With <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/real-madrid-beat-juventus-to-win-champions-league-16396">Real Madrid defeating Juventus</a>&nbsp;in the Champions League final last week, we turn our attention to next season&#39;s European club competitions. Who&#39;s qualified so far from the major football leagues?

<a href="https://kassiesa.home.xs4all.nl/bert/uefa/seedcl2017.html">22&nbsp;teams</a> have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League. 57 teams in total will be fighting to qualify for the remaining 10 places in the group stages.&nbsp;Five teams, including Liverpool and Napoli,&nbsp;will be going into the 4th round of qualifiers for the competition.

The first round of qualifying for the Champions League <a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2435148.html">starts on</a> June 27, 2017.&nbsp;The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 23, 2017, with the draw to take place on August 24, 2017.

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/rEJVsV2.png" style="margin:0 auto;width: 350px;height:auto;" />

<a href="https://kassiesa.home.xs4all.nl/bert/uefa/seedel2017.html">16 teams</a> have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, including big names such as Arsenal and AC Milan. A&nbsp;total of 141 teams will be in qualifiers, fighting&nbsp;for the remaining 32&nbsp;places in the group stages. The first round of qualifying <a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=2435180.html">starts on</a> June 19, 2017.&nbsp;The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 24, 2017.

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/uGFpuJa.png" style="margin:0 auto;width: 350px;height:auto;" />

With the Champions League over, we turn our attention to next season's European competitions and who'll be playing in them

With Real Madrid defeating Juventus in the Champions League final last week, we turn our attention to next season's European club competitions. Who's qualified so far from the major football leagues? 22 teams have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League. 57 teams in total will be fighting to qualify for the remaining 10 places in the group stages. Five teams, including Liverpool and Napoli, will be going into the 4th round of qualifiers for the competition. The first round of qualifying for the Champions League starts on June 27, 2017. The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 23, 2017, with the draw to take place on August 24, 2017. 16 teams have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, including big names such as Arsenal and AC Milan. A total of 141 teams will be in qualifiers, fighting for the remaining 32 places in the group stages. The first round of qualifying starts on June 19, 2017. The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 24, 2017.

Football: Who's qualified for Europe next season?

Manchester United have been rated as Europe&#39;s most valuable club by a new report into the financial muscle of the continent&#39;s top teams.

The report by professional services firm KPMG looked at the finances of 39 clubs based on their popularity on social media channels, revenues for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons, and success in European competitions.

The clubs were then ranked by enterprise value, an accounting measure used to assess how much it would cost to buy any given club or company as it includes a business&#39;s total debt, with KPMG using its own formula to reach these valuations.

Despite two relatively disappointing seasons on the pitch between 2014 and 2016, United&#39;s value surged clear of Real Madrid and Barcelona last year, becoming the first club to break the three billion euros (&pound;2.7 billion, $3.4 billion) mark for enterprise value.

Bayern Munich remain in fourth place, while Manchester City edge past Arsenal to take fifth spot, both with enterprise values of just under &pound;1.7 billion.&nbsp;

Chelsea, Liverpool, Juventus and Spurs fill the next four positions, which means six of the 10 are from the Premier League.

In a statement, KPMG&#39;s global head of sports Andrea Sartori said: &quot;The aggregate value of Europe&#39;s leading football clubs suggests that the overall value of football, as an industry, has grown.

&quot;While this is partially explained by football&#39;s broadcasting boom, the internationalisation of the clubs&#39; commercial operations, their investment into privately owned and modern facilities, and overall more sustainable management practices are also key reasons for this growth.

&quot;In terms of media rights value, the English Premier League sits comfortably at the top of European leagues, although other major leagues have outlined well-defined strategies to compete for the attention of global fans.&quot;

(AFP)

Manchester United are the first club to break the three billion euros mark for enterprise value

Manchester United have been rated as Europe's most valuable club by a new report into the financial muscle of the continent's top teams. The report by professional services firm KPMG looked at the finances of 39 clubs based on their popularity on social media channels, revenues for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons, and success in European competitions. The clubs were then ranked by enterprise value, an accounting measure used to assess how much it would cost to buy any given club or company as it includes a business's total debt, with KPMG using its own formula to reach these valuations. Despite two relatively disappointing seasons on the pitch between 2014 and 2016, United's value surged clear of Real Madrid and Barcelona last year, becoming the first club to break the three billion euros (£2.7 billion, $3.4 billion) mark for enterprise value. Bayern Munich remain in fourth place, while Manchester City edge past Arsenal to take fifth spot, both with enterprise values of just under £1.7 billion. Chelsea, Liverpool, Juventus and Spurs fill the next four positions, which means six of the 10 are from the Premier League. In a statement, KPMG's global head of sports Andrea Sartori said: "The aggregate value of Europe's leading football clubs suggests that the overall value of football, as an industry, has grown. "While this is partially explained by football's broadcasting boom, the internationalisation of the clubs' commercial operations, their investment into privately owned and modern facilities, and overall more sustainable management practices are also key reasons for this growth. "In terms of media rights value, the English Premier League sits comfortably at the top of European leagues, although other major leagues have outlined well-defined strategies to compete for the attention of global fans." (AFP)

Manchester United Europe's most valuable club; Real, Barcelona next in rich list

Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam in the final of the Europa League tonight in Stockholm. Can their record in previous competitions give us an idea of what&#39;s going to happen? Here&#39;s some numbers to help you make sense of where these clubs have been and where they&#39;re headed.

How many European titles have they won?

Interestingly, Manchester United (Man United) has never won the Europa League or its previous incarnation, the UEFA Cup. Ajax Amsterdam did win the UEFA Cup back in 1992.

Ajax has won four Champions League titles (or European Cups as it used to be called before 1991) while Manchester United has won three.

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What is their record against each other? 

For two clubs with such a history in European competition, they have faced each other just four times, all in the Europa League or UEFA Cup. The first two matches were in 1976 as part of two-leg tie in the first round of the UEFA Cup back in 1976. The next two matches were part of a two-leg tie in 2012 as part of the Round of 32 in the Europa League. Man United won both those ties on aggregate.

How do they perform&nbsp;against teams from each other&#39;s countries?

The last time Man United played a Dutch team was in 2016 when they played Feyenoord in the group stage of the Europa League. Man Utd. won that match at home 4-0. The last time Ajax played an English team was five years ago in 2012 when they played Manchester City in Manchester in the group stage of the Champions League. That match was drawn 2-2. They did beat Manchester City that same year though 3-1&nbsp;in Amsterdam.

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How have they fared in Europe over the past five seasons?

It&#39;s been a long time since Ajax have progressed this far in European competition. Otherwise over the past five seasons, they have gone past the Round of 32 just once in 2014/15. Man United hasn&#39;t done much better either, with the Champions League quarterfinals in 2013/14 the furthest they&#39;ve gone in the past five years.

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How have they done domestically over the past five seasons?

Let&#39;s leave Europe aside for a moment and see if their domestic form gives us any pointers on how strong these teams actually are.&nbsp;Neither side has much to crow about though, as it&#39;s been a long time since either club won their domestic title. The last time Man United won the Premier League was in 2013 and they even&nbsp;placed as low as sixth this season in England. Ajax last won the title in 2014 but have not fallen out of the top two since.

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Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam hoping to win their first European title in nine years. Here are some numbers to give you a perspective on the final

Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam in the final of the Europa League tonight in Stockholm. Can their record in previous competitions give us an idea of what's going to happen? Here's some numbers to help you make sense of where these clubs have been and where they're headed. How many European titles have they won? Interestingly, Manchester United (Man United) has never won the Europa League or its previous incarnation, the UEFA Cup. Ajax Amsterdam did win the UEFA Cup back in 1992. Ajax has won four Champions League titles (or European Cups as it used to be called before 1991) while Manchester United has won three. What is their record against each other? For two clubs with such a history in European competition, they have faced each other just four times, all in the Europa League or UEFA Cup. The first two matches were in 1976 as part of two-leg tie in the first round of the UEFA Cup back in 1976. The next two matches were part of a two-leg tie in 2012 as part of the Round of 32 in the Europa League. Man United won both those ties on aggregate. How do they perform against teams from each other's countries? The last time Man United played a Dutch team was in 2016 when they played Feyenoord in the group stage of the Europa League. Man Utd. won that match at home 4-0. The last time Ajax played an English team was five years ago in 2012 when they played Manchester City in Manchester in the group stage of the Champions League. That match was drawn 2-2. They did beat Manchester City that same year though 3-1 in Amsterdam. How have they fared in Europe over the past five seasons? It's been a long time since Ajax have progressed this far in European competition. Otherwise over the past five seasons, they have gone past the Round of 32 just once in 2014/15. Man United hasn't done much better either, with the Champions League quarterfinals in 2013/14 the furthest they've gone in the past five years. How have they done domestically over the past five seasons? Let's leave Europe aside for a moment and see if their domestic form gives us any pointers on how strong these teams actually are. Neither side has much to crow about though, as it's been a long time since either club won their domestic title. The last time Man United won the Premier League was in 2013 and they even placed as low as sixth this season in England. Ajax last won the title in 2014 but have not fallen out of the top two since.

Analysis: Can Manchester United win the Europa League tonight?

Manchester United&#39;s Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored a goal in each half as their team outclassed Ajax Amsterdam to win an emotional Europa League final 2-0 and qualify for the group stages of next season&#39;s Champions League.

There was silence and then applause before the game to honour the victims of Monday&#39;s deadly attack at a pop concert in Manchester in which 22 people died and both sides then played a final full of pride and passion at the Friends Arena.

World record signing Pogba opened the scoring in the 18th minute as United won the ball after an Ajax throw-in, the Frenchman&#39;s shot taking a wicked deflection to wrong foot goalkeeper Andre Onana and fly into the net.

Mkhitaryan then flicked the ball home early in the second half following a United corner, and with chants of &quot;Manchester! Manchester!&quot; echoing around the stadium, United held on to win the only European trophy missing from the Old Trafford cabinet.

(Reuters)

With this win, Manchester United has qualified for the group stages of next season's Champions League.

Manchester United's Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored a goal in each half as their team outclassed Ajax Amsterdam to win an emotional Europa League final 2-0 and qualify for the group stages of next season's Champions League. There was silence and then applause before the game to honour the victims of Monday's deadly attack at a pop concert in Manchester in which 22 people died and both sides then played a final full of pride and passion at the Friends Arena. World record signing Pogba opened the scoring in the 18th minute as United won the ball after an Ajax throw-in, the Frenchman's shot taking a wicked deflection to wrong foot goalkeeper Andre Onana and fly into the net. Mkhitaryan then flicked the ball home early in the second half following a United corner, and with chants of "Manchester! Manchester!" echoing around the stadium, United held on to win the only European trophy missing from the Old Trafford cabinet. (Reuters)

Manchester United beat Ajax 2-0 to win Europa League final

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League&#39;s unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season&#39;s Champions League.

With nothing riding on Sunday&#39;s game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day.

&quot;In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn&#39;t matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe,&quot; the United manager told reporters after Wednesday&#39;s 0-0 draw at Southampton.

&quot;So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday.

&quot;In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It&#39;s going to be Sunday. It&#39;s frustrating for me. And I hope you don&#39;t kill me when you see my team.&quot;

Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: &quot;I don&#39;t lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don&#39;t fight the battle.

&quot;You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I&#39;m here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions.

&quot;I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw.&nbsp;

&quot;So I think it&#39;s just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is.&quot;

The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini.

Big Sam plea

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira.

Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United&#39;s last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley.

&quot;I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us.&quot;

Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday.

Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring.

The result at St Mary&#39;s was United&#39;s 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season.

But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth.

Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation.

&quot;I try to stay focused about our last game now,&quot; said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday.

&quot;After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It&#39;s important to focus on our last game.&quot;

(AFP)

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League's unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday. United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season's Champions League. With nothing riding on Sunday's game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day. "In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn't matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe," the United manager told reporters after Wednesday's 0-0 draw at Southampton. "So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday. "In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It's going to be Sunday. It's frustrating for me. And I hope you don't kill me when you see my team." Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: "I don't lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don't fight the battle. "You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I'm here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions. "I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw. "So I think it's just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is." The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini. Big Sam plea Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira. Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United's last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley. "I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence," Mourinho said. "And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us." Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday. Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring. The result at St Mary's was United's 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season. But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth. Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation. "I try to stay focused about our last game now," said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday. "After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It's important to focus on our last game." (AFP)

Football: 'Don't kill me' for playing kids, begs Mourinho

Manchester United survived a fraught finale, featuring an ugly brawl and a red card for each side, to draw 1-1 at home to Celta Vigo and reach the Europa League final on Thursday.

United, who won 2-1 on aggregate, will face Ajax Amsterdam in Stockholm on May 24 after the Dutch side overcame Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 on aggregate after a 3-1 defeat in Lyon.

United will play in their first Europa League final and their first European showpiece match since losing in the 2011 Champions League. They also never reached the UEFA Cup final.

Leading 1-0 from the first leg of the semi-final in Spain, United thought they had killed off the tie when Marouane Fellaini headed them in front after 17 minutes.

United sat back and allowed Celta to dominate possession but looked comfortable until Facundo Roncaglia headed the visitors level in the 85th minute, meaning another goal for the Spaniards could have put them through on away goals.

Tempers flared shortly afterwards when United&#39;s Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly lashed out at John Guidetti, who fell to the ground, before Argentina international Roncaglia got involved. Roncaglia and Bailly were sent off.

Guidetti had a chance to win the tie for Celta with the last kick of the game but failed to control the ball six metres from goal.

Best Team

&quot;We were the best team in the first leg but we never kill, we never score goals related to the chances we have. It was an open game at home, all the pressure on our side,&quot; said United coach Jose Mourinho.

&quot;We suffered until the end... After 14 matches we are in the final. If we win the Europa League I am more than happy. It would be amazing.&quot;

Mourinho, who has targeted a Europa League triumph as a way for United to qualify for next season&#39;s Champions League, described Ivorian defender Bailly&#39;s performance as phenomenal.

&quot;The game was emotional for everyone. Some kept control better than others,&quot; he said.

&quot;Facundo Roncaglia is not new in these situations, Bailly was probably naive. We now lose a very important player for the final, and we don&#39;t have many.&quot;

Celta, whose fans made most of the noise, were lively from the start but United went ahead when Fellaini got in front of his marker to head in at the far post after Marcus Rashford drifted out to the left and delivered a perfect cross.

The hosts were then happy to sit back and contain Celta, making the game strangely subdued. The visitors moved the ball around nicely but failed to make the most of their chances.

The game changed dramatically when Roncaglia headed home Theo Bongonda&#39;s cross.

United kept the visitors at bay during six minutes of stoppage time and the Celta players sank to their knees in despair as the whistle blew seconds after Guidetti&#39;s miss.

(Reuters)

United, who won 2-1 on aggregate, will face Ajax Amsterdam in Stockholm on May 24 after the Dutch side overcame Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 on aggregate after a 3-1 defeat in Lyon

Manchester United survived a fraught finale, featuring an ugly brawl and a red card for each side, to draw 1-1 at home to Celta Vigo and reach the Europa League final on Thursday. United, who won 2-1 on aggregate, will face Ajax Amsterdam in Stockholm on May 24 after the Dutch side overcame Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 on aggregate after a 3-1 defeat in Lyon. United will play in their first Europa League final and their first European showpiece match since losing in the 2011 Champions League. They also never reached the UEFA Cup final. Leading 1-0 from the first leg of the semi-final in Spain, United thought they had killed off the tie when Marouane Fellaini headed them in front after 17 minutes. United sat back and allowed Celta to dominate possession but looked comfortable until Facundo Roncaglia headed the visitors level in the 85th minute, meaning another goal for the Spaniards could have put them through on away goals. Tempers flared shortly afterwards when United's Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly lashed out at John Guidetti, who fell to the ground, before Argentina international Roncaglia got involved. Roncaglia and Bailly were sent off. Guidetti had a chance to win the tie for Celta with the last kick of the game but failed to control the ball six metres from goal. Best Team "We were the best team in the first leg but we never kill, we never score goals related to the chances we have. It was an open game at home, all the pressure on our side," said United coach Jose Mourinho. "We suffered until the end... After 14 matches we are in the final. If we win the Europa League I am more than happy. It would be amazing." Mourinho, who has targeted a Europa League triumph as a way for United to qualify for next season's Champions League, described Ivorian defender Bailly's performance as phenomenal. "The game was emotional for everyone. Some kept control better than others," he said. "Facundo Roncaglia is not new in these situations, Bailly was probably naive. We now lose a very important player for the final, and we don't have many." Celta, whose fans made most of the noise, were lively from the start but United went ahead when Fellaini got in front of his marker to head in at the far post after Marcus Rashford drifted out to the left and delivered a perfect cross. The hosts were then happy to sit back and contain Celta, making the game strangely subdued. The visitors moved the ball around nicely but failed to make the most of their chances. The game changed dramatically when Roncaglia headed home Theo Bongonda's cross. United kept the visitors at bay during six minutes of stoppage time and the Celta players sank to their knees in despair as the whistle blew seconds after Guidetti's miss. (Reuters)

Manchester United vs Celta Vigo ends in 1-1 draw, Mourinho's team enters Europa League final

Arsenal are back in the hunt to qualify for the Champions League after Arsene Wenger finally got the better of Jose Mourinho in a 2-0 win over&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United, while Liverpool were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton on Sunday.

Wenger had failed to win any of his previous 14 competitive clashes against Mourinho dating back to 2004, with his only victory over his old rival coming in the 2015 Community Shield when the Portuguese coach was in charge of Chelsea.

The Gunners boss brought an end to that frustrating streak at just the right time as goals from Granit Xhaka and Danny Welbeck improved Arsenal&#39;s chances of salvaging a troubled season by finishing in the top four.

Sixth-placed Arsenal are now six points behind fourth-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City with four games to play, while Pep Guardiola&#39;s side have only three matches remaining.

Downplaying his rivalry with Mourinho, Wenger said: &quot;It is not manager against manager.

&quot;It was a patiently built win where in the first half you could see we were a bit nervous, but in the second half we took the edge off and scored the goals.&quot;

Fifth-placed United remain four points behind City with three games left.

&quot;Of course, we knew we were not coming in our maximum power. That&#39;s a decision,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;We want to try to win the Europa League. It&#39;s more important than finishing fourth.&quot;

With Mourinho prioritising the Europa League semi-final second leg against Celta Vigo in midweek, United, who hold a 1-0 first-leg lead,&nbsp;fielded a much-changed side in north London.

United can qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League and they may well need to do exactly that after surrendering their 25-match unbeaten run in the Premier League.

The Gunners&#39; only route back into Europe&#39;s elite club competition is via a top-four finish, so it wasn&#39;t surprising that they played with more hunger than United.

Even so, they still needed a stroke of luck to open the scoring in the 54th minute.

Xhaka blasted a long-range strike that slammed into the back of United midfielder Ander Herrera, looping high in the air before dropping into the net just out of the reach of goalkeeper David de Gea.

If that was a fortuitous way to take the lead, Arsenal had no need to apologise for their superb second goal three minutes later.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain whipped over a teasing cross and when United defender Chris Smalling misjudged the flight of the ball, former United forward Welbeck was perfectly placed to bury his header past De Gea for just his second league goal this season.

Infamously labelled &quot;a voyeur&quot; and &quot;a specialist in failure&quot; by Mourinho in the past, this was a sweet moment for Wenger, but it won&#39;t mean much unless Arsenal find a way to catch City.&nbsp;

Dry pitch&nbsp;

At Anfield, Liverpool&#39;s James Milner saw his penalty saved by Fraser Forster as his side wasted a chance to bolster their Champions League bid.

It was Milner&#39;s first missed penalty since November 2009.

Liverpool&#39;s second-half penalty arrived when Jack Stephens elbowed away the ball inside the area.

It was well spotted by referee Bobby Madley and although Milner&#39;s spot-kick was right in the corner, Forster did well to get down and palm the effort away.

Liverpool are up to third, five points ahead of United, who have a game in hand.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp had a curious excuse for Liverpool&#39;s woes as he blamed the poor quality of the Anfield pitch.

&quot;Nobody wants to hear it but the pitch was really dry today,&quot; Klopp said.&nbsp;

&quot;We gave all the water we had and after 15 minutes it was really dry - a lot of passes you could say why are they playing this?&quot;

(AFP)

Xhaka and Welbeck scored for the North London club

Arsenal are back in the hunt to qualify for the Champions League after Arsene Wenger finally got the better of Jose Mourinho in a 2-0 win over Manchester United, while Liverpool were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton on Sunday. Wenger had failed to win any of his previous 14 competitive clashes against Mourinho dating back to 2004, with his only victory over his old rival coming in the 2015 Community Shield when the Portuguese coach was in charge of Chelsea. The Gunners boss brought an end to that frustrating streak at just the right time as goals from Granit Xhaka and Danny Welbeck improved Arsenal's chances of salvaging a troubled season by finishing in the top four. Sixth-placed Arsenal are now six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with four games to play, while Pep Guardiola's side have only three matches remaining. Downplaying his rivalry with Mourinho, Wenger said: "It is not manager against manager. "It was a patiently built win where in the first half you could see we were a bit nervous, but in the second half we took the edge off and scored the goals." Fifth-placed United remain four points behind City with three games left. "Of course, we knew we were not coming in our maximum power. That's a decision," Mourinho said. "We want to try to win the Europa League. It's more important than finishing fourth." With Mourinho prioritising the Europa League semi-final second leg against Celta Vigo in midweek, United, who hold a 1-0 first-leg lead, fielded a much-changed side in north London. United can qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League and they may well need to do exactly that after surrendering their 25-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. The Gunners' only route back into Europe's elite club competition is via a top-four finish, so it wasn't surprising that they played with more hunger than United. Even so, they still needed a stroke of luck to open the scoring in the 54th minute. Xhaka blasted a long-range strike that slammed into the back of United midfielder Ander Herrera, looping high in the air before dropping into the net just out of the reach of goalkeeper David de Gea. If that was a fortuitous way to take the lead, Arsenal had no need to apologise for their superb second goal three minutes later. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain whipped over a teasing cross and when United defender Chris Smalling misjudged the flight of the ball, former United forward Welbeck was perfectly placed to bury his header past De Gea for just his second league goal this season. Infamously labelled "a voyeur" and "a specialist in failure" by Mourinho in the past, this was a sweet moment for Wenger, but it won't mean much unless Arsenal find a way to catch City. Dry pitch At Anfield, Liverpool's James Milner saw his penalty saved by Fraser Forster as his side wasted a chance to bolster their Champions League bid. It was Milner's first missed penalty since November 2009. Liverpool's second-half penalty arrived when Jack Stephens elbowed away the ball inside the area. It was well spotted by referee Bobby Madley and although Milner's spot-kick was right in the corner, Forster did well to get down and palm the effort away. Liverpool are up to third, five points ahead of United, who have a game in hand. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp had a curious excuse for Liverpool's woes as he blamed the poor quality of the Anfield pitch. "Nobody wants to hear it but the pitch was really dry today," Klopp said. "We gave all the water we had and after 15 minutes it was really dry - a lot of passes you could say why are they playing this?" (AFP)

Arsenal beat Manchester United to keep top four hopes alive

Another day and another day of transfer rumours. So without me being a fork in the soup, let&#39;s just get started with today&#39;s goss.

Romelu Lukaku

Let&#39;s start Monday with the big Belgian. The Everton striker, the league&#39;s top-scorer, is wanted by several big Premier League clubs, including his former club Chelsea.

But Sun believes that he is likely to reject the Blues and instead sign for Manchester United.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XNwyaADU2xo" width="560"></iframe>

The UK tabloid says this year&#39;s Premier League top-scorer is unsure as to how he would fit in Antonio Conte&#39;s team.

But despair not, fans of Diego Costa-less Chelsea. Not all is lost. The report goes on to state that Lukaku aspires to play in the Champions League and United getting a berth is far from certain.

Alvaro Morata

The Real Madrid striker is another player in hot demand.

And it is the same two protagonists. Nope, we won&#39;t just track Manchester United and Chelsea transfer stories, I promise.

But here, it is Chelsea that is coveted and not United.

Dario Gol reports that the player held several meetings with clubs across Europe, but has penned down Stamford Bridge as his next destination.

Morata did his reputation no harm over the weekend by scoring a couple during Real&#39;s mauling of Granada.

Radja Nainggolan&nbsp;and&nbsp;Antonio Rudiger

I honestly am not a Chelsea fan. It&#39;s not my fault that the fantastical, but sometimes real, world of football transfer world have taken a liking to Chelsea to beat away its Monday morning blues.

Or maybe the Sun&nbsp;just has more dope on the Blues today.

Their report suggests that Chelsea gaffer Conte is planning to raid Roma this summer, and splash out 70 million GBP to bring the duo to Stamford bridge.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8MRCa9z_iJQ" width="560"></iframe>

Midfielder Nainggolan was close to signing for Chelsea last season but the deal collapsed as the club failed to comply with Roma&#39;s 32 million GBP demand.

Rudiger, who has been a rock in Roma&#39;s backline, since joining from Stuttgart in 2015.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IhC4TS16qGk" width="560"></iframe>

Ross Barkley

Tottenham&nbsp;are interested in him. So would their fierce cross-town rivals be left out?

Arsenal too have shown their interest in the 23-year-old England international.

Both the clubs are keeping a hawkish eye on developments in the next few days. They plan to swoop in for him if his talks with his current employers Everton fall through.

Luka Modric

Bayern Munich are keen to replace the Xabi Alonso with the Real midfielder, according to Don Balon.

Kylian Mbappe

The teenage sensation doesn&#39;t seem to be keen on joining Manchester United, if L&#39;Equipe is to be believed.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfer-news-which-spanish-giant-is-launching-a-bid-for-coutinho-and-more-15266">More transfer news</a>

(WION)

Also, what about Morata? And which club is interested in Modric?

Another day and another day of transfer rumours. So without me being a fork in the soup, let's just get started with today's goss. Romelu Lukaku Let's start Monday with the big Belgian. The Everton striker, the league's top-scorer, is wanted by several big Premier League clubs, including his former club Chelsea. But Sun believes that he is likely to reject the Blues and instead sign for Manchester United. The UK tabloid says this year's Premier League top-scorer is unsure as to how he would fit in Antonio Conte's team. But despair not, fans of Diego Costa-less Chelsea. Not all is lost. The report goes on to state that Lukaku aspires to play in the Champions League and United getting a berth is far from certain. Alvaro Morata The Real Madrid striker is another player in hot demand. And it is the same two protagonists. Nope, we won't just track Manchester United and Chelsea transfer stories, I promise. But here, it is Chelsea that is coveted and not United. Dario Gol reports that the player held several meetings with clubs across Europe, but has penned down Stamford Bridge as his next destination. Morata did his reputation no harm over the weekend by scoring a couple during Real's mauling of Granada. Radja Nainggolan and Antonio Rudiger I honestly am not a Chelsea fan. It's not my fault that the fantastical, but sometimes real, world of football transfer world have taken a liking to Chelsea to beat away its Monday morning blues. Or maybe the Sun just has more dope on the Blues today. Their report suggests that Chelsea gaffer Conte is planning to raid Roma this summer, and splash out 70 million GBP to bring the duo to Stamford bridge. Midfielder Nainggolan was close to signing for Chelsea last season but the deal collapsed as the club failed to comply with Roma's 32 million GBP demand. Rudiger, who has been a rock in Roma's backline, since joining from Stuttgart in 2015. Ross Barkley Tottenham are interested in him. So would their fierce cross-town rivals be left out? Arsenal too have shown their interest in the 23-year-old England international. Both the clubs are keeping a hawkish eye on developments in the next few days. They plan to swoop in for him if his talks with his current employers Everton fall through. Luka Modric Bayern Munich are keen to replace the Xabi Alonso with the Real midfielder, according to Don Balon. Kylian Mbappe The teenage sensation doesn't seem to be keen on joining Manchester United, if L'Equipe is to be believed. More transfer news (WION)

Football transfer news: Is Lukaku joining Man United or Chelsea?

Marcus Rashford&#39;s stunning free-kick 23 minutes from time put Manchester United on the brink of reaching the Europa League final with a hard-fought 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Thursday.

Celta goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez kept the Spaniards in the tie before half-time with a string of saves to deny Rashford, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Jese Lingard.

However, he was wrong-footed by Rashford&#39;s free-kick as United took a giant step towards reaching the final in Stockholm on May 24.

The two sides meet again at Old Trafford for the second leg on May 11.

Rashford&#39;s 11th goal of the season was just reward for United&#39;s superiority as they close in on not just the prestige of winning the Europa League for the first time, but also the prize of guaranteed Champions League football next season it would bring.

Celta, by contrast, failed to rise to the challenge of their first ever European semi-final, but they did have the first big chance just 10 minutes in.

Nemanja Radoja&#39;s cross picked out the unmarked Daniel Wass, but the Dane miscued his header horribly wide with just Sergio Romero to beat.

Thereafter, it fell on Alvarez to keep Celta in the game before the break.

His best stop came on 21 minutes when Rashford took aim from just outside the box and his shot was curling into the top corner only for Alvarez&#39;s fingertips to turn the ball behind.

Pione Sisto shot to fame by scoring twice for Midtjylland against United in last season&#39;s Europa League, but couldn&#39;t repeat the trick when his tame effort was easily claimed by Romero.

Paul Pogba was making his return after missing United&#39;s last two outings, and the world&#39;s most expensive player looked a class apart in midfield.

A powerful run from the Frenchman teed up Mkhitaryan for the visitors best chance of the first 45 minutes. However, Alvarez rushed from his line to block from the Armenian.

And Alvarez was called into action again moments later to parry Lingard&#39;s imprecise shot after he had been played in by Rashford&#39;s through ball.

Celta&#39;s top scorer Iago Aspas was anonymous before the break, but started the second-half brightly and saw flicked header float just wide.

Sisto was then denied by a fine save from Romero as the Dane&#39;s deflected shot threatened to loop over the Argentine.

Celta&#39;s greater attacking intent was offering United more space on the counter-attack and Rashford didn&#39;t make the most of one promising opening after skipping past Gustavo Cabral.

However, the 19-year-old showed his class moments later as he won a free-kick on the edge of the area and then picked himself up to curl home a wonderful effort into the far corner.

Aspas had Celta`s best chance to respond but fired wide when Jonny`s cross was fired into him at an awkward height.

Celta have already overcome losing the first leg 1-0 at home on their run to the last four with a 2-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk in the last 32.

But the Galicians need lightning to strike twice at Old Trafford as United look set for their first European final since 2011.

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Manager of Manchester United, Jos&eacute; Mourinho praised Manchester United&rsquo;s gameplay against Celta Vigo (WION)
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(Reuters)

Marcus Rashford's stunning free-kick 23 minutes from time put Manchester United on the brink of reaching the Europa League final

Marcus Rashford's stunning free-kick 23 minutes from time put Manchester United on the brink of reaching the Europa League final with a hard-fought 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Thursday. Celta goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez kept the Spaniards in the tie before half-time with a string of saves to deny Rashford, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Jese Lingard. However, he was wrong-footed by Rashford's free-kick as United took a giant step towards reaching the final in Stockholm on May 24. The two sides meet again at Old Trafford for the second leg on May 11. Rashford's 11th goal of the season was just reward for United's superiority as they close in on not just the prestige of winning the Europa League for the first time, but also the prize of guaranteed Champions League football next season it would bring. Celta, by contrast, failed to rise to the challenge of their first ever European semi-final, but they did have the first big chance just 10 minutes in. Nemanja Radoja's cross picked out the unmarked Daniel Wass, but the Dane miscued his header horribly wide with just Sergio Romero to beat. Thereafter, it fell on Alvarez to keep Celta in the game before the break. His best stop came on 21 minutes when Rashford took aim from just outside the box and his shot was curling into the top corner only for Alvarez's fingertips to turn the ball behind. Pione Sisto shot to fame by scoring twice for Midtjylland against United in last season's Europa League, but couldn't repeat the trick when his tame effort was easily claimed by Romero. Paul Pogba was making his return after missing United's last two outings, and the world's most expensive player looked a class apart in midfield. A powerful run from the Frenchman teed up Mkhitaryan for the visitors best chance of the first 45 minutes. However, Alvarez rushed from his line to block from the Armenian. And Alvarez was called into action again moments later to parry Lingard's imprecise shot after he had been played in by Rashford's through ball. Celta's top scorer Iago Aspas was anonymous before the break, but started the second-half brightly and saw flicked header float just wide. Sisto was then denied by a fine save from Romero as the Dane's deflected shot threatened to loop over the Argentine. Celta's greater attacking intent was offering United more space on the counter-attack and Rashford didn't make the most of one promising opening after skipping past Gustavo Cabral. However, the 19-year-old showed his class moments later as he won a free-kick on the edge of the area and then picked himself up to curl home a wonderful effort into the far corner. Aspas had Celta`s best chance to respond but fired wide when Jonny`s cross was fired into him at an awkward height. Celta have already overcome losing the first leg 1-0 at home on their run to the last four with a 2-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk in the last 32. But the Galicians need lightning to strike twice at Old Trafford as United look set for their first European final since 2011. Manager of Manchester United, José Mourinho praised Manchester United’s gameplay against Celta Vigo (WION) × (Reuters)

Football: Rashford edges Manchester United towards Europa League final

The football agents are up and about, ready to embark on another day of wheeling and dealing in the universe of European football.

The following are some of the stories that we heard through the grapevine.&nbsp;And believe me some of the stories are juicy indeed.

Philippe Coutinho

Let&#39;s begin the day with the juiciest bit of news (But I&#39;d suggest Liverpool fans to look away).

Coutinho, the playmer that makes Liverpool tick, has grabbed Barcelona&#39;s attention, according to AS.

The Catalan giants have prepared a 51 million GBP offer for the Brazilian and are keen to bring him to Camp Nou.

Surely that would make Jurgen Klopp froth at the mouth with rage as Coutinho has been integral to everything that Liverpool do.

Though Coutinho has had an injury-ravaged season, he has still managed to represent the Reds 27 times this year, scoring 10 goals in the process.

But it is not just the goals that makes him improtant, the playmaker/attacking midfielder is the fulcrum of the free-flowing football that Anfield has witnessed during Klopp&#39;s tenure.

Here&#39;s a taster of how important he is for Liverpool:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/trmJIDSNepM" width="560"></iframe>

If the deal does go through, the only upshot would be that Liverpool will make a decent profit of 42.5 million GBP. (Coutinho&#39;s services were acquired for 8.5 million GBP).&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe

I know, I know. It&#39;s tiring to open the transfer section and read about the new kid in town.

It&#39;s tiring for me to type it out too. But believe me, this has all the ingredients to be a summer-long saga. So let&#39;s embrace it and go along with the ride.

What we know is that a clutch of major football powerhouses are in the races to get the French teenager.

We also know that Manchester United reportedly made a 72 million GBP for the speedy forward. And some media reports suggest that the bid has been declined by Monaco. In case you didn&#39;t know, let me just plug the story <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfer-news-mbappe-on-city-psg-radar-de-geas-madrid-saga-15189">here</a>.

But it&#39;s a new day and there&#39;s a new story.

Manchester United may have bid first, but it is Real Madrid that stands at the front of the queue.

And if Daily Mail is to be believed, the rising star has &quot;said yes&quot; to joining Los Blancos. But something tells me, this is not over yet...

Ronald Koeman

In case you were living under a rock, I need to inform you that Barcelona will be coach-less at the end of the year.

Luis Enrique has decided to step down as Barca boss and the Catalan giants are preparing a list of candidates that can take over.

And Koeman has taken the opportunity to flaunt his love for Barcelona, a club where he played from 1989 to 1995.&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z5fR2bwqXYg" width="560"></iframe>

&quot;Everyone knows that I am from Barca, they know my love for a club where I grew up as a player and as a person,&quot; he told Sport.

&quot;In football, as in life, as in business, everything can be talked about and discussed.

&quot;In my life as a professional coach I have two dreams to fulfil. One, coach my country, Holland [he was previously assistant to Guus Hiddink for the 1998 World Cup].

&quot;My other wish, my other dream, is to one day coach Barca. That&#39;s the truth.

&quot;I now owe Everton. We have a very powerful and exciting project and we will reinforce our best to try to reach next season the Champions League.&quot;

Now, that&#39;s an impressive statement of purpose to his prospective bosses, while at the same time&nbsp;he keeps his current bosses by his side too.

Alvaro Morata

The 24-year-old striker has caught Manchester United gaffer Jose Mourinho&#39;s attention.

Multiple reports suggest that Old Trafford is looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with the Real Madrid forward.

Is getting him a possibility? Sure. he hardly gets to play for Real Madrid -- anyone would, considering there&#39;s Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez&nbsp;and Isco to contend with.

Is there a hitch? Sure. A certain Chelsea is also monitoring him closely.&nbsp;

James Rodriguez

Yes, him. Remember the Colombian who made a huge splash at the World Cup, winning the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup?

You don&#39;t. Never mind, here&#39;s a refresher video:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hO41kJJTFik" width="560"></iframe>

There are rumours abuzz about Manchester United looking to get him as part of a swap deal with David De Gea.

De Gea&nbsp;is keen to go to Real Madrid and United are looking to leverage him for the 25-year-old with a feared left foot.

Arda Turan

I hate to do this but it&#39;s another piece of bad news for Gooners.

The Turkish &#39;Zizou&#39; is not too keen to join Arsenal. Instead, he wants to fight it out at Barcelona, according to The Independent.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfer-news-mbappe-on-city-psg-radar-de-geas-madrid-saga-15189">May 3 transfer gossip</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfers-bayern-eye-sanchez-united-look-to-griezmann-15235">May 4 transfer gossip</a>

(WION)

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Also, Manchester United's transfer wishlist and the Mbappe transfer saga

The football agents are up and about, ready to embark on another day of wheeling and dealing in the universe of European football. The following are some of the stories that we heard through the grapevine. And believe me some of the stories are juicy indeed. Philippe Coutinho Let's begin the day with the juiciest bit of news (But I'd suggest Liverpool fans to look away). Coutinho, the playmer that makes Liverpool tick, has grabbed Barcelona's attention, according to AS. The Catalan giants have prepared a 51 million GBP offer for the Brazilian and are keen to bring him to Camp Nou. Surely that would make Jurgen Klopp froth at the mouth with rage as Coutinho has been integral to everything that Liverpool do. Though Coutinho has had an injury-ravaged season, he has still managed to represent the Reds 27 times this year, scoring 10 goals in the process. But it is not just the goals that makes him improtant, the playmaker/attacking midfielder is the fulcrum of the free-flowing football that Anfield has witnessed during Klopp's tenure. Here's a taster of how important he is for Liverpool: If the deal does go through, the only upshot would be that Liverpool will make a decent profit of 42.5 million GBP. (Coutinho's services were acquired for 8.5 million GBP). Kylian Mbappe I know, I know. It's tiring to open the transfer section and read about the new kid in town. It's tiring for me to type it out too. But believe me, this has all the ingredients to be a summer-long saga. So let's embrace it and go along with the ride. What we know is that a clutch of major football powerhouses are in the races to get the French teenager. We also know that Manchester United reportedly made a 72 million GBP for the speedy forward. And some media reports suggest that the bid has been declined by Monaco. In case you didn't know, let me just plug the story here. But it's a new day and there's a new story. Manchester United may have bid first, but it is Real Madrid that stands at the front of the queue. And if Daily Mail is to be believed, the rising star has "said yes" to joining Los Blancos. But something tells me, this is not over yet... Ronald Koeman In case you were living under a rock, I need to inform you that Barcelona will be coach-less at the end of the year. Luis Enrique has decided to step down as Barca boss and the Catalan giants are preparing a list of candidates that can take over. And Koeman has taken the opportunity to flaunt his love for Barcelona, a club where he played from 1989 to 1995. "Everyone knows that I am from Barca, they know my love for a club where I grew up as a player and as a person," he told Sport. "In football, as in life, as in business, everything can be talked about and discussed. "In my life as a professional coach I have two dreams to fulfil. One, coach my country, Holland [he was previously assistant to Guus Hiddink for the 1998 World Cup]. "My other wish, my other dream, is to one day coach Barca. That's the truth. "I now owe Everton. We have a very powerful and exciting project and we will reinforce our best to try to reach next season the Champions League." Now, that's an impressive statement of purpose to his prospective bosses, while at the same time he keeps his current bosses by his side too. Alvaro Morata The 24-year-old striker has caught Manchester United gaffer Jose Mourinho's attention. Multiple reports suggest that Old Trafford is looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with the Real Madrid forward. Is getting him a possibility? Sure. he hardly gets to play for Real Madrid -- anyone would, considering there's Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and Isco to contend with. Is there a hitch? Sure. A certain Chelsea is also monitoring him closely. James Rodriguez Yes, him. Remember the Colombian who made a huge splash at the World Cup, winning the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup? You don't. Never mind, here's a refresher video: There are rumours abuzz about Manchester United looking to get him as part of a swap deal with David De Gea. De Gea is keen to go to Real Madrid and United are looking to leverage him for the 25-year-old with a feared left foot. Arda Turan I hate to do this but it's another piece of bad news for Gooners. The Turkish 'Zizou' is not too keen to join Arsenal. Instead, he wants to fight it out at Barcelona, according to The Independent. May 3 transfer gossip May 4 transfer gossip (WION)

Football transfer news: Which Spanish giant is launching a bid for Coutinho and more

Chelsea took a significant step towards the Premier League title on Sunday with victory at Everton but Tottenham ensured the champagne will stay on ice for a bit longer with an impressive 2-0 win over Arsenal.

As well as the engrossing fight for the title the battle for the two remaining Champions League places has become a real dogfight -- Arsenal missing a chance to make up ground on the two Manchester clubs, who both stumbled on Sunday against relegation candidates.

Second-half goals by Dele Alli and Harry Kane, from the penalty spot, sealed the three points and ensured that Spurs will finish above their North London rivals Arsenal for the first time in 22 years.

But whether Spurs will ever hunt down relentless Chelsea is another matter, with just four games left and Chelsea still four points clear, and with an easier run-in.

&quot;I am so pleased. It was a very important game and it was a complete performance,&quot; Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino told the BBC.

&quot;The race for the title is down to four points and we will see what will happen.

&quot;To be above Arsenal for the first time in 22 years is fantastic for our fans. it is fantastic for us too, but we want to win the title.&quot;

A superb second-half strike by Pedro and late goals from Gary Cahill and Willian ended Everton&#39;s run of eight successive home wins and had piled the pressure on Spurs, who were playing afterwards.

Chelsea took time to settle but once Pedro scored their opener -- his first goal in nine matches -- the floodgates opened and they ran out 3-0 winners.

&quot;This gives us lots of confidence,&quot; manager Antonio Conte told Sky Sports. &quot;Now it is important to prepare the final rush.

&quot;If in the next game against Middlesbrough you don&#39;t win, you lose this victory. We must look step by step.&quot;Cahill&#39;s eighth goal of the season and Willian&#39;s beautifully worked third inflicted only Everton&#39;s second home defeat of the season.

&quot;It was convincing but we had to work hard for it,&quot; Cahill told Sky Sports, sensing this might be the win that delivers the title in Conte&#39;s first season at Chelsea.

&quot;Pedro&#39;s goal was special, at times you need a bit of class to open up a team, that&#39;s what he did today. I&#39;m buzzing with that, it&#39;s a huge result for us.&quot;

City had to come from behind twice to draw 2-2 at Middlesbrough and United drew 1-1 at home to Swansea on a bad day for the Manchester giants.

City relied on 20-year-old striker Gabriel Jesus to secure them a point in the final five minutes of their game against a Boro side scenting back-to-back wins in the Premier League for the first time since May 2008.

&quot;We controlled the game and missed so many chances,&quot; Jesus told Premier League Productions.

&quot;Today&#39;s result is disappointing but at least we have a point.&quot;

Arsenal&#39;s defeat in the last North London derby at White Hart Lane leaves manager Arsene Wenger&#39;s proud record of qualifying for the Champions League in real trouble.

They are sixth, five points behind United and six behind City in fourth, although the Londoners have a game in hand on both.

Only the top four get into the Champions League.

Liverpool, the other team in the mix, travel to Watford on Monday looking to cement third spot.Wenger -- whose future at Arsenal is mired in doubt -- gave credit to Spurs for deserving to beat them but was unimpressed by the fact that the Gunners would finish below their rivals for the first time in his long tenure.

&quot;Mathematically it has to happen once,&quot; Wenger told Sky Sports.

&quot;We are not happy with it but we don&#39;t compare ourselves to Spurs, we compare ourselves to where we want to be.&quot; 
&nbsp; 
A sublime free-kick by Icelandic international Gylfi Sigurdsson gained Swansea a deserved point against United at Old Trafford and dented Jose Mourinho`s hopes of breaking into the top four.

Sigurdsson&#39;s 10th goal of the season, but first in 11 matches, cancelled out veteran Wayne Rooney&#39;s contentious penalty in time added on in the first half when Marcus Rashford made the most out of minimal contact with Swans goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.&nbsp; 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

The engrossing fight for the title the battle for the two remaining Champions League places has become a real dogfight

Chelsea took a significant step towards the Premier League title on Sunday with victory at Everton but Tottenham ensured the champagne will stay on ice for a bit longer with an impressive 2-0 win over Arsenal. As well as the engrossing fight for the title the battle for the two remaining Champions League places has become a real dogfight -- Arsenal missing a chance to make up ground on the two Manchester clubs, who both stumbled on Sunday against relegation candidates. Second-half goals by Dele Alli and Harry Kane, from the penalty spot, sealed the three points and ensured that Spurs will finish above their North London rivals Arsenal for the first time in 22 years. But whether Spurs will ever hunt down relentless Chelsea is another matter, with just four games left and Chelsea still four points clear, and with an easier run-in. "I am so pleased. It was a very important game and it was a complete performance," Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino told the BBC. "The race for the title is down to four points and we will see what will happen. "To be above Arsenal for the first time in 22 years is fantastic for our fans. it is fantastic for us too, but we want to win the title." A superb second-half strike by Pedro and late goals from Gary Cahill and Willian ended Everton's run of eight successive home wins and had piled the pressure on Spurs, who were playing afterwards. Chelsea took time to settle but once Pedro scored their opener -- his first goal in nine matches -- the floodgates opened and they ran out 3-0 winners. "This gives us lots of confidence," manager Antonio Conte told Sky Sports. "Now it is important to prepare the final rush. "If in the next game against Middlesbrough you don't win, you lose this victory. We must look step by step."Cahill's eighth goal of the season and Willian's beautifully worked third inflicted only Everton's second home defeat of the season. "It was convincing but we had to work hard for it," Cahill told Sky Sports, sensing this might be the win that delivers the title in Conte's first season at Chelsea. "Pedro's goal was special, at times you need a bit of class to open up a team, that's what he did today. I'm buzzing with that, it's a huge result for us." City had to come from behind twice to draw 2-2 at Middlesbrough and United drew 1-1 at home to Swansea on a bad day for the Manchester giants. City relied on 20-year-old striker Gabriel Jesus to secure them a point in the final five minutes of their game against a Boro side scenting back-to-back wins in the Premier League for the first time since May 2008. "We controlled the game and missed so many chances," Jesus told Premier League Productions. "Today's result is disappointing but at least we have a point." Arsenal's defeat in the last North London derby at White Hart Lane leaves manager Arsene Wenger's proud record of qualifying for the Champions League in real trouble. They are sixth, five points behind United and six behind City in fourth, although the Londoners have a game in hand on both. Only the top four get into the Champions League. Liverpool, the other team in the mix, travel to Watford on Monday looking to cement third spot.Wenger -- whose future at Arsenal is mired in doubt -- gave credit to Spurs for deserving to beat them but was unimpressed by the fact that the Gunners would finish below their rivals for the first time in his long tenure. "Mathematically it has to happen once," Wenger told Sky Sports. "We are not happy with it but we don't compare ourselves to Spurs, we compare ourselves to where we want to be." A sublime free-kick by Icelandic international Gylfi Sigurdsson gained Swansea a deserved point against United at Old Trafford and dented Jose Mourinho`s hopes of breaking into the top four. Sigurdsson's 10th goal of the season, but first in 11 matches, cancelled out veteran Wayne Rooney's contentious penalty in time added on in the first half when Marcus Rashford made the most out of minimal contact with Swans goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. (AFP)

Premier League round-up: Spurs keep pressure on Chelsea, Manchester misery

Marouane Fellaini was sent off for brainlessly headbutting Sergio Aguero in an otherwise forgettable 0-0 draw between Champions League qualification rivals Manchester United and Manchester City on Thursday.

Booked for tripping Aguero in the 84th minute, Fellaini fouled him again seconds later and then blatantly butted the Argentinian, leaving referee Martin Atkinson no option but to send the Belgian off.

City remain fourth, a point behind third-place Liverpool with a game in hand, with United -- who also have a game in hand on Jurgen Klopp&#39;s side -- a point further back in fifth place.

&quot;We were the better team in the first half, they were the better team in the second half,&quot; said United manager Jose Mourinho.

&quot;They had more of the ball, more chances, but my players were amazing the way they fought.

&quot;Marouane Fellaini is frustrated. He says that with another player, it would probably not be a red card.&quot;

While United are now unbeaten in 24 Premier League games, equalling the club record, the Etihad Stadium stalemate means City retain the upper hand in the push for a top-four finish.

But despite controlling the game, City came no closer to scoring than an early Aguero effort that hit the post, while substitute Gabriel Jesus had an injury-time header disallowed for offside.

City also lost goalkeeper Claudio Bravo to an apparent calf injury, sustained as he caught a high ball, with Willy Caballero taking his place for the last 14 minutes after Bravo was stretchered off.

&quot;They created two clear chances and I am satisfied,&quot; City manager Pep Guardiola told BBC Sport.

&quot;We all have tough games coming up now and we know it&#39;s not an option to not win these games.&quot;

City remain on course for a top-four finish, their last remaining objective after last weekend&#39;s FA Cup semi-final loss to Arsenal consigned Guardiola to his first trophy-less season as a coach.

United could yet qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League.

But in the main, Thursday&#39;s drab derby served to illustrate why the Manchester rivals are squabbling over fourth place rather than fighting for the title.

Etihad erupts&nbsp;

With Paul Pogba injured, Mourinho aligned a conservative midfield trio of Michael Carrick, Ander Herrera and Fellaini, setting the tone for a tetchy, attritional contest.

Marcus Rashford returned in one of four changes and while his lightning pace enabled him to leave Nicolas Otamendi for dead repeatedly, the teenager cut an isolated figure.

The football that managed to emerge above the midfield melee was almost all City&#39;s.

The hosts hit the woodwork in the ninth minute, Aguero cushioning a volley against the base of the right-hand post from Kevin De Bruyne&#39;s right-wing cross.

United goalkeeper David de Gea fielded curlers from De Bruyne and Aguero and saved at his near post from Aleksandar Kolarov, while Aguero and Raheem Sterling arrowed shots over the bar.

But there were two moments of unease in the hosts&#39; box, the first when Bravo clawed Anthony Martial&#39;s cross into the path of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, whose shot he was then obliged to block.

Shortly before half-time, Rashford&#39;s free-kick from the left found Herrera unmarked at the back post, but the Spaniard headed wide.

City continued to force the issue after the break, but United, expertly marshalled by Eric Bailly and Daley Blind, kept them at bay.

De Gea comfortably saved from Sterling, twice, and Aguero, while De Bruyne ruffled the side-netting with a low drive after cutting in from the left.

Otamendi looked poised to break the deadlock when he rose to meet Kolarov&#39;s corner, but Bailly diverted his header over the bar.

Fellaini&#39;s dismissal gave City the edge and Guardiola immediately introduced Jesus, back from a broken foot sustained in February.

The Etihad erupted when the Brazilian headed in Aguero&#39;s cross, but an offside flag silenced the home fans and a stretching Aguero could only volley wide from De Bruyne&#39;s cross moments later.

(AFP)

A depleted Manchester United dug their trenches while the blue half of Manchester attacked relentlessly only to draw blank in final third

Marouane Fellaini was sent off for brainlessly headbutting Sergio Aguero in an otherwise forgettable 0-0 draw between Champions League qualification rivals Manchester United and Manchester City on Thursday. Booked for tripping Aguero in the 84th minute, Fellaini fouled him again seconds later and then blatantly butted the Argentinian, leaving referee Martin Atkinson no option but to send the Belgian off. City remain fourth, a point behind third-place Liverpool with a game in hand, with United -- who also have a game in hand on Jurgen Klopp's side -- a point further back in fifth place. "We were the better team in the first half, they were the better team in the second half," said United manager Jose Mourinho. "They had more of the ball, more chances, but my players were amazing the way they fought. "Marouane Fellaini is frustrated. He says that with another player, it would probably not be a red card." While United are now unbeaten in 24 Premier League games, equalling the club record, the Etihad Stadium stalemate means City retain the upper hand in the push for a top-four finish. But despite controlling the game, City came no closer to scoring than an early Aguero effort that hit the post, while substitute Gabriel Jesus had an injury-time header disallowed for offside. City also lost goalkeeper Claudio Bravo to an apparent calf injury, sustained as he caught a high ball, with Willy Caballero taking his place for the last 14 minutes after Bravo was stretchered off. "They created two clear chances and I am satisfied," City manager Pep Guardiola told BBC Sport. "We all have tough games coming up now and we know it's not an option to not win these games." City remain on course for a top-four finish, their last remaining objective after last weekend's FA Cup semi-final loss to Arsenal consigned Guardiola to his first trophy-less season as a coach. United could yet qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League. But in the main, Thursday's drab derby served to illustrate why the Manchester rivals are squabbling over fourth place rather than fighting for the title. Etihad erupts With Paul Pogba injured, Mourinho aligned a conservative midfield trio of Michael Carrick, Ander Herrera and Fellaini, setting the tone for a tetchy, attritional contest. Marcus Rashford returned in one of four changes and while his lightning pace enabled him to leave Nicolas Otamendi for dead repeatedly, the teenager cut an isolated figure. The football that managed to emerge above the midfield melee was almost all City's. The hosts hit the woodwork in the ninth minute, Aguero cushioning a volley against the base of the right-hand post from Kevin De Bruyne's right-wing cross. United goalkeeper David de Gea fielded curlers from De Bruyne and Aguero and saved at his near post from Aleksandar Kolarov, while Aguero and Raheem Sterling arrowed shots over the bar. But there were two moments of unease in the hosts' box, the first when Bravo clawed Anthony Martial's cross into the path of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, whose shot he was then obliged to block. Shortly before half-time, Rashford's free-kick from the left found Herrera unmarked at the back post, but the Spaniard headed wide. City continued to force the issue after the break, but United, expertly marshalled by Eric Bailly and Daley Blind, kept them at bay. De Gea comfortably saved from Sterling, twice, and Aguero, while De Bruyne ruffled the side-netting with a low drive after cutting in from the left. Otamendi looked poised to break the deadlock when he rose to meet Kolarov's corner, but Bailly diverted his header over the bar. Fellaini's dismissal gave City the edge and Guardiola immediately introduced Jesus, back from a broken foot sustained in February. The Etihad erupted when the Brazilian headed in Aguero's cross, but an offside flag silenced the home fans and a stretching Aguero could only volley wide from De Bruyne's cross moments later. (AFP)

Fellaini flashpoint sole spark as Man United, City play out drab draw

Christian&nbsp;Benteke&#39;s double for Crystal Palace against his old club Liverpool dealt perhaps a fatal blow to their hopes of Champions League football whilst boosting Manchester United&#39;s chances on Sunday.

United had already done their chances no end of good earlier on Sunday as Anthony Martial responded positively to criticism by Jose Mourinho in scoring one and being involved in Wayne Rooney&#39;s second beating Burnley 2-0 to move up to fifth spot and a point off Manchester City -- who they play on Thursday.

However, it is Liverpool who will be the most worried about missing out on the lucrative Champions League spot next season as they are just two points clear of United who have two games in hand.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp pondered how Palace had been in danger of relegation when their performance belied their lowly position.

Palace now look certain to preserve Sam Allardyce&#39;s proud record of never being in charge of a club that has gone down.

However, Klopp issued a rallying call to the fans and his players not to give up hope on the Champions League.

&quot;It is frustrating, disappointing of course,&quot; Klopp told the BBC.

&quot;Everyone thinks the Champions League has slipped through our fingers but we have one more month to stay positive.

&quot;We have to try everything to squeeze everything out of this season.&quot;

Allardyce, who has engineered victories over Chelsea, Arsenal and now Liverpool in recent weeks, said there was a sense of relief that there was clear breathing space now between them and the bottom three -- they are seven points clear of Swansea.

&quot;It has been hard work but we are looking up,&quot; he told BBC.

&quot;We have five games to go but Tottenham on Wednesday will come too early.

&quot;We will have to change the side to get fresh legs into the side. It is a big result today, it makes life so much easier,&quot; added Allardyce.

Palace forward Andros Townsend refused to accept they could relax and plan for another season in the Premier League.

&quot;We have seen the other teams at the bottom are winning matches. We are almost there,&quot; he told Sky Sports.

United may be down to the bare bones in certain areas because of injury but even with leading scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic out with a serious knee injury and Marcus Rashford rested till a late appearance as a substitute they made light work of a Burnley side who are not out of trouble yet.

However, Mourinho denied fourth place was their priority as United he said are in the business of winning trophies and it is what he is being paid for.

&quot;If we beat Celta Vigo (their Europa League semi-final opponents) we go to the final and yes it is important for us to play Champions League, but this club wants trophies,&quot; said Mourinho.

&quot;We cannot give the club the Premier League. We have 25 percent chance to win the Europa League and we have to put everything on it.&quot;

(AFP)

Liverpool's loss to Crystal Palace for the third straight year at Anfield has reignited United's top four hopes

Christian Benteke's double for Crystal Palace against his old club Liverpool dealt perhaps a fatal blow to their hopes of Champions League football whilst boosting Manchester United's chances on Sunday. United had already done their chances no end of good earlier on Sunday as Anthony Martial responded positively to criticism by Jose Mourinho in scoring one and being involved in Wayne Rooney's second beating Burnley 2-0 to move up to fifth spot and a point off Manchester City -- who they play on Thursday. However, it is Liverpool who will be the most worried about missing out on the lucrative Champions League spot next season as they are just two points clear of United who have two games in hand. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp pondered how Palace had been in danger of relegation when their performance belied their lowly position. Palace now look certain to preserve Sam Allardyce's proud record of never being in charge of a club that has gone down. However, Klopp issued a rallying call to the fans and his players not to give up hope on the Champions League. "It is frustrating, disappointing of course," Klopp told the BBC. "Everyone thinks the Champions League has slipped through our fingers but we have one more month to stay positive. "We have to try everything to squeeze everything out of this season." Allardyce, who has engineered victories over Chelsea, Arsenal and now Liverpool in recent weeks, said there was a sense of relief that there was clear breathing space now between them and the bottom three -- they are seven points clear of Swansea. "It has been hard work but we are looking up," he told BBC. "We have five games to go but Tottenham on Wednesday will come too early. "We will have to change the side to get fresh legs into the side. It is a big result today, it makes life so much easier," added Allardyce. Palace forward Andros Townsend refused to accept they could relax and plan for another season in the Premier League. "We have seen the other teams at the bottom are winning matches. We are almost there," he told Sky Sports. United may be down to the bare bones in certain areas because of injury but even with leading scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic out with a serious knee injury and Marcus Rashford rested till a late appearance as a substitute they made light work of a Burnley side who are not out of trouble yet. However, Mourinho denied fourth place was their priority as United he said are in the business of winning trophies and it is what he is being paid for. "If we beat Celta Vigo (their Europa League semi-final opponents) we go to the final and yes it is important for us to play Champions League, but this club wants trophies," said Mourinho. "We cannot give the club the Premier League. We have 25 percent chance to win the Europa League and we have to put everything on it." (AFP)

Premier League: Benteke brace sinks Liverpool, Man United inch closer

Zlatan Ibrahimovic&#39;s magical season with Manchester United appears over after the club announced he had suffered a serious knee injury in Thursday&#39;s Europa League clash with Anderlecht.

The club revealed that both the 35-year-old Swedish striker and Argentinian defender Marco Rojo had suffered knee injuries in the same match.

&quot;Detailed investigations on the injuries sustained by Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Thursday&#39;s Europa League match have confirmed significant knee ligament damage in both players that requires specialist opinions over the coming days,&quot; read the United statement on their website.

&quot;Estimations of time to full recovery will only be possible once definitive treatment plans have been decided after these consultations.&quot;

Ibrahimovic didn&#39;t have his finest game agianst Anderlecht -- Marcus Rashford edging United through to the semi-finals on aggregate after extra-time -- but his goals this season have been the main reason for an improvement in the club&#39;s fortunes, albeit without ever being title challengers.

Ibrahimovic has defied many doubters since joining on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last year, scoring 28 goals and inspiring United to victory in the League Cup.

Rojo&#39;s injury is also a serious bodyblow to United&#39;s depleted resources at the back with both England international central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling expected to be out till mid May.

(AFP)

Marcos Rojo's injury is also a serious body blow to United's depleted resources at the back

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's magical season with Manchester United appears over after the club announced he had suffered a serious knee injury in Thursday's Europa League clash with Anderlecht. The club revealed that both the 35-year-old Swedish striker and Argentinian defender Marco Rojo had suffered knee injuries in the same match. "Detailed investigations on the injuries sustained by Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Thursday's Europa League match have confirmed significant knee ligament damage in both players that requires specialist opinions over the coming days," read the United statement on their website. "Estimations of time to full recovery will only be possible once definitive treatment plans have been decided after these consultations." Ibrahimovic didn't have his finest game agianst Anderlecht -- Marcus Rashford edging United through to the semi-finals on aggregate after extra-time -- but his goals this season have been the main reason for an improvement in the club's fortunes, albeit without ever being title challengers. Ibrahimovic has defied many doubters since joining on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last year, scoring 28 goals and inspiring United to victory in the League Cup. Rojo's injury is also a serious bodyblow to United's depleted resources at the back with both England international central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling expected to be out till mid May. (AFP)

Man United's Ibrahimovic suffers 'significant knee ligament damage'

Manchester United opened up the Premier League title race with a convincing 2-0 home victory over leaders Chelsea on Sunday that leaves second-placed Tottenham Hotspur just four points behind.

Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups by Antonio Conte&#39;s side who a few weeks ago looked like they were running away with the title.

While Chelsea remain favourites to win the league, Conte will be concerned about the manner of the defeat at Old Trafford where they were rarely able to turn possession into chances.

The west London side are top with 75 points, ahead of Spurs on 71, also from 32 games, Liverpool with 66 from 33, Manchester City on 64 from 32 and United with 60 from 31.

&quot;Manchester United deserved to win because they showed more desire, more motivation, more ambition to win this game,&quot; Conte told the BBC.

&quot;This league is not closed. Tottenham are on great form and playing with great enthusiasm but we are playing a great season and we must try to reach this target.&quot;

The strikes by Rashford and Herrera at the start of each half were enough for United who, despite resting several players against Chelsea ahead of Thursday&#39;s Europa League quarter-final return leg at home to Anderlecht, were good value for their win.

United manager Jose Mourinho started with top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the bench but delivered a tactical masterclass against his former club, largely nullifying the threat from the usually dangerous Eden Hazard.

&quot;Chelsea are the best counter-attacking team in the country and we controlled them very well. I&#39;m really happy with the boys. I&#39;m happy -- not because it&#39;s Chelsea, it&#39;s because we need these three points,&quot; Mourinho told the BBC.

&quot;I don&rsquo;t feel extra joy at beating Chelsea -- we beat the leader. It doesn&rsquo;t matter if the leader is Chelsea or another -- we beat them convincingly. Nobody can doubt our credit to win the game.&quot;

Chelsea got a warning after five minutes when United forward Jesse Lingaard robbed defender David Luiz and fed Rashford, but the 19-year-old striker dragged his shot wide.

Two minutes later, though, Herrera won the ball in midfield, possibly by using his hand, and delivered an inch-perfect pass into the path of Rashford who outpaced Luiz and fired low into the far corner of the net.

&nbsp;

CONFIDENT UNITED

Looking confident and full of verve, United pushed forward with intent while Chelsea were unusually ineffective going forward, with Herrera doing an excellent marking job on Hazard.

There was another individual battle going on with Chelsea striker Diego Costa and United defender Marcos Rojo engaged in an often physical struggle for dominance and Costa&rsquo;s frustration resulted in a yellow card for a foul on Paul Pogba.

United threatened to strike again before the break when Rashford found some space for a cross which Chelsea defender Gary Cahill headed just over his own bar.

United&#39;s Ashley Young then blasted over from a promising position on the stroke of halftime but the hosts did not have to wait long after the break to double their advantage.

Chelsea&#39;s normally reliable N&rsquo;Golo Kante was robbed inside the area by Young and he cleverly laid back the ball to Herrera whose well-struck effort deflected off Kurt Zouma into the net.

Ibrahimovic was brought on for Rashford in the 82nd minute, with the England striker receiving a deserved standing ovation after an outstanding performance.

While United&rsquo;s hopes of making the top four will be boosted by the win, the major impact will be felt in north London where Spurs will sense a chance to chase down Chelsea&rsquo;s four-point lead in the final six games of the season.

(Reuters)

Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups

Manchester United opened up the Premier League title race with a convincing 2-0 home victory over leaders Chelsea on Sunday that leaves second-placed Tottenham Hotspur just four points behind. Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups by Antonio Conte's side who a few weeks ago looked like they were running away with the title. While Chelsea remain favourites to win the league, Conte will be concerned about the manner of the defeat at Old Trafford where they were rarely able to turn possession into chances. The west London side are top with 75 points, ahead of Spurs on 71, also from 32 games, Liverpool with 66 from 33, Manchester City on 64 from 32 and United with 60 from 31. "Manchester United deserved to win because they showed more desire, more motivation, more ambition to win this game," Conte told the BBC. "This league is not closed. Tottenham are on great form and playing with great enthusiasm but we are playing a great season and we must try to reach this target." The strikes by Rashford and Herrera at the start of each half were enough for United who, despite resting several players against Chelsea ahead of Thursday's Europa League quarter-final return leg at home to Anderlecht, were good value for their win. United manager Jose Mourinho started with top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the bench but delivered a tactical masterclass against his former club, largely nullifying the threat from the usually dangerous Eden Hazard. "Chelsea are the best counter-attacking team in the country and we controlled them very well. I'm really happy with the boys. I'm happy -- not because it's Chelsea, it's because we need these three points," Mourinho told the BBC. "I don’t feel extra joy at beating Chelsea -- we beat the leader. It doesn’t matter if the leader is Chelsea or another -- we beat them convincingly. Nobody can doubt our credit to win the game." Chelsea got a warning after five minutes when United forward Jesse Lingaard robbed defender David Luiz and fed Rashford, but the 19-year-old striker dragged his shot wide. Two minutes later, though, Herrera won the ball in midfield, possibly by using his hand, and delivered an inch-perfect pass into the path of Rashford who outpaced Luiz and fired low into the far corner of the net. CONFIDENT UNITED Looking confident and full of verve, United pushed forward with intent while Chelsea were unusually ineffective going forward, with Herrera doing an excellent marking job on Hazard. There was another individual battle going on with Chelsea striker Diego Costa and United defender Marcos Rojo engaged in an often physical struggle for dominance and Costa’s frustration resulted in a yellow card for a foul on Paul Pogba. United threatened to strike again before the break when Rashford found some space for a cross which Chelsea defender Gary Cahill headed just over his own bar. United's Ashley Young then blasted over from a promising position on the stroke of halftime but the hosts did not have to wait long after the break to double their advantage. Chelsea's normally reliable N’Golo Kante was robbed inside the area by Young and he cleverly laid back the ball to Herrera whose well-struck effort deflected off Kurt Zouma into the net. Ibrahimovic was brought on for Rashford in the 82nd minute, with the England striker receiving a deserved standing ovation after an outstanding performance. While United’s hopes of making the top four will be boosted by the win, the major impact will be felt in north London where Spurs will sense a chance to chase down Chelsea’s four-point lead in the final six games of the season. (Reuters)

Manchester United offer hope to Spurs with 2-0 win over Chelsea

Zlatan Ibrahimovic marked his return from suspension with a 94th-minute penalty to earn Manchester United a 1-1 draw against Everton at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

A deliberate handball by Ashley Williams, who was sent off, allowed Ibrahimovic to cancel out Phil Jagielka&#39;s opener and extend United&#39;s unbeaten run in the Premier League to 20 matches.

But it remained an unwelcome result for Jose Mourinho&#39;s side, who have now drawn nine games at home this season and trail fourth-place Manchester City by four points.

Elsewhere, Leicester City&#39;s resurgence under Craig Shakespeare continued as they beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to record a sixth successive win since the dismissal of manager Claudio Ranieri.

Ibrahimovic&#39;s last-gasp spot-kick -- his 27th goal of the season -- meant United held on to fifth place, three points above Arsenal and Everton having played a game more than the former.

But the Europa League looks increasingly like their best hope of securing a return to the Champions League next season.

They face Belgian side Anderlecht in a two-legged quarter-final later this month, with the winners of the competition assured of a place at Europe&#39;s top table.

United manager Mourinho welcomed top scorer Ibrahimovic and Ander Herrera back from suspension, while Paul Pogba returned to the bench following a hamstring injury.

His side fell behind in the 22nd minute when Williams flicked on Kevin Mirallas&#39;s right-wing corner and centre-back Jagielka held off Marcos Rojo to poke a volley between David de Gea&#39;s legs.

Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles, much criticised after his side&#39;s 3-1 derby loss at Liverpool, produced flying saves to repel a Daley Blind free-kick and a rasping Herrera drive.

Pogba came on at half-time and headed against a post from an Ashley Young free-kick, while Ibrahimovic had a 71st-minute header chalked off for a marginal offside.

But in the fourth minute of injury time, Williams was penalised for parrying a shot from substitute Luke Shaw -- brought in from the cold by Mourinho -- and Ibrahimovic dispatched the penalty.

Champions Leicester are now 10th, a healthy nine points above the bottom three, after sinking Sunderland to record a fifth league win in a row.

Substitute Islam Slimani opened the scoring with a 69th-minute header before Jamie Vardy smashed in his sixth goal in seven games from Marc Albrighton&#39;s pass.

Defeat completed a miserable few days for Sunderland manager David Moyes, who had to apologise after being caught on camera threatening to &quot;slap&quot; a female television reporter.

The result left Sunderland eight points from safety with eight games of the season remaining.

George Boyd struck as Burnley boosted their survival hopes by beating Stoke City 1-0, while goals from M&#39;Baye Niang and skipper Troy Deeney earned Watford a 2-0 home win over West Brom.

(AFP)

But the goal in the dying seconds was only sufficient to hand Manchester United their ninth home draw of the season

Zlatan Ibrahimovic marked his return from suspension with a 94th-minute penalty to earn Manchester United a 1-1 draw against Everton at Old Trafford on Tuesday. A deliberate handball by Ashley Williams, who was sent off, allowed Ibrahimovic to cancel out Phil Jagielka's opener and extend United's unbeaten run in the Premier League to 20 matches. But it remained an unwelcome result for Jose Mourinho's side, who have now drawn nine games at home this season and trail fourth-place Manchester City by four points. Elsewhere, Leicester City's resurgence under Craig Shakespeare continued as they beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to record a sixth successive win since the dismissal of manager Claudio Ranieri. Ibrahimovic's last-gasp spot-kick -- his 27th goal of the season -- meant United held on to fifth place, three points above Arsenal and Everton having played a game more than the former. But the Europa League looks increasingly like their best hope of securing a return to the Champions League next season. They face Belgian side Anderlecht in a two-legged quarter-final later this month, with the winners of the competition assured of a place at Europe's top table. United manager Mourinho welcomed top scorer Ibrahimovic and Ander Herrera back from suspension, while Paul Pogba returned to the bench following a hamstring injury. His side fell behind in the 22nd minute when Williams flicked on Kevin Mirallas's right-wing corner and centre-back Jagielka held off Marcos Rojo to poke a volley between David de Gea's legs. Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles, much criticised after his side's 3-1 derby loss at Liverpool, produced flying saves to repel a Daley Blind free-kick and a rasping Herrera drive. Pogba came on at half-time and headed against a post from an Ashley Young free-kick, while Ibrahimovic had a 71st-minute header chalked off for a marginal offside. But in the fourth minute of injury time, Williams was penalised for parrying a shot from substitute Luke Shaw -- brought in from the cold by Mourinho -- and Ibrahimovic dispatched the penalty. Champions Leicester are now 10th, a healthy nine points above the bottom three, after sinking Sunderland to record a fifth league win in a row. Substitute Islam Slimani opened the scoring with a 69th-minute header before Jamie Vardy smashed in his sixth goal in seven games from Marc Albrighton's pass. Defeat completed a miserable few days for Sunderland manager David Moyes, who had to apologise after being caught on camera threatening to "slap" a female television reporter. The result left Sunderland eight points from safety with eight games of the season remaining. George Boyd struck as Burnley boosted their survival hopes by beating Stoke City 1-0, while goals from M'Baye Niang and skipper Troy Deeney earned Watford a 2-0 home win over West Brom. (AFP)

Last-gasp Ibrahimovic penalty rescues Man United, Leicester surge on

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is confident the Premier League club will be doing &quot;interesting&quot; business during the next transfer window while acknowledging that he may not get all his first-choice targets.

United have been linked by the British media with a host of big-name players, including Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann and Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko.

&quot;I&#39;m sure, at the end of the summer, probably we won&#39;t have exactly my first options&nbsp;because it&#39;s difficult to succeed in every attempt,&quot; Mourinho told reporters. &quot;But I&#39;m sure we&#39;re going to do something interesting.

&quot;Something to improve our team for next season. I&#39;m not a silly manager to say I give the names and you have to give me the players - not at all.

&quot;I give the names, I give the options, I give the second options in case the first options are not possible, but I give all the information based on my analysis, my experience and projections for the future.&quot;

United, who are fifth in the table and host eighth-placed West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday, face a challenging month with nine games including the Manchester derby and a home match against runaway league leaders Chelsea.

(Reuters)

The United manager also acknowledged that he may not get all his first-choice targets

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is confident the Premier League club will be doing "interesting" business during the next transfer window while acknowledging that he may not get all his first-choice targets. United have been linked by the British media with a host of big-name players, including Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann and Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko. "I'm sure, at the end of the summer, probably we won't have exactly my first options because it's difficult to succeed in every attempt," Mourinho told reporters. "But I'm sure we're going to do something interesting. "Something to improve our team for next season. I'm not a silly manager to say I give the names and you have to give me the players - not at all. "I give the names, I give the options, I give the second options in case the first options are not possible, but I give all the information based on my analysis, my experience and projections for the future." United, who are fifth in the table and host eighth-placed West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday, face a challenging month with nine games including the Manchester derby and a home match against runaway league leaders Chelsea. (Reuters)

Mourinho looking forward to 'interesting' transfer window

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas&#39;s opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16.

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea&#39;s lead to seven points.

&quot;I&#39;m stunned. They&#39;re top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that,&quot; said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row.

&quot;We know there&#39;s talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now.&quot;

Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby.

But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion.

Zaha&#39;s headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year.

His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post.

But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois.

Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins&#39;s replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce&#39;s patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three.

&quot;This is football. We must accept this result,&quot; said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

&quot;In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong.&quot;

Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley.

However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury.

Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield.

Leicester resurgence continues&nbsp;

Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury.

Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool&#39;s lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane&#39;s replacement, to slam home Liverpool&#39;s third.

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool&#39;s protests were excessive.

&quot;I don&#39;t like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles,&quot; he said. &quot;They were crazy. It&#39;s a man&#39;s sport.&quot;

Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more.

Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom.

Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho&#39;s men either side of half-time.

But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar.

&quot;We have a lot of draws this season,&quot; Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview.

&quot;Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one.&quot;

Leicester City&#39;s resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager.

The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone.

Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos&#39;s header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road.

Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll&#39;s opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United.

It left Marco Silva&#39;s side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone.

Elsewhere, Bournemouth&#39;s Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side&#39;s 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton.

(AFP)

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas's opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16. Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points. "I'm stunned. They're top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that," said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row. "We know there's talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now." Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby. But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion. Zaha's headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year. His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post. But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois. Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins's replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce's patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three. "This is football. We must accept this result," said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte. "In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong." Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley. However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury. Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield. Leicester resurgence continues Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury. Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool's lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane's replacement, to slam home Liverpool's third. Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool's protests were excessive. "I don't like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles," he said. "They were crazy. It's a man's sport." Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more. Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom. Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho's men either side of half-time. But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar. "We have a lot of draws this season," Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview. "Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one." Leicester City's resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager. The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone. Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos's header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road. Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll's opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United. It left Marco Silva's side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone. Elsewhere, Bournemouth's Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side's 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton. (AFP)

Premier League round-up: Crystal Palace stun Chelsea, Man United draw a blank

Juan Mata scored the only goal as Manchester United recorded an underwhelming 1-0 victory over FC Rostov on Thursday to reach the Europa League quarter-finals.

Mata struck 20 minutes from the end of a subdued game, completing a 2-1 aggregate win that sent United into the last eight of Europe&#39;s second-tier club competition for the first time since 1985.

But victory came at the cost of an injury to world-record signing Paul Pogba, who left the fray with an apparent hamstring injury early in the second half at an unseasonably cold Old Trafford.

United, who have never previously won the Europa League, will discover their last-eight opponents in Friday&#39;s draw in Nyon.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s men are seeking to add the trophy to the League Cup they won last month and have the added incentive of knowing it will yield a place in next season&#39;s Champions League.

Mourinho kept faith with the back three he had deployed in Monday&#39;s 1-0 FA Cup defeat at Chelsea, but whereas it was a defensive tactic at Stamford Bridge, there was very little defending to do against Rostov.

Decried for a below-par display at Chelsea, Pogba was able to spray diagonal passes around to his heart&#39;s content, such was the Russian side&#39;s stubborn determination to defend the edge of their own box.

Marcos Rojo had an early header swatted away by visiting goalkeeper Nikita Medvedev, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic putting the rebound against the post from a tight angle.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan ran through and chipped wide from Mata&#39;s pass and might have won a penalty in the 27th minute following a push by Medvedev, but Lithuanian referee Gediminas Mazeika said no.

Ibrahimovic also saw a shot deflected over by Medvedev and later left the right-hand post quaking with a thunderous shot, while Pogba&#39;s left-foot curler drew a full-length save from Medvedev.

Pogba departed in the 47th minute, Marouane Fellaini taking his place, and Rostov briefly threatened to take the upper hand, Sergio Romero saving from Sardar Azmoun and Christian Noboa.

United also lost Daley Blind after he took a bang to the head, which resulted in the curious sight of Phil Jones coming on as a jobbing left wing-back.

The hosts finally made the breakthrough in the 70th minute after Mata intercepted a loose pass in midfield and spread the ball wide to Mkhitaryan on the United right.

The Armenian&#39;s low cross was back-heeled towards goal by Ibrahimovic and Mata charged in at the back post to slam home from close range.

Aleksandr Bukharov, Rostov&#39;s scorer in the first leg, threatened to peg United back in the 79th minute, but Romero was equal to both his glancing header and Noboa&#39;s dangerous stoppage-time free-kick. 
 
(AFP)

 
&nbsp;

Juan Mata scored the only goal as Manchester United recorded an underwhelming 1-0 victory over FC Rostov

Juan Mata scored the only goal as Manchester United recorded an underwhelming 1-0 victory over FC Rostov on Thursday to reach the Europa League quarter-finals. Mata struck 20 minutes from the end of a subdued game, completing a 2-1 aggregate win that sent United into the last eight of Europe's second-tier club competition for the first time since 1985. But victory came at the cost of an injury to world-record signing Paul Pogba, who left the fray with an apparent hamstring injury early in the second half at an unseasonably cold Old Trafford. United, who have never previously won the Europa League, will discover their last-eight opponents in Friday's draw in Nyon. Jose Mourinho's men are seeking to add the trophy to the League Cup they won last month and have the added incentive of knowing it will yield a place in next season's Champions League. Mourinho kept faith with the back three he had deployed in Monday's 1-0 FA Cup defeat at Chelsea, but whereas it was a defensive tactic at Stamford Bridge, there was very little defending to do against Rostov. Decried for a below-par display at Chelsea, Pogba was able to spray diagonal passes around to his heart's content, such was the Russian side's stubborn determination to defend the edge of their own box. Marcos Rojo had an early header swatted away by visiting goalkeeper Nikita Medvedev, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic putting the rebound against the post from a tight angle. Henrikh Mkhitaryan ran through and chipped wide from Mata's pass and might have won a penalty in the 27th minute following a push by Medvedev, but Lithuanian referee Gediminas Mazeika said no. Ibrahimovic also saw a shot deflected over by Medvedev and later left the right-hand post quaking with a thunderous shot, while Pogba's left-foot curler drew a full-length save from Medvedev. Pogba departed in the 47th minute, Marouane Fellaini taking his place, and Rostov briefly threatened to take the upper hand, Sergio Romero saving from Sardar Azmoun and Christian Noboa. United also lost Daley Blind after he took a bang to the head, which resulted in the curious sight of Phil Jones coming on as a jobbing left wing-back. The hosts finally made the breakthrough in the 70th minute after Mata intercepted a loose pass in midfield and spread the ball wide to Mkhitaryan on the United right. The Armenian's low cross was back-heeled towards goal by Ibrahimovic and Mata charged in at the back post to slam home from close range. Aleksandr Bukharov, Rostov's scorer in the first leg, threatened to peg United back in the 79th minute, but Romero was equal to both his glancing header and Noboa's dangerous stoppage-time free-kick. (AFP)

Manchester United beat FC Rostov to reach Europa League quarter-finals

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely to face disciplinary action after appearing to elbow Bournemouth&#39;s Tyrone Mings during Saturday&#39;s fiery 1-1 draw in the Premier League.

Mings appeared to stamp on Ibrahimovic&#39;s head with his left foot as he jumped over him late in the first half and the Swedish striker seemed to elbow him in retaliation moments later.

Ibrahimovic, who also squandered a penalty, told BBC Sport: &quot;You have the TV, you can see the images. I jump up and jump high and he (Mings) jumps into my elbow. It is not my intention to hurt someone.&quot;

Elsewhere, champions Leicester City continued their smooth adaptation to life after Claudio Ranieri by winning 3-1 at home to fellow strugglers Hull City.

Marcos Rojo put United ahead in the 23rd minute at Old Trafford, but Joshua King levelled from the spot five minutes before half-time following a foul on Marc Pugh by Phil Jones.

Adam Smith&#39;s handball gave Ibrahimovic a chance to restore United&#39;s lead from the penalty spot, but his spot-kick was brilliantly palmed away by Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc.

Victory would have taken United into the Champions League places, but they remain sixth, a position they have occupied since November.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s side could lose ground in the race for Champions League qualification later on Saturday when fifth-place Liverpool welcome fourth-place Arsenal to Anfield.

Ibrahimovic was already on a booking when he tangled with Mings, but both players avoided punishment, raising the prospect of violent conduct charges from the Football Association.

The standard punishment for violent conduct in the Premier League is a three-game ban.

United captain Wayne Rooney felt Mings&#39;s stamp had been deliberate, saying: &quot;There&#39;s no place for it and I&#39;m sure there will be punishment for it after the game.&quot;

But Mings, whose side remain 14th, said the contact with Ibrahimovic had been accidental.

&quot;I would never do that. That&#39;s not in my game,&quot; Mings said. &quot;Hard and fair is how I like to tackle, but off-the-ball stuff like that isn&#39;t part of my game.&quot;

Boro into drop zone&nbsp;

Referee Kevin Friend also sent off Bournemouth&#39;s Andy Surman for two bookable offences, although he had to be reminded by United left-back Luke Shaw that the midfielder had already been booked.

United manager Mourinho said Friend had been &quot;very good&quot;.

&quot;Who can I blame?&quot; Mourinho said. &quot;Ourselves. Nobody else. We missed big chances.&quot;

Leicester&#39;s resurgence continued as they beat Hull 3-1 to pull five points clear of the relegation zone.

The champions beat Liverpool 3-1 last Monday in their first game since the sacking of popular manager Ranieri and caretaker coach Craig Shakespeare saw them record back-to-back wins for the first time since last April.

Sam Clucas gave Hull a 14th-minute lead, but Leicester stormed back to win through strikes from Christian Fuchs and Riyad Mahrez and a Tom Huddlestone own goal.

&quot;Results give players confidence,&quot; said Shakespeare. &quot;Back-to-back wins will give confidence for the last 11 games of the season.

&quot;Everyone looked at the game against Liverpool on Monday and to get the three points under pressure was important, but to back that up with another win was vitally important.&quot;

Hull are now four points from safety and they were joined in the bottom three by Middlesbrough, who fell to two Marko Arnautovic goals in a 2-0 defeat at Stoke City.

Swansea City also pulled five points clear of the bottom three after Fernando Llorente&#39;s 92nd-minute header gave Paul Clement&#39;s improving side a precious 3-2 win at home to Burnley.

Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend struck in the second half as Sam Allardyce&#39;s Crystal Palace moved three points clear of danger with a 2-0 success at West Bromwich Albion.

Meanwhile, Manolo Gabbiadini scored his sixth goal in four games as Southampton bounced back from last weekend&#39;s League Cup final loss to United by winning 4-3 in an entertaining game at Watford.

(AFP)

Manchester United's profligacy in front of goal denied them the opportunity to move back into the top four in months

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely to face disciplinary action after appearing to elbow Bournemouth's Tyrone Mings during Saturday's fiery 1-1 draw in the Premier League. Mings appeared to stamp on Ibrahimovic's head with his left foot as he jumped over him late in the first half and the Swedish striker seemed to elbow him in retaliation moments later. Ibrahimovic, who also squandered a penalty, told BBC Sport: "You have the TV, you can see the images. I jump up and jump high and he (Mings) jumps into my elbow. It is not my intention to hurt someone." Elsewhere, champions Leicester City continued their smooth adaptation to life after Claudio Ranieri by winning 3-1 at home to fellow strugglers Hull City. Marcos Rojo put United ahead in the 23rd minute at Old Trafford, but Joshua King levelled from the spot five minutes before half-time following a foul on Marc Pugh by Phil Jones. Adam Smith's handball gave Ibrahimovic a chance to restore United's lead from the penalty spot, but his spot-kick was brilliantly palmed away by Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc. Victory would have taken United into the Champions League places, but they remain sixth, a position they have occupied since November. Jose Mourinho's side could lose ground in the race for Champions League qualification later on Saturday when fifth-place Liverpool welcome fourth-place Arsenal to Anfield. Ibrahimovic was already on a booking when he tangled with Mings, but both players avoided punishment, raising the prospect of violent conduct charges from the Football Association. The standard punishment for violent conduct in the Premier League is a three-game ban. United captain Wayne Rooney felt Mings's stamp had been deliberate, saying: "There's no place for it and I'm sure there will be punishment for it after the game." But Mings, whose side remain 14th, said the contact with Ibrahimovic had been accidental. "I would never do that. That's not in my game," Mings said. "Hard and fair is how I like to tackle, but off-the-ball stuff like that isn't part of my game." Boro into drop zone Referee Kevin Friend also sent off Bournemouth's Andy Surman for two bookable offences, although he had to be reminded by United left-back Luke Shaw that the midfielder had already been booked. United manager Mourinho said Friend had been "very good". "Who can I blame?" Mourinho said. "Ourselves. Nobody else. We missed big chances." Leicester's resurgence continued as they beat Hull 3-1 to pull five points clear of the relegation zone. The champions beat Liverpool 3-1 last Monday in their first game since the sacking of popular manager Ranieri and caretaker coach Craig Shakespeare saw them record back-to-back wins for the first time since last April. Sam Clucas gave Hull a 14th-minute lead, but Leicester stormed back to win through strikes from Christian Fuchs and Riyad Mahrez and a Tom Huddlestone own goal. "Results give players confidence," said Shakespeare. "Back-to-back wins will give confidence for the last 11 games of the season. "Everyone looked at the game against Liverpool on Monday and to get the three points under pressure was important, but to back that up with another win was vitally important." Hull are now four points from safety and they were joined in the bottom three by Middlesbrough, who fell to two Marko Arnautovic goals in a 2-0 defeat at Stoke City. Swansea City also pulled five points clear of the bottom three after Fernando Llorente's 92nd-minute header gave Paul Clement's improving side a precious 3-2 win at home to Burnley. Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend struck in the second half as Sam Allardyce's Crystal Palace moved three points clear of danger with a 2-0 success at West Bromwich Albion. Meanwhile, Manolo Gabbiadini scored his sixth goal in four games as Southampton bounced back from last weekend's League Cup final loss to United by winning 4-3 in an entertaining game at Watford. (AFP)

Manchester United held at home by Bournemouth, Leicester continue resurgence

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday&#39;s 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. 
 
The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. 
 
Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. 
 
United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea&#39;s Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off.

(Reuters) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday's 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea's Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off. (Reuters)

Manchester United charged with failing to control players after FA Cup loss to Chelsea

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday.

N&#39;Golo Kante&#39;s fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte&#39;s double-chasing side to break United&#39;s resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard.

Runaway Premier League leaders&#39; Chelsea&#39;s reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City.

United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot.

While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October&#39;s&nbsp;Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea&#39;s fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte.

Mourinho&#39;s frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera&#39;s sending off.

Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest.

Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois.

Livewire hazard

Much was made of United&#39;s lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho&#39;s somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford.

That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot.

United&#39;s keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic&#39;s low shot from the resulting corner.

Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands.

After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again.

When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte.

&quot;You&#39;re not special anymore,&quot; Chelsea&#39;s fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera&#39;s red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini.

United camped deep in Chelsea&#39;s half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. 
 
(Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Conte got the better of Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat Manchester United 1-0

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday. N'Golo Kante's fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte's double-chasing side to break United's resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard. Runaway Premier League leaders' Chelsea's reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City. United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot. While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October's Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea's fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte. Mourinho's frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera's sending off. Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest. Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois. Livewire hazard Much was made of United's lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho's somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford. That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot. United's keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic's low shot from the resulting corner. Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands. After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again. When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte. "You're not special anymore," Chelsea's fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera's red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini. United camped deep in Chelsea's half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. (Reuters)

Chelsea beat Manchester United to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Henrikh Mkhitaryan bagged a precious away goal as Manchester United came away from their trip to Russia with a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Rostov on Thursday.

On an awful pitch, the state of which had United manager Jose Mourinho fuming on the eve of the game, Mkhitaryan turned in the opener 10 minutes before half-time.

But Aleksandr Bukharov levelled for the home side in the 53rd minute at the Olimp 2 stadium, keeping Rostov hopes alive ahead of next week&#39;s return at Old Trafford.

The build-up to the match had been overshadowed by United&#39;s complaints about the playing surface and about concerns travelling fans could be targeted by Russian hooligans.

However, the evening passed off without incident inside the ground, where a little over 200 United supporters were in attendance along with ex-United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz, who is these days in charge of Iran.

They saw the visitors extend their recent unbeaten run in all competitions to 10 games as Mourinho made seven changes to the team held by Bournemouth last weekend.

One of those brought back into the starting line-up was Mkhitaryan, and it was he who swept United in front in the 35th minute from close range after good build-up play involving Marouane Fellaini and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Nevertheless Rostov, who are seventh in the Russian Premier League and had already won at home to Ajax and Bayern Munich in Europe this season, drew level thanks to a fine goal shortly after the break.

Timofei Kalachev delivered a ball over the top that was controlled on the chest inside the box and then fired home by Bukharov to secure the draw.

Elsewhere, FC Copenhagen beat Ajax 2-1 in Denmark with Rasmus Falk putting the hosts in front inside a minute.

Danish prodigy Kasper Dolberg levelled for the Dutch giants but Andreas Cornelius headed in the winner for Copenhagen on the hour.

Anderlecht beat APOEL 1-0 in Cyprus with a Nicolae Stanciu goal.

(AFP)

Henrikh Mkhitaryan opened the scoring for the visitors before Rostov's Aleksandr Bukharov levelled the match after half-time

Henrikh Mkhitaryan bagged a precious away goal as Manchester United came away from their trip to Russia with a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Rostov on Thursday. On an awful pitch, the state of which had United manager Jose Mourinho fuming on the eve of the game, Mkhitaryan turned in the opener 10 minutes before half-time. But Aleksandr Bukharov levelled for the home side in the 53rd minute at the Olimp 2 stadium, keeping Rostov hopes alive ahead of next week's return at Old Trafford. The build-up to the match had been overshadowed by United's complaints about the playing surface and about concerns travelling fans could be targeted by Russian hooligans. However, the evening passed off without incident inside the ground, where a little over 200 United supporters were in attendance along with ex-United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz, who is these days in charge of Iran. They saw the visitors extend their recent unbeaten run in all competitions to 10 games as Mourinho made seven changes to the team held by Bournemouth last weekend. One of those brought back into the starting line-up was Mkhitaryan, and it was he who swept United in front in the 35th minute from close range after good build-up play involving Marouane Fellaini and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Nevertheless Rostov, who are seventh in the Russian Premier League and had already won at home to Ajax and Bayern Munich in Europe this season, drew level thanks to a fine goal shortly after the break. Timofei Kalachev delivered a ball over the top that was controlled on the chest inside the box and then fired home by Bukharov to secure the draw. Elsewhere, FC Copenhagen beat Ajax 2-1 in Denmark with Rasmus Falk putting the hosts in front inside a minute. Danish prodigy Kasper Dolberg levelled for the Dutch giants but Andreas Cornelius headed in the winner for Copenhagen on the hour. Anderlecht beat APOEL 1-0 in Cyprus with a Nicolae Stanciu goal. (AFP)

Europa League: ManU come away with draw against Rostov

By Kandarp Rustagi&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho did not look very pleased after Manchester United&#39;s performance at Wembley, but a League Cup win against Southampton promises more silverware. &nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rc1cXddrSqQ" width="854"></iframe>

Having drawn more games than any other side in the Premier League, Mourinho&#39;s side has found it difficult to go up in the points table. Mourinho&rsquo;s team is placed in the sixth position in the English Premier League table since their victory over Swansea last year in November. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

However, their performance has seen substantial improvement since then. Interestingly, the Red Devils began to gain momentum after being thrashed by arch rivals Chelsea 4-0 at Stanford Bridge last October.&nbsp;

Having lost just one match since November, Mourinho&#39;s men have displayed composure and flair for attacking football, something that had been missing since Sir Alex Ferguson left Old Trafford. However, the big question still hangs over Manchester United: Do they have the ability to win games?&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PtsYk2rE4UY" width="854"></iframe>

Mourinho&#39;s men, if they play to potential&nbsp;can still find a place in the top-four in the Premier League. They are still in the title race for FA Cup and UEFA Europa League - a possible treble awaits the &quot;special&nbsp;one&quot;.&nbsp;

In order to win a treble, United will have to be at their best&nbsp;and, critically, they will have to be consistent. Mourinho can only hope the big fish -- Ibrahimovic, Pogba, and Mkhitaryan fire at the right time to take the former English champions back to the glory days.&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AMEstYAbcXs" width="854"></iframe>

Watch this space...

(WION)

In order to win a treble, United will have to be at their best, and critically they will have to be consistent

By Kandarp Rustagi Jose Mourinho did not look very pleased after Manchester United's performance at Wembley, but a League Cup win against Southampton promises more silverware. Having drawn more games than any other side in the Premier League, Mourinho's side has found it difficult to go up in the points table. Mourinho’s team is placed in the sixth position in the English Premier League table since their victory over Swansea last year in November. However, their performance has seen substantial improvement since then. Interestingly, the Red Devils began to gain momentum after being thrashed by arch rivals Chelsea 4-0 at Stanford Bridge last October. Having lost just one match since November, Mourinho's men have displayed composure and flair for attacking football, something that had been missing since Sir Alex Ferguson left Old Trafford. However, the big question still hangs over Manchester United: Do they have the ability to win games? Mourinho's men, if they play to potential can still find a place in the top-four in the Premier League. They are still in the title race for FA Cup and UEFA Europa League - a possible treble awaits the "special one". In order to win a treble, United will have to be at their best and, critically, they will have to be consistent. Mourinho can only hope the big fish -- Ibrahimovic, Pogba, and Mkhitaryan fire at the right time to take the former English champions back to the glory days. Watch this space... (WION)

Watch: Can Mourinho's Manchester United fire after League Cup win?

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