Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata is enjoying life at the club and says he is open to extending his four-year stay at Old Trafford.

The Spain international has made over 150 appearances for United since joining in 2014. His contract expires next year though the club have the option to extend it until 2019.

&quot;I&#39;m happy here. The club is massive, the support we have is massive. I&#39;ve been settled down in the city since year one,&quot; Mata, who has scored once in 13 appearances this season, told ESPN.

&quot;I&#39;m 29 and hopefully I can play football for some more years. It would be great to play until I&#39;m 40 like Ryan Giggs. But that&#39;s still a bit far, still 11 years.

&quot;You never know what can happen in football and in life. But my feeling now is that I&#39;m happy here and I wouldn&#39;t have any problem continuing here for more time.&quot;

United, who are second in the Premier League, eight points behind Manchester City, host Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata is enjoying life at the club and says he is open to extending his four-year stay at Old Trafford

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata is enjoying life at the club and says he is open to extending his four-year stay at Old Trafford. The Spain international has made over 150 appearances for United since joining in 2014. His contract expires next year though the club have the option to extend it until 2019. "I'm happy here. The club is massive, the support we have is massive. I've been settled down in the city since year one," Mata, who has scored once in 13 appearances this season, told ESPN. "I'm 29 and hopefully I can play football for some more years. It would be great to play until I'm 40 like Ryan Giggs. But that's still a bit far, still 11 years. "You never know what can happen in football and in life. But my feeling now is that I'm happy here and I wouldn't have any problem continuing here for more time." United, who are second in the Premier League, eight points behind Manchester City, host Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

Mata keen to extend long-term Manchester United stay

English teams are not being given enough time to recover from Champions League games and the Premier League should review the way the fixture schedule is drawn up, Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has said.

Chelsea are second in their Champions League group and face Qarabag in Azerbaijan later on Wednesday seeking to book their spot in the last 16. They are then scheduled to face Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday.

Conte suggested the congested schedule is one of the reasons English sides have failed to reach the Champions League final in recent years. Chelsea were the last English club to reach the final when they beat Bayern Munich in the 2011/12 season.

&quot;It will be very difficult for us to recover,&quot; Conte told reporters on Tuesday. &quot;Whoever prepared the fixtures for the league must pay great attention.&quot;

&quot;I&#39;d like to underline I&#39;m talking for all the teams who are playing in the Champions League, not just for Chelsea. At this moment, England needs to try to understand this problem and change something.&quot;

Conte said Chelsea were in the same situation in September when they travelled to Atletico Madrid on Sept. 27 and hosted Manchester City three days later.

&quot;For a lot of time, there hasn&#39;t been an English team playing a final in the Champions League. Why is this? The teams are very strong, and every team has the possibility to go through to the Champions League final,&quot; he added.

Chelsea are nine points behind league leaders Manchester City and a point behind second-placed United.

Chelsea take on Qarabag in Azerbaijan Wednesday night

English teams are not being given enough time to recover from Champions League games and the Premier League should review the way the fixture schedule is drawn up, Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has said. Chelsea are second in their Champions League group and face Qarabag in Azerbaijan later on Wednesday seeking to book their spot in the last 16. They are then scheduled to face Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday. Conte suggested the congested schedule is one of the reasons English sides have failed to reach the Champions League final in recent years. Chelsea were the last English club to reach the final when they beat Bayern Munich in the 2011/12 season. "It will be very difficult for us to recover," Conte told reporters on Tuesday. "Whoever prepared the fixtures for the league must pay great attention." "I'd like to underline I'm talking for all the teams who are playing in the Champions League, not just for Chelsea. At this moment, England needs to try to understand this problem and change something." Conte said Chelsea were in the same situation in September when they travelled to Atletico Madrid on Sept. 27 and hosted Manchester City three days later. "For a lot of time, there hasn't been an English team playing a final in the Champions League. Why is this? The teams are very strong, and every team has the possibility to go through to the Champions League final," he added. Chelsea are nine points behind league leaders Manchester City and a point behind second-placed United.

Champions League: Chelsea's Conte says not getting time to recover, EPL should rethink fixtures

Premier League leaders Manchester City brushed aside Leicester City 2-0 for their 16th successive win in all competitions as Manchester United welcomed back long-term absentees Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a 4-1 rout of Newcastle United.

With Tottenham Hotspur losing ground after a 2-0 derby defeat at neighbours Arsenal, the league continues to look an argument between Manchester&#39;s big two who are separated by eight points.

A tap-in by Gabriel Jesus and a stunning strike from Kevin De Bruyne provided the City goals against a Leicester team who have often troubled them in the past.

The home side went close to equalising when Harry McGuire hit the post after the break, but City went straight up the other end and put the result beyond doubt with a stunning counter-attack that De Bruyne rounded off with an unstoppable 20-yard shot in the 49th minute.

The only concern for City manager Pep Guardiola was an injury to John Stones, who hobbled off before the break and may not play again this year.

&quot;We are going to miss (John Stones) for a long time, maybe six weeks off,&quot; said Guardiola after the game.

&quot;It is tough because the calendar is so demanding. We don&#39;t have many central defenders and they will suffer but we will find a solution.&quot;

The successful return of Vincent Kompany from injury will provide compensation although the Belgian was fortunate to escape with a booking for a foul on Jamie Vardy in the third minute.

United&#39;s Pogba and Ibrahimovic were also back in action at Old Trafford. The Frenchman contributed an assist and scored United&#39;s third in an impressive 70-minute appearance before Ibrahimovic made an unexpected return from the bench after seven months out with a knee injury.

&quot;It&#39;s my head that is playing; my knee just needs to follow,&quot; he said after his 15-minute cameo.

Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling and Romelu Lukaku scored the other goals as United hit four in the league for the seventh time this season after Dwight Gayle had given Newcastle the lead.

At Arsenal, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said he was &quot;disappointed in the performance and the way we conceded the goals&quot; after the derby defeat scuppered suggestions of a permanent shift in the north London balance of power.

Arsenal went ahead through a controversial goal from Shkodran Mustafi, which Pochettino thought should not have stood.

&quot;The goal was offside. But we lose,&quot; he said. &quot;I&#39;m not blaming the referee. It&#39;s a strange situation. It changed the dynamic of the game. We need to accept that. We can&#39;t control that.&quot;

At Anfield, Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool beat Southampton 3-0 to record three consecutive Premier League wins for the first time in 2017.

The Egyptian&#39;s brace on 31 and 41 minutes made it 14 goals in 18 games for Liverpool with Philippe Coutinho rounding off the afternoon with their third to put them one point off the Champions League places.

Chelsea had an equally untroubled afternoon after beating West Bromwich Albion 4-0, a result that piled more pressure on Baggies manager Tony Pulis whose side are without a win in 11 games.

&quot;The defending was very poor,&quot; said Pulis after the defeat in which Eden Hazard scored twice. &quot;It leaves me in the position I was in before the game. The board of directors will decide what they have to do.&quot;

The Premier League&#39;s two worst defences, Crystal Palace and Everton, predictably leaked goals as honours were shared in an entertaining 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park.

Palace were pegged back after twice taking the lead though James McCarthur and Wilfried Zaha although Christian Benteke should have sealed it with an easy chance for Roy Hodgson&#39;s side in the second half.

Callum Wilson scored a hat-trick to earn 10-man Bournemouth victory over Huddersfield Town.

&quot;We had to dig deep,&quot; said the striker, whose goals were his first since he fought back from serious injury.

Burnley continued their impressive start to the season with a 2-0 win over Swansea City. Jack Cork and Ashley Barnes scored the goals to leave seventh-placed Burnley level on points with Liverpool and Arsenal.

Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling and Romelu Lukaku scored the other goals as United hit four in the league for the seventh time this season after Dwight Gayle had given Newcastle the lead.

Premier League leaders Manchester City brushed aside Leicester City 2-0 for their 16th successive win in all competitions as Manchester United welcomed back long-term absentees Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a 4-1 rout of Newcastle United. With Tottenham Hotspur losing ground after a 2-0 derby defeat at neighbours Arsenal, the league continues to look an argument between Manchester's big two who are separated by eight points. A tap-in by Gabriel Jesus and a stunning strike from Kevin De Bruyne provided the City goals against a Leicester team who have often troubled them in the past. The home side went close to equalising when Harry McGuire hit the post after the break, but City went straight up the other end and put the result beyond doubt with a stunning counter-attack that De Bruyne rounded off with an unstoppable 20-yard shot in the 49th minute. The only concern for City manager Pep Guardiola was an injury to John Stones, who hobbled off before the break and may not play again this year. "We are going to miss (John Stones) for a long time, maybe six weeks off," said Guardiola after the game. "It is tough because the calendar is so demanding. We don't have many central defenders and they will suffer but we will find a solution." The successful return of Vincent Kompany from injury will provide compensation although the Belgian was fortunate to escape with a booking for a foul on Jamie Vardy in the third minute. United's Pogba and Ibrahimovic were also back in action at Old Trafford. The Frenchman contributed an assist and scored United's third in an impressive 70-minute appearance before Ibrahimovic made an unexpected return from the bench after seven months out with a knee injury. "It's my head that is playing; my knee just needs to follow," he said after his 15-minute cameo. Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling and Romelu Lukaku scored the other goals as United hit four in the league for the seventh time this season after Dwight Gayle had given Newcastle the lead. At Arsenal, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said he was "disappointed in the performance and the way we conceded the goals" after the derby defeat scuppered suggestions of a permanent shift in the north London balance of power. Arsenal went ahead through a controversial goal from Shkodran Mustafi, which Pochettino thought should not have stood. "The goal was offside. But we lose," he said. "I'm not blaming the referee. It's a strange situation. It changed the dynamic of the game. We need to accept that. We can't control that." At Anfield, Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool beat Southampton 3-0 to record three consecutive Premier League wins for the first time in 2017. The Egyptian's brace on 31 and 41 minutes made it 14 goals in 18 games for Liverpool with Philippe Coutinho rounding off the afternoon with their third to put them one point off the Champions League places. Chelsea had an equally untroubled afternoon after beating West Bromwich Albion 4-0, a result that piled more pressure on Baggies manager Tony Pulis whose side are without a win in 11 games. "The defending was very poor," said Pulis after the defeat in which Eden Hazard scored twice. "It leaves me in the position I was in before the game. The board of directors will decide what they have to do." The Premier League's two worst defences, Crystal Palace and Everton, predictably leaked goals as honours were shared in an entertaining 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park. Palace were pegged back after twice taking the lead though James McCarthur and Wilfried Zaha although Christian Benteke should have sealed it with an easy chance for Roy Hodgson's side in the second half. Callum Wilson scored a hat-trick to earn 10-man Bournemouth victory over Huddersfield Town. "We had to dig deep," said the striker, whose goals were his first since he fought back from serious injury. Burnley continued their impressive start to the season with a 2-0 win over Swansea City. Jack Cork and Ashley Barnes scored the goals to leave seventh-placed Burnley level on points with Liverpool and Arsenal.

Premier League: Manchester clubs win again as United stars return

&nbsp;It would appear to be difficult for any team to find a more daunting examination in European football at present than a visit to the Etihad Stadium where Pep Guardiola&#39;s Manchester City have come into full bloom.

City&#39;s kaleidoscopic movement and rare skill executed at breakneck speed have made Guardiola&#39;s latest creation a familiar delight to behold but a nightmare to play against as Burnley may become the latest Premier League side to discover this weekend.

City&#39;s 7-2 demolition of Stoke City last Saturday to move them two points clear of neighbours Manchester United was followed by Guardiola&#39;s delight at seeing off &quot;one of Europe&#39;s best teams&quot; Napoli in the Champions League in midweek.

That was City&#39;s 10th successive win in all competitions and now to complete their perfect week at the Etihad on Saturday, they are out to add to the 22 goals they have scored there in six matches in all competitions this term.

Burnley themselves have progressed admirably under manager Sean Dyche, having gone six league matches unbeaten, but he recognises that visiting a stadium where City have won their last three league games by five-goal margins is the acid test.

Guardiola was lavished with praise for his side&#39;s brilliance last weekend as his old rival Jose Mourinho, in contrast, suffered some equally familiar criticism for his safety-first approach in Manchester United&#39;s goalless draw at Liverpool.

Not that Mourinho ever appears to worry about such barbs but on Saturday he will expect his men to get back to being flat-track bullies against a struggling Huddersfield Town who are without a win in six matches.

WEMBLEY WOBBLES

The match of the weekend sees Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool meet at Wembley on Sunday with both sides buoyed by superb away-days in the Champions League -- Spurs earning a draw at champions Real Madrid while the Reds put seven past Maribor.

There feels a lot riding on the match with Spurs yet to convince their fans they are over their Wembley wobbles while Juergen Klopp knows his eighth-placed Liverpool cannot afford to drift further behind in the title race.

Neither can champions Chelsea, currently nine points adrift of Man City, as they seek to bring Watford down to earth after the unfashionable Hornets surged into the top four last weekend with a win over Arsenal.

Stung by their loss to rock-bottom Crystal Palace, Chelsea will be grateful for the return of their striking ace Alvaro Morata.

Watford, whose own totemic striker Troy Deeney had taken delight in pointing out how Arsenal seemed to lack fight, can expect Chelsea to be more combative on Saturday, especially as they are smarting at losing consecutive Premier League games for only the second time under Antonio Conte.

Arsenal, also nine behind City, need to rebound quickly at Everton, who are in even more urgent need of a win as manager Ronald Koeman, languishing in 16th, is now having to assert warily: &quot;Until now it&#39;s full, total support from the board.&quot;

Palace will hope to continue their baby steps under Roy Hodgson at Newcastle United, who could be under new ownership by Christmas if Mike Ashley can find a buyer.

It is a time of flux at Leicester City, too. They are managerless for the visit to Swansea City with Craig Shakespeare&#39;s dismissal meaning assistant Michael Appleton takes charge of the side temporarily.

City's kaleidoscopic movement and rare skill executed at breakneck speed have made Guardiola's latest creation a familiar delight to behold but a nightmare to play against as Burnley may become the latest Premier League side to discover this weekend.

It would appear to be difficult for any team to find a more daunting examination in European football at present than a visit to the Etihad Stadium where Pep Guardiola's Manchester City have come into full bloom. City's kaleidoscopic movement and rare skill executed at breakneck speed have made Guardiola's latest creation a familiar delight to behold but a nightmare to play against as Burnley may become the latest Premier League side to discover this weekend. City's 7-2 demolition of Stoke City last Saturday to move them two points clear of neighbours Manchester United was followed by Guardiola's delight at seeing off "one of Europe's best teams" Napoli in the Champions League in midweek. That was City's 10th successive win in all competitions and now to complete their perfect week at the Etihad on Saturday, they are out to add to the 22 goals they have scored there in six matches in all competitions this term. Burnley themselves have progressed admirably under manager Sean Dyche, having gone six league matches unbeaten, but he recognises that visiting a stadium where City have won their last three league games by five-goal margins is the acid test. Guardiola was lavished with praise for his side's brilliance last weekend as his old rival Jose Mourinho, in contrast, suffered some equally familiar criticism for his safety-first approach in Manchester United's goalless draw at Liverpool. Not that Mourinho ever appears to worry about such barbs but on Saturday he will expect his men to get back to being flat-track bullies against a struggling Huddersfield Town who are without a win in six matches. WEMBLEY WOBBLES The match of the weekend sees Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool meet at Wembley on Sunday with both sides buoyed by superb away-days in the Champions League -- Spurs earning a draw at champions Real Madrid while the Reds put seven past Maribor. There feels a lot riding on the match with Spurs yet to convince their fans they are over their Wembley wobbles while Juergen Klopp knows his eighth-placed Liverpool cannot afford to drift further behind in the title race. Neither can champions Chelsea, currently nine points adrift of Man City, as they seek to bring Watford down to earth after the unfashionable Hornets surged into the top four last weekend with a win over Arsenal. Stung by their loss to rock-bottom Crystal Palace, Chelsea will be grateful for the return of their striking ace Alvaro Morata. Watford, whose own totemic striker Troy Deeney had taken delight in pointing out how Arsenal seemed to lack fight, can expect Chelsea to be more combative on Saturday, especially as they are smarting at losing consecutive Premier League games for only the second time under Antonio Conte. Arsenal, also nine behind City, need to rebound quickly at Everton, who are in even more urgent need of a win as manager Ronald Koeman, languishing in 16th, is now having to assert warily: "Until now it's full, total support from the board." Palace will hope to continue their baby steps under Roy Hodgson at Newcastle United, who could be under new ownership by Christmas if Mike Ashley can find a buyer. It is a time of flux at Leicester City, too. They are managerless for the visit to Swansea City with Craig Shakespeare's dismissal meaning assistant Michael Appleton takes charge of the side temporarily.

Guardiola's Manchester City eye Burnley demolition

Manchester United fans would be ill-advised to start dreaming about the Premier League title just yet but they will be heartened by another vintage performance in a 4-0 rout of Swansea on Saturday which showcased their attacking firepower.

Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man.

&quot;I think the team is confident and in both matches winning 1-0 at halftime, we didn&#39;t start the second half looking like we had to keep a clean sheet to win the match,&quot; he said.

&quot;We tried to control the game by keeping the ball and creating chances and we did that in both matches,&quot; he added.

&quot;The players that came on from the bench did well. Easy for me to make decisions, easy for me to make changes. The players make the manager look better and I thank their fantastic attitude because we know we have to have a squad to do something special this season.&quot;

Midfield anchorman Nemanja Matic bossed the centre of the pitch, allowing a rejuvenated Paul Pogba to venture forward and score his second goal in two games while striker Romelu Lukaku netted his third after selfless work throughout the match.

Henrik Mkhitaryan and substitute Anthony Martial, who again scored as a late substitute, also continued to thrive.

&quot;We are more confident (than last season),&quot; Pogba told Sky Sports.

&quot;We know each other more. We work for each other and I think that is easier for us. We want to carry on on this road.&quot;

Mkhitaryan spoke about United&#39;s passion and team spirit, factors which have been lacking for long spells since the departure of manager Alex Ferguson in 2013 when United won their 20th and last league title.

Cracks in last season&#39;s disappointing sixth-place finish were papered over by winning the League Cup and the Europa League, the latter allowing United to qualify for the Champions League group stage.

Mourinho signed Matic, Lukaku and Sweden defender Victor Lindelof, who is yet to make his Premier League debut as Phil Jones forced his way into the starting 11 with good pre-season form.

United now have the squad depth they have lacked in the past four years and although their credentials are yet to be tested against stronger rivals, former Wales striker John Hartson believes they will be a different prospect this season.

&quot;Clearly the opposition will get tougher for Manchester United,&quot; Hartson told the BBC.

&quot;But in terms of the first two games they&#39;ve been faultless. In that three or four minute spell where they took the game away from Swansea, they were devastating.&quot;

Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man

Manchester United fans would be ill-advised to start dreaming about the Premier League title just yet but they will be heartened by another vintage performance in a 4-0 rout of Swansea on Saturday which showcased their attacking firepower. Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man. "I think the team is confident and in both matches winning 1-0 at halftime, we didn't start the second half looking like we had to keep a clean sheet to win the match," he said. "We tried to control the game by keeping the ball and creating chances and we did that in both matches," he added. "The players that came on from the bench did well. Easy for me to make decisions, easy for me to make changes. The players make the manager look better and I thank their fantastic attitude because we know we have to have a squad to do something special this season." Midfield anchorman Nemanja Matic bossed the centre of the pitch, allowing a rejuvenated Paul Pogba to venture forward and score his second goal in two games while striker Romelu Lukaku netted his third after selfless work throughout the match. Henrik Mkhitaryan and substitute Anthony Martial, who again scored as a late substitute, also continued to thrive. "We are more confident (than last season)," Pogba told Sky Sports. "We know each other more. We work for each other and I think that is easier for us. We want to carry on on this road." Mkhitaryan spoke about United's passion and team spirit, factors which have been lacking for long spells since the departure of manager Alex Ferguson in 2013 when United won their 20th and last league title. Cracks in last season's disappointing sixth-place finish were papered over by winning the League Cup and the Europa League, the latter allowing United to qualify for the Champions League group stage. Mourinho signed Matic, Lukaku and Sweden defender Victor Lindelof, who is yet to make his Premier League debut as Phil Jones forced his way into the starting 11 with good pre-season form. United now have the squad depth they have lacked in the past four years and although their credentials are yet to be tested against stronger rivals, former Wales striker John Hartson believes they will be a different prospect this season. "Clearly the opposition will get tougher for Manchester United," Hartson told the BBC. "But in terms of the first two games they've been faultless. In that three or four minute spell where they took the game away from Swansea, they were devastating."

Premier League: Manchester United crushes Swansea 4-0

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said an &quot;absolutely horrendous&quot; atmosphere had been partly responsible for his club&#39;s failure to secure a Champions League place for the first time in 20 years.

Speaking after a 3-1 victory over Everton on the final day of the Premier League season, Wenger accepted that uncertainty over his future as manager, which has divided fans, had polluted the air at the Emirates Stadium.

He said there were other explanatory factors behind the club&#39;s difficulties, but refused to go into greater detail.

&quot;Overall I believe that we played since January in a very difficult environment for different reasons,&quot; Wenger told reporters at the Emirates on Sunday.

&quot;Some obviously that you know about and that is very difficult for the group of players to cope with that. Some other reasons, where we will talk about another day.

&quot;But the psychological environment for the group of players was absolutely horrendous. I am very proud of what they have done, the way they responded and finished the season.&quot;

He added: &quot;It has been difficult. Certainly my personal situation has contributed to that.&quot;

Wenger said earlier this year that he would make an announcement about his future before the end of the season, but he has repeatedly ducked opportunities to reveal his intentions.

Asked why his personal situation had not been resolved, he replied: &quot;I don&#39;t know.&quot;

Pressed as to when exactly he felt the uncertainty about his future had affected his players, he said: &quot;It&#39;s a good question. I cannot give you the answer today. I will give you an answer one day. But not today.&quot;

The 67-year-old would only say his future would be sorted out &quot;soon&quot;.

With Arsenal having finished fifth in the league, attention now turns to Saturday&#39;s FA Cup final against Chelsea, when victory would give Wenger a record seventh success in the competition.

But he will be missing Laurent Koscielny after the French centre-back was sent off for a rash challenge on Enner Valencia and also expects to be without Gabriel, who was stretchered off with a knee injury.

Wenger defends Kroenke

Arsenal&#39;s 10 men prevailed courtesy of goals from Hector Bellerin, Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey, with Romelu Lukaku replying from the penalty spot.

Wenger suggested his decision not to take part in the post-match lap of appreciation had been influenced by fears of a negative reaction from fans.

&quot;The players, they have been disturbed enough,&quot; he said.

&quot;I was out there, to show respect, but I wanted the players to have the quiet lap of honour they deserved.&quot;

Wenger also said Arsenal&#39;s supporters&#39; protests against shareholder Stan Kroenke -- who was loudly and repeatedly told to &quot;get out of our club&quot;, were misplaced.

&quot;I think you respect everybody in life. I respect Stan Kroenke a lot,&quot; Wenger said.

&quot;He is not at fault if we did not reach the Champions League tonight. It is the technical department who is responsible for that. I don&#39;t see what he has to do with that.&quot;

Everton playmaker Ross Barkley, who is stalling over a new contract, came off the bench to replace Tom Davies as part of a 26th-minute reshuffle by visiting manager Ronald Koeman.

Koeman said his decision to leave Barkley out had nothing to do with his contract situation, but said he expected to be able to make an announcement about the England midfielder&#39;s future imminently.

&quot;I will speak to the board tomorrow and we will make a statement about that,&quot; said the Dutchman, whose side finished seventh and will enter the Europa League next season.

On his ambitions for the close-season transfer window, Koeman said: &quot;First of all we need more numbers in to be prepared for a long, tough season with different competitions.

&quot;And I think we need more aggression in the team. The big point is to get in players who will have more productivity. That&#39;s what we try to find and that&#39;s not easy.&quot;

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

He accepted uncertainty over his future as manager had polluted the air at the Emirates Stadium

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said an "absolutely horrendous" atmosphere had been partly responsible for his club's failure to secure a Champions League place for the first time in 20 years. Speaking after a 3-1 victory over Everton on the final day of the Premier League season, Wenger accepted that uncertainty over his future as manager, which has divided fans, had polluted the air at the Emirates Stadium. He said there were other explanatory factors behind the club's difficulties, but refused to go into greater detail. "Overall I believe that we played since January in a very difficult environment for different reasons," Wenger told reporters at the Emirates on Sunday. "Some obviously that you know about and that is very difficult for the group of players to cope with that. Some other reasons, where we will talk about another day. "But the psychological environment for the group of players was absolutely horrendous. I am very proud of what they have done, the way they responded and finished the season." He added: "It has been difficult. Certainly my personal situation has contributed to that." Wenger said earlier this year that he would make an announcement about his future before the end of the season, but he has repeatedly ducked opportunities to reveal his intentions. Asked why his personal situation had not been resolved, he replied: "I don't know." Pressed as to when exactly he felt the uncertainty about his future had affected his players, he said: "It's a good question. I cannot give you the answer today. I will give you an answer one day. But not today." The 67-year-old would only say his future would be sorted out "soon". With Arsenal having finished fifth in the league, attention now turns to Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea, when victory would give Wenger a record seventh success in the competition. But he will be missing Laurent Koscielny after the French centre-back was sent off for a rash challenge on Enner Valencia and also expects to be without Gabriel, who was stretchered off with a knee injury. Wenger defends Kroenke Arsenal's 10 men prevailed courtesy of goals from Hector Bellerin, Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey, with Romelu Lukaku replying from the penalty spot. Wenger suggested his decision not to take part in the post-match lap of appreciation had been influenced by fears of a negative reaction from fans. "The players, they have been disturbed enough," he said. "I was out there, to show respect, but I wanted the players to have the quiet lap of honour they deserved." Wenger also said Arsenal's supporters' protests against shareholder Stan Kroenke -- who was loudly and repeatedly told to "get out of our club", were misplaced. "I think you respect everybody in life. I respect Stan Kroenke a lot," Wenger said. "He is not at fault if we did not reach the Champions League tonight. It is the technical department who is responsible for that. I don't see what he has to do with that." Everton playmaker Ross Barkley, who is stalling over a new contract, came off the bench to replace Tom Davies as part of a 26th-minute reshuffle by visiting manager Ronald Koeman. Koeman said his decision to leave Barkley out had nothing to do with his contract situation, but said he expected to be able to make an announcement about the England midfielder's future imminently. "I will speak to the board tomorrow and we will make a statement about that," said the Dutchman, whose side finished seventh and will enter the Europa League next season. On his ambitions for the close-season transfer window, Koeman said: "First of all we need more numbers in to be prepared for a long, tough season with different competitions. "And I think we need more aggression in the team. The big point is to get in players who will have more productivity. That's what we try to find and that's not easy." (AFP)

Arsenal hurt by 'horrendous' atmosphere: Wenger

In a forward-thinking move, the ruling body of English football, the Football Association (FA), has <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39962886">introduced</a> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/18/football-association-introduce-retrospective-bans-diving-feigning-injury-next-season">bans</a> for players who simulate getting fouled or hurt in order to gain an advantage.

If a player is seen to have deceived a referee into giving a penalty or getting another player sent off, the footage of the incident will be reviewed on Mondays by a <a href="http://www.thefa.com/news/2017/may/18/fa-to-punish-simulation-retrospectively-180517">three-member panel</a> consisting of an ex-player, an ex-manager or an ex-referee. If, in the view of the panel, the player has indeed deceived a referee, the player will get a two-match ban.

Now if such deception happens during a game, and the referee cottons on to what a player is trying to do, he can penalise a player with a yellow card for &#39;unsportsmanlike&#39; conduct.

Instead of just giving a retrospective yellow card for such action, the English FA&#39;s contention is that by giving a more severe punishment such as this two-match ban, it would act as a deterrent.

Now it could be argued that football is played so instinctually and at such a breakneck pace, that a knowledge of such rules would hardly be on people&#39;s minds and affect their decisions during the game.

But more than that, the problem with anything given retrospectively is that the punishments are given after the match is over, long after the player has affected the course of the game and potentially changed what the result would be.

For example, take one of the most historic dives in world football, the dive by German football legend Jurgen Klinsmann in the final of the 1990 World Cup. Here&#39;s a video of the dive:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LaPZnPzmNPA?ecver=1" width="560"></iframe>

As Argentinian player Pedro Monzon sticks a leg out, Klinsmann soars over it long before Monzon even gets a chance to touch him. The referee gets fooled and sends Monzon off, the first player to be sent off in World Cup final, and Argentina is reduced to 10 men. West Germany eventually won&nbsp;the final 1-0.

Now imagine a scenario where retrospective action for simulation was a part of international football law in 1990. A retrospective ban wouldn&#39;t even begin to make up for the fact that Klinsmann&#39;s dive cost Argentina the World Cup. There is nothing fair and proportionate about this punishment.

If a punishment has to be given, it has to be given during the game, not after it, and for that you have to introduce video replays.

In football, TV viewers around the world can see,&nbsp;immediately after the incident, slow-motion replays of how&nbsp;a player has dived or faked getting hurt. But the lawmakers in football have contrived to keep this away from the people who need it the most, the referees.

One of the arguments against video replays is that it disrupts the flow of the game.&nbsp;But I think taking an extra minute is a small price to play football the way it deserves to be, justly and fairly.

The issue with the retrospective ban for diving is that it penalises players after the game, but the result stays the same

In a forward-thinking move, the ruling body of English football, the Football Association (FA), has introduced bans for players who simulate getting fouled or hurt in order to gain an advantage. If a player is seen to have deceived a referee into giving a penalty or getting another player sent off, the footage of the incident will be reviewed on Mondays by a three-member panel consisting of an ex-player, an ex-manager or an ex-referee. If, in the view of the panel, the player has indeed deceived a referee, the player will get a two-match ban. Now if such deception happens during a game, and the referee cottons on to what a player is trying to do, he can penalise a player with a yellow card for 'unsportsmanlike' conduct. Instead of just giving a retrospective yellow card for such action, the English FA's contention is that by giving a more severe punishment such as this two-match ban, it would act as a deterrent. Now it could be argued that football is played so instinctually and at such a breakneck pace, that a knowledge of such rules would hardly be on people's minds and affect their decisions during the game. But more than that, the problem with anything given retrospectively is that the punishments are given after the match is over, long after the player has affected the course of the game and potentially changed what the result would be. For example, take one of the most historic dives in world football, the dive by German football legend Jurgen Klinsmann in the final of the 1990 World Cup. Here's a video of the dive: As Argentinian player Pedro Monzon sticks a leg out, Klinsmann soars over it long before Monzon even gets a chance to touch him. The referee gets fooled and sends Monzon off, the first player to be sent off in World Cup final, and Argentina is reduced to 10 men. West Germany eventually won the final 1-0. Now imagine a scenario where retrospective action for simulation was a part of international football law in 1990. A retrospective ban wouldn't even begin to make up for the fact that Klinsmann's dive cost Argentina the World Cup. There is nothing fair and proportionate about this punishment. If a punishment has to be given, it has to be given during the game, not after it, and for that you have to introduce video replays. In football, TV viewers around the world can see, immediately after the incident, slow-motion replays of how a player has dived or faked getting hurt. But the lawmakers in football have contrived to keep this away from the people who need it the most, the referees. One of the arguments against video replays is that it disrupts the flow of the game. But I think taking an extra minute is a small price to play football the way it deserves to be, justly and fairly.

Football: Retrospective ban on diving good move, but not enough

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League&#39;s unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season&#39;s Champions League.

With nothing riding on Sunday&#39;s game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day.

&quot;In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn&#39;t matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe,&quot; the United manager told reporters after Wednesday&#39;s 0-0 draw at Southampton.

&quot;So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday.

&quot;In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It&#39;s going to be Sunday. It&#39;s frustrating for me. And I hope you don&#39;t kill me when you see my team.&quot;

Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: &quot;I don&#39;t lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don&#39;t fight the battle.

&quot;You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I&#39;m here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions.

&quot;I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw.&nbsp;

&quot;So I think it&#39;s just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is.&quot;

The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini.

Big Sam plea

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira.

Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United&#39;s last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley.

&quot;I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us.&quot;

Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday.

Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring.

The result at St Mary&#39;s was United&#39;s 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season.

But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth.

Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation.

&quot;I try to stay focused about our last game now,&quot; said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday.

&quot;After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It&#39;s important to focus on our last game.&quot;

(AFP)

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League's unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday. United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season's Champions League. With nothing riding on Sunday's game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day. "In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn't matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe," the United manager told reporters after Wednesday's 0-0 draw at Southampton. "So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday. "In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It's going to be Sunday. It's frustrating for me. And I hope you don't kill me when you see my team." Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: "I don't lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don't fight the battle. "You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I'm here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions. "I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw. "So I think it's just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is." The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini. Big Sam plea Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira. Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United's last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley. "I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence," Mourinho said. "And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us." Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday. Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring. The result at St Mary's was United's 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season. But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth. Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation. "I try to stay focused about our last game now," said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday. "After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It's important to focus on our last game." (AFP)

Football: 'Don't kill me' for playing kids, begs Mourinho

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said his side were &quot;another little step&quot; from the Premier League title after they crushed Middlesbrough 3-0 to move to within touching distance of glory.

Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s surprise defeat at West Ham United last week handed Chelsea the initiative and they can now seal a second title triumph in three years if they win at West Bromwich Albion on Friday.

&quot;We&#39;re very close. We must be honest. But we need to do another little step and win another game,&quot; Conte told reporters after Monday&#39;s match, which condemned Middlesbrough to relegation.

&quot;For sure now I&#39;m a bit relaxed. This step was big for us, a big win.

&quot;Now we need to do another step. We have the possibility to do this on Friday against West Brom.

&quot;For sure it won&#39;t be easy, because West Brom is a really good team, a physical team, and we must pay great attention.

&quot;We are very close, but we need another step to become champions of the Premier League, which would be a fantastic achievement for us.&quot;

While victory at West Brom will deliver the title, Chelsea also have home games against Watford and Sunderland in which to snare the three points they need to make it across the finish line.

Cesc Fabregas was Chelsea&#39;s match-winner, inventively creating goals for Diego Costa and Nemanja Matic either side of half-time at a festive Stamford Bridge.

Marcos Alonso also found the net in the first half.

Fabregas began the season on the bench after new signing N&#39;Golo Kante took his place, but he has played an increasingly prominent role in recent weeks.

&quot;Cesc is one of the best examples of our season,&quot; Conte said.

&quot;Because in this season, Cesc at the start didn&#39;t play a lot. And then through hard work, he improved a lot. And then he&#39;s playing in every game.

&quot;This development of Cesc is our development, because we started the season with a lot of problems. But through hard work, together we found the right way.

&quot;Cesc is showing (himself) to be a fantastic player and I&#39;m pleased for him. Because I saw in this season that he put himself in this team in every moment, if he played or didn&#39;t play. Now he&#39;s deserving this.&quot;

Boro &#39;devastated&#39; 
Needing victory to stand a realistic chance of preserving their top-flight status, Boro succumbed to a defeat that sent them into the Championship alongside northeast rivals Sunderland.

Conte made a point of saluting Boro&#39;s travelling fans after the game.

&quot;It&#39;s great to see a team that got relegated and to see the fans clapping the players and the players staying there to receive the applause and to clap the fans,&quot; said the Italian.

&quot;It&#39;s important to celebrate your win, but also to have great respect and clap this type of situation.

&quot;Because I think this situation happens only in England. In Italy it&#39;s very, very difficult to see a team getting relegated and the players receive (applause).&quot;

Boro manager Steve Agnew said his dressing room was &quot;devastated&quot;.

&quot;We&#39;ve worked so hard for a number of years to get back into the Premier League and we know how tough the Premier League is,&quot; he said. &quot;Obviously we&#39;ve come up short.&quot;

Agnew, who took over in a caretaker capacity after Aitor Karanka was sacked in March, would not be drawn on whether he would like the role on a permanent basis.

&quot;I don&#39;t think it&#39;s about my situation. It&#39;s about the football club,&quot; he said.

&quot;We all know it&#39;s a Premier League football club in terms of everything about it &ndash;- the supporters, the stadium, the training ground. The infrastructure is all there.

&quot;So we have to finish the season strong. We have two games to go. We need to gain more points.

&quot;And then everything moving forward will be towards getting Middlesbrough Football Club back into the Premier League as soon as possible.&quot;

(AFP)

Chelsea beat Middlesbrough 3-0 Monday to move to within touching distance of glory

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said his side were "another little step" from the Premier League title after they crushed Middlesbrough 3-0 to move to within touching distance of glory. Tottenham Hotspur's surprise defeat at West Ham United last week handed Chelsea the initiative and they can now seal a second title triumph in three years if they win at West Bromwich Albion on Friday. "We're very close. We must be honest. But we need to do another little step and win another game," Conte told reporters after Monday's match, which condemned Middlesbrough to relegation. "For sure now I'm a bit relaxed. This step was big for us, a big win. "Now we need to do another step. We have the possibility to do this on Friday against West Brom. "For sure it won't be easy, because West Brom is a really good team, a physical team, and we must pay great attention. "We are very close, but we need another step to become champions of the Premier League, which would be a fantastic achievement for us." While victory at West Brom will deliver the title, Chelsea also have home games against Watford and Sunderland in which to snare the three points they need to make it across the finish line. Cesc Fabregas was Chelsea's match-winner, inventively creating goals for Diego Costa and Nemanja Matic either side of half-time at a festive Stamford Bridge. Marcos Alonso also found the net in the first half. Fabregas began the season on the bench after new signing N'Golo Kante took his place, but he has played an increasingly prominent role in recent weeks. "Cesc is one of the best examples of our season," Conte said. "Because in this season, Cesc at the start didn't play a lot. And then through hard work, he improved a lot. And then he's playing in every game. "This development of Cesc is our development, because we started the season with a lot of problems. But through hard work, together we found the right way. "Cesc is showing (himself) to be a fantastic player and I'm pleased for him. Because I saw in this season that he put himself in this team in every moment, if he played or didn't play. Now he's deserving this." Boro 'devastated' Needing victory to stand a realistic chance of preserving their top-flight status, Boro succumbed to a defeat that sent them into the Championship alongside northeast rivals Sunderland. Conte made a point of saluting Boro's travelling fans after the game. "It's great to see a team that got relegated and to see the fans clapping the players and the players staying there to receive the applause and to clap the fans," said the Italian. "It's important to celebrate your win, but also to have great respect and clap this type of situation. "Because I think this situation happens only in England. In Italy it's very, very difficult to see a team getting relegated and the players receive (applause)." Boro manager Steve Agnew said his dressing room was "devastated". "We've worked so hard for a number of years to get back into the Premier League and we know how tough the Premier League is," he said. "Obviously we've come up short." Agnew, who took over in a caretaker capacity after Aitor Karanka was sacked in March, would not be drawn on whether he would like the role on a permanent basis. "I don't think it's about my situation. It's about the football club," he said. "We all know it's a Premier League football club in terms of everything about it –- the supporters, the stadium, the training ground. The infrastructure is all there. "So we have to finish the season strong. We have two games to go. We need to gain more points. "And then everything moving forward will be towards getting Middlesbrough Football Club back into the Premier League as soon as possible." (AFP)

Chelsea one 'little step' from Premier League title: Conte

Tottenham Hotspur beat local rivals Arsenal with second-half goals from prolific pair Dele Alli and Harry Kane on Sunday to maintain their Premier league title challenge.

A deserved victory kept them four points behind leaders Chelsea,&nbsp;who won 3-0 at Everton earlier.

Alli put Spurs ahead in the 56th minute when he followed up after Christian Eriksen&#39;s shot was saved. Two minutes later Kane went down in the penalty area under Gabriel&#39;s challenge and got up to convert the penalty.

Tottenham&#39;s victory in Arsene Wenger&#39;s 50th North London derby as Arsenal manager ensured Spurs will finish above their neighbours for the first time in 22 years.

It was their ninth successive league win and the margin would have been greater but for some fine saves by Petr Cech.

A disappointing Arsenal were restricted to a single chance in the first half when Aaron Ramsey brought a good low save from Hugo Lloris shortly before halftime.

Spurs in contrast were guilty of two bad misses. Midway through the half Kane&#39;s effort was deflected to the far post where Alli could only head wide.

Three minutes later Eriksen clipped the bar as another deflection reached him just a few metres out.

Cech was much the busier goalkeeper, making saves either side of the interval from Jan Vertonghen and then Victor Wanyama.

He then kept out a close-range effort from Eriksen but could not prevent Alli driving in the opening goal.

In the next attack Kane won and converted the penalty to leave Arsenal wilting.

The visitors exerted some late pressure but never looked like threatening Mauricio Pochettino&#39;s side and remain in danger of missing out on a Champions League place for the first time under Wenger. 
 
(Reuters)

A deserved victory kept Tottenham Hotspur four points behind leaders Chelsea, who won 3-0 at Everton earlier

Tottenham Hotspur beat local rivals Arsenal with second-half goals from prolific pair Dele Alli and Harry Kane on Sunday to maintain their Premier league title challenge. A deserved victory kept them four points behind leaders Chelsea, who won 3-0 at Everton earlier. Alli put Spurs ahead in the 56th minute when he followed up after Christian Eriksen's shot was saved. Two minutes later Kane went down in the penalty area under Gabriel's challenge and got up to convert the penalty. Tottenham's victory in Arsene Wenger's 50th North London derby as Arsenal manager ensured Spurs will finish above their neighbours for the first time in 22 years. It was their ninth successive league win and the margin would have been greater but for some fine saves by Petr Cech. A disappointing Arsenal were restricted to a single chance in the first half when Aaron Ramsey brought a good low save from Hugo Lloris shortly before halftime. Spurs in contrast were guilty of two bad misses. Midway through the half Kane's effort was deflected to the far post where Alli could only head wide. Three minutes later Eriksen clipped the bar as another deflection reached him just a few metres out. Cech was much the busier goalkeeper, making saves either side of the interval from Jan Vertonghen and then Victor Wanyama. He then kept out a close-range effort from Eriksen but could not prevent Alli driving in the opening goal. In the next attack Kane won and converted the penalty to leave Arsenal wilting. The visitors exerted some late pressure but never looked like threatening Mauricio Pochettino's side and remain in danger of missing out on a Champions League place for the first time under Wenger. (Reuters)

Premier League: Spurs beat rivals Arsenal to keep up title challenge

David Moyes&#39;s sorry Sunderland were relegated from the Premier League after a 1-0 home defeat by Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Allied to Hull City&#39;s 0-0 draw at Southampton, the result left Sunderland 13 points adrift of safety with only 12 points to play for this season.

&quot;I&#39;m really disappointed,&quot; said Sunderland manager Moyes. &quot;I feel for the supporters. They put their heart and cash into the team and my thoughts are mainly with the supporters.&quot;

Josh King scored the goal that condemned Sunderland to the Championship, converting a pass from Ryan Fraser after a sweeping counter-attack in the 88th minute.

Southampton had a chance to give Sunderland a stay of execution, but Dusan Tadic&#39;s stoppage-time penalty was saved by Hull goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic.

Ask if he will remain in his post, Moyes replied: &quot;To think about it and talk about it now is just too quick.

&quot;They&#39;re questions for a week or two down the line. I&#39;m not sure it`s for now. I&#39;d like to make sure we get Sunderland back in the Premier League.&quot;

Sunderland have been in the Premier League since 2007, but their return to the second-tier Championship has long appeared only a matter of time.

They have been in the relegation zone since September and have not moved off the foot of the table since January.

&quot;The league table never lies,&quot; said Sunderland captain John O&#39;Shea. &quot;Performances and results are the obvious thing that have brought us down.&quot;

Victory effectively secured Bournemouth`s safety, catapulting Eddie Howe`s side up the table to 10th place, 10 points above the relegation zone.

Hull&#39;s draw at Southampton left Marco Silva&#39;s side three points clear of danger, ahead of third-bottom Swansea City`s trip to Manchester United on Sunday. After a forgettable encounter at St Mary&#39;s, Southampton were awarded a penalty at the death when Alfred N&#39;Diaye was penalised for holding Maya Yoshida.

Tadic drilled his spot-kick towards the bottom-right corner, but Jakupovic plunged low to his left to turn the ball away and condemn Sunderland to the drop.

&quot;It`s a really important moment. If they had scored, they would not deserve it,&quot; said Hull manager Silva.

&quot;It is a good result. You want more, but it&#39;s a good point.&quot;

With Stoke City and West Ham United also drawing 0-0, the only other goal in the four afternoon games came in outgoing champions Leicester City&#39;s 1-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion.

Jamie Vardy settled the game in the 43rd minute, rifling home his 15th goal of the season from Shinji Okazaki&#39;s pass down the inside-right channel.

After an arduous season for Leicester, last season&#39;s fairytale champions have now reached the 40-point mark that usually guarantees survival.

&quot;I want Jamie Vardy to finish on a high,&quot; said Leicester manager Craig Shakespeare, whose side sit 11th. &quot;He`s scored quite a few of late and I want that to continue.&quot;

Burnley also took a giant stride towards safety after their first away league win of the season, a 2-0 success at Crystal Palace, left them on 39 points.

Ashley Barnes gave the visitors an eighth-minute lead, before substitute Andre Gray&#39;s goal five minutes from time put the result of Saturday&#39;s late kick-off beyond doubt.

&quot;It&#39;s been a tough challenge winning away from home in the Premier League,&quot; said Burnley manager Sean Dyche. &quot;But the focus and the mentality of the players I thought was outstanding.&quot;

Leaders Chelsea travel to Everton on Sunday looking to preserve their four-point lead over second-place Tottenham Hotspur, who host Arsenal in the last north London derby at White Hart Lane.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Sunderland have been in the Premier League since 2007, but their return to the second-tier Championship has long appeared only a matter of time

David Moyes's sorry Sunderland were relegated from the Premier League after a 1-0 home defeat by Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Allied to Hull City's 0-0 draw at Southampton, the result left Sunderland 13 points adrift of safety with only 12 points to play for this season. "I'm really disappointed," said Sunderland manager Moyes. "I feel for the supporters. They put their heart and cash into the team and my thoughts are mainly with the supporters." Josh King scored the goal that condemned Sunderland to the Championship, converting a pass from Ryan Fraser after a sweeping counter-attack in the 88th minute. Southampton had a chance to give Sunderland a stay of execution, but Dusan Tadic's stoppage-time penalty was saved by Hull goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic. Ask if he will remain in his post, Moyes replied: "To think about it and talk about it now is just too quick. "They're questions for a week or two down the line. I'm not sure it`s for now. I'd like to make sure we get Sunderland back in the Premier League." Sunderland have been in the Premier League since 2007, but their return to the second-tier Championship has long appeared only a matter of time. They have been in the relegation zone since September and have not moved off the foot of the table since January. "The league table never lies," said Sunderland captain John O'Shea. "Performances and results are the obvious thing that have brought us down." Victory effectively secured Bournemouth`s safety, catapulting Eddie Howe`s side up the table to 10th place, 10 points above the relegation zone. Hull's draw at Southampton left Marco Silva's side three points clear of danger, ahead of third-bottom Swansea City`s trip to Manchester United on Sunday. After a forgettable encounter at St Mary's, Southampton were awarded a penalty at the death when Alfred N'Diaye was penalised for holding Maya Yoshida. Tadic drilled his spot-kick towards the bottom-right corner, but Jakupovic plunged low to his left to turn the ball away and condemn Sunderland to the drop. "It`s a really important moment. If they had scored, they would not deserve it," said Hull manager Silva. "It is a good result. You want more, but it's a good point." With Stoke City and West Ham United also drawing 0-0, the only other goal in the four afternoon games came in outgoing champions Leicester City's 1-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion. Jamie Vardy settled the game in the 43rd minute, rifling home his 15th goal of the season from Shinji Okazaki's pass down the inside-right channel. After an arduous season for Leicester, last season's fairytale champions have now reached the 40-point mark that usually guarantees survival. "I want Jamie Vardy to finish on a high," said Leicester manager Craig Shakespeare, whose side sit 11th. "He`s scored quite a few of late and I want that to continue." Burnley also took a giant stride towards safety after their first away league win of the season, a 2-0 success at Crystal Palace, left them on 39 points. Ashley Barnes gave the visitors an eighth-minute lead, before substitute Andre Gray's goal five minutes from time put the result of Saturday's late kick-off beyond doubt. "It's been a tough challenge winning away from home in the Premier League," said Burnley manager Sean Dyche. "But the focus and the mentality of the players I thought was outstanding." Leaders Chelsea travel to Everton on Sunday looking to preserve their four-point lead over second-place Tottenham Hotspur, who host Arsenal in the last north London derby at White Hart Lane. (AFP)

Premier League: Sunderland relegated, Vardy makes Leicester safe

Long-serving Chelsea defender John Terry will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, the English Premier League club said on Monday.

The 36-year-old former England international played more than 700 games for Chelsea and has been their most successful captain.

&quot;John has given us more than two decades of dedicated and exceptional service,&quot; Chelsea said in a statement.

&quot;In that time he has displayed the utmost pride at wearing the Chelsea shirt.&quot;

Terry made the third-highest number of appearances for Chelsea, captained them a record 578 times and scored 66 goals.

&quot;After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club,&quot; Terry said.

&quot;From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can&rsquo;t thank you enough,&quot; he added.

&quot;I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.&quot;

Terry has made only four Premier League starts this season as Chelsea have moved to the top of the table, four points clear with six games remaining.

&quot;I will, of course, always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware,&quot; Terry said.

&quot;I&#39;ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I.&quot;

Terry, who made his Chelsea debut in 1998, won the 2012 Champions League, four Premier League titles, five FA Cups, three League Cups and the Europa League.

He played 78 times for England.

(Reuters)

Terry made the third-highest number of appearances for Chelsea, captained them a record 578 times and scored 66 goals

Long-serving Chelsea defender John Terry will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, the English Premier League club said on Monday. The 36-year-old former England international played more than 700 games for Chelsea and has been their most successful captain. "John has given us more than two decades of dedicated and exceptional service," Chelsea said in a statement. "In that time he has displayed the utmost pride at wearing the Chelsea shirt." Terry made the third-highest number of appearances for Chelsea, captained them a record 578 times and scored 66 goals. "After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club," Terry said. "From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough," he added. "I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season." Terry has made only four Premier League starts this season as Chelsea have moved to the top of the table, four points clear with six games remaining. "I will, of course, always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware," Terry said. "I've always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I." Terry, who made his Chelsea debut in 1998, won the 2012 Champions League, four Premier League titles, five FA Cups, three League Cups and the Europa League. He played 78 times for England. (Reuters)

John Terry to leave Chelsea at end of season

Goals from Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil ended Arsenal&#39;s run of four successive away defeats with a scratchy 2-1 victory over struggling Middlesbrough in their Premier League clash on Monday.

The Gunners&#39; performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger.

There was a period after Alvaro Negredo scored an equaliser when Middlesbrough, who have won only four league games this season, looked capable of going on to claim their fifth scalp.

Arsenal are now seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with a game in hand, while Middlesbrough lie six points from safety and have also played one game fewer than most of the teams above them.

At least Arsenal&rsquo;s trip to Teesside began far more smoothly than their previous away game at Crystal Palace when they were caught in London traffic and arrived shortly before the kick-off.

They reached Middlesbrough&rsquo;s Riverside Stadium with plenty of time to spare, yet there was still a lack of direction on the pitch as they searched for a route to goal in the opening stages.

Wenger had made the sort of selection decisions that he usually reserves for cup ties against teams from lower divisions.

The French manager announced six changes from the team that lost 3-0 at Palace seven days earlier and, even more significantly, employed wing-backs alongside a defensive trio for the first time since 1997.

His tactical alterations did not provide instant results, although they did enjoy the bulk of the early possession and Olivier Giroud&#39;s claims for a penalty when he was floored by Daniel Ayala certainly had some merit.

Arsenal&rsquo;s attacking difficulties were not unexpected because Middlesbrough went into the game after conceding only 37 goals -- two fewer than Wenger&rsquo;s under-performing side.

Deadlock broken

Marten de Roon headed past the Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech midway through the opening half, but was offside -- Middlesbrough were unimaginative and with 42 minutes gone, they were behind.

A foul by Adam Clayton on the edge of the area was a gift for Sanchez, the Chilean star flighted his free-kick over the wall and inside the post.

It was his 19th Premier League goal of the season and only three fewer than the entire Middlesbrough team going into this game, so it was a surprise that the home side suddenly looked capable of producing a response in the second half.

Middlesbrough were immediately on the front foot and levelled inside five minutes after Sanchez lost possession.

The hosts broke quickly down the right through Stewart Downing, whose cross was missed by Laurent Koscielny before Negredo steered it past Cech.

Suddenly, the game burst into life, with Downing heavily involved. The former England winger wasted an excellent opportunity when George Friend&#39;s cross was allowed to reach him at the far post, then the pair combined again to carve out a chance for Ayala.

Downing&#39;s cross was headed back towards goal by Friend and Ayala looked certain to score before he directed his header too close to Cech.

Arsenal&#39;s response was impressive in the 63rd minute as Sanchez&#39;s through ball picked out Ozil, but goalkeeper Brad Guzan sensed the danger and did well to save at the feet of the German international.

However, the outcome was different in their next confrontation eight minutes later.

Sanchez was involved again with a cross that was chested down by Aaron Ramsey, leaving Ozil with the chance to drill Arsenal back in front from close range.

(AFP)

The Gunners' performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger

Goals from Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil ended Arsenal's run of four successive away defeats with a scratchy 2-1 victory over struggling Middlesbrough in their Premier League clash on Monday. The Gunners' performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger. There was a period after Alvaro Negredo scored an equaliser when Middlesbrough, who have won only four league games this season, looked capable of going on to claim their fifth scalp. Arsenal are now seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with a game in hand, while Middlesbrough lie six points from safety and have also played one game fewer than most of the teams above them. At least Arsenal’s trip to Teesside began far more smoothly than their previous away game at Crystal Palace when they were caught in London traffic and arrived shortly before the kick-off. They reached Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium with plenty of time to spare, yet there was still a lack of direction on the pitch as they searched for a route to goal in the opening stages. Wenger had made the sort of selection decisions that he usually reserves for cup ties against teams from lower divisions. The French manager announced six changes from the team that lost 3-0 at Palace seven days earlier and, even more significantly, employed wing-backs alongside a defensive trio for the first time since 1997. His tactical alterations did not provide instant results, although they did enjoy the bulk of the early possession and Olivier Giroud's claims for a penalty when he was floored by Daniel Ayala certainly had some merit. Arsenal’s attacking difficulties were not unexpected because Middlesbrough went into the game after conceding only 37 goals -- two fewer than Wenger’s under-performing side. Deadlock broken Marten de Roon headed past the Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech midway through the opening half, but was offside -- Middlesbrough were unimaginative and with 42 minutes gone, they were behind. A foul by Adam Clayton on the edge of the area was a gift for Sanchez, the Chilean star flighted his free-kick over the wall and inside the post. It was his 19th Premier League goal of the season and only three fewer than the entire Middlesbrough team going into this game, so it was a surprise that the home side suddenly looked capable of producing a response in the second half. Middlesbrough were immediately on the front foot and levelled inside five minutes after Sanchez lost possession. The hosts broke quickly down the right through Stewart Downing, whose cross was missed by Laurent Koscielny before Negredo steered it past Cech. Suddenly, the game burst into life, with Downing heavily involved. The former England winger wasted an excellent opportunity when George Friend's cross was allowed to reach him at the far post, then the pair combined again to carve out a chance for Ayala. Downing's cross was headed back towards goal by Friend and Ayala looked certain to score before he directed his header too close to Cech. Arsenal's response was impressive in the 63rd minute as Sanchez's through ball picked out Ozil, but goalkeeper Brad Guzan sensed the danger and did well to save at the feet of the German international. However, the outcome was different in their next confrontation eight minutes later. Sanchez was involved again with a cross that was chested down by Aaron Ramsey, leaving Ozil with the chance to drill Arsenal back in front from close range. (AFP)

Premier League: Sanchez, Ozil secure 2-1 win for Arsenal over Middlesbrough

Manchester United opened up the Premier League title race with a convincing 2-0 home victory over leaders Chelsea on Sunday that leaves second-placed Tottenham Hotspur just four points behind.

Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups by Antonio Conte&#39;s side who a few weeks ago looked like they were running away with the title.

While Chelsea remain favourites to win the league, Conte will be concerned about the manner of the defeat at Old Trafford where they were rarely able to turn possession into chances.

The west London side are top with 75 points, ahead of Spurs on 71, also from 32 games, Liverpool with 66 from 33, Manchester City on 64 from 32 and United with 60 from 31.

&quot;Manchester United deserved to win because they showed more desire, more motivation, more ambition to win this game,&quot; Conte told the BBC.

&quot;This league is not closed. Tottenham are on great form and playing with great enthusiasm but we are playing a great season and we must try to reach this target.&quot;

The strikes by Rashford and Herrera at the start of each half were enough for United who, despite resting several players against Chelsea ahead of Thursday&#39;s Europa League quarter-final return leg at home to Anderlecht, were good value for their win.

United manager Jose Mourinho started with top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the bench but delivered a tactical masterclass against his former club, largely nullifying the threat from the usually dangerous Eden Hazard.

&quot;Chelsea are the best counter-attacking team in the country and we controlled them very well. I&#39;m really happy with the boys. I&#39;m happy -- not because it&#39;s Chelsea, it&#39;s because we need these three points,&quot; Mourinho told the BBC.

&quot;I don&rsquo;t feel extra joy at beating Chelsea -- we beat the leader. It doesn&rsquo;t matter if the leader is Chelsea or another -- we beat them convincingly. Nobody can doubt our credit to win the game.&quot;

Chelsea got a warning after five minutes when United forward Jesse Lingaard robbed defender David Luiz and fed Rashford, but the 19-year-old striker dragged his shot wide.

Two minutes later, though, Herrera won the ball in midfield, possibly by using his hand, and delivered an inch-perfect pass into the path of Rashford who outpaced Luiz and fired low into the far corner of the net.

&nbsp;

CONFIDENT UNITED

Looking confident and full of verve, United pushed forward with intent while Chelsea were unusually ineffective going forward, with Herrera doing an excellent marking job on Hazard.

There was another individual battle going on with Chelsea striker Diego Costa and United defender Marcos Rojo engaged in an often physical struggle for dominance and Costa&rsquo;s frustration resulted in a yellow card for a foul on Paul Pogba.

United threatened to strike again before the break when Rashford found some space for a cross which Chelsea defender Gary Cahill headed just over his own bar.

United&#39;s Ashley Young then blasted over from a promising position on the stroke of halftime but the hosts did not have to wait long after the break to double their advantage.

Chelsea&#39;s normally reliable N&rsquo;Golo Kante was robbed inside the area by Young and he cleverly laid back the ball to Herrera whose well-struck effort deflected off Kurt Zouma into the net.

Ibrahimovic was brought on for Rashford in the 82nd minute, with the England striker receiving a deserved standing ovation after an outstanding performance.

While United&rsquo;s hopes of making the top four will be boosted by the win, the major impact will be felt in north London where Spurs will sense a chance to chase down Chelsea&rsquo;s four-point lead in the final six games of the season.

(Reuters)

Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups

Manchester United opened up the Premier League title race with a convincing 2-0 home victory over leaders Chelsea on Sunday that leaves second-placed Tottenham Hotspur just four points behind. Goals by Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera sank Chelsea and, with six games left for the top two, there is little room for any more slip-ups by Antonio Conte's side who a few weeks ago looked like they were running away with the title. While Chelsea remain favourites to win the league, Conte will be concerned about the manner of the defeat at Old Trafford where they were rarely able to turn possession into chances. The west London side are top with 75 points, ahead of Spurs on 71, also from 32 games, Liverpool with 66 from 33, Manchester City on 64 from 32 and United with 60 from 31. "Manchester United deserved to win because they showed more desire, more motivation, more ambition to win this game," Conte told the BBC. "This league is not closed. Tottenham are on great form and playing with great enthusiasm but we are playing a great season and we must try to reach this target." The strikes by Rashford and Herrera at the start of each half were enough for United who, despite resting several players against Chelsea ahead of Thursday's Europa League quarter-final return leg at home to Anderlecht, were good value for their win. United manager Jose Mourinho started with top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the bench but delivered a tactical masterclass against his former club, largely nullifying the threat from the usually dangerous Eden Hazard. "Chelsea are the best counter-attacking team in the country and we controlled them very well. I'm really happy with the boys. I'm happy -- not because it's Chelsea, it's because we need these three points," Mourinho told the BBC. "I don’t feel extra joy at beating Chelsea -- we beat the leader. It doesn’t matter if the leader is Chelsea or another -- we beat them convincingly. Nobody can doubt our credit to win the game." Chelsea got a warning after five minutes when United forward Jesse Lingaard robbed defender David Luiz and fed Rashford, but the 19-year-old striker dragged his shot wide. Two minutes later, though, Herrera won the ball in midfield, possibly by using his hand, and delivered an inch-perfect pass into the path of Rashford who outpaced Luiz and fired low into the far corner of the net. CONFIDENT UNITED Looking confident and full of verve, United pushed forward with intent while Chelsea were unusually ineffective going forward, with Herrera doing an excellent marking job on Hazard. There was another individual battle going on with Chelsea striker Diego Costa and United defender Marcos Rojo engaged in an often physical struggle for dominance and Costa’s frustration resulted in a yellow card for a foul on Paul Pogba. United threatened to strike again before the break when Rashford found some space for a cross which Chelsea defender Gary Cahill headed just over his own bar. United's Ashley Young then blasted over from a promising position on the stroke of halftime but the hosts did not have to wait long after the break to double their advantage. Chelsea's normally reliable N’Golo Kante was robbed inside the area by Young and he cleverly laid back the ball to Herrera whose well-struck effort deflected off Kurt Zouma into the net. Ibrahimovic was brought on for Rashford in the 82nd minute, with the England striker receiving a deserved standing ovation after an outstanding performance. While United’s hopes of making the top four will be boosted by the win, the major impact will be felt in north London where Spurs will sense a chance to chase down Chelsea’s four-point lead in the final six games of the season. (Reuters)

Manchester United offer hope to Spurs with 2-0 win over Chelsea

Title-chasing Tottenham thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 to move within four points of Premier League leaders Chelsea, while Manchester City climbed to third place after a 3-0 win at Southampton on Saturday.

Mauricio Pochettino&#39;s side are hot on Chelsea&#39;s heels as the title race enters the final furlong and their dominant display at White Hart Lane keeps them in with a chance of being crowned champions for the first time since 1961.

Mousa Dembele opened the scoring with a close-range strike in the 16th minute and Son Heung-Min&#39;s cool finish doubled Tottenham&#39;s lead three minutes later.

Harry Kane, making his first start since suffering an ankle injury five weeks ago, scored his 20th league goal this season with a predatory 48th minute effort.&nbsp;

Vincent Janssen bagged a rare goal in second-half stoppage time as Tottenham chalked up seven successive league wins for the first time since 1967.

Kane is the first Tottenham player to score at least 20 league goals in three successive seasons since Jimmy Greaves in the 1960s.

Chelsea responded last weekend after Tottenham had trimmed their lead, beating Bournemouth 3-1, but Antonio Conte&#39;s men face a far more testing trip to Manchester United on Sunday.

&quot;I am proud of our players after that performance. We have to wait to see what happens,&quot; Pochettino said.

&quot;At the end of the season when everyone is tired, we need everyone to have the right mental attitude and happiness helps.&nbsp;

&quot;The three points are very important to keep our dream.&quot;

At St Mary&#39;s, City captain Vincent Kompany was given only his fourth league start of an injury-plagued campaign and he made up for lost time in the 55th minute.

The Belgian defender scored for the first time since August 2015 as his header from David Silva&#39;s corner evaded a weak attempted save by Fraser Forster.

Leroy Sane finished a flowing move to make it two in the 77th minute and Sergio Aguero headed home three minutes later as City moved one point above Liverpool, who travel to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

&quot;This result is so important for our qualification for the Champions League,&quot; City manager Pep Guardiola said.

&quot;Up front we could be better but our quality of play meant we had control.&quot;

Everton improved their prospects of qualifying for Europe as they rose above Arsenal and United into fifth place after a 3-1 win against Burnley.

Phil Jagielka broke the deadlock in the 49th minute before Sam Vokes equalised from the penalty spot for Burnley three minutes later.

Ross Barkley started for Everton amid the controversy over a British tabloid columnist&#39;s unsavoury criticism of the England midfielder and it was his shot that deflected off Ben Mee for a 71st minute own goal.

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku struck three minutes later for his 24th league goal this season.

Fightback&nbsp; 
 
Leicester suffered a dispiriting warm-up for their decisive Champions League quarter-final clash as they squandered a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw at Crystal Palace.

Craig Shakespeare made only two changes ahead of Tuesday&#39;s home second leg with Atletico Madrid, when Leicester will try to overturn a 1-0 deficit.

Beaten by a controversial penalty from Antoine Griezmann in Madrid, the Foxes took the lead in the less glamourous surroundings of Selhurst Park thanks to a Robert Huth header in the sixth minute.

Jamie Vardy doubled Leicester&#39;s advantage in the 52nd minute.

But Palace got one back through Yohan Cabaye two minutes later before Christian Benteke capped the fightback with a 70th minute header.

Hull&#39;s hopes of avoiding relegation suffered a blow as they lost 3-1 at Stoke.

Marko Arnautovic put Stoke in front in the sixth minute before Hull drew level through Harry Maguire in the 51st minute.

Peter Crouch nodded Stoke back ahead in the 66th minute and Xherdan Shaqiri sealed the points in the 80th minute to leave fourth bottom Hull only two points above the relegation zone.

Third bottom Swansea were unable to take advantage of Hull&#39;s slip as they lost 1-0 at Watford after Etienne Capoue netted in the 42nd minute.

Sunderland remain on the brink of relegation despite salvaging a 2-2 draw against West Ham at the Stadium of Light.

Andre Ayew put West Ham ahead in the fifth minute before Wahbi Khazri equalised in the 26th minute.

James Collins restored West Ham&#39;s lead two minutes after half time, but Fabio Borini rescued a 90th-minute equaliser before Hammers defender Sam Byram was sent off in stoppage time.&nbsp; 
 
(AFP)

Title-chasing Tottenham thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 to move within four points of Premier League leaders Chelsea

Title-chasing Tottenham thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 to move within four points of Premier League leaders Chelsea, while Manchester City climbed to third place after a 3-0 win at Southampton on Saturday. Mauricio Pochettino's side are hot on Chelsea's heels as the title race enters the final furlong and their dominant display at White Hart Lane keeps them in with a chance of being crowned champions for the first time since 1961. Mousa Dembele opened the scoring with a close-range strike in the 16th minute and Son Heung-Min's cool finish doubled Tottenham's lead three minutes later. Harry Kane, making his first start since suffering an ankle injury five weeks ago, scored his 20th league goal this season with a predatory 48th minute effort. Vincent Janssen bagged a rare goal in second-half stoppage time as Tottenham chalked up seven successive league wins for the first time since 1967. Kane is the first Tottenham player to score at least 20 league goals in three successive seasons since Jimmy Greaves in the 1960s. Chelsea responded last weekend after Tottenham had trimmed their lead, beating Bournemouth 3-1, but Antonio Conte's men face a far more testing trip to Manchester United on Sunday. "I am proud of our players after that performance. We have to wait to see what happens," Pochettino said. "At the end of the season when everyone is tired, we need everyone to have the right mental attitude and happiness helps. "The three points are very important to keep our dream." At St Mary's, City captain Vincent Kompany was given only his fourth league start of an injury-plagued campaign and he made up for lost time in the 55th minute. The Belgian defender scored for the first time since August 2015 as his header from David Silva's corner evaded a weak attempted save by Fraser Forster. Leroy Sane finished a flowing move to make it two in the 77th minute and Sergio Aguero headed home three minutes later as City moved one point above Liverpool, who travel to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. "This result is so important for our qualification for the Champions League," City manager Pep Guardiola said. "Up front we could be better but our quality of play meant we had control." Everton improved their prospects of qualifying for Europe as they rose above Arsenal and United into fifth place after a 3-1 win against Burnley. Phil Jagielka broke the deadlock in the 49th minute before Sam Vokes equalised from the penalty spot for Burnley three minutes later. Ross Barkley started for Everton amid the controversy over a British tabloid columnist's unsavoury criticism of the England midfielder and it was his shot that deflected off Ben Mee for a 71st minute own goal. Everton striker Romelu Lukaku struck three minutes later for his 24th league goal this season. Fightback Leicester suffered a dispiriting warm-up for their decisive Champions League quarter-final clash as they squandered a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw at Crystal Palace. Craig Shakespeare made only two changes ahead of Tuesday's home second leg with Atletico Madrid, when Leicester will try to overturn a 1-0 deficit. Beaten by a controversial penalty from Antoine Griezmann in Madrid, the Foxes took the lead in the less glamourous surroundings of Selhurst Park thanks to a Robert Huth header in the sixth minute. Jamie Vardy doubled Leicester's advantage in the 52nd minute. But Palace got one back through Yohan Cabaye two minutes later before Christian Benteke capped the fightback with a 70th minute header. Hull's hopes of avoiding relegation suffered a blow as they lost 3-1 at Stoke. Marko Arnautovic put Stoke in front in the sixth minute before Hull drew level through Harry Maguire in the 51st minute. Peter Crouch nodded Stoke back ahead in the 66th minute and Xherdan Shaqiri sealed the points in the 80th minute to leave fourth bottom Hull only two points above the relegation zone. Third bottom Swansea were unable to take advantage of Hull's slip as they lost 1-0 at Watford after Etienne Capoue netted in the 42nd minute. Sunderland remain on the brink of relegation despite salvaging a 2-2 draw against West Ham at the Stadium of Light. Andre Ayew put West Ham ahead in the fifth minute before Wahbi Khazri equalised in the 26th minute. James Collins restored West Ham's lead two minutes after half time, but Fabio Borini rescued a 90th-minute equaliser before Hammers defender Sam Byram was sent off in stoppage time. (AFP)

Football: Manchester City 3-0 Southampton, Tottenham thrash Bournemouth

Eden Hazard fired Premier League leaders Chelsea to a crucial 2-1 win over Manchester City, but Tottenham are hot on their heels after a sensational fightback in their 3-1 victory at Swansea on Wednesday.

Chelsea remain seven points clear of second placed Tottenham with eight games to play, yet with just minutes left on a dramatic evening it seemed the Blues would have a much greater lead.

Rocked by Saturday&#39;s shock 2-1 home defeat against Crystal Palace, Antonio Conte&#39;s Chelsea side took only 10 minutes to take the lead through Hazard&#39;s 12th goal of the season.

Hazard&#39;s effort deflected off Vincent Kompany and beat Willy Caballero, whose weak attempted save drew a frustrated look from City boss Pep Guardiola as he contemplated the latest in a growing list of gaffes from his goalkeepers this season.

Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois was guilty of an even worse blunder, spilling David Silva&#39;s shot to Sergio Aguero, who tapped in City&#39;s 26th minute equaliser.

Conte&#39;s team were back in front after 35 minutes when Fernandinho conceded a penalty with a foul on Pedro.

Hazard&#39;s spot-kick was saved by Caballero, but the Belgian recovered quickly to finish off the rebound.

Kompany, back in the line-up for the first time since November, hit the crossbar with a second half header, but fourth placed City crashed to their first defeat in nine games, while Chelsea are still in pole position for the title.

&quot;Another step, a big step, against a great team,&quot; Conte said.

&quot;We must think that Tottenham could win all their games. We are playing a great season but to win the title there is a long way to go.&quot;

Guardiola added: &quot;We created enough to score goals. It&#39;s our problem. In the boxes we are not good enough.&quot;

At the Liberty Stadium, Tottenham fell behind in the 11th minute when Wayne Routledge turned in Jordan Ayew&#39;s cross for Swansea.

But Tottenham staged an incredible finale as England midfielder Dele Alli equalised with an 88th minute tap-in.

A minute into stoppage-time, South Korea forward Son Heung-Min bagged his 16th goal of the season with a clinical finish and there was still time for Christian Eriksen&#39;s strike to put the seal on Tottenham&#39;s fifth successive win.

&quot;It is crazy how the goals came in the last few minutes but we pushed and we created chances to win. This season we are fighting again,&quot; Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

Arsenal eased the pressure on Arsene Wenger and climbed back into the race for Champions League qualification with a 3-0 win over West Ham.

Wenger had endured repeated calls for his resignation from frustrated fans in recent weeks, but the protests at the Emirates Stadium were more muted for once as Arsenal ended a three-match winless run with only their second victory in their last seven league games.

Mesut Ozil broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a curling effort from the edge of the penalty area.

Sucker punch&nbsp;

Theo Walcott bagged Arsenal&#39;s second in the 68th minute and Olivier Giroud&#39;s superb strike in the 83rd minute ensured his side moved above Manchester United into fifth place, four points behind Manchester City with a game in hand.

&quot;We come out of a difficult period and our confidence goes quickly and comes back slowly,&quot; Wenger said.

West Ham&#39;s fifth successive defeat leaves them just three points above the relegation zone.

Liverpool were hit by a late sucker punch as Bournemouth snatched a 2-2 draw at Anfield.

Benik Afobe struck for Bournemouth in the seventh minute, but Philippe Coutinho bagged Liverpool&#39;s equaliser with a typically cool 40th minute finish.

That made Coutinho the joint highest Brazilian scorer in Premier League history, alongside former Middlesbrough playmaker Juninho, with 29 goals.

Divock Origi put Liverpool in front in the 59th minute, but Josh King blasted his eighth goal in eight appearances to rescue Bournemouth in the 87th minute.

Liverpool&#39;s latest slip against lowly opposition leaves Jurgen Klopp&#39;s third-placed side six points above fifth place in the race for the Champions League.

Hull climbed out of the relegation zone with a priceless 4-2 win over relegation rivals Middlesbrough at the KCOM Stadium.

The Tigers move two points above the bottom three, while second bottom Middlesbrough are seven points from safety.

Southampton defender Maya Yoshida&#39;s first Premier League goal for 14 months inspired a 3-1 win over struggling Crystal Palace at St Mary&#39;s.

(AFP)

Tottenham scored three late goals against Swansea to remain in the title hunt

Eden Hazard fired Premier League leaders Chelsea to a crucial 2-1 win over Manchester City, but Tottenham are hot on their heels after a sensational fightback in their 3-1 victory at Swansea on Wednesday. Chelsea remain seven points clear of second placed Tottenham with eight games to play, yet with just minutes left on a dramatic evening it seemed the Blues would have a much greater lead. Rocked by Saturday's shock 2-1 home defeat against Crystal Palace, Antonio Conte's Chelsea side took only 10 minutes to take the lead through Hazard's 12th goal of the season. Hazard's effort deflected off Vincent Kompany and beat Willy Caballero, whose weak attempted save drew a frustrated look from City boss Pep Guardiola as he contemplated the latest in a growing list of gaffes from his goalkeepers this season. Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois was guilty of an even worse blunder, spilling David Silva's shot to Sergio Aguero, who tapped in City's 26th minute equaliser. Conte's team were back in front after 35 minutes when Fernandinho conceded a penalty with a foul on Pedro. Hazard's spot-kick was saved by Caballero, but the Belgian recovered quickly to finish off the rebound. Kompany, back in the line-up for the first time since November, hit the crossbar with a second half header, but fourth placed City crashed to their first defeat in nine games, while Chelsea are still in pole position for the title. "Another step, a big step, against a great team," Conte said. "We must think that Tottenham could win all their games. We are playing a great season but to win the title there is a long way to go." Guardiola added: "We created enough to score goals. It's our problem. In the boxes we are not good enough." At the Liberty Stadium, Tottenham fell behind in the 11th minute when Wayne Routledge turned in Jordan Ayew's cross for Swansea. But Tottenham staged an incredible finale as England midfielder Dele Alli equalised with an 88th minute tap-in. A minute into stoppage-time, South Korea forward Son Heung-Min bagged his 16th goal of the season with a clinical finish and there was still time for Christian Eriksen's strike to put the seal on Tottenham's fifth successive win. "It is crazy how the goals came in the last few minutes but we pushed and we created chances to win. This season we are fighting again," Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said. Arsenal eased the pressure on Arsene Wenger and climbed back into the race for Champions League qualification with a 3-0 win over West Ham. Wenger had endured repeated calls for his resignation from frustrated fans in recent weeks, but the protests at the Emirates Stadium were more muted for once as Arsenal ended a three-match winless run with only their second victory in their last seven league games. Mesut Ozil broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a curling effort from the edge of the penalty area. Sucker punch Theo Walcott bagged Arsenal's second in the 68th minute and Olivier Giroud's superb strike in the 83rd minute ensured his side moved above Manchester United into fifth place, four points behind Manchester City with a game in hand. "We come out of a difficult period and our confidence goes quickly and comes back slowly," Wenger said. West Ham's fifth successive defeat leaves them just three points above the relegation zone. Liverpool were hit by a late sucker punch as Bournemouth snatched a 2-2 draw at Anfield. Benik Afobe struck for Bournemouth in the seventh minute, but Philippe Coutinho bagged Liverpool's equaliser with a typically cool 40th minute finish. That made Coutinho the joint highest Brazilian scorer in Premier League history, alongside former Middlesbrough playmaker Juninho, with 29 goals. Divock Origi put Liverpool in front in the 59th minute, but Josh King blasted his eighth goal in eight appearances to rescue Bournemouth in the 87th minute. Liverpool's latest slip against lowly opposition leaves Jurgen Klopp's third-placed side six points above fifth place in the race for the Champions League. Hull climbed out of the relegation zone with a priceless 4-2 win over relegation rivals Middlesbrough at the KCOM Stadium. The Tigers move two points above the bottom three, while second bottom Middlesbrough are seven points from safety. Southampton defender Maya Yoshida's first Premier League goal for 14 months inspired a 3-1 win over struggling Crystal Palace at St Mary's. (AFP)

Premier League round-up: Chelsea beat City, Liverpool trip & Arsenal gain ground

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is confident the Premier League club will be doing &quot;interesting&quot; business during the next transfer window while acknowledging that he may not get all his first-choice targets.

United have been linked by the British media with a host of big-name players, including Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann and Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko.

&quot;I&#39;m sure, at the end of the summer, probably we won&#39;t have exactly my first options&nbsp;because it&#39;s difficult to succeed in every attempt,&quot; Mourinho told reporters. &quot;But I&#39;m sure we&#39;re going to do something interesting.

&quot;Something to improve our team for next season. I&#39;m not a silly manager to say I give the names and you have to give me the players - not at all.

&quot;I give the names, I give the options, I give the second options in case the first options are not possible, but I give all the information based on my analysis, my experience and projections for the future.&quot;

United, who are fifth in the table and host eighth-placed West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday, face a challenging month with nine games including the Manchester derby and a home match against runaway league leaders Chelsea.

(Reuters)

The United manager also acknowledged that he may not get all his first-choice targets

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is confident the Premier League club will be doing "interesting" business during the next transfer window while acknowledging that he may not get all his first-choice targets. United have been linked by the British media with a host of big-name players, including Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann and Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko. "I'm sure, at the end of the summer, probably we won't have exactly my first options because it's difficult to succeed in every attempt," Mourinho told reporters. "But I'm sure we're going to do something interesting. "Something to improve our team for next season. I'm not a silly manager to say I give the names and you have to give me the players - not at all. "I give the names, I give the options, I give the second options in case the first options are not possible, but I give all the information based on my analysis, my experience and projections for the future." United, who are fifth in the table and host eighth-placed West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday, face a challenging month with nine games including the Manchester derby and a home match against runaway league leaders Chelsea. (Reuters)

Mourinho looking forward to 'interesting' transfer window

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas&#39;s opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16.

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea&#39;s lead to seven points.

&quot;I&#39;m stunned. They&#39;re top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that,&quot; said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row.

&quot;We know there&#39;s talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now.&quot;

Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby.

But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion.

Zaha&#39;s headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year.

His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post.

But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois.

Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins&#39;s replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce&#39;s patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three.

&quot;This is football. We must accept this result,&quot; said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

&quot;In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong.&quot;

Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley.

However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury.

Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield.

Leicester resurgence continues&nbsp;

Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury.

Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool&#39;s lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane&#39;s replacement, to slam home Liverpool&#39;s third.

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool&#39;s protests were excessive.

&quot;I don&#39;t like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles,&quot; he said. &quot;They were crazy. It&#39;s a man&#39;s sport.&quot;

Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more.

Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom.

Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho&#39;s men either side of half-time.

But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar.

&quot;We have a lot of draws this season,&quot; Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview.

&quot;Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one.&quot;

Leicester City&#39;s resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager.

The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone.

Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos&#39;s header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road.

Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll&#39;s opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United.

It left Marco Silva&#39;s side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone.

Elsewhere, Bournemouth&#39;s Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side&#39;s 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton.

(AFP)

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas's opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16. Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points. "I'm stunned. They're top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that," said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row. "We know there's talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now." Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby. But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion. Zaha's headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year. His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post. But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois. Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins's replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce's patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three. "This is football. We must accept this result," said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte. "In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong." Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley. However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury. Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield. Leicester resurgence continues Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury. Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool's lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane's replacement, to slam home Liverpool's third. Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool's protests were excessive. "I don't like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles," he said. "They were crazy. It's a man's sport." Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more. Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom. Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho's men either side of half-time. But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar. "We have a lot of draws this season," Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview. "Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one." Leicester City's resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager. The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone. Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos's header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road. Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll's opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United. It left Marco Silva's side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone. Elsewhere, Bournemouth's Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side's 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton. (AFP)

Premier League round-up: Crystal Palace stun Chelsea, Man United draw a blank

Sergio Aguero netted a 69th-minute equaliser in a gripping 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Sunday to prevent Manchester City losing ground in the battle for a top-four Premier League finish.

Liverpool looked poised to leapfrog City into third place after James Milner silenced the boos from fans of his former club to give the visitors the lead with a penalty early in the second half.

But Aguero&#39;s strike kept City a point above their rivals, who have played a game more, and provided a moment of solace after their mid-week Champions League elimination at Monaco&#39;s hands.

Both sides had chances to win the game in a breathless finale, Kevin De Bruyne hitting a post for City and Adam Lallana horribly miscuing with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Pep Guardiola had come in for criticism after City&#39;s 3-1 loss at Stade Louis II, but his side will approach back-to-back trips to Arsenal and Chelsea on the back of a seven-game unbeaten run in the league.

While Jurgen Klopp failed to become the first manager to do a league double over Guardiola, his Liverpool team are now unbeaten in 10 games against their fellow top-six sides this season.

A rain-slicked pitch and two attack-minded teams made for a furious first half at the Etihad Stadium, characterised by City possession and Liverpool counter-attacks.

City unambiguously targeted the flanks, Leroy Sane on the left and ex-Liverpool man Raheem Sterling on the right whipping a succession of low, pacy crosses across Simon Mignolet&#39;s six-yard box.

Twice, Aguero felt he had been unfairly impeded as he tried to get on the end of them, first by Joel Matip and then Ragnar Klavan.

The latter incident, in the 43rd minute, also saw Sterling taken out by a despairing Milner as the pair stretched for David Silva&#39;s low cross, with Fernandinho sliding the ball wide at the back post.

City&#39;s clearest opening of the half saw Silva thrash the ball inches wide of the left-hand post after Mignolet had jutted out his left foot to fend off a drive from Sane.

Lallana misses kick&nbsp;

But the best chances of the first period were all Liverpool&#39;s.

An under-hit John Stones back-pass let in Sadio Mane, only for an authoritative sortie by goalkeeper Willy Caballero, allied to a subtle tug from Nicolas Otamendi, to save the day.

Philippe Coutinho bent a shot just over, Matip headed wide at a free-kick and Caballero showed agility to claw away a Roberto Firmino curler and touch over a thumping Lallana volley.

After Mane had seen a shot blocked by Stones, Liverpool went ahead in the sixth minute of the second half.

Gael Clichy was penalised for a high, untidy challenge on Firmino as the Brazilian chested down Emre Can&#39;s flighted pass and Milner swept the penalty into the bottom-left corner.

Firmino looked poised to double the visitors&#39; lead from Coutinho&#39;s measured through ball, but Caballero stood up well to save.

Eight minutes later it was all square as De Bruyne&#39;s brilliantly measured cross from the right was unerringly dispatched by Aguero.

Aguero looked poised to put City ahead in the 76th minute, but after a neat one-two with Sane he stumbled, De Bruyne scuffing the loose ball against the post.

An increasingly end-to-end contest then spat out a glorious chance for Lallana, but from Firmino&#39;s knock-down and with Mignolet&#39;s goal at his mercy, he missed his kick.

As the noise levels rose, Sterling and Aguero -- twice -- spurned late chances, but a draw felt an appropriate outcome.

(AFP)

Aguero's strike kept City a point above their rivals

Sergio Aguero netted a 69th-minute equaliser in a gripping 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Sunday to prevent Manchester City losing ground in the battle for a top-four Premier League finish. Liverpool looked poised to leapfrog City into third place after James Milner silenced the boos from fans of his former club to give the visitors the lead with a penalty early in the second half. But Aguero's strike kept City a point above their rivals, who have played a game more, and provided a moment of solace after their mid-week Champions League elimination at Monaco's hands. Both sides had chances to win the game in a breathless finale, Kevin De Bruyne hitting a post for City and Adam Lallana horribly miscuing with only the goalkeeper to beat. Pep Guardiola had come in for criticism after City's 3-1 loss at Stade Louis II, but his side will approach back-to-back trips to Arsenal and Chelsea on the back of a seven-game unbeaten run in the league. While Jurgen Klopp failed to become the first manager to do a league double over Guardiola, his Liverpool team are now unbeaten in 10 games against their fellow top-six sides this season. A rain-slicked pitch and two attack-minded teams made for a furious first half at the Etihad Stadium, characterised by City possession and Liverpool counter-attacks. City unambiguously targeted the flanks, Leroy Sane on the left and ex-Liverpool man Raheem Sterling on the right whipping a succession of low, pacy crosses across Simon Mignolet's six-yard box. Twice, Aguero felt he had been unfairly impeded as he tried to get on the end of them, first by Joel Matip and then Ragnar Klavan. The latter incident, in the 43rd minute, also saw Sterling taken out by a despairing Milner as the pair stretched for David Silva's low cross, with Fernandinho sliding the ball wide at the back post. City's clearest opening of the half saw Silva thrash the ball inches wide of the left-hand post after Mignolet had jutted out his left foot to fend off a drive from Sane. Lallana misses kick But the best chances of the first period were all Liverpool's. An under-hit John Stones back-pass let in Sadio Mane, only for an authoritative sortie by goalkeeper Willy Caballero, allied to a subtle tug from Nicolas Otamendi, to save the day. Philippe Coutinho bent a shot just over, Matip headed wide at a free-kick and Caballero showed agility to claw away a Roberto Firmino curler and touch over a thumping Lallana volley. After Mane had seen a shot blocked by Stones, Liverpool went ahead in the sixth minute of the second half. Gael Clichy was penalised for a high, untidy challenge on Firmino as the Brazilian chested down Emre Can's flighted pass and Milner swept the penalty into the bottom-left corner. Firmino looked poised to double the visitors' lead from Coutinho's measured through ball, but Caballero stood up well to save. Eight minutes later it was all square as De Bruyne's brilliantly measured cross from the right was unerringly dispatched by Aguero. Aguero looked poised to put City ahead in the 76th minute, but after a neat one-two with Sane he stumbled, De Bruyne scuffing the loose ball against the post. An increasingly end-to-end contest then spat out a glorious chance for Lallana, but from Firmino's knock-down and with Mignolet's goal at his mercy, he missed his kick. As the noise levels rose, Sterling and Aguero -- twice -- spurned late chances, but a draw felt an appropriate outcome. (AFP)

Premier League: Manchester City vs Liverpool ends in 1-1 draw

Runaway Premier League leaders Chelsea continued their relentless progress, moving 13 points clear at the top of the table as Gary Cahill scored a late winner in a hard-earned and feisty 2-1 win at Stoke City on Saturday.

Even without the injured Eden Hazard, Antonio Conte&#39;s men, who have lost just one game in 2017, triumphed again when Cahill struck three minutes from time to make amends for giving away a first-half penalty.

With only 10 games left, it seems wholly unlikely that the leaders can be caught now and their ecstatic celebrations at the end of a tough game suggested that they believed it may have been the victory that assures their title triumph.

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<h5>Not that Conte was remotely entertaining any complacency. &#39;We need to take 21 points for the title win. Today was a great win, a good signal, but it is important to continue with the same commitment and work rate as a team,&#39; he told the BBC</h5>
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Not that Conte was remotely entertaining any complacency. &quot;We need to take 21 points for the title win. Today was a great win, a good signal, but it is important to continue with the same commitment and work rate as a team,&quot; he told the BBC.

Others think the race is already won, though. &quot;It is Chelsea&#39;s title now and you could see from their celebrations, we ran them close,&quot; said Stoke manager Mark Hughes.

Chelsea had looked set for a comfortable afternoon when Willian scored a 13th-minute free kick, his shot squeezing into the net after a blunder from Stoke keeper Lee Grant, who could only fumble the ball over his own line.

Yet Stoke hit back when Jon Walters, having been fouled by Cahill, picked himself up to score from the penalty spot seven minutes before the break.

Diego Costa became embroiled in running battles with Stoke&#39;s defenders, who appeared to try to wind up the volatile striker as he endured a frustrating afternoon chasing his 50th Premier league goal.

He earning himself an early booking and was also involved in incidents which saw yellow cards shown to Bruno Martins Indi and Phil Bardsley.

Chelsea would not be denied and created most of the second-half chances, with Marcos Alonso hitting the bar with a free kick and Pedro being denied by Grant before Cahill swept in the winner.

It ultimately sealed their 19th win in their last 22 league games, with Stoke&#39;s misery completed when Bardsley received his marching orders in the dying seconds after receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Cesc Fabregas.

(Reuters)

They are now 13 points clear at the top of the table

Runaway Premier League leaders Chelsea continued their relentless progress, moving 13 points clear at the top of the table as Gary Cahill scored a late winner in a hard-earned and feisty 2-1 win at Stoke City on Saturday. Even without the injured Eden Hazard, Antonio Conte's men, who have lost just one game in 2017, triumphed again when Cahill struck three minutes from time to make amends for giving away a first-half penalty. With only 10 games left, it seems wholly unlikely that the leaders can be caught now and their ecstatic celebrations at the end of a tough game suggested that they believed it may have been the victory that assures their title triumph. Not that Conte was remotely entertaining any complacency. 'We need to take 21 points for the title win. Today was a great win, a good signal, but it is important to continue with the same commitment and work rate as a team,' he told the BBC × Not that Conte was remotely entertaining any complacency. "We need to take 21 points for the title win. Today was a great win, a good signal, but it is important to continue with the same commitment and work rate as a team," he told the BBC. Others think the race is already won, though. "It is Chelsea's title now and you could see from their celebrations, we ran them close," said Stoke manager Mark Hughes. Chelsea had looked set for a comfortable afternoon when Willian scored a 13th-minute free kick, his shot squeezing into the net after a blunder from Stoke keeper Lee Grant, who could only fumble the ball over his own line. Yet Stoke hit back when Jon Walters, having been fouled by Cahill, picked himself up to score from the penalty spot seven minutes before the break. Diego Costa became embroiled in running battles with Stoke's defenders, who appeared to try to wind up the volatile striker as he endured a frustrating afternoon chasing his 50th Premier league goal. He earning himself an early booking and was also involved in incidents which saw yellow cards shown to Bruno Martins Indi and Phil Bardsley. Chelsea would not be denied and created most of the second-half chances, with Marcos Alonso hitting the bar with a free kick and Pedro being denied by Grant before Cahill swept in the winner. It ultimately sealed their 19th win in their last 22 league games, with Stoke's misery completed when Bardsley received his marching orders in the dying seconds after receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Cesc Fabregas. (Reuters)

EPL: Chelsea keep on keeping on, beat Stoke City 2-1

Emre Can&#39;s superb shot guided Liverpool to a 2-1 home win over Burnley on Sunday and maintained their bid to qualify for next season&rsquo;s Champions League.

Ashley Barnes, with his club&rsquo;s first goal at Anfield since 1975, had given Burnley a deserved early lead only for Georginio Wijnaldum to equalise in first-half injury-time.

And Can struck just after the hour mark to secure victory for Liverpool, although it was a far from convincing performance by Jurgen Klopp&rsquo;s side.

German international Can collected a short pass from Divock Origi and was allowed space to unleash a right-foot shot from 25 yards which the Burnley goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, might have been expected to save before it reached the bottom left-hand corner of his net.

Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs.&nbsp;

The win moved them to within a point of third-placed Manchester City but, more significantly, saw Liverpool go five points clear of fifth-placed Arsenal.

&quot;The performance was good enough to win the game but the result is massive for us, it&#39;s the first ugly game we have won,&quot; Liverpool manager Klopp told Sky Sports. &quot;Usually when we are not that good we lose.&quot;

Meanwhile Burnley boss Sean Dyche was left bemoaning his side&#39;s lack of good fortune.

&quot;It&#39;s a tough one to take, because everyone gave a really good account of ourselves and we went up with a sublime goal,&quot; he told the BBC. &quot;We just needed a scratch of luck along the way.&quot;&nbsp;

Liverpool had gone in at the half-time interval level although it was a scoreline that even the most ardent home supporter would have admitted was harsh on Burnley.

With just two away points to their name all season -- from a still impressive tally of 31 -- Dyche&rsquo;s team opened the game aggressively and took the lead in just the seventh minute.

Right-back Matt Lowton crossed low into the area from the wing and, after Andre Gray narrowly missed making contact, Barnes slid in ahead of his marker to force the ball past Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Burnley, without a victory at Anfield since 1974, would have hoped to reach the interval without conceding an equaliser and looked well on course for that target for the majority of the half.

Unlikely equaliser

Not until the 45th minute did Liverpool enjoy a &#39;shot&#39; on target and that was actually an over-hit defensive header from Burnley&rsquo;s Joey Barton which forced Heaton into a comfortable diving save, his first of the game.

But a minute into first-half injury-time, Liverpool claimed an unlikely equaliser which raised the mood around the stadium.

Origi, starting in place of the injured Roberto Firmino, crossed from the left and Wijnaldum made a lazy attempt to control the ball, flicking out a boot and benefitting from a fortunate rebound from defender Ben Mee, before drilling home an unstoppable finish from six yards.

Even before the goal, Burnley&rsquo;s crosses from the right had caused concern, with Gray&rsquo;s chip almost finding Barnes after five minutes.

Solid at the back, Burnley also looked the more likely to score a second goal after Barnes&rsquo;s opener.

But the second half opened with Liverpool in far more determined mood, although their suspect defending always gave Burnley hope.

Barnes sent a speculative first-time shot wide soon after the restart before Liverpool finally threatened, with Joel Matip&#39;s shot from a Philippe Coutinho cross blocked

Can&rsquo;s goal was still harsh on Burnley, although the visitors almost responded just three minutes later, when Mee headed a free-kick across goal and Barnes&rsquo;s effort was blocked by Ragnar Klavan.

Both teams squandered late chances for further goals. Sadio Mane had only Heaton to beat but saw the Burnley keeper tip his 12-yard shot over the bar in the closing stages before Lowton missed a glorious opportunity to equalise, shooting wide from a scramble in the area in stoppage-time.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs

Emre Can's superb shot guided Liverpool to a 2-1 home win over Burnley on Sunday and maintained their bid to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Ashley Barnes, with his club’s first goal at Anfield since 1975, had given Burnley a deserved early lead only for Georginio Wijnaldum to equalise in first-half injury-time. And Can struck just after the hour mark to secure victory for Liverpool, although it was a far from convincing performance by Jurgen Klopp’s side. German international Can collected a short pass from Divock Origi and was allowed space to unleash a right-foot shot from 25 yards which the Burnley goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, might have been expected to save before it reached the bottom left-hand corner of his net. Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs. The win moved them to within a point of third-placed Manchester City but, more significantly, saw Liverpool go five points clear of fifth-placed Arsenal. "The performance was good enough to win the game but the result is massive for us, it's the first ugly game we have won," Liverpool manager Klopp told Sky Sports. "Usually when we are not that good we lose." Meanwhile Burnley boss Sean Dyche was left bemoaning his side's lack of good fortune. "It's a tough one to take, because everyone gave a really good account of ourselves and we went up with a sublime goal," he told the BBC. "We just needed a scratch of luck along the way." Liverpool had gone in at the half-time interval level although it was a scoreline that even the most ardent home supporter would have admitted was harsh on Burnley. With just two away points to their name all season -- from a still impressive tally of 31 -- Dyche’s team opened the game aggressively and took the lead in just the seventh minute. Right-back Matt Lowton crossed low into the area from the wing and, after Andre Gray narrowly missed making contact, Barnes slid in ahead of his marker to force the ball past Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. Burnley, without a victory at Anfield since 1974, would have hoped to reach the interval without conceding an equaliser and looked well on course for that target for the majority of the half. Unlikely equaliser Not until the 45th minute did Liverpool enjoy a 'shot' on target and that was actually an over-hit defensive header from Burnley’s Joey Barton which forced Heaton into a comfortable diving save, his first of the game. But a minute into first-half injury-time, Liverpool claimed an unlikely equaliser which raised the mood around the stadium. Origi, starting in place of the injured Roberto Firmino, crossed from the left and Wijnaldum made a lazy attempt to control the ball, flicking out a boot and benefitting from a fortunate rebound from defender Ben Mee, before drilling home an unstoppable finish from six yards. Even before the goal, Burnley’s crosses from the right had caused concern, with Gray’s chip almost finding Barnes after five minutes. Solid at the back, Burnley also looked the more likely to score a second goal after Barnes’s opener. But the second half opened with Liverpool in far more determined mood, although their suspect defending always gave Burnley hope. Barnes sent a speculative first-time shot wide soon after the restart before Liverpool finally threatened, with Joel Matip's shot from a Philippe Coutinho cross blocked Can’s goal was still harsh on Burnley, although the visitors almost responded just three minutes later, when Mee headed a free-kick across goal and Barnes’s effort was blocked by Ragnar Klavan. Both teams squandered late chances for further goals. Sadio Mane had only Heaton to beat but saw the Burnley keeper tip his 12-yard shot over the bar in the closing stages before Lowton missed a glorious opportunity to equalise, shooting wide from a scramble in the area in stoppage-time. (AFP)

Premier League: Liverpool 2-1 Burnley

Oumar Niasse boosted Hull&#39;s chances of avoiding relegation from the Premier League as the Senegal forward inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea, while Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King&#39;s treble in a 3-2 success against West Ham.

Niasse, on loan from Everton, came off the bench to score twice in the second half at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday and Marco Silva&#39;s side are now just one point from safety.

After a tense first half, Niasse broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when he played a one-two with Abel Hernandez and drilled past Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

Niasse sealed Hull&#39;s third win over Swansea in all competitions this season with a blistering strike from inside the penalty area in the 78th minute.

Alfie Mawson&#39;s 90th minute goal was no consolation for Swansea, who have lost their last three away games and are only three points above third bottom Hull.

&quot;We got three important points, so of course I&#39;m happy,&quot; Silva said.

&quot;It was a tough game. We improved in the second half and after that we controlled the game.&quot;

At Dean Court, Bournemouth overcame two missed penalties and a late equaliser to end their nine-match winless run in all competitions.&nbsp;

King had netted with a penalty in last weekend&#39;s draw at Manchester United, but the Bournemouth striker fired wide with another spot-kick in the early stages against the Hammers following Sofiane Feghouli&#39;s foul on Charlie Daniels.

Just 48 seconds later, West Ham winger Michail Antonio marked his return from suspension with a cool finish after taking Feghouli&#39;s pass and spinning away from his marker in the 10th minute.

King made amends for his penalty howler in the 31st minute when the striker flicked the ball up in the penalty area before firing home.

Remarkably, Bournemouth missed another penalty, this one awarded for Jose Fonte&#39;s foul on March Pugh late in the first half, as Benik Afobe&#39;s effort was saved by Darren Randolph.

Perfectly placed 
 
King struck again in the 48th minute when his close-range effort from Afobe&#39;s flick-on was allowed to stand despite West Ham&#39;s appeals for handball.

West Ham&#39;s Andre Ayew tapped into an empty net from Sam Byram&#39;s 83rd minute cross, but King bagged the winner from close-range in stoppage-time to lift Bournemouth six points clear of the relegation zone.

&quot;Relief is the overwhelming feeling,&quot; Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said.

&quot;Josh King has had an outstanding season and is beginning to show true potential.&quot;

Everton improved their prospects of a Europa League berth with a 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park.

Ronald Koeman&#39;s seventh placed team are just two points behind sixth placed Manchester United after recording their fifth successive home victory.

With British boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew watching from the stands after his recent heavyweight success against David Haye, Kevin Mirallas landed the first blow for the hosts in the 39th minute.

Ross Barkley&#39;s shot was parried by Albion goalkeeper Ben Foster and Mirallas was perfectly placed to slot home.

Morgan Schneiderlin doubled Everton&#39;s lead on the stroke of half-time, the midfielder unleashing a ferocious strike for his first goal since a January move from Manchester United.

Romelu Lukaku sealed the rout with a header in the 82nd minute for his 19th league goal of the season.&nbsp;

Liverpool host Burnley on Sunday in the weekend&#39;s only other league action due to FA Cup quarter-final fixtures. 
 
(AFP)

 
&nbsp;

Niasse inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea. Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King's treble against West Ham

Oumar Niasse boosted Hull's chances of avoiding relegation from the Premier League as the Senegal forward inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea, while Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King's treble in a 3-2 success against West Ham. Niasse, on loan from Everton, came off the bench to score twice in the second half at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday and Marco Silva's side are now just one point from safety. After a tense first half, Niasse broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when he played a one-two with Abel Hernandez and drilled past Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. Niasse sealed Hull's third win over Swansea in all competitions this season with a blistering strike from inside the penalty area in the 78th minute. Alfie Mawson's 90th minute goal was no consolation for Swansea, who have lost their last three away games and are only three points above third bottom Hull. "We got three important points, so of course I'm happy," Silva said. "It was a tough game. We improved in the second half and after that we controlled the game." At Dean Court, Bournemouth overcame two missed penalties and a late equaliser to end their nine-match winless run in all competitions. King had netted with a penalty in last weekend's draw at Manchester United, but the Bournemouth striker fired wide with another spot-kick in the early stages against the Hammers following Sofiane Feghouli's foul on Charlie Daniels. Just 48 seconds later, West Ham winger Michail Antonio marked his return from suspension with a cool finish after taking Feghouli's pass and spinning away from his marker in the 10th minute. King made amends for his penalty howler in the 31st minute when the striker flicked the ball up in the penalty area before firing home. Remarkably, Bournemouth missed another penalty, this one awarded for Jose Fonte's foul on March Pugh late in the first half, as Benik Afobe's effort was saved by Darren Randolph. Perfectly placed King struck again in the 48th minute when his close-range effort from Afobe's flick-on was allowed to stand despite West Ham's appeals for handball. West Ham's Andre Ayew tapped into an empty net from Sam Byram's 83rd minute cross, but King bagged the winner from close-range in stoppage-time to lift Bournemouth six points clear of the relegation zone. "Relief is the overwhelming feeling," Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said. "Josh King has had an outstanding season and is beginning to show true potential." Everton improved their prospects of a Europa League berth with a 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park. Ronald Koeman's seventh placed team are just two points behind sixth placed Manchester United after recording their fifth successive home victory. With British boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew watching from the stands after his recent heavyweight success against David Haye, Kevin Mirallas landed the first blow for the hosts in the 39th minute. Ross Barkley's shot was parried by Albion goalkeeper Ben Foster and Mirallas was perfectly placed to slot home. Morgan Schneiderlin doubled Everton's lead on the stroke of half-time, the midfielder unleashing a ferocious strike for his first goal since a January move from Manchester United. Romelu Lukaku sealed the rout with a header in the 82nd minute for his 19th league goal of the season. Liverpool host Burnley on Sunday in the weekend's only other league action due to FA Cup quarter-final fixtures. (AFP)

Premier League: Hull boost survival bid, Bournemouth end winless run

Chelsea&#39;s processional march towards the Premier League title continued at Swansea City&#39;s expense on Saturday as last season&#39;s champions Leicester City dropped into the bottom three.

Antonio Conte&#39;s side were not firing on all cylinders against a resolute Swansea side managed by their former assistant manager Paul Clement but second-half goals by Pedro and Diego Costa made sure of a 3-1 victory.

They are now 11 points ahead of Manchester City who have 13 games left to play and while Italian Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title.

Chelsea&#39;s victory made it mathematically impossible for Leicester to catch them as they are 42 points behind the leaders going into their home clash with Liverpool on Monday - their first fixture since the sacking of manager Claudio Ranieri.

Leicester will start that game third bottom after Crystal Palace&#39;s 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Selhurst Park on Saturday took them out of the relegation zone.

Patrick van Aanholt&#39;s 34th-minute goal was enough to take Palace to 17th place with 22 points, one ahead of Leicester and Hull City who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley.

Boro also have 22 points but are sliding towards the drop zone after nine league games without a win.

Bournemouth are another side being sucked into the relegation battle after a 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion despite taking a fourth-minute lead through Josh King&#39;s penalty. Craig Dawson and Gareth McAuley replied for West Brom who are clear in eighth place.

In-form Everton continue to harbour hopes of catching the top four and beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to move within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal.

Romelu Lukaku made the points safe for Everton with 10 minutes remaining, taking his tally for the season 17, level at the top of the scoring charts with Arsenal&#39;s Alexis Sanchez.

Sunderland&#39;s fourth defeat in six games left them on 19 points.

Watford host West Ham United in the day&#39;s late kickoff while on Sunday Tottenham Hotspur can trim Chelsea&#39;s lead by a point if they win at home to Stoke City.

(Reuters)

Antonio Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, but only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title

Chelsea's processional march towards the Premier League title continued at Swansea City's expense on Saturday as last season's champions Leicester City dropped into the bottom three. Antonio Conte's side were not firing on all cylinders against a resolute Swansea side managed by their former assistant manager Paul Clement but second-half goals by Pedro and Diego Costa made sure of a 3-1 victory. They are now 11 points ahead of Manchester City who have 13 games left to play and while Italian Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title. Chelsea's victory made it mathematically impossible for Leicester to catch them as they are 42 points behind the leaders going into their home clash with Liverpool on Monday - their first fixture since the sacking of manager Claudio Ranieri. Leicester will start that game third bottom after Crystal Palace's 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Selhurst Park on Saturday took them out of the relegation zone. Patrick van Aanholt's 34th-minute goal was enough to take Palace to 17th place with 22 points, one ahead of Leicester and Hull City who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley. Boro also have 22 points but are sliding towards the drop zone after nine league games without a win. Bournemouth are another side being sucked into the relegation battle after a 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion despite taking a fourth-minute lead through Josh King's penalty. Craig Dawson and Gareth McAuley replied for West Brom who are clear in eighth place. In-form Everton continue to harbour hopes of catching the top four and beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to move within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal. Romelu Lukaku made the points safe for Everton with 10 minutes remaining, taking his tally for the season 17, level at the top of the scoring charts with Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez. Sunderland's fourth defeat in six games left them on 19 points. Watford host West Ham United in the day's late kickoff while on Sunday Tottenham Hotspur can trim Chelsea's lead by a point if they win at home to Stoke City. (Reuters)

Chelsea surge 11 points clear, Leicester drop into bottom three

Chelsea extended their lead atop the Premier League to 10 points on Sunday as the team they seem destined to succeed as champions, Leicester City, sank to yet another defeat.

Bidding to go 12 points clear, Chelsea had to settle for a point after home debutant Robbie Brady&#39;s arcing 24th-minute free-kick earned Burnley a deserved 1-1 draw at Turf Moor.

While the title beckons for Chelsea, it is receding deeper into memory for Leicester, who were left one point and one place above the relegation zone by a 2-0 defeat at Swansea City.

&quot;I wanted the start of a &#39;new season&#39; today, but it is the same. It is unbelievable,&quot; said Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri.

&quot;We started well, but their first two shots on goal are goals. It is very difficult to come back from that. It is unbelievable, this season.

&quot;We have two problems: conceding goals and not scoring. We have to speak together to find the solutions. It is not possible to continue in this way.&quot;

Leicester became the first English champions to lose five successive games since Chelsea in 1956 and the first team to go six games without scoring at the start of the year since Stoke City in 1985.

Leicester&#39;s owners gave Ranieri a vote of confidence after last weekend&#39;s 3-0 loss to Manchester United, but the post-game rallying cry issued by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel had little effect.

Swansea overcame the loss of former Leicester loanee Nathan Dyer to an early ankle injury to score twice in the latter stages of the first half at the Liberty Stadium.

Centre-back Alfie Mawson broke the deadlock in the 36th minute with an emphatic volley after Federico Fernandez had nodded Robert Huth&#39;s clearing header back into the penalty area.

Swedish left-back Martin Olsson landed a hammer blow in first-half stoppage time when he hared onto Gylfi Sigurdsson&#39;s first-time pass to rifle a shot past Schmeichel at his near post.

&nbsp;

Conte &#39;disappointed&#39; 
 
Ranieri made a double change at half-time, sending on Ben Chilwell and Islam Slimani, but the closest they came to establishing a foothold was a shot from the latter that was blocked by Lukasz Fabianski.

Swansea manager Paul Clement, named the Premier League&#39;s Manager of the Month for January, has now seen his team win four games from six since his appointment as the successor to Bob Bradley.

The Welsh club pulled four points clear of danger and now have a full two weeks to prepare for their trip to leaders Chelsea.

&quot;My job was to come in in January and put confidence back into the team, get them playing better and get them organised,&quot; said Clement. &quot;I&#39;m happy with the response from the players.&quot;

Chelsea continue to sit pretty at the top of the pile, although their advantage will be eroded to eight points if Pep Guardiola&#39;s Manchester City win at Bournemouth on Monday.

Antonio Conte&#39;s side took a seventh-minute lead at Turf Moor when Victor Moses slipped Pedro in to steer a low shot past Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

But Burnley levelled through &pound;13 million ($16.2 million, 15.3 million euros) record signing Brady&#39;s fine free-kick and managed to prevent Chelsea from registering a single shot on target in the second half.

&quot;We must be disappointed at the point because I think this type of game we could win,&quot; said Chelsea manager Conte.

&quot;We know there is a long way (to the end of the season). It is important to work and play this type of game and fight.&quot;

Burnley manager Sean Dyche, whose side have won 29 of their 30 points at home, said: &quot;It was a strong performance against a top, top side.

&quot;I want us to be awkward to play against and be productive and we showed that.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

While the title beckons for Chelsea, chances are receding for Leicester, who were left one point and one place above the relegation zone

Chelsea extended their lead atop the Premier League to 10 points on Sunday as the team they seem destined to succeed as champions, Leicester City, sank to yet another defeat. Bidding to go 12 points clear, Chelsea had to settle for a point after home debutant Robbie Brady's arcing 24th-minute free-kick earned Burnley a deserved 1-1 draw at Turf Moor. While the title beckons for Chelsea, it is receding deeper into memory for Leicester, who were left one point and one place above the relegation zone by a 2-0 defeat at Swansea City. "I wanted the start of a 'new season' today, but it is the same. It is unbelievable," said Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri. "We started well, but their first two shots on goal are goals. It is very difficult to come back from that. It is unbelievable, this season. "We have two problems: conceding goals and not scoring. We have to speak together to find the solutions. It is not possible to continue in this way." Leicester became the first English champions to lose five successive games since Chelsea in 1956 and the first team to go six games without scoring at the start of the year since Stoke City in 1985. Leicester's owners gave Ranieri a vote of confidence after last weekend's 3-0 loss to Manchester United, but the post-game rallying cry issued by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel had little effect. Swansea overcame the loss of former Leicester loanee Nathan Dyer to an early ankle injury to score twice in the latter stages of the first half at the Liberty Stadium. Centre-back Alfie Mawson broke the deadlock in the 36th minute with an emphatic volley after Federico Fernandez had nodded Robert Huth's clearing header back into the penalty area. Swedish left-back Martin Olsson landed a hammer blow in first-half stoppage time when he hared onto Gylfi Sigurdsson's first-time pass to rifle a shot past Schmeichel at his near post. Conte 'disappointed' Ranieri made a double change at half-time, sending on Ben Chilwell and Islam Slimani, but the closest they came to establishing a foothold was a shot from the latter that was blocked by Lukasz Fabianski. Swansea manager Paul Clement, named the Premier League's Manager of the Month for January, has now seen his team win four games from six since his appointment as the successor to Bob Bradley. The Welsh club pulled four points clear of danger and now have a full two weeks to prepare for their trip to leaders Chelsea. "My job was to come in in January and put confidence back into the team, get them playing better and get them organised," said Clement. "I'm happy with the response from the players." Chelsea continue to sit pretty at the top of the pile, although their advantage will be eroded to eight points if Pep Guardiola's Manchester City win at Bournemouth on Monday. Antonio Conte's side took a seventh-minute lead at Turf Moor when Victor Moses slipped Pedro in to steer a low shot past Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton. But Burnley levelled through £13 million ($16.2 million, 15.3 million euros) record signing Brady's fine free-kick and managed to prevent Chelsea from registering a single shot on target in the second half. "We must be disappointed at the point because I think this type of game we could win," said Chelsea manager Conte. "We know there is a long way (to the end of the season). It is important to work and play this type of game and fight." Burnley manager Sean Dyche, whose side have won 29 of their 30 points at home, said: "It was a strong performance against a top, top side. "I want us to be awkward to play against and be productive and we showed that." (AFP)

Burnley ties Chelsea, Swansea City tops Leicester City 2-0

Manchester United`s push for the Champions League places was frustrated by Hull City as Jose Mourinho`s men were held to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

With Manchester City winning handsomely at West Ham United, their cross-city rivals lost ground in the race for a top-four finish as Hull`s stubborn defending kept them at bay.

The visitors, who showed further signs of improvement under new manager Marco Silva, restricted Mourinho`s side to few clear chances.

And when United did get a sight of goal they were thwarted by Hull goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic, who made some smart saves either side of half-time.

Two dropped points left United four points adrift of fifth-place Manchester City and fourth-place Liverpool.

There was more bad news for Mourinho when defender Phil Jones limped off injured in the second half.

It might have got even worse, but Lazar Markovic struck the United woodwork late on with the best chance of the game.

United sniffed a chance early on when David Meyler presented possession to Paul Pogba and the midfielder angled a clever pass into the path of Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

But the winger`s chances of finding a shot were halted by full-back Andrew Robertson, who covered around to make an important challenge.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic almost put United ahead in the 15th minute with a moment of characteristic confidence, brushing off Tom Huddlestone and hitting a curling shot that was tipped around the post by Jakupovic.

But despite dominating possession, United were finding it difficult to break down the stubborn resistance of Hull, with Mkhitaryan in particular having little success in running at defenders.

Another chance arrived for United 10 minutes before half-time when Pogba helped a pass by Daley Blind into the feet of Ibrahimovic.

However, the Swede was closed down quickly and he snatched at a left-foot shot that flew harmlessly wide.

After lacking the magic to change the game for much of the first half, the home side nearly opened the scoring with a goal of real inspiration three minutes before half-time.Michael Carrick`s pass was flicked on superbly by Ibrahimovic for Pogba, whose powerful effort was saved well by Jakupovic.

Pogba and Ibrahimovic combined again nine minutes into the second half when the former lofted a clever pass into the latter`s path inside the 18-yard box.

But it was a difficult ball for Ibrahimovic to control and his attempted shot was easy for Jakupovic to claim.

Another raking, diagonal ball by Pogba released Marcus Rashford moments later and this time it was brought under control. 
The young forward managed to get a shot away but it went just wide of the target.

Then a cross from the right by Antonio Valencia was helped back across goal by Rashford, but substitute Wayne Rooney failed to connect with a shot on the turn and when Ibrahimovic did make contact, he fired wide.

Hull striker Oumar Niasse was fortunate to stay on the field with 25 minutes remaining when, having already been booked, he committed a high challenge on Blind but escaped without another caution.

The home side ought to have led with 13 minutes remaining, but Jakupovic again came to Hull`s rescue.

He made a superb block on the line to deny substitute Juan Mata from close range after Chris Smalling had headed Ander&nbsp; 
Herrera`s cross into the Spaniard`s feet.

With 10 minutes remaining Hull`s players were furious with Ibrahimovic when he hung out a leg in the penalty area and waited for contact from Huddlestone before going to ground.

Referee Mike Jones was unimpressed and awarded a free-kick to the visitors.

With three minutes to go, Markovic sidestepped Smalling and saw his cheeky shot strike David De Gea`s right-hand post and rebound to safety.

United were frustrated again in stoppage time when Jakupovic saved a header by Marcos Rojo and then turned away a curling shot from Pogba.

(AFP)

Hull City, which showed further signs of improvement under new manager Marco Silva, restricted Mourinho's side to few clear chances

Manchester United`s push for the Champions League places was frustrated by Hull City as Jose Mourinho`s men were held to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford on Wednesday. With Manchester City winning handsomely at West Ham United, their cross-city rivals lost ground in the race for a top-four finish as Hull`s stubborn defending kept them at bay. The visitors, who showed further signs of improvement under new manager Marco Silva, restricted Mourinho`s side to few clear chances. And when United did get a sight of goal they were thwarted by Hull goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic, who made some smart saves either side of half-time. Two dropped points left United four points adrift of fifth-place Manchester City and fourth-place Liverpool. There was more bad news for Mourinho when defender Phil Jones limped off injured in the second half. It might have got even worse, but Lazar Markovic struck the United woodwork late on with the best chance of the game. United sniffed a chance early on when David Meyler presented possession to Paul Pogba and the midfielder angled a clever pass into the path of Henrikh Mkhitaryan. But the winger`s chances of finding a shot were halted by full-back Andrew Robertson, who covered around to make an important challenge. Zlatan Ibrahimovic almost put United ahead in the 15th minute with a moment of characteristic confidence, brushing off Tom Huddlestone and hitting a curling shot that was tipped around the post by Jakupovic. But despite dominating possession, United were finding it difficult to break down the stubborn resistance of Hull, with Mkhitaryan in particular having little success in running at defenders. Another chance arrived for United 10 minutes before half-time when Pogba helped a pass by Daley Blind into the feet of Ibrahimovic. However, the Swede was closed down quickly and he snatched at a left-foot shot that flew harmlessly wide. After lacking the magic to change the game for much of the first half, the home side nearly opened the scoring with a goal of real inspiration three minutes before half-time.Michael Carrick`s pass was flicked on superbly by Ibrahimovic for Pogba, whose powerful effort was saved well by Jakupovic. Pogba and Ibrahimovic combined again nine minutes into the second half when the former lofted a clever pass into the latter`s path inside the 18-yard box. But it was a difficult ball for Ibrahimovic to control and his attempted shot was easy for Jakupovic to claim. Another raking, diagonal ball by Pogba released Marcus Rashford moments later and this time it was brought under control. The young forward managed to get a shot away but it went just wide of the target. Then a cross from the right by Antonio Valencia was helped back across goal by Rashford, but substitute Wayne Rooney failed to connect with a shot on the turn and when Ibrahimovic did make contact, he fired wide. Hull striker Oumar Niasse was fortunate to stay on the field with 25 minutes remaining when, having already been booked, he committed a high challenge on Blind but escaped without another caution. The home side ought to have led with 13 minutes remaining, but Jakupovic again came to Hull`s rescue. He made a superb block on the line to deny substitute Juan Mata from close range after Chris Smalling had headed Ander Herrera`s cross into the Spaniard`s feet. With 10 minutes remaining Hull`s players were furious with Ibrahimovic when he hung out a leg in the penalty area and waited for contact from Huddlestone before going to ground. Referee Mike Jones was unimpressed and awarded a free-kick to the visitors. With three minutes to go, Markovic sidestepped Smalling and saw his cheeky shot strike David De Gea`s right-hand post and rebound to safety. United were frustrated again in stoppage time when Jakupovic saved a header by Marcos Rojo and then turned away a curling shot from Pogba. (AFP)

Manchester United fails to notch win against Hull as match ends in 0-0 draw

Simon Mignolet went from zero to hero as Liverpool prevented Chelsea from significantly extending their lead at the Premier League summit in a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Tuesday.

The Belgian goalkeeper was caught daydreaming as David Luiz put Chelsea ahead with a first-half free-kick, but after Georginio Wijnaldum equalised, his penalty save denied Diego Costa a late winner.

With Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur dropping points, victory would have sent Chelsea 11 points clear, but instead Antonio Conte&#39;s side had to content themselves with eking their advantage up to nine points.

&quot;It`s a pity Diego Costa missed the penalty because he played very well,&quot; said Chelsea manager Conte.

&quot;We had different chances to score goals, but we must be happy with the result and the performance because it is not easy to play away at Liverpool.&quot;

Liverpool remain 10 points off the pace in fourth place, but although they have won just one of their nine matches in 2017, they avoided losing four successive home games for the first time since 1923.

While the point did little to enhance their title hopes, it was a much improved display by Jurgen Klopp`s men after successive exits from the League Cup and FA Cup against Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

&quot;I`m not sure happy is the right word to say how I`m feeling, but I`m proud of the boys because they did outstanding things against a really good side,&quot; Klopp told BT Sport.

&quot;I`m happy we could give this sign and create this atmosphere. It was a good performance.&quot;

Costa`s squandered 77th-minute penalty, awarded for a foul on him by Joel Matip, meant Chelsea failed to win for only the second time in 17 league games, but the title remains theirs to lose.

Klopp had trumpeted his team`s ability to beat &quot;anyone else in this league&quot; in the match programme and with England pair Nathaniel Clyne and Adam Lallana back from injury, his men began sharply.Their aggressive pressing prevented Chelsea from settling into a rhythm and Wijnaldum saw a rasping shot parried by visiting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Conte, clad in a tracksuit and puffer jacket that recalled former manager Jose Mourinho`s attire during Chelsea`s pivotal 2-0 win here in 2014, kicked the ball away in frustration at one point.

But in the 24th minute a combination of exquisite technique and inexcusably lax defensive attentiveness gave Chelsea the breakthrough.

As Luiz advanced to strike his free-kick, 25 yards from goal and to the left of centre, Mignolet was gesticulating to his team-mates on the edge of the area.

The Brazilian struck the ball with ferocious but controlled power and it zipped over the wall before crashing in via the left-hand post, with Mignolet rooted to the spot.

Liverpool should have levelled four minutes into the second half when Roberto Firmino hoisted the ball clear of the bar from 15 yards out after Eden Hazard had slid in to rob Clyne.

But following a sight of goal at the other end for Victor Moses, who clipped the post after charging down James Milner`s clearance, the home side levelled in the 57th minute.

Jordan Henderson`s deep cross from the right was headed back across goal by Milner, with a touch from Moses enabling Wijnaldum to direct a low header beneath Courtois`s despairing dive.

Sadio Mane made his Liverpool comeback in place of Philippe Coutinho, his Africa Cup of Nations quest with Senegal having been ended by his squandered penalty against Cameroon in the quarter-finals.

But here it was Costa who fluffed his lines from 12 yards as Mignolet dived to his right to shovel away the Chelsea striker`s poorly struck spot-kick.

Pedro Rodriguez, on for Willian, came close to sparing Costa`s blushes with a snapshot that flashed wide, while Firmino could only direct a header straight at Courtois at the opposite end.

(AFP)

'It's a pity Diego Costa missed the penalty because he played very well,' said Chelsea manager Conte

Simon Mignolet went from zero to hero as Liverpool prevented Chelsea from significantly extending their lead at the Premier League summit in a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Tuesday. The Belgian goalkeeper was caught daydreaming as David Luiz put Chelsea ahead with a first-half free-kick, but after Georginio Wijnaldum equalised, his penalty save denied Diego Costa a late winner. With Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur dropping points, victory would have sent Chelsea 11 points clear, but instead Antonio Conte's side had to content themselves with eking their advantage up to nine points. "It`s a pity Diego Costa missed the penalty because he played very well," said Chelsea manager Conte. "We had different chances to score goals, but we must be happy with the result and the performance because it is not easy to play away at Liverpool." Liverpool remain 10 points off the pace in fourth place, but although they have won just one of their nine matches in 2017, they avoided losing four successive home games for the first time since 1923. While the point did little to enhance their title hopes, it was a much improved display by Jurgen Klopp`s men after successive exits from the League Cup and FA Cup against Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers. "I`m not sure happy is the right word to say how I`m feeling, but I`m proud of the boys because they did outstanding things against a really good side," Klopp told BT Sport. "I`m happy we could give this sign and create this atmosphere. It was a good performance." Costa`s squandered 77th-minute penalty, awarded for a foul on him by Joel Matip, meant Chelsea failed to win for only the second time in 17 league games, but the title remains theirs to lose. Klopp had trumpeted his team`s ability to beat "anyone else in this league" in the match programme and with England pair Nathaniel Clyne and Adam Lallana back from injury, his men began sharply.Their aggressive pressing prevented Chelsea from settling into a rhythm and Wijnaldum saw a rasping shot parried by visiting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Conte, clad in a tracksuit and puffer jacket that recalled former manager Jose Mourinho`s attire during Chelsea`s pivotal 2-0 win here in 2014, kicked the ball away in frustration at one point. But in the 24th minute a combination of exquisite technique and inexcusably lax defensive attentiveness gave Chelsea the breakthrough. As Luiz advanced to strike his free-kick, 25 yards from goal and to the left of centre, Mignolet was gesticulating to his team-mates on the edge of the area. The Brazilian struck the ball with ferocious but controlled power and it zipped over the wall before crashing in via the left-hand post, with Mignolet rooted to the spot. Liverpool should have levelled four minutes into the second half when Roberto Firmino hoisted the ball clear of the bar from 15 yards out after Eden Hazard had slid in to rob Clyne. But following a sight of goal at the other end for Victor Moses, who clipped the post after charging down James Milner`s clearance, the home side levelled in the 57th minute. Jordan Henderson`s deep cross from the right was headed back across goal by Milner, with a touch from Moses enabling Wijnaldum to direct a low header beneath Courtois`s despairing dive. Sadio Mane made his Liverpool comeback in place of Philippe Coutinho, his Africa Cup of Nations quest with Senegal having been ended by his squandered penalty against Cameroon in the quarter-finals. But here it was Costa who fluffed his lines from 12 yards as Mignolet dived to his right to shovel away the Chelsea striker`s poorly struck spot-kick. Pedro Rodriguez, on for Willian, came close to sparing Costa`s blushes with a snapshot that flashed wide, while Firmino could only direct a header straight at Courtois at the opposite end. (AFP)

Premier League: Mignolet stars for Liverpool as match with Chelsea ends in draw

Diego Costa returned for Chelsea with deadly effect on Sunday, scoring in the 2-0 win over Hull City which increased their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points after Arsenal had earlier taken up the mantle as their nearest pursuers.

The Gunners beat Burnley 2-1 at the Emirates where the real drama came in injury time when each side scored a penalty and Arsene Wenger clashed with the fourth official after being sent off for disputing the first spot-kick.

By contrast, the day&#39;s other game seemed routine, with Southampton beating the ailing champions Leicester City 3-0.

Chelsea are odds-on to succeed Claudio Ranieri&#39;s side as victors in May after posting their eighth successive home league win against a Hull side which had Ryan Mason taken to hospital after a sickening clash of heads with Gary Cahill.

The stage was set perfectly for the returning Costa to make more headlines after being said by the club to be missing with injury against Leicester last week while British media reported he was unsettled by the prospect of a big-money move to China.

Manager Antonio Conte said before the game that he had been happy with Costa&#39;s mentality and he will have been even more pleased with the goal that put the Blues ahead in first-half injury time after good work on the right by Victor Moses.

The strike sparked a bizarre celebration in which the Spanish international made gestures with both hands that suggested he had just silenced the chatter about his future in the best way possible.

Indeed he had. Costa&#39;s goals -- this was his 52nd on his 100th appearance for the club -- remain the main reason why Chelsea are such hot favourites for the title as they now stand on 55 points with Arsenal on 47, Tottenham Hotspur on 46 and Liverpool on 45.

Costa eventually left to a rousing reception late after Cahill settled matters by rising above the visiting defence to head home the second on 81 minutes.

&quot;Now we have (a lead of) eight points and there are 16 games to play. I think me and my players have good experience to understand that in this league it will be very tough until the end,&quot; Conte told reporters.

Across London, the goals came even later at the Emirates where the final minutes left the crowd -- and managers -- breathless.

After the game&#39;s astonishing finale, which saw Alexis Sanchez net the winner in the 98th minute, a relieved Wenger apologised for his earlier clash with the fourth official.

However, Arsenal&#39;s manager may face an FA charge for appearing to push Anthony Taylor near the tunnel following his dismissal by referee Jon Moss after Burnley&#39;s 93rd-minute penalty had been converted by Andre Gray.

&quot;I didn&#39;t see any penalty from outside but I should have shut up and I apologise, even if I was frustrated,&quot; said Wenger.

Gray&#39;s goal proved just the start of the action as referee Moss, who had already sent off Arsenal&#39;s Granit Xhaka for a wild 65th minute tackle, awarded the Gunners a penalty of their own when Ben Mee raised a leg to the advancing Laurent Koscielny.

Penalty-taker Sanchez possessed the only cool head in the ground, dinking the ball over the Burnley keeper to secure an astonishing win for Arsenal, who had taken the lead through Shkodran Mustafi&#39;s 59th-minute header.

At Southampton, Ranieri had no complaints with Leicester&#39;s defeat, even offering an apology for confusing his players with some of his recent tactical variations.

&quot;I think (in) the last matches I changed (the team&#39;s) shape to try to help my players play better but maybe I made mistakes,&quot; he said.

Poor defending allowed first-half goals for James Ward-Prowse and Jay Rodriguez while Dusan Tadic&#39;s late penalty only confirmed that Leicester, in 15th place just five points above the drop zone, are in free fall and in serious trouble.

(Reuters)

The Gunners beat Burnley 2-1 at the Emirates

Diego Costa returned for Chelsea with deadly effect on Sunday, scoring in the 2-0 win over Hull City which increased their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points after Arsenal had earlier taken up the mantle as their nearest pursuers. The Gunners beat Burnley 2-1 at the Emirates where the real drama came in injury time when each side scored a penalty and Arsene Wenger clashed with the fourth official after being sent off for disputing the first spot-kick. By contrast, the day's other game seemed routine, with Southampton beating the ailing champions Leicester City 3-0. Chelsea are odds-on to succeed Claudio Ranieri's side as victors in May after posting their eighth successive home league win against a Hull side which had Ryan Mason taken to hospital after a sickening clash of heads with Gary Cahill. The stage was set perfectly for the returning Costa to make more headlines after being said by the club to be missing with injury against Leicester last week while British media reported he was unsettled by the prospect of a big-money move to China. Manager Antonio Conte said before the game that he had been happy with Costa's mentality and he will have been even more pleased with the goal that put the Blues ahead in first-half injury time after good work on the right by Victor Moses. The strike sparked a bizarre celebration in which the Spanish international made gestures with both hands that suggested he had just silenced the chatter about his future in the best way possible. Indeed he had. Costa's goals -- this was his 52nd on his 100th appearance for the club -- remain the main reason why Chelsea are such hot favourites for the title as they now stand on 55 points with Arsenal on 47, Tottenham Hotspur on 46 and Liverpool on 45. Costa eventually left to a rousing reception late after Cahill settled matters by rising above the visiting defence to head home the second on 81 minutes. "Now we have (a lead of) eight points and there are 16 games to play. I think me and my players have good experience to understand that in this league it will be very tough until the end," Conte told reporters. Across London, the goals came even later at the Emirates where the final minutes left the crowd -- and managers -- breathless. After the game's astonishing finale, which saw Alexis Sanchez net the winner in the 98th minute, a relieved Wenger apologised for his earlier clash with the fourth official. However, Arsenal's manager may face an FA charge for appearing to push Anthony Taylor near the tunnel following his dismissal by referee Jon Moss after Burnley's 93rd-minute penalty had been converted by Andre Gray. "I didn't see any penalty from outside but I should have shut up and I apologise, even if I was frustrated," said Wenger. Gray's goal proved just the start of the action as referee Moss, who had already sent off Arsenal's Granit Xhaka for a wild 65th minute tackle, awarded the Gunners a penalty of their own when Ben Mee raised a leg to the advancing Laurent Koscielny. Penalty-taker Sanchez possessed the only cool head in the ground, dinking the ball over the Burnley keeper to secure an astonishing win for Arsenal, who had taken the lead through Shkodran Mustafi's 59th-minute header. At Southampton, Ranieri had no complaints with Leicester's defeat, even offering an apology for confusing his players with some of his recent tactical variations. "I think (in) the last matches I changed (the team's) shape to try to help my players play better but maybe I made mistakes," he said. Poor defending allowed first-half goals for James Ward-Prowse and Jay Rodriguez while Dusan Tadic's late penalty only confirmed that Leicester, in 15th place just five points above the drop zone, are in free fall and in serious trouble. (Reuters)

Premier League: Costa returns, scores in 2-0 win over Hull; Arsene is sent off

Liverpool&#39;s title bid suffered a serious after they lost to bottom-placed Swansea City 3-2 at Anfield on Saturday.

But Swansea&#39;s stunning win means they have leapt out of the relegation places, thanks to Spanish international&nbsp;Fernando Llorente two goals and a dramatic winner by&nbsp;Gylfi Sigurdsson in the 74th minute of the match.

The first half was a tepid affair but the match came alive in the second half when Swansea took the lead and soon doubled their advantage.

The double blow woke up Jurgen Klopp&#39;s side as Roberto Firmino scored two delicious goals to drag his team back into the match.

And when Liverpool were the odds-on favourite to cap off a remarkable comeback, Swansea unexpectedly struck a third goal before they saw off a nervy 15 minutes to emerge victors.

(WION)&nbsp;

The victory helps Swansea City move out of the relegation spots

Liverpool's title bid suffered a serious after they lost to bottom-placed Swansea City 3-2 at Anfield on Saturday. But Swansea's stunning win means they have leapt out of the relegation places, thanks to Spanish international Fernando Llorente two goals and a dramatic winner by Gylfi Sigurdsson in the 74th minute of the match. The first half was a tepid affair but the match came alive in the second half when Swansea took the lead and soon doubled their advantage. The double blow woke up Jurgen Klopp's side as Roberto Firmino scored two delicious goals to drag his team back into the match. And when Liverpool were the odds-on favourite to cap off a remarkable comeback, Swansea unexpectedly struck a third goal before they saw off a nervy 15 minutes to emerge victors. (WION)

Liverpool's title bid suffers after Swansea record stunning victory

Chelsea made light of Diego Costa&#39;s controversial absence as the Premier League leaders cruised to a 3-0 win at reigning champions Leicester City on Saturday.

Wing-back Marcos Alonso was their unlikely goal hero with a brace -- just his second and third goals for the club -- either side of half-time before fellow Spaniard Pedro Rodriguez completed the scoring.

That gave Antonio Conte&#39;s men a comfortable win despite the absence of leading scorer Costa amid widespread reports of a training-ground row with fitness coach Julio Tous.

The Brazil-born Spain striker is also thought to be the subject of interest from China, although Conte claimed before kick-off that his omission from the squad was down to a back injury.

Victory was Chelsea&#39;s 14th in 15 Premier League games and was the perfect response to their 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, while for Leicester it was the 10th defeat of a sorry title defence.

Chelsea remain strong favourites to replace Claudio Ranieri&#39;s side as champions after extending their lead over second-placed Tottenham to seven points.

In the opening moments Leicester gave the visitors a scare when Ahmed Musa, fresh from two FA Cup goals at Everton last week, got the better of Cesar Azpilicueta in the Chelsea penalty area.

His cross-shot was parried by Thibaut Courtois in the Chelsea goal and Jamie Vardy could not bring the rebound under control.

Chelsea were furious moments later when Robert Huth escaped any punishment beyond a free-kick for grappling with Willian, who appeared to be caught in the face by the German&#39;s hand.

But the visitors were celebrating moments later when Alonso put them ahead.

Azpilicueta&#39;s cross was miscontrolled by a sliding Pedro, but Eden Hazard helped the ricochet on to Alonso, who beat goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel with a composed finish.

Despairing Schmeichel

Leicester deployed wing-backs in an effort to counteract Chelsea&#39;s successful 3-4-3 system and they combined in the 18th minute when Marc Albrighton crossed from the right for Ben Chilwell to head over.

Leicester struggled for the cohesion to break down a well-organised Chelsea side and the hosts resorted to a desperate long-range effort from league debutant Wilfred Ndidi, which flew well wide on 29 minutes.

Nine minutes before half-time, a curling cross-shot from Vardy for Leicester forced Courtois into a scrambling save

Chelsea preserved their lead comfortably to half-time and doubled it six minutes into the second half.

Leicester only half-cleared a free-kick from the right and Alonso collected the loose ball, set himself and let fly with a firm shot.

His effort deflected off first Wes Morgan and then Danny Drinkwater to wrong-foot Schmeichel, who got a despairing right hand to the ball but could not keep it out.

Alonso tried for an unlikely hat-trick on 65 minutes when he met a right-wing cross by Victor Moses with a fantastic volley that flew a couple of inches wide of Schmeichel&#39;s goal.

Leicester abandoned their experimental 3-5-2 system and reverted to their more usual back four, but their hopes of a comeback were killed off with 19 minutes remaining when Pedro added their third.

The goal owed much to the Spaniard&#39;s delightful flick to release Willian and a little to good fortune after Schmeichel&#39;s save at Willian&#39;s feet only diverted the ball back onto Pedro&#39;s head.

The winger made no mistake with a simple finish.

(AFP)

Victory was Chelsea's 14th in 15 Premier League games and was the perfect response to their 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur

Chelsea made light of Diego Costa's controversial absence as the Premier League leaders cruised to a 3-0 win at reigning champions Leicester City on Saturday. Wing-back Marcos Alonso was their unlikely goal hero with a brace -- just his second and third goals for the club -- either side of half-time before fellow Spaniard Pedro Rodriguez completed the scoring. That gave Antonio Conte's men a comfortable win despite the absence of leading scorer Costa amid widespread reports of a training-ground row with fitness coach Julio Tous. The Brazil-born Spain striker is also thought to be the subject of interest from China, although Conte claimed before kick-off that his omission from the squad was down to a back injury. Victory was Chelsea's 14th in 15 Premier League games and was the perfect response to their 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, while for Leicester it was the 10th defeat of a sorry title defence. Chelsea remain strong favourites to replace Claudio Ranieri's side as champions after extending their lead over second-placed Tottenham to seven points. In the opening moments Leicester gave the visitors a scare when Ahmed Musa, fresh from two FA Cup goals at Everton last week, got the better of Cesar Azpilicueta in the Chelsea penalty area. His cross-shot was parried by Thibaut Courtois in the Chelsea goal and Jamie Vardy could not bring the rebound under control. Chelsea were furious moments later when Robert Huth escaped any punishment beyond a free-kick for grappling with Willian, who appeared to be caught in the face by the German's hand. But the visitors were celebrating moments later when Alonso put them ahead. Azpilicueta's cross was miscontrolled by a sliding Pedro, but Eden Hazard helped the ricochet on to Alonso, who beat goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel with a composed finish. Despairing Schmeichel Leicester deployed wing-backs in an effort to counteract Chelsea's successful 3-4-3 system and they combined in the 18th minute when Marc Albrighton crossed from the right for Ben Chilwell to head over. Leicester struggled for the cohesion to break down a well-organised Chelsea side and the hosts resorted to a desperate long-range effort from league debutant Wilfred Ndidi, which flew well wide on 29 minutes. Nine minutes before half-time, a curling cross-shot from Vardy for Leicester forced Courtois into a scrambling save Chelsea preserved their lead comfortably to half-time and doubled it six minutes into the second half. Leicester only half-cleared a free-kick from the right and Alonso collected the loose ball, set himself and let fly with a firm shot. His effort deflected off first Wes Morgan and then Danny Drinkwater to wrong-foot Schmeichel, who got a despairing right hand to the ball but could not keep it out. Alonso tried for an unlikely hat-trick on 65 minutes when he met a right-wing cross by Victor Moses with a fantastic volley that flew a couple of inches wide of Schmeichel's goal. Leicester abandoned their experimental 3-5-2 system and reverted to their more usual back four, but their hopes of a comeback were killed off with 19 minutes remaining when Pedro added their third. The goal owed much to the Spaniard's delightful flick to release Willian and a little to good fortune after Schmeichel's save at Willian's feet only diverted the ball back onto Pedro's head. The winger made no mistake with a simple finish. (AFP)

Football: Chelsea win 3-0 against reigning Leicester City

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte shrugged off a record-wrecking 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, insisting his players must dust themselves down and restart their Premier League title quest.

Two Dele Alli headers meant Chelsea&#39;s hopes of winning a 14th consecutive Premier League game -- which would have been a record in a single campaign -- foundered at White Hart Lane.

Italian Conte, however, said the defeat was very different to the 3-0 reverse they suffered at Arsenal on Sept. 24, since when they have been unstoppable.

&quot;We are disappointed but also we must be pleased for our run as 13 wins in this league is not easy,&quot; Conte told reporters.

&quot;But this is a different defeat to the one in September because today we lost the game, but showed that we were a team.

&quot;Against Arsenal, we weren&#39;t a team, today we were.&quot;

Chelsea could have gone eight points clear at the top with a first victory at White Hart Lane since 2012 and while five points is still a healthy margin over nearest rivals Liverpool, Conte insists the title race is now wide open.

Tottenham moved up to third, seven points behind, ahead of Manchester City on goal difference while Arsenal are a point further adrift and Manchester United two further back.

&quot;Today we lost against a good team, a really strong team and don&#39;t forget Tottenham fought last season for the title,&quot; Conte said. &quot;They are improving, and they are one of the six teams that can fight to win the title.

&quot;We are top of the table because we are working a lot, but for sure this league is very tough and we must continue to work and improve. A defeat can happen against Tottenham, now it&#39;s important to restart.&quot;

Conte&#39;s side had boasted the meanest defence in the league until Wednesday&#39;s defeat so the nature of both Tottenham&#39;s goals -- carbon-copy crosses and headers -- was a surprise.

Tottenham have now conceded the least goals -- 14 in 20 games.

&quot;It is strange for us to concede these goals because we are defending well, and they are in a crucial moment,&quot; he said.

&quot;At the end of the first half and then in the second half after we miss the chances to score, but this can happen.

&quot;My priority is to win again. The training doesn&#39;t change if you win or you lose. We have to continue to work.&quot;

(Reuters)

Chelsea lost 2-0 to Tottenham, but are still top of the league

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte shrugged off a record-wrecking 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, insisting his players must dust themselves down and restart their Premier League title quest. Two Dele Alli headers meant Chelsea's hopes of winning a 14th consecutive Premier League game -- which would have been a record in a single campaign -- foundered at White Hart Lane. Italian Conte, however, said the defeat was very different to the 3-0 reverse they suffered at Arsenal on Sept. 24, since when they have been unstoppable. "We are disappointed but also we must be pleased for our run as 13 wins in this league is not easy," Conte told reporters. "But this is a different defeat to the one in September because today we lost the game, but showed that we were a team. "Against Arsenal, we weren't a team, today we were." Chelsea could have gone eight points clear at the top with a first victory at White Hart Lane since 2012 and while five points is still a healthy margin over nearest rivals Liverpool, Conte insists the title race is now wide open. Tottenham moved up to third, seven points behind, ahead of Manchester City on goal difference while Arsenal are a point further adrift and Manchester United two further back. "Today we lost against a good team, a really strong team and don't forget Tottenham fought last season for the title," Conte said. "They are improving, and they are one of the six teams that can fight to win the title. "We are top of the table because we are working a lot, but for sure this league is very tough and we must continue to work and improve. A defeat can happen against Tottenham, now it's important to restart." Conte's side had boasted the meanest defence in the league until Wednesday's defeat so the nature of both Tottenham's goals -- carbon-copy crosses and headers -- was a surprise. Tottenham have now conceded the least goals -- 14 in 20 games. "It is strange for us to concede these goals because we are defending well, and they are in a crucial moment," he said. "At the end of the first half and then in the second half after we miss the chances to score, but this can happen. "My priority is to win again. The training doesn't change if you win or you lose. We have to continue to work." (Reuters)

Premier League: Restart title quest, Conte tells players after loss

Jurgen Klopp, the manager who has brightened the Premier League with his quick wit and off-beat remarks, displayed his dark side after Liverpool dropped two precious points at Sunderland.&nbsp;

The 2-2 draw against a team struggling in the relegation zone was undoubtedly a setback for Liverpool because teams with title aspirations win at places like the Stadium of Light, as leaders Chelsea did just a fortnight ago.&nbsp;

But goals from Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mane proved insufficient as Liverpool twice squandered leads by conceding two penalties, converted with his customary coolness by Jermain Defoe.&nbsp;

Klopp did not like what he witnessed and did not hide his emotions.&nbsp;

&quot;Sorry about my mood,&quot; he said at the end of his assessment of Monday&#39;s draw, which left Liverpool second, five points behind leaders Chelsea.&nbsp;

While criticism of referees is normally the first port of call for managers seeking excuses for disappointing results such as this, Klopp has rarely taken that easy route.&nbsp;

This time though he blamed Anthony Taylor for awarding the free-kick that was handled by Mane to give Sunderland their second penalty and he confronted the referee on the pitch afterwards.

&quot;It is hard to accept. If you see it again, there was no contact,&quot; the normally affable German said. &quot;I saw it in the game and the fourth official saw it.&nbsp;

&quot;It&rsquo;s not the worst mistake in the world and I don&#39;t want to say it is, but it&#39;s hard.&quot;&nbsp;

Such comments are unlike Klopp and suggest he may be feeling some of the pressure involved in chasing a team with Chelsea&#39;s recent impeccable record.&nbsp;

A more valid excuse would have been the fixture list that left Liverpool facing three games in seven days while Chelsea&#39;s three come in the space of 10 days.&nbsp;

However, Klopp said: &quot;I am the wrong person to ask. I have absolutely no influence on the fixtures. It is like it is and somebody decided like this, so there is nothing to say about this.&quot;

Point pleases Moyes

Liverpool did not look weary for the opening 25 minutes as they took the lead and could have added further goals before the first equaliser.&nbsp;

But Klopp&#39;s team appeared off the pace after the interval and failed to hang on to the lead given to them by Mane.&nbsp;

The manager said: &quot;I thought we started really well and then we lost concentration, which is not usual for us, but has happened before.&nbsp;

&quot;It could be because of the fixtures, I&rsquo;m not sure. Usually I would say we could have done better, but I am not sure if we could have done better.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&rsquo;t know exactly if we could have done better because I was not in the shooting boots.&quot;

The mood of Sunderland manager David Moyes was very different, although this point did not lift them out of the bottom three. &nbsp;

&quot;I honestly thought the players raised the supporters by the way they got up to Liverpool, how they put them under pressure, how they pressed them,&quot; said Moyes.

&quot;Maybe if I was a German manager, you might praise that. If I&#39;d been German you might praise me for doing something different.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I thought we did well. We stuck at it as much as we could and tried to make it hard for them.&rdquo;

(AFP)

He did not like what he saw on the pitch, and he did not hide his emotions

Jurgen Klopp, the manager who has brightened the Premier League with his quick wit and off-beat remarks, displayed his dark side after Liverpool dropped two precious points at Sunderland. The 2-2 draw against a team struggling in the relegation zone was undoubtedly a setback for Liverpool because teams with title aspirations win at places like the Stadium of Light, as leaders Chelsea did just a fortnight ago. But goals from Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mane proved insufficient as Liverpool twice squandered leads by conceding two penalties, converted with his customary coolness by Jermain Defoe. Klopp did not like what he witnessed and did not hide his emotions. "Sorry about my mood," he said at the end of his assessment of Monday's draw, which left Liverpool second, five points behind leaders Chelsea. While criticism of referees is normally the first port of call for managers seeking excuses for disappointing results such as this, Klopp has rarely taken that easy route. This time though he blamed Anthony Taylor for awarding the free-kick that was handled by Mane to give Sunderland their second penalty and he confronted the referee on the pitch afterwards. "It is hard to accept. If you see it again, there was no contact," the normally affable German said. "I saw it in the game and the fourth official saw it. "It’s not the worst mistake in the world and I don't want to say it is, but it's hard." Such comments are unlike Klopp and suggest he may be feeling some of the pressure involved in chasing a team with Chelsea's recent impeccable record. A more valid excuse would have been the fixture list that left Liverpool facing three games in seven days while Chelsea's three come in the space of 10 days. However, Klopp said: "I am the wrong person to ask. I have absolutely no influence on the fixtures. It is like it is and somebody decided like this, so there is nothing to say about this." Point pleases Moyes Liverpool did not look weary for the opening 25 minutes as they took the lead and could have added further goals before the first equaliser. But Klopp's team appeared off the pace after the interval and failed to hang on to the lead given to them by Mane. The manager said: "I thought we started really well and then we lost concentration, which is not usual for us, but has happened before. "It could be because of the fixtures, I’m not sure. Usually I would say we could have done better, but I am not sure if we could have done better. "I don’t know exactly if we could have done better because I was not in the shooting boots." The mood of Sunderland manager David Moyes was very different, although this point did not lift them out of the bottom three. "I honestly thought the players raised the supporters by the way they got up to Liverpool, how they put them under pressure, how they pressed them," said Moyes. "Maybe if I was a German manager, you might praise that. If I'd been German you might praise me for doing something different. “I thought we did well. We stuck at it as much as we could and tried to make it hard for them.” (AFP)

Premier League: Klopp displays dark side after Sunderland draw

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