Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba announced his retirement on Wednesday, calling time on a 20-year career in which the bullish centre-forward won four Premier League titles and the 2012 Champions League.

Ivorian Drogba, who had been playing in the United States for Phoenix Rising, had two spells at Chelsea, scoring 164 goals in 381 games having spearheaded the west London club's revival under owner Roman Abramovich.

Drogba, 40, began his career at French side Le Mans in 1998, but did not play top-tier&nbsp;football&nbsp;until he was 23 when he was signed by Guingamp in 2002.

He moved to Olympique de Marseille in 2003 and a year later was signed by Chelsea where he became the attacking focal point of the team under Jose Mourinho and helped the club win their first top flight English title in 50 years.

He went on to win three Premier League titles in his first eight years at Chelsea as well as four FA Cups and two League Cups.

His first spell in west London ended on a high as he scored the winning penalty in the Champions League final shootout against Bayern Munich having also equalised with a thumping header to force extra time.

He had spells in China and Turkey before returning to Chelsea where he won a fourth Premier League title and a third League Cup, leaving the club as their fourth highest scorer of all time.

Drogba, who made than 100 appearances for the Ivory Coast and was voted African&nbsp;footballer of the year twice, ended his playing days with Phoenix Rising where he was a player-owner.

"It's the best way to end, helping some young talent to develop," Drogba told the BBC.

"To give something back to the game was the best way to finish as I have learned so much in the game."

Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba announced his retirement on Wednesday, calling time on a 20-year career in which the bullish centre-forward won four Premier League titles and the 2012 Champions League.

Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba announced his retirement on Wednesday, calling time on a 20-year career in which the bullish centre-forward won four Premier League titles and the 2012 Champions League. Ivorian Drogba, who had been playing in the United States for Phoenix Rising, had two spells at Chelsea, scoring 164 goals in 381 games having spearheaded the west London club's revival under owner Roman Abramovich. Drogba, 40, began his career at French side Le Mans in 1998, but did not play top-tier football until he was 23 when he was signed by Guingamp in 2002. He moved to Olympique de Marseille in 2003 and a year later was signed by Chelsea where he became the attacking focal point of the team under Jose Mourinho and helped the club win their first top flight English title in 50 years. He went on to win three Premier League titles in his first eight years at Chelsea as well as four FA Cups and two League Cups. His first spell in west London ended on a high as he scored the winning penalty in the Champions League final shootout against Bayern Munich having also equalised with a thumping header to force extra time. He had spells in China and Turkey before returning to Chelsea where he won a fourth Premier League title and a third League Cup, leaving the club as their fourth highest scorer of all time. Drogba, who made than 100 appearances for the Ivory Coast and was voted African footballer of the year twice, ended his playing days with Phoenix Rising where he was a player-owner. "It's the best way to end, helping some young talent to develop," Drogba told the BBC. "To give something back to the game was the best way to finish as I have learned so much in the game."

Former Chelsea striker Drogba announces retirement at 40

Liverpool have made their joint-best start to a Premier League campaign since it was launched in 1992, but manager Juergen Klopp sees no reason why they cannot improve further heading into the packed English festive fixture schedule.

The unbeaten Merseyside club are second after 12 matches on 30 points, two behind defending champions Manchester City.

Klopp, however, has demanded more from his players as they look to deliver a first piece of silverware at Anfield since the League Cup triumph in 2012.

"We can improve... we have to and we will," the German said at a gala dinner in support of the LFC Foundation.

"But between our best&nbsp;football&nbsp;and now, we have to win&nbsp;football&nbsp;games. That's how it is and that's what we've done already."

At this stage last year, Liverpool had already lost two league games and were fifth in the standings, but a string of assured defensive displays have ensured they are one of three clubs still unbeaten along with Manchester City and Chelsea.

"There's absolutely no reason for criticising the boys, they do a really good job," the manager added.

"So many things are better than last year: defending is better, set-pieces are better; we are much more mature in games, game management is better. So many things are better."

Liverpool have struggled to rediscover their spark in Europe, however, with away defeats against Red Star Belgrade and Napoli in the group stage leaving their qualification hopes in the balance.

"There were two days we were really not good, that's true," Klopp said. "But a very intense period is coming up now. There has been a lot of improvement so far and there is still space for further improvement."

Liverpool travel to Watford in the league on Saturday before visiting Paris St Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Liverpool have made their joint-best start to a Premier League campaign since it was launched in 1992, but manager Juergen Klopp sees no reason why they cannot improve further heading into the packed English festive fixture schedule.

Liverpool have made their joint-best start to a Premier League campaign since it was launched in 1992, but manager Juergen Klopp sees no reason why they cannot improve further heading into the packed English festive fixture schedule. The unbeaten Merseyside club are second after 12 matches on 30 points, two behind defending champions Manchester City. Klopp, however, has demanded more from his players as they look to deliver a first piece of silverware at Anfield since the League Cup triumph in 2012. "We can improve... we have to and we will," the German said at a gala dinner in support of the LFC Foundation. "But between our best football and now, we have to win football games. That's how it is and that's what we've done already." At this stage last year, Liverpool had already lost two league games and were fifth in the standings, but a string of assured defensive displays have ensured they are one of three clubs still unbeaten along with Manchester City and Chelsea. "There's absolutely no reason for criticising the boys, they do a really good job," the manager added. "So many things are better than last year: defending is better, set-pieces are better; we are much more mature in games, game management is better. So many things are better." Liverpool have struggled to rediscover their spark in Europe, however, with away defeats against Red Star Belgrade and Napoli in the group stage leaving their qualification hopes in the balance. "There were two days we were really not good, that's true," Klopp said. "But a very intense period is coming up now. There has been a lot of improvement so far and there is still space for further improvement." Liverpool travel to Watford in the league on Saturday before visiting Paris St Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Improved Liverpool have more to offer, says Juergen Klopp

English Premier League club Chelsea has said it is cooperating with a FIFA investigation into possible violations of the global soccer governing body's rules regarding the signing of foreign players under the age of 18.

Chelsea and four other unidentified Premier League clubs are under investigation by FIFA for the alleged violations and could face transfer bans if found guilty, according to multiple reports in the British media.

French investigative website Mediapart reported on Wednesday that FIFA's Integrity and Compliance unit would seek to impose a two-year transfer ban on the clubs as well as a fine of 500,000 Swiss francs ($497,364).

Mediapart is one of several media outlets publishing documents obtained by Football Leaks.

The Football Leaks documents were obtained by German publication Der Spiegel and reviewed by Reuters in partnership with European Investigative Collaborations, a network of international media.

Chelsea said in a statement on Wednesday that "the club has fully cooperated with FIFA and has provided comprehensive evidence demonstrating its compliance with the applicable FIFA regulations".

FIFA's rules prohibit international transfers of players under the age of 18 unless their parents have emigrated for reasons unconnected to football or both player and club are based within 50 km of a national border.

Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have fallen foul of the rules in the past, with all three serving transfer bans for violations.

FIFA opened its investigation into the English clubs in September last year and said in a statement on Wednesday that it had not yet reached a decision.

"As communicated in September 2017, investigations were opened concerning Chelsea FC as well as other English clubs in relation to potential breaches of the regulations on the status and transfer of players," FIFA said.

"The proceedings are ongoing and, to date, no decision has been passed by the FIFA judicial bodies. Thus, the clubs are to be presumed innocent unless decided otherwise. No further information can be provided as the cases are ongoing."

British media, including the Daily Telegraph, the Guardian and the Times, reported that Chelsea broke transfer rules governing players under the age of 18 when they signed Burkina Faso forward Bertrand Traore in 2014.

The reports added that Chelsea were also under investigation for signing 14 under-18 players since the signing of Traore.

English Premier League club Chelsea has said it is cooperating with a FIFA investigation into possible violations of the global soccer governing body's rules regarding the signing of foreign players under the age of 18.

English Premier League club Chelsea has said it is cooperating with a FIFA investigation into possible violations of the global soccer governing body's rules regarding the signing of foreign players under the age of 18. Chelsea and four other unidentified Premier League clubs are under investigation by FIFA for the alleged violations and could face transfer bans if found guilty, according to multiple reports in the British media. French investigative website Mediapart reported on Wednesday that FIFA's Integrity and Compliance unit would seek to impose a two-year transfer ban on the clubs as well as a fine of 500,000 Swiss francs ($497,364). Mediapart is one of several media outlets publishing documents obtained by Football Leaks. The Football Leaks documents were obtained by German publication Der Spiegel and reviewed by Reuters in partnership with European Investigative Collaborations, a network of international media. Chelsea said in a statement on Wednesday that "the club has fully cooperated with FIFA and has provided comprehensive evidence demonstrating its compliance with the applicable FIFA regulations". FIFA's rules prohibit international transfers of players under the age of 18 unless their parents have emigrated for reasons unconnected to football or both player and club are based within 50 km of a national border. Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have fallen foul of the rules in the past, with all three serving transfer bans for violations. FIFA opened its investigation into the English clubs in September last year and said in a statement on Wednesday that it had not yet reached a decision. "As communicated in September 2017, investigations were opened concerning Chelsea FC as well as other English clubs in relation to potential breaches of the regulations on the status and transfer of players," FIFA said. "The proceedings are ongoing and, to date, no decision has been passed by the FIFA judicial bodies. Thus, the clubs are to be presumed innocent unless decided otherwise. No further information can be provided as the cases are ongoing." British media, including the Daily Telegraph, the Guardian and the Times, reported that Chelsea broke transfer rules governing players under the age of 18 when they signed Burkina Faso forward Bertrand Traore in 2014. The reports added that Chelsea were also under investigation for signing 14 under-18 players since the signing of Traore.

Chelsea says cooperating with FIFA over youth transfers probe

Premier League leaders Manchester City turned on the style with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their derby clash on Sunday, leaving Pep Guardiola's unbeaten side two points clear of Liverpool.

David Silva fired City ahead in the 12th minute after a Raheem Sterling cross from the left was turned back across the goal by Bernardo Silva and the Spaniard took his time before blasting home.

City doubled their lead in the third minute after the interval - Aguero bursting goalwards and playing a clever exchange with Riyad Mahrez, before thumping the ball, from a tight angle, past David de Gea.

United manager Jose Mourinho brought on Romelu Lukaku for Jesse Lingard in the 57th minute and within seconds the Belgian forward helped get his team back in the game.

Lukaku was brought down inside the area by City keeper Ederson and French forward Anthony Martial confidently converted the spot kick.

But four minutes from the end City secured the victory, their 10th in 12 games this season, when the influential Bernardo Silva picked out substitute Ilkay Gundogan in the area and the German made no mistake as he made it 3-1.

Eighth-placed United are now 12 points behind City.

Premier League leaders Manchester City turned on the style with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their derby clash on Sunday, leaving Pep Guardiola's unbeaten side two points clear of Liverpool.

Premier League leaders Manchester City turned on the style with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their derby clash on Sunday, leaving Pep Guardiola's unbeaten side two points clear of Liverpool. David Silva fired City ahead in the 12th minute after a Raheem Sterling cross from the left was turned back across the goal by Bernardo Silva and the Spaniard took his time before blasting home. City doubled their lead in the third minute after the interval - Aguero bursting goalwards and playing a clever exchange with Riyad Mahrez, before thumping the ball, from a tight angle, past David de Gea. United manager Jose Mourinho brought on Romelu Lukaku for Jesse Lingard in the 57th minute and within seconds the Belgian forward helped get his team back in the game. Lukaku was brought down inside the area by City keeper Ederson and French forward Anthony Martial confidently converted the spot kick. But four minutes from the end City secured the victory, their 10th in 12 games this season, when the influential Bernardo Silva picked out substitute Ilkay Gundogan in the area and the German made no mistake as he made it 3-1. Eighth-placed United are now 12 points behind City.

Manchester City beat Manchester United to go top of Premier League

Mourinho blames United's Juventus exertions for derby loss

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-held-0-0-by-everton-lose-ground-in-title-race-176699">goalless draw against Everton</a>&nbsp;on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season.

Chelsea could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton.

While addressing the media, Sarri admitted that Chelsea will struggle to challenge. He said, "I didn't like too much the first 25 minutes (of the match), because like in the match against Crytal Palace."

"We started the game moving the ball very slowly, so it was impossible for us to be dangerous, and it was too easy for our opponent to defend," he added.

"We were a little bit unlucky. Of course, I am not happy but I think we are in the right way."

Sarri is unsure why his Chelsea side are starting slowly in matches, but he believes fatigue is not to blame.

"I don't think that the problem is physical because in the last two or three matches the warm up it was the same."&nbsp;

In the second half we played at another speed and intensity, so I don't think the problem is physical.

"Maybe (it's) a mental problem, and we have some difficulties to approach the match from the mental point of view, maybe, I don't know. It is very difficult to answer."

The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday.

"At this moment, the average of points of City and Liverpool are very high. I think about 100 points."

"It's very difficult to stay close to this teams, but I hope a match like this, and our match today, it will happen in the future to other teams," he concluded.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a goalless draw against Everton on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a goalless draw against Everton on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season. Chelsea could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton. While addressing the media, Sarri admitted that Chelsea will struggle to challenge. He said, "I didn't like too much the first 25 minutes (of the match), because like in the match against Crytal Palace." "We started the game moving the ball very slowly, so it was impossible for us to be dangerous, and it was too easy for our opponent to defend," he added. "We were a little bit unlucky. Of course, I am not happy but I think we are in the right way." Sarri is unsure why his Chelsea side are starting slowly in matches, but he believes fatigue is not to blame. "I don't think that the problem is physical because in the last two or three matches the warm up it was the same." In the second half we played at another speed and intensity, so I don't think the problem is physical. "Maybe (it's) a mental problem, and we have some difficulties to approach the match from the mental point of view, maybe, I don't know. It is very difficult to answer." The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday. "At this moment, the average of points of City and Liverpool are very high. I think about 100 points." "It's very difficult to stay close to this teams, but I hope a match like this, and our match today, it will happen in the future to other teams," he concluded.

Maurizio Sarri 'not happy' with Chelsea's performance, admits team will struggle to challenge

Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table -- temporarily at least -- with a 2-0 win at home to basement club Fulham at Anfield on Sunday.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's side continued their unbeaten start to the Premier League season as Mohamed Salah's eighth goal this term and a second from the recalled Xherdan Shaqiri helped them equal their best start to a campaign.

While the scoreline suggested a comfortable victory, the game appeared to turn on a controversial decision five minutes before half-time.

Fulham captain Tom Cairney's curling cross was headed home by Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic but the linesman's flag was up for offside.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson quickly passed the ball to Trent Alexander-Arnold whose perfect pass released Salah to put the ball in the Fulham net seconds after the visitors' thought they had taken the lead.

Fulham's sense of injustice will only have been heightened when replays suggested Mitrovic's effort could well have been allowed to stand, with the London club seemingly on the wrong end of the kind of decision that so often goes against teams at the bottom of the table.

Liverpool, however, might suggest they were due some luck after an&nbsp;incorrect flag had denied them a possible victory over Arsenal a week earlier.

After an impeccably-observed minute's silence to mark the centenary of the Armistice in World War I, it was Liverpool who started the stronger.

Alexander-Arnold's low cross eventually found Sadio Mane and he should have done better with a shot which drifted well wide.&nbsp;

Roberto Firmino, operating in the hole behind Salah, found space to feed Shaqiri, whose shot flew just wide of the post.

Sessegnon chance

Liverpool manager Klopp had asked his team to rediscover the joy in their football following their shock midweek Champions League defeat by Red Star Belgrade,&nbsp;and it almost arrived 15 minutes in.&nbsp;

Salah and Firmino twice exchanged give-and-goes to cut Fulham apart but Sergio Rico was swiftly off his line to deny the Egyptian.

Liverpool continued to press, with Fabinho's fine diagonal headed over by Alexander-Arnold, while Salah's powerful drive from a narrow angle was turned away by Rico.

Indeed a rare mistake from Joe Gomez presented Fulham with the game's best chance midway through the half.&nbsp;

The England defender failed to deal with Mitrovic's header, allowing Ryan Sessegnon to close in on goal but he somehow pulled his shot wide with only Alisson to beat.

Fulham were encouraged and a few minutes later Andre Schurrle's drive was spilled by Alisson, with a timely intervention by Virgil van Dijk required to clear the danger.

But Salah's opener allowed Liverpool to gain control and they underlined their dominance eight minutes into the second half when a short corner routine saw Andy Robertson's curling cross find an unmarked Shaqiri, who scored with a fine volley.

This defeat was Fulham's seventh successive loss in all competitions and sixth in a row in the league.

And while their performance at Anfield was far better than last week's showing at Huddersfield, this result will do little to ease the pressure on manager Slavisa Jokanovic.

Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table -- temporarily at least -- with a 2-0 win at home to basement club Fulham at Anfield on Sunday. Jurgen Klopp's side continued their unbeaten start to the Premier League season as Mohamed Salah's eighth goal this term and a second from the recalled Xherdan Shaqiri helped them equal their best start to a campaign.

Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table -- temporarily at least -- with a 2-0 win at home to basement club Fulham at Anfield on Sunday. Jurgen Klopp's side continued their unbeaten start to the Premier League season as Mohamed Salah's eighth goal this term and a second from the recalled Xherdan Shaqiri helped them equal their best start to a campaign. While the scoreline suggested a comfortable victory, the game appeared to turn on a controversial decision five minutes before half-time. Fulham captain Tom Cairney's curling cross was headed home by Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic but the linesman's flag was up for offside. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson quickly passed the ball to Trent Alexander-Arnold whose perfect pass released Salah to put the ball in the Fulham net seconds after the visitors' thought they had taken the lead. Fulham's sense of injustice will only have been heightened when replays suggested Mitrovic's effort could well have been allowed to stand, with the London club seemingly on the wrong end of the kind of decision that so often goes against teams at the bottom of the table. Liverpool, however, might suggest they were due some luck after an incorrect flag had denied them a possible victory over Arsenal a week earlier. After an impeccably-observed minute's silence to mark the centenary of the Armistice in World War I, it was Liverpool who started the stronger. Alexander-Arnold's low cross eventually found Sadio Mane and he should have done better with a shot which drifted well wide. Roberto Firmino, operating in the hole behind Salah, found space to feed Shaqiri, whose shot flew just wide of the post. Sessegnon chance Liverpool manager Klopp had asked his team to rediscover the joy in their football following their shock midweek Champions League defeat by Red Star Belgrade, and it almost arrived 15 minutes in. Salah and Firmino twice exchanged give-and-goes to cut Fulham apart but Sergio Rico was swiftly off his line to deny the Egyptian. Liverpool continued to press, with Fabinho's fine diagonal headed over by Alexander-Arnold, while Salah's powerful drive from a narrow angle was turned away by Rico. Indeed a rare mistake from Joe Gomez presented Fulham with the game's best chance midway through the half. The England defender failed to deal with Mitrovic's header, allowing Ryan Sessegnon to close in on goal but he somehow pulled his shot wide with only Alisson to beat. Fulham were encouraged and a few minutes later Andre Schurrle's drive was spilled by Alisson, with a timely intervention by Virgil van Dijk required to clear the danger. But Salah's opener allowed Liverpool to gain control and they underlined their dominance eight minutes into the second half when a short corner routine saw Andy Robertson's curling cross find an unmarked Shaqiri, who scored with a fine volley. This defeat was Fulham's seventh successive loss in all competitions and sixth in a row in the league. And while their performance at Anfield was far better than last week's showing at Huddersfield, this result will do little to ease the pressure on manager Slavisa Jokanovic.

Liverpool defeat fading Fulham to continue title push

Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur said on Sunday that they had been granted permission to continue playing home matches at Wembley until their new stadium is ready.

Spurs were supposed to move to their new home in September but reached an initial agreement to play at Wembley until the end of the year instead because of construction delays at the new, 62,000-seater venue.

That agreement has now been extended indefinitely but all Tottenham's remaining Premier League games at Wembley after their match with London rivals Chelsea on Nov. 24 will have a reduced capacity of 51,000.

Spurs said in a statement that they would issue an update on their new stadium next month.

Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur said on Sunday that they had been granted permission to continue playing home matches at Wembley until their new stadium is ready.

Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur said on Sunday that they had been granted permission to continue playing home matches at Wembley until their new stadium is ready. Spurs were supposed to move to their new home in September but reached an initial agreement to play at Wembley until the end of the year instead because of construction delays at the new, 62,000-seater venue. That agreement has now been extended indefinitely but all Tottenham's remaining Premier League games at Wembley after their match with London rivals Chelsea on Nov. 24 will have a reduced capacity of 51,000. Spurs said in a statement that they would issue an update on their new stadium next month.

Tottenham get permission to keep playing at Wembley

Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Everton on Sunday as they lost ground to fellow title-chasers Liverpool who won earlier in the day.

Chelsea needed three points after Liverpool's 2-0 win over Fulham but they could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton side and failed to score for only the second time in the league this season.

After a tight and often scrappy first half, Chelsea improved in the second period but, despite remaining unbeaten in the league, they were unable to convert their chances.

Everton's England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who produced a fine save from a Marcos Alonso volley earlier, prevented Alvaro Morata from opening the scoring immediately after the restart with a dive to his right.

Alonso hit the post in the 65th minute as Chelsea applied more pressure but were ultimately unable to break Everton down.

The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday.

Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Everton on Sunday as they lost ground to fellow title-chasers Liverpool who won earlier in the day. Chelsea needed three points after Liverpool's 2-0 win over Fulham but they could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton side and failed to score for only the second time in the league this season.

Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Everton on Sunday as they lost ground to fellow title-chasers Liverpool who won earlier in the day. Chelsea needed three points after Liverpool's 2-0 win over Fulham but they could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton side and failed to score for only the second time in the league this season. After a tight and often scrappy first half, Chelsea improved in the second period but, despite remaining unbeaten in the league, they were unable to convert their chances. Everton's England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who produced a fine save from a Marcos Alonso volley earlier, prevented Alvaro Morata from opening the scoring immediately after the restart with a dive to his right. Alonso hit the post in the 65th minute as Chelsea applied more pressure but were ultimately unable to break Everton down. The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday.

Chelsea held 0-0 by Everton, lose ground in title race

Leicester City will honour their late chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha with a statue outside the Premier League club's King Power Stadium following his death in a helicopter crash last month.

The 60-year-old <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/sports/thai-owner-of-leicester-city-was-killed-in-helicopter-crash-174067&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjVoOb0p8neAhVIYo8KHVdQA7MQFggUMAU&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CV4X_zzDY5MEvQNmIIrQM">Thai billionaire died</a> on October 27 with four others when his helicopter crashed next to the stadium after a match.

His son and vice-chairman Aiyawatt confirmed the commissioning of a statue in a personal tribute in a souvenir programme to be given to all fans at Saturday's home Premier League game against Burnley.

"We will never be able to repay what he did for us - for me as his son, us as his family, everyone connected to Leicester City and beyond - but we are committed to honouring his memory and upholding his legacy," he wrote.

"Our continued growth as a Club, our state-of-the-art new training ground and our planned stadium expansion will help realise his vision for Leicester City.

"I plan to commission a statue of my father, for outside King Power Stadium, as a permanent and fitting tribute to the man that made it all possible. He will forever be in our hearts. He will never be forgotten."

In the eight years of Vichai's ownership, Leicester caused one of soccer's biggest shocks by winning the Premier League title in 2016.

The club plan to hand out commemorative scarves, pin badges, banners and souvenir programmes at Saturday's game, which has also been designated the club's annual Remembrance Fixture.

A tribute video will be shown on big screens before the match and a two-minute silence will be held to honour the armed services as well as the five victims of last month's accident.

Leicester City will honour their late chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha with a statue outside the Premier League club's King Power Stadium following his death in a helicopter crash last month.

Leicester City will honour their late chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha with a statue outside the Premier League club's King Power Stadium following his death in a helicopter crash last month. The 60-year-old Thai billionaire died on October 27 with four others when his helicopter crashed next to the stadium after a match. His son and vice-chairman Aiyawatt confirmed the commissioning of a statue in a personal tribute in a souvenir programme to be given to all fans at Saturday's home Premier League game against Burnley. "We will never be able to repay what he did for us - for me as his son, us as his family, everyone connected to Leicester City and beyond - but we are committed to honouring his memory and upholding his legacy," he wrote. "Our continued growth as a Club, our state-of-the-art new training ground and our planned stadium expansion will help realise his vision for Leicester City. "I plan to commission a statue of my father, for outside King Power Stadium, as a permanent and fitting tribute to the man that made it all possible. He will forever be in our hearts. He will never be forgotten." In the eight years of Vichai's ownership, Leicester caused one of soccer's biggest shocks by winning the Premier League title in 2016. The club plan to hand out commemorative scarves, pin badges, banners and souvenir programmes at Saturday's game, which has also been designated the club's annual Remembrance Fixture. A tribute video will be shown on big screens before the match and a two-minute silence will be held to honour the armed services as well as the five victims of last month's accident.

Leicester City to honour late chairman with statue

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola does not think Sunday's derby against Manchester United will define his team's campaign, but is still keen to avoid a repeat of last season's defeat by the same opponents.

City were in control against United in the corresponding fixture at the Etihad Stadium last term, leading by two first-half goals, only for United to stage a second-half rally and win 3-2.

"We have to play good," Guardiola told a news conference on Friday. "If we play good, we have a chance to win. You cannot imagine we are going to play amazingly for 90 minutes against top teams.

"I would like to play the same game as last season when we were on top for 75 minutes but United showed us that they just need 10 or 15 minutes to create chances.

"When they have the ball, they can create something because they have incredible talent."

Both teams are in good form, with seventh-placed United on a three-game winning streak and league leaders City having gone 11 games unbeaten in all competitions.

Guardiola is looking forward to the battle but believes the fixture has come too soon to have significant bearing on the title race.

"We are in November so maybe the game at Old Trafford (in March) will be more decisive," the Spaniard said. "Of course we are on a good run, United as well. It's a good derby. All of them are special."

The manager also reiterated his faith in the club in the wake of allegations that they had circumvented financial fair play rules.

"If people want to undermine what we have done, no problem," he said. "We live our lives. Opinions are opinions. I have said I trust the club a lot.

"If there is something wrong, we will be punished. FIFA or UEFA have to say if we were wrong. If we were wrong, we will accept it but I hear what my club said to me and I trust them."

The allegations against City stem from the release of the "Football Leaks" documents, which include emails, contracts and presentations.

The documents were obtained by German publication Der Spiegel and reviewed by Reuters in partnership with international media consortium European Investigative Collaborations.

The City manager's news conference ended in uproarious laughter after he responded to his former player, Brazilian Dani Alves's comment that being coached by Guardiola at Barcelona was "better than sex".

Alves made the comment in a documentary about Guardiola's all-conquering spell at Barcelona, where they won three La Liga titles and the Champions League twice.

"I prefer the sex," a grinning Guardiola said in response to a question on Alves's comment. "By far!"

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola does not think Sunday's derby against Manchester United will define his team's campaign, but is still keen to avoid a repeat of last season's defeat by the same opponents.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola does not think Sunday's derby against Manchester United will define his team's campaign, but is still keen to avoid a repeat of last season's defeat by the same opponents. City were in control against United in the corresponding fixture at the Etihad Stadium last term, leading by two first-half goals, only for United to stage a second-half rally and win 3-2. "We have to play good," Guardiola told a news conference on Friday. "If we play good, we have a chance to win. You cannot imagine we are going to play amazingly for 90 minutes against top teams. "I would like to play the same game as last season when we were on top for 75 minutes but United showed us that they just need 10 or 15 minutes to create chances. "When they have the ball, they can create something because they have incredible talent." Both teams are in good form, with seventh-placed United on a three-game winning streak and league leaders City having gone 11 games unbeaten in all competitions. Guardiola is looking forward to the battle but believes the fixture has come too soon to have significant bearing on the title race. "We are in November so maybe the game at Old Trafford (in March) will be more decisive," the Spaniard said. "Of course we are on a good run, United as well. It's a good derby. All of them are special." The manager also reiterated his faith in the club in the wake of allegations that they had circumvented financial fair play rules. "If people want to undermine what we have done, no problem," he said. "We live our lives. Opinions are opinions. I have said I trust the club a lot. "If there is something wrong, we will be punished. FIFA or UEFA have to say if we were wrong. If we were wrong, we will accept it but I hear what my club said to me and I trust them." The allegations against City stem from the release of the "Football Leaks" documents, which include emails, contracts and presentations. The documents were obtained by German publication Der Spiegel and reviewed by Reuters in partnership with international media consortium European Investigative Collaborations. The City manager's news conference ended in uproarious laughter after he responded to his former player, Brazilian Dani Alves's comment that being coached by Guardiola at Barcelona was "better than sex". Alves made the comment in a documentary about Guardiola's all-conquering spell at Barcelona, where they won three La Liga titles and the Champions League twice. "I prefer the sex," a grinning Guardiola said in response to a question on Alves's comment. "By far!"

Manchester derby will not define City's season, says Pep Guardiola

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season.

Klopp's third-placed side have won eight of their 11 matches in an unbeaten opening to the league campaign.

But despite their position among the leading title contenders, Liverpool have endured criticism of late after some erratic displays both domestically and in the Champions League.

A midweek loss at Red Star Belgrade was especially underwhelming, but Reds boss Klopp believes the doubters are wrong to question his team.

Aware that champions Manchester City and in-form Chelsea -- both also unbeaten in the league -- have garnered more praise than Liverpool, Klopp launched a passionate defence of his side on Friday, claiming only winning the title for the first time since 1990 will be enough to silence the critics.

"The season so far-wise, points-wise in the Premier League, has been really successful," Klopp told reporters.

"But it doesn't really feel like that because there are two reasons in comparison with last year: free-flowing football in a few games and Man City and maybe Chelsea and a few others play a very good season as well.

"It feels a bit like this season can only be a success if we become champions.

"Our competitors are the champions of last year (Manchester City), the champions of two years ago (Chelsea), a more refreshed Arsenal and a more experienced Tottenham and Manchester United.

"That's a really tough job but we have no problem with that, we go for everything. We have to build on our situation, we have to get better, to get more confidence out of the season."

'Not easy game'

Klopp admitted the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Red Star Belgrade "was a rather massive knock which was not expected".

"Now we have to react for us in the right way, not only on Sunday, but in general."

Fulham head to Anfield on Sunday having slid to the foot of the table after a miserable run of five consecutive defeats.

But Klopp bristled at suggestions Liverpool should thrash the west Londoners.

"I would be really an idiot - a few people think I am but not that much - if I would talk about any goal difference before that game," Klopp said.

"This is a really strange situation for Fulham, I can really imagine how they feel. Their football is good, they caused (Manchester) City a lot of problems.

"You will never score a goal against a team like Fulham if you go to win the game with the wrong attitude and think about scoring, scoring, scoring. This game is a big challenge for all of us.

"If somebody goes there and expects an easy game then please stay at home. It will not be, it's a tough job to do."

Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita are both in line for a return to action following their respective hamstring injuries.

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season.

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season. Klopp's third-placed side have won eight of their 11 matches in an unbeaten opening to the league campaign. But despite their position among the leading title contenders, Liverpool have endured criticism of late after some erratic displays both domestically and in the Champions League. A midweek loss at Red Star Belgrade was especially underwhelming, but Reds boss Klopp believes the doubters are wrong to question his team. Aware that champions Manchester City and in-form Chelsea -- both also unbeaten in the league -- have garnered more praise than Liverpool, Klopp launched a passionate defence of his side on Friday, claiming only winning the title for the first time since 1990 will be enough to silence the critics. "The season so far-wise, points-wise in the Premier League, has been really successful," Klopp told reporters. "But it doesn't really feel like that because there are two reasons in comparison with last year: free-flowing football in a few games and Man City and maybe Chelsea and a few others play a very good season as well. "It feels a bit like this season can only be a success if we become champions. "Our competitors are the champions of last year (Manchester City), the champions of two years ago (Chelsea), a more refreshed Arsenal and a more experienced Tottenham and Manchester United. "That's a really tough job but we have no problem with that, we go for everything. We have to build on our situation, we have to get better, to get more confidence out of the season." 'Not easy game' Klopp admitted the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Red Star Belgrade "was a rather massive knock which was not expected". "Now we have to react for us in the right way, not only on Sunday, but in general." Fulham head to Anfield on Sunday having slid to the foot of the table after a miserable run of five consecutive defeats. But Klopp bristled at suggestions Liverpool should thrash the west Londoners. "I would be really an idiot - a few people think I am but not that much - if I would talk about any goal difference before that game," Klopp said. "This is a really strange situation for Fulham, I can really imagine how they feel. Their football is good, they caused (Manchester) City a lot of problems. "You will never score a goal against a team like Fulham if you go to win the game with the wrong attitude and think about scoring, scoring, scoring. This game is a big challenge for all of us. "If somebody goes there and expects an easy game then please stay at home. It will not be, it's a tough job to do." Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita are both in line for a return to action following their respective hamstring injuries.

Only winning title will silence critics says Jurgen Klopp

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck was taken to hospital after suffering a "serious injury" in their Europa League draw against Sporting on Thursday, the club's manager Unai Emery said.

Welbeck, who was earlier named in the England squad, jumped for a header in front of goal at the Emirates Stadium and rolled over in pain after landing awkwardly on his ankle.

He was given oxygen by medical staff before being taken off on a stretcher to a standing ovation from the home fans.

"It's the worst news. We think it's a serious injury," Emery told reporters, adding that Welbeck, 27, had been taken to hospital with the club waiting to hear more on his condition.

"His injury is very big for him, for us and for all," Emery said, when asked about Welbeck's prospects at the north London club in view of the fact that his contract ends this season.

Arsenal qualified for the Europa League knockout stage after the match against Sporting ended in a 0-0 draw.

England manager Gareth Southgate included Welbeck in his squad for next Thursday's friendly with the United States and a Nations League tie against Croatia three days later at Wembley.

Arsenal's Mesut Ozil took to Twitter soon after the incident to wish his team mate well, saying: "Oh no ... get well soon Danny".

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck was taken to hospital after suffering a "serious injury" in their Europa League draw against Sporting on Thursday, the club's manager Unai Emery said.

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck was taken to hospital after suffering a "serious injury" in their Europa League draw against Sporting on Thursday, the club's manager Unai Emery said. Welbeck, who was earlier named in the England squad, jumped for a header in front of goal at the Emirates Stadium and rolled over in pain after landing awkwardly on his ankle. He was given oxygen by medical staff before being taken off on a stretcher to a standing ovation from the home fans. "It's the worst news. We think it's a serious injury," Emery told reporters, adding that Welbeck, 27, had been taken to hospital with the club waiting to hear more on his condition. "His injury is very big for him, for us and for all," Emery said, when asked about Welbeck's prospects at the north London club in view of the fact that his contract ends this season. Arsenal qualified for the Europa League knockout stage after the match against Sporting ended in a 0-0 draw. England manager Gareth Southgate included Welbeck in his squad for next Thursday's friendly with the United States and a Nations League tie against Croatia three days later at Wembley. Arsenal's Mesut Ozil took to Twitter soon after the incident to wish his team mate well, saying: "Oh no ... get well soon Danny".

Danny Welbeck taken to hospital with 'serious injury'

Leicester City players will wear shirts with club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha's name embroidered on them when they play their first home match since the Thai tycoon was killed in a helicopter crash, the Premier League club said.

Vichai was one of five killed in the crash near the King Power Stadium after Leicester's last home league match on October 27.

Leicester said they will pay tribute to Vichai with a video presentation when they host Burnley in the league on Saturday, while supporters have also planned a march to the venue.

Both teams will wear black armbands during the game, with a two-minute silence to be observed before the kickoff, while Leicester's players will wear the tribute shirts in the first half and shirts with a poppy emblem for the second to commemorate Remembrance Sunday.

"The Srivaddhanaprabha family and everyone at Leicester City Football Club have been deeply moved by the remarkable volume of generous and thoughtful tributes left at King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement.

"The support of our fans, our community and the football world during this darkest of weeks will never be forgotten."

Leicester City players will wear shirts with club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha's name embroidered on them when they play their first home match since the Thai tycoon was killed in a helicopter crash, the Premier League club said.

Leicester City players will wear shirts with club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha's name embroidered on them when they play their first home match since the Thai tycoon was killed in a helicopter crash, the Premier League club said. Vichai was one of five killed in the crash near the King Power Stadium after Leicester's last home league match on October 27. Leicester said they will pay tribute to Vichai with a video presentation when they host Burnley in the league on Saturday, while supporters have also planned a march to the venue. Both teams will wear black armbands during the game, with a two-minute silence to be observed before the kickoff, while Leicester's players will wear the tribute shirts in the first half and shirts with a poppy emblem for the second to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. "The Srivaddhanaprabha family and everyone at Leicester City Football Club have been deeply moved by the remarkable volume of generous and thoughtful tributes left at King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement. "The support of our fans, our community and the football world during this darkest of weeks will never be forgotten."

Leicester players to wear special kits in tribute to owner Vichai

Alvaro Morata scored twice as unbeaten Chelsea climbed to second in the Premier League with a 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

After Liverpool drew at Arsenal on Saturday, Chelsea knew victory would send them second and in-form Spain forward Morata saw them on their way with two smart finishes.

First the 26-year-old skilfully controlled and converted Pedro's cross in the 32nd minute, then -- after Andros Townsend equalised -- the often maligned Morata lashed home from a tight angle in the 65th minute for his fourth goal in four league matches.

Pedro then sealed the victory five minutes later, ghosting into the box to convert Marcos Alonso's cross in the 70th minute for a Chelsea side, who also welcomed back Eden Hazard as a second-half substitute.

Chelsea, one of three unbeaten sides, have 27 points from 11 games -- two fewer than leaders Manchester City -- and lead Liverpool in third on goal difference.

Palace, meanwhile, have won just twice in the league this season and remain 14th with eight points.

"I can score a hat-trick so it was not the perfect day but we will take the three points," Morata, who spurned a golden opportunity for a third in the dying stages, told Sky Sports.

"We want to fight until the end for the Premier League. It is very hard because the Premier League is the most competitive league in the world. It will be very difficult. We want to take all the points. It is the only way to try to fight for the league."

Chelsea talisman Hazard was fit enough only for a place on the bench following injury but under Maurizio Sarri the Blues are no longer solely reliant on the brilliant Belgian.

Despite impressing so far this season though, Chelsea had to weather a spirited start from a Palace side who had won two of the previous three meetings between the sides.

Chelsea slowly wrestled the impetus away from their London rivals and Morata fired the Blues ahead before Wilian had a goal ruled out for offside just minutes later.

Palace started the second half stronger and a lovely, dinked through ball from James McArthur saw Townsend surge clear before unleashing a low drive into the bottom corner to restore parity in the 53rd minute.

But that prompted the introduction of Hazard to a rapturous reception, and the 27-year-old's presence was enough for Chelsea to finish comfortable winners with quickfire goals from Morata and Pedro.

Alvaro Morata scored twice as unbeaten Chelsea climbed to second in the Premier League with a 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace on Sunday. After Liverpool drew at Arsenal on Saturday, Chelsea knew victory would send them second and in-form Spain forward Morata saw them on their way with two smart finishes.

Alvaro Morata scored twice as unbeaten Chelsea climbed to second in the Premier League with a 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace on Sunday. After Liverpool drew at Arsenal on Saturday, Chelsea knew victory would send them second and in-form Spain forward Morata saw them on their way with two smart finishes. First the 26-year-old skilfully controlled and converted Pedro's cross in the 32nd minute, then -- after Andros Townsend equalised -- the often maligned Morata lashed home from a tight angle in the 65th minute for his fourth goal in four league matches. Pedro then sealed the victory five minutes later, ghosting into the box to convert Marcos Alonso's cross in the 70th minute for a Chelsea side, who also welcomed back Eden Hazard as a second-half substitute. Chelsea, one of three unbeaten sides, have 27 points from 11 games -- two fewer than leaders Manchester City -- and lead Liverpool in third on goal difference. Palace, meanwhile, have won just twice in the league this season and remain 14th with eight points. "I can score a hat-trick so it was not the perfect day but we will take the three points," Morata, who spurned a golden opportunity for a third in the dying stages, told Sky Sports. "We want to fight until the end for the Premier League. It is very hard because the Premier League is the most competitive league in the world. It will be very difficult. We want to take all the points. It is the only way to try to fight for the league." Chelsea talisman Hazard was fit enough only for a place on the bench following injury but under Maurizio Sarri the Blues are no longer solely reliant on the brilliant Belgian. Despite impressing so far this season though, Chelsea had to weather a spirited start from a Palace side who had won two of the previous three meetings between the sides. Chelsea slowly wrestled the impetus away from their London rivals and Morata fired the Blues ahead before Wilian had a goal ruled out for offside just minutes later. Palace started the second half stronger and a lovely, dinked through ball from James McArthur saw Townsend surge clear before unleashing a low drive into the bottom corner to restore parity in the 53rd minute. But that prompted the introduction of Hazard to a rapturous reception, and the 27-year-old's presence was enough for Chelsea to finish comfortable winners with quickfire goals from Morata and Pedro.

Alvaro Morata brace sends unbeaten Chelsea second in Premier League

Manchester United substitute Marcus Rashford scored a stoppage-time winner as they came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 away and close the gap on the top four in an exciting Premier League clash on Saturday.

Callum Wilson had fired Bournemouth ahead in the 11th minute but they were on the back foot after in-form Anthony Martial netted his fifth goal in the last four games in the 35th and Rashford completed the comeback from close range late on.

United are in provisional seventh spot on 20 points from 11 games, two points behind fourth-placed Arsenal who host second-placed Liverpool in the day's standout fixture at 1730 GMT.

Bournemouth are sixth ahead of United on goal difference after their first home league defeat since April, when they lost 2-0 to United in the closing stages of last season's campaign.

United manager Jose Mourinho was delighted with the outcome but furious with his team's poor defending in the opening stages when they were fortunate to be only a goal down.

"The first half was a disaster," Mourinho told BT Sport. "The second half was much better. We created lots of chances and deserved to score before the 92nd minute.

"We were defensively awful. I think a few mistakes create instability. I love the song, 'attack, attack, attack' but you need to have stability when you lose the ball."

ALL AT SEA

With United's defence looking all at sea in the opening 10 minutes, Bournemouth missed three gilt-edged chances before Wilson fired the Cherries ahead with a simple tap-in following an inch-perfect low cross from the right by Junior Stanislas.

Martial levelled with a powerful left-foot shot from 11 metres, after good work by Ashley Young and Alexis Sanchez, the French forward scoring in four successive top-flight games for the first time in his career.

With United's Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku left out of the matchday squad, Martial stepped up to torment his markers in the second half as United piled on the pressure after Ander Herrera and Rashford came on for Juan Mata and Brazil midfielder Fred.

Home keeper Asmir Begovic denied Luke Shaw shortly after the break and late substitute Jesse Lingard in the 89th minute, with Bournemouth also twice clearing off the line after Young's free kick came off the woodwork and caused a goalmouth scramble.

Just when it seemed the home side would hang on, Rashford popped up in the six-yard box to chest down Paul Pogba's cross and tuck the ball past Begovic, prompting wild celebrations among his teammates although a muted reaction from Mourinho.

"I said at halftime I was the luckiest manager in the Premier League," said Mourinho who added that he thought Bournemouth should have been 5-2 or 6-2 ahead by then.

"I said it is impossible to play worse than we did so the second half will be better for sure. I really can't understand the kind of mentality that brings me more white hair!"

Manchester United substitute Marcus Rashford scored a stoppage-time winner as they came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 away and close the gap on the top four in an exciting Premier League clash on Saturday.

Manchester United substitute Marcus Rashford scored a stoppage-time winner as they came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 away and close the gap on the top four in an exciting Premier League clash on Saturday. Callum Wilson had fired Bournemouth ahead in the 11th minute but they were on the back foot after in-form Anthony Martial netted his fifth goal in the last four games in the 35th and Rashford completed the comeback from close range late on. United are in provisional seventh spot on 20 points from 11 games, two points behind fourth-placed Arsenal who host second-placed Liverpool in the day's standout fixture at 1730 GMT. Bournemouth are sixth ahead of United on goal difference after their first home league defeat since April, when they lost 2-0 to United in the closing stages of last season's campaign. United manager Jose Mourinho was delighted with the outcome but furious with his team's poor defending in the opening stages when they were fortunate to be only a goal down. "The first half was a disaster," Mourinho told BT Sport. "The second half was much better. We created lots of chances and deserved to score before the 92nd minute. "We were defensively awful. I think a few mistakes create instability. I love the song, 'attack, attack, attack' but you need to have stability when you lose the ball." ALL AT SEA With United's defence looking all at sea in the opening 10 minutes, Bournemouth missed three gilt-edged chances before Wilson fired the Cherries ahead with a simple tap-in following an inch-perfect low cross from the right by Junior Stanislas. Martial levelled with a powerful left-foot shot from 11 metres, after good work by Ashley Young and Alexis Sanchez, the French forward scoring in four successive top-flight games for the first time in his career. With United's Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku left out of the matchday squad, Martial stepped up to torment his markers in the second half as United piled on the pressure after Ander Herrera and Rashford came on for Juan Mata and Brazil midfielder Fred. Home keeper Asmir Begovic denied Luke Shaw shortly after the break and late substitute Jesse Lingard in the 89th minute, with Bournemouth also twice clearing off the line after Young's free kick came off the woodwork and caused a goalmouth scramble. Just when it seemed the home side would hang on, Rashford popped up in the six-yard box to chest down Paul Pogba's cross and tuck the ball past Begovic, prompting wild celebrations among his teammates although a muted reaction from Mourinho. "I said at halftime I was the luckiest manager in the Premier League," said Mourinho who added that he thought Bournemouth should have been 5-2 or 6-2 ahead by then. "I said it is impossible to play worse than we did so the second half will be better for sure. I really can't understand the kind of mentality that brings me more white hair!"

Last-gasp Rashford goal earns United win at Bournemouth

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United can still secure a top-four finish in the Premier League, saying an unkind fixture list is partly to blame for their early season struggles.

United are languishing in eighth place in the table, five points from a Champions League qualification position, as they prepare to visit Bournemouth on Saturday.

But the manager believes his team have been hindered by a series of difficult back-to-back away fixtures, citing the fact they must travel to Manchester City in the Premier League on November 11, four days after a Champions League trip to Juventus, and that they visit Liverpool in December after a European away game against Valencia.

He did not mention that United have also had back-to-back home games three times across all competitions already this season and have only played two of the current top six in their opening 10 league games.

Mourinho, in his pre-match press conference, said he believed the picture at Old Trafford would be rosier at the beginning of the New Year.

"I always say that in the end of the season you play 19 matches at home and away and it doesn't matter when but the reality is that the way the fixtures are coming, sometimes they have an influence in the moment.

"We had a double fixture away in September (at Burnley and Watford). Now we have a double away league fixture at Bournemouth and Manchester City.

"We will have Juventus away before we go to Manchester City, and we will have Valencia away before Liverpool.

"In this part of the season, we play away against possibly the three biggest candidates for the title, in Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City, so the calendar was not nice to us.

"But I think by the end of December, which is the end of the first half of the Premier League season, we are not going to be in the position we are now. We will be in a better position."

Title challenge?

Mourinho has refused to rule out a challenge for the title but says the first priority must be to climb into the top four.

"When you are outside the top four I don't think you should speak about the title," he said. "When you are in the top four, which I believe we are going to be, you can look up, see the distance, look to the fixtures, to the calendar."

He declined to reveal whether striker Romelu Lukaku would be recalled at Bournemouth, having been dropped after going eight games without scoring.

The manager also said he was "100 percent not guilty" of using foul language after being cleared by an independent panel of a Football Association charge.

Mourinho was accused of improper conduct for remarks he allegedly made in Portuguese after their 3-2 Premier League win over Newcastle on October 6.

He has avoided a touchline ban after the charge was found "not proven", although it is understood that the FA is considering an appeal.

However, Mourinho said that the reason United went to such lengths to contest the charge, putting forward detailed linguistic analysis and citing precedents of other football figures swearing during matches, was because he was convinced of his innocence.

"You know the reason why I ask the club and lawyers to appeal was because I was 100 percent sure that I was not guilty of these charges but you never know how it ends," he said.

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United can still secure a top-four finish in the Premier League, saying an unkind fixture list is partly to blame for their early season struggles.

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United can still secure a top-four finish in the Premier League, saying an unkind fixture list is partly to blame for their early season struggles. United are languishing in eighth place in the table, five points from a Champions League qualification position, as they prepare to visit Bournemouth on Saturday. But the manager believes his team have been hindered by a series of difficult back-to-back away fixtures, citing the fact they must travel to Manchester City in the Premier League on November 11, four days after a Champions League trip to Juventus, and that they visit Liverpool in December after a European away game against Valencia. He did not mention that United have also had back-to-back home games three times across all competitions already this season and have only played two of the current top six in their opening 10 league games. Mourinho, in his pre-match press conference, said he believed the picture at Old Trafford would be rosier at the beginning of the New Year. "I always say that in the end of the season you play 19 matches at home and away and it doesn't matter when but the reality is that the way the fixtures are coming, sometimes they have an influence in the moment. "We had a double fixture away in September (at Burnley and Watford). Now we have a double away league fixture at Bournemouth and Manchester City. "We will have Juventus away before we go to Manchester City, and we will have Valencia away before Liverpool. "In this part of the season, we play away against possibly the three biggest candidates for the title, in Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City, so the calendar was not nice to us. "But I think by the end of December, which is the end of the first half of the Premier League season, we are not going to be in the position we are now. We will be in a better position." Title challenge? Mourinho has refused to rule out a challenge for the title but says the first priority must be to climb into the top four. "When you are outside the top four I don't think you should speak about the title," he said. "When you are in the top four, which I believe we are going to be, you can look up, see the distance, look to the fixtures, to the calendar." He declined to reveal whether striker Romelu Lukaku would be recalled at Bournemouth, having been dropped after going eight games without scoring. The manager also said he was "100 percent not guilty" of using foul language after being cleared by an independent panel of a Football Association charge. Mourinho was accused of improper conduct for remarks he allegedly made in Portuguese after their 3-2 Premier League win over Newcastle on October 6. He has avoided a touchline ban after the charge was found "not proven", although it is understood that the FA is considering an appeal. However, Mourinho said that the reason United went to such lengths to contest the charge, putting forward detailed linguistic analysis and citing precedents of other football figures swearing during matches, was because he was convinced of his innocence. "You know the reason why I ask the club and lawyers to appeal was because I was 100 percent sure that I was not guilty of these charges but you never know how it ends," he said.

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United can reach Premier League top four

Kevin De Bruyne suffered an injury scare as League Cup holders Manchester City moved into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win against Fulham on Thursday.

There was concern for De Bruyne after the City midfielder limped off with what appeared to be a knee injury in the closing minutes.

De Bruyne, 27, only recently returned from another knee problem that forced him to miss two months this season, limiting him to five appearances to date.

City manager Pep Guardiola will hope his influential Belgian star is able to make a quick recovery as they head into a busy period featuring crucial Champions League fixtures and the Manchester derby.

"He's being checked by the doctor. Right now I don't know if it's nothing or something serious," Guardiola said.

Until the injury, Guardiola felt it was the most complete performance of De Bruyne's comeback, but now he must fret over his fitness again.

"I think today Kevin is back. The Kevin we know," he said. "Today he was involved in offence and defence. Hopefully what happened in the last minute is not serious."

De Bruyne's injury overshadowed a memorable evening for youngster Brahim Diaz.

Diaz was making only his third appearance of the season and the promising Spanish striker seized his chance with a brace at the Etihad Stadium.

The 19-year-old's goals ensured City advance to face Leicester or Southampton in the last eight as they bid to retain the trophy.

Diaz has been linked with a move to Real Madrid among other top European sides, but Guardiola confirmed City are keen to hold onto their hot prospect.

"He knows the desire we have and what we want for all the young players," Guardiola said.&nbsp;

"They know how we want to protect them and to try to help them understand the way we want to play.

"We want him. In the end it won't depend on us, it is them. It is the agent, him, his family, they will decide."

With the English champions having won at Tottenham in the Premier League on Monday, Guardiola rested many of his stars among 10 changes.

Diaz was one of those who came in, while De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus also featured against Premier League strugglers Fulham.

Prior to his injury, De Bruyne had been dominant and he quickly tested the Fulham defence with a run and shot.

Foden brought Fulham goalkeeper Sergio Rico into action with a powerful strike.

But it was his fellow teenager Diaz who opened the scoring with his first City goal in the 19th minute.

A short corner found its way to Vincent Kompany at the far post and Diaz ran on to his header down to hit a powerful shot which deflected past the goalkeeper off Aleksander Mitrovic.

Danilo nearly added City's second when the defender weaved into the penalty area before unleashing a searing effort which struck the outside of a post.

As half-time loomed, De Bruyne sent a wicked cross in from the right but Foden's header went just the wrong side of the far post.

City were straight back on the front foot to start the second half, with Jesus heading wide before De Bruyne's curling shot went just the wrong side of the post.

They had to wait until the 65th minute for the second goal to come as Diaz netted again.

Leroy Sane slipped the ball through to Jesus, but when his shot across goal was touched on to the woodwork by Rico, it fell for Diaz, who took a touch before lashing home.

Fulham never threatened to stop City keeping a fifth successive clean-sheet in all competitions.

A comfortable evening for the Premier League leaders finished on a low note five minutes from full-time when De Bruyne went down in pain after falling awkwardly in a clash with Timothy Fosu-Mensah.

Kevin De Bruyne suffered an injury scare as League Cup holders Manchester City moved into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win against Fulham on Thursday. There was concern for De Bruyne after the City midfielder limped off with what appeared to be a knee injury in the closing minutes.

Kevin De Bruyne suffered an injury scare as League Cup holders Manchester City moved into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win against Fulham on Thursday. There was concern for De Bruyne after the City midfielder limped off with what appeared to be a knee injury in the closing minutes. De Bruyne, 27, only recently returned from another knee problem that forced him to miss two months this season, limiting him to five appearances to date. City manager Pep Guardiola will hope his influential Belgian star is able to make a quick recovery as they head into a busy period featuring crucial Champions League fixtures and the Manchester derby. "He's being checked by the doctor. Right now I don't know if it's nothing or something serious," Guardiola said. Until the injury, Guardiola felt it was the most complete performance of De Bruyne's comeback, but now he must fret over his fitness again. "I think today Kevin is back. The Kevin we know," he said. "Today he was involved in offence and defence. Hopefully what happened in the last minute is not serious." De Bruyne's injury overshadowed a memorable evening for youngster Brahim Diaz. Diaz was making only his third appearance of the season and the promising Spanish striker seized his chance with a brace at the Etihad Stadium. The 19-year-old's goals ensured City advance to face Leicester or Southampton in the last eight as they bid to retain the trophy. Diaz has been linked with a move to Real Madrid among other top European sides, but Guardiola confirmed City are keen to hold onto their hot prospect. "He knows the desire we have and what we want for all the young players," Guardiola said. "They know how we want to protect them and to try to help them understand the way we want to play. "We want him. In the end it won't depend on us, it is them. It is the agent, him, his family, they will decide." With the English champions having won at Tottenham in the Premier League on Monday, Guardiola rested many of his stars among 10 changes. Diaz was one of those who came in, while De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus also featured against Premier League strugglers Fulham. Prior to his injury, De Bruyne had been dominant and he quickly tested the Fulham defence with a run and shot. Foden brought Fulham goalkeeper Sergio Rico into action with a powerful strike. But it was his fellow teenager Diaz who opened the scoring with his first City goal in the 19th minute. A short corner found its way to Vincent Kompany at the far post and Diaz ran on to his header down to hit a powerful shot which deflected past the goalkeeper off Aleksander Mitrovic. Danilo nearly added City's second when the defender weaved into the penalty area before unleashing a searing effort which struck the outside of a post. As half-time loomed, De Bruyne sent a wicked cross in from the right but Foden's header went just the wrong side of the far post. City were straight back on the front foot to start the second half, with Jesus heading wide before De Bruyne's curling shot went just the wrong side of the post. They had to wait until the 65th minute for the second goal to come as Diaz netted again. Leroy Sane slipped the ball through to Jesus, but when his shot across goal was touched on to the woodwork by Rico, it fell for Diaz, who took a touch before lashing home. Fulham never threatened to stop City keeping a fifth successive clean-sheet in all competitions. A comfortable evening for the Premier League leaders finished on a low note five minutes from full-time when De Bruyne went down in pain after falling awkwardly in a clash with Timothy Fosu-Mensah.

Pep Guardiola faces nervous wait after Kevin De Bruyne suffers scare

Southampton striker Charlie Austin has urged fans to keep the faith as they search for their second Premier League victory of the season at champions Manchester City on Sunday.

The Saints, who are 16th in the standings, were held to a goalless draw by Newcastle United last weekend to remain without a win in six games since beating Crystal Palace 2-0 on Sept. 1.

"I know the fans are getting frustrated and I understand that, but we're trying 100 percent to get the second win of the season and push on," Austin told the Southern Daily Echo.

"You only have to look around and you can see that everyone is on the edge because they don't know whether we are going to concede or score. It's hard not to feel it.

"It's a frustrating time, but just keep getting behind us and it will come. If we weren't creating the chances, then it would be time to worry."

Mark Hughes' misfiring side face a tough test against league-leaders City, who have scored 27 goals this season, 21 more than Southampton.

"We create chance after chance and loads of teams have been like it, we just can't put the ball in the net," Austin, who is yet to score in the league this season, added.

"As soon as we get that one in the net, it's going to snowball. Once it happens, we can all kick on because we are a strong side and we don't deserve to be in this situation."

Southampton striker Charlie Austin has urged fans to keep the faith as they search for their second Premier League victory of the season at champions Manchester City on Sunday.

Southampton striker Charlie Austin has urged fans to keep the faith as they search for their second Premier League victory of the season at champions Manchester City on Sunday. The Saints, who are 16th in the standings, were held to a goalless draw by Newcastle United last weekend to remain without a win in six games since beating Crystal Palace 2-0 on Sept. 1. "I know the fans are getting frustrated and I understand that, but we're trying 100 percent to get the second win of the season and push on," Austin told the Southern Daily Echo. "You only have to look around and you can see that everyone is on the edge because they don't know whether we are going to concede or score. It's hard not to feel it. "It's a frustrating time, but just keep getting behind us and it will come. If we weren't creating the chances, then it would be time to worry." Mark Hughes' misfiring side face a tough test against league-leaders City, who have scored 27 goals this season, 21 more than Southampton. "We create chance after chance and loads of teams have been like it, we just can't put the ball in the net," Austin, who is yet to score in the league this season, added. "As soon as we get that one in the net, it's going to snowball. Once it happens, we can all kick on because we are a strong side and we don't deserve to be in this situation."

Charlie Austin urges fans to keep faith with misfiring Saints

Goals in each half from Frenchmen Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial gave Manchester United a 2-1 home victory over Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.

The win, a welcome boost after United's midweek Champions League loss to Juventus, moved Jose Mourinho's side above Everton into eighth place although they are still nine points behind leaders Liverpool.

United grabbed the lead in the 27th minute when referee Jonathan Moss ruled that Idrissa Gueye had brought down Martial in the box, although replays showed the Senegalese midfielder had fairly played the ball.

Pogba took his trademark slow run-up and his spot-kick was superbly saved by Jordan Pickford but the ball fell kindly to the Frenchman who slotted home the rebound.

Four minutes after halftime United doubled their advantage when Pogba resisted the temptation to shoot from the edge of the box and rolled the ball to the left for Martial who beat Pickford with a superb low curling shot into the far corner.

However, Pogba was then at fault, giving the ball away in midfield as Everton got back in the game with a Gylfi Sigurdsson penalty in the 77th. Richarlison was brought down in the box by Chris Smalling after Sigurdsson's through ball from Pogba's error.

Goals in each half from Frenchmen Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial gave Manchester United a 2-1 home victory over Everton in the Premier League on Sunday. The win, a welcome boost after United's midweek Champions League loss to Juventus, moved Jose Mourinho's side above Everton into eighth place although they are still nine points behind leaders Liverpool.

Goals in each half from Frenchmen Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial gave Manchester United a 2-1 home victory over Everton in the Premier League on Sunday. The win, a welcome boost after United's midweek Champions League loss to Juventus, moved Jose Mourinho's side above Everton into eighth place although they are still nine points behind leaders Liverpool. United grabbed the lead in the 27th minute when referee Jonathan Moss ruled that Idrissa Gueye had brought down Martial in the box, although replays showed the Senegalese midfielder had fairly played the ball. Pogba took his trademark slow run-up and his spot-kick was superbly saved by Jordan Pickford but the ball fell kindly to the Frenchman who slotted home the rebound. Four minutes after halftime United doubled their advantage when Pogba resisted the temptation to shoot from the edge of the box and rolled the ball to the left for Martial who beat Pickford with a superb low curling shot into the far corner. However, Pogba was then at fault, giving the ball away in midfield as Everton got back in the game with a Gylfi Sigurdsson penalty in the 77th. Richarlison was brought down in the box by Chris Smalling after Sigurdsson's through ball from Pogba's error.

Paul Pogba's penalty earns Manchester United win over Everton

Chelsea went second in the Premier League with an emphatic 4-0 win at Burnley on Sunday which maintained their unbeaten start to the season.

The London club are two points behind leaders Liverpool and one point ahead of champions Manchester City, who play away to Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.

Maurizio Sarri's side barely noticed the absence of Eden Hazard as Willian, starting in the Belgian's normal position on the left, scored and hit a post.

Spanish striker Alvaro Morata gave Chelsea the lead midway through a first half in which he might have netted three times.

England midfielder Ross Barkley set him up for that goal and added the second himself from outside the penalty area early in the second half.

Brazilian Willian curled the third past Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart five minutes later and substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek completed the scoring in stoppage-time.

"For 10 minutes it was difficult at the beginning but then we played very well," said Sarri, who became the first Chelsea manager to go unbeaten in his first 10 league games in charge.

"I am very happy for Alvaro Morata and Loftus-Cheek again.

"At the end, everything is OK. We played very well in full control of the match for the last 80 minutes."

Burnley's manager Sean Dyche was left ruing another tough assignment against quality opposition following last week's 5-0 drubbing at Manchester City.

"We started very well and then we give away a poor goal from our point of view," he said.

"It was a top side doing what top sides do, they finish clinically.

"We have played two top sides back to back in City and Chelsea, who have delivered top performances and it's hard to deal with that. We aren't a million miles away."

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart conceded nine goals in the last two games but there was little he could do to repel some fine Chelsea finishing.

Hart had made one fine save from Morata's header and seen Willian's drive hit a post before the first goal.

Barkley and Willian's goals were particularly well taken as Chelsea clocked up 24 goals from their 10 games. Only City with 26 have more.

Chelsea went second in the Premier League with an emphatic 4-0 win at Burnley on Sunday which maintained their unbeaten start to the season. The London club are two points behind leaders Liverpool and one point ahead of champions Manchester City, who play away to Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.

Chelsea went second in the Premier League with an emphatic 4-0 win at Burnley on Sunday which maintained their unbeaten start to the season. The London club are two points behind leaders Liverpool and one point ahead of champions Manchester City, who play away to Tottenham Hotspur on Monday. Maurizio Sarri's side barely noticed the absence of Eden Hazard as Willian, starting in the Belgian's normal position on the left, scored and hit a post. Spanish striker Alvaro Morata gave Chelsea the lead midway through a first half in which he might have netted three times. England midfielder Ross Barkley set him up for that goal and added the second himself from outside the penalty area early in the second half. Brazilian Willian curled the third past Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart five minutes later and substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek completed the scoring in stoppage-time. "For 10 minutes it was difficult at the beginning but then we played very well," said Sarri, who became the first Chelsea manager to go unbeaten in his first 10 league games in charge. "I am very happy for Alvaro Morata and Loftus-Cheek again. "At the end, everything is OK. We played very well in full control of the match for the last 80 minutes." Burnley's manager Sean Dyche was left ruing another tough assignment against quality opposition following last week's 5-0 drubbing at Manchester City. "We started very well and then we give away a poor goal from our point of view," he said. "It was a top side doing what top sides do, they finish clinically. "We have played two top sides back to back in City and Chelsea, who have delivered top performances and it's hard to deal with that. We aren't a million miles away." Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart conceded nine goals in the last two games but there was little he could do to repel some fine Chelsea finishing. Hart had made one fine save from Morata's header and seen Willian's drive hit a post before the first goal. Barkley and Willian's goals were particularly well taken as Chelsea clocked up 24 goals from their 10 games. Only City with 26 have more.

Chelsea trash Burnely 4-0 to go second in Premier League table

The football fraternity have mourned the death of Leicester City FC chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/thai-owner-of-leicester-city-was-killed-in-helicopter-crash-174067">helicopter which crashed</a> outside team's stadium shortly after it took off on Saturday.

The fans were in shock when the club confirmed that Srivaddhanaprabha was among those to have tragically lost their lives.

Vichai, a father of four and the founder of duty-free giant King Power International, is a huge favourite with fans after he bought the unfancied side from central England in 2010 and they went on to stun the soccer world by winning the Premier League title in 2016.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-vichai-srivaddhanaprabha-owner-of-premier-league-club-leicester-city-fc-173920">Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the man who put Leicester City on global sporting map</a>

Hundreds of fans lay shirts, scarves and flowers outside the stadium in tribute to the businessman.

Players and other football clubs&nbsp;condoled Srivaddhanaprabha death and shared their thoughts and prayed for the departed souls.

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Our thoughts are with the whole <a href="https://twitter.com/LCFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lcfc</a> family. Rest in peace <a href="https://t.co/1lfHzRrBuP">https://t.co/1lfHzRrBuP</a>
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Everyone at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> is deeply saddened to learn that the Leicester City chairman and four fellow passengers have lost their lives following last night's tragic incident. Our deepest condolences are with their families, friends and those connected to the club.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1056680406639099905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Everybody at Chelsea Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death of five people at Leicester City on Saturday, including the club’s chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. 
 
Our thoughts at this sad time are with all those affected. <a href="https://t.co/bHmIuHgXiS">https://t.co/bHmIuHgXiS</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1056681723038179329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sending our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives and to everyone at <a href="https://twitter.com/LCFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LCFC</a>. We are all thinking of you during this difficult time.
— Tottenham Hotspur (@Spurs_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Spurs_India/status/1056682030451159040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"He's put so much money into the club. He has brought the club up from receivership, put the money in, built the team, won the premiership. The future is looking bright or it obviously, it was looking bright," 68-year-old fan Richard Mobbs told Reuters.

Mobbs met the club's owner watching his polo team. Vichai who is known at the club for his generosity and providing free refreshments for fans on birthdays, bought Mobbs his season ticket at the club after they became friends.

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😞😞😞🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼💙💙💙 <a href="https://t.co/hFfu6Nm1nK">pic.twitter.com/hFfu6Nm1nK</a>
— Ben Chilwell (@BenChilwell) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenChilwell/status/1056669941271855104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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— Wes Morgan (@Wes5L1nk) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wes5L1nk/status/1056671794986434562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Struggling to find the right words....but to me you are legend, an incredible man who had the biggest heart, the soul of Leicester City Football Club. Thank you for everything you did for… <a href="https://t.co/FzTaXVejUg">https://t.co/FzTaXVejUg</a>
— Jamie Vardy (@vardy7) <a href="https://twitter.com/vardy7/status/1056671233247531019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Words can’t describe how I feel. A truly great, kind, loving man who will be missed so much by everyone. 
 
I will never forget the Chairman’s support, not only during my time <a href="https://twitter.com/LCFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LCFC</a> but also during the World Cup 😢 RIP ❤ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBoss?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBoss</a> <a href="https://t.co/66aGjGGwX9">pic.twitter.com/66aGjGGwX9</a>
— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarryMaguire93/status/1056669746614149122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Thank you ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/theboss?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#theboss</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lcfc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lcfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/7qLuveBl4s">pic.twitter.com/7qLuveBl4s</a>
— Christian Fuchs (@FuchsOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/FuchsOfficial/status/1056669702943059969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Vichai helped steer Leicester back into the top flight in 2014 before they stunned the sport by beating the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea to become champions of England. Fifteen-year-old Jessica Hubbard said his tenure had "created history" at the club.

The helicopter crashed just yards from the pitch in the club's car park after the club's match against West Ham United.

According to witnesses, the helicopter just cleared the top of the stadium before it started to spin. It then plummeted to the ground and burst into flames.

The football fraternity have mourned the death of Leicester City FC chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in the helicopter which crashed outside team's stadium shortly after it took off on Saturday.

The football fraternity have mourned the death of Leicester City FC chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in the helicopter which crashed outside team's stadium shortly after it took off on Saturday. The fans were in shock when the club confirmed that Srivaddhanaprabha was among those to have tragically lost their lives. Vichai, a father of four and the founder of duty-free giant King Power International, is a huge favourite with fans after he bought the unfancied side from central England in 2010 and they went on to stun the soccer world by winning the Premier League title in 2016. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the man who put Leicester City on global sporting map Hundreds of fans lay shirts, scarves and flowers outside the stadium in tribute to the businessman. Players and other football clubs condoled Srivaddhanaprabha death and shared their thoughts and prayed for the departed souls. pic.twitter.com/hQSR0IDWWg — Leicester City (@LCFC) October 28, 2018 × Our thoughts are with the whole @lcfc family. Rest in peace https://t.co/1lfHzRrBuP — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 28, 2018 × Everyone at #MUFC is deeply saddened to learn that the Leicester City chairman and four fellow passengers have lost their lives following last night's tragic incident. Our deepest condolences are with their families, friends and those connected to the club. — Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 28, 2018 × Everybody at Chelsea Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death of five people at Leicester City on Saturday, including the club’s chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. Our thoughts at this sad time are with all those affected. https://t.co/bHmIuHgXiS — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 28, 2018 × Sending our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives and to everyone at @LCFC. We are all thinking of you during this difficult time. — Tottenham Hotspur (@Spurs_India) October 28, 2018 × "He's put so much money into the club. He has brought the club up from receivership, put the money in, built the team, won the premiership. The future is looking bright or it obviously, it was looking bright," 68-year-old fan Richard Mobbs told Reuters. Mobbs met the club's owner watching his polo team. Vichai who is known at the club for his generosity and providing free refreshments for fans on birthdays, bought Mobbs his season ticket at the club after they became friends. 😞😞😞🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼💙💙💙 pic.twitter.com/hFfu6Nm1nK — Ben Chilwell (@BenChilwell) October 28, 2018 × pic.twitter.com/R5CEM1TbAi — Wes Morgan (@Wes5L1nk) October 28, 2018 × Struggling to find the right words....but to me you are legend, an incredible man who had the biggest heart, the soul of Leicester City Football Club. Thank you for everything you did for… https://t.co/FzTaXVejUg — Jamie Vardy (@vardy7) October 28, 2018 × Words can’t describe how I feel. A truly great, kind, loving man who will be missed so much by everyone. I will never forget the Chairman’s support, not only during my time @LCFC but also during the World Cup 😢 RIP ❤ #TheBoss pic.twitter.com/66aGjGGwX9 — Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) October 28, 2018 × Thank you ❤️ #theboss #lcfc pic.twitter.com/7qLuveBl4s — Christian Fuchs (@FuchsOfficial) October 28, 2018 × Vichai helped steer Leicester back into the top flight in 2014 before they stunned the sport by beating the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea to become champions of England. Fifteen-year-old Jessica Hubbard said his tenure had "created history" at the club. The helicopter crashed just yards from the pitch in the club's car park after the club's match against West Ham United. According to witnesses, the helicopter just cleared the top of the stadium before it started to spin. It then plummeted to the ground and burst into flames.

Fans, players pay tribute to Leicester's owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was killed along with four others when his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/thai-owner-of-leicester-city-was-killed-in-helicopter-crash-174067">helicopter crashed and later exploded</a> after a Premier League match on Saturday.

Others who believed to be dead, according to Leicestershire Police, were Pilot Eric Swaffer and his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz. Two staff members Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare and a Thai tycoon also lost their lives.&nbsp;

Not many would know that Eric Swaffer and Izabela Roza Lechowicz were in a relationship. &nbsp;

Swaffer was 53 while Izabela was 46 when the helicopter crashed outside club's car park of King Power Stadium.

They lived together in Camberley, Surrey and Lechowicz had moved to the UK from Poland in 1997.

Swaffer professional pilots and Eric had over 20 years of flying experience.

In a statement, the Polish embassy said: "With great sadness, we received the news about the death of Izabela Lechowicz in the Leicester catastrophe.

"She was a great pilot, winner of the #Polka100 contest. It contributed to the creation of a positive image of Poland in the UK."

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was killed along with four others when his helicopter crashed and later exploded after a Premier League match on Saturday.

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was killed along with four others when his helicopter crashed and later exploded after a Premier League match on Saturday. Others who believed to be dead, according to Leicestershire Police, were Pilot Eric Swaffer and his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz. Two staff members Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare and a Thai tycoon also lost their lives. Not many would know that Eric Swaffer and Izabela Roza Lechowicz were in a relationship. Swaffer was 53 while Izabela was 46 when the helicopter crashed outside club's car park of King Power Stadium. They lived together in Camberley, Surrey and Lechowicz had moved to the UK from Poland in 1997. Swaffer professional pilots and Eric had over 20 years of flying experience. In a statement, the Polish embassy said: "With great sadness, we received the news about the death of Izabela Lechowicz in the Leicester catastrophe. "She was a great pilot, winner of the #Polka100 contest. It contributed to the creation of a positive image of Poland in the UK."

Leicester chopper crash: Pilots Eric Swaffer, Izabela Roza Lechowicz were a couple

Pressure has been piled up on Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/suarezs-hat-trick-helps-barcelona-thump-madrid-in-el-clasico-pressure-on-real-coach-174064">1-5 crushing defeat</a> to arch-rivals Barcelona in this season's first El Clasico on Sunday at Camp Nou.

Lopetegui, who was appointed as Madrid's coach after Zinedine Zidane's exit, accepted responsibility for the club's crisis period.

The rumours went viral that Lopetegui will be sacked due to the club's poor performances in the past few weeks.

While the main question arises that who will replace Lopetegui at Real Madrid after his departure, if it happens.

Well, media reports suggest that former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is the favourite to become the new Real Madrid manager.

The media reports mentioned that the Italian is keen to take the job.

The only problem with Conte is that he has a legal dispute to settle with Chelsea.

Barca manager Ernesto Valverde said he preferred not to see any manager sacked, including Lopetegui.&nbsp;

Pressure has been piled up on Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui after 1-5 crushing defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in this season's first El Clasico on Sunday at Camp Nou.

Pressure has been piled up on Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui after 1-5 crushing defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in this season's first El Clasico on Sunday at Camp Nou. Lopetegui, who was appointed as Madrid's coach after Zinedine Zidane's exit, accepted responsibility for the club's crisis period. The rumours went viral that Lopetegui will be sacked due to the club's poor performances in the past few weeks. While the main question arises that who will replace Lopetegui at Real Madrid after his departure, if it happens. Well, media reports suggest that former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is the favourite to become the new Real Madrid manager. The media reports mentioned that the Italian is keen to take the job. The only problem with Conte is that he has a legal dispute to settle with Chelsea. Barca manager Ernesto Valverde said he preferred not to see any manager sacked, including Lopetegui.

Antonio Conte to replace Julen Lopetegui as Real Madrid coach?

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a Thai tycoon, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/thai-owner-of-leicester-city-was-killed-in-helicopter-crash-174067">was killed along with four others</a> when his helicopter crashed and then exploded after a Premier League match on Saturday.

"It is with the deepest regret and a collective broken heart that we confirm our chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was among those to have tragically lost their lives on Saturday evening when a helicopter carrying him and four other people crashed outside King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement.

The statement further added that the club's thoughts were with "the Srivaddhanaprabha family and the families of all those on-board at this time of unspeakable loss".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jamie-vardy-leads-leicester-tributes-to-legend-vichai-174141">Jamie Vardy leads Leicester tributes to 'legend' Vichai</a>

A book of condolence will be opened at the stadium from Tuesday and the team has postponed its upcoming League Cup fixture against Southampton.

Previously, the match between Leicester City Women and Manchester United Women has also been postponed.

The Foxes also confirmed their reserves league match against Derby County has been postponed.

Leicester City Women wrote on Twitter: “In light and in respect of the recent events at King Power Stadium our @FAWC_ fixture against @ManUtdWomen has been postponed.

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Our Reserves league match against Derby County Ladies has also been postponed. 
 
If you purchased a ticket online for the Manchester United match, you will shortly receive an email with your next steps.
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"A newly arranged date will be communicated once confirmed."

"Our Reserves league match against Derby County Ladies has also been postponed."

Also,&nbsp;Crystal Palace hosted Arsenal at Selhurst Park with players wearing black armbands to pay tribute to any victims of the crash while Burnley hosted Chelsea at Turf Moor where a minute's silence was accompanied by a military band's tribute to remembrance day.

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a Thai tycoon, was killed along with four others when his helicopter crashed and then exploded after a Premier League match on Saturday.

Leicester City soccer club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a Thai tycoon, was killed along with four others when his helicopter crashed and then exploded after a Premier League match on Saturday. "It is with the deepest regret and a collective broken heart that we confirm our chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was among those to have tragically lost their lives on Saturday evening when a helicopter carrying him and four other people crashed outside King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement. The statement further added that the club's thoughts were with "the Srivaddhanaprabha family and the families of all those on-board at this time of unspeakable loss". Jamie Vardy leads Leicester tributes to 'legend' Vichai A book of condolence will be opened at the stadium from Tuesday and the team has postponed its upcoming League Cup fixture against Southampton. Previously, the match between Leicester City Women and Manchester United Women has also been postponed. The Foxes also confirmed their reserves league match against Derby County has been postponed. Leicester City Women wrote on Twitter: “In light and in respect of the recent events at King Power Stadium our @FAWC_ fixture against @ManUtdWomen has been postponed. Our Reserves league match against Derby County Ladies has also been postponed. If you purchased a ticket online for the Manchester United match, you will shortly receive an email with your next steps. — Leicester City Women (@LCWFC_official) October 28, 2018 × "A newly arranged date will be communicated once confirmed." "Our Reserves league match against Derby County Ladies has also been postponed." Also, Crystal Palace hosted Arsenal at Selhurst Park with players wearing black armbands to pay tribute to any victims of the crash while Burnley hosted Chelsea at Turf Moor where a minute's silence was accompanied by a military band's tribute to remembrance day.

Leicester City matches postponed after helicopter crash

Sadio Mane scored a brace of goals and Mohamed Salah continued his return to form as Liverpool moved to the summit of the Premier League with a comfortable 4-1 victory against lowly Cardiff City at Anfield on Saturday.

Salah ended any suggestion he was suffering a 'goal drought' when he converted from close range after Mane's shot was parried in the ninth minute -- his fourth goal in three matches.

Liverpool enjoyed 86 per cent possession and had 12 shots in a commanding first half, the only surprise being that Juergen Klopp's side did not add a second goal before the break.

It took until the 66th minute for Liverpool to add a second, with Mane wriggling through a couple of challenges before unleashing a fierce drive into the corner with his left foot.

Cardiff City set up a potentially nervy finish when Callum Paterson scored in the 77th minute, but Xherdan Shaqiri and Mane put the game to bed with late efforts.

Liverpool, still unbeaten and winners of eight of their 10 matches, have 26 points -- three clear of champions Manchester City who will reclaim top spot if they beat Tottenham Hotspur on Monday evening.

Neil Warnock's Cardiff side remain 17th with just five points from their opening 10 matches.

Sadio Mane scored a brace of goals and Mohamed Salah continued his return to form as Liverpool moved to the summit of the Premier League with a comfortable 4-1 victory against lowly Cardiff City at Anfield on Saturday.

Sadio Mane scored a brace of goals and Mohamed Salah continued his return to form as Liverpool moved to the summit of the Premier League with a comfortable 4-1 victory against lowly Cardiff City at Anfield on Saturday. Salah ended any suggestion he was suffering a 'goal drought' when he converted from close range after Mane's shot was parried in the ninth minute -- his fourth goal in three matches. Liverpool enjoyed 86 per cent possession and had 12 shots in a commanding first half, the only surprise being that Juergen Klopp's side did not add a second goal before the break. It took until the 66th minute for Liverpool to add a second, with Mane wriggling through a couple of challenges before unleashing a fierce drive into the corner with his left foot. Cardiff City set up a potentially nervy finish when Callum Paterson scored in the 77th minute, but Xherdan Shaqiri and Mane put the game to bed with late efforts. Liverpool, still unbeaten and winners of eight of their 10 matches, have 26 points -- three clear of champions Manchester City who will reclaim top spot if they beat Tottenham Hotspur on Monday evening. Neil Warnock's Cardiff side remain 17th with just five points from their opening 10 matches.

Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah fire Liverpool top of Premier League

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the Thai billionaire owner of Leicester City, whose helicopter crashed Saturday outside the Premier League club's stadium, is the author of one of football's greatest fairytales.

Polo-loving Vichai, 61, endeared himself forever to Leicester fans when the unfashionable club broke the grip of England's giants to win the Premier League in 2016 -- the first top-flight title in their history.

The title win, against overwhelming odds, put the city in England's Midlands on the global sporting map and brought glory to generations of long-suffering fans.

Leicester have been unable to reach the same meteoric heights since, finishing 12th in the following season and ninth in 2017-18 but are now firmly established as a Premier League club.

Forward Jamie Vardy, the talisman during Leicester's glory season, on Saturday tweeted a message that simply showed eight hands held together in prayer.

Bespectacled Thai tycoon Vichai is known for his unerring common touch, dishing out free beer and doughnuts at Leicester's King Power Stadium, where he often lands his helicopter in the centre circle.

It was from there that his helicopter took off after Saturday's 1-1 draw with West Ham before crashing in the car park directly outside the stadium.

Despite his popularity, Vichai remains an enigmatic figure and rarely gives interviews, preferring to let his son Aiyawatt, known as "Top", act as the family frontman.

He also rubs shoulders with celebrities and his surname, meaning "light of progressive glory," was bestowed by Thailand's late king Bhumibol Adulyadej.

"He (Vichai) is a successful businessman and he tried to challenge himself to get something done," Top, Leicester's vice-chairman, told AFP in Bangkok in 2016.

"He said, I think two or three years before, that he wants the team to be a success in the Premier League, and now we are."

Power of karma

The avuncular Vichai has carefully navigated Thailand's treacherous political waters of recent years, while taking his King Power empire from strength to strength.

He established the company in 1989, starting with a single shop in Bangkok and building a multi-billion-dollar empire.

Leicester supporters quickly warmed to him after he bought the then second-tier Championship strugglers for an estimated $51 million in 2010.

The devout Buddhist is a firm believer in the power of karma, flying in Thai monks to bless Leicester's pitch and give their players lucky amulets.

And while pumping tens of millions of pounds into the team, club debt and infrastructure, Vichai has spent judiciously.

Leicester's success was crafted from teamwork, endeavour, and hard work.

Duty-free

Vichai rose from relative obscurity, flourishing during the recent years of political upheaval in Thailand, a country where big contracts follow political loyalties.&nbsp;

King Power hit the jackpot in 2006 when it won the duty-free concession at Bangkok's cavernous new Suvarnabhumi airport, and with it a captive market of tens of millions of travellers.

In 2007, a year after ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Manchester City's former owner, was dumped from office in a coup, Vichai saw off legal moves to break his duty-free monopoly.

In a kingdom where connections count, he now firmly belongs to the royalist establishment that turfed out Thaksin. His family received its royal surname in 2013.

Before football, his first sporting love was polo, the sport beloved of the international elite, and both he and Top are accomplished players.

Vichai boasts a lifetime membership at London's Ham Polo Club, frequented by the British royals, and has a stable of horses and players on retainer in Bangkok.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the Thai billionaire owner of Leicester City, whose helicopter crashed Saturday outside the Premier League club's stadium, is the author of one of football's greatest fairytales.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the Thai billionaire owner of Leicester City, whose helicopter crashed Saturday outside the Premier League club's stadium, is the author of one of football's greatest fairytales. Polo-loving Vichai, 61, endeared himself forever to Leicester fans when the unfashionable club broke the grip of England's giants to win the Premier League in 2016 -- the first top-flight title in their history. The title win, against overwhelming odds, put the city in England's Midlands on the global sporting map and brought glory to generations of long-suffering fans. Leicester have been unable to reach the same meteoric heights since, finishing 12th in the following season and ninth in 2017-18 but are now firmly established as a Premier League club. Forward Jamie Vardy, the talisman during Leicester's glory season, on Saturday tweeted a message that simply showed eight hands held together in prayer. Bespectacled Thai tycoon Vichai is known for his unerring common touch, dishing out free beer and doughnuts at Leicester's King Power Stadium, where he often lands his helicopter in the centre circle. It was from there that his helicopter took off after Saturday's 1-1 draw with West Ham before crashing in the car park directly outside the stadium. Despite his popularity, Vichai remains an enigmatic figure and rarely gives interviews, preferring to let his son Aiyawatt, known as "Top", act as the family frontman. He also rubs shoulders with celebrities and his surname, meaning "light of progressive glory," was bestowed by Thailand's late king Bhumibol Adulyadej. "He (Vichai) is a successful businessman and he tried to challenge himself to get something done," Top, Leicester's vice-chairman, told AFP in Bangkok in 2016. "He said, I think two or three years before, that he wants the team to be a success in the Premier League, and now we are." Power of karma The avuncular Vichai has carefully navigated Thailand's treacherous political waters of recent years, while taking his King Power empire from strength to strength. He established the company in 1989, starting with a single shop in Bangkok and building a multi-billion-dollar empire. Leicester supporters quickly warmed to him after he bought the then second-tier Championship strugglers for an estimated $51 million in 2010. The devout Buddhist is a firm believer in the power of karma, flying in Thai monks to bless Leicester's pitch and give their players lucky amulets. And while pumping tens of millions of pounds into the team, club debt and infrastructure, Vichai has spent judiciously. Leicester's success was crafted from teamwork, endeavour, and hard work. Duty-free Vichai rose from relative obscurity, flourishing during the recent years of political upheaval in Thailand, a country where big contracts follow political loyalties. King Power hit the jackpot in 2006 when it won the duty-free concession at Bangkok's cavernous new Suvarnabhumi airport, and with it a captive market of tens of millions of travellers. In 2007, a year after ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Manchester City's former owner, was dumped from office in a coup, Vichai saw off legal moves to break his duty-free monopoly. In a kingdom where connections count, he now firmly belongs to the royalist establishment that turfed out Thaksin. His family received its royal surname in 2013. Before football, his first sporting love was polo, the sport beloved of the international elite, and both he and Top are accomplished players. Vichai boasts a lifetime membership at London's Ham Polo Club, frequented by the British royals, and has a stable of horses and players on retainer in Bangkok.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the man who put Leicester City on global sporting map

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;City.

The helicopter was seen enveloped in flames in mobile phone images and smoke was coming from the wreckage.

The helicopter crashed after Saturday's game against West Ham in the car park close to King Power Stadium — the scene of jubilation two years ago when underdog&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;City&nbsp;won the Premier League in a remarkable footballing feat.

"We are dealing with an incident in the vicinity of the King Power Stadium. Emergency services are aware and dealing," police said.

Thai businessman Vichai, who has poured millions into the club, often leaves the stadium in his helicopter when he attends a&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;home game.

The helicopter takes off from the pitch.

'A huge fireball'

Freelance photographer Ryan Brown, who was covering the game, told BBC Radio 5 Live he saw&nbsp;the helicopter rise out of the stadium before it crashed.

"Literally the engine stopped and I turned around, and it made a bit of a whirring noise. It turned silent, blades started spinning and then there was a big bang," he said.

He said he saw "a huge fireball" when he ran to the scene.

The identities of the pilot and any passengers on board have not yet been confirmed. It is also not yet known if anyone on the ground was injured.

"We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement.

Vichai, who owns the King Power company, bought the club in 2010 and became chairman the following February.

Leicester&nbsp;City&nbsp;footballers Jamie Vardy and Harry Maguire both tweeted praying hands emojis.

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🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarryMaguire93/status/1056281578945605633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
— Jamie Vardy (@vardy7) <a href="https://twitter.com/vardy7/status/1056280699660058629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jonathan Ashworth, Labour MP for&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;South, tweeted: "Awful horrific scenes at @LCFC with the helicopter crash."

The local ambulance service said it was alerted at 2138 GMT.

"We sent a doctor, two paramedics in ambulance cars, a crewed ambulance and our Hazardous Area Response Team, with the first resource arriving within two minutes of the call," it tweeted.

The helicopter took off from the pitch between 8.30 pm and 8.45 pm local time (1930 to 1945 GMT) but developed problems shortly afterwards with its tail rotor.

It was under the ownership of Vichai&nbsp;that&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;created one of the biggest shocks in English football history by winning the 2015/16 Premier League, having started the season as 5,000/1 outsiders for the title.

West Ham defender Pablo Zabaleta, who played in Saturday's game, tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers are with all those involved in the helicopter accident at&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;City."

His teammate Declan Rice tweeted: "Horrendous scenes at the king power tonight, my prayers &amp; thoughts go out to everyone involved at&nbsp;Leicester."

Miracle season

Vichai made major investments in the club after his purchase, returning them to England's Premier League from the second-tier Championship in 2014.

They seemed initially outmatched by richer and more established clubs from London, Liverpool and Manchester, languishing at the very bottom the table for most of the 2014-15 season.

The Foxes, as the team are known, then engineered what fans now fondly refer to as the "Great Escape", winning seven of their last nine matches.

They ended up finishing 14th, securing themselves another season in Europe's richest league in 2015-16.

But not even their most devout fans could have imagined what happened next.

Vardy, signed from unheralded Fleetwood Town, scored in 11 consecutive matches, propelling the men in blue to a title without parallel in Premier League history.

The success also qualified them for the first time for the Champions League, the lucrative championship played by Europe's most successful side, including Barcelona and Real Madrid.

There,&nbsp;Leicester&nbsp;City&nbsp;defied the odds yet again, winning their group before eventually losing the quarter-final 2-1 over two matches to Atletico Madrid.

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club Leicester City. The helicopter was seen enveloped in flames in mobile phone images and smoke was coming from the wreckage.

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club Leicester City. The helicopter was seen enveloped in flames in mobile phone images and smoke was coming from the wreckage. The helicopter crashed after Saturday's game against West Ham in the car park close to King Power Stadium — the scene of jubilation two years ago when underdog Leicester City won the Premier League in a remarkable footballing feat. "We are dealing with an incident in the vicinity of the King Power Stadium. Emergency services are aware and dealing," police said. Thai businessman Vichai, who has poured millions into the club, often leaves the stadium in his helicopter when he attends a Leicester home game. The helicopter takes off from the pitch. 'A huge fireball' Freelance photographer Ryan Brown, who was covering the game, told BBC Radio 5 Live he saw the helicopter rise out of the stadium before it crashed. "Literally the engine stopped and I turned around, and it made a bit of a whirring noise. It turned silent, blades started spinning and then there was a big bang," he said. He said he saw "a huge fireball" when he ran to the scene. The identities of the pilot and any passengers on board have not yet been confirmed. It is also not yet known if anyone on the ground was injured. "We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement. Vichai, who owns the King Power company, bought the club in 2010 and became chairman the following February. Leicester City footballers Jamie Vardy and Harry Maguire both tweeted praying hands emojis. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 — Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) October 27, 2018 × 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 — Jamie Vardy (@vardy7) October 27, 2018 × Jonathan Ashworth, Labour MP for Leicester South, tweeted: "Awful horrific scenes at @LCFC with the helicopter crash." The local ambulance service said it was alerted at 2138 GMT. "We sent a doctor, two paramedics in ambulance cars, a crewed ambulance and our Hazardous Area Response Team, with the first resource arriving within two minutes of the call," it tweeted. The helicopter took off from the pitch between 8.30 pm and 8.45 pm local time (1930 to 1945 GMT) but developed problems shortly afterwards with its tail rotor. It was under the ownership of Vichai that Leicester created one of the biggest shocks in English football history by winning the 2015/16 Premier League, having started the season as 5,000/1 outsiders for the title. West Ham defender Pablo Zabaleta, who played in Saturday's game, tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers are with all those involved in the helicopter accident at Leicester City." His teammate Declan Rice tweeted: "Horrendous scenes at the king power tonight, my prayers & thoughts go out to everyone involved at Leicester." Miracle season Vichai made major investments in the club after his purchase, returning them to England's Premier League from the second-tier Championship in 2014. They seemed initially outmatched by richer and more established clubs from London, Liverpool and Manchester, languishing at the very bottom the table for most of the 2014-15 season. The Foxes, as the team are known, then engineered what fans now fondly refer to as the "Great Escape", winning seven of their last nine matches. They ended up finishing 14th, securing themselves another season in Europe's richest league in 2015-16. But not even their most devout fans could have imagined what happened next. Vardy, signed from unheralded Fleetwood Town, scored in 11 consecutive matches, propelling the men in blue to a title without parallel in Premier League history. The success also qualified them for the first time for the Champions League, the lucrative championship played by Europe's most successful side, including Barcelona and Real Madrid. There, Leicester City defied the odds yet again, winning their group before eventually losing the quarter-final 2-1 over two matches to Atletico Madrid.

Leicester City owner's helicopter crashes in club's car park

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/helicopter-owned-by-leicester-citys-chairman-crashes-173903">Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed</a> on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club Leicester City.

Officials at Thailand's King Power said on Sunday they could make no comment after a helicopter belonging to chairman Srivaddhanaprabha, who also owns Leicester City football club, crashed in flames following a Premier League match.

Two King Power officials contacted by Reuters said they could neither confirm nor deny whether Vichai was on board the helicopter.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-vichai-srivaddhanaprabha-owner-of-premier-league-club-leicester-city-fc-173920">Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the man who put Leicester City on global sporting map</a>

"We cannot say anything and no statement can be given yet," one of the King Power officials said.

While the British media reported that S<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/leicester-city-football-club-owner-was-on-crashed-helicopter-reports-173976">rivaddhanaprabha&nbsp;was on board</a> the helicopter that crashed, quoting a source close to his family.

The incident happened after, Leicester had drawn 1-1 against West Ham United at the King Power Stadium, with the match finishing about one hour before the helicopter took off from the pitch.

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A Leicester City spokesman said: “We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium. The Club will issue a more detailed statement once further information has been established.”
— Leicester City (@LCFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LCFC/status/1056300227257352198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club Leicester City. Officials at Thailand's King Power said on Sunday they could make no comment after a helicopter belonging to chairman Srivaddhanaprabha, who also owns Leicester City football club, crashed in flames following a Premier League match.

A helicopter belonging to Thai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha crashed on Saturday near the stadium of his UK football club Leicester City. Officials at Thailand's King Power said on Sunday they could make no comment after a helicopter belonging to chairman Srivaddhanaprabha, who also owns Leicester City football club, crashed in flames following a Premier League match. Two King Power officials contacted by Reuters said they could neither confirm nor deny whether Vichai was on board the helicopter. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the man who put Leicester City on global sporting map "We cannot say anything and no statement can be given yet," one of the King Power officials said. While the British media reported that Srivaddhanaprabha was on board the helicopter that crashed, quoting a source close to his family. The incident happened after, Leicester had drawn 1-1 against West Ham United at the King Power Stadium, with the match finishing about one hour before the helicopter took off from the pitch. A Leicester City spokesman said: “We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium. The Club will issue a more detailed statement once further information has been established.” — Leicester City (@LCFC) October 27, 2018 ×

Leicester City chairman's copter crash: Thailand's King Power says 'no comment'

Leicester City football club owner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-vichai-srivaddhanaprabha-owner-of-premier-league-club-leicester-city-fc-173920">Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha</a> was on board a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/helicopter-owned-by-leicester-citys-chairman-crashes-173903">helicopter that crashed outside the club's stadium</a>, the BBC reported on Sunday, quoting a source close to his family.

The helicopter crashed in a ball of flames in the club's car park on Saturday after a Premier League match.

Officials from the club and Vichai's company, duty-free giant King Power International, declined to comment on whether he was in the helicopter when it spiralled out of control and crashed around an hour after the game.

According to eyewitnesses, the helicopter just cleared the top of the stadium before it started to spin. It then plummeted to the ground and burst into flames.

A spokesman for the Midlands club said on Saturday: "We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium."

John Butcher, who was near the stadium at the time of the crash, told the BBC his nephew saw the helicopter spiral out of control apparently due to a faulty rear propeller.

"Within a second it dropped like a stone to the floor...Luckily it did spiral for a little while and everybody sort of ran, sort of scattered. As far as we are aware nobody around the car park was caught up in this problem."

In Thailand, officials at King Power said they could not yet comment on the crash or say whether Vichai had been aboard.

Vichai is a huge favourite with the fans after he bought the unfancied side from central England in 2010 and they went on to stun the soccer world by winning the league title in 2016.

According to Forbes magazine he is the fifth richest person in Thailand with an estimated net worth of $4.9 billion.

Leicestershire Police said a team from the Department for Transport's Air Accidents Investigations Branch had taken charge of the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Leicester City football club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was on board a helicopter that crashed outside the club's stadium, the BBC reported on Sunday, quoting a source close to his family.

Leicester City football club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was on board a helicopter that crashed outside the club's stadium, the BBC reported on Sunday, quoting a source close to his family. The helicopter crashed in a ball of flames in the club's car park on Saturday after a Premier League match. Officials from the club and Vichai's company, duty-free giant King Power International, declined to comment on whether he was in the helicopter when it spiralled out of control and crashed around an hour after the game. According to eyewitnesses, the helicopter just cleared the top of the stadium before it started to spin. It then plummeted to the ground and burst into flames. A spokesman for the Midlands club said on Saturday: "We are assisting Leicestershire Police and the emergency services in dealing with a major incident at King Power Stadium." John Butcher, who was near the stadium at the time of the crash, told the BBC his nephew saw the helicopter spiral out of control apparently due to a faulty rear propeller. "Within a second it dropped like a stone to the floor...Luckily it did spiral for a little while and everybody sort of ran, sort of scattered. As far as we are aware nobody around the car park was caught up in this problem." In Thailand, officials at King Power said they could not yet comment on the crash or say whether Vichai had been aboard. Vichai is a huge favourite with the fans after he bought the unfancied side from central England in 2010 and they went on to stun the soccer world by winning the league title in 2016. According to Forbes magazine he is the fifth richest person in Thailand with an estimated net worth of $4.9 billion. Leicestershire Police said a team from the Department for Transport's Air Accidents Investigations Branch had taken charge of the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Leicester City football club owner was in helicopter that crashed: Reports

Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola says it would be impossible for him to ever coach another team in England and says he is now a Mancunian for life.

Guardiola, who led City to the Premier League title last season with a record points tally of 100, signed a contract extension with the champions earlier this year that will take him to the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

One of the most successful managers in world football, Guardiola has been known to keep his coaching stints brief, spending four years at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich.

However, even if he ended his stay at City after five years in 2021, he said he could not envisage one day managing a Premier League rival.

"I will be Mancunian for rest of my life. I will (always) be a Manchester City fan, it would not be possible to train another team in England like Manchester City," Guardiola said in an interview with BBC Radio 5Live.

"I feel beloved from the people here... I want to make a better club to make them believe we are strong enough to do better things."

The 47-year-old won 14 trophies as Barcelona coach and seven while at Bayern, but said that a less intrusive media landscape made it easier to settle as a manager in England.

"I understand why in England you can stay at a club for 20 years in one place," Guardiola, who also claimed the League Cup for City last season, added.

"Here during the week I don't see the journalists and for example we had maybe some problems in the locker room, sometimes we have to be tough with players -- but nothing goes out. Just a few times.

"In Barcelona or in Bayern Munich everything that happened, the next time (day) it is in... the media. So here you are more comfortable."

The former Barcelona player has won almost every major honour available to him as a manager. However, one of the prizes he still wishes to claim, is hearing Elton John sing live.

"I've never been to a concert of his, it is a huge dream. I met him at Watford when we played there last season and it was a huge pleasure," Guardiola said.

Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola says it would be impossible for him to ever coach another team in England and says he is now a Mancunian for life.

Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola says it would be impossible for him to ever coach another team in England and says he is now a Mancunian for life. Guardiola, who led City to the Premier League title last season with a record points tally of 100, signed a contract extension with the champions earlier this year that will take him to the end of the 2020-21 campaign. One of the most successful managers in world football, Guardiola has been known to keep his coaching stints brief, spending four years at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich. However, even if he ended his stay at City after five years in 2021, he said he could not envisage one day managing a Premier League rival. "I will be Mancunian for rest of my life. I will (always) be a Manchester City fan, it would not be possible to train another team in England like Manchester City," Guardiola said in an interview with BBC Radio 5Live. "I feel beloved from the people here... I want to make a better club to make them believe we are strong enough to do better things." The 47-year-old won 14 trophies as Barcelona coach and seven while at Bayern, but said that a less intrusive media landscape made it easier to settle as a manager in England. "I understand why in England you can stay at a club for 20 years in one place," Guardiola, who also claimed the League Cup for City last season, added. "Here during the week I don't see the journalists and for example we had maybe some problems in the locker room, sometimes we have to be tough with players -- but nothing goes out. Just a few times. "In Barcelona or in Bayern Munich everything that happened, the next time (day) it is in... the media. So here you are more comfortable." The former Barcelona player has won almost every major honour available to him as a manager. However, one of the prizes he still wishes to claim, is hearing Elton John sing live. "I've never been to a concert of his, it is a huge dream. I met him at Watford when we played there last season and it was a huge pleasure," Guardiola said.

I couldn't manage another English team, says City boss Pep Guardiola

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