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INTER MILAN take on Sampdoria in a fiery Serie A clash today with the hosts celebrating their league title.
TV/Live stream: LiveScore app/Bet 365
Inter Milan XI: Handanovic, D’Ambrosio, Ranocchia, Bastoni, Hakimi, Young, Vecino, Eriksen, Galiardini, Martinez, Sanchez.
Sampdoria XI: Audero, Augello, Colley, Tonelli, Bereszynski, Silva, Thorsby, Candreva, Jankto, Ramirez, Keita.

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INTER 0-0 SAMPDORIA
2. The champions are just gracefully popping the ball around the park making Sampdoria chase the ball.
It’s all very relaxed from them but it’s understandable with the Scudetto wrapped up already.
INTER 0-0 SAMPDORIA
1. Here we go ladies and gentleman!
This is the first time Inter are in action as the champions of Italy and you can sense the good vibes throughout the team.
Will they be able to continue their good form or can Sampdoria capitalise on how much champagne has been consumed this past week?
PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
AND WE’RE OFF!
GUARD OF HONOUR
Sampdoria are congratulating the Serie A Champions for securing the Scudetto with a guard of honour.
Antonio Conte’s men should have clinched it last year when they missed out by a single point, so it’s only right that Inter have won the league this season.

LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE
Sampdoria are out on the pitch awaiting Inter Milan to congratulate the home side on their achievement.
This is the perfect time for me to ask for score predictions.
FANTASTIC FIVE
With kick-off only a couple of minutes away, here are five quality goals scored by Inter Milan players against Sampdoria over the years.
Warning! There are some big names in this clip.

STAT ATTACK
With four games left to play, Inter Milan have already equaled their points tally from last campaign where they only just missed out on the Scudetto by a point.
Should the Italian champions win the remainder of their matches, it would put them three points short of their overall record but it still highlights how phenomenal Conte’s men have been this season.

SAMPDORIA’S CURRENT STATISTICS
Below is some numbers drawn up from how the Blue’s season has progressed so far.
As mentioned earlier, Fabio Quagliarella leads the way with 11 league goals this season but the Sampdoria forward only makes the bench today.
I’m sure we will see him at some point and Ranieri will need him firing on all cylinders if his side are going to do the double over Inter.

YOUNG WILD & FREE
Inter have been collecting accolades this campaign as a team, but certain players are breaking some individual records too.
England international, Ashley Young spoke to Sky Sports News about the social media boycott, his former club Man Utd’s portests and the collapsing of the European Super League.
But one thing he wasn’t aware of, is him becoming the first Englishman to win both the Premier League and Serie A.
Here was the 35-year-old’s reaction. That sounds unbelievable to be honest. It’s obviously nice to win the Premier League and then to go to a new league and win that as well is just incredible, an unbelievable feeling.
18 AND COUNTING
Confirmation of the 18 match unbeaten streak and how Inter Milan have achieved it.
I find it so ironic that their last defeat was against today’s opposition which makes it even more interesting.

INTER’S SEASON SO FAR
Here are some of the statistics which show how Inter Milan secured the Scudetto this season.
The only one that you don’t see, is their current 18 league game unbeaten streak which they haven’t achieved since 2008.

CAN’T KEITA FOR EVERYONE
Former Inter Milan striker, Keita Balde Diao’s future at Sampdoria is still up in arms with only four games remaining in the season.
The 26-year-old is predicted to have a high ceiling because of his flair and directness on the ball, but Keita’s inconsistency is Sampdoria’s area for concern.
Not just that, but the hierarchy of the club are worried about whether they have the funds to meet the redemption fee for the Monaco loanee plus his yearly salary.
It has been reported that the French outfit’s asking price for Keita is around the 10 million euros mark and his wages will total up to 4 million euros per season.
On paper, Keita’s statistics don’t read the best because he has appeared 23 times but has only bagged 5 goals and created 1 assist in that time.
However, his talent is undeniable so should Sampdoria pass up on the opportunity to sign the Senegalese attacker, he could potentially go elsewhere and shine which would be a massive kick in the teeth for the Italian side.
THROWBACK
I’ve posted about what happened in the reverse fixture for this campaign but let’s even up the score to when Sampdoria travelled to the San Siro last season.

SAMPDORIA BENCH
34 Letica, 6 Ekdal, 8 Verre, 9 Torregrossa, 16 Askildsen, 19 Regini, 22 Yoshida, 23 Gabbiadini, 25 Ferrari, 26 Leris, 27 Quagliarella, 38 Damsgaard
SAMPDORIA XI
Claudio Ranieri has decided to make three changes from the starting XI who put Roma to the sword six nights ago.
Candreva slots into the wing position instead of Mikkel Damsgaard.
Former Chelsea midfielder Gaston Ramirez will fill in for Valerio Verre just in front of the midfield.
And Manolo Gabbiadini drops to the bench which means a start for the Monaco loanee and ex-Inter striker, Keita Balde.
1 Audero, 3 Augello, 5 Silva, 10 Blade, 11 Ramirez, 14 Jankto, 15 Colley, 18 Thorsby, 21 Tonelli, 24 Bereszynski, 87 Candreva

UNIFORM CHECK
Everything has been laid out and is in perfect order for the champions of Italy to take center stage this evening.

INTER BENCH
27 Padelli, 97 Radu, 6 de Vrij, 9 Lukaku, 12 Sensi, 14 Perisic, 36 Darmian, 37 Skriniar, 77 Brozovic, 99 Pinamonti
INTER XI
As expected, Antonio Conte has made a wholesome of changes from the side who cruised to a 2-0 victory over Crotone last weekend.
Andrea Ranocchia and Danilo D’Ambrosio replace Stefan de Vrij and Milan Skriniar in the back three.
Vecino, Gagliardini  and the two former Premier League players, Christian Eriksen and Ashley Young all slot in to make up the midfield along with Archaf Hakimi.
And ex-Arsenal striker, Alexis Sanchez starts meaning that the top goal scorer, Romelu Lukaku has been given a rest today.
1 Handanovic, 33 D’Ambrosio, 13 Ranocchia, 2 Hakimi, 8 Vecino, 24 Eriksen, 5 Gagliardini, 15 Young, 10 Lautaro, 7 Alexis

AND HERE ARE THE TEAMS!
SAMPDORIA SQUAD UPDATE
The visitors will be coming into this game full of confidence because of their previous result against Roma and now, Claudio Ranieri has a full strength team to select from.
Sampdoria’s boss has recently had to deal with the absence of Fabio Quagliarella after the striker sustained a thigh problem.
But last weekend, Quagliarella was fit enough to make the bench albeit he didn’t get a run-out which could mean a possible starting position for the top goal scorer this evening.
A little side note is that Keita Balde and Antonio Candreva are both ex-Inter players, so they’ll both be hoping they can be presented with the chance to cause some damage to their former employer today too similar to what they did in the reversed fixture.
INTER MILAN TEAM INFO
There are no fresh injury concerns for Antonio Conte to have to deal with, however, veterans Aleksandar Kolarov and Arturo Vidal are set to remain on the treatment table.
Kolarov is still carrying a niggling thigh injury and Vidal’s knee surgery recovery process continues but with the Scudetto already wrapped up, rushing them back is not a necessity.
KING OF MILANO
Just in case the previous post on Romelu Lukaku wasn’t definitive enough on how his confidence has rocketed in the last couple of years.
Then below is what the Inter forward now wants to be referred to as.
The real god ✝️has crowned the king! Now bow downIl nostro dio ✝️ ha incoronato i Re!Ora inchinatevi!King of Milano 😉👑 pic.twitter.com/n0gAiYWFTp— R.Lukaku Bolingoli9 (@RomeluLukaku9) May 3, 2021

LUK AT ME NOW
Romelu Lukaku’s resurgence at Inter Milan alongside the experience of Antonio Conte is arguably what fired the Italian giants to the Serie A title this season.
The 27-year-old had big boots to fill replacing former Inter talisman, Mauro Icardi and with all of Lukaku’s heavy criticism at Manchester United, many feared that he wouldn’t live up to expectations.
Despite scoring 46 goals in 96 appearances for the Red Devil’s, Lukaku was perceived as lazy with a poor first touch and horrendous finishing.
However, since the Belgians £76m switch to the Nerazzurri in August 2019, he has silenced the critics by excelling in the colours of blue and black.
In Lukaku’s first season under Antonio Conte, he notched up a goal tally of 23 in the league which helped his new club narrowly miss out on snatching the title from Juventus.
And impressively, the Inter striker succeeded in hitting the 20 mark again this campaign but the big difference is that this time, it led them to obtaining the Scudetto.
Rumours have been circulating around Lukaku’s future at the club, but he is expected to stay at Inter and I’m sure that his next objective will be to hunt for a Champions League winner’s medal.
SCENES FROM OUTSIDE SAN SIRO
Inside looks peaceful but take a look at the atmosphere outside the stadium.
What a change in contrast.

SCENES FROM INSIDE SAN SIRO
Over the years, blood, sweat and tears have been left in this arena.
It has birthed so many talented stars in the past, present and will do for the future.
It is one of football’s most historic and iconic arenas on the entire planet.
Two of the biggest clubs in world football who label the stadium as their home ground.
Many trophies have been lifted right on that field and another has been recently added to the cabinet.
I don’t know what else to say other than ladies and gentleman I present to you…THE SAN SIRO!

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THE LA LIGA title is still up for grabs as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid played out a goalless draw at the Nou Camp.
TV/Live stream: Premier Sports 1
Barcelona XI: 1 Ter Stegen; 2 Dest, 3 Pique, 15 Lenglet, 28 Mingueza, 18 Alba; 21 De Jong, 5 Busquets, 16 Pedri; 10 Messi (c), 7 Griezmann
Atletico Madrid XI: 13 Oblak; 23 Trippier, 15 Savic, 18 Felipe, 22 Hermoso; 21 Carrasco, 6 Koke (c), 14 Llorente, 11 Lemar; 10 Correa, 9 Suarez

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PEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
IT ENDS LEVEL AT CAMP NOU!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
90. The fourth official holds his board up and there will be just two minutes of additional time.
Big two minutes for both teams.
A draw in this game and a win for Real Madrid tomorrow takes Real to the top of the table!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
89. WIDE!
Messi takes a one-step run up and sends the free-kick JUST wide of Oblak’s post!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
88. Messi wins a free-kick 30 yards from goal.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
87. Messi skips clear of three Atletico Madrid players before laying the ball wide to Dembele on the right flank.
The Frenchman delivers a first time cross towards the far post.
But there’s too much pace on the ball and Griezmann can’t arrive on time to tap home.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
85. CHANCE!
Dembele starts a good move for Barcelona and makes his way into the penalty area.
Griezmann then lays the ball wide to Alba on the overlap.
And the left-back gets to the byline and hangs a cross up towards the penalty spot.
Dembele attacks the cross and connects well, but fails to direct his header on target! Big chance!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
83. Llorente feeds the ball forward to Suarez on the edge of Barcelona’s penalty area.
Suarez uses his body well to hold off his marker and open up a shooting opportunity.
But his clever pass aimed for Carrasco isn’t read by the Belgian and the ball goes out of play for a goal-kick.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
82. YELLOW CARD!
Alba is booked for Barcelona.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
80. Messi tries to tee up Dembele on the edge of Atletico’s penalty area, but Felix cuts the pass out and looks to break up the pitch.
The Barcelona captain chases back and wins possession back for his team, making up for his error.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
79. Dembele wins Barcelona a free-kick in a dangerous position out wide on the right flank.
Messi is standing over the ball, surveying the Atletico penalty area.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
77. Kondogbia breaks forward for Atletico Madrid, before laying the ball wide to Llorente on the right-hand side.
The versatile midfielder gets the beating of Alba and delivers a cross into the six yard box.
But Ter Stegen gathers for Barcelona.
Atletico Madrid are frustrating BarcelonaCredit: GETTY IMAGES
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
75. DOUBLE SUBSTITUTION!
Roberto and Dembele are coming on for Barcelona, and they’re replacing Dest and Pedri.
Dembele will go out wide to the right wing-back position where Dest was playing.
And Roberto is slotting into the midfield.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
73. Messi plays the ball wide to left-back Alba.
Alba gets his head up and delivers a cross towards Griezmann at the near post.
The Frenchman gets a touch on the ball, but he fails to direct his effort on target.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
71. SUBSTITUTION!
Simeone makes another change, and this time Correa is definitely coming off.
And Kondogiba – defensive midfielder – is on in his place.
It looks like Simeone is looking to get the versatile Llorente closer to the action.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
69. NO GOAL!
Barcelona take a free-kick short to Griezmann, and the Frenchman gets his head up and floats a cross towards the far post.
Araujo rises highest and plants the ball into the back of the net!
But the linesman has his flag up instantly for offside and the goal will not stand!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
67. SUBSTITUTION!
Well then, Correa isn’t the man who’s coming off – it’s Saul, who came on in the first half for Lemar.
And Felix is on in his place.
Atletico Madrid now have three strikers on the pitch. Is Simeone going for it?!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
66. Messi tries to catch Oblak out at the far post, but the keeper saves! Barca corner.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
65. YELLOW CARD!
Dest leads the attack for Barcelona down the right-hand side.
The right-back then lays the ball in-field towards his captain, Messi, but he’s brought down by Koke.
Barcelona have a free-kick in a dangerous position and the Atletico captain is booked.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
63. We’re going to be seeing Felix shortly. Correa will most likely be the man who makes way.
Moriba knocks the ball past CarrascoCredit: GETTY IMAGES
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
61. CHANCE!
A good piece of Barcelona play finds its way out wide to Alba on the left-hand side.
The left-back delivers a low, venomous cross into the penalty area.
Moriba bursts forward to meet it, but Hermoso gets a vital block on the ball and Barcelona have a corner!
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
60. Barcelona need to start registering some shots on target. It’s way too comfortable for Atletico.
Alba and Dest need to press up the pitch high and wide, giving Barcelona’s creative players an option to switch play.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
57. YELLOW CARD!
Moriba is booked for a heavy challenge.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
55. Alba rolls the ball through the legs of Trippier, trying to break Barcelona out of an Atletico Madrid press.
But the left-back is caught by Saul afterwards and Atletico regain possession.
BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
53. Atletico win a corner and take it short to Carrasco.
The Belgium international chops the ball onto his right foot and threads the ball through to Correa.
Correa shows some lovely footwork and tries to get the beating of his marker to the byline.
But Lenglet does well to hold the Atletico winger off and sweep the ball behind for another corner.

BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID
51. Lenglet is penalised for a foul on Correa. No booking for the Barcelona defender.
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BAYERN MUNCH are celebrating another Bundesliga title after RB Leipzig were beaten at Dortmund. The German side have now won NINE-straight championships and can celebrate with three points over Monchengladbach.

Kick-off time: 5.30pm BST
TV channel: BT Sport 3
Live stream FREE: BT Sport app/ee customers watch free
Bayern XI: Neuer, Pavard, Boateng, Hernandez, Davies, Kimmich, Alaba, Musiala, Muller, Coman, Lewandowski.
Monchengladbach XI: Sommer, Bensebaini, Elvedi, Ginter, Lainer, Hofmann, Zakaria, Neuhaus, Lazaro, Embolo, Thuram.

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BAYERN STATS
This year’s Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich are top of the table with seven points separating them from second-placed RB Leipzig.
Bayern have won 22 out of a total of 31 league matches and only lost a mere four times, which poses as the best win-loss record in the Bundesliga this season.
The Bavarians have the best attack in the top flight as they have netted a whopping 86 goals, mainly thanks to leading goalscorer Robert Lewandowski.
However, Bayern have conceded 40 goals, which makes them only the fifth best defence in the league

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Bayern Munich and Borussia Monchengladbach’s first ever encounter took place way back in 1965 during a Bundesliga match that the former won 2-1 in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Since then, the two sides have faced off a total of 107 times with Bayern winning a majority of 51 games, compared to Gladbach’s 26 victories.
Marco Rose’s men won this season’s first leg at Borussia-Park in January with a score of 3-2 thanks to a spirited comeback inspired by a brace from Jonas Hoffman and Florian Neuhaus’ winner.
However, the Bavarians may be feeling more confident as Gladbach have only won three of their nine visits at the Allianz Arena in the last 10 years, losing four times in the process, with their most recent victory taking place in 2018

GLADBACH FORMATION
Borussia Monchengladbach boss Marco Rose has opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation with only one change to the team that destroyed Arminia Bielefeld at home last month.
Captain Yann Sommer starts in goal with Stefan Lainer at right-back and Ramy Bensebaini on the other side, while Matthias Ginter and Nico Elvedi team up at centre-back.
Denis Zakaria and Florian Neuhaus link up in midfield with Jonas Hofmann, who replaces Hannes Wolf, at No10.
Valentino Lazaro covers the right wing with Marcus Thuram on the other side and Breel Embolo leads the attack
BAYERN FORMATION
Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick appears to have opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation with two changes to the team that lost at Mainz last month.
Captain Manuel Neuer starts in goal with Benjamin Pavard at right-back and Alphonso Davies on the other side, while Jerome Boateng and Theo Hernandez, on for Leon Goretzka, link up at centre-back.
Joshua Kimmich and David Alaba team up in midfield with Thomas Muller playing at No10.
Jamal Musiala, who replaces Leroy Sane, covers the right wing with Kinglsey Coman on the other side, while top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski leads the attack
GLADBACH SUBS
21 Sippel, 6 Kramer, 7 Herrmann, 11 Wolf, 13 Stindl, 14 Plea, 15 Beyer, 17 Wendt, 24 Jantschke
BAYERN SUBS
35 Nubel, 4 Sule, 7 Gnabry, 8 Martinez, 10 Sane, 18 Goretzka, 20 Sarr, 22 Roca, 23 Nianzou
GLADBACH XI
1 Sommer – 18 Lainer, 28 Ginter, 30 Elvedi, 25 Bensebaini – 8 Zakaria, 32 Neuhaus – 19 Lazaro, 23 Hofmann, 10 Thuram – 36 Embolo

BAYERN XI
1 Neuer; 5 Pavard, 17 Boateng, 21 Hernandez, 19 Davies; 6 Kimmich, 27 Alaba; 42 Musiala, 25 Muller, 29 Coman; 9 Lewandowski

THE TEAM SHEETS ARE IN!!!!
GOOD AFTERNOON FROM MUNICH
Welcome to our live coverage of the Bundesliga clash between Bayern Munich and Borussia Monchengladbach at the Allianz Arena.
Bayern just sealed their ninth consecutive league title, and 31st overall, after Borussia Dortmund beat RB Leipzig 3-2 at the Signal Iduna Park!
However, the Bavarians are set for a tricky encounter against a competitive Gladbach side, who are also aiming for Champions League qualification next season.
Outgoing Bayern manager Hansi Flick will be without Douglas Costa, Corentin Tolisso and Ron-Thorben Hoffmann, who may be out for the rest of the season due to a foot, tendon and knee injury respectively.
Niklas Sule could also be sidelined due to a thigh problem and thus the experienced duo of Jerome Boateng and David Alaba are likely to team up in defence once more.
Serge Gnabry could return to the starting line-up, which means Leroy Sane may have to make way in the wings.
Gladbach boss Marco Rose, who will also be leaving at the end of the season, will be missing Mamadou Doucoure due to an Achilles tendon injury.
But otherwise, it is all hands on deck for the Colts who will be having Jonas Hoffman back into the fold after he overcame a muscle injury.

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CHELSEA are reportedly lining up a swoop for Mohamed Salah, after reaching the Champions League final.Meanwhile Sergio Aguero is reportedly eyeing up a transfer to Barcelona, where he could be joined by Neymar if the Brazilian quits Paris Saint-Germain and we have the latest on Manchester City being interested in Declan Rice.
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FULL-TIME: SHEFF UTD 0 C PALACE 2
Roy Hodgson’s side beat hapless Blades 2-0 at Bramall Lane courtesy of goals by Christian Benteke and Ebere Eze.
The three points see the Eagles leapfrog Newcastle United into 13th, while Paul Heckingbottom’s United remain marooned to the bottom of the table.
You can read more about the game by clicking here to read David Facey’s match report.
ON THE UP
Full-time in League Two, and Cheltenham Town are deserved champions!
Mike Duff’s side had already clinched promotion to League One, but they stayed professional today to grab the title, doing so in style by coming from behind to beat Harrogate 4-1, courtesy of goals by Liam Sercombe, Sam Smith, Alfie May and Callum Wright.
They’ll be joined in the third tier by Cambridge United, who defeated relegated Grimsby Town 3-0 at The Abbey, and Bolton Wanderers – after the Trotters routed Crawley Town 4-1.
Fourth-placed Morecambe will now have to navigate the play-offs, despite beating Bradford City 2-0 this afternoon.

CHRIS & MAKE UP
Christian Eriksen has revealed he is desperate to STAY at Inter Milan just six months after begging the club to sell him.
Spurs, Manchester United, Wolves and Leicester were all rumoured to be in for the Danish star earlier this season.
But now after finding his feet under the Italian and helping the club win their first Serie A crown in 11 years, Eriksen is desperate to help ‘build something beautiful’ at the San Siro.
On his rocky start to life at Inter, Eriksen told Gazzetta dello Sport: “I was willing to learn new things when I arrived. I hadn’t understood I had to follow’s Conte system all the time.
“Before, I was free to make decisions based on what I saw. It had a lot to do with intuition. Now, there is a general plan we have to follow… we must be ready, know where our team-mates are and where they can move. I had to learn all this and adapt to a different pace.
“We spoke in January, and I’ve proved what I am able to do. I have no revenge to take, I just play football. Sometimes it goes well, sometimes it doesn’t. This is a sport that evolves quickly, almost every week. Six months ago I was living in a different situation, now we have a trophy and I can say I am really happy here at Inter.
“It was hard to win this title, but we did it with four games remaining. It’s a good starting point, now we can begin a new cycle… it will be hard to win nine titles in a row, but we’ll try to build something beautiful. Conte is so important for each one of us, also for the way we play. We follow him and you see that on the pitch.
“Everyone is so happy to have won with him.. but his stay is not up to me – it depends on the club and him.”
Christian Eriksen looks set to stay at Inter Milan having been desperate to quit six months ago
DWIGHT FIGHT
Aston Villa are ready to launch a £15million bid for Burnley ace Dwight McNeil, according to reports.
The talented winger has been admired by Manchester United and Arsenal in the past.
But Dean Smith wants to take him to the West Midlands.
According to Football Insider, McNeil is one of Villa’s ‘top targets’ for the summer.
And they think that £15m could be enough to convince Burnley to sell.
The Clarets, however, agreed a contract extension with McNeil last October, currently tying him to Sean Dyche’s side until June 2024.
And Burnley are believed to have an option to trigger an extra year.
Dwight McNeil has impressed for the ClaretsCredit: AP
GUARD OF HONOUR
Pep Guardiola would not want Manchester City to sign Lionel Messi because he has ‘never wanted to hurt Barcelona’.
The Argentine superstar’s contract comes to an end at the Nou Camp in the summer and he has been heavily linked with a move to both Man City and Paris Saint-Germain.
But Valenti Guardiola, dad of the Man City boss, does not believe his son would want Messi to leave the Catalan giants.
Speaking to journalist Emiliano Nunia, he said: “There’s no club in the world that wouldn’t want to have Messi.
“I saw him play at 12 or 13 years old and I was amazed.
“He was extraordinary at that level. There are very few players like Messi, and I’m sure that Pep wouldn’t dislike having him at City.
“Pep has always seen Messi as the best, but he’s at Barcelona. Josep has never wanted to hurt the club by taking the player.”
EXCLAMATION MARK
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may think Manchester United’s fixture schedule is ‘impossible’.
But the demands of the Red Devils playing four games in eight days is not a patch on Mark Hughes’ heroic efforts of playing two games on the same day!
Remarkably, Hughes played in two different countries on November 11, 1987.
The Welshman completed 90 minutes for his nation in a crucial Euro qualifier against Czechoslovakia in Prague and then came off the bench in Bayern Munich’s German Cup second-round replay 3-2 extra-time win over Borussia Monchengladbach that night.
Click here to read more.

X FACTOR
Barcelona are on red alert as Xavi is poised to leave his role as coach at Al Sadd.
The Barca legend is reportedly not having his contract renewed with the Qatari club.
The former Barca captain has long been on their radar to become their next manager.
With the Spaniard poised to leave Qatar, it opens the door for an emotional return to the Nou Camp.
Xavi has been in regular touch with new Barcelona president Joan Laporta in recent months.
The 41-year-old established a strong bond with Laporta during the latter’s first spell as Barca president between 2003 and 2010.
LEEDS 3 TOTTENHAM 1
Weren’t Leeds the ones with nothing to play for?
For a season-defining game to keep them in the top-four mix, Tottenham did a fine impression of their north London rivals Arsenal.
Just as meek, passive and rudderless as the Gunners were in the Europa League do-or-die against Villarreal on Thursday, Spurs’ Champions League hopes are now up in smoke.
Click here to read Oscar Paul’s match report.

ED HUNTED
Leicester City have beaten off Liverpool and West Ham to win the transfer race to sign Odsonne Edouard, according to reports.
There are plenty of clubs desperately chasing the Celtic striker ahead of the summer window opening.
But according to Teamtalk, it is the Foxes who will wrap up a deal for the Frenchman.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers worked with Edouard at Celtic and is keen to be reunited.
A new striker is high on the King Power wishlist as a back-up and eventual successor to Jamie Vardy, who turns 35 next season.
Kelechi Iheanacho is in red-hot form but with a European campaign on the cards, Rodgers wants another extra attacking option.
GREAL BOOST
Dean Smith has handed Aston Villa and England fans the news they have been patiently waiting for – Jack Grealish returns to training tomorrow.
Although Villa’s inspirational skipper won’t be fit to face Manchester United on Sunday, Smith says his golden boy is on the mend and ready to push for a place in Gareth Southgate’s European Championship squad.
Grealish has been sidelined by a shin injury since his last game against Brighton on February 13 but Smith revealed: “Jack will start training with the players again tomorrow.
“He’s been loading on his own but he won’t be ready for the game against Manchester United.
“He’s been out there already with the rehab staff but he gets to train with the players tomorrow for the first time.”

MAGIC TUCH
Manchester United transfer target Ousmane Dembele has revealed that Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is the best manager he has played under.
The 23-year-old Frenchman was coached by Tuchel during his time as a teenager at Borussia Dortmund.
And it is another player during his time at Dortmund – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – that he describes as his best teammate.
Speaking to BeIN Sports, he said: “Things went super at Dortmund, a super squad, Aubameyang who welcomed me amazingly, even if it was quite tough with the German.
“Aubameyang really welcomed me well, he is the person that I have liked the most in football.
“And like I said Thomas Tuchel really convinced me, he is my favourite manager.”
BREAKING NEWS – NEYMAR SIGNS NEW PSG DEAL
Neymar has signed a new £500,000-a-week contract at Paris Saint-Germain.
The new deal ties the Brazilian superstar down at the Parc des Princes until 2025.
His four-year contract is worth £104million – or £26m per season.
And it puts an end to speculation surrounding a possible transfer this summer.

BODY ON LINE 
Martyn Waghorn handed Derby an early scare in their relegation six-pointer after a horror collision with the post.
Less than 15 minutes into their D-Day contest with Sheffield Wednesday, Waghorn bravely launched himself at a cross in an attempt to score the opener.
It’s currently 1-1 – with Waghorn scoring Derby’s equaliser – but, as it stands, Rotherham will survive thanks to their 1-0 lead at Cardiff.
Big chance for Derby! 🐏Martyn Waghorn flies in at the far post and heads just wide, clattering into the post in the process. Luckily he is back on his feet and okay to carry on after a lengthy stoppage.Watch live on Sky Sports Football 📺 pic.twitter.com/pf9w6LHZrj— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) May 8, 2021

ARM WRESTLE 
Chelsea are reportedly poised to open contract talks with Armando Broja.
The rising star has impressed during his loan spell at Vitesse and Chelsea want to secure his long-term future.
Broja has been a revelation this season for Vitesse, scoring ten goals in the Eredivisie.
The 19-year-old talent’s form has made a big impression and Champions League finalists Chelsea want to tie him down to a new long-term deal.
His prolific form for the Blues’ academy helped earn his loan move and the teenager will be in demand after his exploits in the Netherlands.
Broja is contracted at Chelsea until the end of next season but the Blues want to offer him an extended deal after his impressive contribution for Vitesse.

GEOR DROPPING
Georginio Wijnaldum is keen to begin talks with Bayern Munich at the end of the season, according to the player’s advisor.
The Dutchman’s contract at Anfield comes to an end in the summer and he will be a highly sought-after free transfer.
Wijnaldum has been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
But it is German champions Bayern who his representative Humphry Nijman has publicly stated as his preferred destination.
Speaking on SPORT1 podcast Meine Bayern-Woche, he said: “Wijnaldum is a free transfer and keeps all options open.
“FC Bayern is a great club. If you are interested in him, please feel free to speak to us.”
GUNNER SORT
Incoming Arsenal chief Richard Garlick will work on resolving the futures of Emile Smith Rowe and Alexandre Lacazette when he joins the club.
Garlick will take over as director of football operations on May 17 having been working for the Premier League in the same role.
And according to ESPN, two of his first jobs will be to sort out contract issues.
The first will be getting Smith Rowe to put pen to paper on a fresh deal.
His current one runs until 2023 but after a breakthrough season this term, the 20-year-old is due to earn a pay rise.
For Lacazette, Garlick must decide whether or not to offer a new deal.
The Frenchman, 29, is out of contract at the end of the 2021-22 season.

CHAMPIONSHIP PERMUTATIONS
The final round of Championship fixtures have just kicked-off.
Norwich and Watford have already secured promotion to the Premier League and Brentford, Swansea, Barnsley and Bournemouth will compete in the play-offs.
But who is going down?
For Derby County, a win against Sheffield Wednesday will be enough to keep them up.
They can also survive with a draw – if Rotherham fail to beat Cardiff.
The Millers need to beat the Welsh side and better Derby’s result to stay up.
Wednesday need to beat Derby and hope Rotherham drop points to survive.
And Wycombe need to beat Middlesbrough by at least THIRTEEN goals – and they need Wednesday to win and Rotherham to drop points – to remain a Championship club.
AY CARR-AMBA 
Everton are reportedly plotting a summer swoop to sign the son of Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher.
The 18-year-old James has followed in his dad’s footsteps by becoming an impressive centre-half.
After a spell at Liverpool’s academy, he left Anfield to join Wigan Athletic back in 2017.
James has gone on to make great progress with the Latics and has now caught the eye of Premier League scouts.
And The Mail claims Everton are preparing a move for him at the end of the season.
Carragher shone for Wigan’s youth team against the Blues earlier this term and the Goodison Park outfit have been watching him ever since.
The teen is only on a scholarship at Wigan and will be a free agent in June.

DO YOU WANT TU COME?
Mohamed Salah is on Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea wish list, according to BILD journalist Christian Falk.
The Blues boss is also said to be interested in Erling Haaland and Romelu Lukaku.
Salah played for the Stamford Bridge side between 2014 and 2016, making just 13 Premier League appearances.
Will he follow in the footsteps of Fernando Torres and make the move from Liverpool to Chelsea?
It seems unlikely considering Salah’s previous spell at the club – but stranger things have happened in football.

ON THIS DAY
May 8 is a special day in north London.
On this day 50 years ago, Arsenal defeated Liverpool 2-1 in the FA Cup final to secure their first ever league and cup double.
And 19 years ago, the Gunners defeated Manchester United at Old Trafford to win the Premier League.
It’s also a famous day in Tottenham’s history as it’s two years since they defeated Ajax to qualify for the Champions League final.
Here’s the highlights from that memorable match…
📆 Two years ago today, Spurs pulled off a miracle in Amsterdam 💫A whirlwind night as Tottenham scored three second-half goals to reach the #UCL final! 🙌pic.twitter.com/X4yXgk80Yj— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 8, 2021

BARC-ING MAD
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus have vowed to go to war with Uefa over threats to throw them out of European competition for sticking to the Super League plans.
The three clubs have been warned by the governing body they face a two-year ban from their competitions unless they finally give up their intention to play in the rebel tournament.
But in a joint statement released this morning, the football superpowers doubled down on their refusal to give up on the project and made it clear they think the law is on their side.
Real, Barca and Juve are all now prepared to fight it through the courts to challenge any Uefa ban as they desperately try to cling on to the ESL dream which will save them from the financial turmoil they have left themselves in.
Click here to read the statement.

MIKE SUMMERBEE EXCLUSIVE – DAVE KIDD
It’s easy to imagine Manchester City as two entirely different football clubs.
The old one labouring away at the earthy old Maine Road, in the shadows of their mighty neighbours Manchester United, with barely a pot to piddle in.
And the new one, enriched by Abu Dhabi wealth, hoping to secure a fifth Premier League title in ten years by beating Chelsea at the Etihad today, then heading to Istanbul to face the same opponents in their first Champions League Final on May 29.
Which is where Mike Summerbee comes in.
Click here to read Dave Kidd’s interview with Mike Summerbee.

DOUGH ME A FAVOUR
Mido has deep panned Roy Keane after revealing all about the meal that persuaded him never to play for the Manchester United legend.
No amount of dough would have persuaded the Egypt striker to sign after the then-Sunderland manager invited him to Pizza Express in 2006 for what he thought would be a friendly “come and join us” chat.
Mido, who was with Spurs at the time, said Keane “didn’t talk much” – and he would “end up fighting” with the former Republic of Ireland legend if he played under him.
Ex-Ajax and Marseille star Mido told talkSPORT how he couldn’t wait to dessert his less-than-topping dining experience with Keane.
So instead he left Tottenham for a three-year spell with Sunderland’s North East rivals Middlesbrough.
Click here to read more.
BEEK IN BUSINESS
Jose Mourinho could be set to turn to his former club Manchester United in order to sign outcast Donny van de Beek, according to reports.
The Red Devils midfielder, 24, has struggled throughout his first season at Old Trafford.
According to Calcio Mercato, the Portuguese coach already has his eye on acquiring Van de Beek in the summer.
The Dutchman has played just 16 times in the Premier League this season, scoring one and assisting another.
But Mourinho, who was announced as Roma boss earlier this week, is looking to bolster his squad as the Italian side have suffered a dreadfully poor campaign.
Outgoing manager Paulo Fonseca has overseen a disappointing season in Serie A which currently sees them sitting in seventh.
Credit: PA
WHO’D HAVE THAU-T IT
Ex-Newcastle flop Florian Thauvin has agreed to join Mexican side Tigres in a shock move.
The 28-year-old, who had been linked with a return to the Premier League, has decided to quit European football.
The World Cup winner has signed a five-year deal in Mexico.

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MANCHESTER CITY can seal the Premier League title this evening with victory over Chelsea at the Etihad.
Start time: 5.30pm BST
TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
Live stream: Sky Go/NOW TV
Man City XI: Ederson, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Ake, Mendy, Rodrigo, Torres, Sterling, Aguero, Jesus
Chelsea XI: Mendy, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger, James, Kante, Gilmour, Alonso, Ziyech, Werner, Pulisic.

Follow ALL the action and build-up with our live blog below…

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PEP PREVIEW
Pep said it doesn’t matter when City win the league, as long as it happens.
He also joked that Tuchel gave him the Champions League final tactics in their chat a short time ago.
Yeah, he gave me his tactics for the Champions League final!We have a long relationship and he is a good guy.Premier League is 38 fixtures and we play everyone, so at the end it isn’t important when, it is to finish one point ahead of the opponents.Every year we play Chelsea it is a tough job.Game on.Pep GuardiolaSky
TUCH SWITCHES
A couple of changes from Thomas Tuchel and that was what he hinted when he spoke to the press during the week.
We have one day less to recover and it’s away game.I imagine we’ll need some fresh legs and fresh minds, guys who want to show they deserve a chance in a big fixture.Whether there will be new stuff tactically I don’t know. I haven’t decided yet. I have to look at who is available after training today. There is a high possibility we will see some changes.’Thomas Tuchel
SHARE A WORD
Sharing congratulations? Trying to eek out tactics? Sorting dinner plans?
Pep Guardiola and Thomas Tuchel share pleasantries as their sides head out for the warm-up with a little over 30 minutes to go until kick-off!
Pep Guardiola and Thomas Tuchel
TWENTY IS PLENTY
Bookmakers Paddy Power are offering new customers a completely risk free £20 bet on the action.
The two sides have met TWICE already this season with City winning their league showdown while Chelsea were victors in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.
The Blues are arguably the most in-form side in the country right now and look defensively sound having conceded just ONE goal in their last SIX outings.
So we’re backing Chelsea to get a result and delay the title celebrations with a 1-1 draw priced at 5/1.
New Paddy Power customers can use their £20 risk free bet* on our tip and if we’re successful – you’ll win £120.
If we’re wrong, you get your money straight back as cash. It’s as simple as that.
CLAIM HERE

OFF THE BUS
Champions-elect Manchester City making their way into the Etihad a short time ago

HOW WE STAND
The top half of the Premier League ahead of kick-off tonight.
Only three points for City tonight will guarantee league success tonight – if not they’ll have to wait.
But it’s an important one for Tuchel and his men too as they occupy the final top four spot.
But Leicester’s thumping defeat at home to Newcastle last night means Chelsea can leapfrog them into third and go six points clear of fifth placed West Ham.

GERMAN WALK
The Chelsea squad with the seemingly obligatory pre-match stroll on the pitch.
German pals Kai Havertz and Timo Werner chat ahead of the imminent warm-ups.
Kai Havertz and Timo Werner
SUBS
The two benches for tonight’s game as follows:
MAN CITY: Steffen, Walker, Gundogan, Zinchenko, Bernardo, Fernandinho, Mahrez, Foden, Garcia
CHELSEA: Kepa, Emerson, Livramento, Zouma, Jorginho, Havertz, Hudson-Odoi, Abraham, Giroud
CHELSEA TEAM NEWS
Thomas Tuchel hands talented young Scot Billy Gilmour another league start in the Chelsea midfield.
Jorginho and Kai Havertz are left on the bench as Hakim Ziyech in from the start.
Timo Werner keeps his place as an integral part of the Blues’ wheel.
CHELSEA XI: Mendy, Azpilicueta (c), Christensen, Rudiger, Alonso, James, Gilmour, Kante, Ziyech, Pulisic, Werner
MAN CITY TEAM NEWS
Pep Guardiola has named the XI that he hopes will confirm the league title this evening against Chelsea.
The Spaniard leaves midweek heroes Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden on the bench.
As is Fernandinho, with Raheem Sterling in from the start and captaining the side tonight.
Nathan Ake, Joao Cancelo and Benjamin Mendy come in to the back-line.
MAN CITY XI: Ederson, Dias, Laporte, Ake, Cancelo, Rodri, Torres, Mendy, Sterling (c), Aguero, Jesus
THE TEAM SHEETS ARE IN!
AT THE GROUND
Team news is on its way as the City team bus has arrived at the Etihad.
That prompted wild celebrations from the crowd that had gathered – and seems to have multiplied in population.
Man City’s supporters cheer the bus arriving at the ground
Man City team bus arriving to rapturous celebrations
Large police presence at the Etihad
‘Champions 21’ jerseys sold outside the ground
NO DRESS REHEARSAL
Pep Guardiola refused to call this game a rehearsal for the Champions League final.
The City boss said his players are fully focused on league duty only.
First of all, congratulations to them for reaching the final.They made two good performances against the king of that competition in Real Madrid.If we played the final in one week, six days, maybe it could [be significant], but after there are 21 or 22 days.Many things can happen. We just have to focus. It is so important to think of the Premier League.Of course, it is the opponent we’re going to face in the final but we’re going to try to play with the players suited to the way they play.Pep Guardiola
PARTY STARTED
The crowds have arrived at the Etihad to greet their City heroes.
A first Champions League final reached this week and it could be well and truly topped off with the league title tonight.
A banner too for Sergio Aguero who has his City days numbered ahead of a switch away in the summer.
Man City fans celebrate before Chelsea clash
A banner for City legend Sergio Aguero
CITY SLICKERS
Pep enjoys tinkering his team.
Though you would do with the array of talent that he has at his disposal!
No matter the side he puts out, it will be strong.
But should we expect any surprises?

MATCH ODDS
City were a shorter price last night and have now drifted to evens money.
Chelsea are steady in the market and will be one of the shorter prices that an away team has been at the Etihad this campaign.
Man City – evens
Draw – 11/5
Chelsea – 3/1
TEAM NEWS
John Stones will miss the game as he is serving the final match of his three-game suspension.
Other than that, Pep Guardiola doesn’t have any injury concerns, with Aymeric Laporte likely to step in for City.
Oleksandr Zinchenko may be rotated out of the XI in favour of Benjamin Mendy.
Chelsea star Mateo Kovacic is still out with a thigh injury and will miss the City clash.
Jorginho and Kante should continue in midfield for the Blues.
Reece James could come back into the fold after Cesar Azpilicueta’s tiresome 90 minutes against Real Madrid in midweek.

TITLE DECIDING? MANCHESTER CITY V CHELSEA
Hello and a very warm welcome to tonight’s SunSport coverage of a big one in the Premier League between Manchester City and Chelsea.
It has been a matter of ‘when’ and not ‘if’ but Pepe Guardiola’s men can clinch the league title TONIGHT if they pick up three points.
Chelsea can jump into third with a win themselves after sorry Leicester’s 4-2 defeat at home to Newcastle last night.
They are only three clear of West Ham in fifth, so a win today would put them in the driving seat for Champions League football again next term.
Speaking of that competition, fate dictated this clash would arrive this weekend after the historic exploits of midweek.
City and Chelsea overcame PSG and Rea Madrid respectively to clinch their spots at this season’s Champions League final later this month.
And to be honest, they were both relatively comfortable in doing so.
City could have scored a hatful against the Parisian’s and the 2-0 scoreline didn’t flatter them as they won the tie 4-1.
Chelsea won by the same score on the night, triumphing 3-1 on aggregate.
Tonight’s contest comes just three weeks after the pair met deep into another competition, as Thomas Tuchel’s men ran out 1-0 winners at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final.
Hakim Ziyech’s second-half goal was enough for the Londoners.
Both sides will be hoping for the win tonight, will they also have one eye on the big final on May 29 and not look to give too much away?
Team news on the way!
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