Norwich City's Finland striker Teemu Pukki grabbed a hat-trick, including a thunderous volley, as they beat Newcastle United 3-1 in their first home game back in the Premier League after a three-year absence at a sunny Carrow Road on Saturday.

Last season's Championship top scorer and Player of the Season showed his class as the Canaries handed Newcastle's new manager Steve Bruce his second league defeat of the season on an unhappy return to a club he captained in the mid-1980s.

"Three points was what we wanted today. The first hat-trick in England so I'm really happy. Good, good victory especially after the display last week," said 29-year-old Pukki, who also got on the scoresheet in Norwich's opening 4-1 loss at Anfield.

"There are better players than in the Championship, but we are playing better football and the guys are creating chances - I could have scored more.

"My daughter will probably play with the match-ball. It will have a special place."

Norwich, who had dominated the opening exchanges, took the lead just past the half hour when Pukki gave goalkeeper Martin Dubravka no chance with a stunning strike from 15 metres after a cross from Emiliano Buendia was headed out by the defence.

The Finn got his second after 63 minutes when Todd Cantwell rolled the ball to him and Pukki cut inside before striking a low shot into the bottom corner from just inside the area.

The striker wrapped up the points with his third goal in the 75th, after being set up by Cantwell again, before Jonjo Shelvey's late consolation for the visitors as Daniel Farke's Norwich put their opening league defeat behind them.

Pukki is the first Norwich player to score a Premier League hat-trick since Efan Ekoku against Everton in 1993.

"It was a brilliant performance by Teemu today not just because of his goals but his workload," said the Norwich boss. "I was especially pleased with the defence. Grant Hanley had an unlucky time at Liverpool but a great performance today."

Norwich captain Hanley put Liverpool ahead last week with an early own goal but he marshalled the defence superbly against his old team, who rarely threatened and wasted the few chances they created including a glaring headed miss by Joelinton.

"It was hugely disappointing in the manner of it (the defeat)," said Bruce. "We certainly didn't do enough with or without the ball and we'll have to put that right for sure."

Norwich City's Finland striker Teemu Pukki grabbed a hat-trick, including a thunderous volley, as they beat Newcastle United 3-1 in their first home game back in the Premier League after a three-year absence at a sunny Carrow Road on Saturday.

Norwich City's Finland striker Teemu Pukki grabbed a hat-trick, including a thunderous volley, as they beat Newcastle United 3-1 in their first home game back in the Premier League after a three-year absence at a sunny Carrow Road on Saturday. Last season's Championship top scorer and Player of the Season showed his class as the Canaries handed Newcastle's new manager Steve Bruce his second league defeat of the season on an unhappy return to a club he captained in the mid-1980s. "Three points was what we wanted today. The first hat-trick in England so I'm really happy. Good, good victory especially after the display last week," said 29-year-old Pukki, who also got on the scoresheet in Norwich's opening 4-1 loss at Anfield. "There are better players than in the Championship, but we are playing better football and the guys are creating chances - I could have scored more. "My daughter will probably play with the match-ball. It will have a special place." Norwich, who had dominated the opening exchanges, took the lead just past the half hour when Pukki gave goalkeeper Martin Dubravka no chance with a stunning strike from 15 metres after a cross from Emiliano Buendia was headed out by the defence. The Finn got his second after 63 minutes when Todd Cantwell rolled the ball to him and Pukki cut inside before striking a low shot into the bottom corner from just inside the area. The striker wrapped up the points with his third goal in the 75th, after being set up by Cantwell again, before Jonjo Shelvey's late consolation for the visitors as Daniel Farke's Norwich put their opening league defeat behind them. Pukki is the first Norwich player to score a Premier League hat-trick since Efan Ekoku against Everton in 1993. "It was a brilliant performance by Teemu today not just because of his goals but his workload," said the Norwich boss. "I was especially pleased with the defence. Grant Hanley had an unlucky time at Liverpool but a great performance today." Norwich captain Hanley put Liverpool ahead last week with an early own goal but he marshalled the defence superbly against his old team, who rarely threatened and wasted the few chances they created including a glaring headed miss by Joelinton. "It was hugely disappointing in the manner of it (the defeat)," said Bruce. "We certainly didn't do enough with or without the ball and we'll have to put that right for sure."

Superb Pukki hat-trick gives Norwich win over Newcastle

Newcastle United announced Wednesday that Steve Bruce has been appointed head coach following the departure of Rafael Benitez from the Premier League club.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ayoze-perez-hat-trick-ends-newcastle-relegation-fears-212233&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimjI_n0rvjAhXc73MBHR7YCi0QFjAAegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-M8-ErAfWKiwgogTVkxYn">Newcastle United</a> can now announce that Steve Bruce has been appointed as the club's new head coach," the club said on its website, adding that the former Manchester United player had signed an initial three-year contract.

The 58-year-old Bruce, who grew up in Tyneside and is a former coach of Newcastle's fierce rivals Sunderland, will be joined at St. James' Park by coaches Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence, the club added.

Bruce, who resigned from Sheffield Wednesday prior to signing with Newcastle, told the club website,&nbsp;"I'm delighted and incredibly proud to be appointed as head coach of Newcastle United.

"This is my boyhood club and it was my dad's club, so this is a very special moment for me and my family," Bruce said.

Lee Charnley, managing director at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/manager-rafa-benitez-braces-for-survival-battle-with-inactive-magpies-153176&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjbvYST07vjAhWRinAKHcyjCf4QFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2X8QbQT7AzyzBjLa5ElMu3">Newcastle United</a>, said the club was pleased to appoint a coach of Bruce's "vast experience and connections..."

"The hard work for Steve and his team starts immediately and we will be fully prepared for the challenge of a new Premier League season," he added.

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“There is a huge challenge ahead of us, but it’s one that my staff and I are ready for. We’ll roll our sleeves up and we’ll be giving it everything from the off to ensure supporters have a successful team that they can be proud of.” 
 
Read more: <a href="https://t.co/BTjZACgqtb">https://t.co/BTjZACgqtb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/IWdJLsp34K">pic.twitter.com/IWdJLsp34K</a>
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The Newcastle squad are currently on a pre-season tour in China and Bruce and his staff are scheduled to travel to join them there following Wednesday's match in Nanjing against Wolves.

Newcastle United announced Wednesday that Steve Bruce has been appointed head coach following the departure of Rafael Benitez from the Premier League club. "Newcastle United can now announce that Steve Bruce has been appointed as the club's new head coach," the club said on its website, adding that the former Manchester United player had signed an initial three-year contract.

Newcastle United announced Wednesday that Steve Bruce has been appointed head coach following the departure of Rafael Benitez from the Premier League club. "Newcastle United can now announce that Steve Bruce has been appointed as the club's new head coach," the club said on its website, adding that the former Manchester United player had signed an initial three-year contract. The 58-year-old Bruce, who grew up in Tyneside and is a former coach of Newcastle's fierce rivals Sunderland, will be joined at St. James' Park by coaches Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence, the club added. Bruce, who resigned from Sheffield Wednesday prior to signing with Newcastle, told the club website, "I'm delighted and incredibly proud to be appointed as head coach of Newcastle United. "This is my boyhood club and it was my dad's club, so this is a very special moment for me and my family," Bruce said. Lee Charnley, managing director at Newcastle United, said the club was pleased to appoint a coach of Bruce's "vast experience and connections..." "The hard work for Steve and his team starts immediately and we will be fully prepared for the challenge of a new Premier League season," he added. “There is a huge challenge ahead of us, but it’s one that my staff and I are ready for. We’ll roll our sleeves up and we’ll be giving it everything from the off to ensure supporters have a successful team that they can be proud of.” Read more: https://t.co/BTjZACgqtb #NUFC pic.twitter.com/IWdJLsp34K — Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 17, 2019 × The Newcastle squad are currently on a pre-season tour in China and Bruce and his staff are scheduled to travel to join them there following Wednesday's match in Nanjing against Wolves.

Steve Bruce replaces Rafa Benitezas as Newcastle United head coach

Leicester City have signed striker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ayoze-perez-hat-trick-ends-newcastle-relegation-fears-212233&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyvPzpr5vjAhVj7XMBHbHYCAoQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw09qDrtBH_sTWJVqXnXIDSb">Ayoze Perez </a>from Newcastle United on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said on Thursday.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but British media reported that Leicester would pay Newcastle 30 million pounds ($37.7 million) for the 25-year-old Spaniard.

Perez, who joined Newcastle from his hometown club Tenerife in 2014, was the Premier League club's top scorer last season with 12 league goals.

"Leicester City Football Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Spanish forward Ayoze Perez for an undisclosed fee, subject to Premier League and international clearance," Leicester said in a statement.

"Perez is one of the Premier League's most exciting talents, with pace, trickery and an eye for goal that will add plenty to City's attacking ranks ahead of their top-flight opener at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, August 11," it said.

The forward is <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/leicester-citys-hamza-choudhury-charged-with-misconduct-over-social-media-comments-215600&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiclO7_r5vjAhV06nMBHQPXCgoQFjAIegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0rtJWpCeKgIUUsKH6S1sXI">Leicester </a>manager Brendan Rodgers' second signing of the close season following the arrival of defender James Justin from Luton Town.

Leicester City have signed striker Ayoze Perez from Newcastle United on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said on Thursday. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but British media reported that Leicester would pay Newcastle 30 million pounds ($37.

Leicester City have signed striker Ayoze Perez from Newcastle United on a four-year contract, the Premier League club said on Thursday. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but British media reported that Leicester would pay Newcastle 30 million pounds ($37.7 million) for the 25-year-old Spaniard. Perez, who joined Newcastle from his hometown club Tenerife in 2014, was the Premier League club's top scorer last season with 12 league goals. "Leicester City Football Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Spanish forward Ayoze Perez for an undisclosed fee, subject to Premier League and international clearance," Leicester said in a statement. "Perez is one of the Premier League's most exciting talents, with pace, trickery and an eye for goal that will add plenty to City's attacking ranks ahead of their top-flight opener at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, August 11," it said. The forward is Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers' second signing of the close season following the arrival of defender James Justin from Luton Town.

Leicester City sign striker Ayoze Perez from Newcastle United

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-climb-to-third-with-victory-over-newcastle-207391">Arsenal vs Newcastle United</a> Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday.&nbsp;

Guess who's the special fan? It is none other than Arsenal's star midfielder and one of the best footballers in the world, Mesut Ozil.&nbsp;

Shah Rukh Khan, who is popular as 'King Khan' in the Indian film industry, posted a picture of him with Ozil and a Swedish-Turkish actress Amine Gulse.&nbsp;

"What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 &amp; #AmineGulse for your warmth love &amp; hospitality. See u guys soon in India," Shah Rukh wrote on his Twitter handle. &nbsp;

While in the match, goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.&nbsp;

The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season.&nbsp;

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What a lovely evening <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> congratulations. Thx <a href="https://twitter.com/MesutOzil1088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MesutOzil1088</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmineGulse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmineGulse</a> for your warmth love &amp; hospitality. See u guys soon in India. <a href="https://t.co/4rtBJXZ5uW">pic.twitter.com/4rtBJXZ5uW</a>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1112847262626013184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Granit Xhaka finally gets to meet his favourite bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/jGwzBAVmZv">pic.twitter.com/jGwzBAVmZv</a>
— SRK Universe (@SRKUniverse) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRKUniverse/status/1112976886232039424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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EVERYONE WANTS TO MEET YOU WHEN YOU'RE THE GREATEST OF ALL AND SRK INDEED IS THE GREATEST . 
❤❤❤ 
WHERE EVER HE GOES GETS ALL THE LOVE HE DESERVES ❤ 
YOU ARE THE ONLY KING <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> ps : Looking so handsome as usual ❤ <a href="https://t.co/fCYq8lyDTT">pic.twitter.com/fCYq8lyDTT</a>
— 🌹 ••▪♡ kคtคriຖค ••▪♡ 🌹 (@SRK_katarina) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRK_katarina/status/1112980948398866432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended Arsenal vs Newcastle United Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday. Guess who's the special fan?

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended Arsenal vs Newcastle United Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday. Guess who's the special fan? It is none other than Arsenal's star midfielder and one of the best footballers in the world, Mesut Ozil. Shah Rukh Khan, who is popular as 'King Khan' in the Indian film industry, posted a picture of him with Ozil and a Swedish-Turkish actress Amine Gulse. "What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 & #AmineGulse for your warmth love & hospitality. See u guys soon in India," Shah Rukh wrote on his Twitter handle. While in the match, goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season. What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 & #AmineGulse for your warmth love & hospitality. See u guys soon in India. pic.twitter.com/4rtBJXZ5uW — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 1, 2019 × Granit Xhaka finally gets to meet his favourite bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan ❤️ pic.twitter.com/jGwzBAVmZv — SRK Universe (@SRKUniverse) April 2, 2019 × EVERYONE WANTS TO MEET YOU WHEN YOU'RE THE GREATEST OF ALL AND SRK INDEED IS THE GREATEST . ❤❤❤ WHERE EVER HE GOES GETS ALL THE LOVE HE DESERVES ❤ YOU ARE THE ONLY KING @iamsrk ps : Looking so handsome as usual ❤ pic.twitter.com/fCYq8lyDTT — 🌹 ••▪♡ kคtคriຖค ••▪♡ 🌹 (@SRK_katarina) April 2, 2019 ×

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan attends Premier League match and roots for his fan, see pics

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League.

Just when it looked like Spurs might be heading for their first draw of the season, Son fired a hopeful shot from outside the area which somehow crept under goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to take them within four points of Liverpool who play on Monday.

It was Son's ninth goal in his past 10 appearances for Tottenham and a cruel blow for Newcastle who looked to have done enough to earn a point before the keeper's howler.

Spurs missed a series of chances with Lucas Moura putting a straightforward header wide from six yards, Erik Lamela heading on to the post and Christian Eriksen's flick somehow hooked off the line by Fabian Schar as Newcastle rode their luck.

But Mauricio Pochettino's side had twice grabbed late winners in their previous league games with Fulham and Watford and Son got lucky when the chance finally came his way.

Newcastle, with record signing Miguel Almiron ineligible, had their moments on the breakaway with Salomon Rondon also heading on to a post. But in the end it was a familiar outcome for the Geordies, who have not won at Wembley since 1955.

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League. Just when it looked like Spurs might be heading for their first draw of the season, Son fired a hopeful shot from outside the area which somehow crept under goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to take them within four points of Liverpool who play on Monday. It was Son's ninth goal in his past 10 appearances for Tottenham and a cruel blow for Newcastle who looked to have done enough to earn a point before the keeper's howler. Spurs missed a series of chances with Lucas Moura putting a straightforward header wide from six yards, Erik Lamela heading on to the post and Christian Eriksen's flick somehow hooked off the line by Fabian Schar as Newcastle rode their luck. But Mauricio Pochettino's side had twice grabbed late winners in their previous league games with Fulham and Watford and Son got lucky when the chance finally came his way. Newcastle, with record signing Miguel Almiron ineligible, had their moments on the breakaway with Salomon Rondon also heading on to a post. But in the end it was a familiar outcome for the Geordies, who have not won at Wembley since 1955.

Son Heung-Min strikes late as Tottenham beat Newcastle United to go second

Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner said his future at the club does not hinge on their Premier League survival as he remains focused on Saturday`s crucial Premier League against Newcastle United.

Wagner has impressed since joining arriving at Huddersfield in 2015, leading the club to the top-flight on a shoestring budget and they are currently sitting three points outside the drop zone.

British media reports have linked the German with releagation-threatened Southampton, despite their recent appointment of Mark Hughes.

When asked if his future was dependent on Huddersfield`s top-flight status, Wagner said: "I don`t really understand the question.

"No, it isn`t, because I have a contract for one further year and this contract counts for the Premier League and the Championship.

"To be totally honest the speculation, links and rumours is boring. I understand you maybe have to ask this question, but I have much more important and bigger things to think about at this stage of the season."

Wagner`s team will be chasing their first win in four matches when they visit St James` Park and will be strengthened by the return to fitness of midfielders Aaron Mooy and Philip Billing.

"They are both back on the grass today with the fitness coaches," the manager added.

"I expect them back in training with the group and then they will be in contention for Saturday`s game."

He said his future at the club does not hinge on their Premier League survival

Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner said his future at the club does not hinge on their Premier League survival as he remains focused on Saturday`s crucial Premier League against Newcastle United. Wagner has impressed since joining arriving at Huddersfield in 2015, leading the club to the top-flight on a shoestring budget and they are currently sitting three points outside the drop zone. British media reports have linked the German with releagation-threatened Southampton, despite their recent appointment of Mark Hughes. When asked if his future was dependent on Huddersfield`s top-flight status, Wagner said: "I don`t really understand the question. "No, it isn`t, because I have a contract for one further year and this contract counts for the Premier League and the Championship. "To be totally honest the speculation, links and rumours is boring. I understand you maybe have to ask this question, but I have much more important and bigger things to think about at this stage of the season." Wagner`s team will be chasing their first win in four matches when they visit St James` Park and will be strengthened by the return to fitness of midfielders Aaron Mooy and Philip Billing. "They are both back on the grass today with the fitness coaches," the manager added. "I expect them back in training with the group and then they will be in contention for Saturday`s game."

David Wagner 'bored' of Huddersfield exit talk

Mohamed Salah was inevitably on the scoresheet as Liverpool took full advantage of the inactivity of their top-four rivals to thrash West Ham United 4-1 at Anfield and provisionally move into second in the Premier League.

With leaders, Manchester City facing Arsenal in the League Cup final on Sunday, when Manchester United host Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur travel to Crystal Palace in the league, Juergen Klopp&#39;s free scorers topped 100 goals for the season in their 40th match.

Emre Can, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane also netted in another Liverpool goal rush that moved them 15 points behind Pep Guardiola&#39;s City.

At the bottom of the table, the future of West Bromwich Albion manager Alan Pardew looks increasingly bleak after their 2-1 defeat at home to relegation rivals Huddersfield Town.

Swansea City crashed 4-1 at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion and Bournemouth came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Newcastle United.

Liverpool&#39;s win was not quite as routine as the scoreline suggested with West Ham occasionally threatening on another nerve-tingling Anfield afternoon although David Moyes&#39; long wait for a first win at the ground continues.

Salah scored for the sixth successive game in all competitions and his goal took him level with Harry Kane at the top of the Premier League scoring charts with 23 this season.

But Can was equally influential in Liverpool&#39;s win, heading the opener and laying on a superb through pass for Firmino to score Liverpool&#39;s third before Mane chipped in with a fourth goal in two games.

&quot;It is difficult to be top, Manchester City is too far away, but of course we want to finish second,&quot; said the German, whose six league goals represent the best haul of his Liverpool career which could be in its final season as his contract expires at the end of the campaign.

Pressure on Padrew

Elsewhere, West Brom&#39;s defeat will add to the pressure on manager Pardew whose side are now seven points off safety. Rajiv van La Parra and Steve Mounie scored for Huddersfield, whose win moved them three points up the table, one point ahead of Newcastle.

Rafa Benitez&#39;s side looked to be guaranteed back-to-back victories for the first time since September after Dwight Gayle ended his recent goal drought by scoring twice before the interval.

Yet Adam Smith and former Newcastle midfielder Dan Gosling completed an astonishing comeback by one of the league&#39;s never-say-die specialists.

&quot;It&#39;s another point that nudges us towards where we want to be -- everyone could be vital at the end of the season,&quot; said Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe.

Swansea also scored late at Brighton but Lewis Dunk&#39;s own goal proved academic with the home side already 3-0 up. Dutchman Juergen Locadia&#39;s goal on his Premier League debut completed the rout.

Swansea drops back into the relegation zone just ahead of Stoke City, who drew 1-1 with Leicester City.

It would have been better for Paul Lambert&#39;s side had keeper Jack Butland not parried the ball into his own net when under no obvious pressure, a howler made all the more embarrassing by the presence of former Stoke, Leicester and England legend Peter Shilton in the stands.

Manager Lambert refused to criticise his keeper, whom he described as &quot;the best in Britain&quot; although such an obvious howler will do little to help Butland secure the England jersey for the World Cup.

At Turf Moor, Southampton&#39;s Manolo Gabbiadini scored a 90th-minute equaliser as the visitors secured a nerve-jangling 1-1 draw at Burnley, who still await their first win of the year.

Watford was due to play Everton in Saturday&#39;s late kickoff.

Swansea City crashed 4-1 at Brighton & Hove Albion and Bournemouth came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Newcastle United

Mohamed Salah was inevitably on the scoresheet as Liverpool took full advantage of the inactivity of their top-four rivals to thrash West Ham United 4-1 at Anfield and provisionally move into second in the Premier League. With leaders, Manchester City facing Arsenal in the League Cup final on Sunday, when Manchester United host Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur travel to Crystal Palace in the league, Juergen Klopp's free scorers topped 100 goals for the season in their 40th match. Emre Can, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane also netted in another Liverpool goal rush that moved them 15 points behind Pep Guardiola's City. At the bottom of the table, the future of West Bromwich Albion manager Alan Pardew looks increasingly bleak after their 2-1 defeat at home to relegation rivals Huddersfield Town. Swansea City crashed 4-1 at Brighton & Hove Albion and Bournemouth came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Newcastle United. Liverpool's win was not quite as routine as the scoreline suggested with West Ham occasionally threatening on another nerve-tingling Anfield afternoon although David Moyes' long wait for a first win at the ground continues. Salah scored for the sixth successive game in all competitions and his goal took him level with Harry Kane at the top of the Premier League scoring charts with 23 this season. But Can was equally influential in Liverpool's win, heading the opener and laying on a superb through pass for Firmino to score Liverpool's third before Mane chipped in with a fourth goal in two games. "It is difficult to be top, Manchester City is too far away, but of course we want to finish second," said the German, whose six league goals represent the best haul of his Liverpool career which could be in its final season as his contract expires at the end of the campaign. Pressure on Padrew Elsewhere, West Brom's defeat will add to the pressure on manager Pardew whose side are now seven points off safety. Rajiv van La Parra and Steve Mounie scored for Huddersfield, whose win moved them three points up the table, one point ahead of Newcastle. Rafa Benitez's side looked to be guaranteed back-to-back victories for the first time since September after Dwight Gayle ended his recent goal drought by scoring twice before the interval. Yet Adam Smith and former Newcastle midfielder Dan Gosling completed an astonishing comeback by one of the league's never-say-die specialists. "It's another point that nudges us towards where we want to be -- everyone could be vital at the end of the season," said Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe. Swansea also scored late at Brighton but Lewis Dunk's own goal proved academic with the home side already 3-0 up. Dutchman Juergen Locadia's goal on his Premier League debut completed the rout. Swansea drops back into the relegation zone just ahead of Stoke City, who drew 1-1 with Leicester City. It would have been better for Paul Lambert's side had keeper Jack Butland not parried the ball into his own net when under no obvious pressure, a howler made all the more embarrassing by the presence of former Stoke, Leicester and England legend Peter Shilton in the stands. Manager Lambert refused to criticise his keeper, whom he described as "the best in Britain" although such an obvious howler will do little to help Butland secure the England jersey for the World Cup. At Turf Moor, Southampton's Manolo Gabbiadini scored a 90th-minute equaliser as the visitors secured a nerve-jangling 1-1 draw at Burnley, who still await their first win of the year. Watford was due to play Everton in Saturday's late kickoff.

EPL: Salah scores again as Liverpool thrash West Ham

Manchester City&#39;s relentless assault on English football&#39;s record books continued on Wednesday as a Raheem Sterling goal earned them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United to extend their extraordinary record of successive Premier League wins to 18.

Sterling&#39;s fine 31st-minute finish saw Guardiola&#39;s men improve their unbeaten league sequence this season to 20 games and stretch their yawning gap at the top of the league to 15 points on a night where they dominated but were very wasteful.

Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James&#39; Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season.

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City hit the woodwork three times in total -- twice from Sergio Aguero and once from Kevin De Bruyne -- and they nearly paid for their profligacy in front of goal when, in rare Newcastle attacks, Rolando Aarons had a first-half chip cleared off the line and Dwight Gayle headed wide late on.

Despite a slightly sloppy second-half performance, it would have been a travesty if Newcastle, just a point above the relegation zone after their fifth straight home defeat, had been rewarded for an ultra-cautious approach.

City moved on to 58 points out of a possible 60, with their Manchester United neighbours on 43 points and Chelsea on 42.

&quot;We did absolutely everything but it is difficult to play when the other team doesn&#39;t want to play,&quot; Guardiola told BBC Sport in what sounded a harsh but fair assessment of Newcastle&#39;s early passivity.

&quot;Any manager can decide what he wants. I prefer to try to play but I respect a lot what opponents do and we have to try to discover how to attack against them.&quot;

Such is City&#39;s aura now that Newcastle, almost as if Benitez was resigned to their fate from the start, invariably put 10 men behind the ball in the opening half an hour as the visitors sought an opening.

Argentine Aguero volleyed against the post after seven minutes and De Bruyne let Newcastle off with some slack finishing before the South American again struck the post on the half-hour with a right foot shot.

City even made light of the early departure of captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered yet another of his injury woes and had to limp off after 10 minutes.

Refusing to compromise their attacking approach, they simply pushed midfielder Fernandinho back into central defence and brought on striker Gabriel Jesus.

With Newcastle offering nothing, it felt just a matter of time before De Bruyne picked out Sterling brilliantly with a floated through ball which saw the England international ghost in and squeeze it left-footed past Rob Elliot from a narrow angle.

Forced to offer a response, Newcastle responded almost immediately when a fine Aarons&#39; chip brought an excellent headed goalline clearance from Nicolas Otamendi under his own bar but it was just a brief respite as City equalled the English top-flight record of 11 consecutive away league victories.

De Bruyne, with a strange mixture of commanding orchestration and wayward finishing, struck the post with one searing shot but City did appear to become a little complacent as substitute Gayle came close with an 89th minute header that went just wide.

Now, Guardiola is just one win away from equalling the record of 19 league victories in a row that he set with Bayern Munich in 2013-14, the longest winning streak achieved in any of Europe&#39;s top five leagues. 
&nbsp;

A Raheem Sterling goal earned the league leaders a 1-0 win at Newcastle United

Manchester City's relentless assault on English football's record books continued on Wednesday as a Raheem Sterling goal earned them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United to extend their extraordinary record of successive Premier League wins to 18. Sterling's fine 31st-minute finish saw Guardiola's men improve their unbeaten league sequence this season to 20 games and stretch their yawning gap at the top of the league to 15 points on a night where they dominated but were very wasteful. Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James' Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season. Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James' Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season × City hit the woodwork three times in total -- twice from Sergio Aguero and once from Kevin De Bruyne -- and they nearly paid for their profligacy in front of goal when, in rare Newcastle attacks, Rolando Aarons had a first-half chip cleared off the line and Dwight Gayle headed wide late on. Despite a slightly sloppy second-half performance, it would have been a travesty if Newcastle, just a point above the relegation zone after their fifth straight home defeat, had been rewarded for an ultra-cautious approach. City moved on to 58 points out of a possible 60, with their Manchester United neighbours on 43 points and Chelsea on 42. "We did absolutely everything but it is difficult to play when the other team doesn't want to play," Guardiola told BBC Sport in what sounded a harsh but fair assessment of Newcastle's early passivity. "Any manager can decide what he wants. I prefer to try to play but I respect a lot what opponents do and we have to try to discover how to attack against them." Such is City's aura now that Newcastle, almost as if Benitez was resigned to their fate from the start, invariably put 10 men behind the ball in the opening half an hour as the visitors sought an opening. Argentine Aguero volleyed against the post after seven minutes and De Bruyne let Newcastle off with some slack finishing before the South American again struck the post on the half-hour with a right foot shot. City even made light of the early departure of captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered yet another of his injury woes and had to limp off after 10 minutes. Refusing to compromise their attacking approach, they simply pushed midfielder Fernandinho back into central defence and brought on striker Gabriel Jesus. With Newcastle offering nothing, it felt just a matter of time before De Bruyne picked out Sterling brilliantly with a floated through ball which saw the England international ghost in and squeeze it left-footed past Rob Elliot from a narrow angle. Forced to offer a response, Newcastle responded almost immediately when a fine Aarons' chip brought an excellent headed goalline clearance from Nicolas Otamendi under his own bar but it was just a brief respite as City equalled the English top-flight record of 11 consecutive away league victories. De Bruyne, with a strange mixture of commanding orchestration and wayward finishing, struck the post with one searing shot but City did appear to become a little complacent as substitute Gayle came close with an 89th minute header that went just wide. Now, Guardiola is just one win away from equalling the record of 19 league victories in a row that he set with Bayern Munich in 2013-14, the longest winning streak achieved in any of Europe's top five leagues.

EPL: Man City march to 18th straight win

Rafa Benitez got his first bitter taste of life in the Championship (second tier) as his relegated Newcastle United side suffered a 1-0 defeat at Fulham in the first match of the English league season yesterday. 
 
Fulham scored a deserved winner on the stroke of halftime when Matt Smith rose above a flat-footed defence to power home a header from a corner with Newcastle generally second best. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s a wake-up call. We will have games more difficult than this one,&quot; Benitez was quoted as saying by the BBC. &quot;If we play for something more important than the first game of the season maybe the anxiety will be even higher, we need to make sure we can manage that and play better.&quot; 
 
His side might have had better luck, though, with two penalty claims turned down. 
 
Fulham&rsquo;s Ryan Tunnicliffe appeared to handle a shot from Matt Ritchie in the 35th minute but the referee waved play on with replays suggesting he could have awarded a penalty. Benitez did not use the decision as justification for his side failing to take a point. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s not an excuse, we have to be better,&quot; said the former Real Madrid and Liverpool coach. &quot;We have to trust referees, but they can make mistakes.&quot; 
 
Another penalty appeal by Newcastle for handball by Tomas Kalas two minutes from time was also turned down, again after a shot by Scotland&#39;s former Bournemouth midfielder Ritchie, one of the signings Benitez has made to help strengthen his side. 
 
Fulham looked more comfortable in a division they have played in for the last two seasons but Newcastle need to adjust fast if they are to bounce straight back to the Premier League. 
 
&quot;At the beginning we were nervous, in the second half we made the wrong decisions,&quot; added Benitez, whose team host Huddersfield Town at St James&#39; Park next weekend. 
 
(Reuters)

'It's a wake-up call. We will have games more difficult than this one,' Benitez said

Rafa Benitez got his first bitter taste of life in the Championship (second tier) as his relegated Newcastle United side suffered a 1-0 defeat at Fulham in the first match of the English league season yesterday. Fulham scored a deserved winner on the stroke of halftime when Matt Smith rose above a flat-footed defence to power home a header from a corner with Newcastle generally second best. "It's a wake-up call. We will have games more difficult than this one," Benitez was quoted as saying by the BBC. "If we play for something more important than the first game of the season maybe the anxiety will be even higher, we need to make sure we can manage that and play better." His side might have had better luck, though, with two penalty claims turned down. Fulham’s Ryan Tunnicliffe appeared to handle a shot from Matt Ritchie in the 35th minute but the referee waved play on with replays suggesting he could have awarded a penalty. Benitez did not use the decision as justification for his side failing to take a point. "It's not an excuse, we have to be better," said the former Real Madrid and Liverpool coach. "We have to trust referees, but they can make mistakes." Another penalty appeal by Newcastle for handball by Tomas Kalas two minutes from time was also turned down, again after a shot by Scotland's former Bournemouth midfielder Ritchie, one of the signings Benitez has made to help strengthen his side. Fulham looked more comfortable in a division they have played in for the last two seasons but Newcastle need to adjust fast if they are to bounce straight back to the Premier League. "At the beginning we were nervous, in the second half we made the wrong decisions," added Benitez, whose team host Huddersfield Town at St James' Park next weekend. (Reuters)

Benitez's Newcastle lose 1-0 at Fulham in Championship opener