Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium.

But Kovacic, filling in for the injured Rodri, struck either side of half-time to settle City's nerves.

The Croatian midfielder's brace was followed by Jeremy Doku's blistering strike before Rodrigo Muniz netted Fulham's second to set up a tense finish.

City remain unbeaten in their first 10 games in all competitions this season, with five wins from seven league matches putting them firmly in contention for a fifth successive title.

They sit in second place, one point behind leaders Liverpool after ending a two-match winless run in the top-flight.

Questions have been asked over how City will cope without the influential Rodri after the Spain international was ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.

But while Guardiola may have been concerned at how Fulham were able to take control for spells, in Kovacic they have an able deputy.

City started strongly with Ilkay Gundogan driving just wide and Erling Haaland shooting across the face of goal.

Haaland also had a free-kick blocked and then headed at Bernardo Leno before City were caught napping on Fulham's first attack as Adama Traore broke away from Rico Lewis.

The Spaniard should have punished City but was denied by the feet of Ederson.

City switched off again in 26th minute and this time were made to pay.

They failed to deal with a deep cross from Antonee Robinson and the ball was worked inside to Raul Jimenez, whose clever backheel flick dropped perfectly for Pereira to volley home.

Fulham should have increased their lead moments later as Alex Iwobi teed up Traore but again the former Wolves man erred, scooping over the bar as Ederson closed in.

The Cottagers were to rue their misses as City began their fightback when Kovacic levelled just after the half-hour mark.

Kovacic drove in from the edge of the box, via a deflection off Joachim Anderson, after a corner fell to him invitingly.

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The former Chelsea star put City ahead with an assured finish two minutes after the break.

Silva created the chance with a nice lay-off and Kovacic did the rest, beating Sander Berge with a nice touch and curling in a shot from 18 yards.

Doku bagged the vital third goal in the 82nd minute as he cut inside from the left and rattled a shot into the top corner.

Fulham made City work until the end as Muniz turned to score with a deflected shot two minutes from full-time.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium.

Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium. But Kovacic, filling in for the injured Rodri, struck either side of half-time to settle City's nerves. The Croatian midfielder's brace was followed by Jeremy Doku's blistering strike before Rodrigo Muniz netted Fulham's second to set up a tense finish. City remain unbeaten in their first 10 games in all competitions this season, with five wins from seven league matches putting them firmly in contention for a fifth successive title. They sit in second place, one point behind leaders Liverpool after ending a two-match winless run in the top-flight. Questions have been asked over how City will cope without the influential Rodri after the Spain international was ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury. But while Guardiola may have been concerned at how Fulham were able to take control for spells, in Kovacic they have an able deputy. City started strongly with Ilkay Gundogan driving just wide and Erling Haaland shooting across the face of goal. Haaland also had a free-kick blocked and then headed at Bernardo Leno before City were caught napping on Fulham's first attack as Adama Traore broke away from Rico Lewis. The Spaniard should have punished City but was denied by the feet of Ederson. City switched off again in 26th minute and this time were made to pay. They failed to deal with a deep cross from Antonee Robinson and the ball was worked inside to Raul Jimenez, whose clever backheel flick dropped perfectly for Pereira to volley home. Fulham should have increased their lead moments later as Alex Iwobi teed up Traore but again the former Wolves man erred, scooping over the bar as Ederson closed in. The Cottagers were to rue their misses as City began their fightback when Kovacic levelled just after the half-hour mark. Kovacic drove in from the edge of the box, via a deflection off Joachim Anderson, after a corner fell to him invitingly. ALSO READ | England skipper Ben Stokes ruled out from first Test against Pakistan The former Chelsea star put City ahead with an assured finish two minutes after the break. Silva created the chance with a nice lay-off and Kovacic did the rest, beating Sander Berge with a nice touch and curling in a shot from 18 yards. Doku bagged the vital third goal in the 82nd minute as he cut inside from the left and rattled a shot into the top corner. Fulham made City work until the end as Muniz turned to score with a deflected shot two minutes from full-time. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Man City sink Fulham to get title bid back on track; Arsenal beat resolute Southampton

The&nbsp;Premier League match on&nbsp;Sunday (May 19) was historic as&nbsp;Manchester City clinched their fourth consecutive title&nbsp;beating West Ham United 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium.&nbsp;By winning the Sunday game, Pep&nbsp;Guardiola’s&nbsp;side became the first team since the inception of English league football in 1889-90 to win four consecutive titles. However, Pep,&nbsp;the second-most successful manager in the Premier League with six&nbsp;titles, has hinted at a potential exit from Manchester City after the 2024-25 season.&nbsp;

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FOUR-IN-A-ROW!!!! 
 
We're <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@premierleague</a> champions 🏆🏆🏆🏆 <a href="https://t.co/blRyxjPqJB">pic.twitter.com/blRyxjPqJB</a>
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<h2>Pep to leave Man City?</h2>

"The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying,"&nbsp;Pep said post the match.

"We have talked with the club&nbsp;and&nbsp;my feeling is that&nbsp;I want to stay now. I will stay next season&nbsp;and&nbsp;during the&nbsp;season&nbsp;we will talk. But after eight or nine years, we will see."

On Sunday, Pep won his sixth Premier League title in eight seasons after taking&nbsp;charge.

He has&nbsp;won every major honour at the Manchester-based club.

According to Pep, he is now&nbsp;“tired,”&nbsp;having clinched milestone after milestone during his eight years with the City.&nbsp;

Last season, the club became&nbsp;just the second team in Premier League history to win a treble of Champions League, Premier League and the FA Cup. And&nbsp;this&nbsp;season, they&nbsp;could add one more double with another FA Cup final looming.

"I&nbsp;have a contract,&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;still here,"&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

"Some of the moments&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;a bit tired, but some of the moments I love and we are here winning games, looking good with new players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-manchester-city-first-team-to-win-four-consecutive-titles-beat-west-ham-723165">Premier League: Manchester City become first team to claim four consecutive titles with win over West Ham</a>

"I&nbsp;start to think&nbsp;about,&nbsp;'No one has done four in a row, why&nbsp;don't&nbsp;we try?'&nbsp;And now I feel&nbsp;it's&nbsp;done, so what next?

"Right&nbsp;now&nbsp;I&nbsp;don't&nbsp;know&nbsp;what exactly the motivation is&nbsp;to do it because&nbsp;it's&nbsp;difficult to find it when everything&nbsp;is done," he concluded.

Another&nbsp;key&nbsp;reason for Pep contemplating&nbsp;quitting Man City could be Jurgen&nbsp;Klopp’s&nbsp;exit at Liverpool.

The duo was fiercest rivals on the touchline during their stay in the Premier League.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;Klopp’s&nbsp;exit at Liverpool could prompt the current Man City boss to leave&nbsp;as well.&nbsp;

Pep has been a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;admirer of Klopp and could&nbsp;therefore&nbsp;follow&nbsp;his footsteps in the coming seasons.&nbsp;

The Premier League match on Sunday (May 19) was historic as Manchester City clinched their fourth consecutive title beating West Ham United 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium.

The Premier League match on Sunday (May 19) was historic as Manchester City clinched their fourth consecutive title beating West Ham United 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium. By winning the Sunday game, Pep Guardiola’s side became the first team since the inception of English league football in 1889-90 to win four consecutive titles. However, Pep, the second-most successful manager in the Premier League with six titles, has hinted at a potential exit from Manchester City after the 2024-25 season. FOUR-IN-A-ROW!!!! We're @premierleague champions 🏆🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/blRyxjPqJB — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024 × Pep to leave Man City? "The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying," Pep said post the match. "We have talked with the club and my feeling is that I want to stay now. I will stay next season and during the season we will talk. But after eight or nine years, we will see." On Sunday, Pep won his sixth Premier League title in eight seasons after taking charge. He has won every major honour at the Manchester-based club. According to Pep, he is now “tired,” having clinched milestone after milestone during his eight years with the City. Last season, the club became just the second team in Premier League history to win a treble of Champions League, Premier League and the FA Cup. And this season, they could add one more double with another FA Cup final looming. "I have a contract, I'm still here," he said. "Some of the moments I'm a bit tired, but some of the moments I love and we are here winning games, looking good with new players. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City become first team to claim four consecutive titles with win over West Ham "I start to think about, 'No one has done four in a row, why don't we try?' And now I feel it's done, so what next? "Right now I don't know what exactly the motivation is to do it because it's difficult to find it when everything is done," he concluded. Another key reason for Pep contemplating quitting Man City could be Jurgen Klopp’s exit at Liverpool. The duo was fiercest rivals on the touchline during their stay in the Premier League. However, Klopp’s exit at Liverpool could prompt the current Man City boss to leave as well. Pep has been a huge admirer of Klopp and could therefore follow his footsteps in the coming seasons.

'I am closer to leaving than staying': Pep Guardiola hints at potential Man City exit after 2024-25 season

Manchester City took pole position in the Premier League title&nbsp;race after their Tuesday (May 14) evening win over Tottenham Hotspur. The 2-0 victory which&nbsp;now sees Manchester City take the top spot ahead of Sunday’s final league&nbsp;game&nbsp;had their second-choice goalkeeper to thank for some superb saves. The defeat for Spurs, on&nbsp;the other&nbsp;hand, has seen them end their Champions League qualification pursuit as Aston Villa will return to the European Cup after the 1982-83 season.&nbsp;

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Stefan Ortega Moreno. Phenomenal. <a href="https://t.co/0QOPtAsRR7">pic.twitter.com/0QOPtAsRR7</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1790524997473017980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Stefan Ortega comes good for Man&nbsp;City</h2>

After a horrible collision with Christian Romero at the 60th minute, Man City’s first-choice goalkeeper Ederson&nbsp;was taken off&nbsp;due to concussion. With City leading 1-0 at the points after Erling Haaland had scored the opening goal in the 50th minute, Pep Guardiola had to gamble on Stefan Ortega. Knowing a draw would have seen Arsenal in pole position in the title race, Spurs almost scored an equaliser when Son Hueng Min was one-on-one with Ortega in the 86th minute.&nbsp;

However, Ortega made a title-winning save as he denied Son a potential equaliser, keeping&nbsp;City ahead in the match. The save later proved&nbsp;to be&nbsp;crucial as Erling Haaland converted a penalty four minutes later to seal a famous 2-0 win. The win was their first in the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League, which&nbsp;also denied Spurs from scoring at home for the first time this season.&nbsp;

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<h2>Title race scenarios&nbsp;</h2>

With the win, Man City will enter the final day with 88 points&nbsp;while&nbsp;Arsenal have 86 points from 37 matches each. Man City&nbsp;need to&nbsp;match Arsenal’s result on the final day to win their historic fourth consecutive title. If Man City fail to win against West Ham at home on Sunday, an Arsenal win will see them crowned champions, ending a 20-year drought.&nbsp;

The defeat for Spurs also saw Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League under Unai Emery’s leadership.&nbsp;This&nbsp;will be the first time Villa compete in the Champions League in four decades&nbsp;while&nbsp;Spurs now need a point to seal&nbsp;fifth place&nbsp;finish and&nbsp;therefore&nbsp;qualify&nbsp;for the Europa League.&nbsp;

Manchester City took pole position in the Premier League title race after their Tuesday (May 14) evening win over Tottenham Hotspur. The 2-0 victory which now sees Manchester City take the top spot ahead of Sunday’s final league game had their second-choice goalkeeper to thank for some superb saves.

Manchester City took pole position in the Premier League title race after their Tuesday (May 14) evening win over Tottenham Hotspur. The 2-0 victory which now sees Manchester City take the top spot ahead of Sunday’s final league game had their second-choice goalkeeper to thank for some superb saves. The defeat for Spurs, on the other hand, has seen them end their Champions League qualification pursuit as Aston Villa will return to the European Cup after the 1982-83 season. Stefan Ortega Moreno. Phenomenal. pic.twitter.com/0QOPtAsRR7 — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2024 × Stefan Ortega comes good for Man City After a horrible collision with Christian Romero at the 60th minute, Man City’s first-choice goalkeeper Ederson was taken off due to concussion. With City leading 1-0 at the points after Erling Haaland had scored the opening goal in the 50th minute, Pep Guardiola had to gamble on Stefan Ortega. Knowing a draw would have seen Arsenal in pole position in the title race, Spurs almost scored an equaliser when Son Hueng Min was one-on-one with Ortega in the 86th minute. However, Ortega made a title-winning save as he denied Son a potential equaliser, keeping City ahead in the match. The save later proved to be crucial as Erling Haaland converted a penalty four minutes later to seal a famous 2-0 win. The win was their first in the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League, which also denied Spurs from scoring at home for the first time this season. Also Read | Premier League: Erling Haaland brace puts Manchester City on brink of historic fourth consecutive title Title race scenarios With the win, Man City will enter the final day with 88 points while Arsenal have 86 points from 37 matches each. Man City need to match Arsenal’s result on the final day to win their historic fourth consecutive title. If Man City fail to win against West Ham at home on Sunday, an Arsenal win will see them crowned champions, ending a 20-year drought. The defeat for Spurs also saw Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League under Unai Emery’s leadership. This will be the first time Villa compete in the Champions League in four decades while Spurs now need a point to seal fifth place finish and therefore qualify for the Europa League.

Premier League: Manchester City's second-choice goalkeeper produces title-winning save to deny Son - WATCH

The Premier League title race will have a decisive evening on Tuesday (May 14) as Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;welcome&nbsp;Manchester City in the&nbsp;penultimate game of the season.&nbsp;With only a point separating Arsenal and Man City at the top, a draw or a win for Spurs will see the Gunners sit in pole position to win the Premier League title on&nbsp;Sunday’s&nbsp;final day. A win for Spurs will also see them keep their faint Champions League qualification hopes alive after Villa drew against Liverpool.&nbsp;

Ahead of the&nbsp;clash, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has claimed that the clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will be the biggest of the season in the title race. According to him, the result of the match will decide the outcome of the title race. Manchester City will enter the&nbsp;match&nbsp;with 85 points from 36&nbsp;matches&nbsp;with&nbsp;Arsenal having amassed 86 points from 37&nbsp;matches.&nbsp;

<h2>Neville on Spurs-City clash</h2>

"There are some moments along the way&nbsp;but&nbsp;it will come down to that game on Tuesday night. They [City and Arsenal] will not make mistakes on Sunday.

"Tuesday night is where it will decided - and there will be that expectant audience where you think: can Tottenham play? Can they cause them problems? They can, but can they take the few chances they will get in the game?"

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A win for Spurs will see their own Champions League qualification hopes alive as they enter the contest with 63 points in 26 matches.&nbsp;The win will see them narrow the gap to fourth-placed Aston Villa (68 points) to two points and could seal a top-four finish if results go their way on the&nbsp;final day of the season.&nbsp;

In the bigger picture, a draw for Man City will hand the initiative to Arsenal as the North London side has better Goal Difference (GD).&nbsp;This means City will have to better&nbsp;Arsenal’s&nbsp;result on Sunday to clinch the Premier League title. However, a defeat to Spurs will see Arsenal in pole position with a win against Everton for the Gunners ending their 20-year title drought.&nbsp;

The Premier League title race will have a decisive evening on Tuesday (May 14) as Tottenham Hotspur welcome Manchester City in the penultimate game of the season.

The Premier League title race will have a decisive evening on Tuesday (May 14) as Tottenham Hotspur welcome Manchester City in the penultimate game of the season. With only a point separating Arsenal and Man City at the top, a draw or a win for Spurs will see the Gunners sit in pole position to win the Premier League title on Sunday’s final day. A win for Spurs will also see them keep their faint Champions League qualification hopes alive after Villa drew against Liverpool. Ahead of the clash, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has claimed that the clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will be the biggest of the season in the title race. According to him, the result of the match will decide the outcome of the title race. Manchester City will enter the match with 85 points from 36 matches with Arsenal having amassed 86 points from 37 matches. Neville on Spurs-City clash "There are some moments along the way but it will come down to that game on Tuesday night. They [City and Arsenal] will not make mistakes on Sunday. "Tuesday night is where it will decided - and there will be that expectant audience where you think: can Tottenham play? Can they cause them problems? They can, but can they take the few chances they will get in the game?" ALSO READ | Cricket Ireland confirms historic Pakistan tour in 2025; to play in Test and limited-overs series A win for Spurs will see their own Champions League qualification hopes alive as they enter the contest with 63 points in 26 matches. The win will see them narrow the gap to fourth-placed Aston Villa (68 points) to two points and could seal a top-four finish if results go their way on the final day of the season. In the bigger picture, a draw for Man City will hand the initiative to Arsenal as the North London side has better Goal Difference (GD). This means City will have to better Arsenal’s result on Sunday to clinch the Premier League title. However, a defeat to Spurs will see Arsenal in pole position with a win against Everton for the Gunners ending their 20-year title drought.

'Tuesday night is where it will be decided': Neville predicts Spurs-City clash to decide Premier League champs

With little over a week&nbsp;to go&nbsp;before the Premier League season’s conclusion, Arsenal will be optimistic to win the title and end their two-decade wait to lift the English football’s holy grail. Arsenal&nbsp;with&nbsp;two matches to go are on the brink of lifting the title&nbsp;but&nbsp;that won’t happen without a helping hand. Sitting&nbsp;top&nbsp;of the Premier League standings at the time of writing, Arsenal have 83 points from 36 matches&nbsp;while&nbsp;Manchester City in second place have 82 points from 35&nbsp;matches.&nbsp;

<h2>What needs to happen for Arsenal to win the Premier League?</h2>

The odds remain against the Gunners winning the Premier League title as Manchester City hold their fate in their own hands. Three wins in three matches for Pep Guardiola’s men will see them get crowned champions, having no bearing on what Arsenal do in their remaining two&nbsp;matches. Considering the best scenario for Mikel Arteta’s men, they need to win both their matches and hope Man City don’t surpass their points tally. &nbsp;

This&nbsp;would mean Arsenal finish on 89 points while Man City need to finish on 88 points or fewer. For City to finish with that point, they should lose at least one match or draw two&nbsp;matches&nbsp;in their remaining three&nbsp;matches.&nbsp;

Man City’s three matches remaining include Fulham (Saturday), Spurs (Tuesday) and West Ham United (May 18). Arsenal could be given a big helping hand by arch-rivals Spurs if they beat Man City on Tuesday, but having lost four consecutive&nbsp;matches&nbsp;the result is&nbsp;highly unlikely.

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<h2>What happens if both&nbsp;City,&nbsp;Arsenal end with the same points?</h2>

In case&nbsp;both Man City and Arsenal end with similar&nbsp;points, then the Premier League title will be decided on goal difference (GD). As things stand, Arsenal have a superior goal difference of +60&nbsp;while for Man City it is +54. Much will depend on how many goals City and Arsenal score to win their matches in the remainder of the season. Interestingly, Man City remain the only team in the history of the Premier League to win the title on GD&nbsp;having&nbsp;done so in the 2011-12 season when they finished level with Man United on 89 points each.&nbsp;

<h2>Can Arsenal afford to draw against Manchester United?</h2>

Arsenal take on Man City’s arch-rivals Manchester United on Sunday at Old Trafford&nbsp;in a high-voltage clash.&nbsp;In case Arsenal draw the match, it will be big dents for their Premier League title challenge as they will only reach a maximum of 87 points, meaning City would need only five points to win from their remaining three matches. While this favours Man City, Arsenal can still win the title with a draw against United but will need both Spurs and West Ham to take points away from the defending champions.&nbsp;

With little over a week to go before the Premier League season’s conclusion, Arsenal will be optimistic to win the title and end their two-decade wait to lift the English football’s holy grail.

With little over a week to go before the Premier League season’s conclusion, Arsenal will be optimistic to win the title and end their two-decade wait to lift the English football’s holy grail. Arsenal with two matches to go are on the brink of lifting the title but that won’t happen without a helping hand. Sitting top of the Premier League standings at the time of writing, Arsenal have 83 points from 36 matches while Manchester City in second place have 82 points from 35 matches. What needs to happen for Arsenal to win the Premier League? The odds remain against the Gunners winning the Premier League title as Manchester City hold their fate in their own hands. Three wins in three matches for Pep Guardiola’s men will see them get crowned champions, having no bearing on what Arsenal do in their remaining two matches. Considering the best scenario for Mikel Arteta’s men, they need to win both their matches and hope Man City don’t surpass their points tally. This would mean Arsenal finish on 89 points while Man City need to finish on 88 points or fewer. For City to finish with that point, they should lose at least one match or draw two matches in their remaining three matches. Man City’s three matches remaining include Fulham (Saturday), Spurs (Tuesday) and West Ham United (May 18). Arsenal could be given a big helping hand by arch-rivals Spurs if they beat Man City on Tuesday, but having lost four consecutive matches the result is highly unlikely. ALSO READ | Bayer Leverkusen attain MASSIVE European record with last-minute stalemate vs Roma, enter Europa League final What happens if both City, Arsenal end with the same points? In case both Man City and Arsenal end with similar points, then the Premier League title will be decided on goal difference (GD). As things stand, Arsenal have a superior goal difference of +60 while for Man City it is +54. Much will depend on how many goals City and Arsenal score to win their matches in the remainder of the season. Interestingly, Man City remain the only team in the history of the Premier League to win the title on GD having done so in the 2011-12 season when they finished level with Man United on 89 points each. Can Arsenal afford to draw against Manchester United? Arsenal take on Man City’s arch-rivals Manchester United on Sunday at Old Trafford in a high-voltage clash. In case Arsenal draw the match, it will be big dents for their Premier League title challenge as they will only reach a maximum of 87 points, meaning City would need only five points to win from their remaining three matches. While this favours Man City, Arsenal can still win the title with a draw against United but will need both Spurs and West Ham to take points away from the defending champions.

How can Arsenal win the Premier League title? Here are details

Two teenage Premier League players have&nbsp;been arrested&nbsp;in England over a rape allegation as England’s top flight deals with the latest scandal. The identities of the players, the club and the victim have been kept confidential by the police as the reported arrest took place at the club’s stadium over the weekend. The police operation took place at the club stadium,&nbsp;with one player initially released after a brief interrogation.

However, the player was in police custody for a night and&nbsp;was quizzed&nbsp;by detectives under caution. The&nbsp;next day, the player’s teammate, also 19, was arrested in connection with the incident&nbsp;that took place&nbsp;on Friday.&nbsp;The victim lodged a complaint on the same&nbsp;day&nbsp;after which an investigation was initiated.&nbsp;

<h2>Police comment on the charges</h2>

A police spokesman said: “Officers have arrested two men following a report of a rape. A 19-year-old man&nbsp;was arrested&nbsp;on suspicion of assault and aiding and abetting a rape. A second 19-year-old man&nbsp;was arrested&nbsp;on suspicion of rape.

“Both men have since been released on police bail.”

Both players are now out on&nbsp;bail,&nbsp;but can’t leave the country for any football or non-football reasons.&nbsp;It&nbsp;was also revealed&nbsp;that&nbsp;one of them&nbsp;was&nbsp;initially&nbsp;interrogated&nbsp;in a private cell before&nbsp;he was&nbsp;taken&nbsp;into custody.

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A source said: “One of the players was at the club’s stadium. The police arrived wanting to speak to him.&nbsp;He was taken&nbsp;to a private room on the ground and was spoken to by police. The player left the club with another individual and was formally arrested by police later that night.”

As things stand, there have been no comments from the concerned club and it is willing to offer full support to the investigation. The club is also expected to launch an independent&nbsp;investigation&nbsp;into the matter.

This&nbsp;is not the first time Premier League players have found themselves in trouble over rape charges.&nbsp;Mason&nbsp;Greenwood of Manchester (now on loan at Getafe in Spain) was also under trial for raping and harassing his&nbsp;girlfriend, while Manchester City player Benjamin Mendy also faced similar charges. Both players&nbsp;were suspended&nbsp;by their clubs but have since been acquitted of charges by the court.

Two teenage Premier League players have been arrested in England over a rape allegation as England’s top flight deals with the latest scandal. The identities of the players, the club and the victim have been kept confidential by the police as the reported arrest took place at the club’s stadium over the weekend.

Two teenage Premier League players have been arrested in England over a rape allegation as England’s top flight deals with the latest scandal. The identities of the players, the club and the victim have been kept confidential by the police as the reported arrest took place at the club’s stadium over the weekend. The police operation took place at the club stadium, with one player initially released after a brief interrogation. However, the player was in police custody for a night and was quizzed by detectives under caution. The next day, the player’s teammate, also 19, was arrested in connection with the incident that took place on Friday. The victim lodged a complaint on the same day after which an investigation was initiated. Police comment on the charges A police spokesman said: “Officers have arrested two men following a report of a rape. A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and aiding and abetting a rape. A second 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape. “Both men have since been released on police bail.” Both players are now out on bail, but can’t leave the country for any football or non-football reasons. It was also revealed that one of them was initially interrogated in a private cell before he was taken into custody. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: ‘These are not good signs,’ Sehwag blasts CSK for dropping Rachin Ravindra A source said: “One of the players was at the club’s stadium. The police arrived wanting to speak to him. He was taken to a private room on the ground and was spoken to by police. The player left the club with another individual and was formally arrested by police later that night.” As things stand, there have been no comments from the concerned club and it is willing to offer full support to the investigation. The club is also expected to launch an independent investigation into the matter. This is not the first time Premier League players have found themselves in trouble over rape charges. Mason Greenwood of Manchester (now on loan at Getafe in Spain) was also under trial for raping and harassing his girlfriend, while Manchester City player Benjamin Mendy also faced similar charges. Both players were suspended by their clubs but have since been acquitted of charges by the court.

Two teenage Premier League players arrested in England over rape allegations

Arsenal are full of energy and excited about every game in their Premier League title chase as they approach the run-in, manager Mikel Arteta said on Tuesday, ahead of his side's match with Luton Town.

Arsenal were knocked off the top of the Premier League by Liverpool at the weekend after a 0-0 draw with title rivals Manchester City but can return to the summit with victory over relegation threatened Luton on Wednesday.

They have a busy schedule ahead, with a trip to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion on Saturday followed three days later by the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aiff-official-deepak-sharma-suspended-over-physical-assault-allegations-706917">AIFF official Deepak Sharma suspended over physical assault allegations</a>

It will be the first time they have played in the knockout stage of Europe's top-tier competition under Arteta, who said the success of Arsenal's women's team, who won League Cup final against Chelsea on Sunday, was a source of pride in their own pursuit of silverware.

"We are on track as a club. What the women's team did at the weekend makes us so proud and it's so important as well," Arteta told a news conference on Tuesday. "There are a lot of good things happening, but we need to aim for much more than that... This is where we want to be. Now we want to take this opportunity and make it happen."

Second-placed Arsenal have a tough run-in in their bid for a first league title since 2004, with matches still to come against rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Manchester United, but the Spaniard is optimistic.

"We work every single day with the enthusiasm and passion to make it happen and are enjoying the moment. I see the team flowing and they are really excited about playing each game. That's what has to drive this journey until the end," the former Arsenal captain added.

"I'm very excited, I'm full of energy and it's a beautiful part of the season. It is very different and I wasn't in this position when I was a player (for Arsenal)."

The manager confirmed that forward Bukayo Saka was "fine" after he was forced off the pitch against Manchester City on Sunday and defender Jurrien Timber, a long-term injury absentee, has a "good chance" of returning before the end of the season.

When asked about the possibility of rotating his team selection, the manager said: "It is related to what they do in training as well. We will look at all these things and try and find the right team to win."

Arsenal are full of energy and excited about every game in their Premier League title chase as they approach the run-in, manager Mikel Arteta said on Tuesday, ahead of his side's match with Luton Town.

Arsenal are full of energy and excited about every game in their Premier League title chase as they approach the run-in, manager Mikel Arteta said on Tuesday, ahead of his side's match with Luton Town. Arsenal were knocked off the top of the Premier League by Liverpool at the weekend after a 0-0 draw with title rivals Manchester City but can return to the summit with victory over relegation threatened Luton on Wednesday. They have a busy schedule ahead, with a trip to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday followed three days later by the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich. ALSO READ: AIFF official Deepak Sharma suspended over physical assault allegations It will be the first time they have played in the knockout stage of Europe's top-tier competition under Arteta, who said the success of Arsenal's women's team, who won League Cup final against Chelsea on Sunday, was a source of pride in their own pursuit of silverware. "We are on track as a club. What the women's team did at the weekend makes us so proud and it's so important as well," Arteta told a news conference on Tuesday. "There are a lot of good things happening, but we need to aim for much more than that... This is where we want to be. Now we want to take this opportunity and make it happen." Second-placed Arsenal have a tough run-in in their bid for a first league title since 2004, with matches still to come against rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Manchester United, but the Spaniard is optimistic. "We work every single day with the enthusiasm and passion to make it happen and are enjoying the moment. I see the team flowing and they are really excited about playing each game. That's what has to drive this journey until the end," the former Arsenal captain added. "I'm very excited, I'm full of energy and it's a beautiful part of the season. It is very different and I wasn't in this position when I was a player (for Arsenal)." The manager confirmed that forward Bukayo Saka was "fine" after he was forced off the pitch against Manchester City on Sunday and defender Jurrien Timber, a long-term injury absentee, has a "good chance" of returning before the end of the season. When asked about the possibility of rotating his team selection, the manager said: "It is related to what they do in training as well. We will look at all these things and try and find the right team to win."

Arsenal remain enthusiastic and hungry for Premier League title, admits coach Arteta

Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday.

Jurgen Klopp's team should have run out even more convincing winners as Martin Dubravka saved Salah's first-half penalty among 10 stops.

But Salah made amends from the spot after he, Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo had netted in the second half to inflict a seventh defeat in eight games on Newcastle.

Liverpool head into the Premier League's winter break five points clear of title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, with Aston Villa posing an unexpected challenge in second place.

"A special game, special night," said Klopp.&nbsp;"It was a sensational game from my team. We started extremely lively. Everyone saw Dubravka or we ourselves made sure the score didn't get too clear.

"Super game. I loved so many aspects of the game bar the goals we conceded."

Newcastle, by contrast, remain down in ninth and 11 points off the top four as the spotlight grows on Eddie Howe.

The Magpies have the second worst away record in the Premier League this season with just five points from 10 games.

Howe's men were fortunate not to be blown away by an embarrassing scoreline in stormy conditions at Anfield as Liverpool registered the highest expected goals ever in a Premier League game of 7.53.

"We're battling to get our best levels back. The effort and determination was there. As long as we continue to see that we'll be fine," said Howe.

"We're missing a lot of players and we've had a lot of tough fixtures in a congested December."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abrar-ahmeds-participation-in-sydney-test-remains-dicey-as-pakistan-eye-consolation-win-675631">Abrar Ahmed’s participation in Sydney Test remains ‘dicey’ as Pakistan eye consolation win</a>

<h2>Dubravka denies Darwin</h2>

Dubravka has struggled to deputise for the sidelined Nick Pope as Newcastle's form has slumped in recent weeks while battling an injury crisis.

But the Slovakian was in top form as he denied Darwin Nunez on a handful of ocassions.

Luis Diaz did have the ball in the net midway through the first half, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Nunez.

Diaz was then upended in the box by Sven Botman. But Dubravka bailed out the Dutch defender by denying Salah his 150th Premier League goal for Liverpool from the spot.

The Egyptian, who was playing in his final game before heading out to the African Cup of Nations, has now missed four of his last 10 spot-kicks for the Reds.

"I thought 'are you going to be leave for the national team with that performance?'" said Salah of his first-half display.

"I just had to really focus, step up and make the difference and managed to do so."

Finally Liverpool's pressure told early in the second period as for once Nunez showed a cool head to pick out Salah for a tap in.

But completely against the run of play, Newcastle equalised just five minutes after falling behind.

Alexander Isak timed his run to perfection to latch onto Anthony Gordon's through ball and the Swedish striker slotted confidently past the advancing Alisson Becker.

That shock did not change the course of the game as the one-way traffic towards the Newcastle goal continued.

Nunez's night ended in frustration as another golden chance came and went with his final touch as he headed wide.

Klopp&nbsp;sent on Diogo Jota and Gakpo and they delivered what Nunez could not in front of goal.

Jota teed up Jones for a tap in before Gakpo's scuffed finish from Salah's cross wrong-footed Dubravka.

Botman's header briefly brought Newcastle back within one goal.

But any hope of a remarkable fightback was extinguished in controversial fashion as Jota won a second penalty despite a delayed reaction to contact from Dubravka.

Klopp could not watch on the touchline, but this time his talisman did not disappoint to ensure the start to 2024 was a very happy new year for Liverpool.

Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday.

Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday. Jurgen Klopp's team should have run out even more convincing winners as Martin Dubravka saved Salah's first-half penalty among 10 stops. But Salah made amends from the spot after he, Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo had netted in the second half to inflict a seventh defeat in eight games on Newcastle. Liverpool head into the Premier League's winter break five points clear of title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, with Aston Villa posing an unexpected challenge in second place. "A special game, special night," said Klopp. "It was a sensational game from my team. We started extremely lively. Everyone saw Dubravka or we ourselves made sure the score didn't get too clear. "Super game. I loved so many aspects of the game bar the goals we conceded." Newcastle, by contrast, remain down in ninth and 11 points off the top four as the spotlight grows on Eddie Howe. The Magpies have the second worst away record in the Premier League this season with just five points from 10 games. Howe's men were fortunate not to be blown away by an embarrassing scoreline in stormy conditions at Anfield as Liverpool registered the highest expected goals ever in a Premier League game of 7.53. "We're battling to get our best levels back. The effort and determination was there. As long as we continue to see that we'll be fine," said Howe. "We're missing a lot of players and we've had a lot of tough fixtures in a congested December." ALSO READ | Abrar Ahmed’s participation in Sydney Test remains ‘dicey’ as Pakistan eye consolation win Dubravka denies Darwin Dubravka has struggled to deputise for the sidelined Nick Pope as Newcastle's form has slumped in recent weeks while battling an injury crisis. But the Slovakian was in top form as he denied Darwin Nunez on a handful of ocassions. Luis Diaz did have the ball in the net midway through the first half, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Nunez. Diaz was then upended in the box by Sven Botman. But Dubravka bailed out the Dutch defender by denying Salah his 150th Premier League goal for Liverpool from the spot. The Egyptian, who was playing in his final game before heading out to the African Cup of Nations, has now missed four of his last 10 spot-kicks for the Reds. "I thought 'are you going to be leave for the national team with that performance?'" said Salah of his first-half display. "I just had to really focus, step up and make the difference and managed to do so." Finally Liverpool's pressure told early in the second period as for once Nunez showed a cool head to pick out Salah for a tap in. But completely against the run of play, Newcastle equalised just five minutes after falling behind. Alexander Isak timed his run to perfection to latch onto Anthony Gordon's through ball and the Swedish striker slotted confidently past the advancing Alisson Becker. That shock did not change the course of the game as the one-way traffic towards the Newcastle goal continued. Nunez's night ended in frustration as another golden chance came and went with his final touch as he headed wide. Klopp sent on Diogo Jota and Gakpo and they delivered what Nunez could not in front of goal. Jota teed up Jones for a tap in before Gakpo's scuffed finish from Salah's cross wrong-footed Dubravka. Botman's header briefly brought Newcastle back within one goal. But any hope of a remarkable fightback was extinguished in controversial fashion as Jota won a second penalty despite a delayed reaction to contact from Dubravka. Klopp could not watch on the touchline, but this time his talisman did not disappoint to ensure the start to 2024 was a very happy new year for Liverpool.

Premier League: Liverpool clinch thriller against Newcastle after Mohamed Salah's brace

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has cast doubts over his side’s Premier League title credentials as they get ready to face Arsenal on Saturday (Dec 23). The clash at Anfield will be decisive in the Premier League title race as a win for Liverpool will see them go top of the league before Christmas while a draw will see Arsenal maintain their top spot. Interestingly, defending champions Manchester City are not in action over the weekend which could provide a perfect platform for Arsenal and Liverpool to extend the gap at the top of the Premier League standings.

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This is box-office. 🍿 
 
Who wins <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LFC</a> v <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a>? <a href="https://t.co/DfpVpea7Lr">pic.twitter.com/DfpVpea7Lr</a>
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<h2>Carragher casts doubt over title credentials</h2>

"I just think Liverpool just might be a little bit short of winning the title. I hope I'm wrong and it might be a season that might be a little bit different than we have seen in the past where you have almost felt like you had to week-after-week, the standards that Liverpool and Manchester City set for so long, it may be a little bit different this season,” Carragher wrote in his column for Sky Sports.

"Throughout the season, when you look at the points Liverpool have got, they are one of the top teams in the country. But when you actually look at the performances I'm not so sure," added the former Liverpool player.

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Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United last week after a goalless draw at Anfield last Sunday. It will start the day on third spot in the Premier League standings with 38 points&nbsp;after Aston Villa (39 points) salvaged a point against Sheffield United on Friday. Arsenal currently sit top of the table&nbsp;with 39 points from 17 matches and could open a four-point gap with Liverpool with a win. While City missing&nbsp;in action, Arsenal could have an eight-point advantage over the title favourites if results go their way.

Spurs are also in the title hunt with as a win over Everton could see them within touching distance of the Premier League summit.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has cast doubts over his side’s Premier League title credentials as they get ready to face Arsenal on Saturday (Dec 23). The clash at Anfield will be decisive in the Premier League title race as a win for Liverpool will see them go top of the league before Christmas while a draw will see Arsenal maintain their top spot.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has cast doubts over his side’s Premier League title credentials as they get ready to face Arsenal on Saturday (Dec 23). The clash at Anfield will be decisive in the Premier League title race as a win for Liverpool will see them go top of the league before Christmas while a draw will see Arsenal maintain their top spot. Interestingly, defending champions Manchester City are not in action over the weekend which could provide a perfect platform for Arsenal and Liverpool to extend the gap at the top of the Premier League standings. This is box-office. 🍿 Who wins @LFC v @Arsenal? pic.twitter.com/DfpVpea7Lr — Premier League (@premierleague) December 23, 2023 × Carragher casts doubt over title credentials "I just think Liverpool just might be a little bit short of winning the title. I hope I'm wrong and it might be a season that might be a little bit different than we have seen in the past where you have almost felt like you had to week-after-week, the standards that Liverpool and Manchester City set for so long, it may be a little bit different this season,” Carragher wrote in his column for Sky Sports. "Throughout the season, when you look at the points Liverpool have got, they are one of the top teams in the country. But when you actually look at the performances I'm not so sure," added the former Liverpool player. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya likely to miss Afghanistan series in Jan due to ankle strain; doubtful for Mumbai Indians in IPL Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United last week after a goalless draw at Anfield last Sunday. It will start the day on third spot in the Premier League standings with 38 points after Aston Villa (39 points) salvaged a point against Sheffield United on Friday. Arsenal currently sit top of the table with 39 points from 17 matches and could open a four-point gap with Liverpool with a win. While City missing in action, Arsenal could have an eight-point advantage over the title favourites if results go their way. Spurs are also in the title hunt with as a win over Everton could see them within touching distance of the Premier League summit.

Premier League: Liverpool legend casts doubts on team's title credentials ahead of crunch Arsenal showdown

Football - List of teams with most Premier League Titles

Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action.

City, who lead the table by a point, travel to relegation strugglers Newcastle United, while second-placed Liverpool visit Tottenham Hotspur, who have had their last two league games postponed because of infections.

Third-placed Chelsea, who were deprived of three players because of COVID-19 in their 1-1 home draw with Everton on Thursday, are first up at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Whether all or any of the games go ahead as planned, however, is a matter of some doubt.

The league has ruled out a 'pause'&nbsp;to the season to allow clubs to recover their squads, although the surging Omicron variant has put paid to half of the weekend's fixtures including Manchester United`s home game with Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-manchester-united-games-postponed-as-covid-19-plays-havoc-in-schedule-437478">Premier League: Leicester, Manchester United games postponed as COVID-19 plays havoc in schedule</a>

Aston Villa, who have also reported infections, are still scheduled to host Burnley on Saturday with Leeds United also in action against fourth-placed Arsenal in the late kickoff.

Despite the distractions and uncertainty, the title rivals will be keenly aware that the season is reaching a crucial phase and any slip-ups now could prove extremely costly.

Not that champions City look remotely flustered, having put seven goals past Leeds United on Tuesday.

CURRENT STRAINS

If any squad can cope with the current strains it is Pep Guardiola's at City. With quality options in reserve, they are beginning to accelerate at just the right time having won their last seven league matches.

Six players were on target in the 7-0 win against Leeds, with Kevin de Bruyne striking twice, and Newcastle's creaky defence will not be relishing City's visit on Sunday.

Liverpool kept up the pressure at the top as they came from a goal down to beat Newcastle 3-1 on Thursday, despite having Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho and Curtis Jones missing because of positive COVID tests on the day of the game.

Juergen Klopp said he "hoped" the Tottenham game would go ahead but did not sound too optimistic.

"It`s a really tricky situation. Nobody knows exactly how we'll be tomorrow," the German said on Thursday.

"I`ve never had three players on matchday pull out. The most important thing is because the boys are vaccinated they will not feel it really. That's good. We have to wait for them.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/london-to-host-italy-argentina-in-finalissima-next-year-437370">London to host Italy, Argentina in 'Finalissima' next year</a>

"Should we stop the league? I have no real answer for it. If you stop it for two weeks and we come back, I really don`t know what to do. There are plenty of questions we need to find answers for but I don`t have the solution."

Chelsea`s surprise home draw with Everton left them four points behind City and Thomas Tuchel`s side face a tough task at Wolves, who sit eighth after a midweek win at Brighton.

Asked if the title race should be put on hold while the protagonists deal with COVID infections, Tuchel said he did not want to get involved in sports politics.

"We are all worried about COVID, it is close to us, we had four positives. Other games get cancelled, ours didn`t. If they decide we have to play we play," he told reporters.

Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action.

Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action. City, who lead the table by a point, travel to relegation strugglers Newcastle United, while second-placed Liverpool visit Tottenham Hotspur, who have had their last two league games postponed because of infections. Third-placed Chelsea, who were deprived of three players because of COVID-19 in their 1-1 home draw with Everton on Thursday, are first up at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Whether all or any of the games go ahead as planned, however, is a matter of some doubt. The league has ruled out a 'pause' to the season to allow clubs to recover their squads, although the surging Omicron variant has put paid to half of the weekend's fixtures including Manchester United`s home game with Brighton & Hove Albion. ALSO READ: Premier League: Leicester, Manchester United games postponed as COVID-19 plays havoc in schedule Aston Villa, who have also reported infections, are still scheduled to host Burnley on Saturday with Leeds United also in action against fourth-placed Arsenal in the late kickoff. Despite the distractions and uncertainty, the title rivals will be keenly aware that the season is reaching a crucial phase and any slip-ups now could prove extremely costly. Not that champions City look remotely flustered, having put seven goals past Leeds United on Tuesday. CURRENT STRAINS If any squad can cope with the current strains it is Pep Guardiola's at City. With quality options in reserve, they are beginning to accelerate at just the right time having won their last seven league matches. Six players were on target in the 7-0 win against Leeds, with Kevin de Bruyne striking twice, and Newcastle's creaky defence will not be relishing City's visit on Sunday. Liverpool kept up the pressure at the top as they came from a goal down to beat Newcastle 3-1 on Thursday, despite having Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho and Curtis Jones missing because of positive COVID tests on the day of the game. Juergen Klopp said he "hoped" the Tottenham game would go ahead but did not sound too optimistic. "It`s a really tricky situation. Nobody knows exactly how we'll be tomorrow," the German said on Thursday. "I`ve never had three players on matchday pull out. The most important thing is because the boys are vaccinated they will not feel it really. That's good. We have to wait for them. ALSO READ: London to host Italy, Argentina in 'Finalissima' next year "Should we stop the league? I have no real answer for it. If you stop it for two weeks and we come back, I really don`t know what to do. There are plenty of questions we need to find answers for but I don`t have the solution." Chelsea`s surprise home draw with Everton left them four points behind City and Thomas Tuchel`s side face a tough task at Wolves, who sit eighth after a midweek win at Brighton. Asked if the title race should be put on hold while the protagonists deal with COVID infections, Tuchel said he did not want to get involved in sports politics. "We are all worried about COVID, it is close to us, we had four positives. Other games get cancelled, ours didn`t. If they decide we have to play we play," he told reporters.

Premier League title race to continue despite increase in COVID-19 cases

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has urged his players to give "every fibre of their bodies" in the battle for the Premier League title.

Manchester City moved to the top of the league on Wednesday for the first time since December after Klopp's side limped to back-to-back draws against Leicester City and West Ham United.

However, Klopp has dismissed the notion that Liverpool are wilting under the pressure of bidding for their first top division title in 29 years.

"I got a message this week, another sign that people think I need help – I don't need help, I'm fine – but it said in the last 10 games City dropped 12 points and we dropped seven," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's game against Bournemouth.

"Is it interesting for me? Not really, but obviously the view from outside is completely different.

"The good news is we are still in there but the only chance to improve is by winning football games. We will be ready with each fibre of our bodies to fight for everything."

Klopp confirmed centre-back Joe Gomez will be out for up to six weeks as he continues to recover from leg surgery, but Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum took part in first-team training this week.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is recovering from a long-term knee injury, was added to the Champions League squad but Klopp played down expectations regarding the return of the England midfielder.

"If we go to the semi-final I think he is available," Klopp added.

"Maybe quarter-final, I am not 100 percent sure, but he still needs time. Everything looks fine, but now I wait for the green light of the medical department... We are not at that point in the moment."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has urged his players to give "every fibre of their bodies" in the battle for the Premier League title. Manchester City moved to the top of the league on Wednesday for the first time since December after Klopp's side limped to back-to-back draws against Leicester City and West Ham United.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has urged his players to give "every fibre of their bodies" in the battle for the Premier League title. Manchester City moved to the top of the league on Wednesday for the first time since December after Klopp's side limped to back-to-back draws against Leicester City and West Ham United. However, Klopp has dismissed the notion that Liverpool are wilting under the pressure of bidding for their first top division title in 29 years. "I got a message this week, another sign that people think I need help – I don't need help, I'm fine – but it said in the last 10 games City dropped 12 points and we dropped seven," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's game against Bournemouth. "Is it interesting for me? Not really, but obviously the view from outside is completely different. "The good news is we are still in there but the only chance to improve is by winning football games. We will be ready with each fibre of our bodies to fight for everything." Klopp confirmed centre-back Joe Gomez will be out for up to six weeks as he continues to recover from leg surgery, but Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum took part in first-team training this week. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is recovering from a long-term knee injury, was added to the Champions League squad but Klopp played down expectations regarding the return of the England midfielder. "If we go to the semi-final I think he is available," Klopp added. "Maybe quarter-final, I am not 100 percent sure, but he still needs time. Everything looks fine, but now I wait for the green light of the medical department... We are not at that point in the moment."

Liverpool players must fight with every fibre: Juergen Klopp

The form table suggests Liverpool have realistic hopes of disrupting Manchester City&#39;s waltz towards the Premier League title when they meet on Sunday, although they must quickly learn how to cope without Philippe Coutinho.

The Brazilian playmaker completed a 142 million-pound ($192 million) move to Barcelona on Monday, meaning Juergen Klopp&#39;s &quot;fab four&quot; up front is now just a three.

Unbeaten City are 15 points clear at the top of the table, having scored more goals than anybody with 64, but fourth-placed Liverpool come second on that count with 50.

Klopp&#39;s side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22.

Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah is set to return from injury and he and Sadio Mane are likely to play either side of striker Roberto Firmino.

Although Coutinho will no longer be able to provide the trio with ammunition, they still have the speed and guile to trouble Pep Guardiola&#39;s side at the back.

Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer believes the Reds can get at City&#39;s defence.

&quot;We know Manchester City&#39;s quality, we know that they&#39;re running away with (the league) at the minute, but I think, on their day, Liverpool can match anybody,&quot; McAteer told the Liverpool website.

&quot;They&#39;re so good going forward. You&#39;ve got to be (wary) of the attacking prowess that they&#39;ve got but there are areas of weakness.

&quot;If you can get in between the lines and at the two centre-halves, which I feel we can, then there are chances and goals there.&quot;

City, however, will look to repeat their dominant 5-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad in September, although they will be without injured striker Gabriel Jesus, who scored a brace that day.

This time they will have Virgil van Dijk in their way with the Liverpool defender set to make his Premier League debut after his move from Southampton.

Van Dijk enjoyed a dramatic debut for his new team in the FA Cup, scoring late on against Everton to earn Liverpool a derby victory.

City&#39;s Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said his team would just focus on their own performance.

&quot;We go there to win the game,&quot; he said. &quot;They will have a very strong team and they want to be there for the Champions League (places).

&quot;We just try to do the things that we do well and then we will see what happens.&quot;

Second-placed Manchester United host Stoke City on Monday, the visitors currently without a coach after sacking Mark Hughes following their FA Cup defeat by League Two Coventry City.

Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki is in temporary charge of the team for the trip to Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho&#39;s side anxious to keep ahead of the chasing pack behind Manchester City.

The Portuguese has been embroiled in a war of words with Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, whose side host Leicester City on Saturday when a victory would see them provisionally move above United into second.

Tottenham host Everton on Saturday and Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Sunday. Crystal Palace face Burnley, Huddersfield meet West Ham United and Newcastle United entertain Swansea City in other weekend matches.

Klopp's side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22.

The form table suggests Liverpool have realistic hopes of disrupting Manchester City's waltz towards the Premier League title when they meet on Sunday, although they must quickly learn how to cope without Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian playmaker completed a 142 million-pound ($192 million) move to Barcelona on Monday, meaning Juergen Klopp's "fab four" up front is now just a three. Unbeaten City are 15 points clear at the top of the table, having scored more goals than anybody with 64, but fourth-placed Liverpool come second on that count with 50. Klopp's side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22. Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah is set to return from injury and he and Sadio Mane are likely to play either side of striker Roberto Firmino. Although Coutinho will no longer be able to provide the trio with ammunition, they still have the speed and guile to trouble Pep Guardiola's side at the back. Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer believes the Reds can get at City's defence. "We know Manchester City's quality, we know that they're running away with (the league) at the minute, but I think, on their day, Liverpool can match anybody," McAteer told the Liverpool website. "They're so good going forward. You've got to be (wary) of the attacking prowess that they've got but there are areas of weakness. "If you can get in between the lines and at the two centre-halves, which I feel we can, then there are chances and goals there." City, however, will look to repeat their dominant 5-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad in September, although they will be without injured striker Gabriel Jesus, who scored a brace that day. This time they will have Virgil van Dijk in their way with the Liverpool defender set to make his Premier League debut after his move from Southampton. Van Dijk enjoyed a dramatic debut for his new team in the FA Cup, scoring late on against Everton to earn Liverpool a derby victory. City's Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said his team would just focus on their own performance. "We go there to win the game," he said. "They will have a very strong team and they want to be there for the Champions League (places). "We just try to do the things that we do well and then we will see what happens." Second-placed Manchester United host Stoke City on Monday, the visitors currently without a coach after sacking Mark Hughes following their FA Cup defeat by League Two Coventry City. Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki is in temporary charge of the team for the trip to Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho's side anxious to keep ahead of the chasing pack behind Manchester City. The Portuguese has been embroiled in a war of words with Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, whose side host Leicester City on Saturday when a victory would see them provisionally move above United into second. Tottenham host Everton on Saturday and Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Sunday. Crystal Palace face Burnley, Huddersfield meet West Ham United and Newcastle United entertain Swansea City in other weekend matches.

Football: Liverpool, without Philippe Coutinho, out to halt Manchester City march

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday.

David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola&#39;s side as they went past Arsenal&#39;s 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club&#39;s, City&#39;s streak has been in a single season.

Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku&#39;s ninth league goal of the season proving just enough.

Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club.

City have 49 points to United&#39;s 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points.

It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel&#39;s fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final.

City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday.

Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva&#39;s cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick.

It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games.

Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola&#39;s City slickers.

City form

While the purists are purring at City&#39;s form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling.

&quot;At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods,&quot; he said.

&quot;It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I&#39;ve ever come across.&quot;

United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku&#39;s powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth.

Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy.

&quot;It was difficult match. They had one more day&#39;s rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players,&quot; he said.

&quot;They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night.&quot;

Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days.

&quot;We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck,&quot; manager Juergen Klopp said.

Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday. David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola's side as they went past Arsenal's 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club's, City's streak has been in a single season. Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku's ninth league goal of the season proving just enough. Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club. City have 49 points to United's 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points. It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel's fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final. City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday. Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva's cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick. It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games. Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola's City slickers. City form While the purists are purring at City's form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling. "At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods," he said. "It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I've ever come across." United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku's powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth. Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy. "It was difficult match. They had one more day's rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players," he said. "They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night." Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days. "We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck," manager Juergen Klopp said. Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

Unstoppable City break record, United edge out Bournemouth

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