Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday.

Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City.

Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 last weekend to register their first win of the campaign but facing Liverpool at home is a far more daunting prospect because the Merseysiders have not lost a home league match since April 2017.

"It is virtually impossible for any team in the current game (to win at Anfield)," Warnock told a news conference on Friday.

"Their front three is probably the best front three in the world. But we're playing quite well -- I think we can cause them problems. You have to go there and believe you can."

In an ominous sign for Cardiff, Liverpool's forward line of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino were all on target in their 4-0 Champions League victory over Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday.

"We all have to play to the top of our potential to give them a good game and hope they're having a bit of an off day," Warnock added.

Liverpool's biggest improvement has been at the other end of the pitch, however, where centre-back Virgil van Dijk and Brazil international goalkeeper Alisson have marshalled a defence that has kept seven clean sheets in 13 matches in all competitions.

Warnock revealed he had passed up on the chance to sign Van Dijk years before Liverpool made the Dutchman the most expensive defender in the world when they signed him from Southampton in January.

"I'm delighted (Van Dijk's) playing like he is," Warnock added. "We could have bought him at (Crystal) Palace for six million pounds ($7.7 million) but my chief scout told me he was too slow. I think he's still in a job as well."

With Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson out with a hamstring injury, Van Dijk captained the team in their midweek Champions League win and could be in line to lead the side again on Saturday.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday. Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday. Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City. Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 last weekend to register their first win of the campaign but facing Liverpool at home is a far more daunting prospect because the Merseysiders have not lost a home league match since April 2017. "It is virtually impossible for any team in the current game (to win at Anfield)," Warnock told a news conference on Friday. "Their front three is probably the best front three in the world. But we're playing quite well -- I think we can cause them problems. You have to go there and believe you can." In an ominous sign for Cardiff, Liverpool's forward line of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino were all on target in their 4-0 Champions League victory over Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday. "We all have to play to the top of our potential to give them a good game and hope they're having a bit of an off day," Warnock added. Liverpool's biggest improvement has been at the other end of the pitch, however, where centre-back Virgil van Dijk and Brazil international goalkeeper Alisson have marshalled a defence that has kept seven clean sheets in 13 matches in all competitions. Warnock revealed he had passed up on the chance to sign Van Dijk years before Liverpool made the Dutchman the most expensive defender in the world when they signed him from Southampton in January. "I'm delighted (Van Dijk's) playing like he is," Warnock added. "We could have bought him at (Crystal) Palace for six million pounds ($7.7 million) but my chief scout told me he was too slow. I think he's still in a job as well." With Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson out with a hamstring injury, Van Dijk captained the team in their midweek Champions League win and could be in line to lead the side again on Saturday.

Beating Liverpool 'virtually impossible', says Cardiff boss

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek scored the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder that inspired his team to register a win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov in Europa League on Thursday.&nbsp;

Reaction from Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri after Ruben Loftus-Cheek's performance was quite hilarious when he said that there is a "little problem" with the club right now.&nbsp;

Sarri said while addressing the media that he got a little problem, he said, "I have to put only eleven players in the starting eleven and I have 28 players."&nbsp;

Loftus-Cheek is yet to start a Premier League match under new boss Sarri but handed the taskmaster Italian an acute reminder of his talents with a coolly-taken treble.&nbsp;

"So, I have this little problem and I don't know how to solve it. I can ask to play with fifteen or sixteen (players) but, as I said before, I have a tactical problem with the midfielders, with their characteristics."&nbsp;

"We need to work, they have to improve in the defensive phase so maybe in the future, I will be able to put (Ross) Barkley and Loftus(-Cheek) in the starting eleven at the same time."&nbsp;

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek scored the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder that inspired his team to register a win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov in Europa League on Thursday.

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek scored the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder that inspired his team to register a win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov in Europa League on Thursday. Reaction from Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri after Ruben Loftus-Cheek's performance was quite hilarious when he said that there is a "little problem" with the club right now. Sarri said while addressing the media that he got a little problem, he said, "I have to put only eleven players in the starting eleven and I have 28 players." Loftus-Cheek is yet to start a Premier League match under new boss Sarri but handed the taskmaster Italian an acute reminder of his talents with a coolly-taken treble. "So, I have this little problem and I don't know how to solve it. I can ask to play with fifteen or sixteen (players) but, as I said before, I have a tactical problem with the midfielders, with their characteristics." "We need to work, they have to improve in the defensive phase so maybe in the future, I will be able to put (Ross) Barkley and Loftus(-Cheek) in the starting eleven at the same time."

Maurizio Sarri don't know how to solve Chelsea's 'little problem'

Ronaldo a 'happy man' ahead of Old Trafford return despite off-field distractions

Mesut Ozil shrugged off his poor start in the ongoing edition of Premier League by scoring a goal in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aubameyang-and-ozil-inspire-arsenal-comeback-against-leicester-172903">Arsenal's 3-1 win against Leicester City</a> on Monday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang came off the bench to score twice and Mesut Ozil scored the other to stretch Arsenal's winning streak in all competitions to 10 games of this season.

Arsenal has been in a commanding position since the start of the season as, now, they rose to fourth with 21 points from nine games, two points behind Manchester City and Liverpool and level with third-placed Chelsea.

Arsenal enjoyed the clash against Leicester but the highlight of the match was Ozil, who netted the equaliser just before half-time and played a key role in Aubameyang's second-half double, at the Emirates Stadium.

Watch Ozil's goal here:

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Didn’t even realize how involved Ozil was all the way from start to finish in this goal <a href="https://t.co/77BxapIlx6">pic.twitter.com/77BxapIlx6</a>
— kettle hater (@shutupdec) <a href="https://twitter.com/shutupdec/status/1054475684599549952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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OZIL'S GOAL against Leicester <a href="https://t.co/wU6xTpgfcP">pic.twitter.com/wU6xTpgfcP</a>
— azhar (@itsazharua) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsazharua/status/1054460997417820161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ozil shared his excitement, tweeting after the match: "I think we played some sexy football tonight. Proud captain of this team."

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I think we played some sexy football tonight 😎💪🏼 Proud captain of this team and this club! © <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YaGunnersYa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YaGunnersYa</a> ❤ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/M1%C3%96?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#M1Ö</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPFGxViAes">pic.twitter.com/iPFGxViAes</a>
— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) <a href="https://twitter.com/MesutOzil1088/status/1054480211369189379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Arsenal was put under pressure when they trailed after Hector Bellerin's first-half own goal in the first half.

"I think after 1-0 the reaction of the team was very important, with quality, also very organised, and also (we showed) heart," said Emery after the match.

He also praised Ozil's performance, "I am very happy with all the players. I think the (good) performance is with all the team. He is giving us, like each player, his quality, and his capacity."

"We are demanding a lot of regularity. Mezut Ozil today produced a very good performance. It was a very good victory together. We are carry on pushing and demanding, for ourselves and also for him, this regularity," he concluded.

Mesut Ozil shrugged off his poor start in the ongoing edition of Premier League by scoring a goal in Arsenal's 3-1 win against Leicester City on Monday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang came off the bench to score twice and Mesut Ozil scored the other to stretch Arsenal's winning streak in all competitions to 10 games of this season.

Mesut Ozil shrugged off his poor start in the ongoing edition of Premier League by scoring a goal in Arsenal's 3-1 win against Leicester City on Monday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang came off the bench to score twice and Mesut Ozil scored the other to stretch Arsenal's winning streak in all competitions to 10 games of this season. Arsenal has been in a commanding position since the start of the season as, now, they rose to fourth with 21 points from nine games, two points behind Manchester City and Liverpool and level with third-placed Chelsea. Arsenal enjoyed the clash against Leicester but the highlight of the match was Ozil, who netted the equaliser just before half-time and played a key role in Aubameyang's second-half double, at the Emirates Stadium. Watch Ozil's goal here: Didn’t even realize how involved Ozil was all the way from start to finish in this goal pic.twitter.com/77BxapIlx6 — kettle hater (@shutupdec) October 22, 2018 × OZIL'S GOAL against Leicester pic.twitter.com/wU6xTpgfcP — azhar (@itsazharua) October 22, 2018 × Ozil shared his excitement, tweeting after the match: "I think we played some sexy football tonight. Proud captain of this team." I think we played some sexy football tonight 😎💪🏼 Proud captain of this team and this club! © #YaGunnersYa ❤ #M1Ö @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/iPFGxViAes — Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) October 22, 2018 × Arsenal was put under pressure when they trailed after Hector Bellerin's first-half own goal in the first half. "I think after 1-0 the reaction of the team was very important, with quality, also very organised, and also (we showed) heart," said Emery after the match. He also praised Ozil's performance, "I am very happy with all the players. I think the (good) performance is with all the team. He is giving us, like each player, his quality, and his capacity." "We are demanding a lot of regularity. Mezut Ozil today produced a very good performance. It was a very good victory together. We are carry on pushing and demanding, for ourselves and also for him, this regularity," he concluded.

Watch: After stunning goal, Mesut Ozil praises Arsenal's 'sexy' football

Arsenal&nbsp;substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice in three minutes and captain Mesut Ozil played a starring role as they extended their winning run with a 3-1 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League on Monday.

Substitute Aubameyang was in the right place to tap into an empty net in the 63rd minute to give Arsenal&nbsp;the lead and was on hand to finish a team move in the 66th that was orchestrated by Ozil, who had scored their first goal to put them level.

Arsenal&nbsp;stretched their winning streak in all competitions to 10 games and rose to fourth with 21 points from nine games, two points behind Manchester City and Liverpool and level with third-placed Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in fifth.

After falling behind to a Hector Bellerin own goal just past the half-hour mark,&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;grew into the game and midfielder Ozil stroked in an equaliser off the post just before halftime.

Ozil, who was skipper for the night, hit a left-footed first-time shot past goalkeeper Kaspar Schmeichel after surging from the halfway line and exchanging passes with Bellerin.

The German was at the heart of&nbsp;Arsenal's third goal too, sparking the move with a flicked backheel, then dummying a pass before continuing his run to receive a first-time ball from Alexandre Lacazette before dinking it over the onrushing Schmeichel to leave Aubameyang with the simplest of finishes.

Ozil tweeted that&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;had played "sexy" football and that he was proud to be captain. Manager Unai Emery agreed with the assessment of the performance but said the midfielder could lead the team by example even when he does not wear the armband.

"From Mesut Ozil today, it's a very good performance," Emery said. "I think he can play very much with this commitment, behaviour, also with his quality, (as) captain or not captain."

Leicester had started stronger at The Emirates and wing-back Ben Chilwell forced the opening goal when his cross deflected off Bellerin into the&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;net in the 31st minute.

They could also have had a penalty after&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;centre-back Rob Holding handled the ball seconds after being booked.

"For me it was a penalty and a sending off," said Leicester manager Claude Puel. "At this moment, with our domination in the game, we could have continued our performance, this great performance, 11 against 10."

Arsenal's next game is at Crystal Palace on Sunday, after they play Sporting in the Europa League in Lisbon on Thursday, while Leicester City will host West Ham United on Saturday.

Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice in three minutes and captain Mesut Ozil played a starring role as they extended their winning run with a 3-1 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League on Monday.

Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice in three minutes and captain Mesut Ozil played a starring role as they extended their winning run with a 3-1 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League on Monday. Substitute Aubameyang was in the right place to tap into an empty net in the 63rd minute to give Arsenal the lead and was on hand to finish a team move in the 66th that was orchestrated by Ozil, who had scored their first goal to put them level. Arsenal stretched their winning streak in all competitions to 10 games and rose to fourth with 21 points from nine games, two points behind Manchester City and Liverpool and level with third-placed Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in fifth. After falling behind to a Hector Bellerin own goal just past the half-hour mark, Arsenal grew into the game and midfielder Ozil stroked in an equaliser off the post just before halftime. Ozil, who was skipper for the night, hit a left-footed first-time shot past goalkeeper Kaspar Schmeichel after surging from the halfway line and exchanging passes with Bellerin. The German was at the heart of Arsenal's third goal too, sparking the move with a flicked backheel, then dummying a pass before continuing his run to receive a first-time ball from Alexandre Lacazette before dinking it over the onrushing Schmeichel to leave Aubameyang with the simplest of finishes. Ozil tweeted that Arsenal had played "sexy" football and that he was proud to be captain. Manager Unai Emery agreed with the assessment of the performance but said the midfielder could lead the team by example even when he does not wear the armband. "From Mesut Ozil today, it's a very good performance," Emery said. "I think he can play very much with this commitment, behaviour, also with his quality, (as) captain or not captain." Leicester had started stronger at The Emirates and wing-back Ben Chilwell forced the opening goal when his cross deflected off Bellerin into the Arsenal net in the 31st minute. They could also have had a penalty after Arsenal centre-back Rob Holding handled the ball seconds after being booked. "For me it was a penalty and a sending off," said Leicester manager Claude Puel. "At this moment, with our domination in the game, we could have continued our performance, this great performance, 11 against 10." Arsenal's next game is at Crystal Palace on Sunday, after they play Sporting in the Europa League in Lisbon on Thursday, while Leicester City will host West Ham United on Saturday.

Aubameyang and Ozil inspire Arsenal comeback against Leicester

Manchester City brushed aside Burnley 5-0 on Saturday but Liverpool kept pace with the champions after Mohamed&nbsp;Salah&nbsp;rediscovered his scoring touch to fire his team to victory against lowly Huddersfield.

Earlier, Chelsea -- who had been level with City and Liverpool before the weekend -- needed a last-gasp equaliser to grab a point against Manchester United.

Tottenham moved into the top four after a 1-0 victory at West Ham, with Arsenal not in action until Monday.

Pep Guardiola's side, who missed a late penalty that would have given them victory over Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month,&nbsp;made it seven wins from nine league games as Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart endured a miserable return to his former club.

Sergio Aguero opened the scoring in the 17th minute before second-half goals rained in from Bernardo Silva, Fernandinho, Riyad Mahrez and Leroy Sane.

With the defending champions slipping ominously into gear, midfielder Kevin De Bruyne came on for just his second appearance of the season following a knee injury he suffered in August.

"After we scored the second goal and third it was much easier," said Guardiola. "And of course it's good news that Kevin De Bruyne is back.... The goals were so outstanding, beautiful, beautiful goals and three more points."

City have scored 26 Premier League goals already during this campaign -- putting them on course to beat the record 106 they totalled last season.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool were forced to tough it out against Huddersfield in the late game, with&nbsp;Salah&nbsp;scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win midway through the first half.

"It was a good game from Huddersfield and not so good game from us," Klopp told BT Sport. "So we'll take it.

"I sometimes look frustrated on the touchline even if we're winning. The performance wasn't 100 percent. It looked like we could have scored in six or seven situations but we needed one better pass."

Liverpool, gunning for a first top-flight title since 1990, are level with City on 23 points but trail their rivals on goal difference. Chelsea, in third, have 21 points -- level with Tottenham.

All of the top three remain unbeaten.

Manchester City brushed aside Burnley 5-0 on Saturday but Liverpool kept pace with the champions after Mohamed Salah rediscovered his scoring touch to fire his team to victory against lowly Huddersfield.

Manchester City brushed aside Burnley 5-0 on Saturday but Liverpool kept pace with the champions after Mohamed Salah rediscovered his scoring touch to fire his team to victory against lowly Huddersfield. Earlier, Chelsea -- who had been level with City and Liverpool before the weekend -- needed a last-gasp equaliser to grab a point against Manchester United. Tottenham moved into the top four after a 1-0 victory at West Ham, with Arsenal not in action until Monday. Pep Guardiola's side, who missed a late penalty that would have given them victory over Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month, made it seven wins from nine league games as Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart endured a miserable return to his former club. Sergio Aguero opened the scoring in the 17th minute before second-half goals rained in from Bernardo Silva, Fernandinho, Riyad Mahrez and Leroy Sane. With the defending champions slipping ominously into gear, midfielder Kevin De Bruyne came on for just his second appearance of the season following a knee injury he suffered in August. "After we scored the second goal and third it was much easier," said Guardiola. "And of course it's good news that Kevin De Bruyne is back.... The goals were so outstanding, beautiful, beautiful goals and three more points." City have scored 26 Premier League goals already during this campaign -- putting them on course to beat the record 106 they totalled last season. Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool were forced to tough it out against Huddersfield in the late game, with Salah scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win midway through the first half. "It was a good game from Huddersfield and not so good game from us," Klopp told BT Sport. "So we'll take it. "I sometimes look frustrated on the touchline even if we're winning. The performance wasn't 100 percent. It looked like we could have scored in six or seven situations but we needed one better pass." Liverpool, gunning for a first top-flight title since 1990, are level with City on 23 points but trail their rivals on goal difference. Chelsea, in third, have 21 points -- level with Tottenham. All of the top three remain unbeaten.

Salah back on the goal trail as Liverpool beat Huddersfield

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday.

The result enabled Cardiff to climb out of the relegation zone into 17th position on five points from nine games, leaping over Fulham on goal difference as the Cottagers dropped to 18th after their worst start to a top-flight season.

Second-half goals from Callum Paterson and Kadeem Harris clinched it for Cardiff after Josh Murphy and Bobby Reid had overturned Andre Schurrle's opener for Fulham and Ryan Sessegnon had levelled for the visitors in a frantic opening period.

Sessegnon was quick to identify poor defending as the cause of Fulham's latest setback, as they stayed the only Premier League side yet to keep a clean sheet this season.

"At times we played well but goals are leaking too much and we need to change that," the 18-year-old winger told the BBC.

"I can't really put my finger on what the problem is, but we need to stick together, believe in ourselves and keep fighting, there's a long way to go."

Cardiff manager Neil Warnock was delighted and praised his team as well as the home crowd.

"It's just a great feeling for everyone at the club," he said. "We persevered and they didn't let the disappointments get them down.

"We are made of stern stuff, the fans are unbelievable as well. In the second half we rolled our sleeves up and said 'this is our season'. I can enjoy my weekend now."

Former Germany striker Schurrle fired Fulham ahead with a superb individual goal before clinical finishing by Murphy and Reid turned the match on its head inside the opening 20 minutes.

Sessegnon equalised with a composed finish before missing a pair of chances either side of halftime which ultimately proved costly for Slavisa Jokanovic's side who have conceded 25 goals, more than any of their Premier League rivals.

Paterson pounced on a half-cleared cross to put Cardiff back in front before late substitute Harris sealed the contest in the 87th minute, sliding in at the far post to tuck the ball past goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli.

Jokanovic was disappointed but urged his players to keep their heads up.

"We are frustrated after this kind of defeat," he said.

"We have so many defensive problems but we have to find a solution. We must be brave and keep going to fix our mistakes."

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday.

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday. The result enabled Cardiff to climb out of the relegation zone into 17th position on five points from nine games, leaping over Fulham on goal difference as the Cottagers dropped to 18th after their worst start to a top-flight season. Second-half goals from Callum Paterson and Kadeem Harris clinched it for Cardiff after Josh Murphy and Bobby Reid had overturned Andre Schurrle's opener for Fulham and Ryan Sessegnon had levelled for the visitors in a frantic opening period. Sessegnon was quick to identify poor defending as the cause of Fulham's latest setback, as they stayed the only Premier League side yet to keep a clean sheet this season. "At times we played well but goals are leaking too much and we need to change that," the 18-year-old winger told the BBC. "I can't really put my finger on what the problem is, but we need to stick together, believe in ourselves and keep fighting, there's a long way to go." Cardiff manager Neil Warnock was delighted and praised his team as well as the home crowd. "It's just a great feeling for everyone at the club," he said. "We persevered and they didn't let the disappointments get them down. "We are made of stern stuff, the fans are unbelievable as well. In the second half we rolled our sleeves up and said 'this is our season'. I can enjoy my weekend now." Former Germany striker Schurrle fired Fulham ahead with a superb individual goal before clinical finishing by Murphy and Reid turned the match on its head inside the opening 20 minutes. Sessegnon equalised with a composed finish before missing a pair of chances either side of halftime which ultimately proved costly for Slavisa Jokanovic's side who have conceded 25 goals, more than any of their Premier League rivals. Paterson pounced on a half-cleared cross to put Cardiff back in front before late substitute Harris sealed the contest in the 87th minute, sliding in at the far post to tuck the ball past goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli. Jokanovic was disappointed but urged his players to keep their heads up. "We are frustrated after this kind of defeat," he said. "We have so many defensive problems but we have to find a solution. We must be brave and keep going to fix our mistakes."

Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 for first league win of the season

Newcastle United were left to rue a host of missed chances as a deflected goal from Beram Kayal gave Brighton and Hove Albion a 1-0 Premier League win at St. James's Park on Saturday.

The defeat, Newcastle's seventh in nine league games this season, left them bottom of the standings with two points. Brighton are 12th with 11 points.

Brighton lost Glenn Murray early on after he appeared to be knocked unconscious in a nasty clash of heads with Newcastle defender Federico Fernandez. The striker was carried off on a stretcher and replaced by Jurgen Locadia.

Play resumed after a lengthy stoppage and the visitors took the lead in the 29th minute when Shane Duffy headed a corner back to Jose Izquierdo and his shot from the edge of the box was deflected into the net by Beram Kayal.

Newcastle should have drawn level at the break but Yoshinori Muto sent his header over the bar from point-blank range after Jonjo Shelvey's shot was parried.

Newcastle desperately searched for a second-half equaliser but their efforts were in vain and they slumped to a third league defeat in a row.

"This is the reality," Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez sighed in a post-match TV interview.

"So many games, people were talking about 'you don't have the possession.' We have the possession, shots and corners, free kicks, everything, and we didn't score," the 58-year-old said.

"It's difficult to complain when the team is working so hard and doing what they have to do in a lot of things, but still we have to be more precise and more clinical when we have chances," Benitez added.

Newcastle United were left to rue a host of missed chances as a deflected goal from Beram Kayal gave Brighton and Hove Albion a 1-0 Premier League win at St. James's Park on Saturday.

Newcastle United were left to rue a host of missed chances as a deflected goal from Beram Kayal gave Brighton and Hove Albion a 1-0 Premier League win at St. James's Park on Saturday. The defeat, Newcastle's seventh in nine league games this season, left them bottom of the standings with two points. Brighton are 12th with 11 points. Brighton lost Glenn Murray early on after he appeared to be knocked unconscious in a nasty clash of heads with Newcastle defender Federico Fernandez. The striker was carried off on a stretcher and replaced by Jurgen Locadia. Play resumed after a lengthy stoppage and the visitors took the lead in the 29th minute when Shane Duffy headed a corner back to Jose Izquierdo and his shot from the edge of the box was deflected into the net by Beram Kayal. Newcastle should have drawn level at the break but Yoshinori Muto sent his header over the bar from point-blank range after Jonjo Shelvey's shot was parried. Newcastle desperately searched for a second-half equaliser but their efforts were in vain and they slumped to a third league defeat in a row. "This is the reality," Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez sighed in a post-match TV interview. "So many games, people were talking about 'you don't have the possession.' We have the possession, shots and corners, free kicks, everything, and we didn't score," the 58-year-old said. "It's difficult to complain when the team is working so hard and doing what they have to do in a lot of things, but still we have to be more precise and more clinical when we have chances," Benitez added.

Newcastle rue poor finishing in 1-0 Brighton defeat

Tottenham Hotspur secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over lowly London rivals West Ham United thanks to a deft first-half finish from Erik Lamela in their Premier League clash on Saturday.

The victory took Spurs into the top four with Argentine Lamela playing a starring role as he gave the visitors the lead just before the break with a glancing header into the top corner after a dribble and cross by Moussa Sissoko from the right.

Spurs, who have continued their best ever start to a Premier League season, also had keeper Hugo Lloris to thank after he denied West Ham's livewire Austria striker Marko Arnautovic on three occasions, including a vital save in stoppage time.

"Hugo was fantastic. It was an amazing victory for us with three points that keep us in a very good position," relieved Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino told reporters.

"...we maybe deserved to go into halftime with one or two more goals. In the end we suffered a little bit. When it's a derby it's so competitive and emotional."

Tottenham certainly had the best of the first half and could have added to their score before the interval at a packed London Stadium but Colombian central defender Davinson Sanchez's low shot was well blocked by West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

The home side started the second period brightly and almost equalised but Arnautovic's fine header from Aaron Cresswell's cross was superbly tipped over the bar by Lloris.

West Ham kept pressing and Arnautovic again tested Lloris on the hour with a rasping low drive before bringing another fine same from the France international in added time but the home side could not find a way through the Spurs defence.

The win takes Tottenham up to provisional third place with 21 points from nine games before Saturday's late match, while struggling West Ham remain in 15th spot on seven points.

Tottenham Hotspur secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over lowly London rivals West Ham United thanks to a deft first-half finish from Erik Lamela in their Premier League clash on Saturday.

Tottenham Hotspur secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over lowly London rivals West Ham United thanks to a deft first-half finish from Erik Lamela in their Premier League clash on Saturday. The victory took Spurs into the top four with Argentine Lamela playing a starring role as he gave the visitors the lead just before the break with a glancing header into the top corner after a dribble and cross by Moussa Sissoko from the right. Spurs, who have continued their best ever start to a Premier League season, also had keeper Hugo Lloris to thank after he denied West Ham's livewire Austria striker Marko Arnautovic on three occasions, including a vital save in stoppage time. "Hugo was fantastic. It was an amazing victory for us with three points that keep us in a very good position," relieved Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "...we maybe deserved to go into halftime with one or two more goals. In the end we suffered a little bit. When it's a derby it's so competitive and emotional." Tottenham certainly had the best of the first half and could have added to their score before the interval at a packed London Stadium but Colombian central defender Davinson Sanchez's low shot was well blocked by West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. The home side started the second period brightly and almost equalised but Arnautovic's fine header from Aaron Cresswell's cross was superbly tipped over the bar by Lloris. West Ham kept pressing and Arnautovic again tested Lloris on the hour with a rasping low drive before bringing another fine same from the France international in added time but the home side could not find a way through the Spurs defence. The win takes Tottenham up to provisional third place with 21 points from nine games before Saturday's late match, while struggling West Ham remain in 15th spot on seven points.

Lamela goal edges Spurs to derby win at West Ham

For all the talk of title bids from Chelsea and Liverpool, defending champions Manchester City are once again looking like the record-breaking side that dominated the Premier League last season.

City crushed Burnley 5-0 at the Etihad on Saturday and while Sean Dyche's strugglers were never expected to win, the sheer strength of City's stylish squad was evident in abundance.

After nine games City are unbeaten and top of the league with a positive goal difference of 23 - ten more than Chelsea.

Last season they scored a record breaking 106 goals in 38 games and, with 26 in nine so far, they are on course to break that record.

The win over the Clarets came with Kyle Walker and Danilo out injured and centre-half John Stones filling in at right-back.

Ominously for their rivals Kevin De Bruyne, whose knee injury has kept him sidelined since the opening game of the season, marked his return as a second-half substitute.

Unsurprisingly Guardiola looked happy and composed after the fifth win in five at home this season.

"Our level at home last season, this season, is high - we win with good performances in general, and we attack more comfortably, with more options," he said.

"We had five different players score, so there is less pressure on (strikers) Sergio (Aguero) or Gabriel (Jesus).

"We learn every day to attack better when they defend deeper... People attack us and we regain the ball... we have a lot of pace to attack on the counter. It is important for us to combine both things, whether they attack or defend deep," he said.

Guardiola feels the atmosphere and mood around the Etihad is well suited to his side.

"I would say we feel comfortable at home with our people. Last season we drew against Everton and lost to United but won all the other games. We feel comfortable with our fans and the grass, thanks to the greenkeepers for the grass in perfect condition that helps us to play quicker. We feel comfortable so we can keep going and be consistent, especially in the Premier League, and that is so important," he said.

De Bruyne should make City even stronger and Guardiola expects him to be quickly back to his best.

"He has no pain, physically he is a guy who is so strong, he needs minutes, this is the first time he played 30 minutes and this is so important.

"We have a lot of games but of course he's not new - not like Riyad (Mahrez)- (we have had) three years together so when I say something he knows what we have to do.

"He's another important player and he's back and will help us to achieve what we want to do."

For all the talk of title bids from Chelsea and Liverpool, defending champions Manchester City are once again looking like the record-breaking side that dominated the Premier League last season.

For all the talk of title bids from Chelsea and Liverpool, defending champions Manchester City are once again looking like the record-breaking side that dominated the Premier League last season. City crushed Burnley 5-0 at the Etihad on Saturday and while Sean Dyche's strugglers were never expected to win, the sheer strength of City's stylish squad was evident in abundance. After nine games City are unbeaten and top of the league with a positive goal difference of 23 - ten more than Chelsea. Last season they scored a record breaking 106 goals in 38 games and, with 26 in nine so far, they are on course to break that record. The win over the Clarets came with Kyle Walker and Danilo out injured and centre-half John Stones filling in at right-back. Ominously for their rivals Kevin De Bruyne, whose knee injury has kept him sidelined since the opening game of the season, marked his return as a second-half substitute. Unsurprisingly Guardiola looked happy and composed after the fifth win in five at home this season. "Our level at home last season, this season, is high - we win with good performances in general, and we attack more comfortably, with more options," he said. "We had five different players score, so there is less pressure on (strikers) Sergio (Aguero) or Gabriel (Jesus). "We learn every day to attack better when they defend deeper... People attack us and we regain the ball... we have a lot of pace to attack on the counter. It is important for us to combine both things, whether they attack or defend deep," he said. Guardiola feels the atmosphere and mood around the Etihad is well suited to his side. "I would say we feel comfortable at home with our people. Last season we drew against Everton and lost to United but won all the other games. We feel comfortable with our fans and the grass, thanks to the greenkeepers for the grass in perfect condition that helps us to play quicker. We feel comfortable so we can keep going and be consistent, especially in the Premier League, and that is so important," he said. De Bruyne should make City even stronger and Guardiola expects him to be quickly back to his best. "He has no pain, physically he is a guy who is so strong, he needs minutes, this is the first time he played 30 minutes and this is so important. "We have a lot of games but of course he's not new - not like Riyad (Mahrez)- (we have had) three years together so when I say something he knows what we have to do. "He's another important player and he's back and will help us to achieve what we want to do."

Returning De Bruyne adds to unbeaten City's aura

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was involved in a fracas&nbsp;at the touchline after Chelsea's star&nbsp;Ross Barkley&nbsp;scored an&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-infuriated-as-chelsea-salvage-unbeaten-record-172518">96th-minute equaliser</a>&nbsp;to draw the game&nbsp;on Saturday.

Manchester United was on the verge winning but an injury time-goal by Barkley helped Chelsea to maintain unbeaten Premier League start at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho took exception to the celebrations of one of Chelsea's backroom staff, Marco Ianni, who ran in front of the Portuguese on the touchline, as he seemed set for a sweet victory over his old club.

ManU boss said that Chelsea's technical assistant Ianni was "very impolite" after celebrating in front of him.

Here is the video:

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Jose Mourinho triggered <a href="https://t.co/ok2fSiaDhq">pic.twitter.com/ok2fSiaDhq</a>
— St Woolwich Day (@StWoolwichDay) <a href="https://twitter.com/StWoolwichDay/status/1053638645847154688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am not annoyed with anything. What happened with (Maurizio) Sarri's assistant, Sarri was the first one to come to me and say he will resolve it.

"The assistant has already come to me and apologised, I told him to forget it. I have made a lot of mistakes in my career."

Mourinho, who won three Premier League titles in two spells at Chelsea, said United were the better side.

Sarri said his side lost out to United in the physical battle as the game wore on.

"I am disappointed with the last 30 minutes," he told the BBC. "We could win but at the end one point is enough.

"We were not organised for the long ball, we usually play with short passes so we were not organised for this in the last half hour. This is not our football. I prefer to play our football for 90 minutes.

"I didn't see what happened but I have spoken to Jose Mourinho. I understood that we were in the wrong side of the situation. I have spoken to a member of my staff and have dealt with this immediately."

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was involved in a fracas at the touchline after Chelsea's star Ross Barkley scored an 96th-minute equaliser to draw the game on Saturday.

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was involved in a fracas at the touchline after Chelsea's star Ross Barkley scored an 96th-minute equaliser to draw the game on Saturday. Manchester United was on the verge winning but an injury time-goal by Barkley helped Chelsea to maintain unbeaten Premier League start at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho took exception to the celebrations of one of Chelsea's backroom staff, Marco Ianni, who ran in front of the Portuguese on the touchline, as he seemed set for a sweet victory over his old club. ManU boss said that Chelsea's technical assistant Ianni was "very impolite" after celebrating in front of him. Here is the video: Jose Mourinho triggered pic.twitter.com/ok2fSiaDhq — St Woolwich Day (@StWoolwichDay) October 20, 2018 × "I am not annoyed with anything. What happened with (Maurizio) Sarri's assistant, Sarri was the first one to come to me and say he will resolve it. "The assistant has already come to me and apologised, I told him to forget it. I have made a lot of mistakes in my career." Mourinho, who won three Premier League titles in two spells at Chelsea, said United were the better side. Sarri said his side lost out to United in the physical battle as the game wore on. "I am disappointed with the last 30 minutes," he told the BBC. "We could win but at the end one point is enough. "We were not organised for the long ball, we usually play with short passes so we were not organised for this in the last half hour. This is not our football. I prefer to play our football for 90 minutes. "I didn't see what happened but I have spoken to Jose Mourinho. I understood that we were in the wrong side of the situation. I have spoken to a member of my staff and have dealt with this immediately."

Watch: Jose Mourinho involves in touchline fight after Chelsea draw

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had to be restrained by stewards in the aftermath of Ross Barkley's 96th-minute equaliser to salvage Chelsea's unbeaten record under Maurizio Sarri in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho took exception to the celebrations of one of Sarri's backroom staff, Marco Ianni, who ran in front of the Portuguese on the touchline, as he seemed set for a sweet victory over his old club after Anthony Martial scored twice to cancel out Antonio Rudiger's opener.

Players and coaches from both benches had to separated in a melee after Barkley's late strike.

Mourinho also then gestured with three fingers towards the Chelsea fans in reference to the three Premier League titles he won for the club in two spells in charge.

A draw is more than Mourinho got on his three previous returns to Stamford Bridge as United boss. But his frustration at blowing what could have been a huge win was obvious as the visitors remain seven points adrift of Chelsea, and could fall nine points behind Manchester City and Liverpool should they win their respective fixtures later Saturday.

Amid reports he was set to face the axe, Mourinho had been handed a lifeline by a stirring fightback from 2-0 down to beat Newcastle 3-2 before the international break a fortnight ago.

Martial was rewarded for coming off the bench to score in that game as rather than opt for his cautious nature, Mourinho named an adventurous line-up also featuring Juan Mata, Marcus Rashford and Romelu Lukaku.

And his gamble looked set to pay off despite falling behind to a Chelsea side now unbeaten in their first 12 games under Sarri.

Lukaku had the first significant chance of the game when he headed Luke Shaw's fine cross high and wide.

At the other end, United attempted to stop the outstanding player of the Premier League season so far with some rough treatment as Nemanja Matic and Ashley Young were shown early yellow cards for chopping down Eden Hazard.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHEMUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHEMUN</a> (95:27) <a href="https://t.co/iizv7Az2QR">pic.twitter.com/iizv7Az2QR</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1053642266953375745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, when Shaw cut out a dangerous low cross from the Belgian on 21 minutes, the visitors were undone by a lack of concentration from Paul Pogba.

Rudiger easily peeled away from the Frenchman to plant a powerful header past the helpless David de Gea.

That was the fourth time United have conceded from a corner in the league this season, having also done so in defeats to Brighton, Tottenham and West Ham.

It wasn't so costly this time as Chelsea paid for a lack of killer instinct despite dominating possession for the rest of the first-half.

Marcos Alonso miscontrolled when Rudiger's through ball put him clean through on De Gea before Alvaro Morata wasted his only big chance of another disappointing afternoon when his shot on the turn was too weak to beat his Spanish international team-mate in the United goal.

Martial had been largely anonymous before the break, but, in contrast to Morata, took his chances when they came in the second period.

Kepa Arrizabalaga parried Mata's initial effort, but with Alonso down injured in the Chelsea box, Martial had time to control Ashley Young's driven cross back into the area before firing home to equalise.

Martial again provided the final flourish with a brilliant curled effort into the far corner 17 minutes from time after fine work in the build-up by Mata and Rashford.

The Frenchman&nbsp;was greeted with a bear hug from Mourinho when he was replaced six minutes from time.

But United couldn't hold out for an extra six minutes stoppage time as Barkley pounced after De Gea had produced another miraculous save from Rudiger before carnage broke loose on the touchline.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had to be restrained by stewards in the aftermath of Ross Barkley's 96th-minute equaliser to salvage Chelsea's unbeaten record under Maurizio Sarri in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had to be restrained by stewards in the aftermath of Ross Barkley's 96th-minute equaliser to salvage Chelsea's unbeaten record under Maurizio Sarri in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho took exception to the celebrations of one of Sarri's backroom staff, Marco Ianni, who ran in front of the Portuguese on the touchline, as he seemed set for a sweet victory over his old club after Anthony Martial scored twice to cancel out Antonio Rudiger's opener. Players and coaches from both benches had to separated in a melee after Barkley's late strike. Mourinho also then gestured with three fingers towards the Chelsea fans in reference to the three Premier League titles he won for the club in two spells in charge. A draw is more than Mourinho got on his three previous returns to Stamford Bridge as United boss. But his frustration at blowing what could have been a huge win was obvious as the visitors remain seven points adrift of Chelsea, and could fall nine points behind Manchester City and Liverpool should they win their respective fixtures later Saturday. Amid reports he was set to face the axe, Mourinho had been handed a lifeline by a stirring fightback from 2-0 down to beat Newcastle 3-2 before the international break a fortnight ago. Martial was rewarded for coming off the bench to score in that game as rather than opt for his cautious nature, Mourinho named an adventurous line-up also featuring Juan Mata, Marcus Rashford and Romelu Lukaku. And his gamble looked set to pay off despite falling behind to a Chelsea side now unbeaten in their first 12 games under Sarri. Lukaku had the first significant chance of the game when he headed Luke Shaw's fine cross high and wide. At the other end, United attempted to stop the outstanding player of the Premier League season so far with some rough treatment as Nemanja Matic and Ashley Young were shown early yellow cards for chopping down Eden Hazard. #CHEMUN (95:27) pic.twitter.com/iizv7Az2QR — Premier League (@premierleague) October 20, 2018 × However, when Shaw cut out a dangerous low cross from the Belgian on 21 minutes, the visitors were undone by a lack of concentration from Paul Pogba. Rudiger easily peeled away from the Frenchman to plant a powerful header past the helpless David de Gea. That was the fourth time United have conceded from a corner in the league this season, having also done so in defeats to Brighton, Tottenham and West Ham. It wasn't so costly this time as Chelsea paid for a lack of killer instinct despite dominating possession for the rest of the first-half. Marcos Alonso miscontrolled when Rudiger's through ball put him clean through on De Gea before Alvaro Morata wasted his only big chance of another disappointing afternoon when his shot on the turn was too weak to beat his Spanish international team-mate in the United goal. Martial had been largely anonymous before the break, but, in contrast to Morata, took his chances when they came in the second period. Kepa Arrizabalaga parried Mata's initial effort, but with Alonso down injured in the Chelsea box, Martial had time to control Ashley Young's driven cross back into the area before firing home to equalise. Martial again provided the final flourish with a brilliant curled effort into the far corner 17 minutes from time after fine work in the build-up by Mata and Rashford. The Frenchman was greeted with a bear hug from Mourinho when he was replaced six minutes from time. But United couldn't hold out for an extra six minutes stoppage time as Barkley pounced after De Gea had produced another miraculous save from Rudiger before carnage broke loose on the touchline.

Jose Mourinho infuriated as Chelsea salvage unbeaten record

Cesc Fabregas received a Guinness World Record after becoming the fastest player to reach 100 English Premier League assists in 293 games.

That is 74 matches sooner than former Manchester United player Ryan Giggs who is second on the list with 367 games.

Fabregas' record-breaking assist came on 31st December 2016 when he set up Brazilian midfielder Willian's second goal in Chelsea's 4-2 win over Stoke City.

He credited&nbsp;Arsenal icons Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp in the process.

He remembered his most famous assist; threading the pass for Andres Iniesta to score the winning goal for Spain in the 2010 World Cup final.

"It was not the most beautiful, not the most amazing assist. But a simple pass broke the line… and it got us the World Cup," he recalls.

The 31-year-old made his Premier League debut at Arsenal in 2004 at the age of 16 years.&nbsp;

His ability to play in tight spaces and still create chances led to a move to his boyhood club, Barcelona in 2011.

Three years later he returned to London with Chelsea and has gone on to win the Premier League twice since joining.

He credited the sharp training he received in the Barcelona youth team where he played with world-class experienced professionals including Andres Iniesta, Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique.

Cesc Fabregas received a Guinness World Record after becoming the fastest player to reach 100 English Premier League assists in 293 games. That is 74 matches sooner than former Manchester United player Ryan Giggs who is second on the list with 367 games.

Cesc Fabregas received a Guinness World Record after becoming the fastest player to reach 100 English Premier League assists in 293 games. That is 74 matches sooner than former Manchester United player Ryan Giggs who is second on the list with 367 games. Fabregas' record-breaking assist came on 31st December 2016 when he set up Brazilian midfielder Willian's second goal in Chelsea's 4-2 win over Stoke City. He credited Arsenal icons Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp in the process. He remembered his most famous assist; threading the pass for Andres Iniesta to score the winning goal for Spain in the 2010 World Cup final. "It was not the most beautiful, not the most amazing assist. But a simple pass broke the line… and it got us the World Cup," he recalls. The 31-year-old made his Premier League debut at Arsenal in 2004 at the age of 16 years. His ability to play in tight spaces and still create chances led to a move to his boyhood club, Barcelona in 2011. Three years later he returned to London with Chelsea and has gone on to win the Premier League twice since joining. He credited the sharp training he received in the Barcelona youth team where he played with world-class experienced professionals including Andres Iniesta, Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique.

Cesc Fabregas credits Arsenal icons Henry, Bergkamp after claiming Guiness World Record

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho's "it's not about me" comment after his team's thrilling comeback win over Newcastle United is unlikely to be heeded on Saturday when he returns to his former club Chelsea.

Mourinho's words, spoken after United fans chanted his name in appreciation of the 3-2 victory, may have reflected a weariness at the constant focus on his position at Old Trafford but the spotlight will unavoidably be on the Portuguese again.

The manner of United's win, with three goals in the final 20 minutes of all-out attacking&nbsp;football, has raised the question of whether he will embrace a more positive style of play.

Nothing in Mourinho's history suggests that is likely and the prospect of facing Maurizio Sarri's in-form team at Stamford Bridge is a strong deterrent against a cavalier approach.

Second-placed Chelsea are unbeaten, level on points with champions Manchester City and challengers Liverpool and with their Belgian forward Eden Hazard in scintillating form they will start as clear favourites.

United are already seven points behind the leading trio having lost to Brighton and Hove Albion and West Ham United on the road and Tottenham Hotspur at home and Mourinho will be keen to ensure they avoid defeat in west London.

Chelsea have not lost at home to United since October 2012, losing just two of the 16 meetings between the two since then and Mourinho has suffered four defeats in six games against his former club since taking over at United.

But as he reminded the media in his recent demand for more "respect" Mourinho won three Premier League titles in his two spells as Chelsea manager.

The former Porto and Real Madrid boss has never been afraid to play defensively when visiting top rivals and so for all the hope that he might try to replicate the 'gung-ho' second-half display against Newcastle it would be no surprise if he were to revert to type on Saturday.

Manchester City will expect to pick up three points at home to a Burnley side that will feature former City keeper Joe Hart.

City have not lost at home to the Clarets since 1963 and have lost once in their last 19 meetings in all competitions.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp will also be expecting maximum points when he faces off with close friend David Wagner as the Reds travel to Huddersfield Town on Saturday.

Huddersfield are 18th in the table, have yet to win this campaign and have managed to score only four goals.

Fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur visit London rivals West Ham on Saturday while in-form Arsenal host Leicester on Monday looking for a 10th successive victory in all competitions.

Sunday's game features Everton at home to Crystal Palace.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho's "it's not about me" comment after his team's thrilling comeback win over Newcastle United is unlikely to be heeded on Saturday when he returns to his former club Chelsea.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho's "it's not about me" comment after his team's thrilling comeback win over Newcastle United is unlikely to be heeded on Saturday when he returns to his former club Chelsea. Mourinho's words, spoken after United fans chanted his name in appreciation of the 3-2 victory, may have reflected a weariness at the constant focus on his position at Old Trafford but the spotlight will unavoidably be on the Portuguese again. The manner of United's win, with three goals in the final 20 minutes of all-out attacking football, has raised the question of whether he will embrace a more positive style of play. Nothing in Mourinho's history suggests that is likely and the prospect of facing Maurizio Sarri's in-form team at Stamford Bridge is a strong deterrent against a cavalier approach. Second-placed Chelsea are unbeaten, level on points with champions Manchester City and challengers Liverpool and with their Belgian forward Eden Hazard in scintillating form they will start as clear favourites. United are already seven points behind the leading trio having lost to Brighton and Hove Albion and West Ham United on the road and Tottenham Hotspur at home and Mourinho will be keen to ensure they avoid defeat in west London. Chelsea have not lost at home to United since October 2012, losing just two of the 16 meetings between the two since then and Mourinho has suffered four defeats in six games against his former club since taking over at United. But as he reminded the media in his recent demand for more "respect" Mourinho won three Premier League titles in his two spells as Chelsea manager. The former Porto and Real Madrid boss has never been afraid to play defensively when visiting top rivals and so for all the hope that he might try to replicate the 'gung-ho' second-half display against Newcastle it would be no surprise if he were to revert to type on Saturday. Manchester City will expect to pick up three points at home to a Burnley side that will feature former City keeper Joe Hart. City have not lost at home to the Clarets since 1963 and have lost once in their last 19 meetings in all competitions. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp will also be expecting maximum points when he faces off with close friend David Wagner as the Reds travel to Huddersfield Town on Saturday. Huddersfield are 18th in the table, have yet to win this campaign and have managed to score only four goals. Fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur visit London rivals West Ham on Saturday while in-form Arsenal host Leicester on Monday looking for a 10th successive victory in all competitions. Sunday's game features Everton at home to Crystal Palace.

Mourinho takes centre stage again as Premier League returns

Aaron Ramsey plans to stay at Arsenal for the rest of this season and not make a cut-price January move after the collapse of contract talks with the Premier League club.

Arsenal could attempt to cash in on the 27-year-old midfielder in the January transfer window, with top Premier League, La Liga and Serie A clubs reportedly monitoring the situation.

But Ramsey, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, said: "I am contracted to Arsenal and I am going to do my best now this season to try and achieve something special.

"Everything has been going great with the club. We thought we were in a position where we had agreed a deal but that's no longer the case.

"So I just have to carry on playing my football and do my best for Arsenal this season and I'll leave the rest with the club now."

The Wales international, who scored a stunning back-heel effort in Arsenal's 5-1 win at Fulham on Sunday, has scored 59 goals in 338 appearances for Arsenal since joining from Cardiff in 2008.

Asked if he was disappointed that there was no contract on the table, Ramsey said: "That's a decision they (Arsenal) have made and things happen in football. You just have to get on with it and carry on playing the best I can."

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said recently that Ramsey's contract situation would not affect his performances.

"Each player, they have their individual situations with their contracts," Emery said of Ramsey. "He is an important player and he will be helping the team with his performance."

Aaron Ramsey plans to stay at Arsenal for the rest of this season and not make a cut-price January move after the collapse of contract talks with the Premier League club.

Aaron Ramsey plans to stay at Arsenal for the rest of this season and not make a cut-price January move after the collapse of contract talks with the Premier League club. Arsenal could attempt to cash in on the 27-year-old midfielder in the January transfer window, with top Premier League, La Liga and Serie A clubs reportedly monitoring the situation. But Ramsey, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, said: "I am contracted to Arsenal and I am going to do my best now this season to try and achieve something special. "Everything has been going great with the club. We thought we were in a position where we had agreed a deal but that's no longer the case. "So I just have to carry on playing my football and do my best for Arsenal this season and I'll leave the rest with the club now." The Wales international, who scored a stunning back-heel effort in Arsenal's 5-1 win at Fulham on Sunday, has scored 59 goals in 338 appearances for Arsenal since joining from Cardiff in 2008. Asked if he was disappointed that there was no contract on the table, Ramsey said: "That's a decision they (Arsenal) have made and things happen in football. You just have to get on with it and carry on playing the best I can." Arsenal manager Unai Emery said recently that Ramsey's contract situation would not affect his performances. "Each player, they have their individual situations with their contracts," Emery said of Ramsey. "He is an important player and he will be helping the team with his performance."

Aaron Ramsey to see out season at Arsenal after talks fail

Manchester United coach Michael Carrick says Jose Mourinho is in an elite group alongside Alex Ferguson as one of the greatest managers of the past 30 years despite his current problems at Old Trafford.

The former midfielder, 37, took up a coaching role at the end of last season after a distinguished playing career at West Ham, Tottenham and United.

Mourinho will be hoping last weekend's thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Newcastle sparks a revival after a dismal run of results saw United slip well off the pace in the Premier League and exit the League Cup.

Carrick told Britain's Press Association that the most striking thing about the Portuguese boss was his track record in winning trophies over many years.

"He's managed to win trophies at United," said Carrick. "We're striving now to get back to it, but as a manager you can't hide from the fact about what he's done. It's up there with the very best.

"Fortunately for me, you look at the best managers over the last 25-30 years. You're picking the top three, top five -- two of them you'd say Jose or Sir Alex are right up there.

"I've been lucky enough to experience that and take what I can from both of them."

Carrick is hoping to become a manager in his own right and said he was trying to "learn from the great Jose Mourinho at close quarters".

Carrick's contemporaries Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard have already embarked on managerial careers.

"You look at Frank (Lampard at Derby) and I know Stevie (Gerrard) has done a year with the younger lads at Liverpool, but he's gone straight in at Rangers and it looks like it comes natural to them.

"I'm in my position as I am at the moment and it feels good for me, so we'll see what the future brings."

Manchester United coach Michael Carrick says Jose Mourinho is in an elite group alongside Alex Ferguson as one of the greatest managers of the past 30 years despite his current problems at Old Trafford.

Manchester United coach Michael Carrick says Jose Mourinho is in an elite group alongside Alex Ferguson as one of the greatest managers of the past 30 years despite his current problems at Old Trafford. The former midfielder, 37, took up a coaching role at the end of last season after a distinguished playing career at West Ham, Tottenham and United. Mourinho will be hoping last weekend's thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Newcastle sparks a revival after a dismal run of results saw United slip well off the pace in the Premier League and exit the League Cup. Carrick told Britain's Press Association that the most striking thing about the Portuguese boss was his track record in winning trophies over many years. "He's managed to win trophies at United," said Carrick. "We're striving now to get back to it, but as a manager you can't hide from the fact about what he's done. It's up there with the very best. "Fortunately for me, you look at the best managers over the last 25-30 years. You're picking the top three, top five -- two of them you'd say Jose or Sir Alex are right up there. "I've been lucky enough to experience that and take what I can from both of them." Carrick is hoping to become a manager in his own right and said he was trying to "learn from the great Jose Mourinho at close quarters". Carrick's contemporaries Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard have already embarked on managerial careers. "You look at Frank (Lampard at Derby) and I know Stevie (Gerrard) has done a year with the younger lads at Liverpool, but he's gone straight in at Rangers and it looks like it comes natural to them. "I'm in my position as I am at the moment and it feels good for me, so we'll see what the future brings."

Michael Carrick hails Mourinho as managerial 'great' alongside Ferguson

Brazil have called up Tottenham Hotspur forward Lucas Moura for friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Argentina, national team coordinator Edu Gaspar said on Monday.

Moura, 26, last played for Brazil two years ago and has made only three substitute appearances in five years for the five-times world champions.

The pacy winger replaces Gremio forward Everton, who withdrew from the squad with a thigh strain.

Brazil play Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Friday and then travel to Jeddah to face rivals Argentina four days later.

Brazil have called up Tottenham Hotspur forward Lucas Moura for friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Argentina, national team coordinator Edu Gaspar said on Monday.

Brazil have called up Tottenham Hotspur forward Lucas Moura for friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Argentina, national team coordinator Edu Gaspar said on Monday. Moura, 26, last played for Brazil two years ago and has made only three substitute appearances in five years for the five-times world champions. The pacy winger replaces Gremio forward Everton, who withdrew from the squad with a thigh strain. Brazil play Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Friday and then travel to Jeddah to face rivals Argentina four days later.

Moura recalled to Brazil squad after two-year absence

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho survived a wild weekend at Old Trafford to escape what he described as a "manhunt" after a terrible start to the season.

But a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to beat lowly Newcastle 3-2 could prove to be little more than a stay of execution for Mourinho, with a run of tougher fixtures looming.

He said he had received a text message from a senior board member, believed to be the club's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, before kick-off on Saturday telling him to ignore reports that the axe was set to fall regardless of the result against Newcastle.

"There is a lot of wickedness and a clear manhunt," said the 55-year-old Portuguese boss in a post-match rage despite the late turnaround.

"I think life is made of experiences and some are new and some are deja vu. This is new but I think it makes me a better manager and a better person."

The concern for United is that this is not new for Mourinho.

His third seasons in his second spell at Chelsea and Real Madrid also ended in acrimonious departures after poor results and falling out with key players.

In saving Mourinho's job, at least for now, a rousing second-half display at Old Trafford was in some ways an indictment of his time in charge.

So often criticised for preaching a cautious approach, it was only when Mourinho's men threw caution to the wind when 2-0 down that they began to look like the United of old.

It was almost a replica of arguably the standout result of the Mourinho era, when United roared back from 2-0 down at half-time to Manchester City to win 3-2 at the Etihad in April to delay Pep Guardiola's title party.

Just like that day, when Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez showed why United have invested heavily in bringing them to the club, it was some of those most harshly criticised or shunned by Mourinho who pulled United out of the mire against Newcastle.

Substitute Juan Mata, who has had to content himself with a bit-part role under Mourinho recently, got United's comeback under way with a sumptuous free-kick.&nbsp;

Anthony Martial, at odds with the Portuguese this season, scored the equaliser and Sanchez, left out of the squad against West Ham last week, headed a 90th-minute winner.

Turning point?

Whatever their differences, these were not players happy to lie down and watch their manager take the bullet.

"We couldn't afford another defeat, we couldn't afford another disappointment, especially for the fans," Mata told MUTV.

"I think they saw today we tried everything, and we came back and from the mental point of view it's a very important three points."

But is the victory short-term balm or a turning point in United's season?

Former United midfielder Paul Ince says it is too early for United to believe they have turned the corner.

"We all know one swallow doesn't make a summer," he told the BBC. "So are we papering over the cracks because they came back? To some extent, yeah, we are but it was an important result because they had to win after all the reports of Mourinho leaving."

Presuming he is still in charge, Mourinho returns to Chelsea after the international break, where he has lost in all three visits as United manager, with no goals scored.

Two Champions League clashes with Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus and meetings with high-flying Bournemouth and Everton follow before United travel to City for the Manchester derby on November 11.

This time City could deliver the final nail in the coffin. Not for the title, but Mourinho's tenure at Old Trafford.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho survived a wild weekend at Old Trafford to escape what he described as a "manhunt" after a terrible start to the season. But a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to beat lowly Newcastle 3-2 could prove to be little more than a stay of execution for Mourinho, with a run of tougher fixtures looming.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho survived a wild weekend at Old Trafford to escape what he described as a "manhunt" after a terrible start to the season. But a thrilling comeback from 2-0 down to beat lowly Newcastle 3-2 could prove to be little more than a stay of execution for Mourinho, with a run of tougher fixtures looming. He said he had received a text message from a senior board member, believed to be the club's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, before kick-off on Saturday telling him to ignore reports that the axe was set to fall regardless of the result against Newcastle. "There is a lot of wickedness and a clear manhunt," said the 55-year-old Portuguese boss in a post-match rage despite the late turnaround. "I think life is made of experiences and some are new and some are deja vu. This is new but I think it makes me a better manager and a better person." The concern for United is that this is not new for Mourinho. His third seasons in his second spell at Chelsea and Real Madrid also ended in acrimonious departures after poor results and falling out with key players. In saving Mourinho's job, at least for now, a rousing second-half display at Old Trafford was in some ways an indictment of his time in charge. So often criticised for preaching a cautious approach, it was only when Mourinho's men threw caution to the wind when 2-0 down that they began to look like the United of old. It was almost a replica of arguably the standout result of the Mourinho era, when United roared back from 2-0 down at half-time to Manchester City to win 3-2 at the Etihad in April to delay Pep Guardiola's title party. Just like that day, when Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez showed why United have invested heavily in bringing them to the club, it was some of those most harshly criticised or shunned by Mourinho who pulled United out of the mire against Newcastle. Substitute Juan Mata, who has had to content himself with a bit-part role under Mourinho recently, got United's comeback under way with a sumptuous free-kick. Anthony Martial, at odds with the Portuguese this season, scored the equaliser and Sanchez, left out of the squad against West Ham last week, headed a 90th-minute winner. Turning point? Whatever their differences, these were not players happy to lie down and watch their manager take the bullet. "We couldn't afford another defeat, we couldn't afford another disappointment, especially for the fans," Mata told MUTV. "I think they saw today we tried everything, and we came back and from the mental point of view it's a very important three points." But is the victory short-term balm or a turning point in United's season? Former United midfielder Paul Ince says it is too early for United to believe they have turned the corner. "We all know one swallow doesn't make a summer," he told the BBC. "So are we papering over the cracks because they came back? To some extent, yeah, we are but it was an important result because they had to win after all the reports of Mourinho leaving." Presuming he is still in charge, Mourinho returns to Chelsea after the international break, where he has lost in all three visits as United manager, with no goals scored. Two Champions League clashes with Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus and meetings with high-flying Bournemouth and Everton follow before United travel to City for the Manchester derby on November 11. This time City could deliver the final nail in the coffin. Not for the title, but Mourinho's tenure at Old Trafford.

Can Jose Mourinho survive 'manhunt' after stay of execution?

Ross Barkley scored his first goal for Maurizio Sarri's unbeaten Chelsea to help move them provisionally top of the Premier League in a 3-0 win at Southampton on Sunday.

Willian had a shot deflected on to the crossbar and Danny Ings missed a golden opportunity from close range at the other end, before Barkley created the opener for Eden Hazard.

The English midfielder pressed high to win back the ball and set up Hazard, the division's top scorer, who netted his seventh of the league season after 30 minutes at St. Mary's.

Barkley, who signed for Chelsea in January from Everton, bundled in the second with his knee from Olivier Giroud's acrobatic cross although TV replays suggested David Luiz had committed a foul in the build-up.

Hazard played in substitute Alvaro Morata to seal the win in stoppage time.

Barkley's goal and assist completed a memorable few days for the midfielder, who has just been recalled to the national squad for the games against Croatia and Spain.

The 24-year-old impressed at the heart of Chelsea's midfield, linking well with Jorginho and Hazard as the home side completed their ninth win in 11 games across all competitions this season.

"Ross Barkley is playing well. He scored and made an assist. He is doing well and working hard on the training ground," said Hazard.

Although Southampton should have taken a first-half lead through Ings, who blasted over from just a few yards out, they struggled to match Chelsea's pace and precision.

Ings was lucky to stay on the pitch after a wild second-half challenge on Mateo Kovacic as Southampton, who had six players booked, resorted to increasingly physical methods.

"It's too early to be thinking about the title, we know it is tough to win," said Hazard. "But it is good to be up there.

"We are enjoying playing well and scoring goals. The first half was not so easy, they missed big chances and then we have had a bit of luck for our first goal, but we controlled the match in the second half.

"I don't know if I've played better (than I am now), I'm just playing good football because we are playing good football. I want to keep doing it and keep everyone happy."

Ross Barkley scored his first goal for Maurizio Sarri's unbeaten Chelsea to help move them provisionally top of the Premier League in a 3-0 win at Southampton on Sunday.

Ross Barkley scored his first goal for Maurizio Sarri's unbeaten Chelsea to help move them provisionally top of the Premier League in a 3-0 win at Southampton on Sunday. Willian had a shot deflected on to the crossbar and Danny Ings missed a golden opportunity from close range at the other end, before Barkley created the opener for Eden Hazard. The English midfielder pressed high to win back the ball and set up Hazard, the division's top scorer, who netted his seventh of the league season after 30 minutes at St. Mary's. Barkley, who signed for Chelsea in January from Everton, bundled in the second with his knee from Olivier Giroud's acrobatic cross although TV replays suggested David Luiz had committed a foul in the build-up. Hazard played in substitute Alvaro Morata to seal the win in stoppage time. Barkley's goal and assist completed a memorable few days for the midfielder, who has just been recalled to the national squad for the games against Croatia and Spain. The 24-year-old impressed at the heart of Chelsea's midfield, linking well with Jorginho and Hazard as the home side completed their ninth win in 11 games across all competitions this season. "Ross Barkley is playing well. He scored and made an assist. He is doing well and working hard on the training ground," said Hazard. Although Southampton should have taken a first-half lead through Ings, who blasted over from just a few yards out, they struggled to match Chelsea's pace and precision. Ings was lucky to stay on the pitch after a wild second-half challenge on Mateo Kovacic as Southampton, who had six players booked, resorted to increasingly physical methods. "It's too early to be thinking about the title, we know it is tough to win," said Hazard. "But it is good to be up there. "We are enjoying playing well and scoring goals. The first half was not so easy, they missed big chances and then we have had a bit of luck for our first goal, but we controlled the match in the second half. "I don't know if I've played better (than I am now), I'm just playing good football because we are playing good football. I want to keep doing it and keep everyone happy."

Impressive Barkley drives Chelsea past Southampton

Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-run-riot-in-second-half-to-win-5-1-at-fulham-170034">Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham</a> on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season.

The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The goal was conceptualised by the 27-year-old midfielder, who began and ended a wonderful free-flowing move, just 39 seconds after coming on as a 67th-minute substitute.

Earlier, Arsenal's manager&nbsp;Unai Emery remained tight-lipped about a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/midfielder-aaron-ramsey-unsure-of-arsenal-future-154701">new deal for Ramsey</a> and a contract offer to the midfielder was withdrawn last month.

Irrespective of that, Ramsey showed his quality when he created and finished a stunning team move to help Arsenal to a ninth straight win in all competitions - their best run since April 2015.

First, he dinked the ball over a defender deep in his own half before running on to make two key headers around the halfway line to allow the push forward to keep its momentum.

Finally, he met Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's low cross with a delicate flick with the inside of his boot to beat Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal and conjure memories of the sort of goals Dutch great Johan Cruyff used to score.

Watch the goal here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
What a team goal from <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronramsey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aaronramsey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramsey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramsey</a> makes it 3-1! <a href="https://t.co/FWphwcZ0i3">pic.twitter.com/FWphwcZ0i3</a>
— Atilla Otaner (@atillaotaner) <a href="https://twitter.com/atillaotaner/status/1049081876923789320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sauce from the beginning to the end. <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronramsey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aaronramsey</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lce6F0fOOb">pic.twitter.com/Lce6F0fOOb</a>
— mk (@MkJustSaid) <a href="https://twitter.com/MkJustSaid/status/1049003851435716608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"It was an important goal for Aaron and an important goal for us," said manager Unai Emery with more than a touch of understatement.

"The best performer for us is every player."

Although Emery has said he would like to keep Ramsey, but he is clearly not short of midfield options, with Alex Iwobi impressing before being replaced by the Welshman and Germany's Mesut Ozil to come back in after missing Sunday's game with an injury.

"I believe in us, we believe in our process but also we must keep taking confidence. I think we are in the first competition in the war. It is very difficult but we must prepare, continue improving and show big commitment," said Emery.

Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season. The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season. The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. The goal was conceptualised by the 27-year-old midfielder, who began and ended a wonderful free-flowing move, just 39 seconds after coming on as a 67th-minute substitute. Earlier, Arsenal's manager Unai Emery remained tight-lipped about a new deal for Ramsey and a contract offer to the midfielder was withdrawn last month. Irrespective of that, Ramsey showed his quality when he created and finished a stunning team move to help Arsenal to a ninth straight win in all competitions - their best run since April 2015. First, he dinked the ball over a defender deep in his own half before running on to make two key headers around the halfway line to allow the push forward to keep its momentum. Finally, he met Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's low cross with a delicate flick with the inside of his boot to beat Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal and conjure memories of the sort of goals Dutch great Johan Cruyff used to score. Watch the goal here: What a team goal from @Arsenal @aaronramsey #Ramsey makes it 3-1! pic.twitter.com/FWphwcZ0i3 — Atilla Otaner (@atillaotaner) October 7, 2018 × Sauce from the beginning to the end. @aaronramsey pic.twitter.com/Lce6F0fOOb — mk (@MkJustSaid) October 7, 2018 × "It was an important goal for Aaron and an important goal for us," said manager Unai Emery with more than a touch of understatement. "The best performer for us is every player." Although Emery has said he would like to keep Ramsey, but he is clearly not short of midfield options, with Alex Iwobi impressing before being replaced by the Welshman and Germany's Mesut Ozil to come back in after missing Sunday's game with an injury. "I believe in us, we believe in our process but also we must keep taking confidence. I think we are in the first competition in the war. It is very difficult but we must prepare, continue improving and show big commitment," said Emery.

Watch: Aaron Ramsey's wonder goal for Arsenal against Fulham

Manchester City's boss Pep Guardiola said that he apologised to Gabriel Jesus after refusing the striker's request to take the late penalty at Liverpool that Riyad Mahrez missed for the defending champions in an intense clash on Sunday.

Jesus wanted to take the penalty but Guardiola denied letting the Algeria international to take his team's penalty.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-aaron-ramseys-wonder-goal-for-arsenal-against-fulham-170121">Watch: Aaron Ramsey's wonder goal for Arsenal against Fulham</a>

The 27-year-old Mahrez, who has now missed five of his last eight top-flight penalties, lost a chance to earn three points for the team when he took the spot kick and blazed over the bar in a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/citys-mahrez-misses-late-penalty-in-stalemate-at-liverpool-170067"> 0-0 draw</a>.

Guardiola told to the journalist during the post-match media interaction that he "apologised," on being asked that what he said to Jesus after the final whistle.

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Pep Guardiola admits he apologised to Gabriel Jesus after letting Riyad Mahrez take <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a>’s penalty against <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFCMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFCMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/ToeYkyoVZu">pic.twitter.com/ToeYkyoVZu</a>
— sntv (@sntvstory) <a href="https://twitter.com/sntvstory/status/1049046026575892480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also said that it was his decision to send Mahrez instead of Jesus.&nbsp;

"Because in the training sessions I see him everyday training penalties and this gave me a lot of confidence. Will be a good experience for him. Next time it will go in."

While Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/to-respond-is-difficult-when-opponent-is-manchester-city-liverpool-manager-jurgen-klopp-170161">he is "fine" with the result</a>.&nbsp;

"I am fine. It is a very intense, unbelievable challenge to face Manchester City always - I've said that before - and as the last game of an intense period, it makes the challenge even bigger, so I am really happy with what the boys did today."

He said that the Reds were lucky in the situation as it "is really difficult" to respond when the opponent is a club like Manchester City.

Manchester City's boss Pep Guardiola said that he apologised to Gabriel Jesus after refusing the striker's request to take the late penalty at Liverpool that Riyad Mahrez missed for the defending champions in an intense clash on Sunday.

Manchester City's boss Pep Guardiola said that he apologised to Gabriel Jesus after refusing the striker's request to take the late penalty at Liverpool that Riyad Mahrez missed for the defending champions in an intense clash on Sunday. Jesus wanted to take the penalty but Guardiola denied letting the Algeria international to take his team's penalty. Watch: Aaron Ramsey's wonder goal for Arsenal against Fulham The 27-year-old Mahrez, who has now missed five of his last eight top-flight penalties, lost a chance to earn three points for the team when he took the spot kick and blazed over the bar in a 0-0 draw. Guardiola told to the journalist during the post-match media interaction that he "apologised," on being asked that what he said to Jesus after the final whistle. Pep Guardiola admits he apologised to Gabriel Jesus after letting Riyad Mahrez take @ManCity’s penalty against @LFC #LFCMCI pic.twitter.com/ToeYkyoVZu — sntv (@sntvstory) October 7, 2018 × He also said that it was his decision to send Mahrez instead of Jesus. "Because in the training sessions I see him everyday training penalties and this gave me a lot of confidence. Will be a good experience for him. Next time it will go in." While Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that he is "fine" with the result. "I am fine. It is a very intense, unbelievable challenge to face Manchester City always - I've said that before - and as the last game of an intense period, it makes the challenge even bigger, so I am really happy with what the boys did today." He said that the Reds were lucky in the situation as it "is really difficult" to respond when the opponent is a club like Manchester City.

Guardiola apologises to Gabriel Jesus for giving penalty to Mahrez

Two goals from Frenchman Alexandre Lacazette, a wonderful back-heeled strike from Aaron Ramsey and two more from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;a 5-1 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Sunday.

Fulham pressed forward in the opening minutes as they looked for their first win over&nbsp;Arsenal since January 2012, and Argentine midfielder Luciano Vietto very nearly beat Gunners keeper Bernd Leno in the second minute.

Fulham's powerful Serbian forward Aleksandar Mitrovic also had a number of half-chances but was unable to get any clear shots in on goal, with perhaps his best attempt a thumped volley over the bar from outside the area.

Against the run of play, Lacazette opened the scoring in the 29th minute for&nbsp;Arsenal, collecting a pass from Nacho Monreal, spinning round past defender Tim Ream and rifling the ball low into the corner of the net from close range.

Fulham's Andre Schurrle levelled the score just before the break, chipping calmly over Leno for his third league goal since joining the Cottagers in the summer on loan from Borussia Dortmund.

But the visitors ran rampant in the second half, with three unanswered goals.

Lacazette scored his fourth league goal of the season before substitute Ramsey back-heeled in an exquisite third for the Gunners after a pass across the area from Aubameyang.

The Gabonese striker then took the game away from the home side with two more goals that left Fulham with the worst defensive record in the league by a distance, having let in four more goals than any other team.

"We worked very hard in the second half for this result,"&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;manager Unai Emery told reporters.

"We need to be the same way in our matches: calm, finding our best performance and combination of players," he said when asked about the win,&nbsp;Arsenal's ninth in a row in all competitions.

The loss leaves the Cottagers on the edge of the relegation zone in 17th place, while&nbsp;Arsenal move up to third above Tottenham on goal difference and ahead of Chelsea who play at Southampton later in the day.

"We don't show the Premier League level, and this is our situation," Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic told reporters.

"Today we tried, we offered some positive signs, but it's not enough."

Two goals from Frenchman Alexandre Lacazette, a wonderful back-heeled strike from Aaron Ramsey and two more from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave Arsenal a 5-1 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Sunday.

Two goals from Frenchman Alexandre Lacazette, a wonderful back-heeled strike from Aaron Ramsey and two more from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave Arsenal a 5-1 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Sunday. Fulham pressed forward in the opening minutes as they looked for their first win over Arsenal since January 2012, and Argentine midfielder Luciano Vietto very nearly beat Gunners keeper Bernd Leno in the second minute. Fulham's powerful Serbian forward Aleksandar Mitrovic also had a number of half-chances but was unable to get any clear shots in on goal, with perhaps his best attempt a thumped volley over the bar from outside the area. Against the run of play, Lacazette opened the scoring in the 29th minute for Arsenal, collecting a pass from Nacho Monreal, spinning round past defender Tim Ream and rifling the ball low into the corner of the net from close range. Fulham's Andre Schurrle levelled the score just before the break, chipping calmly over Leno for his third league goal since joining the Cottagers in the summer on loan from Borussia Dortmund. But the visitors ran rampant in the second half, with three unanswered goals. Lacazette scored his fourth league goal of the season before substitute Ramsey back-heeled in an exquisite third for the Gunners after a pass across the area from Aubameyang. The Gabonese striker then took the game away from the home side with two more goals that left Fulham with the worst defensive record in the league by a distance, having let in four more goals than any other team. "We worked very hard in the second half for this result," Arsenal manager Unai Emery told reporters. "We need to be the same way in our matches: calm, finding our best performance and combination of players," he said when asked about the win, Arsenal's ninth in a row in all competitions. The loss leaves the Cottagers on the edge of the relegation zone in 17th place, while Arsenal move up to third above Tottenham on goal difference and ahead of Chelsea who play at Southampton later in the day. "We don't show the Premier League level, and this is our situation," Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic told reporters. "Today we tried, we offered some positive signs, but it's not enough."

Arsenal run riot in second half to win 5-1 at Fulham

From Mourinho's troubles to Harry Kane's comeback, here are 5 things we learned in Premier League

Manchester United are a club in crisis and Jose Mourinho is seemingly powerless to prevent a slide into mid-table mediocrity for the 20-time English champions.

The Old Trafford hierarchy preened this week after the latest financial results showed the club had earned revenue of more than half a billion pounds for the third year running.

But United, who finished a distant second behind Manchester City last season, are going backwards on the pitch -- licking their wounds after their worst start to a league campaign for 29 years. &nbsp;

Mourinho's men travelled to the London Stadium on Saturday boasting an enviable record against West Ham but came away chastened after a 3-1 defeat killed off any realistic hopes of a Premier League challenge before the end of September.

Languishing nine points behind leaders City, they now face a battle even to qualify for the lucrative Champions League, a prospect that will give the money men sleepless nights.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said the club face some "big decisions" over the manager's future after the listless display in the capital.

"There are some big decisions to be made at United now," he said. "There will be conversations at the top level, about the future of the manager and the squad, because the basics are not being done. There has to be something said."

Pogba-Mourinho rift

United's build-up to the match against West Ham was overshadowed by the growing rift between Mourinho and Paul Pogba, who was stripped of the vice-captaincy before their League Cup exit against Championship side Derby in midweek.

It came after the French World Cup winner implicitly criticised his manager's tactics, imploring United to attack more and as rumours continued to swirl linking him with a move to Barcelona.

It is difficult to see how both player and manager can work together in the long term after such public displays of disunity.&nbsp;

United are anxious to hang on to one of the world's most marketable players but all the signs are that they are sticking with Mourinho for now despite their desperately poor start to the season, which has seen them muster just 10 points from seven games.

Pogba gave another under-par performance against West Ham but he was not the only player to disappoint in the late September sunshine.

United are lacking in ideas, short of inspiration and shape, with many of the players looking like square pegs in round holes.

Manchester City and Liverpool have a definable ethos and way of playing but United -- for so long the standard bearers of swashbuckling forward play under Alex Ferguson -- are painfully lacking in identity in Mourinho's third season at the club.

They have a clutch of top players including Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez -- who was left out of the squad against West Ham.

United have backed Mourinho heavily in the transfer market but their policy has been scattergun, with January signing Sanchez failing to recreate his Arsenal form at Old Trafford.

Mourinho did not look too despondent after Saturday's result but his attempts to shift the blame for two of United's goals onto the officials failed to take the spotlight off his under-performing players.

United appeared to have turned the corner after a poor start to the season, winning three away games on the bounce.

But a disappointing draw against promoted Wolverhampton Wanderers last week came before the Derby setback.

United's hierarchy may appear relatively sanguine despite the poor run but how long can they afford to wait before they reach crunch point?

Defeat on penalties in the League Cup leaves only two competitions left that they can win barring a miracle in the Premier League -- the FA Cup and the Champions League -- and victory in Europe looks an unlikely prospect.

United are already onto their third manager since Ferguson retired as a Premier League champion in 2013.

The club used to pride itself on its stability during the Ferguson years as other clubs chopped and changed but they have to pull themselves out of their current spiral of decline.

Will they stick or twist?

Manchester United are a club in crisis and Jose Mourinho is seemingly powerless to prevent a slide into mid-table mediocrity for the 20-time English champions. The Old Trafford hierarchy preened this week after the latest financial results showed the club had earned revenue of more than half a billion pounds for the third year running.

Manchester United are a club in crisis and Jose Mourinho is seemingly powerless to prevent a slide into mid-table mediocrity for the 20-time English champions. The Old Trafford hierarchy preened this week after the latest financial results showed the club had earned revenue of more than half a billion pounds for the third year running. But United, who finished a distant second behind Manchester City last season, are going backwards on the pitch -- licking their wounds after their worst start to a league campaign for 29 years. Mourinho's men travelled to the London Stadium on Saturday boasting an enviable record against West Ham but came away chastened after a 3-1 defeat killed off any realistic hopes of a Premier League challenge before the end of September. Languishing nine points behind leaders City, they now face a battle even to qualify for the lucrative Champions League, a prospect that will give the money men sleepless nights. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said the club face some "big decisions" over the manager's future after the listless display in the capital. "There are some big decisions to be made at United now," he said. "There will be conversations at the top level, about the future of the manager and the squad, because the basics are not being done. There has to be something said." Pogba-Mourinho rift United's build-up to the match against West Ham was overshadowed by the growing rift between Mourinho and Paul Pogba, who was stripped of the vice-captaincy before their League Cup exit against Championship side Derby in midweek. It came after the French World Cup winner implicitly criticised his manager's tactics, imploring United to attack more and as rumours continued to swirl linking him with a move to Barcelona. It is difficult to see how both player and manager can work together in the long term after such public displays of disunity. United are anxious to hang on to one of the world's most marketable players but all the signs are that they are sticking with Mourinho for now despite their desperately poor start to the season, which has seen them muster just 10 points from seven games. Pogba gave another under-par performance against West Ham but he was not the only player to disappoint in the late September sunshine. United are lacking in ideas, short of inspiration and shape, with many of the players looking like square pegs in round holes. Manchester City and Liverpool have a definable ethos and way of playing but United -- for so long the standard bearers of swashbuckling forward play under Alex Ferguson -- are painfully lacking in identity in Mourinho's third season at the club. They have a clutch of top players including Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez -- who was left out of the squad against West Ham. United have backed Mourinho heavily in the transfer market but their policy has been scattergun, with January signing Sanchez failing to recreate his Arsenal form at Old Trafford. Mourinho did not look too despondent after Saturday's result but his attempts to shift the blame for two of United's goals onto the officials failed to take the spotlight off his under-performing players. United appeared to have turned the corner after a poor start to the season, winning three away games on the bounce. But a disappointing draw against promoted Wolverhampton Wanderers last week came before the Derby setback. United's hierarchy may appear relatively sanguine despite the poor run but how long can they afford to wait before they reach crunch point? Defeat on penalties in the League Cup leaves only two competitions left that they can win barring a miracle in the Premier League -- the FA Cup and the Champions League -- and victory in Europe looks an unlikely prospect. United are already onto their third manager since Ferguson retired as a Premier League champion in 2013. The club used to pride itself on its stability during the Ferguson years as other clubs chopped and changed but they have to pull themselves out of their current spiral of decline. Will they stick or twist?

Are Man United and Mourinho nearing end of the road?

Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur moved into fourth place in the Premier League with a 2-0 win at bottom club Huddersfield Town on Saturday.

But Spurs, who face Barcelona on Wednesday in the Champions League, have more injury concerns, with defender Jan Vertonghen and midfielder Mousa Dembele both replaced at half-time.

Attacking midfielder Dele Alli missed the trip to Yorkshire, also suffering from a hamstring injury, and while Tottenham never looked in real danger at Huddersfield, the injuries will be a blow to manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Kane, who scored twice in the corresponding fixture last season, opened the scoring in the 25th minute, rising well to angle home a header from the familiar source of a pinpoint Kieran Trippier corner.

Nine minutes later the England international doubled the lead, this time from the penalty spot after Danny Rose went down under a challenge from Florent Hadergjonaj after a clever exchange with Son Heung-min.

It was a decision which riled the home crowd but while there was little contact on Rose, Hadergjonaj paid the price for tugging the shirt of the Spurs wing back.

Huddersfield striker Laurent Depoitre rattled the woodwork with a volley just before the break and Terriers' substitute Isaac Mbenza brought a fine save out of Paulo Gazzaniga, which sparked some late pressure from the home side.

The Yorkshire crowd roared their side on until the end but for all their immense effort, their predictable long balls caused little trouble for Tottenham's defence.

"A very good win, very pleased. The attitude was fantastic," said Pochettino.

"It was a tough game against a team desperate to win. They were helped by their unbelievable fans, among the best I have found in England. Which is why we are so pleased to have three more points in the table today," he said.

Huddersfield manager David Wagner, whose team have just two points, said the response of the fans showed that his team were not far away from getting positive results.

"I think everyone who saw this game obviously saw that my team performed on a very good level," said the German.

"If you have such an incredible atmosphere in the stadium after a defeat ... the players left everything on the grass -- without any reward that’s true – but if you perform consistently … the reward will come."

Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur moved into fourth place in the Premier League with a 2-0 win at bottom club Huddersfield Town on Saturday. But Spurs, who face Barcelona on Wednesday in the Champions League, have more injury concerns, with defender Jan Vertonghen and midfielder Mousa Dembele both replaced at half-time.

Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur moved into fourth place in the Premier League with a 2-0 win at bottom club Huddersfield Town on Saturday. But Spurs, who face Barcelona on Wednesday in the Champions League, have more injury concerns, with defender Jan Vertonghen and midfielder Mousa Dembele both replaced at half-time. Attacking midfielder Dele Alli missed the trip to Yorkshire, also suffering from a hamstring injury, and while Tottenham never looked in real danger at Huddersfield, the injuries will be a blow to manager Mauricio Pochettino. Kane, who scored twice in the corresponding fixture last season, opened the scoring in the 25th minute, rising well to angle home a header from the familiar source of a pinpoint Kieran Trippier corner. Nine minutes later the England international doubled the lead, this time from the penalty spot after Danny Rose went down under a challenge from Florent Hadergjonaj after a clever exchange with Son Heung-min. It was a decision which riled the home crowd but while there was little contact on Rose, Hadergjonaj paid the price for tugging the shirt of the Spurs wing back. Huddersfield striker Laurent Depoitre rattled the woodwork with a volley just before the break and Terriers' substitute Isaac Mbenza brought a fine save out of Paulo Gazzaniga, which sparked some late pressure from the home side. The Yorkshire crowd roared their side on until the end but for all their immense effort, their predictable long balls caused little trouble for Tottenham's defence. "A very good win, very pleased. The attitude was fantastic," said Pochettino. "It was a tough game against a team desperate to win. They were helped by their unbelievable fans, among the best I have found in England. Which is why we are so pleased to have three more points in the table today," he said. Huddersfield manager David Wagner, whose team have just two points, said the response of the fans showed that his team were not far away from getting positive results. "I think everyone who saw this game obviously saw that my team performed on a very good level," said the German. "If you have such an incredible atmosphere in the stadium after a defeat ... the players left everything on the grass -- without any reward that’s true – but if you perform consistently … the reward will come."

Harry Kane double at Huddersfield sends Spurs fourth

Manchester United's troubled season hit a new low on Saturday as Jose Mourinho saw his gamble on introducing a new tactical system backfire with an insipid 3-1 defeat to West Ham United in the Premier League.

After a week in which he had dropped Paul Pogba as vice-captain and seen his men ousted from the League Cup, Mourinho watched United's faint title hopes dwindle further at the London Stadium with a new-look set-up but the same old prosaic fare.

Pogba was so ineffectual that he was substituted after 70 minutes but long before that Mourinho's unfamiliar 3-5-2 line-up had been found wanting as record signing Felipe Anderson scored his first Hammers' goal with an audacious back-foot flick after just five minutes.

Andriy Yarmolenko's shot deflected off Victor Lindelof for an unlucky own goal just before the break but though substitute Marcus Rashford gave the visitors hope with a clever volleyed 71st-minute flick, Marko Arnautovic waltzed between United's central defenders minutes later to seal victory.

Man United's 10 points equals the club's worst return after the first seven matches of any season in the Premier League era, heaping more pressure on Mourinho, whose brand of football seems to be delivering neither points nor pleasure to United's fans.

United also had 10 points at this stage of the 2013-14 season but had a superior goal difference, so this year represents their poorest start in the top flight since 1989-1990.

Mourinho, whose uncomfortable-looking system featured a midfielder, Scott McTominay, playing on the right of a three-man defence, said he had no problems with the players' attitude but did question their quality and "mental fragility".

Suggesting that Pablo Zabaleta was offside when he delivered the cross for Anderson's opening goal, Mourinho told BT Sport: "I have no complaints with the players' attitude; I can have some complaints with some quality, with some mental approach in certain duels."

He praised McTominay as "brave" and "the best" of his players with his quality on the ball but the 21-year-old never looked completely at home in his new role.

Mourinho left Alexis Sanchez out of the squad and gave Anthony Martial a start.

He explained: "People have been asking for 'Martial, Martial, Martial', people are saying Alexis Sanchez is not playing well enough, so this week I was trying to agree and to say 'let's give a chance to Martial and let's leave Alexis out'."

The switch proved in vain with both Martial and Romelu Lukaku, who headed against the post in the first half, proving largely ineffective.

Manchester United's troubled season hit a new low on Saturday as Jose Mourinho saw his gamble on introducing a new tactical system backfire with an insipid 3-1 defeat to West Ham United in the Premier League.

Manchester United's troubled season hit a new low on Saturday as Jose Mourinho saw his gamble on introducing a new tactical system backfire with an insipid 3-1 defeat to West Ham United in the Premier League. After a week in which he had dropped Paul Pogba as vice-captain and seen his men ousted from the League Cup, Mourinho watched United's faint title hopes dwindle further at the London Stadium with a new-look set-up but the same old prosaic fare. Pogba was so ineffectual that he was substituted after 70 minutes but long before that Mourinho's unfamiliar 3-5-2 line-up had been found wanting as record signing Felipe Anderson scored his first Hammers' goal with an audacious back-foot flick after just five minutes. Andriy Yarmolenko's shot deflected off Victor Lindelof for an unlucky own goal just before the break but though substitute Marcus Rashford gave the visitors hope with a clever volleyed 71st-minute flick, Marko Arnautovic waltzed between United's central defenders minutes later to seal victory. Man United's 10 points equals the club's worst return after the first seven matches of any season in the Premier League era, heaping more pressure on Mourinho, whose brand of football seems to be delivering neither points nor pleasure to United's fans. United also had 10 points at this stage of the 2013-14 season but had a superior goal difference, so this year represents their poorest start in the top flight since 1989-1990. Mourinho, whose uncomfortable-looking system featured a midfielder, Scott McTominay, playing on the right of a three-man defence, said he had no problems with the players' attitude but did question their quality and "mental fragility". Suggesting that Pablo Zabaleta was offside when he delivered the cross for Anderson's opening goal, Mourinho told BT Sport: "I have no complaints with the players' attitude; I can have some complaints with some quality, with some mental approach in certain duels." He praised McTominay as "brave" and "the best" of his players with his quality on the ball but the 21-year-old never looked completely at home in his new role. Mourinho left Alexis Sanchez out of the squad and gave Anthony Martial a start. He explained: "People have been asking for 'Martial, Martial, Martial', people are saying Alexis Sanchez is not playing well enough, so this week I was trying to agree and to say 'let's give a chance to Martial and let's leave Alexis out'." The switch proved in vain with both Martial and Romelu Lukaku, who headed against the post in the first half, proving largely ineffective.

West Ham defeat Manchester United 3-1; Jose Mourinho's woes multiply

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claims the rise of social media is a significant threat to the fragile relationship between managers and players.

Jose Mourinho's strained relations with Paul Pogba at Manchester United came under the spotlight again this week after posts placed on Instagram by the controversial France star.

Across Manchester, Guardiola has his own issues with social media and off-field behaviour after admitting he had to remind Benjamin Mendy of his responsibilities when the City defender arrived late for treatment to an injury on Sunday.

Mendy, who has now missed City's last four games, has a bruised metatarsal in his foot, yet the France international posted photographs of himself late on Saturday at Anthony Joshua's title fight at Wembley in London.

Guardiola confirmed he had no problem with Mendy travelling to London for the bout despite his injury.

But the Spaniard is clearly frustrated by Mendy's absence after he missed nearly all of last season with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

"I don't know (when he will return). I think soon, but I don't know," Guardiola said.

"When a guy comes here and is injured for seven months or arrives here and plays two or three games and after one month is injured it's always a problem.&nbsp;

"It's always a problem to be involved in the way we want to play and the meetings and correcting mistakes. That's why it's so important. Hopefully this injury can be the last."

The situation between Guardiola and Mendy appears nowhere near as combustible as the clash of the egos between Mourinho and Pogba.

However, Guardiola admits that social media, and the scrutiny that comes with it, has become a problem and, tellingly, he has already issued Mendy a polite suggestion this season that he should tone down his behaviour in that area.&nbsp;

"Characters are quite similar or the same," he said. "Competitors are competitors. Nice guys are nice guys. The egos are the same.&nbsp;

"The only difference is social media. Now it's more popular. Before, nobody knew what the players did inside the locker room or outside.&nbsp;

"Now everybody knows everything. Years ago they were human beings, they are human beings now too.&nbsp;

"With fears and good things and bad things. So it's quite similar. Now the media are more involved.&nbsp;

"Ten years ago nobody expected to make a documentary about what happened inside the locker room and now we made a documentary about what happened inside the locker room.&nbsp;

"Now everybody outside knows what happens inside, so we have to adapt. Human beings are the same. It was the same before."

'I spoke with him'

Still, Mendy has been told, in no uncertain terms, that arriving late for training is unacceptable by the City manager.

"The players should be here and he knows it. I spoke with him," Guardiola said.&nbsp;

"I'm unhappy at every player arriving late. They have to be on time. Normally when you arrive on time you arrive on time in the game.&nbsp;

"At the high level when you arrive late you arrive late in the game.&nbsp;

"But I have no problem (going to London). Boxing is so important in England. In Spain nobody cares."

Meanwhile, Guardiola confirmed he would like to see City captain Vincent Kompany, who was this week awarded a testimonial, be given a new contract when his current one expires in June.

Kompany is in talks over a testimonial match to be played in August and Guardiola said: "Yes, that is my wish.

"Hats off! Ten years is a lot. It's incredible. He played the League Cup this week like it's the final of the Champions League. That means a lot to me.&nbsp;

"If he plays five minutes then they are going to be the best five minutes in his life."

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claims the rise of social media is a significant threat to the fragile relationship between managers and players. Jose Mourinho's strained relations with Paul Pogba at Manchester United came under the spotlight again this week after posts placed on Instagram by the controversial France star.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claims the rise of social media is a significant threat to the fragile relationship between managers and players. Jose Mourinho's strained relations with Paul Pogba at Manchester United came under the spotlight again this week after posts placed on Instagram by the controversial France star. Across Manchester, Guardiola has his own issues with social media and off-field behaviour after admitting he had to remind Benjamin Mendy of his responsibilities when the City defender arrived late for treatment to an injury on Sunday. Mendy, who has now missed City's last four games, has a bruised metatarsal in his foot, yet the France international posted photographs of himself late on Saturday at Anthony Joshua's title fight at Wembley in London. Guardiola confirmed he had no problem with Mendy travelling to London for the bout despite his injury. But the Spaniard is clearly frustrated by Mendy's absence after he missed nearly all of last season with a cruciate knee ligament injury. "I don't know (when he will return). I think soon, but I don't know," Guardiola said. "When a guy comes here and is injured for seven months or arrives here and plays two or three games and after one month is injured it's always a problem. "It's always a problem to be involved in the way we want to play and the meetings and correcting mistakes. That's why it's so important. Hopefully this injury can be the last." The situation between Guardiola and Mendy appears nowhere near as combustible as the clash of the egos between Mourinho and Pogba. However, Guardiola admits that social media, and the scrutiny that comes with it, has become a problem and, tellingly, he has already issued Mendy a polite suggestion this season that he should tone down his behaviour in that area. "Characters are quite similar or the same," he said. "Competitors are competitors. Nice guys are nice guys. The egos are the same. "The only difference is social media. Now it's more popular. Before, nobody knew what the players did inside the locker room or outside. "Now everybody knows everything. Years ago they were human beings, they are human beings now too. "With fears and good things and bad things. So it's quite similar. Now the media are more involved. "Ten years ago nobody expected to make a documentary about what happened inside the locker room and now we made a documentary about what happened inside the locker room. "Now everybody outside knows what happens inside, so we have to adapt. Human beings are the same. It was the same before." 'I spoke with him' Still, Mendy has been told, in no uncertain terms, that arriving late for training is unacceptable by the City manager. "The players should be here and he knows it. I spoke with him," Guardiola said. "I'm unhappy at every player arriving late. They have to be on time. Normally when you arrive on time you arrive on time in the game. "At the high level when you arrive late you arrive late in the game. "But I have no problem (going to London). Boxing is so important in England. In Spain nobody cares." Meanwhile, Guardiola confirmed he would like to see City captain Vincent Kompany, who was this week awarded a testimonial, be given a new contract when his current one expires in June. Kompany is in talks over a testimonial match to be played in August and Guardiola said: "Yes, that is my wish. "Hats off! Ten years is a lot. It's incredible. He played the League Cup this week like it's the final of the Champions League. That means a lot to me. "If he plays five minutes then they are going to be the best five minutes in his life."

Unsocial network: Guardiola warns City stars of social media dangers

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United have been found wanting for motivation in a difficult start to the season, but is expecting a big response from his side in Saturday's visit to West Ham.

United begin the weekend sitting seventh, eight points off the top of the Premier League, after defeats to Brighton and Tottenham and being held to a 1-1 draw at home by Wolves last Saturday after three straight wins.

That was followed on Tuesday by elimination from the League Cup on penalties at home by Championship side Derby County after a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford.

"I sometimes feel frustrated because with the work we do, I’m always expecting more," said Mourinho on Friday.

“It looks that when we feel we are really improving and playing better and having a good run of results there is always a little going down in terms of the focus or the motivation. I feel that.”

Mourinho has also had the distraction of a clash with midfielder Paul Pogba having stripped the Frenchman of his role as vice-captain on Tuesday, and seen video footage of a standoff between the pair at training on Wednesday go viral.

The Portuguese insisted that Pogba will return to his starting line-up at the London Stadium having impressed with his attitude in training this week.

And unlike in recent times when Mourinho has been criticised for his negative outlook, he backed his side to beat a West Ham side on the up having won at Everton and held Chelsea in their last two league outings.

“I expect to win tomorrow. I expect to play very well tomorrow. We worked very, very well – especially on&nbsp;Wednesday and Thursday, so tomorrow I expect a very good performance and I expect to win a very difficult match," said Mourinho

“I don’t come here and say the training session was not very good, that the players are not committed and that I have a bad feeling.”

Mourinho's problems with Pogba are just the latest in a series of fall outs he has had with members of the United squad in just over two seasons in charge.

Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial have previously been in the firing line, but he refuted suggestions his players are struggling to deal with the demands of representing the 20-time English champions.

“I don't think any player is afraid to play for the club," added Mourinho.

“If I put myself in the position of a journalist, maybe people think that sometimes the boys are not committed, maybe people can think the manager doesn’t demand enough from them, maybe people think on the training ground we don’t train enough this area or that area. That’s quite frustrating.

“But I repeat that tomorrow I think we are going to play very well, I think we are going to win a very difficult match against a very good opponent, an opponent with great investment, an opponent with a champion manager (Manuel Pellegrini) with lots of experienced players and lots of very talented players.”

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United have been found wanting for motivation in a difficult start to the season, but is expecting a big response from his side in Saturday's visit to West Ham.

Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United have been found wanting for motivation in a difficult start to the season, but is expecting a big response from his side in Saturday's visit to West Ham. United begin the weekend sitting seventh, eight points off the top of the Premier League, after defeats to Brighton and Tottenham and being held to a 1-1 draw at home by Wolves last Saturday after three straight wins. That was followed on Tuesday by elimination from the League Cup on penalties at home by Championship side Derby County after a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford. "I sometimes feel frustrated because with the work we do, I’m always expecting more," said Mourinho on Friday. “It looks that when we feel we are really improving and playing better and having a good run of results there is always a little going down in terms of the focus or the motivation. I feel that.” Mourinho has also had the distraction of a clash with midfielder Paul Pogba having stripped the Frenchman of his role as vice-captain on Tuesday, and seen video footage of a standoff between the pair at training on Wednesday go viral. The Portuguese insisted that Pogba will return to his starting line-up at the London Stadium having impressed with his attitude in training this week. And unlike in recent times when Mourinho has been criticised for his negative outlook, he backed his side to beat a West Ham side on the up having won at Everton and held Chelsea in their last two league outings. “I expect to win tomorrow. I expect to play very well tomorrow. We worked very, very well – especially on Wednesday and Thursday, so tomorrow I expect a very good performance and I expect to win a very difficult match," said Mourinho “I don’t come here and say the training session was not very good, that the players are not committed and that I have a bad feeling.” Mourinho's problems with Pogba are just the latest in a series of fall outs he has had with members of the United squad in just over two seasons in charge. Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial have previously been in the firing line, but he refuted suggestions his players are struggling to deal with the demands of representing the 20-time English champions. “I don't think any player is afraid to play for the club," added Mourinho. “If I put myself in the position of a journalist, maybe people think that sometimes the boys are not committed, maybe people can think the manager doesn’t demand enough from them, maybe people think on the training ground we don’t train enough this area or that area. That’s quite frustrating. “But I repeat that tomorrow I think we are going to play very well, I think we are going to win a very difficult match against a very good opponent, an opponent with great investment, an opponent with a champion manager (Manuel Pellegrini) with lots of experienced players and lots of very talented players.”

Motivate yourselves, Mourinho urges under-performing United

Manchester United winger Anthony Martial wants to leave the Premier League club due to a deadlock in contract negotiations, according to his agent Philippe Lamboley.

Martial, 22, has a year left on his current contract but talks of a renewal remained stagnant over the past few months.

"After thinking about all the possibilities and scenarios, Anthony wants to leave Manchester United," Lamboley told French news outlet RMC Sport.

"I think that when Manchester United, which is the most powerful club in the world ... do not find an agreement in eight months of negotiations, it is because they do not really want to make him an important member of the team."

Lamboley admitted that United will have the final say in the matter.

"... Important to remember that he is under contract, that Manchester United will have the last word and that we will respect the decision of the club."

Martial, who was limited to 18 Premier League starts last season, was not picked for Didier Deschamps's French squad for the World Cup.

Martial, 22, has a year left on his current contract but talks of a renewal remained stagnant over the past few months

Manchester United winger Anthony Martial wants to leave the Premier League club due to a deadlock in contract negotiations, according to his agent Philippe Lamboley. Martial, 22, has a year left on his current contract but talks of a renewal remained stagnant over the past few months. "After thinking about all the possibilities and scenarios, Anthony wants to leave Manchester United," Lamboley told French news outlet RMC Sport. "I think that when Manchester United, which is the most powerful club in the world ... do not find an agreement in eight months of negotiations, it is because they do not really want to make him an important member of the team." Lamboley admitted that United will have the final say in the matter. "... Important to remember that he is under contract, that Manchester United will have the last word and that we will respect the decision of the club." Martial, who was limited to 18 Premier League starts last season, was not picked for Didier Deschamps's French squad for the World Cup.

Anthony Martial wants to leave Manchester United as contract talks stall - agent

German midfielder Pascal Gross has extended his contract with Brighton and Hove Albion until 2022, the Premier League club has said.

Gross, who joined Brighton from Ingolstadt last July, was instrumental in the club retaining their top-flight status last season, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists in 38 league appearances.

"We are delighted that Pascal has agreed to a new contract with the club," manager Chris Hughton told Brighton's website. "He has enjoyed an excellent first season with us in the Premier League, and we are really pleased with the impact he has made."

The 26-year-old's exploits earned him Brighton's player of the year award at the end of the campaign.

The 26-year-old's exploits earned him Brighton's player of the year award at the end of the campaign

German midfielder Pascal Gross has extended his contract with Brighton and Hove Albion until 2022, the Premier League club has said. Gross, who joined Brighton from Ingolstadt last July, was instrumental in the club retaining their top-flight status last season, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists in 38 league appearances. "We are delighted that Pascal has agreed to a new contract with the club," manager Chris Hughton told Brighton's website. "He has enjoyed an excellent first season with us in the Premier League, and we are really pleased with the impact he has made." The 26-year-old's exploits earned him Brighton's player of the year award at the end of the campaign.

Midfielder Pascal Gross extends Brighton contract till 2022

Former England midfielder Frank Lampard is taking his first step into management by taking the reins at Derby County, the Championship club announced on Thursday.

The 39-year-old, who won three Premier League titles with Chelsea, has signed a three-year contract at the second-tier English outfit two years after retiring in 2016.

Derby have been looking for a new manager since Gary Rowett was lured away by recently-relegated Stoke.

Lampard told Derby's official website: "This is my first job as a manager, but I've worked closely with some of the best coaches in the game and I'm confident in my own abilities and those of the team around me, including the board.

"I know it won't be easy -- managing a football team never is -- but I'm really looking forward to the challenge ahead.

"I've always wanted to manage a club with a big tradition and history like Derby County, so this is a huge opportunity."

Rowett led Derby into the play-offs at the end of last season only for Fulham to overturn a first-leg deficit in their semi-final clash before going on to beat Aston Villa at Wembley.

Lampard said his aim was to take Derby back to the Premier League for the first time since 2008 when the club finished rock bottom.

"We want to build on the club's top six finish in the Championship last season, while at the same time bringing through some of the excellent youth and academy talent we have at Pride Park," added Lampard.

After starting his career at West Ham, Lampard joined Chelsea and had 13 successful years at Stamford Bridge.

He remains the club's leading goalscorer with 211 goals and, as well as his hat-trick of Premier League medals, also lifted four FA Cups, the Champions League and the Europa League during a trophy-laden stay.

His career came to a close at New York City -- but he did return to England briefly, scoring against Chelsea while on loan at Manchester City.

The 39-year-old, who won three Premier League titles with Chelsea, has signed a three-year contract at the second-tier English outfit two years after retiring in 2016

Former England midfielder Frank Lampard is taking his first step into management by taking the reins at Derby County, the Championship club announced on Thursday. The 39-year-old, who won three Premier League titles with Chelsea, has signed a three-year contract at the second-tier English outfit two years after retiring in 2016. Derby have been looking for a new manager since Gary Rowett was lured away by recently-relegated Stoke. Lampard told Derby's official website: "This is my first job as a manager, but I've worked closely with some of the best coaches in the game and I'm confident in my own abilities and those of the team around me, including the board. "I know it won't be easy -- managing a football team never is -- but I'm really looking forward to the challenge ahead. "I've always wanted to manage a club with a big tradition and history like Derby County, so this is a huge opportunity." Rowett led Derby into the play-offs at the end of last season only for Fulham to overturn a first-leg deficit in their semi-final clash before going on to beat Aston Villa at Wembley. Lampard said his aim was to take Derby back to the Premier League for the first time since 2008 when the club finished rock bottom. "We want to build on the club's top six finish in the Championship last season, while at the same time bringing through some of the excellent youth and academy talent we have at Pride Park," added Lampard. After starting his career at West Ham, Lampard joined Chelsea and had 13 successful years at Stamford Bridge. He remains the club's leading goalscorer with 211 goals and, as well as his hat-trick of Premier League medals, also lifted four FA Cups, the Champions League and the Europa League during a trophy-laden stay. His career came to a close at New York City -- but he did return to England briefly, scoring against Chelsea while on loan at Manchester City.

Former England mid-fielder Frank Lampard steps into management at Derby

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