NIGERIA'S YOUNGEST REFREE TO OFFICIATE IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Confederation of African Football (CAF) have appointed two Nigerian referees to officiate in the First Round, Second Leg matches of continental club competitions, Complete Sports reports. The youngest referee in the Nigeria Professional Football League, Quadri Ololade Adebimpe, has been appointed by CAF to officiate in the CAF continental club competitions. Nigeria’s youngest referee Adebimpe set to officiate in Champions League The 24-year-old, who is a FIFA badged referee, will oversee the CAF Champions League Second Leg game between AS FAN of Niger Republic and AS de Tanda of Ivory Coast in Niamey on Saturday, February 18. Adebimpe will be assisted by Samuel Pwadutakam, Isah Usman and Abubakar Ago for the Champions League tie. He is from the Lagos Referees Association. Also, Abdullahi Shuaibu from Katsina State Referees Association got a CAF Confederation Cup appointment. He will oversee the second leg tie between Racing de Micomiseng of Equatorial Guinea and Etoile du Congo in Malabo on Sunday, February 19 at the Estadio De Nkoatoma in Bata, Equatorial Guinea.. Shuaibu will have Efosa Igudia, Tejiri Digbori and Benjamin Odey as assistant referees for the encounter. Meanwhile, CAF has also picked former NFF President, Brigadier- General Dominic Oneya (rtd) and NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as match commissioners for CAF club competition assignments. While Oneya will serve as Match Commissioner for the CAF Champions League clash between FC Johansen of Sierra Leone and Fath Union Sport (FUS) of Morocco, taking place in Freetown on Saturday, February 18, Sanusi will be Match Commissioner for the CAF Confederation Cup first round, first leg match between Bechem United of Ghana and Mouloudia Club D’Alger of Algeria, scheduled for the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi on Sunday, February 12. COMMENT PLEASE

ALL PREMIER LEAGUE LATEST NEWS,TRANSFER

the biggest transfer talk from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, the Bundesliga and beyond MAN CITY WILL SANCTION MASSIVE DELE BID Manchester City are prepared to sanction a record-breaking move for Tottenham star Dele Alli, according to the Sunday Express . The England international is seen as the potential long-term heart of the squad as Pep Guardiola seeks to overhaul his team with an emphasis on homegrown players. MAN CITY HAVE EDGE IN DYBALA RACE Manchester City have an edge over Real Madrid in the race to sign Paulo Dybala this summer as Juventus would rather sell to the Premier League, according to the Sunday Mirror . Pep Guardiola's side are planning to offer around £21.3 million plus a player in part-exchange but are prepared to make a flat cash offer of £25.5m instead.. BENITEZ ON SHORTLIST TO REPLACE WENGER Rafa Benitez is the surprise name on a four-man shortlist drawn up by Arsenal of those who could replace Arsene Wenger if the Frenchman leaves this summer, claims the Sunday Mirror . The Newcastle boss is joined on the list by Borussia Dortmund's Thomas Tuchel and Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, as well as Monaco's Leonardo Jardim, who is regarded as the outsider for the job. AGUERO WANTS OUT OF MAN CITY Sergio Aguero wants to leave Manchester City because he is unhappy with Pep Guardiola's style of management, according to the Sun . The Argentine striker hinted recently that he could quit the club, with Brazil sensation Gabriel Jesus having started ahead of the 28-year-old in City's last two matches. JUVE & INTER BATTLE FOR ALEXIS Serie A giants Juventus and Inter are both battling to sign Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal, according to Corriere dello Sport . Inter had been linked with a move for the Gunners star, who has yet to agree a contract extension at the club, but now face competition from Italian rivals Juventus to seal the Chile international's signature. SPURS INTERESTED IN GRAY Tottenham have revived their interest in signing Leicester City winger Demarai Gray, according to the London Evening Standard. Spurs have been aware of the player since his Birmingham City days, and are set to make a move this summer as Mauricio Pochettino looks to add pace to his forward line. WEST HAM EYE SAGNA West Ham are planning a summer move for Manchester City full-back Bacary Sagna, according to the Daily Telegraph. The France international is out of contract at the end of the season, and Slaven Bilic has identified him as the perfect player to solve the Irons's crisis at right-back. BENZEMA TO BE OFFERED NEW DEAL Real Madrid will offer Karim Benzema a new contract at the end of the season which could tie him to the club for another five years, AS reports . The striker has scored just five goals in 15 Liga games this term, leading to criticism, but the Champions League holders are willing to offer a substantial salary hike to ensure he is still in the Spanish capital by the time he is 34. TUCHEL TOPS ARSENAL SHORTLIST Borussia Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel tops Arsenal's shortlist for a new manager should Arsene Wenger leave this summer, according to the Daily Mirror . Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri, Bayer Leverkusen's Roger Schmidt and Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim are also being considered as the Gunners prepare for life after Wenger. JUVENTUS TURN TO DE GEA Juventus are set to make a move for Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea if they miss out on Gianluigi Donnarumma, acccording to The Sun . The Bianconeri see Milan teenager Donnarumma as the natural successor for veteran Gianluigi Buffon, but the San Siro outfit are reluctant to sell. And that has led to Juve looking for alternatives, with De Gea top of their wishlist should they fail to land their No.1 target. GRIEZMANN WANTS CL FOOTBALL Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann will turn his back on a move to Manchester United if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, according to The Sun . United have offered to make the France international the highest-paid player in the club's history, but the deal depends on the Red Devils being involved in Europe's premier club competition next term. ALLEGRI TO QUIT JUVENTUS Massimiliano Allegri has agreed to quit Juventus at the end of the season, according to an exclusive report from Calciomercato . The Italian manager has been widely tipped to replace Arsene Wenger at Arsenal in the summer, but Juventus chiefs had rejected claims he would leave Turin. New reports, however, suggest that the decision to leave Juventus was made in January and was agreed on both sides, though the Italian champions have stressed it will not have a negative impact on the club's title hopes. LIVERPOOL & MAN CITY TO FIGHT FOR CARVALHO Liverpool and Manchester City are ready to go head-to-head for Sporting midfielder William Carvalho after learning the Portuguese side are ready to sell, according to A Bola, via TalkSport. Sporting are enduring a difficult season, currently sitting 10 points behind title rivals Benfica, and are looking to raise funds in order to strengthen their squad, with selling their star player their first port of call. LIVERPOOL EYE RAMIREZ Liverpool are lining up a surprise move for Middlesbrough midfielder Gaston Ramirez, according to Tuttomercatoweb. Jurgen Klopp is keen to add more attacking depth in the summer and the Reds have already made informal contact with the Uruguayan's representatives. BAYERN IDENTIFY LAHM SUCCESSOR Bayern Munich will step up their pursuit of Benfica right-back Nelson Semedo ahead of Philipp Lahm's retirement, according to O Jogo . The Germany legend has announced he will finish his playing career at the end of the season, leaving Carlo Ancelotti searching for reinforcements on the right side of defence. MAN CITY LEAD RACE FOR WONDERKID Manchester City lead the race to sign Real Mallorca teenager Alpha Dionkou, according to the Manchester Evening News. The 15-year-old is also in the sights of Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona but looks set to become the latest youngster to join City's academy setup. MADRID IN BELOTTI TALKS Real Madrid have opened talks over a summer move for in-demand Torino striker Andrea Belotti, according to Gazzetta dello Sport . Torino president Urbano Cairo has travelled to the Spanish capital to discuss the potential transfer, with Madrid willing to pay the Arsenal targets €100 million release clause. ARSENAL TO MOVE FOR HART Arsenal are the latest club to show an interest in signing Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart this summer, according to the Daily Mail. The Gunners are looking to replace Petr Cech as their No.1, and while Liverpool are also keen on the England international, Arsenal are hopeful of completing a deal. COMMENT PLEASE

SUPER MANE SPARKS LIVERPOOL TO LIFE

The Senegal international tortured Spurs in a first-half display that produced two goals and helped his side rekindle their early season stardust COMMENT It couldn’t have been more idyllic even in Jurgen Klopp’s dreams. Liverpool, after a first league win in 2017, summoned their swashbuckling football of last year to completely shock and sever Tottenham in the most stunning way. WATCH: Cavani scores sublime volley The Reds boss wanted “a performance that will make Anfield smile,” and the home fans were already soaked in euphoria by the 18th minute on Saturday evening as they watched Sadio Mane absolutely torment Spurs in a 2-0 victory. The Senegal international’s display was the kind opponents pick out as their answer to the ‘toughest player you’ve had to deal with?’ question - he was direct, menacingly quick, determined to win back possession and relentless. His first materialised after Adam Lallana and Roberto Firmino pressed to fine effect, before Gini Wijnaldum sent a wonderful pass in his direction. He paced past Ben Davies at an angle from the right and lifted high into the net to lift Klopp off the ground. WATCH: Studs Up – Goal’s brand new football show The German had barely finished celebrating that goal, before Mane had stolen the ball off a dithering Eric Dier. He motored into the area and squared for Adam Lallana, whose effort was thwarted by Hugo Lloris. Firmino’s follow-up from the rebound was also snuffed out by the Frenchman, before Mane twisted and smacked in a second. That he did not become the first Liverpool player to score a hat-trick against Tottenham since Phil Boersma in 1974 at the same ground was unfortunate - a milestone he was only denied through desperate last-ditch defending and stellar goalkeeping. With Mane in the mood, superbly supported by Philippe Coutinho, Lallana and Firmino, the Reds kept coming and Spurs could not find the solutions to jar their attacking juggernaut. "You need somebody who scores at the end! He did fantastic and could have scored a third one," Klopp said of his speedster. "It’s no problem for me to talk about such a wonderful performance from Sadio tonight but, actually, Roberto Firmino… I’m not sure I’ve seen a lot of better games from a striker without scoring. He had sprints after 92 minutes, over 60 or 70 yards – that’s unbelievable. That’s very important. "All the midfielders, everybody. Joel Matip improved in the game, you could see first half [he] struggled a little bit. [It was] important then that he stayed in the game, a little bit more concentration, getting more used to the situation." The contest should have been over by half-time, such was the authority of the hosts, and it was largely thanks to Lloris that Mauricio Pochettino could still salvage his team talk at the interval. PLAY The visiting boss will wonder what might have been: he had targeted both Mane and Wijnaldum, who combined to dazzling effect for the opener, in the summer. The pair were bowled over by Klopp's charisma and chose Anfield as their preferred destination instead, giving the Argentine a reminder of his regret under the stadium's floodlights. "We were poor. They were better. No complaints," said Pochettino, who admitted "we started the game very sloppy. It is difficult to understand, I am very disappointed in our first-half display." Spurs made more of a fist of it in the second 45, but the damage had long been done with Liverpool cleverly strangling the game after an intense first stanza. "It was a really good performance in the second half," Klopp agreed. "I saw a lot of good individual performances tonight, but that’s of course important, otherwise you cannot win against a team like Tottenham. I think it was deserved and that’s the only thing I’m really interested [in]." They did not allow a shot on target after the break and picked up a first league clean sheet since the New Year’s Eve ousting of Manchester City. Given the question marks over Liverpool's defence and the debate as to whether Loris Karius should replace Simon Mignolet, their doggedness at the back would’ve been an especially welcome sight for Klopp. The Reds’ form since the turn of the year - their only other victory came in an FA Cup replay at Plymouth Argyle - has rightly courted scathing criticism. But the rush to declare their season over and conclude that the same players, labelled the most exciting in England just three months ago, were no longer any good was premature and flawed. Allegri hoping for 'another 400 games' as Juventus boss Klopp’s unwavering belief that his team would ‘find their flow’ again was evidenced in his selection for this fixture. The 49-year-old made just one change to the XI that had been dire in a 2-0 defeat to Hull City last weekend, as Wijnaldum - incisive in possession and so intelligent out of it - was restored in midfield at the expense of Emre Can. His charges were quite clearly determined to reward his faith in them. And, with the fatigue and disruption of nine January games out of the system, Coutinho and Mane having a full week of training to get back to full sharpness following ankle ligament damage and Africa Cup of Nations exertions, plus Tottenham not simply barricaded in front of Lloris, the Merseysiders were back to their scintillating best. When Liverpool remember their capabilities and have the space in which to showcase it, they are frightening. Klopp’s pre-match verdict had been accurate. “The boys are still really good players,” he reminded. “I am still an absolutely okay manager. That didn’t change because of a few bad results.” Liverpool must now ensure those off- days are in the past as they push to finish the season as strong as possible, with Champions League football secured.

ARSENE WINGER REVEALS WHEN HE WILL LEAVE ARSENAL

After 20 years since he became the manager of Premier League club Arsenal in which he won three Premier League titles, Arsene Wenger has told club's legend Ian Wright that his reign as Gunners' boss is coming to an end. Former Arsenal star Ian Wright Wenger who became Arsenal's gaffer in 1996 will have his contract expire at the end of the current League season in the EPL, and there has been lots of speculations that the 67- year-old Frenchman might not be given a renewal. Gunners' fans have also expressed their frustration which was shown after Arsenal's embarrassing defeat at Chelsea in their last Premier League fixture. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger Ian Wright however explained that he spoke with Wenger on Thursday, February 7, 2017, claiming the former Nagoya Grampus 8 coach would dump the Gunners at the end of the current campaign. "I get the impression that that's it because he looks tired. You just feel that he looks winded. I feel that he will go at the end of the season. "He actually mentioned that he is coming to the end. I have never heard him say that before. The players have let him down badly,'' Wright told BBC Radio 5. Meanwhile, Arsenal have no or limited hope of winning the Premier League title this season as the Gunners presently occupy fourth position on the log with 47 points, and they are 12 points behind leaders Chelsea.

BAYERN SNATCH WIN AT THE DEATH POINT

Robert Lewandowski was guilty of missing the best chances for the visitors, who still got all three points with the late heroics of his team-mates Bayern Munich were nearly unable to capitalise on RB Leipzig's loss to Hamburg as they needed Arturo Vidal and Arjen Robben's injury-time goals for a 2-0 win at Ingolstadt on Saturday. The latest round of fixtures saw the champions open up the gap to seven points at the top of the Bundesliga, but they nearly failed to come away with all the spoils. Die Roten star Robert Lewandowski was culpable as he saw his shot cleared off the line by Marvin Matip in the first half. The Pole then had the chance to win it with four minutes left on the clock but his ferocious 25-yard effort cannoned back off the woodwork. However, there still proved enough time for Vidal to net a dramatic opener from Thomas Muller's cross in the 90th minute, before Robben put the gloss on a deserved win.

LUCKY ARSENAL MUST CHANGE- AND FAST

The Gunners were finally handed a bit of good fortune against Hull as they recorded a crucial win in the Premier League at Emirates Stadium Arsene Wenger described this week as a “difficult” one after the back-to- back defeats for Arsenal in the Premier League. Alexis’ ‘Hand of Dog’ goal’ Having bemoaned Chelsea’s contentious opening goal against the Gunners last weekend, luck was on Wenger's side as a flatter-than-usual Emirates Stadium atmosphere witnessed Alexis Sanchez guide them to a hard-fought 2-0 win over Hull City. Alexis appeared to bundle the ball over the line with his hand for the opening goal on 34 minutes following a fluid attacking move involving Mesut Ozil and Kieran Gibbs. The latter was rewarded with a surprise start, but was given the runaround by Hull’s best player Lazar Markovic on several occasions, and it is likely that Nacho Monreal will be back in position for Wednesday’s Champions League clash away to Bayern Munich. Markovic almost found success down Arsenal’s left-hand side in the second half and was hauled down by Gibbs when through on goal shortly after the break. The left-back can count himself lucky that he was only booked for the incident as further luck came Wenger’s way. Hull looked continually dangerous on the counter attack and only a better final ball was the main difference between them pulling a goal back. The library-esque atmosphere during the opening stages in north London can be put down to a week of social media discontent and murmurings around the future of Arsenal’s longest-serving manager. Under- pressure Wenger, serving the final game of his four-match touchline ban, watched the edgy encounter from his seat in the directors' box - a place that he could become even more familiar with if he decides to take a back-seat role at the club next season. Allegri hoping for 'another 400 games' as Juventus boss Patience was key against Marco Silva’s outfit. The Portuguese guided Olympiakos to a 3-2 victory at the Emirates last season and his counter- attacking approach could have seen a repeat of the previous two league games when Arsenal’s midfield and defence collapsed when they were needed most. Arsenal’s upcoming game in Munich will represent an even bigger test of their mental qualities and it would be typical of Wenger’s men to force a surprise result at the Allianz Arena against all the odds, but they will need a drastically better performance than this. They’ll need an improved Ozil to flourish in the No.10 role and Alexis to continue his fine European form, but anything is possible with this Arsenal team whose inconsistent qualities make them the Premier League’s biggest enigma right now.

EURO PAPER:PARTEY TO PL

Could Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey be on his way to the Premier League? Despite the transfer window only shutting for most European clubs less than two weeks ago, the European newspapers are still speculating about the futures of many top stars. Our friends at Football Whispers have looked at Europe's top media outlets to see what's making people on the continent talk this morning. Spain AS West Ham and Middlesbrough will go head to head for Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey in the summer. MARCA Valencia midfielder Enzo Perez could leave the club, with his fathe admitting he dreams of playing for River Plate. SPORT Middlesbrough goalkeeper Victor Valdes could be part of Julen Lopetegui's next Spain squad. Italy CORRIERE DELLO SPORT Juventus will enter the race for Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez in the summer, with CEO Giuseppe Marotta keen on bringing the Chilean to Turin. But they will face tough competition from Inter Milan. TUTTOSPORT Juventus want to buy mainly left- sided players in the summer and have set their sights on Schalke's Sead Kolasinac, who was subject of interest from Chelsea in January. Germany SPORTBILD Bayern Munich have lined up Bayer Leverkusen's Benjamin Henrichs, who has attracted interest from Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United, to replace the retiring Phillip Lahm. Bayern boss Carlo Ancelotti has backed Renato Sanches to prove himself in Germany. The 19-year- old midfielder is yet to score since his summer move to the Bundesliga. France NICE MATIN Paris Saint-Germain will make a move for Nice midfielder Wylan Cyprien in the summer, but his current club also expects interest from the Premier League. CANAL + Fabio Capello says he was approached by PSG about coming to the club in 2013 when he was Russia manager. Portugal A BOLA Swiss club Young Boys will go back in with an attempt to bring in Sporting Lisbon midfielder Ryan Gauld on loan before their transfer market closes on Wednesday. Youn Boys have already had a loan bid rejected this month for the 21-year old Scot. RECORD Benfica striker Jonas and his agent want to meet with president Luis Filipe Vieira to discuss Beijing Gouan's offer for the Brazilian, which could see him earning €6m a season.

PAUL MERSON REAL FOOTBALL PREDICTION FOR PREMIER LEAGUE

Paul Merson offers his predictions ahead of a crucial round of fixtures at the top and bottom of the Premier League. The Premier League weekend kicks off at the Emirates where Arsenal take on a rejuvenated Hull, live on Sky Sports, with the Gunners looking to apply some pressure on league leaders Chelsea ahead of the Blues' trip to Burnley on Nissan Super Sunday . The battle for survival rounds off Super Sunday as reigning champions Leicester travel to relegation rivals Swansea, before Bournemouth host high-flying Manchester City on Monday Night Football. Read on to see who the Magic Man is tipping this weekend... Watch a preview of Saturday's Premier League games, including Arsenal v Hull City live on Sky Sports Arsenal v Hull - Saturday from 11.30am, Sky Sports 1 HD & Sky Sports Mix HD This is typical Arsenal. They will win 3-0, everything will be great again and Arsene Wenger will be the best manager in the world. The pressure is on, though, as if they lose this game I don't see how he can keep his job. It would be that toxic that I couldn't see him staying. Hull are doing very well but Arsenal tend to beat these teams. Arsenal vs Hull Ci February 11, 2017, 11:30 Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass PAUL PREDICTS: 3-0 ( 7/1 with Sky Bet ) Burnley v Chelsea - Super Sunday from 12.30pm, Sky Sports 1 HD When you talk about Burnley, you are talking about one of the best home records in the Premier League - that is some going as not many would have said that at the start of the season. Chelsea's record against teams outside the top six is imperious, though. Burnley vs Chels February 12, 2017, 12:30 Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass Swansea are the only team outside those top clubs to get a point off Chelsea - Antonio Conte's men have put the so-called lesser teams to the sword. For as much as I admire Burnley I cannot see past Chelsea, they will have too much for them. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 ( 11/1 withSky Bet ) Swansea v Leicester - Super Sunda from 3.30pm, Sky Sports 1 HD I said it a few weeks ago and I'll say it again, Leicester are going to get relegated. The biggest story in football history is going to turn into the biggest embarrassment in football history. If they go down, shockwaves will go around the world, it is unbelievable. But this is where they are, this is Leicester. Swansea vs Leices February 12, 2017, 3:30 Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass I might be wrong but I cannot see a way out for them. Swansea are a decent team, they have the best player in the bottom half of the league in Gylfi Sigurdsson and Paul Clement has bought well. On their day Leicester can beat teams, but those days aren't coming quick enough. PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1 ( 8/1 with Sky Bet ) Bournemouth v Man City - Monday Night Football from 7pm, Sky Sports 1 HD Bournemouth let in too many goals for my liking. They're letting three or four goals in every week virtually. I cannot see anything other than a Manchester City win here. B'mouth vs Man February 13, 2017, 7:00 Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass I know it's early days but Gabriel Jesus' start has been nothing short of incredible. Some of the things he does on the ball are unbelievable - he is light-years ahead of any young player I've seen. Bournemouth simply won't be able to cope with him, or the other City attackers. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 ( 9/1 with Sky Bet ) Man Utd v Watford - Saturday, 3pm Watford have had a couple of good results but it's hard to look past United at Old Trafford. If they sorted out their finishing they woul easily be in the top four. Manchester United eased past Leicester in their last Premier League outing When you fail to find the net a couple of times it's unlucky, but now it has to be classed as bad finishing. PAUL PREDICTS: 3-0 ( 6/1 with Sky Bet ) Middlesbrough v Everton - Saturday 3pm Everton are flying and Middlesbrough just don't seem to score enough goals, at home or away. Boro have to come out and try and win this game in front of their own fans. They are in a bit of trouble and teams are catching up with them. Romelu Lukaku is the Premier League's top scorer That could be their undoing, though, chasing the game against this in-form Everton side could be very dangerous. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 ( 18/1 with Sky Bet ) Stoke v Crystal Palace - Saturday, 3pm The performance Palace put on against Sunderland was shocking. You can lose games, everybody does, but you cannot capitulate to the league's bottom side at home i the manner Palace did against Sunderland. The way they fell apart so quickly was worrying. Sam Allardyce saw his side lose 4-0 last time out Sam Allardyce has learnt very quickly that this job is a lot harder than it initially looked. Over the las calendar year, Palace have been bordering on atrocious. The one positive is that the only man who can get them out of danger is currently in charge. I never go against Stoke at home and Palace's recent form hasn't done anything t change my mind. PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1 ( 15/2 with Sky Bet ) Sunderland v Southampton - Saturday, 3pm You could argue that Southampton are on the fringes of the battle for survival. If Bournemouth are then Saints have to be, given the fact they're on the same amount of points. If Sunderland win this game they are in with a real chance of surviving. They looked together at Crystal Palace and got a great result, they will be brimming with confidence. Jermain Defoe scored twice in Sunderland's 4-0 win over Crystal Palace Sunderland's main problem has been consistency but they've now gone two games without conceding. Things could well be starting to click. Southampton may have an eye on the EFL Cup final, so if Sunderland are able to turn this game into a battle then I see them getting a win which really puts the cat among the pigeons. PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0 ( 18/1 with Sky Bet ) West Ham v West Brom - Saturday, 3pm You simply cannot predict which West Ham team will turn up. One day Manchester City rip them to shreds and then the next they're tearing Southampton apart. West Brom are turning into one of those teams you would struggle to go against. Tony Pulis has built a reall good team and they are, in my opinion, the best of the rest outsid of the top six, which is quite an achievement. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1 ( 5/1 with Sky Bet ) Liverpool v Tottenham - Saturday, 5.30pm This is a big game for both these sides' respective seasons. Liverpool are out of the title race now and they've done an Arsenal, going out of everything in the space of two weeks. If they're not careful they could be out of the race for the top four - they have to win! Liverpool and Spurs go head to head on Saturday evening A Tottenham defeat would more or less hand the title to Chelsea but could put Spurs' own aspirations at risk. If they lose and the other teams win, all of a sudden they're in a battle for the top four. It can change that quickly. Liverpool have to win and Tottenham have to make sure they don't lose, with tha in mind I see Spurs denting Liverpool's season further. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1 ( 5/1 with Sky Bet ) WIN £250,000 ON SUPER 6 There's a massive £250,000 up for grabs in the latest edition of Super 6 . All you have to do to scoop the prize is predict the scores of six selected Premier League matches. It's free to play so get your entry in before 3pm for the chance to win.

DETAILS OF LAGOS STATE MARATHON HAS ABRAHAM KIPTUM WINS AGAIN

Kenya’s Abraham Kiptum has emerged winner of the 2017 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon and will be going home with the cash prize of $50,000. Kenya's Abraham Kiptum wins Lagos City marathon for the second time. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Kiptum won the 42.1km race for the second time after he won the maiden edition in a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes, 21 seconds. Kenya's Abraham Kiptum wins 2017 Lagos City marathon. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Below is our LIVE coverage of the 2017 Lagos City Marathon. 10.30am Official Result 1st - Abraham Kiptum - 2:15:23s 2nd - Ronny Kipkoech Kiboss - 2:15:25s 3rd - Kiprotich Kiroi - 2:15:30s A snapshot of the top 10 runners this year #iGetStamina pic.twitter.com/EbsLoCe8lw 10:58 AM - 11 Feb 2017 71 2 58m Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank Terry Apala. #iGetStamina Tekno, Seyi Shay, Olamide, Kiss Daniel, and Davido are backstage. pic.twitter.com/ NXL1t1LAKO Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank 10.00am Report reaching us has it that a 7-year-old, Damilola Oluwaseyi, just completed the marathon. Damilola Oluwaseun, 7, crosses the finish line at Lagos city marathon. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi 9.40am Fadeyi, the first Nigerian woman, has crossed the finish line. The first Nigerian woman crosses the finish line . #iGetStamina pic.twitter.com/ sUE9x6zeLf 9:53 AM - 11 Feb 2017 101 19 2h Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank This man can confidently say #igetstamina . He came, he saw, he conquered, then rested. pic.twitter.com/ MAnqx1BFAW Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank 9.30am Rodah Tanuyi from Kenya is the first lady to cross the finish line. Rodah, the first woman. #AccessBankLagosCityMarathon #iGet Stamina 9:48 AM - 11 Feb 2017 91 15 Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank 9.15am Ilya Pam Nwanta is the first Nigerian to finish the race and he will be going home with N1million. Ilya Pam Nwanta is the first Nigerian to finish the race Nwanta crossed the finish line before Philip Sharabutu who was the second Nigerian to finish the race. Sharabutu had finished as the first Nigerian in the Lagos city marathon maiden edition last year. 9.10am 2017 Lagos city marathon winners - 1st Abraham Kiptum (Kenya), 2nd place Ronny Kipkoech (Kenya), 3rd place Kiprotich Kiroi (Kenya) Winner Abraham Kiptum with other athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Kenya's Abraham Kiptum wins 2017 Lagos City marathon Kiptum will be going home with $50000 while Kipkoech and Kiroi will go home with $40000 and $30000 respectively. Kenya's Abraham Kiptum wins Lagos City marathon for the second time Kenya's Ronny Kipkoech finished second 9am After close to three hours of marathon race at the Access Bank Lagos City 42.1km, Kenya’s Abraham Kiptum, has emerged winner of the 2017 Lagos city marathon. This makes it the second time he is winning the competition. 8.50am' The leading athletes are ten minutes away from the finish the line. Abraham Kiptum won last year's marathon. He is neck to neck with two others. 8.45am An athlete has reportedly fainted on third mainland bridge. "@CreatesTm : Reports say he fainted on 3rd Mainland Bridge @Gidi_Traffic | #LagosMarathon #RunLagos #GIDITRAFFIC 8:57 AM - 11 Feb 2017 17 3 GIDITRAFFIC @Gidi_Traffic 8.40am Information reaching NAIJ.com has it that the leading athletes have gotten to Dolphin Estate in Ikoyi and are less than one hour away from the finish line. Kenyan athlete, Kitaka leading the female athletes #DolphinEstate #Ikoyi #RunLagos 8:37 AM - 11 Feb 2017 4 Lagos Sports Comm @LagosSportsComm Second set of athletes to reach Dolphin, Ikoyi. #RunLagos 8:38 AM - 11 Feb 2017 6 Lagos Sports Comm @LagosSportsComm Fadekemi leading the Nigerian team. #DolphinEstate #RunLagos 8:39 AM - 11 Feb 2017 9 3 Lagos Sports Comm @LagosSportsComm 8.35am Some special athletes are also participating in the race. Special athletes at marathon race. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Special athletes at marathon race. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Special athletes at marathon race. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi 8.30am Governor Ambode as gotten to the finish line as he awaits the winner. Gov @AkinwunmiAmbode at Eko Atlantic City, the finish line. #igetstamina #RunLagos #RunWithAquafina 8:16 AM - 11 Feb 2017 3 3 Doctors Magazine Nig @doctorsmag 8.25am As expected, some athletes can't keep up with the pace and strength of others and they wouldn't be getting to the finish line. Down but not out. #RunYourRace #RunLagos #RunWithAquafina #AccessBankLagosMarathon 8:29 AM - 11 Feb 2017 2 2 V|#BringBackOurGi ... @TheVicmoss 8.20am Surprisingly! some kids are also taking part in the race One the kids looking dehyrated. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi More kids participating in the race. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi 8.15am The chairman Lagos state Sports Commission Deji Tinubu just shared a photo of the how the finish line looks like as we await the winner. This is watch the finish point of #RunLagos looks like !!!! @LagosSportsComm 8:19 AM - 11 Feb 2017 9 deji Tinubu @dejitinubu 8.10am Remember Kenya’s Abraham Kiptom, emerged winner of last year's edition in 2hrs 21 mins, 20 secs ahead of his fellow compatriot, Hosea Kipkembe. Debebe Toise of Ethiopia came third behind the Kenyans. So we expect to see the winner of this year's edition cross the finish line in the next hour. Who will it be? A cross section of athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi A cross section of athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Some of athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi A cross section of athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Some of the athletes. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi 8.05am The NFF president Amaju Pinnick and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access bank Herbert Wigwe just trekked to the finish line at the Eko Atlantic. They are awaiting the first athlete to cross the finish line. Athletes and volunteers at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Athletes and volunteers at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Athletes and volunteers at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Athletes and volunteers at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Female athletes at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Foreign athletes at 2017 Lagos city marathon. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi 8.00am Some athletes look very excited about the Lagos city marathon as they resort to music and water to keep them going. A female athlete listening to music in excitement. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi An athlete smile for the camera with his bottle of water. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi Two female athletes have their headphones and look focus for the ultimate prize. Photo: Emmanuel Osodi 7.35am NAIJ.com findings has shown that a 67-year-old man Edwin Ekong is participating in the 2017 edition of the Lagos City marathon. Edwin Ekong According him, his personal purpose of participating in the race is not ultimately for the prize gift, but a personal desire. The medical doctor told NAIJ.com: “Marathoning is the triumph of desire over reason. So this is the triumph of my desire." 7.20am Some dehydrated athletes take a quick stop to get water and continue with the 42km race. Remember the end point is at Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, Lagos. Women are not left out in the race. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi Women are not left out in the race. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi 7am The race has kicked off with the ultimate prize of $50,000 up for grabs. Who will get this? Some of the athletes competing for the ultimate prize. Photo credit: Emmanuel Osodi 6.20am Governor Akinwunmi Ambode just arrived at the scene of the athletes warm up session in Surulere to show support. 5.45am Barely minutes to the start of the 2017 edition of the Lagos City Marathon, some athletes were caught taking a nap before the 42km race. Athletes taking a nap before the race 5.30am Deejay Celebrity continues to mix popular Naija Jamz right at the starting point to the delight of the athletes. As at now, we are yet to see any of the elite runners. The starting point 5.14am' The chairman Lagos State Sports Commission Deji Tinubu giving volunteers 'to do' instructions 5am' Hundreds of athletes are gathered at the starting point taking different warm-up sessions. Athletes storm the Surulere stadium as early as 4am Below is our preview A total of 100, 000 athletes from 27 countries including Nigeria will be participating in the second edition of Access Bank Lagos Marathon billed to hold from 7am to 2pm today. LIVE Updates: Lagos City Marathon 64 elite athletes from 26 countries and 102 from Nigeria, as well as 30 special athletes will also be participating in the marathon scheduled to start from National Stadium in Surulere and terminate at Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island. The governor of Lagos Akinwunmi Ambode is also expected to grace the occasion. The first athlete to reach the finishing point at the Eko Atlantic will claim the ultimate prize of $50,000. The first and second runner-up will go home with $40,000 and $30,000 respectively. The first Nigerian to complete the 42km race will receive N1million cash. Recall that Kenya's Abraham Kipton won the inaugural edition of the Lagos City Marathon in 2016 having completed the race in a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes and 21 seconds. Meanwhile, access to some major roads will in the mainland will be restricted. Click HERE for list of alternative routes.

MESSI SIGNS A NEW DEAL WITH ADIDAS

The attacker has yet to sign a deal with his club, but has apparently found few such problems brokering terms with the popular brand Barcelona star Lionel Messi has reaffirmed his commitment to sportswear manufacturer Adidas, the player has confirmed via Facebook. Wenger: My Arsenal job not on the line It is not the contract that the Camp Nou side would have wanted him to sign, given that he is still locked in negotiations of a new deal with Luis Enrique’s side, with whom his contract expires in June 2018. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said that he is “happy to continue working with adidas for many more years!” If you are not automatically redirect click here. Messi, 29, has played his whole professional career with the Camp Nou outfit, attaining legendary status along the way. This season he has managed 31 goals in 31 games for the Spanish champions, weighing in with a further 12 assists. In total, he has scored 487 goals in 564 outings for the Catalan side.

SELBOL AIMING TO BRING GLORY TO NIGERIA

The midfielder is eyeing getting his hands on International football with the Super Eagles and says he wants to be a part of the ‘golden generation’ Sporting Kansas City’s Nansel Selbol has revealed that his target is to bring glory to Nigeria. The 19-year-old was on target as the Wizards ended the first leg preseason campaign with a 2-1 defeat to the New England Revolution on Tuesday at Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, Arizona. Selbol was named in the Golden Eaglets’ provisional squad for the 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates – but unfortunately did not make the cut. But now, he is hoping to help bring honour to the three-time African kings following his blistering form in the American league. ''I want to bring the glory days of football back to Nigeria,’’ Selbol told Goal. ''I will like to be invited to be part of the Super Eagles matches this year and to be involved in what I believe can be a golden generation for Nigerian football. ''To achieve this, I need to keep working hard and improving my game. This involves extra training and always striving to be the best.'' The 19-year-old midfielder who admires Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, played alongside Kelechi Iheanacho in Manu Garba’s squad is pleased with the Manchester City rookie’s growth and claims he gives him the zeal to do more. ''It is really great to see Kelechi and the others from my time with the U17 develop and grow the way they have,'' he continued. ''It requires a lot of sacrifice and hard work and that is what you have to do to become successful in this sport. ''Watching them play at that stage gives me the belief and desire to work extra hard to play at that level. It will be nice to pit my wits against Kelechi.’’ He also revealed his desire to join "a big club" soon and said that Barcelona and Arsenal are the team which currently impress him the most. ''Right now European football attracts the best players,’’ he added. ‘’ I want to play at the highest level, so yes, I want to play in Europe. ''I believe I am ready to play in the top leagues in Europe. I dream to play for either Barcelona or The Arsenal. These are great clubs that play my kind of football.’’

GHANA BLACK STARS: 5 CANDIDATES TO REPRESENT GRANT

All good things come to the end, so they say, and while one or two Ghanaians would argue that Avram Grant’s tenure as Black Stars boss was not a ‘good thing’, whoever replaces him will have to continue the Israeli coach’s progress. The former Chelsea boss, after all, helped the West Africans bounce back from their fractured World Cup 2014 campaign to reach the final of the 2015 Nations Cup and, on a different day, could have taken them to the final in Gabon. In this feature, we profile five potential candidates to replace Grant.

FANTASY: JESUS OFFERING UNBEATABLE PRICE

Our fantasy football writer looks at the Brazil sensation and his rapid success at Man City to make the surefire case for adding him to your team Gabriel Jesus has been an absolute revelation since showing up in Manchester. The reason that couldn’t be phrased as “joined Manchester City”, or something similar, is that he actually signed last summer but was loaned back to his previous club: Palmeiras. This series of events opened up an interesting and fantasy relevant loophole in which Jesus was added to the Goal game in the summer and continued to drop in price until his first appearance for Manchester City. So, now that he’s officially in the Premier League, let’s look at his fantasy potential. Www.olaleredamilare97@gmail.com As a player, Jesus is pacey, can create his own chances, and has a keen eye for goal. These attributes have already been on display as he has scored three goals and assisted another in just two starts. While this is an incredibly small sample size, the fact that his 50 per cent shot accuracy falls in line with his career average shows that this kind of return may well be sustainable. Manchester City have not been at the level of years past but are still just three goals off being the best attack in the Premier League this season. The trio of Jesus, Leroy Sane, and Raheem Sterling can break at pace better than just about anyone which means they have a terrific chance of scoring in any match, regardless of opposition. Fortunately, the next three matches are kind anyway as they will consecutively face three of the bottom ten defences. Thus far he sounds like the perfect fantasy option, so what’s the downside? The elephant in the room for the Brazilian is playing time. Remember in December, when Sergio Aguero was suspended and Kelechi Iheanacho was the obvious choice to replace him? Well manager Pep Guardiola did the reasonable thing and played him just 98 minutes over those four matches. Now, Jesus is obviously more talented than Iheanacho and has started two consecutive matches of a possible three, but it’s important to keep in mind that Guardiola has shown a blatant disregard for fantasy managers this season. If Gabriel Jesus is able to hold onto his starting spot he is automatically a must-buy. His ownership reflects this fact having jumped from 0.15 per cent to 11.18 per cent in just two weeks. However, with his incredibly low price (5.8) and all the other factors mentioned above, Jesus is definitely one of the best fantasy values right now and, arguably one of the best ever.

STADIUM STAMPEDE KILLS 17 FANS IN ANGOLA

Fans reportedly stormed the stadium gates before the match got underway in the northern city of Uige, leaving 17 supporters dead and many injured Privacy Policy Terms of Service About Us Contact Us Copyright © 2017 Goal.com All rights reserved. The information contained in Goal.com may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the prior written authority of Goal.com 07:09 MAIN  SHARE AFP At least 17 fans have been killed with dozens more injured following a stampede at a football match in Angola on Friday. In a Girabola clash between Santa Rita de Cassia and Recreativo de Libolo, at least 59 people were also injured at Estadio Municipal 4 de Janeiro. Lovren: My life as a refugee Fans reportedly stormed the stadium gates before the match got underway in the northern city of Uige. PLAY "While the players were on the field, outside fans were trying to get into the stadium and a gate probably gave way to the pressure of the crowd causing several people to fall who were literally trampled on by the crowd," Recreativo de Libolo said in a statement posted on their website. "There are already 17 confirmed dead and at least 59 wounded... [this was] a tragedy without precedent in the history of Angolan football."

GRIEZMANN GIVE MOURINHO CONDITIONS BEFORE HE COULD JOIN MAN UNT

Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann has explained that Manchester United would have to qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League competition before he could consider joining the Red Devils. Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid The French striker has been the top summer target for Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho who wants to strengthen his striking department for next Premier League campaign. Facebook® Account Sign Up Join your friends online! Free sign up & unlimited opportunities to connect. Ad Although, the player is contracted to Atletico Madrid till the year 2021, but Manchester United have been said to be ready to meet his asking price of 85 million pounds. Manchester United coach Mourinho and Griezmann PAY ATTENTION: Get the latest news on NAIJ.com News App Manchester United are currently battling to make it into the top four and get back into the Champions League next season. Jose Mourinho and his wards currently occupy sixth position on the Premier League standings with 45 points after 24 games played this season.

HUMMELS OFFER ARSENAL HOPE FOR CL TIE

The Germany international centre-back has insisted his side are yet to hit top gear this season and is anticipating a tough test against the Gunners EXCLUSIVE Bayern Munich defender Mats Hummels has insisted that his side are not playing their best football at the moment, giving hope to Arsenal ahead of their Champions League tie. The Gunners face a daunting task against the Bundesliga champions, with the north Londoners having been knocked out at the last 16 stage by the German giants in two of the last four seasons. Arsene Wenger takes his side to the Allianz Arena for the first leg of the first knockout round on February 15, but Hummels is fully aware that Bayern are not currently firing on all cylinders. Wenger: My future is not at stake He told Goal : "For me personally, everything is great this season. I'm very happy with how I'm doing as a player. As a team, our results and our position in the table is okay. "Even though on the pitch we aren't always playing at the level we expected. That's one thing we see, but it it's something you can change immediately simply because you've noticed it. "We must work hard in order to change it. Nevertheless we're in first place, four points clear of the rest which means that we can't have done too badly so far. But yes, of course, we're still very far from our best." Hummels is anticipating a difficult challenge if Bayern are to advance past the Gunners, insisting that he is expecting a different kind of contest to what his side regularly face in their domestic competition. PLAY He added: "It's a difficult but very attractive tie. It's nice, because it's in stark contrast to all our other matches. Arsenal are a team that wants to play football, they like to be in possession. "Since Arsene Wenger's been there, so about 20 years, that's what they've stood for. It will certainly be a completely different game what we face in our Bundesliga matches. They're not an opponent that only defends and attempts the counter attack. "So you have to classify this game in complete isolation to any others and not consider what's happened before, or what can happen after." Ballack: Ozil should join Bayern Arsenal had appeared to be the side with the best chance of catching runaway Premier League leaders Chelsea although consecutive league defeats to Watford and Antonio Conte's side have seen them fall 12 points behind. When asked if the Gunners possessed their best squad for a number of years, Hummels said: "For me it's always difficult [to make such comparisons] as you have ups and downs during a season. "They had a period where they looked the strongest Arsenal team for a long time. I think they won seven or eight league games. But that's the same as us. We have good periods and bad periods. "You can't predict what sort of form Arsenal or Bayern will be in."

CARROLL BEATS GIROUD TO SCORE PREMIER LEAGUE GOAL OF THE MONTH

The West Ham United striker netted a stunning acrobatic strike against Crystal Palace, beating the Arsenal star's scorpion kick to the award When Olivier Giroud scored his incredible scorpion kick for Arsenal against Crystal Palace on New Year's Day, many thought he had the Premier League Goal of the Season award wrapped up. Stats show only Ronaldo compares to Ibrahimovic However, the Gunners star’s effort was not even the best goal of January, according to a panel which included the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Thierry Henry combined with a public vote. The French striker's mind-blowing goal went viral at the start of 2017, leaving players past and present, fans and even the man himself in awe of it. But two weeks later Giroud was overshadowed by West Ham's Andy Carroll, whose goal, which also came against Crystal Palace, claimed the award for the best of the month. An awesome acrobatic bicycle kick at the London Stadium saw the Hammers extend their lead to 2-0 in the 79th minute in a 3-0 win. The award was a delight for Carroll, who has his goal etched into his memory already. “I’m delighted to have won the Goal of the Month competition, especially given how good some of the other goals were," he told West Ham's official website. PLAY “As soon as I hit it I knew it was in, I got a good connection and knew it would hit the back of the net. It’s definitely the best goal I’ve ever scored, one I’m very proud of. Who is Europe's best No.9? “I enjoy every goal I score, but that one was certainly a little bit more special – I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of watching that one back.” Since that strike, Carroll has registered another three in the Premier League, scoring a double against Middlesbrough and finding the net once against Southampton. He now has six goals in 12 league matches.

CHELSEA FANS PAYING HIGH TRIBUTE TO MIKEL

The Nigerian opted for the Chinese Super League after over a decade with the Blues, prompting great praise from fans on social media John Obi Mikel has ended speculation about his future after signing with Chinese Super League side Tianjin TEDA from Chelsea. The Nigeria captain had looked certain to move to Valencia, with the club's director Garcia Pitarch holding a meeting with him on Christmas Day. But a change of heart means Mikel will continue his professional career in Asia. WATCH: Mikel's career in numbers The midfielder's list of titles won during an almost 11-year stint at Stamford Bridge could easily put him in the 'experienced veteran' category, despite being only 29 years old, and Blues fans have been quick about praising the club hero. John Obi Mikel at Chelsea: 10 Years 374 Apps 2 Premier League 4 FA Cup 2 League Cup 1 Charity Sheild 1 UCL 1 Europa League 8:21 AM - 6 Jan 2017 40 39 Conteholic @aamirrkhann10 Say what you like about him but John Obi Mikel is a Chelsea legend. 10:07 AM - 6 Jan 2017 39 36 SimplyConte @SimplyConte John Obi Mikel. Mikel John Obi. Obi John Mikel. Colossal for a decade of unprecedented success. £16mil to Man U was worth it 10 times over 1:44 PM - 5 Jan 2017 22 47 Jamie @NineJamie John Obi Mikel won every major club honour in his over 10 years of service. What a Man! #CFC 11:15 AM - 6 Jan 2017 41 41 SonOfChelsea @SonOfChelsea Some fans feel Mikel is to thank for their only Champions League title. John Obi Mikel won us the Champions League. Don't ever forget that. pic.twitter.com/HtkQspW160 COMMENT PLS

CONTE BELIEVES MAN UTD ARE STILL IN TITLE RACE

The Chelsea boss, whose side are now nine points clear of second-placed Tottenham, believes there are still six teams capable of winning the league Antonio Conte has insisted that Manchester United are still in the title race despite being 14 points behind Chelsea. The Red Devils are currently on a run of 15 matches unbeaten in the Premier League but remain in sixth place in the table, two points behind fourth-placed Arsenal. Only Ronaldo compares to Zlatan The Blues, meanwhile, have raced ahead in top spot in the table, with their convincing 3-1 win over the Gunners meaning they are nine points clear of Tottenham in second. But Conte does not think that Jose Mourinho's side are out of the running to win the title, despite being so far behind with only 14 games remaining. He told reporters: "Honestly, I think there are six really strong teams that can fight to win the title, and we must know this. "If we think we are very close to winning the title because we have nine points [ahead of their rivals], this is a great mistake." Conte was also asked about Eden Hazard's form, with the winger scoring a superb solo goal in the win over Arsenal, and whether he can put a value on the Belgian sensation. He added: "I'm not very good at putting prices on players. I think Eden is a great player, a top player, at a very high level." Mata: We must embrace pressure Willian, meanwhile, admitted on Thursday that Jose Mourinho and Manchester United had made enquiries over signing him in the summer. The Blues boss insists he has not seen the quotes, however, and played down the story. He said: "I don't know about this. For me it's not important. Only be focused on the present." COMMENT PLEASE

MOURINHO EXPECTING UP TO 4 SIGNINGS IN THE SUMMER

After a close-season in 2016 which saw his side spend a world-record fee on Paul Pogba, the manager expects far less activity after this campaign Manchester United will likely do comparatively little in the transfer market this summer but could still recruit up to four new players, claims manager Jose Mourinho. Only one player compares to Zlatan After breaking the world record for a deal by re-signing Paul Pogba before the current campaign, the Portuguese believes that his squad is in far better shape ahead of the next window. "Everything is balanced and I think our summer [activity] will be quite small," he told reporters. Since the retirement of Alex Ferguson, United have repeatedly revamped their squad as they seek to find a rhythm under consecutive new managers. The Red Devils' executive vice chairman, Ed Woodward, told investors on Thursday that they would look to avoid "churning through a large number of players" in 2017 and Mourinho agrees with the sentiment, though he does expect up to four players to come and go. Video Posted by Goal . com "He's completely right," the United boss remarked. "Of course we speak about what's next and we know that we have a squad that, like every squad, needs changes. "But we know also that our squad has potential, our squad has good players, many of them in the best age, the age of evolution and it's not our philosophy, independent of the numbers - can you spend £1 million, £10m or £100m? - independent of the numbers, it's also the philosophy, the idea and we look at it in this way. Conte: Man Utd still in title race "We prefer to bring two, three or four players but good players, players that feel an idea, a football that we try to play, that can improve our squad. We are not interested in selling six or seven and buying six or seven and, from this six or seven, only one or two are great quality or the others are the same as the ones we are selling. "We are not going to play this game. We are stable, so we think that our market in the summer will be soft, will be natural: some players to leave, some players to come but in a very natural way."

ALL YOU NEED TO NO ABOUT ARSENAL AND HULL CITY TIE

Everything you need to know ahead of the Premier League clash at Emirates Stadium on Saturday 10:00 MAIN  SHARE Getty Images Arsenal’s annual capitulation appears to be in full flow as the Gunners go into Saturday’s game with Hull City off the back of consecutive defeats to Watford and league leaders Chelsea. It has been a dismal week for Arsene Wenger’s side and fan discontent has emerged as a talking point across social media following the focus of one banner urging him to leave, but the Frenchman denied his future is at stake in his pre-match press conference. Wenger: We can't compete without fans "I believe what is important is we focus on the next game and do not give too much importance on one fan," he said. "It's not me at stake, it's the season of Arsenal that is at stake. In a football club it's important you have different opinions. What matters is not the opinions of people, what matters is the next result and how we respond to different situations. “I want the fans to be behind the team. But at the same time, I am not fool enough not to know that the first priority is us and our dynamic inside the team that will create and facilitate the support of our fans. That is down to the quality of our performance” Wenger: My future is not at stake The Gunners' midfield crisis does look like it's beginning to ease, with Mohamed Elneny returning from the Africa Cup of Nations and Granit Xhaka serving the final match of his four-game suspension. ARSENAL INJURIES Hector Bellerin faces a late fitness test to determine whether he can be involved against Hull. The right- back sustained a head injury in the match at Stamford Bridge last weekend and hasn't been training over the past week. Danny Welbeck could start ahead of the upcoming Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, while Elneny seems likely to return alongside Francis Coquelin in midfield, despite an assured appearance from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in that role against Chelsea. 'Ozil not good enough for Invincibles' Santi Cazorla is the only long-term absentee on the sidelines, with an expected return date pencilled in at six to eight weeks. ARSENAL SUSPENSIONS Granit Xhaka is serving the last of his four-game suspension. Similarly, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will watch his fourth consecutive match from the stands after being charged by the FA following his misconduct towards the end of the Gunners' victory over Burnley. ARSENAL POTENTIAL STARTING LINE-UP Bellerin’s inevitable absence means that Gabriel will almost certainly continue at right-back, unless Wenger decides to give Carl Jenkinson or Mathieu Debuchy a surprise start. Wenger isn't expected to rest players ahead of the European tie in Munich next week and will field the likes of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez against Marco Silva's side. Hummels gives Arsenal hope A decision on who should lead the line is likely to be between Olivier Giroud and Danny Welbeck, with the latter in with a shout to get the nod after an impressive cameo at Chelsea. HULL DOSSIER Hull have kept two clean sheets in February - as many as they'd kept in their previous 26 Premier League games combined. Silva targets another Arsenal win Marco Silva has got the Tigers looking solid at the back, but captain Michael Dawson looks set to miss out through injury. Abel Hernandez, who has scored three goals in eight appearances, is also ruled out of the game although Ahmed Elmohamady is available after returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty. Premier League table The departed Robert Snodgrass is their top scorer with seven goals in the Premier League so far. BEST OPTA MATCH FACTS Arsenal have won seven of their last eight Premier League meetings with Hull (D1) since losing their first game against the Tigers in the competition, back in September 2008 (1-2 at the Emirates). Since that 2-1 victory, Hull are winless in 13 games against the Gunners in all competitions, losing 11 (D2) including the 2014 FA Cup final. Alexis Sanchez has had a hand in six goals in three league games against Hull (five goals, one assist). Sanchez is one of three Arsenal players to average 2+ goal involvements per game in the Premier League against a particular opponent (minimum of three appearances against them) - Ian Wright against Ipswich (eight goals and three assists in five games) and Lukas Podolski against West Ham (four goals and four assists in four games). Marco Silva won on his only previous visit to the Emirates — 3-2 with Olympiakos in the Champions League last season. He's the only manager to lead a Greek side to victory away on English soil in the Champions League/European Cup. Arsenal have won 41% of the games Francis Coquelin has started in all competitions this season (9/22) - without him in the starting XI, they have won all 13 (100%). TV COVERAGE & KICK- OFF TIME Kick off is at 12:30pm on Saturday 11th February and the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 1 . COMMENT PLS

ON CR7 COMPARED TO ULINCREDIBLE IBRA

The giant Manchester United front-man is certainly far from done after reaching the 20-goal mark for a 10th successive season COMMENT There are so many people who seem to want Zlatan Ibrahimovic to fail at every turn. For years he was decried by his critics as a Champions League flop, unable to score goals when the going got tough. Then, when he continued to win title after title across Europe, he was told he would never be able to cut it in the Premier League. But now the Swede is Manchester United’s shining light. February has barely begun in the 35-year-old’s first season at Old Trafford and yet he has already become the first United player of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era to score 20 goals in a season. And, as he warned after helping to see off champions Leicester City for the third time this term, he is far from done yet. Carrick: Top-four not worth celebrating “I have a target in my head but I will not say it. We are not there yet!” he told reporters at the King Power Stadium following the 3-0 win. “This is something I have been doing every year, and this is nothing new for me… I keep producing. I have 20 and seven assists, so the statistics so far are the same region as other years except for last year because that was a crazy year.” Last year was indeed a stand-out, with a career-high 50 goals netted in 51 games as he waved farewell to Paris Saint-Germain. But one look at his statistics shows that was simply a slight exaggeration of what are fundamentally phenomenal goal returns over the past 10 years. Because that is how long it has been since Ibrahimovic last failed to net 20 times in a single campaign. Only Cristiano Ronaldo can boast a similar record, having reached the 20 mark in 11 straight seasons, but the Real Madrid star has had the benefit of spending eight of those years in a settled environment at the Santiago Bernabeu and the other three with a flying United. Zlatan has delivered despite a far more nomadic existence which has taken in five clubs in four different leagues over the past decade. Even Lionel Messi was a year short of becoming known as a world great when Ibra kicked his wonderful scoring form into action. Hummels: Bayern not at their best yet As Watford head for Old Trafford for Saturday’s Premier League fixture, they do so knowing that Ibrahimovic is as dangerous as he has ever been. Not even two-thirds of the way through the season, a 30-goal return matching Robin van Persie’s memorable debut campaign of 2012-13 is not beyond him. And we should be anything but surprised if it happens. Wherever he has gone, he has succeeded. He is simply the most adaptable and consistent goal-scorer of the modern game. Successive 20- goal campaigns in 2007-08 and 2008-09 at Inter came under two different managers, Roberto Mancini and Jose Mourinho, who played markedly different systems. Then his supposedly failed experiment under Pep Guardiola at Barcelona saw him deliver 21 goals and 12 assists… some failure! Video Posted by Kris Voakes When he returned to Italy with Milan he notched another 56 goals and 25 assists in two seasons, including a then-career high 35 in 2011-12, before heading for Ligue 1 to score 156 and assist 58 in four years. There was a spell when people took it upon themselves to decide that if Zlatan finished his career without collecting a Champions League winners’ medal then he would feel like something was missing. He has insisted time and again that he does not consider it the be-all and end-all that some would have you believe. PLAY But if there is a more deserving player than he in the modern game, they have yet to make themselves known. This season looks set to be only the second in 14 years in which Zlatan will not finish up with a league title. Everywhere he goes, he wins. Everywhere he goes, he scores. Those doubting Ibrahimovic’s record will never be satisfied. If he went on to score 40 this term, they would find something wrong with it. If he were to win the Champions League with United next season, it would be down to anyone other than the big man from Malmo. The truth is that he is one of the greatest strikers the 21st century game has seen, and it is worth noting that he lies just 26 goals short of 500 in his exceptional career. With a second season at Old Trafford potentially in the offing, don't be surprised to see the indefatigable Swede reach that mark as a United player around this time next year. COMMENT PLEASE

CHELSEA STAR URGES OZIL TO LEAVE ARSENAL SO HE CAN WIN TROFIES

Former Germany national team captain Michael Ballack has urged Arsenal star Mesut Ozil to dump the Gunners for a move to German club Bayern Munich for him to win major silverware. Former Chelsea star Michael Ballack Ozil's current deal with the Gunners will expire in June 2018, but his future at the Emirates stadium is in doubt as talks over a contract renewal have yet to reach a successful conclusion. The 28-year-old former Real Madrid player has been linked with a number of clubs recently but Ballack believes a move to the Bundesliga champions would be ideal for him. "Mesut is an amazing player. He knows that he is one of the undisputed stars at Arsenal and lots of club would love to have him. Arsenal star Mesut Ozil "But if he wants to win a major title, he has a bigger chance to achieve that at Bayern Munich ,'' Ballack explained. PAY ATTENTION: Get the latest news on NAIJ.com News App Meanwhile, Arsenal's hope of winning the Premier League title this season seems to have been decimated after their loss at Chelsea as the Gunners now occupy fourth position on the standings with 47 points, and they are 12 points behind leaders Chelsea.

5 BORING PLAYERS YOU WILL NEVER WANT TO GO OUT WITH

Being a top class footballer, you are practically a celebrity whose personal and professional life is immensely followed by the paparazzi. Football has given us a lot of eccentric character over the years like Antonio Cassano, Paolo Di Canio, Mario Balotelli and Ronaldinho and there are just some who are not interesting to follow. For these footballers, the best way to hang and have fun is alien to their peers and even their fans. Checkout five footballer you as a jaiye jaiye fan must never hang out with; 1. Javier Zanetti The former Inter Milan defender is not one for social events. Rumour has it that upon realising that there was no gym in the Istanbul hotel in which he was staying, he used his wife as a barbell. Worse still, he went for a run before the reception on his wedding day! Former Inter Milan captain Javier Zanetti 2. James Milner There is no better way of describing boring than having a parody account named after you. The Liverpool assistant captain is so boring that you never hear him go to clubs to talk to ladies. I just said to Emre Can Do you realise we've only won 1 game in 2017? He said Yes, it's shocking. I said It is shocking. He said I know. 8:05 PM - 8 Feb 2017 727 2,513 Boring James Milner @BoringMilner Milner has a parody account on twitter named "Boring James Milner". The Englishman is reputed to be a dullard but Jurgen Klopp refuses that claim. According to Klopp, Milner is found boring "maybe it's because he's had the same haircut since he was at Leeds!" 3. Xavi Hernandez The former Barcelona captain is not retired (for those who think he is). Xavi is so boring, he looks boring with his lazy eyes. He never passes as someone who loves to club and spends his freetime picking mushrooms. during one appearance on Spanish TV, Xavi showed off his 'impressive' knowledge by correctly guessing the names of every mushroom shown to him. Xavi in action against Manchester United 4. Jordan Henderson Yes he has been caught hanging out at night but Henderson is as boring as the way he plays. Henderson doesn't drink and rarely goes out. Even Henderson admits that he doesn't even have any exciting pastimes. "I am a bit boring," he has confessed. "I stay in and watch TV." BORING! Henderson is Liverpool captain 5. Lionel Messi Then to our most boring player...Lionel Messi. Yes he has tattoos and sometimes takes alcohol but for someone regarded as the greatest footballer ever, Messi does not pump the adrenaline outside the football pitch. Lionel Messi He doesn't club and has very few friends in and outside football. According to rumours, the Barcelona and Argentina spends half his sleeping and staying indoors with his two kids. To tell you how boring Messi is, Argentine-born model, Xoana Gonzalez claims to have bedded the Barcelona star and described it as ‘having s** with a dead body’.

NIGERIA HAS GONE UP NINE PLACES IN LATEST FIFA RANKINGS

Nigeria has gone up nine places in the latests FIFA rankings despite not participating at the 2017 African Cup of nations. Super Eagles line up before a match Nigeria was ranked 50th in the January rankings but now find themselves 41st in the February rankings. AFCON 2017 winners Cameroon are ranked 33rd in the world and third in Africa The Super Eagles are ranked 7th in Africa behind Egypt, Senegal Cameroon, Tunisia, Congo DR and Burkina Faso who occupy positions 1 - 6. February 2017 FIFA rankings for African teams Ghana, Ivory Coast and Morocco complete the top 10 in Africa.

ANOTHER SUPER EAGLES STAR SET TO MOVE TO CHINA

Nigerian international Osaze Odemwingie has explained that he would be glad to secure a move to play in the Chinese Super League, but claimed that the move could be difficult as clubs in China are only interested in younger players. Nigerian forward Osaze Odemwingie The 35-year-old has featured in France, Russia, Belgium as well as in the Premier League in England with West Bromwich Albion, Cardiff City and Stoke City. “There is a possibility to move to China even though it is becoming more difficult for players of my age now to go there. Nigerian international Osaze Odemwingie “We had our third baby in October in England and now my wife does not mind travelling. “Earlier in my career I had the chance to move to the Emirates, Qatar and China but I did not take it,'' the petite forward said Should Odemwingie secure a deal to play in the Chinese Super League, then he will join Super Eagles duo of John Obi Mikel and Odion Ighalo who have made a mega switch to China.

LUIS SUAREZ RED CARD AGAINST ATLETICO MADRID TO BE RESCINDED

Spanish giants Barcelona have made their intention known that they will contest the red red given to their striker Luis Suarez in their semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, February, 7, 2017 in the Copa del Rey. Barcelona striker Luis Suarez Barcelona forced Atletico Madrid to a 1-1 draw in the encounter and Suarez was booked two times in which the forward is now set to miss the epic final. The club are not comfortable that Suarez will not be allowed to feature in the final, and they will appeal the decision. Suarez who joined Barcelona from Premier League club Liverpool however explained that the referee made the wrong decision to have sent him out for his challenge on Koke. Barcelona star Luis Suarez "I'm laughing at that second yellow card, because it's not even a foul. "I did absolutely nothing. It was what he [Koke] wanted." Suarez said. Barcelona have also confirmed that defender Javier Mascherano suffered a left thigh injury in the same game, with the club saying they did not know how long he might be out for.

FC IFEANYI UBAH IN TALKS TO SELL TWO NIGERIAN STARD TO CHINESE CLUBS

FC Ifeanyi Ubah in talks to sell two Nigerian stars to Chinese clubs - The Nnewi based club already have a partnership with West Ham Owner of NPFL side FC Ifeanyiubah, Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, says his side are currently in talks with two Chinese clubs to sell Nigerian talents to them. Ifeanyi Ubah Ifeanyi Ubah says he does not want to be left out of the increased riches in the Chinese Super League which has seen John Mikel Obi, Oscar, Carlos Tevez and Cheik Tiote move to the Asian country. "We don't want to be left out of this revolution in world football. We want to sell our players to clubs who find them good enough to play in the Chinese Super League,” he said. Last year Ifeanyi Ubah sealed a massive partnership deal with top English Premier League side West Ham United. The deal is supposed to see the London club establish a football academy in Nigeria and take some players of FC Ifeanyiubah on trials. This has already started yielding fruits according to oil magnate FC Ifeanyiubah are fast emerging as one of the top guns in Nigeria after they won the Federation Cup last year and will feature in the CAF Confederation Cup. FC Ifeanyi Ubah coach Rafael Everton The club also won the Charity Cup at the beginning of the season. On Sunday afternoon in Nnewi, the club will tackle Al Masry of Egypt in the first round, first leg of the Confederation Cup.

RENIERE DELIGHTED WITH NDIDI'S PERFORMANCE

The Foxes’ handler was delighted with the Nigerian’s impressive showing in their FA Cup replay win against Steve McClaren's side Claudio Ranieri has expressed excitement at Wilfried Ndidi ’s match- winning performance in Leicester City ’s 3-1 victory over Derby County in an FA Cup replay on Wednesday. Immediately after the restart, Andy King got the curtain raiser for the Foxes before Abdoul Camara’s 61st minute deflected freekick took the tie into extra time. Ranieri introduced the 20-year-old after the regulation period and it took him just four minutes to settle the tie. The former Genk midfielder was released through the middle by Riyad Mahrez before making forward strides and unleashing a 25-yard missile that cannoned in off the post. Winger Demarai Gray capped off the encounter with a superb solo effort. The Italian manager was happy with the choice they made in signing the Nigeria international from Belgium. ''I'm happy with Ndidi. This young player is full of personality and good character. We've chosen well,” Ranieri said in a post-match interview. “For me it (the win) is important for Leicester. When I speak, I speak for Leicester. “It’s very important this victory and to go through in the cup. It gives us confidence. It was a difficult match. “When we scored, we played better. Then we scored again and we kept the ball well.” Ndidi will look to build on this performance when his side, placed a low 16th on the English Premier League log, face fellow strugglers, Swansea City in their next topflight outing on February 12.

MKHITARYAN:MAN UTD MOVE NOT ABOUT MONEY

MKHITARYAN: MAN UTD MOVE NOT ABOUT MONEY, THEY'RE JUST BIGGER THAN DORTMURD The attacker says the Old Trafford club were the attraction, insisting he has taken a step up by leaving BVB Henrikh Mkhitaryan has insisted that he was simply signing up for a bigger challenge when leaving Borussia Dortmund for Manchester United in the summer of 2016, and claims that any talk of a money-driven transfer is misguided. Henry: I wish I played with Giroud Mkhitaryan established himself as one of the hottest properties in European football during a three-season spell in the Bundesliga, the midfielder scoring 41 goals and creating 49 in 140 appearances in all competitions. Naturally Dortmund were desperate to hold on to the Armenia international when United came calling, but the 28-year-old could not turn down a switch to Old Trafford. "United might not have been my dream club to begin with, but they have always been among the best clubs in the world for me," Mkhitaryan told Sport Bild. "Manchester United are a bigger club than Borussia Dortmund, everyone knows that and we should just accept that. "It was a new challenge for me that I could not turn down." Some suggested Mkhitaryan's decision to leave Dortmund was down to financial reasons, but he has dismissed such claims. "I find it hard to understand criticism that I joined United for the money. That is simply wrong," he added. Tevez loses first game in China PLAY "Had it all been about money for me, I would have left for Shakhtar Donetsk for Anzhi Makhachkala rather than Borussia Dortmund. "But that was not what I wanted. I wanted to keep on developing. "My decision to leave Dortmund was not a decision against the club. It was just time for a new challenge."

GRIEZMANN WON'T JOIN SMALL TEAM "UNITED"

The Liga club appear determined to do everything they can to keep hold of the 25-year-old striker, pointing to the player's contract signed until 2021 Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has branded Manchester United a “small team” when he was asked over whether Antoine Griezmann might depart the Vicente Calderon for Jose Mourinho’s side. Morata an ideal replacement for Costa Griezmann, 25, has been regularly linked with a move to Old Trafford since the summer, when his great friend Paul Pogba made a world- record switch to the Red Devils from Juventus. As reported by Goal , the Frenchman is United's top transfer target, with the club preparing to tempt Atleti with an €80 million bid in the summer . But Cerezo has dismissed the world’s richest club when he was asked whether his star striker, who is contracted to the club until 2021, could depart for England in the summer. PLAY “Manchester United? A small team,” he is quoted as having said by Marca. “I believe in the contracts that people sign, and that goes for Diego Simeone and Griezmann.” Mourinho will block De Gea to Madrid Meanwhile, he has retracted his recent statements on Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero – but only to an extent. The Argentine left Atleti for the Premier League club back in 2011, although has hinted that he could leave the Etihad Stadium after being dropped to the bench for the club's last two matches. Cerezo labelled Aguero "stupid" for quitting the Liga side, but has now moved to clarify his comments. He explained: "I said on the radio that Aguero was a fool, but he's not a fool. "He is one of the best players in the history of football, and I said he was stupid for leaving Atletico. "He's a great player and a good friend, I wish him all the luck of the world at Manchester City.” PLEASE COMMENT

IWOBI SINGLES OUT BEST CAREER INFLUENCE

The Gunners forward has hailed Jack Wilshere's role in his development after reaching 50 appearances in all competitions for the club Arsenal youngster Alex Iwobi has singled out Jack Wilshere as the player who has had the biggest influence on him, although Francis Coquelin has taken up that role this campaign following the England international's loan move to Bournemouth. Morata an ideal replacement for Costa Iwobi has developed into an important first-team member since making his debut in October 2015 and recently made his 50th appearance for the Gunners. He is determined to keep improving in the years to come and has thanked Wilshere for his role in his development so far. "The biggest influence on me would probably be Jack Wilshere, but he has not been around recently," the 20- year-old told the Arsenal website. "He talks to me off the pitch because he has been through the same system as me. I just watch what he does, especially as I grew up as a number 10 and he’s a number 10. "Now I would say it is Francis Coquelin, he is always talking to me. After the Watford game he told me what I did well, and what I need to improve on. He is definitely one who keeps me in check. Why Martial must escape Mourinho PLAY "I never thought I would be here at the age of 20, it is an amazing feeling to have made more than 50 appearances for Arsenal. "It is just the start of my career basically, so I just need to get more goals, more assists and make more appearances and do my best for the team." COMMENT PLS

MUST READ: POGBA IN WORST XI

Several of the biggest names about may not be not as good as you may think and could actually be harming your fantasy Premier League team You've paid big to have some of the Premier League's biggest names in your Fantasy team. Now that they're in it, you can't afford for them not to perform. Yet some of your top earners have proven liabilities rather than leaders in the past few weeks. Last Friday’s article was all about the players that were flying under the radar. Diamonds in the rough, if you will. Finding great values is an easy way to improve your team; just as sinking too much money into over- priced or over owned-players can ruin it. Below is a list of 11 players who are over 10 per cent owned… but shouldn’t be. Consider discarding them - it's certainly flashy to keep some of the Premier League's household names but be sure that you are not paying through the nose to keep them in. Don't forget, if you're yet to enter a team this season then it's not too late. There are weekly and monthly prizes to be won. Simply download the app and get started! GK: Petr Cech - 10.68%, 6.9 This Arsenal defence is just not as good as it was last season. Their seven clean sheets are palatable but the days of ranking in the fantasy elite are in the rear view mirror. Cech himself is a mediocre option as well. He is fifth in saves and points, but is tied as the second most expensive goalkeeper and has only managed one clean sheet in the last five matches. DF: Hector Bellerin - 17.49%, 6.4 DF: John Stones - 12.4%, 5.4 DF: Toby Alderweireld - 16.21%, 6.7 This may seem harsh at first glance, but things are not looking great for the Belgian at the moment. Tottenham were already missing Jan Vertonghen and now, without Danny Rose for the next month, the likelihood of clean sheets looks quite low. Throw in three top 10 attacks in the next five matches and you have a player that looks overpriced, over owned, and droppable. DF: Nathaniel Clyne - 11.93%, 5.9 MF: Riyad Mahrez - 11.65%, 7.4 MF: Dimitri Payet - 12.37%, N/A MF: Paul Pogba - 21.72%, 7.5 Pogba’s ownership being this high is almost entirely due to name recognition rather than fantasy performance. He has failed to earn more than two points in the last five matches and with Manchester United not playing in match weeks 26 or 28, now is the perfect time to drop the French superstar. MF: Mesut Ozil - 15.11%, 8.0 MF: Adam Lallana - 12.6%, 7.2 FWD: Sergio Aguero - 30.37%, 8.5 Aguero was already hard to own before Gabriel Jesus turned up in Manchester. Now that the young Brazilian has already taken the starting spot it looks impossible to justify owning a player who is sixth in price, 44th in points, yet is fourth in ownership (30.37%). His price is currently at 8.5 and, assuming it continues to fall, could become an interesting option if he ended up finding his way back into Pep Guardiola’s best XI. Privacy Policy Terms of Service About Us Contact Us Copyright © 2017 Goal.com All rights reserved. The information contained in Goal.com may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the prior written authority of Goal.com 16:05 PREMIER LEAGUE COMMENT PLEASE

LAHM RETIRING FROM FOOTBALL AT THE END OF THE SEASON

Under contract with Bayern until 2018, the long-serving defender has announced his plan to hang up his boots ahead of schedule Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm will retire from football at the end of the 2016-17 Bundesliga campaign. The baffling mystery of Thomas Muller Under contract until 2018, Lahm announced his plan to quit ahead of schedule in the wake of Tuesday’s 1-0 DFB-Pokal win over Wolfsburg, having celebrated his 500th club appearance against Schalke on Saturday. "I will retire at the end of the season," the 33-year-old confirmed to reporters when asked about his future. Bayern were keen to name Lahm as the club's new sporting director ahead of next season, but the right-back has opted to take a sabbatical instead. PLAY "I have decided that it is not the right moment yet to take the job as sporting director," he added. Lahm came through the ranks of the Bayern youth academy and spent his entire career bar a two-year loan with Stuttgart at the Allianz Arena. Doulgas Costa seals DFB Pokal progression He has won seven Bundesliga titles, six DFB-Pokals, the Champions League and the Club World Cup with Bayern. The defender also captained Germany to 2014 World Cup glory as they beat Argentina 1-0 in the final, before retiring from international football after the tournament

CAMEROON STARS GET HERIOC WELCOME

The Indomitable Lions that won the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations title in Gabon received a welcome full of music and dance on arrival at Yaounde Nsimalen International Airport, on Monday evening. They were welcomed by cheering fans and a troupe of merry-makers that made the occasion a very interesting one for all.

BARCA SCRAPE PAST ATLETICO INTO COPA FINAL

Kevin Gameiro's late goal was not enough for Atletico Madrid as a 1-1 draw at Camp Nou meant Barcelona advanced to the Copa del Rey final with a 3-2 aggregate victory. PLEASE COMMENT

OFFICIAL: GHANA AND COACH GRANT PART WAYS

The Black Stars are now without a coach after the former Chelsea boss' departure Just a few days after guiding Ghana through their second Nations Cup tournament, Avram Grant has quit the West African side. This is despite earlier reports suggesting that the Israeli would renew his contract to remain at the helm of the Black Stars whom he’s overseen for more than two years. The former Chelsea boss took over from Kwesi Appiah in November 2014 and amazingly led Ghana to the final of the 2015 Afcon where they were defeated by Ivory Coast. But a series of unconvincing displays and a disastrous 2018 World Cup Qualification campaign saw a number of Ghanaians express their dissatisfaction with the 62-year-old. BBC reports that Grant told Ghana FA president Kwesi Nyantakyi: "The time is right for me to move on to a new challenge". Whilst a statement from The Ghana Football Association (GFA) reads: “The two parties will mutually part ways after their contract ends on February28.” “Both parties have mutually agreed not to renew the contract upon its expiry.” Grant was in charge of total of 26 matches with Ghana. Winning 12, drew six and lost on eight occasions.

OYONGO PICKS SENEGAL OVER GHANA AS AFCON BEST SIDE

The Cameroon left-back says the Teranga Lions were the most impressive team at the continental showpiece Despite winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon, Cameroon defender Ambroise Oyongo believes Senegal were the best team at the championship. The left-back was instrumental as the Indomitable Lions beat Egypt in Sunday's final to claim a fifth continental title, having also played every minute of his side's campaign. En route the final, Hugo Broos' outfit accounted for the Teranga Lions and Ghana in the quarter and semi-finals respectively, after progressing from Group A, which included hosts Gabon. "It is amazing because we went so far," Oyongo, who plays for Major League Soccer side Montreal Impact, told Fifa.com. "We worked very hard and it was difficult. We played against all the big teams in Africa. We played against Senegal, Ghana and now we played against Egypt. "I think we deserved it. It was very difficult, but now we are champions. "I think it is because we have fighting spirit, so we have to be happy, because we deserve it. "After beating Senegal, we became more confident, because Senegal was the best team at this Africa Cup of Nations. "So when we beat them, we were confident that we could win this competition." Cameroon are set to represent Africa at the 2017 Fifa Confederation Cup following their triumph.

HENRY- MENTAL WEAKNESS IS ARSENAL'S PROBLEM NOT WENGER

The Gunners icon believes the current squad does not realise how much it can achieve and urged the manager to address their mental frailties Thierry Henry does not believe Arsene Wenger has to leave Arsenal for them to win the Premier League, but says the manager must address his side’s mentality problems. Lacazette's Lyon departure is perfectly timed Arsenal are now 12 points behind leaders Chelsea after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Antonio Conte’s men at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The defeat followed a 2-1 loss at home to Watford in the competition and has culminated in more calls from fans for the Frenchman to leave the club. With his contract at the Emirates expiring at the end of the season and no news of a renewal, that could become a reality. Henry feels it is not a necessary step for the Gunners, though, insisting a psychological weakness appears to be holding the team back. “Does this team have enough to win the Premier League? It can be debated. On paper, yes. If Chelsea is ahead, Arsenal also can be,” he said on RMC. “But it is necessary to be in tune with all the players, to work in training. This team is not aware of what they can achieve. There must be self-management and self-discipline. “I don't think Arsene has to leave. Should he change his tactics and his way of doing things? I don't know. But what he must do there is mental work. The tactics help, but what I saw against Chelsea is a mental problem. This is not easy to manage. The problem is more mental than quality. Because if Leicester can win the championship... For now, it is true that they are missing something. Statistics are there to prove that.” The Arsenal icon was then asked if he could end up in charge of the first- team in the future. "If I were to tell you that I don’t want to coach Arsenal, I would be lying,” he replied. “But I have not done anything yet. I think about it, but it's far away, let me learn, we'll see later." After his eight year spell in north London, the former France striker joined Barcelona, where he worked with current Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. Henry quickly became a fan of the successful coach, stating he built on what Wenger had taught him. Gallas suggests Wenger should leave PLAY “Guardiola impressed me a lot. He made me see football in a different way. The last windows that were not open yet with Wenger, he opened them for me. “In one word, if I were to define it, I would say ‘intense’. His way of seeing the game is extraordinary. But it is also his problem. With him, you must always be ready. I learned a lot with him and his vision of football is enormous. “At City, this is the first time in his life that he is not first or second. It's not easy to manage. At City, too, there is an end of generation. There were problems. He must also learn in relation to what happens at England. I thought he would adapt faster.” PLEASE COMMENT

BOATENG: NELSON MANDELA WANTED ME TO MARRY IS DAUGHTER

Kamil Glik and Kylian Mbappe scored for the Ligue 1 leaders to improve their streak against their top-flight opponents Ligue 1 leaders Monaco stretched their unbeaten league run against Montpellier to 30 matches with a 2-1 victory at Stade de la Mosson. The record is Monaco’s longest against any club in the top flight and goals from Kamil Glik and Kylian Mbappe ensured it continued. Montpellier pulled one back through Hilton at the start of the second half but they were unable to complete the comeback, a late red card for Jemerson coming too late to give them a way back in. The result stretches Monaco’s lead at the summit to six points ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s clash with Lille later on Tuesday. PLAY Glik got Monaco off the mark in the 16th minute, when he rose to head a Thomas Lemar free-kick into an empty net, with goalkeeper Geoffrey Jourdren having carelessly rushed off his line to make more contact with Glik than with the ball. And the visitors' second was not far away. Four minutes later, Djibril Sidibe won possession on the edge of his own box and a swift counter attack culminated in Mbappe slotting beyond Jourdren having embarked on a rapid sprint down the left wing. Montpellier gave themselves every chance of snatching a result when Hilton headed in at the near post from a Ryad Boudebouz corner within two minutes of the restart. Monaco were then reduced to 10 men when Jemerson was shown a second yellow card for a challenge on Boudebouz after 88 minutes, but it left too little time for Montpellier to take advantage. COMMENT PLEASE

MONACO UNBEATEN RUN EXTENDED TO 30 GAMES

Kamil Glik and Kylian Mbappe scored for the Ligue 1 leaders to improve their streak against their top-flight opponents Ligue 1 leaders Monaco stretched their unbeaten league run against Montpellier to 30 matches with a 2-1 victory at Stade de la Mosson. The record is Monaco’s longest against any club in the top flight and goals from Kamil Glik and Kylian Mbappe ensured it continued. Montpellier pulled one back through Hilton at the start of the second half but they were unable to complete the comeback, a late red card for Jemerson coming too late to give them a way back in. The result stretches Monaco’s lead at the summit to six points ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s clash with Lille later on Tuesday. PLAY Glik got Monaco off the mark in the 16th minute, when he rose to head a Thomas Lemar free-kick into an empty net, with goalkeeper Geoffrey Jourdren having carelessly rushed off his line to make more contact with Glik than with the ball. And the visitors' second was not far away. Four minutes later, Djibril Sidibe won possession on the edge of his own box and a swift counter attack culminated in Mbappe slotting beyond Jourdren having embarked on a rapid sprint down the left wing. Montpellier gave themselves every chance of snatching a result when Hilton headed in at the near post from a Ryad Boudebouz corner within two minutes of the restart. Monaco were then reduced to 10 men when Jemerson was shown a second yellow card for a challenge on Boudebouz after 88 minutes, but it left too little time for Montpellier to take advantage.

MUST READ: MESSI VS HAZARD,2016/2017 STATS

After the Chelsea winger was likened to the Argentine superstar by Roberto Martinez, Goal analyses whether the duo really are on the same level ANALYSIS The football world is running out of superlatives for Eden Hazard following his wonder-goal in Chelsea’s 3-1 win over Arsenal at the weekend. This was proven when Belgium national team coach Roberto Martinez compared the pint-sized winger to Barcelona legend Lionel Messi. Boateng: Klopp is best coach in the world "What he does is quite unique," Martinez said in an interview with Goals on Sunday. "It's that acceleration and stopping and standing still. He reminds me a lot of Messi." "Not many players can control the moment and take the defenders where you want to take them. The way he uses the ball with his feet is sensational and what is surprising more than anything is his maturity." Messi, of course, is regarded as one of the best players of all time and has won the Ballon d'Or a record five times. Meanwhile, Hazard has been revitalised this term by club manager Antonio Conte after a miserable 2015-16 season, leading the club to the Premier League summit with a string of sensational displays. But can the former Lille man really be compared to the genius that is Messi, at least on a statistical level? With Chelsea out of Europe and an extra cup competition in England, only league football has been taken into consideration for this comparison. The baffling mystery of Thomas Muller In terms of goals scored, Messi is a comfortable winner having scored 16 times and Hazard 10. Leo also has more assists, setting up four goals to Hazard’s three – despite playing five fewer matches. However, it must be recognised that Hazard operates much more in wide areas than Messi does, and also has more defensive duties – and this naturally affects his ability to score and create. When it comes to official man of the match awards, Hazard is the victor. The 26-year-old has been the best player on the pitch eight times this term, one more time than Messi has. PLAY Hazard produces more crosses per game than Messi (1.38 crosses to 0.28) and he is also better at winning back the ball, recovering possession 4.87 times a game - compared to Messi’s 2.44. Chelsea play in a 3-4-3 formation that has freed up Hazard more but he is still required, like all Chelsea players under Conte, to defend. The Blues also operate on the counter-attack much more than the possession and territory-obsessed Barcelona. It is also fair to argue that the Premier League is a far more competitive and physical league than La Liga – with Barcelona more likely to dominate their local opponents than Chelsea are theirs. This naturally benefits Messi. Hazard out-performs Messi in pass completion stats, but as Messi is playing further up the pitch and is more focused on decisive actions that lead to goals, this is perhaps to be expected. Barcelona have scored four more goals than Chelsea so far this term and see their system built around their academy product, despite having both Luiz Suarez and Neymar in their team. A look into the dribbling stats of both players is perhaps the most insightful and surprising element of this analysis. Hazard defeats Messi both in attempted dribbles and successful dribbles. Perfect timing for Lacazette to leave So far this season, Hazard's dribbles- per-game are at 5.96, while his dribble success rate is at 73.72%, compared to Messi's 5.83 and 55.24%, respectively. Hazard is also the first player in Europe's top-five leagues to complete 100 dribbles following the match against Arsenal. Clearly, there are similarities in the way Hazard and Messi both move and dribble on the pitch. Their exciting styles of play make them two of the most popular and marketable players in the world. THAT goal from Eden Hazard against Arsenal #cfc #afc #chelsea #chelseafc #hazard 8:30 PM - 5 Feb 2017 699 848 Goal @goal All in all, these statistics prove that Hazard deserves to be compared with Messi based on his form this season. Goals and assists will always be the most decisive areas when comparing two attackers, and Messi is superior than the Belgian in these aspects. He remains the standard-bearer in world football, along with Cristiano Ronaldo. But in terms of his overall contribution to the team, Hazard outperforms the Argentine in numerous areas. And if there is one thing in particular he can be proud of, it is that he is a better dribbler than Messi right now! MUST COMMENT AFTER READING PLEASE