English Premier League | 2020/21 Discussion

[Saj]

Arsenal came from behind to secure a fully deserved north London derby win and inflict damage on Tottenham's hopes of a place in the Premier League's top four.

The Gunners were vastly superior until a Spurs rally in the closing stages but fell behind to a piece of genius from Erik Lamela - on for the injured Son Heung-min - when he curved a magnificent rabona finish beyond Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno in the 33rd minute.

Arsenal, who had seen Emile Smith Rowe's long-range shot smack against the bar, then suffered more ill-luck when Cedric Soares hit the post, but were level on the stroke of half-time when Martin Odegaard's effort was deflected out of the reach of Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris.

Mikel Arteta's side continued to dominate a largely dreadful Spurs and took the lead from the penalty spot after 64 minutes when Alexandre Lacazette missed his kick but was fouled by Davinson Sanchez.

Lacazette recovered to send Lloris the wrong way for his 12th goal of the season.

Spurs' day got worse when Lamela was sent off for a second yellow card, shown by referee Michael Oliver for a hand-off into the face of Kieran Tierney with 14 minutes left.

But they almost snatched a point in the closing moments when Harry Kane's free-kick bounced off the post, with Arsenal defender Gabriel heading Sanchez's goal-bound shot off the line from the rebound.

Arsenal, who dropped captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for the game for disciplinary reasons, stay in 10th place but Spurs are now six points adrift of Chelsea in fourth, although with a game in hand.

 

[Saj]

FT: Man Utd 1-0 West Ham

Mason Greenwood gets a big clap on the back from his manager. He's been bright tonight.

Harry Maguire also very solid.

 

[Saj]

FULL-TIME

Wolves 0-1 Liverpool

The full-time whistle goes. Liverpool move up to sixth thanks to Diogo Jota's goal against his old club.

But the major talking point is that serious looking head injury to Wolves keeper Rui Patricio.

 

[KingKhanWC]

FULL-TIME

Wolves 0-1 Liverpool

The full-time whistle goes. Liverpool move up to sixth thanks to Diogo Jota's goal against his old club.

But the major talking point is that serious looking head injury to Wolves keeper Rui Patricio.

We needed this win! Hopefully we can go on a winning run now.

Best wishes to Patricio, looked very bad.

 

[Saj]

Patrick Bamford scored one and set up the other goal as Leeds beat Fulham in a frantic game at Craven Cottage.

The hosts missed the chance to move out of the Premier League relegation zone with a third defeat in four games.

Leeds had two goals disallowed in the first half - first when Luke Ayling's header was ruled out by the video assistant referee and then when Raphinha was well offside before slotting home.

They led when Bamford, who missed out on selection for the England squad on Thursday, smashed home at the near post from Jack Harrison's cross.

Fulham were level when defender Joachim Andersen volleyed in from Ademola Lookman's corner, his first goal in English football.

But Leeds scored the winner just before the hour mark, as Bamford fed Raphinha, who beat two defenders before poking home.

The result takes Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds up to 11th in the table on 39 points.

 

[Saj]

Brighton eased their relegation concerns at the expense of fellow strugglers Newcastle as Graham Potter's side moved six points clear of the Premier League's bottom three with a deserved victory at Amex Stadium.

Leandro Trossard's curled finish into the bottom corner in first-half stoppage-time was the least Brighton's early dominance deserved, and Danny Welbeck's sublime strike from outside the box doubled the advantage six minutes after the restart.

Neal Maupay then put the result beyond any doubt as he met Pascal Gross' cross for his first goal in 10 league games midway through the second half.

Newcastle were second best throughout and rarely threatened a comeback - they had only one shot on target - though Ryan Fraser was inches away from an equaliser when he fired against the post shortly after the break.

While 18th-placed Fulham missed the chance to move above Steve Bruce's side with a 2-1 defeat by Leeds on Friday, Newcastle remain in serious trouble with just two points separating them from the relegation places - albeit with a game in hand on the Cottagers.

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME
West Ham 3-1 Arsenal

What are Arsenal doing? Crazy inconsistency in each game they play - made WHU look like Barcelona!

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
West Ham 3-3 Arsenal

Amazing - game and a half that!

Arsenal looked out for the count but by the end, they looked like they could score 7!

 

[Saj]

Tottenham responded to their shock Europa League exit in midweek with a hard-fought Premier League victory over Aston Villa that keeps Jose Mourinho's side in the hunt for a top-four finish.

They were labelled a "disgrace" by captain Hugo Lloris after the 3-0, last-16 second-leg defeat by Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday that saw Spurs throw away a 2-0 aggregate advantage and left their hopes of qualification for next season's Champions League pinned on their league placing.

But Carlos Vinicius' opener and Harry Kane's second-half spot-kick ensured Tottenham made the necessary winning response to climb to sixth in the standings, three points behind Chelsea in fourth.

An interchange of slick passes between Lucas Moura and Kane following a poor clearance by Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez allowed Vinicius to put Spurs ahead from close range after 30 minutes.

And Kane avoided a potentially nervous finish to the game for his side, sending Martinez the wrong way with his penalty after being fouled by Matty Cash.

In the continued absence of skipper Jack Grealish, Villa failed to register a shot until Trezeguet's blocked attempt after 58 minutes.

The hosts were much improved after the interval, although substitute Anwar el Ghazi's powerful drive into the side-netting was as close as they came.

Defeat leaves Dean Smith's side 10th, seven points behind Spurs in the Europa League positions, although they have one game in hand.

 

[PetroDollars]

LP fans supporting Arsenal today )

 

[PakLFC]

) ) )

Do i need to say more

This guy has put a curse on LP, better to shut up then be a laughting stock

Who is devoid of common sense who is deluided now ) yes everton hardly a great side )

Yet we are still in the CL and you are gonna win nothing this season!!))) Man Utd has no chance of winning anything this season, as always!)) This is beyond humiliating! Your claim to fame is finishing above us!! That is your target for the season

 

[PakLFC]

Abit )

When Everton have played all there games in hand, you will be laying down there at 6 ) yet had the audacity to call Everton rubbish a week back ) typical liverpoorian excited kid who cursed his own team now you are heading to europa,the only medicine that exists in europa will be the one lp fans need to take)

At this stage you won't even make it to europa. )

Thing is that for me it is all about winning things where as you play to finish above Liverpool!) You do realise that this win was Everton's first over us in a decade or something, during this period your local rivals Man City have been rubbing your noses on the ground nice and hard) We will be playing Real Madrid in the CL whilst you will be in the Europa League or something)))

How humiliating is all this for Man Utd and their fans watching us against the mighty Real Madrid whilst they are playing pub sides))

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Chelsea 2-5 West Brom

Chelsea's 14-match unbeaten run comes to an end in apocalyptic style.

 

[Saj]

Leeds United scored early in each half to beat Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United and move into the top half of the Premier League.

Leeds were firmly on top at a sunny Elland Road and took an early lead as Raphinha squared for Jack Harrison to tap in his seventh goal of the season.

The hosts were made to rue their missed chances in first-half stoppage time as Ben Osborn forced the ball over the line after Oli McBurnie's shot deflected into his path.

But Leeds were back in front inside four minutes of the second half, Phil Jagielka turning Harrison's low cross into his own net.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Leicester 0-2 Manchester City

Manchester City have a 15th away win on the spin and they made it look comfortable. The champions elect close in a bit more on another title.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Arsenal v Liverpool up next.

Should be some goals in this game. Arsenal are favourites imo due to both teams recent form.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Arsenal 0 - 3 Liverpool

1 for Salah & 2 for Jota.

LFC dominated this game, walk in the park.

Our defence is sorting itself out now, this could be the start of a good fun.

Top 4 is very much on.

 

[Saj]

Portugal forward Diogo Jota came off the bench to score twice as Liverpool claimed a third successive away win with a comfortable victory against lacklustre Arsenal.

Liverpool hemmed the Gunners into their own half for much of the game but had to wait until after the hour mark to break the deadlock.

Trent Alexander-Arnold whipped in a deep cross for Jota to power a header past Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno just three minutes after he had replaced left-back Andy Robertson.

Four minutes later, Mohamed Salah got in behind Gabriel before rolling the ball between Leno's legs.

Jota, who scored three times in two games during the international break, made sure of victory by sweeping in his 14th club goal of the season.

 

[sweep_shot]

Pep Guardiola says he will "never forget this season" as runaway leaders Manchester City closed in on the Premier League title with victory at third-placed Leicester.

Second-half goals by Benjamin Mendy and Gabriel Jesus left City requiring 11 points from seven matches to seal a third league crown in four seasons.

"I love the Premier League more than any other competition. We are close, very close," added Guardiola after his team moved 17 points clear at the top.

"The champions are Liverpool, they have the crown - but we are close to taking it."

Guardiola said City's efforts were "incredible" given most matches this season have been played without spectators because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"In lockdown without spectators - every game we were there," he added. "I will never forget this season."

In their first match since announcing club-record scorer Sergio Aguero is to leave at the end of the season, Guardiola's free-scoring side were frustrated before Benjamin Mendy broke the deadlock.

Fernandinho had a goal disallowed, Kevin de Bruyne's free-kick hit the bar and Riyad Mahrez was denied against his former club by Kasper Schmeichel's save.

However, France defender Mendy produced a lovely curling finish after stepping inside a challenge from Marc Albrighton before Gabriel Jesus sealed the points for the visitors from close range.

Leicester thought they had taken the lead on the stroke of half-time through Jamie Vardy but his celebrations were cut short by an offside flag.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56546579.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Southampton 3-2 Burnley

Huge win for Southampton who have come from 2-0 down to win. Terrific effort.

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME
Newcastle 1-2 Tottenham

Good half! Spurs are in front thanks to two goals in four minutes from Harry Kane.

Newcastle have had chances and are definitely not out of this.

 

[Saj]

Newcastle earned a vital point in their fight for Premier League survival thanks to a late equaliser against Tottenham from on-loan Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock at St James' Park.

The 21-year-old reacted quickest, after Miguel Almiron's effort was cleared off the line, to fire into the roof of the net and deny Spurs a place in the top four for the first time since 2 January.

In an entertaining game Newcastle took the lead when Joelinton slotted home a lovely threaded pass from Sean Longstaff after Spurs were guilty of overplaying at the back.

Jose Mourinho's side responded within 90 seconds as the hosts, and in particular Emil Krafth, failed to clear in the area, and an alert Kane prodded home for his 18th goal of the campaign.

The visitors were leading four minutes later when Kane, fed by a brilliant reverse pass from Tanguy Ndombele, clinically fired across Martin Dubravka from the right-hand corner of the penalty area.

The 27-year-old almost got a third, moments before Willock's goal, but his effort cannoned into the base of the post and behind.

Newcastle - who have now only won two of their past 19 Premier League games - remain 17th, but move three points clear of Fulham who occupy the final relegation spot. The Cottagers would climb out of the bottom three on goal difference if they beat Aston Villa at 16:30 BST.

Tottenham, who conceded a 97th-minute equaliser against Newcastle earlier in the season, move up to fifth - above Liverpool and West Ham - but remain two points behind Chelsea who are in the final Champions League spot.

 

[Saj]

Substitute Trezeguet scored twice as Aston Villa hit three in the final 12 minutes to dent Fulham's hopes of staying in the Premier League.

The Cottagers were on course to leapfrog Newcastle into 17th spot when Aleksandar Mitrovic pounced on an error by Tyrone Mings to fire his side ahead.

Mings, captaining Villa in Jack Grealish's absence, messed up attempting a back pass to keeper Emiliano Martinez, allowing Mitrovic to sneak in and score.

However, Mings atoned for his error to provide the cross for Trezeguet to equalise with a first-time shot before the Egypt midfielder scored the second three minutes later.

England forward Ollie Watkins added Villa's third from inside the six-yard area.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Man Utd 0 - 1 Brighton

Utd all over the shop early on.

 

[Saj]

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton for the second time this season as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side took a significant step towards confirming a place in next year's Champions League.

Brighton looked set for the first Old Trafford victory in their history when former United striker Danny Welbeck reacted quickest after his initial header had been saved, nodding the visitors in front from close range.

However, not for the first time this season, United improved from a lethargic opening period to sweep to victory in the second.

Marcus Rashford levelled when he opened up his body and rolled an excellent shot into the corner from Bruno Fernandes' lay-off.

Then, with eight minutes remaining, Mason Greenwood headed home his first Premier League goal at Old Trafford this season after Paul Pogba's volley had bounced into the ground.

The result gives United an 11-point cushion in the battle for a top-four place, although West Ham and Everton could reduce that to eight if they both win their matches in hand.

 

[Saj]

Crystal Palace's Michy Batshuayi scored a late equaliser to dent Everton's Champions League qualification hopes.

The substitute latched on to Jeffrey Schlupp's pass and placed the ball beyond Robin Olsen into the bottom corner after 86 minutes.

Returning from injury, Everton's James Rodriguez had given the Toffees a deserved lead with a superb right-footed strike in the 56th minute.

The result all but guarantees safety for Palace, who are 12 points clear of the bottom three with eight games remaining.

Everton are four points off fourth-placed Chelsea, having played one game fewer.

 

[Saj]

Jesse Lingard scored a brilliant solo goal before West Ham held off a Wolves fightback to secure a victory that moves them into the top four of the Premier League.

On-loan Manchester United midfielder Lingard has been in inspired form since joining the Hammers on 29 January.

And he continued his impressive resurgence when he charged through the Wolves midfield and defence to slot in the opener early in the first half.

Lingard was instrumental in West Ham's next two goals as he produced a brilliant flick on the byline to find Arthur Masuaku, whose low cross was turned in first time by Pablo Fornals, before Lingard led a quick counter to tee up substitute Jarrod Bowen to drive in the third.

However, David Moyes' side had let slip a 3-0 lead in their previous game against Arsenal to draw 3-3 and they looked in danger of a repeat when Leander Dendoncker headed home just before half-time and substitute Fabio Silva rolled in a fine strike midway through the second half to reduce the deficit to one goal.

West Ham dropped deep as they tried to hold onto their slender advantage and although Wolves dominated the closing stages they could not find a way through for a third time.

With Chelsea having surprisingly lost 5-2 to West Brom at the weekend, this win moves West Ham up to fourth with 52 points. Defeat for Wolves, meanwhile, means they are 14th.

 

[PetroDollars]

Jesse Lingard is on fire right now, getting a swap for declan rice in summer would be brilliant for us and allow us to spend cash for other positions.

 

[Saj]

Adama Traore struck a stoppage-time winner for Wolves as Fulham's hopes of remaining in the Premier League suffered another significant blow.

Traore settled the game with a fierce angled drive with little time left.

Earlier, Wolves had been denied a goal when the video assistant referee ruled that Daniel Podence's arm was fractionally offside before he crossed for Willian Jose to head in.

Fulham stay 18th, a place and three points behind Newcastle.

However, Scott Parker's side have also now played two games more than their nearest relegation rival and with just six games left to play have little room for further error.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Man City 1-2 Leeds

Brilliant result for Leeds, who went down to 10 men at the end of the first half.

Two goals from Stuart Dallas.

 

[Firebat]

FULL TIME:

Liverpool 2-1 Aston Villa

Trent Alexander-Arnold smashes in an injury time winner from the edge of the box to complete Liverpool's comeback!

Watkins gave Villa the lead before half time, before Salah equalised near the hour mark and Trent scored Liverpool's 2nd in the 91st minute.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Crystal Palace 1-4 Chelsea

All over. A very comfortable win for Chelsea and a good performance.

Palace will forget and move on.

==

 

[Saj]

Allan Saint-Maximin inspired a brilliant turnaround as he came off the bench to earn Newcastle a vital win at Burnley with a goal and assist in the space of seven minutes.

Steve Bruce's side were second best to a well-drilled Burnley, who took a first-half lead through Matej Vydra following excellent work by Chris Wood.

But after the visitors had a penalty appeal for James Tarkowski's high foot on Sean Longstaff rejected via the video assistant referee, the game turned their way with Saint-Maximin's second-half introduction.

Burnley were threatening to add to their lead when the French winger and forward Callum Wilson came off the bench after 57 minutes.

But Saint-Maximin set up Jacob Murphy for the equaliser following a twisting run, and then scored a brilliant second goal with his left foot to earn a much-needed victory, which lifts Newcastle six points clear of the relegation zone.

There were further chances for Burnley, who pressed aggressively for an equaliser, and are now just a point above their opponents as their own relegation concerns increased.

But Bruce's side held on, earning a first win in eight games to their evident relief at the final whistle.

 

[Last Monetarist]

FULL-TIME

West Ham 3-2 Leicester

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56629084

Jesse Lingard continued his stunning form with West Ham by scoring twice in the first half to set the Hammers on course for a crucial victory over fellow Champions League hopefuls Leicester City.

The two sides came into the weekend occupying the last two Champions League spots, before wins for Chelsea and Liverpool on Saturday nudged West Ham down to sixth place.

But David Moyes' men showed they are up for the challenge of qualifying for Europe's top club competition for the first time, climbing back into fourth after going 3-0 up against Leicester, who had the hosts hanging on after a late rally.

The Hammers took the lead as Arthur Masuaku's cross went through to right-back Vladimir Coufal, who cut back for Lingard to sweep the ball inside Kasper Schmeichel's near post from the edge of the box.

Jarrod Bowen then beat the offside trap to race on to Issa Diop's long ball and square for Lingard to tap into an empty net for his eighth goal in nine Premier League games since arriving on loan from Manchester United.

The 28-year-old forward, whose recent form earned him an England recall, then played a part in West Ham's third goal right after half-time as Bowen poked in from Tomas Soucek's pass to round off a clinical team move.

Kelechi Iheanacho pulled a goal back to give Leicester hope, before grabbing his 11th goal in 11 games in stoppage time, but the Hammers held on to ensure they did not surrender a 3-0 lead for the second straight home game and move within a point of third-placed Leicester.

 

[OldWarHorse]

What a beating handed out to Spurs..will watch that 2nd half on repeat

 

[MenInG]

Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers said he is "bitterly disappointed" after three of the club's players breached Covid-19 protocols ahead of Leicester's 3-2 defeat to West Ham on Sunday.

Leicester are investigating three players for the breach of protocols, Sky Sports News has been told.

James Maddison, Hamza Choudhury and Ayoze Perez were all left out for the crucial clash by manager Brendan Rodgers.

 

[Saj]

Manchester United inflicted further damage on Tottenham's hopes of making the Premier League's top four as they came from behind to secure a fully deserved victory.

Spurs went into this game knowing victory would keep them in touch with the Champions League places but another colourless performance led to what could be an expensive defeat.

Edinson Cavani thought he had given United a first-half lead with a smooth finish from Paul Pogba's pass but the goal was controversially ruled out by referee Chris Kavanagh following a video assistant referee consultation after Scott McTominay caught Son Heung-min with his trailing arm.

United's sense of injustice was increased when Son put Spurs ahead before the break but the visitors recovered impressively for a win that leaves them 11 points behind leaders Manchester City with a game in hand.

Fred was involved in the build-up and conclusion of the equaliser after 57 minutes, pouncing after Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris had saved well from Cavani.

And Cavani finally got the goal his superb movement and constant menace deserved with 11 minutes left when he launched himself to head beyond Lloris from substitute Mason Greenwood's cross. Greenwood completed the formalities with virtually the last kick of the game as he provided a finish that was too powerful for Lloris at his near post.

 

[Saj]

Gabriel Martinelli scored in his first start since January as Arsenal ended a run of four games without a win with victory over the Premier League's bottom club Sheffield United.

The Brazilian has endured an injury-plagued season, but was on hand to net his side's second with a finish into an unguarded goal after Aaron Ramsdale had pushed out Nicolas Pepe's shot.

It was the 19-year-old's first goal since January 2020.

It came between two Alexandre Lacazette goals - the first a neat first-half finish after Dani Ceballos' back-heel and the second a clinical effort in the closing stages after he was put clear by Thomas Partey.

Sheffield United have won only four games this season and none since Paul Heckingbottom took caretaker charge a month ago and they had little answer to their opponents' increased efficiency.

At 1-0 there was always a chance that this generous Arsenal side may provide the Blades with a way back in, but Martinelli's strike ended such home hopes.

The win lifts Arsenal above Leeds and Aston Villa and up to ninth in the table, with 45 points.

Sheffield United remain rooted to the bottom, 18 points from safety with just 21 left to play for. With their woeful goal difference, a loss at Wolves next Saturday will all but confirm their relegation.

 

[PetroDollars]

That was a monstrous performance by us in the second half and now with second place just about secured we can close the gap down, its been our best season post fergie, now we can build on it next season and challenge for the title.

Jose is finished as a manager now, his tactics would work by frustrating teams and managers, these days he only frustrates his own players and team

 

[Saj]

West Brom made it back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time this season with a 3-0 victory over Southampton.

Matheus Pereira, Matt Phillips and Callum Robinson were all on target for Sam Allardyce's side.

Mbaye Diagne also had an early header ruled offside, with the video assistant referee unable to find a definitive camera angle to overturn the decision.

Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse missed a penalty in stoppage-time.

West Brom stay second-bottom despite the win but are now eight points from safety, while Southampton remain in 14th.

 

[Saj]

Brighton edged a point closer to Premier League safety with a goalless draw against Everton at Amex Stadium.

The Seagulls climbed a place to 15th after the low-key encounter - seven points clear of 18th-placed Fulham who have played a game more.

Brighton pushed for a winner late on but Neal Maupay lashed an effort over from 10 yards and Lewis Dunk had a header tipped over the bar.

The point did little for Everton's hopes of Champions League qualification with Carlo Ancelotti's side seven points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham with a game in hand.

They were without striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin because of injury and did not force Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a save until the 71st minute.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Really disappointed by Carlo, injuries permitting, that he's losing fourth to Moyes. Irony overload.

 

[Saj]

Harry Kane scored twice to cancel out Gylfi Sigurdsson's two goals and earn a point for Tottenham against fellow top-four chasers Everton at Goodison Park.

England striker Kane was at his clinical best, capitalising on two mistakes in the Everton defence to put Spurs ahead in the first half and grab a second-half equaliser.

In between Kane's strikes, Sigurdsson levelled from the penalty spot and gave Everton the lead by finishing off a fine team goal.

He expertly guided in a left-footed strike from Seamus Coleman's cross but that only kicked Spurs into life and Kane equalised six minutes later.

There were concerning moments in stoppage time, however, with Kane walking away gingerly from an awkward landing and having to be substituted.

Everton pushed hardest for a winner and had the best chance to win it but Joshua King's effort was saved by Hugo Lloris and Richarlison fired the rebound over from 12 yards.

Realistically, a draw suited neither side with Tottenham staying seventh, five points behind fourth-placed West Ham and Everton a point and a place worse off.

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle took a big step towards securing their Premier League status with a dramatic 3-2 win against 10-man West Ham.

Issa Diop's own goal and a Joelinton tap-in had put the hosts in a commanding position at the break.

However, West Ham, who had Craig Dawson sent off for two first-half bookings, drew level from a Diop header and a Jesse Lingard penalty that was awarded after a VAR review.

But with the visitors seemingly on top, Newcastle had the final say, substitute Joe Willock heading an important winning goal that lifts Steve Bruce's side up to 15th in the table, with a nine-point cushion to the bottom three.

West Ham remain fourth but have now played a game more than fellow Champions League hopefuls Chelsea and Liverpool, who will have the opportunity to leapfrog the Hammers before they play again.

David Moyes' side had arrived in the north-east of England looking for a third consecutive win but were ultimately punished for a sluggish first half in which they conceded twice and had Dawson sent off.

Prior to his dismissal Dawson's heavy touch saw him clatter Joelinton, allowing the impressive Allan Saint-Maximin to race clear and fire in a shot that Hammers goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski and defender Diop contrived to turn into their own goal.

Dawson, who had been booked earlier for a foul on Joelinton, received his second yellow card in the aftermath and was dismissed.

To compound matters Fabianski dropped a simple catch from a corner five minutes later to present Joelinton with a tap-in for Newcastle's second.

However, the visitors improved after the break and were unfortunate not to claim a share of the spoils in a thrilling finale.

 

[Firebat]

Norwich will be returning to the EPL next year.

======================================

Norwich City promoted back to Premier League as Brentford and Swansea fail to win

Norwich City have won promotion to the Premier League for a fifth time, after Brentford and Swansea's failure to win ensured Daniel Farke's side could not be caught in the automatic places.

The Canaries make an instant return to top flight following relegation to the Championship in the 2019-20 season.

Only Watford, eight points behind, can now deny them the second-tier title for a third time.

It is the earliest they have secured promotion since their first in 2004.

Saturday evening's game against Bournemouth can edge them closer to securing the title with four games remaining after that.

Norwich lost 13 of their last 15 Premier League games last season as they returned to the Championship after just one season in the top flight.

But while most relegated sides struggle to turn around a losing mentality in the following campaign, the Canaries stayed calm and kept faith with head coach Daniel Farke and the nucleus of the squad which took them up the previous season.

They gained just four points from their opening four games but moved to the top of the table with victory at Middlesbrough in late November, 12 games in, and hardly looked back.

Norwich's previous promotion was done in swashbuckling style, scoring an incredible 31 of their 93 league goals after the 75th minute, though a defence conceding 57 goals in the Championship would prove not to be fit for purpose at the highest level.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56767583

 

[Saj]

Sheffield United's relegation to the Championship has been confirmed with defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Willian Jose got the decisive goal midway through the second half, slotting in Adama Traore's cutback.

The Blades rallied late on as they tried to delay their drop and Enda Stevens brought a good save out of Rui Patricio, but they could not equalise.

Defeat means Sheffield United are 19 points from a position of safety with six games left.

Confirmation of relegation ends their two-season stay in the Premier League, after they marked their return to the top flight after a 12-year absence by finishing ninth last term.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME

Arsenal 1-1 Fulham

==

Eddie Nketiah's goal late in stoppage time for Arsenal delivered a major blow to Fulham's already slim Premier League survival hopes.

Until his 97th minute effort Josh Maja's second-half penalty had looked likely to give the Cottagers a hugely valuable three points in their battle against relegation.

 

[Firebat]

FULL TIME: Manchester United 3-1 Burnley

A 5th straight win for Man United, thanks to a Greenwood double, has continued their brilliant EPL season and consolidated their 2nd place.

 

[Firebat]

The Premier League table as it stands:

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME
Leeds 0-1 Liverpool

Half time and it is advantage Liverpool thanks to that Sadio Mane strike.

The Reds are on their way into the top four as things stand.

 

[Saj]

Diego Llorente scored a late equaliser for Leeds to deny Liverpool a place in the top four of the Premier League - as uncertainty reigns over what that would mean following the announcement of the European Super League.

The Reds are one of 12 clubs to agree to join a breakaway ESL to "commence as soon as practicable". Even if it does not start next season, Uefa has said it could ban the clubs - including six English sides - from European competition for their deflection.

There was a strange mood around the first game involving any of the 12 teams since Sunday night's announcement, with protests inside and outside the ground.

Fans of Leeds and other clubs gathered outside Elland Road to stage a protest - during which a Liverpool shirt was burned - and a plane flew over the stadium displaying an anti-Super League message.

Inside the stadium Leeds players wore T-shirts saying 'Earn it' next to the Champions League logo and 'Football is for the fans'. A banner behind one goal had the same message.

Leeds left the shirts in Liverpool's dressing room too, in case they wanted to protest - a move that annoyed Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, who said he does not like the idea of the ESL but that he and his players had no say in it.

Liverpool dominated the first half and went ahead when Trent Alexander-Arnold latched on to Diogo Jota's long ball and squared it to Sadio Mane to slot into an empty net after Illan Meslier had rushed out of goal.

That was his first Premier League goal since January, a run of 10 games.

Leeds improved after the break and Patrick Bamford hit the crossbar before Llorente headed in his first goal for the club.

 

[PetroDollars]

LP certain to play europa now unless super league saves them

 

[MenInG]

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge has been delayed until 20:15 BST after protests delayed the arrival of the Chelsea and Brighton Team buses.

 

[Saj]

Chelsea shared a goalless draw with Brighton to climb into the Champions Leagues places on a night where the future of European football came to a dramatic head.

The fixture was almost a side note, with the news breaking before kick-off that Chelsea were preparing to pull out of the European Super League at the same time as their fans were protesting the club's inclusion outside Stamford Bridge.

The Blues' notice of withdrawal was followed by that of Manchester City as the controversial new competition threatened to unravel just 48 hours after the 12 clubs involved unveiled their proposals.

With the current Champions League admitting sides on merit, Chelsea will need to finish among the top four in the English top flight, or win the competition, to qualify for a spot among Europe's elite next season.

The Blues created little but a point was enough to see Thomas Tuchel's side take up the last of those automatic places, going above London rivals West Ham, who they face on Saturday.

It was in fact Brighton who enjoyed the best chances late on as first substitute Adam Lallana fired wide before Danny Welbeck struck the post from distance.

Defender Ben White was then sent off for the visitors in stoppage time for a second booking as Chelsea looked to break away.

The draw moves Graham Potter's side seven points above the Premier League relegation zone with six games to play.

 

[Saj]

Son Heung-min's late penalty capped a Tottenham fightback against Southampton that handed interim head coach Ryan Mason victory in his first match in charge.

Former Spurs midfielder Mason, the Premier League's youngest head coach at the age of 29, succeeded Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese was sacked on Monday.

He made a winning start to his tenure after Gareth Bale curled in a superb equaliser and then a late VAR intervention saw Son score after a Moussa Djenepo foul on Spurs midfielder Harry Winks was shown to be just inside the Southampton penalty area.

Until Bale's composed finish on the hour mark the hosts had been second best to a slick Southampton side, who went in front when Danny Ings glanced in James Ward-Prowse's corner.

Spurs were flat for long periods and appeared to have been affected by their tumultuous few days, with Mourinho's departure coming fewer than 24 hours after the club announced they were to join a new European Super League.

Chairman Daniel Levy has since expressed regret over the "anxiety and upset" caused by the proposal, which has now collapsed following widespread condemnation.

Signs of that backlash were evident prior to kick-off as groups of Spurs supporters gathered outside their club's stadium calling for Levy and owners the ENIC group to leave the club.

Despite the unrest and an unsettling start to the week, this result moves Tottenham up to sixth - two points outside the top four - while the Saints remain 14th in the table.

 

[Saj]

City move closer to the title.

Manchester City moved closer to becoming Premier League champions after they beat Aston Villa in a match where both sides ended with 10 men.

City, playing for the first time since they signed up to the European Super League and then withdrew from the competition, had centre-half John Stones sent off just before the break for a knee-high challenge on Jacob Ramsey.

However, Villa wasted the man advantage when Matty Cash was dismissed 11 minutes into the second half following two bookings in the space of three minutes.

Villa went ahead after only 20 seconds as John McGinn guided a shot past Ederson following Ollie Watkins' low cross.

The impressive Phil Foden finished off a fine City team move to equalise before Rodri headed the visitors in front following Bernardo Silva's cross.

City led 2-1 when they went down to 10 men, but Villa could not capitalise on the extra player and then offered little threat when it was 10-a-side.

Pep Guardiola's team are 11 points clear of Manchester United and need eight points from their final five matches to become English champions for the third time in four seasons.

Stones will be suspended for Sunday's Carabao Cup final against Tottenham at Wembley as City, who are also in the Champions League semi-finals, aim to pick up the first of a potential three trophies this season.

 

[Saj]

Leicester opened up a four-point gap to fourth place in the Premier League with victory over relegation-bound West Brom at the King Power Stadium.

Three goals in 13 first-half minutes did the damage as striker Jamie Vardy scored one and assisted another.

Vardy was teed up by Timothy Castagne for the opener, before he set up Kelechi Iheanacho after a driving run down the left for Leicester's third.

Centre-back Jonny Evans had nodded in a deflected corner to make it 2-0.

In a game that had several goalscoring opportunities, Castagne and West Brom's Matheus Pereira also hit the woodwork in the first half.

Victory means Leicester are now four points clear of Chelsea, who occupy the final Champions League qualification spot with six games remaining. The two sides meet in the league - as well as the FA Cup final - next month.

West Brom are on the brink of relegation as they remain nine points from safety and have a far inferior goal difference than 17th-placed Burnley.

 

[MenInG]

 

[Saj]

An absolute howler from Arsenal's Bernd Leno gifted Everton a crucial win in their bid for a Champions League place - as Gunners fans protested against the club's owner outside.

Over 1,000 Arsenal supporters gathered outside Emirates Stadium to show their anger about Stan Kroenke's role in the failed European Super League.

The goal came when Everton forward Richarlison tried to roll a ball across the six-yard box. Leno should have scooped it up, but the ball rolled through the Arsenal keeper's hands, hitting his leg on the way in.

That was a rare moment of goalmouth action on the night as Everton moved to within three points of the top four.

Gylfi Sigurdsson came closest before that when his 30-yard free-kick hit the bar.

Arsenal were awarded a penalty in the second half after Richarlison nicked Dani Ceballos - but it was overturned by the video assistant referee for an offside in the build-up.

Gabriel Martinelli almost saved Arsenal in injury time but Jordan Pickford kept out his shot.

Leno also came up for a late corner but could not make amends for his costly error.

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME
Liverpool 1-0 Newcastle

Liverpool led after three minutes but have spurned a host of chances since.

Newcastle's threat has been sporadic but with Saint-Maximin on the pitch anything is possible.

 

[MenInG]

FT: Liverpool 1-1 Newcastle

Newcastle substitute Joe Willock scored a dramatic but deserved 95th-minute equaliser to deny Liverpool a much-needed win in their pursuit of Champions League football.

Mohamed Salah's early goal appeared to have put the champions on track for a vital three points as they chase a top-four finish at the end of a disappointing season.

But despite dominating early on, Jurgen Klopp's side were unable to finish the game off and were given a lifeline they failed to take when Callum Wilson's last-minute equaliser was ruled out for handball.

Steve Bruce's much-improved visitors kept up the late pressure and were rewarded when Willock fired in for the third match in a row with the last kick of the game to strengthen their own position at the bottom of the table.

Reds fans must now look on as West Ham and Chelsea - both a point ahead of their sixth-placed side - meet later on Saturday.

It was already a season to forget for Liverpool with a meek title defence and trophyless campaign, even before the off-field distraction of this week's aborted interest in the European Super League.

There were muted protests against the club's owners as the team coach arrived at Anfield but the players themselves were loudly cheered and the disruption was nothing like that seen at Arsenal on Friday night.

Salah's superb early goal, spinning to control a clearance and smash in what is - remarkably - Liverpool's first first-half goal at home in 2021, seemed to set them on track for a win that would calm matters on and off the pitch.

Jurgen Klopp lined up Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota alongside Salah in an attacking line-up and they all had chances, with Magpies keeper Martin Dubravka making eight saves in a solid if unspectacular showing.

But as the game wore on Liverpool's intensity and drive faded, an all-too-familiar sight in recent months.

Newcastle's late rally meant two more dropped points for the home side and a disappointing season that may yet end without even a Champions League place next term.

Magpies safe now?

Newcastle came into the game on the back of a run of one defeat in seven games that had steered them away from danger, and their last-ditch Anfield exploits have now pushed them nine points ahead of Fulham in 18th place. Surely they are safe?

Bruce has been heavily criticised for his approach throughout his time in charge and Newcastle's defensive, containing 5-4-1 shape had no immediate effect as Salah crashed in following Ciaran Clark's poor clearing header.

But in Allan Saint-Maximin the visitors had the game's most lively attacker and he carried a threat single-handedly for most of the match.

Joelinton then could, maybe should have equalised but Alisson kept out his effort before Wilson scrambled in at the second attempt. But the ball did hit his arm and VAR ruled it out.

Many teams would have crumbled at such late disappointment so all credit to Newcastle for going again, and Willock was sure in his finish as he drilled in via a deflection from 10 yards out.

 

[MenInG]

BREAKING: Watford have been promoted back to the Premier League after victory over Millwall today ��

 

[MenInG]

Chelsea took a huge step towards securing a Champions League spot as Timo Werner's first goal since February helped Thomas Tuchel's side beat top four rivals West Ham. (0-1)

Werner, who has struggled to make a significant impact since joining for £47m last summer, started and finished the move that settled a tightly-fought game.

The Germany forward fired home from Ben Chilwell's cross after a well-worked move involving Christian Pulisic, Werner's sixth Premier League goal since arriving from RB Leipzig.

West Ham struggled to create chances and finished the game with 10 men after Fabian Balbuena was shown a straight red card in the 81st minute after catching Chilwell's leg with his follow through while making a clearance.

Referee Chris Kavanagh watched a replay on the pitchside monitor before dismissing the Paraguay defender.

The Hammers remain fifth in the table, three points behind Chelsea, after Liverpool's failure to beat Newcastle earlier on Saturday.

In what was billed as a huge game in the race for the top four, West Ham were hoping to deliver a victory for the underdog at the end of a week when the so-called "big six" tried to break rank and join the European Super League.

David Moyes' side have enjoyed a fine run of form to raise hopes they could secure a Champions League spot.

However, they did not register an attempt on target until after half-time as Chelsea extended their unbeaten run away from home under Tuchel to 10 games in all competitions.

West Ham wanted a penalty when the game was goalless after Tomas Soucek's shot struck Cesar Azpilicueta in the torso before hitting his arm, while Werner missed a glorious chance to double the lead after Mason Mount's shot was parried into his path but the striker screwed it wide.

 

[Saj]

Sheffield United claimed a first Premier League win since last month's departure of manager Chris Wilder to keep wasteful Brighton looking nervously over their shoulders.

The Blades, whose own relegation was confirmed by defeat at Wolves seven days earlier, handed a glimmer of hope to the other sides in the bottom three as David McGoldrick's winner punished poor Brighton defending.

Adam Webster's heavy touch triggered a swift break from the hosts and Joel Veltman compounded the error with a poor clearance from Ben Osborn's cross as a ricochet off Pascal Gross fell perfectly for McGoldrick to swivel and score.

Brighton remain seven points clear of 18th-placed Fulham and 10 above West Bromwich Albion, in 19th, with five games remaining but missed the chance to virtually seal their safety at Bramall Lane.

The Seagulls' best openings fell to Neal Maupay, who was twice denied by Aaron Ramsdale and hooked over a great chance from close range, while a Jakub Moder strike was ruled out for offside by the video assistant referee.

The victory was the Blades' first under caretaker manager Paul Heckingbottom, having lost all four of their previous league games, as well as an FA Cup quarter-final at Chelsea, under his stewardship.

 

[Saj]

Burnley took a huge step towards retaining their Premier League status as a first-half Chris Wood hat-trick saw them thrash a lifeless Wolves at Molineux.

An awful display from the hosts was ruthlessly exposed by the Clarets, who produced an excellent performance to end a run of three straight defeats in style.

Sean Dyche's side are now nine points clear of Fulham and the relegation zone with 15 to play for and the long-serving manager can surely start planning for a sixth consecutive season in the top flight.

Wood was superb throughout but was also gifted his chances by a Wolves display that was worryingly half-hearted and reeked of the end of a season marooned in mid-table.

Strike partner Matej Vydra saw his effort ruled out by the video assistant referee for offside but there was still time for a fourth as Ashley Westwood thumped in from the edge of the area.

 

[MenInG]

Manchester United failed to impose their perceived superiority over old rivals Leeds and had to settle for a point from a disappointing draw.

In a game of few chances, Marcus Rashford came closest with a free-kick just before half-time.

But memories of a forgettable encounter on the pitch will remain because of off-field issues.

A plane trailing a banner proclaiming '2bn stolen - Glazers out' flew over Elland Road just before kick-off.

That it was not set up by any of the organised Manchester United supporter groups just underlines the strength of feeling created by this week's European Super League controversy, fuelling an already negative view of the club's American owners.

As one of England's biggest clubs themselves, Leeds will be satisfied at extending their run of home draws against 'Big Six' opposition to five, with only Tottenham left to come.

The result means Manchester City will be crowned Premier League champions next weekend if Pep Guardiola's side beat Crystal Palace on Saturday and second-placed United lose at home to Liverpool on Sunday.

The visitors were spared the uncomfortable welcome and intense atmosphere normally associated with this fixture but the passions stirred by the thwarted European Super League breakaway were difficult for them to ignore.

A banner, pinned to a railing outside the ground, bore a lengthy statement, which started with the words 'Don't let them threaten or bully you any more' and demanded action against the six clubs.

The match programme included columns from manager Marcelo Bielsa and skipper Liam Cooper, which both condemned the plot.

Chief executive Angus Kinnear called it a 'betrayal of every true football supporter' but warned it would be 'naïve to believe the threat has been extinguished forever' and that while 'this week's battle against elitism may have been won, the ongoing war needs to be relentlessly and vigorously fought'.

With the banner against the Old Trafford ownership being trailed as well and the Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani, plus director of football Victor Orta sporting large white roses - the symbol of Yorkshire - in their lapels, there was enough spice even without the presence of supporters.

Leeds v Manchester United.

United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, who was heavily involved in Super League discussions but was prompted to hand in his resignation due to his dislike of the proposals, was also absent.

It was a surprise therefore, that the contest began in such a lacklustre manner.

Not until the final minutes of the opening period did a breakthrough seem possible, when Illan Meslier tipped a goal-bound Rashford free-kick over and Harry Maguire nodded the resulting corner wide.

Leeds move above Arsenal

The second period was more even at least and Helder Costa drove a low cross along the six-yard area before his shot deflected off Victor Lindelof and looped over.

But goalmouth action was rare and treats even fewer. Indeed, arguably the highlight was seeing Fred and Maguire having a go at each other during a break in play.

The result leaves United needing four points from their remaining five games to confirm a place in next season's Champions League.

But as the point takes Leeds ahead of Arsenal, there is poignancy for the west Yorkshire side in the table as well.

Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa, speaking to BBC Sport: "It was a very demanding game for us. For the game not to be unbalanced the team made a massive effort.

"As the game grew the spaces opened up and there were more opportunities to attack but the draw was sufficient reward for how the game went.

"I have the feeling there has been a growth in the players' maturity in how to manage these games.

"In none of the games apart from Arsenal were we able to dominate and win the game. But the draws against Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea [and now United] are good games to judge the players."

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, speaking to BBC Sport: "It was a good game of football. You have to prepare well for Leeds to earn the right to play and dominate.

"I felt we did that. We won 6-2 last time but had 40% possession. Second half today we had 60%.

"Leeds can steamroller teams with their fitness but my team showed their fitness. We created two or three big moments and we could have scored.

"We have to win every single game to put pressure on City. This is two points dropped that makes them very safe. But we push on. We have two semis coming up and Liverpool in the middle."

Red Devils kings of the road despite draw - the stats

Manchester United are unbeaten in their past 24 Premier League away games (W15 D9), with only Arsenal between April 2003 and September 2004 (27) having a longer such run in English top-flight history.
Leeds had only six shots in this match, their joint-fewest in a league game at Elland Road under Marcelo Bielsa (also six against Barnsley in July 2020).
Manchester United have drawn seven league games 0-0 this season - only in 1980-81 (8) have they been involved in more goalless draws in a single league campaign. United have the most goalless draws of any side in the Premier League this season.
Manchester United's Luke Shaw has created 11 chances in his last two league games; in 2021 he has created the most chances of any player in the Premier League (50).
Harry Maguire (10) is only the third Manchester United player to be shown 10+ yellow cards in a single Premier League campaign, after Steve Bruce in 1994-95 (11) and Luke Shaw in 2018-19 (11).

BBC

 

[Saj]

West Brom's faint hopes of avoiding relegation suffered a significant setback after substitute Keinan Davis scored a 92nd-minute equaliser for Aston Villa.

The Baggies fell behind when Anwar El Ghazi marked his return to the side by firing Villa ahead from the penalty spot after Semi Ajayi had clipped Ross Barkley.

They were then awarded a penalty of their own, Matheus Pereira beating Emiliano Martinez to equalise after Ezri Konsa caught Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Brazilian forward Pereira then hit the bar from a free-kick after creating chances for Okay Yokuslu and Maitland-Niles before Mbaye Diagne's deflected finish off Tyrone Mings looked to have sealed a third win in four games.

But Davis pounced in the closing moments from close range after a defensive mix-up to deny the Baggies, who are now nine points from safety with five games remaining.

 

[Saj]

Leicester City moved closer to Champions League qualification as they came from behind to beat Crystal Palace.

Wilfried Zaha put the visitors ahead after only 12 minutes, with a first-time finish following a fine through ball from Eberechi Eze.

But Timothy Castagne equalised for the Foxes within five minutes of the second half by firing the ball into the roof of the net after being set up by Kelechi Iheanacho.

Palace nearly retook the lead but a superb sliding challenge from Jonny Evans denied Christian Benteke what would have been a tap-in into an unguarded goal.

That missed chance proved crucial as Iheanacho scored his 12th goal in nine games, when he cut inside on to his left foot and blasted the ball past goalkeeper Vicente Guaita for a late winner.

The result leaves the Foxes third in the Premier League, but takes them seven points clear of fifth-placed West Ham with five matches to go.

Leicester, who have also reached the FA Cup final for the first time since 1969, have only played in the European Cup or Champions League once, reaching the quarter-finals in 2016-17 after winning the Premier League the previous season.

Their run-in includes games against Manchester United in second, Chelsea in fourth and Tottenham in seventh.

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME
Southampton 0-0 Leicester

Southampton have held on with 10 men for well over half an hour so they will be pleased with that.

 

[Saj]

Southampton held Leicester to a draw despite playing more than 80 minutes with 10 men to frustrate the Foxes in their push to clinch a top-four finish.

Jannick Vestergaard was controversially sent off after just 10 minutes when his tackle on Jamie Vardy was deemed to have denied the Leicester striker a goal-scoring opportunity.

Vestergaard, on the edge of his box and the last defender, got the ball with a lunging tackle but referee Robert Jones deemed his follow-through on to Vardy's ankle had prevented the striker running in on goal.

That decision set the game's pattern, Leicester probing while Southampton defended deep, but it was the Saints who took the lead in the 61st minute.

James Ward-Prowse scored from the penalty spot after Kelechi Iheanacho had blocked Stuart Armstrong's effort with his arm raised up by his head.

Jonny Evans headed in Iheanacho's cross eight minutes later for the equaliser but under near-constant pressure Southampton's defence held firm.

Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy brilliantly denied Vardy with his right boot from close range in the final 10 minutes.

The point takes Leicester eight points clear of fifth-placed West Ham having played a game more but they have a difficult end of the season to come.

Southampton edge 10 points clear of the relegation zone as they close in on guaranteeing their safety.

 

[MenInG]

HALF-TIME

Crystal Palace 0-0 Man City

A tidy half by Palace. Wilfried Zaha is last to leave the pitch by some distance. Is he injured? That would be a huge blow to Palace.

 

[Firebat]

FULL TIME

Crystal Palace 0-2 Manchester City

That was the crucial, potentially title-winning victory for Pep Guardiola! 2 second half goals in 2 minutes from Aguero and Torres sealed the game.

All that remains is for Liverpool to defeat Manchester United tomorrow and a 3rd title in 4 years will be Man City's!

 

[Last Monetarist]

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56869463

Manchester City could clinch the Premier League title on Sunday after two goals in the space of 83 seconds saw off a stubborn Crystal Palace.

City will secure a third title in four seasons if second-placed Manchester United lose at home to Liverpool.

After a scrappy first half at Selhurst Park, Sergio Aguero thumped City ahead with a clinical finish before Ferran Torres drilled in a low shot.

That ended the resistance of Palace, who stay in 13th place.

Roy Hodgson's side had chances in the first half through Christian Benteke, who flicked a header wide and had a close-range shot blocked by City keeper Ederson.

But once City made their breakthrough when Aguero smashed high into the net, quickly followed by Torres' precise finish, the result was not in doubt.

Now it is a question of when, not if, Pep Guardiola's side will be crowned champions again after relinquishing the crown to Liverpool last season.

"We can start to put the champagne in the fridge - not to open yet, but to think about it," said Guardiola, whose side moved 11 points clear of United.

"The Premier League is already there - it is in our hands. We need one more victory, two more points." Not for the first time, but perhaps the last, Aguero provided the inspiration for City as they close in on another trophy.

The 32-year-old Argentine will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season after playing such an instrumental role in their success since arriving in 2011.

While he might no longer be deemed by Guardiola as a key starter in City's biggest games, there was a sense of inevitability that Aguero would still have a significant impact in their chase for the Treble as his iconic spell at the club comes towards an end.

Playing slightly deeper behind Gabriel Jesus, Aguero was at the heart of City's brighter attacking moments in a first half when they lacked quality in the final third of the field.

Yet they had not managed a shot on target until the ball came into the Palace box from the left and Aguero took a deft touch to create space and blast a powerful shot into the roof of the net.

It was a reminder of the quality he still possesses, which is leaving the leading clubs in the world reportedly eyeing a move for him in the summer.

"I'm so happy because it has been a long time since I played 90 minutes and the goal was good because maybe we can win the Premier League," said Aguero, who said he did not know if he will watch United's game against Liverpool.

"Always I'm ready. I am feeling good. I always want the opportunity to play like today." As far as weeks in the world of football go, City have enjoyed one which could not have been more perfect.

Starting on Sunday when they won the Carabao Cup final against Tottenham, and continuing on Wednesday with the impressive victory at Paris St-Germain in the Champions League semi-final first leg, Guardiola's squad perfectly rounded off a pivotal week.

With the second leg coming up on Tuesday, Guardiola shuffled his team by making eight changes and they initially lacked rhythm against a well-drilled Palace side.

After Jesus saw a close-range finish ruled out for offside, City went into the break having failed to manage a shot on target in the first half for the first time in 21 matches.

Patience and second-half improvement had been the key to the win in Paris and so it proved again.

Guardiola's demeanour was buoyant and relaxed after securing a vital win, having been able to rest key players and seemingly avoiding picking up any injuries.

Now he switches focus to completing the job against PSG on Tuesday and taking City into their first Champions League final.

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson: "Unfortunately we were playing against a team with so much technical ability. You have got to work so very hard to keep them at bay.

"The first goal was just a fantastic pass, control and shot.

"After all the good work you've done to keep them at bay, you're then looking at 1-0 to Man City and you know you've got to work hard to score a goal or two.

"As a result they could take their foot off the gas and run through the latter part of the game quite easily."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Sergio Aguero: "What a goal, what an action, what a player, what a man. I am incredibly delighted he is back.

"He is going to enjoy the last games. He showed with his goal what he has been and what he is. I am in love as a person He is an incredible guy.

"After the Champions League it is always tough but the players who didn't play in Paris spoke on the grass and they did it perfectly."

 

[MenInG]

FT: Brighton 2-0 Leeds


Leeds United

Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa, speaking to MOTD: "We didn't play well. The victory for the opponent was fair. We created very little danger and it was difficult for us to recover the ball."

On missing Kalvin Phillips: "His absence wasn't the factor of why we lost.

"The game was hard with the height of their centre-backs. We couldn't avoid them initiating the play nor could we overcome them trying to get in behind."

 

[Saj]

Kai Havertz scored twice to boost Chelsea's grip on a Champions League place and send Fulham closer to Premier League relegation.

The German, one of five changes in between the Blues' Champions League semi-final legs against Real Madrid, latched on to Mason Mount's through ball to give them an early lead.

He doubled their advantage when he finished after a one-two with Timo Werner.

In between those efforts he also had a goal correctly ruled out for offside.

Fulham had plenty of chances in the first half with Antonee Robinson and Ola Aina forcing good saves from Edouard Mendy.

But they created nothing of note after the break and now sit nine points off safety with four games to go.

Chelsea, who just need a goalless home draw against Real on Wednesday to reach the Champions League final, have a six-point cushion over West Ham in the top four.

 

[Saj]

Anwar El Ghazi's superb second-half strike secured victory for Aston Villa and dealt a significant blow to Everton's hopes of finishing in the top four of the Premier League.

El Ghazi curled home from the edge of the box with 10 minutes remaining to secure Villa only their third win in their last 11 league games.

Everton had started the day six points off the top four but this defeat, coupled with a win for Chelsea, means they are now nine points adrift of Thomas Tuchel's side.

El Ghazi's winner was the only highlight of a relatively flat second half that failed to build on a pulsating first.

Ollie Watkins opened the scoring when he pounced on a mistake by Mason Holgate before slotting past Jordan Pickford.

However, Everton hit back soon after when Dominic Calvert-Lewin powered home a header following a corner.

Home keeper Pickford then twice denied Watkins with excellent saves to keep Villa at bay, while ex-Everton midfielder Ross Barkley struck the post with a low effort from range.

But despite Pickford's best efforts Villa secured the three points when El Ghazi struck late on.

 

[MenInG]

FULL-TIME
Newcastle 0-2 Arsenal

 

[Last Monetarist]

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56876297

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored on his first start since recovering from malaria as Arsenal prepared for their Europa League showdown against Villarreal with a confidence-boosting win away to Newcastle at St James' Park.

Mohamed Elneny scored his first Premier League goal for the Gunners, before Aubameyang - on his first start since 3 April - secured the points in the second half.

Speaking after the game, the Gabonese striker paid tribute to his "incredible" doctors for their part in his recovery.

"The last five minutes I was dying a little bit but to tell the truth I felt good for most of the game and I was happy with that," Aubameyang told Sky Sports.

"The doctors did incredible work with me and I am really pleased with them and have to say thank you to them."

Arsenal trail 2-1 after the away leg of their semi-final tie with Villarreal and victory in the north east of England was their first in four games.

The Magpies had an excellent April to distance themselves from the bottom three but they struggled to impose themselves on Sunday.

Steve Bruce's side, who lost Fabian Schar to a straight red card after a late challenge on Gabriel Martinelli, remain nine points above the relegation zone with four games remaining.

Arsenal, who host Villarreal on Thursday, move back above Aston Villa into ninth place in the table. Arsenal travelled to Newcastle in need of victory after what manager Mikel Arteta described as a bad week of results before kick-off.

A disappointing draw against relegation-threatened Fulham was followed by defeats at Everton and Villarreal.

But with morale low, the trip to St James' Park came at the perfect moment.

The Gunners had won their previous six games against the Magpies, keeping five clean sheets in the process, and they got off to an impressive start.

Elneny was the beneficiary when Aubameyang mistimed his shot, to open his league account on his 66th appearance.

Granit Xhaka also forced Martin Dubravka into an smart save in the first half, before Aubameyang made it five goals in five appearances against the Magpies with an acrobatic finish after Martinelli's pin-point cross.

The Gunners' season now rests on whether they can overturn the deficit against Villarreal to reach a second European final in three years. Newcastle never got going and they registered just one shot on target, when Allan Saint-Maximin's attempt looped towards goal after ricocheting off his standing leg.

The hosts will have been boosted by Callum Wilson's return to the side in attack, but he was limited to just one touch in the opposition box in the first half.

Eight points from four unbeaten games in April looks as if it may have secured Premier League football for another season, but the Magpies' potency will be a concern during the summer.

Keeping top scorer Wilson, who is the only player to hit double figures (10) for the season, fit will be crucial for Bruce's side.

But with just 10 goals contributed between Joelinton and Miguel Almiron, he will need assistance.

Newcastle manager Steve Bruce speaking to BBC Sport: "We're disappointed because we haven't got near the performances of late and Arsenal played well.

"It's a poor goal after four minutes. When you're chasing against these lads it's always going to be difficult. Arsenal were the better side today, it was as simple as that.

"Allan Saint-Maximin in the last few weeks has produced all sorts of magic but it wasn't quite there today.

"We've never thought [we're safe]. We have four games left and we still have a lot to play for."

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta speaking to BBC Sport: "We got what we wanted, to win the game and keep a clean sheet. We had strong performances individually and collectively we were the better side.

"I wanted to be fresh for today and Thursday so that was to give an opportunity to everybody. That will give us a headache.

"We missed [Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang] for a few weeks with illness. He is getting back to fitness slowly. Today we played him to see how he was and he looked good.

"Winning and playing the way we have done today gives the team comfort and confidence. It's exactly what we need. We believed we can beat them and we did."

 

[Saj]

Gareth Bale's hat-trick gave Tottenham a comfortable victory over relegated Sheffield United as they maintained their pursuit of European football.

Bale flicked in the opener when it was lifted over the top by Serge Aurier before the right-back teed him up to thump in the third in the second half.

The Welsh international was played in by Son Heung-min on the break for his second - a thumping strike which flew into the top right corner.

Son rounded off a dominant Spurs performance when he curled in a superb fourth goal.

The South Korean also had a goal disallowed for offside five minutes into the second half.

The result leaves Tottenham sitting five points off fourth place and the Champions League qualification spot with four games remaining.

Sheffield United, who were relegated on 17 April following defeat to Wolves, had one shot on target and were unable to test goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.