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      New Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim drops massive hint at summer transfer raid on Sporting, admitting ‘they are good players’

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      INCOMING Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has dropped a huge hint that he might carry out a summer transfer raid on Sporting Lisbon.Amorim is set to begin work as United boss tomorrow, calling time on his four-and-a-half-year spell with Portuguese giants Sporting.Ruben Amorim has hinted that he could raid Sporting Lisbon for signings in the summerCredit: PAThe 39-year-old has enjoyed success with Sporting since taking over in 2020, winning two league titles and two Portuguese League Cups.And he’s done so with an incredible squad that has helped him gain an advantage over the opposition, alongside his tactical skillset.But it looks as though Amorim could be ready to rip that squad apart and cherry pick the best part to lure to the Theatre of Dreams.Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his final game in charge of Sporting tonight, Amorim hinted that he could try and sign some of the current crop at the José Alvalade Stadium.READ MORE ON MAN UTDRuling out a short-term raid, he said: “In January I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting. That’s what I said.”He then opened the door for potential business in the summer.He added: “In the summer I don’t know what I’m going to do. The main point is to hold on until the summer. “Second point, you can see that Sporting players are great players. Let’s see what will happen.”Most read in FootballAmorim could be keen on bringing star striker Viktor Gyokeres to Man UtdCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSporting is stacked with top talent that could be of use to a struggling Man Utd side.The Red Devils are crying out for a goalscorer and will certainly have a keen eye on Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.Watch Ruben Amorim celebrate with guard of honour as Sporting Lisbon boss narrowly avoids nasty bumps accidentThe former Brighton and Coventry striker has scored an unfathomable 66 goals in 67 appearances since his arrival in Portugal.While he has already found the back of the net 23 times in 17 games this term – including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.Other players who have been tipped to make the switch include ball-playing centre-back Goncalo Inacio and holding midfielder Morten Hjulmand.Amorim will already be reuniting with one of his former players at Old Trafford.Summer arrival Manuel Ugarte played under Amorim 85 times and was a huge part of Sporting’s team during his spell with the club.Amorim will be reunited with Manuel UgarteCredit: AlamyThree Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Former Chelsea star to join Thomas Tuchel’s team at England as former Blues boss continues raid on old club

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      THOMAS TUCHEL has further pillaged former club Chelsea as he prepares to take charge of England.The FA officially announced the out-of-work German as Gareth Southgate’s successor in October.Thomas Tuchel was appointed as Gareth Southgate’s successor in OctoberCredit: PAThe 51-year-old takes charge of the Three Lions on January 1 and is currently finalising his coaching teamCredit: REUTERSThe German is set to raid former club Chelsea for the services of goalkeeping coach HilarioCredit: REXHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching staff for eight yearsCredit: REXBut he won’t take charge of the Three Lions – who he’s signed an 18-month deal with – until January 1.Tuchel, 51, is using the time off to get his backroom team in place.And SunSport can reveal he’s set to add Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach Henrique Hilario to his team.Multiple sources have confirmed Tuchel has persuaded the former Blues stopper to swap club coaching for international football.READ MORE ON TUCHELHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching team for eight years after being given a job by former boss Antonio Conte.And SunSport understands the FA will make a formal approach for the 49-year-old, who made 39 appearances for the Blues, after today’s London derby with Arsenal.Hilario won’t be the only asset Tuchel has plundered from Chelsea, who he guided to Champions League glory in May 2021.He’s also convinced Chelsea’s current performance analyst James Melbourne to join him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Hilario and Melbourne will be welcomed by a familiar face in former Blues coach Anthony Barry, who Tuchel has installed as his No2.Tuchel is champing at the bit to get started with the Three Lions, saying upon his appointment: “I’m obviously very excited and honoured to be the new head coach of England.Thomas Tuchel England Press Conference“I want to take the opportunity to thank the FA for their trust and I am very excited to start this journey in January with a very special and exciting group of players to make our dream come true in America.“I understood very quickly that is it is a big job, I think always the job you are in is the biggest job.”And it makes no sense to compare but it feels big and feels like a privilege.”He added: “I’m sorry, I have a German passport.”All of those supporters maybe [have] felt my passion for the English Premier League and the country and how I love to live and work here.“Hopefully I can convince them and show them and prove to them I am proud to be an English manager and do everything to show respect to this role and this country and the target for the next 18 months.”Former Chelsea assistant coach Anthony Barry will be part of Thomas Tuchel’s teamCredit: GETTY More

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      Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?

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      ARSENAL make the short trip to Stamford Bridge to take on London rivals Chelsea in a blockbuster Super Sunday clash.The Gunners are in need of a huge win after claiming just one point from their last three games in the Premier League.Arsenal were beaten 1-0 away at Newcastle last SaturdayCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s men dropped out of the top-4 after last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park.The Spaniard would have hoped for a more favourable fixture this weekend as only Manchester City have beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this season.Arteta will also have fewer attacking options to choose from, with Raheem Sterling unable to feature for the Gunners in West London.Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?Raheem Sterling will be unable to feature for Arsenal against Chelsea this weekend due to the terms of his Deadline Day move to the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe winger joined the Gunners on a season-long loan after falling out-of-favour with new Blues boss Enzo Maresca.Due to the move being a temporary one, Sterling will not be eligible to face his parent side, according to Premier League rules.This also rules the 29-year-old out of the return fixture between the two rivals at the Emirates on March 15, 2025.Since his arrival, Sterling has struggled for a consistent run in the Arsenal side, having played just 123 minutes in the Premier League this season.Most read in FootballHowever, the winger is off the mark for his new club, scoring in the 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Bolton in September.How to watch Chelsea vs ArsenalChelsea vs Arsenal will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event/Premier League.You can live stream the match via the NOW/Sky Sports app.Alternatively, SunSport will provide minute-by-minute coverage of the huge clash at Stamford Bridge. More

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      Former Premier League star announces shock retirement aged 37 as fans hail ‘real legend’

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      A FORMER Premier League icon has announced his retirement from professional football.Ex-Liverpool cult hero Ryan Babel has hung up his boots at the age of 37.Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has retired from professional footballCredit: PA:Empics SportThe cult hero has played for some of Europe’s top clubsCredit: GettyThe 69-time Netherlands international has called it quits after playing his last professional game for Turkish side Eyuspor back in 2023.Taking to social media, Babel announced that it was time to bring an end to his career that has seen him play for the likes of Liverpool, Galatasaray and Ajax. He wrote: “As I look back on my career it feels surreal to think about how far I have come. “From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it’s been a journey full of unforgettable moments.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’ve been fortunate enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I never imagined.”Football has been more than just a job, it’s been a way of life: the discipline, the sacrifice, the passion, the glory and even the pain have all played a part in my development both on and off the field.”I am filled with gratitude for this amazing journey I have had. Football gave me everything I dreamed of and so much more. “Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, fans and even the media who have been part of this incredible adventure. This game will forever be in my heart. Thank you.”Most read in FootballBabel enjoyed three spells with Ajax after graduating from the club’s academyCredit: GettyThe Dutchman represented his nation 69 timesCredit: ReutersRyan Babel’s careerA brief look into an Ryan Babel’s career…CLUB CAREER2004 – 2007: Ajax2007 – 2011: Liverpool2011 – 2012: Hoffenheim2012 – 2013: Ajax2013 – 2015: Kasimpasa2015 – 2016: Al-Ain2016 – 2017: Deportivo La Coruna2017 – 2019: Besiktas2019: Fulham2019 – 2022: Galatasaray2020: Ajax (loan)2022 – 2023: EyupsporINTERNATIONAL CAREERCaps: 69Goals: 10Assists: 9Debut: March 26, 2005 vs RomaniaFinal game: March 30, 2021 vs Gibraltar FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBabel managed 146 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 times and registering 18 assists.While he also played 47 Champions League games for the Reds, Ajax, Besiktas and Galatasaray – scoring nine times in Europe’s elite competition.Steven Gerrard mercilessly BOOED by Al-Ettifaq fans after losing local derby with Liverpool legend on brink of sackBabel also had a brief spell at Fulham during the latter stages of his career, playing under both Claudio Ranieri and Scott Parker.On the International stage, Babel represented the Netherlands 69 times, making the squad for both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.The fan favourite retires having won two Eredivisie titles, two Dutch cups, one Turkish league title and one Turkish super cup.Fans have hailed the hero online following his announcement. One wrote: “Congratulations on an amazing career!”While another added: “Literally one of the best wingers I saw play for Liverpool”.And a third labelled Babel as a “real legend”.Babel returned to the Premier League with Fulham in 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson sacrificed values to sign deadly Van Persie and Chelsea will win nothing until they make similar move

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      IT was a signing that went against his entire transfer ethos — yet was arguably  the biggest no-brainer of the 105 he made at Old Trafford.Sir Alex Ferguson was never scared to splash cash as he built, strengthened or restructured his all-conquering, title-winning teams.Chelsea and boss Enzo Maresca must abandon their principles if they want to win proper trophiesCredit: PASir Alex Ferguson sacrificed his values to sign Robin van Persie but instantly won the titleCredit: GettyYet as a shrewd old Scot, value for money was also a prime factor.Very rarely did a new face arrive at Manchester United without a potential sell-on fee and the chance to recoup losses if it didn’t work out.This one, though, was different. If it went wrong, there would be no move-him-on safety net.Only Sir Alex knew it wouldn’t go wrong — and Sir Alex wasn’t usually wrong.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo when, in the summer of 2012, Arsenal agreed to sell Robin van Persie, he didn’t pause for breath, even with a £24million price tag.That fee may be a drop in the ocean now but back then it was huge for a player nearing 30. Yet to Fergie it was a bargain.Three months earlier, when THAT Aguerooooo goal meant Manchester City were champions by the  narrowest of margins, Sir Alex had vowed never to lose the title on goal difference again.And with Van Persie as the new attacking spearhead, there was never a chance of it. United were champions by 11 points.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe crown was back at Old Trafford, their Dutch striker topped the scoring charts and Fergie headed into retirement with a 13th Premier League title in the bag,Van Persie’s goals sealed no fewer than 11 United wins that season. But the manager always did know the difference a proven big-game goalscorer can make.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyStars like Cole Palmer are great but should not be relied upon to score like a proper strikerCredit: GettyAn assassin-eyed striker who — even if they didn’t end the season as the Prem’s top marksman — would get you over the line when the stakes were highest, the competition fiercest.Most champion teams over the years have had that one man they can rely on. Didier Drogba at Chelsea, Alan Shearer at Blackburn, Jamie Vardy in that astonishing Leicester triumph.Liverpool had Mo Salah AND Sadio Mane when they won the Prem. For two years Erling Haaland has banged them in for fun at City.Just like Aguero back in 2012 — only third highest over the season, but the saviour when it mattered most. Never more than on the most dramatic final day ever.Very rarely do you lift silver without a striker of pure gold.It’s why they cost so much. It’s why the best teams always have at least one.And also why it’s so remarkable that, despite splashing out more than £1billion, there is still a glaring gap in the Chelsea ranks.Of course, there are those who will point to Thursday’s 8-0 Europa Conference League rampage and wonder what all the fuss is about. And they will be showing their ignorance.It wasn’t Real Madrid or Barcelona who were put to the sword. Not a Manchester City or Liverpool. It was Noah. The Armenian equivalent of the Red Lion.For a relevant reference point, look to the 1-1 draw with United four days earlier. A game Chelsea dominated but could not kill off.Don’t buy that bull about a point at Old Trafford always being a decent result. It’s not when there’s such a chasm between the two sides as last weekend.Chelsea, as they have so often this season, played some marvellous stuff. But once again there was no one to put the ball in the net. United weren’t praying for the whistle.With a Drogba or Diego Costa in a blue shirt, they were breathing-space winners. Like City or Liverpool would have been. Like Spurs were with Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson.Match winners who can make the difference in any season. Yet this time, when it’s shaping up to be the most open in the Prem era, potential title winners as well.Yes, I know Chelsea have Cole Palmer, but he’s no attacking spearhead. He should be a great addition alongside your top dog.And who in the current squad would that be? Not Nicolas Jackson, who misses too many chances. Not Christopher Nkunku, who’s never fit for long enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn a season of so many contenders, the title could be won by one flash of goalscoring genius. Yet until Chelsea find that man, it won’t be them.Running riot against Noah is one thing but without a top   finisher, they’ll be sunk when it really matters. More

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      Ruud van Nistelrooy reveals exact moment he realised how big Man Utd are and says ‘that’s when I thought ‘ooh!”

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      RUUD VAN NISTELROOY faces a crunch meeting tomorrow that may decide his Old Trafford future.And the Manchester United legend hopes his CV of handling life with two world giants of football will seal a place on Ruben Amorim’s new-look backroom team.Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed when he realised how big the Man Utd job wasCredit: GettyVan Nistelrooy declared he wants to help bring back the glory daysCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdVan Nistelrooy’s four-game spell as interim chief ends after today’s home clash with Leicester, when he is set to return to the coaching role he held under Erik ten Hag.He signed a two-year deal this  summer to rejoin the club where he is a goalscoring legend but there has still been no contact from the incoming Portuguese head coach.It means the Dutch cult hero is only likely to discover if Amorim wants to keep him on when the SIXTH manager in the decade since Sir Alex Ferguson retired starts work in the morning.And Van Nistelrooy, 48, will head to United’s Carrington training ground expecting to pick up where he left off in the backroom set-up — unless Amorim decides otherwise.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVan Nistelrooy certainly expects it to be business as usual tomorrow. He admitted: “As it is, definitely, so let’s wait and see how that goes.“I am calm to be fair, trusting in the process and believing the outcome will be good. I am here at Manchester United and that is my  focus.“Whenever the communication takes place, I will see. But obviously we also know what the time frames are, so I am aware.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhether Amorim is equally aware is doubtful and the spotlight of two title wins with Sporting Lisbon is nothing compared to the glare he will be under at Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy knows all about that, after five years with United, followed by four with Real Madrid, when every move at both clubs was headline news.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyHe remembers realising life would never be the same on a pre-season tour to the Far East after signing from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven — and the chaotic scenes that greeted him. Van Nistelrooy revealed: “For me it was when we landed in Bangkok in 2001 and I saw 100,000 people at the airport. That’s when I thought ‘ooh!’“That’s when you realise what it is on a worldwide scale and, at Real Madrid, it’s similar — wherever you go, the attention.“In Madrid, I experienced microscopic views and intensity, 20 pages in the papers every day, radio stations, social media…“When you go to manage or play for the biggest clubs that’s part of it. All over the world really, United is there.“But that’s also the challenge — to play and manage this club is a  huge responsibility and I see that as a challenge whoever is here.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.It is a gauntlet and a glare which has seen the back of managerial giants like Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho in the post-Fergie era.Van Nistelrooy says the key to success is not a big-name reputation but raw talent and making sure the spotlight does not affect your focus on the job.He added: “It’s about the talent of a person that is the most important thing. “Big name, small name, call it anything you want… in the end it’s the person.“In the end, you learn to bring it down to focusing on the job,  performing as a player or coach and dealing with those circumstances.“That’s a big responsibility — we  are all aware of it, but it’s also a challenge.”READ MORE SUN STORIESVan Nistelrooy won one Premier League title in his Old Trafford days, before heading for Spain in 2006, and would love to help bring the glory days back to the red half of Manchester.He added: “The target is clear, to improve from where we are now. That will take time and hard work but that is the challenge for me.”Man Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/A More

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      Man City plan £50m transfer swoop for LaLiga star and Euros winner – six months after he snubbed Liverpool move

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      MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January swoop for Martin Zubimendi — six months after he turned his back on Liverpool.The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s summer hitlist  and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn meant he stayed put.Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a transfer target for Man City in JanuaryCredit: GettySpain’s Euros winner also insisted last month he wanted to remain at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is staying. “I want to grow and develop here.”But sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all. And that has put City on high alert.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTheir failure to cope with the long-term absence of crocked Ballon d’Or winner Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton — their fourth loss in a row. And Zubimendi — who came on for Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 Euros final win over England — would be an ideal replacement.Rodri, 28, is out for the season after rupturing his ACL during September’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.The pair have played together for their nation, giving City the potential of a mouthwatering defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe release clause in Zubimendi’s contract would not be a problem, although manager Pep Guardiola was initially not keen on making any major moves in the January market.City’s injury pile-up and dismal form could signal a rethink, as Guardiola is equally reluctant to pile too much pressure on his younger players.Top 10 best paid managers in world as sacked Roberto Mancini is knocked off No1 spotOne potential stumbling block could be ongoing uncertainty about the Spaniard’s own future.There is still no sign of a definite decision over his plans beyond the summer. More

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      Liverpool vs Aston Villa LIVE SCORE: Darwin and Salah score but Trent INJURED as Reds capitalise on Man City loss

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      LIVERPOOL opened up a five point gap at the top of the Premier League after cruising to a comfortable win against Aston Villa.Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah were on target – but Trent Alexander-Arnold did limp off with an apparent hamstring injury.Earlier, Brighton secured a brilliant comeback win against Man City – with Joao Pedro and Matt O’Riley scoring in an epic 2-1 win – as Pep Guardiola lost a fourth consecutive game for the FIRST TIME in his career.In the 3pm matches, Fulham dominated Crystal Palace, Brentford were involved in another thriller and Wolves beat struggling Southampton, while West Ham and Everton were involved in a goalless draw.SCORES…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from around the grounds with our live blog below…Salah’s recordWe mentioned earlier that Salah has hit double figures in goals and assists in each of his last four seasons.We’d like to apologise to Mo as his record is MUCH more impressive than that. He’s actually hit double figure goals and assists in seven out of eight seasons (and the one he didn’t he still managed 31 goals).Here’s his record in full:2017/18: 44G, 15A2018/19: 27G, 10A2019/20: 23G, 13A2020/21: 31G, 6A2021/22: 31G, 15A2023/24: 30G, 16A2023/24: 25G, 14A2024/25: 10G, 10ACopy linkCopiedMcManaman confidentLiverpool legend Steve McManaman is confident these players can go all the way – as they have done before.Speaking on TNT, he said: “This group of players have been long into a campaign, some of them have won the Premier League and the Champions League so of course they can sustain it.”If they stay fit and roll that starting eleven out and the five or six from the bench then of course they will go all the way.”Copy linkCopied’Keep working hard’Slot was also asked about already being five points clear at the top of the table – but brushed it off.He said: “As a manager if you come into a new club you don’t think about how many points after how many games. “You think about changing the style or keeping it as it was. To change the style you have to do a lot of things on the training ground and in meetings. “The only thing I have thought about is how to implement the playing style and how to make sure the players keep working as hard as they can.”Copy linkCopiedSlot hails work rateArne Slot was also speaking to Match of the Day and said: “Three home games [this week] and that always helps when you play in front of these fans. Tough opponent today, it wasn’t an easy one.”I think it was [even]. They threatened us mainly with their set-pieces which is a big strength for them. They were waiting and waiting for us to lose our patience and then to hurt us on the counter-attack. “The funny thing is we had so much possession and scored our goals from counter-attacks. It was an even game when it comes to chances but we dominated the ball more than they did.”He added: “It’s not the first time we see this [defensive energy]. The team that won the Premier League the last four years has shown us how important work-rate is.”Copy linkCopiedMo goals, Mo assistsOptaJoe has revealed that Mo Salah is the first player in Europe’s top five leagues to reach double figures in goals and assists this season.He has 10 of each and has also achieved double figures in both in each of the last four seasons.Copy linkCopiedTrent update?No big update on Trent Alexander-Arnold as yet, with Slot saying they will have to “wait and see” on an update.He said: “We are really happy that most of our players have stayed fit through this tough run. “We have to wait and see how Trent is doing. If I look at the games that are ahead they are tough. It will be a tough season in general.”Margins are small, we have a margin but it is small. Many challenges to come for us.”Copy linkCopiedMore from SlotOn Salah: “I think he has the best numbers from all our attackers. All our attackers have great numbers but Mo stands out in that aspect.”On counter-attacking goals: “The set-pieces are for someone else. It is not the first time Liverpool score from breaks like that because we have players who are so fast.”On Darwin Nunez: “I wondered what would happen if he wasn’t there because Mo was through on goal. Darwin was there and he scored and that’s good for him. With players around him who score so many goals it’s always good as a striker to get on the scoresheet.”Copy linkCopied’It wasn’t easy’Arne Slot has given his verdict of the match on TNT Sports.He said: “It wasn’t easy like most of our games have been now. Aston Villa were maybe not as aggressive as we thought they would be. “We were patient. One thing they are very good at is set-pieces. “In general we had control over the game and scored from two counter-attacks which is maybe not what we would expect.”Copy linkCopiedMore from EmeryThe Spaniard added: “This year a lot of players have come back from long injuries. “We have to try to keep the same positive attitude and mentality and try to accept sometimes results that we have had this week happen.”Copy linkCopied’We are under our level’Aston Villa boss Unai Emery said his team played the way he wanted “more or less” but lamented players who are not the same level as they were last season.He said: “Liverpool dominated sometimes but they did not have a lot of clear chances to score. We did our work and we had the chances to score in the first half, in the second half, and we played more or less in the way I wanted.”We have to keep improving, recover some players who have just come back after long injuries. Some players are not in the same performance level as last year but today they were a bit better.”The league is tight, there are a lot of teams performing very well and we have to accept that we need to improve. We are under our level from last year a little bit but I am still confident.”Copy linkCopiedArne’s strengthMuch has been made of Liverpool’s attacking form this season – with Mo Salah now top of the goal contributions charts after an assist and a goal against Villa.But it is the defensive record that could prove the difference come the end of the season.Liverpool have now kept NINE clean sheets in 17 matches this season, conceding just 10 goals in total.Copy linkCopiedMatch reportHere’s how Phil Thomas saw the game…Copy linkCopied’We were watching the game’In a rare move for a footballer, Alexis Mac Allister revealed that Liverpool were watching his former club Brighton beat title rivals Man City.He added: “I did know, we were watching the game. I am happy for Brighton. I have special feelings for them, I am very grateful. They beat one of the best teams in the world right now but we are not thinking about other teams.”Speaking about Mo Salah, Mac Allister said: “He is so good and so important for the team. He is a legend here. Happy for him and when you have him you know he is going to deliver and get the numbers.”Copy linkCopiedTitle contendersAlexis Mac Allister admits the place Liverpool find themselves in at the minute means they can count themselves as title contenders.He told TNT Sports: “Very big win against a very good team. The goals came in counter-attacks but overall the team played a very good game. “We are happy with it. We know we’re top of the league but there are a lot of teams so we take it step by step.”If we are top of the league by five points then it means something. But we have to go step by step. If you asked me before the season started I would not say we were candidates but now it looks like it.”Copy linkCopiedWhere we standThey had a one-point lead heading into the October break.Now that lead is FIVE for Liverpool going into the November stop.No matter how title rivals Nottingham Forest do tomorrow, they cannot close that gap.Chelsea and Arsenal have a chance to close the gap on Forest and Man City tomorrow when they play one another.Villa in a struggle at the minute.Copy linkCopiedCopying PepUnai Emery is looking to emulate fellow Spaniard Pep Guardiola.Winning European trophies, playing out from the back.And now also, losing four games on the spin. Uh oh….Copy linkCopiedTop of the pile’Liverpool, top of the league. Liverpool, Liverpool top of the league’.That’s the chant around Anfield as the Liverpool players take their acclaim.A huge noise around, they know tonight could be significant.Massive buzz around.Copy linkCopiedFT!Liverpool move FIVE POINTS clear at the top of the Premier League!Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah on the scoresheet in a huge night at Anfield.Liverpool 2-0 Aston VillaCopy linkCopied90 – Liverpool 2-0 Aston VillaFour minutes added on as Villa get themselves a string of set pieces but make a mess of the lot of them.Kelleher claiming the latest under zero pressure.Copy linkCopiedMo of the sameOne assistOne goalOne hell of a playerCopy linkCopied84 – GOAL! LIVERPOOL 2-0 Aston VillaThe Reds are moving five points clear!Pau Torres throws himself to ground in the Liverpool box in frighteningly embarrassing fashion for a centre back.Cringing watching it back for him. Liverpool then clear it into Villa’s half and Diego Carlos as the last man heads it off Salah who bursts clean through.He has two men to square it to for a tap-in, but MO SALAH drives at Martinez and waits for the keeper to sit down before cheekily dinking it over him into the net.Torres still looking for a penalty. The only one he should get is a fine from his manager for that.Three points staying in Merseyside.Copy linkCopied82 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaAgain, nothing comes of the corner.Copy linkCopied81 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaLiverpool break in a 4v1 scenario to kill the game, but that one is Ezri Konsa and he does superbly well to win it.He even falls over and keeps possession to kick it forward.Villa then come forward on the counter again where Duran wins another corner.Copy linkCopiedSeeking the spotlightAustin MacPhee one of several set piece coaches in this division absolutely desperate to show he does something.He’s jumping up and down, waving his arms as Villa get ready to take a corner.The first one they take short and make a mess of it and are lucky to win another.The second time it doesn’t beat the first man. Austin quickly retreats to his seat, and rightfully so…Copy linkCopied76 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaVilla become the counter side this time as Liverpool press for a second.Duran and Maatsen combine to get Philogene away in a 1v1 with Robertson. The defender stands up the Villa man and Diaz works back tirelessly to nick it off his toe.Excellent tracking back and something Liverpool have done ever so well to put themselves in this place at the summit.Copy linkCopied More