The window will open between Sunday, 1 June and Tuesday, 10 June, then close for five days before running again from Monday, 16 June until Monday, 1 September.

This summer features the first expanded Fifa Club World Cup, which involves 32 teams and adopts the format of the regular World Cup of the past few years.

Chelsea and Manchester City are the Premier League teams in the tournament which takes place in the United States from Sunday, 15 June.

But the Premier League can only have 12 weeks of a summer window – hence the five-day break in order to run it until 1 September.

Fifa has allowed new players to be registered for the Club World Cup from 1-10 June, and again from 27 June-3 July for the knockout stage.

Why is this happening?

Firstly, to bring order to the global registration system, world governing body Fifa only permits the transfer window in any individual country to be open for 16 weeks in any calendar year.

In Europe, precedent dictates four of those weeks are for the winter window, leaving 12 in the summer. In 2024, the Premier League transfer window opened on 14 June and closed on 30 August.

However, in October, Fifa approved an additional window from 1-10 June that would allow the 32 clubs competing in the Club World Cup to register new players before the tournament.

It also agreed to open a registration window mid-tournament, from 27 June and 3 July, to allow clubs to register additional players for the knockout stage.

As well as Manchester City and Chelsea, European heavyweights Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, Juventus, Paris St-Germain, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal are among others playing in the tournament.

In order to ensure Manchester City and Chelsea did not have an advantage over the other 18 top-flight clubs, the Premier League has adopted the same window.

However, 12 weeks from 1 June is 24 August. The Premier League wanted to be aligned with the rest of Europe’s big leagues around when the summer window closes. Those leagues preferred to close the window at the end of August, so that meant the window had to close and reopen.

What are the issues?

Firstly, the dates.

The Champions League final takes place in Munich on 31 May. After that, there are Nations League semi-finals and finals and World Cup qualifying double-headers. In Europe, those games take place 6-10 June.

It means players could be negotiating transfers in the build-up to important matches.

One potential impact concerns international players who may move to clubs competing in the Club World Cup.

Let us take two examples – Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kevin de Bruyne. Both are internationals who might be called up by England and Belgium for their June matches.

However, both are out of contract at Liverpool and Manchester City respectively on 30 June.

Alexander-Arnold currently plays for a club not involved in the United States this summer, but looks likely to join Real Madrid who are.

So, do Real reach an agreement over a fee with Liverpool to trigger Alexander-Arnold’s release early so he can play a full part in the competition? Or do they wait until 30 June and add him to their squad for the knockout stage?

Manchester City are involved in the Club World Cup. So, as it presently stands, De Bruyne could play in the group stage but would not be eligible for the knockout stage.

If De Bruyne does not want to commit for a further year, he could sign a short extension that covers the tournament and then leave. Or he could leave before the tournament and sign for a different club. If that club were also involved at the Club World Cup, De Bruyne would be in the same situation as Alexander-Arnold.

Fifa has also tweaked its registration rules to effectively mean clubs can sign players solely for the duration of the tournament. It is thought unlikely either Manchester City or Chelsea would be looking at that scenario.

Semi-automated offsides might come in next month

Semi-automated offside technology might be introduced to the Premier League in April.

It was trialled in the FA Cup fifth round – and will be tried again for the three quarter-final ties at Premier League grounds this weekend.

The plan was to introduce it for the Premier League in October or November, but issues with the system have delayed that.

If no problems arise from these FA Cup games, it will be rolled out in the Premier League next week.

Semi-automated offsides are designed to make the judgement of tight calls easier for officials by rendering key parts of the process automatic.

Bespoke cameras have been installed at all 20 Premier League grounds.

In the last round of the FA Cup there was a record eight-minute VAR stoppage during Bournemouth’s win against Wolves when officials were unable to rely on the new technology because of a congested penalty area.

At the heart of this resurgence lies Brazilian defender Murillo. With a pivotal league match against Manchester United looming, Showmax sat down with Murillo to discuss his career and about life at Nottingham Forest.

You finished 17th last season, and now you’re up with Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea. Did you expect that evolution? 

We knew how good we already were, and how good the newcomers were. The players from last season really gelled with the newcomers, and we were hoping to have a great season. It’s good to see that everything is working out, we’re happy with that. Now with this surprise, we need to keep it up so that better things come.

It looks like you’re having fun this season. It must feel great going toe to toe with such strong teams. 

It feels great. When we’re on the pitch, we can see they respect us more. Now we know we’ve reached the point we’ve been looking for. That feels really great for us. Even more so because of the union we feel in the club, among all the players. I mean, all the players feel settled at the club, everybody jokes with one another, everybody talks to one another, and I think that’s paramount off the pitch, and we’re managing to bring that feeling to the pitch, and it’s working just right.

Apart from that important feeling, what do you think makes it work so well? 

I think we’ve got Nuno’s [Espírito Santo] idea, which is the main thing. That relationship between players and manager is crucial to make things work. I think we’ve managed to understand what he’s passed on to us. Of course, with his intelligence and his staff who help out each of the players, no one is left behind, he’s with all of us. If he sees you fall, he runs to help you out. That connection is really solid, and that was crucial for us to reach this point.

When you say he’s with everyone, what do you mean? 

I mean he cares for all of us, he wants everybody on the same wavelength. He looks like a tough man, one that really gives you the “hair dryer”treatment. I’d say it’s just the appearance. He is one of the funniest managers I’ve ever had, he jokes with everyone, loves a laugh. It’s always fun being with him and to listen to his stories. He’s a very cool, funny guy.

Now talking about you, when you were playing futsal, then at São Caetano, then Ecos and União Barbarense. Did you picture yourself reaching such a high level? To even be considered one of the best, perhaps the best in the Premier League? 

I’m really glad about the moment I’m having, it’s been really rewarding. It shows how the hard work pays off. I knew I could dream big, but when you have God in your path, he takes you to places you’d never dreamed of. That’s what has been happening to me, so I am really glad and, God willing, this is just the beginning of many things, because I’m 22 years old, and if it’s up to me, I really want to achieve big things.

How was your childhood in São Paulo? 

Wow … I remember I started football at six at São Caetano, but really it was at 10 at the football academy where I started properly. I send my love to Marcelinho and Sandra, because they were key to my growth, as a player and personally, from 6 to 16. I remember it like it was yesterday, when my late dad took me there. I lost my dad when I was 10. He took me there to try to take the first steps in my career. It’s very moving. It feels like yesterday, it’s still very memorable to this day.

You were raised in a family of Corinthians fans, right? Tell us about your passion for Corinthians. Did you watch them on TV every weekend? 

Honestly, and I think I can say this now … some might think differently, but whatever. Until I was eight or nine years old, I was a São Paulo fan.

Are you serious? Did your dad know that? 

He did. When Corinthians played São Paulo, and Corinthians would win most of the time, my dad used to make fun of me, and I would get angry and cry. I would run to my bedroom and lock myself in, really mad. Then I thought better after watching Corinthians beat Santos 3-1, when Ronaldo scored a chip at Vila Belmiro, over Fabio Costa. Wow … It’s a really great memory when he did that Panenka, I ran out of the bar I was at on our street. I went to my dad’s house. I took off my shirt and put on my Corinthians one. Then I went back to the bar. Everyone looked at me, the little kid, and I said, “from this day on I’m a Corinthians fan!” and everyone went mad. From then on, I had Corinthians in my blood.

So, could you say that Ronaldo did this? 

Exactly, and after that goal I said, they’re a winning team, a team with a lot of guts and will to win. I thought in that moment that one day I wanted to play for that club. I wanted to really feel what Corinthians were all about. I was eight or nine years old. I remember saying to my dad, “dad, one day I want to play for Corinthians.”

It was your dad who took you to futsal, right? 

Yes, when I was six.

What was that like, did they see you and think you had what it took? 

Every Sunday, if I didn’t go to the mall with him, I’d be on the street or go to the court and would just be kicking the ball about. He must’ve seen me and said, “this kid has potential”. My dad was also an awesome footballer, in the neighbourhood we lived in everyone would say, “mate, you’re just like your dad, he was a defender in 11-a-side and a pivot in futsal same as you.” It was the same thing and everyone would say, “mate if you go for it you’ll make it, unlike your dad. ” Everyone said that, and even more so because I was left-footed.

How was your development in futsal? Were you always among the best? 

Fortunately, I was always among the best. I started out aged six. When I was seven I joined a club called Ribeirão Pires, close to my home. I played for the U-7s and U-8s there because the coach, Marcelinho from São Caetano, took me. He had a connection so he took me there. I was there for U-7 and U-8 levels. At U-9 level I went to Palmeiras. Then aged 10, I moved on to 11-a-side, playing for Mercedes, and I think the club no longer exists, but that’s where I started 11-a-side, in Vila Formosa, a pitch at Flor de Vila Formosa.I started there, splitting my time between futsal and 11-a-side. I played for São Caetano’s U-11’s, then at U-13 level I played for União Suzano, then at U-15 I played for São Bernardo. I played futsal and 11-a-side during that time, letting 11-a-side take precedence over futsal. When I was 16 I went to Palmeiras and played futsal there, and 11-a-side at Fut Talentos. But in that year, I treated 11-a-side with less importance and played more futsal. The following year, my mum came to speak with me and said, “it’s decision time: pick futsal or 11-a-side.” I thought about it and said to myself, “I’ll stick with 11-a-side.” I forgot about futsal and focused on 11-a-side.

Why did you decide on 11-a-side? Did you think you could do more? 

No, I was great at futsal. I could’ve been … It’s hard to talk about myself. I could’ve been one of the best pivots in Brazil. I scored lots of goals because I was great and talented. I scored a lot of goals, but I said to myself, “11-a-side can give me a better future.” I didn’t know and at that point, my heart was really torn. I put it in the hands of God and it turned out well. So, I sort of put futsal to one side and focused on 11-a-side. Then at U-16 level I played for União Barbarense along with Fut Talentos, where I was loaned to, but I was also featuring for União Barbarense. Then I moved to Corinthians and my story began there. I played for their U-17s, second year in the U-17s, and I went to the U-20s. I was there for three years at that age group, then, the first team.

During that time, did you have a difficult moment in which you said, “I’m not sure if it’ll work out.”

Thank God I’ve always had people around me who helped me. Of course there were moments where things went wrong and I thought “I’m not going to play anymore, I’m not going to do anything.” But this would be a Friday. And then after the weekend, on Monday I’d say “no, I can’t live without football,” and I’d feel better. I never thought about quitting, because it’s always been my plan A, my only plan. The only plan I ever had, because I always knew it was going to work out. From my perspective, it was always going to work out, right? No matter what. I remember one time, something Yuri, a father of my friend on my street, said… it was my birthday, he congratulated me and he said, “if you get to the end one day and it didn’t work out, you didn’t get to the end.” He said it to me and at the time I didn’t quite understand it, but then I thought, “well, if it hasn’t worked out it’s because the time hasn’t come yet, because when the time is right, it’s going to happen.” And that stuck in my mind, “if I get to the end and it didn’t happen, it’s not the end. ” Then Nottingham came in. So I went to Duílio, man to man, and said: “I want to go, mate. It’s my dream. I want to play. No one can take it from me,” and I did it.

How did you decide to join Forest when many other clubs were after you? 

Yes, I knew about the clubs interested in me, but I always made it clear: “It’s great, I’m happy with the interest, but the Premier League is my priority.” There was Napoli, I think Fiorentina, something from Torino as well, then Nottingham’s interest and offer, also Crystal Palace, and two more clubs I don’t remember.

And you wanted the Premier League? 

I wanted the Premier League. I said: “If a Premier League offer comes, it’s my dream, the best league in the world.” Then Nottingham came in. So I went to Duílio, man to man, and said: “I want to go, mate. it’s my dream. I want to play.” Then we talked, and he said, “mate, you’ve been honest with me. We’ll see. If the offer’s good for both of us, perfect,” and it all worked out.

When you arrived, did you expect to be a starter in your first season, or have to battle for your spot? 

I remember when I arrived, it was really tough, a very physical game, the players were strong, and I thought, “I’m going to struggle here.” Then we had a match against City, and I got dropped at the hotel. The coach told me, “you’ve been training and performing well, but to get up to speed, adapt, and gain the strength you need, it’ll take you two or three months to play.” I listened, nodded, and left, but in my head, I was like, “what? Two or three months? No way I’m waiting that long, no chance.” I remember deciding to speed up the process, training at the club and outside. I hired a personal trainer, which I think is essential for any athlete, training at the club and having a personal one to complement it. It’s essential for a top-level athlete, so I started training at the club. I’d arrive, then train with the personal one. I thought, “I need to improve. Improve outside, get stronger, more prepared, because on the pitch, quality is my thing. No one can take it from me,” And I did it. I think that was around October or September, I don’t remember. On the 1st of October, we were going to play against Brentford, and on the day of the game, the coach came and said I was going to play. I said, “I’m playing?”; he said, “Yes. Brentford is a team like this and that, and I need your quality, your long balls.” I said, “I’m ready for the game.” It was the same thing that happened at Corinthians: After I played, I never stopped. I used to say, “if the opportunity comes, I’ll play and I won’t stop.” That’s what I told my agents, “I’ll play and I won’t stop.” I’ve always thought that way, and thank God, for both clubs I played for, at the professional level, that’s happened.

What did it feel like scoring your first goal against Newcastle, your first as a pro? 

It was madness. It was the last game before I joined the national team, and my agent said, “you have to score, to arrive in good form, feeling confident.” I said, “leave it with me. I’ll do it.” So I got on the pitch against Newcastle, and I started off the game feeling different, feeling very confident. I thought: “it’ll happen. I don’t know, I might get an assist and score.” That was that. Then, there was a foul, and, during the throw-in I remember they were all lined up like this, and, I was in the middle of the box, heading towards the far post. It was as if someone had pulled me and said, “no, head it toward the near post.” Then I said, “okay, I’ll go to the near post.” When I was about to hit the ball, I looked at Anthony [Elanga], and I thought: “he’s going to kick the ball towards the near post. I’ll go there. What if this works?” And that’s what happened. He delivered the perfect cross at the right angle and I just guided it into the net. I celebrated it as much as I could. I paid tribute to Dani [Danilo] with a little dance he wanted me to do, and, after that, I did my own celebration. I forgot to do the baby bump celebration for my daughter. My wife got furious with me. She said, “you did all the celebrations, but forgot the one that mattered the most!” So I told her, “there will be more goals. “I might not score them now, but I promise I’ll score them soon.” It was a memorable day for me.

You were then invited to play for the national team, after playing only 74 professional matches. What was it like joining the national team? 

I think everyone dreams about it. Every Brazilian player at elite level dreams about playing for the national team, and, for me, it was no different. I’ve always been asked in interviews, “do you think you don’t have a chance?”. “Do you think you shouldn’t be in the team?” To which I’ve always said, “I’m calm, I’m at peace.” It’ll happen when it’s time. I’m ready, though I haven’t had the chance to play yet, but just being there is a huge step. It’s an incredible experience, playing with players I used to see only on TV or play with in the FIFA video game. The day-to-day is very rewarding, sharing the pitch with these players, and learning a lot from them.

You renewed your contract with the club until 2029. What are your goals now? 

My goal is to achieve something nobody has ever done. I think there’s a quote that says: “If someone does something, I’ll do it too. And if nobody has, I’ll be the first one to do it.” I try to leave my mark wherever I go, so people can say: “Murillo was a great player. He’s played here.” I try to leave this legacy. I’m trying my best to get the team into the Champions League, to perform well in the Premier League, and to reach the level I know I’m capable of. It’s about playing my best for the fans who are always there showing their support, and, above all earning the respect of all the players and the club staff. That’s the main thing, when people see you and say, “not only was he a good player, but a great human being, a great man.” I think that’s the main thing.

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The 33-year-old Denmark midfielder joined on a free transfer in July 2022.

He had previously had a short spell at Brentford after resuming his football career following a cardiac arrest during Euro 2020.

Eriksen has played 66 matches in the Premier League for Manchester United, though game time this season has been limited to 16 top-flight appearances.

His contract expires in the summer and he said there have not been any discussions over a new deal.

“I haven’t heard anything from the club, and therefore I assume that the collaboration will stop – that’s how I interpret it,” said the Dane.

“I am prepared to find something new. I am fine with that. Where it will be, I haven’t decided yet.”

After starting his career at Ajax, Eriksen spent seven years at Tottenham before moving to Inter Milan.

Spurs had been interested in bringing Eriksen back to the club before he joined Manchester United.

“The intention is not to stay in England,” added Eriksen.

“I am not going to the USA – we are not going that far. We would like to stay in Europe, but it is too early to go home to Denmark.

“I feel like I have some good years abroad left.”

The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) says the increase is “less than many feared”, and there has been a price freeze for under-16s.

But MUST says United fans have “expressed their disappointment” that the club has “ignored” the call for a widespread price freeze.

Since becoming the club’s co-owner last year, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group have tried improve the club’s finances but several changes have been unpopular, resulting in fan protests, in particular at last week’s home game with Arsenal.

Some of the latest changes for the 2025-26 season include the introduction of a game categorisation model for non-season ticket holders, where premium games cost more.

United are also increasing the minimum usage requirement for season ticket holders from 15 to 16 of their 19 Premier League home games.

United’s chief executive Omar Berrada says the club “worked hard to come up with a pricing package that is fair and reasonable” and that the new changes are being made “to offset continued rises in operating costs”.

However, MUST says that “we fail to see any justification for the increase” and that the new categorisation model is “a source of major concern”.

A MUST statement read: “For several months we have argued long and hard that the club need to look at the big picture and freeze ticket prices for next season.

“Other clubs have done that already and at United it would have sent a powerful message about the need for everyone to pull together to get the club out of the very difficult position it finds itself in.”

Berrada said: “We understand that any price rise is unwelcome, especially during a period of under-performance on the pitch, and we listened carefully to the strong arguments put forward by the FAB (Fan Advisory Board) in favour of a freeze.

“However, the club has decided it would not be right to keep prices unchanged while costs rise and the club continues to face financial issues.

“We have kept the increase to the lowest possible level and protected our youngest season ticket holders from any rises, while ensuring the club remains financially strong enough to invest in improving the team.”

Cost-cutting measures continue under Ineos

After freezing season ticket prices for 11 years, United are now increasing them for a third straight year.

This comes after a second round of redundancies at the club was announced last month, and there was a mid-season rise in some ticket prices to £66, with no concessions. Other cost-cutting measures including the removal of free lunches for staff.

Ratcliffe has said the decisions are necessary in order to slash losses, which last year exceeded £113m, and last week he told the BBC Sport “the club runs out of money at Christmas if we don’t do those things”.

The latest season ticket changes represent an average increase of £2.50 per game.

Ratcliffe told the BBC: “Well, I don’t get involved in the detail of ticket pricing. That’s for the management of the club, not for me really.

“My sort of general principles on ticket pricing are that it should be fair, affordable for the people in Manchester.

“We do need to look after the under-16s and the older people who do not have as much money, but at the same time ticket income is part of the overall income of the club.

“The club receives income from ticketing, from merchandising and from TV. They are all major components of how much money we have to spend on new players and the squad.”

What other changes will Man Utd make?

The introduction of a game categorisation model, plus the increase in season ticket prices and the minimum usage requirement are just some of the latest changes:

• United’s ‘senior’ discount will now track the state pension age of 66, giving older fans 25% off. Some had previously received a 50% discount.
• Fans behind the dugouts will be relocated, allowing the club to convert those seats for hospitality and sell them at premium prices
• Fans who sell their ticket back to the club less than 14 days before a game will be charged £10
• Car parking charges will rise by 15%

Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho also ended their goal droughts as United were comfortable winners at the King Power Stadium.

Leicester had failed to score in their previous five games coming into the tie and striker Jamie Vardy lacked sharpness as he steered a fourth-minute effort at goalkeeper Andre Onana.

United took hold of the first half with Christian Eriksen rattling the post with a curling effort before Garnacho ran through on goal and drilled his effort low into the net.

Garnacho was also looking to end his goal drought and saw a second-half effort chalked off by a very late off-side flag.

However, moments later Fernandes’ pass was deflected into his path to score United’s second goal.

Leicester pushed for a way back into the game but were met by a stubborn defence as Matthijs de Ligt rescued his side to deny Facundo Buonanotte.

United finished the evening in style with Fernandes curling home his side’s third goal.

The only dampener on the victory was the injury to teenage defender Ayden Heaven who was stretchered off the pitch following a first-half challenge.

Palmer picked up the injury in training and was ruled out of Sunday’s 1-0 defeat at Arsenal.

That was the first time the Blues had played without him since April last year, when they were beaten 5-0 by the Gunners.

Maresca thinks it is unlikely Palmer will join up with Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

“I don’t think [he will be fit for England] to be honest,” Maresca said after the Arsenal defeat.

“His injury is from yesterday’s session. It’s a muscular problem…

“He needs a scan and the scan is planned for Monday morning.”

As well as Parker, Chelsea were also without striker Nicolas Jackson and winger Noni Madueke on Sunday – and Maresca rued the absent trio.

“It’s a huge difference. The three players who have the most goals for us [are] Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke, none of them were inside the pitch,” Maresca said.

“Two of them it’s already long term that they have been out. It’s normal that offensively that we can struggle a little bit.

“I think even until today we are second or third best attacking in the league. We’re doing well with the other players but we could do better with the players that are in this moment injured.”

Palmer has had a hand in 20 of Chelsea’s 53 league goals this season (14 goals, six assists), but has not scored for the past seven Premier League games – and Maresca thinks a rest may help him rediscover his best form.

“We don’t wish for a player’s injury but in Cole’s case at this moment, probably give him some rest physically and mentally it could be good,” added Maresca.

England play Albania on Friday in their first match under new head coach Tuchel as they start their qualification campaign for the World Cup in 2026, before playing Latvia at Wembley.

Both of these sides came into the match without their first-choice striker, with Kai Havertz ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury for Arsenal and Nicolas Jackson missing for Chelsea.

Chelsea were also without their most important player in Cole Palmer, who was out of the squad with an injury, and it was the first time the Blues have to had to play without him since they lost 5-0 to Arsenal in April last season.

Arsenal, again naming Merino as a makeshift striker, dominated the game early on and Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Declan Rice all went close.

Merino’s winner came in the 20th minute when he flicked on a curling corner from Martin Odegaard past a stretching Robert Sanchez.

Chelsea’s best opportunity to take something from the game came when Marc Cucurella’s powerful effort slipped through David Raya’s hands but the ball rolled just past the post.

Robert Sanchez, recently restored as Chelsea’s first-choice keeper, had some shaky moments as the Blues were put under pressure with a number of crosses into the area and he was jeered by the home crowd when he had the ball at his feet.

Sanchez produced an excellent save to deny Merino in the second half, but Chelsea could not find the goal to get something from the game.

Liverpool are not playing in the league this weekend as they are involved in the Carabao Cup final.

Erling Haaland became the first player to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements in fewer than 100 games when he marked his 94th appearance in the competition with his 84th goal by sending Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen the wrong way with his 11th-minute penalty.

In a game of superb goals, Pervis Estupinan levelled with a curling free-kick that bounced in off a post, although City keeper Stefan Ortega, in for injured first-choice Ederson, did not cover himself in glory as he initially moved to his right before changing direction and eventually watching the ball go in with a shocked look on his first.

Omar Marmoush levelled with a superb 20-yard strike into the bottom corner, only for City’s brittle defence to let them down again three minutes after the restart as Abdukodir Khusanov diverted Jack Hinshelwood’s effort into his own net.

In a frenzied finish, City manager Pep Guardiola grew increasingly irritated at referee Simon Hooper following challenges on Josko Gvardiol and Bernardo Silva, who had to be replaced 18 minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Guardiola was most annoyed at winger Jeremy Doku getting booked for diving as he jumped up and landed on the ground as he sought to avoid a challenge from Jan Paul van Hecke.

“If he doesn’t jump, he can break his leg,” said the City boss.

“He goes onto the grass to make a tackle and Jeremy jumps so there is no contact.

“Jeremy is not a diving player. They should know it. But it is what it is. We didn’t win or lose for that decision.”

Nico Gonzalez hit a post as the hosts pressed but it was Brighton, who have never won an away game against City and were claiming their first point in the fixture since 1982, who should have claimed victory, only for Carlos Baleba to balloon a shot over the bar when he had arrived with a perfectly timed run to meet Joao Pedro’s cross unmarked in a central position 12 yards out.

The result moves Forest just a point behind second-placed Arsenal – who face Chelsea on Sunday – and ever closer to Champions League football next term.

On an afternoon when Nuno Espirito Santo celebrated his 50th top-flight match in charge of Forest, his side ruthlessly exposed Ipswich’s defensive frailties in a devastating seven-minute period during the first half.

Nikola Milenkovic opened the scoring for the visitors with a rising shot from eight yards after home forward Liam Delap had inadvertently nodded the ball into the Serbia defender’s path.

And just over two minutes later Forest doubled their lead, as the Tractor Boys imploded.

Elliot Anderson picked out Anthony Elanga down the right and the winger was allowed to run completely unchallenged from just inside the Ipswich half before dispatching a low effort into the far corner from 15 yards out.

Some shambolic home defending contributed to Elanga’s second and Forest’s third.

This time the 22-year-old Sweden winger nipped in between three home players and slipped the ball past Ipswich goalkeeper Alex Palmer, after Milenkovic’s long punt forward had drifted over its intended target Chris Wood.

While Jens Cajuste pulled a goal back for the hosts, with a superb curling effort after pirouetting away from Ryan Yates in midfield, Jota Silva re-established Forest’s three-goal cushion after being played in by the influential Morgan Gibbs-White.

However, George Hirst’s late goal at least allowed the home side to end the contest on a positive note.

Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich remain 18th – and are the only club in the top four divisions of English football without a league win in 2025.

The 30-year-old was United’s hero on Thursday night, scoring a hat-trick as they beat Real Sociedad to move into a Europa League quarter-final with Lyon.

He was also singled out for praise by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in an interview with BBC Sport on Monday.

But Fernandes said there had been an offer to sign him in the summer and he’d held talks with the club about his future.

“I sat with the club because I had an offer to leave,” he said. “We talked about the possibility of me leaving the club or staying.

“They said what they wanted from me. I just asked if they still see me as part of the future of the club or not. I spoke at the time with (Erik) Ten Hag also.

“He was very clear with me, the club was very clear with me, that they thought I would be a big part of this rebuild. I thought that we could be successful.”

The Portugal international now has 15 goals this season. None of his team-mates have got into double figures.

In a campaign that has been bad enough for United, who are 14th in the Premier League and on the brink of their worst domestic campaign since the 1973-74 relegation season, it is not hard to imagine the strife they would have been in had talks with Fernandes in the summer taken a different turn amid interest from Bayern Munich among others.

After Ten Hag was sacked in October, Fernandes’ fellow countryman Ruben Amorim came in as replacement – but a bleak situation has got no better.

Last month legendary former captain Roy Keane blasted Fernandes, saying “talent is not enough” and that he was not “a fighter”.

Even Amorim, in the wake of Fernandes’ Europa League exploits said his captain needs to “trust” his team-mates more.

“Roy Keane was an amazing captain for the club, one of the best as everyone says,” said Fernandes.

“I didn’t have the chance to see much from him, only the last few years, but he was a great player that won everything for the club. He’s massively respected from everyone and has all my respect.

“He has to give his opinion in a programme and this is what he thinks about me.

“I don’t want to copy anyone. I try to be the best captain that I can for my team-mates and help everyone in the best way I know.”

How important is Fernandes to Man Utd?

Which players contribute most to their team’s goals and assists?

Table showing a list of all 20 current Premier League clubs with the average length a manager is in charge. Arsenal have the highest average in the Premier League era at 92 months. Since 1st July 2016 Man City lead the way with 102 months of Pep Guardiola.

Opta – Premier League players but data from all competitions

• ‘We can’t relax at this club’
  

The Europa League remains a route back into the Champions League for United despite their poor season.

Fernandes, who is under contract until 2027, says he wants to stay at Old Trafford for as long as they are competing for trophies.

He said: “We can’t relax at this club. We need to prove ourselves every day in training and every day that we have a game.

“I’m in the same boat as my team-mates. It doesn’t matter how much you do, how much you score, how much you assist… It’s about the team.

“I’m very happy at the club. Obviously, I want to win trophies. I want to be in the biggest competitions, I want to fight for the big trophies. That’s what I said to the club. That’s what the club said to me that they want to do.”

Ratcliffe said this week some players he has inherited are “not good enough” and “overpaid”.

Midfielder Casemiro, striker Rasmus Hojlund, goalkeeper Andre Onana, and wingers Antony and Jadon Sancho – who are on loan at other clubs – were namechecked by the billionaire in an interview with BBC Sport.

Fernandes said: “I don’t think any player likes to hear criticism or things that are talked about to you, that you’re not good enough or you’re overpaid or whatever.

“But everyone has their own contract. The club agrees to the contracts and it’s about proving that you can be important for the club.”

There is no better place to get your season-long ticket to the best football the world has to offer than DStv!

With Liverpool and Newcastle United facing off in the Carabao Cup at Wembley Stadium on Sunday evening, just eight matches will be played – and the pick also comes from the English capital, as Arsenal welcome Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium.

While the Gunners will likely have to settled for a runners-up finish behind Liverpool in the league standings, the Blues are fighting to finish in the top four/five and secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, adding major stakes to this London derby.

“The team spirit in this moment has to be upset in terms of they [the players] have to be upset,” said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. “We have to be upset because we are not happy with the results. We are all aware we are in a club where we are not here to survive, but to fight to win titles. They are the same players that for 19-20 games were top four, second for the most part of the season. For sure, after this moment, they are going to be better players and better professionals.

The round opens with a quartet of late afternoon kick-offs, including the ‘David Moyes Derby’, as Everton welcome West Ham United to Goodison Park, while outgoing champions Manchester City will play host to Brighton & Hove Albion. The Seagulls have enjoyed an impressive campaign under Fabian Hurzeler, who is hoping to see his charges continue to do the basics right when they face the Citizens and his “role model” Pep Guardiola.

“His [Guardiola’s] achievements are impressive, but it’s not a game between me and him,” said Hurzeler. “It’s a football game for Brighton and Hove Albion and we want to win this football game.”

The round also features another London derby between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as Leicester City hosting an embattled Manchester United – with the Foxes hoping to finally get a win over the Red Devils after losing to them in the Carabao Cup, Premier League and FA Cup so far this season.

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Broadcast details

Saturday 15 March

17:00: Everton v West Ham United – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 3

17:00: Ipswich Town v Nottingham Forest – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

17:00: Manchester City v Brighton & Hove Albion – LIVE on SuperSport Blitz, SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 360

17:00: Southampton v Wolverhampton Wanderers – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2

19:30: AFC Bournemouth v Brentford – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 16 March

15:30: Arsenal v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

15:30: Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 3

21:00: Leicester City v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport PSL and SuperSport Maximo 1 (and SuperSport Premier League from 21:30 – after the Carabao Cup Final)

– Already played: Aston Villa 2-2 Liverpool*

– Scheduled for 16 April: Newcastle United v Crystal Palace*

*Due to the Carabao Cup final between Liverpool and Newcastle United on Sunday 16 March.

The Netherlands centre-back is one of three high-profile players – along with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold – who are out of contract in June.

Talks between Liverpool and Van Dijk have been ongoing for some time and the 33-year-old defender has previously indicated he is keen to extend his stay.

However, in the wake of Liverpool’s Champions League defeat by Paris St-Germain on penalties he acknowledged there remains some uncertainty over his future.

“I still have no idea at the moment. Genuinely,” said Van Dijk.

“At the moment I don’t even know what will happen next year. If anyone says they do know, they are lying to your face.

“Everyone knows there are some conversations behind the scenes but that is about it.”

Salah, who was in tears after Liverpool’s defeat by PSG, said in January this was his final season at Anfield as he and the club were “far away from any progress” over a new deal.

Alexander-Arnold has been the least vocal on the subject of his future, amid interest from Real Madrid, and said last year his contract negotiations with Liverpool would not be “played out in public”.

The 26-year-old is set to miss Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle after limping off against the Ligue 1 side on Tuesday.

Liverpool are 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League, have a Wembley final to look forward to and had been challenging in Europe until their last-16 shootout defeat by PSG.

Van Dijk was asked whether discussions over his own future had been paused in order to focus on matters on the pitch.

“It is not on hold. Nothing on hold,” explained the centre-back.

“Listen, there are 10 games to go [in the Premier League] and that is my full focus. If there is news, you guys will know it. I don’t even know myself.”

Ratcliffe, 72, told BBC Sport this week that some players in United’s squad were “not good enough” and “overpaid”, though he did not specify which players.

Ratcliffe had namechecked Andre Onana, Rasmus Hojlund, Casemiro, Antony and Jadon Sancho as transfer deals that Ineos had “inherited” at the club and are yet to pay off.

Asked about Ratcliffe’s comments, Amorim said: “I think if we are being honest in this moment, everybody – me, the players – are underperforming this season.

“I include myself in the underperforming.

“You are talking about players like Casemiro that won everything and we know these players can play so much better.

“He (Ratcliffe) was honest in that. The focus is to change his mind and everybody’s.”

Amorim, who Ratcliffe described as an “outstanding young manager”, says he has a good relationship the United board.

“I think we are really blunt and honest with each other, we are quite similar in that,” said Amorim, ahead of his side’s Europa League match against Real Sociedad.

“I always felt the support of the board, especially Sir Jim.”

Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said he wanted to build the “world’s greatest football stadium” which the club hopes could be finished in five years.

United’s decision came after an extensive consultation process around whether to develop the existing stadium or build a new one.

Old Trafford has been Manchester United’s home since 1910.

Architects at Foster and Partners, who will design the project, said the stadium would feature an umbrella design and a new public plaza that is “twice the size of Trafalgar Square”.

The design will feature three masts described as “the trident”, which the architects say will be 200 metres high and visible from 25 miles away.

Manchester United, currently £1bn in debt, are yet to say how they plan to pay for the stadium.

It will form part of a wider regeneration of the Old Trafford area, predicted to be the biggest such project in the United Kingdom since the transformation of the Stratford area that accompanied the 2012 Olympics in London. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has already given government backing to the plans.

United say the entire project has the potential to create 92,000 new jobs, will involve the construction of 17,000 homes and bring an additional 1.8 million visitors to the area annually. They add the project will be worth an additional £7.3bn per year to the UK economy.

“Today marks the start of an incredibly exciting journey to the delivery of what will be the world’s greatest stadium,” said Ratcliffe.

“Our current stadium has served us brilliantly for the past 115 years but it has fallen behind the arenas in world sport.

“I think we may well finish up with the most iconic football stadium in the world.”

The stadium will be built using pre-fabrication, shipped in 160 components along the neighbouring Manchester Ship Canal.

Criticism of Old Trafford – England’s biggest club ground with a 74,140 capacity – has grown in recent years, with issues including leaks from the roof of the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand.

The stadium has not had significant development since 2006.

United have spoken to senior people involved in the most recent large-scale stadium developments, including the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and the rebuild of Real Madrid’s Bernabeu Stadium, as part of their background work.

They also spoke to local residents and conducted a fan survey to establish whether supporters would prefer a new build or extensive improvements to the present stadium, which was thought likely to cost £1.5bn.

It is not known what the plan will be for the present stadium, although senior club sources have previously said it would not be cost effective to shrink it for use as a home for United’s women’s and youth teams.

Foster and Partners designed the new Wembley Stadium, which opened in 2007, and the Lusail Stadium, the venue for the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.

‘Club must be brave’ – Ferguson

Leaving Old Trafford will be a controversial move for some but former manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: “Manchester United should always strive for the best in everything it does, on and off the pitch, and that includes the stadium we play in.

“Old Trafford holds so many memories for me personally but we must be brave and seize this opportunity to build a new home, fit for the future, where history can be made.”

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham welcomed the plans. He said: “If we get this right, the regeneration impact could be bigger and better than London 2012.

“Manchester United could, and indeed should, have the best football stadium in the world.

“To me, that means a stadium that means a stadium that is true to the traditions of the club, affordable to all, with nobody priced out.”

Arsenal realistically needed a win to keep up their faint hopes of a title challenge after Liverpool beat Southampton 3-1 on Saturday.

United, meanwhile, were not yet certain of avoiding the drop after a woeful season.

Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard both had good chances to put Arsenal in front as Mikel Arteta again made do without a traditional No. 9 to lead the line.

However, United were able to hold on despite the visitors dominating possession, and in stoppage time in the first half, Alejandro Garnacho won a free kick, which was brilliantly converted by United skipper Bruno Fernandes.

In the second half, Arsenal threw on Myles Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel Martinelli in search of an equaliser, and the pressure told when Declan Rice crashed an equaliser in off a post on 74 minutes.

Both teams had chances to win the match, but Fernandes was unable to beat David Raya at the death, and the two clubs shared the points.

Arsenal remain second, 15 points behind Liverpool with a game in hand, and United are 14th.

It was the Spain left-back’s fifth goal of the season – and second in successive league games after netting against Southampton.

Cucurella’s crucial goal came on the hour mark, beating visiting keeper Mads Hermansen with a left-footed effort from 25 yards.

Chelsea had been frustrated until then, with Hermansen saving Cole Palmer’s penalty midway through the first half following a trip on Jadon Sancho by Victor Kristiansen.

The miss ended Palmer’s 100% record from the spot – having scored his previous 12 – and prolonged the playmaker’s goalless run to nine matches in all competitions.

Leicester impressed during the first half and came close to opening the scoring in bizarre circumstances when Blues defender Tosin Adarabioyo headed against his own crossbar.

But that was as close as the Foxes came, with Enzo Maresca’s men improving after the break and claiming the winner to leapfrog Manchester City and take a two-point advantage over the reigning champions.

Defeat for Leicester left them second bottom in the table, behind 18th-placed Ipswich on goal difference and six points adrift of Wolves in 17th.

Bournemouth were heading for a routine away win after getting the better of exchanges in a wide-open game.

Marcus Tavernier latched on to Milos Kerkez’s inviting cross to set Bournemouth on their way before Evanilson’s lifted finish put the visitors firmly in control after half-time.

Spurs hit back in unorthodox circumstances when Pape Sarr’s intended cross looped towards goals and left Kepa Arrizabalaga clutching at thin air.

Son, who came on at half-time, proved to be Tottenham’s hero from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Kepa.

Both sides saw efforts hit the woodwork in the second period with Son’s curling shot nicking the post and going wide, while Justin Kluivert’s low-driven shot cannoned back into play.

The draw keeps Tottenham sitting 13th with Bournemouth climbing up one place to eighth and leaving them two points shy of sixth-placed Brighton.

The Reds were miles below their best after their energy-draining late win at Paris St-Germain on Wednesday – but all that matters at this stage of the season is results.

This takes them one step closer to the title and leaves Saints still in danger of the lowest Premier League points total ever.

The visitors allowed themselves to dream when Will Smallbone took advantage of a huge mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson to slot in from a tight angle.

But Reds boss Arne Slot made a triple substitution at half-time and Liverpool were much improved.

Darwin Nunez, perhaps fortunate not to be one of the ones replaced at the break, slotted in from Luis Diaz’s cutback.

And then the Uruguayan striker was fouled by Smallbone for a penalty, which Mohamed Salah predictably dispatched with style.

Liverpool fans started singing “now you’re going to believe us, we’re going to win the league” after that.

Salah also netted another spot-kick late on, for his 27th goal of the season, after the video assistant referee spotted a Yukinari Sugawara handball.

Second-placed Arsenal have two games in hand – including Sunday’s match with Manchester United – but it is impossible to see anyone overhauling Liverpool.

Both sides made six substitutes as Southampton lost captain Jan Bednarek to an early head injury – with football laws allowed the opposing team to also make an extra substitution during the game.

Pedro won the penalty for his side after beating Fulham’s Harrison Reed to the ball and taking a challenge on the back of the ankle.

The Brazilian dispatched the spot-kick into the corner to score for a third successive game – the first time he has achieved that feat in the Premier League – and deliver a crucial three points for the hosts.

Raul Jimenez had put Fulham in front with a well-taken volley after some neat chest control at the far post but Brighton struck back six minutes later through Jan Paul van Hecke.

Both teams played 120 minutes when securing their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup last Sunday, with Brighton beating Newcastle and Fulham seeing off Manchester United, and fatigue may have played a part in a largely uneventful first half at Amex Stadium.

Brighton showed a slight improvement in the second half and had two goals ruled out for offside before eventually grabbing the winner.

The victory moves Brighton up to sixth and just one point adrift of Manchester City who are fourth and in the final guaranteed Champions League spot.

Fulham, who had not lost against Brighton in nine previous encounters, stay ninth, four points further back.

With seven minutes of an otherwise uneventful contest remaining, Hudson-Odoi collected a magnificent Morgan Gibbs-White pass in his stride before beating City goalkeeper Ederson at his near post to send the home fans into ecstasy.

In a game billed as crucial in the race to earn a spot in Europe’s premier club competition next season, City had the better opportunities before the interval but lacked the pace or ingenuity to breach the home side’s dogged defence.

A powerful Nico Gonzalez effort which flew narrowly wide of Matz Sels’ right-hand post was the high point of a drab first half, and there were few signs of improvement early in the second period despite Forest’s greater urgency.

After Nico Dominguez volleyed an Anthony Elanga cross straight at Ederson within seconds of the restart, Hudson-Odoi had a low effort tipped on to the post by the Brazilian midway through the second half.

Pep Guardiola introduced Kevin de Bruyne and Omar Marmoush with 20 minutes remaining but there was little in the way of goalmouth action in the latter stages until Hudson-Odoi’s moment of inspiration.

Guardiola and his players can have few complaints with the outcome as they slipped to a ninth league defeat of a tumultuous season – their joint-most in a single campaign under the Spaniard.

Third-placed Forest move four points clear of City, who stay fourth but could be overtaken by Chelsea if the Blues beat struggling Leicester City on Sunday.

Now an established attacking midfielder for West Ham United, Kudus shares his journey to the east end of London in the video above, celebrating the diversity of the Premier League through the theme of “Greatness comes from everywhere” as part of the No Room For Racism initiative.

“I grew up in Nima. It’s a slum area, probably like a ghetto,” says Kudus. “You have to be very tough to sustain yourself in an area like that.

“To start all the way from Nima and then leave home very early takes a lot of discipline and sacrifices to stick on that path and not lose your soul.

“To become a Premier League player, it means a lot for me. I feel it’s also a responsibility for me because growing up with the Michael Essiens and all these guys, Muntari, playing in the Premier League, was the source of motivation for me.

“Right now that I’m also in this position, I try [to] look back and make the guys coming from Nima now believe that they can do it even better than the point I am now.

“But that also comes with responsibility on how I throw light on where I’m from, how I carry myself and how I represent Ghana and Nima as a whole.”

Kudus has been good to his word and took an opportunity to shine a light on his homeland in December when he celebrated scoring against Brighton & Hove Albion by picking out a wooden seat with a carved elephant from behind the goal and then sitting on it with team-mate Crysencio Summerville.

At the time Kudus said: “It’s my roots. Where I come from, the chiefs and the kings, they sit on stools where they are from. So I thought it would be nice to share a little bit of life where I am from.”

Having the opportunity to be a role model and also give Ghana greater visibility is something Kudus is proud of.

“It [playing] comes with that responsibility, but I like it because it’s a positive feeling to know that someone can dream through your achievement, and your dream, and what you do,” he adds.

“My idea of greatness is using your God-given talent to have an impact on other people’s lives and where you’re coming from. So that’s my definition of it.”

Liverpool boss Arne Slot drew on a quote from basketball legend Michael Jordan as he addressed claims suggesting the runaway Premier League leaders have enjoyed good fortune of late.

The Reds escaped with a 1-0 win against Paris St-Germain on Wednesday in the first leg of their last-16 tie in the Champions League.

PSG dominated the Reds at the Parc des Princes and had 27 shots but found keeper Alisson in inspired form before Harvey Elliott grabbed a late winner for the visitors.

“We weren’t a little bit lucky [against PSG], we were really lucky – but as Michael Jordan said once, ‘The harder you work, the more luck you have’,” said Slot.

“This is the biggest compliment you have to give the players, they worked incredibly hard.

“That also has to do with the players being – if you were 45 minutes with the other team having the ball a lot and having to defend so much – mentally and physically so strong to come up with the second-half performance of not giving away as many open chances as we did in the first half.

“And, even scoring a goal on the counter-attack shows you how mentally and physically strong these players are.”

‘Injuries not down to luck – we do things right way’

However, that game at PSG has resulted in some rival fans believing luck is playing a part in Liverpool’s success this season.

Regular title challengers and rivals Arsenal and Manchester City have struggled this season with both teams suffering injuries to key players, and Liverpool have capitalised by moving 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League.

The Reds can go 16 points clear with a win against Southampton on Saturday, before the second-placed Gunners play the two games in hand they would have by then against Manchester United on Sunday and Chelsea a week later.

Prior to the game in Paris, the Reds won against a Manchester City side who were missing striker Erling Haaland and beat a Newcastle side without free-scoring forward Alexander Isak.

The Magpies will also be missing the suspended forward Anthony Gordon and the injured defensive duo of Sven Botman and Lewis Hall when they play Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, 16 March.

“If you want to win something you need to have once in a while a game where you don’t play your best football and you are lucky – which is maybe not luck if you work as hard as we do – to get away with a result,” added Slot.

“There are almost no teams that play 38 games [in the league] or in the Champions League that play only good football.

“Real Madrid are the best example of that, they also find a way to win a game if the other team are better than them.”

Slot, who will serve the second game of a two-match touchline ban against Southampton, also defended his team against suggestions they have been fortunate on the injury front compared to their rivals.

Arsenal, who have finished second for the past two seasons, are without forwards Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, while champions Manchester City have been without Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder Rodri for most of the season.

“If you think injuries are only a part of luck or bad luck then we’ve been lucky but we try to believe in the fact that we try to prevent them from a certain way of working,” said Slot, who is in his first managerial season in the Premier League after replacing Jurgen Klopp last summer.

“That we don’t have many injuries, I don’t see that as luck. I see it as, first of all, top professionals – our players do everything to try to stay fit – and, second of all, great facilities and a great staff.

“You need to show this over a longer period of time to consider it luck or bad luck. If we can continue doing this for years without many big injuries then it’s probably also quality, although you cannot go through a season in the Premier League, Champions League and all these cup competitions we play in this country without any injuries.

“Diogo Jota was out for three or four months without a start, Alisson has been out for weeks, maybe even months, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been out, Conor Bradley [is injured]. Joe Gomez is out now for three months.

“We also have our injuries but you cannot go through a season without an injury. It’s more the amount of injuries you try to hopefully prevent. It could be luck but I hope we do things in the right way.”

Spaniard Arteta replaced Unai Emery as Arsenal manager in December 2019 and has helped transform the Gunners into regular title challengers.

Arteta won the 2020 FA Cup in his first season but it remains the only piece of silverware he has won since his appointment – and it took him three seasons to return the club to the Champions League.

“I will not have the time the Arteta had,” said Amorim.

However, Amorim said he could draw inspiration from the manner in which Arteta dealt with a number of issues during his early days at Arsenal.

“I feel that [Arsenal] is a different club,” continued Amorim.

“It is a different club, in that aspect, the way how Arteta dealt with that [the issues] is an inspiration for everybody.”

Arsenal travel to Old Trafford on Sunday in the Premier League (16:30 GMT) and face a United side without a number of key players, including long-term absentees Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount.

Amorim said it was unlikely any other injured players would return for Sunday, but did raise hopes that Amad Diallo could be back before the end of the season.

“I think it is just Amad [who is out long-term],” said Amorim.

“Even Amad, we will see the end of the last month [of the season].

“I have the hope to have Amad before; we will see.

“Kobbie [Mainoo] can return. [Harry] Maguire, we have to be careful. Manuel [Ugarte] will return, and I think Mason [Mount] and Luke Shaw can return also.”

Arsenal beat PSV Eindhoven 7-1 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday, while United managed a 1-1 draw away at Real Sociedad two days later.

Despite being Europe’s secondary competition, Amorim says playing in the Europa League impacts Premier League form more than the Champions League.

“In the beginning, people talked about our rotation in Europe. We were changing all the time, and it is because of this,” said Amorim.

“Europa is so much harder than Champions League. Not the games, but the recovery to play Premier League on the weekend. We have to deal with that.”

With Arsenal desperate to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool and Manchester United battling to salvage their season from a precarious 14th position, expect a fiercely contested match.

Adding to the anticipation, Showmax recently sat down with United’s Uruguayan midfield maestro, Manuel Ugarte, for an interview on his career and life in Manchester.

How would you describe your childhood in Montevideo?

It was beautiful. I had great times. I made many friends, and it was also very competitive, because football in Uruguay is very competitive, and that’s also why Uruguay’s a country that’s won so much in football.

Did you always like football?

Yes, always. I started playing football at a very young age, so I never had to choose between two things. Football always won, and I obviously don’t regret it.

Did it start with playing in the streets with your brother?

Yes, I started in the streets with my brother. He’s a year older than me, so we always shared many things, and football was one of those things. He’s a great player too.

Do you have a first memory about football? A match, a player?

Ihave a memory, yes, of my first training sessions. I don’t remember how old I was, but it was at City Park, which is a local team, where I started playing. I clearly remember the first training sessions.

And what did you learn in those years?

Well, I always say the same thing: the most important thing is to enjoy yourself, and if you’re convinced that you want to play football, give it your all. If you want to do something, give it 100%. Dedicate as much time as you can to football, but always enjoy yourself.

How important was your father in raising you as a person and as a player?

He’s incredible. He still helps me with everything to this day. He helps my brother and me with everything. He’s had a big role in my career so far, because I had everything I needed. He always gave me everything, he was there for me, coming with me and giving me advice. I’m very thankful for that, because I’m very lucky in that sense, and he made my journey much easier.

Is there any piece of advice from your father, or your brother, that you keep in mind?

Yes, I talk very often with my father, and he always says the same thing, that sometimes I should take a step back and see how my life has changed, how I’ve learned and experienced different things, in the world of football and outside of it, and that makes you enjoy it more.

And then you went to Fénix, a slightly bigger club in Montevideo. How did you arrive at Fénix?

I arrived through friends I made in football, because we were playing with friends and we didn’t know where to go. So, we picked a team and we all went there, and that’s where my youth career started in Uruguay as a kid, and they were some incredible years. My time at Fénix was beautiful, I learned a lot, and I really enjoyed it.

As you said, everything happened fast for you. At Fénix, you moved up to the first team at 15 years of age. Fifteen years old, how?

It’s incredible. Over there, you have different age divisions: seventh, sixth, fifth, fourth. I played the first year in the youth teams, and in the middle of my second year, around August, I was moved up to the first team. I could only train once a week, because I had problems with my school, and when I turned 16, I started training every day. But yes, my debut was at 15 years of age, and it was something truly incredible.

Do you remember your professional debut?

Yes, I remember it vividly. I remember that I played seven or eight minutes, and it felt like it was 90 minutes, because I had to run a lot, but I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it. I also feel like my emotions got the better of me, so I obviously felt more tired than I was.

And were you nervous?

At the beginning, I was on the bench, and I wasn’t nervous. In the second half when we started to warm up, all of my teammates were saying, “this is your debut, this is your debut. ” That’s when I got nervous and I really felt it. Imagine my father! He was out there watching the game. If I was nervous, he was 10 times more nervous. It was a great moment, which I’ll obviously never forget.

And you played as a striker for a time. When did you switch to midfield?

I started off as a striker. I’ve always played further forward, and I think the change happened in an U-20 team, with Uruguay, under Fabián Coito. And I think he was one of the first ones to move me further back. I started learning about it. At the beginning, I didn’t like it, then I began to learn, and started to like it, and now I’m a defensive midfielder.

And can we say that it’s a change that transformed your life?

Yes, clearly. I struggled at the beginning, because I didn’t like it. Players never feel comfortable playing in a different position, but I started to get used to it and to like it.

And when you were 20, you got the opportunity to go to Portugal. How did you make that decision?

The decision was an easy one, as I’ve always dreamed of playing in Europe, but the context was a very difficult one, because South America and Europe are different worlds. So, leaving your family at 19 years of age, and moving to Portugal, in the middle of the Covid pandemic, the first months were quite tough. Obviously, my family then came with me, which always makes things easier. You then grow up a bit and get used to the life of a football player, you get used to being on your own too, and you end up learning from these things.

How would you describe your time at Famalicão?

Again, very fast!  Everything was fast!  It was five or six months, where I also learnt a lot, I understood what football in Europe was like, how they worked, how they trained, and I pushed myself very hard. It was a very short time. I think it was from January to June, or may, I can’t remember. But it was only five or six months.

 And then, Sporting. What was that like?

That was one of the moments I enjoyed the most, due to everything, what the club is like, the teammates I had there. It was a great group, I made great friendships there, everything, where I lived, my time there, how well we did, and I really enjoyed it. That’s also why I have so much love for Lisbon and Portugal as a whole.

What was it like to play under Rúben Amorim at Sporting?

It was amazing, very positive. He helped me and is still helping me grow as a football player. You really identify with him, because of how he communicates things, how he talks to you, and that’s it. We are with him until the end.

In September 2021, you made your debut with the national team, with Uruguay. What do you remember from that day?

It was beautiful. To go and train with the national team, with the players I’d watch on television, it was something incredible and something I enjoyed. So, to make your debut for your country, especially with how patriotic us Uruguayans are, we love our country .

And you became quite emotional coming off the pitch, right?

Yes. everything was going through my head. I think that what made me emotional at the time, obviously was playing for the national team, but having my family watch me play. That brought me to tears at that moment. They’re moments you treasure and never forget.

How did Paris Saint-Germain come into your life?

That too  was moving up a level, a step up to the football elite, to the maximum level, with the players who were there, that are still there, what the club is like, everything. These are things I’ve learned, the relationships with my teammates, the stars that were there and learning to live with them. It was a beautiful journey.

What was it like to work under Luis Enrique? We can say that the first half of the season at PSG was better for you than the second half of the season.

Well, I have a great relationship with him. He’s a great manager. I learned a lot from him. I learned mainly to play with the ball, to understand the game better, in terms of possession, having the ball and dominating games. As I was saying, every manager teaches you different things. There’s more than one way to play football, there’s a whole spectrum. So, it’s important to understand everything, understand how to play, the aspects you have to improve on, and it’s important for players to understand that.

Do you remember the moment that United showed an interest in you? What were you doing?

I think when I signed for PSG, there was already some interest [from United]. When I then found out that they were interested in me, I said that I wanted to go there, because we all know about United’s history. And as I said earlier, they defined a moment, they defined an era in football. It’s everything. United is one of the greatest clubs in the world, and if they want you, you don’t think twice, and it fills you with pride. 

Do you feel that Premier League football suits your style?

Yes. Again, the Premier League’s the best league in the world. It’s on a different level. It’s another experience a player must have, because games here are unique, and you don’t think twice about coming to the best team in England. So, yes, I do feel like the Premier League suits my style of play.

You’re 23 years old. Do you sometimes stop and think about everything you’ve achieved, and how quickly you’ve done it?

I often talk with my brother and my friends, that just a few years ago, we were training on a pitch, at a park, during Covid while everything was stopped, and a few years later you say, “wow!”. That’s very positive, it fills you with pride and satisfaction, which you really enjoy, and it’s incredible. That’s what football is like, the life of a footballer, it’s all very fast. It’s very extreme too. So, you have to learn to live with that too.

Do you remember what you felt the first time you came out at Old Trafford for the first match?

Yes, the first match, and I also came out once before, before an international break, where I came out to wave to the fans. Before you come out, you can feel the crowd, and it was something unique too. It’s one of those moments you treasure. And the first match too, it was incredible, I really enjoyed it. With how much you want to win and play, you sometimes don’t notice everything, but it was unique.

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Man United will welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford on the evening of Sunday 9 March, with the Red Devils desperate for a positive result against a big name after what has been a terrible campaign. The Red Devils have enough daylight between themselves and the relegation zone not to fear the dreaded drop, but even a lowly to-half finish seems beyond them.

As for Arsenal, they are looking to put pressure on Liverpool in the title race and need to claim three points from their trip to the ‘Theatre of Dreams’. “Every game has a different context,” said Gunners manager Mikel Arteta. “We know the difficulty and the history when you look at what we’ve done over there [at Old Trafford], so we’re going to have to be at our best to earn the right to win the game.”

The weekend’s action gets going early on Saturday afternoon with a potential thriller between Nottingham Forest and Manchester City. The former have enjoyed an amazing campaign, while the champions have struggled to produce their best form – though the promising form of Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush has been a notable silver lining.

“I have to thank my teammates, the coach and staff, everyone helped me from the first day making me feel part of this family. It was an amazing atmosphere. I would like to thank the fans for the really nice applause,” said Marmoush.

Saturday also features Liverpool surely claiming three points at home to relegation-bound Southampton, Brentford hosting Aston Villa, and Everton visiting Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium.

Sunday, aside from the Man United v Arsenal clash, will bring a battle between Chelsea and Leicester City at Stamford Bridge, as well as Bournemouth heading to Tottenham Hotspur, while Monday night closes out the round with West Ham United hosting Newcastle United – where Hammers manager Graham Potter will be under pressure to bring some cheer to the club’s supporters.

“Sometimes you have to say, look, we didn’t do what we wanted to do and it’s a collective. It’s not just the players, its myself and everybody involved,” said Potter.

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Broadcast details

Saturday 8 March

14:30: Nottingham Forest v Manchester City – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

17:00: Brighton & Hove Albion v Fulham – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 3, SuperSport Blitz and SuperSport Maximo 360

17:00: Crystal Palace v Ipswich Town – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1

17:00: Liverpool v Southampton – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

19:30: Brentford v Aston Villa – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

22:00: Wolverhampton Wanderers v Everton – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 9 March

16:00: Chelsea v Leicester City – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 3

16:00: Tottenham Hotspur v AFC Bournemouth – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

18:30: Manchester United v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Monday 10 March

22:00: West Ham United v Newcastle United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

The Dutchman was shown a straight red card after he confronted Oliver and one of his assistant referees on the pitch following his side’s 2-2 Merseyside derby draw with Everton last month.

Slot was given a two-match ban and fined £70,000 by an independent Football Association commission after accepting a charge of acting in an improper manner and using insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards both the match referee and an assistant referee.

Oliver alleged Slot, while shaking the official’s hand, said: “If we don’t win the league, I’ll [expletive] blame you.”

Slot disputed the alleged language used, claiming he instead said “if we don’t win the league, I will have you to thank for that”.

But the commission decided it was “more likely than not that Arne Slot used the language alleged by the referee and the FA”.

The FA argued the discrepancy didn’t make a material difference to the sanction because the words used still constituted Slot acting in an improper manner.

Slot accepted that, and did not dispute stating “[expletive] disgrace” to the assistant referee as part of his angry outburst.

The FA also alleged the Reds boss said Oliver “[expletive] give them everything”, and hoped the referee “was proud of that performance”.

Slot acknowledged his actions were unacceptable and he let his frustrations get the better of him, because he felt certain decisions during the game went against his side.

The commission acknowledged he had since made a sincere apology both privately and in public.

Slot’s fine was reduced from £100,000 due to mitigating factors, including his apology, admitting the charge at the earliest opportunity and because he had no previous record of misconduct.

Speaking before Liverpool’s Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Paris St-Germain on Wednesday, Slot said: “The moment it happened, I was quite emotional [about] everything that happened in the game.

“I chose to go on the pitch instead of staying calm and staying inside to talk to Michael [Oliver]. I don’t have these emotions now so I should set a better example.”

Slot’s assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff was also given a two-match touchline ban and fined £7,000 after the FA alleged he approached Oliver in an “extremely aggressive manner”, and said he was a “[expletive] disgrace”.

Liverpool and Everton were both charged with failing to ensure their players did not behave in a way which was improper or provocative.

The late chaos at Goodison Park began after James Tarkowski scored a dramatic 98th-minute equaliser for Everton, which was awarded after a video assistant referee (VAR) check.

Liverpool were adamant the goal should have been disallowed because of a shove by Toffees striker Beto on Reds defender Ibrahima Konate in the build-up.

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure then celebrated in front of the Liverpool fans at the final whistle, before being confronted by visiting midfielder Curtis Jones, with both players sent off for second yellow-card offences.

Slot and Hulshoff were both shown the red card after approaching Oliver on the pitch.

After serving the touchline ban, Slot’s first domestic game back in the dugout will come after the international break when his side face Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final on 16 March.

Liverpool, who are 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League, host Everton at Anfield on 2 April.

Footage of the Spain midfielder training was posted by the club on Friday, less than 24 hours before they advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals by beating Plymouth Argyle.

City officials are desperate to play down any kind of immediate timescale on Rodri’s return.

But given how much the Euro 2024 winner has been missed – the Premier League champions are currently fourth in the table, 20 points behind current leaders Liverpool after eight league defeats – it is not surprising the images generated a huge amount of excitement among their fans.

And, for the first time since Rodri suffered a major knee injury against Arsenal in September, Guardiola feels the 28-year-old could feature before the end of the campaign, with the Fifa Club World Cup to follow in June.

“The fans must know they are not the only ones who are excited,” said the City boss. “It’s been five months or six months.

“But [it’s] one step at a time. We don’t have to make stupid decisions [for him] to come weeks earlier. He’s not close to coming back, but he’s touching the ball and is in the locker room.

“He feels confident and happy.

“I could not expect before [him to return] before the end of the season, not even for the [Club] World Cup, but maybe it’s going to happen.”

Guardiola also confirmed defender Nathan Ake will have more tests on a problem he fears might keep the Netherlands international out for some time.

“He struggles sometimes with the feet,” he added. “It’s been like this the whole season with the central defenders.”

Ake, 30, has been restricted to 18 appearances so far this season due to a succession of short-term injuries and was taken off at half-time against Plymouth. Fellow defenders John Stones and Manuel Akanji also missed the FA Cup win through injury.

United suffered a 10th defeat in 24 games under Amorim as they were knocked out of the FA Cup on penalties by Fulham in the fifth round at Old Trafford.

It was the sixth loss at Old Trafford since the Portuguese took over in November and leaves winning the Europa League as the only realistic avenue back into European competition next season.

Yet, initially speaking to BBC Sport after the game and then in his wider post-match news conference, Amorim spoke of United’s desire to win the Premier League for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.

“The goal is to win the Premier League,” said the Portuguese. “I know we are losing games but the goal is to win the Premier League again. I don’t know how long it will take. We have a goal and we continue forward no matter what.”

Working as a pundit for Match of the Day, Rooney’s reaction to those comments was that Amorim should focus more on short-term aims that might keep him in his job.

“I think it’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now, they’re a long way off that,” he said.

“I think he’ll get time but it’s not a free hit because he’ll expect more from Manchester United than what we’re seeing since he’s been in. He says winning the Premier League, how can they compete? To get further up the table, I think that’s the next step for them.”

Rooney’s comments about United carry huge weight given his achievements at the club.

He remains United’s record goalscorer and won five league titles and the Champions League during a stellar period in which he was a central figure in Ferguson’s last great side.

However, he has a chequered record as a manager, initially doing well in a difficult situation at Derby, moving to Major League Soccer with DC United, but then lasting just 15 and 25 games in ill-fated spells at Birmingham and Plymouth.

Amorim did not mention this when he responded to Rooney’s comments. But, from personal experience, he knows talking about a team and managing one is two entirely different things.

“That (winning the Premier League) is the goal,” said Amorim. “To be naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season.

“I know in this moment, everybody knows everything. I was a pundit when I finished my [playing] career. I know it’s really easy.

“Maybe it is not with me but our goal, as a club, is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great glories and legends of this club.

“We are in a difficult moment. And I’m not naive, that’s why I’m here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United.”

The American billionaire formed part of a consortium to takeover the Blues in May 2022.

Fans gathered to protest the club’s ownership on Tuesday night, prior to their 4-0 home win against Southampton, with seismic spending and inconsistent performances on the pitch forming the basis of much of the frustration.

Boehly was asked about receiving criticism from fans at the FT Business of Football Conference in London, to which he replied: “I think it is just par for the course.

“The reality is that the sooner you learn you can’t keep everyone happy all the time, then freedom comes from that.

“You are just trying to execute a plan, but you recognise things aren’t linear. As long as you are trending in the right direction, then you feel better. I think the trend is in the right direction and that’s the thing that matters.

“In June, it will be three years – and it isn’t a lot of time. As a 60-year-old, especially in an industry with so little downtime, it’s a whirling dervish of activity when you step on.

“It’s a steep learning curve, but I think that’s a good thing.”

On Chelsea’s recent form, Boehly added: “December was peak but, eight weeks out, things are a little different now.

“If you look at the foundations being built, new management team, new academy leadership, sporting director leadership and player mindset. All that’s there and now it is about cultivating the development of the team.

“You are always going to try to get better.”

However, the Premier League’s club overall revenue rose by £20m to £614m in 2023-24, and its commercial income increased by £36m to £308m.

It is the first time Liverpool have reported commercial revenue of more than £300m in their annual financial accounts and mainly due to growth in partnerships and retail.

The 2023-24 period covered Jurgen Klopp’s last season as manager, in which the Reds won the Carabao Cup, finished third in the Premier League and reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and Europa League.

Liverpool added four new players to their senior men’s squad, spending about £165m on transfer fees to sign Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.

That was the first season the club had not played in the Champions League since 2016-17, resulting in media revenue dropping by £38m to £204m.

That loss was partially offset by increased Premier League media revenue as a result of the Anfield outfit’s stronger on-field performance in 2023-24 compared to 2022-23, when they finished fifth in the table and failed to win a major trophy.

Liverpool ‘strongest brand’ in Premier League

The new Anfield Road Stand opened during 2023-24 and a higher number of competitive games at the stadium contributed to a £22m increase in matchday revenue to £102m.

Despite the increase in revenue, administrative costs rose by £38m to £600m, which was mainly related to salaries and overhead costs.

The club said that, over the past eight years, matchday costs have risen by nearly 80%, while staff costs have increased by 86% to £386m since 2018.

“Operating a financially sustainable club continues to be our priority and, with the continued increase in costs, it’s essential to grow income streams year on year to maintain financial stability,” said Jenny Beacham, the club’s chief finance officer.

Liverpool, now managed by Arne Slot and currently top of the Premier League with a 13-point lead over Arsenal, generated 1.5bn social media fan engagements and added a record 37m followers to its social channels.

According to Brand Finance’s 2024 report, they have the strongest brand of any Premier League club.

“The global appeal of this football club continues to be phenomenal and is the underlying strength and opportunity we have for continued growth,” Beacham added.

On an evening when second-placed Arsenal dropped points in a goalless draw at Nottingham Forest, Arne Slot’s side took full advantage at Anfield.

Slot, beginning his two-game touchline ban, watched from the stands as Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a scuffed strike past Nick Pope.

Alexis Mac Allister added to the jubilant atmosphere in the second half, with chants of “We’re going to win the league” heard from the Kop after the Argentine swept Mohamed Salah’s pass high into the left corner.

The visitors lacked a clinical edge up front. Alexander Isak, their top scorer this season, was absent because of a groin injury.

Callum Wilson deputised for the in-form Sweden striker, but he skewed a clear-cut effort wide in the first half after being handed his first league start of the campaign.

Newcastle sit sixth after finishing this game empty-handed – three points behind Manchester City in fourth and a guaranteed spot in next season’s Champions League.

However, Eddie Howe’s team can gain revenge against Liverpool when they meet again at Wembley in the final of the Carabao Cup on 16 March.

City started strongly and went ahead in the 12th minute when Haaland met Jeremy Doku’s low cross with a first-time side-footed finish into the bottom corner, having been left unmarked.

Savinho should have doubled City’s lead when the lively Doku found him unmarked at the back post, but the Brazilian’s shot into the ground bounced over Guglielmo Vicario’s goal.

It took the hosts 45 minutes to test City goalkeeper Ederson, who tipped a header from Kevin Danso over the crossbar.

City broke at speed from the resulting corner but Matheus Nunes could not find Omar Marmoush at the back post with the Egyptian left all alone.

After controlling the first half, the visitors faded after the break, with Ederson called into action to prevent Wilson Odobert’s deflected effort from looping over him.

Mathys Tel scuffed a finish with only the goalkeeper to beat as Spurs kept pushing, before substitute Pape Sarr sliced wide from a dangerous cut-back.

The introductions of Dejan Kulusevski and Son Heung-min from the bench further shifted momentum, with the latter denied an equaliser by Ederson following a fast break.

Haaland thought he had scored a second City goal in stoppage time after bundling past two defenders, but referee Jarred Gillett judged that he handled the ball. Spurs immediately went up the other end and Sarr headed over from the hosts’ last chance to equalise.

Victory moves City up to fourth in the table, while Spurs sit 13th.

The goalless draw at the City Ground meant the Gunners failed to close the gap on leaders Liverpool, who now look like making the run-in a title procession.

If that is the case, the last few days will be viewed as a sliding doors moment in Arsenal’s season following their home defeat to West Ham and dropped points against third-placed Forest on Wednesday.

Pre-game, with the Gunners 11 points behind Liverpool, boss Mikel Arteta vowed to keep fighting – he was unlikely to say anything else – but it is surely now a futile chase.

They needed to win at Forest but lacked a cutting edge, despite dominating possession, with their attacking options blunted by injury.

Without the injured Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino were neat and tidy up front but offered no focal point.

The closest Arsenal came was when full-back Riccardo Calafiori’s effort bounced off the post and into Matz Sels’ arms midway through the first half, before the goalkeeper saved Merino’s header soon after the break.

Their control of the ball at least denied Forest the chance to find 18-goal Chris Wood.

When the striker finally got some second-half service, Arsenal keeper David Raya denied him with a good block.

The draw kept alive Forest’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season, sitting six points behind Arsenal and two clear of Chelsea in fifth.

Maguire powered home Bruno Fernandes’ corner two minutes into the second half to give Ruben Amorin only his third home Premier League win.

United’s success came despite having Patrick Dorgu sent off before the break following the intervention of VAR Craig Pawson after his awful tackle on Ipswich winter Omari Hutchinson had been missed by referee Darren England.

Ipswich immediately capitalised on the extra man to level when Jaden Philogene’s touchline cross curled in at the far corner as Andre Onana failed to react once Liam Delap had missed it.

But that was not Onana’s worst mistake of the night as the Cameroon goalkeeper started the game by getting too close to Dorgu as the defender attempted to deal with a long ball downfield. Instead, Dorgu played the ball past Onana to present Philogene with a tap-in.

However, it was just the start of a crazy opening as United levelled thanks to Ipswich skipper Sam Morsy, who as he was trying to stop Rasmus Hojlund challenging for Fernandes’ deep free-kick, planted a firm header straight into his own net.

Four minutes later, United took the lead as Maguire and Diego Dalot both had attempts on goal saved before the ball broke kindly for Matthijs de Ligt, who sent it into the roof of the net.

At that point, it seemed the home side would coast to victory. The reality was far more entertaining. Nothing is quite so simple at Manchester United these days.

The 22-year-old, who is Chelsea’s top scorer in the Premier League this season, has not found the net in his past seven appearances.

However, despite his latest blank against Southampton on Tuesday night, Chelsea returned to the top four with an emphatic 4-0 win over the Premier League strugglers.

While four Chelsea players did get on the scoresheet, Palmer missed a hatful of big chances throughout the game.

But, despite their star man unable to end his goal drought, Chelsea manager Maresca said his team remain “happy” with Palmer – and that the player should also stay upbeat.

“He has to continue to work, continue to be happy, continue to laugh the way he does,” Maresca told BBC Match of the Day.

“It is normal to go through a moment where you struggle to score but it doesn’t matter. Just continue and you are going to score many goals.”

‘He’s a human being’

Palmer started the season in red-hot form for the Blues, scoring 14 goals and creating six assists across his first 21 Premier League appearances. However, he has zero goal involvements since.

Many Chelsea supporters, as well as Fantasy Football fans, had pencilled in Chelsea’s home match against a Southampton side who sit bottom of the league and have the worst defensive record as the fixture where Palmer would restart his goalscoring form.

And the former Manchester City man did find himself on the end of several chances, having seven shots – the joint-highest total for a Chelsea player in the league this season.

Palmer missed two glorious opportunities when one-on-one in the first half with one effort saved by Aaron Ramsdale and another dragged wide. After the restart he blasted a cut-back over the bar.

In total, his chances accumulated to an expected goals (xG) figure of 1.07.

After he had a late free-kick saved by Ramsdale, Palmer reacted by smiling, appearing to see the funny side of his barren run, which Maresca praised in his post-match press conference.

“It is how you react. He is reacting perfectly. He is smiling and he is happy. We have no doubt he will score more goals,” Maresca said.

“He’s a human being. All human beings, all big players, all the normal players, big club, big manager – we all go through a bad moment.

“Even if he is young, he shared time in a big club and he knows that all the big players go through moments like this.”

Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City in September 2023 and has since scored 39 goals across all competitions.

Neto ‘fantastic’ in false-nine role

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Pedro Neto has scored three Premier League goals this season

Stepping up on Tuesday were forwards Christopher Nkunku and Pedro Neto who both scored one and assisted another.

With striker Nicolas Jackson absent with a thigh injury, Neto, who was signed as a winger, once again played centrally in a false-nine role.

“We needed to find a solution,” added Maresca. “We tried one game with Palmer and we tried one game with Nkunku, Brighton away – didn’t work well.

“So the week after, we tried with Pedro in the week and we saw that it could work. I think Villa away he did fantastic. He probably give us a threat in-behind.

Neto scored Chelsea’s second, running on to a Nkunku through-ball before calmly finishing past Ramsdale.

“He is not just receiving the ball at the feet,” added Maresca. “He also likes to attack in-behind something which Cole and Christopher struggle [to do].”

Neto has scored just three goals and created four assists in the Premier League this season, although two of those goals and two of those assists have come in the past four games.

‘Fans have to trust’ after protests

Before the match with Southampton about 100 Chelsea fans protested against the club’s ownership with banners and chants.

It has been nearly three years since the BlueCo consortium fronted by Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali acquired the club.

“The only thing I can say is that in this moment the fans have to trust,” said Maresca.

“We’re in the right process and the right direction. Since we started we’ve been top four most games of the season.

“The fans have to trust the players. They are doing a huge effort every day to bring this club to the Champions League.”

The Uruguay international was a second-half substitute in the win over Wolves on 16 February and the draw at Aston Villa on 19 February, when he missed an open goal.

Nunez did not come off the bench in Sunday’s 2-0 win at Manchester City, which took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Slot defended Nunez after his miss against Villa but said he allowed his “disappointment” to impact his work-rate.

“I helped him by saying you can miss a chance,” Slot said in his news conference before Wednesday’s visit of Newcastle.

“I wasn’t only hard on him. But for the second time in a row I wasn’t happy with his work effort, against Wolves and against Villa.

“I can’t accept if a player doesn’t give everything. That is clear. I can accept it once, but twice was a bit too much. That’s why I addressed it.

“If you miss a chance, you need to be fighting for the team. I’m not saying he didn’t do that at all, but it wasn’t the usual Darwin, the one that is loved by the fans. That is mainly because he always works so hard.”

Slot said Nunez, who has scored six goals in 35 games in all competitions for Liverpool this season, was “incredible” in training on Monday.

He was dismissed for approaching referee Michael Oliver on the pitch after the 2-2 Premier League draw at Goodison Park on 12 February.

Slot will miss the league leaders’ home game with Newcastle on Wednesday and the visit of Southampton on 8 March.

He can be on the touchline for the Champions League last-16 first-leg tie with Paris St-Germain on 5 March.

Slot was also fined £70,000 by an independent Football Association commission after accepting the charge.

Liverpool assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff was banned for two games and fined £7,000, while Liverpool and Everton were fined £65,000 and £50,000 respectively for failing to control their players.

James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute equaliser sparked chaotic scenes, with Everton fans entering the field to celebrate.

Liverpool thought Tarkowski’s goal, which was checked by the video assistant referee (VAR), should have been ruled out for a push on defender Ibrahima Konate in the build-up.

Slot exchanged words with one of the assistant referees before shaking hands with Oliver, who immediately showed him a red card. Hulshoff was also sent off.

Slot, who was unable to speak to the media after the match because of his red card, later voiced his frustration over the amount of stoppage time played, after five minutes were initially signalled.

In a news conference two days after the game, Slot said “emotions got the better of me”.

Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure and Liverpool’s Curtis Jones were sent off after the final whistle for second yellow cards. Both served one-game bans.

Slot’s first domestic game back in the dugout will come after the international break when Liverpool face Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final on 16 March.

Liverpool, who are 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League, face Everton at Anfield on 2 April.

Slot served a touchline ban for the EFL Cup quarter-final against Southampton in December after being shown three yellow cards.

The London visitors started the game with a bang as Ryan Sessegnon, making his first Premier League start in two years, scored within a minute of kick-off, finishing well after being played in down the left by Andreas Pereira.

Wolves responded with a string of chances and equalised on 18 minutes when a loose ball dropped to an unmarked Joao Gomes in the box, and a hard-fought match was at level pegging at the break.

However, Fulham came flying out of the traps once again after the restart, with Adama Traore playing in the excellent Rodrigo Muniz, who finished superbly with a chip past the onrushing Jose Sa from just outside of the box.

Wolves had more of the ball and more attempts on goal in the game, but it was Fulham who created the better of the chances on the break and Marco Silva’s side withstood some heavy late pressure to pick up three points that moves them to within two points of fifth-placed Manchester City.

Defeat leaves Wolves still under threat of relegation, with both Ipswich Town and Leicester City playing later in the week with the chance to reduce the gap to two points in the scrap to avoid the drop.

Both sides started on the front foot, with the match played at a frenetic tempo from the first whistle.

Brighton took the lead after just 12 minutes when Joao Pedro converted his penalty after he had been felled by on-loan Bournemouth keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The Cherries pushed on in search of an equaliser and goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen was called into action when he made a big save to deny Antoine Semenyo, who looked certain to score.

Fabian Hurzeler’s side went close to doubling their lead just a few minutes later when Kaoru Mitoma’s volley struck the post.

Bournemouth continued to push for an equaliser in the second half and, after 62 minutes, Justin Kluivert came up with a sensational equaliser, cutting in from the left-hand side before bending a tremendous effort past Verbruggen.

Hurzeler turned to his bench not long after, opting to make a triple change, and it was a decision that paid off, with substitute Welbeck latching onto Georginio Rutter’s through ball before sliding his effort past Kepa to give the Seagulls all three points at the Amex.

Christopher Nkunku opened the scoring for the Blues in the 24th minute when he headed in Tosin Adarabioyo’s flick-on following a corner.

Twelve minutes later, Nkunku set up Pedro Neto who beat Saints keeper Aaron Ramsdale with a low finish when through on goal.

Just before half-time Chelsea added a third as Levi Colwill rose highest to nod in Neto’s wide free-kick.

In the 78th minute substitute Tyrique George set up Marc Cucurella who rounded off a fine counter-attack with a drilled finish.

Dominant Chelsea move fourth in the Premier League table, two points clear of Manchester City and Newcastle who play on Wednesday.

Before the match about 100 Chelsea fans protested against the club’s ownership with banners and chants of “Todd Boehly out”.

The Gunners lost further ground on league leaders Liverpool last weekend following a 1-0 defeat by West Ham at Emirates Stadium.

Only three teams in Premier League history have closed a gap of 11 points or more to become champions by the end of the season.

But Arsenal still have a game in hand on Arne Slot’s side and visit Anfield on 10 May, and Arteta believes his side remain in the title race.

Asked if he would concede the title, Arteta said: “Over my dead body. If not I will go home.

“Mathematically it is possible. Three days ago we could close a gap and you are like ‘you are one and a half games away’.

“The difficulty is higher than three days ago but if you are going to win the Premier League you have to do something special.

“If you are going to win the Premier League with the circumstances we have you will probably have to do something that nobody else has done in the history of the Premier League.”

Arsenal have been impacted by injuries to a number of key players this season and are currently without Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli in attack.

Arteta feels those setbacks caught up with his team in the defeat by West Ham, but he pointed out: “The previous 15 games we had won 10 and drawn five – exactly the same as Liverpool with exactly the same goal difference.

“So we have been extremely consistent over the past three months considering everything we have been through.

“We have generated that momentum and it was that weekend where we have to go again but we got a defeat. On top of that they [Liverpool] win.

“When you are trying to build that momentum, and we put so much into it with the circumstances that we have, it was a really hard one to take.”

The Dutchman took over in 2022 and was in charge of United for just over two years before being sacked in October, despite signing a one-year contract extension prior to this season.

While his first campaign in charge saw the Red Devils win the EFL Cup and qualify for the Champions League, they struggled to maintain those levels in his second, though they finished 2023-24 by beating rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

However, after a poor start to this season, Ten Hag’s time at the club came to an end following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham, which left the club 14th in the Premier League.

“If there’s one thing I miss, it’s Old Trafford,” Ten Hag told the SEG Stories podcast.

“We’ve had many highs, but as I always say, there is always room for improvement.

“Good is not enough. You can do better.”

In recent weeks, Ten Hag has been linked with Borussia Dortmund and Feyenoord, though both clubs have since hired Niko Kovac and Robin van Persie respectively, as well as a move to MLS.

However, the 55-year-old revealed he has no plans to step back into management this season.

“I’ve already decided not to take any job until the 1st of July, so until the start of the new season.”

About 250 members of staff were made redundant last year in a first wave of cost-cutting measures by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

In a meeting with staff on Monday, United chief executive Omar Berrada informed employees that there would be a fresh round of redundancies as part of a “transformation plan”.

The club said: “The transformation plan aims to return the club to profitability after five consecutive years of losses since 2019.”

It added that “approximately 150-200 jobs may be made redundant, subject to a consultation process with employees”, with the process expected to take between three and four months.

As of 30 June 2024, Manchester United had 1,140 employees, so 450 redundancies would be 39% of the club’s workforce.

Last week the club revealed a loss of £27.7m in their second quarter financial results and the Red Devils have lost more than £300m over the past three years.

United are on course for their lowest finish in the Premier League era as Ruben Amorim’s team are 15th in the table after Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Everton.

The club added that the additional measures are being taken to “improve the club’s financial sustainability and enhance operational efficiency.

“This will create a more solid financial platform from which the club can invest in men’s and women’s football success and improved infrastructure”.

Berrada said: “We have a responsibility to put Manchester United in the strongest position to win across our men’s, women’s and academy teams.

“These hard choices are necessary to put the club back on a stable financial footing.

“We have lost money for the past five consecutive years. This cannot continue.

“Our two main priorities as a club are delivering success on the pitch for our fans and improving our facilities. We cannot invest in these objectives if we are continuously losing money.”

What other changes will there be?

United also announced the appointment of Marc Armstrong as the club’s chief business officer on Monday.

The transformation plan will include some staff moving from Old Trafford to the club’s Carrington training base and a reduced presence will be maintained in London, but all the club’s leadership will be Manchester-based, including Armstrong.

Free lunches will no longer be provided for staff at Old Trafford, saving more than £1m a year, while the catering arrangements at Carrington will be unchanged for the remainder of the season.

The club’s annual donation to the Manchester United Disabled Supporters Association (MUDSA) will remain at £40,000 and the club is in talks with Manchester United Foundation (MUF) about its level of contribution.

Ratcliffe has announced a string of cost-cutting measures since his investment in United, with the club saying at the time that the first round of redundancies would save between £40m-£45m.

In December, Ratcliffe warned more “difficult and unpopular decisions” would be taken to get the club to where he wants it to be. Matchday ticket prices have been increased to £66 per game, with no concessions for children or pensioners.

Ratcliffe is still to decide whether to rebuild Old Trafford, which could cost £1.5bn, or build a new ground, which would likely cost more than £2bn.

Ratcliffe’s impact on Man Utd’s football operations

Ratcliffe’s Ineos group completed a deal worth about $1.6bn (£1.25bn) for a stake in Manchester United in February 2024.

Ineos then took over football operations at Old Trafford and quickly began a restructure with Ashworth appointed sporting director, Berrada as chief executive and Jason Wilcox as technical director.

In June, Ineos opted to keep Ten Hag as manager but then sacked him and his coaching staff, at a cost of £14.5m.

United paid Sporting £11m to bring in coach Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s replacement in November, and they also paid £4.1m to hire and then fire Ashworth.

United’s latest accounts showed a net loss of £113.2m in the year to 30 June 2024.

It follows losses of £28.7m in 2022-23 and £115.5m in 2021-22, with total losses across the past five years exceeding £370m.

During Ratcliffe’s first full season as co-owner, United could finish in the bottom half for the first time since 1989-90, when they were 13th in the old First Division.

According to last season’s ‘merit’ payments from the Premier League, if United remain in their current 15th position they will receive £16.9m – almost £20m less than the £36.7m they earned for finishing eight last term.

Winning the Europa League is the team’s only realistic avenue of qualifying for next season’s Champions League and should they fail to do so, they will suffer a £10m annual drop in their sponsorship deal with Adidas.

That is likely to put further pressure on United’s chances of bolstering Amorim’s squad in the summer and will bring greater scrutiny on the wisdom of so many of United’s recent transfer dealings.

The Italian manager addressed the issue of the England international’s dip in form amid Chelsea’s run of two wins in 10 matches in all competitions.

The 22-year-old forward has not scored in any of his past six matches in all competitions and has not registered an assist in any of his past 13 matches.

But in 2024 he registered 26 goals and 13 assists – a Chelsea record and more than any other player in the Premier League during the last calendar year.

Asked about Palmer’s struggles before Southampton’s visit to Stamford Bridge in the Premier League on Tuesday, Maresca said: “No, I am not concerned about him.

“I am always concerned about general performances but not Cole because Cole is a human being and always during a season he can have some moments where he struggles a little bit more.

“Every game we expect a goal or an assist, but it is difficult. In this moment his team performance reflects the team’s that he struggles to score goals. We need to be more clinical when we get chances.

“Cole is just frustrated that we are not winning games. It is nothing more than that.”

Maresca listed Palmer’s missed chances against Manchester City and Aston Villa when denying that he, as a star player, seems angry at his team-mates, but seemed to admit that Chelsea are over-reliant on him being the match-winner.

Maresca said: “The problem with Cole is we rely on Cole for everything.

“I have said since the start we need to rely on the team for everything. For sure, there are top players like Cole, but we are not worried about Cole at all.”

Maresca said goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen will start on Tuesday despite his costly error at Villa Park on Sunday for Marco Asencio’s winning goal, and that defender Trevoh Chalobah is out for a “a week to 10 days”.

While Pep Guardiola’s side – who were without star man Erling Haaland for the seismic clash – enjoyed much of the possession in the match, their forays into the final third were largely ineffectual, as Liverpool’s backline dealt with everything that came their way.

And just 14 minutes into the match, Mohamed Salah emerged for his 30th goal in all competitions this season – firing home a deflected strike after a neat corner routine saw Dominik Szoboszlai’s deft touch tee up the Egyptian talisman.

Arne Slot’s side continued to deal with the City pressure and break forward at opportune moments, and they established daylight with a fine free-flowing move eight minutes before the break.

Goalscorer turned provider as Salah was found down the right flank, before his quick feet bought time to feed a ball inside to Szoboszlai, who stroked home past Ederson for a two-goal cushion.

Szoboszlai looked to have created a third for Liverpool just 11 minutes after the break, as he teed up Curtis Jones to tap into an empty net, but a prompt VAR review cut Liverpool’s celebrations short and gave City a lifeline.

But they failed to truly test Alisson in the opposite net, as they stuttered to yet another defeat in a tough season, as they stay fourth but are now level on points with Newcastle behind them.

Against the run of play, the visitors took the lead when they were gifted possession and Callum Hudson-Odoi fired in a shot from around 25 yards out past the returning Nick Pope.

From the rest of the half, it was one-way traffic with The Magpies scoring four goals in 11 minutes.

Lewis Miley equalised after drilling the ball beautifully in the bottom corner with his left foot.

Two minutes later, Jacob Murphy bundled the ball in from close range after a swift counter attack.

The Magpies made it 3-1 from the penalty spot when Ola Aina was penalised for handball. Isak stepped up and just did enough to score with his Panenka effort.

And the Sweden striker scored the fourth when his shot took a wicked deflection for his 50th Premier League goal.

Nuno Espirito Santo saw his side dominate the second half and reduce their deficit through goals from Nikola Milenkovic and Ryan Yates, but The Magpies hung on for victory.

The Ghanaian midfielder played a crucial role at the Emirates Stadium, helping his side secure a vital three points. Speaking in his post-match press conference, Potter was full of admiration for Kudus’ impact and work ethic.

“He [Mohammed Kudus] was really good. I think every day, he is a bit of an example. Every day in training, he’s been really, really good. His effort and application have been top,” Potter said.

“Sometimes when the team isn’t functioning as well as you would like, the individuals within it don’t look as good as they can be.

“He’s actually been brilliant, and I think he got his reward today because his performance was fantastic,” he added.

Kudus was a constant menace for Arsenal, ending the game as the most fouled player. He also played a key role in the dismissal of Gunners defender Miles Lewis-Skelly, who was sent off after bringing him down to prevent a clear goal-scoring opportunity.

With West Ham hovering just above the relegation zone, they will aim to build on this momentum when they take on struggling Leicester City on Thursday.

The Gunners went into Saturday’s game against West Ham knowing that victory, coupled with a defeat for Liverpool at Manchester City on Sunday, would leave them within touching distance of the Premier League leaders with a game in hand.

It was a huge opportunity for Arteta’s team, but one they failed to grasp as they delivered a toothless performance against a West Ham side they beat 5-2 at London Stadium back in November, managing only two shots on target in an eventual 1-0 defeat.

Jarrod Bowen’s first-half strike proved the difference, while the Gunners’ hopes of a late reprieve were dealt a major blow by Myles Lewis-Skelly’s dismissal 17 minutes from time.

A Liverpool win at Etihad Stadium would lift Arne Slot’s team 11 points clear at the top of the table – a lead that is beginning to look unassailable, even with the game in hand Arsenal will have at the end of the weekend’s action.

When asked about his team’s title prospects, Arteta replied: “It’s not in our hands.

“I’m really, really annoyed with the things that are in our hands – which is the performance and the result.

“[We were] nowhere near the levels that we have to hit to have the opportunity to win a Premier league. I’m very much responsible for that, so I’m very, very angry.”

Arteta’s sentiments were echoed by skipper Martin Odegaard, who said the Gunners “lacked efficiency” in the final third against Graham Potter’s team.

“It’s a big blow,” he told BBC Sport. “The performance today wasn’t good enough. We have to see the game back and analyse it, but it wasn’t good enough.”

Speaking on Match of the Day, former England players Alan Shearer and Danny Murphy both said the title race was already over, with Liverpool’s lead at the top insurmountable.

“I don’t see Arsenal winning all of their games so Liverpool can have the odd hiccup,” added Murphy. “And when they play badly they still pick up points.”

‘We have to look in the mirror’

The defeat was Arsenal’s first in 16 Premier League games, but with Liverpool on a 22-match unbeaten run of their own, Saturday’s loss may have caused irreparable damage to the Gunners’ title hopes.

Using their projection algorithm, data analysts Opta now expect Liverpool to finish top on 86 points, eight clear of Arteta’s team.

Arsenal’s chances of winning the league have dropped from 15.13% to 8.14%, while Liverpool’s have risen from 84.79% to 91.76%.

No other side are given more than a 1% chance by Opta of ending up champions.

Mikel Merino, Arsenal’s match-winner against Leicester City last weekend, was handed a starting berth in attack alongside Leandro Trossard and Ethan Nwaneri, but the Spain international could not repeat his heroics at King Power Stadium against the Hammers’ well-organised backline.

Arsenal are currently without Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus because of injury, but Arteta insisted the Gunners’ personnel woes are not to blame for Saturday’s defeat.

“I refuse that completely,” he said. “I’m talking about the standards of the players and the team we played today, me included.

“We have to look in the mirror [for] what we can do better, and the will, the desire, the way we run and the way we want [to be champions].

“You have to deliver and it has to be with quality to break down a really good team. We have to play much better, and with more quality.”

Lewis-Skelly dismissal made fightback ‘even tougher’

Lewis-Skelly was sent off for the second time in the Premier League on Saturday, although his first dismissal – in a 1-0 victory at Wolves in January – ended up being overturned.

On Saturday, the 18-year-old was initially cautioned by referee Craig Pawson after dragging Mohammed Kudus to the floor near the halfway line, but the video assistant referee (VAR) ruled he had denied the Ghanaian a clear goalscoring opportunity and upgraded the yellow card to a red.

It means Arteta’s team have dropped 10 points in games in which they have had a player sent off this season. In August, they had to settle for a 1-1 draw at home to Brighton after Declan Rice’s controversial red card early in the second half.

Leandro Trossard’s dismissal at Manchester City in September meant the Gunners had to play the entire second half with 10 men, ultimately conceding a 98th-minute equaliser in a 2-2 draw.

And in October, Bournemouth made the most of their numerical advantage after William Saliba had been given his marching orders on the half-hour mark.

Arteta felt Lewis-Skelly’s latest red card made things “even tougher” for his side as they sought to break West Ham’s stubborn resistance in the second half.

“We wanted to be more at it and looked more of a threat, then Myles gets sent off,” he told BBC Match of the Day.

“We have to be very disappointed. It’s a very painful loss.”

What are Arsenal’s remaining fixtures?

Arsenal’s recent form: DWWWL

Arsenal’s longest Premier League run without defeat under Arteta came to an end against the Hammers.

They will still have a game in hand on Liverpool after the Reds’ visit to Manchester City – against Chelsea on 16 March – while the Reds also have a Carabao Cup final against Newcastle to look forward to.

If the Gunners can reduce the gap on Liverpool in the coming weeks, getting a result at Anfield on 10 May would set them up for a home game against Newcastle and then an away trip to Southampton on the final day, by which point the Saints could be relegated.

Arsenal’s final 12 Premier League games:

26 February: Nottingham Forest (A)

9 March: Manchester United (A)

16 March: Chelsea (H)

1 April: Fulham (H)

5 April: Everton (A)

12 April: Brentford (H)

19 April: Ipswich (A)

26 April: Crystal Palace (H)

3 May: Bournemouth (H)

10 May: Liverpool (A)

18 May: Newcastle (H)

25 May: Southampton (A)

What are Liverpool’s remaining fixtures?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Arne Slot’s Liverpool play just one league game in March – at home to bottom club Southampton

Liverpool’s recent form: WWDWD

What has been an incredibly busy period for Liverpool is set to become much easier in March, when they play just one league game – at home to Southampton.

Liverpool face the Magpies in the Carabao Cup final on 16 March, at which point both the Reds and Arsenal will have nine games left.

The Reds finish the season at home to Crystal Palace – but they will hope to have wrapped up the title by that point.

Liverpool’s final 12 Premier League games:

23 February: Manchester City (A)

26 February: Newcastle (H)

8 March: Southampton (H)

2 April: Everton (H)

5 April: Fulham (A)

12 April: West Ham (H)

19 April: Leicester (A)

26 April: Tottenham (H)

3 May: Chelsea (A)

10 May: Arsenal (H)

18 May: Brighton (A)

25 May: Crystal Palace (H)

The sides contested a thrilling 2-2 draw on Saturday, but the Toffees thought they had a golden chance to win it in injury time when referee Andrew Madley awarded a penalty after Ashley Young went down in the box.

There appeared to be a shirt pull by United defender Matthijs de Ligt, with Harry Maguire also in close proximity.

But after being told to review the incident on the pitchside monitor, Madley decided to change his original decision.

Moyes said: “If it’s absolutely clear and obvious he should go to the screen, but I didn’t see that – he pulled his jersey.

“I thought the referee made the correct decision at the time and he should have stuck with it.

“I think for everybody who watches football we are all looking forward to a referee saying ‘no I am sticking to what I have done’. They are being told they are absolutely wrong.

“We have seen very few say ‘it is a penalty kick’. If it was absolutely clear and obvious and it is wrong, then that is what we have got VAR for.”

What happened?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Everton’s Ashley Young previously spent nine years with Manchester United

The scoreline was level and with five minutes added on both sides were aiming to secure victory late on in an enthralling contest.

In the 94th minute, Idrissa Gueye’s thumping drive was pushed back into the danger area by Andre Onana and a combination of Maguire and De Ligt appeared to bring down Young.

Replays showed there was clearly a touch on the veteran full-back, but was there enough contact to send him tumbling to the turf?

The Premier League Match Centre said: “VAR checked the referee’s call of penalty to Everton for a challenge by Maguire on Young and deemed that no foul had been committed and recommended an on-field review.

“The referee overturned the original decision and play restarted with a drop ball.”

Asked about the Premier League’s explanation, Moyes said: “So did they look at the shirt pull? So they only mentioned the bit they needed to and not the shirt pull? It looked to me as though the shirt pull was enough.

“I am not an expert on VAR, I can only tell you what I have seen. You shouldn’t be getting away with pulling jerseys. From the touchline I thought he had gone over somebody’s leg.”

United manager Ruben Amorim added: “I think it was a soft touch from what I saw. I think it was a soft penalty, it was clear.”

Everton fans were left irate by the decision and loudly jeered Madley when he went down the tunnel at full-time.

‘Enough of a tug’ or ‘soft’? Pundits are split

Everton had gone two up in the first half courtesy of goals from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure, but United hit back in the second period through Bruno Fernandes’ delightful free-kick and Manuel Ugarte’s first goal for the Red Devils.

There was edge-of-the-seat drama late on when it appeared like Everton had the chance to win it from the spot, but that opportunity was snatched away, and a real split emerged between the broadcast pundits on whether a penalty should have been confirmed.

Former Everton winger Theo Walcott said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “I totally agree with the referee, I don’t think that was a penalty. Naturally [when you are challenged] you don’t fall that way.”

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones added on BBC Radio 5 Live: “It is very, very soft, but Maguire does get a tug of the shirt on Young. He has made a mess of it.”

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said on TNT: “I was fearing the worst when VAR got involved. I was surprised it wasn’t given. The contact is there. When you put your hands on someone you give the referee a decision.”

Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist said on TNT: “You know something, I can see why he’s not given it, but I would have given it. I think there’s enough of a tug on him [Ashley Young].”