Injury-plagued midfielder Santi Cazorla has left Arsenal after six seasons in north London as his contract has expired, the Premier League club has said.

The 33-year-old has not played since October 2016 and underwent several operations, one resulting in a loss of eight centimetres from the tendon in his right ankle.

He also nearly lost his foot after contracting gangrene.

"I'm very sad to be leaving after so many great times. I have loved my time with the club and I will always remember the special moments we had together," Cazorla said in a video message on Arsenal's website https://www.arsenal.com/news/santi-cazorla-leaves-club.

Cazorla made 180 appearances for Arsenal and scored 29 goals after joining the club from Spanish side Malaga in 2012.

He helped the team capture two FA Cups -- in 2014 when he scored and was the Man of the match, and 2015.

The technically astute playmaker returned to full training in the latter part of last season but failed to earn a new contract despite his comeback from serious injury.

"Santi is always one of my favourite players to watch. His natural ability with both feet, his speed of thought and movement were central to our best performances in recent years," Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said in a statement.

"He plays with a joy and freedom which is very rare. We wish him well for the future and thank him for his important contribution to our club."

Arsenal finished sixth in the recently concluded season with manager Arsene Wenger also leaving the club after nearly 22 years at the helm.

Cazorla made 180 appearances for Arsenal and scored 29 goals after joining the club from Spanish side Malaga in 2012.

Injury-plagued midfielder Santi Cazorla has left Arsenal after six seasons in north London as his contract has expired, the Premier League club has said. The 33-year-old has not played since October 2016 and underwent several operations, one resulting in a loss of eight centimetres from the tendon in his right ankle. He also nearly lost his foot after contracting gangrene. "I'm very sad to be leaving after so many great times. I have loved my time with the club and I will always remember the special moments we had together," Cazorla said in a video message on Arsenal's website https://www.arsenal.com/news/santi-cazorla-leaves-club. Cazorla made 180 appearances for Arsenal and scored 29 goals after joining the club from Spanish side Malaga in 2012. He helped the team capture two FA Cups -- in 2014 when he scored and was the Man of the match, and 2015. The technically astute playmaker returned to full training in the latter part of last season but failed to earn a new contract despite his comeback from serious injury. "Santi is always one of my favourite players to watch. His natural ability with both feet, his speed of thought and movement were central to our best performances in recent years," Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said in a statement. "He plays with a joy and freedom which is very rare. We wish him well for the future and thank him for his important contribution to our club." Arsenal finished sixth in the recently concluded season with manager Arsene Wenger also leaving the club after nearly 22 years at the helm.

Santi Cazorla bids farewell to Arsenal after reaching end of contract

David Moyes has left West Ham following the end of his short-term contract, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday.

The 55-year-old former Everton and Manchester United boss arrived at London Stadium in November, with the sole objective of ensuring the Hammers' top-flight status, which he achieved.

"I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to David Moyes and his staff for achieving the target of keeping West Ham United in the Premier League," said joint-chairman David Sullivan.

"When David and his team arrived, it was the wish of both parties that the focus be only on the six months until the end of the season, at which point a decision would be made with regards to the future," he added.

"Having taken stock of the situation and reflected now the campaign is complete, we feel that it is right to move in a different direction."

Sullivan said the club, who finished 13th in the Premier League, aims to appoint a "high-calibre" successor within the next 10 days.

David Moyes has left West Ham following the end of his short-term contract, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday

David Moyes has left West Ham following the end of his short-term contract, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday. The 55-year-old former Everton and Manchester United boss arrived at London Stadium in November, with the sole objective of ensuring the Hammers' top-flight status, which he achieved. "I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to David Moyes and his staff for achieving the target of keeping West Ham United in the Premier League," said joint-chairman David Sullivan. "When David and his team arrived, it was the wish of both parties that the focus be only on the six months until the end of the season, at which point a decision would be made with regards to the future," he added. "Having taken stock of the situation and reflected now the campaign is complete, we feel that it is right to move in a different direction." Sullivan said the club, who finished 13th in the Premier League, aims to appoint a "high-calibre" successor within the next 10 days.

David Moyes leaves West Ham, club seek 'high-calibre' successor

It might not save manager Antonio Conte's job but Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says, captain Gary Cahill.

A year ago Conte's team went into the Wembley showpiece against Arsenal as Premier League champions and were one win away from completing the double in the Italian's first season.

While a 2-1 defeat by the Gunners stung it was not considered the end of the world. A similar outcome on Saturday, however, would be unpalatable for the Blues.

They finished the Premier League season in fifth place, 30 points behind champions Manchester City, and will have no Champions League football to look forward to in September.

For Cahill, it has been an especially trying campaign with poor form resulting in him losing his place at various stages of the season and falling down the England pecking order.

But victory on Saturday would represent a silver lining.

"Last season in the Cup final we didn't switch off. We just had a relaxed atmosphere," Cahill told reporters at Chelsea's FA Cup final media day. "We went into it thinking with our momentum we could just deliver like we did for the rest of the season.

"This is a different kind of feeling.

This is like we are going into it to save the season.

"We've fallen short in other competitions but we haven't fallen short in this one yet."

The rise of the Champions League has made finishing in the Premier League's top four spots imperative for England's biggest clubs, both because of the income it generates and the showcase it provides to attract top signings.

Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris said this month that finishing in the top four meant more than winning a trophy.

Cahill begs to differ.

"You can't tell me the FA Cup isn't ranked high. You are talking to the wrong fella," he said. "Maybe if you talk to some of the other boys...The FA Cup ranks as high as you like. It's right under winning the league for me.

"I've grown up around it. It's an opportunity to win the final. It's like if you are in the top four and qualify for the Champions League for seven or eight years, but don't win any trophies. Would you swap that for what we've done?

"I wouldn't, but that's me personally."

With Conte widely-expected to move on in the close-season, there has been an air of uncertainty around the club in recent months.

If Saturday's clash is to be his last game Cahill wants to make sure Conte's reign ends on a high.

"It's been a strange season," he said. "There's been speculation here, there and everywhere. There have been all sorts of different things. It's entertaining!

"We can win the Cup and finish on a high."

Cahill has endured a difficult season on the pitch and is by no means a certainty to start Saturday's final.

His patchy form has also put his place in England's World Cup squad, which is announced on Wednesday, in jeopardy.

"I'll wake up on Wednesday and if I'm in, I'm in. I'll go there and give everything I've got. If I'm not in I'll go away with my family and reflect," he said.

"It won't affect my preparations for the Cup final. My CV is there. It's just whether they want to use it.

"That's not my decision." 
&nbsp;

Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says Gary Cahill

It might not save manager Antonio Conte's job but Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says, captain Gary Cahill. A year ago Conte's team went into the Wembley showpiece against Arsenal as Premier League champions and were one win away from completing the double in the Italian's first season. While a 2-1 defeat by the Gunners stung it was not considered the end of the world. A similar outcome on Saturday, however, would be unpalatable for the Blues. They finished the Premier League season in fifth place, 30 points behind champions Manchester City, and will have no Champions League football to look forward to in September. For Cahill, it has been an especially trying campaign with poor form resulting in him losing his place at various stages of the season and falling down the England pecking order. But victory on Saturday would represent a silver lining. "Last season in the Cup final we didn't switch off. We just had a relaxed atmosphere," Cahill told reporters at Chelsea's FA Cup final media day. "We went into it thinking with our momentum we could just deliver like we did for the rest of the season. "This is a different kind of feeling. This is like we are going into it to save the season. "We've fallen short in other competitions but we haven't fallen short in this one yet." The rise of the Champions League has made finishing in the Premier League's top four spots imperative for England's biggest clubs, both because of the income it generates and the showcase it provides to attract top signings. Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris said this month that finishing in the top four meant more than winning a trophy. Cahill begs to differ. "You can't tell me the FA Cup isn't ranked high. You are talking to the wrong fella," he said. "Maybe if you talk to some of the other boys...The FA Cup ranks as high as you like. It's right under winning the league for me. "I've grown up around it. It's an opportunity to win the final. It's like if you are in the top four and qualify for the Champions League for seven or eight years, but don't win any trophies. Would you swap that for what we've done? "I wouldn't, but that's me personally." With Conte widely-expected to move on in the close-season, there has been an air of uncertainty around the club in recent months. If Saturday's clash is to be his last game Cahill wants to make sure Conte's reign ends on a high. "It's been a strange season," he said. "There's been speculation here, there and everywhere. There have been all sorts of different things. It's entertaining! "We can win the Cup and finish on a high." Cahill has endured a difficult season on the pitch and is by no means a certainty to start Saturday's final. His patchy form has also put his place in England's World Cup squad, which is announced on Wednesday, in jeopardy. "I'll wake up on Wednesday and if I'm in, I'm in. I'll go there and give everything I've got. If I'm not in I'll go away with my family and reflect," he said. "It won't affect my preparations for the Cup final. My CV is there. It's just whether they want to use it. "That's not my decision."

Chelsea's skipper Gary Cahill seeking FA Cup salvation

A dramatic 94th-minute winner from Gabriel Jesus gave Premier League champions Manchester City a 1-0 win over Southampton on Sunday to ensure they became the first team ever to reach 100 points in an English top-flight season.

But Southampton still ended up celebrating as their narrow defeat combined with Swansea's 2-1 defeat by Stoke City guaranteed them Premier League football next season.

For much of the match, City, who fielded four changes from midweek and played Raheem Sterling in an unfamiliar centre forward role, struggled to find their familiar rhythm and failed to register a single shot on target in the first half.

Dusan Tadic had an effort cleared off the line in the second half when City brought on Phil Foden and Brahim Diaz to ensure the pair notched up their fifth Premier League appearances of the season to qualify for a medal.

Saints looked to have secured the draw but, with time virtually up, Jesus latched on to Kevin de Bruyne's excellent floated cross to produce a perfect lobbed finish past the advancing Alex McCarthy.

The goal sparked wild celebrations, with City boss Pep Guardiola joining in on the sidelines, leaping from the dugout and punching the air.

City's magnificent campaign has ended with a record 16 away wins and 106 Premier League goals.

Dusan Tadic had an effort cleared off the line in the second half when City brought on Phil Foden and Brahim Diaz to ensure the pair notched up their fifth Premier League appearances of the season to qualify for a medal

A dramatic 94th-minute winner from Gabriel Jesus gave Premier League champions Manchester City a 1-0 win over Southampton on Sunday to ensure they became the first team ever to reach 100 points in an English top-flight season. But Southampton still ended up celebrating as their narrow defeat combined with Swansea's 2-1 defeat by Stoke City guaranteed them Premier League football next season. For much of the match, City, who fielded four changes from midweek and played Raheem Sterling in an unfamiliar centre forward role, struggled to find their familiar rhythm and failed to register a single shot on target in the first half. Dusan Tadic had an effort cleared off the line in the second half when City brought on Phil Foden and Brahim Diaz to ensure the pair notched up their fifth Premier League appearances of the season to qualify for a medal. Saints looked to have secured the draw but, with time virtually up, Jesus latched on to Kevin de Bruyne's excellent floated cross to produce a perfect lobbed finish past the advancing Alex McCarthy. The goal sparked wild celebrations, with City boss Pep Guardiola joining in on the sidelines, leaping from the dugout and punching the air. City's magnificent campaign has ended with a record 16 away wins and 106 Premier League goals.

Last-gasp Jesus goal takes City to 100 points

Mohamed Salah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the next season of Champions League.

Salah also broke the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season by scoring 32 goals. He also has scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term.

After winning the Premier League Golden Boot, Salah was celebrating on the Anfield turf with teammates.

While the Twitterati were awestruck after watching Salah playing with his beautiful daughter in the video that has gone viral on social networking sites.

Salah was taking pictures with his trophy and meanwhile, his four-year-old daughter Makka Mohamed Salah showed off her dribbling skills and earned the biggest cheers from the crowd.

When Mo Salah cheekily took the ball, he was jokingly booed from the stands.

Watch the cute video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A family affair as Mo Salah and his daughter take centre stage at Anfield <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/o7fi0jtgIH">pic.twitter.com/o7fi0jtgIH</a>
— Richard Buxton (@RichardBuxton_) <a href="https://twitter.com/RichardBuxton_/status/995696888476250112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I think you’ll love this video from the Anfield gantry. Mo Salah’s daughter stole the show. That moment when she realises that the entire crowd are cheering her! Then Daddy gets booed whilst holding his Golden Boot. Brilliant. ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoSalah?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoSalah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/QhUkRqYhL5">pic.twitter.com/QhUkRqYhL5</a>
— Arlo White (@arlowhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/arlowhite/status/995710221711536129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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See how Twitter reacted to the video of Mo Salah playing with his daughter:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Can't believe after 44 goals in his debut season, Mo Salah found a way to get booed at Anfield haha. 
 
Turns out the only person more popular than Mo Salah, is Mo Salah's daughter.
— Justin???? (@JuzaShannon) <a href="https://twitter.com/JuzaShannon/status/995722624868249600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Well <a href="https://twitter.com/MoSalah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoSalah</a> could never have thought he would be upstaged at Anfield this season, but his daughter Makka has just done exactly that. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a>
— David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaddockMirror/status/995696891504586753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Definitely a future candidate for <a href="https://twitter.com/theofficialfwa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theofficialfwa</a> Women's Footballer Of The Year. ... <a href="https://t.co/kzld68hEnW">https://t.co/kzld68hEnW</a>
— Patrick Barclay (@paddybarclay) <a href="https://twitter.com/paddybarclay/status/995905837318144000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Mohamed Salah won the Premier League Golden Boot

Mohamed Salah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the next season of Champions League. Salah also broke the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season by scoring 32 goals. He also has scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term. After winning the Premier League Golden Boot, Salah was celebrating on the Anfield turf with teammates. While the Twitterati were awestruck after watching Salah playing with his beautiful daughter in the video that has gone viral on social networking sites. Salah was taking pictures with his trophy and meanwhile, his four-year-old daughter Makka Mohamed Salah showed off her dribbling skills and earned the biggest cheers from the crowd. When Mo Salah cheekily took the ball, he was jokingly booed from the stands. Watch the cute video here: A family affair as Mo Salah and his daughter take centre stage at Anfield #LFC pic.twitter.com/o7fi0jtgIH — Richard Buxton (@RichardBuxton_) May 13, 2018 × I think you’ll love this video from the Anfield gantry. Mo Salah’s daughter stole the show. That moment when she realises that the entire crowd are cheering her! Then Daddy gets booed whilst holding his Golden Boot. Brilliant. ?? #MoSalah #LFC pic.twitter.com/QhUkRqYhL5 — Arlo White (@arlowhite) May 13, 2018 × See how Twitter reacted to the video of Mo Salah playing with his daughter: Can't believe after 44 goals in his debut season, Mo Salah found a way to get booed at Anfield haha. Turns out the only person more popular than Mo Salah, is Mo Salah's daughter. — Justin???? (@JuzaShannon) May 13, 2018 × Well @MoSalah could never have thought he would be upstaged at Anfield this season, but his daughter Makka has just done exactly that. #LFC — David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) May 13, 2018 × Definitely a future candidate for @theofficialfwa Women's Footballer Of The Year. ... https://t.co/kzld68hEnW — Patrick Barclay (@paddybarclay) May 14, 2018 ×

Watch: Mohamed Salah's 4-year-old daughter shows off dribbling skills at Anfield

Mohamed Salah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the next season of Champions League.

Salah also broke the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season by scoring 32 goals. He also has scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term.

After winning the Premier League Golden Boot, Salah was celebrating on the Anfield turf with teammates.

The Twitterati were awestruck after watching Salah playing with his beautiful daughter in the video that has gone viral on social networking sites.

He was taking pictures with his trophy and meanwhile, his four-year-old daughter Makka Mohamed Salah showed off her dribbling skills and earned the biggest cheers from the crowd.

When Mo Salah cheekily took the ball, he was jokingly booed from the stands.

Watch the cute video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A family affair as Mo Salah and his daughter take centre stage at Anfield <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/o7fi0jtgIH">pic.twitter.com/o7fi0jtgIH</a>
— Richard Buxton (@RichardBuxton_) <a href="https://twitter.com/RichardBuxton_/status/995696888476250112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I think you’ll love this video from the Anfield gantry. Mo Salah’s daughter stole the show. That moment when she realises that the entire crowd are cheering her! Then Daddy gets booed whilst holding his Golden Boot. Brilliant. ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoSalah?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoSalah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/QhUkRqYhL5">pic.twitter.com/QhUkRqYhL5</a>
— Arlo White (@arlowhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/arlowhite/status/995710221711536129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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See how Twitter reacted to the video of Mo Salah playing with his daughter:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Can't believe after 44 goals in his debut season, Mo Salah found a way to get booed at Anfield haha. 
 
Turns out the only person more popular than Mo Salah, is Mo Salah's daughter.
— Justin???? (@JuzaShannon) <a href="https://twitter.com/JuzaShannon/status/995722624868249600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Well <a href="https://twitter.com/MoSalah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoSalah</a> could never have thought he would be upstaged at Anfield this season, but his daughter Makka has just done exactly that. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a>
— David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaddockMirror/status/995696891504586753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Definitely a future candidate for <a href="https://twitter.com/theofficialfwa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theofficialfwa</a> Women's Footballer Of The Year. ... <a href="https://t.co/kzld68hEnW">https://t.co/kzld68hEnW</a>
— Patrick Barclay (@paddybarclay) <a href="https://twitter.com/paddybarclay/status/995905837318144000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Mohamed Salah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the next season of Champions League. Salah also broke the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season by scoring 32 goals. He also has scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term. After winning the Premier League Golden Boot, Salah was celebrating on the Anfield turf with teammates. The Twitterati were awestruck after watching Salah playing with his beautiful daughter in the video that has gone viral on social networking sites. He was taking pictures with his trophy and meanwhile, his four-year-old daughter Makka Mohamed Salah showed off her dribbling skills and earned the biggest cheers from the crowd. When Mo Salah cheekily took the ball, he was jokingly booed from the stands. Watch the cute video here: A family affair as Mo Salah and his daughter take centre stage at Anfield #LFC pic.twitter.com/o7fi0jtgIH — Richard Buxton (@RichardBuxton_) May 13, 2018 × I think you’ll love this video from the Anfield gantry. Mo Salah’s daughter stole the show. That moment when she realises that the entire crowd are cheering her! Then Daddy gets booed whilst holding his Golden Boot. Brilliant. ?? #MoSalah #LFC pic.twitter.com/QhUkRqYhL5 — Arlo White (@arlowhite) May 13, 2018 × See how Twitter reacted to the video of Mo Salah playing with his daughter: Can't believe after 44 goals in his debut season, Mo Salah found a way to get booed at Anfield haha. Turns out the only person more popular than Mo Salah, is Mo Salah's daughter. — Justin???? (@JuzaShannon) May 13, 2018 × Well @MoSalah could never have thought he would be upstaged at Anfield this season, but his daughter Makka has just done exactly that. #LFC — David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) May 13, 2018 × Definitely a future candidate for @theofficialfwa Women's Footballer Of The Year. ... https://t.co/kzld68hEnW — Patrick Barclay (@paddybarclay) May 14, 2018 ×

Mohamed Salah scored a record-breaking 32nd goal of the Premier League season on Sunday as the Liverpool star set a new mark for the most goals in a 38-game campaign.

Salah went into the last day of the season at Anfield with a share of the record alongside Alan Shearer (Blackburn in 1995-96), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United in 2007-08) and Luis Suarez (Liverpool in 2013-14).

But Egypt forward needed only 26 minutes to make the record his personal property as he produced a clinical left-footed finish from inside the Brighton penalty area.

Salah, who was voted the Premier League's Player of the Year earlier in the day, has now scored 44 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this season.

Shearer (Newcastle in 1993-94) and Andy Cole (Manchester United in 1993-94) jointly hold the Premier League record of 34 goals in a 42-match season.

&nbsp

Mohamed Salah scored a record-breaking 32nd goal of the Premier League season

Mohamed Salah scored a record-breaking 32nd goal of the Premier League season on Sunday as the Liverpool star set a new mark for the most goals in a 38-game campaign. Salah went into the last day of the season at Anfield with a share of the record alongside Alan Shearer (Blackburn in 1995-96), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United in 2007-08) and Luis Suarez (Liverpool in 2013-14). But Egypt forward needed only 26 minutes to make the record his personal property as he produced a clinical left-footed finish from inside the Brighton penalty area. Salah, who was voted the Premier League's Player of the Year earlier in the day, has now scored 44 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this season. Shearer (Newcastle in 1993-94) and Andy Cole (Manchester United in 1993-94) jointly hold the Premier League record of 34 goals in a 42-match season.

Mohamed Salah sets new Premier League goal tally

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is not expected to return for the remaining two games of the Premier League season due to a back injury but the German is confident he will be fit for the World Cup.

Ozil, who played in Arsenal's 1-0 Europa League semi-final second leg defeat at Atletico Madrid last week, watched from the stands as Arsenal thrashed Burnley 5-0 at the weekend.

He wrote on Twitter that it was a "pity" he missed Sunday's match due to the injury.

"It'll need some time but I'm sure I'll fully recover in time for the World Cup," he added.

Arsenal wraps up the season against Leicester City on Wednesday and Huddersfield Town on Sunday.

Defending champions Germany begin their World Cup campaign in Russia against Mexico on June 17.

Ozil, who played in Arsenal's 1-0 Europa League semi-final second leg defeat at Atletico Madrid last week, watched from the stands as Arsenal thrashed Burnley 5-0 at the weekend

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is not expected to return for the remaining two games of the Premier League season due to a back injury but the German is confident he will be fit for the World Cup. Ozil, who played in Arsenal's 1-0 Europa League semi-final second leg defeat at Atletico Madrid last week, watched from the stands as Arsenal thrashed Burnley 5-0 at the weekend. He wrote on Twitter that it was a "pity" he missed Sunday's match due to the injury. "It'll need some time but I'm sure I'll fully recover in time for the World Cup," he added. Arsenal wraps up the season against Leicester City on Wednesday and Huddersfield Town on Sunday. Defending champions Germany begin their World Cup campaign in Russia against Mexico on June 17.

Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup

The odds against Southampton avoiding relegation from the Premier League tumbled dramatically with Everton's last-gasp equaliser on Saturday but manager Mark Hughes remained defiant.

The Saints had drifted out to 3/1 with bookmaker William Hill when they seemed to be moving above four other teams at the bottom, as well as ensuring that West Bromwich Albion went down with Stoke City.

Now they face a crucial game on Tuesday away to Swansea City, who are only below them on goal difference, and the odds are just 7/4.

Hughes's team are two points behind Huddersfield Town, who have an away game against champions Manchester City on Sunday, and five points behind West Ham United, who should be safe after winning at Leicester City.

Hughes said that the draw Everton achieved with a goal in the fifth minute of added time felt like a defeat.

"We clearly haven't got what we deserved today," he told.

"I'm really upset with the officials. The referee has made a decision to give the free-kick in the corner. He allows it to be taken from a false position, then we're on the back foot, and we're down to 10 men too because of a decision he made.

"We have got something out of the game though and we are out of the bottom three. We have a massive game coming up against Swansea and that will probably determine who stays up and who goes down."

Hughes said that the draw Everton achieved with a goal in the fifth minute of added time felt like a defeat

The odds against Southampton avoiding relegation from the Premier League tumbled dramatically with Everton's last-gasp equaliser on Saturday but manager Mark Hughes remained defiant. The Saints had drifted out to 3/1 with bookmaker William Hill when they seemed to be moving above four other teams at the bottom, as well as ensuring that West Bromwich Albion went down with Stoke City. Now they face a crucial game on Tuesday away to Swansea City, who are only below them on goal difference, and the odds are just 7/4. Hughes's team are two points behind Huddersfield Town, who have an away game against champions Manchester City on Sunday, and five points behind West Ham United, who should be safe after winning at Leicester City. Hughes said that the draw Everton achieved with a goal in the fifth minute of added time felt like a defeat. "We clearly haven't got what we deserved today," he told. "I'm really upset with the officials. The referee has made a decision to give the free-kick in the corner. He allows it to be taken from a false position, then we're on the back foot, and we're down to 10 men too because of a decision he made. "We have got something out of the game though and we are out of the bottom three. We have a massive game coming up against Swansea and that will probably determine who stays up and who goes down."

Mark Hughes defiant as Southampton take late blow

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea.

Liverpool, who will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final later this month after a 7-6 aggregate win over AS Roma, are looking to seal a top-four finish in the league to ensure qualification for Europe's elite club competition next season.

The Merseyside club are third in the table with 72 points with Tottenham Hotspur (71) and Chelsea (66) breathing down their necks. Klopp said his team's focus is on beating Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion in their final game.

"We have two semis again, against Chelsea and Brighton. Both games are important. There is no chance to think of anything else and then we have two weeks to prepare (for the Champions League final)," Klopp told a news conference.

"We have really fought hard to be in the position we are and now we have to finish the job... we need to be ready for Chelsea and it could be the same intensity like it was in Rome because it's a similar situation. They need to win and we want to."

Liverpool will assess the injuries of midfielder Emre Can (back) and defender Joe Gomez (knock) before they can determine if the pair can return to action in the run-in.

Midfielder Adam Lallana stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury by completing a training session on Thursday.

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea. Liverpool, who will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final later this month after a 7-6 aggregate win over AS Roma, are looking to seal a top-four finish in the league to ensure qualification for Europe's elite club competition next season. The Merseyside club are third in the table with 72 points with Tottenham Hotspur (71) and Chelsea (66) breathing down their necks. Klopp said his team's focus is on beating Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion in their final game. "We have two semis again, against Chelsea and Brighton. Both games are important. There is no chance to think of anything else and then we have two weeks to prepare (for the Champions League final)," Klopp told a news conference. "We have really fought hard to be in the position we are and now we have to finish the job... we need to be ready for Chelsea and it could be the same intensity like it was in Rome because it's a similar situation. They need to win and we want to." Liverpool will assess the injuries of midfielder Emre Can (back) and defender Joe Gomez (knock) before they can determine if the pair can return to action in the run-in. Midfielder Adam Lallana stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury by completing a training session on Thursday.

Juergen Klopp: Liverpool focused on two Premier League 'semi-finals'

Stoke City were relegated from the Premier League on Saturday after their dismal season culminated in them giving up a first-half lead against Crystal Palace before succumbing to a deserved 2-1 defeat.

The Potters had to win to give themselves the faintest hope of maintaining their 10-year stay in the top tier of the English game but Paul Lambert's ailing side, who have not won in 13 league matches, went down to a late Patrick van Aanholt goal.

Xherdan Shaqiri had given Stoke hope with a deflected 43rd- minute free kick, only for James McArthur to equalise midway through the second half after a slick counter-attack.

Then, as Palace piled on the pressure, Van Aanholt struck four minutes from time as Stoke's worst run in the top flight for 34 years sealed their fate while Roy Hodgson's resurgent Palace could celebrate another year of Premier League football.

A crestfallen Ryan Shawcross, Stoke's captain whose late mistake led to Van Aanholt's goal, admitted his team had not been good enough all season.

"We've had a right go every single game (under Lambert) but for whatever reason, we haven't got the goals we needed and ultimately it's cost us," he told Sky Sports.

"It's difficult to take but it's a great club this and we'll be back."

With Palace not at their sharpest in a nervy opening half, it took the quality of Shaqiri to break the deadlock as he began a promising move with a fine cross-field ball, then tempted Ruben Loftus-Cheek into a clumsy challenge 23 metres out.

The Swiss international's curled free-kick took a slight diversion off Loftus-Cheek in the Palace wall to give Stoke a lifeline.

Yet the home side increasingly retreated as Palace began to swarm over them after the interval, with McArthur, overlapping on the left, slotting home an excellent left-footed finish after the visitors broke from deep in their own half.

A draw would not realistically have been enough to save Stoke but their fate was sealed when Shawcross, trying to clear his lines, diverted the ball straight into the path of the charging fullback Van Aanholt.

"The goal was my fault. Sometimes you make mistakes and they cost you," said Shawcross.

The win sealed Palace's safety, a remarkable achievement for former England manager Hodgson, who had to pull off a considerable feat of escapology after the Eagles' desperate start to the season under Frank de Boer.

Stoke City were relegated from the Premier League on Saturday after their dismal season culminated in them giving up a first-half lead against Crystal Palace before succumbing to a deserved 2-1 defeat

Stoke City were relegated from the Premier League on Saturday after their dismal season culminated in them giving up a first-half lead against Crystal Palace before succumbing to a deserved 2-1 defeat. The Potters had to win to give themselves the faintest hope of maintaining their 10-year stay in the top tier of the English game but Paul Lambert's ailing side, who have not won in 13 league matches, went down to a late Patrick van Aanholt goal. Xherdan Shaqiri had given Stoke hope with a deflected 43rd- minute free kick, only for James McArthur to equalise midway through the second half after a slick counter-attack. Then, as Palace piled on the pressure, Van Aanholt struck four minutes from time as Stoke's worst run in the top flight for 34 years sealed their fate while Roy Hodgson's resurgent Palace could celebrate another year of Premier League football. A crestfallen Ryan Shawcross, Stoke's captain whose late mistake led to Van Aanholt's goal, admitted his team had not been good enough all season. "We've had a right go every single game (under Lambert) but for whatever reason, we haven't got the goals we needed and ultimately it's cost us," he told Sky Sports. "It's difficult to take but it's a great club this and we'll be back." With Palace not at their sharpest in a nervy opening half, it took the quality of Shaqiri to break the deadlock as he began a promising move with a fine cross-field ball, then tempted Ruben Loftus-Cheek into a clumsy challenge 23 metres out. The Swiss international's curled free-kick took a slight diversion off Loftus-Cheek in the Palace wall to give Stoke a lifeline. Yet the home side increasingly retreated as Palace began to swarm over them after the interval, with McArthur, overlapping on the left, slotting home an excellent left-footed finish after the visitors broke from deep in their own half. A draw would not realistically have been enough to save Stoke but their fate was sealed when Shawcross, trying to clear his lines, diverted the ball straight into the path of the charging fullback Van Aanholt. "The goal was my fault. Sometimes you make mistakes and they cost you," said Shawcross. The win sealed Palace's safety, a remarkable achievement for former England manager Hodgson, who had to pull off a considerable feat of escapology after the Eagles' desperate start to the season under Frank de Boer.

Stoke City relegated from Premier League after 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace

Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;were confirmed as Premier League champions on Sunday as second-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat by bottom club West Bromwich Albion.

United had to at least draw to keep the title race mathematically alive but were stunned at Old Trafford when Jay Rodriguez headed home after the break.

City&nbsp;manager Pep Guardiola might have missed the moment that his first English title was sealed, however, after admitting on Saturday he had a round of golf booked with his son.

He would have been as surprised as everyone else that the title, seemingly a foregone conclusion for months, was rubber-stamped in such strange circumstances.

A week after&nbsp;City&nbsp;surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to United and squander the chance to wrap up the title in perfect style against their arch-rivals, it was relegation-bound West Brom who served it up on a plate.

West Brom had lost eight of their previous nine games and last won on Jan. 13.

City, who rebounded from the United loss and a European exit at the hands of Liverpool by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, have 87 points with five games left.

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Our Time. Our City. 
 
Premier League Champions 17/18 ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/lztlN3lWFW">pic.twitter.com/lztlN3lWFW</a>
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United have 71 also with five to play.

It is Abu Dhabi-owned&nbsp;City's third title in seven seasons and their first since former boss Manuel Pellegrini achieved the feat in 2013-14.

Guardiola has won the League Cup already for&nbsp;City&nbsp;this season but a first Premier League title, to go with the three La Liga titles he won as manager of Barcelona and the three Bundesliga titles he delivered for Bayern Munich, will be particularly satisfying for the Spaniard.

"You cannot imagine," Guardiola said on Saturday. "It would be one of the best three seasons I have ever had as a player and as a manager. The amount of goals, chances and points, to do that in the Premier League, with the contenders we have, is because the players are so good."

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&nbsp;

Manchester City were confirmed as Premier League champions

Manchester City were confirmed as Premier League champions on Sunday as second-placed Manchester United suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat by bottom club West Bromwich Albion. United had to at least draw to keep the title race mathematically alive but were stunned at Old Trafford when Jay Rodriguez headed home after the break. City manager Pep Guardiola might have missed the moment that his first English title was sealed, however, after admitting on Saturday he had a round of golf booked with his son. He would have been as surprised as everyone else that the title, seemingly a foregone conclusion for months, was rubber-stamped in such strange circumstances. A week after City surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to United and squander the chance to wrap up the title in perfect style against their arch-rivals, it was relegation-bound West Brom who served it up on a plate. West Brom had lost eight of their previous nine games and last won on Jan. 13. City, who rebounded from the United loss and a European exit at the hands of Liverpool by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, have 87 points with five games left. Our Time. Our City. Premier League Champions 17/18 ?#mancity pic.twitter.com/lztlN3lWFW — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 15, 2018 × United have 71 also with five to play. It is Abu Dhabi-owned City's third title in seven seasons and their first since former boss Manuel Pellegrini achieved the feat in 2013-14. Guardiola has won the League Cup already for City this season but a first Premier League title, to go with the three La Liga titles he won as manager of Barcelona and the three Bundesliga titles he delivered for Bayern Munich, will be particularly satisfying for the Spaniard. "You cannot imagine," Guardiola said on Saturday. "It would be one of the best three seasons I have ever had as a player and as a manager. The amount of goals, chances and points, to do that in the Premier League, with the contenders we have, is because the players are so good." https://t.co/NkjdwM1YR8 — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 15, 2018 ×

Manchester City win Premier League after United lose to bottom-placed West Brom

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said the Premier League`s decision to delay the implementation of the video assistant referee system (VAR) means the English top flight is being left behind.

The 20 top-flight teams voted against introducing the system for the league`s 2018-19 season after trial runs in the cup competitions received mixed reviews.

"The Premier League has been created with people who had a progressive mind... ," Wenger told reporters after Arsenal`s 2-1 league defeat by Newcastle United on Sunday. "Overall, I believe that with that decision we are behind the rest of the world.

"The young generation is used to (VAR) and worldwide they might move away from us because they see that in other countries they do it.

"Unfortunately the Premier League has again decided not to go for VAR and personally I believe that is a very, very bad decision," Wenger added.

"Every big game this season has been decided by mistakes that could have been avoided with VAR, especially in the Champions League with Manchester City and Liverpool."

Arsenal host West Ham United on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said the Premier League`s decision to delay the implementation of the video assistant referee system (VAR) means the English top flight is being left behind. The 20 top-flight teams voted against introducing the system for the league`s 2018-19 season after trial runs in the cup competitions received mixed reviews. "The Premier League has been created with people who had a progressive mind... ," Wenger told reporters after Arsenal`s 2-1 league defeat by Newcastle United on Sunday. "Overall, I believe that with that decision we are behind the rest of the world. "The young generation is used to (VAR) and worldwide they might move away from us because they see that in other countries they do it. "Unfortunately the Premier League has again decided not to go for VAR and personally I believe that is a very, very bad decision," Wenger added. "Every big game this season has been decided by mistakes that could have been avoided with VAR, especially in the Champions League with Manchester City and Liverpool." Arsenal host West Ham United on Sunday.

Arsenal boss Wenger criticises Premier League's VAR delay

Manchester City defender John Stones has been ruled out of Saturday's Premier League match against his former club Everton due to concussion, manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday.

Stones picked up the head injury during England's 1-1 friendly draw with Italy and Guardiola said that head injury protocol needed to be followed.

"He feels really good but the rules say he needs seven days off...everybody else is really good," said Guardiola whose team need two wins to secure the title.

Stones left Everton for City in 2016 in a 47.5 million-pound ($67 million) move and Guardiola's comments suggest he should be fit to face Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-final at Anfield on Wednesday.

Guardiola said Sergio Aguero, who missed Argentina's two friendlies during the international break with a knee injury, was doing better but suggested he was unlikely to feature against Everton.

A win at Goodison would leave City, who have a 16-point lead at the top of the table, with the chance to wrap up the title at home to local rivals Manchester United on April 7. 
&nbsp

Stones picked up the head injury during England's 1-1 friendly draw with Italy

Manchester City defender John Stones has been ruled out of Saturday's Premier League match against his former club Everton due to concussion, manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday. Stones picked up the head injury during England's 1-1 friendly draw with Italy and Guardiola said that head injury protocol needed to be followed. "He feels really good but the rules say he needs seven days off...everybody else is really good," said Guardiola whose team need two wins to secure the title. Stones left Everton for City in 2016 in a 47.5 million-pound ($67 million) move and Guardiola's comments suggest he should be fit to face Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-final at Anfield on Wednesday. Guardiola said Sergio Aguero, who missed Argentina's two friendlies during the international break with a knee injury, was doing better but suggested he was unlikely to feature against Everton. A win at Goodison would leave City, who have a 16-point lead at the top of the table, with the chance to wrap up the title at home to local rivals Manchester United on April 7.

Manchester City's Stones ruled out of Goodison return with concussion

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

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

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

David Wagner 'bored' of Huddersfield exit talk

Alexis Sanchez says he expected a lot more from himself since moving to Manchester United from Premier League rivals Arsenal in January.

The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the &quot;abrupt&quot; January transfer window move.

&quot;Because I demand a lot from myself, I was hoping for something better,&quot; Sanchez told reporters while on national duty in Sweden. &quot;After my arrival at United, it was hard to change everything very quickly...

&quot;The change of club was something that was very abrupt -- it was the first time I&#39;ve changed clubs in January -- but many things have happened in my life that are difficult.&quot;

The 29-year-old says he considered withdrawing from the national team squad for upcoming friendlies to stay at United and work on his game but a conversation with Chile captain Claudio Bravo changed his mind.

&quot;I had asked permission to miss these games, but then I thought better and spoke with Claudio and told him that we should all be united,&quot; Sanchez added.

Chile, who failed to qualify for this year&#39;s World Cup finals in Russia, play friendlies against Sweden on Saturday and Denmark three days later.

The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the "abrupt" January transfer window move.

Alexis Sanchez says he expected a lot more from himself since moving to Manchester United from Premier League rivals Arsenal in January. The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the "abrupt" January transfer window move. "Because I demand a lot from myself, I was hoping for something better," Sanchez told reporters while on national duty in Sweden. "After my arrival at United, it was hard to change everything very quickly... "The change of club was something that was very abrupt -- it was the first time I've changed clubs in January -- but many things have happened in my life that are difficult." The 29-year-old says he considered withdrawing from the national team squad for upcoming friendlies to stay at United and work on his game but a conversation with Chile captain Claudio Bravo changed his mind. "I had asked permission to miss these games, but then I thought better and spoke with Claudio and told him that we should all be united," Sanchez added. Chile, who failed to qualify for this year's World Cup finals in Russia, play friendlies against Sweden on Saturday and Denmark three days later.

Football: Sanchez expected more from himself after Man United move

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United&#39;s sparse use of Marcus Rashford.

Rashford scored twice in his first Premier League start of 2018 as United edged out Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday, but Mourinho still substituted the 20-year-old England forward 20 minutes from time as he looked to make the game safe.

&quot;It&#39;s a pity that the manager is Mourinho because normally he&#39;s an English player, you want to give him time and he can then make mistakes,&quot; De Boer told BT Sport.

&quot;But Mourinho is not like that. He wants to get results.&quot;

De Boer was sacked by Crystal Palace after just five games in charge in September having seen the London side fail to register a point or score a goal in his four Premier League games in charge.

&quot;I read some quote from the worst manager in the history of the Premier League, Frank de Boer,&quot; Mourinho said on the eve of his side&#39;s Champions League last 16, second leg with Sevilla.

&quot;Where he was saying it is not good for Marcus Rashford to have a coach like me because the most important thing for me is to win.

&quot;If he was coached by Frank, he would learn how to lose because he lost every game.&quot;

De Boer won four straight Dutch league titles as Ajax boss between 2011-2014.

Rashford&#39;s minutes have been limited since the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, but Mourinho insisted he was finding a balance between burning Rashford out and giving him enough experience.

&quot;Does he play every match from the start? No, of course not but he&#39;s a player we trust and I told him that before the Liverpool match,&quot; added Mourinho.

&quot;He had a good match and not just by scoring goals. Analysing a performance for me is more than number of goals or assists, and for me I&#39;m really happy with Marcus.&quot;

&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United's sparse use of Marcus Rashford

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United's sparse use of Marcus Rashford. Rashford scored twice in his first Premier League start of 2018 as United edged out Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday, but Mourinho still substituted the 20-year-old England forward 20 minutes from time as he looked to make the game safe. "It's a pity that the manager is Mourinho because normally he's an English player, you want to give him time and he can then make mistakes," De Boer told BT Sport. "But Mourinho is not like that. He wants to get results." De Boer was sacked by Crystal Palace after just five games in charge in September having seen the London side fail to register a point or score a goal in his four Premier League games in charge. "I read some quote from the worst manager in the history of the Premier League, Frank de Boer," Mourinho said on the eve of his side's Champions League last 16, second leg with Sevilla. "Where he was saying it is not good for Marcus Rashford to have a coach like me because the most important thing for me is to win. "If he was coached by Frank, he would learn how to lose because he lost every game." De Boer won four straight Dutch league titles as Ajax boss between 2011-2014. Rashford's minutes have been limited since the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, but Mourinho insisted he was finding a balance between burning Rashford out and giving him enough experience. "Does he play every match from the start? No, of course not but he's a player we trust and I told him that before the Liverpool match," added Mourinho. "He had a good match and not just by scoring goals. Analysing a performance for me is more than number of goals or assists, and for me I'm really happy with Marcus."

Frank de Boer, worst manager in history of Premier League: Mourinho

Romelu Lukaku broke his barren run against top six Premier League opposition and provided the winner for Jesse Lingard as Manchester United came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford.

Victory against his former club was particularly sweet for Jose Mourinho as he got one over on Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, but more importantly moves United back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League.

Defeat allied to Tottenham Hotspur`s late win earlier in the day at Crystal Palace sees Chelsea slip to fifth.

The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period but failed to build on Willian`s 32nd minute opener.

Lukaku levelled seven minutes later from close range and then crossed for substitute Lingard to head home as a ruthless United took full advantage of their limited chances.&nbsp;

The spectre of another fiery clash between Mourinho and Conte, who have publicly bickered in recent months, hogged the headlines before kick-off, but there was a peace offering when the pair shook hands before the action got underway.

Mourinho recalled Paul Pogba to his starting XI after dropping the &pound;89 million (100 million euros, $124 million) midfielder for Wednesday`s stalemate at Sevilla in the Champions League.

But it was one of Conte`s two changes from his side`s 1-1 draw with Barcelona in midweek who nearly made an immediate impact.

Alvaro Morata started for the first time in six weeks, but saw his side-footed volley from Marcos Alonso`s driven cross come back off the bar just four minutes in.

Chelsea dominated possession in the opening quarter, but much like they did to Barcelona on Tuesday with limited time on the ball, United restricted them to few other clear-cut chances.

United had offered little going forward themselves until Anthony Martial`s low cross picked out Alexis Sanchez inside the area.

However, the Chilean is still waiting for his first big moment since joining United last month as he poked the ball tamely into the arms of Thibaut Courtois.Moments later, the hosts were caught by a blistering Chelsea counter-attack to open the scoring.

Willian picked up the ball just outside his own area and drove through the United midfield before exchanging passes with Eden Hazard.

The Brazilian then unleashed a shot too powerful even for David de Gea to register his fourth goal in three games.

The lead lasted just seven minutes, though, as for the first time in a United shirt, Lukaku netted against one of their top six rivals -- at the seventh time of asking.

Sanchez fed Martial and his clever reverse pass was slotted home by Lukaku to muted celebrations against his former club.

Lukaku nearly had a spectacular second 22 minutes from time when he caught a Sanchez cross flush with an acrobatic volley, only to be denied by a finger tip save from Courtois.

However, the Belgian did make a decisive contribution when he dropped deep and his in-swinging cross was met by a perfectly timed run by Lingard.

Conte had surprisingly removed Hazard just before conceding and that decision looked all the more puzzling as Chelsea searched in vain for an equaliser.

Willian saw another effort smothered by De Gea at the second attempt at his near post as United held out for just a second win over Chelsea in 15 meetings.

The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period

Romelu Lukaku broke his barren run against top six Premier League opposition and provided the winner for Jesse Lingard as Manchester United came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford. Victory against his former club was particularly sweet for Jose Mourinho as he got one over on Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, but more importantly moves United back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League. Defeat allied to Tottenham Hotspur`s late win earlier in the day at Crystal Palace sees Chelsea slip to fifth. The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period but failed to build on Willian`s 32nd minute opener. Lukaku levelled seven minutes later from close range and then crossed for substitute Lingard to head home as a ruthless United took full advantage of their limited chances. The spectre of another fiery clash between Mourinho and Conte, who have publicly bickered in recent months, hogged the headlines before kick-off, but there was a peace offering when the pair shook hands before the action got underway. Mourinho recalled Paul Pogba to his starting XI after dropping the £89 million (100 million euros, $124 million) midfielder for Wednesday`s stalemate at Sevilla in the Champions League. But it was one of Conte`s two changes from his side`s 1-1 draw with Barcelona in midweek who nearly made an immediate impact. Alvaro Morata started for the first time in six weeks, but saw his side-footed volley from Marcos Alonso`s driven cross come back off the bar just four minutes in. Chelsea dominated possession in the opening quarter, but much like they did to Barcelona on Tuesday with limited time on the ball, United restricted them to few other clear-cut chances. United had offered little going forward themselves until Anthony Martial`s low cross picked out Alexis Sanchez inside the area. However, the Chilean is still waiting for his first big moment since joining United last month as he poked the ball tamely into the arms of Thibaut Courtois.Moments later, the hosts were caught by a blistering Chelsea counter-attack to open the scoring. Willian picked up the ball just outside his own area and drove through the United midfield before exchanging passes with Eden Hazard. The Brazilian then unleashed a shot too powerful even for David de Gea to register his fourth goal in three games. The lead lasted just seven minutes, though, as for the first time in a United shirt, Lukaku netted against one of their top six rivals -- at the seventh time of asking. Sanchez fed Martial and his clever reverse pass was slotted home by Lukaku to muted celebrations against his former club. Lukaku nearly had a spectacular second 22 minutes from time when he caught a Sanchez cross flush with an acrobatic volley, only to be denied by a finger tip save from Courtois. However, the Belgian did make a decisive contribution when he dropped deep and his in-swinging cross was met by a perfectly timed run by Lingard. Conte had surprisingly removed Hazard just before conceding and that decision looked all the more puzzling as Chelsea searched in vain for an equaliser. Willian saw another effort smothered by De Gea at the second attempt at his near post as United held out for just a second win over Chelsea in 15 meetings.

Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1 in Premier League

Two goals from Eden Hazard helped Chelsea cruise to a 4-0 victory at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday for their first league win of 2018.

Chelsea&#39;s midweek penalty shootout success over Norwich City in the FA Cup meant they had drawn their last five games in regulation time in all competitions but Hazard and Willian struck inside six minutes to set them on their way on Saturday.

Brighton tried to get back into the match but were denied by the bar, some fine saves by Willy Caballero -- making his first league start for Chelsea in place of injured Thibaut Courtois -- while having two penalty appeals waved away by the referee.

With Brighton pushing forward, Hazard brilliantly netted a third 13 minutes from time before Victor Moses made it four late on. The win took Chelsea above Liverpool -- who play on Monday -- into third . One win in 13 league games leaves Brighton 16th.

Chelsea's midweek penalty shootout success over Norwich City in the FA Cup meant they had drawn their last five games in regulation time in all competitions

Two goals from Eden Hazard helped Chelsea cruise to a 4-0 victory at Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday for their first league win of 2018. Chelsea's midweek penalty shootout success over Norwich City in the FA Cup meant they had drawn their last five games in regulation time in all competitions but Hazard and Willian struck inside six minutes to set them on their way on Saturday. Brighton tried to get back into the match but were denied by the bar, some fine saves by Willy Caballero -- making his first league start for Chelsea in place of injured Thibaut Courtois -- while having two penalty appeals waved away by the referee. With Brighton pushing forward, Hazard brilliantly netted a third 13 minutes from time before Victor Moses made it four late on. The win took Chelsea above Liverpool -- who play on Monday -- into third . One win in 13 league games leaves Brighton 16th.

Hazard nets double as Chelsea ease to victory at Brighton

Manchester United have to continue fighting for the Premier League title regardless of the 13-point gap to leaders Manchester City, defender Antonio Valencia said.

United are second on 56 points with 12 games remaining but Valencia said the club cannot lose hope yet, pointing to how their cross-town rivals overcame an eight-point deficit in the final six games to pip them to the title in the 2011-12 season.

&quot;We lost a title when we were eight points ahead and there were only a few games left. Now, we have a lot more games to play and we need to keep fighting,&quot; Valencia told the club`s website (www.manutd.com). &quot;We need to keep going.

&quot;The important thing is to get the three points, playing at home, playing well, and we will carry on with this mentality until the end of the season.&quot;

United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday.&nbsp;

&quot;We have shown that we have the quality and conditions to fight until the end of the season,&quot; Valencia added.

United travel to 16th-placed Newcastle United on Sunday.

United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday.

Manchester United have to continue fighting for the Premier League title regardless of the 13-point gap to leaders Manchester City, defender Antonio Valencia said. United are second on 56 points with 12 games remaining but Valencia said the club cannot lose hope yet, pointing to how their cross-town rivals overcame an eight-point deficit in the final six games to pip them to the title in the 2011-12 season. "We lost a title when we were eight points ahead and there were only a few games left. Now, we have a lot more games to play and we need to keep fighting," Valencia told the club`s website (www.manutd.com). "We need to keep going. "The important thing is to get the three points, playing at home, playing well, and we will carry on with this mentality until the end of the season." United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday. "We have shown that we have the quality and conditions to fight until the end of the season," Valencia added. United travel to 16th-placed Newcastle United on Sunday.

Football: Valencia urges United to stay in hunt for Premier League title

Harry Kane is happy at Tottenham Hotspur but only the England striker himself can answer questions regarding his long-term commitment to the Premier League club, manager Mauricio Pochettino said.

Kane has excelled at his boyhood club in recent seasons and scored his 100th Premier League goal in the 2-2 draw at Liverpool on Sunday, but the forward has made it clear that winning trophies was his priority.

The 24-year-old signed a deal to remain at Tottenham until 2022 but former England international team-mate Wayne Rooney told Sky Sports on Monday that Kane could contemplate his future if fifth-placed Tottenham do not start winning trophies.

Asked about Kane&#39;s long-term future, Pochettino said: &quot;That is a question for him, not me. Of course, he wants to score goals and win titles but I cannot say anything more about this.&quot;

Kane has attracted interest from major European clubs in recent seasons, with Real Madrid&#39;s former president Ramon Calderon stating in October that he expected the Spanish club to try to sign the forward.

&quot;He is so happy here and he loves Tottenham but this is a personal question, regarding what he thinks and how he feels. I cannot answer for him,&quot; Pochettino added.

Meanwhile, Pochettino said that the increasing scrutiny of refereeing decisions, including through the use of the video assistant referee (VAR), was not helping the game.

Tottenham were awarded two penalties including one in the 95th minute of their draw at Liverpool, while midfielder Dele Alli was booked for simulation.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp fumed at the penalty decisions while Pochettino was much more positive about referee Jon Moss and his assistants.

&quot;Now we are so focused on minimal details. I am worried. It&#39;s a sport that we love, a passionate sport that people love to watch around the world,&quot; the Argentine added.

&quot;We will be pushing that sport into a very rigid structure with VAR, with being focused too much on the small actions like this,&quot; he added.

Tottenham host north London rivals Arsenal in a league match at Wembley on Saturday.

Kane has attracted interest from major European clubs in recent seasons, with Real Madrid's former president Ramon Calderon stating in October that he expected the Spanish club to try to sign the forward.

Harry Kane is happy at Tottenham Hotspur but only the England striker himself can answer questions regarding his long-term commitment to the Premier League club, manager Mauricio Pochettino said. Kane has excelled at his boyhood club in recent seasons and scored his 100th Premier League goal in the 2-2 draw at Liverpool on Sunday, but the forward has made it clear that winning trophies was his priority. The 24-year-old signed a deal to remain at Tottenham until 2022 but former England international team-mate Wayne Rooney told Sky Sports on Monday that Kane could contemplate his future if fifth-placed Tottenham do not start winning trophies. Asked about Kane's long-term future, Pochettino said: "That is a question for him, not me. Of course, he wants to score goals and win titles but I cannot say anything more about this." Kane has attracted interest from major European clubs in recent seasons, with Real Madrid's former president Ramon Calderon stating in October that he expected the Spanish club to try to sign the forward. "He is so happy here and he loves Tottenham but this is a personal question, regarding what he thinks and how he feels. I cannot answer for him," Pochettino added. Meanwhile, Pochettino said that the increasing scrutiny of refereeing decisions, including through the use of the video assistant referee (VAR), was not helping the game. Tottenham were awarded two penalties including one in the 95th minute of their draw at Liverpool, while midfielder Dele Alli was booked for simulation. Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp fumed at the penalty decisions while Pochettino was much more positive about referee Jon Moss and his assistants. "Now we are so focused on minimal details. I am worried. It's a sport that we love, a passionate sport that people love to watch around the world," the Argentine added. "We will be pushing that sport into a very rigid structure with VAR, with being focused too much on the small actions like this," he added. Tottenham host north London rivals Arsenal in a league match at Wembley on Saturday.

Football: Only Kane can answer questions on Spurs future, says Pochettino

Alexis Sanchez scored twice in four second half minutes to give Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger victory on the night he equalled Alex Ferguson&#39;s Premier League record of matches in charge with a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace.

Sanchez&#39;s brace yesterday - the second a beauty from Jack Wilshere&#39;s superb pass - added to Shkodran Mustafi&#39;s first ever away goal for the Gunners was just enough to get them past the Eagles in Wenger&#39;s 810th Premier League game as a manager.

James Tomkins&#39;s 89th minute header - Andros Townsend had drawn them level at 1-1 early in the second-half before Sanchez&#39;s scoring burst - ensured a nervy finish, but the Gunners deserved to run out winners and end Palace&#39;s eight- game unbeaten run.

Arsenal drew level with fourth-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur but with a worse goal difference whilst Palace remain firmly embroiled in a battle against relegation just a point above the bottom three.

Palace were able to apply some pressure during the opening stages, the closest they came to testing Petr Cech came when Yohan Cabaye shot narrowly wide from 20 yards out.

Wenger&#39;s side gradually took charge and they forced the breakthrough in the 24th minute when Palace&#39;s failure to clear Mesut Ozil&#39;s free-kick eventually led to Mustafi&#39;s opening goal.

The ball was played back towards the right side of the area where Alexandre Lacazette drew a good save from Julian Speroni only for the ball to fall to Mustafi who finished neatly with a first time shot.

Six minutes later, Arsenal would have been two up but for Speroni who produced an excellent, one-handed reaction save after Ozil had latched onto Sanchez&#39;s superbly weighted through ball.

Wilfried Zaha was Palace&#39;s most threatening player throughout the first half with the Ivorian maintaining the form that has seen him linked with a number of top clubs this season.

It also made the winger a target for some robust treatment with Callum Chambers booked for pulling him back.

Zaha made the point he believed he deserved more protection too vigorously to referee Michael Oliver as they left the pitch at half time and could have been sent off after sarcastically reacting to the match official&#39;s decision to show him a yellow card.

Zaha though reacted in a more positive way after the restart as he eased his way past Chambers before pulling the ball back towards Townsend who struck a first time shot past Cech from near the penalty spot.

At that point Palace were in the ascendancy but Sanchez&#39;s quick double soon killed off the home side&#39;s hopes.

The first came after Chambers played a deep ball into the home penalty area that was controlled by Sanchez before the Chile international exchanged passes with Lacazette and drilled the ball past Speroni.

Then four minutes later, the forward had his second after collecting Wilshere&#39;s long ball over the top with his first touch and finishing with his second. 
Tomkins late header from a corner came too late for the home side.

Sanchez's brace yesterday - the second a beauty from Jack Wilshere's superb pass - added to Shkodran Mustafi's first ever away goal for the Gunners was just enough to get them past the Eagles in Wenger's 810th Premier League game as a manager.

Alexis Sanchez scored twice in four second half minutes to give Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger victory on the night he equalled Alex Ferguson's Premier League record of matches in charge with a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace. Sanchez's brace yesterday - the second a beauty from Jack Wilshere's superb pass - added to Shkodran Mustafi's first ever away goal for the Gunners was just enough to get them past the Eagles in Wenger's 810th Premier League game as a manager. James Tomkins's 89th minute header - Andros Townsend had drawn them level at 1-1 early in the second-half before Sanchez's scoring burst - ensured a nervy finish, but the Gunners deserved to run out winners and end Palace's eight- game unbeaten run. Arsenal drew level with fourth-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur but with a worse goal difference whilst Palace remain firmly embroiled in a battle against relegation just a point above the bottom three. Palace were able to apply some pressure during the opening stages, the closest they came to testing Petr Cech came when Yohan Cabaye shot narrowly wide from 20 yards out. Wenger's side gradually took charge and they forced the breakthrough in the 24th minute when Palace's failure to clear Mesut Ozil's free-kick eventually led to Mustafi's opening goal. The ball was played back towards the right side of the area where Alexandre Lacazette drew a good save from Julian Speroni only for the ball to fall to Mustafi who finished neatly with a first time shot. Six minutes later, Arsenal would have been two up but for Speroni who produced an excellent, one-handed reaction save after Ozil had latched onto Sanchez's superbly weighted through ball. Wilfried Zaha was Palace's most threatening player throughout the first half with the Ivorian maintaining the form that has seen him linked with a number of top clubs this season. It also made the winger a target for some robust treatment with Callum Chambers booked for pulling him back. Zaha made the point he believed he deserved more protection too vigorously to referee Michael Oliver as they left the pitch at half time and could have been sent off after sarcastically reacting to the match official's decision to show him a yellow card. Zaha though reacted in a more positive way after the restart as he eased his way past Chambers before pulling the ball back towards Townsend who struck a first time shot past Cech from near the penalty spot. At that point Palace were in the ascendancy but Sanchez's quick double soon killed off the home side's hopes. The first came after Chambers played a deep ball into the home penalty area that was controlled by Sanchez before the Chile international exchanged passes with Lacazette and drilled the ball past Speroni. Then four minutes later, the forward had his second after collecting Wilshere's long ball over the top with his first touch and finishing with his second. Tomkins late header from a corner came too late for the home side.

Alexis Sanchez gives record-equalling Wenger victory

Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn into a war of words with Jose Mourinho after Manchester City maintained their impressive progress towards the Premier League title.

City stretched their commanding advantage at the top to 15 points over Manchester United as Raheem Sterling sealed a 1-0 win at Newcastle to record an 18th consecutive league victory, one short of Bayern Munich&#39;s current best for Europe&#39;s top five leagues of 19 straight wins.

United manager Mourinho attempted to provoke Guardiola on Tuesday after pointing to their rivals&#39; huge spending power by claiming &quot;City buy full-backs for the price of strikers&quot; and insisting that the &pound;300 million ($402 million) he has spent since taking charge at Old Trafford 18 months ago as &quot;not enough&quot;.

Mourinho paid &pound;93 million to sign France midfielder Paul Pogba, while also recruiting &pound;30 million defender Eric Bailly, and midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan for &pound;26.3 million.&nbsp;

This year, United spent &pound;75 million on striker Romelu Lukaku, as well as &pound;31 million on defender Victor Lindelof and &pound;40 million for midfielder Nemanja Matic.

In comparison, City bought three defenders -- Kyle Walker from Tottenham for an initial &pound;45 million, Benjamin Mendy from Monaco for &pound;52 million and Danilo from Real Madrid for &pound;26.5 million as part of a summer outlay that topped &pound;200 million.

When asked about the comments made by the Portuguese, Guardiola said: &quot;I&#39;m so delighted to be here to speak about what happened on the pitch.&nbsp;

&quot;About what happened with my colleague speaking off the pitch in the press conference, I&#39;m not the right guy. You want to talk about what happened today on the pitch, I will answer.&quot;

City remain on course to win the title in record time after equalling Chelsea&#39;s English top flight record of 11 consecutive away wins.&nbsp;

But Guardiola will await medical updates on Vincent Kompany, after the injury-prone skipper limped off with a recurrence of a long-term calf problem.

City face a minimum of eight games in 34 days in a hectic start to the New Year, and Guardiola added: &quot;Of course we are happy to break records but when we prepare for games we don&#39;t speak about them. Until now, we have found a way to win.

&quot;I saw the schedule in my office the other day and I wanted to escape, because it&#39;s terrible. The games we are going to play, it&#39;s tough.&nbsp;

&quot;We&#39;ve played all these games in December then in January you have the Carabao Cup and FA Cup and then the return of the Champions League in February.&nbsp;

&quot;It will be tough but it will also be tough for our opponents.&quot;&nbsp;

Guardiola&#39;s opposite number Rafa Benitez hit back at criticism of his negative approach after his team slid to a fifth consecutive home defeat, Newcastle&#39;s worst run at St James&#39; Park for 64 years to leave them just a point above the bottom three after one win in their last 11 matches.

Substitute Dwight Gayle almost snatched a dramatic late equaliser to in-part justify the manager&#39;s ultra-cautious approach, and the Spaniard said: &quot;We were in the game until the end and very close to getting a point against a very good team.&quot;

Newcastle face the key visit of relegation rivals Brighton before the turn of the year, and Benitez added: &quot;We have a couple of games in the space of a few days against teams near the bottom of the table and hopefully we&#39;ll have some of our injured players back before then.&quot;

'City buy full-backs for the price of strikers,' Mourinho said

Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn into a war of words with Jose Mourinho after Manchester City maintained their impressive progress towards the Premier League title. City stretched their commanding advantage at the top to 15 points over Manchester United as Raheem Sterling sealed a 1-0 win at Newcastle to record an 18th consecutive league victory, one short of Bayern Munich's current best for Europe's top five leagues of 19 straight wins. United manager Mourinho attempted to provoke Guardiola on Tuesday after pointing to their rivals' huge spending power by claiming "City buy full-backs for the price of strikers" and insisting that the £300 million ($402 million) he has spent since taking charge at Old Trafford 18 months ago as "not enough". Mourinho paid £93 million to sign France midfielder Paul Pogba, while also recruiting £30 million defender Eric Bailly, and midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan for £26.3 million. This year, United spent £75 million on striker Romelu Lukaku, as well as £31 million on defender Victor Lindelof and £40 million for midfielder Nemanja Matic. In comparison, City bought three defenders -- Kyle Walker from Tottenham for an initial £45 million, Benjamin Mendy from Monaco for £52 million and Danilo from Real Madrid for £26.5 million as part of a summer outlay that topped £200 million. When asked about the comments made by the Portuguese, Guardiola said: "I'm so delighted to be here to speak about what happened on the pitch. "About what happened with my colleague speaking off the pitch in the press conference, I'm not the right guy. You want to talk about what happened today on the pitch, I will answer." City remain on course to win the title in record time after equalling Chelsea's English top flight record of 11 consecutive away wins. But Guardiola will await medical updates on Vincent Kompany, after the injury-prone skipper limped off with a recurrence of a long-term calf problem. City face a minimum of eight games in 34 days in a hectic start to the New Year, and Guardiola added: "Of course we are happy to break records but when we prepare for games we don't speak about them. Until now, we have found a way to win. "I saw the schedule in my office the other day and I wanted to escape, because it's terrible. The games we are going to play, it's tough. "We've played all these games in December then in January you have the Carabao Cup and FA Cup and then the return of the Champions League in February. "It will be tough but it will also be tough for our opponents." Guardiola's opposite number Rafa Benitez hit back at criticism of his negative approach after his team slid to a fifth consecutive home defeat, Newcastle's worst run at St James' Park for 64 years to leave them just a point above the bottom three after one win in their last 11 matches. Substitute Dwight Gayle almost snatched a dramatic late equaliser to in-part justify the manager's ultra-cautious approach, and the Spaniard said: "We were in the game until the end and very close to getting a point against a very good team." Newcastle face the key visit of relegation rivals Brighton before the turn of the year, and Benitez added: "We have a couple of games in the space of a few days against teams near the bottom of the table and hopefully we'll have some of our injured players back before then."

Mourinho provokes Guardiola but he does not bite

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

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

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

EPL: Man City march to 18th straight win

Liverpool must learn to switch off their attacking flair and tighten up defensively in certain situations to prevent opponents from scoring, midfielder James Milner said after Friday`s frantic 3-3 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League.

Liverpool held a 1-0 lead at half-time and made it 2-0 early in the second half but their defensive frailties were exposed once again as Arsenal scored thrice in five minutes to take the lead before Roberto Firmino equalised in the 71st minute.

&quot;We`ve got to be more boring. Obviously, we`re very good going forward but those are the times in the game when you`ve got to tighten up, not make mistakes for those five minutes,&quot; Milner said.&nbsp;

&quot;All the goals were our fault, really, and that`s something we have to learn from and we need to do it quick,&nbsp;because it seems to be a thing for us this year.

&quot;We play such good football and sometimes we just need to switch that off for five to 10 minutes in a game and learn about the game, since the situations when it`s time to take it easy, play a bit tighter and keep the ball...&quot;

Liverpool`s poor defending has constantly negated their free-flowing attack this season with the team hosting prolific goalscorers in Mohamed Salah, Phillipe Coutinho, Sadio Mane and Firmino, but failing to keep the door shut on their opponents.

Juergen Klopp`s side sits 17 points behind league leaders Manchester City in the fourth position, having conceded the most goals among the league`s top four teams.

Liverpool held a 1-0 lead at half-time and made it 2-0 early in the second half before Arsenal scored thrice in five minutes

Liverpool must learn to switch off their attacking flair and tighten up defensively in certain situations to prevent opponents from scoring, midfielder James Milner said after Friday`s frantic 3-3 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League. Liverpool held a 1-0 lead at half-time and made it 2-0 early in the second half but their defensive frailties were exposed once again as Arsenal scored thrice in five minutes to take the lead before Roberto Firmino equalised in the 71st minute. "We`ve got to be more boring. Obviously, we`re very good going forward but those are the times in the game when you`ve got to tighten up, not make mistakes for those five minutes," Milner said. "All the goals were our fault, really, and that`s something we have to learn from and we need to do it quick, because it seems to be a thing for us this year. "We play such good football and sometimes we just need to switch that off for five to 10 minutes in a game and learn about the game, since the situations when it`s time to take it easy, play a bit tighter and keep the ball..." Liverpool`s poor defending has constantly negated their free-flowing attack this season with the team hosting prolific goalscorers in Mohamed Salah, Phillipe Coutinho, Sadio Mane and Firmino, but failing to keep the door shut on their opponents. Juergen Klopp`s side sits 17 points behind league leaders Manchester City in the fourth position, having conceded the most goals among the league`s top four teams.

James Milner urges Liverpool to become 'more boring' after Arsenal draw

Former Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has retired from football at the age of 37.

Following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal, the former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016.

Rosicky&#39;s career was&nbsp;plagued by injury for much of that decade and put his decision to hang up his boots down to being unable to keep up with the physical demands of football.

&quot;After careful consideration, I have realised I am no longer able to fully prepare my body for what the professional football requires,&quot; Rosicky said, explaining his mid-season announcement.

&quot;I would like to thank Sparta for raising me, for being the first step in my career in big clubs, and for allowing me to say goodbye at the place I love the most.&quot;

Rosicky won two FA Cups at Arsenal but failed to make more than 28 Premier League appearances in any campaign at the club.

The midfielder made more than 100 appearances for his national team.

The former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016 following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal.

Former Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has retired from football at the age of 37. Following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal, the former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016. Rosicky's career was plagued by injury for much of that decade and put his decision to hang up his boots down to being unable to keep up with the physical demands of football. "After careful consideration, I have realised I am no longer able to fully prepare my body for what the professional football requires," Rosicky said, explaining his mid-season announcement. "I would like to thank Sparta for raising me, for being the first step in my career in big clubs, and for allowing me to say goodbye at the place I love the most." Rosicky won two FA Cups at Arsenal but failed to make more than 28 Premier League appearances in any campaign at the club. The midfielder made more than 100 appearances for his national team.

Tomas Rosicky retires after career in Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Sparta Prague

Everton manager Sam Allardyce&rsquo;s ability to quickly get teams out of relegation trouble is the defining characteristic of his management career but his impact at Goodison Park has been so swift he is already looking at a top-half finish.

Everton&#39;s 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory.

&quot;The target now? Top half but let&rsquo;s not get carried away,&quot; said former England manager Allardyce after second-half goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney, with a penalty, had secured a comeback victory over the bottom-placed Welsh club.

Everton were in the relegation zone when they sacked Dutchman Ronald Koeman on Oct. 23 following a humiliating 5-2 loss at home to Arsenal.

The club&rsquo;s Under-23 coach David Unsworth then had an extended spell as caretaker manager during which he managed just two wins in eight games.

Unsworth&#39;s second and final win, a 4-0 success against West Ham United, came with Allardyce already watching from the stands and, while he was not on the bench for that game, he is making sure that victory counts on his record.

Since formally taking the role, Everton have beaten Huddersfield Town and Newcastle United and drawn at local rivals Liverpool before Monday&#39;s win.

&ldquo;To collect 13 out of 15 points is outstanding considering the position where we have come from,&rdquo; said Allardyce.

&quot;We have scored 11 goals in five games and kept clean sheets. We are a team that comes back from 1-0 down to win and that shows the character.&quot;

Never relegated&nbsp;

Allardyce, 63, has never had a team of his relegated from the Premier League, despite working with clubs such as Sunderland and Crystal Palace who were in deep trouble when he took over.

He managed to maintain top flight football for clubs such as Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers and took West Ham back into the Premier League &ndash; and kept them there - after their relegation.

Focusing on solid defending and good organisation has again brought results for the man dubbed &lsquo;Fireman Sam&rsquo; but he said his assistants, such as former Leicester City boss Craig Shakespeare and veteran coach Sammy Lee, deserved their share of the credit.

&ldquo;From a tactical point of view, I&rsquo;ve simplified the game and I&rsquo;m man-managing the players. I brought some experienced and talented staff with me, along with the rest of the staff &ndash; I want everyone to get better. To turn around so quickly is great credit to everyone. Not just me,&rdquo; he said.

&quot;What looked like a desperate situation is becoming a comfortable one. And now people are looking up the table rather than down. The last clubs I took over were tougher to turn around initially,&quot; he said.

The next test for Everton comes against third-placed champions Chelsea at Goodison on Saturday.

&quot;We&rsquo;ve got to try and get a result against Chelsea and then we&rsquo;ll really know what we&rsquo;re made of,&quot; added Allardyce.

&quot;With this confidence, if we can get a result we&rsquo;re on the right track for finishing as high as we can. Let&rsquo;s see if the lads can pull one out of the bag.&quot;

Everton's 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory.

Everton manager Sam Allardyce’s ability to quickly get teams out of relegation trouble is the defining characteristic of his management career but his impact at Goodison Park has been so swift he is already looking at a top-half finish. Everton's 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory. "The target now? Top half but let’s not get carried away," said former England manager Allardyce after second-half goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney, with a penalty, had secured a comeback victory over the bottom-placed Welsh club. Everton were in the relegation zone when they sacked Dutchman Ronald Koeman on Oct. 23 following a humiliating 5-2 loss at home to Arsenal. The club’s Under-23 coach David Unsworth then had an extended spell as caretaker manager during which he managed just two wins in eight games. Unsworth's second and final win, a 4-0 success against West Ham United, came with Allardyce already watching from the stands and, while he was not on the bench for that game, he is making sure that victory counts on his record. Since formally taking the role, Everton have beaten Huddersfield Town and Newcastle United and drawn at local rivals Liverpool before Monday's win. “To collect 13 out of 15 points is outstanding considering the position where we have come from,” said Allardyce. "We have scored 11 goals in five games and kept clean sheets. We are a team that comes back from 1-0 down to win and that shows the character." Never relegated Allardyce, 63, has never had a team of his relegated from the Premier League, despite working with clubs such as Sunderland and Crystal Palace who were in deep trouble when he took over. He managed to maintain top flight football for clubs such as Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers and took West Ham back into the Premier League – and kept them there - after their relegation. Focusing on solid defending and good organisation has again brought results for the man dubbed ‘Fireman Sam’ but he said his assistants, such as former Leicester City boss Craig Shakespeare and veteran coach Sammy Lee, deserved their share of the credit. “From a tactical point of view, I’ve simplified the game and I’m man-managing the players. I brought some experienced and talented staff with me, along with the rest of the staff – I want everyone to get better. To turn around so quickly is great credit to everyone. Not just me,” he said. "What looked like a desperate situation is becoming a comfortable one. And now people are looking up the table rather than down. The last clubs I took over were tougher to turn around initially," he said. The next test for Everton comes against third-placed champions Chelsea at Goodison on Saturday. "We’ve got to try and get a result against Chelsea and then we’ll really know what we’re made of," added Allardyce. "With this confidence, if we can get a result we’re on the right track for finishing as high as we can. Let’s see if the lads can pull one out of the bag."

Allardyce makes instant impact as Everton rise into top half

Manchester United survived a tense finale to beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at the Hawthorns on Sunday and close to within 11 points of Premier League leaders Manchester City.

United&#39;s former West Brom striker Romelu Lukaku scored his 15th goal of the season in the 27th minute by heading home Marcus Rashford&rsquo;s left-wing cross.

Midfielder Jesse Lingard doubled the lead with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area eight minutes later.

United appeared to be on course for a comfortable win, but West Brom set up a nervous finish for Jose Mourinho&rsquo;s side when substitute Gareth Barry poked home from close range following a corner in the 77th minute.

United hung on, however, to restore their three-point advantage over third-placed Chelsea. West Brom have now gone 16 league matches without a win and remained second bottom, two points from safety.

&quot;I think we deserved the win,&quot; Mourinho told Sky Sports. &quot;We were the best team. We controlled the game for a long, long time.&quot;

United spurned opportunities to kill the game off when Rashford slashed a right-footed shot wide in the 57th minute and Lingard fired straight at West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster.

They then switched off at a set-piece to allow Barry to score and were lucky not to concede an equaliser when Jay Rodriguez headed wide from point-blank range with five minutes remaining.

&quot;We had a few chances to kill the game but I knew they would react,&quot; Mourinho added. &quot;The intensity in the first half maybe we didn&#39;t have in the second half.&quot;

West Brom manager Alan Pardew, who was appointed last month after Tony Pulis was sacked, made one change to the side who drew 0-0 against Liverpool on Wednesday.

&quot;The team I picked, in hindsight, was not the right team,&quot; Pardew said. &quot;I should have put some fresh legs in there, but they did so well at Liverpool that, I&rsquo;m a new manager, I wanted to show some faith in those players.

&quot;But I should have maybe made two or three changes. We looked leggy.&quot;

Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion, Premier League, Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford

Manchester United survived a tense finale to beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at the Hawthorns on Sunday and close to within 11 points of Premier League leaders Manchester City. United's former West Brom striker Romelu Lukaku scored his 15th goal of the season in the 27th minute by heading home Marcus Rashford’s left-wing cross. Midfielder Jesse Lingard doubled the lead with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area eight minutes later. United appeared to be on course for a comfortable win, but West Brom set up a nervous finish for Jose Mourinho’s side when substitute Gareth Barry poked home from close range following a corner in the 77th minute. United hung on, however, to restore their three-point advantage over third-placed Chelsea. West Brom have now gone 16 league matches without a win and remained second bottom, two points from safety. "I think we deserved the win," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "We were the best team. We controlled the game for a long, long time." United spurned opportunities to kill the game off when Rashford slashed a right-footed shot wide in the 57th minute and Lingard fired straight at West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster. They then switched off at a set-piece to allow Barry to score and were lucky not to concede an equaliser when Jay Rodriguez headed wide from point-blank range with five minutes remaining. "We had a few chances to kill the game but I knew they would react," Mourinho added. "The intensity in the first half maybe we didn't have in the second half." West Brom manager Alan Pardew, who was appointed last month after Tony Pulis was sacked, made one change to the side who drew 0-0 against Liverpool on Wednesday. "The team I picked, in hindsight, was not the right team," Pardew said. "I should have put some fresh legs in there, but they did so well at Liverpool that, I’m a new manager, I wanted to show some faith in those players. "But I should have maybe made two or three changes. We looked leggy."

Football: Lukaku, Lingard lift nervy Man United past West Brom

There have been few Manchester derbies with as much on the line as Sunday&#39;s meeting at Old Trafford of the top two teams in the Premier League -- the most anticipated clash of the campaign so far.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s City have built an eight-point lead following an unbeaten start to the season that has included 13 straight victories - equalling the record for the longest winning run in a single Premier League campaign.

Not to be completely outdone, however, Jose Mourinho&rsquo;s Manchester United have equalled a historic club record by remaining unbeaten at Old Trafford for 40 matches in all competitions.

And with former Barcelona boss Guardiola and ex-Real Madrid manager Mourinho having developed a fierce rivalry during their time together in Spain, Sunday&#39;s meeting promises to be one to savour.

The last team to beat United at home were City in September, 2016 and a repeat performance would leave the club, once derided as &quot;noisy neighbours&quot; by former United boss Alex Ferguson, 11 points clear at the summit.

City have been playing some exhilarating football this campaign with coach Guardiola&#39;s style of play, which served him so well at his previous clubs, bringing the expected rewards after a disappointing lack of consistency last season.

Yet while United have suffered two defeats on the road - to Huddersfield Town and Chelsea - they too have looked like champions at home.

The 40 games unbeaten have included 29 wins and 11 draws with 85 goals scored and just 17 conceded.

This season&#39;s Premier League record at Old Trafford is played seven, won seven - 20 goals for and just one against.

Mourinho, however, will be without his key French midfielder Paul Pogba, who starts a three-match ban following his red card in Saturday&#39;s crucial 3-1 win at Arsenal.

United have produced their best football when they have had Pogba and Serbian anchorman Nemanja Matic on the field together and the former Juventus midfielder will be sorely missed.

Given the gap between the two clubs in the table, it will be intriguing to see if Mourinho maintains his habit of playing defensively against title rivals, a tactic which has been much criticised following the goalless draw at Liverpool in October.

Pogba, however, says United will approach the game in a positive fashion.

&quot;We want to win. We need to win as well. They need to win because they know that we are behind and we are closing and closing,&quot; he said.

&quot;If I didn&#39;t believe that (we can win it), I&#39;d stop playing football now,&quot; he added.

United&#39;s Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic should be fit to feature at some stage in the game but defender Eric Bailly remains sidelined.

Pep Guardiola's City have built an eight-point lead following an unbeaten start to the season that has included 13 straight victories - equalling the record for the longest winning run in a single Premier League campaign.

There have been few Manchester derbies with as much on the line as Sunday's meeting at Old Trafford of the top two teams in the Premier League -- the most anticipated clash of the campaign so far. Pep Guardiola's City have built an eight-point lead following an unbeaten start to the season that has included 13 straight victories - equalling the record for the longest winning run in a single Premier League campaign. Not to be completely outdone, however, Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United have equalled a historic club record by remaining unbeaten at Old Trafford for 40 matches in all competitions. And with former Barcelona boss Guardiola and ex-Real Madrid manager Mourinho having developed a fierce rivalry during their time together in Spain, Sunday's meeting promises to be one to savour. The last team to beat United at home were City in September, 2016 and a repeat performance would leave the club, once derided as "noisy neighbours" by former United boss Alex Ferguson, 11 points clear at the summit. City have been playing some exhilarating football this campaign with coach Guardiola's style of play, which served him so well at his previous clubs, bringing the expected rewards after a disappointing lack of consistency last season. Yet while United have suffered two defeats on the road - to Huddersfield Town and Chelsea - they too have looked like champions at home. The 40 games unbeaten have included 29 wins and 11 draws with 85 goals scored and just 17 conceded. This season's Premier League record at Old Trafford is played seven, won seven - 20 goals for and just one against. Mourinho, however, will be without his key French midfielder Paul Pogba, who starts a three-match ban following his red card in Saturday's crucial 3-1 win at Arsenal. United have produced their best football when they have had Pogba and Serbian anchorman Nemanja Matic on the field together and the former Juventus midfielder will be sorely missed. Given the gap between the two clubs in the table, it will be intriguing to see if Mourinho maintains his habit of playing defensively against title rivals, a tactic which has been much criticised following the goalless draw at Liverpool in October. Pogba, however, says United will approach the game in a positive fashion. "We want to win. We need to win as well. They need to win because they know that we are behind and we are closing and closing," he said. "If I didn't believe that (we can win it), I'd stop playing football now," he added. United's Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic should be fit to feature at some stage in the game but defender Eric Bailly remains sidelined.

Football: Stakes are high in Manchester derby

Manchester United saw off a determined Brighton &amp; Hove Albion 1-0 on Saturday to reduce Manchester City&#39;s lead at the top of the Premier League to five points, while the three teams below them all dropped points.

Liverpool and Chelsea drew 1-1 at Anfield while Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s pursuit stalled with a home draw against West Bromwich Albion.

Those results offered an opportunity to Arsenal and surprise packets Burnley, either of whom would move into fourth if they win Sunday&#39;s meeting at Turf Moor.

With Manchester City on 34 points from 12 games, neighbours United took closer order on 29 points from 13 games, ahead of Pep Guardiola&#39;s leaders visiting Huddersfield Town on Sunday.

Chelsea have 26 points in third place but Tottenham stayed fourth on 24 while Liverpool are fifth on 23. Arsenal and Burnley both have 22.

Manchester United&#39;s unbeaten home record stretches back to when City beat them in September 2016, but it was not plain sailing against promoted Brighton, who proved spirited opposition in the first league meeting between the sides since 1983.

Ashley Young forced the goal in the 66th minute, his shot deflecting off defender Lewis Dunk to beat goalkeeper Matt Ryan.

&quot;Brighton deserved more than they got,&quot; United&#39;s manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports. &quot;They played really well and when they had the ball they were dangerous.&quot;

Liverpool&#39;s recent high-scoring run came to an end in the day&#39;s late game when it looked as if Mohamed Salah&#39;s 64th minute goal against his old club would earn a crucial win.

Instead, substitute Willian&#39;s mishit cross five minutes from time eluded goalkeeper Simon Mignolet to become only the second goal Juergen Klopp&#39;s side have conceded at home in seven league games.

&quot;Chelsea fought hard and deserved a point,&quot; said Klopp, who was angry that the officials took so long to allow a substitution just before Antonio Conte&#39;s side scored.

&quot;We wanted to go to five at the back, to change the situation and it&#39;s not too cool to have conceded,&quot; he added.

Spurs dropped two points against managerless West Bromwich Albion at Wembley.

They were behind at halftime to an early goal by Salomon Rondon and needed an equaliser from the ever-reliable Harry Kane 16 minutes from fulltime to salvage a draw.

Bottom club Crystal Palace earned only their second win of the season as a goal by Mamadou Sakho in added time beat visiting Stoke City 2-1.

A brilliant individual effort by Xherdan Shaqiri eight minutes after halftime ensured they would not keep a first clean sheet, but within three minutes new England international Ruben Loftus-Cheek, on loan from Chelsea, scored the equaliser.

Sakho&#39;s winner, jabbing in a rebound off the post, brought Palace within three points of 17th-placed West Brom.

&quot;That goal is worth its weight in gold,&quot; said manager Roy Hodgson.

His team made up two points on Swansea City, who could only draw 0-0 at home to Bournemouth.

The Welsh side were upset to have a goal disallowed just before the interval when Wilfried Bony, starting in place of Tammy Abraham, found the net.

The referee decided that team mate Jordan Ayew had fouled a defender.

Watford maintained their run of having scored at least twice in every away game with a comfortable 3-0 win at Newcastle to consolidate eighth place.

Will Hughes and Andre Gray scored either side of an own goal by American DeAndre Yedlin to secure a victory that further enhanced the credentials of manager Marco Silva, who has been coveted by Everton.

Manchester United's unbeaten home record stretches back to when City beat them in September 2016

Manchester United saw off a determined Brighton & Hove Albion 1-0 on Saturday to reduce Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to five points, while the three teams below them all dropped points. Liverpool and Chelsea drew 1-1 at Anfield while Tottenham Hotspur's pursuit stalled with a home draw against West Bromwich Albion. Those results offered an opportunity to Arsenal and surprise packets Burnley, either of whom would move into fourth if they win Sunday's meeting at Turf Moor. With Manchester City on 34 points from 12 games, neighbours United took closer order on 29 points from 13 games, ahead of Pep Guardiola's leaders visiting Huddersfield Town on Sunday. Chelsea have 26 points in third place but Tottenham stayed fourth on 24 while Liverpool are fifth on 23. Arsenal and Burnley both have 22. Manchester United's unbeaten home record stretches back to when City beat them in September 2016, but it was not plain sailing against promoted Brighton, who proved spirited opposition in the first league meeting between the sides since 1983. Ashley Young forced the goal in the 66th minute, his shot deflecting off defender Lewis Dunk to beat goalkeeper Matt Ryan. "Brighton deserved more than they got," United's manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports. "They played really well and when they had the ball they were dangerous." Liverpool's recent high-scoring run came to an end in the day's late game when it looked as if Mohamed Salah's 64th minute goal against his old club would earn a crucial win. Instead, substitute Willian's mishit cross five minutes from time eluded goalkeeper Simon Mignolet to become only the second goal Juergen Klopp's side have conceded at home in seven league games. "Chelsea fought hard and deserved a point," said Klopp, who was angry that the officials took so long to allow a substitution just before Antonio Conte's side scored. "We wanted to go to five at the back, to change the situation and it's not too cool to have conceded," he added. Spurs dropped two points against managerless West Bromwich Albion at Wembley. They were behind at halftime to an early goal by Salomon Rondon and needed an equaliser from the ever-reliable Harry Kane 16 minutes from fulltime to salvage a draw. Bottom club Crystal Palace earned only their second win of the season as a goal by Mamadou Sakho in added time beat visiting Stoke City 2-1. A brilliant individual effort by Xherdan Shaqiri eight minutes after halftime ensured they would not keep a first clean sheet, but within three minutes new England international Ruben Loftus-Cheek, on loan from Chelsea, scored the equaliser. Sakho's winner, jabbing in a rebound off the post, brought Palace within three points of 17th-placed West Brom. "That goal is worth its weight in gold," said manager Roy Hodgson. His team made up two points on Swansea City, who could only draw 0-0 at home to Bournemouth. The Welsh side were upset to have a goal disallowed just before the interval when Wilfried Bony, starting in place of Tammy Abraham, found the net. The referee decided that team mate Jordan Ayew had fouled a defender. Watford maintained their run of having scored at least twice in every away game with a comfortable 3-0 win at Newcastle to consolidate eighth place. Will Hughes and Andre Gray scored either side of an own goal by American DeAndre Yedlin to secure a victory that further enhanced the credentials of manager Marco Silva, who has been coveted by Everton.

Manchester pair in the clear as main rivals all draw

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