#it will be Frank Lampard that gets burned"

[protect-daniel-james]

The Happy Fic Writer Ask Game

6 and 14?

6. Describe what you do and your feelings after posting a chapter.

Nowadays, I'm mostly happy that I managed to finish something - usually I post stuff and then still go through it and try to correct some bad spelling etc., but just for a little while. (I often post works without properly correcting/reading through them just because I want to get them out there asap). When I started posting fanfics, I would be really anxious about getting kudos and comments, and I was always disappointed when I didn't get any in like the first hour or two lol. I think I matured a lot when it comes to posting fanfiction - not only storytelling wise, but also in the way I got to the point of writing and posting largely self-indulgent fanfiction. Is there a large audience for Lampardverse cousin incest daddy issues breeding roleplay? Probably not. Is there a huge audience of people waiting to read about Emery caressing the walls of the stadium and getting aroused from it? Probably even less so. But I want these stories, and I want them to exist and be out there so maybe someone else can read them and say... hang on, this makes sense and explains so much...

So these days I'm not bothered about kudos at all. I love getting comments though of course! I love when someone finds interesting bits in my stories, or when they "accept" my headcanons... If I can make more people believe that Frank Lampard is very sad and round and wants his cousin to fuck him, or that Unai Emery indeed fucks football, then I think I succeeded as a fanfic writer.

And I love when out of nowhere, someone reaches out to me on tumblr to say "Hey, I just want to let you know I love your Rakidric stories!" or "I really enjoyed Grizione fics, are any more coming?" because it's so nice to see people interacting with "older" stories as well!

14. Share a snippet.

“What would you like to drink then, Unai?” The bridges were burned anyway by now. Granit has already defied the gaffer, forcefully taken back the gift he gave him only a month ago, and openly mocked him by now – the damage was done, so why leave it there? Unai’s eyes seemed unnaturally large in his pale, haggard face – everything about him was unnatural, now that Granit had a chance to really watch him, sitting in the darkened office, after yet another bad result, just about hanging to his job. He didn’t look like a gaffer at all. He was pathetic, weak, broken and little, and he might have been showing his teeth but he instilled in Granit just about as much fear as a tiger separated from him by a thick glass in a zoo. Moreover, he felt like it was the other way around. Unai hasn’t really confronted him about anything he did – he just sat behind his desk and pathetically asked him to leave. “Are you – “ Granit made sure to enjoy the sound of it “ – afraid of me?”

[tommyspeakycap]

Please could you write one with Grealish where you’re a Chelsea fan so refuse to wear a Villa shirt with his name on, and for bants Mount gets you a Chelsea shirt with his name and Jack gets all pouty?

omg I love this idea!! gets very smutty at the end ;) enjoy!

Villa Boy

A love for Chelsea had been something you adapted and grew to into as a young girl. Your dad was never entirely sure how to bond with his only daughter and your mother told him just to include you in what he loved. And so came your season pass with a little lanyard that still hung proudly in your childhood room right next to a shirt mounted in a glass photo frame with Frank Lampard's signature scrawled along the eight on the back.

It was actually how you met Jack in the first place, which is the only one single reason that he has for liking your club affiliation. Otherwise, it was one of the most annoying things in his world. It was often a source of teasing and taunting, you saying your team was better than his and him swaggering home and gloating for weeks when Aston Villa take a win over Chelsea. It was the bane of his life that he couldn't get you into that claret and blue. Not even to sleep in or wear around the house, you just would not dare put it on.

"I would feel my dad's shame emanate through the walls, maybe it would kill him. And then I'd lose every morsel of self respect I have, so not a chance." You'd snort, not even giving him a window for more persuasion.

His England shirt? that was fair game. You'd wear that with pride, to the shops, round the house, walking the dog and especially at his games but there was just absolutely no chance of getting you into his Villa shirt.

Though Jack may never admit it, it was one of his biggest wants. Seeing you in his England short was nothing short revolutionary - he'd said. It only made him want to see you in the Villa shirt more. That was his childhood club, getting to captain that was one of his biggest achievements and while he knew you were absolutely proud of him. You were the most proud and encouraging person in his life and there were no ifs buts or maybes in that.

But my god he knew you'd look fit in that claret and blue.

No matter how much it annoyed him, he wouldn't get you out of the darker blue home jersey of your favourite club no matter what he did. It was something he had come to accept over the course of your relationship, it was by and large fine.

Until that jersey said someone else's name across the back.

"Awh come on!" He yelps, mouth dropped open as you emerge into the kitchen with your toothbrush hanging out your mouth and only one shoe on. Jack knows you slept in because he switched off your alarm last night in hopes you'd miss the game, but Jack dropped a bowl when he tripped over the dog and woke you up anyway.

You going to the Villa v Chelsea game in a Chelsea shirt was bad enough, but now he's just clocked something that's sent his mind firing a mile a minute.

MOUNT

19

Not a fucking chance.

"Oi, you!" He calls out, throwing himself off the chair at the kitchen island, his feet fumbling over one another to get after you as quickly as possible. "What's up, Jack?" You hum innocently, a sweet smile playing on your lips as you stand in the doorway shoving on your other shoe. "Is something the matter?"

Jack gawks, opening and closing his mouth awaiting words to find his frazzled brain. "Yes!" He squeaks, a tone you'd never heard from a man before, let along your very deep voiced man. "There's no way that you're- what are you doing? Come back." He groans, his feet shuffling after you as you walk back through the house to find your car keys. "We're going to be late if you don't hurry up." You note sweetly, Jack drops his jaw. "We're not going anywhere until-"

"Hi Mason, yeah I got it. Fits like glove actually. Yeah, we're just leaving now. I'll meet you in the car park."

Jack's face was literally priceless. His agape, eye's wild, brows furrowed. A pout settles itself firmly into his lips the second he sits in the car with his arms folded over his chest like a toddler. You have to physically stifle a laugh at him as you beam the entire drive to Villa Park.

"M' gonna burn that." He states. You cast him a glance out the corner of your eye as you pull into the players parking. A snigger escapes despite your very best efforts and Jack resumes his frontward glare at the dashboard with his lips in a firm line. "Gonna win this game, burn that shirt and knock Mount flat."

You know he's not being serious about Mason. He's very fond of the player when they're on the same side. But you had become very close friends with him through the mutual love for the club he plays at and Jack absolutely despised that. He wasn't the kind to be bothered by your friends even to a moderate degree and even here he trusted you, he just fucking hated the concept of another club and another mans name over your back. It ticked him right off.

You know this very well. You knew what you were getting into the second Mason handed you that dark blue shirt. It was all fun and games really. You loved the club but you only wore the Mount shirt to get under Jack's skin. You thought it might even throw off his game a little.

The second he stormed onto the pitch and scored a goal 5 minutes into the game, you figured that might not be the case.

Every opportunity, every goal, every opening and every single tackle, Jack turned to you. He turned to you with fire in those brown eyes, sending you a cheeky wink. His passion, the very serious look etched onto his features and the way he was looking at you was fuelling a very different kind of fire in you.

Jack played the whole 90 minutes and he took Mason Mount down at every single given opportunity in a careful way that just evaded him getting a yellow card. He finished hot, sweaty and with a man of the match trophy for 2 goals and one assist with a majority of the game spent with the ball at his feet.

The 3 nil win should have been a lot more disappointing that it was, but he just looked so fucking good. The sweat stuck his hair to his temples, his muscles tight and protruding through exertion as he walks off the field after shaking every hand.

You're standing just outside the tunnel with Mason and John McGinn standing with you, talking about the match mostly. John makes a joke about you wearing that top more often, seems to be a good luck charm for Villa even if it's the opposing team. Mason scoffs and says; "More like an angry boyfriend wants to murder me charm."

That's when Jack appears and John barely gets his mouth open to greet him before Jack shoulders through the two footballers. His mouth finds your immediately. Hot, passionate, fiery and filled with his dominance.

He pulls back and grabs onto your hand tightly with his back to the two midfielders. Jack twists his body round with a daggering glare.

"Nobody," Jack growls, "fucks around with girl."

His tone, deep and gravelly, only serves to dampen your panties further in a way that makes your clench your legs together.

Jack's done with pouting, the teasing can resume later. For now, he's dragging you by the hand to a darkened conference room. Hiking you up his body before setting you on the table that sits at a miraculously perfect height that places you right against his bulge.

He wastes no time whatsoever ripping down your leggings and panties, his fingers finding you immediately to swirl pressured motions around your sensitive clit. "Ahh, who's got you moaning like that baby?" He rumbles, words vibrating through your lips.

"You Jack, oh god, you!" You pant as his fingers leave you feeling empty and needy. Jack easily tugs down his shorts and pulls himself out of his boxers to line up with your entrance. His victory sex is hot always, but usually there was a dry spell after a Villa v Chelsea game, so it had never been this hot.

"And who am I?" He grunts, pushing himself into you to hear your shuddering squeak of pleasure. He lays you down over the table, hands following you under your shirt to carefully and tentatively swirl his fingers over your nipples from under your bra. "Oh god, Jack," you move your hands to the hem of the blue shirt to lift it over your head, but Jack's hands stop them before you have the chance.

"No, no, no," he chastises with a smirk, "Want to fuck you in their colours," He continues to thrust roughly into you with each heavy breath, mouth and squeak that escapes you only spurring him on. "Want to fuck you with his name on your back, baby. Remind you who you belong to."

You shudder in pleasure with the feeling of his lips attaching to your neck, letting out a shaky, heavy breath as he snakes a hand down between you to swirl those circles around your more pleasureful spot once again. He knows the intricate details of your body better than any man ever has and he always ensures he uses it to his advantage, but nothing like today. His lips on the sweet spot of your neck, hitting and stretching you perfect between your legs with masterful work of his fingers pushing you closer and closer with each second that passed.

"Fuck , I'm so close-"

"Who's making you feel so good, baby?" He pants, skin slapping and heavy breathing echoing around the room. "You, Jack. You!"

"Not a Chelsea boy eh?" He grunts, teeth nibbling down over your collarbone. "Not a Chelsea boy baby is it?" He reiterates, pairing the movements of his hand only until you snap open your eyes again, "No Jack, it's all you. not a- oh god!"

Jack breathes a chuckle into your ear with an appreciative hum to follow.

"Yeah, Villa Captain isn't it? You're screaming out for a Villa boy, ain't ya?" He coaxes, edging you further and further as he speeds up to a pace he's never quite hit you with before. The adrenaline of the match, the irritation of that blue jersey and the passion for the win colliding to give him an energy he's never yet had. Watching your eyes roll beneath him wearing that stupid blue entices him on, only makes him want to pleasure you more if even possible. "Yes! Yes, I am, oh god just don't stop."

"Go on then," he encourages, voice deep in your ear. "Come undone for the Villa Captain baby."

He didn't have to tell you twice, that was for sure. The sight of your eyes fluttering, the feeling of you clenching around him with a steam of, "Fuck yes Jack!" sends him tumbling over the edge of his orgasm right after you, a strangle cry out of your name as it wracks through him.

When he lays down beside you in the table that very surpassingly withstood the pace of your antics, you're both breathless and shining with sweat. Your legs feel like jelly as you still throb from the pleasure. Jack turns his head to you with a lazy smirk, brushing some hair off your forehead as you turn to look at him.

"Well, I certainly do love a Villa boy."

[thesportssoundoff]

EPL Transfer Deadline Day Spectacular (Refresh For Updates!)

-K.A. 

Woo! It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these, but since we last spoke and touched upon the wonderful world of transfers...

-takes a deep breath-

Arsenal:

Brought in Dani Ceballos on loan from Real Madrid to shore up their midfield, in hopes of getting classification to the Champions League.

Flirted with Wilfred Zaha and then ultimately ended up signing Nicholas Pepe for the same money,  ~£80 million with incentives, essentially acting like the girl at the bar who dances with you all night then goes home with another guy.

-Signed  Kiernan Tierney from Celtic from £25 milliom to fill their gap at Centreback. Also, they’ve somehow convinced David Luiz to leave Chelsea for £8 million, which is a steal. They’ve also let go of Koscileny to Bordeaux in Ligue 1 in France and signed William Saliba, another Centreback from St. Etienne also in Ligue 1 and sent him back on loan to the French club for a year for more seasoning.

-Let Aaron Ramsey go on a free transfer to Juventus, who sign players on free transfers like its their birthright.

Flirted with Phillipe Coutinho and then saw that deal fall through, because of course.

Have sold Alex Iwobi for ~ £40 million to Everton in the most awesome and desperate panic buy of the season. Great move there by Arsenal.

Chelsea:

Finally signed Mateo Kovacic permanently from Real Madrid to shore up their midfield.

Have brought in our lord and savior, Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund to be the American Wunderkind we all know he is capable of being.

Found the reanimated corpse of Ross Barkley and have made him look like prime Frank Lampard.

Sold Eden Hazard in a move that made that portion of London cry.

Sold Alvaro Morata to Atletico Madrid for a bag of balls.

Loaned Danny Drinkwater to Burnley on a season-long loan only a coupe of years after paying £35 million for him. Regretting that now, aren’t we?

Crystal Palace:

Flirted with everyone regarding Wilifred Zaha, overpriced him as if he were Lionel Messi then watched all the big clubs shrug their shoulders and go elsewhere to buy someone just as good, if not slightly less talented. Arsenal and Everton both inquired about the Ivory Coast star and Crystal Palace got greedy. Now Zaha is refusing to train with Crystal Palace. Good way of fucking up morale, that.

Everton:

Signed Moise Kean from Juvenuts, bringing in a super-talented Striker to lessen the burn of not getting Zaha. Arguably better than Zaha and more fit for their squad. Will pair beautifully with Richarlison. Watch this team flourish this year. Calling it now.

Tried to work in and sneak in a deal for Franck Kessie from AC Milan in Serie A, but the deal fell through.

Panicked after not getting Zaha or Kessie and bought an overrated Alex Iwobi from Arsenal for a ridiculous  £40 million valuation. Are you kidding me?

Liverpool:

Have done absolutely nothing all transfer window to either the betterment or detriment of their team. 

Manchester City:

-Signed Rodri from Atletico Madrid for an absurd amount of money to be the eventual replacement for Fernandinho, a Defensive Midfield ace that everyone wanted, sure to shore up the link play leading up to the attack and clean up the messes before the likes of Zinchenko, Otamendi, Stones, Walker and others have to deal with it. Great signing.

Swapped Danilo for Joao Cancelo from Juventus because...well, they were bored and it seemed like good business? This was a cash dump.

Bid farewell to longtime captain Vincent Kompany as he left to Anderlecht in the Belgian League to be a player-coach.

Have flirted for the better parts of three months with Bayern Munich over the sale of Leroy Sane only to see Sane butcher his knee and tears his ACL in a glorified friendly, blowing up the potential move and putting Sane on the shelf for 6-12 months.

Manchester United:

Ho boy. Signed Harry Maguire and made him the most expensive defender ever for a sum of £80 million, much of which probably isn’t deserved. Signed Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace to shore up Right Back in a great bit of business. Signed Daniel James to play Right Wing, hoping that he’s more than just pace and a hopeful nostalgia-bit in which Manchester United is hoping to duplicate the magic of Ryan Giggs.

Have sold Romelo Lukaku to Inter Milan of Serie A after Lukaku refused to train with the first team in search of a big money move.

Flirted with and failed to bring in Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon.

Flirted with Paulo Dybala, made flirty faces at each other, slid into each others DMs, then Dybala told Manchester United he was a call girl and likes to get paid before they get in bed together. Manchester United balked and Dybala went back to Juventus where he will inevitable be stifled once again under Cristiano Ronaldo. Great life for Dybala, let me tell you.

Tottenham:

Sold Kiernan Trippier, got rid of Champions League legend Fernando Llorente, and said goodbye to worthless piece of crap, Vincent Janssen.

-Signed Tanguy Ndombele in the move of the transfer window, bringing him from Lyon in Ligue 1 to the London giants, placing Ndombele right in the middle of the park as a defensive midfielder, a position Spurs were sorely lacking in and needed to reinforce since the departure of Moussa Dembele.

Signed Jack Clarke, a young starlet in a good bit of business from Leeds before loaning him back out to Leeds in an act of good faith.

Signed Giovanni Lo Celso from Real Betis to boss the middle of the park next to Ndombele for a fee of £65 million.

Have seen Christian Eriksen flirt with everyone and their mother and then watch Eriksen get told in no uncertain terms that he simply isn’t good enough for the likes of the bigger teams in the continent. Great news for Tottenham, soul crushing for Eriksen.

Also flirted with Dyabla, also got the Girlfriend Experience from the Argentine before he demanded a Brinks truck full of money and Daniel Levy told him to kick rocks. Seemingly the deal was all but agreed and finalized before he decided to demand a sensational amount of money.

Signed Ryan Sessegnon from Fulham. A dominant and young British defender, he will definitely fill the wingback position and push Danny Rose to the bench. 

Tottenham is getting younger, adding skill and talent. I like it. Hell of a way to keep yourself at the top of the food chain. Ndombele, Lo Celso, Ndombele and Clarke is a hell of a transfer window.

Watford:

Signed Ismaila Sarr from Ligue 1 side, Stade Rennais for a club-record fee.

West Brom:

Hoping to get some goal-scoring punch, have secured the rights to Charlie Austin from Southampton on a 2-year deal with terms undisclosed.

Wolves:

Not done much, but were trying to work out a £26 million deal for the aforementioned Franck Kessie of Serie A giants, AC Milan, which fell through.

[thisdaynews]

Brighton 1-1 Chelsea: Alireza Jahanbakhsh's stunning effort earns Seagulls point

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/brighton-1-1-chelsea-alireza-jahanbakhshs-stunning-effort-earns-seagulls-point/

Brighton 1-1 Chelsea: Alireza Jahanbakhsh's stunning effort earns Seagulls point

Alireza Jahanbakhsh has scored two goals in his last two games for Brighton, having failed to find the net in his first 26 for the club in all competitions

Alireza Jahanbakhsh said he has started 2020 “in the best way possible” after his spectacular overhead kick earned Brighton an unlikely point against Chelsea at the Amex Stadium.

The Iranian substitute, who scored his first goal for the club on Saturday, brought the home support to their feet in the 84th minute with an early contender for goal of the month.

“When I was about to go on, I had a feeling I could have an impact on the game,” he told Match of the Day.

“When I saw the ball, I just tried to hit it as hard as I could and the bicycle kick was the only option. I’m going to watch it a couple more times.

“It has been a really tough time for me. I have been training well and working hard to get my chance. Luckily, it has gone the way I wanted.

“2019 didn’t go as well as I wanted. I tried to end the year as well as I could and I’ve started 2020 in the best way possible.”

Cesar Azpilicueta gave the Blues the lead with his third goal of the season when he fired in from close range after Tammy Abraham’s shot was blocked by Aaron Mooy.

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‘Courage, effort & quality’ – Potter on Brighton draw

Brighton’s attacking threat was largely nullified by Chelsea’s defence, although aside from the goals they produced the clearest chances – both thwarted by the brilliance of keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The Spaniard produced a one-handed stop to deny Aaron Connolly and then saved Neal Maupay’s low drive with his feet.

The point extends fourth-placed Chelsea’s advantage over Manchester United in fifth to five points. Brighton move up a place to 13th, above Burnley on goal difference.

Live text coverage of the New Year’s Day games

Big blow for Lampard’s side

Cesar Azpilicueta has scored three goals in his past 11 games in all competitions, as many as in his previous 118

This result is another setback for Frank Lampard and his side, who looked assured of an eighth league win on the road this season.

Prior to Jahanbakhsh’s goal his defence had suffocated Brighton’s attack.

Having been accused of being sloppy at times this season, Kurt Zouma, Antonio Rudiger, Reece James and skipper Azpilicueta were at their dogged best – rarely allowing an opposition ball to find its way into the six-yard area.

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Brighton & Hove Albion 1-1 Chelsea: We didn’t take our chances – Lampard

Youth graduate James shone the brightest, and manager Lampard has a potential diamond. Aside from providing support for his centre-backs, the 20-year-old was exceptional as an attacking force down the right.

Brighton’s Dan Burn will not want to face him too soon having left the pitch with a fractured collarbone in the 22nd minute following a collision with the England Under-21 player.

The Blues, however, were as poor as Brighton in attack, and keeper Mat Ryan had less to do than his opposite number. The only time he was called into action in the second half was to make a routine low save from Christian Pulisic.

Jahanbakhsh steals the headlines again

Tears of joy to a look a disbelief – what a week it has been for Jahanbakhsh.

A lack of first-team opportunities had frustrated the Iranian since he made a £17m move from AZ Alkmaar in July 2018, so the outpouring of emotion when he opened his Brighton account against Bournemouth last weekend came as no surprise.

Manager Graham Potter did not reward the 26-year-old winger with another start, but having watched his other attackers fail to make much of a dent in the Chelsea defence he threw on Jahanbakhsh in the 68th minute.

Connolly came close to beating Arrizabalaga with a low drive before Jahanbakhsh tried the more unconventional method and, with his back to goal, he found the Chelsea bottom right with a superb acrobatic effort.

Man of the match – Reece James (Chelsea)

Reece James (left) regained possession 11 times – more than any other player from his side

‘Lack of consistency is a concern’ – reaction

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard:“It was frustrating for different reasons.

“In the first half, the game was there to be won. We weren’t ruthless enough. We got the goal and we had the possession, but we just didn’t kill the game off.

“We allowed them to stay in the game. In the end it was a wonder goal but we were lucky not to lose the game.

“In the end, the tactics matched up for both teams but they were better than us. We have to take that on the chin.

“[The lack of consistency] is a concern. It’s something we absolutely have to look at.

“We have to look at the game today. It’s a point, but I’m not happy with the performance.”

Brighton manager Graham Potter:“I thought our play was really brave and we got our reward.

“Everyone is delighted for Jahanbakhsh. He’s worked so hard and waited so long, and to have his freshness off the bench was the thinking and he popped up with a great strike.

“He’s had to be patient, but he’s got qualities and he’s getting his reward.

“I’m really proud of the performance. We need to carry that forward and get some more points.”

Brighton’s super subs – the stats

Brighton earned their first ever point in a league game against Chelsea in what was their 10th match against them.

This was Chelsea’s first away Premier League draw this season – the Blues had won seven and lost three of their 10 previous games on the road this term.

Chelsea have scored more goals in 11 Premier League away games this season (25) than they managed on the road in the whole of 2018-19 (24).

Azpilicueta has scored three goals in his last 11 games in all competitions for Chelsea, as many as he had in his previous 118.

Jahanbakhsh became the fifth different Brighton player to score a Premier League goal as a substitute this season, more than any other side in the competition.

Despite only coming on as a 68th-minute substitute, no Brighton player had more shots (three) or created more chances (three) than goalscorer Jahanbakhsh.

What’s next?

Brighton are at home to Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup on Saturday (15:01 GMT) and the following day Chelsea host Nottingham Forest in the competition (14:01 GMT).

Read More

[junker-town]

The best things about every Champions League matchup

Also: What is Arsenal going to do now that they’ve sacked Unai Emery?

Hello, and welcome back to another edition of Tactically Naive, SB Nation’s weekly football/soccer/kickball column. This week we have mostly been sobbing quietly in the corner.

THESE ARE THE BEST TEAMS

And this is the best bit of the competition, isn’t it? When the fluff of the group stage is out of the way and we get down to the knockout football. Two legs. Floodlights. One winner, one loser. PSG making a mess on the floor again. A nice chilled pint of delicious Gazprom.

Feel your eyes widen and your brain cool. Don’t fight it. Relax into it. These are the best teams. More Gazprom? There you go. Follow the ball. Back and forth. The same teams, the same games, over and over and over and over … close your eyes. And—

Huh? Oh? Sorry about that, drifted off a bit. Where were we? Ah yes. Today was the draw for the last 16 of the Champions League and — well, you remember how last week it was appalling how the same flippin’ teams get through every time? Turns out those same flippin’ teams getting drawn against one another makes everything okay. Let’s go tie by tie.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Paris Saint-Germain

This is the easiest one to call. Sure, Dortmund have had a fairly chaotic start to the season. But there’s a couple of months to go before the games, so one of two things will have happened: Either they’ll have sorted themselves out, or they’ll have fired Lucien Favre smack in the middle of the new manager bounce. Either way, PSG will be strolling along at the top of Ligue 1, hoping that this is the year they finally turn vast financial power into knockout results.

This is not the year. PSG are going to get humiliated, again, because they are cursed. Dark and ancient forces are arrayed against them, and you can’t spend your way past magic.

The only real question is: if Favre does go, which ex-Dortmund player is the narrative equivalent of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer? What’s Karl-Heinz Riedle up to these days?

Real Madrid vs. Manchester City

pic.twitter.com/Hwy5gVGgZ4

— No Context Final Fantasy (@ContextFantasy) December 15, 2019

Atalanta vs. Valencia

As a column, we at Tactically Naive are studiously, carefully neutral: we hate all football teams equally, only slightly less than we hate ourselves. But we might have to make an exception for Atalanta, who are the very picture of a neutral’s favourite. Cute football, plenty of goals, punching way above their weight and enjoying every minute of it. Curse them for making us feel again.

Atletico Madrid vs. Liverpool

Be nice to finally find out the answer to that spear vs. shield, fox vs. hound, unstoppable force vs. immovable object problem, won’t it?

Chelsea vs. Bayern Munich

This is going to be two very good games of football. Frank Lampard, man of the people, has put together a Chelsea side that play some very nice football but absolutely cannot defend, and we’ve already had the ridiculous 4-4 against Ajax and the only slightly less ridiculous 2-2 against Valencia. Against Robert Lewandowski? Might get biblical.

Sadly, the whole occasion will be ruined when Bayern attempt to buy Callum Hudson-Odoi at half-time of the second leg, and a fight breaks out between the sporting directors. Bayern later formally apologise for the actions of Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, saying that he “should not have thrown himself elbow-first into Bruce Buck shouting ‘that’s for Drogba in 2012, you [redacted]’.”

Lyon vs. Juventus

Could be a bit one-sided, this. Juventus strolled through their group, while Lyon finished only a point ahead of Benfica and Zenit in Group G. But still, there’s hope. For while there are only a few footballers who we can imagine scoring a winning goal and then pulling out the Ronaldo look-at-me spin celebration, that list includes Lyon’s Memphis Depay. The adorable buffoon.

Tottenham Hotspur vs. RB Leipzig

Honestly, the footballing world cannot lose here. One of two beautiful things is guaranteed to happen. Either Spurs strike a blow for Proper Football by dispatching the cynical advertising construct of Red Bull Leipzig, or Jose Mourinho gets humiliated by a can of fizzy pop.

Napoli vs. Barcelona

It is, perhaps, the nature of Napoli, to bring hope wherever they go. For they are Italy’s greatest club. Not best, which is boring; not most successful, which is accountancy; but greatest, which is dignification made up of equal parts glory, failure, and romance. As such, they exist in this strange world of contradictory possibility. They could do anything. They could do nothing, beautifully. They could do both.

Will they do something against Barca? Probably not. Lionel Messi’s very good. But Napoli got the best of Maradona while Barcelona didn’t, and so they’re already the moral victors. For some rather smudged definition of “moral.”

A new dawn for Arsenal

Arsenal are not in the Champions League. But Arsenal have recently sacked Unai Emery, the most Europa League manager who ever Europa Leagued, so we can be fairly sure they’d quite like to get back to the big time. And it looks like they’ve found their route back: after a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Champions League big-timers Manchester City over the weekend, they’ve decided to appoint the genius behind that drubbing.

Congratulations to the new manager of Arsenal: Pep Guardiola!

[puts finger to ear] Wait, what? Oh. Oh dear.

Congratulations to the new manager of Arsenal: Mikel Arteta?

He hasn’t got the job yet. But the City assistant with the fungible hair has been entertaining Arsenal dignitaries. Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham and club lawyer Huss Fahmy were photographed leaving Arteta’s home around 1:20 a.m. Obviously we can’t rule out that they were just caught up in a really intense Settlers of Catan session. But it looks suggestive.

Anyway, Arteta ticks a lot of boxes. First of all, the fact that City walked through Arsenal so easily suggests that their management team had done some decent thinking about Arsenal’s strengths and weaknesses, and how best to counter the former and exploit the latter. Sounds basic, but there were times when you wondered if Emery had ever thought to do the same.

Beyond the pointlessly cruel jokes at the expense of a man who probably tried his best, Arteta has played for Arsenal and has spent a couple of years making notes next to Guardiola. Those are things that might be important. Alternatively, they are things that might be completely meaningless. But those are the things that will get him the job, because honestly there aren’t many other options.

Europe’s biggest clubs are burning through managers faster than European football can produce them. If Arteta gets the job, then three of last season’s Big Six will be in the hands of former players with limited experience. And they’ll all be below Brendan Rodgers in the table. There’s probably a lesson in there somewhere.

Still, if you need a defensive coach, Mikel, don’t worry. Big Sam is here to help.

Sam Allardyce on Arsenal's defence: “I could come and work on Arsenal’s defence and make them better tomorrow, not a problem whatsoever. I’ve done it everywhere I’ve been – Newcastle, Blackburn, Bolton, West Ham Crystal Palace, Everton, I’ve done it all there." pic.twitter.com/SvLTyx5mgq

— Squawka News (@SquawkaNews) December 16, 2019

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Chelsea 0-0 Brighton LIVE: Score, Premier League updates, Abraham and Mount start | Football | Sport

CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON

Chelsea XI: Arrizabalaga, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Tomori Alonso, Jorginho, Barkley, Willian, Pedro, Mount, Abraham

Brighton XI: Ryan, Webster, Dunk, Burn, Montoya, Bissouma Stephens, Alzate, Gross, Maupay, Mooy

CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON

10: Chance! Mount ghosts past Stephens with ease before teeing up Abraham, who chests it down and volleys over in the same motion. Tough finish in fairness.

8: Hate making these predictions so early but Brighton are in for a long afternoon if they continue like this. They are giving the ball away for fun and playing out from the back looks a risky proposition.

5: Penalty appeal! Mason Mount hits the deck under pressure from Lewis Dunk. The replays show he was actually stumbling down anyway and referee Chris Kavanagh waves play away.

3: Brighton haven’t started as deep as I would have expected. Certainly more advanced than in the Chris Hughton day. Saying that, only one of the visitors have touched the ball – and that’s goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON

1: Y’all ready for this? Splendid. We’re underway at Stamford Bridge as Frank Lampard seeks his first home league win as manager.

Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Premier League score, goals and updates (Image: GETTY)

Callum Hudson-Odoi

14:50: Frank Lampard believes Callum Hudson-Odoi can become the best player in the world and has urged him to listen to some “hard truths” and use Raheem Sterling as a role model.

“I know Callum’s talent and he’s got huge talent, hence why the club was so keen to get him signed up and we’re all delighted with that,” said Lampard. “But there is a lot of work to do.

“Raheem Sterling is an incredible example of a player with great talent whose work ethic added to that talent, and an improvement in a short period of time through absolute dedication to a complete player that we are all wowed by.

“(That) is exactly the great model for Callum because he has those talents. And I want him to be the best, the absolute best, because he has the potential to do that.”

He’ll have to prove that from the bench today… if he gets on of course.

Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Premier League score, goals and updates (Image: GETTY)

Team News

14:45: Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham are among the players to return to the Chelsea line-up against Brighton.

Ross Barkley, Marcos Alonso and Pedro kept their places following the 7-1 Carabao Cup win over Grimsby.

Brighton reverted to their first-choice XI following their cup defeat by Aston Vila with Lewis Dunk, Pascal Gross and Neal Maupay returning.

Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Premier League score, goals and updates (Image: GETTY)

The sides

14:40: Blimey, looks an attacking side from Frank Lampard.

Chelsea XI: Arrizabalaga, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Tomori Alonso, Jorginho, Barkley, Willian, Pedro, Mount, Abraham.

Subs: Caballero, Kovacic, Hudson-Odoi, Pulisic, Batshuayi, James Guehi.

Brighton XI: Ryan, Webster, Dunk, Burn, Montoya, Bissouma Stephens, Alzate, Gross, Maupay, Mooy.

Subs: Bong, Jahanbakhsh Murray, Schelotto, Button, Baluta, Connolly.

Referee: Andre Marriner

Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Premier League score, goals and updates (Image: GETTY)

Afternoon…

14:40: Hello everyone and welcome to our LIVE coverage of Chelsea vs Brighton from Stamford Bridge.

I’m currently covering Liverpool’s trip to Sheffield United and will get things up and running here when that’s finished.

But, of course, I will bring you the line-ups as soon as they arrive.

Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Premier League score, goals and updates (Image: GETTY)

CHELSEA vs BRIGHTON – TEAM NEWS

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard expects to have defender Andreas Christensen available for the Premier League game with Brighton at Stamford Bridge.

Centre-back Christensen has returned to training after suffering a knee knock in last weekend’s loss to Liverpool, but left-back Emerson Palmieri, who sustained a thigh problem in that game, will miss out.

Defender Antonio Rudiger (groin) and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Achilles) remain unavailable, while striker Olivier Giroud will be assessed following illness.

Brighton will be without centre-back Shane Duffy after the Republic of Ireland international suffered a calf problem in the midweek Carabao Cup defeat against Aston Villa.

Glenn Murray (ankle) should be available having returned to training, while Iran forward Alireza Jahanbakhsh could come into contention again following an injury picked up during the international break.

Winger Leandro Trossard (groin) continues his recovery, along with Solly March (thigh) and defender Bernardo. Jose Izquierdo (knee) and Ezequiel Schelotto (knee) also remain sidelined.

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MARTIN SAMUEL COLUMN: If Chelsea do crash, it will be Frank Lampard that gets burned

Everyone thought David Moyes would get time in Manchester United . It was the logical way to travel. He had a six-year contract, he had the support of the club's mode, Sir Alex Ferguson, and he also had Ferguson's shoes to fill. It would always be tricky for the first man in, but United had a recent history of giving managers time.

It lasted just over nine months.

The lesson here is not to assume. This is the Premier League 2019. The idea that reason or fair play will prevail is strangely nostalgic. All rational thoughts can suggest Frank Lampard has at least two seasons to shape Chelsea given the current situation of the club.

If it goes wrong for Frank Lampard , hero or we know who takes the blame

He has a transfer ban, he has lost the best player, he is the first coach who is really involved in youth policy and the current Chelsea team is a pale imitation of what went before. Plus, Lampard is a local hero and a starting manager.

Roman Abramovich has never mentioned one so raw, so young or so English. Any convincing analysis of the situation would conclude that Lampard must surrender, even if his Chelsea team slips into the middle of the table.

Yet senior club officials should take responsibility for part of the crisis, and that is why, like Moyes, Lampard is not safe.

Subsequent managers from United have discovered where the money stops nowadays. Not above. The recruitment of United in the first summer of Moyes was poor. The team he inherited from Ferguson had to be reformed and the department had the authority to deliver that process. It was left to Moyes, who became overwhelmed.

But to admit this, continuing with the manager after a disappointing season, would be a recognition of guilt. Much easier to make a decision that puts the blame on his shoulders, and make a change, the complete reversal, as if Moyes were the fault, not the system around him.

That is what Louis van Gaal's appointment did for United's executives. It was suggested that it was Moyes' selection – a manager whose teams had never competed for titles and whose players had no elite status – that was incorrect, and the introduction of a stellar coach like Van Gaal could solve this.

Everyone thought David Moyes would have time get at Man United – he lasted a little over nine months

For the same reason it is imagined that if Lampard & # 39; s tenure does not work, his successor will not be a young English manager of a lower division or lesser club. If this doesn't work, John Terry won't get a look for decades.

Because while Lampard is a coach who is not afraid to give the youth a chance, the problems of Chelsea are not his.

He was not involved in the story in which Eden Hazard left for Real Madrid, he did not buy a team from the first team, he was not connected to the skulduggery surrounding the registration of young people that resulted in the transfer ban. Likewise, if your team calls, this is the way that the Chelsea hierarchy has been spurring managers for many years now. The club's spin on youth engagement is that executive management is all for it, but successive managers were resistant.

If Lampard does not hold out in his current role, we will know why. The Chelsea managers have become second and third, have lost the last Champions League, won the last Champions League and are still fired. No wonder they have interpreted the message from above as more Mickey Spillane than Mickey and the Gang.

Chelsea is a hard-boiled club and youth development is a stream of income, not a philosophy that influences the plans of the first team

And then the transfer ban came – just when Chelsea got the most in need of reconstruction. This is the task that Lampard inherited and it is much closer in size to Moyes in United in 2013 than the traditional party at Stamford Bridge.

Someone messed up and it's not Lampard. But don't imagine that the vanity and ego of modern executive football will ever admit this.

If things go wrong, hero or not, we know who will bear the blame.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has never had such a raw, so young named

UEFA PITCH STILL EVEN AGAIN

When a cat roamed the field at the Bayern Munich competition on March 14, 2018, the UEFA a very weak view. They fined the Turkish club nearly £ 30,000 for & # 39; insufficient organization & # 39 ;. Now we are waiting to see the UEFA & # 39; s accusation against themselves for the mess that befell the supercup final of last week.

Liverpool took place at the Besiktas Stadium, inspired by a small pitch invasion that meant an injury to goalkeeper Adrian. This is the third European final in Liverpool in less than 14 months and the third with pitch invaders. Could UEFA now be accused of insufficient organization? And if 17 months ago Besiktas was unable to manage a big game against Munich, how was a hosting performance their reward?

Adrian was injured by a pitch intruder after his victory over the Super Cup in the stadium of Beskitas

FACE TO NON-VAR ISSUES, TOO

This was always going to happen. VAR has not solved the football problems, but replaced them with a different set.

We are still arguing about offside, but from a new perspective regarding the precision of measurements; we are still arguing that the referee is missing a clear penalty, except that the referee is now in a video suite, not on the field; the most important thing is that we are still arguing about consistency and interpretation, because the beating heart of VAR is human and people are fallible or have different perspectives for the same event.

An important problem is that VAR seems to hand over its advantage to the defender. To hear that the free kick against Aymeric Laporte of Manchester City on Saturday would not have been given against Oliver Skipp of Tottenham, who was standing right next to him, is nonsense.

active while the other is not. Likewise, if there are repetitions to correct mistakes, why can't they be used after the game to deal with Aleksandar Mitrovic of Fulham, his face clamped and injury to Huddersfield, while clearly La Parra's Rajiv does not touched?

The championship does not use VAR, so nothing was done in real time – and the Football Association says the incident cannot be re-visited because referee James Linington saw it and took action.

op. Certainly with VAR we have abandoned the idea that the referee's decision cannot be challenged? And if it can be corrected from a video booth, what's the difference?

If Mitrovic should have a ban on cheating, that would be a good use of equipment. Instead, it seems that technology addresses a large number of problems that we didn't know we had, while problems that were most unaffected by the fans have been left behind.

Aleksandar Mitrovic grabs his face and injuries against Huddersfield on Friday evening

[1945902] BUNDESLIGA MORALITY LESSONS DASH NOT

Union Berlin played their first game in the Bundesliga on Sunday. It started with the home fans watching 15 minutes of silence in protest against the existence of opponents, RB Leipzig, described by Union & # 39; s ultragroup as a & # 39; built club that has absolutely nothing to do with our idea of ​​football & # 39 ;.

Union bought 12 players in the summer, so they are not completely against market forces, but what about German clubs, officials and fans that every game turns into a moral lesson? Especially when, at the top, German football in no other country seems to differ from the game – if not worse.

Franz Beckenbauer and four other German football officials have been charged with fraud for the 2006 World Cup, Bayli Munich's departing president, Uli Hoeness, went to prison for tax evasion in the tens of millions, while Karl-Heinz Rummenigge – never more than a microphone away from a lecture on financial fair play – was heavily fined after he had not declared two Rolex watches worth £ 84,000 at customs. He returned from a trip to Qatar.

& # 39; The echoes have the club by their side, & # 39; snapped President of the Union, Dirk Zingler. RB Leipzig, which was formed in 2009 with the money from Red Bull, apparently outrageous, won 4-0. What the boring Bundesliga actually needs is more upstarts to challenge the established elite, instead of a new round of soapbox contamination and Bayern Munich 20 points again clear.

Union Berlin fans have 15 minutes silence observed in protest against the existence of RB Leipzig

IT IS NOTHING NEW TO BE A NEWCASTLE SLOW COACH

Norwich's defeat was bad for Steve Bruce and Newcastle, and the public expression of disappointment from his manager in his players can spring back. But a bad start to the campaign is hardly a shock to Tyneside. It was August 18, 2012, when Newcastle last won one of the first two league games of the season – a 2-1 win over Tottenham on the opening day.

Last year it was November 3 before Newcastle won in the league, while in 2014 and 2015 the first win came on October 18. In the other two seasons of Rafael Benitez, Newcastle lost their first two games – even in the championship. Indeed, during their last five Premier League campaigns, Newcastle played 15 games in August and won once, with only five draws.

With Tottenham away to play afterwards, it's hard to see that a corner will be turned around this weekend either. But a year ago, Newcastle also failed to beat Cardiff, Crystal Palace, Brighton and Southampton before their bleak run ended.

Their fortune turned against Watford who happened to visit St James & Park for a week on Saturday. That's when Bruce has to see his luck change.

Steve Bruce has had a very disappointing start to the season and it doesn't get any easier

GENDER ISSUE THAT RUN AND RUN

The rules are set, it is very unlikely that Maxine Blythin will play cricket for England. However, she can play for Kent. And does that, hitting for a large part of this season, with reasonable success.

& # 39; Two inning-anchoring scores of 43 and 48 from opener Maxine Blythin … sent Kent Women to two wins in their last two games of the season in the Vitality Women & County T20 & # 39 ;, was reported in June.

Blythin has an average of more than 30 for Kent in all competitions this season and also plays for St. Lawrence and Highland Court in the Women & # 39; s Southern Cricket League, where they average 123, including four centuries and a top score of 152 did not matter.

The reason that Blythin is probably not an international contender is because she is transgender. She identifies herself as a woman, meaning she would not pass the ECB test for testosterone limits. Next year, when the Women's Hundred starts in a semi-professional format, Blythin may also have to stop playing for Kent.

As it looks now, the policy of the ECB outside the English team is not medically driven, but socially inclusive. A person who identifies as a woman is a woman. Self-definition is no longer sufficient on a professional level. Kent flirts with next season's professionalism.

A women's group, Fair Play For Women, has already taken Blythin's involvement with county cricket as unreasonable.

& # 39; Evils that identify themselves as the women playing in ladies' competitions are arguably unfair, & it said. & # 39; The ECB manages to achieve a performance advantage over women. That is why women can use lighter and smaller cricket balls and the limits are closer. & # 39;

If the rules are set, it is very unlikely that Maxine Blythin will play cricket for England

They have a point. As a cricket player in the province, Blythin is one degree lower than the English team – Kent's captain is Tammy Beaumont, the current English cricket player, world cup winner and MBE – and the opening bat is a specialist position with limited opportunities.

Inclusiveness is important. But what about the Blythin player who stays outside the Kent team, who may work just as hard but lacks physical strength? How does inclusiveness work for her?

On the other hand, if the ECB broadens its testosterone test, where is the limit? County? Club? Village? If Blythin couldn't play for her club, let alone her district, where did she go?

Gender issues in sport become almost impossible complex, and administrative bodies stumble through the moral maze, they are not served by irreconcilable attitudes and incendiary bombs.

It is 10 years ago that Caster Semenya became internationally known at the World Athletics Championships in Berlin. The sport is still struggling with its circumstances and those of other intersex athletes. Yet Dr. Payoshni Mitra, an athlete rights activist who testified against the IAAF for Semenya this week about the case: & # 39; The witch hunt for young women with high testosterone is underway … & # 39;

Witch Hunt? What a mess. These are the governing bodies of the sport that try to find balance and fairness in competition. They mean no harm, no harm to an individual. They do not judge personal choices that go beyond the way in which they could influence the playing field. But they do. There is neither right nor wrong, but there must be rules. So here we are all.

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"Sell him in the summer" - So many Spurs fans blast player who's "lost without Kane and Eriksen"

Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of winning silverware this season could hinge on tonight’s result as they host Norwich City in the FA Cup fifth round.

The north Londoners have lost three matches in a row in all competitions, which has put their chances of playing in the Champions League at risk as they now sit five points behind the top four places and will have to overcome RB Leipzig and an away goal in their own back yard.

Jose Mourinho has suffered in the absence of injured duo Harry Kane and Heung-min Son, so much so that Dele Alli was utilised against Wolves as a makeshift centre-forward to terrible effect, but a fan account has posted to Twitter this week to remind fans of the Englishman’s quality.

🤷‍♂️ Form is temporary, class is permanent… #THFC #COYS pic.twitter.com/EYrnXfpiEd

— The Spurs Web ⚪️ (@thespursweb) March 3, 2020

But it has slightly backfired with plenty of supporters reacting negatively to the statistic.

Here’s what has been said…

I’d rather take 10 years of great form than 2 years of class followed by 8 years of mediocrity.

— Mike 💭 (@thfc_mikee) March 3, 2020

Teenage or child actors, for the most part, don’t always become successful adult actors. Probably not that different in sports. Dele might have peaked too early. 😑

— Jon S. (@spaekman) March 3, 2020

Sell him in the summer

— N⚡ (@Nuradeenv3) March 3, 2020

He’s finished

— Harry C (@HazSpur92) March 3, 2020

The brightest stars burn the fastest.

— Jack Jones (@jackjones920) March 3, 2020

Dele needs to find himself again because he is utterly lost

— jarhead_jedi 🇪🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇮🇳 (@jarhead_jedi) March 3, 2020

Still a little maggot

— Gazza spiers (@ThfcGazza) March 3, 2020

Alli’s figures were somewhat played down by one supporter who claimed he would rather have ten years of “great form” instead of two years of “class” followed by eight years of “mediocrity” while another believes the 23-year-old is “finished” as a footballer.

He was also blasted for being a “maggot” and for being “utterly lost.”

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So far this season, Alli has scored eight goals and provided five assists in 32 appearances, but has only managed to find the net once since December, per Transfermarkt.

Others referenced his age and claimed that he has regressed already with a further member of the Spurs faithful professing that the midfielder is getting worse by the day when he should, in fact, be improving rapidly.

The difference is at this age the others were improving rapidly but Dele is getting worse daily right before our eyes

— barry whyte (@comgreen) March 3, 2020

Problem is he is now 24! Can’t keep living off when he was 20/21/22.

— Ashley Conlan (@aconlan82) March 3, 2020

There were also comparison made to Premier League greats as well as his past and present Tottenham teammates.

The point of Alli being “lost” was brought up again, claiming he’s practically nothing without Kane and former playmaker Christian Eriksen.

While one supporter asked fans to never compare the England international to the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes or Frank Lampard ever again as it’s “disrespectful” to their careers.

This was backed up by another who claimed the trio above offered so much more than just goals whereas the £81m-rated Alli doesn’t.

His just lost without Kane and Eriksen.

— Tonetek (@Tonetek1) March 3, 2020

Lampard and Scholes developed and got better as they aged. They also both played into their 30s. I doubt Dele will do either of those things unfortunately.

— sandy cohen (@sandycohen86) March 3, 2020

I never ever want to see any of our fans compare dele to Gerrard scholes and lampard. It’s straight disrespectful

— Ben🚀 (@Benjispuds) March 3, 2020

Gerrard, Lampard and Scholes offer a lot more than just goals too, Dele doesn’t and he hasn’t even offered goals for ages.

— David Ackerman (@FootieGambler) March 3, 2020

Premier League experts will get full marks: The ultimate quiz on top flight transfer flops…

And in other news, James Maw unimpressed with this Spurs signing…

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MARTIN SAMUEL COLUMN: All rational thought might suggest Frank Lampard has two seasons, at least, to shape Chelsea. But the idea reason will prevail is quaintly nostalgic.

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Chelsea 2-0 Brighton & Hove Albion: Hosts extend perfect league record over Seagulls

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Chelsea 2-0 Brighton & Hove Albion: Hosts extend perfect league record over Seagulls

Chelsea move up to sixth with the victory

Chelsea “needed the win” over Brighton, said boss Frank Lampard after his first home victory as a Premier League manager.

The Blues deservedly won to make it nine wins out of nine league games against Brighton – an all-time Premier League/Football League record.

They led at Stamford Bridge when Jorginho scored a penalty after Adam Webster fouled Mason Mount.

Albion, who have not won in the league since the opening day, briefly rallied and Dan Burn’s header hit the crossbar.

But Willian sealed the victory with a deflected strike from Callum Hudson-Odoi’s pass.

Chelsea move up to sixth in the Premier League while Brighton fall to 16th.

“We haven’t had a 90-minute game where we’ve controlled it enough [before now],” Lampard told BBC Sport. “The only disappointment is we didn’t have more goals. We got a clean sheet as well. It is good for the confidence of everyone.

“We had a lot of shots in the first half, but had weak finishing and a bit of bad luck. You do start to wonder but you have to remain confident it will come and it did.”

The previous record for wins against one team in the league was Wimbledon’s 100% success rate against Bournemouth in eight meetings between 1977 and 1984.

Follow reaction to every Premier League game here

Chelsea get the job done

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Chelsea ‘needed’ that victory over Brighton – Lampard

The Blues, with a youthful team following a transfer ban, have been easy on the eye this season but have dropped points regularly.

There had been 25 goals in their opening six league games, but more against than for – and they had not won at home in three top-flight matches.

Lampard had the worst record of any Blues manager this millennium after nine games in all competitions, with no clean sheets.

During the first half, it looked as if they were going to be frustrated with none of their 17 shots going in. Mount went closest when his free-kick from the left wing evaded everyone and hit the post, while Pedro and Tammy Abraham managed five shots each – both had three of them on target without finding the net.

But the Blues kept going and got their reward when Webster fouled Mount, with Jorginho scoring his second goal of the season from the spot.

They dominated for the entire game, bar a short period, and Willian blasted home his first Premier League goal since January, albeit with the help of a deflection.

English youngsters Abraham – the league’s second top scorer with seven goals – Mount and Fikayo Tomori have scored 11 of Chelsea’s 14 Premier League goals, and Lampard was impressed again despite none of them managing to score.

Hudson-Odoi came on for his first Premier League game of the season after recovering from an Achilles problem.

“It is great for the club and a long time coming,” Lampard said. “The work is done in the academy. The mentality is great. They want to play for this club.

“At the moment they are earning it and setting a level for others. I have complete confidence in the lads. They are there on merit. Whatever game, they take it on board and long may it continue.”

Brighton’s struggles continue

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Chelsea were worthy winners – Potter

Nice football but no end product is the story of Brighton’s season under Graham Potter. This was never a game they were likely to win.

The Seagulls have now only taken one point from 14 Premier League games against the usual top-six sides. And their only win over Chelsea came in their first meeting, a 1933 FA Cup tie.

After the game Potter, whose team have scored only two league goals since the opening day and are one point above the relegation zone, openly conceded “the better team won”.

He added “we rode our luck in the first half”, with goalkeeper Mat Ryan making four of his eight saves, including a brilliant instinctive stop to keep out Ross Barkley’s close-range effort.

Brighton, who kept trying to play from the back, were architects of their own downfall for the opener. Webster took a heavy touch, or perhaps played a weak backpass, instead of just clearing, and he fouled Mount as he tried to win the ball back.

They kept that philosophy going and Dale Stephens gave Tammy Abraham a chance to score with a shoddy backpass, but Ryan denied him.

Teenage striker Aaron Connolly’s introduction sparked a good 10 minutes or so for Brighton, with Burn heading off the crossbar from Pascal Gross’ corner.

But Willian’s goal wrapped the game up – and Stephens’ weak 25-yard shot in injury time was Albion’s only effort on target.

“We gave a goal away cheaply and then grew into the game but then gave a goal that killed the game,” said Potter. “We are disappointed but credit to the opposition. Chelsea were good and we could not sustain any pressure.

“There are always things you can improve. You have to be clinical when the moments come. But the players gave everything and Chelsea were just better today.

“We have had a settled way of playing. Personnel have to change in the game if things are not working. The boys have been positive to what we want to do.”

Man of the match – Willian (Chelsea)

Willian did not look like a player without a Premier League goal in eight months as he kept going with a game-high six shots including the clinching goal

Match stats – one win in 16 for Brighton

It was Chelsea’s first win in 11 games since a goalless draw with Leicester on the final day last season.

This was the 34th Premier League game that Brighton have failed to score in since joining the division in 2017-18, more than any side currently playing in the competition.

Brighton have won just one of their past 16 Premier League matches (D6 L9), winning none of their past six games in the league (D3 L3) since beating Watford 3-0 on the opening day.

Jorginho has scored as many goals in nine appearances for Chelsea this season (two) as he did in 54 games last season – three of those four goals have been penalties.

Willian scored his first goal in 17 Premier League appearances for Chelsea since he last found the net against Newcastle in January – he had tried 32 shots since then.

Chelsea attempted 17 shots in the first half, their highest total in the opening 45 minutes of a Premier League game since August 2013 against Hull (18), and highest without scoring since November 2010 against Birmingham (18).

Pascal Gross’ attempt in the 60th minute was Brighton’s first shot – this is the longest they have had to wait to have their first shot of a Premier League fixture.

What’s next?

Chelsea’s next game is at Lille in the Champions League on Wednesday (20:00 BST). They are back in Premier League action at Southampton on Sunday, 6 October (14:00 BST).

Brighton host Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, 5 October at 12:30 BST.

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Is Christian Pulisic’s lack of playing time at Chelsea cause for alarm?

When Christian Pulisic‘s $73 million move to Chelsea was announced in January, there were equal parts excitement and trepidation.

The anticipation came from having the American heading to one of the world’s biggest clubs for a fee more than three times the previous record for a U.S. international. If Pulisic could break through with the Blues, there was a chance that he could live up to the predictions — or hopes — that he would become the first transcendent American star.

But the enthusiasm was tempered by concern over how much he would actually play, especially coming off a season with Borussia Dortmund in which his time decreased due to a combination of injury and the emergence of Jadon Sancho. When Maurizio Sarri — Chelsea’s manager when Pulisic’s transfer was agreed upon — returned to his native Italy and Frank Lampard came in to replace him, the American’s position looked even more vulnerable.

Just six weeks into the season, Pulisic has shown flashes of ability, like when he set up Olivier Giroud‘s goal against Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup, but has found minutes harder to come by recently. When he has featured, he struggled to make much of an impact, often opting to play it safe.

– Pulisic Watch: Game-by-game analysis – ESPN Premier League fantasy: Sign up now! – VAR in the Premier League: Ultimate guide

“OK” is the word that keeps coming up from those assessing the American’s performances. That hasn’t been enough to keep Pulisic in Chelsea’s starting lineup, even as he returned from international duty early. In fact, heading into Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match against Grimsby Town (ESPN+, 2:45 p.m. ET), he has been an unused substitute three games in a row.

The lack of minutes has, in some cases, been circumstantial. During last weekend’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, Lampard was forced to burn two substitutes in the first half when defenders Emerson Palmieri and Andreas Christensen were injured.

But other signs are more disheartening. When Mason Mount was injured early in Chelsea’s 1-0 Champions League defeat to Valencia, Pedro was summoned, not Pulisic. The return of Willian, hurt at the start the season, has also made minutes tougher to come by. With Callum Hudson-Odoi also on the mend, the competition is set to get more intense.

“It’s so early,” said former U.S. international Landon Donovan, who enjoyed two loan spells in England with Everton. “You don’t want to get carried away, but the signs don’t look great so far for Pulisic, especially when you have Pedro, Ross Barkley and Michy Batshuayi also not starting in [the Liverpool] match. You would think he’s moving down the pecking order.”

Christian Pulisic should start vs. Grimsby, having been an unused substitute in each of Chelsea’s last three games.

Pulisic was already operating at a deficit, given that Mount spent all of last season on loan at Derby County, where Lampard was manager. While Mount has endured uneven moments of his own, he has scored three goals. Pulisic, by contrast, has yet to find the back of the net. Others like Pedro and Willian are more proven, even as they are  getting on in years (32 and 31, respectively).

“The number that they bought Pulisic for helps, but the shake-up in management doesn’t because there’s no tie,” said former Leicester, Tottenham and Fulham goalkeeper Kasey Keller. “Lampard isn’t tied to Pulisic. He’s not saying that this is the guy I wanted and give him the benefit of the doubt. He had nothing to do with signing Pulisic.”

So how does the 21-year-old earn Lampard’s faith? There’s really only one way, and that is through his performances during training and in games.

“There’s very little politics that goes into playing time over there,” said Brad Friedel, who spent the bulk of his career in the Premier League with the likes of Liverpool, Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa and Tottenham. “It’s a very straightforward scenario where the best play. It doesn’t matter what your last name is. It doesn’t matter generally how much they paid for you, although if you get into the stratospheric wages that can put a little bit of pressure on.

“It will be turning up for training, working hard, being better than the other players in your position, and the most important thing: scoring and assisting and winning games. If you’re not involved in the scoring and winning and assisting and all that, you will not play over there, especially at a club like Chelsea, because they’re going to be under pressure to win.”

In some respects, the fact that Pulisic is having difficulty breaking through is not surprising. The Premier League, and Chelsea in particular, has witnessed supremely talented players struggle during their initial foray in England. Neither Kevin De Bruyne nor Mohamed Salah managed to make the grade at Stamford Bridge, only to return to England and flourish at Manchester City and Liverpool, respectively. It speaks to how difficult the adjustment can be, even if you’re moving from a quality league like the Bundesliga.

“The Bundesliga, the quality is really high, but the EPL is just crazy physical, beyond what people can imagine,” Donovan said. “There’s definitely an adjustment period for any player going there. It’s not easy.”

There’s consensus that Pulisic will get additional opportunities, starting with Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match. Lampard has said as much, while the fact that Chelsea is operating under a transfer ban until the summer gives the manager few options but to persist with what’s at hand. The key for Pulisic is to seize his chance and leave Lampard with no choice but to play him. That will be an ongoing process, one that will be monitored closely stateside, given that World Cup qualifying starts next June.

“It’s not time to hit the panic button, but by the middle of the season, if it’s not changed, then he needs to consider what his options are because leading into [World Cup] qualifying and hopefully the World Cup, he needs to be playing games,” Donovan said.

The flip side is that if Pulisic does break through, he’ll emerge a stronger, more refined player. Moreover, time is on his side, given the size of his transfer fee and the fact that he signed a five-year contract.

“I think it’s great for players when it happens, though it’s probably not nice for them at the time,” Friedel said. “But it really makes players grind out to earn their place and learn how to play in a new league. It should in the end be really good for him if he takes it the right way.”

U.S. fans will be hoping that is the case.

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Neymar to Barcelona, Eriksen to Man Utd, Ozil exit – Transfer deals to expect in January | Football | Sport

Neymar to Barcelona, Eriksen to Man Utd? Big Debate on transfer deals to expect in January (Image: GETTY)

Transfer news is a hot topic these days with fans eagerly anticipating mega-money deals being pushed through by their respective clubs.

Barcelona, Manchester United, Tottenham and their fellow big guns splashed out this summer but must now wait until January to do more business.

A number of transfers which did not go through before the respective deadlines across Europe could be resurrected in the new year.

And Express Sport is on hand to run down the moves we expect to happen when clubs are free to throw their cash around once again.

Transfer deals to expect in January

Matthew Dunn

Mesut Ozil to China

Arsenal have long been trying to ship their £350,000-a-week star off their books and so far Mesut Ozil has resisted a move to China.

That said, he has a large fan-base in Asia and the bleakness that he faces in the weeks ahead could just tip him over the edge.

With Unai Emery happy to go with all three of his attack-minded players – Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pepe – he will be unable to carry Ozil’s lack of defensive resilience as well.

His style of play is at odds with Emery’s high-tempo vision and the clock is ticking on Ozil louder than ever.

Christian Eriksen to Real Madrid

The stuttering start to the season suggests all is still not well at the Bernabeu and it would not be the first mid-course rethink the Spanish giants have had in recent seasons.

By then, Christian Eriksen’s value will be burning a hole in Daniel Levy’s pocket – although he if he is considered vital to Tottenham climbing back aboard the Champions League gravy train next season, he may be too valuable as a player for them to cash in.

Otherwise, Jan Vertonghen could be sacrificed as Tottenham look to recoup some of their summer spending while still paying for their stadium.

Neymar to Barcelona

Drawing Real Madrid in the Champions League – with awkward Galatasaray lurking – makes Paris Saint-Germain susceptible to an unthinkable group-stage exit.

That would open the exit doors finally for their prize asset to return to his former club Barcelona.

The lack of competition in French football means unless PSG look like reaching the final stages of the Champions League there is little for Neymar to play for and time is ticking for him to realise his full talent on the game’s biggest stages.

Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has featured just once under Frank Lampard in the Premier League (Image: GETTY)

James Benson

Christian Eriksen to Real Madrid

Unless Tottenham are challenging for the Premier League title – which is improbable – Daniel Levy will not pass up the opportunity to bring in some cash for a player who will otherwise leave for free in the summer.

With Real Madrid unlikely to be able to prise Paul Pogba away from Manchester United in the new year, Christian Eriksen is a good, high-quality back-up option.

Zinedine Zidane needs a replacement for Luka Modric, too, and Eriksen can fill the void the Croatian will eventually leave behind.

Michy Batshuayi to anyone (on loan)

Michy Batshuayi will one day leave Chelsea a Premier League winner but his spell at Stamford Bridge has had few moments to cherish.

The striker, after failing to make a breakthrough into the Blues’ starting XI and having been loaned to Valencia and Crystal Palace last season, is now behind Tammy Abraham and Olivier Giroud in the pecking order under Frank Lampard.

And, with a place in Belgium’s Euro 2020 squad in his sights, Batshuayi will surely push for a move away.

Toby Alderweireld to Manchester City

As with Christian Eriksen, it will depend on Tottenham’s title hopes, but he is also out of contract next summer.

Manchester City look decidedly light at centre-back, following Vincent Kompany’s summer departure and with Aymeric Laporte now injured, so could do with a reinforcement.

Alderweireld has proved his ability in the Premier League and would be an astute signing around the £20m mark, even if he only stays at City for a couple of years.

Christian Eriksen was eager to leave Tottenham for Real Madrid or Barcelona over the summer (Image: GETTY)

Luke Gardener

Christian Eriksen to Manchester United

While it didn’t happen this summer I can see the Dane making a move to Old Trafford.

I’m not convinced Real Madrid are that interested despite the Tottenham star wanting a move to the Bernabeu.

Manchester United will desperately need more creativity by January and Christian Eriksen could decide it is the best option for him. If it happens, you can expect Paul Pogba to leave for Real Madrid next summer.

Neymar to Real Madrid

The Brazilian wants out of Paris Saint-Germain and would prefer a switch to Barcelona but the Catalan club cannot afford he forward.

Florentino Perez has a history of pulling off big transfers and signing Neymar would be the perfect deal for Los Blancos.

Real Madrid could need to bolster their ranks as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid look strong this season already.

Toby Alderweireld to Manchester City

This is a left-field choice but with Vincent Kompany leaving for Anderlecht and Aymeric Laporte out injured long-term it would be a cheap and good option for Pep Guardiola.

Toby Alderweireld is in the final year of his contract and Spurs would be forced to sell if a good enough offer came in in January.

I expect City to bolster their defensive ranks in the next transfer window even if it isn’t with Alderweireld.

Ben Chilwell could swap Leicester City for Manchester City during the January transfer window (Image: GETTY)

Jack Otway

A striker to Manchester United

I’ve decided to leave out any names because, as things stand, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is happy with what he has.

But if Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial continue to struggle – and Mason Greenwood spends more time on the bench than in the starting XI – then that may change.

Manchester United distanced themselves from free agent Fernando Llorente before he joined Napoli but they could pull a surprise out of the bag this January.

Neymar to Real Madrid

Realistically, Neymar won’t be going anywhere.

But despite all the talk of a return to Barcelona this summer, I can see Real Madrid sealing his signing instead.

Los Blancos, come January, may be stuck in a rut. Neymar will no doubt again want to leave Paris Saint-Germain and Barca can’t afford him. It’s these sort of situations that Florentino Perez is so good at exploiting.

Christian Eriksen to Real Madrid

Real Madrid didn’t move for Christian Eriksen because they were hoping to get Paul Pogba instead.

But that may change if they’re off the pace in January.

Spurs will no doubt look to sell the Denmark international before losing him for free – and that would suit Real who would no doubt pounce on his significantly reduced price tag.

RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano might be Unai Emery’s next recruit at Arsenal (Image: GETTY)

Lewis Winter

Dayot Upamecano to Arsenal

Arsenal were said to have made a late £55m bid for the RB Leipzig defender in the summer and they could return with another in January.

David Luiz joined from Chelsea on deadline day but he is not the long-term, or maybe not even short term, answer to Unai Emery’s problems at the back.

Dayot Upamecano is only 20 but has been a regular in the Leipzig side for a couple of years already and would be an upgrade on the Gunners’ current centre-backs.

Christian Eriksen to Manchester United

Christian Eriksen is out of contract at Tottenham at the end of the current season and chairman Daniel Levy will not want to let him go for nothing.

The Dane can sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club in January but his dream club Real Madrid have their eyes on other targets, such as Paul Pogba.

Manchester United need a midfielder with a goalscoring threat and Eriksen would be just the man.

Mesut Ozil to DC United

Mesut Ozil is yet to step on the pitch for Arsenal this season and his future at the club does not look certain.

MLS side DC United will need to replace Wayne Rooney as he heads for Derby County and they were linked with Ozil in the summer.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s late departure will mean the German gets more minutes at the Emirates but it is hard to see how he gets into the starting XI after Dani Ceballos’ positive start to his loan spell.

Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford (Image: GETTY)

Matt Atherton

Nemanja Matic to Inter Milan

Nemanja Matic has fallen down the pecking order at Manchester United, and appears to be unhappy with life at Old Trafford.

He recently ‘liked’ a comment on Instagram slamming Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and he’s seen as just a back-up in the Norwegian’s plans.

His exact destination is up for debate, but on the face of it, a big, strong player like Matic is destined for a move to Inter Milan.

Ben Chilwell to Manchester City

Manchester City were rumoured to be interested in Ben Chilwell in January 2019, but backtracked after Oleksandr Zinchenko’s superb end to the season.

But, with Benjamin Mendy’s injury record, Pep Guardiola may be tempted to find an alternative left-back in January.

Chilwell has been excellent for Leicester City since bursting onto the scene, and is rightly considered England’s best left-back at present.

Bruno Fernandes to Tottenham

Bruno Fernandes’ transfer saga became increasingly tiresome as we edged closer to the English deadline last month.

But, he’s still made it clear that he wants to leave Sporting Lisbon, and a deal for the Portugal international is likely to come to fruition in January.

Tottenham are likely to be the destination for Fernandes, especially if they aren’t in or around the top four by the time January comes around – Daniel Levy may be tempted to splash the cash in order to sustain Spurs’ dominance over north London rivals Arsenal.

Arsenal and Everton both had a look at Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha during the summer window (Image: GETTY)

Jamie Anderson

Christian Eriksen to Manchester United

Signing Christian Eriksen is an absolute no-brainer for any club in world football.

The Denmark international, 27, has made it perfectly clear that he intends to leave Tottenham when his contract expires in June 2020.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy will have no option but to sell the playmaker for a discounted price in January or watch him leave for free six months after.

And with 50 goals and 64 assists in 210 Premier League appearances – that’s a bargain Manchester United simply can’t afford to miss.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needs more guile and creativity in his ranks and, with Paul Pogba still desperate to join Real Madrid, Eriksen is the perfect candidate to fill his boots.

Bruno Fernandes to Tottenham

The transfer saga of the summer could finally come to fruition in January.

Manchester United, Real Madrid and Tottenham were all linked with the Portuguese midfielder during the window – but the 24-year-old remains a Sporting Lisbon player.

However, with Christian Eriksen set to leave north London, Fernandes is the obvious replacement.

Fernandes has already admitted agreeing terms with Spurs a few weeks before deadline day but the two parties failed to agree a fee.

Now, with Eriksen on his way, Daniel Levy could be prepared to open his cheque book and secure a marquee signing for Mauricio Pochettino.

Mesut Ozil to anyone prepared to pay his wages!

Wilfried Zaha to Everton

Surely Wilfried Zaha’s days at Crystal Palace are numbered?

The Ivory Coast international was reported to have handed in a transfer request on deadline day to secure a £70million move to Everton.

Eagles chairman Steve Parish snubbed that offer – but has publicly admitted that he’ll not stand in Zaha’s way should he wish to leave in January.

Marco Silva’s side have lofty ambitions and should they be there or thereabouts in the battle for European qualification – another raid could be in the offing.

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Reserve judgement: Chelsea don't deserve praise for youngster revolution (yet) - opinion

Prior to Chelsea’s hosting of Liverpool this Sunday the Blues boast 11 goals in a nascent 2019/20 with every one of them scored by a player under the age of 22 who has come through their academy. Seven of them have been notched by Tammy Abraham and this after the highly promising striker fired home 25 in the Championship last term. With two England appearances already under his belt the future looks exceedingly bright for the prolific South Londerer.

Rounding up the goal haul to double figures is Mason Mount who has taken to Premier League football with captivating ease so far, showing the same twinkling creativity that made him such a stand-out star at Derby County on loan last season, notching up four goals and eight assists en route to the playoff final. Like Abraham, England honours have duly followed suit. Like Abraham, he is surely destined for the top.

Unquestionably the most spectacular of the eleven goals meanwhile came courtesy of a stunning long-range strike from Fikayo Tomori, Chelsea’s young centre-back who, like Mount, spent last season at the Rams finishing school. After winning their Player of the Year award over and above Harry Wilson and Mount. it is fair to say that he passed with flying colours.

If the emergence and immediate excelling of three home-grown kids in your team isn’t an exciting enough proposition for the Stamford Bridge faithful it gets much better. In charge of proceedings of course is Frank Lampard, a club legend with a meaningful connection to the fan-base, and it shouldn’t be over-looked too that two further stars who have rolled off the production line of late Rufus Loftus-Cheek and Callum Hudson-Odoi are both still to come, each having attained international recognition before injury struck after impressing so greatly with their club form.

Last but by no means least there’s an expected promotion to the first team on the horizon for the highly regarded right-back Reece James, another who is injured but impressed enough on loan at Wigan last season to finish the campaign as the club’s Player of the Year.

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Theoretically then there is a plausible-to-probable chance that this will become a pivotal, symbolic season of change for the Blues; one that sees them compete for much of it with half their team having come through the ranks and with an inexperienced up-and-coming manager to boot. You’ve heard of the Busby Babes. You’ve heard of Fergie’s Fledglings. Lampard’s Litter anyone?

But wait, before we succumb to such silly hyperbole – that always accompanies the admittedly invigorating phenomenon of a mass break-out of youth – some perspective is required. Because for all of the reports that suggest Reece James is due to compete with Cesar Azpilicueta for the right-back slot, others insist that Chelsea are keen on signing Nice’s Youcef Atal to address their problem position, as they hope their two window transfer ban is reduced this January.

And therein lies the juxtaposition that is prevalent right now between the Chelsea that we have all come to know and generally disapprove of and the nicer, more commendable club that is currently existing out of necessity. Given the praise the latter has received recently it is a situation that has not been lost on Twitter.

‘Any side who persists with youth deserves praise. Hats off to Chelsea’.

Yeah, unless they’re from down the road, play in red, begin with the letter A, have done so for decades & weren’t forced into doing so because of a transfer ban.

— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) September 14, 2019

Please stop forcing the Chelsea play youth narrative. They never have and they’re only doing it because they haven’t got anyone else to play because they couldn’t sign anyone. Give me a break.

— TikiTakaConnor (@TikiTakaConnor) September 14, 2019

In the modern era and particularly since their transformation post-Abramovich, Chelsea football club has become known for four distinct traits. They buy players, and yes every club buys players but Chelsea are synonymous with purchasing made-to-measure talent more than most. In 2013 it was estimated that under governance of the Russian oligarch they had spent in excess of £2billion with transfer fees and wages forming a significant percentage of that outlay. In the last eight years only Manchester City have a higher expenditure across Europe.

All of this recruiting of elite fare naturally had led to silverware and lots of it and this is the second Chelsea trait: success. This century they have won five league titles, six FA Cups and the Champions League in 2012.

They also have a somewhat unsavoury habit of burning through managers with an average of one per year occupying the hot-seat since Jose Mourinho’s first departure in 2007, while lastly Chelsea – despite regularly possessing a dominant and ultra-healthy youth system – do not tend to promote from within. Until this season, Ryan Bertrand was their only noteworthy academy product since John Terry.

These characteristics inevitably dove-tail as one, each having a considerable effect on the other and this is especially true of the latter pair with managers less willing to afford youngsters a learning curve when their job is forever dependant on instant success.

Fikayo Tomori’s stunner for Chelsea at the weekend had fans breaking their phones. See for yourself in the video below…

Even so, logic only excuses to a certain extent because it shouldn’t be underestimated just how brilliant some of the Chelsea development teams have been in recent times. Chelsea’s kids have won the FA Youth Cup an incredible seven times in the last ten years while no other team in Europe has won more UEFA Youth League games.

In that time a welter of next-big-things have come along and then vanished with barely a trace and by cherry-picking just some of them we can name Josh McEachran, Jeffrey Bruma, Nathaniel Chalobah and Jeremie Boga. Individually a reasonable case can be made with each of them that had they been nurtured patiently and incrementally introduced into the Chelsea set-up they could have become household names. Yet none have come anywhere close to that status.

So let us be wary at present on the lauding of Chelsea’s new-found trust in its youth at least until the next transfer window comes along when they have an opportunity to revert to type and flex their financial might again.

What we are seeing at Stamford Bridge is certainly a cause for celebration – and absolutely reason enough for Chelsea supporters to be loving every minute right about now – but praise? Let’s hold fire on that until the elevation and prioritising of the kids is done through choice.

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England news: Michael Owen INCLUDES Alan Shearer and David Beckham in his best Three Lions XI

Michael Owen INCLUDING both Alan Shearer and David Beckham in his best England XI … just days after the former striker sensationally struck the pair in his new explosive autobiography

Michael Owen has named his best England XI since his debut in 1998

The 39-year-old Alan Shearer and David Beckham in his team

week after Owen hit the pair in his new autobiography

He got involved in an online spit with Shearer about their ongoing feud

Owen also admitted that he blamed Beckham for turning red at the 1998 World Cup

By By

] Published: 15:25 BST, Sep. 8 September 2019 | Updated: 15:36 BST, 8 September 2019

Michael Owen has sensibly recorded Alan Shearer and Alan Shearer and David Beckham in his best England XI just days after he hit the couple in his new book.

Owen was asked by BBC Sport to mention the best line-up of the Three Lions since his international debut in 1998 and the former striker set aside personal differences to record the duo .

After the release of his new book Reboot – My Life, My Time Owen became embroiled in a fiery Twitter spit with Shearer who reigned their constant feud.

Michael Owen (R) included Alan Shearer (center) and David Beckham (L) in his best England XI

It comes just a week after Owen defeated the couple in his new book Reboot – My Life, My Time

]

Owen barbed insults to his former strike partner in England for claims that he did not want to sign for Newcastle in 2005.

Owen also criticized Shearer for his & # 39; nasty & # 39; record as Newcastle manager when they experienced relegation from the Premier League in 2009.

Shearer hit back on social media by posting a clip in which Owen admitted the last seven years of his career hate and said he couldn't wait to retire.

The legendary Newcastle said: & # 39; Yes Michael, we thought so, even though he had £ 120k a week … & # 39;

But Owen responded by questioning Shearer's own loyalty to the club.

Shearer and Owen have not spoken to each other after their bitter fight

& # 39; I'm not sure if you're loyal to Newcastle while you make a friend, & # 39; he wrote on Twitter. & # 39; I clearly remember that you were a few inches from your Liverpool signature after Sir Bobby Robson put you on the couch. You tried everything to get out. & # 39;

Another of Owen & # 39; s former teammates, which he selected for the start XI, was also in the line of fire because Owen revealed that he still hates Beckham before being dropped off during the England-Argentina final-16 match in 1998.

The former Manchester United star received his marching orders early in the second half of the last 16-draw with the game finely finished at 2 -2 for a foolish kick on Diego Simeone.

He wrote: & # 39; What David did that day did not abandon everyone in that English team.

Beckham receives a red card for kicking Diego Simeone in the World Cup 1998

Owen said that Beckham abandoned the entire team that day and he still blames him for it

& # 39; Did he deserve the abuse he subsequently received from the press? Certainly not. Which person needs to see his or her image burn? But David abandoned us, and I still have resentment about it today. & # 39;

Owen let go of the start XI and went on a name Wayne Rooney as strike partner of Shearer in a 3-5-2 formation with Glenn Hoddle as the manager.

Owen finds it & # 39; strikingly clear & # 39; that England had adopted the 3-5-2 formation during its match days instead of the 4-4-2.

David Seaman was chosen to sit among the sticks, while John Terry, Sol Campbell and Ferdinand River are in the back three just before Seaman.

Owen uses Beckham and Ashley Cole as the wing support, while Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, Frank Lampard are the three who have to make things in the middle.

Owen went with a 3-5-2 formation that included Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and John Terry

After mentioning his name, Owen talked about his short history while playing alongside Shearer for both club and country.

Owen's book & # 39; Michael Owen: Reboot – My Life, My Time & # 39; was released on Thursday

He said: & # 39; When I was growing up, I had thought of Alan: & # 39; What a player & # 39 ;.

& # 39; I managed to make my way in the team to play alongside him at the 1998 World Cup and then also played with him at the front at the European Championship in 2000. We scored many goals together.

& # 39; He then had a major influence on going to Newcastle United and until then we were great friends.

& # 39; On the big stage, if you think: & # 39; I need someone to finish or take a penalty & # 39 ;, he had absolute nerves of steel. He had an enormous amount of self-confidence and self-confidence.

& # 39; In recent years you cannot generally name England without mentioning it. & # 39;

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CROUCH: The worst thing a player can do is down tools… Koscielny and Lukaku burnt bridges

The summer of 2005 was one of the biggest in my life. Once Southampton were relegated, I knew that I would leave St Mary's and the potential destination did not get much greater.

When Liverpool made it clear that they wanted to draw me, I was determined. They had just won the Champions League England had just selected me for the first time and I could not miss this opportunity to stay in the Premier League so I told you Southampton of my intentions.

It is fair to say that there was a certain reluctance on their part to accept my decision. They were so inclined to tell their heels that Rupert Lowe, the former president, stopped answering my calls. You cannot begin to understand the frustration I felt.

Laurent Koscielny has damaged his Arsenal legacy after a move back to France France

Likewise, Romelu Lukaku finally got the switch to Italy where he has been to stallion v ear

But you know what? Not once did it occur to me to bring down tools. The club was stubborn but in no way did I lower my standards. I returned to the training for the season, made sure that the relationships remained good and finally I went to Rupert's house to find a solution. By July 20, I signed for Liverpool.

I tell this story in the light of some of the things I saw during the transfer window.

Players can find the answer to possible moves if they are open, honest and professional, but there have been too many episodes in recent weeks that have made me aghast.

Lukaku's decision to start training with the youth side of Anderlecht remains

Look at Laurent Koscielny. The way he left Arsenal for Bordeaux was a shame. This is someone who had been at Emirates Stadium for nine years, conquered the club and had unrelenting support in difficult times with serious injury.

If you are the leader of a club with Arsenal status, you have a duty to act responsibly. He should have been on the plane for his pre-season tour to the United States – not appearing is the worst thing a professional football player can do to his teammates, fans and staff.

Worse, the way they revealed his transfer with a video of him peeling off an Arsenal shirt to show a Bordeaux kit was horrible. He has burned his bridges so badly that he can never show his face in the Emirates again.

I played for a number of clubs in my career, but I would like to think that I have left well everywhere. I always received great ovations when I was back in old stadiums with opposing teams and I can't understand why you would actively oppose those who care about you.

Romelu Lukaku is in a similar position. How did he ever think he would be OK to train with the children of Anderlecht just because he was fed up with Manchester United and wanted to move to Inter Milan? How do you not report to work for Manchester United?

What happened to becoming an adult? I remember Tottenham sold me to Stoke. I didn't want to leave, but I went smoothing things out with Daniel Levy. If you are willing to talk, you will eventually find a friendly solution.

It is too late for Koscielny and Lukaku.

Wilfried Zaha will be disappointed not to make his move but will have to perform strong again

David Luiz, meanwhile, forced to move to Arsenal by this week after signing a new deal with Chelsea in May. It will also be interesting to see how things are developing with Wilfried Zaha, who I expect will be disappointed that I didn't join Everton.

I also expect that he will eventually show the shape of last season and his move away from Crystal Palace with a result that everyone likes.

Football is a business. I understand why players want to move – I've done enough!

But I would like to think that I always respected the people who brought you into that happy position. I could never have acted in any other way.

Lamps illuminate Chelsea

The best administrative appointment of the summer was Frank Lampard in Chelsea. I wrote in February that they should turn to him and I'm glad he got the chance.

Frank will change the atmosphere that became sour last season, and he will be helped by the support of Chelsea & # 39; s fans.

The appointment of Frank Lampard in Chelsea is exciting and guaranteed to change the atmosphere

However, we must all be honest and acknowledge that sentiment only carries you up to now: good results determine whether managers are successful.

He has not been designated as a kind of cheerleader. Frank is a winner and I would say he was the hardest-working player I played next to me. His attitude toward self-improvement was exemplary and he and assistant Jody Morris will demand that of their team.

The young players of Chelsea will feel encouraged to have Lampard by their side. Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will have a manager who will support them to the limit.

The fact that Chelsea cannot publish critics already has a team that is good enough. Frank will do well – he has set an early marker for how he dealt with the David Luiz situation – and I see him sending Chelsea to the top four.

People like Mason Mount can expect a chance to get under the reign of Lampard

My last word

I will not miss the cooked chicken and pasta at 11:30 am. The full English breakfast that was on the menu this morning was a much better option.

I will also not drink endless cups of tea and eat bananas during lunch in preparation for the battle ahead.

But I know that when fifteen Saturday comes around, it will all affect me. This is the first opening day of the season in 20 years that I have been on the other side of the fence and it all seems a bit surreal.

There is no better job in the world of football, and nostalgia will come calling at 3 pm

I'm looking forward to the new opportunities that retirement offers, but that doesn't mean I won't miss football terribly. I always love the first day of the season.

I was in the dressing rooms before the kick-off and looked at the list of matches that mapped out the challenges.

I hope I have shown how much I enjoyed it, because believe me, there is no better job in the world.

It has been humiliating and emotional to receive so many good wishes since I made my retirement announcement in July, but I knew that today would be the most difficult of them all.

The next best thing to play is to keep playing the game and I will, thanks to this column and other media staff.

Let the good times roll.

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MARTIN SAMUEL: England’s World Cup stars should be on sun-loungers not at Lord’s  

Jonny Bairstow started to talk about his father and shed tears. Then he called Adil Rashid and did the same.

Even the memory of fish and french fries as a young cricket player made him foggy. He looked emotionally tense. This was the morning after the last Cricket World Cup, perhaps the most stressful day in Bairstow's professional life.

Or Monday last week, if you want to put a pin in it. So it's a mystery how Bairstow, or another member of that World Cup team, walked back to Lord & # 39; s on Wednesday morning. Somewhere between Him Alli unable to get up without a sunbed in Mykonos, and Bairstow, Jason Roy, Joe Root, Chris Woakes and Moeen Ali are in the field crashing and burning, initially against Ireland, there is a middle ground.

England & # 39; s World Cup heroes, including Jonny Bairstow, should have had free time after

England's cricketers should have been near a competition this week, perhaps not even a formal training session. No one could have foreseen the precise circumstances of the World Cup victory; exactly how much that group would get through the wringer, but will win in the big tournament without blood, sweat and tears.

England were the pre-championship favorites, the final appearance on July 14 may & # 39; I came as a surprise. Yet a clear spark still thought in another test match 10 days later – with a training camp in St. George's Park

Even Graham Thorpe, the batting coach of England, seemed the wisdom of the schedule to question. & # 39; There aren't many sports where you win the World Cup and play a week later, & # 39; he said. "Some boys have played red ball cricket, others have not.

" For those who did not, it was a challenging mental test that came from the World Cup. are located in different main rooms of the others. That is natural. But they were all asked if they wanted to play. & # 39;

Yes, and they are professional athletes, who in some cases fight for a place on an Ashes Test team, so they responded affirmatively. That's what good players do. Frank Lampard, whose appearance record was unrivaled at its peak, said that when Chelsea played their best under Jose Mourinho, they never felt tired.

England & # 39; s World Cup heroes had played the role of the Lord in the Test against Ireland

Some days, he recalled, they would win the kickoff in the early afternoon and if someone told them to go again later that day, they would have been ready. And that is undoubtedly true, but it would not have been good or healthy. What a player feels externally and the reality of his physical or mental state can be very different.

What difference does it make even for those who are now doing a good overall performance against Ireland? Can one really say that the following week improved its chances compared to Australia?

True, there is a difference between red ball and white ball cricket, but did Root really need a game against Ireland to remind him? Would it have come back to him while he was thinking about the World Cup somewhere on a beach?

In 2010, Fabio Capello England lost the World Cup before the tournament even started. Because he had never experienced one as an international manager, he thought the preparation should reflect a pre-season club – physically rigorous and demanding.

The players of England, however, had just finished an exhausting competitive club season. The last thing they needed was a boot camp. Maybe Capello didn't trust his players on the line in the Mediterranean. Most likely he just did it wrong. Anyway, England's preparation for that tournament and their isolation, once in South Africa, were completely counterproductive.

Senior figures at the ECB now admit that the road from England to the Cricket World Cup was also wrong. They should not have played five one-day internationals, plus the T20 against Pakistan. The intention was to get the team tuned in to the white ball, 50-over game.

If the ECB had hoped for a gentle warm-up match against Ireland, it was terribly misjudged

The reality was 17 games between May 5 and July 14, many with intense mental pressure. It was too much and although the end justifies the means, the ECB does not think so. They believe that England won the World Cup despite their elongated build-up, rather than for it.

The same can be said of the Test against Ireland regarding the outcome of the Ashes. If the idea was a gentle warm-up, it would have been terribly badly assessed. When the wickets started to fall, England was under heavy pressure. That Ireland only offered a four-day test was only added. The world champions had everything to lose and little to gain.

Professional sport looks nice and it usually is. Yet the pressure around the elite end and elite athletes continues to grow. The costs of a losing Ashes tour no longer stop at the results, there is also a psychological toll.

Jonathan Trott was signed by the 2013-14 back-to-back Ashes series and returned home after the first Test. The intensity was too much. What has changed? Well, that was the tour when England arrived with a 82-page booklet with 194 recipes and catering requirements.

A heart surgeon can cut a cheese sandwich and have lunch if he wants to, but the cricketers of England must have lamb and pea kofabak with avocado, raw lettuce and butter beans. The message is that this is the most important work in the world. So essential that the normal life lived by the rest of the planet is not suitable.

No wonder, when the shape of a batsman begins to fail, it feels like the world is collapsing; as if his shortcomings are everything someone is talking about; that this is a shame, humiliation.

Jason Roy stepped into the new fold of playing of a key role in the World Cup success

That series was that which Alastair Cook described as a war. During breakfast in the press room, on the day of the World Cup semi-final in Edgbaston, Cook was determined that he would rather not be there. He said he knows that he has made the right decision to retire: that he has not sent the English players their quest for world champions. He was ready. He had had enough.

And so the players of England appeared the morning after their best match. Not just bleeding or hanging. Shattered. Spent. They looked like the best preparation on Thursday against Australia would be two weeks off. Next, place the promotion at Lord & # 39; s this week next to Jofra Archer's photo & # 39; s in Barbados.

He was partying at an event called the Jouvert Morning Jump-Up. Archer was dancing and covered in paint – just like his – while his girlfriend worked for him.

It doesn't matter, but it is a shame that he has an injury. Almost only among the English World Cup winners, he seems to have found the perfect way to prepare for the Ashes.

Frank's Jorginho Challenge

As expected, finding the best position because N & Golo Kante would never be the biggest problem for Frank Lampard at Chelsea. Everyone, bar Maurizio Sarri, already knew. Jorginho is a different matter.

Lampard wants him to play a more offensive role, but it remains to be seen whether he can do that in the Premier League. Last season, Jorginho often looked gloomy as a maker, moving the ball too slowly, too deep and easily eliminated.

What worked in the Serie A was quickly revealed at the fast pace of the Premier League. That approach can prove to be much more difficult than bringing Kante back to his service as a defense screen.

There is certainly a player in Jorginho, but can he be in the middle of the crowd? Sarri couldn't do it.

Frank Lampard must be the best this summer find a solution to get the best out of Jorginho

Being backed up doesn't mean you have to take it

Time was the fourth, sometimes fifth-choice A football club attacker was a hopeless dead end.

Staying in Liverpool last season, Divock Origi signed vital goals in the Premier League against Everton and Newcastle, two goals in an epic Champions League semi-final with Barcelona and another in the Champions League final.

For modern top clubs, the requirements of the match list have changed the concept of the reserve footballer. Just as modern rugby has its finishers – who don't start the game but play a crucial role until late – so modern football has men like Origi, who can be summoned in moderation but can have a huge impact on the season.

Why do FINA cheats protect?

It says everything about FINA, the governing body of swimming, that they were forced to hastily draft a new code of conduct in the middle of the World Swimming Water Championships to prevent athletes exposing drug debt

If FINA did their job well, athletes would not have to take the initiative. If FINA had their priorities right, the only cause for concern would be that of the Chinese swimmer Sun Yang.

Sun visited by dope testers, refused to provide a urine sample, and then struck bottles of his own blood with a hammer and the help of the team doctor from China. FINA was soft on the sentence, so now the case goes to the Court of Arbitration in September

If he is found guilty, he will be banned from life after he has already been banned from using trimetazidine. However, here in South Korea, he is winning gold and brutally his rivals & # 39; losers & # 39; mentioned because he dared to speak out.

Sun Yang ( right) is confronted with a life ban if he is found guilty of doping at the Court of Arbitration

And FINA's reaction is to punish the demonstrators. Mack Horton, the Australian who led the way by refusing to shake Sun's hand or join him on the podium, after finishing second in the 400m freestyle, FINA would appear on an & # 39; unacceptable & # 39; behave in this way.

Their latest edict demands that swimmers strictly avoid any offensive or inappropriate behavior toward officials, other participants, team members or spectators during the competition & # 39 ;. What FINA is really against is athletes who embarrass them by suing cheats who win on their watches.

Adam Peaty immediately rejected the code of conduct and promised to continue speaking. & # 39; If we discover that something is wrong and cheating, why should we not have a voice? & # 39; he said. It would be extremely ironic if clean athletes were disciplined while Sun continued to thrive. It would also be very FINE.

Gareth Bale scored and it made no difference. Marco Asensio sustained a long-term injury and it made no difference.

When asked about Bale's situation, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was adamant. & # 39; Nothing has changed, & # 39; he said. He is determined to exclude Bale, regardless of the circumstances.

Bale & # 39; s advisers may think they will play this game, but if Zidane does not play him and Bale does not leave, the stand-off can only be won by scrapping what remains of their career. client. And that is not a victory.

Gareth Bale & # 39; s goal against Arsenal in the United States United States has made no difference to its future

Liverpool has the right to be angry with FIFA about their commitment to the Club World Cup in Qatar.

No dates have been announced for the competition yet, although it is assumed that the final will take place in Doha on Sunday, December 22. Liverpool is scheduled for West Ham on December 21 and also has games on December 14 and 26.

To treat European champions and their national competition with such disdain, shows why the elite clubs of Europe are skeptical about every race car rying FIFA & # 39; s self-important brand

Ban costs Sakho more than money

Does Mamadou Sakho have a £ 13 million case against the World Anti-Doping Agency? He definitely has a case against someone.

After testing positive for the fat-burning drug in 2016, Sakho missed the Europa League final from Liverpool against Seville and was refused a place in the French team for their home European championship. It turned out that higenamine was not banned anyway.

Sakho did not regain his place in Liverpool and was given on loan to Crystal Palace. Would this sudden decline have happened without the confusion about his failed test? We can't know – but it certainly didn't help.

Sakho stood still, it seems unnecessary now, during what would have been the first time of his career. European semi-final, the European club final, the run-up to the final of an international tournament at home. Whatever he reimburses, he can never get those moments back.

UEFA has lifted responsibility for the confusion about hygiene at WADA and it seems as if the Sakho legal team has done the same. The fight against doping in sport can badly afford to lose £ 13 million from the funding pool, but Sakho was equally poorly served. A simple apology can never pay back what has been lost if there is anything.

Mamadou Sakho lost moments in the prime of his career about confusion about higenamine

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