Raheem&nbsp;Sterling&nbsp;scored his 100th Premier League goal as the Manchester City forward's penalty fired the leaders to a 1-0 win against 10-man Wolves on Saturday.

Sterling&nbsp;netted from the spot in the second half at the Etihad Stadium to clinch City's sixth successive league victory.

City's cause was aided by a needless first half red card for Wolves striker Raul Jimenez, who was dismissed for failing to retreat the required 10 yards before a free-kick he had been booked for conceding seconds earlier.

Sterling's landmark goal ensured City capitalised on Jimenez's blunder as they survived an average display to get back on track after the midweek Champions League defeat at Leipzig.

After struggling to get into Guardiola's starting line-up at times this season amid talk of a potential transfer,&nbsp;Sterling&nbsp;is finally showing signs of recapturing the scintillating form that made him such a dangerous force.

Pep Guardiola's side are four points clear of second placed Liverpool, who can close the gap if they beat Aston Villa at Anfield later on Saturday.

Kyle Walker was dropped to the bench after City's right-back was criticised by Guardiola following his red card at Leipzig.

Guardiola made eight changes from the Leipzig game, with Phil Foden, troubled by an ankle problem, and Kevin De Bruyne, recovered from the coronavirus, named as substitutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anthony-martial-wants-to-leave-manchester-united-in-january-transfer-window-says-agent-436059">Anthony Martial wants to leave Manchester United in January transfer window, says agent</a>

Bernardo Silva had scored six goals in his previous eight league appearances and the City playmaker was inches away from adding to that total when he bent a curler just over the bar in the opening minutes.

Joao Cancelo's lung-bursting breaks from right-back were a constant threat in the first half and he advanced again for a low strike that tested Wolves keeper Jose Sa.

<h2>Sterling&nbsp;strikes</h2>

Wolves duo Max Kilman and Ruben Neves needed lengthy treatment after a nasty clash of heads that left Kilman with blood pouring from a cut.

Jimenez, the victim of a fractured skull in a collision with David Luiz at Arsenal last season, was quick to check on his team-mates, who were both able to continue playing.

It was Jimenez who didn't make it to half-time as the Mexican saw red in needless fashion.

Booked for a tug on Rodri, Jimenez stupidly stuck out a foot to block the resulting free-kick without retreating 10 yards, earning his second yellow card 48 seconds after the first.

Jimenez ripped off his protective headband and swung it around in frustration, but he could have no complaints about his self-inflicted exit.

With the numerical advantage, City monopolised possession after the interval.

Ilkay Gundogan met Cancelo's pin-point cross with a looping header that Conor Coady nodded off the line.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ralf-rangnick-says-he-does-not-have-to-persuade-paul-pogba-to-stay-at-manchester-united-436034">Ralf Rangnick says he does not have to persuade Paul Pogba to stay at Manchester United</a>

Silva and&nbsp;Sterling&nbsp;got in each others way as they failed to finish off Oleksandr Zinchenko's cross.

City's pressure finally produced a goal in the 66th minute.

Joao Moutinho blocked Silva's cross with a raised arm and, although the ball appeared to hit the midfielder's armpit, VAR confirmed Jon Moss's decision after a check.

Sterling&nbsp;stroked the spot-kick down the middle for his fifth goal in his last eight City appearances.

Jack Grealish poked wide from close range and Jesus was denied by Sa in the closing stages.

City had done just enough but Ederson had to tip over Kilman's header before the points were secured.

Raheem Sterling scored his 100th Premier League goal as the Manchester City forward's penalty fired the leaders to a 1-0 win against 10-man Wolves on Saturday. Sterling netted from the spot in the second half at the Etihad Stadium to clinch City's sixth successive league victory.

Raheem Sterling scored his 100th Premier League goal as the Manchester City forward's penalty fired the leaders to a 1-0 win against 10-man Wolves on Saturday. Sterling netted from the spot in the second half at the Etihad Stadium to clinch City's sixth successive league victory. City's cause was aided by a needless first half red card for Wolves striker Raul Jimenez, who was dismissed for failing to retreat the required 10 yards before a free-kick he had been booked for conceding seconds earlier. Sterling's landmark goal ensured City capitalised on Jimenez's blunder as they survived an average display to get back on track after the midweek Champions League defeat at Leipzig. After struggling to get into Guardiola's starting line-up at times this season amid talk of a potential transfer, Sterling is finally showing signs of recapturing the scintillating form that made him such a dangerous force. Pep Guardiola's side are four points clear of second placed Liverpool, who can close the gap if they beat Aston Villa at Anfield later on Saturday. Kyle Walker was dropped to the bench after City's right-back was criticised by Guardiola following his red card at Leipzig. Guardiola made eight changes from the Leipzig game, with Phil Foden, troubled by an ankle problem, and Kevin De Bruyne, recovered from the coronavirus, named as substitutes. ALSO READ: Anthony Martial wants to leave Manchester United in January transfer window, says agent Bernardo Silva had scored six goals in his previous eight league appearances and the City playmaker was inches away from adding to that total when he bent a curler just over the bar in the opening minutes. Joao Cancelo's lung-bursting breaks from right-back were a constant threat in the first half and he advanced again for a low strike that tested Wolves keeper Jose Sa. Sterling strikes Wolves duo Max Kilman and Ruben Neves needed lengthy treatment after a nasty clash of heads that left Kilman with blood pouring from a cut. Jimenez, the victim of a fractured skull in a collision with David Luiz at Arsenal last season, was quick to check on his team-mates, who were both able to continue playing. It was Jimenez who didn't make it to half-time as the Mexican saw red in needless fashion. Booked for a tug on Rodri, Jimenez stupidly stuck out a foot to block the resulting free-kick without retreating 10 yards, earning his second yellow card 48 seconds after the first. Jimenez ripped off his protective headband and swung it around in frustration, but he could have no complaints about his self-inflicted exit. With the numerical advantage, City monopolised possession after the interval. Ilkay Gundogan met Cancelo's pin-point cross with a looping header that Conor Coady nodded off the line. ALSO READ: Ralf Rangnick says he does not have to persuade Paul Pogba to stay at Manchester United Silva and Sterling got in each others way as they failed to finish off Oleksandr Zinchenko's cross. City's pressure finally produced a goal in the 66th minute. Joao Moutinho blocked Silva's cross with a raised arm and, although the ball appeared to hit the midfielder's armpit, VAR confirmed Jon Moss's decision after a check. Sterling stroked the spot-kick down the middle for his fifth goal in his last eight City appearances. Jack Grealish poked wide from close range and Jesus was denied by Sa in the closing stages. City had done just enough but Ederson had to tip over Kilman's header before the points were secured.

Premier League: Raheem Sterling scores 100th Premier League goal as Manchester City beat Wolves

Japan is famous for its quirky solutions to all problems. Now, a town in Japan has put robot wolves to work. No kidding, the wolves have been deployed in various places to scare off bears. In the countryside, bears have become a dangerous nuisance for people.

Situated on the northern island of Hokkaido, the town of Takikawa recently bought a pair of robots and installed them at hotspots after noticing bears in the streets. The wild animals that are dangerous to humans were seen roaming through neighbourhoods in September. Officials in the city noted that no encounters have been reported since then.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/climate-change-could-wipe-out-polar-bears-by-2100-report-314956" hreflang="en">Climate change could wipe out polar bears by 2100: Report</a>

In Japan, bear sightings are currently at a five-year high, mostly in rural areas of north and west Japan, as national broadcaster NHK had reported.

Bears have been involved in over a dozen attacks on human, two of which were fatal. This triggered the government to step-up efforts to tackle the attacks.

The government convened an emergency meeting last month to address the threat of bears.

The&nbsp; 'Monster Wolf' robot consists of a body-like shaggy on four legs, a blond mane and glowing-red eyes.&nbsp;

Once its motion detectors are activated, it moves its head, flashes different lights, and emits 60 different types of sounds that resemble wolfish howling. Since 2018, machinery maker Ohta Seiki has sold about 70 units of the robot.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/climate-change-and-human-encroachment-increasing-cannibalism-among-polar-bears-283061" hreflang="en">Climate change and human encroachment increasing cannibalism among polar bears</a>

The robot is based on Japanese wolves that roamed central and northern islands of Japan before they were hunted to extinction more than a century ago.

According to Takikawa city officials, bears become more active and dangerous while searching for food before they go into hibernation in late November.

Japan is famous for its quirky solutions to all problems. Now, a town in Japan has put robot wolves to work. No kidding, the wolves have been deployed in various places to scare off bears.

Japan is famous for its quirky solutions to all problems. Now, a town in Japan has put robot wolves to work. No kidding, the wolves have been deployed in various places to scare off bears. In the countryside, bears have become a dangerous nuisance for people. Situated on the northern island of Hokkaido, the town of Takikawa recently bought a pair of robots and installed them at hotspots after noticing bears in the streets. The wild animals that are dangerous to humans were seen roaming through neighbourhoods in September. Officials in the city noted that no encounters have been reported since then. Also read: Climate change could wipe out polar bears by 2100: Report In Japan, bear sightings are currently at a five-year high, mostly in rural areas of north and west Japan, as national broadcaster NHK had reported. Bears have been involved in over a dozen attacks on human, two of which were fatal. This triggered the government to step-up efforts to tackle the attacks. The government convened an emergency meeting last month to address the threat of bears. The 'Monster Wolf' robot consists of a body-like shaggy on four legs, a blond mane and glowing-red eyes. Once its motion detectors are activated, it moves its head, flashes different lights, and emits 60 different types of sounds that resemble wolfish howling. Since 2018, machinery maker Ohta Seiki has sold about 70 units of the robot. Also read: Climate change and human encroachment increasing cannibalism among polar bears The robot is based on Japanese wolves that roamed central and northern islands of Japan before they were hunted to extinction more than a century ago. According to Takikawa city officials, bears become more active and dangerous while searching for food before they go into hibernation in late November.

Japan: Town deploys 'Monster Wolf' robots to scare off wild bears

Teenage defender Rayan Ait-Nouri marked his Wolves debut with a goal as the Midlands club beat Crystal Palace 2-0 at Molineux on Friday to move up into third place in the Premier League.

Victory put Wolves level on points with the leading Merseyside duo of Everton and reigning champions Liverpool ahead of the bulk of this weekend's fixtures.

France Under-21 left-back Ait-Nouri joined Wolves on a season-long loan&nbsp;-- with an option to buy -- from Ligue 1 Angers this month.

It took him just 18 minutes to open the scoring with a first-time shot.

Portuguese winger Daniel Podence doubled Wolves' lead nine minutes later, when he turned in Pedro Neto's cross from close range.

"For Rayan Ait-Nouri I am really pleased because it is the first game and what a better start can he have?" Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo told the BBC.

"He is 19 with a lot of things to improve. He has to get so many things on board and that's the work."

Wolves almost had a third goal before half-time as Nelson Semedo and Leander Dendoncker went close with long-range efforts.

"I think we were good but we should play better," added Nuno.&nbsp;

"We started well. We had a good team in front of us. At the end of the first half we slowed down our pressure and Palace had chances."

Meanwhile, Nuno said being deprived of their passionate fans, with spectators barred from grounds because of British government Covid-19 protocols, made home games tough for Wolves.

"It's all about the performance, the table is not important," he insisted.

"The work is important. Playing without fans requires a lot of focus, we haven't the edge of Molineux."

VAR denied Palace a penalty when Palace's Patrick van Aanholt was found to be offside, before being fouled by Willy Boly.

Palace's defeat was made worse when when Luka Milivojevic was sent off late on following a VAR review of his challenge on Wolves substitute Joao Moutinho.

Defeat left the south London side ninth in the table, with Palace manager Roy Hodgson unconvinced by Milivojevic's dismissal.

"I'm not disappointed with how the players played for most of the game," said Hodgson. "But I'm disappointed with that opening 20-minute spell."

The former England manager added: "I spoke to the referee about the red card. I made my views clear. I don't think it was a red card. It was a fair challenge."

Teenage defender Rayan Ait-Nouri marked his Wolves debut with a goal as the Midlands club beat Crystal Palace 2-0 at Molineux on Friday to move up into third place in the Premier League.

Teenage defender Rayan Ait-Nouri marked his Wolves debut with a goal as the Midlands club beat Crystal Palace 2-0 at Molineux on Friday to move up into third place in the Premier League. Victory put Wolves level on points with the leading Merseyside duo of Everton and reigning champions Liverpool ahead of the bulk of this weekend's fixtures. France Under-21 left-back Ait-Nouri joined Wolves on a season-long loan -- with an option to buy -- from Ligue 1 Angers this month. It took him just 18 minutes to open the scoring with a first-time shot. Portuguese winger Daniel Podence doubled Wolves' lead nine minutes later, when he turned in Pedro Neto's cross from close range. "For Rayan Ait-Nouri I am really pleased because it is the first game and what a better start can he have?" Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo told the BBC. "He is 19 with a lot of things to improve. He has to get so many things on board and that's the work." Wolves almost had a third goal before half-time as Nelson Semedo and Leander Dendoncker went close with long-range efforts. "I think we were good but we should play better," added Nuno. "We started well. We had a good team in front of us. At the end of the first half we slowed down our pressure and Palace had chances." Meanwhile, Nuno said being deprived of their passionate fans, with spectators barred from grounds because of British government Covid-19 protocols, made home games tough for Wolves. "It's all about the performance, the table is not important," he insisted. "The work is important. Playing without fans requires a lot of focus, we haven't the edge of Molineux." VAR denied Palace a penalty when Palace's Patrick van Aanholt was found to be offside, before being fouled by Willy Boly. Palace's defeat was made worse when when Luka Milivojevic was sent off late on following a VAR review of his challenge on Wolves substitute Joao Moutinho. Defeat left the south London side ninth in the table, with Palace manager Roy Hodgson unconvinced by Milivojevic's dismissal. "I'm not disappointed with how the players played for most of the game," said Hodgson. "But I'm disappointed with that opening 20-minute spell." The former England manager added: "I spoke to the referee about the red card. I made my views clear. I don't think it was a red card. It was a fair challenge."

Ait-Nouri scores on debut as Wolves go third

Gray wolves, one of the first animals shielded by the Endangered Species Act after Americans all but exterminated them in the lower 48 states, will no longer receive federal protection, officials announced Thursday.

“After more than 45 years as a listed species, the gray wolf has exceeded all conservation goals for recovery,” Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said in a statement.

Environmentalists condemned the decision as dangerously premature and vowed to take the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service back to court, where they have successfully blocked previous attempts to strip wolves of federal protections. “Wolves just occupy a fraction of their former range,” said Jamie Rappaport Clark, president and chief executive of Defenders of Wildlife, an environmental group. “There’s so much work that needs to be done.”

The new rule will officially publish Tuesday and become effective 60 days after that. Then, states and tribes will assume control of the nation’s wolves, except for a subspecies called the Mexican wolf that remains under federal protection.

Thursday’s decision came despite significant concerns raised by scientists who performed the independent review that is required before the Fish and Wildlife Service can delist a species. Four of the five researchers charged with reviewing the proposal raised substantive concerns.

“I thought it was critically flawed,” said Carlos Carroll, an independent biologist with the Klamath Center for Conservation Research who said the Fish and Wildlife Service proposal, which is based on the consensus that wolves now face a low risk of extinction, ignored the importance of genetic variation in species.

That variation will be critical to allowing the animals to adapt to future threats like climate change, Carroll said, and is essential for their long-term survival.

Another reviewer, Adrian Treves, a professor of environmental studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, said he was troubled that the Fish and Wildlife Service seemed to disregard his concerns that the proposal did not accurately estimate how many wolves would be killed by people.

“I predict that the consequence of the inaccurate risk assessment is that gray wolves are not secure in the Western Great Lakes,” he wrote last month in a follow-up memo to the federal Office of Management and Budget, “and the federal government will have to re-list them again, either by federal court mandate or after another wolf population crash.”

Gray wolves, one of the first animals shielded by the Endangered Species Act after Americans all but exterminated them in the lower 48 states, will no longer receive federal protection, officials announced Thursday.

Gray wolves, one of the first animals shielded by the Endangered Species Act after Americans all but exterminated them in the lower 48 states, will no longer receive federal protection, officials announced Thursday. “After more than 45 years as a listed species, the gray wolf has exceeded all conservation goals for recovery,” Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said in a statement. Environmentalists condemned the decision as dangerously premature and vowed to take the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service back to court, where they have successfully blocked previous attempts to strip wolves of federal protections. “Wolves just occupy a fraction of their former range,” said Jamie Rappaport Clark, president and chief executive of Defenders of Wildlife, an environmental group. “There’s so much work that needs to be done.” The new rule will officially publish Tuesday and become effective 60 days after that. Then, states and tribes will assume control of the nation’s wolves, except for a subspecies called the Mexican wolf that remains under federal protection. Thursday’s decision came despite significant concerns raised by scientists who performed the independent review that is required before the Fish and Wildlife Service can delist a species. Four of the five researchers charged with reviewing the proposal raised substantive concerns. “I thought it was critically flawed,” said Carlos Carroll, an independent biologist with the Klamath Center for Conservation Research who said the Fish and Wildlife Service proposal, which is based on the consensus that wolves now face a low risk of extinction, ignored the importance of genetic variation in species. That variation will be critical to allowing the animals to adapt to future threats like climate change, Carroll said, and is essential for their long-term survival. Another reviewer, Adrian Treves, a professor of environmental studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, said he was troubled that the Fish and Wildlife Service seemed to disregard his concerns that the proposal did not accurately estimate how many wolves would be killed by people. “I predict that the consequence of the inaccurate risk assessment is that gray wolves are not secure in the Western Great Lakes,” he wrote last month in a follow-up memo to the federal Office of Management and Budget, “and the federal government will have to re-list them again, either by federal court mandate or after another wolf population crash.”

US to remove wolves from protected species list

Switzerland voters are set to decide on whether to make it easier to shoot the predators in a highly contested referendum that has farmers and wolf advocates baring their teeth.

Switzerland to hold key vote on future of wolves

Man City boss Pep Guardiola after Monday's opening Premier League win against Wolves said that his squad was stretched to the limit as the club prepare to launch their League Cup defence.

Man City boss Pep Guardiola after Monday's opening Premier League win against Wolves said that his squad was stretched to the limit as the club prepare to launch their League Cup defence. Also read: Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan tests positive for COVID-19 Manchester City on Monday claimed an easy victory against Wolves at Molineux after Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus struck in their Premier League opener. Also read: Premier League: Liverpool's Mane sinks 10-man Chelsea, Son hits four in Spurs rout The team has seen many setbacks before the Premier League match after three of its players including Gundogan have tested positive for coronavirus. They played the match without Joao Cancelo, Bernardo Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Sergio Aguero, Aymeric Laporte and Eric Garcia. Man City, who have won the League Cup for the past three seasons, will start the defence of their trophy against Bournemouth on Thursday and Guardiola knows they cannot afford to lose more players. "All we want is the seven players that are out to come back," he said. "Now we have a competition that we cannot spend the energy that we spent today, before Leicester (on Sunday), so we're going to play mostly academy players and try to keep the energy for the Premier League. "With this lack of preparation and seven players out and not coming back soon, we have to keep the players from Monday as safe as possible. "We will see how many are available, how they recover. We have just three days. We won the Carabao (League) Cup three times in a row and we would like to continue but we don't have the players in this period to play every three days." (Inputs from AFP)

Premier League: After win against Wolves, Guardiola says Man City squad is stretched to its limit

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal.

The deal will include Dutch defender Ki-Jana Hoever who will move to Wolves for £10 million (with add-ons).

Jota left Wolves before a Carabao Cup fixture against Stoke City on Thursday. He was an unused substitute at the weekend in the 2-0 win at Sheffield United. Whereas, the 18-year-old Ki-Jana has played four times for Jurgen Klopp's side, can play right wing-back, right-back and centre-back.

The defender joined the Reds from Ajax in 2018, and last year, Ki-Jaana signed a new long-term contract at Anfield.

The deal with Wolves for Ki-Jaana is yet to be finalised between the two clubs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million).

Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal. The deal will include Dutch defender Ki-Jana Hoever who will move to Wolves for £10 million (with add-ons). Jota left Wolves before a Carabao Cup fixture against Stoke City on Thursday. He was an unused substitute at the weekend in the 2-0 win at Sheffield United. Whereas, the 18-year-old Ki-Jana has played four times for Jurgen Klopp's side, can play right wing-back, right-back and centre-back. The defender joined the Reds from Ajax in 2018, and last year, Ki-Jaana signed a new long-term contract at Anfield. The deal with Wolves for Ki-Jaana is yet to be finalised between the two clubs. Earlier, Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million). Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup.

Premier League: Liverpool agree $58 million deal for Wolves forward Diogo Jota

Wolves moved closer to a place in the Europa League with a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, while Sheffield United's own European hopes were dashed by a 1-0 defeat against Everton on Monday.

At the other end of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> table, Brighton guaranteed their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> survival with a 0-0 draw against Newcastle.

Wolves, now unbeaten in three games, opened the scoring four minutes before half-time at Molineux.

Andros Townsend lost possession and Joao Moutinho found Matt Doherty, who crossed for Portuguese midfielder Daniel Podence to head his first goal for Wolves.

Jonny condemned Palace to a seventh successive defeat in the 68th minute, turning to fire home from close-range after Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez carved open the Palace defence.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side climbed to sixth place, one point above Tottenham, and will be certain to qualify for the Europa League if they win at Chelsea in their last game of the season on Sunday.

They would also qualify if Tottenham lose at Palace in their final match.

"The idea of improvement and the building process makes sense and today we achieved two more points than last season with one game to go," Nuno said.

"Sunday's game is very difficult but let's prepare well and compete."

At Bramall Lane, Sheffield United were handed a second successive defeat, ending their bid to cap a superb first season back in the top-flight by earning a European berth.

Carlo Ancelotti's team won it in the 46th minute when Brazil forward Richarlison met Gylfi Sigurdsson's free-kick with a glancing header for his 15th goal of the season.

Chris Wilder's eighth placed side are five points behind Wolves and four points adrift of Tottenham with one game left.

"I'm disappointed for the players today. But what you try and do in a season is get your club to overachieve and we have ridiculously overachieved," Wilder said.

"Top six should never have been in the equation from the minute we set foot into the division. There are a lot of clubs that would swap places with us."

The teams who finish fifth and sixth are certain to reach next season's Europa League.

If the FA Cup winners finish in the top six, then seventh place would also qualify for the Europa League.

Arsenal, who face third-placed Chelsea in the FA Cup final, are currently 10th, meaning Tottenham are in danger of a first season without Europe competition since 2009-10.

<h2>- Brighton avoid the drop -</h2>

At the Amex Stadium, Brighton got the point they needed to be mathematically certain of avoiding relegation.

Graham Potter's side were already virtually certain to stay up before the match because their goal difference is far superior to third-from-bottom Aston Villa -- the only team in the relegation zone who could have caught them.

Brighton have won just two of their last 17 league games, but ending a run of three successive home defeats moved them seven points clear of the bottom three, with Villa having just two games left.

"At this stage of the season we can talk about performances but it's about getting the points you need," Potter said.

"It's been a unique season in what we've had to deal with. It's been a challenge.&nbsp;

"We've come through. Job done. I'm very proud to be in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> next season."

Injury-hit Newcastle's frailties at the back were on display when Emil Krafth failed to clear properly and then slipped over in his own area.&nbsp;

Neal Maupay stole possession but let Newcastle off the hook with a wayward finish before Leandro Trossard brought a good save from Martin Dubravka.

Miguel Almiron forced a smart stop from Brighton keeper Mat Ryan before Newcastle substitute Andy Carroll headed wide from close-range.

Wolves moved closer to a place in the Europa League with a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, while Sheffield United's own European hopes were dashed by a 1-0 defeat against Everton on Monday.

Wolves moved closer to a place in the Europa League with a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, while Sheffield United's own European hopes were dashed by a 1-0 defeat against Everton on Monday. At the other end of the Premier League table, Brighton guaranteed their Premier League survival with a 0-0 draw against Newcastle. Wolves, now unbeaten in three games, opened the scoring four minutes before half-time at Molineux. Andros Townsend lost possession and Joao Moutinho found Matt Doherty, who crossed for Portuguese midfielder Daniel Podence to head his first goal for Wolves. Jonny condemned Palace to a seventh successive defeat in the 68th minute, turning to fire home from close-range after Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez carved open the Palace defence. Nuno Espirito Santo's side climbed to sixth place, one point above Tottenham, and will be certain to qualify for the Europa League if they win at Chelsea in their last game of the season on Sunday. They would also qualify if Tottenham lose at Palace in their final match. "The idea of improvement and the building process makes sense and today we achieved two more points than last season with one game to go," Nuno said. "Sunday's game is very difficult but let's prepare well and compete." At Bramall Lane, Sheffield United were handed a second successive defeat, ending their bid to cap a superb first season back in the top-flight by earning a European berth. Carlo Ancelotti's team won it in the 46th minute when Brazil forward Richarlison met Gylfi Sigurdsson's free-kick with a glancing header for his 15th goal of the season. Chris Wilder's eighth placed side are five points behind Wolves and four points adrift of Tottenham with one game left. "I'm disappointed for the players today. But what you try and do in a season is get your club to overachieve and we have ridiculously overachieved," Wilder said. "Top six should never have been in the equation from the minute we set foot into the division. There are a lot of clubs that would swap places with us." The teams who finish fifth and sixth are certain to reach next season's Europa League. If the FA Cup winners finish in the top six, then seventh place would also qualify for the Europa League. Arsenal, who face third-placed Chelsea in the FA Cup final, are currently 10th, meaning Tottenham are in danger of a first season without Europe competition since 2009-10. - Brighton avoid the drop - At the Amex Stadium, Brighton got the point they needed to be mathematically certain of avoiding relegation. Graham Potter's side were already virtually certain to stay up before the match because their goal difference is far superior to third-from-bottom Aston Villa -- the only team in the relegation zone who could have caught them. Brighton have won just two of their last 17 league games, but ending a run of three successive home defeats moved them seven points clear of the bottom three, with Villa having just two games left. "At this stage of the season we can talk about performances but it's about getting the points you need," Potter said. "It's been a unique season in what we've had to deal with. It's been a challenge. "We've come through. Job done. I'm very proud to be in the Premier League next season." Injury-hit Newcastle's frailties at the back were on display when Emil Krafth failed to clear properly and then slipped over in his own area. Neal Maupay stole possession but let Newcastle off the hook with a wayward finish before Leandro Trossard brought a good save from Martin Dubravka. Miguel Almiron forced a smart stop from Brighton keeper Mat Ryan before Newcastle substitute Andy Carroll headed wide from close-range.

Wolves bolster Europa League bid, Blades blunted by Everton

Canada’s famous “grey ghosts”, or as how the most world knows them - caribou may disappear forever in the foreseeable future.&nbsp;The caribou is famous for sturdily navigating across the snow, and taking charge of cold forests. However, their population has declined tremendously over the last few years.

There are many factors in play for this potential extinction, the biggest being wolves. Yes, wolves attack the caribou and may have been responsible for a mass murder of the species. The government took this seriously. In 2015, British Columbia went as far as putting bounties on wolves. This, in turn, led to the murder of over thousand wolves.

New information pours in

New facts have emerged, after a study conducted by the University of Alberta, which claims that this purge of predatory wolves has done little to change the ground reality.&nbsp;The mountain caribou has roamed snowy territories for years, but has recently been marred with declining populations.

<h6><img alt="A stuffed caribou which bells, part of its seduction ritual, is on display at the Palais de la Decouverte (scientific museum) in Paris on October 23, 2012 as part of the exhibition &quot;Betes de sexe&quot; (Sexual beasts) dedicated to the sexual life of animals. The event runs from October 23 to August 25, 2013" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="822c6c32-bc89-4b64-a8c6-c5abac8bd636" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_26.jpg" /> 
A stuffed caribou which bells, part of its seduction ritual, is on display at the Palais de la Decouverte (scientific museum) in Paris on October 23, 2012 as part of the exhibition "Betes de sexe" (Sexual beasts) dedicated to the sexual life of animals. The event runs from October 23 to August 25, 2013 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

According to scientists, this may be blamed on the loss of habitat, which could have been&nbsp;a product of human activity, along with of course, predatory wolves. Additionally, when humans navigate through snow, they leave behind trails of ski vehicles, which may set off a path for the wolves to follow.

Only 46,000 mountain caribou remain in the forest now, with no more sightings being reported in the United States. The animal can only be found in Canada. In the central and southern regions, the animal has been declared endangered.

Killing wolves not enough

A study from 2019 believes this can be reversed by a mass purge of wolves, and by creating fencing around pregnant caribous to prevent them from getting killed. Following this, the Canadian government has killed 460 wolves in the last year.

You might also like:&nbsp;<a href="/world/at-least-60-of-infectious-75-of-emerging-diseases-originate-from-animals-says-study-293767" hreflang="en">At least 60% of infectious, 75% of 'emerging' diseases originate from animals, says study</a>

However, new research claims that this simply isn’t enough. Published recently in the journal Biology and Conservation, it claims that there is no proof any culling or protective measures will work. It also found that caribous are being preyed on not by wolves, but by bears, cougars, and wolverines.

In fact, researches found that habitat degradation, including mass cutting of logs is a major contributing factor. When old trees are cut down, a source of food is lost for the caribous, which also serve as a shelter for the same. And this is an imperative detail because the major food of caribous, the “lichen”, requires trees to mature for more than 80 years, which is being disrupted by loggers.

Ironically, the government had permitted logging of over 900 square kilometres of land listed as a critical caribou habitat.

Canada’s famous “grey ghosts”, or as how the most world knows them - caribou may disappear forever in the foreseeable future. The caribou is famous for sturdily navigating across the snow, and taking charge of cold forests.

Canada’s famous “grey ghosts”, or as how the most world knows them - caribou may disappear forever in the foreseeable future. The caribou is famous for sturdily navigating across the snow, and taking charge of cold forests. However, their population has declined tremendously over the last few years. There are many factors in play for this potential extinction, the biggest being wolves. Yes, wolves attack the caribou and may have been responsible for a mass murder of the species. The government took this seriously. In 2015, British Columbia went as far as putting bounties on wolves. This, in turn, led to the murder of over thousand wolves. New information pours in New facts have emerged, after a study conducted by the University of Alberta, which claims that this purge of predatory wolves has done little to change the ground reality. The mountain caribou has roamed snowy territories for years, but has recently been marred with declining populations. A stuffed caribou which bells, part of its seduction ritual, is on display at the Palais de la Decouverte (scientific museum) in Paris on October 23, 2012 as part of the exhibition "Betes de sexe" (Sexual beasts) dedicated to the sexual life of animals. The event runs from October 23 to August 25, 2013 | AFP According to scientists, this may be blamed on the loss of habitat, which could have been a product of human activity, along with of course, predatory wolves. Additionally, when humans navigate through snow, they leave behind trails of ski vehicles, which may set off a path for the wolves to follow. Only 46,000 mountain caribou remain in the forest now, with no more sightings being reported in the United States. The animal can only be found in Canada. In the central and southern regions, the animal has been declared endangered. Killing wolves not enough A study from 2019 believes this can be reversed by a mass purge of wolves, and by creating fencing around pregnant caribous to prevent them from getting killed. Following this, the Canadian government has killed 460 wolves in the last year. You might also like: At least 60% of infectious, 75% of 'emerging' diseases originate from animals, says study However, new research claims that this simply isn’t enough. Published recently in the journal Biology and Conservation, it claims that there is no proof any culling or protective measures will work. It also found that caribous are being preyed on not by wolves, but by bears, cougars, and wolverines. In fact, researches found that habitat degradation, including mass cutting of logs is a major contributing factor. When old trees are cut down, a source of food is lost for the caribous, which also serve as a shelter for the same. And this is an imperative detail because the major food of caribous, the “lichen”, requires trees to mature for more than 80 years, which is being disrupted by loggers. Ironically, the government had permitted logging of over 900 square kilometres of land listed as a critical caribou habitat.

'Grey ghost' caribous may disappear forever, courtesy predatory wolves and human logging

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-rashford-sidelined-uniteds-solskjaer-eyes-signings-275370">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side</a> were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-hit-new-low-after-getting-defeated-by-burnley-276109">Premier League</a>. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Wolves </a>are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaers-man-utd-scrap-plans-to-set-training-camps-in-middle-east-amidst-high-tensions-274342">United </a>now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break.

<img alt="Premier League" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d18eba49-377a-4a06-b4d0-0db46f885320" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T125348.422.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"Bruno is a top player," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hard-night-ahead-for-manchester-united-solskjaer-271952">Solskjaer</a>. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola</a>

The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target.

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said. 
&nbsp;

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while Wolves are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth. United now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break. [ Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "Bruno is a top player," said Solskjaer. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal. Also Read: FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target. Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said.

Manchester United held by Wolves on Fernandes debut

Manchester City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-to-earn-new-contract-pep-guardiola-269437">Pep&nbsp;Guardiola</a>&nbsp;has written to the&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;to "thank" them for a demanding schedule over the&nbsp;festive&nbsp;period with two matches in less than 48 hours.

Champions City, who trail&nbsp;league&nbsp;leaders Liverpool by 11 points, visit Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday before hosting Sheffield United on Sunday and&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;said it left his players with little recovery time.

"I wrote to the&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;to say thank you and we're going to the fridge after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-wolves-beat-villa-to-move-into-top-eight-261293">Wolves</a> to get ready for Sheffield United," a sarcastic&nbsp;Guardiola, whose side defeated second-placed Leicester City 3-1 on Saturday, told reporters.

"Tomorrow (Sunday) is a day off, we're training on the 23rd and 24th. The night of the 24th is off, the morning of the 25th off. Then 26th training and then 27th is Nuno's team."

Guardiola&nbsp;said it was "unrealistic" for his team to retain their&nbsp;league&nbsp;title from their current position, but added that they would not stop chasing unbeaten <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Liverpool</a>.

City have 38 points from 18 games having played one match more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Juergen Klopp's</a> side, who won the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Club World Cup</a> in Doha on Saturday.

"When a team has 16 (league) victories from 17, it's unrealistic to think we're going to chase them," he added.

"It's unrealistic right now. We have to try to win our games, secure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-masterstroke-pays-off-as-tottenham-spurs-hit-back-to-win-264816">Champions&nbsp;League</a>&nbsp;for next&nbsp;season&nbsp;and then you never know."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has written to the Premier League to "thank" them for a demanding schedule over the festive period with two matches in less than 48 hours.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has written to the Premier League to "thank" them for a demanding schedule over the festive period with two matches in less than 48 hours. Champions City, who trail league leaders Liverpool by 11 points, visit Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday before hosting Sheffield United on Sunday and Guardiola said it left his players with little recovery time. "I wrote to the Premier League to say thank you and we're going to the fridge after Wolves to get ready for Sheffield United," a sarcastic Guardiola, whose side defeated second-placed Leicester City 3-1 on Saturday, told reporters. "Tomorrow (Sunday) is a day off, we're training on the 23rd and 24th. The night of the 24th is off, the morning of the 25th off. Then 26th training and then 27th is Nuno's team." Guardiola said it was "unrealistic" for his team to retain their league title from their current position, but added that they would not stop chasing unbeaten Liverpool. City have 38 points from 18 games having played one match more than Juergen Klopp's side, who won the Club World Cup in Doha on Saturday. "When a team has 16 (league) victories from 17, it's unrealistic to think we're going to chase them," he added. "It's unrealistic right now. We have to try to win our games, secure Champions League for next season and then you never know."

Guardiola takes dig at Premier League, says 'thank you' for busy festive season

Manchester United were held 1-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers and missed out on taking top spot in the Premier League on Monday as a sumptuous Ruben Neves strike cancelled out Anthony Martial's first-half goal and Paul Pogba missed a late penalty.

After a 4-0 home win over Chelsea on the opening day, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team dominated the early exchanges and led after 27 minutes when Marcus Rashford slipped the ball in for Martial to score his 50th goal for the club in all competitions.

But Wolves, who beat the visitors in the league and FA Cup at Molineux last season, were transformed in the second half, rejuvenated by substitute Adama Traore on the wing.

In the 55th minute, a clever corner routine left Portuguese midfielder Neves free outside the area from where he hit a delightful curling strike over keeper David de Gea that went in off the underside of the bar, ramping up the raucous atmosphere.

The goal was confirmed after a VAR review into whether Joao Moutinho was offside when he received the ball back following a the short corner routine.

"It was fantastic," Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo said of Neves' strike. "In the first half we struggled so much, but it all changed in the second... I am proud of all the performance."

Pogba then missed a penalty awarded in the 67th minute after he tumbled in the area under Wolves captain Conor Coady's feet.

The Frenchman's spot kick, superbly saved by Rui Patricio, was his fourth missed penalty in the Premier League since the start of last season, raising questions as to why United's other designated penalty-taker Rashford did not step up instead.

"The two of them are confident penalty takers," Solskjaer said as he defended Pogba. "When there are two names there, it's the one who's most confident. Paul's scored so many before, so absolutely no problem at all."

Jubilant Neves

The result left United on four points from two games, while Wolves are still looking for their first win of the season, having picked up two points from two draws.

Goalscorer, Neves, however, was jubilant with another strong performance from the Midlands team against a leading side.

"I'm really happy for the goal and the result as we drew against a big team," he said.

After regaining their supremacy in possession, United had another glorious chance near the end but defender Luke Shaw shot straight at Patricio from the edge of the area, to the relief of the home fans in the 31,314 crowd.

A win would have taken United above early pacesetters Liverpool and Arsenal on goal difference.

But Solskjaer seemed content to have collected four points from the opening two games after most pundits had ruled out his team's chances of being title contenders this season.

"We are improving," said the Norwegian.

"In the first half, we dominated possession. In the second half, we knew they were going to come out like a house on fire... Then we took control again and could have won it."

As against Chelsea, United were far more solid at the back, led by 80 million pounds ($97.05 million) close-season signing Harry Maguire, the world's most expensive defender.

He is building a strong partnership with Victor Lindelof that may banish memories of the uncharacteristically shaky United defences of recent years.

Up front, they looked fast and fluent, with Rashford and Martial showing a good understanding and receiving excellent support from Jesse Lingard and pacy new signing Dan James.

United next host Crystal Palace in the league on Saturday while Wolves face a trip to Torino in a Europa League playoff first leg on Thursday before hosting Burnley on Sunday.

Manchester United were held 1-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers and missed out on taking top spot in the Premier League on Monday as a sumptuous Ruben Neves strike cancelled out Anthony Martial's first-half goal and Paul Pogba missed a late penalty.

Manchester United were held 1-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers and missed out on taking top spot in the Premier League on Monday as a sumptuous Ruben Neves strike cancelled out Anthony Martial's first-half goal and Paul Pogba missed a late penalty. After a 4-0 home win over Chelsea on the opening day, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team dominated the early exchanges and led after 27 minutes when Marcus Rashford slipped the ball in for Martial to score his 50th goal for the club in all competitions. But Wolves, who beat the visitors in the league and FA Cup at Molineux last season, were transformed in the second half, rejuvenated by substitute Adama Traore on the wing. In the 55th minute, a clever corner routine left Portuguese midfielder Neves free outside the area from where he hit a delightful curling strike over keeper David de Gea that went in off the underside of the bar, ramping up the raucous atmosphere. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review into whether Joao Moutinho was offside when he received the ball back following a the short corner routine. "It was fantastic," Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo said of Neves' strike. "In the first half we struggled so much, but it all changed in the second... I am proud of all the performance." Pogba then missed a penalty awarded in the 67th minute after he tumbled in the area under Wolves captain Conor Coady's feet. The Frenchman's spot kick, superbly saved by Rui Patricio, was his fourth missed penalty in the Premier League since the start of last season, raising questions as to why United's other designated penalty-taker Rashford did not step up instead. "The two of them are confident penalty takers," Solskjaer said as he defended Pogba. "When there are two names there, it's the one who's most confident. Paul's scored so many before, so absolutely no problem at all." Jubilant Neves The result left United on four points from two games, while Wolves are still looking for their first win of the season, having picked up two points from two draws. Goalscorer, Neves, however, was jubilant with another strong performance from the Midlands team against a leading side. "I'm really happy for the goal and the result as we drew against a big team," he said. After regaining their supremacy in possession, United had another glorious chance near the end but defender Luke Shaw shot straight at Patricio from the edge of the area, to the relief of the home fans in the 31,314 crowd. A win would have taken United above early pacesetters Liverpool and Arsenal on goal difference. But Solskjaer seemed content to have collected four points from the opening two games after most pundits had ruled out his team's chances of being title contenders this season. "We are improving," said the Norwegian. "In the first half, we dominated possession. In the second half, we knew they were going to come out like a house on fire... Then we took control again and could have won it." As against Chelsea, United were far more solid at the back, led by 80 million pounds ($97.05 million) close-season signing Harry Maguire, the world's most expensive defender. He is building a strong partnership with Victor Lindelof that may banish memories of the uncharacteristically shaky United defences of recent years. Up front, they looked fast and fluent, with Rashford and Martial showing a good understanding and receiving excellent support from Jesse Lingard and pacy new signing Dan James. United next host Crystal Palace in the league on Saturday while Wolves face a trip to Torino in a Europa League playoff first leg on Thursday before hosting Burnley on Sunday.

Manchester United held at Wolves after Neves strike, Pogba penalty miss

Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed Spanish defender Jesus Vallejo on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, the Premier League club said on Saturday.

The 22-year-old centre back is Wolves' first signing of the close season and arrives at Molineux stadium having captained Spain to the under-21 European Championship title last month.

Former Real Zaragoza player Vallejo has made a total of 19 appearances in all competitions for Madrid and scored his first La Liga goal against Villarreal in May.

He could make his Wolves debut on Thursday against Northern Ireland's Crusaders FC in the return leg of a Europa League second qualifying round tie. Wolves won the first leg 2-0.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side begin their Premier League campaign against Leicester City on August&nbsp;11.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed Spanish defender Jesus Vallejo on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, the Premier League club said on Saturday. The 22-year-old centre back is Wolves' first signing of the close season and arrives at Molineux stadium having captained Spain to the under-21 European Championship title last month.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed Spanish defender Jesus Vallejo on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, the Premier League club said on Saturday. The 22-year-old centre back is Wolves' first signing of the close season and arrives at Molineux stadium having captained Spain to the under-21 European Championship title last month. Former Real Zaragoza player Vallejo has made a total of 19 appearances in all competitions for Madrid and scored his first La Liga goal against Villarreal in May. He could make his Wolves debut on Thursday against Northern Ireland's Crusaders FC in the return leg of a Europa League second qualifying round tie. Wolves won the first leg 2-0. Nuno Espirito Santo's side begin their Premier League campaign against Leicester City on August 11.

Wolves sign defender Jesus Vallejo on loan from Real Madrid

Rui Patricio saved three penalties as Wolverhampton Wanderers defeated Premier League champions Manchester City to claim the Premier League Asia Trophy 3-2 in a penalty shootout in Shanghai on Saturday.

The Portuguese goalkeeper kept out spot kicks from Ilkay Gundogan, David Silva and Lukas Nmecha as Nuno Espirto Santo's Wolves side won the four-team pre-season tournament, which also featured Newcastle United and West Ham United, after the game was goalless at the end of 90 minutes.

The match at Hongkou Stadium was a frustrating tale of missed penalties for Pep Guardiola's English champions as Raheem Sterling was also off target from the spot during regulation time.

The England international was in electric form in the opening exchanges but failed to cap a fine start with a goal when he fired over the bar from the penalty spot just before the midway point of the first half.

Patricio was kept busy in the Wolves goal, with the keeper called upon to make a routine save from Sterling with less than two minutes on the clock before pulling off a reflex save to keep out Aymeric Laporte's close-range attempt.

Referee Martin Atkinson awarded City a penalty 20 minutes into the game when Leroy Sane was hauled down by the combined efforts of Conor Coady and Morgan Gibbs-White, only for Sterling to send his spot kick high and wide.

Wolves eventually broke out of the City stranglehold to put some pressure on the Premier League champions' goal as the half wore on but it was Guardiola's side who always looked the more likely to score.

Patricio denied City again 13 minutes from the end, this time making a flying save to ensure substitute Silva's free kick did not curl inside his left post.

Wolves held out despite City dominating possession, clinging on for a scoreless draw to take the game into a penalty shootout where Patricio performed more heroics.

Earlier in the day, Yoshinori Muto gave Steve Bruce a winning start to life as Newcastle United head coach when the Japan international scored the only goal of the third-place playoff against West Ham United.

Bruce, who was appointed as Rafael Benitez's replacement earlier in the week, watched from the stands as the unmarked Muto flicked home a Jamie Sherry cross 11 minutes before halftime to give Newcastle the win.

Rui Patricio saved three penalties as Wolverhampton Wanderers defeated Premier League champions Manchester City to claim the Premier League Asia Trophy 3-2 in a penalty shootout in Shanghai on Saturday.

Rui Patricio saved three penalties as Wolverhampton Wanderers defeated Premier League champions Manchester City to claim the Premier League Asia Trophy 3-2 in a penalty shootout in Shanghai on Saturday. The Portuguese goalkeeper kept out spot kicks from Ilkay Gundogan, David Silva and Lukas Nmecha as Nuno Espirto Santo's Wolves side won the four-team pre-season tournament, which also featured Newcastle United and West Ham United, after the game was goalless at the end of 90 minutes. The match at Hongkou Stadium was a frustrating tale of missed penalties for Pep Guardiola's English champions as Raheem Sterling was also off target from the spot during regulation time. The England international was in electric form in the opening exchanges but failed to cap a fine start with a goal when he fired over the bar from the penalty spot just before the midway point of the first half. Patricio was kept busy in the Wolves goal, with the keeper called upon to make a routine save from Sterling with less than two minutes on the clock before pulling off a reflex save to keep out Aymeric Laporte's close-range attempt. Referee Martin Atkinson awarded City a penalty 20 minutes into the game when Leroy Sane was hauled down by the combined efforts of Conor Coady and Morgan Gibbs-White, only for Sterling to send his spot kick high and wide. Wolves eventually broke out of the City stranglehold to put some pressure on the Premier League champions' goal as the half wore on but it was Guardiola's side who always looked the more likely to score. Patricio denied City again 13 minutes from the end, this time making a flying save to ensure substitute Silva's free kick did not curl inside his left post. Wolves held out despite City dominating possession, clinging on for a scoreless draw to take the game into a penalty shootout where Patricio performed more heroics. Earlier in the day, Yoshinori Muto gave Steve Bruce a winning start to life as Newcastle United head coach when the Japan international scored the only goal of the third-place playoff against West Ham United. Bruce, who was appointed as Rafael Benitez's replacement earlier in the week, watched from the stands as the unmarked Muto flicked home a Jamie Sherry cross 11 minutes before halftime to give Newcastle the win.

Wolves beat Manchester City on penalties to win Asia Trophy

Manchester City continued their impressive scoring spree to rout Burnley 5-0 in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday and make it 30 goals and seven straight wins in three separate competitions since the turn of the year.

Another Premier League side, Wolves, required a 93rd-minute equaliser from Matt Doherty to draw 2-2 with League One Shrewsbury Town while Newport County, from League Two, also scored in stoppage time against Championship (second-tier) side Middlesbrough to clinch a 1-1 draw that also means a replay.

There was, though, never much chance of a shock at the Etihad from the moment Gabriel Jesus put City ahead with a fine strike after 23 minutes. Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero also scored, with a Kevin Long own goal completing the demolition.

The win -- City's eighth in succession since losing to Leicester on Boxing Day -- comes three days after they reached Wembley in the League Cup and means Pep Guardiola's side, who trail leaders Liverpool by four points in the Premier League, are competing for trophies on four fronts.

"It is our eighth victory in a row and of course we have scored a lot of goals," said Guardiola, who is seeking City's first FA Cup trophy since 2011.

Everyone wants to help the team but there is always something to improve -- today they (Burnley) had one or two chances which we gave them."

Four-times winners Wolves will be delighted to have secured a replay after fighting back from two goals down against a side who are 54 places below them in the English football pyramid.

Defeat would have been doubly embarrassing because Shrewsbury are managed by Sam Ricketts, a former Wolves captain who was a regular member of the side that won the League One title in 2014.

Ricketts seemed to have hatched the perfect gameplan when goals from Greg Docherty and Luke Waterfall had the home fans anticipating a rare foray into the fifth round but Wolves, who knocked out Liverpool in the third round, fought back with goals from Raul Jimenez and Doherty to keep their names in the hat for Monday's draw.

"Our players can take a lot from that," said Ricketts. "Neither side will have wanted a replay but we will have another game. Don't write us off yet, we went to Stoke and won in a replay."

Newport will also approach their replay full of hope after thrilling their 1,200 travelling fans with a scrambled equaliser from Matthew Dolan, a former Boro academy player who never played a first-team game for the club.

The replay ensures a return home for Tony Pulis, who hails from the same Newport suburb as County manager Michael Flynn. The Welsh club, who beat Premier League side Leicester City in the previous round, are seeking to reach the fifth round for the first time since 1949.

Newcastle and Watford made clear where the cup ranks in their list of priorities by making 18 changes between them for their all-Premier League meeting at St James' Park, which the visitors won 2-0 with goals from Andre Gray and Isaac Success. It is only the second time in 10 seasons that Watford have got this far.

Brighton &amp; Hove Albion could only draw 0-0 at home to Championship side West Bromwich Albion while League One side Doncaster Rovers reached the fifth round for the first time in 63 years after beating League Two Oldham 2-1 with two goals from Ben Whiteman, his winner a controversial penalty in injury time.

League One side Portsmouth have an impressive FA Cup tradition and remain in the reckoning after their 1-1 draw with QPR, for whom Nahki Wells equalised Lee Brown's opener.

Oli McBurnie scored twice as Championship side Swansea beat Gillingham, of League One, 4-1.

Manchester City continued their impressive scoring spree to rout Burnley 5-0 in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday and make it 30 goals and seven straight wins in three separate competitions since the turn of the year.

Manchester City continued their impressive scoring spree to rout Burnley 5-0 in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday and make it 30 goals and seven straight wins in three separate competitions since the turn of the year. Another Premier League side, Wolves, required a 93rd-minute equaliser from Matt Doherty to draw 2-2 with League One Shrewsbury Town while Newport County, from League Two, also scored in stoppage time against Championship (second-tier) side Middlesbrough to clinch a 1-1 draw that also means a replay. There was, though, never much chance of a shock at the Etihad from the moment Gabriel Jesus put City ahead with a fine strike after 23 minutes. Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero also scored, with a Kevin Long own goal completing the demolition. The win -- City's eighth in succession since losing to Leicester on Boxing Day -- comes three days after they reached Wembley in the League Cup and means Pep Guardiola's side, who trail leaders Liverpool by four points in the Premier League, are competing for trophies on four fronts. "It is our eighth victory in a row and of course we have scored a lot of goals," said Guardiola, who is seeking City's first FA Cup trophy since 2011. Everyone wants to help the team but there is always something to improve -- today they (Burnley) had one or two chances which we gave them." Four-times winners Wolves will be delighted to have secured a replay after fighting back from two goals down against a side who are 54 places below them in the English football pyramid. Defeat would have been doubly embarrassing because Shrewsbury are managed by Sam Ricketts, a former Wolves captain who was a regular member of the side that won the League One title in 2014. Ricketts seemed to have hatched the perfect gameplan when goals from Greg Docherty and Luke Waterfall had the home fans anticipating a rare foray into the fifth round but Wolves, who knocked out Liverpool in the third round, fought back with goals from Raul Jimenez and Doherty to keep their names in the hat for Monday's draw. "Our players can take a lot from that," said Ricketts. "Neither side will have wanted a replay but we will have another game. Don't write us off yet, we went to Stoke and won in a replay." Newport will also approach their replay full of hope after thrilling their 1,200 travelling fans with a scrambled equaliser from Matthew Dolan, a former Boro academy player who never played a first-team game for the club. The replay ensures a return home for Tony Pulis, who hails from the same Newport suburb as County manager Michael Flynn. The Welsh club, who beat Premier League side Leicester City in the previous round, are seeking to reach the fifth round for the first time since 1949. Newcastle and Watford made clear where the cup ranks in their list of priorities by making 18 changes between them for their all-Premier League meeting at St James' Park, which the visitors won 2-0 with goals from Andre Gray and Isaac Success. It is only the second time in 10 seasons that Watford have got this far. Brighton & Hove Albion could only draw 0-0 at home to Championship side West Bromwich Albion while League One side Doncaster Rovers reached the fifth round for the first time in 63 years after beating League Two Oldham 2-1 with two goals from Ben Whiteman, his winner a controversial penalty in injury time. League One side Portsmouth have an impressive FA Cup tradition and remain in the reckoning after their 1-1 draw with QPR, for whom Nahki Wells equalised Lee Brown's opener. Oli McBurnie scored twice as Championship side Swansea beat Gillingham, of League One, 4-1.

Manchester City rout Burnley in FA Cup as Shrews scare Wolves

Tottenham Hotspur's coach Mauricio Pochettino criticised his side for easing off in the second half and assuming they had the victory wrapped up against&nbsp;Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Spurs suffered a damaging blow at Wembley as Wolves came from behind to raid <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wolves-raid-wembley-to-hurt-spurs-title-hopes-187255">Spurs 3-1</a> on Saturday.&nbsp;

"In the second half we decided that the game was over and when you start to think that you run into problems," he told a news conference.&nbsp;

"We dominated possession in the first half then we missed that freshness to kill the game, instead we tried to manage it at 1-0.&nbsp;

He further added, "We know from experience that if you aren't at 100 per cent in every game this can happen, it's not enough to play well for 60 or 70 minutes, you have to do it for 90."

Lately, Spurs had looked like piling the pressure on leaders Liverpool in the English Premier League title race after Harry Kane celebrated his new year MBE in style with a brilliant first-half strike.

But Wolves had other ideas and enjoyed a memorable first visit to the new national stadium as goals from Willy Boly, Raul Jimenez and Helder Costa in the final 18 minutes gave them a deserved three points.&nbsp;

"We dropped a little bit of our energy and our focus and in the last 20 minutes we conceded three goals, and that can happen. It can happen to us. It can happen to both. It can happen to Liverpool, to Manchester City," said Pochettino.&nbsp;

"That is why it is so tough to win the Premier League because you need to be consistent. And today for us, it is a clear example that if we are not consistent enough, with not only with good quality during the game, we have not with right energy it is difficult to compete for big things."&nbsp;

A first home defeat since late October leaves second-placed Tottenham nine points adrift of Liverpool on the points table.

Tottenham Hotspur's coach Mauricio Pochettino criticised his side for easing off in the second half and assuming they had the victory wrapped up against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Tottenham Hotspur's coach Mauricio Pochettino criticised his side for easing off in the second half and assuming they had the victory wrapped up against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Spurs suffered a damaging blow at Wembley as Wolves came from behind to raid Spurs 3-1 on Saturday. "In the second half we decided that the game was over and when you start to think that you run into problems," he told a news conference. "We dominated possession in the first half then we missed that freshness to kill the game, instead we tried to manage it at 1-0. He further added, "We know from experience that if you aren't at 100 per cent in every game this can happen, it's not enough to play well for 60 or 70 minutes, you have to do it for 90." Lately, Spurs had looked like piling the pressure on leaders Liverpool in the English Premier League title race after Harry Kane celebrated his new year MBE in style with a brilliant first-half strike. But Wolves had other ideas and enjoyed a memorable first visit to the new national stadium as goals from Willy Boly, Raul Jimenez and Helder Costa in the final 18 minutes gave them a deserved three points. "We dropped a little bit of our energy and our focus and in the last 20 minutes we conceded three goals, and that can happen. It can happen to us. It can happen to both. It can happen to Liverpool, to Manchester City," said Pochettino. "That is why it is so tough to win the Premier League because you need to be consistent. And today for us, it is a clear example that if we are not consistent enough, with not only with good quality during the game, we have not with right energy it is difficult to compete for big things." A first home defeat since late October leaves second-placed Tottenham nine points adrift of Liverpool on the points table.

Mauricio Pochettino dismisses Spurs title talk after Wolves defeat

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City.

City can reduce the gap back to a point with a win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, but Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side will now enjoy their Christmas dinner perched in first place.

Only two teams -- Chelsea in 2005-06 and City last season -- have had more points after 18 Premier League games in a season than Liverpool's 48 and the January 3 clash between Pep Guardiola's side and Klopp's men promises to be an epic.

It was by no means a vintage display from Liverpool in driving rain but this was a game which, coming after the high of Sunday's triumph over Manchester United, could have been a stumbling block for Klopp's side.

"It was clear that the whole game would be difficult. Everybody wants to press. We want to be compact but wide as well which makes it difficult. We defended it pretty well. The heavy rain was difficult for both teams tonight. It was a big fight. We knew that we needed to be ready," said Klopp.

"It was brilliant -- both goals. It was perfect football, especially on a night like tonight when it was difficult to play proper football," added the German.

On a foul night at Molineux, Wolves began brightly, the promoted side showing why they are in seventh place and Moroccan midfielder Romain Saiss forced Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker into an early save.

But Liverpool grabbed the lead in the 18th minute with a beautifully-worked goal. After a clever exchange with Sadio Mane, Brazilian midfielder Fabinho's pull-back was exquisitely turned in off the outside of his foot by Salah.

Adama Traore, Jonny and Matt Doherty all had chances saved by Alisson before the break, suggesting that Wolves, who had won their last three games, were still very much in the game but it was the visitors who extended their lead in the 68th minute.

Salah drifted a ball into the box towards Van Dijk and the towering Dutch defender calmly slotted past Rui Patricio from close range for his first Premier League goal.

Klopp had rotated his squad ahead of the festive fixtures with Georginio Wijnaldum starting on the bench and Jordan Henderson given the start in central midfield while Adam Lallana made an appearance in the second half as a substitute for the injured Naby Keita.

Klopp said Keita had suffered two separate cuts in his leg and foot from challenges but did not expect his injuries to keep him out of action.

The second goal killed off Wolves, whose inability to convert chances was highglighted again when substitute Morgan Gibbs-White shot into the side-netting near the end after a slip-up from Liverpool defender Andy Robertson.

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City.

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City. City can reduce the gap back to a point with a win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, but Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side will now enjoy their Christmas dinner perched in first place. Only two teams -- Chelsea in 2005-06 and City last season -- have had more points after 18 Premier League games in a season than Liverpool's 48 and the January 3 clash between Pep Guardiola's side and Klopp's men promises to be an epic. It was by no means a vintage display from Liverpool in driving rain but this was a game which, coming after the high of Sunday's triumph over Manchester United, could have been a stumbling block for Klopp's side. "It was clear that the whole game would be difficult. Everybody wants to press. We want to be compact but wide as well which makes it difficult. We defended it pretty well. The heavy rain was difficult for both teams tonight. It was a big fight. We knew that we needed to be ready," said Klopp. "It was brilliant -- both goals. It was perfect football, especially on a night like tonight when it was difficult to play proper football," added the German. On a foul night at Molineux, Wolves began brightly, the promoted side showing why they are in seventh place and Moroccan midfielder Romain Saiss forced Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker into an early save. But Liverpool grabbed the lead in the 18th minute with a beautifully-worked goal. After a clever exchange with Sadio Mane, Brazilian midfielder Fabinho's pull-back was exquisitely turned in off the outside of his foot by Salah. Adama Traore, Jonny and Matt Doherty all had chances saved by Alisson before the break, suggesting that Wolves, who had won their last three games, were still very much in the game but it was the visitors who extended their lead in the 68th minute. Salah drifted a ball into the box towards Van Dijk and the towering Dutch defender calmly slotted past Rui Patricio from close range for his first Premier League goal. Klopp had rotated his squad ahead of the festive fixtures with Georginio Wijnaldum starting on the bench and Jordan Henderson given the start in central midfield while Adam Lallana made an appearance in the second half as a substitute for the injured Naby Keita. Klopp said Keita had suffered two separate cuts in his leg and foot from challenges but did not expect his injuries to keep him out of action. The second goal killed off Wolves, whose inability to convert chances was highglighted again when substitute Morgan Gibbs-White shot into the side-netting near the end after a slip-up from Liverpool defender Andy Robertson.

Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk strike as Liverpool defeat Wolves

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-battle-to-draw-with-arsenal-liverpool-march-on-181761">losing 2-1</a> at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race.

During the post-match interview, Sarri said, "I don't know why but I am very worried, not for the result, but for the fact that we didn't react of the first goal of the opponent. We didn't react at all."

Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota scored goals in a four-minute span around the hour mark to condemn Chelsea to a second loss in three games, after a recent 3-1 defeat at Tottenham.

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The Blues are beaten this evening.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WOLCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WOLCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/NhQaqba1TI">pic.twitter.com/NhQaqba1TI</a>
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Sarri says what happened did not depend on the changes to the line-up, it depended on the mentality of the team. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WOLCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WOLCHE</a>
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The former Napoli boss Sarri further added, "I think that we played very well for 55 minutes. After the first goal, the 1-1, that was an accident because we were in full control of the match."

"We were suddenly another team without the right distances, without our football," he concluded.

Chelsea is 10 points behind unbeaten leader Manchester City and could now be in a race just to finish in the top four to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after losing 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after losing 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race. During the post-match interview, Sarri said, "I don't know why but I am very worried, not for the result, but for the fact that we didn't react of the first goal of the opponent. We didn't react at all." Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota scored goals in a four-minute span around the hour mark to condemn Chelsea to a second loss in three games, after a recent 3-1 defeat at Tottenham. The Blues are beaten this evening.#WOLCHE pic.twitter.com/NhQaqba1TI — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 5, 2018 × Sarri says what happened did not depend on the changes to the line-up, it depended on the mentality of the team. #WOLCHE — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 5, 2018 × The former Napoli boss Sarri further added, "I think that we played very well for 55 minutes. After the first goal, the 1-1, that was an accident because we were in full control of the match." "We were suddenly another team without the right distances, without our football," he concluded. Chelsea is 10 points behind unbeaten leader Manchester City and could now be in a race just to finish in the top four to qualify for next season's Champions League.

'I am very worried,' says Chelsea's boss Maurizio Sarri after losing to Wolves

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