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CHELSEA are considering a summer move for Sergio Aguero, who is available on a free transfer from Man City.Meanwhile City have moved into pole position in the race to sign Jack Grealish, according to reports.
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IN KON-TACT
Man Utd and Chelsea are reportedly locked in a huge transfer battle to sign RB Leipzig defender Ibrahima Konate.
According to AS, Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barca have joined the race to land the highly-rated defender.
The 21-year-old French talent has attracted significant interest after his form for Leipzig.
But with Dayot Upamecano joining Bayern Munich this summer, Leipzig may not be prepared to sell another key defender unless they receive a major offer.
Ibrahima Konate is wanted by some of Europe’s biggest clubs
PIERRE WE GO
Arsenal could welcome back captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for this evening’s crunch Europa League last-16 clash with Olympiacos.
The Gunners lead 3-1 from the first leg in Greece, with goals coming from Martin Odegaard, Gabriel and Mo Elneny.
And Arteta could decide to recall star man Aubameyang after dropping him from Sunday’s 2-1 win over Tottenham.
But with a place in the quarter finals at stake, Arteta could decide to stick with the rest of the team that triumphed over rivals Spurs in the derby.
Arsenal could put this team out to face Olympiacos
DIAL UP
Amad Diallo could be set for his first Man United start against AC Milan in the Europa League last-16 second leg tonight.
The Ivorian could be included in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting XI after Edinson Cavani was ruled out.
Anthony Martial is also unavailable for the crunch clash, with the score currently tied at 1-1.
Diallo could join Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood in attack, with Dan James also an option.
How Man Utd could line up against AC Milan tonight
GOING RETRO
Manchester United’s 2021-22 rumoured away kit has been leaked.
And the Red Devils could be returning to a 90s classic.
Featuring a retro Adidas logo, the blue and white kit would evoke fond memories of messrs Cantona, Giggs and Robson.
Manchester United could be going back to the future with their potential new retro away kit
The classic 1991-93 away shirt evokes happy memories for Man United fansCredit: Getty
SHOWING SOME STONES
John Stones’ brilliant form for Premier League leaders Manchester City has unsurprisingly earned him an England recall.
The 26-year-old was a mainstay for the Three Lions during the 2018 World Cup campaign.
But some rocky form at club level saw him lose his place in the national setup.
Stones was last capped in November 2019, but appears certain to add to his tally of 39 international outings this month.
John Stones won his 39th international cap against MontenegroCredit: Getty
SHAW THING
Luke Shaw’s excellent form for Manchester United has earned him an England recall.
Having earned his Three Lions debut all the way back in 2014 as a teenager, the left-back has surprisingly only managed to earn another seven caps since.
But having won the battle with Alex Telles for United’s starting spot, the 25-year-old has earned the faith of England boss Gareth Southgate.
Shaw was last capped by England against Spain in September 2018, and has played only twice under Southgate.
Luke Shaw earned his eighth and most recent England cap against Spain in 2018Credit: Getty
HEN DO
In Jordan Pickford’s absence, Dean Henderson may get an opportunity to stake a claim for England’s No1 shirt.
The Manchester United stopper recently had a run in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting XI, following David de Gea’s absence.
And in upcoming matches against San Marino, Albania and Poland, Henderson is likely to get an opportunity to prove himself to Gareth Southgate.
He will be vying with Burnley’s Nick Pope for the starting spot, while West Brom star and fellow Man United academy graduate Sam Johnstone has received his first call-up.
Dean Henderson should add to his one England capCredit: Getty
BACK LIN BUSINESS
Jesse Lingard has been called up by England after nearly two years in the international wilderness.
Having become a forgotten man at Manchester United in the first half of this season, JLingz appeared to have no chance of going to the Euros.
But his fantastic loan spell at West Ham, during which he has scored four goals and assisted a further two in six games, has brought him back into Gareth Southgate’s plans for upcoming matches against San Marino, Albania and Poland.
Jesse Lingard has won 24 England caps to dateCredit: Getty – Contributor
ENGLAND SQUAD ANNOUNCED
Gareth Southgate has revealed his latest England squad ahead of matches against San Marino, Albania and Poland.
There are first call-ups for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, while Luke Shaw and Jesse Lingard have earned re-calls.

IN THE MOOD FOR DAHOUD
Chelsea and Manchester City are reportedly leading the race to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud.
Thomas Tuchel helped sign Dahoud back in 2017 and will hope to bring the Dortmund star at Stamford Bridge.
The 25-year-old Germany international is being tracked by several Premier League giants.
Dahoud’s contract at Dortmund expires at the end of next season and this has increased interest in him.
Mahmoud Dahoud has been linked with a move to the Premier League
YOU’VE BEEN WARN-ED
Neil Warnock has been charged by the FA for his explosive post-match blast at officials.
The Middlesbrough manager slammed referee Gavin Ward for a number of decisions in the 2-1 Championship loss to Swansea earlier this month.
SunSport revealed last week the FA had launched an investigation into Warnock’s comments and he now has until March 22 to respond to the charge.
An FA statement read: “Neil Warnock has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to Middlesbrough FC’s match against Swansea City FC in the EFL Championship on Saturday 6 March 2021.
“It is alleged that comments made by the manager during a post-match interview constitute improper conduct as they questioned the integrity of the match official and/or implied bias and/or were personally offensive and/or bring the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
“Neil Warnock has until 22 March 2021 to provide a response to this charge.”
Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock has been charged by the FA for his post-match rant about officials after Boro lost to Swansea
HAZARD WARNING
Eden Hazard may never play football again’ if the Real Madrid star has a third ankle operation.
That is the view of a leading doctor in Spain – which suggests the former Chelsea playmaker’s career could be in doubt.
Hazard reportedly wants another ankle operation as he bids to end his injury nightmare at Real.
But Dr Jose Gonzalez, who works for Atletico Madrid, has warned this could result in the end of the Belgian’s career.
Gonzalez told Ondacero: “Hazard has to train with the team for up to 10 training sessions. In my experience it is difficult for him to return to playing at his level with Real Madrid this season.
“If a player returns after a long injury without having hardly trained, the most normal thing is that he is injured again.
“He has anxiety, he wants to show that he is worth and wants to give 100% and he is not there for that.”
Real want Hazard to postpone surgery but Belgium reportedly want him to have it immediately in the hope of the forward being back for this summer’s rescheduled Euro 2020.
Hazard has travelled to London for a second opinion on his ankle injury as he decides whether to have another operation.
Eden Hazard’s time at Real Madrid has been dogged by injury setbacks
BLUES THE DADDY
Sergio Aguero could complete a shock move to Chelsea this summer with his contract at Manchester City close to expiring.
And should he do so, the Argentine would likely take over Olivier Giroud’s mantle as the squad’s senior statesman upfront.
But how do the two forward’s careers compare?
Sergio Aguero and Olivier Giroud have both led storied careers
BLUES BANISH BONUS
Barcelona have missed out on a £1.7million bonus for Luis Suarez after Atletico Madrid were knocked out of the Champions League.
The Catalan giants sold the Uruguayan striker to their La Liga rivals for just £5.5million in the summer.
But they were due to receive an extra £1.7m if Suarez helped Diego Simeone’s side into the last eight in Europe.
However, Chelsea knocked Atletico out of the Champions League on Wednesday night, winning 3-0 on aggregate.
As a result, Barcelona – who are currently financially strapped for cash – will no longer receive the additional fee.
Luis Suarez failed to make an impact against ChelseaCredit: AP
KAI’S THE LIMIT
Rio Ferdinand revealed Chelsea’s ‘silky’ Kai Havertz reminds him of his old Manchester United team-mate Dimitar Berbatov – but urged the German to get stuck in.
On BT Sport, he said: “Not all players come here and hit the ground running. Buy you can see the quality is there.
“We saw when he was at Bayer Leverkusen in previous years that he is a hugely talented footballer and it is going to take him time.
“But in the end, he will get there because he is somebody who has a good feel for the game.
“He reminds me a little of [Dimitar] Berbatov in how cool, calm and collected he is.
“He is very silky, he plays on the edge of the game a little bit at times, and drifts about.
“Once he gets that part of his game, I think everything will fall into place.”
Havertz helped Chelsea to victory over Atletico Madrid last nightCredit: AP
HAR HAA LAND
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand wants his old side to sign a new striker in the summer.
And he’d be perfectly happy with Harry Kane or Erling Haaland.

AD-ICKS
Charlton have appointed Nigel Adkins as manager to replace Lee Bowyer.
The former Southampton and Scunthorpe boss has been out of work since leaving Hull in 2019 – but hopes to replicate his St Mary’s success at The Valley and get Charlton from League One into the Premier League.
But Addicks owner Thomas Sandgaaard has given him a two-and-a-half-year contract as he looks for a League One play-off push from his sixth-placed side following Bowyer’s departure to Birmingham.
Adkins said: “It’s a really exciting opportunity for me – something that has happened very quickly.
“I’m really pleased to be here and am looking forward to meeting the players and getting started.
“I had a conversation with Thomas and he highlighted where he wants this club to go. It’s an exciting and long-term vision.
“Getting to the Premier League is something that we all want and something that I have done before. I want to achieve that again.
“The team got a great result on Tuesday night (a 3-2 win over Bristol Rovers) and now we need to keep driving on together, because we have got a chance of winning promotion this season.”
Charlton Athletic are delighted to announce Nigel Adkins as the club’s Manager. Welcome to the Charlton family, Nigel! 🔴⚪ #cafc | https://t.co/f36HsGcQDw— Charlton Athletic FC (@CAFCofficial) March 18, 2021

FROM THE HEART
Joan Laporta told Lionel Messi ‘I love you and Barcelona also loves you’ in a passionate plea to convince him to stay.
The Catalan club’s new president held his inauguration ceremony at the Nou Camp which Messi and his team-mates attended.
Laporta, 58, elected as Barca’s new president for a second spell last week, used his speech to try and convince Messi, 33, to sign a new deal.
He said: “We will, for example, try to convince Leo to stay at the club.
“Sorry Leo. I will do my best and he knows it! We’re going to try, of course, to convince him to stay here because he’s the best player in history.
“Sorry, but I love you and Barcelona also loves you. If this stadium were full, you wouldn’t want to go.”
Joan Laporta made a passionate public bid to keep hold of Lionel Messi
S-MART MOVE
Manchester United are plotting a shock move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to replace David de Gea and Sergio Romero, according to reports.
The Red Devils are set to undertake a major overhaul of their goalkeeping department this summer.
Romero, 34, has long been linked with a move away after a public fall-out with the club following his failed loan move to Everton last summer.
The Argentine is out of contract this summer and is almost certain to leave on a free.
But Man Utd have also finally decided to call time on De Gea’s long spell at the club, according to Football Insider.
The Spanish stopper, 30, signed a bumper new contract in September 2019 worth a staggering £375,000 per week until the end of the 2022-23 season.
However, his form since has been rocky with United considering replacing him with Dean Henderson.
United, though, are not pinning all their hopes on Henderson being their No1 for the future.
The club are reportedly eyeing up moves for TWO goalkeepers to replace De Gea and Romero.
And top of that list is Aston Villa’s former Arsenal stopper Martinez – who has kept 14 clean sheets in 27 Premier League games this term.
Emi Martinez has been in excellent form for VillaCredit: Rex
PROMISED LAND
Chelsea have ‘promised’ to break the bank for £130million man Erling Haaland if Thomas Tuchel qualifies for the Champions League, reports say.
The Borussia Dortmund forward has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in the world, with 31 goals in 30 games so far this season.
It is said that Blues bosses have given their word to manager Tuchel that they will fund a move for Haaland, but only if they qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Dortmund are open to selling the lethal finisher, because he has a release clause in 2022, allowing him to leave for just £65m.
Erling Haaland could be up for grabs this summerCredit: Getty
GUNNAR BE BACK
Diogo Dalot will return to Manchester United at the end of his loan spell at AC Milan.
The full-back has been on loan at the Milan club this season after falling out of favour at United.
Speaking ahead of United’s Europa League second-leg last-16 clash with Milan at the San Siro on Thursday night, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “The plan was always for Diogo this season, or the main thing for Diogo, was to be fit.
“He never managed to be fit for a long spell when he was here [and was] unfortunate with injuries.
“Now he’s kept fit all season; he’s been available for them. He’s playing at a big club, big expectations, [with the] great history of the club, so it’s been a good year for him.
“So, of course, I’ve been very pleased with his development this season, and he’s our player and we’re looking forward to having him back.”
Dalot has made 11 appearances in Serie A this seasonCredit: PA
JAMAICA DECISION
West Ham star Michail Antonio has reportedly chosen to play for Jamaica instead of England for ‘more regular international football’.
But he has not been picked for the Reggae Boyz’s upcoming friendly against USA in Austria on March 25.
However, this does not rule him out for good as Jamaica have World Cup qualifiers to play in June which they hope to select the Hammers striker for.
Antonio previously snubbed the Caribbean island, where his parents were born, in order to try and play for the Three Lions – having been born in London himself.
But Jamaica asked the question again and Antonio has had a change of heart, according to Sky Sports News.
Antonio has been called up by England managers Gareth Southgate and Sam Allardyce but failed to earn Three Lions a cap.
Michail Antonio has been picked in England squads in the pastCredit: Getty
FRED IN THE FACE
Man United fan Usain Bolt has torn into midfielder Fred.
He told CNN: “I think Fred should not be in the midfield.
“I think he is lacking so much.
“He works hard, but he’s lacking passing and he gives away a lot of cheap fouls in bad areas.”
Fred is a regular in the Man United midfieldCredit: Reuters
BE NICE
Fastest man in the world and Manchester United fan Usain Bolt believes that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ‘too nice’ to deliver success at Old Trafford.
Asked by CNN if he believes the Norwegian is the man for the job, he replied: “If he changes… He’s too nice.
“That’s the only thing I can say, he’s too nice. He never really says anything bad about any player, even if they don’t play good and that’s the only thing.
“But if he changes and really pressures the players, you know what I mean, calls them out sometimes when they really didn’t put their all into it, then I feel like he should stay because he is cool and the fans love him.”
Man Utd fan Bolt has had his say on OleCredit: Getty – Contributor
PSYCHO SUAREZ
Luis Suarez gave a sinister smile after being substituted during Atletico Madrid’s Champions League defeat to Chelsea on Tuesday night.
The Uruguayan was taken off by boss Diego Simeone shortly before the hour mark as his shocking run away in Europe continued.
Suarez has not scored an away goal in the Champions League since September 2015.
And while he has netted 18 goals in 24 La Liga games so far this season, he has failed to find the back of the net in any of his six games in Europe.
But despite his volatile response to being subbed, Simeone stood by his striker in the post-match press conference.
He said: “It’s normal that he got angry when he was taken off, players want to stay on.
“We wanted a new way to attack them so we made changes.”
Luis Suarez was unhappy to be taken off
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CHELSEA are through the quarter finals of the Champions League after seeing off ten-man Atletico Madrid.
Final score: Chelsea 2-0 Atletico Madrid (agg 3-0)

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THAT’S ALL FROM WEST LONDON
His reign may only be two months old, but Thomas Tuchel is busy breaking records at Stamford Bridge and striking fear across Europe’s top league.
The German head coach made it 13 games unbeaten since his appointment, a best for a new Chelsea manager, as his side made it through to the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in seven seasons.
Goals in each half from Hakim Ziyech and Emerson – the latter scoring with his first touch in stoppage time – sealed a one-sided win on the night, and an even more comprehensive victory over two legs.
La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid offered little across the tie, but then they weren’t allowed anything by Chelsea’s increasingly solid defence. Another clean sheet means it’s six in a row for the Premier League club, and 11 under Tuchel.
That’s all from us for tonight but join us on Friday for the Champions League draw to see who the Blues will face in the last eight.
Goodnight.
SILVA MEDDLES
Thomas Tuchel paid tribute to those Chelsea players not in the matchday squad, but who instead cheered on their teammates from the stands.
We suspect we know who he was referring to. Is Thiago Silva a future Chelsea coach in the making?

READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Chelsea are into the quarter-finals of the Champions League! Relive the action with Dave Kidd’s match report from Stamford Bridge, as goals from Hakim Ziyech and Emerson see off Atletico Madrid.
Six straight clean sheets, just two goals conceded in 13 unbeaten matches under Thomas Tuchel, and into their first Champions League quarter-final for seven years.
TUCHEL DELIGHT
It’s lucky number 13 for Thomas Tuchel! Chelsea are now unbeaten in 13 games since the German took charge at Stamford Bridge, the longest undefeated run for a new manager in the club’s history. At full time, the manager paid tribute to his entire squad in contributing to another impressive victory.
A very good performance. An unbelievable team effort. From the guys on the pitch, the guys on the bench, and even the guys in the stand. We go through and it’s deserved. It’s a big win for us.Thomas TuchelBT Sport
WUNDERBAR!
German coaches are leading the way in this season’s Champions League. Half of the remaining eight clubs in the competition are managed by men hailing from Deutschland.

THE GRATEFUL EIGHT
Chelsea have joined fellow Premier League sides Manchester City and Liverpool in the quarter-finals of this season’s Champions League. Awaiting them are Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund of the Bundesliga, Ligue Un’s Paris Saint-Germain, La Liga’s Real Madrid, and Porto of the Primeira Liga.
The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals will be made on Friday, and there are no restrictions as to who teams can draw.

KANTE TOUCH THIS
No Atletico player could find their way pass N’Golo Kante this evening.
The Frenchman was a non-stop machine in midfield, covering ground, winning possession, and protecting his defence.
N’Golo Kanté made more ball recoveries than any other player against Atletico (13). He also made the joint most interceptions for Chelsea (2). #UCL pic.twitter.com/QgtOQtic4Q— Squawka Football (@Squawka) March 17, 2021

FULL TIME STATS
A composed performance from Thomas Tuchel’s side, who dominated Atletico Madrid on the night.

FT: CHELSEA 2-0 ATLETICO (3-0 AGG)
Chelsea make light work of the La Liga leaders, beating them 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to add to their 1-0 first leg win in Bucharest. The Londoners were in control throughout, and goals from Hakim Ziyech and Emerson were the least they deserved. The disappointing Spaniards played the final ten minutes a man down after Stefan Savic’s red card.
PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!CHELSEA PROGRESS TO THE QUARTER-FINALS!
CHELSEA 2-0 ATLETICO (3-0 AGG)
90+5. Emerson’s first touch, and most probably the game’s last!
Atletico had sent everybody up, and that left plenty of space for Chelsea’s fresh legs to exploit.
Sparking a three-on-one break, Christian Pulisic weighed up his options before slipping the ball left to Emerson.
On the pitch only seconds earlier. the Brazilian showed maximum composure to drive first time under Jan Oblak and into the bottom corner.
The strike ignites wild celebrations in the home ranks, featuring all of the Chelsea players on the pitch, including the goalkeeper.

GOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL!!EMERSON SCORES WITH HIS FIRST TOUCH!!
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
90+4. Chelsea make two substitutions to eat up the final few seconds.
On comes Emerson and Ben Chilwell. Off go Kai Havertz and Marcos Alonso.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
90+3. Great stop by Mendy!
The Chelsea keeper hasn’t been called into action often tonight, but he’s remained alert to the end.
The stopper pushes over the bar after Joao Felix had made room for himself in the box.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
90. Five minutes of stoppage time are signalled. It must be five seconds for each Madrid substitute.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
88. A half chance for Dembele as Mendy parries a Llorente cross, but the substitute miskicks in his attempt to steer home the rebound. That sums up Atletico’s night.

CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
86. Gimenez is keeping the score down singlehandedly with his side down to ten men. The centre-back throws himself at crosses, shots and tackles as Chelsea push for another.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
84. Callum Hudson-Odoi is on for Timo Werner, and almost scores with his first touch. The youngster plants a shot from the right into Oblak’s arms after being played in by Kovacic.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
82. Just as Atletico’s were preparing a final throw of the dice, Stefan Savic has booted the Monopoly board across the room.
Jostling with Rudiger as the players awaited the corner, the Montenegrin threw a slight elbow into the chest of Antonio Rudiger. The Chelsea man went down theatrically as if he’d taken a Mike Tyson uppercut, and Daniele Orsato is straight across with the red card.
Savic isn’t happy, Diego Simeone isn’t happy, and nobody associated with Atletico will be happy.

RED CARD!STEFAN SAVIC IS OFF FOR AN ELBOW!
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
80. Finally, Atleti get to work!
Joao Felix makes room for himself just inside the area, spins quickly, and slams a shot towards goal. It flicks off Azpilicueta, and whistles away for a corner.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
77. A Chelsea change. Off goes goalscorer Hakim Ziyech, and on comes Christian Pulisic.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
76. Is that an attempt on goal? Mendy is finally called into action as he pushes away a cross-cum-shot from Joao Felix.
It’s the best the La Liga leaders have come up with in this half which really isn’t saying much.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
75. Chelsea are fifteen minutes from the quarter-finals.
On this form, Atletico Madrid are at least fifteen years from challenging for Europe’s big trophy again.
CHELSEA 1-0 ATLETICO (2-0 AGG)
72. Koke goes into the book for chopping down Kovacic.
In the stands, Thiago Silva roars on his Chelsea teammates. It’s a glorious sight, and almost makes his purple puffer jacket/baseball cap combo tolerable.
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TOTTEHAM are reportedly battling Chelsea for Paulo Dybala’s signature, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus future also hangs in the balance. All these and the latest updates ahead of three nights of Champions League and Europa League action coming up.
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AGUERO COULD JOIN PREM RIVAL
Sergio Aguero is keen to stay in the Premier League next season — as fresh doubts over his Manchester City future emerged.
The club’s all-time leading goalscorer, 32, is out of contract this summer and is yet to hear anything about a new deal for next term.
Barcelona and PSG have monitored Sergio Aguero’s situation at Man City but he loves playing in England
He played the final 15 minutes of the comfortable Champions League win over Borussia Monchengladbach in Hungary this week.
But at the end of the game he was heard telling goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor ‘They don’t pass me the ball’.
Aguero is frustrated after struggling for game-time since returning to fitness last month — although he has featured in their last three matches.
And sources close to the player also say he is worried his glittering ten-year City career may be sliding towards a disappointing end.
He would like to stay at the Etihad but if no offer is forthcoming, he is open to  joining another club in England. Boss Pep Guardiola said he would start to think about the future of Aguero in the upcoming international break.
But he also warned it could be the end of the season before anything is decided  — as he wants full focus on their push for silverware. That led to Barcelona and  Paris Saint-Germain registering an interest.
LEWANDOWSKI BLOW VS ENGLAND
Poland face being without three of their biggest stars against England — including Robert Lewandowski.
Bayern Munich are currently blocking striker Lewandowski from featuring in three World Cup qualifiers which includes the Wembley trip on March 31.
Marseille have told Arkadiusz Milik he cannot travel to the game either, while Krzysztof Piatek is also being stopped by Hertha Berlin.
Poland’s first qualifier is away to Hungary a week today, followed by a home game with Andorra on March 28.
They travel to London three days later. The loss of these three attacking players would be a massive boost for England boss Gareth Southgate as Poland are their strongest rivals in the group.
And Lewandowski illustrated why he would be such a miss for the Poles on Saturday when he drew level with Schalke legend Klaus Fischer as the second-highest scorer in Bundesliga history with 268 goals.
The Three Lions later travel to Warsaw on September 8.
SOUTHGATE RIGHT TO HAIL AYL
Marcelo Bielsa believes Gareth Southgate’s interest in Luke Ayling and Patrick Bamford shows just how far Leeds have come. 
A regular at Elland Road in their first season back in the top-flight, the Three Lions boss has been keeping tabs on the Whites duo. 
Luke Ayling and Patrick Bamford have starred in Leeds’ first term back in the top flight
Luke Ayling and Patrick Bamford are now on the England radar
While right-back Ayling looks set to miss out when Southgate names his squad tomorrow, Bamford is in line for a first call up. 
The third-highest English scorer with 13 goals, Bamford could take the Whites’ contingent to two alongside midfielder Kalvin Phillips. 
In the early 2000s, Nigel Martyn, Jonathan Woodgate, Rio Ferdinand, Alan Smith and Danny Mills were all regulars in the national set up. 
And Bielsa said: “It’s recognition for the players first of all. Second, it’s recognition for the project of the club, the structure of the squad to compete in the league. 
“Competing in the Premier League is what opens up possibilities.  So it’s an achievement that makes the players proud and shows the proposition that the club put forward is the correct one.” 
Ayling’s versatility put himself on Southgate’s radar. 
And Bielsa added: “He’s one of the players that has shone the most in our team. He’s a player that can play out wide or in the center, in a back four or back three.
“He has the capacity to attack and good aerial game. He has a good management of the ball and first pass.”
IT’S SMILES BETTER FOR AUBA
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is all smiles again after sorting out his differences with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has trained really well, says Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta
Now the Gunners’ 13-goal top scorer is ready to lead his team in Thursday’s crucial Europa League clash with Olympiacos.
Aubameyang, 31, had a face like thunder when he was left out of the team for Sunday’s North London derby after turning up late.
But the superstar striker has buried the hatchet with his disciplinarian manager following heart to heart talks this week.
Arteta confirmed: “We talked, everything has been resolved in a really positive way and now we move forward.
“He has trained really well for the last two days and he was smiling as usual, which is what we always expect from Auba. So it’s all good.”
REST OF THE CHELSEA STARTING XI RATINGS
Hakim Ziyech – 8Took his goal well, which was much needed for his confidence. And overall, he contributed much better and was involved in most things Chelsea did good.
Timo Werner – 8.5His pace on the counter was a massive weapon for Chelsea tonight and it’s how they go the goal in the first half. Werner on the break at speed, and then played the perfect ball into Ziyech to finish.
Kai Havertz – 8.5Quality on the ball, and showed great vision once again. He did well to set Werner off for the first half goal, and his link up play dropping in to ensure Chelsea kept possession was excellent. 
MORE CHELSEA RATINGS
Reece James – 8He was Chelsea’s big attacking threat down the right-hand side and everything was going through him. James delivered some very dangerous crosses and did his job at the back as well.
Mateo Kovacic – 8Calm on the ball as always and was a great outlet for Chelsea when they needed to hold the ball and keep possession. 
N’Golo Kante – 9.5Another outstanding performance from him both offensively and defensively. He was great taking the ball and dribbling under pressure, and he made some vital interceptions at the back.
Marcos Alonso – 7Contributed to the play well and he was always an outlet out wide. Didn’t have a lot to do at the back, but he made up that extra man in attack well.
CHELSEA RATINGS VS ATLETICO
Edouard Mendy – 7.5He made some decent and important saves at crucial times and his distribution was decent again.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7.5His positioning in that right centre back role is very good and he always makes use of being the extra wide man in attack, but he was very lucky to not have given away a penalty and even get sent off in the first half at 0-0.
Kurt Zouma – 7.5He didn’t do a lot wrong on the ball and defended well when called upon and put in a very solid overall game.
Antonio Rudiger – 9Rudiger was well up for this match, his intensity and determination was excellent and he was everywhere on the pitch, keeping Luis Suarez quiet once again.
RESULT: CHELSEA 2 ATLETICO 0 (CHELSEA WIN 3-0 ON AGG)
Emerson’s second-ever Chelsea goal, a crisp finish into the bottom corner deep into stoppage time, underlined their fine route to the Champions League quarter-finals.
Follow our match blog for all the reaction.
LATEST: CHELSEA 1 ATLETICO 0
RED CARD: Surely any Atletico hopes have gone now – as Savi was sent off on 81 minutes.
Follow our match blog from tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie here, with Chelsea 2-0 up on aggregate.
‘REDS JOIN BERGE CHASE’
Liverpool have Tottenham and Arsenal in pursuing Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge – who Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer knows “more or less everything about”.
Norwegian Burge is still battling a long-term hamstring problem but is tipped to depart in the summer, should bottom side Blades go down.
Aston Villa have also been linked with the 23-year-old, rated at around £22million.
And last December,  before Burge’s injury, Solskjaer hinted at his interest in his fellow countryman.
Tribal Football quoted Solskjaer as saying: “I know more or less everything about Sander from the time in Norway.
“I have talked a lot with Kjetil Rekdal about him.”
Former Norway midfielder Rekdal is manager of Norwegian club Ham-Kam.
LATEST: CHELSEA 1 ATLETICO 0
The Blues have begun the second half well, partly as Atletico are forced to operate on the counter-attack.
Follow our match blog from tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie here, with Chelsea 2-0 up on aggregate.
H/T: CHELSEA 1 ATLETICO 0
Follow our match blog from tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie here.
Kai Havertz neatly slots the Blues in front to make it 2-0 on aggregateCredit: AP
Reece James, N’Golo Kante and Kurt Zouma help Kai Havertz celebrate his openerCredit: Getty
LATEST: CHELSEA 1 ATLETICO 0
Hakim Ziyech’s clinical breakaway goal put the Blues ahead on the night and 2-0 in front on aggregate.
Kai Havertz and Timo Werner combined well to set up the fine strike.
Follow our match blog from tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie here.
SILVA SERVICE CHEAPER OPTION TO HAALAND
Eintracht Frankfurt ‘s Portugal striker Andre Silva has been tipped as a cut-price alternative for Manchester United to dream summer signing Erling Haaland.
Silva has matched Haaland’s 19-goal Bundesliga total this season.
The suggestion is super-agent Jorge Mendes could be keen on the 25-year-old making a huge summer move.
LATEST: CHELSEA 0 ATLETICO 0
The Blues bossed the early possession from tonight’s Champions League last-16 second leg.
Chelsea wideman Marcos Alonso fires in a shot under pressure from Kieran TrippierCredit: Getty
JESSE, STONES IN ENGLAND RUNNING
Jesse Lingard and John Stones are close to England recalls, according to The Guardian.
Manchester United midfielder Lingard, 28, has been in sensational loan form for West Ham.
And Man City centre-back Stones, 26, has revitalised his career this season just like Pep Guardiola’s squad have reinstated their Premier League dominance – after handing it to Liverpool last term.
ROTHERHAM’S 25 POSITIVE TESTS
The EFL have 25 positive Covid-19 results in the latest round of testing – ALL from Rotherham.
The Championship strugglers had already produced three positive results the previous week, forcing the cancellation of their matches against Brentford and Luton.
At the time they informed league bosses others had been ordered to self-isolate because of potential close contact – but the next round of testing produced numbers which staggered officials.
For the further 25 players and staff were all confirmed to have contracted coronavirus leading to their clash with Coventry also being postponed.
To make matters worse, it is the second time this season the Millers have been forced to cancel matches after suffering an outbreak within the club.
Now the EFL are investigating just how well Rotherham followed the strict protocols in place throughout the professional game aimed at minimising risk of spreading the virus.
The latest outbreak is now known to have infected 28 people in total, leading to the close of their Roundwood training ground for a second time.
Paul Warne’s side, scrapping to avoid relegation to League One, were back in action for the first time in a fortnight on Tuesday when they were thrashed 4-1 at home by Watford.
IT’S UNDER WAY: CHELSEA 0 ATLETICO 0
Follow our match blog here from tonight’s Champions League last-16 second leg as the Blues defend a 1-0 lead.
LIVE: CHELSEA VS ATLETICO MADRID
You can get up-to-the-minute coverage from 8pm as the Blues bid to reach the Champions League quarter-finals by following our match blog here.
Then after the tie they’ll be reaction from Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea are defending an impressive 1-0 advantage from the first leg against the LaLiga leaders.
POCH SHOWS SERGE OF INTEREST IN REUNION
Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly keen on a reunion with Serge Aurier at Paris Saint-Germain.
Foot Mercato claims the Argentine manager is ready to raid former club Tottenham for right-back Aurier, who spent three years at PSG between 2014 and 2017.
The Ivory Coast international, 28, has played 20 times in all competitions this term under Jose Mourinho.
But it was Poch who brought Aurier to England four years ago in a £23m deal.
Pochettino currently has just one reliable right-back option at PSG in Roma loanee Alessandro Florenzi.
And he feels Aurier would be a great addition to his squad this summer.
The player himself is apparently eager to return as he feels he has unfinished business in the French capital.
It’s reckoned PSG chief Leonardo already initiated contact with Aurier over a return to the club in 2019.
And Spurs are also said to be open to doing business after signing Matt Doherty last summer.
I’M SHAW GRATEFUL
Luke Shaw is tipped by many to be England’s first-choice left-back in time for this summer’s delayed Euros.
And not even the usual suspects like Bruno Fernandes matched his form for Manchester United over the past month.
After picking up their player award for February, the 25-year-old tweeted his thanks to those who backed him.

GERRARD ‘NOT READY FOR LIVERPOOL JOB’
Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas believes the Liverpool job is still ‘far too early’ for Steven Gerrard.
The Liverpool legend ended Celtic’s nine-year reign in Scottish football by emphatically guiding Rangers to the title.
Steven Gerrard has guided Rangers to an emphatic Scottish league title
Gerrard’s side have blown away the rest of the competition having won 28 league games and drawing four without tasting defeat.
Rangers are also impressing in Europe as they take on Slavia Prague in the second-leg of their Europa League Round of 16 following a 1-1 draw in Czech Republic.
Gerrard has made it no secret of his dream to return to his boyhood club when the time is right. But current boss Jurgen Klopp still has three years left on his contract at Liverpool but has seen his title defence blow up in smoke.
Ex-Celtic and Scotland striker Nicholas told Paddy Power’s  Cheltenham Watchalong: “Steven Gerrard has done an excellent job at Rangers, he has really turned it around for the Blue half of Glasgow. 
“Everyone up there must think he is guaranteed for the Liverpool manager’s job at some point in the near future. 
“Gerrard now has saleable assets and has made every player better, very much like Brendan Rodgers did when he went to Celtic.” 
HOW BLUES LINE-UP AGAINST ATLETICO
Here’s Thomas Tuchel’s team as they enter tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie with a 1-0 first-leg lead.

GUENDOUZI DEFENDS PAY TAUNT
Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi has defended taunting Neal Maupay over wages and has revealed he even blasted Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang once.
The midfielder is currently at Hertha Berlin but does not regret his rash actions at Arsenal.
Matteo Guendouzi grabbed Neal Maupay by the throat and taunted him
Guendouzi told France Football: “It was a gesture that I should have maybe not done.
“It might have shocked a few people, yes, but you know, in the Champions League or in a local match, during the games, there is always a lot of frustration.
“We always want to win. And, during bad results, or injustices or things said on the pitch that you sometimes don’t like, you can, sometimes, have bad reactions.
“There are things like that, five or six times per match. It is not malicious. There was not a problem with the FA, I was never suspended. It is always in the obsession around winning, to help your team.
“I give you an example: during a match against Chelsea, Aubameyang missed a chance after a magnificent pass that I did. I got annoyed. I slapped my hands on the turf.
“He saw the video, he laughed. I am 100%, in football, in life, I often say things, I show myself a lot. That is part of who I am.”
Midfielder Guendouzi’s future at Arsenal looks bleak
NENY STATES CASE
Mohamed Elneny hopes to have secured a new Arsenal contract after his impressive revival under Mikel Arteta.
The defensive midfielder was largely a squad player in his first four years at the club, and spent last season on loan at Besiktas.
A decent spell in Turkey led to Arsenal boss Arteta giving the 28-year-old a surprise start in the Community Shield win over Liverpool last August.
And Elneny has not looked back since and praised his coach ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash against Olympiacos.
He told reporters: “I expected to come back because I want to always be with the biggest team and I am really happy to be at Arsenal all the time.
“When I was on loan, all the time I was thinking I need to get back to Arsenal to be in the squad, to play like I do now. That’s why I worked really hard in Besiktas and I built myself there to come back stronger.
“Before I came back, Mikel didn’t speak to me, but after when we came to the start of the season he started to speak to me.
“And he said, ‘Mo, we have new things now. We have to understand how I want the midfield to play and always if you don’t understand something from the new system you have now, just come to ask me’.
“He was helping me so much to understand the way he wanted us to play and this is what helped me a lot.
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BAYERN are into the hat for the Champions League quarter finals after brushing aside Lazio.
Final score: Bayern 2 Lazio 1 (6-1 agg)

Follow ALL the reaction as it happens with our live blog below…

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GOOD NIGHT FROM THE ALLIANZ
So the inevitable happened which meant that we wasn’t treated to any Champions League drama tonight.
Bayern came into this game with one foot firmly placed in the quarter-finals and you could tell from the complacency in their football
But Lazio was going down without a fight and really took it to the reigning champions for large periods of the first half.
But that false hope quickly came crashing down when Vedat Muriqi pulled down Leon Goretzka in the box leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot.
Lewandowski stepped up to convert his 73rd Champions League career goal and dare I say it, scoring against the run of play.
However, hte goal didn’t stop the Eagles from giving it a go and if they had more quality in the final third, Lazio may have had some sort of an outside chance.
The visitors went on to create a few chances in the second half but without their top goal scorer Immobile on the field, you struggled to see a way in which they could score.
And then ten minutes from the end, Choupo-Moting came on to end all hopes with arguably his first touch of the game.
It wasn’t the Munich masterclass what was hoped for but they got the job done which is the main thing for Hansi Flick and his side.
Thank you for sticking with me tonight people, have a good rest and we go again tomorrow!

AFTER EIGHT
Only eight teams remain in the Champions League but who will lift club football’s most prestigious trophy?

POSSIBLE QUARTER-FINALS OPPONENTS
Bayern Munich will find out who they will be coming up against on Friday and there are no restrictions on who they could be drawn against.
Meaning that the reigning champions could face either; Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Paris St-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Porto or Chelsea who progressed tonight.
With the Bavarians as the favorites to retain their trophy, many teams would want to avoid them but I’m sure that Bayern too have a couple teams in mind who they wouldn’t want to face just yet.
The draw is going to be really interesting.
CHOUP-ING AT THE BIT
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting spends a lot of his time playing second fiddle to Robert Lewandowski but when the Cameroonian got his opportunity, he made sure to take it.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting wraps it up for Bayern with a delicate finish! ⚽Hansi Flick’s side cut Lazio apart with two passes 😳 pic.twitter.com/ugLuk2JH1g— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) March 17, 2021

FULL TIME STATS
Lazio did all they could but the Bavarians just had too much for them.
Hansi Flick’s had more possession, shots and won more duels without really getting out of second gear.

PART OF THE FURNITURE
Bayern Munich have reached the quarter-finals more times than any other side in the competitions history.
A staggering 19 times!
19 – Bayern Munich have reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League for the 19th time, more than any other side in the competition’s history. Familiar. #FCBLAZ— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 17, 2021

BAYERN BATTLE ON
The Bavarians cruise into the last eight of the Champions League.

PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
AND THAT’S IT!
BAYERN SAIL THROUGH 2-1 ON THE NIGHT!
BUT 6-2 ON AGGREGATE!
BAYERN 2-1 LAZIO
90+3. Bayern are just coasting now, patiently waiting for the final whistle which will see them progress to their 9th quarter-final in ten seasons.

KARATE KID
Exclusive footage of Alphonso Davies teaching some Karate lessons.

FOUR MINUTES ADDITIONAL TIME!
BAYERN 2-1 LAZIO
87. Sane just played one of the best through balls a forward could of asked for but Gnabry couldn’t finish his dinner.
Lewandowski must be on the bench thinking ‘why couldn’t I have still been on the pitch?’
BAYERN 2-1 LAZIO
83. OOOOFF almost two in quick succession!
Alphonso Davies tried to cleared the ball but it was easily intercepted by Milinkovic.
And the midfielder sent a searching cross into the box causing a bit of panic stations at the back for Bayern.
But luckily for Hansi Flick’s side, Correa at the back stick made a mess of it.

 
Andreas Pereira swung in a free-kick to the back-post and Marco Parolo got his head on it.
Simple Lazio set-piece which was executed to perfection.
BAYERN 2-1 LAZIO
GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!
LOOK AT THAT RIGHT ON CUE!
MARCO PAROLO HAS GOT THE CONSTELLATION!
BAYERN 2-0 LAZIO
80. So with ten minutes to go and Bayern’s hat firmly in the quarter-final can Lazio at least get themselves constellation?
They deserve at least one for all their troubles.
SUPER SUB
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring shortly after coming onto the pitch.

 
Not too sure how many times you can say this about Bayern, but it was lovely play yet again.
The home side put a few passes together before David Alaba played a perfectly weighted ball for Choupo-Moting to chase.
And the substitute got to it just ahead of Pepe Reina and delicately chipped the ball over the keepers’s head.
Game done and dusted.
BAYERN 2-0 LAZIO
GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!
CHOUPO-MOTING WITH ALMOST HIS FIRST TOUCH!
TALK ABOUT A SUPER SUB!
BAYERN 1-0 LAZIO
69. Finally we get to see the man of the moment, Jamal Musiala as he comes on for Thomas Muller.
In addition to that Lewandowski has to just settle with the one tonight as he too is dragged off for Choupo-Moting.
BAYERN 1-0 LAZIO
67. Goodness me what a shot!
The Bavarians played some nice intricate football before finding the main man up-front who unleashed a belter of a strike.
But Pepe Reina was delighted to see the ball ricochet off the post and land in his arms.
LAZZARI’S PAIN
These pictures speak or shout a thousand words.

BAYERN 1-0 LAZIO
65. Davies with that phenomenal pace almost made an instant impact on the game when he sprinted down the left hand side to get onto a Gnabry through ball.
But the Lazio defenders had enough bodies in the box to shut out Sane, Muller and Lewandowski.
BAYERN 1-0 LAZIO
62. A roll of the dice from Hansi Flick.
Goretzka who is on a yellow card has been substituted for Alphonso Davies meaning that Bayern now have three left-back’s on the pitch.
Hernandez and Alaba being the other two.
BAYERN 1-0 LAZIO
59. Lovely build up by Bayern but excellent defending to match.
Leroy Sane had dribbled around a couple of players before trying to pick out Lewandowski at the back-post.
But the substitute Parolo rose up high to clear the danger with a bullet of a header.
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