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Chelsea's tactics left Anfield frustrated in what was a brutal and brilliant win by the visitors, halting Brendan Rodgers' men in their title charge
COMMENT
By Jonathan Birchall at Anfield
This is probably what they mean by the business end of the season. Pragmatism. Cynicism. Getting the job done, by any means possible. Chelsea did exactly that.
Liverpool have lost at home 2-0 and the direction of this title, yet again, is anybody's guess. The air of invincibility at Anfield smoked out by Jose Mourinho and an away performance built on brutal discipline, both brilliant and ill.
Chelsea came for a war of attrition and the battle lines were drawn from the start. Luis Garcia, scorer of the so-called 'ghost goal' against Mourinho's side in the 2005 Champions League semi-final that ended with glory in Istanbul for Liverpool, was brought onto the pitch as a gentle reminder of conflicts past.
Outside the ground, flares and flags met the team buses on arrival at Anfield and Breck Road, where the fans march towards the ground down from Everton Valley. If Chelsea wanted to stop the Liverpool behemoth, they were going to have to put in one hell of a shift.
They did. Of course they did. Mourinho may have taken issue with the performance being called a "defensive display" in his post-match press conference, but this was a game played his way, unbreakable in front of their own goal. "Two buses at the back", as Rodgers described it.
The temptation to criticise is strong, but there were outstanding performances in a Chelsea defence that was makeshift at best. Ashley Cole and Cesar Azpillicueta were impenetrable in the channels. Branislav Ivanovic a rock yet again. Round, through, over or under, Liverpool simply would not pass.
Not that it was quite as simple as that. The Chelsea manager claimed to have never heard of time-wasting. It must have a different name in Portugal.
Every possible second was sucked away from Liverpool, every disruption and delay exploited. The more the hosts were made to wait, the more Anfield, a stadium of unshakeable confidence in 2014, grew nervy.
Steven Gerrard snatched the ball from Mourinho on the touchline and Luis Suarez sarcastically applauded Mark Schwarzer as the Australian stood over the ball. There was little more Liverpool could do.
And typically irony struck at its cruellest, as Gerrard slipped in the first half injury time the home side so craved. Demba Ba took advantage and broke the deadlock. Willian repeated the trick on the break late on, working with of all people Fernando Torres to twist the knife and make the victory look far more comfortable than it was.
As such, the advantage is Manchester City's, for whom Chelsea's three points may prove invaluable. It is now in Manuel Pellegrini's hands. Liverpool can merely watch on, left in no doubt as to how near impossibly difficult this league is to win.
For Chelsea and Mourinho, it was simply business as usual.
Lampard has sympathy for Liverpool fall guy Gerrard
Apr 27, 2014 4:18:00 PM
The Reds' captain slipped to allow Demba Ba in on goal to open the scoring at Anfield on Sunday as a weakened Chelsea ended their opponents' 11-game winning streak
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has shared his sympathy for Steven Gerrard after the Liverpool skipper's slip gifted the Blues their opening goal at Anfield.
Jose Mourinho masterminded a 2-0 win over the Merseysiders, with Gerrard's mistake releasing Demba Ba before Willian struck in second half stoppage time to seal the victory.
Gerrard appeared desperate to personally make amends for his mistake in the second half, shooting from distance on a number of occasions without ever seriously testing Mark Schwarzer.
And when asked if he felt sorry for his England colleague, Lampard told Sky Sports: "Of course, without a doubt. It can happen to any player.
"Stevie's a top, top player. Whether Liverpool go on to win the league or not I don't think it takes anything off the player he is. He's been driving them all season so what can you say? It's just not a nice moment."
Mourinho: Chelsea can't win title despite beating Liverpool
By Stephen Darwin
Apr 27, 2014 4:30:00 PM
Goals from Demba Ba, after a costly slip from Steven Gerrard, and Willian saw the Blues claim all three points at Anfield but their manager isn't convinced they can finish top
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is adamant his side can't win the Premier League title despite moving to within two points of Liverpool after a 2-0 win at Anfield.
Goals from Demba Ba, who capitalised on an uncharacteristic error from Reds skipper Steven Gerrard to score the first, and Willian secured all three points for Mourinho's men in a game that was being billed as a potential title decider.
The result sees the Blues close the gap on the Merseysiders to just two points, with both sides having two games left to play in the 2013-14 Premier League campaign, although Mourinho does not believe his team are now back in the running.
When asked if Chelsea are in the title race, he told Sky Sports: "No, we're back in nothing. In this moment we are almost third. Yesterday with Everton in fifth we were automatically qualified for the Champions League but fourth was still a possibility.
"Now with these three points we need one point to finish third. It was a good season for us. There was an evolution in many aspects of this team. And now champions are only one and the champions will be City or Liverpool.
"So we have nothing to celebrate but we can say that we finished third and we can say we won both matches against the champion."
Chelsea defended resolutely and repelled waves of Liverpool attacks over the 90 minutes and Mourinho was full of praise for his side, singling out Tomas Kalas, who was making his Premier League debut, for his performance.
"My feeling is that we deserved to win, no doubts about it. It's as simple as this. And with the result 1-0 during the first 45 minutes, we were always comfortable and we were never in trouble against a fantastic team.
"For us to have this performance and for a kid like Kalas to make his debut and play the way he did - all of them, I have to speak about the kid because it's a special day for him, our team was fantastic and a very much deserved victory. We won both matches against the champions - whether it's Liverpool or Man City."
By Wayne Veysey | Chief Correspondent
Apr 27, 2014 10:45:00 AM
The Netherlands striker had been linked with an Old Trafford exit in the summer but is content to remain at the club and work with current national team boss Louis van Gaal
Robin van Persie had been considering his Manchester United future during David Moyes's troubled reign but the striker is now unlikely to leave Old Trafford this summer as the club lay the foundations for the arrival of his fellow Dutchman, Louis van Gaal.
As reported by Goal, Van Gaal has agreed the terms of a contract with a United delegation in the last 48 hours and is set to be appointed the Scot's permanent successor.
It is no secret that Van Persie has a far better relationship with his national-team boss - Van Gaal will take over at Old Trafford when his stint with Netherlands ends after the World Cup - than he had with Moyes.
The 30-year-old has been photographed sat alongside Van Gaal at a number of Feyenoord league matches while he has been rehabilitating in his home country from a knee injury that is not expected to stop him from featuring in Brazil.
The Insider understands that the Holland boss and captain also share the same agent in Kees Vos, who has been busy negotiating Van Gaal's new job at United.
Van Persie had been mulling over a switch to the continent in the summer following a second season at Old Trafford that has not matched the exploits of his outstanding first campaign, when his goals shot United to the league title.
He frequently clashed with Moyes over the Scot's tactics and training methods, which the Dutchman felt did not suit his explosive playing style.
But the former Arsenal man is likely to figure prominently in Van Gaal's plans next season even though United are openly looking for a marquee centre forward in the next window.
Lampard has sympathy for Liverpool fall guy Gerrard
Apr 27, 2014 4:18:00 PM
The Reds' captain slipped to allow Demba Ba in on goal to open the scoring at Anfield on Sunday as a weakened Chelsea ended their opponents' 11-game winning streak
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has shared his sympathy for Steven Gerrard after the Liverpool skipper's slip gifted the Blues their opening goal at Anfield.
Jose Mourinho masterminded a 2-0 win over the Merseysiders, with Gerrard's mistake releasing Demba Ba before Willian struck in second half stoppage time to seal the victory.
Gerrard appeared desperate to personally make amends for his mistake in the second half, shooting from distance on a number of occasions without ever seriously testing Mark Schwarzer.
And when asked if he felt sorry for his England colleague, Lampard told Sky Sports: "Of course, without a doubt. It can happen to any player.
"Stevie's a top, top player. Whether Liverpool go on to win the league or not I don't think it takes anything off the player he is. He's been driving them all season so what can you say? It's just not a nice moment."
Schwarzer swansong proves to be Mourinho's latest Chelsea masterstroke
Apr 28, 2014 12:41:00 AM
Bringing in the veteran goalkeeper has proved to be a crucial move for the Portuguese coach after the Australian excelled against Liverpool and Atletico Madrid
COMMENT
By Iain Strachan
Chelsea have spent more than €83 million on Andre Schurrle, Willian and Nemanja Matic since Jose Mourinho rejoined the club, as well as bringing in Samuel Eto'o and Mohamed Salah on what are sure to be handsome wages.
But the signing that has - in the last week, at least - kept the Blues in the hunt for the Premier League title and Champions League glory was the unheralded free transfer of veteran goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
Having left Fulham at the end of last season, Australian supporters were keen to see the then-active Socceroo, with the 2014 World Cup on the horizon, secure another spot as a first-choice No.1.
Premier League and Championship clubs were mentioned, and a move to the A-League was even mooted in some quarters.
When the former Middlesbrough stalwart surprisingly popped up at Stamford Bridge, the move was greeted with a mixture of delight and apprehension. Fans were pleased to see a great of modern Australian football join a genuine powerhouse club, particularly after being denied the chance to sign for Arsenal in 2010.
But there were also significant doubts about how much playing time he would receive. They were valid concerns indeed, with Schwarzer, until last weekend, having made just a handful of appearances in all competitions. Such was the impact of his new watching brief that he called time on his international career in November, pre-empting a possible exclusion from Ange Postecoglou's World Cup squad.
Schwarzer finally made his Premier League debut for Chelsea in the surprise loss at home to Sunderland last Saturday. The result aside, it was a good job the 41-year-old was afforded an opportunity to become reacquainted with the demands of top-flight football.
Three days later he was called on to replace an injured Petr Cech in the cauldron of a Champions League semi-final away to Atletico Madrid, acquitting himself well as the west London side escaped from Vicente Calderon with a 0-0 draw.
On Sunday he underlined the enormous value of having a trustworthy back-up goalkeeper, producing an assured display - and a handful of top-drawer saves - to deny Liverpool in a 2-0 win at Anfield which has thrown open the title race.
Matic, Schurrle, Willian and Salah all played a part in the smash-and-grab raid, but they couldn't have done it without Schwarzer between the sticks. Would the questionable Hilario, a peculiar relic of Mourinho's first spell in charge, have performed so effectively with equally little match-practice? Doubtful.
Long-suffering Liverpool supporters have more reason than ever to curse Mourinho after the Portuguese orchestrated a defensive, counterattacking masterclass to potentially wreck their cherished title dream.
But they shouldn't only blame his time-wasting tactics and uncanny ability to shutdown even the most free-flowing of opponents. The roots of the Reds' downfall on Sunday can be traced all the way back to the shrewdest decision of all - handing a one-year deal to one of the Premier League's oldest and safest pair of hands.
The Uruguayan frontman, who leads the top flight's scoring charts with 30 goals, becomes only the second Liverpool player in the Premier League era to win the award
Liverpool striker and Premier League top scorer Luis Suarez has been named the PFA Player of the Year.
The Uruguay international has netted 30 league goals this season to lead the division's scoring charts and fire Liverpool towards what could be a first league title in 24 years.
With two games remaining this term, Suarez still has the chance to equal, or even better, Cristiano Ronaldo and Alan Shearer's joint record of 31 goals in a 38-game season.
In addition to his monumental goal haul, the former Ajax frontman has registered 12 assists – the most in the Premier League.
Suarez's award cements an incredible turnaround in affection for the 27-year-old, who was booed on two occasions during last year's PFA ceremony.
He began the campaign by serving the remainder of a 10-game suspension for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic, which followed a race row involving Manchester United's Patrice Evra that also produced a lengthy ban.
But Suarez has put past controversies firmly behind him to light up English football and become only the second Liverpool player to be crowned Player of the Year in the Premier League era.
The Chelsea midfielder, who has scored 14 Premier League goals this term, finished ahead of Daniel Sturridge, who was named as runner-up with Southampton's Luke Shaw in third
Chelsea's Eden Hazard has been named the PFA Young Player of the Year.
The Belgium international finished ahead of Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge, who was named as runner-up, while Southampton left-back Luke Shaw secured third place.
Hazard has been pivotal in Chelsea's Premier League title challenge this season having scored 14 goals and registered seven assists in 33 appearances.
The 23-year-old was also named in the PFA Team of the Year, which also featured his Chelsea team-mates Petr Cech and Gary Cahill.
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, Everton's Ross Barkley and Liverpool's Raheem Sterling were also on the initial list of nominees.
Cardiff City have mountain to climb, admits Solskjaer
By Peter Thompson
Apr 27, 2014 9:00:00 PM
The Norwegian says his team have it all to do after falling to a 4-0 defeat against fellow relegation strugglers Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday
Cardiff City boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer concedes his side have "a mountain to climb" after they slipped to the bottom of the Premier League.
The beleaguered Welsh side were hammered 4-0 by fellow strugglers Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, a defeat which saw them replace Gus Poyet's men at the foot of the table.
In-form striker Connor Wickham opened the scoring and was then brought down by Juan Cala late in the first half, with the Spanish defender being sent off for the incident.
Fabio Borini tucked way the resultant penalty, despite Cardiff protests, and further goals from Wickham and Emanuele Giaccherini sealed three precious points for the hosts.
Cardiff are two points adrift of safety with matches against Newcastle United and Chelsea to come, and Solskjaer acknowledged his side are up against it, despite remaining positive.
"The effort and attitude was there for everyone to see. We go into the next two matches knowing we have to win those two," Solskjaer told reporters.
"It's a great challenge for everyone at the club. We need two strong performances. The most we can get is 36 points and, if we can get that, I think that will be enough to keep us up.
"We've given ourselves a mountain to climb and we need to start climbing."
The former Manchester United striker refused to be drawn on his opinion on Cala's dismissal following a defeat that he admits could relegate them.
"Going in at half time 2-0 down made it very hard for us," he added.
"But I don't want to talk about the decision because it's been made and there is absolutely nothing I can say to change that.
"It could [send us down] but I don't want to comment on the decision. It's the result that matters and we lost."
Giggs as Manchester United's permanent manager would be a gamble, says Berg
By Chris Davie
Apr 28, 2014 1:00:00 AM
The former Old Trafford defender says the 40-year-old has the qualities to become a top manager but says something with experience is needed at the club
Former Manchester United defender Henning Berg believes it would be a "gamble" for the club to appoint Ryan Giggs as manager on a permanent basis.
Following the sacking of David Moyes on Tuesday, the 40-year-old has been named as United's temporary manager until the end of the season, while Louis van Gaal is believed to have agreed a deal to join Old Trafford following the end of Netherlands' World Cup campaign this summer.
In his managerial debut, Giggs guided United to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City on Saturday but Berg, who made over 100 appearances under Sir Alex Ferguson, believes the Welshman needs an experienced coach alongside him.
"He doesn't have the experience of doing it," Berg told talkSPORT.
"Maybe he can become a top manager later on but at the moment he's not had that experience and for United to choose a guy who has not done it before is a little bit of a gamble.
"But then every manager you hire will be a gamble because you have seen with [Louis] van Gaal, he has only stayed one season or two seasons at a club and then he has to go. Every time you choose a manager it’s a little bit of a gamble. Not everything is going to be 100 per cent sure.
"Ryan Giggs has all the qualities that's needed to be a top manager but he has not done it before. If he's going to be the new manager I would hope he will bring with him someone with a bit more experience, whose been a manager before and who can guide him.
"Even though Sir Alex [Ferguson] is still there, he wouldn't be there every day to do all the detailed discussions and the small, small things.
"With Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville, he's got great football people, good decision-making and people who know it but they don't have big experience as managers either.
"So if they want to go that route, they should bring an experienced one in who can help with making the right decisions."
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The Chelsea midfielder, who has scored 14 Premier League goals this term, finished ahead of Daniel Sturridge, who was named as runner-up with Southampton's Luke Shaw in third
Chelsea's Eden Hazard has been named the PFA Young Player of the Year.
The Belgium international finished ahead of Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge, who was named as runner-up, while Southampton left-back Luke Shaw secured third place.
Hazard has been pivotal in Chelsea's Premier League title challenge this season having scored 14 goals and registered seven assists in 33 appearances.
The 23-year-old was also named in the PFA Team of the Year, which also featured his Chelsea team-mates Petr Cech and Gary Cahill.
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, Everton's Ross Barkley and Liverpool's Raheem Sterling were also on the initial list of nominees.
Manuel Pellegrini does not believe Manchester City are the new Barclays Premier League title favourites.
Monday 28th April 2014
Win their remaining three matches and City could well be crowned champions on goal difference, just as in 2012, following their 2-0 victory at Crystal Palace.
City trail leaders Liverpool by three points and second-placed Chelsea by one after Jose Mourinho's Blues won 2-0 at Anfield, with City having played a game less and boasting a better goal difference than both of their title rivals.
City manager Pellegrini conceded his side have at least regained control of their destiny, but rejected suggestions their clear goal-difference edge on Chelsea and Liverpool has any bearing at this stage.
"No advantage now, no, but it depends what we can do in the future, that's very important," said Pellegrini after fit-again Yaya Toure powered City to a controlled Selhurst Park victory.
Pellegrini hailed his players for not allowing Chelsea's victory at Anfield to prove a distraction against Palace.
"We have always trusted that we can do it," he said.
"The players knew the score, but it was a very professional performance. It could have been difficult for us to manage the game but we did it very well.
"For the moment we'll continue in third position, so we have to play and win our three games.
"But the good thing is that the destiny is in our own hands at the moment.
"This league will be decided by a narrow margin, maybe one point, maybe even goal difference.
"We have to remain focused in ourselves, and in every single match.
"We are not thinking about goal difference, we are just thinking about how to beat Everton next week.
"The most important thing is just to concentrate our minds on the next game.
"If we win our three games, maybe and Liverpool win their two, then maybe the goal-difference will be important.
"But before that, we've got to concentrate on the games ahead of us.
"We must win the three games, I've said all year that all the big teams must feel pressure to win the title.
"Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United: all the big teams feel the pressure to win the title.
"Now we'll continue with the same pressure, but it's positive pressure."
Midfield master Toure laid on Edin Dzeko's fourth-minute opener before stroking home the second before half-time.
Pellegrini withdrew the 30-year-old just past the hour-mark in a bid to stagger his return from thigh trouble.
The City manager said the influential Ivorian had only trained fully for two days before producing his match-winning turn.
Pellegrini is now hopeful Toure will hit top condition in time for their vital trip to Everton.
"We hope, but we don't know," said Pellegrini of Toure's return to peak fitness.
"You saw him, he was very important for both goals.
"Yaya only worked with the team the last two days, that's why he didn't play more than 60 minutes.
"But he's a very important player for us.
"He's a top player, and in the 10 days he was injured he doesn't lose too much on his football condition.
"So he just played 60 minutes because he was very tired, but he's a very important player for us.
"The most important thing is that we don't depend on just one player.
"We have a squad and in every game I try to choose the best players that will fit for that moment.
"Having Yaya fit will be very important."
David Silva missed City's assured victory with ankle trouble, with Pellegrini admitting he remains a doubt for the Goodison Park trip.
"We have to wait and see what happens in the week," said the City boss.
"Maybe yes, maybe not, we'll see how he improves from his injury.
"Silva is also a very important player, but if he cannot play another player must shoulder the responsibility."
Palace boss Tony Pulis admitted seeing Toure's name on the team sheet was a "disappointment".
"For us to win this game every player had to be at their best, and you're hoping to catch Manchester City not at their best," said Pulis.
"You have to realise playing against some teams is not a level playing field.
"Toure being fit was a real disappointment for me because he's a wonderful player.
"To do that after being out for three weeks was wonderful.
"The Liverpool result actually gave Man City a massive lift, and then we conceded a poor goal from our point of view early on.
"That settled them down, just when you want them to be under pressure a little bit.
Grant Holt believes Aston Villa supporters should vent their frustrations at the players as opposed to manager Paul Lambert.
The Villa Park faithful once more voiced their disapproval of Lambert's stewardship in Saturday's disappointing 4-1 defeat at Swansea City.
That setback saw Villa's winless run in the Premier League stretch to six - of which five have ended in defeat - and the poor return has left Villa sweating on their Premier League status, with just three points separating them from 18th-placed Norwich City.
However, on-loan striker Holt has moved to defend Lambert and believes it is the playing staff that should shoulder the blame for their dismal run.
"I think it's fair to give the players a bit of stick," he said. "The manager has put a team out there to perform and we have not got the points.
"As a group of lads we have got to take the flak and stick for that as we have been beaten 4-1 away from home. We are not in a good vein of form at the moment and we are giving away cheap goals.
"It's always the way when things are going against you that people look at the manager. But we deserve the stick.
"The belief among the players is still there. We have already had a chat and we just have to put this one to bed.
"We have got three games left and they are all big ones. But it's still in our hands."
Louis van Gaal pushing for swift Man United deal to head off threat from Ryan Giggs
By Matt Lawton
Published: 16:30 EST, 27 April 2014 | Updated: 01:14 EST, 28 April 2014
It is with good reason that Louis van Gaal is pushing for Manchester United to confirm him as their next manager. The deal, say senior sources at the club, is all but done after talks last week.
But however confident Van Gaal might appear in his ability as a manager, he knows that four straight wins for Ryan Giggs will heighten the desire — not least among the fans — to see him given the job on a permanent basis.
There is also the danger of Carlo Ancelotti coming back into the reckoning. United continue to consider him out of their reach, but lose heavily at Bayern Munich in the second leg of his Real Madrid side’s Champions League semi-final tomorrow night and the Italian might yet become available.
Dutch of class: Louis van Gaal wants his Manchester United offer tied up to avoid competition from rivals
Contenders: Ryan Giggs and Carlo Ancelotti are also in the running for the Old Trafford hotseat
VAN GAAL'S CUP RECORD
Clubs Managed
Ajax (1991-97), Barcelona (1997-2000, 2002-03), AZ Alkmaar (2005-09), Bayern Munich (2009-11)
Countries Managed
Holland (2000-02, 2012 - )
Club Honours
League Titles 7
Champions League 1
UEFA Cup 1
Domestic Cups 7
Other European Cups 3
This is something the United hierarchy are aware of, but the focus remains on a 62-year-old Dutchman who is in a position to devote a bit of thinking time to United before he turns his full attention to Holland’s World Cup campaign.
For now, Giggs is the only real alternative, but for all the excitement of United’s 4-0 win over Norwich, a sharp sense of reality remains in the boardroom.
Giggs was understandably thrilled, as was Sir Alex Ferguson, but Old Trafford’s power brokers know things could get uncomfortable for them if Giggs wins the next three games.
Drving ambition: Van Gaal plays golf on holiday in Portugal as he waits on the final details of his United deal
Local hero: Giggs would be many United fans' favourite to take over from sacked David Moyes
The pressure to stick with him — and his class of ’92 staff — could become intense.It’s why it would make sense to get Van Gaal to put pen to paper in the next few days, even if there remains a degree of uncertainty about who would be his deputies.
It appears that Van Gaal would accommodate Giggs as well as someone like Patrick Kluivert. But there is no guarantee, say sources, that Giggs would accept such a role. He is very much his own man, as are Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville.
If Van Gaal wants them to be part of United’s future, he might need to demonstrate a bit of charm as well as strong leadership qualities.
Bright start: United kicked off Giggs' temporary reign as boss with a 4-0 victory over Norwich
Fulham and Chelsea prepare to battle it out as FA Youth Cup final throws up local derby
By Adam Shergold
Published: 09:42 GMT, 28 April 2014 | Updated: 09:42 GMT, 28 April 2014
It's a local affair in the final of the FA Youth Cup on Monday evening as Fulham and Chelsea square up in a West London derby at Craven Cottage, seeking to gain a first leg advantage ahead of next week's return at Stamford Bridge.
While Chelsea have made their fourth final in five seasons, it's the furthest Fulham have ever progressed in the competition.
The tie will be a showcase of some of the best up-and-coming players in the country, including a number of England youth internationals.
It will be screened live on ITV4 with a 7.45pm kick-off. Here's our guide to the form, cup pedigree and players to watch.
In the final: Chelsea celebrate their goal in the second leg of the semi-final against Arsenal. They take on Fulham in the first leg of the final at Craven Cottage on Monday night
Progress: Fulham celebrate a goal by Moussa Dembele in the semi-final against Reading
Defending champions: Norwich City won the FA Youth Cup last season, beating Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate over the two-legged final
ROAD TO THE FINAL FULHAM FULHAM'S RESULTS
Third Round - Queens Park Rangers (A) 4-1 (Hyndman; O'Halloran; Williams; Evans) Fourth Round - Tottenham Hotspur (A) 3-2 (Roberts 3) Fifth Round - Manchester City (A) 3-1 (Donnelly; Dembele 2) Sixth Round - Huddersfield Town (H) 2-1 (Dembele 2) Semi-final, first leg - Reading (A) 2-2 (Hyndman pen; Roberts) Semi-final, second leg - Reading (H) 3-2 (Dembele 3, 1 pen)
Fulham have racked up plenty of goals in some tricky-looking ties during their FA Youth Cup run.
It began before Christmas with a trip to local rivals QPR and a comfortable 4-1 win at Loftus Road after an Emerson Hyndman free-kick set them on their way. Dean O'Halloran, George Williams and Jordan Evans added goals to assert Fulham's class.
The fourth round threw up another London derby, against Spurs, and Fulham started pretty badly when Nathan Oduwa scored after just three minutes. But inspired by Patrick Roberts, who scored a superb hat-trick, they prevailed with the winner coming just seven minutes from time.
Another late show saw, this time from Moussa Dembele, saw them dump Manchester City out in the fifth round. Captain Liam Donnelly gave Fulham the lead on the hour mark, only for Thierry Ambrose to level. But Dembele took the game by the scruff of the neck, scoring after 80 and 83 minutes to earn their progress.
A double from Dembele guided Fulham through a difficult sixth round tie at home to Huddersfield, who had knocked Manchester United out in an earlier round.
They had to be at their very best to squeeze past Reading in the two-legged semi-final, coming from two goals down to salvage a draw in the first leg at the Madejski Stadium.
Pointing the way to victory: Dembele is congratulated by Roberts after scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time during the second leg of the semi-final
Rob Dickie had given the Royals the lead and Fulham's problems worsened when goalkeeper Marek Rodak was sent off and Tarique Fosu-Henry converted the resultant penalty. But Fulham showed their resolve in the second-half and goals from Hyndman and Roberts swung the tie around.
In the second leg, Dembele scored a hat-trick as Fulham, inspired by Roberts, came from 2-1 down at Craven Cottage to win 3-2. Reading, down to 10 men themselves when Dominic Hyam was dismissed, remarkably led early in the second leg when Fosu-Henry and Jack Stacey before tired legs kicked in and Fulham turned it around, the winner coming in stoppage time.
CHELSEA CHELSEA'S RESULTS
Third Round - Dartford (H) 4-0 (Solanke 3; Dabo) Fourth Round - Sheffield Wednesday (H) 4-1 (Brown; Musonda; Colkett pen; Solanke) Fifth Round - Cardiff City (A) 2-0 (Solanke; Kiwomya) Sixth Round - Newcastle United (A) 3-2 (Solanke; Kiwomya; Boga) Semi-final, first leg - Arsenal (H) 2-1 (Colkett; Kiwomya) Semi-final, second leg - Arsenal (A) 1-0 (Vickers own goal)
Chelsea began their run in the competition with an easy 4-0 win over Conference side Dartford. Dominic Solanke was the star on the night, scoring a hat-trick, with Fankaty Dabo scoring the other one at Aldershot’s Recreation Ground.
In the fourth round, Chelsea made light work of Sheffield Wednesday, winning 4-1 thanks to goals from Brown, Charly Musonda, Colkett and Solanke.
A tricky-looking fifth round assignment at Cardiff City got off to the perfect start when Solanke scored on four minutes. There were a few nervy moments but Kiwomya’s goal with 12 minutes to play sealed a 2-0 victory.
The Blues’ sixth round encounter at Newcastle United was eventful but they showed admirable resolve to come from behind and win 3-2.
They had an early lead through Solanke’s sixth goal of the competition but Newcastle scored twice to lead at half-time. Kiwomya drew Chelsea level and then Jeremie Boga scored what proved to be the winner on 63 minutes.
Influential: Alex Kiwomya has scored three goals during Chelsea's run to the final
That set up a London derby semi-final against Arsenal, to be played over two legs. At Stamford Bridge, Arsenal took the lead early in the second-half through Chuba Akpom but well-taken goals from Colkett and Kiwomya turned the match around and ensured a slender advantage.
At the Emirates, Chelsea dominated the game and settled the tie when Colkett forced Arsenal goalkeeper Josh Vickers to put through his own net.
Decisive goal: Arsenal goalkeeper Joshua Vickers watches on as a cross from Chelsea's Charlie Colkett (not pictured) slips through his legs and over the line in the semi-final, second leg
YOUTH CUP PEDIGREE
There's a real contrast between these west London neighbours, with Fulham set to compete in their first FA Youth Cup final.
Chelsea are in their eighth final and they have become regulars at this stage in recent years. They won back-to-back Youth Cups in 1960 and 1961 but then had to wait until 2010 to make it three.
In 2012, they beat Blackburn 4-1 on aggregate but last year's final appearance ended in disappointment, as Norwich beat them in both legs.
Up for the Cup: Nathaniel Chalobah lifts the trophy after Chelsea beat Blackburn 4-1 on aggregate in the 2012 final
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING
Fulham coach Steve Wigley talking to FA.com: 'Once you get there, you want to win it. No-one wants to finish second best and the boys have always said it was the tournament that they want to do well in, so to get to the final is a great achievement.
'But we're coming up against a very good Chelsea side now and we will have to be at our very best. But the one thing I've stressed to my players is that we're not playing Chelsea's first team, we're playing their academy.'
Making progress: Fulham youth team coach Steve Wigley has aided their rise to become one of the best academies in the country
In charge: Huw Jennings is the Academy Director at Fulham
Academy director Huw Jennings told Fulham's official website: 'It's been a successful period for the Academy and our players have had a real opportunity to show what they're capable of.
'The lifeblood of any football club is to have good young players coming through, and we're certainly heading in the right direction in that respect.
'This year we’ve built on what has been a very significant phase in terms of taking the Academy forward – it’s vital we continue the progress.
'There are two games to be played, but reaching the Final of the FA Youth Cup is another marker of how far we’ve come. It’s a terrific achievement and we’re very proud; now our players have to focus on getting the job done.'
Chelsea coach Adi Viveash talking after the semi-final win over Arsenal: 'It's another big achievement. To get to three consecutive finals takes a lot of hard work, a lot of team work, a lot of good staff and a lot of good players.
'Fortunately we've been able to do it but the desire of the boys has been exceptional, not just over the three years I've been doing it but over the last seven years. I think that's five finals in seven years. That takes some doing.
'It's the most prestigious Under-18 tournament in the country. It means a lot to the players and they want to emulate teammates who are around now playing in the Under-21s who won it two years ago and the other players who are in the first team who won it a couple of years before that.
'It is an internal rivalry and it means an awful lot to them and that shows.'
Proud record: Chelsea coach Adi Viveash has guided the team to three consecutive Youth Cup finals
THREE TO WATCH FULHAM Patrick Roberts
A great deal will depend on Roberts if they are to claim their maiden FA Youth Cup win but luckily the 17-yera-old is in excellent form.
He has scored four times in Fulham's run to the final and was influential in the second leg turnaround against Reading in the semi-finals.
Capable of playing wide on the right wing or as a second striker, Roberts has been used by Felix Magath in Fulham's Premier League relegation battle.
After his debut against Newcastle United, Magath described him as 'an extraordinary talent.'
'Extraordinary talent': Patrick Roberts chases down Reading's Jack Stacey in the semi-final
Moussa Dembele
The man whose hat-trick guided Fulham through into their first final, French striker Dembele is another player on the verge of the first team.
The 17-year-old joined from Paris St Germain in July 2012 and was considered a major coup for the London club.
His goals for the Under-18 and Under-21 teams have helped establish Fulham's reputation as one of the best academies in England.
Hotshot: Striker Moussa Dembele tries to win the ball off Reading's Robert Dickie
Liam Donnelly
Northern Irishman Donnelly has demonstrated maturity beyond his years in Fulham's Under-18 league wins in the recent past and has already played for his country's Under-21 side on half-a-dozen occasions.
The 18-year-old from Dungannon is best suited at right-back but is capable of playing right across the back line.
Leading by example: Fulham captain Liam Donnelly salutes the crowd at Craven Cottage after beating Reading in the semi-finals
CHELSEA Andreas Christensen
Known as the ‘Gazelle’ for the way he leaps to clear crosses and stretches out a leg in the tackle, the 18-year-old Dane is already established at Under-21 level for club and country.
Christensen is also adept at carrying the ball out into midfield and finding the correct pass to initiate an attack.
Commanding: Andreas Christensen (centre) looms behind Arsenal's Daniel Crowley
Alex Kiwomya
17-year-old forward from Sheffield who is enjoying his best season yet. Kiwomya scored five goals in eight matches in the UEFA Youth League before Chelsea were dumped out by Schalke in the quarter-finals and he also has three Youth Cup goals as well, including an acrobatic one to win the first leg of the semi-final with Arsenal.
The England Under-18 international is best suited out on the right wing but can adapt to play on the opposite flank or as an out-and-out centre forward.
Race: Alex Kiwomya takes on Arsenal's Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill for pace during the semi-final
Ruben Loftus-Cheek
6ft 4in central midfielder very highly regarded not only at Chelsea but across Europe’s elite, with Barcelona at one stage reported to be considering a bid.
You only had to watch his poise and attacking intent in the semi-finals to understand what a talented player he is.
Loftus-Cheek is a regular in the Under-21 side at Chelsea and has represented England up to Under-19 level. His composure and ability to pick a killer pass are something to keep an eye on in the final.
We're through! Ruben Loftus-Cheek celebrates Chelsea place in the final
Roy Keane has played down speculation he could return to Manchester United as Louis van Gaal's number two.
Monday 28th April 2014
The 61-year-old Dutchman is the bookmakers' favourite to succeed the departed David Moyes at Old Trafford, and former United skipper Keane has been linked with key role on his staff.
However, the 42-year-old, who is currently working as assistant to Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill, has moved to dampen the rumours.
Speaking to Today FM's Ray D'Arcy show in Cork on Monday morning, Keane said: "People keep asking me, ironically, about other jobs. I have got a job and I am very happy in my job."
Former Sunderland and Ipswich manager Keane was handed a return to coaching when O'Neill replaced Giovanni Trapattoni at the Republic helm in November last year.
His appointment was greeted with almost as much excitement as that of the Ulsterman in a country where he remains a divisive figure.
Within weeks, he found himself thrust into the headlines as former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson's autobiography painted a less than flattering picture of their relationship and prompted a dismissive response from his one-time inspirational captain.
Asked if he could foresee a time when the two might be on speaking times once again, Keane replied: "No, I am not sure. Probably not. But look, I have said that about other people.
"Football is a funny old game and you get clashes of personality sometimes, but it's something that's not on my mind at the moment, to be honest with you, whether it be good or bad."
Keane admitted he harbours hopes of a return to management one day, although he insisted that is not currently his main focus.
He said: "In my quiet moments, I obviously want to go back into being a manager myself."
Asked if his dream was for that to be at Old Trafford, he said: "No, I don't think that way.
"I was at a match on Friday night, I was at a match on Saturday and I am up in the stand thinking, 'I would love to have a team'.
"And then I'll get back in my car and I spoke to Martin, I think it was on Saturday night, and then I am thinking obviously I am delighted to be working with Martin and [goalkeeping coach] Seamus [McDonagh] and the other staff, so you have to be careful what you wish for.
"I am just really appreciating the opportunity I have at the moment. What happens further down the road..."
Keane was critical of United's decision to dispense with Moyes' services after just 10 months, but steadfastly refused to be drawn into the debate over who should replace him, or what Ferguson's role at the club should be.
He said: "Part of me has to step back as well. I know there are certain times when the media are going to ask me these questions, but there's also a part of me thinking whatever has gone on at certain clubs, it really is none of my business.
"There are certain things that will hurt me, particularly as I have been a manager before, so I will look at David Moyes and say I don't like what happened to him.
"But regarding other issues at whether it be Man United or Arsenal or other football clubs, it's none of my business and it doesn't keep me awake at night."
Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard insists Saturday's visit of Manchester City will be an easy game to play in simply because of the quality of opposition.
Tuesday 29th April 2014
The self-inflicted 2-0 defeat at Southampton damaged the Toffees' dreams of Champions League football but a point against Manuel Pellegrini's team will at least guarantee a return to the Europa League for the first time since 2009.
They could also do neighbours Liverpool a huge favour by taking points off City, which would give the Reds renewed hope of winning the title for the first time in 24 years.
Howard said the priority was to get themselves back on track after the disappointment at St Mary's Stadium.
"Hopefully we'll brush it aside as a one-off and we'll have it all to do against Manchester City," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"It will be wide open, a tactical battle with top players on display.
"Those games take care of themselves. Those are the easy games to play in.
"Gareth Barry (on loan from City) won't be there but we can cope."
Howard is confident there will be no hangover from a second defeat in three games.
"The manager has been brilliant in that regard. He dismisses things very quickly, both brilliant performances and bad ones.
"We'll get it out of the way and have a good week of training again.
"We'll be focused from Monday to deal with what City have to throw at us."
Captain Phil Jagielka, who has not played since the end of February because of a hamstring problem, is expected to return to face City as Everton's injury list continues to grow.
The club are still awaiting details of the extent of calf and knee problems sustained by Leighton Baines at the weekend.
Martinez had eight players unavailable through injury against Southampton and with Barry ineligible against his parent club this weekend the Spaniard has recalled forward Apostolos Vellios from Blackpool after just two appearances since joining them at the end of last month.
Everton received some good news on Baines late on Monday, with the England defender now likely to face City.
"Leighton Baines is set to be fit for this weekend's game against Manchester City," said a statement on evertonfc.com.
"The England international was assessed over the weekend, but has reacted well to the problem, meaning he should be fit for Saturday's crunch Goodison clash."
Five Dutch stars who could join Man United along with Louis van Gaal
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Monday, April 28, 2014
talkSPORT takes a look at five of Louis van Gaal's favourites with the Netherlands that he could bring to Man United
It is widely accepted that Louis van Gaal is likely to be the next Manchester United manager not only thanks to his own good record with big clubs, but also the lack of quality alternatives available.
The obligations the Dutchman has to continue working with the Netherlands until the World Cup is over means he won’t be able to prepare for next season quite as early as the Red Devils would have liked, yet at the same time, his position with the national team could prove to be an advantage for United, as he may already have some players in mind that he would like to bring to England thanks to first hand observations as Oranje manager.
talkSPORT takes a look at some of Van Gaal’s Dutch favourites – players he has handed a starting place to regularly over the last year – who could fill some key roles at Old Trafford…
Name: Kevin Strootman
Age: 24
Position: Central midfielder
Netherlands appearances in 2013: Eight
Kevin Strootman started more games for the Netherlands in 2013 than any other Dutch player, making eight appearances across friendlies and World Cup qualifiers, and the Roma midfielder’s reputation continues to grow this year thanks to his club side's excellent run in Serie A. Exactly the kind of quality central midfielder United lack, the Dutchman has been linked with Old Trafford before, and it will be no surprise if those stories return now that Van Gaal is on his way to Old Trafford. A cruciate ligament injury picked up in March could complicate a transfer this summer depending on how quickly he recovers, while it also remains to be seen if he would be willing to drop the guarantee of Champions League football he has in Rome for a move to the Premier League.
Previously a left-sided defender for Ajax, Frank de Boer has converted Daley Blind into a holding midfielder, and the young Dutchman has been a revelation in his new role. Louis van Gaal has gone on to use him there for the Netherlands, and with Manchester United’s lack of a similar player in the deep midfield position a constant weak point for the Red Devils in recent years, their new manager may well decide Blind is the best man for the job. His ability to play at left back would also help reduce the impact of the likely loss of Patrice Evra this summer. In addition, Blind's dad, Danny, was captain of the Van Gaal-managed Ajax side that won the Champions League back in 1995.
Name: Daryl Janmaat
Age: 24
Position: Right back
Netherlands appearances in 2013: Six
A talented attacking right back who was handed his Netherlands debut by Van Gaal, Daryl Janmaat has been a regular for the veteran coach over the course of the last year, and is competing with the more experienced Gregory van der Wiel for a starting spot at the World Cup. Linked with the likes of Liverpool and Everton in recent months, there is a feeling that Janmaat could leave Feyenoord this summer, so Van Gaal may yet consider him as an option for another position Man United lack quality in.
Name: Bruno Martins Indi
Age: 22
Position: Left back
Netherlands appearances in 2013: Five
Yet another Dutch international who made his debut under Van Gaal, Bruno Martins Indi is helping to solve a problem area for the Netherlands at left back, and could yet go on to do the same for Man United. Quick on the ground, decent in the air and still young with plenty of time to improve, the defender has been linked with Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Spurs in the past. The Dutchman seems to have a strong relationship with Van Gaal, if this video is anything to go by.
Name: Stefan de Vrij
Age: 22
Position: Centre back
Netherlands appearances in 2013: Five
Another of Van Gaal's debutantes who also happens to play in a position United lack strength in, despite still being only 22-years-old, Stefan de Vrij has five years’ worth of experience with Feyenoord. There are some doubts over whether Van Gaal will take the young defender to the World Cup, but if he does, and if he performs well, he may yet find that he is in the manager’s thoughts beyond this summer.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has denied a charge of misconduct from the Football Association over comments he made after the English Premier League title chasers shock loss to Sunderland.
The Black Cats ended Mourinho's 77-match unbeaten home league run as Chelsea manager with a stunning 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge last month.
Afterwards, Mourinho mocked the officials by saying: "Congratulations to (referee) Mike Dean, because he made a fantastic performance.
"And congratulations to Mike Riley (head of refereeing body Professional Game Match Officials Limited), because what they did during the season was fantastic for the way the championship is going.
"So congratulations to all of them, and I have nothing more to say. I'm sorry."
During the course of the match, the Portuguese boss's assistant Rui Faria angrily confronted the match officials on the touchline and had to be restrained by several Chelsea staff, including Mourinho, before he was sent off.
Faria admitted to two FA charges of misconduct after Chelsea midfielder Ramires had already received a retrospective four-match ban, ending his domestic season, for swinging an arm and striking Sunderland's Sebastian Larsson during the April 19 match.
Mourinho has already been sent off at both Cardiff and Aston Villa this season.
