<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Manchester+City">Manchester City</a> have launched a compensation scheme for victims of historical child sexual abuse, the English Premier League champions said on Tuesday.

The scheme applies to victims of City's former youth coach, Barry Bennell, who was jailed in 2018 for 30 years on multiple counts of child sexual abuse.

The club added an independent investigation had also revealed "serious allegations of child sex abuse" against another former junior coach, John Broome, whose alleged victims will also be eligible for compensation under the scheme.

Broome, who worked with City from 1964-71, died in 2010.

City did not reveal financial details of the scheme but media reported on Monday that the club were set to offer millions of pounds in compensation.

Victims of the most serious crimes will receive six-figure sums in damages while those abused will also receive a personal apology from a senior club official, the BBC reported.&nbsp;

"The club reiterates ... its heartfelt sympathy to all victims for the unimaginably traumatic experiences that they endured," City said in a statement on its official website.

"All victims were entitled to expect full protection from the kind of harm they suffered as a result of their sexual abuse as children."

Manchester City have launched a compensation scheme for victims of historical child sexual abuse, the English Premier League champions said on Tuesday. The scheme applies to victims of City's former youth coach, Barry Bennell, who was jailed in 2018 for 30 years on multiple counts of child sexual abuse.

Manchester City have launched a compensation scheme for victims of historical child sexual abuse, the English Premier League champions said on Tuesday. The scheme applies to victims of City's former youth coach, Barry Bennell, who was jailed in 2018 for 30 years on multiple counts of child sexual abuse. The club added an independent investigation had also revealed "serious allegations of child sex abuse" against another former junior coach, John Broome, whose alleged victims will also be eligible for compensation under the scheme. Broome, who worked with City from 1964-71, died in 2010. City did not reveal financial details of the scheme but media reported on Monday that the club were set to offer millions of pounds in compensation. Victims of the most serious crimes will receive six-figure sums in damages while those abused will also receive a personal apology from a senior club official, the BBC reported. "The club reiterates ... its heartfelt sympathy to all victims for the unimaginably traumatic experiences that they endured," City said in a statement on its official website. "All victims were entitled to expect full protection from the kind of harm they suffered as a result of their sexual abuse as children."

Manchester City to compensate victims of child sexual abuse

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday.&nbsp;

After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of&nbsp;Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling.&nbsp;

He then approached Arsenal players with his arms aloft before stewards took him off the pitch and he was arrested, according to Arsenal communications director Mark Gonnella.&nbsp;

"A man has been arrested on suspicion of common assault and pitch invasion following an incident during the Arsenal v Man Utd game at the Emirates Stadium today," said a Metropolitan Police statement issued Sunday.&nbsp;

"He is currently in custody at a north London police station."&nbsp;

After the match, Solskjaer insisted, "(There) shouldn't be a place that someone runs onto the pitch.&nbsp;

"We just have to make sure we play football and they (the fans) watch football."&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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🗣 "You absolute numpty" 
 
The last thing we wanted to see today, another pitch invader, this time at the Emirates 🙄 <a href="https://t.co/M5AZ6WO9T4">pic.twitter.com/M5AZ6WO9T4</a>
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It was a view shared by Arsenal boss Unai Emery, who said, "I don't want that."&nbsp;

Sunday's incidents followed several recent episodes of hooliganism, including coin attacks on players and managers, in Scottish football, with Rangers captain James Tavernier confronted by a pitch-invading Hibernian fan after his side's 1-1 draw at Easter Road on Friday.

Earlier in the day in the second-tier Championship, Aston Villa midfielder <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-birmingham-fan-punches-aston-villas-midfielder-jack-grealish-arrested-202391">Jack Grealish was punched by a pitch invader</a> during a derby match at Birmingham City.&nbsp;

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday. After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling.

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday. After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling. He then approached Arsenal players with his arms aloft before stewards took him off the pitch and he was arrested, according to Arsenal communications director Mark Gonnella. "A man has been arrested on suspicion of common assault and pitch invasion following an incident during the Arsenal v Man Utd game at the Emirates Stadium today," said a Metropolitan Police statement issued Sunday. "He is currently in custody at a north London police station." After the match, Solskjaer insisted, "(There) shouldn't be a place that someone runs onto the pitch. "We just have to make sure we play football and they (the fans) watch football." Watch the video: 🗣 "You absolute numpty" The last thing we wanted to see today, another pitch invader, this time at the Emirates 🙄 pic.twitter.com/M5AZ6WO9T4 — Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) March 10, 2019 × It was a view shared by Arsenal boss Unai Emery, who said, "I don't want that." Sunday's incidents followed several recent episodes of hooliganism, including coin attacks on players and managers, in Scottish football, with Rangers captain James Tavernier confronted by a pitch-invading Hibernian fan after his side's 1-1 draw at Easter Road on Friday. Earlier in the day in the second-tier Championship, Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was punched by a pitch invader during a derby match at Birmingham City.

Watch: Fan arrested for pitch invasion during Arsenal's goal celebration against Manchester United

Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side's performance was good in the Premier League <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-defeat-manchester-united-to-surge-into-top-four-202432">0-2 defeat to Arsenal</a> on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the post-match conference, Solskjaer said, "You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one. We created miles more chances today compared to the cup game when we played them."

"We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, Leno played well. In terms of what you can control, as in our own performance, we can't be too disappointed," Solskjaer added.&nbsp;

With the win, Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four and Solskjaer suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager.&nbsp;

Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time sed Gunners into top-four on the league table.&nbsp;

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Arsenal have beaten Man Utd 10 times in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> matches played on Sundays, the most the Red Devils have lost against an opponent on a specific day of the week in the competition<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSMUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSMUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/uWOr712KkH">pic.twitter.com/uWOr712KkH</a>
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Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory.

"We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient."

Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification.

Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments.

Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side's performance was good in the Premier League 0-2 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday. During the post-match conference, Solskjaer said, "You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one.

Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side's performance was good in the Premier League 0-2 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday. During the post-match conference, Solskjaer said, "You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one. We created miles more chances today compared to the cup game when we played them." "We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, Leno played well. In terms of what you can control, as in our own performance, we can't be too disappointed," Solskjaer added. With the win, Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four and Solskjaer suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager. Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time sed Gunners into top-four on the league table. Arsenal have beaten Man Utd 10 times in #PL matches played on Sundays, the most the Red Devils have lost against an opponent on a specific day of the week in the competition#ARSMUN pic.twitter.com/uWOr712KkH — Premier League (@premierleague) March 10, 2019 × Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory. "We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient." Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification. Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments.

Solskjaer 'can't be disappointed with Manchester United performance' in Arsenal defeat

From Raheem Sterling's sparkle to Harry Kane conundrum: Major takeaways from this week's Premier League

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday.

Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time saw Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four.

Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification.

Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments.

"You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one," said Solskjaer.

"The first goal always dictates how the game goes. We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, (Bernd) Leno played well.

"In terms of what you can control, we shouldn't be too disappointed."

European trips to France for both sides in midweek produced vastly contrasting results as United shocked free-spending Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Gunners, on the other hand, went down 3-1 to Rennes to give themselves a mountain to climb in Thursday's second leg to reach the last eight of the Europa League.

Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory.

"We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient."

De Gea not distracted

After a bright start, Arsenal were nearly hit with a sucker punch when with United's first attack, Romelu Lukaku turned Luke Shaw's cross onto the crossbar for the first of a series of wasted chances for the Belgian striker.

However, at the other end it was the normally flawless David de Gea who was at fault for the opener as the Spaniard failed to read the swerve on Xhaka's long-range strike 12 minutes in.

Solskjaer, though, rejected suggestions ongoing contract talks over a new deal for the United goalkeeper has effected his concentration.

"David's really focused and concentrated, he's too professional to let his mind wander," insisted Solskjaer.

United seemed to feel the after-effects of their heroics in Paris early on, but soon clicked into gear to look more like the side that had suffered just one defeat in Solskjaer's first 17 games in charge.

Fred's curling effort from outside the box clipped the post before Lukaku tried to round Bernd Leno, but the Arsenal goalkeeper stood up well to block.

The German stopper had an unconvincing start to life as Arsenal number one, but has looked ever more assured in recent weeks and made another huge save to deny Lukaku once more from close range six minutes into the second-half.

United were utterly dominant for the first 20 minutes of the second period, but to Solskjaer's frustration conceded a penalty when Alexandre Lacazette charged into the area and hit the floor under minimal contact from Fred.

"I don't think there is enough contact to warrant the penalty," said Solskjaer, while even Emery categorised the award as "soft."

Aubameyang missed a last-minute penalty to win the north London derby against Tottenham last weekend, but made no mistake to leave the visitors a mountain to climb.

"I knew it would be tough, but I was really confident," said the Gabon international.

Solskjaer's time at United as a player and over the past three months as boss has been littered with late drama, none more so than at PSG on Wednesday.

That was a Champions League night that will live long in the memory, but there was no turnaround this time to leave the Red Devils with plenty of work to do just to qualify for the competition next season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday. Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time saw Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four. Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification. Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments. "You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one," said Solskjaer. "The first goal always dictates how the game goes. We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, (Bernd) Leno played well. "In terms of what you can control, we shouldn't be too disappointed." European trips to France for both sides in midweek produced vastly contrasting results as United shocked free-spending Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The Gunners, on the other hand, went down 3-1 to Rennes to give themselves a mountain to climb in Thursday's second leg to reach the last eight of the Europa League. Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory. "We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient." De Gea not distracted After a bright start, Arsenal were nearly hit with a sucker punch when with United's first attack, Romelu Lukaku turned Luke Shaw's cross onto the crossbar for the first of a series of wasted chances for the Belgian striker. However, at the other end it was the normally flawless David de Gea who was at fault for the opener as the Spaniard failed to read the swerve on Xhaka's long-range strike 12 minutes in. Solskjaer, though, rejected suggestions ongoing contract talks over a new deal for the United goalkeeper has effected his concentration. "David's really focused and concentrated, he's too professional to let his mind wander," insisted Solskjaer. United seemed to feel the after-effects of their heroics in Paris early on, but soon clicked into gear to look more like the side that had suffered just one defeat in Solskjaer's first 17 games in charge. Fred's curling effort from outside the box clipped the post before Lukaku tried to round Bernd Leno, but the Arsenal goalkeeper stood up well to block. The German stopper had an unconvincing start to life as Arsenal number one, but has looked ever more assured in recent weeks and made another huge save to deny Lukaku once more from close range six minutes into the second-half. United were utterly dominant for the first 20 minutes of the second period, but to Solskjaer's frustration conceded a penalty when Alexandre Lacazette charged into the area and hit the floor under minimal contact from Fred. "I don't think there is enough contact to warrant the penalty," said Solskjaer, while even Emery categorised the award as "soft." Aubameyang missed a last-minute penalty to win the north London derby against Tottenham last weekend, but made no mistake to leave the visitors a mountain to climb. "I knew it would be tough, but I was really confident," said the Gabon international. Solskjaer's time at United as a player and over the past three months as boss has been littered with late drama, none more so than at PSG on Wednesday. That was a Champions League night that will live long in the memory, but there was no turnaround this time to leave the Red Devils with plenty of work to do just to qualify for the competition next season.

Arsenal defeat Manchester United to surge into top four

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality.

"We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes.

But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points.

"The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win.

"When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added.

"I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously."

For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind.

"We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us."

Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season. Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality. "We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes. But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points. "The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win. "When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added. "I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously." For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind. "We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us." Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Pochettino criticises Spurs players after Southampton loss

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.&nbsp;

Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place.&nbsp;

Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home.&nbsp;

Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession.&nbsp;

The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.&nbsp;

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal. Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place. Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home. Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession. The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.

Eden Hazard saves point for Chelsea in 1-1 draw with Wolves

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday.

Juergen Klopp's side move to 73 points, one behind City, who beat Watford 3-1 on Saturday. Both teams have eight games remaining.

Liverpool came through this tricky fixture, played in high wind and sporadic showers, helped by some generous gifts from the Burnley defence and while they were not at their very best Klopp was still pleased.

"Good game, difficult but good. It is always difficult against Burnley. In the circumstances, even more difficult. 4-2 is a brilliant result," he said.

The German chose to recall Adam Lallana to his midfield, at the expense of Jordan Henderson, and the former Southampton midfielder, whose career has been hampered by injury, delivered a fine showing.

"I told him, if he can play like he trained, then he will help us a lot and that is exactly how it happened," said Klopp.

It was the visitors though, who took a surprise lead in the sixth minute, with Ashley Westwood scoring direct from a corner although Burnley's James Tarkowski looked to have impeded Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

If Burnley's strategy was to frustrate their opponents and create some nervous tension in the stadium it was working well but they were undone by unusually sloppy work at the back.

Tarkowski and Clarets keeper Tom Heaton got in each other's way as they made a mess of a low cross from Mohamed Salah and Firmino was left with the simplest of tap-ins to equalise.

The tension having eased, Mane then put Liverpool ahead with a fine, curling finish after a poor clearance from Jeff Hendrick was blocked by Lallana.

Burnley started the second half well but the outcome was put beyond doubt in the 67th minute when Heaton poorly kicked straight to Salah, the Egyptian bursting into the area, and Charlie Taylor's sliding tackle fell kindly to Firmino who made no mistake.

Substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson pulled back a goal in stoppage time for 17th-placed Burnley who remain two points above the relegation zone.

For a moment, with winger Dwight McNeil causing problems on Liverpool's right with his dribbling and crosses, Burnley threatened an improbable comeback.

But after another cheap giveaway Mane added a fourth goal to make sure of the three points, rounding Heaton and slotting into the empty net.

While Klopp can turn his attention to Wednesday's Champions League second-leg match away to Bayern Munich, Burnley manager Sean Dyche has eight games to keep his team in the top flight.

The Burnley boss was pleased with his team's mentality but said they had paid the price for their defensive errors.

"You cannot give a team like Liverpool four goals -- we certainly gave them three. You can question the errors but we certainly made a game of it," he said.

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday.

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday. Juergen Klopp's side move to 73 points, one behind City, who beat Watford 3-1 on Saturday. Both teams have eight games remaining. Liverpool came through this tricky fixture, played in high wind and sporadic showers, helped by some generous gifts from the Burnley defence and while they were not at their very best Klopp was still pleased. "Good game, difficult but good. It is always difficult against Burnley. In the circumstances, even more difficult. 4-2 is a brilliant result," he said. The German chose to recall Adam Lallana to his midfield, at the expense of Jordan Henderson, and the former Southampton midfielder, whose career has been hampered by injury, delivered a fine showing. "I told him, if he can play like he trained, then he will help us a lot and that is exactly how it happened," said Klopp. It was the visitors though, who took a surprise lead in the sixth minute, with Ashley Westwood scoring direct from a corner although Burnley's James Tarkowski looked to have impeded Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker. If Burnley's strategy was to frustrate their opponents and create some nervous tension in the stadium it was working well but they were undone by unusually sloppy work at the back. Tarkowski and Clarets keeper Tom Heaton got in each other's way as they made a mess of a low cross from Mohamed Salah and Firmino was left with the simplest of tap-ins to equalise. The tension having eased, Mane then put Liverpool ahead with a fine, curling finish after a poor clearance from Jeff Hendrick was blocked by Lallana. Burnley started the second half well but the outcome was put beyond doubt in the 67th minute when Heaton poorly kicked straight to Salah, the Egyptian bursting into the area, and Charlie Taylor's sliding tackle fell kindly to Firmino who made no mistake. Substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson pulled back a goal in stoppage time for 17th-placed Burnley who remain two points above the relegation zone. For a moment, with winger Dwight McNeil causing problems on Liverpool's right with his dribbling and crosses, Burnley threatened an improbable comeback. But after another cheap giveaway Mane added a fourth goal to make sure of the three points, rounding Heaton and slotting into the empty net. While Klopp can turn his attention to Wednesday's Champions League second-leg match away to Bayern Munich, Burnley manager Sean Dyche has eight games to keep his team in the top flight. The Burnley boss was pleased with his team's mentality but said they had paid the price for their defensive errors. "You cannot give a team like Liverpool four goals -- we certainly gave them three. You can question the errors but we certainly made a game of it," he said.

Firmino and Mane sink Burnley to keep Liverpool in the race

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters."&nbsp;

He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team."&nbsp;

The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain.&nbsp;

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Applying the finishing touches 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSMUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSMUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/kDIu0xWQ7L">pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L</a>
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1104582648951918592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.&nbsp;

Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January.&nbsp;

"I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery.&nbsp;

Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.&nbsp;

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday. During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters." He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team." The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain. Applying the finishing touches 👌#ARSMUN pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) March 10, 2019 × Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January. "I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery. Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.

Arsenal need 'very big performance' against Manchester United, says Unai Emery

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pep+Guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.&nbsp;

In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played."&nbsp;

"Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added.&nbsp;

Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday.&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said.&nbsp;

City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out."&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals."&nbsp;

They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.&nbsp;

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season. In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played." "Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added. Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday. "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said. City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out." "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals." They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

Pep Guardiola hopes 'incredible' Manchester City can maintain form

Chelsea&nbsp;have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors.

Chelsea&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and subsequently <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-confirm-chelsea-appeal-against-transfer-ban-201419">lodged an appeal</a> with the governing body.

However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected.

The announcement left&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back.

"Chelsea&nbsp;Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;statement said on Friday.

"The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction.

"As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect.

"So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed."

FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window.

In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced.

Chelsea&nbsp;feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).&nbsp;

"In this case,&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said.

We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA.&nbsp;

"The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad. The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors. Chelsea denied any wrongdoing and subsequently lodged an appeal with the governing body. However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected. The announcement left Chelsea fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back. "Chelsea Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a Chelsea statement said on Friday. "The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction. "As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect. "So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed." FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and Chelsea will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window. In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced. Chelsea feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). "In this case, Chelsea considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said. We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA. "The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea 'astonished' by FIFA transfer snub

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations.

European soccer's governing body opened a formal investigation into the alleged FFP violations on Thursday, a move City welcomed in a bid to end speculation surrounding the club's sponsorship agreements.

The FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners.

"The Premier League has previously contacted Manchester City to request information regarding recent allegations and is in ongoing dialogue with the club," the Premier League said in a statement.

"The league has detailed financial regulations and strong rules in the areas of Academy player recruitment and third-party ownership.

"We are currently investigating these matters and will allow Manchester City every opportunity to explain the context and detail surrounding them."

Manager Pep Guardiola was asked on Friday whether he was concerned his achievements at City would be tainted by the allegations, but he told reporters: "No, absolutely not.

"The club made a statement, so I can't add more than that. The club are open, hopefully it can finish as soon as possible.

"I trust a lot what the club has done, because I know them and hopefully they can solve it as soon as possible."

German publication Der Spiegel reported in November that City's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements in order to comply with FFP requirements.

City's statement on Thursday said accusations of financial irregularities were entirely false.

City host eighth-placed Watford on Saturday and Guardiola hailed their manager Javi Gracia, who looks set to lead them to their best-ever finish in the Premier League.

"It's incredible what he's done, one of the toughest games we had," Guardiola, who was voted February's Premier League manager of the month, said.

"In the last nine games, they have physicality, quality one-on-one, strong in the air, well organised... what he's done has been incredible."

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations.

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations. European soccer's governing body opened a formal investigation into the alleged FFP violations on Thursday, a move City welcomed in a bid to end speculation surrounding the club's sponsorship agreements. The FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners. "The Premier League has previously contacted Manchester City to request information regarding recent allegations and is in ongoing dialogue with the club," the Premier League said in a statement. "The league has detailed financial regulations and strong rules in the areas of Academy player recruitment and third-party ownership. "We are currently investigating these matters and will allow Manchester City every opportunity to explain the context and detail surrounding them." Manager Pep Guardiola was asked on Friday whether he was concerned his achievements at City would be tainted by the allegations, but he told reporters: "No, absolutely not. "The club made a statement, so I can't add more than that. The club are open, hopefully it can finish as soon as possible. "I trust a lot what the club has done, because I know them and hopefully they can solve it as soon as possible." German publication Der Spiegel reported in November that City's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements in order to comply with FFP requirements. City's statement on Thursday said accusations of financial irregularities were entirely false. City host eighth-placed Watford on Saturday and Guardiola hailed their manager Javi Gracia, who looks set to lead them to their best-ever finish in the Premier League. "It's incredible what he's done, one of the toughest games we had," Guardiola, who was voted February's Premier League manager of the month, said. "In the last nine games, they have physicality, quality one-on-one, strong in the air, well organised... what he's done has been incredible."

Premier League investigates Manchester City over FFP allegations

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-chelsea-for-next-two-transfer-windows-over-under-age-signings-198956">transfer ban imposed</a> after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month.

FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing.

"Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18. The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month. FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing. "Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirm Chelsea appeal against transfer ban

West Ham United midfielder Robert Snodgrass has been charged for allegedly abusing anti-doping officials at the Premier League club's training ground, the FA said on Monday.

Scotland international Snodgrass, 31, could be banned for one match and fined 8,000 pounds ($10,546.40) if he admits the charge, in line with the FA's standard penalty guidelines.

"Robert Snodgrass has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3(1)," the FA said in a statement http://www.thefa.com/news/2019/mar/04/snodgrass-charged-040319.

"It is alleged the player used abusive and/or insulting words towards UK anti-doping officials who were visiting West Ham United's training ground on 06 February 2019 to conduct out-of-competition testing."

Snodgrass, joined West Ham from Hull City in January 2017 and has also had spells at Leeds United and Norwich City.

He has scored four goals in all competitions for the Hammers this season, has until March 18 to respond to the charge.

West Ham United midfielder Robert Snodgrass has been charged for allegedly abusing anti-doping officials at the Premier League club's training ground, the FA said on Monday.

West Ham United midfielder Robert Snodgrass has been charged for allegedly abusing anti-doping officials at the Premier League club's training ground, the FA said on Monday. Scotland international Snodgrass, 31, could be banned for one match and fined 8,000 pounds ($10,546.40) if he admits the charge, in line with the FA's standard penalty guidelines. "Robert Snodgrass has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3(1)," the FA said in a statement http://www.thefa.com/news/2019/mar/04/snodgrass-charged-040319. "It is alleged the player used abusive and/or insulting words towards UK anti-doping officials who were visiting West Ham United's training ground on 06 February 2019 to conduct out-of-competition testing." Snodgrass, joined West Ham from Hull City in January 2017 and has also had spells at Leeds United and Norwich City. He has scored four goals in all competitions for the Hammers this season, has until March 18 to respond to the charge.

West Ham's Snodgrass charged by FA for allegedly abusing anti-doping officials

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League.&nbsp;

He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest."&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's side faced Merseyside rivals Everton on Sunday but could only achieve a 0-0 draw, leaving them in second place with nine EPL matches remaining this season.&nbsp;

He added, "It is not to try to sell dreams. It is not to sell dreams. I think to be honest is to say we are not in our best moment."

"They (Liverpool) are not in their best moment," Mourinho added.&nbsp;

Currently, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are currently top of the table with 71 points, one point ahead of Liverpool.&nbsp;

Although, Mourinho also praised Klopp saying he is a positive person.&nbsp;

"A guy [Jurgen Klopp] who has some contact with the players, some skin contact, very tactile."

"I think he's very supportive. I think he's going to make them believe what we also believe, it is open. It is not closed. City are not champions, it is open," he concluded.&nbsp;

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League. He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest.

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League. He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest." Jurgen Klopp's side faced Merseyside rivals Everton on Sunday but could only achieve a 0-0 draw, leaving them in second place with nine EPL matches remaining this season. He added, "It is not to try to sell dreams. It is not to sell dreams. I think to be honest is to say we are not in our best moment." "They (Liverpool) are not in their best moment," Mourinho added. Currently, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are currently top of the table with 71 points, one point ahead of Liverpool. Although, Mourinho also praised Klopp saying he is a positive person. "A guy [Jurgen Klopp] who has some contact with the players, some skin contact, very tactile." "I think he's very supportive. I think he's going to make them believe what we also believe, it is open. It is not closed. City are not champions, it is open," he concluded.

Jose Mourinho gives Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge

Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool still have the look of Premier League champions despite a goalless Merseyside derby draw at Everton that saw them fall a point behind Manchester City at the top of the table.

After a run of four draws in their past six league games, Liverpool ended the weekend behind City for the first time in three months having played the same number of games as Pep Guardiola's defending champions.

Everton's run without a derby win extended to 19 games stretching back to 2010.

However, the celebrations from the home supporters on the final whistle indicated how much they believe they have damaged Liverpool's hopes of securing a first league title in 29 years.

Klopp, however, remained defiant and continues to see evidence that his players have the resilience to cope with the pressure of one of the most tense title races in years.

"I don't have to give my players any advice, they know already," said Klopp. "They're not little boys any more.

"Sometimes you have the lead and people say it's done when there are 20 games to go to the end of the season, and now they have one or two more points than us. It's the beginning of March, who cares?

"I believe 100 per cent in our chances. I know that game-by-game my feeling gets better about the boys because they look ready for it.

"Today, of course, we didn't score, that can happen. A difficult game, opponent, and the wind and weather circumstances didn't help for football in general, it was just a fight.

"We were ready for that today and now we have a point more than before -- all good."

Wasteful Salah

The game, and league table, could have had a very different look had Mohamed Salah not missed the best chance of the game on 28 minutes.

Morgan Schneiderlin's error in midfield allowed Fabinho to play a first-time through ball which sent the Egyptian bearing down on goal with only Jordan Pickford to beat.

But the England goalkeeper, who was at fault for Liverpool's dramatic 96th-minute winner when the sides met in December, did well to spread himself and beat away Salah's shot.

Salah also missed the best opportunity of the second half when a bad touch allowed Michael Keane to make a magnificent last-ditch challenge.

The African player of the year, who scored 44 goals in an incredible first season at Anfield, has now scored just once in his last seven games.

"When you see the situation, he is doing everything right," Klopp said of Salah's wasted chances. "He takes his decision a millisecond earlier or later and the defender can jump in.

"We had our moments but there is no reason for taking it or not taking it, you have to fight against the circumstances, against the opponent, and the boys did that."

There were other chances for Liverpool, the best of which fell to Fabinho 21 minutes from time, but he took too long to control and allowed Lucas Digne to make a tackle.

Yet, Everton could even have snatched a long-awaited win near the end when substitute Richarlison's low cross just eluded Bernard.

"We knew how much this fixture means to the fans," said Pickford. "If you can't score then don't concede."

Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool still have the look of Premier League champions despite a goalless Merseyside derby draw at Everton that saw them fall a point behind Manchester City at the top of the table.

Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool still have the look of Premier League champions despite a goalless Merseyside derby draw at Everton that saw them fall a point behind Manchester City at the top of the table. After a run of four draws in their past six league games, Liverpool ended the weekend behind City for the first time in three months having played the same number of games as Pep Guardiola's defending champions. Everton's run without a derby win extended to 19 games stretching back to 2010. However, the celebrations from the home supporters on the final whistle indicated how much they believe they have damaged Liverpool's hopes of securing a first league title in 29 years. Klopp, however, remained defiant and continues to see evidence that his players have the resilience to cope with the pressure of one of the most tense title races in years. "I don't have to give my players any advice, they know already," said Klopp. "They're not little boys any more. "Sometimes you have the lead and people say it's done when there are 20 games to go to the end of the season, and now they have one or two more points than us. It's the beginning of March, who cares? "I believe 100 per cent in our chances. I know that game-by-game my feeling gets better about the boys because they look ready for it. "Today, of course, we didn't score, that can happen. A difficult game, opponent, and the wind and weather circumstances didn't help for football in general, it was just a fight. "We were ready for that today and now we have a point more than before -- all good." Wasteful Salah The game, and league table, could have had a very different look had Mohamed Salah not missed the best chance of the game on 28 minutes. Morgan Schneiderlin's error in midfield allowed Fabinho to play a first-time through ball which sent the Egyptian bearing down on goal with only Jordan Pickford to beat. But the England goalkeeper, who was at fault for Liverpool's dramatic 96th-minute winner when the sides met in December, did well to spread himself and beat away Salah's shot. Salah also missed the best opportunity of the second half when a bad touch allowed Michael Keane to make a magnificent last-ditch challenge. The African player of the year, who scored 44 goals in an incredible first season at Anfield, has now scored just once in his last seven games. "When you see the situation, he is doing everything right," Klopp said of Salah's wasted chances. "He takes his decision a millisecond earlier or later and the defender can jump in. "We had our moments but there is no reason for taking it or not taking it, you have to fight against the circumstances, against the opponent, and the boys did that." There were other chances for Liverpool, the best of which fell to Fabinho 21 minutes from time, but he took too long to control and allowed Lucas Digne to make a tackle. Yet, Everton could even have snatched a long-awaited win near the end when substitute Richarlison's low cross just eluded Bernard. "We knew how much this fixture means to the fans," said Pickford. "If you can't score then don't concede."

Liverpool ready for title fight despite losing lead, insists manager Klopp

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".&nbsp;

"I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

"It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result."&nbsp;

United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0.&nbsp;

"With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP.&nbsp;

"Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home.

"The players they've got are suited to playing away from home.&nbsp;

"It's a tough ask, but not impossible."

Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales.

Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013.

When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal.

'Football has a big responsibility'

Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time".&nbsp;

"There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said.

"If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus.

"I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team."&nbsp;

Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue".

Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months.

"Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said.

Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League.

"There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said.

"But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)."

The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask". "I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg. "It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result." United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0. "With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP. "Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home. "The players they've got are suited to playing away from home. "It's a tough ask, but not impossible." Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales. Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013. When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal. 'Football has a big responsibility' Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time". "There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said. "If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus. "I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team." Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue". Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months. "Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said. Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League. "There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said. "But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)." The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Ryan Giggs backs Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to stay on at Manchester United

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title.

City are favourites to retain their crown after Saturday's 1-0 win at Bournemouth and Sunday's goalless Merseyside derby left them a point ahead of Jurgen Klopp's Reds with nine matches remaining.

"In the way we play, we play much, much better (than last season)," Guardiola said. "Everybody knows exactly what we have to do, everybody helps each other. And when this happens, we can compete and if we lose, we lose, but no regrets.

"I know in our society just the first one has the credit and the second one is an absolute loser. But it is impossible to feel that about my players, it's impossible."

City smashed a host of records on the way to becoming champions in 2017/18, including amassing 100 points and scoring 106 goals.

Despite failing to replicate that level of dominance this term, they have overturned a seven-point deficit in recent months to wrestle top spot from Liverpool.

Victory at Bournemouth was their fifth in a row in the league and secured with 82 per cent possession and by preventing the hosts from registering a shot at goal.

Guardiola admits his team could easily have fallen out of title contention and feels their current position is even more remarkable because a League Cup success and progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals has resulted in a far busier fixture schedule than Liverpool.

"Of course we want to win the Premier League, I feel the players show me every single day they want to win it," he said.

"But we have played nine or 10 games more than Liverpool. It's a lot of minutes in our legs in all competitions.

"In spite of that, still we are there and that's why I'm happy. I would prefer it to be like last season's position -- to be 12 points in front -- but that is an exceptional situation."

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title. City are favourites to retain their crown after Saturday's 1-0 win at Bournemouth and Sunday's goalless Merseyside derby left them a point ahead of Jurgen Klopp's Reds with nine matches remaining. "In the way we play, we play much, much better (than last season)," Guardiola said. "Everybody knows exactly what we have to do, everybody helps each other. And when this happens, we can compete and if we lose, we lose, but no regrets. "I know in our society just the first one has the credit and the second one is an absolute loser. But it is impossible to feel that about my players, it's impossible." City smashed a host of records on the way to becoming champions in 2017/18, including amassing 100 points and scoring 106 goals. Despite failing to replicate that level of dominance this term, they have overturned a seven-point deficit in recent months to wrestle top spot from Liverpool. Victory at Bournemouth was their fifth in a row in the league and secured with 82 per cent possession and by preventing the hosts from registering a shot at goal. Guardiola admits his team could easily have fallen out of title contention and feels their current position is even more remarkable because a League Cup success and progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals has resulted in a far busier fixture schedule than Liverpool. "Of course we want to win the Premier League, I feel the players show me every single day they want to win it," he said. "But we have played nine or 10 games more than Liverpool. It's a lot of minutes in our legs in all competitions. "In spite of that, still we are there and that's why I'm happy. I would prefer it to be like last season's position -- to be 12 points in front -- but that is an exceptional situation."

Manchester City 'much better' than last year, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said.

De Bruyne was substituted in the first half of the game with his replacement Riyad Mahrez scoring the winner to help the champions take a two-point lead over Liverpool, who are in action at Everton on Sunday.

Defender John Stones was also taken off but the England international's problem is not as serious.

"Kevin will be out for a while with a muscular problem - hamstring. John I think is more precaution. We didn't take a risk, we'll see tomorrow," Guardiola told the British media.

De Bruyne was one of the standout performers for City last season with 12 goals and 21 assists in all competitions but he has struggled with knee injuries in the current campaign, making 14 league appearances.

Guardiola suggested City's busy schedule, as they compete for trophies in four competitions, has not helped.

"I think we've played 25 games in 93 days, one every three days, so it's a physiological issue," the Spaniard added. "The body is not able to recover so sometimes the muscle says 'hello, that's enough'.

"We don't give players time to recover. We play a game, then after, when they are not recovered, we play another game. There is only a short amount of time and it is very demanding. But everybody's committed and we'll wait for Kevin to come back."

City have 71 points from 29 games in the league.

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said.

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said. De Bruyne was substituted in the first half of the game with his replacement Riyad Mahrez scoring the winner to help the champions take a two-point lead over Liverpool, who are in action at Everton on Sunday. Defender John Stones was also taken off but the England international's problem is not as serious. "Kevin will be out for a while with a muscular problem - hamstring. John I think is more precaution. We didn't take a risk, we'll see tomorrow," Guardiola told the British media. De Bruyne was one of the standout performers for City last season with 12 goals and 21 assists in all competitions but he has struggled with knee injuries in the current campaign, making 14 league appearances. Guardiola suggested City's busy schedule, as they compete for trophies in four competitions, has not helped. "I think we've played 25 games in 93 days, one every three days, so it's a physiological issue," the Spaniard added. "The body is not able to recover so sometimes the muscle says 'hello, that's enough'. "We don't give players time to recover. We play a game, then after, when they are not recovered, we play another game. There is only a short amount of time and it is very demanding. But everybody's committed and we'll wait for Kevin to come back." City have 71 points from 29 games in the league.

Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne set for spell out with hamstring problem

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach.

"It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference.

"Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big."

Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks.

However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving.

"The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added.

"I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season.

"We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team."

Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday. A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City. Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach. "It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference. "Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big." Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks. However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving. "The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added. "I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season. "We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team." Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

'Nearly impossible' for Spurs to bounce back in title race: Mauricio Pochettino

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.

It took the Belgian's tally to four goals in two games after he netted a brace in Wednesday's 3-1 win at Crystal Palace, with playmaker Andreas Pereira grabbing the other for the hosts in a rip-roaring clash at Old Trafford.

The result lifted United back into fourth place on 58 points from 29 games, one ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal who were held to a 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the early kickoff.

Sixth-placed Chelsea, who are on 53 points, have two games in hand and visit second bottom Fulham on Sunday.

Lukaku, who has endured dips in form during what has been a turbulent season at Old Trafford with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer taking over from Jose Mourinho as caretaker manager in December, was back to his lethal best.

"I was focused on the win and help my team mates," Lukaku told the BBC.

"We knew we had to win the game today and did it. Not our best game but we have to be happy.

"The manager gave me another chance today. We have to look one game at a time and are working hard on the training ground. We are ready for the challenge."

SPECTACULAR GOAL

Having weathered an early storm in which United missed three gilt-edged chances, Southampton took the lead in the 26th minute when Yan Valery scored his first goal for the club in spectacular fashion.

The 20-year old French wing-back, who joined Southampton from Ligue 1 side Rennes during the close season, unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 metres which beat United's stunned keeper David De Gea at the near post.

The home side equalised in the 53rd minute as the lively Pereira teed himself up for a long-range shot and curled it brilliantly past Saints keeper Angus Gunn.

Six minutes later, Pereira released Lukaku with fine footwork and the striker side-stepped a defender before he drilled a low shot with his weaker right foot into the bottom corner of the net.

James Ward-Prowse appeared to have snatched a point for the Saints with a stunning free kick from 25 metres before a frantic finish as Lukaku sent the home crowd into raptures.

A slick move ended with Lukaku turning his marker on the edge of the penalty area and drilling in another right-foot shot into the bottom corner in the 88th minute.

Gunn saved a poor stoppage-time penalty by Paul Pogba but the Frenchman's blunder did not dampen the mood at Old Trafford after Solskjaer stretched his impressive league start to 10 wins and two draws.

"It was one of those games, it had everything," said Solskjaer.

"My team did fantastic and the boys did great in the second half. The belief is there, they have gone so long without losing games (domestically) and are raring to go.

"They want to get on the ball and the confidence is high. They were class finishes from Romelu Lukaku and I am so pleased for Andreas Pereira."

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday. It took the Belgian's tally to four goals in two games after he netted a brace in Wednesday's 3-1 win at Crystal Palace, with playmaker Andreas Pereira grabbing the other for the hosts in a rip-roaring clash at Old Trafford. The result lifted United back into fourth place on 58 points from 29 games, one ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal who were held to a 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the early kickoff. Sixth-placed Chelsea, who are on 53 points, have two games in hand and visit second bottom Fulham on Sunday. Lukaku, who has endured dips in form during what has been a turbulent season at Old Trafford with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer taking over from Jose Mourinho as caretaker manager in December, was back to his lethal best. "I was focused on the win and help my team mates," Lukaku told the BBC. "We knew we had to win the game today and did it. Not our best game but we have to be happy. "The manager gave me another chance today. We have to look one game at a time and are working hard on the training ground. We are ready for the challenge." SPECTACULAR GOAL Having weathered an early storm in which United missed three gilt-edged chances, Southampton took the lead in the 26th minute when Yan Valery scored his first goal for the club in spectacular fashion. The 20-year old French wing-back, who joined Southampton from Ligue 1 side Rennes during the close season, unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 metres which beat United's stunned keeper David De Gea at the near post. The home side equalised in the 53rd minute as the lively Pereira teed himself up for a long-range shot and curled it brilliantly past Saints keeper Angus Gunn. Six minutes later, Pereira released Lukaku with fine footwork and the striker side-stepped a defender before he drilled a low shot with his weaker right foot into the bottom corner of the net. James Ward-Prowse appeared to have snatched a point for the Saints with a stunning free kick from 25 metres before a frantic finish as Lukaku sent the home crowd into raptures. A slick move ended with Lukaku turning his marker on the edge of the penalty area and drilling in another right-foot shot into the bottom corner in the 88th minute. Gunn saved a poor stoppage-time penalty by Paul Pogba but the Frenchman's blunder did not dampen the mood at Old Trafford after Solskjaer stretched his impressive league start to 10 wins and two draws. "It was one of those games, it had everything," said Solskjaer. "My team did fantastic and the boys did great in the second half. The belief is there, they have gone so long without losing games (domestically) and are raring to go. "They want to get on the ball and the confidence is high. They were class finishes from Romelu Lukaku and I am so pleased for Andreas Pereira."

Romelu Lukaku shines as Manchester United rally to beat Southampton

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday.

City climbed two points clear of Liverpool, increasing the pressure on their title rivals before Jurgen Klopp's side face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday.

After the single-goal victory against West Ham in midweek, City manager Guardiola could again be satisfied with the way his side stuck to their task to deliver the result they needed at Dean Court.

And the way Guardiola celebrated this vital three points with his players on the pitch after the final whistle spoke volumes.

Mahrez's contribution was also timely after the Algeria winger had been widely criticised for his display against West Ham, when he was withdrawn after just 55 minutes following his first league start since December 30.

There have already been suggestions the 28-year-old might move on just 12 months after his £60-million ($79.26 million) arrival from Leicester, but his second-half winner will undoubtedly lift his confidence ahead of the remaining weeks of the season.

City's victory came at the cost of an injury to Kevin De Bruyne, who was withdrawn after appearing to pick up a hamstring immediately before half-time.&nbsp;

John Stones also left the field early in the second half and Guardiola will hope both players are not sidelined for long, with Fernandinho and Aymeric Laporte already out of action.

Guardiola's men totally dominated the opening half, enjoying 83 percent possession, yet rarely troubled Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc and managed just one shot on target before the break.

City rewarded

That was due in part to the protection given to Boruc by his defenders, who held their concentration and stuck to their task impressively in the face of sustained City pressure.

Sergio Aguero was largely denied a clear sight of goal before the interval and it was Nicolas Otamendi who came closest when he met De Bruyne's corner with an acrobatic volley that flew narrowly over.

De Bruyne's departure added to City's first-half frustrations but Mahrez, the Belgian's replacement, quickly made an impact, delivering a corner that was diverted goalwards by Bournemouth's Chris Mepham, forcing Boruc to save from close-range.

City were never likely to change their approach significantly despite their unproductive first-half efforts.

And after starting the second half in exactly the same way as they saw out the first, they took full advantage when Bournemouth finally cracked and allowed Mahrez enough room to fire past Boruc in the 55th minute.

The build-up to the goal was like so many of City's previous moves, with the ball being worked quickly across the face of the home goal, where David Silva eventually helped it on to Mahrez.

Positioned beyond the far post, the Algerian pulled away from Charlie Daniels and had the time to steady himself before beating Boruc at the near post.

From that moment, the outcome of the game was effectively decided.

Bournemouth had offered few signs of being able to trouble City and, exhausted by their defensive efforts, they lacked the energy to mount a response.

City could have added to their tally but for a series of fine saves from Boruc.

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday.

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday. City climbed two points clear of Liverpool, increasing the pressure on their title rivals before Jurgen Klopp's side face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday. After the single-goal victory against West Ham in midweek, City manager Guardiola could again be satisfied with the way his side stuck to their task to deliver the result they needed at Dean Court. And the way Guardiola celebrated this vital three points with his players on the pitch after the final whistle spoke volumes. Mahrez's contribution was also timely after the Algeria winger had been widely criticised for his display against West Ham, when he was withdrawn after just 55 minutes following his first league start since December 30. There have already been suggestions the 28-year-old might move on just 12 months after his £60-million ($79.26 million) arrival from Leicester, but his second-half winner will undoubtedly lift his confidence ahead of the remaining weeks of the season. City's victory came at the cost of an injury to Kevin De Bruyne, who was withdrawn after appearing to pick up a hamstring immediately before half-time. John Stones also left the field early in the second half and Guardiola will hope both players are not sidelined for long, with Fernandinho and Aymeric Laporte already out of action. Guardiola's men totally dominated the opening half, enjoying 83 percent possession, yet rarely troubled Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc and managed just one shot on target before the break. City rewarded That was due in part to the protection given to Boruc by his defenders, who held their concentration and stuck to their task impressively in the face of sustained City pressure. Sergio Aguero was largely denied a clear sight of goal before the interval and it was Nicolas Otamendi who came closest when he met De Bruyne's corner with an acrobatic volley that flew narrowly over. De Bruyne's departure added to City's first-half frustrations but Mahrez, the Belgian's replacement, quickly made an impact, delivering a corner that was diverted goalwards by Bournemouth's Chris Mepham, forcing Boruc to save from close-range. City were never likely to change their approach significantly despite their unproductive first-half efforts. And after starting the second half in exactly the same way as they saw out the first, they took full advantage when Bournemouth finally cracked and allowed Mahrez enough room to fire past Boruc in the 55th minute. The build-up to the goal was like so many of City's previous moves, with the ball being worked quickly across the face of the home goal, where David Silva eventually helped it on to Mahrez. Positioned beyond the far post, the Algerian pulled away from Charlie Daniels and had the time to steady himself before beating Boruc at the near post. From that moment, the outcome of the game was effectively decided. Bournemouth had offered few signs of being able to trouble City and, exhausted by their defensive efforts, they lacked the energy to mount a response. City could have added to their tally but for a series of fine saves from Boruc.

Riyad Mahrez lifts Manchester City back to Premier League summit

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish.

Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday.

Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week.

Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth.

Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat.

Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener.

Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear.

The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net.

Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser.

Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside.

The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno.

However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind.

Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark.

The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy.

Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser.

Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season.

Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on.

However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed.

Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby. Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish. Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday. Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week. Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth. Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat. Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener. Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear. The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net. Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser. Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside. The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno. However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind. Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark. The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy. Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser. Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot. Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season. Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on. However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed. Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris salvages Spurs a point against Arsenal

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur.

"I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham.

"Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added.

"But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him."

Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week.

"After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham. Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur. "I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham. "Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added. "But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him." Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week. "After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Maurizio Sarri not sure about Kepa Arrizabalaga's return to Chelsea team

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement.

Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three.

"I am obviously disappointed with the recent results and that we could not build on the good start we made following my appointment," said the 67-year-old.

"I would like to thank the Club, the players and the fans for the support they have given me during my time at the Club."

The Italian's departure came as no surprise, with Fulham 19th in the table and 10 points adrift of 17th placed Southampton in the final safety spot with only 10 games remaining.

Ranieri had recognised his future at the West London side was uncertain after Wednesday's stinging 2-0 defeat at Southampton.

"Following our discussion this afternoon, Claudio Ranieri agreed to my decision that a change was in the best interest of everyone," chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement on the Fulham website.

Khan said the Italian had been "a perfect gentleman, as always," but it had not worked out and he left Craven Cottage as a friend.

"Claudio’s tenure at Fulham didn’t produce the outcome we anticipated and needed when I appointed him as manager in November, but be assured he is not solely to blame for the position we are in today," added the chairman.

Khan acknowledged Ranieri had inherited a difficult situation, taking over with Fulham bottom of the league after just one win.

"He provided an immediate boost by leading our club to nine points in his first eight matches as manager. Though we were unable to maintain that pace thereafter, I am grateful for his effort."

Parker's brief was to "stabilise, grow and rediscover ourselves as a football club," said Khan.

"If Scott can answer that challenge, and our players respond to the opportunity, perhaps victories will follow in the months ahead.

"What’s most important at this moment, however, is to regroup in a smart and deliberate manner that will serve our long-term vision for sustainable success."

Former England midfielder Parker's first game in charge will be against local rivals Chelsea, another of his and Ranieri's former clubs, on Sunday.

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement. Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three.

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement. Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three. "I am obviously disappointed with the recent results and that we could not build on the good start we made following my appointment," said the 67-year-old. "I would like to thank the Club, the players and the fans for the support they have given me during my time at the Club." The Italian's departure came as no surprise, with Fulham 19th in the table and 10 points adrift of 17th placed Southampton in the final safety spot with only 10 games remaining. Ranieri had recognised his future at the West London side was uncertain after Wednesday's stinging 2-0 defeat at Southampton. "Following our discussion this afternoon, Claudio Ranieri agreed to my decision that a change was in the best interest of everyone," chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement on the Fulham website. Khan said the Italian had been "a perfect gentleman, as always," but it had not worked out and he left Craven Cottage as a friend. "Claudio’s tenure at Fulham didn’t produce the outcome we anticipated and needed when I appointed him as manager in November, but be assured he is not solely to blame for the position we are in today," added the chairman. Khan acknowledged Ranieri had inherited a difficult situation, taking over with Fulham bottom of the league after just one win. "He provided an immediate boost by leading our club to nine points in his first eight matches as manager. Though we were unable to maintain that pace thereafter, I am grateful for his effort." Parker's brief was to "stabilise, grow and rediscover ourselves as a football club," said Khan. "If Scott can answer that challenge, and our players respond to the opportunity, perhaps victories will follow in the months ahead. "What’s most important at this moment, however, is to regroup in a smart and deliberate manner that will serve our long-term vision for sustainable success." Former England midfielder Parker's first game in charge will be against local rivals Chelsea, another of his and Ranieri's former clubs, on Sunday.

Scott Parker takes over at Fulham after Claudio Ranieri shown the door

Chelsea manager <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny.&nbsp;

Sarri is yet to decide whether to recall Kepa for Sunday's London derby after dropping him for Wednesday's win over Tottenham.

The Spaniard was disciplined over his extraordinary refusal to be substituted when he went down with cramp in the closing moments of last weekend's League Cup final defeat against Manchester City.

Willy Caballero started in place of Kepa against Tottenham, although Sarri insisted after the match that the former Athletic Bilbao star remained his first choice.

Sarri said Kepa and Argentine veteran Caballero will share goalkeeping duties in the next two games, with one playing on Sunday and the other in next week's Europa League last-16 first leg with Dynamo Kiev.

But, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Sarri wouldn't be drawn on which match Kepa would start in, raising the prospect of the world's most expensive keeper potentially missing a second successive league game.

"The Kepa situation now is closed. Kepa is our first (choice) goalkeeper," Sarri said.

"But we are very happy for Willy, because now we know very well he's able to play also in a very difficult match. I'm sure in one of the two next matches Kepa will be on the pitch."

Sarri, whose side had lost three out of four Premier League matches before their win against Spurs, said he was wary of the threat from lowly Fulham, who sacked manager Claudio Ranieri this week and replaced him with Scott Parker on a caretaker basis.

"I'm really very sorry," Sarri said about his Italian compatriot. "But I know very well his character, so I know very well that we will see him very soon, on another bench.

"Usually when there is change of the coach there is a reaction. And so we have to front (face) also the reaction.

"Then it's very difficult for us to prepare the match, because we don't know the new system, the new ideas. It's a very difficult match, I think."

Sarri has no injuries to consider but expects to rotate after a challenging week.

"On Sunday we played for 130 minutes and 95 minutes on Wednesday, so we need to value the recovery," he said.

"We ran for 15 kilometres on Sunday on average, and the average of the last match was 12km. I need to value the recovery of every single player. Then we have to decide (the team)."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny. Sarri is yet to decide whether to recall Kepa for Sunday's London derby after dropping him for Wednesday's win over Tottenham. The Spaniard was disciplined over his extraordinary refusal to be substituted when he went down with cramp in the closing moments of last weekend's League Cup final defeat against Manchester City. Willy Caballero started in place of Kepa against Tottenham, although Sarri insisted after the match that the former Athletic Bilbao star remained his first choice. Sarri said Kepa and Argentine veteran Caballero will share goalkeeping duties in the next two games, with one playing on Sunday and the other in next week's Europa League last-16 first leg with Dynamo Kiev. But, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Sarri wouldn't be drawn on which match Kepa would start in, raising the prospect of the world's most expensive keeper potentially missing a second successive league game. "The Kepa situation now is closed. Kepa is our first (choice) goalkeeper," Sarri said. "But we are very happy for Willy, because now we know very well he's able to play also in a very difficult match. I'm sure in one of the two next matches Kepa will be on the pitch." Sarri, whose side had lost three out of four Premier League matches before their win against Spurs, said he was wary of the threat from lowly Fulham, who sacked manager Claudio Ranieri this week and replaced him with Scott Parker on a caretaker basis. "I'm really very sorry," Sarri said about his Italian compatriot. "But I know very well his character, so I know very well that we will see him very soon, on another bench. "Usually when there is change of the coach there is a reaction. And so we have to front (face) also the reaction. "Then it's very difficult for us to prepare the match, because we don't know the new system, the new ideas. It's a very difficult match, I think." Sarri has no injuries to consider but expects to rotate after a challenging week. "On Sunday we played for 130 minutes and 95 minutes on Wednesday, so we need to value the recovery," he said. "We ran for 15 kilometres on Sunday on average, and the average of the last match was 12km. I need to value the recovery of every single player. Then we have to decide (the team)."

Maurizio Sarri keeps Kepa waiting over Chelsea recall

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby.

Emery's team are in better form than third-placed Tottenham and can close the gap on their hated neighbours to just one point if they beat win at Wembley.

Arsenal are on a run of three straight wins but Spurs have crashed to consecutive defeats at Burnley and Chelsea, forcing coach Mauricio Pochettino to concede they are out of the title race and leaving them in a battle to finish in the top four.

"Sometimes we can take the big opportunity like tomorrow because there were 10 points difference between us and Spurs two weeks ago. Now it's four points," Emery said.

"Tomorrow we are going to play together and it's very important for both teams. It's very different if you win or lose.

"This is a big opportunity for us to play with confidence in our moment, respecting them because they lost two matches but they are still having a very good season."

Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth on Wednesday was especially rewarding for Emery as he was able to rest several players, including Alexandre Lacazette and Shkodran Mustafi, for the derby.

Emery says Arsenal's winning streak has raised morale at just the right time and he wants his players to feed off the confidence factor.

"We want to play with confidence and also free in our minds, with a focus on our game plan. All individuals can have this confidence," he said.

"We will prepare to deliver the best performance individually and collectively. We need to be strong and we need to be very concentrated over 90 minutes."

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby. Emery's team are in better form than third-placed Tottenham and can close the gap on their hated neighbours to just one point if they beat win at Wembley. Arsenal are on a run of three straight wins but Spurs have crashed to consecutive defeats at Burnley and Chelsea, forcing coach Mauricio Pochettino to concede they are out of the title race and leaving them in a battle to finish in the top four. "Sometimes we can take the big opportunity like tomorrow because there were 10 points difference between us and Spurs two weeks ago. Now it's four points," Emery said. "Tomorrow we are going to play together and it's very important for both teams. It's very different if you win or lose. "This is a big opportunity for us to play with confidence in our moment, respecting them because they lost two matches but they are still having a very good season." Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth on Wednesday was especially rewarding for Emery as he was able to rest several players, including Alexandre Lacazette and Shkodran Mustafi, for the derby. Emery says Arsenal's winning streak has raised morale at just the right time and he wants his players to feed off the confidence factor. "We want to play with confidence and also free in our minds, with a focus on our game plan. All individuals can have this confidence," he said. "We will prepare to deliver the best performance individually and collectively. We need to be strong and we need to be very concentrated over 90 minutes."

Unai Emery vows Arsenal will take 'big opportunity' against Spurs

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club.

Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny.

“There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said.

“Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors.

“This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well."

Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents.

“We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said.

“Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers.

“So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?"

Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States.

“Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way.

“You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do.

“We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban. Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18. FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club. Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny. “There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said. “Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors. “This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well." Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents. “We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said. “Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers. “So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?" Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States. “Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way. “You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do. “We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA to re-examine transfer rules for minors: Gianni Infantino

FIFA are investigating <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Emiliano+Sala">Emiliano Sala</a>'s transfer from Nantes to Cardiff City following a claim from the French club, the global soccer body said on Wednesday.

The Argentine died when the plane carrying him from Nantes to Cardiff crashed in the English Channel, shortly after signing for the English Premier League side.

His body was later recovered from the wreckage, while pilot David Ibbotson remains missing.

Cardiff City chairman Mehmet Dalman has said the club will pay the 15 million pounds ($19.96 million) transfer fee to Nantes for Emiliano Sala “if contractually obliged”.

The clubs had become involved in a dispute over when the first instalment of the fee should be paid although Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said last week he believed that Nantes had agreed to an extension.

"We can confirm that we have received yesterday evening a claim of a contractual nature from FC Nantes against Cardiff City in connection with the transfer of Emiliano Sala," said a FIFA spokesperson.

"We are looking into the matter and consequently we have no further comments at this stage."

FIFA are investigating Emiliano Sala's transfer from Nantes to Cardiff City following a claim from the French club, the global soccer body said on Wednesday. The Argentine died when the plane carrying him from Nantes to Cardiff crashed in the English Channel, shortly after signing for the English Premier League side.

FIFA are investigating Emiliano Sala's transfer from Nantes to Cardiff City following a claim from the French club, the global soccer body said on Wednesday. The Argentine died when the plane carrying him from Nantes to Cardiff crashed in the English Channel, shortly after signing for the English Premier League side. His body was later recovered from the wreckage, while pilot David Ibbotson remains missing. Cardiff City chairman Mehmet Dalman has said the club will pay the 15 million pounds ($19.96 million) transfer fee to Nantes for Emiliano Sala “if contractually obliged”. The clubs had become involved in a dispute over when the first instalment of the fee should be paid although Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said last week he believed that Nantes had agreed to an extension. "We can confirm that we have received yesterday evening a claim of a contractual nature from FC Nantes against Cardiff City in connection with the transfer of Emiliano Sala," said a FIFA spokesperson. "We are looking into the matter and consequently we have no further comments at this stage."

FIFA looking into Emiliano Sala transfer after Nantes claim

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict".

Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League.

"You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph.

"You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions.

"And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work."

Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies.

He said his next destination could be a longer-term project.

"If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added.

"That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game. The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict". Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League. "You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph. "You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions. "And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work." Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies. He said his next destination could be a longer-term project. "If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added. "That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Jose Mourinho wants next club to have empathy as well as ambition

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said.

Hazard, who will become a free agent in June 2020, said last year it was his dream to play for 13-times European champions Real, and British media have since reported that talks with Chelsea over a contract extension have been put on hold.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri said last month that Hazard was free to leave the Premier League club if the 28-year-old had his heart set on a move.

"Does he have the talent to play for Real Madrid? He does," former Real boss Mourinho, who managed Hazard at Chelsea from 2013 to 2015, told sports streaming service DAZN Espana.

"Does he have the personality to put on a 'super-heavy' shirt and play in front of the fans at the Bernabeu? Yes, he has the personality.

"Regarding Eden's ambitions... be it playing for Chelsea his whole life or playing for a giant like Real Madrid, I can't say, because I haven't spoken to him for a long time."

Mourinho, who has been working as a television pundit and soccer show host since being sacked as Manchester United manager in December, also said he wanted to return to football management before the start of next season.

"In this short phase of my life, which I hope is only until June, I'm more concerned about what others would do than what I would do," he added.

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said.

Belgian international Eden Hazard has the talent and personality to succeed at Real Madrid if he chooses to leave Chelsea for the La Liga giants, his former manager Jose Mourinho has said. Hazard, who will become a free agent in June 2020, said last year it was his dream to play for 13-times European champions Real, and British media have since reported that talks with Chelsea over a contract extension have been put on hold. Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri said last month that Hazard was free to leave the Premier League club if the 28-year-old had his heart set on a move. "Does he have the talent to play for Real Madrid? He does," former Real boss Mourinho, who managed Hazard at Chelsea from 2013 to 2015, told sports streaming service DAZN Espana. "Does he have the personality to put on a 'super-heavy' shirt and play in front of the fans at the Bernabeu? Yes, he has the personality. "Regarding Eden's ambitions... be it playing for Chelsea his whole life or playing for a giant like Real Madrid, I can't say, because I haven't spoken to him for a long time." Mourinho, who has been working as a television pundit and soccer show host since being sacked as Manchester United manager in December, also said he wanted to return to football management before the start of next season. "In this short phase of my life, which I hope is only until June, I'm more concerned about what others would do than what I would do," he added.

Eden Hazard has the tools to succeed at Real Madrid, says Jose Mourinho

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