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Wolves unhappy with Milijas decision
Wolves have slammed the Football Association's decision to reject Nenad Milijas' appeal against his red card in Tuesday's clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Kean: Jones will captain England
Blackburn boss Steve Kean has no doubts Phil Jones will eventually become captain of England.
Pardew pleased with Magpies progress
Alan Pardew will head for Liverpool on Friday night confident Newcastle have made significant progress since he first went into battle with the Reds.
Pulis keeping grounded
Stoke boss Tony Pulis is keen to keep things in perspective as he looks to build upon the club's recent successes in the new year.
Chamberlain loving life with Gunners
Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has "loved every minute" of an unforgettable 2011 and wants to achieve even more next year.
Terry loves being one-club man
Chelsea captain John Terry expects to end his career as a one-club man - but hinted he may go elsewhere to fulfil his managerial ambitions.
Dalglish won't change Reds philosophy
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has not been tempted to try something out of the ordinary in an attempt to rouse his side from their goalscoring slumbers.
Davies close to comeback
Simon Davies hopes to be back for Fulham's new year fixtures after overcoming an injury setback.
Sammon boost for Wigan
Wigan striker Conor Sammon will be available to face Stoke on Saturday after the Football Association on Thursday upheld his claim for wrongful dismissal.
Wolves fail with Milijas appeal
Wolves midfielder Nenad Milijas has lost his appeal against the red card he received against Arsenal and will have to serve a three-game ban immediately.
Tottenham in Filip Kostic chase
Tottenham are among a number of clubs closely monitoring Serbian starlet Filip Kostic.
Martinez eyeing new faces
Manager Roberto Martinez says Wigan could dip into the January market for a couple of new players but will not stray from their transfer targets.
Modric: I won't leave in January
Luka Modric is almost 100% certain he will remain with Tottenham until the end of the season.
Romeu set for Chelsea stay
Oriol Romeu's agent has hinted the Chelsea midfielder will resist the option to return to Barcelona and will remain at Stamford Bridge until 2013 at the least.
Steve Kean planning early business
Steve Kean is planning to move fast when the January transfer window opens, with Blackburn in desperate need of some fresh faces.
Kelly encouraged by Chelsea draw
Stephen Kelly believes Fulham's performance against west London rivals Chelsea was a true reflection of their capabilities.
Olsson an outside bet for United match
Blackburn manager Steve Kean has revealed Martin Olsson has an "outside chance" of recovering from a hamstring injury in time to face Manchester United at Old Trafford.
McAuley expects Jones to flourish
Gareth McAuley has praised the impact of fellow West Brom defender Billy Jones now he has finally been given a chance to impress in his preferred right-back role.
Giggs: United have title experience advantage
Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United's vast experience can be a decisive factor in this season's Barclays Premier League title race.
Pulis expects quiet January window
Stoke boss Tony Pulis has indicated it could be a fairly quiet January transfer window for the club, with the focus more on outgoing personnel than incoming new faces.
Dalglish: Carroll not short of self belief
Liverpool tactician Kenny Dalglish has insisted that goal-shy forward Andy Carroll is not bereft of confidence.
New QPR deal for Helguson
Queens Park Rangers have announced that Heidar Helguson's fine form this season has been rewarded with a contract extension.
Wigan appeal over Sammon dismissal
Wigan have appealed the red card shown to Conor Sammon in Monday's 5-0 defeat by Manchester United.
Liverpool vs Newcastle Team News Liverpool striker Luis Suarez is unavailable for Friday's Premier League visit of Newcastle as he serves a one-match suspension.
That could give Andy Carroll the chance to make back-to-back league starts for the first time since the beginning of November.
Captain Steven Gerrard returned from a two-month absence with a substitute appearance on Boxing Day, but is likely to start on the bench again.
Newcastle's in-form frontman Demba Ba will be fit to take his place in the side.
The Senegal international, who scored his 14th goal of the season at Bolton on Boxing Day, suffered a knock to his knee but will be fit.
Full-back Davide Santon, who missed out at the Reebok Stadium with a knee problem, is fit and Dan Gosling has completed his three-match ban, but Danny Guthrie (groin), Peter Lovenkrands (calf) and Steven Taylor (Achilles) remain on the sidelines.
Mancini: I gave Bridge two years
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini revealed that he has informed out-of-favour defender Wayne Bridge that he was not wanted at the club two years ago.
Fergie welcomes academy rules change
Sir Alex Ferguson believes the FA's decision to scrap the travelling time restrictions will help prevent English clubs being forced to look abroad for the top talent.
Henry on verge of Arsenal return
Manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed Thierry Henry will sign a two-month deal to return to Arsenal if insurance agreements can be worked out with New York Red Bulls.
Smalling set for New Year return
Sir Alex Ferguson insisted that Chris Smalling will be fit to play next week following reports the defender faced a long lay off with glandular fever.
Chelsea agree Cahill fee
Bolton manager Owen Coyle has confirmed that the club has reached an agreement with Chelsea for defender Gary Cahill.
Gerrard keen to end 'miserable' year
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits he will be glad to see the end of a year which has seen him sidelined with injuries for long periods.
James: Hart better than Casillas
England veteran David James reckons Manchester City's Joe Hart is already a better goalkeeper than Spain legend Iker Casillas.
Jones tips Blackburn to survive drop Phil Jones is confident Blackburn's fortunes will improve - but not until 2012.
Mancini prepares for crucial month
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is ready to test the depth of his squad as they begin their tough January schedule with two games in three days.
Colback confident of beating City
Sunderland midfielder Jack Colback is determined to upset Premier League leader Manchester City as they face off in the Stadium of Light on New Year's Day.
Mayuka eyes Newcastle switch
Young Boys striker Emmanuel Mayuka has labelled Newcastle and Marseille as "dream" clubs.
McLeish not expecting Villa arrivals
Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish expects to have a trio of experienced players back by the start of the New Year as he prepares for a quiet January in the transfer market.
Swansea close in on Rory Donnelly
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed the club have agreed a new fee and personal terms for Cliftonville striker Rory Donnelly.
Enrique hopes for warm reception
Liverpool defender Jose Enrique comes up against former club Newcastle on Friday insisting he paid his dues to the Magpies with a spell in the npower Championship.
Winterburn backs Henry loan deal
Former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn believes the return of Thierry Henry to the Emirates could provide a huge lift to the club.
Dalglish urges caution with Gerrard
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has warned fans not too expect too much from captain Steven Gerrard as he makes his long-awaited recovery from injury.
Leverkusen rule out Berbatov return 29 December 2011
Bayer Leverkusen CEO Wolfgang Holzhauser has labelled reports linking Dimitar Berbatov with a return to the BayArena as 'pure speculation'.
The Bulgarian's agent said on Tuesday that Leverkusen had enquired about the Manchester United forward returning to the Bundesliga club.But Holzhauser played down the reports, and said they would not consider Berbatov while he remained under contact at Old Trafford.
"This is pure speculation," he told DPA."Also, we do not want to get involved as the Bulgarian is currently under contract with Manchester United."Reports have also suggested Holzhauser has been in touch with Berbatov, who left Leverkusen in 2006 to join Tottenham, before moving to United two years later.
Holzhauser said he had spoken to Berbatov, but the discussions were not about a potential move."I view this (the speculation) with some displeasure," Holzhauser said."The contact between Berbatov and I was only based on a friendly nature."
In his most recent match, United's 5-0 drubbing of Wigan on Monday, 30-year-old Berbatov netted a hat-trick.In addition to Leverkusen, a number of other clubs have been linked with his signing, including Tottenham and Fulham.
No January transfer ´on the horizon´ for Ferguson´s United 29 December 2011
Alex Ferguson says he will not buy 'just on a whim' in January's transfer window, despite Manchester United's growing injury list.The 69-year-old - a critic of signing players mid-season - insists he will only delve into European winter transfer window if a long-term target becomes available, and will avoid making any quick-fix signings.
Ferguson told MUTV: "I don't think I'll change my tactic on that (buying in January) because, if there's a player who I have been interested in, and he was available in January, we would try and do business.""But there's no such player really on the horizon that way, unless we can identify someone we've been monitoring a lot because we don't buy just on a whim at this club."
"Normally, we try and have a good progress report on the player, particularly background information on him and there's no-one at this moment in time who meets that criteria."Ferguson may instead look to his youth set-up to solve the club's injury woes, with the likes of Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison likely to feature in the coming months.
"They're getting stronger as they get older. Paul Pogba will be 19 in March. Ezekiel Fryers has been involved. Larnell Cole, Jesse Lingard and Ravel Morrison have all been involved," he said."When you think, 'OK, possibly the standard has risen since the days when Ryan (Giggs) made his debut at 17, even our Darren (Ferguson) was young and Lee Sharpe made his debut at 17'.
"Quite a few players did at that time.""But they have good ability and a good standard of play themselves so I wouldn't be adverse to trying one or two, particularly in home matches, and involving them as substitutes to give them parts of a game, which we tend to do with a lot of them. So that's certainly in my thoughts."
Stoke City manager Tony Pulis is satisfied with his squad and is not expecting to make any major purchases in January.Pulis made five signings over the close season and has faith in his current crop of players, who have propelled his side into the top half of the Premier League and the knockout stages of the Europa League.
"We think we have got a decent squad. If people become available who we like, then if we can do something, we will," Pulis told reporters."But there are one or two in the squad as well that actually need to play some football. We have to recognise that and see if we can do some business there."
"So there might be a few going out - whether or not we bring a few in will be determined by if we feel it is right for the football club. It won't be as busy as it has been."The 53-year-old Pulis also reflected on a breakthrough year for Stoke, who reached the FA Cup final and the last 32 of the Europa League on their first foray into the competition, with a glamour tie against Valencia awaiting in 2012."
"To get to a cup final and to qualify from a knockout stage to a group stage and to get out of that group stage and to be sat in the top 10 in the Premier League; it's been a great year for us," Pulis said."The players should be very proud of what they've achieved."
"Everyone within the football club, from the chairman, right through to the family who run the business, to all the supporters, everyone has been as one, they've been together and that's why we've been successful."“It's about managing expectations now. You take the club to a level that far exceeds what it should be achieving but then people want more and more."
"It's how you manage that expectation and you make sure you keep your feet on the ground which is always difficult.""It's part of life, it's part of society today, everyone wants that little bit more all the time and you can only achieve a certain amount."Stoke are in eighth place in the Premier League, with a home game against relegation-threatened Wigan set to see out a memorable 2011 on Saturday.
McCarthy in plea over tackling
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy believes it will be to the detriment of the game if the tackle which resulted in Nenad Milijas sending off at Arsenal is outlawed.
AVB open to January departures
Manager Andre Villas-Boas on Friday refused to rule out further January sales at Chelsea amid reports linking a host of his stars with moves away.
Michael Essien close to return
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas expects midfielder Michael Essien to return by mid-January after a long lay-off with a knee injury.
Didier Drogba talks continue
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has not ruled out reaching an agreement with Didier Drogba over a new deal despite the January transfer window looming.
Stoke not resting on their laurels
Stoke winger Matthew Etherington has insisted that the club is focusing for now on trying to build on their 2011 success.
Martinez heads down memory lane
Wigan will on Saturday head back to the stadium where last season they won their very own title, according to manager Roberto Martinez.
Warnock glad to avoid Henry return
QPR manager Neil Warnock has welcomed Thierry Henry's return to the Premier League - but is relieved he cannot feature for Arsenal on Saturday.
Lambert plays down expectations
Norwich manager Paul Lambert feels keeping expectations in check will be his biggest challenge of 2012.
Monk: Swans won't fear Spurs
Captain Garry Monk returns to the Swansea starting line-up imploring his team to show no fear when they face a Tottenham side he believes are genuine Barclays Premier League title contenders.
Alex plans Brazil return
Chelsea defender Alex has admitted it will take "something special" for him to remain in Europe, with a January return to Brazil on the cards.
Fulham trio set to miss Norwich trip
Fulham will be without a host of key players for what manager Martin Jol believes could be a season-changing trip to Norwich on Saturday.
Villa ready for Chelsea backlash
Alex McLeish has warned his Aston Villa players to beware of a Chelsea backlash this weekend.
O'Neill not jealous of City spending
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill will battle with Manchester City counterpart Roberto Mancini insisting he is not jealous of the Italian's spending power.
Coyle demands focus against Wolves
Bolton boss Owen Coyle wants complete focus from his team on their "biggest game of the season" when they host Wolves, despite the backdrop of Gary Cahill's impending move to Chelsea.
Redknapp: Henry will inspire Gunners
Manager Harry Redknapp thinks Thierry Henry's experience will boost Arsenal's chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
Steve Kean wants new players
Blackburn boss Steve Kean has admitted his youngsters are having to grow up fast.
Donovan ready to help Everton
Everton loan signing Landon Donovan believes he is a better player now than he was in his first spell with the Toffees.
Mancini dismisses Hazard talk
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has denied holding talks with Lille about the possibility of bringing in Eden Hazard.
United to extend Berbatov deal
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Manchester United will be exercising the option they hold to extend Dimitar Berbatov's contract by a further season.
Ferguson: Spurs a title threat
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Tottenham are currently playing the best football in the Premier League.
AVB: Chelsea and Cahill "miles apart"
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas says the Blues and transfer target Gary Cahill are "miles apart" as they try to thrash out personal terms.
Mancini unsure about total title points
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini claims he does not have a points target in mind to win the Barclays Premier League.
Liverpool ready to hijack Cahill move
Liverpool are ready to hijack Bolton defender Gary Cahill's move to Chelsea.
Man United look to start 2012 on top
Manchester United will start 2012 at the top of the table if they beat Blackburn on Saturday - but it may be short-lived as Manchester City face Sunderland on Sunday.
Henry to be handed No.12 shirt
Thierry Henry would wear the No.12 shirt if he returns to Arsenal on a proposed two-month loan deal.
Dalglish hails Gerrard and Bellamy
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish was full of praise for goalscorers Craig Bellamy and Steven Gerrard after the 3-1 win at home to Newcastle in the Barclays Premier League.
Swansea snap up Rory Donnelly
Swansea have secured the signing of Cliftonville striker Rory Donnelly on a three-and-half-year deal.
Vidic knee operation a success
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Nemanja Vidic has undergone successful knee surgery and is due to return next season.
Hodgson has big plans for Allen
West Brom have agreed a fee for midfielder Scott Allen with Dundee United - and head coach Roy Hodgson believes he can become an "important player" for the Baggies.
Mancini urges Balotelli to quit smoking
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has told enigmatic striker Mario Balotelli to quit smoking - but will not play the overbearing parent.
AVB not worried by Ancelotti's PSG
Andre Villas-Boas told Carlo Ancelotti to forget about poaching players from Chelsea and questioned why any of them would want to join Paris St Germain anyway.
Steven Gerrard: It's good to be back
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard spoke of his delight after ending a "terrible" injury-plagued 2011 on a high with a starring role in the 3-1 home win over Newcastle.
Redknapp rules out Tevez move
Tottenham will not make a move for Carlos Tevez in the January as signing the striker would place the club's long-term future in danger, according to Harry Redknapp.
Ferguson baffled over Allardyce axe Sir Alex Ferguson has branded the Blackburn owners as "off their heads" for getting rid of Sam Allardyce.
Macheda set for QPR loan move
Manchester United striker Federico Macheda's agent claims the Italian is "95%" certain to join QPR on loan in the January transfer window.
Mancini urges Balotelli to quit smoking Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has told enigmatic striker Mario Balotelli to quit smoking - but will not play the overbearing parent.
Balotelli, who continues to attract as much attention for his antics off-field as for his performances on it, has been pictured smoking cigarettes socially. Mancini is aware of the 21-year-old's habit and does not approve but says it would only be an issue if Balotelli was his son.
Mancini said of his fellow Italian: "I know he smokes. "For me it is not okay - but I am not his father or his mother! "If he was my son I would go to him and kick him on the arse. But he is not my son. "I told him, for me it is better if you don't smoke. "I am against cigarettes - for this reason my son does not smoke. "But there are players in Italy and here that do smoke. "I don't think he smokes a lot of cigarettes, five or six a day - but I told him."
Balotelli, who has scored 11 goals this season, was infamously forced to move out of his house in Cheshire in October after fireworks set off from inside his bathroom sparked a blaze. Mancini said: "He lights up the fireworks with the cigarettes!"
Despite continuing to attract headlines - Balotelli was also involved in a training ground bust-up with team-mate Micah Richards earlier this month - the former Inter Milan forward has been a much improved player this season.
Mancini has rotated him with Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero in an effort to keep all three forwards fresh and in top form and he hopes that policy will pay off during a tough January. The Barclays Premier League title favourites begin the new year with a trip to Sunderland on Sunday and then host Liverpool two days later.
They then face Manchester United in the FA Cup and have two more clashes with Liverpool in the Carling Cup semi-finals as well as league games against Wigan and Tottenham before the month ends. Mancini is perceived to be unhappy at the congestion but he feels he has the squad to cope.
Mancini said: "If we win against Sunderland we take three points, like if we win against Liverpool. "But the problem is we play these two games in 48 hours. "It is impossible to play the same players. In these two games I need to change six or seven players. "But I think if we play well we can beat Sunderland or Liverpool, even if we change the players. We have good players.
"If we change three or four players I don't think that will change a lot." One player Mancini hopes will come into the reckoning is former England midfielder Owen Hargreaves. The 30-year-old has made just three appearances since joining City in the summer in the hope of resurrecting his career after three injury-ravaged years at Manchester United.
Mancini said: "I hope he can play in the next week. He is okay but is not ready to play one game, 100%, in the Premier League. "But in the last week he worked with the team, didn't have any problem and looked he could play in this month. "When we took him we hoped he would be ready for January, 100%.
"When there is one player who doesn't play for two years, maybe he is okay for one week then after has a problem in his calf, his knee. "Sometimes he has little problems but I hope he will be fully fit for January."
Premier League Weekend Team News Manchester United will start 2012 at the top of the table if they beat Blackburn on Saturday - but it may be short-lived as Manchester City face Sunderland on Sunday.
Sir Alex Ferguson's men are level on points with rivals City at the top, trailing only by a goal difference of five. And United are all but expected to leapfrog Roberto Mancini's side with all three points against bottom club Blackburn - despite United facing a defensive crisit.
Unless Phil Jones or Rio Ferdinand make a rapid recovery from an illness and a back injury respectively, the Red Devils will be forced to field a central defensive partnership of Michael Carrick and Patrice Evra against Blackburn at Old Trafford on Saturday , with Antonio Valencia at right-back. Should United beat Blackburn, their lead could last only slightly more than 24 hours if City collect all three points at Sunderland.
Over at the Emirates, Arsenal take on new-boys Queens Park Rangers. The Gunners would be boosted by the news of an impending loan-move that would see Thierry Henry make an amazing return to the club.
Chelsea welcome Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge, hoping to end their run of three consecutive league draws which have dented their title hopes.
Harry Redknapp's in-form Tottenham will look to keep pace with the league leaders when they travel to the Liberty Stadium to face Swansea City.
In the other matches on Saturday, Bolton host Wolves at the Reebok Stadium, Norwich take on Fulhamand Stoke face Wigan.
Besides City's clash against Sunderland, West Brom take on Everton at the Hawthorns in the other Sunday match.
In the only match on Friday, Craig Bellamy scored twice before Steven Gerrard came on to wrap up a 3-1 win for Liverpool over Newcastle.
Saturday, December 31 Arsenal v QPR Arsenal winger Theo Walcott, who missed the Boxing Day draw against Wolves, has recovered from illness and is expected to return. Defender Bacary Sagna is on schedule to return at the end of January along with fullback Kieran Gibbs (stomach). Midfielder Jack Wilshere(ankle) could be back by the middle of February while full-back Carl Jenkinson remains sidelined with a back problem and Brazilian left-sided player Andre Santos (ankle) is expected to be sidelined until March.
QPR manager Neil Warnock has no fresh injury concerns. The Rs came out unscathed from their 1-1 draw at Swansea, meaning Warnock could name the same squad. Anton Ferdinand continues to miss out in defence with a hamstring injury, while Armand Traore, Matt Connolly and Jay Bothroyd will all be hoping to feature against their former club.
Last season: No corresponding fixture. Last five league matches: Arsenal W W L W D; QPR D L L L D. Top scorers (all competitions): Robin van Persie (Arsenal) 20; Heidar Helguson (QPR) 7. Referee: Martin Atkinson.
Bolton v Wolves Bolton boss Owen Coyle has Sam Ricketts, Gretar Steinsson and Joe Riley back in first team contention. Ricketts was an unused substitute for the Boxing Day defeat against Newcastle. Steinsson (illness) and Riley (hamstring) have recovered and could feature. Midfielder Darren Pratley (virus) is a doubt while it remains to be seen whether or not Gary Cahill will play after Coyle confirmed a fee for the centre-back has been agreed with Chelsea.
Wolves midfielder Nenad Milijas starts a three-match ban for his sending off against Arsenal. Milijas, whose appeal against the red card was rejected by the Football Association, could be replaced by Dave Edwards if he has shaken off the illness which ruled him out of the 1-1 draw with the Gunners. Full-back Ronald Zubar is a major doubt with the knee injury suffered against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and likely to be replaced by Richard Stearman.
Last season: Bolton 1 Wolves 0, Wolves 2 Bolton 3. Last five league matches: Bolton L L L W L; Wolves W L L D D. Top scorers (all competitions): Ivan Klasnic (Bolton) 7; Steven Fletcher (Wolves) 7. Referee: Mark Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear).
Chelsea v Aston Villa Ramires is available after suspension for Chelsea and Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas must decide whether to recall the Brazilian following his one-match ban or stick with his midfield of Frank Lampard, Raul Meireles and Oriol Romeu. Defenders John Terry and Jose Bosingwa have shaken off knocks picked up in the Boxing Day draw against Fulham but Branislav Ivanovic and John Obi Mikel (both hamstring) remain sidelined.
Villa hope to have record signing Darren Bent available after a three-game absence with a thigh problem. Bent will be included in the squad if he comes through training unscathed but fellow striker Emile Heskey is ruled out with an Achilles problem. Right-back Alan Hutton returns after serving a one-game ban for his sending off against Arsenal but faces a fight for his spot after Carlos Cuellar's recent impressive form.
Last season: Chelsea 3 Aston Villa 3, Aston Villa 0 Chelsea 0. Last five league matches: Chelsea W W D D D; Aston Villa L W L L D. Top scorers (all competitions): Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea) 10; Darren Bent & Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) 5. Referee: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).
Manchester United v Blackburn Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson must contend with massive defensive problems. Jonny Evans (calf) has joined Nemanja Vidic (knee), Chris Smalling (tonsillitis) and Fabio (hamstring) on the sidelines. Phil Jones (illness) and Rio Ferdinand (back) only have an outside chance of being involved, which might mean Michael Carrick partnering Patrice Evra in central defence, with Antonio Valencia at right-back.
Martin Olsson is hoping to make his long-awaited Blackburn comeback. The Swede has featured just once for Steve Kean's men since November 5 after suffering a hamstring injury but could ease a major injury crisis for the Lancashire outfit. David Dunn and Junior Hoilett (both hamstring) face late tests but goalkeeper Paul Robinson (calf) is among seven senior players definitely out, as is Gael Givet, even though the Frenchman has returned to training following a minor heart procedure.
Last season: Blackburn 1 Man Utd 1, Man Utd 7 Blackburn 1. Last five league matches: Man Utd W W W W W; Blackburn W L L L D. Top scorers (all competitions): Wayne Rooney (Man Utd) 16; Ayegbeni Yakubu (Blackburn) 11. Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral).
Norwich v Fulham Norwich left-back Marc Tierney (groin) is 50-50 but fellow defender Kyle Naughton is available again having missed the defeat to parent club Tottenham through suspension. Ritchie de Laet (back) remains doubtful after coming off against Spurs. Andrew Johnson (groin), Bobby Zamora (Achilles) are set to miss out for Fulham and Damien Duff is another injury concern.
Fulham boss Martin Jol is also without defender Zdenek Grygera (knee) and goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer (spine). Midfielder Simon Davies (back) is hopeful of a return for the New Year fixtures. Last season: No corresponding fixture.
Last five league matches: Norwich L W D D L; Fulham W L W L D. Top scorers (all competitions): Grant Holt (Norwich) 7; Andrew Johnson (Fulham) 11. Referee: Howard Webb.
Stoke v Wigan Stoke boss Tony Pulis will assess striker Peter Crouch and midfielder Glenn Whelan, who have missed the last two games through illness and a calf injury respectively, while there will also be a fitness test for Robert Huth after the defender picked up a knock in the 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Boxing Day. Forward Ricardo Fuller missed that fixture due to an ankle complaint but is expected to be available.
Wigan will have striker Conor Sammon available after the red card he picked up at Manchester United was rescinded by the Football Association. The Latics have no new injury problems and could soon welcome back defender Emmerson Boyce, who has been out since the beginning of November with a hamstring problem.
Last season: Stoke 0 Wigan 1, Wigan 2 Stoke 2. Last five league matches: Stoke W W W L D; Wigan L W D D L. Top scorers (all competitions): Kenwyne Jones, Peter Crouch & Jonathan Walters (Stoke) 6; Franco Di Santo & Jordi Gomez (Wigan) 4. Referee: Michael Oliver (Northumberland).
Swansea v Tottenham Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers will make a late decision over the fitness of Angel Rangel. The Spanish full-back, recently back from an ankle injury, was forced off with a similar problem in Tuesday's 1-1 draw against QPR, with Jazz Richards set to continue if Rangel is ruled out. Left-back Neil Taylor is set to return from a knee injury but centre-half Steven Caulker misses out due to the terms of his loan from Spurs, with club captain Garry Monk coming into the side.
Michael Dawson misses out for Spurs despite returning to full training after four months out with an Achilles injury. Aaron Lennon (hamstring) and Ledley King (knee) are also out but Jermain Defoe could be fit after making encouraging progress in his return from a hamstring problem that has kept him out of the club's past two matches. Sebastien Bassong (back) and Roman Pavlyuchenko (ankle) are doubtful.
Last five league matches: Swansea L W D L D; Tottenham W L W D W. Top scorers (all competitions): Danny Graham (Swansea) 6; Emmanuel Adebayor & Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) 9. Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire).
Sunday, January 1 Sunderland v Manchester City Defenders Phil Bardsley (thigh) and Titus Bramble (Achilles/calf) are major doubts for Sunderland after picking up their respective injuries in the 1-1 Boxing Day draw with Everton. With Michael Turner (knee) also on the casualty list, manager Martin O'Neill is short of defensive options. Midfielder Kieran Richardson has not trained all week because of illness but O'Neill is keeping his fingers crossed. Connor Wickham, Fraizer Campbell and Craig Gordon (all knee) and Simon Mignolet (fractured nose and eye socket) remain on the sidelines.
Manchester City full-backs Micah Richards and Aleksandar Kolarov are back in contention. Right-back Richards was not risked in the Boxing Day draw at West Brom after a calf problem while left-back Kolarov has missed six games with a groin injury. The pair's possible return means manager Roberto Mancini has a full-strength squad, aside from the absent Carlos Tevez. Last season: Man City 5 Sunderland 0, Sunderland 1 Man City 0.
Last five league matches: Sunderland L W L W D; Man City W L W W D. Top scorers (all competitions): Sebastian Larsson (Sunderland) 5; Sergio Aguero (Man City) 15 Referee: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire).
West Brom v Everton West Brom midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu is a major fitness doubt after aggravating a groin injury during the home draw with Manchester City on Boxing Day. James Morrison, if he recovers from a recent hamstring problem, and Graham Dorrans are in contention to replace him. Central defender Jonas Olsson is expected to shake off an ankle knock suffered against Roberto Mancini's side, while Billy Jones is again set to deputise at right-back for Steven Reid, who is recovering from knee surgery.
Midfielder Marouane Fellaini misses out for Everton due to an abductor strain. The Belgian international sat out the Boxing Day draw at Sunderland but Jack Rodwell, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since December 4, could be ready for a return as he has trained this week. Loan signing Landon Donovan is not eligible to play until next week.
Last season: West Brom 1 Everton 0, Everton 1 West Brom 4. Last five league matches: West Brom D L W W D; Everton L L D W D. Top scorers (all competitions): Shane Long (West Brom) 5; Leon Osman, Leighton Baines & Apostolos Vellios (Everton) 3. Referee: Stuart Attwell (Warwickshire).
Martinez happy with 'deserved' draw
Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez praised his side's character to come from behind with ten men to hold Stoke 2-2 at the Britannia Stadium.
Lambert hails players after late equaliser
Paul Lambert hailed his "relentless" Norwich team after Simeon Jackson came off the bench to grab a stoppage-time equaliser and secure a 1-1 draw against Fulham at Carrow Road.
Wolves set up Frimpong move
Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong will join Wolves on loan from January 1 until the end of the season, the north London club have confirmed on their website.
FA: Suarez gave "unreliable" evidence
Liverpool's Luis Suarez gave "unreliable" and "inconsistent" evidence to the commission investigating claims that he racially abused Manchester United's Patrice Evra.
Aguero wants City to finish the job
Sergio Aguero has urged his Manchester City team-mates to "finish the job" and win the Barclays Premier League.
O'Neill: Black Cats not out of the woods
Martin O'Neill is keeping his fingers crossed that his Sunderland side's new-found confidence will not be shattered by title hopefuls Manchester City.
Hodgson: Judge us at the end
A "true mark" of how far West Brom have developed since Roy Hodgson took charge will only become evident at the end of the season, according to the veteran coach.
Defeat 'a disaster' for Ferguson Sir Alex Ferguson has branded Manchester United's stunning 3-2 home defeat to Blackburn "a disaster".
AVB: International selections an issue
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has followed up Fabio Capello's criticisms of international football by outlining his own major flaw with the eligibility rules.
Wenger: I didn't bid for Barton
Arsene Wenger has refuted claims from Joey Barton that he came close to signing for Arsenal over the summer.
Wenger: Henry can have Sol impact
Arsene Wenger believes Thierry Henry could give Arsenal the same short-term boost provided by Sol Campbell when he returned to the club for a second spell in 2010.
United reiterate Rooney omission
Manchester United were still sticking to their story that Wayne Rooney missed Saturday's League defeat by Blackburn through injury rather than disciplinary reasons.
Moyes eyes New Year improvement
Everton manager David Moyes has warned his players they cannot afford to be complacent as they head into the second half of the season.
Doug Ellis knighted
Former Aston Villa chairman Doug Ellis is "delighted and humbled" by the award of a knighthood in the New Year Honours list.
Gerrard: Nothing to fear against City
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is relishing a New Year trip to Manchester City next week.
Hodgson hints at new deal talks
Roy Hodgson says there is a chance he could soon sit down and thrash out a new deal with West Brom, with the club prepared to talk terms.
King set for new Spurs deal
Harry Redknapp admits Ledley King is likely to be handed a new contract at Tottenham, with the club not about to turn their back on him.
Berbatov plans United stay
Dimitar Berbatov has revealed he has no plans to leave Manchester United and is happy at Old Trafford.
Ferguson plans "three more years"
Sir Alex Ferguson has said he intends to remain as Manchester United manager for another three years if his health remains good.
Coyle: No concern over Cahill deal
Bolton manager Owen Coyle denied there had been a hitch in Gary Cahill's proposed move to Chelsea.
Kean hopes fans will back him
Blackburn manager Steve Kean is hoping his side's stunning 3-2 victory over Manchester United will result in a ceasefire in the fans' hostility towards him.
Evra abused "seven times in two minutes"
Liverpool's Luis Suarez racially abused Manchester United defender Patrice Evra seven times in a two-minute period in October, it emerged on Saturday.
Coyle praises 'terrific' Ricketts
Bolton manager Owen Coyle heaped praise on Sam Ricketts, who scored on his first game returning from injury to help Bolton earn a 1-1 draw against Wolves.
Wenger backs Van Persie heroics
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed Robin van Persie to continue his goalscoring heroics in 2012.
AVB avoids talk about Chelsea future
Andre Villas-Boas sidestepped fresh talk about his Chelsea future after seeing his side crash to another home defeat and slip out of the Barclays Premier League top four.
Redknapp rues 'catalogue of errors'
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was left to rue the "catalogue of errors" that denied his side all three points in their 1-1 draw with Swansea.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will dip into the loan market to source a new left-back after Thomas Vermaelen's calf injury on Saturday.The Belgian defender had been deputising on the left side of defence with regular options Andre Santos (ankle) and Kieran Gibbs (groin) on the sidelines.
But Vermaelen left the field after 54 minutes in Arsenal's 1-0 win over QPR in the English Premier League with his calf problem and Wenger said it would be 'stupid' if he did not look for a short-term fix."We lost Vermaelen for two or three weeks, so I have to look if I can find somebody (but) only a loan," Wenger said.
"It (Vermaelen's injury) is serious enough for him not to play on Monday against Fulham or against Leeds (on January 9).""We now have three left-backs out. Francis Coquelin came on in this position and did quite well, but he is a central midfielder. It would be stupid for us to drop points because we don't have a left-back."
Arsenal's win came thanks to a Robin van Persie strike on the hour mark, with the Dutchman wrapping up a sensational 2011 with his 50th goal in all competitions and his 35th in the Premier League.The Gunners moved up to fourth with the win, a remarkable achievement for a side who lost four of their first seven matches of the season, including a 8-2 humiliation at Manchester United.
"We were 17th after five games, now we're fourth after 19," Wenger said."It's a fantastic achievement for the players who have come in, been under a lot of pressure and gelled well together. We keep going and try to become stronger."QPR boss Neil Warnock pointed the finger at the Arsenal captain after the match, insisting he was not happy with his tactics.
"He gets away with murder does van Persie," Warnock said."I wish we had him. His arms are everywhere. He gets away with it because he's van Persie but we need to educate our players a little bit more because he gets away with it."Warnock's side slipped to 17th after the defeat and he feels QPR need several new signings to strengthen in the January transfer window.
"We've learned quickly but we need some new additions and we're working on that," he said."I'm hoping to get one in for Monday and then three or four before the end of the window - hopefully before our next game at Newcastle."
United reiterate Rooney omission Manchester United were still sticking to their story that Wayne Rooney missed Saturday's League defeat by Blackburn through injury rather than disciplinary reasons.
Rooney was not even selected as a substitute for the shock 3-2 defeat, despite Sir Alex Ferguson being forced to name five untested youngsters on the bench. Instead, the 26-year-old watched the match from an executive box, along with Darron Gibson, who has been mentioned along with Rooney, and currently injured defender Jonny Evans, in relation to a night out that took place on Boxing Day, after the 5-0 win over Wigan.
It has been reported by the Mail on Sunday that Sir Alex Ferguson got wind of the night out, ordered the players to do extra training on Wednesday, which was supposed to be their day off, then told them they would not be involved on Saturday. Rooney and Gibson are reported to have trained in the morning before heading to Old Trafford to see their team-mates fail to assume top spot in the Premier League, as had been anticipated.
The implications of what has been reported could be major for United, and in particular Rooney's relationship with Ferguson. However, whilst Red Devils officials were aware of the story circulating on Ferguson's 70th birthday, there was no official response. Instead, the club's website continued to report the statement Ferguson made about Rooney's surprise absence to ESPN prior to kick off.
"Wayne hasn't trained well this week, he's missed a few days and we're hoping that he trains today, tomorrow and, by Wednesday, he should be okay. It's little strains here and there." Those words suggest the initial fall-out would be limited to a single game, with Rooney - and possibly Gibson, who made his first start of the season against Wigan as United faced a chronic injury list - set to be included at Newcastle in midweek, and the FA Cup tie at Manchester City next weekend.
However, it has not been forgotten Rooney requested a transfer last season amid fears about United's long-term future, only to be eventually talked round and then end the season as a Premier League winner and a goalscorer in the Champions League final.
Mancini unfazed by Fergie mind games Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has warned his Manchester United counterpart Sir Alex Ferguson that he will not be swayed by mind games.
Citizens' chief Mancini is under no illusions that Ferguson is the king of psychological warfare, with the latter renowned for his carefully constructed digs aimed at his title rivals. Despite City's 6-1 spanking of United at Old Trafford in October, Ferguson's charges are now level on points with the former, although Saturday's shocking 3-2 home reserve to Blackburn Rovers mean that City can stretch their lead against their hated rivals to three points should they win against Sunderland.
Nevertheless, according to an article from The Mirror, Mancini has told Ferguson that he would not be swayed by mind games.
"I only think about the next game," said Mancini. "I don't think about what Fergie or any other manager says about my team. I know what Sir Alex is like. But words between managers are not important." "We have respect for him and for his team, but we are strong enough here to just keep our eyes on the title."
"I won't have any pressure from Fergie because my focus is on my team and we don't listen to anyone else. If we want to win the Premier League then we need to win a lot of points from our next 20 games." "That should be our focus." "Most years, if you have 45 points after 18 games, like we have, you would have a big advantage."
"But United have had the best start in their history." "We have had a fantastic start and I am sure that if we win another 45 points then we will win the title." City will tackle Martin O'Neill's Sunderland the Stadium of Light on Sunday following their disappointing 0-0 stalemate against West Brom in midweek. They will then welcome Liverpool on Tuesday before their pulsating third-round FA Cup clash with United. "I do not think the cup game will influence what happens in the Premier League because it is a different situation," Mancini added.
"We have done well so far this season. We have worked well and I trust my players totally. Usually it takes three years to build a team. If they ¬continue to give me 100 per cent then we will achieve the things we want in less than three years." "My ambition is not to be top now. I want to be top at the end of the season, and if we continue to play like we are then I think we will ¬deserve to be champions." "To do that we will have to continue to work very hard for the next four or five months."
Villas-Boas hints at striker swoop 31 December 2011
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has hinted at the possible addition of a striker during the January transfer window.With Nicolas Anelka confirmed to be moving to Shanghai Shenhua, and Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou set to link up with their Ivory Coast team-mates for the African Cup of Nations in January, Chelsea will be left with just three recognised forwards.
Villas-Boas said this is a situation he will be looking to address, but was adamant he will not be forced into panic buying and is still hoping to capture Bolton defender Gary Cahill's signature before any more business is done."We are looking for talent, the best talent available, but the January transfer window is notoriously difficult because the talent is not available, and even when it is it's always at extra cost," Villas-Boas said.
"Hopefully we can get the Cahill deal wrapped up, then we will study the forward situation. You have to pay heavily for the talent we need. It can get frenetic in the last week but we have our targets outlined."Despite admitting to Chelsea's need for striker reinforcements, Villas-Boas still has every confidence in his team."You have to remember that this is the squad we set out to win four trophies with," he said.
"We would have to call ourselves incompetent if we were to make radical changes. We are looking to add but not to the extent spoken about (in the media)."Chelsea are fourth in the Premier League, 11 points off pace-setters Manchester City.While the club have experienced good results at home to Manchester City and away at Newcastle, Villas-Boas is aware of the need for consistency.
"In the Premier League we are trying to shorten the distance to the leaders in order to make our title challenge more solid and more positive, these are the immediate concerns," he said."Our only regret at the moment is not finding regularity; that is what we are still trying to get to grips with.""We know we can show our philosophy and the way we play to a top level. We are having extremes from game to game; from Manchester City to Wigan, then from Tottenham to Fulham.""It is stability we are trying to find."
Villas-Boas sets Chelsea sights lower 1 January 2012
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas feels that wherever his side finish up this English Premier League season, it will 'not be good enough'.After Saturday's surprising 3-1 loss to Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge, Villas-Boas was forced to re-evaluate the goals of his side, stating that a top-four finish and Champions League qualification will be the new aim.
Didier Drogba had fired Chelsea into an early lead but a quick response from Stephen Ireland ensured the match would go down to a nervy finish, with the visitors scoring late goals through Stilyan Petrov and Darren Bent to seal a famous win."Our reality is a fourth place finish, but that's not good enough," Villas-Boas said.
"We will have to continue to pursue the best finish possible. It's disappointing because in December all of the teams have dropped points. We spoke about how December could be decisive in the running of league.""What we regret is missing big opportunities to reduce the gap with the leaders. If it were a good month we would have been running for title. It's a thin line."
Villas-Boas' men were booed off the pitch after the defeat that saw them drop to fifth, with just goal difference separating them from sixth-placed Liverpool.The rookie Portuguese manager was not disappointed with the Chelsea fans, however, and added that he hoped good performances from his side could repay them.
"The fans have a right to show disappointment," he said.“We want to repay the fans their trust. They have been magnificent through this period.""They know they can make a difference and we need them with full belief. We will have to face our challenges in 2012 in a different way. There is no running away with excuses."
Villa boss Alex McLeish was delighted with his men's effort throughout the match, as they moved inside the top half of the table."We persevered and that was the great thing about our team performance today," McLeish said."The players never gave up trying to create openings and get forward when the time was right."The Scot also dished out special praise to Ireland for his all-action display.
"All Villa fans will be delighted with Ireland's performance because his running off the ball was great," he said."His touch was great. His interception for the third goal was fantastic. He's really good at that you know. He's not so much a big heavy tackler, but he does read the game very, very well.""That's his Manchester City form of two seasons ago and we need that from Stevie because he's come to Villa as a big player and he hasn't really justified himself, but today goes a long way towards that."
Mancini disappointed by 'strange' loss
Roberto Mancini cut a forlorn figure after his Manchester City side conceded late on to lose 1-0 to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
O'Neill hopes to keep Sessegnon
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill is determined to keep Stephane Sessegnon at the Stadium of Light and help him settle on Wearside.
Everton set to extend Distin deal
Everton boss David Moyes has confirmed the club are set to take up the option to extend Sylvain Distin's contract by a further year.
Petrov lends support to Ireland
Stiliyan Petrov insisted Aston Villa's players never stopped believing Stephen Ireland would come good after the midfielder inspired their shock victory at Chelsea.
Spurs farm out Townsend to Leeds
Leeds have completed the signing of Tottenham winger Andros Townsend on loan until the end of the season.
McCarthy delight at Frimpong deal
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy believes new loan signing Emmanuel Frimpong will prove a very valuable addition to his squad.
Vermaelen adds to Arsenal injuries
Arsene Wenger admits he may have to delve into the loan market after Thomas Vermaelen was added to Arsenal's injury list.
Redknapp: January purchases unlikely
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp claims he will not be dipping into the transfer market in January unless a 'very special' player becomes available.
Sir Alex won't be forced into signings
Sir Alex Ferguson has no plans to make a 'sticking plaster' signing in the January transfer window and has faith in his Manchester United squad.
Van Persie hints at Arsenal stay
Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has dropped a strong hint that he plans to stay at the Emirates.
Chelsea bid farewell to Anelka
Chelsea have offered their best wishes to Nicolas Anelka after confirming that the Frenchman has left the club to start a new adventure in Asia.
Moyes delight at Anichebe return
David Moyes hailed the contribution of Everton match-winner Victor Anichebe, who put a four-month injury nightmare behind him to score the only goal against West Brom.
"Suarez defence is harming Liverpool"
Liverpool's campaign of support for Luis Suarez is harming their international reputation, according to anti-racism campaigners.
Pulis alarmed by Kean criticism
Tony Pulis has come out in defence of his Blackburn counterpart Steve Kean ahead of Monday's Barclays Premier League meeting at Ewood Park.
Stoke expecting Blackburn challenge
Assistant manager Dave Kemp is anticipating a stiff test at Ewood Park as Stoke aim to build on one of the greatest years in their history with a winning start to 2012.
AVB: No need for sweeping changes
Andre Villas-Boas insists there is no need to press the panic button, despite watching Chelsea's season hit a new low with a shock home defeat to Aston Villa.
Premier League players under tax scanner
Premier League footballers and their clubs are being investigated by the taxman over "secret perks" enjoyed by players and their families, according to reports.
Report: Arsenal to make Podolski bid
News outlets across the UK are claiming that Arsenal are readying a bid for Cologne striker Lukas Podolski.
Neville: City must seize their chance
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville feels Manchester City must win on Sunday if they're to wrest the Premier League title from their city rivals.
Wenger confident of Henry impact
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed club legend Thierry Henry to have a positive influence on the team.
Blackpool sign Danny Wilson on loan
Blackpool have strengthened their squad with the addition of Liverpool defender Danny Wilson on a half-season loan.
Wenger: Barca win was highlight of 2011
Looking back at the year passed by, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said his side's win over Barcelona in last season's Champions League was his high point of the year.
Jol wants focus on Fulham, not Henry
Martin Jol maintains Fulham must not let the possibility of Thierry Henry sitting on the Arsenal bench distract them from the job in hand at Craven Cottage on Monday.
RVP finally enjoying his football
Arsenal striker Robin van Persie said that a clear mind and an injury free year were the reasons behind his incredible form in 2011.
Collymore: Reds must accept punishment
Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore believes the club should accept Luis Suarez's eight match ban.
Chelsea, Arsenal eye 2012 winning start
Chelsea will look to start the new year on a winning note when they visit Wolves on Monday while Arsenal can boost their title chances at Fulham.
Spurs to battle Barca for El Kaddouri
Tottenham Hotspur are set to join in the battle with Barcelona for Brescia midfielder Omar El Kaddouri.
Mancini not interested in mind games
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is not in the mood for any mind games with Sir Alex Ferguson and insists he is only focused on winning the title.
Skrtel hails Bellamy impact
Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is delighted with the impact Craig Bellamy is having at the club and hailed the Welshman as a 'great footballer'.
Van Persie: Henry is still unbelievable
Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is looking forward to play alongside Thierry Henry again, hailing the Frenchman as 'unbelievable'.
Quinn to boost Sunderland's appeal
Former Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn is looking to cash in on a worldwide fanbase in a bid to boost the club's finances.
Rangers keen on Dorrans swoop
Rangers boss Ally McCoist has confirmed his interest in West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans.
Wenger: Gunners never lost belief
Arsene Wenger may be pleased Arsenal start 2012 in the top four of the Barclays Premier League but he insists the team never lost their self-belief as they prepare for Monday's game against Fulham.
Man United silent over Rooney reports
Manchester United were still sticking to their story that Wayne Rooney missed the defeat by Blackburn on Saturday through injury rather than for disciplinary reasons.
Sloppy City frustrate Mancini
Roberto Mancini has warned Manchester City must not allow themselves to be caught by sucker punches if they are to lift the Premier League trophy.
Premier League players under tax scanner Premier League footballers and their clubs are being investigated by the taxman over "secret perks" enjoyed by players and their families, according to reports.
Investigators from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have interviewed finance directors at Britain's richest clubs to find out about soccer players' benefits, according to The Mail on Sunday. HMRC refused to confirm the investigation but it was reported they have been asking for details of free holidays, luxury accommodation and other gifts.
The information will be checked against players' tax returns to see whether players could be liable for any unpaid tax or if clubs may have to make additional National Insurance contributions, the newspaper added. It quoted a source as saying: "We are not talking about a few low-cost gifts. These people are multi-millionaires.
"We wouldn't be doing this if we didn't think it was going to bring in a lot of money. "It doesn't matter where you come from. If you work in the UK you are liable to pay tax on your UK earnings." A spokesman for HMRC said: "We cannot discuss individual cases under any circumstances.
"For benefits in kind, the basic rule is that if an employer provides an employee with anything other than pay, it may count as an expense or benefit, and they will need to check whether they need to report it to HMRC and pay any tax or National Insurance contributions.
"Common examples of expenses and benefits include company cars, health insurance, travel and entertainment expenses, and childcare."
