We have to deal with the situation and not stop believing, but keep fighting, keep our motivation and go again," Mane said.

"When you are a fighter you never try to make excuses, we are here to find solutions. Being together with my teammates always gives me high energy.

Liverpool still have their hopes to win UEFA Champions League as they face Real Madrid in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

"In football – and in life in general – you can't expect anything and for years and years, this complicated situation has not happened. We have always been successful, but now this has happened and we can see it is like how life is."

The Senegalese striker had a prolific run last season but has struggled to continue his form as he could just score 12 goals and six assists in 37 games in all competitions.&nbsp;

"We need to be positive and fight," he said. "This is what we try to do to change this situation and I'm sure that it will change."

Liverpool are set to face the ninth-placed Arsenal after the international break.&nbsp;

Liverpool star Sadio Mane feels that the club should fight right through to the end of the season rather than dwell on excuses for their poor title defence in the Premier League.

Liverpool star Sadio Mane feels that the club should fight right through to the end of the season rather than dwell on excuses for their poor title defence in the Premier League. ALSO READ: 'Arteta is doing great job': Willian feels Arsenal on track to become powerhouse The Reds under Klopp won their Premier League after 30 long years last season, however, poor form and injuries have placed them seventh in the current season of the league. "We have to deal with the situation and not stop believing, but keep fighting, keep our motivation and go again," Mane said. "When you are a fighter you never try to make excuses, we are here to find solutions. Being together with my teammates always gives me high energy. Liverpool still have their hopes to win UEFA Champions League as they face Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. "In football – and in life in general – you can't expect anything and for years and years, this complicated situation has not happened. We have always been successful, but now this has happened and we can see it is like how life is." The Senegalese striker had a prolific run last season but has struggled to continue his form as he could just score 12 goals and six assists in 37 games in all competitions. "We need to be positive and fight," he said. "This is what we try to do to change this situation and I'm sure that it will change." Liverpool are set to face the ninth-placed Arsenal after the international break.

'We need to be positive and fight': Sadio Mane on Liverpool's form

Liverpool have a rich history of turning on the style in Europe to make up for disappointing domestic form, but even a 2-0 first-leg lead over RB Leipzig in their Champions League last-16 tie looks precarious.

Jurgen Klopp's stumbling English champions will approach Wednesday's second leg with trepidation -- knowing they will not even be at Anfield for the "home" match.

Liverpool's dramatic exploits in European competition over the years have been fuelled by the colour, noise and energy provided by fans packed into their famous old stadium.

In 2005, Rafael Benitez's league also-rans were inspired to thrilling wins over Juventus and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;before producing the greatest comeback in Champions League final history in Istanbul against AC Milan.

Klopp's first season in charge, in 2015/16, ended with Liverpool a lowly eighth in the league, but they were roared on as they battled back from 3-1 down to beat Borussia Dortmund 4-3 in the second leg of their Europa League last-eight tie on their way to the final.

Arguably the greatest night Anfield has ever seen came against Barcelona in May 2019.

The Spanish giants were demolished 4-0 in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, 24 hours after Manchester City landed a vital blow in a titanic title race with Klopp's men.

Liverpool went on to beat Tottenham in the final to be crowned European champions for a sixth time.

But after a year of largely empty stadiums as a result of the coronavirus, Anfield's fear factor has vanished.

Klopp's men had been unbeaten in 68 Premier League games at home until January, but they have now lost a club-record six in a row.

Liverpool's "home" match against Leipzig will be played in the Puskas Arena in Budapest as a result of Covid-19 travel restrictions, the same stadium that hosted the first leg.

European football's governing body UEFA is determined that the show must go on -- fearful of taking another sharp economic hit.

But the unusual circumstances of this year's Champions League have robbed the competition of much of its sparkle, with various teams forced to travel to neutral venues for home matches while the public remains locked down in many countries.

Without their fans at Anfield, Liverpool's Premier League title defence has collapsed.

Sunday's 1-0 defeat by relegation-threatened Fulham left them eighth in the table.

Injuries have played a major role in their dramatic decline, which has left them struggling just to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher labelled the current squad "mentality midgets" -- in sharp contrast to the "mentality monsters" moniker previously used by Klopp to describe his team.

Klopp has pointed to the unavailability through injury of captain Jordan Henderson and Virgil van Dijk as reasons for a loss of leadership.

"We obviously have a lot of players who stand for mentality not on the pitch in the moment," said the Liverpool boss.

But questions are beginning to be asked about his ability to summon a response from his players now the malaise has set in.

"The next game is in a different competition where we didn't do too bad so far," said the German. "If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence."

Klopp's lack of faith that his men can defend a 2-0 lead is revealing, with Leipzig smelling blood.

Julian Nagelsmann's men are flying on the back of six straight Bundesliga wins, threatening Bayern Munich's stranglehold on German football.

Leipzig dumped Tottenham out at this stage of the competition last year and Manchester United in the group stage this season.

Liverpool's scalp would be the biggest given their record in the Champions League under Klopp.

But as this season has clearly shown, the spluttering Reds are no longer the formidable force they were just a year ago.

Liverpool have a rich history of turning on the style in Europe to make up for disappointing domestic form, but even a 2-0 first-leg lead over RB Leipzig in their Champions League last-16 tie looks precarious.

Liverpool have a rich history of turning on the style in Europe to make up for disappointing domestic form, but even a 2-0 first-leg lead over RB Leipzig in their Champions League last-16 tie looks precarious. Jurgen Klopp's stumbling English champions will approach Wednesday's second leg with trepidation -- knowing they will not even be at Anfield for the "home" match. Liverpool's dramatic exploits in European competition over the years have been fuelled by the colour, noise and energy provided by fans packed into their famous old stadium. In 2005, Rafael Benitez's league also-rans were inspired to thrilling wins over Juventus and Chelsea before producing the greatest comeback in Champions League final history in Istanbul against AC Milan. Klopp's first season in charge, in 2015/16, ended with Liverpool a lowly eighth in the league, but they were roared on as they battled back from 3-1 down to beat Borussia Dortmund 4-3 in the second leg of their Europa League last-eight tie on their way to the final. Arguably the greatest night Anfield has ever seen came against Barcelona in May 2019. The Spanish giants were demolished 4-0 in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, 24 hours after Manchester City landed a vital blow in a titanic title race with Klopp's men. Liverpool went on to beat Tottenham in the final to be crowned European champions for a sixth time. But after a year of largely empty stadiums as a result of the coronavirus, Anfield's fear factor has vanished. Klopp's men had been unbeaten in 68 Premier League games at home until January, but they have now lost a club-record six in a row. Liverpool's "home" match against Leipzig will be played in the Puskas Arena in Budapest as a result of Covid-19 travel restrictions, the same stadium that hosted the first leg. European football's governing body UEFA is determined that the show must go on -- fearful of taking another sharp economic hit. But the unusual circumstances of this year's Champions League have robbed the competition of much of its sparkle, with various teams forced to travel to neutral venues for home matches while the public remains locked down in many countries. Without their fans at Anfield, Liverpool's Premier League title defence has collapsed. Sunday's 1-0 defeat by relegation-threatened Fulham left them eighth in the table. Injuries have played a major role in their dramatic decline, which has left them struggling just to qualify for next season's Champions League. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher labelled the current squad "mentality midgets" -- in sharp contrast to the "mentality monsters" moniker previously used by Klopp to describe his team. Klopp has pointed to the unavailability through injury of captain Jordan Henderson and Virgil van Dijk as reasons for a loss of leadership. "We obviously have a lot of players who stand for mentality not on the pitch in the moment," said the Liverpool boss. But questions are beginning to be asked about his ability to summon a response from his players now the malaise has set in. "The next game is in a different competition where we didn't do too bad so far," said the German. "If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence." Klopp's lack of faith that his men can defend a 2-0 lead is revealing, with Leipzig smelling blood. Julian Nagelsmann's men are flying on the back of six straight Bundesliga wins, threatening Bayern Munich's stranglehold on German football. Leipzig dumped Tottenham out at this stage of the competition last year and Manchester United in the group stage this season. Liverpool's scalp would be the biggest given their record in the Champions League under Klopp. But as this season has clearly shown, the spluttering Reds are no longer the formidable force they were just a year ago.

Liverpool seek solace in Europe but Leipzig loom

Chelsea&nbsp;moved into the Premier League's top four as Mason Mount's superb first-half goal earned them a 1-0 win at champions Liverpool who suffered a club-record fifth straight home league defeat on Thursday.

Mount cut in to curl a low shot past Liverpool keeper Alisson in the 42nd minute, after Timo Werner had earlier had a goal disallowed, to give&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;a deserved halftime lead.

Thomas Tuchel's side then showed great defensive discipline to stand firm in the second period as Liverpool improved.

Liverpool, who substituted a disgruntled Mohamed Salah in the second half, struggled to carve out clear chances, though, and managed only one effort on target.

Chelsea, unbeaten since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard in January, have 47 points from 27 games, one more than Everton who had briefly gone fourth by beating West Bromwich Albion.

Liverpool's title defence is in tatters and Juergen Klopp's side have slumped to seventh spot with 43 points from 27 games. Remarkably, their five successive home league defeats have come after they had lost none of the previous 68 games at Anfield.

"It's very tight around the top four and these big games we need to win," Mount said. "Tonight maybe we could have had a couple more goals. We had to be brave and win the ball back high and that's where the goal came from."

Tuchel is now unbeaten in 10 games in the Stamford Bridge hot seat and Thursday's victory was another tactical masterclass by the German who last week crafted an eye-catching 1-0 win at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

RELENTLESS PRESSING

His side's relentless pressing was too much for Liverpool in the first half, while they cleverly mixed up the angle of their attack to keep Klopp's side firmly on the back foot.

Werner should have put&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;ahead in the 12th minute but failed to connect with a volley and the German striker then latched on to a long pass forward and nicked it past the out-rushing Alissson before rolling the ball home.

Liverpool were spared by an agonisingly tight VAR offside decision on that occasion but did not learn their lesson.

Just before halftime N'Golo Kante's long pass found Mount on the left. The young midfielder cut in past Trent Alexander-Arnold and arrowed a right-footed shot inside the far post.

Liverpool did show more of their trademark intensity after the break but&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;were unruffled, although there was one anxious moment just after the restart when Roberto Firmino's cross struck the hand of Kante but they survived a VAR check.

Chelsea&nbsp;looked far sharper Hakim Ziyech had an effort cleared off the line while Werner also had the chance to make the points safe but was denied by Alisson.

Liverpool's only attempt on target came late on as Georginio Wijnaldum shot straight at Edouard Mendy while defender Ozan Kabak also had a half chance.

"It was a well-deserved win, a big performance and a big result," Tuchel said.

&nbsp;

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four as Mason Mount's superb first-half goal earned them a 1-0 win at champions Liverpool who suffered a club-record fifth straight home league defeat on Thursday.

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four as Mason Mount's superb first-half goal earned them a 1-0 win at champions Liverpool who suffered a club-record fifth straight home league defeat on Thursday. Mount cut in to curl a low shot past Liverpool keeper Alisson in the 42nd minute, after Timo Werner had earlier had a goal disallowed, to give Chelsea a deserved halftime lead. Thomas Tuchel's side then showed great defensive discipline to stand firm in the second period as Liverpool improved. Liverpool, who substituted a disgruntled Mohamed Salah in the second half, struggled to carve out clear chances, though, and managed only one effort on target. Chelsea, unbeaten since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard in January, have 47 points from 27 games, one more than Everton who had briefly gone fourth by beating West Bromwich Albion. Liverpool's title defence is in tatters and Juergen Klopp's side have slumped to seventh spot with 43 points from 27 games. Remarkably, their five successive home league defeats have come after they had lost none of the previous 68 games at Anfield. "It's very tight around the top four and these big games we need to win," Mount said. "Tonight maybe we could have had a couple more goals. We had to be brave and win the ball back high and that's where the goal came from." Tuchel is now unbeaten in 10 games in the Stamford Bridge hot seat and Thursday's victory was another tactical masterclass by the German who last week crafted an eye-catching 1-0 win at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. RELENTLESS PRESSING His side's relentless pressing was too much for Liverpool in the first half, while they cleverly mixed up the angle of their attack to keep Klopp's side firmly on the back foot. Werner should have put Chelsea ahead in the 12th minute but failed to connect with a volley and the German striker then latched on to a long pass forward and nicked it past the out-rushing Alissson before rolling the ball home. Liverpool were spared by an agonisingly tight VAR offside decision on that occasion but did not learn their lesson. Just before halftime N'Golo Kante's long pass found Mount on the left. The young midfielder cut in past Trent Alexander-Arnold and arrowed a right-footed shot inside the far post. Liverpool did show more of their trademark intensity after the break but Chelsea were unruffled, although there was one anxious moment just after the restart when Roberto Firmino's cross struck the hand of Kante but they survived a VAR check. Chelsea looked far sharper Hakim Ziyech had an effort cleared off the line while Werner also had the chance to make the points safe but was denied by Alisson. Liverpool's only attempt on target came late on as Georginio Wijnaldum shot straight at Edouard Mendy while defender Ozan Kabak also had a half chance. "It was a well-deserved win, a big performance and a big result," Tuchel said.

Mount goal earns Chelsea victory at toothless Liverpool

Liverpool on Friday said that skipper Jordan Henderson will be sidelined for at least five weeks after undergoing groin surgery. The Reds captain sustained the injury during Saturday's Premier League clash against Everton.&nbsp;

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"Henderson has successfully had a corrective procedure carried out on the adductor injury. He will begin a rehabilitation programme immediately," Liverpool said in a statement.

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"No specific timescale is being placed upon his return; however, he is ruled out initially until after the March international break," the statement continued.

Henderson will not feature in Premier League matches against Sheffield United, Chelsea, Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as the Champions League last-16 second leg against Leipzig.

The defending champions are currently sixth on the Premier League points table with 40 points in hand after playing 25 games.&nbsp;

(Input from agencies)

Liverpool on Friday said that skipper Jordan Henderson will be sidelined for at least five weeks after undergoing groin surgery. The Reds captain sustained the injury during Saturday's Premier League clash against Everton.

Liverpool on Friday said that skipper Jordan Henderson will be sidelined for at least five weeks after undergoing groin surgery. The Reds captain sustained the injury during Saturday's Premier League clash against Everton. IN PICS: Argentines bring legend Diego Maradona back to life with mosaics "Henderson has successfully had a corrective procedure carried out on the adductor injury. He will begin a rehabilitation programme immediately," Liverpool said in a statement. ALSO READ: Manchester United's Pogba yet to recover from thigh injury, says Solskjaer "No specific timescale is being placed upon his return; however, he is ruled out initially until after the March international break," the statement continued. Henderson will not feature in Premier League matches against Sheffield United, Chelsea, Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as the Champions League last-16 second leg against Leipzig. The defending champions are currently sixth on the Premier League points table with 40 points in hand after playing 25 games. (Input from agencies)

Liverpool captain Henderson ruled out until April: Club

The British health authority has announced that they've found 2 new variants of the deadly Coronavirus and one of the two mutations has sparked serious concerns among health authorities.

United Kingdom: 2 new COVID-19 variants detected in Bristol & Liverpool

The WHO has also been monitoring two additional coronavirus strains that are actively spreading in UK's Bristol and Liverpool.

2 new Covid variants detected in UK's Liverpool and Bristol

The discovery of two new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;variants in the UK has led to authorities reclassifying the strains as concerns across the country.&nbsp;

The two new mutations of coronavirus found in Bristol and Liverpool have been reclassified as "variant of concern" and "variant under investigation" respectively by the British government's New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-finds-more-coronavirus-cases-with-concerning-mutation-361033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Public Health England has reported at least 55 cases of the Liverpool mutation and 14 cases of the Bristol variant, reports The Sun.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-let-long-covid-fall-through-the-cracks-who-warns-362512">Don't let Long Covid 'fall through the cracks', WHO warns</a>

Both the variants contain E484K mutation that has been located in the South African and Brazilian variants and can make the Covid-19 vaccine ineffective.&nbsp;

Last week, mass testing was announced in Liverpool and Bristol where the cases of South African variant have risen.&nbsp;

The British government is expected to confirm that travellers arriving in the UK from abroad will have to undergo two coronavirus tests while in quarantine.&nbsp;

"Enhancing our testing regime to cover all arrivals while they isolate will provide a further level of protection and enable us to better track any new cases which might be brought into the country, and give us even more opportunities to detect new variants," a spokesman was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing severe criticism over laxity to test international flyers that have led to a rise in cases of various variants identified abroad.&nbsp;

Under new lockdown rules, travellers coming from 33 countries, including South Africa and all South American nations are banned from entering the UK.&nbsp;

The discovery of two new coronavirus variants in the UK has led to authorities reclassifying the strains as concerns across the country. The two new mutations of coronavirus found in Bristol and Liverpool have been reclassified as "variant of concern" and "variant under investigation" respectively by the British government's New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) on Tuesday.

The discovery of two new coronavirus variants in the UK has led to authorities reclassifying the strains as concerns across the country. The two new mutations of coronavirus found in Bristol and Liverpool have been reclassified as "variant of concern" and "variant under investigation" respectively by the British government's New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) on Tuesday. Watch | Public Health England has reported at least 55 cases of the Liverpool mutation and 14 cases of the Bristol variant, reports The Sun. Also read | Don't let Long Covid 'fall through the cracks', WHO warns Both the variants contain E484K mutation that has been located in the South African and Brazilian variants and can make the Covid-19 vaccine ineffective. Last week, mass testing was announced in Liverpool and Bristol where the cases of South African variant have risen. The British government is expected to confirm that travellers arriving in the UK from abroad will have to undergo two coronavirus tests while in quarantine. "Enhancing our testing regime to cover all arrivals while they isolate will provide a further level of protection and enable us to better track any new cases which might be brought into the country, and give us even more opportunities to detect new variants," a spokesman was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing severe criticism over laxity to test international flyers that have led to a rise in cases of various variants identified abroad. Under new lockdown rules, travellers coming from 33 countries, including South Africa and all South American nations are banned from entering the UK.

UK finds two new mutations of coronavirus amid virus surge

Tottenham Hotspurs' Harry Kane was taken off the field during the half-time in the match against Liverpool after sustaining knocks in both his ankles during the game. Spurs' boss Mourinho did not know the extent of the injury but said that it is not a minor issue.

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Kane's left leg seemed to have been the more damaging one of the two. The England skipper has had a history of suffering ligament damage to his joints.&nbsp; 
"For Harry to leave a game, when he wants to play always and with the team losing, for Harry to come out is not a nothing injury,” Mourinho said. “It’s an injury. For how long I can’t tell you, I don’t know. We have to wait and see.”

Klopp's Liverpool bounced back to winning ways after the Reds defeated Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium possibly killing title hopes for Mourinho. The Portuguese was not pleased by his team's performance and was quick to highlight that his team's mistakes gifted chances to Liverpool to score and snatch a comfortable win.&nbsp;

“It’s a performance totally affected by defensive individual mistakes,” he said. “The team was very solid, very confident and in the first half we made three defensive mistakes – individual.”

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Asked whether he thought the individuals were not good enough, he added: “I can’t say that. I’m not going to say that. These are your words, not my words.

“One thing is mistakes and another thing is not to be good enough. That’s a different story. I don’t say that at all. Everybody has to assume their responsibilities and try to improve.

“The reality is that you don’t need me to comment because you saw the game and you can give many directions to your analysis. You always end in the goals because the goals were the crucial parts of the game.

“By analysing the goals you can see that the three goals we conceded, the goals that was disallowed by Firmino and the Mane chance in the first minute.”

Tottenham Hotspurs' Harry Kane was taken off the field during the half-time in the match against Liverpool after sustaining knocks in both his ankles during the game.

Tottenham Hotspurs' Harry Kane was taken off the field during the half-time in the match against Liverpool after sustaining knocks in both his ankles during the game. Spurs' boss Mourinho did not know the extent of the injury but said that it is not a minor issue. ALSO READ: Liverpool get back on track with win at Tottenham Kane's left leg seemed to have been the more damaging one of the two. The England skipper has had a history of suffering ligament damage to his joints. "For Harry to leave a game, when he wants to play always and with the team losing, for Harry to come out is not a nothing injury,” Mourinho said. “It’s an injury. For how long I can’t tell you, I don’t know. We have to wait and see.” Klopp's Liverpool bounced back to winning ways after the Reds defeated Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium possibly killing title hopes for Mourinho. The Portuguese was not pleased by his team's performance and was quick to highlight that his team's mistakes gifted chances to Liverpool to score and snatch a comfortable win. “It’s a performance totally affected by defensive individual mistakes,” he said. “The team was very solid, very confident and in the first half we made three defensive mistakes – individual.” ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo under investigation for breaking COVID-19 protocols in Italy Asked whether he thought the individuals were not good enough, he added: “I can’t say that. I’m not going to say that. These are your words, not my words. “One thing is mistakes and another thing is not to be good enough. That’s a different story. I don’t say that at all. Everybody has to assume their responsibilities and try to improve. “The reality is that you don’t need me to comment because you saw the game and you can give many directions to your analysis. You always end in the goals because the goals were the crucial parts of the game. “By analysing the goals you can see that the three goals we conceded, the goals that was disallowed by Firmino and the Mane chance in the first minute.”

Jose Mourinho comments on Harry Kane's ankle injury during Liverpool game

Manchester United's Premier League title hopes suffered a huge blow on Wednesday with a 2-1 defeat by bottom side Sheffield United as Chelsea started the Thomas Tuchel era with a goalless draw against Wolves.

The shock result at Old Trafford leaves Pep Guardiola's Manchester City a point clear at the top with a game in hand and looking increasingly hot favourites to win a third title in four years.

Elsewhere on a busy night of midweek action, Leicester drew 1-1 with Everton, Burnley beat Aston Villa 3-2 and&nbsp;Brighton&nbsp;drew 0-0 with Fulham.

Manchester United started their match against Sheffield United on a high after an FA Cup win against Liverpool on Sunday but they were sloppy and uninspired from the kick-off.

The Blades broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Kean Bryan rose to glance home John Fleck's corner after David de Gea failed to punch clear.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were level in the 64th minute when an outswinging corner from Alex Telles was met with a thumping header by Harry Maguire.

But Sheffield United were back in front again 10 minutes later when United failed to clear and Oliver Burke's strike went in off the underside of the bar after taking a wicked deflection off Axel Tuanzebe.

The Blades had just five points to show from their first 19 games -- the worst haul in Premier League history -- and had not won at Old Trafford since 1973.

Solskjaer said his side were lacking an "X factor" as they slipped to their first league defeat since November 1.

He blamed the referee for two mistakes -- for missing a foul on De Gea for Sheffield United's opening goal -- and for ruling out an Anthony Martial goal after adjudging that Maguire had committed a foul.

"Two wrong decisions, that's how it is, it's that kind of season, inconsistent and the referee missed those two," he told the BBC.

Earlier, former Paris Saint-Germain boss Tuchel took charge at Stamford Bridge against misfiring Wolves less than 24 hours after replacing the sacked Frank Lampard.

Club owner Roman Abramovich handed the 47-year-old a brief to revive the fortunes of a team that had lost five of their previous eight Premier League games.

Chelsea struggled to make an impression against Nuno Espirito Santo's men, whose form has nose-dived after forward Raul Jimenez fractured his skull in late November.

The home side dominated territory and possession, but created few clear-cut chances and the visitors had opportunities to leave with all three points.

But Tuchel did not appear downhearted despite the flat display.

"I was very happy performance-wise," he said. "Unfortunately we couldn't score. If we take care of our performance like this the results will come."

The draw lifted Chelsea to eighth spot, five points behind fourth-placed West Ham but Tuchel knows time is not on his side, with more than half of the season gone.

He admitted he had not yet been able to properly assess his squad.

"It was today totally unfair because I had no explanation for anybody on the side why they didn't play," he said. "Every day will help."

Jordan Pickford was punished for the latest in a long list of embarrassing errors as the blundering Everton goalkeeper allowed Youri Tielemans to rescue a draw for Leicester.

Clinging to the first-half lead given to them by James Rodriguez, Everton were denied three points when Pickford let Tielemans' shot squirm into the net after the break at Goodison Park.

Leicester sit third in the Premier League, two points behind Manchester City, and look capable of pushing for a top-four finish even with leading scorer Jamie Vardy currently sidelined through injury.

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers told BT Sport: "We should've gone on and won the game, that was maybe two points dropped for us but they're a really good side -- but if you can't win, don't lose."

Burnley beat Aston Villa 3-2 to pull nine points clear of the relegation zone, thanks to Chris Wood's late winner.

Champions Liverpool, who have taken just three points from their past five Premier League matches, are at Tottenham on Thursday.

Manchester United's Premier League title hopes suffered a huge blow on Wednesday with a 2-1 defeat by bottom side Sheffield United as Chelsea started the Thomas Tuchel era with a goalless draw against Wolves.

Manchester United's Premier League title hopes suffered a huge blow on Wednesday with a 2-1 defeat by bottom side Sheffield United as Chelsea started the Thomas Tuchel era with a goalless draw against Wolves. The shock result at Old Trafford leaves Pep Guardiola's Manchester City a point clear at the top with a game in hand and looking increasingly hot favourites to win a third title in four years. Elsewhere on a busy night of midweek action, Leicester drew 1-1 with Everton, Burnley beat Aston Villa 3-2 and Brighton drew 0-0 with Fulham. Manchester United started their match against Sheffield United on a high after an FA Cup win against Liverpool on Sunday but they were sloppy and uninspired from the kick-off. The Blades broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Kean Bryan rose to glance home John Fleck's corner after David de Gea failed to punch clear. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were level in the 64th minute when an outswinging corner from Alex Telles was met with a thumping header by Harry Maguire. But Sheffield United were back in front again 10 minutes later when United failed to clear and Oliver Burke's strike went in off the underside of the bar after taking a wicked deflection off Axel Tuanzebe. The Blades had just five points to show from their first 19 games -- the worst haul in Premier League history -- and had not won at Old Trafford since 1973. Solskjaer said his side were lacking an "X factor" as they slipped to their first league defeat since November 1. He blamed the referee for two mistakes -- for missing a foul on De Gea for Sheffield United's opening goal -- and for ruling out an Anthony Martial goal after adjudging that Maguire had committed a foul. "Two wrong decisions, that's how it is, it's that kind of season, inconsistent and the referee missed those two," he told the BBC. Earlier, former Paris Saint-Germain boss Tuchel took charge at Stamford Bridge against misfiring Wolves less than 24 hours after replacing the sacked Frank Lampard. Club owner Roman Abramovich handed the 47-year-old a brief to revive the fortunes of a team that had lost five of their previous eight Premier League games. Chelsea struggled to make an impression against Nuno Espirito Santo's men, whose form has nose-dived after forward Raul Jimenez fractured his skull in late November. The home side dominated territory and possession, but created few clear-cut chances and the visitors had opportunities to leave with all three points. But Tuchel did not appear downhearted despite the flat display. "I was very happy performance-wise," he said. "Unfortunately we couldn't score. If we take care of our performance like this the results will come." The draw lifted Chelsea to eighth spot, five points behind fourth-placed West Ham but Tuchel knows time is not on his side, with more than half of the season gone. He admitted he had not yet been able to properly assess his squad. "It was today totally unfair because I had no explanation for anybody on the side why they didn't play," he said. "Every day will help." Jordan Pickford was punished for the latest in a long list of embarrassing errors as the blundering Everton goalkeeper allowed Youri Tielemans to rescue a draw for Leicester. Clinging to the first-half lead given to them by James Rodriguez, Everton were denied three points when Pickford let Tielemans' shot squirm into the net after the break at Goodison Park. Leicester sit third in the Premier League, two points behind Manchester City, and look capable of pushing for a top-four finish even with leading scorer Jamie Vardy currently sidelined through injury. Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers told BT Sport: "We should've gone on and won the game, that was maybe two points dropped for us but they're a really good side -- but if you can't win, don't lose." Burnley beat Aston Villa 3-2 to pull nine points clear of the relegation zone, thanks to Chris Wood's late winner. Champions Liverpool, who have taken just three points from their past five Premier League matches, are at Tottenham on Thursday.

Man Utd title hopes hit as Chelsea's Tuchel era starts with stalemate

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk trained with AC Milan legend and fellow Dutchman Clarence Seedorf in Dubai.&nbsp; 
The 44-year-old, who won Champions League with three different clubs Ajax, Real Madrid and AC Milan, shared a photo with Liverpool star from their workout session at the NAS Sports Complex in Dubai.&nbsp;

The Dutch legend thanked Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum for his hospitality, said: “I joined the captain Virgil van Dijk for some training today.

“Happy to see his determination and hard work to be back on the pitch stronger than before.

“In these type of journeys, patience and focus are key to succeed. Keep it up my brother!”

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Liverpool defender sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury which he picked up in the Merseyside Derby on October 17 after a wild tackle by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk trained with AC Milan legend and fellow Dutchman Clarence Seedorf in Dubai. The 44-year-old, who won Champions League with three different clubs Ajax, Real Madrid and AC Milan, shared a photo with Liverpool star from their workout session at the NAS Sports Complex in Dubai.

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk trained with AC Milan legend and fellow Dutchman Clarence Seedorf in Dubai. The 44-year-old, who won Champions League with three different clubs Ajax, Real Madrid and AC Milan, shared a photo with Liverpool star from their workout session at the NAS Sports Complex in Dubai. The Dutch legend thanked Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum for his hospitality, said: “I joined the captain Virgil van Dijk for some training today. “Happy to see his determination and hard work to be back on the pitch stronger than before. “In these type of journeys, patience and focus are key to succeed. Keep it up my brother!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Clarence Seedorf (@clarenceseedorf) × Liverpool defender sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury which he picked up in the Merseyside Derby on October 17 after a wild tackle by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk trains with fellow Dutch legend to return from injury

Liverpool are set to kick on over the festive period according to captain Jordan Henderson after their best performance of the season in a 7-0 demolition of Crystal Palace on Saturday. 
 
Henderson was among the scorers as the Reds netted seven goals from eight shots on target to secure an away top-flight win by that margin for the first time in their history. 
 
Liverpool moved top of the Premier League on Wednesday when a late Roberto Firmino header stole a 2-1 win over pacesetters Tottenham Hotspur before they donned their shooting boots. 
 
"We don`t just look at the scoreline, I thought we were very good midweek and again today so we just need to keep the momentum going and work hard," Henderson told BT Sport. 
 
"It was coming I felt as over the last few games we`ve had chances and not taken them, which has cost us at times." 
 
Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp was delighted with his side`s dazzling performance in front of goal at Selhurst Park. 
 
"Our finishing in the first half was clinical. Then 3-0 up at halftime the game is not finished but we controlled the game and scored wonderful goals," he said. 
 
Liverpool will now have a short Christmas break before facing West Bromwich Albion, Newcastle United and high-flying Southampton in a nine-day period starting on Dec. 27. 
 
"Christmas will be good, but the season is not finished, there are a few games to come but we will be ready," Klopp added. 
&nbsp;

Liverpool are set to kick on over the festive period according to captain Jordan Henderson after their best performance of the season in a 7-0 demolition of Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Liverpool are set to kick on over the festive period according to captain Jordan Henderson after their best performance of the season in a 7-0 demolition of Crystal Palace on Saturday. Henderson was among the scorers as the Reds netted seven goals from eight shots on target to secure an away top-flight win by that margin for the first time in their history. Liverpool moved top of the Premier League on Wednesday when a late Roberto Firmino header stole a 2-1 win over pacesetters Tottenham Hotspur before they donned their shooting boots. "We don`t just look at the scoreline, I thought we were very good midweek and again today so we just need to keep the momentum going and work hard," Henderson told BT Sport. "It was coming I felt as over the last few games we`ve had chances and not taken them, which has cost us at times." Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp was delighted with his side`s dazzling performance in front of goal at Selhurst Park. "Our finishing in the first half was clinical. Then 3-0 up at halftime the game is not finished but we controlled the game and scored wonderful goals," he said. Liverpool will now have a short Christmas break before facing West Bromwich Albion, Newcastle United and high-flying Southampton in a nine-day period starting on Dec. 27. "Christmas will be good, but the season is not finished, there are a few games to come but we will be ready," Klopp added.

Red-hot Liverpool aim to keep momentum going after Palace rout

Liverpool`s Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah each netted twice in a scoring masterclass as the visitors thrashed Crystal Palace 7-0 to record their first away win in the Premier League since September and move a provisional six points clear at the top. 
 
It marked the first time the Reds had won away in the top-flight by a margin of seven goals and was their biggest league victory since they hammered Palace 9-0 at Anfield in 1989 when they won the old top-flight First Division title. 
 
The result put the defending champions on 31 points after 14 games ahead of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who host Leicester City on Sunday. 
 
Japanese midfielder Takumi Minamino repaid Juergen Klopp`s decision to start him instead of Mohamed Salah by scoring after just over two minutes and Sadio Mane then made it two when he twisted and fired home form the edge of the box in the 35th. 
 
Firmino added a third just before the break, flicking home to finish off a glorious Liverpool counter-attack that swept the length of the field, and Jordan Henderson added a fourth seven minutes into the second half as Palace fell apart. 
 
Firmino got his second with a brilliant chipped effort in the 68th and Salah came on to net with a header before superbly curling a shot into the top corner five minutes from time. 
 
Henderson praised his side`s efforts in front of goal but, despite the dominant display and the margin of victory, the midfielder said his side could still improve. 
 
"I thought we were ruthless today and took our chances which is always important. We dominated the game for large periods but I still thought we were sloppy at times," he told BT Sport. 
 
"Overall, the performance level, we have to be happy. Now we have a week leading to the next game. Then another tough test again," he added ahead of the visit of West Bromwich Albion.

Liverpool`s Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah each netted twice in a scoring masterclass as the visitors thrashed Crystal Palace 7-0 to record their first away win in the Premier League since September and move a provisional six points clear at the top.

Liverpool`s Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah each netted twice in a scoring masterclass as the visitors thrashed Crystal Palace 7-0 to record their first away win in the Premier League since September and move a provisional six points clear at the top. It marked the first time the Reds had won away in the top-flight by a margin of seven goals and was their biggest league victory since they hammered Palace 9-0 at Anfield in 1989 when they won the old top-flight First Division title. The result put the defending champions on 31 points after 14 games ahead of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who host Leicester City on Sunday. Japanese midfielder Takumi Minamino repaid Juergen Klopp`s decision to start him instead of Mohamed Salah by scoring after just over two minutes and Sadio Mane then made it two when he twisted and fired home form the edge of the box in the 35th. Firmino added a third just before the break, flicking home to finish off a glorious Liverpool counter-attack that swept the length of the field, and Jordan Henderson added a fourth seven minutes into the second half as Palace fell apart. Firmino got his second with a brilliant chipped effort in the 68th and Salah came on to net with a header before superbly curling a shot into the top corner five minutes from time. Henderson praised his side`s efforts in front of goal but, despite the dominant display and the margin of victory, the midfielder said his side could still improve. "I thought we were ruthless today and took our chances which is always important. We dominated the game for large periods but I still thought we were sloppy at times," he told BT Sport. "Overall, the performance level, we have to be happy. Now we have a week leading to the next game. Then another tough test again," he added ahead of the visit of West Bromwich Albion.

Clinical Liverpool thrash Palace 7-0 to go six points clear

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has been injured during his international game for England against Belgium. The English player witnessed tightness in his leg, manager Gareth Southgate said, casting doubt on his availability for injury-hit Liverpool this weekend.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/son-heung-min-covid-scare-as-outbreak-hits-south-korea-team-343409" hreflang="en">Son Heung-min Covid scare as outbreak hits South Korea team</a>

During the second half, Harry Winks came in as a substitute for Jordan Henderson when England was trailing by 2 goals to Belgium in their Nations League group stage match on Sunday which ended the visitors' hopes of reaching the finals.

"Jordan had a bit of tightness at halftime and felt he couldn't carry on," Southgate told reporters, adding that he was not sure if it was a hamstring issue.

According to Southgate, the Liverpool skipper will be assessed when they return to England.&nbsp;

Liverpool has witnessed string of injuries after losing defenders Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez after both underwent surgeries while Trent Alexander-Arnold withdrew from the England squad with injury.

Mohamed Salah had to isolate after testing positive for COVID-19 and will have to miss Sunday's match against Leicester City.

Southgate also confirmed he had tested positive for COVID-19 last month.

"I did have the virus but I was fortunate," he said. "It was not as serious as so many people in our country. It was not pleasant but it is all fine now."

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has been injured during his international game for England against Belgium. The English player witnessed tightness in his leg, manager Gareth Southgate said, casting doubt on his availability for injury-hit Liverpool this weekend.

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has been injured during his international game for England against Belgium. The English player witnessed tightness in his leg, manager Gareth Southgate said, casting doubt on his availability for injury-hit Liverpool this weekend. Also read: Son Heung-min Covid scare as outbreak hits South Korea team During the second half, Harry Winks came in as a substitute for Jordan Henderson when England was trailing by 2 goals to Belgium in their Nations League group stage match on Sunday which ended the visitors' hopes of reaching the finals. "Jordan had a bit of tightness at halftime and felt he couldn't carry on," Southgate told reporters, adding that he was not sure if it was a hamstring issue. According to Southgate, the Liverpool skipper will be assessed when they return to England. Liverpool has witnessed string of injuries after losing defenders Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez after both underwent surgeries while Trent Alexander-Arnold withdrew from the England squad with injury. Mohamed Salah had to isolate after testing positive for COVID-19 and will have to miss Sunday's match against Leicester City. Southgate also confirmed he had tested positive for COVID-19 last month. "I did have the virus but I was fortunate," he said. "It was not as serious as so many people in our country. It was not pleasant but it is all fine now."

Liverpool captain Henderson injured during Nations league clash against Belgium

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role.

Liverpool face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday and it now seems almost unthinkable that Jota’s name will not be in the starting lineup.

That may have seemed unlikely at the start of the season when Liverpool signed the 23-year-old from Wolverhampton Wanderers to provide competition to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, who had developed into one of the most feared attacking trios in football.

With Firmino’s form under the spotlight after an underwhelming start to the campaign, Jota slotted in alongside Salah and Mane against Atalanta and put on a clinical display of finishing before being replaced by Firmino in the 65th minute.

“I’m playing in the best team of my career so far, that’s for sure. I don’t know if it was my best moment, but obviously scoring goals is my way of playing football, so I’m really happy with it,” Jota told BT Sport.

Eyebrows were raised when Liverpool splashed a reported 41 million pounds ($54 million) to secure the signature of Jota, who scored 16 goals - nine of them in the Europa League - for Wolves last season.

He has already begun paying back that fee in earnest with seven goals in 10 games, and he tormented the Atalanta defence together with Mane and Salah.

“Obviously (they are) two world-class players, we all know their quality makes it easy for me to do my job because they are outstanding players,” he explained.

Jota is swiftly developing a taste for European competition having scored three hat-tricks in the Champions League and Europa League combined since the start of last season - the only player to have done so more than once.

With a trip to Manchester City to come on Sunday, the Portuguese picked the perfect moment to stake his claim to a starting spot.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp hailed Jota’s recent form but said Firmino’s influence on the team’s success should not be forgotten.

“Good performances never give me headaches ... The world is sometimes a really bad place that in the moment when somebody is shining, we speak immediately about another player who played for us, it feels like, 500 games in a row,” Klopp said.

“We would not be in the Champions League if Firmino would not be with us. And immediately I have to explain why he is not in the team.

“It’s important we have more than 11 players and tonight Diogo used his shape in an incredible way and played a super, super game. But that says nothing about Bobby and has nothing to do with causing me headaches.”

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role.

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role. Liverpool face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday and it now seems almost unthinkable that Jota’s name will not be in the starting lineup. That may have seemed unlikely at the start of the season when Liverpool signed the 23-year-old from Wolverhampton Wanderers to provide competition to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, who had developed into one of the most feared attacking trios in football. With Firmino’s form under the spotlight after an underwhelming start to the campaign, Jota slotted in alongside Salah and Mane against Atalanta and put on a clinical display of finishing before being replaced by Firmino in the 65th minute. “I’m playing in the best team of my career so far, that’s for sure. I don’t know if it was my best moment, but obviously scoring goals is my way of playing football, so I’m really happy with it,” Jota told BT Sport. Eyebrows were raised when Liverpool splashed a reported 41 million pounds ($54 million) to secure the signature of Jota, who scored 16 goals - nine of them in the Europa League - for Wolves last season. He has already begun paying back that fee in earnest with seven goals in 10 games, and he tormented the Atalanta defence together with Mane and Salah. “Obviously (they are) two world-class players, we all know their quality makes it easy for me to do my job because they are outstanding players,” he explained. Jota is swiftly developing a taste for European competition having scored three hat-tricks in the Champions League and Europa League combined since the start of last season - the only player to have done so more than once. With a trip to Manchester City to come on Sunday, the Portuguese picked the perfect moment to stake his claim to a starting spot. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp hailed Jota’s recent form but said Firmino’s influence on the team’s success should not be forgotten. “Good performances never give me headaches ... The world is sometimes a really bad place that in the moment when somebody is shining, we speak immediately about another player who played for us, it feels like, 500 games in a row,” Klopp said. “We would not be in the Champions League if Firmino would not be with us. And immediately I have to explain why he is not in the team. “It’s important we have more than 11 players and tonight Diogo used his shape in an incredible way and played a super, super game. But that says nothing about Bobby and has nothing to do with causing me headaches.”

Jota shows pedigree with terrific treble in Italy

Liverpool's star defender Virgil van Dijk has successfully undergone knee surgery, as per the Premier League club said on Friday. Earlier this month, van Dijk damaged his knee ligaments in the Merseyside derby against Everton which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Liverpool's star defender Virgil van Dijk has successfully undergone knee surgery, as per the Premier League club said on Friday. Earlier this month, van Dijk damaged his knee ligaments in the Merseyside derby against Everton which ended in a 2-2 draw. He was injured after a reckless challenge by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, which left Liverpool, manager, Juergen Klopp fuming. "The Liverpool defender's planned operation took place in London and was conducted successfully," the club said in a statement. "Van Dijk will now immediately focus on the beginning of his rehabilitation with the support of the Reds' medical department." The English club is yet to provide a time-frame for the return of Dutch defender. However, the defender is potentially ruled out for the rest of the season due to the nature of the injury. Defending champions stand second on the Premier League. They are behind Everton on goal difference, play West Ham United on Saturday. (Inputs from Reuters)

Liverpool's star defender Virgil van Dijk undergoes 'successful' knee surgery

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday.

Klopp's side are likely to be without Van Dijk for the rest of the season after the influential Dutch centre-back suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage against Everton last weekend.

Critics have claimed Liverpool will struggle without Van Dijk, but Brazilian midfielder Fabinho filled in impressively alongside Joe Gomez at the heart of the defence.

While Liverpool weren't at their best and rode their luck at times, never more so than when Nicolas Tagliafico diverted Sadio Mane's scuffed effort into his own net in the first half, it was an encouraging Group D opener for Klopp.

There was enough spirit about the 2019 Champions League winners to suggest they will use the Van Dijk blow to fuel their Premier League title defence and European challenge.

"It was not perfect but they fought brilliantly," Klopp said. "We did not take our chances, which was a shame, and Ajax had a big one which hit the post.&nbsp;

"When you're 1-0 up, these things can happen. But overall I'm happy with the game.&nbsp;

"It was not sunshine football but we wanted three points and we got it."

Van Dijk will need knee surgery after being pole-axed by Everton keeper Jordan Pickford's ugly foul and his injury came at a time when Liverpool looked vulnerable after losing 7-2 at Aston Villa before the international break.

Against that backdrop, keeping a clean-sheet for just the third time this season was a big lift for Liverpool, who won for the first time in three games despite also being without defender Joel Matip and midfielder Thiago Alcantara after the brutal Merseyside derby.

"I think both teams could play better football. At moments it was wild. The pitch was deep and muddy," Klopp said.

"Xherdan Shaqiri was lively and Takumi Minamino was unbelievable. He is like a machine. It helps when you can make five substitutions."

Praising Fabinho for an acrobatic goalline clearance, Klopp added: "I didn't know how it happened in the beginning. That's a good example of how the boys did today."

<h2>- Backs to the wall -</h2>

&nbsp;

Liverpool's makeshift defence was easily carved open early on when Quincy Promes advanced down the left and found Dusan Tadic, who set up Ryan Gravenberch for a fierce strike that flashed just wide.

There was another major scare as David Neres' pass found the unmarked Promes six yards from goal, but he shot straight at Adrian to let Liverpool off the hook.

Making the most of that escape, Liverpool took the lead in bizarre fashion in the 35th minute.

Mane eluded Perr Schuurs as he broke into the Ajax area but when the Senegal forward went to shoot, he stubbed his foot into the turf, sending a miscued effort towards Tagliafico, who lost his balance and prodded the ball into his own net under no pressure.

Klopp has been fostering a siege mentality among his players since the Everton game and their backs to the wall spirit was on full display when Fabinho raced back to clear Tadic's lob off the line with a superb overhead kick.

Van Dijk couldn't have done it better himself, but while Fabinho was impressing, Ajax still carried a threat.

Taking aim from the edge of the area, Davy Klaassen smashed a fierce strike off the far post in the first minute of the second half.

Ajax went close again when Noussair Mazraoui took a Neres cutback and forced Adrian into a fine save.

Klopp took off Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Mane, with the latter needing ice on his right leg as he sat on the bench.

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp almost snatched a late equaliser after a mistake from Adrian, but Liverpool held their nerve to provide a morale-boosting start to life without Van Dijk.

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday.

Jurgen Klopp saluted Liverpool's fighting spirit as the Reds proved they can cope without Virgil van Dijk by grinding out a 1-0 win at Ajax in the opening game of their Champions League campaign on Wednesday. Klopp's side are likely to be without Van Dijk for the rest of the season after the influential Dutch centre-back suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage against Everton last weekend. Critics have claimed Liverpool will struggle without Van Dijk, but Brazilian midfielder Fabinho filled in impressively alongside Joe Gomez at the heart of the defence. While Liverpool weren't at their best and rode their luck at times, never more so than when Nicolas Tagliafico diverted Sadio Mane's scuffed effort into his own net in the first half, it was an encouraging Group D opener for Klopp. There was enough spirit about the 2019 Champions League winners to suggest they will use the Van Dijk blow to fuel their Premier League title defence and European challenge. "It was not perfect but they fought brilliantly," Klopp said. "We did not take our chances, which was a shame, and Ajax had a big one which hit the post. "When you're 1-0 up, these things can happen. But overall I'm happy with the game. "It was not sunshine football but we wanted three points and we got it." Van Dijk will need knee surgery after being pole-axed by Everton keeper Jordan Pickford's ugly foul and his injury came at a time when Liverpool looked vulnerable after losing 7-2 at Aston Villa before the international break. Against that backdrop, keeping a clean-sheet for just the third time this season was a big lift for Liverpool, who won for the first time in three games despite also being without defender Joel Matip and midfielder Thiago Alcantara after the brutal Merseyside derby. "I think both teams could play better football. At moments it was wild. The pitch was deep and muddy," Klopp said. "Xherdan Shaqiri was lively and Takumi Minamino was unbelievable. He is like a machine. It helps when you can make five substitutions." Praising Fabinho for an acrobatic goalline clearance, Klopp added: "I didn't know how it happened in the beginning. That's a good example of how the boys did today." - Backs to the wall - Liverpool's makeshift defence was easily carved open early on when Quincy Promes advanced down the left and found Dusan Tadic, who set up Ryan Gravenberch for a fierce strike that flashed just wide. There was another major scare as David Neres' pass found the unmarked Promes six yards from goal, but he shot straight at Adrian to let Liverpool off the hook. Making the most of that escape, Liverpool took the lead in bizarre fashion in the 35th minute. Mane eluded Perr Schuurs as he broke into the Ajax area but when the Senegal forward went to shoot, he stubbed his foot into the turf, sending a miscued effort towards Tagliafico, who lost his balance and prodded the ball into his own net under no pressure. Klopp has been fostering a siege mentality among his players since the Everton game and their backs to the wall spirit was on full display when Fabinho raced back to clear Tadic's lob off the line with a superb overhead kick. Van Dijk couldn't have done it better himself, but while Fabinho was impressing, Ajax still carried a threat. Taking aim from the edge of the area, Davy Klaassen smashed a fierce strike off the far post in the first minute of the second half. Ajax went close again when Noussair Mazraoui took a Neres cutback and forced Adrian into a fine save. Klopp took off Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Mane, with the latter needing ice on his right leg as he sat on the bench. Jurgen Ekkelenkamp almost snatched a late equaliser after a mistake from Adrian, but Liverpool held their nerve to provide a morale-boosting start to life without Van Dijk.

Klopp hails spirit as Liverpool show they can cope without Van Dijk

Liverpool's Premier League title defence was rocked on Sunday with the news Virgil Van Dijk must undergo knee surgery amid reports the Dutch defender could miss the rest of the season.

Van Dijk hobbled off after a shocking challenge from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in a 2-2 draw in the Merseyside derby on Saturday.

"The centre-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park," Liverpool said in a statement.

"Van Dijk was required to be substituted and further assessment on the injury has revealed an operation will be needed.

"No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage."

Van Dijk has been pivotal to Liverpool's resurgence under Jurgen Klopp since making a then world record £75 million move for a defender from Southampton in January 2018.

The 29-year-old has started every league game for the past two seasons as the Reds won the Champions League in 2019 and ended a 30-year wait to win a league title earlier this year.

"Virgil played for us I don't know how many games in a row. He plays with pain, he plays with pretty much everything, but he couldn't play on. That's not good," said Klopp.

Prior to Van Dijk's arrival, Klopp's time at Anfield had been beset by defensive collapses.

Now the German must find a solution to the huge hole left in his defence without the chance to dip into the transfer market with the window not open again until January.

There are parallels with the serious knee injury that Manchester City centre-back Aymeric Laporte suffered at the start of last season.

Without the Frenchman, City's title defence imploded paving the way for Liverpool to cruise to the league by 18 points.

Van Dijk's absence is compounded by goalkeeper Alisson Becker also being sidelined by a shoulder injury.

Without the Brazilian in goal, Klopp's men have conceded nine times in their last two matches, including a historic 7-2 humiliation as Aston Villa two weeks ago.

The loss of Van Dijk's dominant aerial presence was obvious as Everton scored twice from headers to come from behind in a contentious derby at Goodison Park.

England international Pickford somehow escaped punishment for his dangerous lunge into Van Dijk's knee as the two collided at the back post.

Liverpool have reportedly asked the Premier League for clarification on the use of VAR as not only was Pickford not dismissed, but Jordan Henderson's late winner was ruled out for a dubious offside against Sadio Mane on review.

Klopp was also not happy with another reckless Everton challenge that earned Richarlison a straight red card for taking out Thiago Alcantara.

The Spanish international was able to complete the game, but has also been sent for scans to discover the extent of a knee injury.

"When I left the pitch, Thiago told me in the red card situation with Richarlison he thinks he got injured," Klopp added.&nbsp;

"We will see if it's true or not, but if he felt like this then we need to have a look."

Liverpool's Premier League title defence was rocked on Sunday with the news Virgil Van Dijk must undergo knee surgery amid reports the Dutch defender could miss the rest of the season.

Liverpool's Premier League title defence was rocked on Sunday with the news Virgil Van Dijk must undergo knee surgery amid reports the Dutch defender could miss the rest of the season. Van Dijk hobbled off after a shocking challenge from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in a 2-2 draw in the Merseyside derby on Saturday. "The centre-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park," Liverpool said in a statement. "Van Dijk was required to be substituted and further assessment on the injury has revealed an operation will be needed. "No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage." Van Dijk has been pivotal to Liverpool's resurgence under Jurgen Klopp since making a then world record £75 million move for a defender from Southampton in January 2018. The 29-year-old has started every league game for the past two seasons as the Reds won the Champions League in 2019 and ended a 30-year wait to win a league title earlier this year. "Virgil played for us I don't know how many games in a row. He plays with pain, he plays with pretty much everything, but he couldn't play on. That's not good," said Klopp. Prior to Van Dijk's arrival, Klopp's time at Anfield had been beset by defensive collapses. Now the German must find a solution to the huge hole left in his defence without the chance to dip into the transfer market with the window not open again until January. There are parallels with the serious knee injury that Manchester City centre-back Aymeric Laporte suffered at the start of last season. Without the Frenchman, City's title defence imploded paving the way for Liverpool to cruise to the league by 18 points. Van Dijk's absence is compounded by goalkeeper Alisson Becker also being sidelined by a shoulder injury. Without the Brazilian in goal, Klopp's men have conceded nine times in their last two matches, including a historic 7-2 humiliation as Aston Villa two weeks ago. The loss of Van Dijk's dominant aerial presence was obvious as Everton scored twice from headers to come from behind in a contentious derby at Goodison Park. England international Pickford somehow escaped punishment for his dangerous lunge into Van Dijk's knee as the two collided at the back post. Liverpool have reportedly asked the Premier League for clarification on the use of VAR as not only was Pickford not dismissed, but Jordan Henderson's late winner was ruled out for a dubious offside against Sadio Mane on review. Klopp was also not happy with another reckless Everton challenge that earned Richarlison a straight red card for taking out Thiago Alcantara. The Spanish international was able to complete the game, but has also been sent for scans to discover the extent of a knee injury. "When I left the pitch, Thiago told me in the red card situation with Richarlison he thinks he got injured," Klopp added. "We will see if it's true or not, but if he felt like this then we need to have a look."

Liverpool confirm knee ligament damage for Van Dijk amid fears season is over

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side thought they had grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons against Tottenham on Sunday but Jurgen Klopp's team upstaged them in a scarcely credible 7-2 defeat against Aston Villa.

Klopp can argue Liverpool's defeat is a bizarre one-off after an impressive start to the season but United appear to be in deep trouble as the international transfer deadline looms on Monday.

Liverpool, who romped to the title by 18 points in the 2019/20 campaign, went into their match at an empty Villa Park with a 100 percent record in the league this season.

They were missing first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker through injury and were also without Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara, who have both tested positive for coronavirus, but were still expected to have too much for their opponents.

But Villa forward Ollie Watkins scored a first-half hat-trick and Jack Grealish had a hand in five goals as Liverpool's high line was torn apart by the home side's counter-attacking.

"It was unexpected but it happened tonight," said Klopp, whose side lost just four league matches over the previous two seasons.

"We put all our rubbish things and mistakes in one game and hopefully we can start again."

The Liverpool boss said he was desperate to get his players back on the training pitch but they are now heading off for an international break before gathering again for a tough-looking challenge at table-topping Everton.

"I would love to have a training session tomorrow and Tuesday and to talk about it, but the boys go back off to international duty," Klopp said. "Hopefully they come back healthy and we use the two days to prepare for Everton."

&nbsp;

<h2>- United woes -</h2>

&nbsp;

While Liverpool will hope their result is an anomaly, there is plenty of evidence that United have lost their way.

The Old Trafford club have not competed for the Premier League title since Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 but hopes were high after they finished third last season.

That optimism has been misplaced, with United soundly beaten 3-1 at home by Crystal Palace and incredibly fortunate to escape with a 3-2 victory at Brighton last weekend.

But they sank to a new low at an echoing Old Trafford on Sunday as Harry Kane and Son Heung-min ran riot, scoring two goals apiece against the home side, who were reduced to 10 men after the first-half sending-off of Anthony Martial.

Former United defender Gary Neville, now a TV pundit, described their performance as "an absolute shambles" as they matched their 6-1 loss to Manchester City in 2011.

United's players were fortunate there were no supporters in the ground to witness the rout.

Club captain Harry Maguire apologised to fans in an Instagram post, saying the performance was "unacceptable" and Marcus Rashford said there were no excuses.

Solskjaer took the blame for the humiliation, which once again raises major questions about whether he is the man to restore the club to their former glories.

"It's a horrible feeling, the worst day I've had as a Manchester United manager and player," said the Norwegian manager.

"It's nowhere near good enough. I hold my hands up. It's my decision to pick the team I did. Also as a squad, that's not good enough for Manchester United."

The chastening defeat comes at the end of another difficult transfer window for United, who look to have failed in their pursuit of their number one target, Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho.

Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani is reportedly set to join the Red Devils after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, but it is at the other end of the pitch that United are most in need of reinforcements.

Brazil left-back Alex Telles appears likely to arrive from Porto but it does not look enough to shore up a leaky defence that has shipped 11 goals in three Premier League matches.

While Liverpool remain favourites to win a second successive Premier League table despite their humbling, United already look out of the running as they scramble for answers

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs.

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side thought they had grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons against Tottenham on Sunday but Jurgen Klopp's team upstaged them in a scarcely credible 7-2 defeat against Aston Villa. Klopp can argue Liverpool's defeat is a bizarre one-off after an impressive start to the season but United appear to be in deep trouble as the international transfer deadline looms on Monday. Liverpool, who romped to the title by 18 points in the 2019/20 campaign, went into their match at an empty Villa Park with a 100 percent record in the league this season. They were missing first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker through injury and were also without Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara, who have both tested positive for coronavirus, but were still expected to have too much for their opponents. But Villa forward Ollie Watkins scored a first-half hat-trick and Jack Grealish had a hand in five goals as Liverpool's high line was torn apart by the home side's counter-attacking. "It was unexpected but it happened tonight," said Klopp, whose side lost just four league matches over the previous two seasons. "We put all our rubbish things and mistakes in one game and hopefully we can start again." The Liverpool boss said he was desperate to get his players back on the training pitch but they are now heading off for an international break before gathering again for a tough-looking challenge at table-topping Everton. "I would love to have a training session tomorrow and Tuesday and to talk about it, but the boys go back off to international duty," Klopp said. "Hopefully they come back healthy and we use the two days to prepare for Everton." - United woes - While Liverpool will hope their result is an anomaly, there is plenty of evidence that United have lost their way. The Old Trafford club have not competed for the Premier League title since Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 but hopes were high after they finished third last season. That optimism has been misplaced, with United soundly beaten 3-1 at home by Crystal Palace and incredibly fortunate to escape with a 3-2 victory at Brighton last weekend. But they sank to a new low at an echoing Old Trafford on Sunday as Harry Kane and Son Heung-min ran riot, scoring two goals apiece against the home side, who were reduced to 10 men after the first-half sending-off of Anthony Martial. Former United defender Gary Neville, now a TV pundit, described their performance as "an absolute shambles" as they matched their 6-1 loss to Manchester City in 2011. United's players were fortunate there were no supporters in the ground to witness the rout. Club captain Harry Maguire apologised to fans in an Instagram post, saying the performance was "unacceptable" and Marcus Rashford said there were no excuses. Solskjaer took the blame for the humiliation, which once again raises major questions about whether he is the man to restore the club to their former glories. "It's a horrible feeling, the worst day I've had as a Manchester United manager and player," said the Norwegian manager. "It's nowhere near good enough. I hold my hands up. It's my decision to pick the team I did. Also as a squad, that's not good enough for Manchester United." The chastening defeat comes at the end of another difficult transfer window for United, who look to have failed in their pursuit of their number one target, Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho. Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani is reportedly set to join the Red Devils after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, but it is at the other end of the pitch that United are most in need of reinforcements. Brazil left-back Alex Telles appears likely to arrive from Porto but it does not look enough to shore up a leaky defence that has shipped 11 goals in three Premier League matches. While Liverpool remain favourites to win a second successive Premier League table despite their humbling, United already look out of the running as they scramble for answers

Liverpool, Man Utd lick wounds after humbling Premier League defeats

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for coronavirus, the Premier League champions confirmed on Tuesday.

The 29-year-old, who joined from Bayern Munich this month, missed Monday's 3-1 win over Arsenal and will now self-isolate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-fit-enough-new-liverpool-signing-thiago-alcantara-to-miss-next-two-games-331157" hreflang="en">'Not fit enough': New Liverpool signing Thiago Alcantara to miss next two games</a>

"Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement.

"The club has, and will continue to follow, all protocols relating to Covid-19 and Thiago will remain in self-isolation for the required period of time."

The Spanish international will miss another clash with Arsenal in the League Cup on Thursday aswell as &nbsp;Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa, but could be available for the Merseyside derby at Everton on October 17.

On Monday, the Premier League announced 10 players or staff had tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous week, the highest number of infections since mass testing began in May

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for coronavirus, the Premier League champions confirmed on Tuesday. The 29-year-old, who joined from Bayern Munich this month, missed Monday's 3-1 win over Arsenal and will now self-isolate.

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for coronavirus, the Premier League champions confirmed on Tuesday. The 29-year-old, who joined from Bayern Munich this month, missed Monday's 3-1 win over Arsenal and will now self-isolate. Also read: 'Not fit enough': New Liverpool signing Thiago Alcantara to miss next two games "Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement. "The club has, and will continue to follow, all protocols relating to Covid-19 and Thiago will remain in self-isolation for the required period of time." The Spanish international will miss another clash with Arsenal in the League Cup on Thursday aswell as Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa, but could be available for the Merseyside derby at Everton on October 17. On Monday, the Premier League announced 10 players or staff had tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous week, the highest number of infections since mass testing began in May

Liverpool's Thiago Alcantara tests positive for Covid-19

Liverpool's new signing Thiago Alcantara will be missing next to games as per manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/opposite-of-sloppy-klopp-questions-keane-over-his-liverpool-criticism-331148" hreflang="en">'Opposite of sloppy': Klopp questions Keane over his Liverpool criticism</a>

According to Klopp, the midfielder is "not fit enough". The Spaniard was signed from Bayern Munich earlier this month and made his debut against Chelsea last week but was not in the squad for Monday's 3-1 win against Arsenal at Anfield.

"After the international break he will be fine, for sure,” Klopp told Sky Sports after the Premier League match.

"That’s the situation in the moment. He is not fit enough to be involved today, but that’s it."

Liverpool's website reported that his absence was due to a "minor fitness issue".

The next two games for Liverpool will be against Arsenal again on Thursday in the League Cup fourth round before Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa.

Ex-Bayern Munich player is expected to make his debut against Everton on October 17 at Goodison Park.

Liverpool's new signing Thiago Alcantara will be missing next to games as per manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday. Also read: 'Opposite of sloppy': Klopp questions Keane over his Liverpool criticism According to Klopp, the midfielder is "not fit enough".

Liverpool's new signing Thiago Alcantara will be missing next to games as per manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday. Also read: 'Opposite of sloppy': Klopp questions Keane over his Liverpool criticism According to Klopp, the midfielder is "not fit enough". The Spaniard was signed from Bayern Munich earlier this month and made his debut against Chelsea last week but was not in the squad for Monday's 3-1 win against Arsenal at Anfield. "After the international break he will be fine, for sure,” Klopp told Sky Sports after the Premier League match. "That’s the situation in the moment. He is not fit enough to be involved today, but that’s it." Liverpool's website reported that his absence was due to a "minor fitness issue". The next two games for Liverpool will be against Arsenal again on Thursday in the League Cup fourth round before Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa. Ex-Bayern Munich player is expected to make his debut against Everton on October 17 at Goodison Park.

'Not fit enough': New Liverpool signing Thiago Alcantara to miss next two games

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