Sport Live Blogs

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea vs Plymouth LIVE REACTION: Blues THROUGH after extra-time in FA Cup as Argyle MISS late penalty – latest

      by

      CHELSEA have overcome Plymouth Argyle after a Marcos Alonso goal deep into extra-time.Thomas Tuchel was absent from the touchline after testing positive for Covid. The Blues now fly to Abu Dhabi this afternoon for the Club World Cup, with Tuchel flying out later int he week

      Result: Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth (aet)
      TV/ live stream: BBC Red Button/BBC iPlayer
      Chelsea XI: Kepa; Christensen, Rudiger, Sarr, Azpilicueta; Jorginho; Kovacic, Hudson-Odoi, Mount, Ziyech; Lukaku
      Plymouth XI: Cooper; Edwards, Wilson, Scarr, Gillesphey, Grant; Camara, Houghton, Mayor; Jephcott, Garrick

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      That’s all from Stamford Bridge
      We were so close to having consecutive FA Cup upsets having witnessed Manchester United go crashing out via the penalty route courtesy of Middlesbrough, but Chelsea were able to eventually show why they have only failed to progress from the fourth round twice since 2003.
      The Plymouth supporters turned up in numbers this afternoon and all 6,000 of them had something to shout about when Macauley Gillesphey nodded home Jordon Houghton’s set-piece ten minutes into the game.
      But four minutes before the interval, Cesar Azpilicueta popped up with an exquisite flick beating man of the match Michael Cooper at his near-post. I had no idea the Spanish captain had that in his locker.
      Cooper made for conceding a goal by pulling off some magnificent saves which helped his side drag the European champions into extra-time, however substitute Marcos Alonso came off the bench to get himself on the scoresheet on the 106th minute.
      Just as the visitors looked down and out, there was time for one last twist in the tale when Ryan Hardie earned himself a penalty due to a costly error from Malang Sarr, but the Plymouth forward who I had been keeping a close eye on, failed to keep his composure and watched his effort being gobbled up by Kepa which led to Chelsea going through.
      Thank you for tuning in people, it has been a fantastic FA Cup tie today and I hope the rest are all the same. Enjoy your Saturday!

      All 5th round draw updates
      The FA Cup 5th round draw will is scheduled take place on Sunday 6th February ahead of the clash between Liverpool and Cardiff starting at approximately 11:40am UK time. It will be broadcasted on ITV but we will have every single update on who draws who here live on SunSport.
      All 5th round encounters will be played on the week commencing 28th Feb provided there are no last minute alterations.
      Below are the 5th round draw numbers:
      1. Crystal Palace or Hartlepool United2. AFC Bournemouth or Boreham Wood3. Huddersfield Town or Barnsley4. Peterborough United or Queens Park Rangers5. Cambridge United or Luton Town6. Southampton or Coventry City7. Chelsea 8. Everton or Brentford9. West Ham United10. Middlesbrough11. Tottenham Hotspur or Brighton & Hove Albion12. Liverpool or Cardiff City13. Stoke City or Wigan Athletic14. Nottingham Forest or Leicester City15. Manchester City or Fulham16. Wolverhampton Wanderers or Norwich City
      Chelsea vs Plymouth match report
      If for some strange reason you didn’t manage to catch the live blog this afternoon and you want to find out all the main talking points…
      CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH REPORT
      You won’t be disappointed as there is so much to discuss.
      What next for Plymouth Argyle
      The Pilgrims will have to dust themselves down and continue their travels because up next for Steven Schumacher’s men is a league trip to the Mornflake Stadium where they’ll be taking on Crewe Alexander.
      Plymouth then roll out the red carpet for Shrewsbury Town the following weekend before concluding February with another tough home fixture against league leaders Rotherham.
      But prior to that, the Argyle’s are pencilled in for back-to-back away outings firstly to relegation fighters Gillingham and then to Cambridge United only three days later.

      Coming up for the Blues
      Thomas Tuchel will not be pleased to see his side get taken all the way to extra-time this afternoon because Chelsea have a busy schedule during February starting with their two-legged tie in the Club World Cup on the 9th and 12th of this month.
      The Blues were supposed to welcome Arsenal to Stamford Bridge during that time but instead, five days after their Club World Cup semi-final second leg, Tuchel’s men travel south of the river to play Crystal Palace.
      Once those three games are out of the way, this is where it really gets intriguing for the west London outfit because they have two huge consecutive matches.
      First up, it is Lille in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 and then Chelsea are off to Wembley to take on Liverpool in the final of the Carabao Cup.

      Man of the match award
      Despite being on the losing side, Plymouth keeper Michael Cooper had an outstanding game and had it not of been for him, the Greens would have lost that tie by a much bigger margin.
      The 22-year-old pulled off save after save which is evident by the statistic of Chelsea only scoring twice with more than ten shots on target.
      I hate to say it Argyle supporters but a big club will snatch him up one day because the youngster has got some talent.

      Read up on the stats
      The statistics doesn’t tell the full story because although Chelsea controlled large periods with the ball and had 41 shots at goal, the visitors created some good chances of their own and did very well to take the Blues down to the wire.
      It’s just a shame that they weren’t able to hold out for a penalty shoot-out but Plymouth can still be proud.

      Kepa loves keeping them out
      Chelsea have one man to thank for saving the embarrassment of going into a penalty shoot-out with League One side Plymouth Argyle and his name is Kepa Arrizabalaga.
      The most expensive keeper in footballing history has performed excellently since filling the void of Edouard Mendy who is on international duty with Senegal.
      Many doubted Kepa due to making costly mistakes in the past and when Edouard Mendy was recruited in September of 2020 it seemed as if the Spaniard had no hope of playing for the Blues again.
      But finally he has got his chance today Kepa proved that he can grab the opportunity with both hands, literally.

      Full time after extra time – Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      So after the visitors displayed so much passion, fight and determination, Plymouth have nothing to show for it as they go crashing out of the FA Cup courtesy of Marcos Alonso’s 106th minute goal.
      However, the Pilgrims can go home holding their heads up high knowing that they took the champions of Europe right down to the wire.
      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      ET 120+1. The Blues are playing keep ball which is sucking the life out of Plymouth Argyle who have given it all they have.
      It seems as if this should be enough for Chelsea to see it out and go through.
      Final two minutes have been added!
      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      ET 117. Mistakes at the back led to Ryan Hardie going through on goal and in a desperate attempt to win the ball, Malang Sarr tripped up the Plymouth forward resulting in Simon Hooper gave the penalty.
      However, Kepa dived the right way and denied the Pilgrims top goal scorer to add to his tally and become a Greens hero.
      Kepa has saved it! Horrible moment for Hardie!

      It has been given! Ryan Hardie has the chance to level it up!
      VAR are having a look…

      Penalty to Plymouth! That was terrible defending!
      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth – Blues sub
      ET 112. The Blues skipper seems to have pulled his hamstring and has signaled to the bench for a change because he cannot battle on any further.

      Cesar Azpilicueta – OFF
      Trevoh Chalobah – ON

      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth – Triple block!
      ET 109. Ryan Hardie had three desperate shots on goal to try and get his side back into this contest but Malang Sarr was determined for it not to happen.
      How none of those attempts even tested Kepa is bizzare
      Magnificent Marcos on the scene
      Marcos Alonso’s strike puts the Blues in front to the despair of Plymouth Argyle supporters who have woken up from 3am to get here today.

      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      ET 107. Kepa was blocked off from making contact with the ball but the Chelsea keeper was able to tip the ball away.
      Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      ET 107. The Greens have earned themselves a corner.
      They are not going to go down without a fight.
      Second half of extra time – Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      For the last time this afternoon, Simon Hooper blows his whistle to initiate kick-off.
      Is there going to be more twist in the tale?
      Half time of extra time – Chelsea 2-1 Plymouth
      The Pilgrims have conceded at the worst time possible, just before the interval at extra time but it was a lovely goal by the home side.
      Saul and Timo Werner connected brilliantly before the German international found Marcos Alonso free in the box who tapped it home leaving Michael Cooper with no chance.
      The goal has been given!
      VAR are checking…
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd vs Middlesbrough LIVE REACTION: Elanga MISSES crucial penalty as Boro WIN FA Cup fourth-round classic – latest

      by

      MIDDLESBROUGH have defeated Manchester United on penalties in an FA Cup fourth-round thriller.Anthony Elanga missed the crucial spot-kick in a stunning shoot-out which Boro won 8-7 after the tie ended 1-1 following extra time.

      Kick-off: 8pm GMT
      TV/ live stream: ITV 1/ ITV Hub
      Manchester United XI: Henderson, Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw, McTominay, Pogba, Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Sancho Ronaldo.
      Middlesbrough XI: Lumley, Dijksteel, Fry, McNair, Jones, Howson, Crooks, Tavernier, Taylor, Balogun, Sporar

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Rangnick speaks on Lingard
      Ralf Rangnick has spoken on the Jesse Lingard situation following the FA Cup humbling to Middlesbrough, on which Lingard was not in the squad.
      Rangnick had said Lingard asked for some time off to “clear his head”, which Lingard has denied.
      Rangnick said: “We were one outfield player less on the team sheet, so why would I have allowed him [Lingard] to have four or five days off, I would have loved to have had him in the squad.”
      Rangnick speaks on Elanga penalty
      Boss Ralf Rangnick said: “Anyone can imagine how he [Elanga] is, he is shattered and absolutely disappointed.
      “We will try to encourage him [Elanga] again, be there for him and it can happen to more experienced players. We could not have had more players to take it, there was Luke Shaw, Phil Jones and the goalkeeper.”
      That’s all from Old Trafford
      Manchester United crash out of the FA Cup after losing to Middlesbrough on penalties.
      The Red Devils were dominant throughout the game but did not make the most of the goalscoring opportunities they created.
      Chris Wilder will be delighted with the result as his team sail through to the FA Cup fifth round.
      Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
      Credit: Getty
      Why was Middlesbrough’s goal allowed to stand?
      The new law states that ‘If an attacking player’s accidental handball immediately precedes another player scoring, the goal will now be awarded, when last season it was likely to have been ruled out.’
      Watmore’s accidental handball occurred before he passed the ball to Crooks, who scored the equalising goal.
      Chris Wilder reacts
      “I talked to the players about making memories and taking that opportunity. Listen, not always the best team wins and we’re up against world class players and you know you’re going to be up against it.”
      “We missed a few chances, we rode our luck at times but we showed plenty of spirit.”
      “I thought straight away that it was hand ball.”
      “There were a few doubters on the side when penalty takers five and six with a combined age of about 110 stepped up, but yeah they were really good!”
      Duncan Watmore reacts
      “If I’m honest it was completely accidental so I was hoping it wouldn’t be [disallowed].”
      “Me and Crooksy were in a United age group together here so it was quite special for us.”
      Paddy McNair reacts
      “It was unbelievable! I thought we started the first half quite slow but in the second half we played really well.”
      “I felt confident hitting it [the penalty] and thankfully it went in!”
      “I think obviously they weren’t taking their chances so every time they missed it gave us a bit of a lift.”
      “In the last 10 games we’ve won eight so we’re on very good form. When you come to a stadium like this you have to ride your luck at times but I think overall we took it to penalties and I think that was a great way to finish it.”
      Full Time (AET) Manchester United 1-1 Middlesbrough (PENS 7-8)
      Ralf Rangnick will be incredibly frustrated with that result.
      The Red Devils should have scored a number of goals in the first half alone, but they simply could not finish their chances.
      Meanwhile, Chris Wilder will be delighted as his team head through to the FA Cup fifth round.
      Full Time (AET) Manchester United 1-1 Middlesbrough (PENS 7-8)
      Manchester United have been knocked out of the FA Cup!
      Middlesbrough are through after an intense penalty shootout.
      Credit: Getty
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-8 Middlesbrough
      Elanga strikes over!
      Middlesbrough are through!
      Man Utd are OUT!
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-8 Middlesbrough
      Peltier scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-7 Middlesbrough
      Dalot scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 6-7 Middlesbrough
      Fry scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 6-6 Middlesbrough
      McTominay strikes, McTominay scores – but it is almost saved by Lumley.
      Penalties – Man Utd 5-6 Middlesbrough
      Watmore scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 5-5 Middlesbrough
      Fernandes sends Lumley the wrong way.
      We’re into sudden death!
      Penalties – Man Utd 4-5 Middlesbrough
      Bamba is calm and collected as he passes the ball into the bottom left corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 4-4 Middlesbrough
      Ronaldo steps up but he doesn’t miss this one!
      Penalties – Man Utd 3-4 Middlesbrough
      Tavernier scores the fourth will an excellent strike!
      Penalties – Man Utd 3-3 Middlesbrough
      Fred rifles a brilliant strike into the bottom right corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 2-3 Middlesbrough
      Howson scores his penalty and sends Henderson the wrong way.
      Penalties – Man Utd 2-2 Middlesbrough
      Maguire strikes into the bottom right corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 1-1 Middlesbrough
      Peyero is next.
      He aims for the bottom right and the ball sneaks underneath Henderson and into the goal!
      Penalties – Man Utd 1-2 Middlesbrough
      Mata is next.
      He strikes into the top right corner – brilliant penalty!
      Penalties – Man Utd 0-1 Middlesbrough
      Middlesbrough take the first penalty…
      McNair steps up and slots the ball into the bottom right corner.
      Load more entries… More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Cameroon vs Egypt LIVE: Pharaohs WIN on penalty shoot-out as Cameroon miss THREE spot kicks – AFCON 2022 latest updates

      by

      EGYPT will face Senegal in Sunday’s AFCON final after beating Cameroon on penalties in their semi-final.A lively goalless draw saw Pharaohs boss Carlos Queiroz SENT OFF for clashing with officials, before Cameroon missed THREE spot-kicks in the shoot-out for Egypt to prevail.

      Result: Cameroon 0-0 Egypt (Egypt win 3-1 on pens)
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event, BBC Three/ iPlayer (free)
      Cameroon XI: Onana, Fai, Ngamaleu, Tolo, Ngadeu, Castelleto, Hongla, Gouet, Anguissa, Aboubakar, Toko Ekambi
      Egypt XI: Gabal, Fathi, El Wensh, Abdelmonem, Elneny, Kamal, El Soleya, El Fotouh, Salah, Mohamed, Marmoush

      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FREE BETS AND SIGN UP OFFERS FOR THE AFCON

      Hosts pay penalty
      Egypt will play Senegal in Sunday’s final.
      The Salah vs Mane final so many dreamt of is a reality.
      For everyone bar Jurgen Klopp that is.

      Cameroon 0 Egypt 0 (AET)
      Egypt win 3-1 on penalties.
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 3
      Terrible penalty by N’Jie.
      Two-step run up and lofted wide.
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 3
      Lasheen strokes it home.
      GGGGOOOOAAAALLLLL
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 2
      Gabaski goes the right way and saves Siliki’s shot.
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 2
      Ahmed scores.
      GGGGGOOOOAAAALLLLL
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 1
      Moukoudi misses. Poor penalty, allowing the keeper to get down and save.
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 1
      Zizo sits Onana down and strokes it home.
      GGGGGOOOAAAAALLLLL
      Cameroon 1 Egypt 0
      Aboubakar scores, sending the keeper the wrong way.
      GGGGGOOOOAAAALLLLL
      Cameroon 0 Egypt 0
      Egypt win the coin toss and decide Cameroon will take the first penalty….

      FT: Cameroon 0 Egypt 0 (AET)
      We will be needing penalties to decide this one.
      Cameroon 0 Egypt 0
      90. One additional minute….
      Cameroon 0 Egypt 0
      118. What a chance!
      Sobhi has the ball on the byline, drops his shoulder, the defender slips and gives him all the time in the world to cross.
      He drills it across the six yard box, any touch would surely take it in.
      Fortunately for Cameroon it fizzes through and goes out for a throw in.
      Cameroon 0 Egypt 0
      117. Zizo comes on for Sherif.
      Considering he came on a substitute himself at the start of extra time, that must hurt.
      I am guessing we will see Zizo take a penalty if we go that far.

      Load more entries… More

    • 263 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Celtic 3 Rangers 0 LIVE REACTION: Hatate stars on Old Firm debut with brilliant brace to send Hoops TOP of league

      by

      CELTIC went top of the Scottish Premiership tonight with a rousing 3-0 win over Old Firm rivals Rangers. New signing Reo Hatate scored a brilliant double and Liel Abada scored a third to send the Hoops one point clear of their enemies.

      Start time: 7.45pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: Sky Sports Main Event
      Celtic XI: Hart; 88. Juranovic, 20. Carter-Vickers, 4. Starfelt, 3. Taylor; 42. McGregor, 41. Hatate, 33. O’Riley; 11. Abada, 17. Jota, 7. Giakoumakis
      Rangers XI: McGregor; 2. Tavernier, 6. Goldson, 3. Bassey, 31. Barisic; 18. Kamara, 37. Arfied, 17. Aribo; 14. Kent, 9. Diallo, 25. Roofe

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      Celtic top of the table
      What a night it’s been for Parkhead fans.
      A 3-0 win over fierce rivals Rangers in the Old Firm derby.
      And the result sends Celtic ahead of their fellow Glaswegians to the top of the Scottish Premiership.
      That’s all from us at SunSport this evening, thank you for joining us and have a great night.
      Credit: Kenneth Ramsay
      Credit: Getty
      Van Bronckhorst speaks
      Giovanni van Bronckhorst has given a very frank assessment of Rangers’ dismal 3-0 defeat at Celtic.
      He said: “It’s very disappointing, if you start an Old Firm game like this, you know what it will do.
      “It seemed like we were not ready for it, the way we gave the goals away, no sharpness, I think it was unbelievable.
      “Our game started in the second half, we were much better, but the first half we gave the game away.
      “It wasn’t something I expected when I saw the training we had, the focus before the game.
      “We were too naive and we deserved to be down 3-0 with the way we played.”
      Ange on Hatate
      Postecoglu added: “He was great [Hatate]. Hard pressed for me to single out people.
      “That first half was outstanding. Reo will get better as he is nowhere near fit yet, it’s only his third game.
      “We have changed our whole team and have some quality players unavailable.”
      NINTCHDBPICT000708992624Credit: Kenneth Ramsay
      Hat’s the way
      Reo Hatate scooped the man of the match award with two goals and an assist tonight.
      But more importantly, he has won the praise of both captain McGregor and boss Postecoglu.
      McGregor said: “He’s been first class. Similar impact to Kyogo, he looks hungry and technically he is very good.
      “He flourishes in the system the gaffer plays. We just need to keep at him to get him fitter and match sharper.
      “But not a bad return for his first Old Firm!”
      Post haste
      Ange Postecoglu has hailed his Celtic players for handling the pressure tonight.
      He beamed: “I’m very proud of the lads
      “The first half was outstanding, the football was brilliant and we could have had more goals.
      “The second half we showed we can defend if we need and full credit to the players.
      “Itt was a big game, we knew the consequences, there was big pressure on us and we handled it superbly.”
      McGregor urges Celtic calm
      Celtic captain Callum McGregor says his side were ‘first class’ tonight.
      But the midfield ace admits they won’t get carried away, saying: “I thought the football we played in the first half was first class.
      “It has been labelled at us that we have missed too many chances but we were clinical.
      “The manager was on at us to take our chances and we knew we had to be ruthless – which we were.
      “We have done a lot of hard work from the start of the season and it’s important for the new guys to see a win like that here. But we won’t get carried away.”
      Credit: Reuters
      Next up for Old Firm duo
      Celtic and Rangers will both be in action on Sunday.
      The new league leaders are taking on Motherwell.
      And Rangers will be hoping to bounce back against Hearts.
      Round the block
      Celtic have performed a lap of honour around Parkhead.
      They know how big a result this is for the title race.
      And how much of a mental blow it will inflict on Rangers.
      Credit: Kenneth Ramsay
      Credit: Reuters
      Miller weighs in
      Former Rangers striker Kenny Miller believes it is not looking good for his old side.
      He told the BBC: “Off the back of the two draws, this is going to be very damaging. Rangers are playing catch-up now. It’s a different mentality.
      “You have to beat Ross County away, not concede three goals. And they were outplayed at Pittodrie. Rangers have to find answers and find them quickly.”
      Party time for Hoops
      The Celtic fans are ecstatic and have given their team a standing ovation.
      What a way to end a winless run against your closest rivals!
      Credit: Reuters
      Celtic back on top
      What a night for Ange Postecoglu and his men.
      A poor start to the season has been turned around and they now lead Rangers in the race for the title.

      McCoist scathing in Gers assessment
      Ally McCoist reckons tonight’s result is a ‘major wake-up call’ for Van Bronckhorst.
      The Rangers legend lamented: “Rangers were abysmal, especially in the firs 45 minutes.
      “They were slightly better in the second with Ryan Jack, but what we saw this evening is a major wake-up call
      “If they needed it after the disappointing results at Aberdeen and Ross County, they were way off it tonight and beaten by a far, far better side.”
      Full-time – Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      The whistle has gone at Parkhead and Celtic have taught Rangers a lesson here tonight.
      Hatate’s double and Abada’s strike moments before half-time secured the win.
      But more importantly, Celtic are now above Rangers at the top of the table.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      90+4. That’s got to be it. Rangers pass up a huge chance to pull one back as Goldson fires a point-blank header over the bar.
      Van Bronckhorst groans on the sideline. He knows this could be a huge setback in the title race.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      90+3. Celtic are basking in the scoreline and are toying with Rangers.
      Doak does pick up a yellow card with a clash with Sakala.
      But Celtic won’t mind as they close in on a priceless victory.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      90. There will be five minutes of additional time here.
      Can Rangers pull one back to save some face?
      Or will Celtic score another?
      Credit: AFP
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      89. 60,000 home fans are bouncing with joy here.
      The green flares are out, the songs are loud and Celtic are top of the Scottish Premiership.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      87. More changes for Celtic as they near an epic home win.
      OFF – Jota; O’Riley
      ON – Doak; Soro
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      85. Taylor has now drawn a great save McGregor direct from a wide free-kick!
      McGregor surely deserves some sort of award for his performance tonight.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      84. Jota wins a corner, takes it, and forces McGregor into a good save to win ANOTHER corner!
      Celtic getting the clock ticking down cleverly here, they have been dominant in all areas and are in search of a fourth goal.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      82. Last eight minutes at Parkhead and so far it’s Reo Hatate who is taking home the matchball.
      He got an extra-big hug from Ange Postecoglu as he came off.
      And Celtic fans are sure to remember this performance for a long time.
      Credit: Reuters
      Credit: Reuters
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      79. Close! Ryan Jack lines up a rocket and smashes the ball against the crossbar!
      He has been by a mile Rangers’ best player since coming onto the field.
      If only the rest of his teammates had put in a similar effort.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      78. A reminder that Celtic have lost six of their last seven games against Rangers.
      What a way to bounce back… especially as they leapfrog the Gers into top spot.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      77. Another yellow for the visitors and this time it’s Balogun who goes into the book.
      I would say the life has been sapped from Rangers but they never showed much energy in the first place.
      Celtic 3 Rangers 0
      75. Rangers manage to carve out a chance in attack but can’t capitalise on it.
      Captain Tavernier then goes into the book for clambering over the back of Jota.
      Celtic have definitely slowed down, but then when you’re 3-0 up, why not?
      Load more entries… More

    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Senegal 3 Burkina Faso 1 LIVE REACTION: Sadio Mane notches as Lions of Teranga book spot in AFCON 2022 final – updates

      by

      SENEGAL booked their place in the AFCON 2022 final with a 3-1 win over Burkina Faso in Yaounde. Abdou Diallo, Idrissa Gueye and Sadio Mane were all on target for the Lions of Teranga.

      Kick-off time: 7pm
      TV channel: Sky Sports Premier League/BBC Three
      Free live stream: BBC iPlayer

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

      FT: Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 3
      Aliou Cisse will breath a sigh of relief as he takes the Teranga Lions into their second successive AFCON final.
      They now look forward to their third ever AFCON final against either Cameroon or Egypt.
      No other team has appeared at as many AFCON finals as Senegal without winning the tournament.
      Third time lucky?
      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 3
      90+3. That’s it.
      The referee blows his whistle.
      Can this be Senegal’s year?

      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 3
      90+1. Traore tries to attack at pace for The Stallions but he is flagged offside.
      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 3
      90. We will have three minutes of added time…..
      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 3
      87. Tapsoboa looks to attack but gets tackled by his own player Toure who is laying on the ground.
      Senegal pick the ball up and with one pass Mane is clean through on goal.
      What a finish!
      As the keeper comes rushing out, Mane is as calm as you like, dinking the ball over him.
      GGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLL
      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 2
      85. Burkina Faso have put doubt in Senegal minds.
      Suddenly when crosses come in, they are not being dealt with, it is not being cleared.

      Burkina Faso 1 Senegal 2
      82. Burkina Faso attack down the right hand side.
      They fashion a cross and Toure knees it into the net.
      It sounds like a tap in but he was about 12 yards out.
      Game on!
      GGGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 2
      81. The Stallions have a final throw of the dice by bringing some fresh legs on.
      They have to go for this now with so little time left.
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 2
      78. After struggling to score goals in the group phase, Senegal seem to be peaking at the right time.
      That’s seven goals and counting in the knockout rounds.

      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 2
      76. Brilliant play by Mane, hunting down the defender trying to clear his own lines.
      Mane disposes him on the byline, runs inside and unselfishly squares it for Gueye and Dieng to try and slide home.
      It seems Dieng got the final touch.
      GGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLL
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 1
      76. Big chance!
      Free kick is swung into the box and they pick out Papa Gueye perfectly.
      Somehow he heads it wide.
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 1
      73. Free kick to Senegal deep in their own half.
      Edouard Mendy launches it forward with Sadio Mane collecting the ball.
      He is chopped to the ground wide of the goal.

      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 1
      70. The corner comes in and isn’t cleared by Burkina Faso.
      The ball scrambles to Diallo on the half volley who strokes it into the net.
      Big goal for the Teranga Lions!
      GGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 0
      68. We almost saw the weirdest assist in AFCON then.
      The ball is played into The Stallions player in the centre of his own half.
      He lets the ball go through his own legs as if he thought a teammate was behind him to surge on.
      He wasn’t.
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 0
      67. Corner conceded.
      Sangare whips it in but it is too close to the keeper.
      Burkina Faso 0 Senegal 0
      64. Diedhiou comes off for Ismaela Sarr.
      Burkino Faso counter, looking to thread one through to Toure.
      Senegal win the ball back and come streaming forward.
      This is starting to open up a bit now.
      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Brazil 4 vs Paraguay 0: LIVE REACTION: Rafinha, Coutinho, Antony and Rodrygo goals get Samba stars dancing

      by

      BRAZIL can use their World Cup qualifying clash with Paraguay tonight as a warm-up, considering they’ve already made it to Qatar 2022. Their opponents are pretty much out of the running to qualify, however, and will also be using the game as a chance to restore some national pride.

      Kick-off time: 12.30am
      TV channel: Premier Sports

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      FT: Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      With players to return from injury like Neymar, Firmino and Richarlison Brazil have to be one of the teams to watch in Qatar.
      It is not often that they don’t give a good showing in the finals but it is some time since the boys from Brazil lifted the World Cup.

      FT: Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      The score does fully reflect the performance.
      Brazil broke the deadlock after only one minute before VAR ruled it out.
      Ederson could have been sat playing Wordle in the six yard box most of the game.
      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      90+4. Ball floated into the back post.
      Sanabria tries an overhead kick that narrowly misses.
      Now that would have been the goal of the night.
      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      90+2. It is almost all over here.
      We have one more minute to be played.

      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      87. Rodrygo gets his first Brazil goal coming from the bench.
      Good build up play led to the ball being squared for a tap in.
      GGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLL
      Brazil 3 Paraguay 0
      85. Antony takes the ball on the right-hand side of the box.
      He checks onto his left foot and curls it into the top corner.
      Keeper didn’t have a chance.
      GGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      83. The visitors have looked read for the final whistle for about half an hour now.
      Dani Alves has a shot from outside the box with his left foot.
      The low-curling effort seems to be going into the bottom corner until the sprawling dive from Antony Silva sees his out-stretched hand tip the ball wide.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      80. It is a chance to rest some players now.
      Managers all over the world breath sighs of relief as they see their players come off.
      Rafinha makes way.

      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      76. Although you could question the quality of their opponent, Brazil have played fast-paced, flowing, attacking football here tonight.
      They look like they would cause anyone a problem in Qatar.
      Could this be the year they end their 20 year wait to win the trophy?
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      74. Brazil knock the ball about at will.
      The ball breaks free for Bruno Guimaraes.
      His shot goes over the bar.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      72. Antony is starting to see more of the ball down the left-hand side.
      He has come on for Vinicius Junior.
      Coutinho’s night is over.
      His work is done.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      70. Sadly for Paraguay they have not managed to fashion anything in Brazil’s final third.
      They look out of place when getting into positions to attack.
      Long, hopeful balls are finding no one.

      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      67. Brazil could be a real force in the World Cup in Qatar if they can get players like Coutinho back to their best form.
      The Little Magician has been one of the stand out players today along with Rafinha and Vinicius Junior.
      Marquinhos distribution deserves a mention too.
      Absolute baller.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      62. What a strike!
      The defence back off him and Coutinho lets fly from about 25 yards.
      The ball goes in the top corner.
      GGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLL
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      60. Paraguay are trying to get the ball forward more.
      Brazil have been in complete control of this second half.
      They should be well ahead in this game already.
      Gabriel Jesus replaces Matheus Canha.
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      56. Coutinho plays a delightful curling ball to the back post to find Lucas Paqueta.
      He takes it down on his chest but as the keeper lunges at him he dinks it over him and the crossbar.
      Should have done better after taking it on his chest.
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      53. Matheus Cunha goes close with a header.
      Just going wide of the post.
      That would have been his first goal for his country.

      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Argentina 1-0 Colombia LIVE RESULT: Argentina hold on for win after Martinez goal makes it 29 unbeaten

      by

      ARGENTINA flexed their muscles in World Cup qualifying and eased past a lacklustre Columbia side.The result only adds to Columbia’s woes as the visitors fail to score for the seventh group game running.
      Meanwhile, it takes Lionel Scaloni’s side to an incredible 29 games unbeaten in all competitions.
      Lautaro Martinez’s goal separated the two sides at the break as Columbia sat back and allowed Argentina to control proceedings.
      A cross from the Marcos Acuna made it’s way through to Martinez, who slotted home into the bottom corner past Vargas.
      Classy performances by Giovani Lo Celso and Angel Di Maria in the midfield helped the Argentines dominate possession.
      And Acuna was tireless down the left hand flank.
      Columbia nearly scored a shock equaliser with the last kick of the first period but it was hoofed off the line by a last-gasp clearance.
      The second half only saw more control from the home side and the crowd started to enjoy the cruising nature of the performance.
      Columbia barely troubled Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez in the Argentina goal.
      Emi Buendia came on for his competitive debut, the cherry on the cake for the winning side.

      TV channel: Premier Sports 2
      Argentina starting XI: Emiliano Martinez, Montiel, Lisandro Martinez, Pezzella, Acuna, Di Maria, Ocampos, Gomez, Rodriguez, Lo Celso, Lautaro Martinez
      Columbia starting XI: Vargas, Mojica, Tesillo, Sanchez, Medina; Uribe, Barrios, Diaz, Rodriguez, Cuadrado, Borja

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      Goodnight from Cordoba
      In the end, Argentina were too classy for Columbia and their goal-drought.
      We hope you enjoyed tonight’s live blog.
      Goodnight from all of us at SunSport.
      Argentina go 29 games unbeaten

      Where they stand
      The victory puts Argentina a single point behind Brazil, however the Brazilians are currently 1-0 up against Paraguay late in their game.
      Meanwhile, Columbia fall way behind of the top four automatic qualifying places.
      They are now five points short of fourth placed Uruguay, providing they lose to Brazil.
      Peru sit in the fifth-place playoff spot with a game in-hand over tonight’s goalless visitors.
      Credit: FIFA
      It’s over – Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      Fireworks are let off over the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes as the players shake hands.
      That’s SEVEN World Cup qualifiers without a goal for Columbia.
      But Argentina are jubilant, that’s 29 consecutive games unbeaten for them!
      Credit: AP
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90 +3. Dybala hits the frame of the goal from a dipping free-kick.
      Argentina counter a Columbia attack, Gonzalez is through on goal but he tries to slide in Dybala but it’s too soft.
      The seconds count down the to end of the game now.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90 +1. Columbia very nearly score! Nearly an own goal as Gonzalez forces a save out of his own goalkeeper.
      But it’s given offside anyway.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90. FOUR minutes of stoppage time added on.
      Columbia play the ball out from the back and then launch it forward.
      Will they create a goal scoring chance here in injury time?
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      87. Wonderful skill from Diaz. Columbia attack.
      Cuadrado drives into the box and is bundled over by Acuna but it’s alleged to be clean.
      This is better from Columbia late on.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      84. Tesillo heads over the bar from a corner.
      Good effort by him and it looked like it was going to drop into the far corner for a moment.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      83. Is this over or can the Columbians steal a goal here?
      Mojica wins a corner.
      Credit: AP
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      81. Free-kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the box for Argentina but it’s straight at the wall.
      Dybala sends the resulting corner in, attacked by Lucas Quarta but it’s mistimed.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      78. Ex-Norwich City star Emi Buendia makes his first competitive appearance for his nation.
      He replaces Lo Celso, who seems buoyed by his move to Villareal.
      OFF Lo Celso
      On Buendia
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      76. Falcao on for the visitors, searching for a goal to keep them in the hunt for the top four automatic qualification spots.
      OFF Borja
      ON Falcao
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      73. Great one-two by Acuna and Dybala in the Columbian penalty area but the shot from Acuna is blocked.
      Acuna is still getting well forward despite it being late in the game.
      Lo Celso smashes it JUST over the crossbar from distance after the resulting corner.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      68. Wouldn’t you know it… Argentina make a substitute and it’s Angel Di Maria going off!
      It’s been a pleasure to watch the 33-year-old PSG star this evening.
      OFF Di Maria
      OFF Lautaro Martinez
      ON Gonzalez
      ON Dybala
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      66. Angel Di Maria has been absolutely fantastic tonight.
      So much skill in the middle of the park, beats players, creates in the final third and has hit two long range efforts to force saves from Vargas.
      Credit: Getty
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      64. Great strike from long range from Di Maria again!
      Fantastic save low to his right from goalkeeper Vargas.
      That was flying right into the bottom corner.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      62. Columbia show some fight over on the left hand touchline but give away the ball from the resulting free-kick.
      There’s a bit more urgency about the Columbians in this second half so far.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      58. Argentina have bought on Meza to try and get a second.
      Ocampos off, thought he had a decent game. Saying that, the whole team have looked classy.
      OFF Ocampos
      ON Meza
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      57. Columbia make changes to try and get a break through.
      OFF Rodriguez
      OFF Uribe
      ON Suarez
      ON Cantillo
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      52. Ocampos loses the ball, sprints 20 yards to win it back but clumsily takes down the Columbian attacker.
      Borja is down again, in an unrelated incident to the Ocampos one.
      He’s holding his shoulder, injured in the first half it looks to be giving him trouble.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      50. Borja does well to win a corner for Columbia.
      Martinez comes out to claim.
      The Villa goalie only had to make one save in the first half.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      47. Back underway here at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes.
      Drilled goalward by Acuna but it’s too close to Vargas who saves easily.
      Half time – Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      There’s the half time whistle and a dominating half of football from Argentina is over.
      Lautaro Martinez’s goal separates the two sides at the break.
      Columbia nearly scored a shock equalizer but it was cleared off the line by the Argentina defence.
      Credit: Reuters
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      44. Acuna is booked as he fouls Cuadrado.
      Diaz links up with Borja and Columbia nearly score!
      Then Diaz flicks it in towards goal but it’s cleared off the line!
      Load more entries… More

    • 200 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Transfer deadline day LIVE: Dembele ‘wants Chelsea move’, Dele Alli to Everton, Carrasco LATEST, Lingard UPDATE

      by

      PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are looking to get last-minute deals over the line as the transfer window closes at 11pm TONIGHT.Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looked all set for a move to Barcelona and has now landed in Spain ahead of a loan switch from Arsenal.
      But the club are adamant that no agreement has been reached on the striker’s £350,000-a-week wages.
      Tottenham meanwhile are for in Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur, which leaves Dele Alli likely to make his exit later today.
      But his destination remains uncertain, with Everton currently favourites for his signature.
      New Toffees boss Frank Lampard has made Donny van de Beek his first signing after being confirmed as boss earlier today.
      The England and Chelsea legend could also be in the market for a striker, with Luka Jovic touted as a potential target.
      And we bring you the very latest from Stamford Bridge, where the Blues are said to be lining up a £50m bid for Leeds and Brazil star Raphinha.
      Ousmane Dembele is also reported to be keen on a move to Chelsea, but so far only Tottenham have shown an interest.
      While reports suggest that Newcastle and Tottenham are set to miss out on Atletico Madrid winger Yannick Carrasco after late interest.
      Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Wout of this world
      Burnley boss Sean Dyche revealed new striker Wout Weghorst has been on their radar for ages.
      The Holland star, 29, has hit 59 goals in 118 Bundesliga appearances for Wolfsburg.
      Dyche said: “Wout is a player that our scouts have been strong on for some time and we feel that he can add to all that we do at Burnley.
      “His signing is a continued show of the club’s and team’s development. We wish Wout well as he earns the right to push our group forwards.”
      Update on Nat Phillips move
      Nat Phillips appears to be closing in on a loan move to Bournemouth, having been spotted signing a fan’s shirt outside the ground.
      The centre-back will be aiming to boost the Cherries’ chances of promotion.
      And should Bournemouth get promoted with Phillips impressing it is possible both parties will seek to change the loan into a permanent move.
      He’s our Guy again
      Tanguy Ndombele has sealed his return back to Lyon.
      The Tottenham flop has re-joined the Ligue 1 outfit on loan until the end of the season.
      Ndombele made the move to North London from the French club in 2019.

      Alli in potential Everton move
      Dele Alli could be set for a shock move to Everton, writes Mark Irwin.
      Toffees new boss Frank Lampard has asked his new Goodison Park chiefs to try to sign the fallen Spurs and England star.
      The move would be a permanent one as the Merseysiders have already taken up their loan quota.
      The clubs are believed to be in talks over a proposed transfer but there are doubts whether it could be sealed with Tottenham chairman unlikely to be willing to accept any fee under £30million.
      Aubameyang set for Arsenal stay?
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s loan move to Barcelona is in danger of collapsing despite the player flying to Spain today, writes Mark Irwin.
      Arsenal are adamant that no agreement has been reached on the striker’s £350,000-a-week wages.
      And with less than eight hours to go before the transfer window closes, the chances of a deal going through are now looking distinctly remote.
      Aubameyang, 32, shocked everyone when he arrived at Barcelona airport this morning.
      His father, Pierre, lives in the Barcelona beach resort of Sitges but the club were not expecting him while they were still haggling over how much of his salary they would be expected to cover.
      Suggestions that Aubameyang was undergoing a medical ahead of his dream move to the Nou Camp have been dismissed by Barca.
      Newcastle in Ekitike blow
      Hugo Ekitike’s move from Stade Reims to Newcastle looks OFF after the striker turned down a switch to Tyneside. 
      A £33million deal was agreed with the French club this morning but Ekitike, 19, was concerned about the amount of game time he would get at St James’ Park. 
      The Magpies are now turning their attention to Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard but face late competition from West Ham. 
      Lingard, 29, is keen on the move but Newcastle recently baulked at the Red Devils’ demand for a ‘survival bonus’ which would have taken the whole package to more than £15m for a four-month rental.
      Lingard back to West Ham?
      West Ham have made a stunning late move for Jesse Lingard, writes Jordan Davies.
      The Hammers made an enquiry about the Manchester United midfielder this month before being rebuffed.
      But SunSport understands West Ham have now approached Lingard’s representatives for a second time in a bid to get a loan deal over the line.
      Interim United boss Ralf Rangnick has given Lingard his blessings to leave the club this month – if he can find a suitable club that can pay the loan demands before the deadline.
      Newcastle have also been interested but United have asked for a £2.5m loan fee plus a £12m survival fee.
      It certainly would be a coup for West Ham to get Lingard, who had a successful spell in east London after joining on loan last January.
      Lingard has talks with Rangnick
      Manchester United star Jesse Lingard reportedly held crunch talks with Ralf Rangnick this morning in a bid to force a loan move to Newcastle.
      The out-of-favour midfielder has been strongly linked with an exit this month but with tonight’s 11pm deadline fast approaching he’s running out of time.
      The Athletic say the 29-year-old held talks with Rangnick on Sunday over the proposed loan deal and would again meet him this morning at training to ask for his help in completing a move.
      Freddy is cherry picked
      Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman has completed a loan move to Bournemouth until the end of the season. 
      Woodman, 24, started the season between the sticks for the Magpies when Martin Dubravka and Karl Darlow were sidelined. 
      But after four appearances he was dropped and is now third choice, with Toon boss Eddie Howe sanctioning his move to the Championship Cherries. 
      His departure frees up a place in the Newcastle squad as they look to complete deadline day deals for Dan Burn, Matt Targett and Hugo Eikitike. 
      Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark have attracted late interest from Middlesbrough while Howe could also let left-back Jamal Lewis leave on loan.
      Jovic to stay at Real
      Real Madrid will reportedly not allow Luka Jovic to leave this month.
      Everton had been touted as a possible destination for the Serbian striker.
      But El Chiringuito have stated he will remain at the Bernabeu.
      They have said that Real boss Carlo Ancelotti and Jovic are in agreement that he will not be leaving.
      Done deal
      Manchester City have announced the signing of Argentine striker Julian Alvarez from River Plate.
      The young forward, who has penned a deal until 2027, will remain at River until at least July.
      Speaking of the player, Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said: “Julian is a player we have monitored for some time.
      “He is capable of operating in a number of attacking roles, and we firmly believe he’s one of the best young attacking players in South America.
      “I am so happy we have managed to bring him to Manchester City. I really believe we can provide him with the right conditions to fulfil his potential and become a top player.”
      We are delighted to confirm that we have completed the signing of Julian Alvarez from River Plate ✍️⬇️ DETAILS ⬇️— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 31, 2022

      No way, Jose
      Espanyol director Jose Maria Duran has revealed Arsenal have enquired about signing striker Raul de Tomas.
      But he has stated that he will not be leaving unless the Gunners pay his £62.4million release clause.
      Duran said: “Arsenal called for Raúl de Tomás but we didn’t even want to talk.
      “We won’t let him go now, no way.
      “His release clause is €75m [£62.4m].”
      Frank assessment at Goodison Park
      Frank Lampard has declared it is an honour to take charge at Everton.
      He said: “It is a huge honour for me to represent and manage a club the size and tradition of Everton Football Club. I’m very hungry to get started.
      “After speaking to the owner, Chairman and the Board, I very much felt their passion and ambition. I hope they felt my ambition and how hard I want to work to bring it together.
      “You can feel the passion Everton fans have for their club. That will be hugely important. As a team – the competitive level that the Premier League brings and the position we are in the table – we certainly need that.
      “It’s a two-way thing. I think Everton is a unique club in that you can really understand what the fans want to see. The first thing they want is fight and desire and that must always be our baseline.
      “My first message to the players will be that we have to do this together. We’ll try to do our job and I know the fans will be there backing us.”
      Lampard appointed at Everton
      Frank Lampard has been confirmed as the man Everton hope will save their season.
      The Chelsea legend has taken over as manager after beating Vitor Pereira and Duncan Ferguson to the job.
      Lampard succeeds Rafa Benitez in the Goodison Park hotseat after the Spaniard was given the chop in angry fashion earlier this month.
      The pair worked together when Benitez was temporarily in charge at Stamford Bridge back in 2012/13.
      Now Lampard takes over from his old boss having himself been sacked as Chelsea manager a year ago.
      The 43-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year contract on Merseyside.

      Barcelona offer up Ousmane Dembele
      Barcelona have investigated whether Ousmane Dembele could go to Arsenal as part of a deal to send Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang the other way.
      Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants the 32-year-old out of his squad and Barcelona are one of the few possible options interested, but they need to clear up space on their wage bill.
      The Catalan club may struggle to afford the Gabon international’s wages otherwise and a deal could hinge on Dembele leaving on deadline day, report The Independent.
      While Barcelona have agreed preliminary terms with Arsenal and Aubameyang over a loan deal, a further issue is that he has higher wages than Dembele.
      Early suggestions are that it may be too difficult to strike a deal this late that involves both, with Dembele being offered to a number of clubs.
      Donny on the way out
      Donny van de Beek has reportedly completed a medical ahead of his loan switch to Everton, per 90min.com.
      Crystal Palace had been interested in the midfielder but Everton hijacked the move with Frank Lampard keen to make the Dutchman his first signing.
      Van de Beek will be desperate for more game time after struggling for starts at Old Trafford since his 2020 transfer.
      Hammer time at London Stadium
      West Ham are considering a second Deadline Day bid for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, writes Jordan Davies.
      The Hammers have had a £37m plus add-ons offer rejected by the Portuguese striker for the 22-year-old.
      SunSport understands Benfica are still keen to do business and that the previous deal was not far away from what they believe is a suitable fee.
      West Ham are desperate to bring in a back-up striker to provide cover for first choice goal-getter Michail Antonio.
      Fighting both in the Europa League and the race for the top four, West Ham chiefs understand this deal could make or break their season.
      But they are running out of time and will need to file a second bid in the next few hours to stand any chance.
      Uruguayan forward Nunez has scored 15 goals in 16 league games so far this campaign, as well as 20 goals in 25 games in all competitions.
      West Ham have also been linked with Liverpool’s Divock Origi.
      No Prem return for Morata
      Alvaro Morata will NOT be heading back to the Premier League despite interest from Arsenal, Tottenham and Barcelona.
      That is according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
      He tweeted: “Alvaro Morata has decided to stay at Juventus until the end of the season.
      “No Arsenal, no Tottenham, no Barca move on Deadline Day.
      “Allegri wants him to stay and play alongside Dusan Vlahovic.”
      Raheem to Real?
      Real Madrid have been linked with a shock last-gasp move for Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling.
      But SunSport understands there is NO chance the 27-year-old England winger will leave on deadline day.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish giants are interested in bringing the ex-Liverpool man to the Bernabeu.
      Sterling is out of contract in 2023, and there have been no talks over new terms yet.
      PSG have also looked at landing the Three Lions hero, as his deal runs into the last 18-months.
      But Sterling is set to stay at the Etihad today, and more discussions over his future will take place in the summer.
      Defoe on way back to Sunderland
      Sunderland are closing in on Jermain Defoe having contacted him again having sacked Lee Johnson as manager on Sunday night, writes Oscar Paul.
      The Black Cats had been in discussions with Defoe since he became a free agent after leaving Rangers earlier this month.
      But talks stalled because Johnson held reservations about signing the 39-year-old.
      However, Sunderland are now confident of beating fellow League One side Oxford to his signature.
      It would be an emotional return to the Stadium of Light for the former England striker, who scored 34 Premier League goals for the Wearsiders between 2015-17. 

      Mbappe heading to Madrid
      Real Madrid have agreed an eyewatering £800,000-a-week deal with Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe, according to reports.
      The Spanish giants have long courted the striker’s signature, having a number of bids rejected last summer.
      Mbappe, 23, is now eligible to speak to other clubs now that he has entered the final six months of his PSG deal.
      And according to Bild, he has agreed terms on a contract worth a mind-boggling £41.6million-a-year.
      Nothing is expected to be announced, however, until after the two sides’ meet in the Champions League round of 16.
      The pair do battle in Paris on February 15, before clashing again in the Spanish capital on March 9.
      A pre-contract announcement is then expected to be revealed.

      Outgoings at Tottenham
      Tottenham flop Tanguy Ndombele is edging closer to a loan move back to Lyon, writes Paul Jiggins.
      The midfielder has been seen in the French city ahead of talks about a return to the club Spurs signed him from in a club record £65million deal in July 2019.
      Ndombele has failed to impress for the North Londoners and has not played for them since being booed by their fans in their 3-1 FA Cup third round win over Morecambe earlier this month.
      He was hoping to link up again with former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino at Paris-Saint Germain.
      But with the Ligue 1 leaders needing to offload players before being able to bring new ones in, Ndombele now looks to be heading back to Lyon for the rest of this season at least.
      He may not be the only member of the Spurs squad heading out the door today.
      Spanish winger Bryan Gil is having a medical at Valencia – just six months after joining from Sevilla for £21m and only 72 hours since he posted a tweet, rubbishing a report which claimed he was desperate to leave Tottenham “at all costs”.
      Auba lands in Barcelona
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has landed in Barcelona ahead of a loan move to the Catalan giants.
      The 32-year-old has not featured for Arsenal since being stripped of the captaincy following a disciplinary issue last month.
      And now he looks set to secure a move away from the Emirates until the summer as he closes in on a short-term deal with Barcelona.

      Scotland switch for Ramsey?
      Juventus star Aaron Ramsey could be about to make a shock deadline day switch to RANGERS.
      The Scottish champions are reportedly in talks with Juve about a permanent move for the ex-Arsenal man.
      The Athletic claim he will decide his future within the next hour.
      They state he is at a private terminal in the UK as he mulls over three options.
      Though he is not keen on a deal to join Burnley.
      Yan the man
      Tottenham and Newcastle are preparing to move for Atletico Madrid winger Yannick Carrasco, according to reports.
      The 28-year-old Belgian, who had a £50million release clause which has now expired, returned to Spain for a second spell under Diego Simeone in 2020 following two seasons in the Chinese Super League with Dalian Professional.
      And he has become an integral part of Atletico’s set-up in the current campaign, starting 18 of their 21 LaLiga games.
      So far this season he has scored two goals and provided six assists for the Spanish champions.
      SunSport understands Atletico are reluctant to let him go.
      But, according to Foot Mercato, Spurs and Newcastle are ready to try and secure the player before the January window shuts.

      Load more entries… More