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Merson's predictions: Man Utd and Liverpool both 'banker wins'

2015-04-09T22:23:00.000-07:00

Sky Sports' Paul Merson gives his predictions ahead of an important weekend in the Premier League.

Merse is in great form as ever and here's how the 'Magic Man' sees the 10 games going.

Manchester United v Manchester City

If you had asked me six weeks ago I would have said that City would be the biggest banker you’d ever see in your life but I don’t see that now. Man Utd are favourites. They’ve turned a corner. They are buying in to what the manager wants.

Wayne Rooney is now playing up front. How did we all know his best position is a striker but it takes a manager that has worked for a national team so long? Robin van Persie won’t start. I think he’s surplus to requirements. I’d be shocked if he’s there at the end of the season.

Louis van Gaal has got everybody confident and playing well while City’s confidence must be low, they’ve lost three in a row. You can’t just turn it on, like a tap.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1

Man Utd vs Man City

April 12, 2015

QPR v Chelsea

I don’t see anything but a Chelsea win. The atmosphere at Loftus Road will be buzzing, this is QPR’s cup final. The atmosphere affected Chelsea a couple of years ago but QPR will need to play well, well, above their usual level to get anything out of the game. QPR will need go out in a blaze of glory, so they will create chances. Charlie Austin has to take them – he’s had a good season but it wouldn’t surprise me if Loic Remy got the winner against his old club.

PAUL PREDICTS: 0-2

QPR vs Chelsea

April 12, 2015

Burnley v Arsenal

Away win. Arsenal don’t lose these games. The sun will be shining. It’s always the same. Arsenal win their last 10 games of the season and then next year is their year – although it won’t be. They do it every year.

They were great against Liverpool and scored four worldies. When they get it going they are as good as anyone. I can’t see Arsenal slipping up like Manchester City did at Burnley – they are a different animal. Arsenal are quicker on the break and are ruthless in these games. I do think Burnley have a win or two in them somewhere, so I wouldn’t write them off in the relegation fight just yet.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3

Burnley vs Arsenal

April 11, 2015

Liverpool v Newcastle

When was the last time Newcastle won a football match? It seems like they have been on 35 points for months and months. They’ve just lost a local derby and then they have to go to Liverpool. If the results go the way I’m expecting, with a City defeat and Liverpool win, then City will be looking over their shoulders at Liverpool.

There will be only four points between them. It’s a big football match for Liverpool – they need to get back on that winning run. They have the potential to win five on the trot.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0

When was the last time Newcastle won a game? It's been too long.

Tottenham v Aston Villa, Saturday

There will be bundles of goals here. Villa love it when teams have a go at them and Spurs will do just that. When teams sit back against Villa, they don’t like it. Tim Sherwood has looked at it and thought ‘we aren’t going to keep too many clean sheets, so we’ll have to score our way out of trouble.’ I played with Tim at Portsmouth and he’s a really good lad. A winner. He reminds me of John Gregory as he gets really involved on the touchline.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-2

Tim Sherwood reminds me of John Gregory

Sunderland v Crystal Palace, Saturday

Away win. This game will play straight into Palace’s hands. The pressure is on Sunderland. The fans will turn up and think ‘oh, we’ll beat Palace and we’ll be safe’.

It will be a completely different atmosphere to the Newcastle game. If they don’t score early on the fans will get frustrated. Palace will be miles too quick for them on the break with Wilfried Zaha and Yannick Bolasie. Plus, Glenn Murray is a very good finisher.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2

Wilfried Zaha has the pace to cause Sunderland problems

Southampton v Hull, Saturday

This is a home banker. I worry for Hull. They are in major trouble. Everyone has caught them up and they’re not winning games. Also they’re run-in isn’t the best, they’ve got to play Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham.

Southampton have to keep playing Graziano Pelle even though he hasn’t scored in 17 games. I’ve gone with him to score. I always find with foreign players when they come over the second half of the season catches up with them.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0 (Sky Bet odds: 9/2)

Steve Bruce and Hull are in massive relegation trouble

West Brom v Leicester City

This is my shock of the weekend, away win. If they win this game, they will definitely stay up. I know West Brom had plenty of shots against QPR but letting in four goals at home to them is worrying.

It’s a great time to play West Brom. They’ve been dragged back into the relegation fight. This is a game that Leicester must-win and that plays into their hands. They will always create chances and I fancy Jeff Schlupp to get on the scoresheet, he’s got great pace.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2

Leicester City have the ability to go on a winning run

West Ham v Stoke City

I don’t like going against Stoke, they are hard to beat. I think they will finish higher in the table than West Ham, they are very consistent. If Stoke were where West Ham were four months ago I think they would be much higher in the league than where they are now. Both teams are exactly where they should be in the league. You forget with West Ham they only came up two years ago, Sam Allardyce has done a great job.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

Leicester City have the ability to go on a winning run

Swansea v Everton, Saturday

I think these teams are half-decent now. Both of them are picking up and I don’t see much between these two. It was only a matter of time until Everton turned their form around. They’re a good team and their class is shining through. I like Bafétimbi Gomis for Swansea, I don’t think he’ll do it consistently, like Wilfred Bony but when he’s hot, he’s hot.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

When he's hot, Bafetibis Gomis is hot.

Ed Chamberlin: Manchester United are favourites to beat City on bumper weekend of sport

2015-04-09T22:17:00.001-07:00

A sporting feast. The top five in the Premier League all live on Sky Sports this weekend, and I will be at Old Trafford for the Manchester derby.

The Masters comes from Augusta, and add the Grand National to the mix and you have the best sporting weekend of the year.

The Sky Bet trading room must be bracing itself for the biggest turnover weekend of the year too. Bring it on.

At Augusta I'm still recovering from defeat to Kirsty Gallacher in Sky Sports'Masters Challenge, which you may have seen on Sky Sports News HQ or theSky Sports website.

I will get my revenge on Gallacher at golf's sixth major: the Well Child Ed Chamberlin Classic at Burhill on June 1.

Neville is still smarting after finishing a foot further from the pin than me, while Carragher needs his golf ball retrieved from Rae's Creek.

Watch as Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher and Ed Chamberlin compete in the Sky Sports Augusta Challenge

In the real thing Dustin Johnson will be carrying my money at 16/1 with Sky Bet, and my banker bet is Matt Kuchar to finish in the top 10. There is nothing more exciting in sport than having your fancy still in the mix on the final day at Augusta. Let's hope Dustin can do that.

Not far behind is having your runner still travelling well as they cross the Melling Road for the second time at Aintree.

Court By Surprise at 50/1 and Cause Of Causes at 16/1 are my main Grand National fancies. More on that in my 'Pinstickers' Guide to the Grand National'.

Man Utd vs Man City

April 12, 2015

It's a sensational weekend of sport. Mind you, Easter weekend wasn't bad either. What a thrill it was to be at the Stadium of Light for the Wear-Tyne derby.

I'm not sure I've ever heard noise like it. I've certainly never experienced a half-time before where no home fan left their seat as the celebration of Jermain Defoe's incredible goal went on and on. Thierry Henry was amazed.

It was a weekend full of sensational goals and Defoe's strike was right up there and voted by many on Sky Sports News HQ as the best of the lot. Watching it back, Martin Tyler's commentary of the goal matched the brilliance of the strike.

United are currently on fine form, and are above their bitter rivals in the league table

My main focus is Old Trafford on Super Sunday and two brilliant Premier League games. First up it's QPR against Chelsea followed by the 169th Manchester derby.

What a fascinating fixture this is with the timing of it absolutely intriguing, after Manchester United went above City in the Premier League table for the first time since November 2013 at the weekend. United are one point ahead with seven games remaining, and go into a derby above City for the first time since April 2013.

Sky Bet have Manchester United favourites at 6/4, Manchester City at 9/5 and the draw a 9/4 chance.

Liverpool vs Newcastle

April 13, 2015

A month or so you would have thought those prices were utter madness. However, Sky Bet having United favourites is not surprising seeing as they have all the momentum. They have won five straight Premier League games and have started to look like Manchester United again, especially at Old Trafford where they have already won a Premier League-high 40 home points. They won only 30 points at home all last season.

Man City have lost three straight away League games, culminating in defeat on Monday Night Football at Selhurst Park.

City won this fixture 3-0 at Old Trafford last season

City's big guns aren't firing. Sergio Aguero has failed to score in his last six appearances, which almost classifies as a crisis for a striker of his quality and it is his joint worst non-scoring run in his time at the Etihad.

As the boys explained on Monday Night Football, Vincent Kompany is going through a bad spell, while Yaya Toure was immense in the final 15 minutes on Monday night at Crystal Palace. City will need him firing on all cylinders for 90 minutes at Old Trafford.

What better way to snap out of a rut than against your big rivals in the derby and it is a fixture the blue side have dominated of late. They won 1-0 in November to make it four straight wins and secure their longest winning sequence against United since 1970.

The Masters - Live

April 12, 2015

Like Sunderland last weekend in the Wear-Tyne derby, City have never won five successive league games against their neighbours. Man City have won six of last seven meetings - scoring 19 and conceding six - and that's after winning only five of the first 28 Premier League meetings.

So City have dominated recent history. United are bang in form with all the momentum. Add to that their proximity in the table and all the usual ingredients of a Manchester derby and we are set for a special day. We start on Super Sunday on Sky Sports 1 at 12.30pm.

Then it will be in to the car to head down to London for Newcastle v Liverpool on Monday Night Football with the final round of The Masters on Sky Go. A proper sporting day. Come on Dustin!

Chamberlin is backing Dustin Johnson to be crowned Masters champion

Barcelona defender Dani Alves set to leave club at end of season, says agent

2015-04-09T22:12:00.000-07:00

Dani Alves: Set to leave Barcelona at end of season

Dani Alves is set to leave Barcelona after rejecting an offer to extend his contract beyond the end of the season, his agent confirmed on Thursday.

Dinorah Santana said the Catalan giants had offered the 31-year-old right-back a deal that could stretch from one year to three should he play in over 60 per cent of his side's games each season.

However, Alves has been heavily linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United among a host of other top European clubs and Santana said he had better offers on the table from other clubs.

Sevilla vs Barcelona

April 11, 2015

"He would accept three years, but the condition that a player plays 60 percent of the games every year for me is not a three-year deal, but a one year," said Santana.

"Dani has a concrete offer on the table for a three-year deal plus the option for an extra year with a better wage than he has here and a signing on fee.

"Barca at the moment have told me that they will not match those figures and we understand that."

The Brazilian has made over 300 appearances and won 16 trophies at the Camp Nou since joining from Sevilla in 2008.

His absence would cause the Spanish club major problems for next season as they are banned for registering new players until January 2016 due to a FIFA sanction for irregularities in the signing of minors.

Steven Gerrard refusing to get carried away about potential FA Cup fairytale

2015-04-09T22:06:00.002-07:00

No dressing room talk about FA Cup final at Liverpool

Steven Gerrard has not been discussing a potential fairytale FA Cup final send-off with his Liverpool team-mates, according to goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Gerrard turns 35 on the day of the Wembley showpiece on May 30, which could be his final Liverpool appearance before heading off to Major League Soccer for a new career with the LA Galaxy.

Liverpool vs Newcastle

April 13, 2015

Liverpool edged closer to the final by booking a semi-final against Aston Villa next weekend with a 1-0 win over Blackburn, but Mignolet insists it is not a topic of discussion inside the dressing room.

"Nobody is talking about it. Stevie is the first one to acknowledge that," said Mignolet.

"He is the first one to acknowledge that we can't have any extra pressure on the team.

"He won't let us think in a different way. We just want to focus on Villa and the games before that.

"Before we speak about the final, we have got to get through the semi-final and the only thing we can keep in mind now is how to get past Villa. Then we will see what comes. Villa will be tough."

Nobody is talking about it. Stevie is the first one to acknowledge that. He is the first one to acknowledge that we can't have any extra pressure on the team. He won't let us think in a different way. We just want to focus on Villa and the games before that.

Simon Mignolet

Defeats against fellow Champions League hopefuls Manchester United and Arsenal has seen Liverpool’s top four charge falter but Mignolet insists Monday's visit of Newcastle is uppermost in the squad’s thoughts.

"We are pleased to get to the semi-final. Once it is semi-final time we will make sure we are ready but everything comes step-by-step and Newcastle is next," he said.

"We are pleased with what we did against Blackburn but the next focus is the league. After the Arsenal and Manchester United games we didn't have much time to think about getting back to positive ways.

"Blackburn was a massive game and we needed to respond. It wasn't easy after the disappointment at Arsenal but the lads picked themselves up and we managed to get the result that everyone wanted.

"There is still a lot to play for. The only thing that we can do is take every game as it comes.

"When you are at Liverpool, you know you have to win every single game. After the results against Arsenal and Manchester United, we knew there was going to be criticism. You have to accept that.

"The only thing you can do is respond and we did that."

Sergio Aguero insists Manchester City can still win the Premier League

2015-04-09T22:02:00.003-07:00

Sergio Aguero: The striker insists Manchester City are still in the title race.

Sergio Aguero remains adamant Manchester City are still in the title race and is determined to keep the pressure on Chelsea by winning Sunday's derby against United.

City have fallen nine points behind Jose Mourinho's men, having played a game more, after a disappointing run of form which culminated in a 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace on Monday.

Aguero famously scored a 94th minute winner to wrest the title from United's grasp in 2012 after overhauling an eight-point deficit and he is not giving up hope that City can perform another miraculous comeback this season.

"Of course we can still win it," the City striker told Sky Sports News HQ.

"In football, anything can happen - as soon as you think something is certain, then everything changes, we have seen it so many times before and we'll see it again.

"We only focus on ourselves, try to win every game we play and keep pressure on Chelsea."

Man Utd vs Man City

April 12, 2015

After failing to sparkle for much of the season, United appear to have finally found their best form under Louis van Gaal and Aguero is wary of the threat they pose.

"They are a team with a lot of great individual players, who can form an incredible unit when they work well together,” Aguero said. “But this season that has not always been the case.

"Some matches they don't seem to play at the maximum, with the attacking qualities that they have in the team.

“But then in other games, they have really shown that those qualities, so they are a bit unpredictable.

“We know we will have to be at our very best to beat them - there's no doubt about that."

United’s resurgence has come in conjunction with Wayne Rooney being moved up front into a lone striker role at the expense of high-profile summer signing Radamel Falcao.

The Colombian has struggled to meet the large expectations which accompanied him to Old Trafford but, despite scoring just four goals, Aguero remains a huge fan of his South American counterpart.

"They have a number of very talented strikers,” Aguero said. “The one who in his career has been the most predatory is Falcao.

"He isn't having an easy time this season, but I really admire his commitment and his class and qualities are permanent.

"He is probably one of the most naturally-gifted strikers in football at the moment."

Cristiano Ronaldo four ahead of Lionel Messi in Pichichi race after five-goal haul against Granada

2015-04-05T10:47:00.004-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo: Scored first five-goal haul for Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo scored five goals for the first time for Real Madrid - and moves ahead of Lionel Messi in the La Liga goalscoring race.

The World Player of the Year was in imperious form as he bagged a first-half hat-trick on the way to scoring five goals in Real's 9-1 demolition of lowly Granada.

It turned out to be a record-breaking afternoon of sorts for Ronaldo who will now have individual accolades firmly in his sight, in addition to team honours, come the end of the season.

Real Madrid smashed Granada 9-1 at the Bernabeu on Sunday with Ronaldo scoring five, it's Real's biggest win since September 1967.

Ronaldo scored five goals for the first time since his then-world record transfer from Manchester United to the Bernabeu in 2009.

The Portuguese star's hat-trick came in eight first-half minutes - the quickest treble during his six years at the club.

Having scored four in Real's 5-1 victory over Elche in September, Ronaldo's five-goal haul on Sunday saw him score four goals or more on more than one occasion in the same season for the first time.

And, perhaps crucially for the Portugese international, Sunday's glut moved him to 36 league goals this season - four ahead of rival Lionel Messi - until Barcelona's trip to Celta Vigo at least - in the race for the 'Pichichi' top goalscorer prize.

Cristiano Ronaldo moved to the top of the goalscoring charts when he netted an incredible five goals in Real Madrid’s 9-1 demolition of Granada

Ronaldo has now scored 300 goals in 287 games for Real Madrid; only Alfredo Di Stefano with 308 goals in 396 games and Raul Gonzalez with 323 in 741 have more goals in club history.

Revista de la Liga guest and former Spain international Marcelino was full of praise for Ronaldo’s ruthless display but warned he expects long-term sparring partner Messi to respond on Sunday night.

“Ronaldo is always hungry to score goals,” he said. “We were saying at half time, he smells blood and wants another one.

“He detected that today was a good day to add a few more goals for him in the race with Lionel Messi, and he’s put five on his record which is great for him.

Ronaldo, Real Madrid, 36 goals
Messi, Barcelona, 32 goals
Neymar, Barcelona, 17 goals
Bacca, Sevilla, 16 goals
Bueno, Rayo, 16 goals
Benzema, Real Madrid, 15 goals

“Generally when one gets a lot of the goals the other one responds, so let’s see what Messi can do. From the outside we may think they are not interested in the race for the Pachichi, and that they want to win the title, but it’s quite obvious that there is a reaction.

“When one scores a few goals the other one puts in a few more goals for themselves. It could have been Ronaldo 10-1 Granada today.

“He had a few chances and its significant how much he tries. He could have saved his legs for the next game, but he was kept on the pitch and he added to his numbers.”

Burnley v Tottenham preview: Spurs look to keep top-four hopes alive

2015-04-05T00:50:00.000-07:00

Tottenham travel to Turf Moor to face Burnley on Super Sunday hoping to keep their Premier League top-four hopes alive.

Spurs have won three of their last four games and have star striker Harry Kane back in action after the 21-year-old’s goalscoring debut for England during the international period.

Opponents Burnley sit in the relegation zone with seven games remaining, and followed up their fine 1-0 win over Manchester City with a 2-0 defeat at Southampton.

vs
Burnley v Tottenham
April 5, 2015

Tottenham beat Burnley 2-1 in the return Premier League fixture in December, and also saw off Sean Dyche's men in the FA Cup third round after a replay.

Team news

Burnley defender Stephen Ward should be back in contention for Sunday's clash after overcoming an ankle injury, while midfielder Matt Taylor, who has not featured since August, is also nearing a return after resuming training following his recovery from Achilles surgery

Jamie Redknapp looks ahead to the Super Sunday offering of Burnley v Tottenham

The Clarets have no fresh injury concerns following the international break but Dean Marney and Kevin Long (both cruciate ligament) remain on the long-term absentee list.

Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has been ruled out the trip to Turf Moor after failing to recover in time from the knee injury he picked up in their last match against Leicester City.

Meanwhile, striker Roberto Soldado may also be absent with a knee problem, although coach Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that all his other players have returned fit from international duty.

Opta facts

The Clarets have scored just 14 goals in 15 Premier League home games this season.

Spurs have kept just one clean sheet in their last 13 Premier League away matches.

Burnley have only won six of their last 28 Premier League home matches (W6 D10 L12), but Spurs were one of their victims in a 4-2 win in May 2010.

Spurs won 2-1 in December against Burnley in the Premier League

Burnley have been losing at half-time in 14 of their 30 Premier League games this season; more often than any other team.

Harry Kane’s 19 Premier League goals this season have won Spurs 22 points – nine more than any other player in the PL has won for their side this season.

Merson's prediction

It’s another tough game to predict with both sides desperate for points at different ends of the table. Sean Dyche will have to find a way of stopping Harry Kane, who is on fire at the moment, and they will also have to cope with a confident Andros Townsend after his goal for England against Italy.

Sean Dyche says his Burnley side are ready for the challenge against Tottenham.

But as Burnley proved against Manchester City, they are no pushovers at home and this will be a difficult test for Spurs. It’s a hard game for both sides and I cannot separate them.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

Sunderland v Newcastle preview: Toon looking for long-awaited win over rivals

2015-04-05T00:48:00.003-07:00

Newcastle travel to Sunderland on Super Sunday looking for a first win in six games against their north-east rivals.

The Toon have lost their last four games against Sunderland, scoring just one goal, but both have installed new managers since they last played in December.

Sunderland ran out 1-0 winners at St James' Park that time, but both Alan Pardew and Gus Poyet have since departed.

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S'land v Newcastle
April 5, 2015

Dick Advocaat's Sunderland are in severe relegation danger having not won since the end of January, while John Carver's Newcastle are stuck in mid-table and out of form, losing their last three.

Team news

Sunderland are without Wes Brown due to a knee injury, although they still hope to have the defender back before the end of the season.

Sky Sports' Jamie Redknapp joins Ed Draper as they preview the Super Sunday game between Sunderland and Newcastle

Newcastle defender Massadio Haidara will not play again this season after undergoing surgery to remove a cyst from the knee which has forced him to sit out the last two games. He joins fellow defenders Steven Taylor (Achilles), Paul Dummett (knee) and midfielders Cheick Tiote (also knee) and Siem de Jong (collapsed lung) on the sidelines.

Midfielder Mehdi Abeid could be involved after recovering from a thigh problem, but winger Rolando Aarons (hamstring) will not be risked while Fabricio Coloccini and Papiss Cisse continue their respective suspensions.

Opta facts

Sunderland are unbeaten in their last six Premier League games against Newcastle United (W4 D2), winning the last four for the first time in their history.

Sunderland head coach Dick Advocaat was very pragmatic with regards to his team's favourable head to head record against Newcastle

Sunderland have won just two of their last 16 Premier League matches at the Stadium of Light (W2 D7 L7) and failed to score in four of their last five home matches.

Those nine goals conceded in the final five minutes of top-flight games in 2014-15 have cost Newcastle United eight points.

The two players with the most yellow cards in the Premier League this season could meet in this match – Lee Cattermole and Jack Colback (10 yellows each).

Merson's prediction

Sunderland ran out 1-0 winners in the reverse fixture in December

This is a really tight game. It’s a massive derby which is a cup final to both sets of supports and I think both sides will be petrified to lose.

However, if the results go the way I think they will then Sunderland have a chance to open up a bit of a gap on the relegation places. I just can’t see that happening.

Lee Cattermole is back and that’s a huge boost for the Sunderland but it’s tough to side with either team. Sunderland will have to bomb on as the home side and take the game to Newcastle but that could well play into Carver’s side’s hands. This one has a draw written all over it.

We look back to Newcastle's 4-1 win back in 2006

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

Swansea 3-1 Hull: Bafetimbi Gomis double helps heighten visitors' relegation fears

2015-04-05T00:46:00.004-07:00

Ki Sung-Yueng: Gave Swansea the lead against Hull

Swansea heightened Hull's relegation fears after earning a 3-1 victory over the 10-man relegation candidates at the Liberty Stadium.

Ki Sung-Yueng had given the Swans the lead against the run of play after 18 minutes, before Bafetimbi Gomis acrobatically doubled the Welshmen’s lead on 37 minutes.

Hull pulled one back through Paul McShane’s close-range strike five minutes after the break, but their task was made even tougher when David Meyler saw red card for a reckless lunge on Kyle Naughton, who limped off as a result.

Bafetimbi Gomis: Brilliantly scored Swansea's second

Swansea looked in control from that moment on and made sure of the points in stoppage-time through Gomis, Garry Monk's side just two points off bettering their Premier League points record after another win.

Steve Bruce’s men began the day just three points above the bottom three but looked like they were about to build on their spirited performance against Chelsea last time out after a bright start, without troubling Golden Glove-chasing Lukasz Fabianski in the hosts’ goal.

But they could not make their possession count and after allowing Jonjo Shelvey far too much time to line up the shot, Alan McGregor could only parry the midfielder’s effort into the path of the onrushing Ki, who had the simple task of side-footing into the net from a six yards.

Kyle Naughton: Had to be replaced after the tackle that saw David Meyler sent off

The goal was a hammer blow to the Tigers, but they only had themselves to blame for going further behind.

A corner was floated in from the right, but after several attempts, Hull could not get the ball clear and only diverted the ball into the path of Gomis, who brilliantly dispatched an overhead kick to double the home side’s lead.

After the break, Hull again came out of the blocks and almost immediately got themselves back into the match.

Phil Thompson gives his thoughts on Swansea's 3-1 win over 10-man Hull.

Robbie Brady curled a dangerous free-kick into the box, Alex Bruce got up first to flick the ball on, and McShane beat Fabianski to the ball to prod home to get the Tigers back in the contest.

Then, just as the momentum seemed to have swung in the visitors’ favour, Meyler inexplicably lunged at Naughton, with his studs high, leaving referee Andre Marriner no choice but to brandish the red card.

Abel Hernandez had a golden opportunity to get Hull back in it against the run of play, but he could not get the right connection when in acres of space in the box.

And that miss proved costly as the excellent Gylfi Sigurdsson lofted the ball over the top to Gomis, who had the time and space to stride towards goal and loft the ball over McGregor to seal victory in the dying moments, and leave Hull with it all to do to ensure their survival.

Steve Bruce says Hull's 3-1 defeat to Swansea revolved around two key decisions - David Meyler's red card and Swansea's second goal.

Phil Thompson's verdict:

“It was a poor start to the game, both teams jousting in midfield to get control. It was boring, both keepers had nothing to do. Then bang, out of the blue, Jonjo Shelvey has a shot, McGregor parries it and Ki puts it in. 37 minutes, it’s 2-0, Gomis. A corner comes in, gets headed out, and when the ball comes back in, he’s actually in an offside position. But it goes on and he puts it in with an overhead kick. In the second half, we’re all thinking, ‘what is Steve Bruce going to do here?’

“I imagine Steve will be angry at the outcome (of the red card). Meyler has led with his wrong foot, right across with his left foot, and he catches the top of the ball which accelerates his movement into the shin of Kyle Walker. I’ve seen it a few times, and people might say it’s a bit unfortunate because he’s got the ball, but it’s excessive force. I think the referee has got it right.”

Garry Monk says Swansea gave an excellent first-half performance and deserved the 3-1 win against Hull despite conceding a poor goal early in the second ha

Player ratings:

Swansea: Fabianski (6), Naughton (6), Fernandez (7), Williams (7), Taylor (7), Ki (7), Cork (7), Shelvey (6), Routledge (6), Gomis (7), Sigurdsson (8).

Subs: Dyer (6), Grimes (5), Rangel (6).

Hull: McGregor (6), Dawson (6), Bruce (6), McShane (7), Elmohamady(6), Ramirez (5), Livermore (5), Meyler (3), Brady (7), N'Doye (6), Hernandez (4).

Subs: Diame (5), Sagbo, Aluko (5), Quinn (6).

Man of the match: Gylfi Sigurdsson.

Everton 1-0 Southampton: Phil Jagielka goal lifts Toffees clear of danger

2015-04-05T00:45:00.000-07:00

Everton's Phil Jagielka celebrates his fifth goal of the season

Phil Jagielka’s first-half goal was enough for Everton to beat Southampton 1-0 at Goodison Park and clinch a third successive league victory.

The England defender slotted home a loose ball on 16 minutes after the Saints failed to clear a corner and Seamus Coleman found his captain with a cut-back from the byline.

Southampton book-ended the game with impressive spells and went closest through James Ward-Prowse and Graziano Pelle in the first half.

But Everton held on to lift themselves to their highest league position since the turn of the year - 11th - and further away from relegation danger.

Southampton missed the chance to leapfrog Liverpool into fifth in the table, and they will feel hard done-by after arguably having the better of the game.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez says his team are improving as we reach the season run-in

After assuming the early initiative, Pelle - on target against England during the international break - was denied a first league goal of 2015 when Tim Howard brilliantly clawed a looping shot away from the top corner.

But the hosts hit back and went close through Ross Barkley’s fierce shot past the far post, before Jagielka tapped Coleman’s low cross into the far corner for Everton’s opener.

Ward-Prowse, who was dangerous in a more advanced position than usual, threatened with a free-kick that shaved the outside of the side-netting, before testing Howard again minutes later.

Phil Jagielka slots home Everton's opening goal on 16 minutes

Everton continued to benefit from the Saints’ lacklustre form in front of goal and Jagielka might have added a second before the interval when he rose above his marker but headed another corner over the bar.

But they could not create clear-cut chances in the second and were instead forced to show how they have improved defensively, keeping the Saints at bay - despite Ronald Koeman’s side finishing the game with four forwards - to earn a rare clean sheet.

Koeman threw on Dusan Tadic and Saido Mane after the hour mark and looked to play more directly into Pelle, but the Italian, who scored in the 1-1 friendly draw with England last Tuesday, was confined to just a single chance wide of the far post before the end.

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman insits he was pleased with the team's performance despite defeat

Jose Fonte also fired at goal after a neat short corner found him just inside the area, but Jagielka and John Stones did enough to force his effort over the crossbar.

Southampton finished the game with three defenders after Koeman also threw on Filip Djuricic with 10 minutes left, but the Toffees stood firm to secure another vital win and move 12 points clear of trouble while the visitors missed the chance to climb above Liverpool and stay a point behind them in sixth.

Player ratings

Everton: Howard 8, Baines 7, Jagielka 8, Stones 7, Coleman 7, Barry 7, McCarthy 6, Osman 7, Barkley 7, Lennon 7, Kone 6

Subs used: Naismith 6, Besic 6

Southampton: Davis 6, Bertrand 6, Fonte 7, Alderweireld 6, Clyne 7, Schneiderlin 6, Wanyama 6, Ward-Prowse 7, Elia 6, Long 7, Pelle 6

Subs used: Mane 6, Tadic 6, Duricic 6

Man of the match: Phil Jagielka

Manchester United 3-1 Aston Villa: Ander Herrera nets two as hosts go third

2015-04-05T00:43:00.002-07:00

Ander Herrera: Celebrates scoring with Ashley Young

Ander Herrera scored twice as Manchester United saw off Aston Villa to move above rivals Manchester City - who dropped to fourth - with a 3-1 win at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Herrera’s low finish gave United the lead just before half-time after a dominant opening 45 minutes and Wayne Rooney’s superb strike 11 minutes from time doubled their lead.

But though Christian Benteke provided a scare when he pulled one back within a minute of Rooney's volley, Herrera grabbed his second of the match to seal victory in stoppage-time.

It was a sixth Premier League win in succession for United and puts more pressure on City, who take on Crystal Palace on Monday Night Football before a huge Manchester derby clash with United next weekend - also live on Sky Sports.

Ford Monday Night Football
Crystal Palace v Manchester City
April 7, 2015

United began in confident mood and had a huge penalty appeal turned down inside five minutes as Marouane Fellaini met a long ball over the top and played in Rooney, who went down under Ciaran Clark’s challenge. The defender looked to have an arm around the United man but referee Roger East waved away the appeals, much to Rooney’s frustration.

Undeterred, United continued to dominate possession although clear-cut chances were not regularly forthcoming until the 23rd minute, when Marcos Rojo’s 35-yard piledriver was turned over by Brad Guzan.

Louis van Gaal says his side were not patient enough following their 3-1 win against Aston Villa and were lucky they scored at the right moment.

United’s pressure eventually paid off just as the home fans were starting to become frustrated. On 43 minutes Daley Blind’s low pass into the box was met by Herrera, who contolled with his right before firing past the Brad Guzan to give the hosts a deserved half-time lead.

Hosts dominant

It was a familiar pattern after the break as Villa continued to struggle to impose themselves on the game, Ashley Young missing a good chance to double United’s lead as he cut in from the left and curled a 20-yard effort inches wide of the far post.

Wayne Rooney scored a sublime second for the hosts

Fellaini, who grew increasingly frustrated as the wide men regularly fell short with their delivery, then spurned a glorious chance, nodding a header into the ground which Guzan turned over the bar.

And it was not until the closing stages that the hosts finally breached the Villa defence once again. Substitute Angel Di Maria raced down the left and fired in a cross, which Rooney brought down with a sublime touch before swivelling and volleying a thunderous effort past Guzan.

It looked to be game over, but within 60 seconds Villa were back in it as Joe Cole’s low corner was met by Benteke, whose shot drew a rare mistake from David De Gea as it squirmed under the United goalkeeper to give Tim Sherwood’s men a lifeline.

Tim Sherwood says it was disappointing Aston Villa were defeated 3-1 by Manchester United after remaining in the game after conceding two goals.

But there to be no comeback, and two minutes into stoppage time United secured the points. Rooney was quicker to a drop-ball than Benteke and he set Juan Mata away down the right. The Spaniard pulled it back to the edge of the box for Herrera, who swept an excellent low finish into the bottom corner.

Charlie Nicholas' verdict

"I think Manchester United made it difficult for themselves. Villa have good energy, they’re organised, but they never get their midfield players into a position to be a menace. Ashley Young was good today, Herrera as well, he enjoys playing with Mata.

"I thought Herrera was the star turn today. He’s very deliberate in what he does. I’m a big fan of midfield runners, who will stretch defenders and make them think. It creates space for the attack-minded players and he does that in a very calm way."

Player ratings

Man Utd: De Gea (6), Valencia (6), Jones (7), Rojo (7), Blind (7), Carrick (6), Herrera (8), Mata (7), Fellaini (6), Young (7), Rooney (7).

Used subs: Di Maria (7), Falcao (5).

Aston Villa: Guzan (5), Hutton (7), Okore (6), Clark (7), Lowton (6), Delph (6), Sanchez (5), N’Zogbia (4), Weimann (5), Agbonlahor (5), Benteke (6).

Used subs: Bacuna (6), Cole (6), Baker (6).

Man of the match: Ander Herrera

Arsenal 4-1 Liverpool: Olivier Giroud scores again as Arsenal dent Liverpool top-four hopes

2015-04-05T00:41:00.003-07:00

Bellerin's exquisite effort opened the scoring

2/5

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Arsenal dealt Liverpool’s top-four hopes a substantial blow with an emphatic 4-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Three goals in the final eight minutes of the first half stunned Liverpool as Hector Bellerin’s curled strike on 37 minutes, Mesut Ozil’s exquisite free-kick three minutes later and Alexis Sanchez’s thunderous effort on the verge of half-time took the game away from Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Jordan Henderson converted a penalty 15 minutes from time after Raheem Sterling was brought down by Bellerin but Emre Can’s dismissal for a second bookable offence 10 minutes later all-but ended the contest.

Olivier Giroud bagged his seventh strike in six Premier League games in stoppage-time with a well-taken, left-footed effort as Arsenal moved up to second in the table.

Bellerin's exquisite effort opened the scoring

The result, which leaves Arsenal four points behind leaders Chelsea, is the Gunners’ seventh consecutive league victory as well as their seventh consecutive win in all competitions.

Liverpool, who suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time since November, remain fifth, five points adrift of Manchester United having played a game more.

Despite the recent scrutiny surrounding his contract negotiations, Rodgers started Sterling, but it was the absence of captain Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel, who both started three-match bans, which had the greater impact as the visitors made a nervy start.

Sterling had frustrating afternoon at the Emirates

Santi Cazorla drew a fine save from Simon Mignolet with just three minutes on the clock and the Belgian was called into action two minutes later to deny Aaron Ramsey after Kolo Toure was dispossessed. The Ivorian, however, was on hand to atone for his initial error as he denied Cazorla converting the rebound.

Having weathered the early Arsenal onslaught, Liverpool began to dictate the pace of the game and created two gilt-edged chances to take the lead.

After being put through on goal by Philippe Coutinho, Lazar Markovic opted to square the ball to Sterling but his pass was ill-judged and over-hit allowing Arsenal to clear.

Sterling then squandered a chance himself as he dragged a shot past the target having done well to shake off Laurent Koscielny’s challenge.

Having kept his side in the game in the opening exchanges, Mignolet was helpless as Arsenal struck three times before the break.

Emre Can saw red for clumsy foul on Danny Welbeck

First Bellerin cut in off the right flank, stepped inside Alberto Moreno’s weak challenge before producing a fine left-footed strike to break the deadlock.

It was two three minutes later as Ozil, who returned to the starting line-up after recovering from illness, found the same corner of Mignolet’s goal with a stunning free kick from 25 yards.

Sanchez blasted Arsenal’s third in emphatic style on the stroke of half-time as his half-volley whistled past Mignolet before nestling in the back of the net.

The Gunners created the first clear chance of the second half 10 minutes after the interval but Mignolet was on hand to palm Giroud’s effort over.

Olivier Giroud celebrated his seventh goal in six games

His opposite number, David Ospina, was called into action for the first time two minutes later as Can’s near-post effort was tipped out for a corner.

Liverpool were then handed a glimmer of hope when referee Anthony Taylor penalised Bellerin for a clumsy foul on Sterling, and Henderson's strike from 12 yards escaped Ospina’s clutches.

But hopes of a comeback were dashed when Can, who had seen yellow for a challenge on Cazorla and subsequent dissent, lunged in on substitute Welbeck and was sent from the field.

Giroud was not to be denied as he rifled home the fourth from the edge of the area in the closing stages.

Player ratings

Arsenal: Ospina (7), Bellerin (8), Mertesacker (7), Koscielny (8), Monreal, (7), Coquelin (7), Cazorla (8), Ramsey (7), Ozil (9), Sanchez (8), Giroud (7).

Used subs: Gabriel (6), Welbeck (6), Flamini (6).

Liverpool: Mignolet (8), Can (5), Toure (5), Sakho (6), Henderson (6), Lucas (6), Allen (7), Moreno (6), Markovic (5), Coutinho (6), Sterling (7).

Used subs: Sturridge (7).

Man of the Match: Mesut Ozil.

Chelsea 2-1 Stoke: League leaders battle to win despite Charlie Adam's wonder goal

2015-04-05T00:39:00.003-07:00

Eden Hazard struck as Chelsea won 2-1 at home to Stoke

Chelsea extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points after a 2-1 win over Stoke in which they were given a scare by Charlie Adam’s 59-yard strike.

Eden Hazard gave Chelsea the lead from the penalty spot in the 39th minute after Philipp Wollscheid’s late challenge on Cesc Fabregas, but they were pegged back by one of the goals of the season.

Adam produced arguably one of the best goals in Premier League history from inside his own half to catch Thibaut Courtois off his line and give Stoke a lifeline just before the break.

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois fails to keep out a 59-yard 'worldy' strike from Stoke's Charlie Adam

But Chelsea, who lost second-half substitute Diego Costa to another hamstring injury, responded as Hazard pounced on Asmir Begovic’s error to give Loic Remy a tap in.

The win means Chelsea are just 16 points away from Premier League glory and it moves them seven points clear of nearest rivals Arsenal, eight ahead of Manchester United and nine better than Manchester City, who play Crystal Palace in the Monday Night Football.

With the chasing pack closing the gap at the top of the table earlier in the day, Chelsea looked to make a fast start and nearly had the lead inside three minutes as Remy’s deflected shot looked to be nestling into the far corner only for Begovic to scramble across and claw the ball to safety.

The Blues were dominating possession and it looked only a matter of time before they broke the deadlock as Remy raced into the penalty area, but his low shot was once again well saved by Begovic.

Jose Mourinho was disappointed with Diego Costa's latest hamstring injury but said the decision to play him was a risk worth taking.

The home side seemed to be in the mood and continued to press forward, but they were given a warning midway through the first half as Nemanja Matic’s poor clearance fell to Steven N’Zonzi, but his curling shot sailed over the crossbar.

However, normal service was resumed minutes later as the influential Hazard skipped away from three Stoke defenders on the edge of the penalty area before firing a low shot straight at the 'keeper.

Chelsea finally made the breakthrough in the 39th minute after Wollscheid caught Fabregas late in the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot and up stepped Hazard to score his 12th league goal of the season.

Jose Mourinho’s side, who are the only team in the four divisions of English football who have not lost a home match in the league this season, would have thought they were well on the way to all three points but the home fans were stunned minutes before the break when Adam produced a moment of brilliance from long range.

Charlie Adam shoots from 59 yards out to score against Chelsea

The 29-year-old picked up the ball inside his own half, looked up and powered an effort towards goal which had Courtois scrambling backwards. The Belgian got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out of the net as Adam wheeled away to celebrate his 50th goal in English football.

Stamford Bridge was silenced and Mourinho gambled by sending for Costa at half-time as Chelsea came out with renewed vigour.

Hazard, who was at the heart of everything for the Blues, cut inside on his left foot and fired a powerful shot towards the top corner which Begovic parried around the post.

John Terry says Chelsea must continue to grind out results and not give their title rivals any hope.

The Bosnia and Herzegovina international was called into action again minutes later when Glenn Whelan got a touch on Willian’s free-kick, but the sprawling Begovic somehow manage to keep it out.

Mourinho’s side’s task became even harder when Costa, who was an injury doubt coming into the match, pulled up clutching his hamstring and was replaced by Didier Drogba.

It was a huge blow to Chelsea but they showed the character of potential champions to get their noses in front as Hazard pounced on a poor throw from Begovic to run in on goal, before squaring the ball to Remy to tap into an empty net.

Stoke were not done yet though as N’Zonzi went within an inch of levelling things up again, but his shot from 20 yards hit the outside of the post.

Diego Costa limps off against Stoke

Chelsea could have made all three points safe with just 10 minutes remaining when Hazard found substitute Juan Cuadrado five yards out from goal, but he could not beat Begovic, who produced a brilliant double stop.

There was to be one final chance for Mark Hughes’ men in added time as a long throw into the box caused confusion in the home defence but Marko Arnautovic fired wildly over the bar to secure Chelsea a vital win the race for the title.

Player Ratings

Chelsea: Courtois (6), Ivanovic (6), Cahill (7), Terry (7), Azpilicueta (7), Matic (6), Fabregas (7), Willian (7), Oscar (5), Hazard (8), Remy (7).

Subs used: Cuadrado (5), Drogba (5), Diego Costa (4).

Stoke City: Begovic (7), Cameron (6), Shawcross (6), Wollscheid (5), Wilson (6), Ireland (5), Whelan (6), Nzonzi (7), Adam (7), Walters (6), Diouf (5).

Subs used: Pieters (5), Arnautovic (5), Crouch (5).

Man of the Match: Eden Hazard

Merson's predictions: Chelsea and Manchester City backed for wins

2015-04-02T22:30:00.005-07:00

Sky Sports' Paul Merson gives his predictions ahead of an important weekend in the Premier League.

The Premier League is back and so is Merse as he casts his expert eye over the Premier League fixtures. Here's how the 'Magic Man' sees the 10 games going.

Chelsea v Stoke, Sky Sports 1, Saturday 5.30pm

Chelsea feature on Saturday Night Football against Stoke

Stoke played extremely well against Crystal Palace before the international break but just came out on the wrong side of the result. They face a much sterner challenge against a Chelsea side wanting to put the race for the league title to bed.

They won’t have it all their own way against a solid Mark Hughes side but they will be determined to extend the gap before Manchester City play on Sunday. That determination and hunger will be the difference.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0

Chelsea vs Stoke

April 4, 2015

Crystal Palace v Man City, Sky Sports 1, Monday 8pm

Selhurst Park is not an easy place to go, especially when you are in the race for the title and have to have a go at them. That plays into Palace’s hands because Alan Pardew’s side is a good counter-attacking side with lots of pace.

But if City play to the level we know they can, they can beat absolutely anybody. If Chelsea win, as I expect them to, then it makes Monday Night Football very entertaining. This is a must-win game for the visitors if they want to stay in touch at the top and also in terms of the race for second if both Manchester United and Arsenal win. For that reason I cannot back against them.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3

C Palace vs Man City

April 6, 2015

Sunderland v Newcastle, Sky Sports 1, Sunday 4pm

Dick Advocaat: Sunderland boss endured a frustrating start

This is a really tight game. It’s a massive derby which is a cup final to both sets of supports and I think both sides will be petrified to lose.

However, if the results go the way I think they will then Sunderland have a chance to open up a bit of a gap on the relegation places. I just can’t see that happening.

Lee Cattermole is back and that’s a huge boost for Sunderland but it’s tough to side with either team. Sunderland will have to bomb on as the home side and take the game to Newcastle but that could well play into John Carver’s side’s hands. This one has a draw written all over it.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

S'land vs Newcastle

April 5, 2015

Burnley v Tottenham, Sky Sports 1, Sunday 1.30pm

But as Burnley proved against Manchester City, they are no pushovers at home and this will be a difficult test for Spurs. It’s a hard game for both sides and I cannot separate them.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

Burnley vs Tottenham

April 5, 2015

Arsenal v Liverpool, Saturday 12.45pm

Arsenal host Liverpool at 12.45 on Saturday

Liverpool cannot afford to lose at the Emirates. If they do and Manchester United win then they could find themselves eight points behind Louis van Gaal’s side. That’s far too many with the way United are playing at the moment. There will also be plenty of pressure on Raheem Sterling to perform after his comments this week and that could hinder Liverpool.

I fancy the Gunners to win this 2-1. It’s Arsenal all over – the way they’ve hit form right at the end of the campaign but the same mistakes will probably occur at the start of next season.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1

Everton v Southampton, Saturday 3pm

Graziano Pelle scores for Southampton in the reverse fixture against Everton

This will be a hard game for both sides. I thought Southampton did really well in the first half of their last away game against Chelsea. They caused the league leaders plenty of problems and I can see them scoring at Goodison Park. However, Everton are a decent team and they shouldn’t be where they are in the league. They’ve found a bit of form recently and I’m backing a draw between two very good sides.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

Leicester v West Ham, Saturday 3pm

Merse thinks Leicester cannot afford any slip-ups against West Ham

This is Leicester’s cup final. They just have to win. If they don’t I think that will be it and they will be relegated.

With six out of their last nine games at home Nigel Pearson’s side definitely have a chance of survival but they must beat West Ham. A draw is just not good.

But, backed by their home support, I think they can get the result they need and I’m backing them for a 2-1 win against a West Ham side who have just one win from their last eight in the league.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1

Manchester United v Aston Villa, Saturday 3pm

Paul Merson: Manchester United were excellent at Liverpool

I have to give credit where credit is due, Manchester United were absolutely outstanding against Liverpool. They gave Brendan Rodgers’ side the run around at Anfield and the home side were never in the match. That was testament to United’s performance and I’m backing them to keep that level up at home to Aston Villa.

Tim Sherwood’s men had a bad result against Swansea when the expectation was on them to win and despite the pressure being off when they make the trip to Old Trafford, I can’t see them getting anything.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0

Swansea v Hull, Saturday 3pm

Swansea look good for victory at home to Hull, according to Paul Merson

I really like Swansea and the way they go about their football. They are an decent side and the manager, Garry Monk, has done an excellent job since taking over last year.

Hull gave Chelsea a decent game last time out but you just cannot give a side like that a two goal head-start inside 10 minutes, especially at home. I fully expect Swansea to win this one comfortably.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0

West Brom v QPR, Saturday 3pm

Paul Merson has backed West Brom to beat QPR

I can’t see QPR winning this. Something has to be drastically wrong when you are losing five games on the trot but I expect things to get worse for them at the Hawthorns. You cannot just turn a corner and suddenly beat West Brom away FROM HOME.

It’s a difficult game for Chris Ramsey and his opposite number Tony Pulis would have highlighted this one as a game they should win. With the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea still to play, West Brom need to win to avoid being sucked into the relegation dog fight. There is no doubt Pulis will have is troops fired up and I’m going for a home win.

PAUL PREDICTS: 3-0

Football League: Promotion and relegation hanging in the balance

2015-04-02T22:28:00.004-07:00

Derby face Watford live on Sky Sports 1HD

The Easter weekend looks set to have a crucial say at the top and bottom of the Sky Bet Football League, with double-headers for all involved.

Just eight points currently separate the top eight in the Championship as Bournemouth, who have collected 13 points from the last 15 available, lead the way, while Wolves are closing in on the play-offs thanks to back-to-back wins.

At the other end of the table, Wigan and Millwall are both in desperate need of upturns in form as they sit five and seven points adrift of safety but face tough fixtures, while basement side Blackpool can be relegated if results go against them.

Crucial clashes:

Ipswich v Bournemouth (live on Sky Sports 1 HD, Good Friday, 5.15pm)

Bournemouth will be looking to overcome the toughest of the remaining hurdles in their path towards the Sky Bet Championship title, with Ipswich their only remaining top-eight opponents. The Cherries have arguably the most favourable run-in and boast the league’s best form, winning four of their last five. For the Tractor Boys, Friday represents a chance to record back-to-back wins over league leaders, having overcome Watford before the international break.

Ipswich vs B'mouth

April 3, 2015

Opta stat: Brett Pitman has scored six goals in his last four games for Bournemouth, while Callum Wilson has won nine penalties in the Championship this season, five more than any other player.

Derby v Watford (live on Sky Sports 1 HD, Good Friday, 7.45pm)

Derby have slipped off the automatic promotion pace in recent weeks with a six-match winless run, but Steve McClaren’s men can cut the gap between themselves and the second-placed Hornets to two points with a win. Leading scorer Chris Martin is back in training for the Rams and Darren Bent is also available, while Watford will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Ipswich, especially with fellow contenders Middlesborough to follow on Monday.

Derby vs Watford

April 3, 2015

Opta stat: Watford have claimed the fewest number of points against teams currently in the top 8 (9), winning just twice (D3 L7).

Middlesbrough v Wigan Athletic (Good Friday, 3pm)

This one has connotations at the top and the bottom of the table, with Boro pushing for the automatic promotion spots and the Latics scrapping hard for survival. Aitor Karanka's men were humbled by Bournemouth before the international break but their home form could play into their hands against 22nd-placed Wigan, who desperately need a win to close the five-point gap on Rotherham above them.

Opta stat: Middlesbrough have scored as many goals in the second half of games this season as Wigan have registered in total (35).

Bolton v Blackpool (Saturday, 3pm)

It's a key period at the foot of the Championship table as well, and Blackpool could see their drop to League One confirmed this weekend if results don't go their way. The Tangerines are 17 points from safety with seven games remaining. If Rotherham win at Birmingham on Friday, Lee Clark's men know anything but victory over Bolton will see them consigned to the third tier.

Opta stat: Blackpool have won only one of their last 35 away games (D10 L24), keeping just three clean sheets in the process.

League One:

There are some big games at both ends of the table this weekend, with second-placed Preston taking on play-off hopefuls Rochdale on Friday, before Swindon host MK Dons in the battle of third against fourth on Saturday afternoon, live on Sky Sports 1 from 12.15pm. The battle for survival continues at the other end, meanwhile, as Crawley travel to Crewe looking to leapfrog their opponents and move out of the bottom four.

Swindon vs MK Dons

April 4, 2015

League Two:

The top three of Burton, Shrewsbury and Wycombe could all potentially guarantee themselves at least a play-off place on Good Friday if results go their way. They take on Plymouth, Dagenham & Redbridge and Oxford respectively as they continue to fight for top spot. At the foot of the table, basement club Cheltenham travel to fellow strugglers York, Tranmere visit Stevenage and Ronnie Moore's resurgent Hartlepool look for their fifth-straight win when they face Newport.

Barcelona expect Lionel Messi to return for trip to Celta Vigo

2015-04-02T22:27:00.001-07:00

Barcelona expect Lionel Messi to return for the trip to Celta Vigo

Barcelona believe Lionel Messi will be fit for Sunday’s La Liga trip to Celta Vigo after his foot injury showed signs of improvement.

The 27-year-old did not feature in either of Argentina’s friendlies over the past week after sustaining a knock to his right foot in Barcelona's Clasico win over Real Madrid.

However, the Barca skipper took part in some light running and stretching alongside Javier Mascherano at Barca’s training ground on Thursday, despite not being due back until Friday.

The La Liga leaders said on their official website: "The inflammation of Messi's foot has improved and the player will attempt to join the rest of the internationals tomorrow.”

Barca's 2-1 win at home to Real stretched the advantage over their arch rivals to four points and Luis Enrique’s side will be hoping to maintain that lead when they travel to the Balaidos.

Second-placed Real Madrid, who have suffered three defeats in their last four matches in all competitions, are also in action on Sunday as they host Granada in the 11am kick-off.

Premier League bosses back Greg Dyke's quota plan

2015-04-02T22:26:00.001-07:00

Greg Dyke: FA chairman has proposed having 12 home-grown players in a squad of 25

Premier League bosses have backed FA chairman Greg Dyke's blueprint for reforming the England team.

The majority of top-flight managers support having a quota of English players to boost the amount of home-grown talent.

It comes after five former England managers wrote to the FA to throw their support behind Dyke’s proposals, warning the national team's chances of winning a World Cup will be damaged without change.

The FA has published the letter, which was signed by Graham Taylor, Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan, Sven-Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren, on its website.

And some managers agree with trying to bring through more British talent.

If you're in the Premier League and have good leadership, you should be turning a profit. You should be using that profit to benefit young British talent.

Alan Pardew

Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew said: "If you’re in the Premier League and have good leadership, you should be turning a profit.

"You should be using that profit to benefit young British talent.

"I'm all for that and an extra quota of British-based players is a good idea."

This view was echoed by West Ham manager Sam Allardyce, who said: "It isn't so much an FA problem as a country problem as a whole, that's why we haven't got as much talent as we used to.

"Saying that, there's some exceptionally good young talent coming through at the moment, but it should be much more."

FA chairman Greg Dyke is looking to consult clubs about his new proposal around home-grown players in Premier League squads

Meanwhile, when asked if talented British players are being held back in favour of overseas players, Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood said: "One million per cent."

Roberto Martinez agreed something needs to be done as there is a problem with developing players in England.

He said: "The more home-grown players that we can get in our squad, the better.

"It's only a proposal, it’s very difficult to get a magic formula in the development of young players which is difficult in the British game compared to other leagues and we have to try to make an effort to help."

I'm for a lot of what Mr Dyke said. If we can produce some good young players, we will all as a country benefit.

Steve Bruce

Hull boss Steve Bruce agrees with Dyke's vision but believes home-grown talent may take longer to nurture.

"We've gone maybe for the elite," he said. "A lot of kids don’t get better until maybe later on, maybe they are discouraged.

"I'm for a lot of what Mr Dyke said. If we can produce some good young players, we will all as a country benefit."

But Arsene Wenger believes there are a lot of reasons why there is a lack of English players breaking into first teams.

"England youth teams until now have not performed," he said.

"Let’s get better at that level and then there’s a problem to integrate these players into top teams. We have to do something about it."

And Swansea boss Garry Monk said he is happy to have players from all over the world rather than following a quota.

He said: "It's not making sure we up the numbers because it sounds good, the quality has to be as good as what we have it right now.

"I think it’s a global sport and we want to see players not just from Britain but from all around the world."

Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling being badly advised, says Phil Thompson

2015-04-02T22:25:00.000-07:00

Raheem Sterling: Guided by the advice of his intermediary

Liverpool's Raheem Sterling is filling the headlines and attracting criticism from all corners but it's all a typical case of 'bad advice', says Sky Sportspundit Phil Thompson.

Sterling stirred controversy earlier this week when confirming rumours he had turned down a £100,000-a-week offer to stay at Anfield beyond his current contract, which keeps him at the club until the summer of 2017.

Sterling then took to the media to say he was completely focused on winning trophies with the club, while rubbishing suggestions he was a"money-grabbing 20-year-old".

"It’s becoming very like the Suarez situation now. Liverpool are in control of this, no matter what Raheem or his agent thinks."

Phil Thompson

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has since said Sterling will not be leaving in the summer, but Thompson, who was at the club for 13 years, said the furore had only erupted because of poor advice from his intermediary.

"Not just over his contract situation, but coming forward to do a televised interview," Thompson told Sky Sports.

"If, as he has suggested, he wanted to put the matter to bed until the end of the season, to bring it up again and especially before a vital game against Arsenal, it's not the right way of doing things.

"And it shows his representative is inexperienced and is giving Raheem bad advice.

"I believe he's a young agent who used to work for a big firm that used to take care of Raheem, but now he's gone on his own and he's advising him - badly in my opinion.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says Raheem Sterling won't be signing for any other club in the summer.

"It smacks of self-interest from the agent and Raheem is probably too young to realise that. It's becoming very like the Suarez situation now. Liverpool are in control of this, no matter what Raheem or his agent thinks.

"It could be a stand-off for a while, but it's the football club who suffer from this type of thing. If he was to stay and things don't go right in the next two to three years, he'd certainly have the opportunity to re-negotiate his future.

"For me, this is the right place for him to be playing his football, there's no need to force a move just yet.

"Anyone would tell him that, yet for some reason, Raheem and his advisor can't see what's right in front of them.

"It seems as though they want as much MONEY as someone who's played at Liverpool week-in week-out for five or six years. He's yet to do that - he's a good player now, but he's not yet a great player."

Premier League Team of the Season according to WhoScored.com stats

2015-04-01T09:21:00.002-07:00

As the Premier League season approaches its climax, we look at the stats to see which players have starred in 2014/15.

Below are the top-ranking XI according to WhoScored.com's stat-based rating system. How many of these players will make the official Premier League Team of the Season - and what do you make of this XI?

Costel Pantilimon, Sunderland – WhoScored rating 7.13

Costel Pantilimon: Makes more saves-per-game than any PL 'keeper

The Sunderland stopper has not had the happiest of times since moving to the Stadium of Light last summer and initially had to settle for a spell on the bench, however, he has made the starting berth his own with some fine performances between the sticks. He is making more saves per game (4.1) than any other first-choice goalie, and he is skilled at dealing with shots from various distances, leading the Premier League for saves per game from shots inside the box (2.3) and outside (1.8). With a saves-to-shots ratio (78.4%) second only to Arsenal’s David Ospina (who has only made 10 appearances), Pantilimon could do with a little more help from his defence.

Branislav Ivanovic, Chelsea – 7.35

Branislav Ivanovic: Has made 69 tackles this season

Now undisputedly the best right-back in England according to theWhoScored.com ratings, Ivanovic has dispelled any thoughts of Pablo Zabaleta holding this crown this season, with sound defensive performances sprinkled with dangerous forays forward. Dribbled past only 13 times all season while making some 69 tackles, the Serb has also helped out with four goals and four assists in the league alone, all but two of which have come this calendar year, as he finishes a marathon of a season with a sprint.

James Tomkins, West Ham – 7.46

James Tomkins: Won more aerial duels than other PL centre-backs

Part of an impressive West Ham rearguard, Tomkins has been a rock at the back, averaging 9.8 clearances per game, while winning the most aerial duels (4.8 per game) of all centre-backs. He has been a reliable defender for Sam Allardyce, avoiding a single error that has led to an opposition goal all season, while also contributing with a goal and three assists of his own at the other end.

Phil Jones, Manchester United – 7.46

Phil Jones: Second-most interceptions this season

It is fair to say that Louis van Gaal has had to face a few problems in defence since he moved to Old Trafford, with injuries aplenty disrupting his settling-in period. He has enjoyed the luxury of being able to select a more consistent defence of late, however, with Jones playing a key part. He is making the second most interceptions per game (3.6) in the whole Premier League, behind only Mile Jedinak, as well as adding 2.1 tackles and 6.9 clearances.

Gael Clichy, Manchester City – 7.43

Gael Clichy: Consistent performances for Man City

The extent of Gael Clichy’s consistency has gone rather under the radar this season. In only one game has he recorded a WhoScored.com rating below 6.80, and only four more times has he gone below 7.00; both astounding achievements. His rating comes as a result of a hugely impressive 3.4 interceptions per game, along with 2.5 tackles and significant attacking threat (three assists and 1.1 key passes per game).

Alexis Sanchez, Arsenal – 7.84

Alexis Sanchez: Made an instant impact at Arsenal

He might have faded a little of late, but no one can deny the immediacy of the impact that Sanchez made upon his arrival in London last year. Many thought he was an unnecessary signing for a Gunners team lacking in other areas, but while some team-mates floundered, the Chilean carried the team through a tricky winter period. He ranks fifth in the Premier League for goals scored (13) and seventh for assists (seven), while also averaging the third-most dribbles per game (3.5).

Cesc Fabregas, Chelsea – 7.73

Cesc Fabregas: Far more assists than any other PL player

Many thought Arsene Wenger had made a huge mistake by passing up the opportunity to re-sign Fabregas last summer and the Spaniard made a fast start at Chelsea. He has picked up a whopping 16 assists in his 26 Premier League games, a total no player can better over both of the past two seasons. He unsurprisingly leads the league for key passes per game (3.0), while he has also put a team-mate in on goal with a through ball 13 times, more than eight of the 20 Premier League teams have managed in total.

Santi Cazorla, Arsenal – 7.65

Santi Cazorla: Arsenal's chief assist-maker

One player making Fabregas’ absence at the Emirates that bit more bearable is Cazorla, who is the only player who can match the Chelsea man’s assist tally since the start of last season (16). He has eight this term, which is the third most in the league, while seven goals is impressive considering the deep-lying role he has occupied for much of the campaign. He's proved a constant menace for opposition teams, with 2.4 dribbles, 2.3 shots and 2.2 key passes per game, while his 87.8 per cent pass success is very high given how infrequently Cazorla plays the ‘easy’ pass.

Eden Hazard, Chelsea – 8.02

Eden Hazard: Tops the table for dribbles completed

Leading the way in the player of the year stakes, Hazard stands out from the crowd having maintained form over the whole of the 2014/15 campaign, while rivals for that title have been through quiet patches. He is hugely involved in play high up the pitch, completing a colossal 145 more passes in the final third (844) than any other player, while his work rate is underrated; he has won possession in the attacking third more times (28) than anyone else. It is no surprise to learn that he has been successful with by far the most dribble attempts (136) in the Premier League this season, while he also has 11 goals and six assists to his name.

Diego Costa, Chelsea – 7.60

Diego Costa: Premier League joint-top scorer

The grateful recipient of Cesc Fabregas’ creative genius, six of Costa’s 19 Premier League goals have been the result of the former Barcelona man. Costa is the leading scorer, scoring more often that one in every four shots, with a 25.3 per cent conversion rate. He takes the third most shots per game in the top flight (3.3), but also creates, with 1.7 key passes per appearance.

Sergio Aguero, Manchester City – 7.58

Sergio Aguero: Contributed to more goals than any other PL player

Many will have forgotten quite how good Aguero was earlier in the season given that he has had a relative slump of late. In fact, the Argentine has directly contributed to more goals (23) than any other player in England’s top tier this season, with 17 goals and six assists, despite only starting 22 of a possible 30 matches. He is the biggest goal threat in the Premier League, averaging a whopping 4.5 shots per game, also completing 2.6 dribbles per game. Some fans might question Aguero’s presence in this team over man-of-the-moment Harry Kane, but the England man’s rating is brought down by his six substitute appearances at the start of the season. With eight games remaining, there is all to play for in terms of the individual awards, and if Kane continues playing as he has been, it won’t be long before he closes in on the scores that Aguero and Costa boast.

Liverpool's Raheem Sterling will not discuss new contract until end of season

2015-03-30T13:25:00.003-07:00

Raheem Sterling: No word on his future until the summer

Raheem Sterling will not discuss his future at Liverpool until the end of the season, according to Sky sources.

A source close to the England forward says any talks over a new deal are on hold until the summer but insists the 20-year-old remains '100 per cent committed to the club'.

Sterling's contract runs out at the end of next season and earlier this month, manager Brendan Rodgers said Anfield would be the best place for the Jamaica-born winger to further his career.

"It is something we can't worry ourselves on," he said.

"The boy is happy here and I repeat, if you have the interest of the kid and his football development at this stage of his career, this is the best place to be."

Sterling scored his first senior goal for England in the 4-0 win over Lithuania in the European Qualifiers last Saturday but will miss Tuesday's friendly against Italy in Turin after returning to Liverpool following an injection on a toe injury.

Raheem Sterling was thrilled to get on the scoresheet in England's 4-0 win against Lithuania

Liverpool signed Sterling from the Queens Park Rangers’ academy in 2010 for a fee of £600,000.

He made his senior debut as a substitute in a league match against Wigan in March 2012 - aged 17 years and 107 days - becoming the third youngest player for the club behind Jerome Sinclair and Jack Robinson.

Matt Le Tissier picks his England XI to face Italy

2015-03-30T13:24:00.003-07:00

England face Italy on Tuesday night and Sky Sports pundit Matt Le Tissier has put himself in Roy Hodgson's shoes to pick the starting XI.

England have improved markedly since the World Cup and they face Italy on Tuesday full of confidence after a 4-0 win over Lithuania, aiming for an eighth straight win.

However, Hodgson is unable to call upon Raheem Sterling or Danny Welbeck, who are missing through injury, and the England manager is expected to make a number of changes for the trip to Turin.

Le Tissier England XI (4-2-3-1): Joe Hart, Ryan Bertrand, Phil Jones, Gary Cahill, Nathaniel Clyne; Michael Carrick, Jordan Henderson; Theo Walcott, Ross Barkley, Harry Kane; Wayne Rooney.

Matt Le Tissier England XI

"This game gives Hodgson a chance to have a look at the fringe players and some that could step up," he said on the Morning View.

"It’s a great opportunity for someone to play a part in a big victory. If they get a win in Italy, then they will go a long way in Hodgson’s thinking when he names his next squad.

"I wanted a formation that got Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney in the same team. Kane can play in that position (behind a lone striker) quite comfortably and I’d like to see him make a partnership with Rooney.

"He’s not so isolated if you play him behind the striker. If you play him as the one up front on his own and you don’t get players around him, he may not look as good. I think Barkley and Walcott either side of him can provide pace and flair and stretch the opposition."

MATT PREDICTS: "I think it will be a low scoring draw. Either 0-0 or 1-1."

Tony Cascarino England XI

Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino was also a guest on the Morning Viewand presented his thoughts on how Hodgson should approach the game.

Cascarino England XI (4-4-2): Joe Hart, Kyle Walker, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Ryan Bertrand; Michael Carrick, Jordan Henderson, Theo Walcott, Andros Townsend; Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney.

"I want to see England play them as a partnership - similar to Matt, I’d like to see Kane and Rooney together," he said.

"I'd be looking for both to get good service with Walcott down the right, who can still do an incredible job for somebody - his pace is blistering.

If Roy plays my team, they’ll win! But I think it will pan out to be a draw.

Tony Cascarino

"Also, I’d stick Townsend on the left. I’ve had enough of seeing him cutting in on his left foot from the right. He’s blisteringly quick as well. He’s a guy that is very capable of standing out in this England team.

"Both those boys out wide would scare the life out of any full-backs with their pace. With that you’ve also got the solidarity of Henderson and Carrick in the midfield.

“I think Kyle Walker needs a game. He’s fallen down the pecking order and it would be a big night for him to get a game.”

Zinedine Zidane reveals ambition to be Real Madrid and France boss

2015-03-30T13:23:00.003-07:00

Zinedine Zidane is currently manager of Real Madrid Castilla

Zinedine Zidane admits he would want to take over from Carlo Ancelotti as manager of Real Madrid.

The former Juventus and Real star, who has been learning the ropes as coach of Real's reserve side Castilla, also set out his ambitions for the France national team job.

"Yes I would go for that [the Real Madrid job]," he told Canal Plus. "There is already a coach (Carlo Ancelotti) in place who is doing a great job.

"Do I feel ready if I was offered the first team? You are never ready, but if it happened like that I would have to say yes."

The 42-year-old added France, who he won the World Cup with in 1998, to his managerial wish list.

"I was a player in this team and it would be good, one day (to be coach), but for the moment there is a coach (Didier Deschamps) who is doing a great job. But yes I have this target, this ambition," Zidane said.

The former world player of the year retired from club and international football in 2006, and has said he has time to wait until taking on a bigger post.

"I am doing fine at Madrid," he added.

Tottenham striker Harry Kane to make first England start in Italy

2015-03-30T13:22:00.002-07:00

Harry Kane: In Turin ahead of making his full debut

Harry Kane will make his first start for England in Tuesday night's friendly with Italy, England manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed.

The 21-year-old Tottenham striker impressed last week in the 4-0 win over Lithuania and called his debut goal for England "a dream come true" after scoring 79 seconds after coming off the bench at Wembley.

Hodgson declined to reveal his full team line-up, but said he was thrilled at the prospect of having Kane and skipper Wayne Rooney starting upfront in Turin.

"It’s nice to see both of them on the field together," Hodgson said. "They played a lot in training and I am pleased to see them playing together from the start. Harry certainly deserves his chance and I’m looking forward to the game.

Harry Kane scored 79 seconds into his England debut from the bench as Roy Hodgson’s men beat Lithuania 4-0.

"We are taking it very seriously. It’s a great opportunity for the players who haven't had a chance in the qualifiers to show they really deserve their place in the squad and that they’re good enough to replace the players I’ve been selecting before them.

"All friendly matches during qualification allow you to see where players are. It's an opportunity for players to impress both managers."

Hodgson's team will face the Italians on Tuesday night looking to avenge their World Cup defeat in Brazil last summer.

The England manager will be without nine players from the squad which defeated Lithuania in their European Qualifier on Friday night, which means he is likely to start with a number of fringe players in an experimental line-up at the Juventus Stadium.

Hodgson's squad boast a 100 per cent record in friendlies and European Qualifying games since their miserable World Cup campaign, having played seven and won seven, scoring an impressive 19 goals and conceding just two.

With his Italy counterpart Antonio Conte announcing his full starting line-up on Monday, Hodgson declined the request by Sky Sports football chief reporter Nick Collins to do the same.

Hodgson added: "I understand why Antonio has done that because this is a friendly match and it's a time to experiment with players.

"But if you really want to know our line-up you will have to wait until Tuesday night when the game kicks off."

Lionel Messi named top forward in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo 29th

2015-03-30T13:15:00.002-07:00

Lionel Messi has out-shone his rival Ronaldo so far in 2015

Lionel Messi is the best forward in 2015 – while Cristiano Ronaldo is only 29th on a list of top attackers.

These are the findings of a study conducted by the CIES Football Observatory, which has analysed the performances of players in Europe’s leading leagues since January 1.

The rankings take into account relevant statistics for different positions and find Barcelona's Messi - who has scored 17 in 12 La Liga games this year - streets ahead of his Real Madrid rival.

Ronaldo, who has scored six in 11 league matches in 2015, was, however, ahead of team-mates Gareth Bale (35th) and Karim Benzema (37th).

Diego Costa is the leading Premier League forward in fifth place, behind Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben, Wolfsburg’s Bas Dost and Barcelona’s Luis Suarez.

Elsewhere, the study, which focuses on the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga, found Manchester City’s Gael Clichy to be the top-ranked full-back and Chelsea’s Eden Hazard to be the number one attacking midfielder, ahead of Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil and City’s Jesus Navas.

Former Liverpool loanee Nuri Sahin, now at Borussia Dortmund, tops the central midfielder table from the past three months, while Man City’s Martin Demichelis misses out on the centre-back crown to Emir Spahic of Bayer Leverkusen.

Top forwards

Lionel Messi (Barcelona)

Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)

Bas Dost (Wolfsburg)

Luis Suarez (Barcelona)

Diego Costa (Chelsea)

Chelsea's Eden Hazard is the top attacking-midfielder according to CIES

Top attacking midfielders

Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)

Jesus Navas (Man City)

Kevin de Bruyne (Wolfsburg)

Shinji Kagawa (Dortmund)

Nuri Sahin of Borussia Dortmund leads central midfielders

Top central midfielders

Nuri Sahin (Dortmund)

Paul Pogba (Juventus)

Fernandinho (Man City)

Lucas Biglia (Lazio)

Ilkay Gundogan (Dortmund)

Manchester City's Gael Clichy is the No 1 full-back

Top full-backs

Gael Clichy (Man City)

Marcelo (Real Madrid)

Rafinha (Bayern Munich)

Wendell Nascimento (Bayer Leverkusen)

Pablo Zabaleta (Man City)

Martin Demichelis just misses out on the centre-back title

Top centre-backs

Emir Spahic (Bayer Leverkusen)

Martin Demichelis (Man City)

Mats Hummels (Dortmund)

Chris Smalling (Man United)

Thiago Silva (PSG)

The full rankings can be found at: http://www.football-observatory.com/IMG/pdf/wp105_eng.pdf

England trio released with injury concerns over Sterling, Welbeck and Milner

2015-03-27T22:51:00.003-07:00

Danny Welbeck and Raheem Sterling: Set to miss out on a trip to Italy

Raheem Sterling, Leighton Baines and James Milner will not play in Tuesday's friendly in Italy with Danny Welbeck also a concern after picking up knocks in the win against Lithuania.

It was a largely jubilant evening for England with Harry Kane scoring on his debut in the 4-0 win in their European Qualifier at Wembley.

However, it wasn't all good news with Liverpool forward Sterling suffering a toe injury, Manchester City's Milner carrying a knee problem and left-back Baines set to return to his club Everton.

England boss Roy Hodgson was delighted with his team's showing but expressed particular concern over two of his star performers on the night at Wembley - Arsenal striker Welbeck, who scored just before half-time, and Sterling, stretchered off late on.

"It all went right apart from Welbeck's injury towards the end of the game which has soured it a bit," Hodgson said.

We'll be short of a few players for a game that means a lot to us and to me. But I'm delighted with tonight's performance and for Harry Kane

Roy Hodgson

"We hope it's not serious, but it'll probably keep him out of Tuesday, which is a disappointment particularly as we'd already lost Daniel Sturridge (through injury on Monday).

"Welbeck has had a tweak to the knee, when he dived with the goalkeeper. We were planning to take him off anyway. He's being assessed by the medical staff, but we won't get a proper idea until Saturday.

"The medical staff gave me the impression they're not terribly worried about it, but that Tuesday may be too soon. But we'll see."

"It is two blows for us," Hodgson told ITV. "Raheem Sterling was waiting for an injection on his toe - he has been waiting for a while.

"He's been playing through a situation, getting himself ready each week to get on the field of play. He did it again tonight, which is terrific. But he doesn't need to continue those shows of bravery. It's important he gets it put right for us and Liverpool.

"They think this injection will help him get through the rest of the season and join us and beat Slovenia (in June).

"If we're unlucky we will lose him and Danny Welbeck (for the game against Italy). They're important players in the system we're trying to play, but it will give opportunities for other players."

Hodgson confirmed that uncapped Southampton left-back Ryan Bertrand has been invited to join the squad for Tuesday's friendly in Turin. Hodgson will have 21 players for the match in the country where he enjoyed spells with Inter Milan and Udinese.

"We'll be short of a few players for a game that means a lot to us and to me," he added. "But I'm delighted with tonight's performance and for Harry Kane."

Livesport24

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QPR vs Chelsea

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Man Utd vs Man City

Liverpool vs Newcastle

The Masters - Live

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Sevilla vs Barcelona

Steven Gerrard refusing to get carried away about potential FA Cup fairytale

Liverpool vs Newcastle

Nobody is talking about it. Stevie is the first one to acknowledge that. He is the first one to acknowledge that we can't have any extra pressure on the team. He won't let us think in a different way. We just want to focus on Villa and the games before that.

Sergio Aguero insists Manchester City can still win the Premier League

Man Utd vs Man City

Cristiano Ronaldo four ahead of Lionel Messi in Pichichi race after five-goal haul against Granada

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Burnley v Tottenham

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S'land v Newcastle

Swansea 3-1 Hull: Bafetimbi Gomis double helps heighten visitors' relegation fears

Everton 1-0 Southampton: Phil Jagielka goal lifts Toffees clear of danger

Manchester United 3-1 Aston Villa: Ander Herrera nets two as hosts go third

Ford Monday Night Football

Hosts dominant

Arsenal 4-1 Liverpool: Olivier Giroud scores again as Arsenal dent Liverpool top-four hopes

Chelsea 2-1 Stoke: League leaders battle to win despite Charlie Adam's wonder goal

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Chelsea vs Stoke

C Palace vs Man City

S'land vs Newcastle

Burnley vs Tottenham

Football League: Promotion and relegation hanging in the balance

Crucial clashes:

Ipswich v Bournemouth (live on Sky Sports 1 HD, Good Friday, 5.15pm)

Ipswich vs B'mouth

Derby v Watford (live on Sky Sports 1 HD, Good Friday, 7.45pm)

Derby vs Watford

League One:

Swindon vs MK Dons

League Two:

Barcelona expect Lionel Messi to return for trip to Celta Vigo

Premier League bosses back Greg Dyke's quota plan

If you're in the Premier League and have good leadership, you should be turning a profit. You should be using that profit to benefit young British talent.

I'm for a lot of what Mr Dyke said. If we can produce some good young players, we will all as a country benefit.

Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling being badly advised, says Phil Thompson

"It’s becoming very like the Suarez situation now. Liverpool are in control of this, no matter what Raheem or his agent thinks."

Premier League Team of the Season according to WhoScored.com stats

Liverpool's Raheem Sterling will not discuss new contract until end of season

Matt Le Tissier picks his England XI to face Italy

If Roy plays my team, they’ll win! But I think it will pan out to be a draw.

Zinedine Zidane reveals ambition to be Real Madrid and France boss

Tottenham striker Harry Kane to make first England start in Italy

Lionel Messi named top forward in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo 29th

England trio released with injury concerns over Sterling, Welbeck and Milner

We'll be short of a few players for a game that means a lot to us and to me. But I'm delighted with tonight's performance and for Harry Kane