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Milan secured top spot in Europa League Group H with a 1-0 victory at Sparta Prague on Thursday.

A first-half strike from Jens Petter Hauge sealed all three points for a much-altered Rossoneri, who fielded four players born after January 1, 2000 for the first time.

Despite making seven changes to the team that beat Celtic on matchday five, Stefano Pioli's men still made fairly light work of Sparta, who have now gone eight games without a win over Milan in European competition.

A red card for Dominik Plechaty left Sparta with too much to do, with Milan progressing as group winners after Lille's surprise defeat at Celtic.

Hauge opened the scoring in fine fashion 23 minutes in, nutmegging Tomas Wiesner before placing a precise low finish beyond the reach of goalkeeper Milan Heca.

Samu Castillejo was denied a second Milan goal by Heca shortly before the break as the Rossoneri sought to take control.

Sparta threatened little until David Moberg Karlsson's arrival 65 minutes in, the Swede producing a tantalising cross that just evaded the men in red shirts after a bamboozling run.

Once Plecharty was sent off with 13 minutes of normal time left for a poor challenge on Rafael Leao, the contest was effectively over, although Ciprian Tatarusanu had to make a fine one-handed stop to deny Karlsson an injury-time equaliser.

What does it mean? Milan season goes from strength to strength

Despite resting many of his first-team regulars, Pioli was still able to enjoy a victory that sends Milan through as group winners.

The fact they are seeded means a more favourable draw for the last 32 becomes probable and that would boost their hopes of maintaining a domestic challenge for a Champions League return or, perhaps, the Serie A title.

As for Sparta, their European adventure is over for another season.

Young guns impress

This was a positive outing for Milan's up-and-coming stars such as Daniel Maldini, Lorenzo Colombo and Pierre Kalulu.

Defender Kalulu looked particularly composed on his full debut, completing more passes (46) and interceptions (four) than any other Milan player.

Mindless from Plecharty

Plecharty had been leading the way for Sparta in tackles (three), clearances (two), interceptions (two) and possession gained (nine), but spoiled his efforts with a needless and dangerous tackle on the counter-attacking Leao.

What's next?

Milan host Parma in Serie A on Sunday, when Sparta are also in domestic action against Slovacko.

David Turnbull scored his first Celtic goal as the Hoops overcame Lille 3-2 to end their Europa League campaign on a high note and ease some of the pressure on Neil Lennon.

A dismal run of form has piled the pressure on Celtic boss Lennon and, despite a spirited display from his youthful side, it looked as though they would be extending their winless run to six matches.

Timothy Weah's maiden Lille goal – a fantastic volley from just inside the area – had made it 2-2, cancelling out Callum McGregor's first-half penalty, which came at the end of a frenetic seven-minute flurry in which Christopher Jullien and Jonathan Ikone also netted.

Lille looked well placed to push on and seal a win which would have seen them top Group H when Weah, son of Liberia legend George, struck against his former club, yet Turnbull's neat finish in his first European appearance secured a hard-fought Celtic triumph.

Celtic had the lead after 21 minutes – Julien heading in from Turnbull's fantastic left-wing corner.

Yet their advantage lasted under three minutes, with Yusuf Yazici taking advantage of McGregor's mistake by squaring for Ikone to tuck in.

Domagoj Bradaric's clumsy tackle on birthday boy Jeremie Frimpong gifted Celtic the opportunity to restore their lead, though, as McGregor atoned for his error with a composed finish.

McGregor got lucky when he diverted Cheikh Niasse's cross off Conor Hazard's left-hand post, before Turnbull saw a close-range shot deflected wide at the other end.

But Lille had a second equaliser when Celtic failed to clear a free-kick and Weah lashed in on the volley.

Celtic did not let their heads drop, though, and Turnbull was on hand to sweep home from Kristoffer Ajer's cross with 15 minutes remaining – Isaac Lihadji subsequently squandering a golden chance to snatch a point for Lille.

What does it mean? Lille miss out on top spot, Hoops avoid club-low

Celtic, who avoided losing a fourth straight home match in continental competition for the first time, finish bottom of Group H, but with four points – one more than their lowest tally in a European group.

Lille, meanwhile, have to settle for second place, with Milan having overcome Sparta Prague 1-0 to clinch top spot, and potentially an easier draw in the knockout stage.

Turnbull turns on the style

Former Motherwell midfielder Turnbull had stayed on the bench for all five of Celtic’s Europa League matches before Thursday’s clash, but he gave Lennon plenty of food for thought with a superb performance.

Playing in a free role off the striker, Turnbull had four attempts in total and created a joint team-high three chances.

Birthday blues for injured Frimpong

It was a 20th birthday spent in the wars for the versatile Frimpong. After clattering into the hoardings early on and taking a nasty blow to the head, he had to be withdrawn after sustaining an injury while drawing the foul which led to Celtic's penalty.

In his 30 minutes on the pitch, Frimpong had 12 touches, attempted five passes and lost possession six times.

What's next?

Celtic take on Kilmarnock as they aim to get their domestic form back on track, while Lille host Bordeaux in Ligue 1.

The Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (Caf) has nominated former President Issa Hayatou as honorary President on Thursday.

Hayatou led the African football body from March 1988 to March 2017 before he was eventually defeated by suspended President Ahmad Ahmad who won 34 of the 54 total votes in the last election staged in Addis Ababa.

During his tenure as Caf boss, Hayatou pushed for South Africa to host the Fifa World Cup on African soil in 2010 - the first-time ever for an African nation, the increase of African spots in the global competition from two to five countries, amongst other achievements.

His nomination is expected to be confirmed during Caf's 42nd General Assembly in Egypt on Friday which will be headed by interim Caf President Constant Omari with Ahmad serving a five-year ban for unethical dealings.

“The Executive Committee decided to propose to the General Assembly of CAF to grant the status of Honorary President of CAF to Mr. Issa Hayatou, eminent personality of African Football for all of his work,” the statement read.

“This emeritus leader presided over the destinies of CAF for 30 years, from 1987 to 2017, and this distinction salutes his action in the service of the development of African football that he defended wherever it was needed.”

His sojourn in football administration started in Cameroon when he became the Secretary General of the Cameroonian Football Federation at the age of 28 and he later attained the presidency position in the FA.

On the continental scene, Hayatou's reign at Caf began when he succeeded Sudan's Abdel Halim Muhammad in 1988 and he was contesting his seventh re-election campaign when he lost to Madagascan administrator Ahmad in 2017.

The 74-year-old who headed Fifa in an acting capacity between October 2015 and February 2016 following Sepp Blatter's ban, is also an honorary member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

He contested for the post of Fifa President in 2002 but he was unable to beat incumbent Blatter in the 53rd Fifa Congress staged in South Korea.

Frank Lampard says his Chelsea players must be careful not to take any risks with socialising during the holiday period as the United Kingdom remains under a partial lockdown due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Chelsea are planning for a busy December period in the Premier League with five games in 16 days as they sit just two points behind Tottenham and Liverpool in third place.

The Blues usually organise a Christmas meal, but they have gradually scaled back the traditional social events that clubs used to enjoy in another era of the sport.

Lampard admits that there will be even more responsibility placed on his players this year, with London coming under the UK Government's 'Tier 2' Covid-19 restrictions.

“I will possibly have those conversations," Lampard said about ensuring good behaviour from his players. "I’d better read up on the tier system - there are certain factual things about tiers that a lot of us have doubts about.

“I know the basics and the players should do by now and I will reiterate to them their responsibilities. I think the Christmas party thing of yesteryear has mellowed now anyway regardless.

"Players are so well followed now on social media now that some of the parties I might have been involved in are a thing of the past.

“On a serious note, I do think we have missed out a bit. We have new signings this year, a new fresh squad in a way. And we have missed the opportunity to go out to dinner together more often and it’s been one of the tough parts of Covid. But it’s the same for everybody.

“Responsibilities for players are big, as role models to the outside world, for their professional careers, to do the right thing, particularly when they are playing so frequently over Christmas. They have to live differently to the rest of the public potentially and focus. That’s a constant reminder but yes, I will have those conversations.”

The Premier League has dropped their winter break due to renewed pressures on the football calendar after it was successfully used in February last season.

The mid-season interval was brought in for the first time in 2020, with the top flight previously being the only major European league to play on throughout the winter period. However, Chelsea's new signings like Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Thiago Silva and Hakim Ziyech are all used to having a break in play.

"We’re constantly thinking about the workload because this season has looked like the Christmas schedule," Lampard added. "We’ve been playing every three days and been away internationally, so there is nothing new in that respect.

"It will be a different challenge for them mentally but if you sign up to come to the Premier League, the greatest league in the world, and play for Chelsea, you have to be ready for that mental challenge. At the moment I see a squad that is very focused going into this period."

Ali Sowe bagged a brace but was not enough as CSKA Sofia lost 3-1 to AS Roma to crash out of the Europa League on Thursday night.

The Gambia international was handed a starting role in the encounter, pairing Senegal’s Younousse Sankhare in attack and delivered eye-catching performances.

Tiago Rodrigues opened the scoring for the Bulgarian club as early as the fifth minute after he was set up by Sankhare.

Tommaso Milanese levelled proceedings for the Italian club in the 22nd minute after receiving a fine assist from Borja Mayoral.

Moments after the half-hour mark, Sowe gave the Bulgarian Army Stadium outfit the lead, hitting his effort beyond the reach of goalkeeper Pietro Boer.

The 26-year-old then completed his brace in the 55th minute, firing a fine effort into the back of the net to claim all three points.

Sowe featured for 74 minutes before making ways for Ahmed Ahmedov in his 10th appearance in the tournament this season.

Besides his two goals, the attacker also made one key pass and had 67 per cent successful pass rate in the encounter.

The forward’s impressive contribution was, however, not enough to help Bruno Akrapovic’s men reach the knockout stages of the European competition.

CSKA Sofia finished at the bottom of Group A after managing to gather five points from six games while Roma and Young Boys advance in the group.

Sowe has been with the Bulgarian club since the summer of 2018 from Chievo initially on loan before the deal was made permanent following his satisfactory performances.

The forward racked up 14 goals in 30 appearances to help the Bulgarian Army Stadium outfit finish second in the league and secure Europa League ticket.

Sowe has scored 11 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions for CSKA Sofia in the 2020-21 season.

The forward will hope to continue his blistering performances when his side takes on Botev Vratsa in their next league game on December 13.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard believes his Manchester United counterpart Ole Gunnar Solskjaer sometimes receives extra criticism because he is a former Red Devils player.

Solskjaer once again finds his position under scrutiny following a difficult week that saw United crash out of the Champions League after a 3-2 defeat to RB Leipzig, despite only needing a point from the game to qualify.

The Red Devils went into the game in buoyant mood having secured a fourth successive Premier League victory at West Ham last weekend to move up to sixth in the table.

However, their poor performance in Germany was typical of a side that has been dogged by inconsistency for much of the season, with performances fluctuating even within matches.

Each defeat brings with it further criticism for Solskjaer, with some suggesting he is not the man to take United forward.

Lampard can empathise with Solskjaer given he too manages a club he played for with distinction.

The former England international feels the Norwegian may be getting rougher treatment because of his status as a club legend, with critics believing that is the only reason he was given the job in the first place.

"We all have good times, bad times, this job is taxing and the last thing I’d want to do would be to make an opinion on Ole’s position – I think it’d be wrong," said Lampard.

"I suppose I can answer the question - when you’ve played for the club, I think people do look at it with a different viewpoint. I think in certain tough times it can be very casual and very easy just to refer back to the fact you were a player and that’s why you got the job.

"That can be used against you and all you do is try and work against that. Whether it’s myself, Ole, or anyone else in that position – it’s not just us two that have taken that path, there are other managers. That’s kind of just how I feel about it.

"But one thing you can’t do is complain about it – you just get on with your job and I’m sure that’s exactly what Ole is doing behind the scenes as I do every day here."

Jose Mourinho admitted that Dele Alli is "not a happy player" after the Tottenham star left the bench during a Europa League win over Antwerp.

Tottenham secured top spot in Group J by earning a 2-0 home win over Antwerp on Thursday night.

Benfica loanee Carlos Vinicius opened the scoring just before the hour mark for the hosts when he tapped home from close range after Alireza Beiranvand spilled a brilliantly struck Gareth Bale free-kick.

Giovani Lo Celso doubled Spurs' advantage in the 71st minute, producing a cool finish after latching onto a perfectly weighted Harry Kane through ball in the opposition penalty area.

Mourinho's men held on for a victory which should ensure that they get a favourable draw in the Round of 32, but Alli endured another frustrating night on the sidelines.

Although Tottenham's head coach made full use of the five substitutions rule over the course of the match, he opted against handing the England international some much needed minutes on the continental stage.

Alli was seen storming down the tunnel after Mourinho made his final change, but he did return a short while later, with the Portuguese tactician ultimately unconcerned by his natural reaction.

"Let's not run away from reality," Mourinho told reporters of Alli post-match. "A player on the bench who realises all five subs have been used of course is not a happy player and I would not expect him to be happy."

Harry Winks also appeared to head to the changing rooms in a sulk after coming off for Tanguy Ndombele on 59 minutes, but Mourinho says he instructed the midfielder to go inside for warmth.

"I told him to go, I told every player that left the pitch to go because when the weather is cold I prefer they go to the dressing room and have a shower," he said. "I told them to go, some prefer to stay.

"Winks decided to go and I am happy with that because I am the one that told him to do it."

Mourinho added on his team's latest performance in Europe and the difficult juggling act he has on his hands with a large squad to choose from: "The game is open, when I thought about the changes the result was 0-0 then we scored a goal but that didn't change my mind.

"We needed a little bit more of routines which these players (Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele) have, and the intensity. They had the intensity because they play week in week out. We managed to keep Antwerp away from our goal. Joe Hart didn't make a single save. 0-0 at half time - I thought in the second half with bit of intensity they will collapse.

"It was a great free kick from Gareth Bale and a striker smelling the second ball to score. The decision was made. Harry is Harry and Sonny is intense.

"I can't keep the [whole] squad happy. I believe they are happy because we are winning but they're not happy because they're not playing."

Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi featured as Leicester City secure a 2-0 victory over AEK Athens to secure a place in the knockout stages of Europa League on Thursday night.

Iheanacho was afforded his sixth appearance in the European competition and spearheaded the Foxes attack.

The Super Eagles centre-forward gave a good account of himself in the encounter, although he could not add to his three goals in the tournament.

Nddi made his fifth appearance across all competitions for Brendan Rodgers’ men this season and helped them keep a clean sheet.

The 23-year-old midfielder only recently returned from a groin injury which kept him out of action since September.

Ndidi started in the midfield for Leicester along with Dennis Praet, Youri Tielemans, Cengiz Under and Harvey Barnes.

Cengiz Under put the Foxes in front as early as the 12th minute of the encounter, firing home a fine volley.

Barnes doubled the King Power Stadium outfit’s lead in the 25th minute which proved vital as it sealed the Foxes victory.

The second half continued in a similar fashion, with Leicester dominating proceedings but could not add to their lead.

The victory sealed the Premier League side’s place in the next round of the tournament after finishing top of Group G with 13 points from six games.

Ndidi featured for 63 minutes before he was replaced by Nampalys Mendy and made one tackle and three interceptions during the 61 times he had an opportunity to touch the ball.

Iheanacho, meanwhile, had 28 touches on the ball, struck one shot, made one key pass before making ways for Ayoze Perez in the 67th minute.

The centre-forward has now featured in 12 games across all competitions for Leicester City this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists.

The Nigeria international will be expected to be on parade again when Leicester take on Brighton & Hove Albion in their next outing on December 13.

Mikel Arteta is in no doubt over Arsenal's ability to bounce back from a dreadful run in the Premier League, starting off against Burnley on Sunday.

Arsenal have won just two of their past seven Premier League matches, losing three of the previous four.

Their most recent defeat came against north London rivals Tottenham, with Son Heung-min and Harry Kane sending Jose Mourinho's side back to the top of the table and condemning Arteta to his second derby loss as Arsenal boss.

The Gunners now start a run of six games in the space of 17 days across all competitions, including an EFL Cup quarter-final against Arteta's former club Manchester City just before Christmas.

Burnley visit Emirates Stadium on Sunday, but Arsenal at least head into that clash on the back of a 4-2 Europa League triumph over Dundalk.

Arsenal triumphed in all of their group matches and have won six consecutive major European games (excluding qualifiers) for the first time since November 2005, and are the only team with a 100 per cent record in either the Europa League or Champions League this season.

"I have zero doubts about how the boys are going to respond, how hard we're going to try and how involved everybody is going to be in trying to support the team," said Arteta in his post-match news conference.

"We have to prove it and get the three points."

Arteta's side have struggled for goals in the Premier League, scoring just 10 in total, though his squad rotation in Europe has yielded much better results.

Arsenal scored 20 times in total in Group B, conceding just five at the other end, and Arteta suggested his fringe players would now be handed a chance to impress on the domestic stage.

"Now we have to forget about the Europa League until February and focus on the Premier League, EFL Cup and FA Cup when it starts," he added.

"We have a larger squad, we have players back from injury, so we will have the opportunity to pick who is better in the moment.

"It gives us more options in the Premier League to focus and get the results we need. We need to start winning football matches immediately. We cannot sustain the results we’ve had in the last six or eight weeks, that has to start on Sunday."

Eddie Nketiah opened the scoring in Ireland on Thursday, becoming Arsenal's leading goalscorer in all competitions this season in the process, with five.

Arsenal have won all 11 games in which Nketiah has found the back of the net, with the young forward scoring 12 times in total, and Arteta confirmed the youngster will get his chance in the Premier League.

"He has the possibility to start," Arteta said. "He is a goal threat and he is always very close in his actions around the box.

"He's got the hunger, he's only satisfied when he scores and he's what we need now so he is an option for sure."

Nketiah made way for Folarin Balogun just after the hour, with the youngster, who is out of contract next year, providing an assist for Joe Willock before helping himself to a goal late on.

Asked for an update on Balogun's contract talks, Arteta said: "We're having some discussions with the player. He knows that we want to retain him at the club.

"The length of his contract at the moment is an issue but he knows that we want him to stay. He said to me that he wants to stay at the club so hopefully we can reach an agreement."

Marcus Rashford has hinted that he wants to stay at Manchester United for the rest of his career.

The 23-year-old joined United at the age of seven and progressed through the club’s youth ranks before making his senior debut at the age of 18 in Europa League tie against FC Midtjylland in 2016.

By the end of that campaign Rashford had scored eight goals in 18 appearances for the Red Devils, as well as earning a place in the England squad for that summer’s European Championship in France.

He has remained a key player for both club and country since, scoring 77 goals in 232 appearances for United as well as 11 goals in 40 games for the Three Lions.

Speaking at the British Sports Awards, where he finished runner-up to Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton in the Sportsman of the Year category, Rashford said has never contemplated leaving his boyhood club and is hopeful of remaining there until he retires.

“For me, I never look beyond Manchester United," he said.

"As a kid I never looked beyond Manchester United. In my mind it wouldn't sit right for me to be pulling on another shirt. I just want to do my best for the club while I'm here. Long term hopefully.”

As well as his achievements on the pitch, Rashford has earned widespread acclaim for his charity work off it, particularly his campaign to try and end child food poverty.

In June, he successfully lobbied the government to extend its policy of providing free school meals for underprivileged children outside term time. He also helped set up the Child Food Poverty Task Force to try and help those in society most in need.

He was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in October in recognition of his efforts.

Rashford says his campaigning is inspired from his own experiences as a child, while the support Manchester United gave him during that time has created a lifelong bond that stretches beyond football.

"All the good things that have happened this year have come from Manchester United giving me an opportunity as a kid. I don't just remember the last year or the last five years,” he added,

“I'm talking about when nobody in my family drove and I had to get to training and United had people to come and take me to the training ground and take me back home when I was six, seven, eight, nine.

"The times they put me into accommodation when my mum was struggling at home, when I was 11 and I was there up until 16/17.

"It is a lot deeper than what people see sometimes. I think people see some of the stuff that has been happening since I've been in the first team but the bond that I have with United is much greater than these last five years and it will forever be greater than probably my actual career because they are the reason I have become a footballer, they have given me the opportunity to express myself and to find out I had talent in football."

Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Kariobangi Sharks and Betway have extended their sponsorship deal.

The initial deal was signed in 2019 and was expected to run for three years but it has now been extended further although neither the club nor Betway confirmed how long the extension will last.

"Betway Kenya’s renewal of this deal is a sign of confidence to the value Kariobangi Sharks FC offers us as a partner,” Kiprono Kitony, the Betway Kenya chairman said after signing the new deal.

“We shall continue supporting sports and doing Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) activities aimed at uplifting the society during these hard times."

Kariobangi Sharks are currently among a few Kenyan clubs with individual financial partners.

Betway and the club entered into a partnership in 2019 when other top-tier clubs were hit by the financial crisis after SportPesa left as the Kenyan Premier League’s sponsors.

Although Kariobangi Sharks were quite stable in terms of financial status, they did not enjoy good form on the pitch as they wallowed just above the relegation zone in the previous season.

They were largely rescued by the cancellation of the competition in May owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Head coach William Muluya managed to hold onto his position despite the challenges but a rather good start into the 2020/21 season has signalled a side ready to compete once again.

The 2017 FKF Shield Cup opened the season with a huge 4-0 win over Wazito FC before they were held to a 0-0 draw by Nzoia Sugar in the second game of the Premier League.

The Eastlands club is set to face Bidco United on December 12 at home as they look for a second win. Bidco United, on the other hand, are winless after an opening draw against Western Stima and a 2-0 loss against AFC Leopards.

Kariobangi Sharks will close the year with a game against the 2009 league winners Sofapaka on December 19. The game is expected to be hosted in Wundanyi in Taita Taveta county.

Sofapaka have also won a game when they saw off Western Stima by a 3-1 margin after they had fallen to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Bandari in the season opener.

New AFC Leopards signing Peter Thiong'o is impressed with the spirit in his new team ahead of their weekend assignment against Sofapaka.

Ingwe have started the 2020/21 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League campaign on a high and are currently joint top on the table with maximum points after wins over Tusker FC and Bidco United respectively. The forward has further pointed out the objective for the 13-time league champions.

"I am very proud to have joined the team in training this week," Thiong'o said ahead of their Sunday game against Batoto ba Mungu.

"I love the morale that I have seen in my teammates during our training sessions and the motivation from our last two wins. Our target is to keep winning matches."

Thiong'o joined Ingwe from Western-based charges Kakamega Homeboyz and went on to sign a contract as a free agent.

The winger was a vital player for the Western-based side and managed to score eight goals as they finished second in the abandoned 2019/20 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) season.

He is expected to make his debut on Sunday against 2009 champions Batoto ba Mungu at Nyayo Stadium.

Sofapaka started their campaign with a 1-0 loss away to Bandari before registering a 3-1 win over Western Stima. Coach John Baraza went on to say the work has now started.

"[Sunday] was a must-win match for us, we had no option but to give a response and yes we did," the former Harambee Stars forward said.

"I am proud of the playing unit, they played to instructions, we created and utilised our chances. Work has just begun and we want to get positive results moving forward."

Captain Elly Asieche, who scored a brace in that match against the Powermen, stated there was a great need to earn a win at home after the initial loss against the Dockers at the coast.

"We were coming into the match after a loss whilst facing Stima who got a point in the first game," the midfielder, who was confirmed as the skipper when George Maelo left, said.

"Equally we were playing for the first time at home, thus pressure was on us to give a good response.

"I am glad we as a team did play our part because a win was needed to kick-start our season. My teammates gave a good statement on Sunday and we want to carry on from that day’s win."

Ajax Amsterdam manager Erik ten Hag believes young striker Brian Brobbey gave a good account of himself in Wednesday's Champions League clash with Atalanta despite a disappointing result in the end.

The Dutch giants, who were without Ghana prodigy Mohammed Kudus due to injury, crashed out of the elite continental inter-club competition following a 1-0 home defeat at Johan Cruijff Arena.

Ghana-linked Netherlands youth star Brobbey was in action for Ajax as he was offered a rare start in the game decided by Luis Muriel's 85th-minute strike for the visitors.

"There just wasn't enough connection going on in the first half, especially with Brian Brobbey," Hag said, as reported by his club's official website.

"Brian made himself very available a number of times throughout the game. But as I've already said, we needed more guys like that. That would have also given us more power up front.

"In the spring we'll go further in the Europa League. After reaching the final a few years ago, we know very well where that can lead, but we also know the story of what happened with Getafe last season. You just have to get to the next round first."

Brobbey's night, however, ended on a bad note as he was substituted at half-time after picking up an injury.

Ajax, by their Champions League elimination, have dropped down into the Europa League.

"You can't wallow in disappointment for too long. This leads to negativity, to injuries and to low levels of energy. We have to get that positive vibe back. We've been having a great season so far and we'll continue that against Zwolle on Saturday," Ten Hag added.

Born to Ghanaian parents in Amsterdam, Brobbey is on the radar of the Ghana Football Association who have pencilled down the striker among a host of dual nationals for a possible switch of international allegiance.

The 18-year-old made his senior debut for Ajax in the Dutch Eredivisie in October, coming on as a second-half substitute against Fortuna Sittard.

Two of his three footballing elder brothers, Kevin Luckassen and Derrick Luckassen, have both filed for a switch of international allegiance to Ghana after playing for the Netherlands at youth level. 

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Chief Executive Officer Barry Otieno has confirmed the Gor Mahia Premier League opening game against Ulinzi Stars will be played on December 12 to mark the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium.

Jamhuri is an important national day which is celebrated to mark Kenya’s attainment of full independence in 1964 by becoming a republic. The game, that was initially set to be played at Utalii ground, has now been moved to Nyayo Stadium within Nairobi City.

“Gor Mahia vs Ulinzi Stars will be played on Saturday as part of Jamhuri celebrations. The game is expected to be aired by one of the local television channels,” Otieno told Goal on Thursday.

The FKF official further explained whether the match will be aired by any other television station and why the new Premier League broadcasting partners StarTimes will not carry the game live.

“It will not be aired on StarTimes as we have a contract with them that states every weekend there will be one match that goes to the free to air channel,” he concluded.

“As part of Jamhuri Day 2020 celebrations, we wish to inform you that our match against Gor Mahia has been rescheduled to Saturday, December 12, and shall now be played at Nyayo National Stadium, starting 4:00 pm. Kindly take note,” Ulinzi Stars confirmed too.

Gor Mahia and the 2010 league winners have not played a game this season owing to the issues around the broadcasting deal that was secured by FKF before the 2020/21 season began.

Zoo FC and Mathare United, who have been suspended from the top-tier, are the other clubs yet to play.

The push and pull between the federation and the ‘rebel’ clubs have been ongoing as the other teams have already played two games.

Initially, Gor Mahia had planned to jet out of the country for Sudan and engage Al-Hilal in a friendly game but FKF cancelled it due to the upcoming game against Tusker next week.

“As you are aware, we wish to inform you that the FKF Premier League is ongoing and your club has a match against Tusker scheduled for Wednesday, December 16, 2020,” FKF’s letter to Gor Mahia read.

“Consequently, we regret to inform you that it will not be possible for you to travel to Sudan from December 14, 2020, to December 17, 2020.”

Gor Mahia are also participating in the Caf Champions League and their fixtures are expected to pile up if they progress from the first round.

Antoine Griezmann has severed ties with one his sponsors, Huawei, over "strong suspicions" they are making technology that is repressing Uighur Muslims in China.

The Barcelona star took to social media to announce his decision following reports that the telecommunications equipment company has been trialling facial recognition software designed to improve China's surveillance of Uighurs.

Griezmann has condemned alleged mistreatment of the minority ethnic group, which is predominantly made up of Muslims, and has urged Huawei to use their influence to address a troubling human rights issue.

“Following strong suspicions that the Huawei company has contributed to the development of a ‘Uighur alert’ thanks to facial recognition software, I am announcing the immediate termination of my partnership with the company,” the French striker said on Instagram.

“I take this opportunity to invite Huawei to not just deny these accusations, but to take concrete actions as quickly as possible to condemn this mass repression, and to use its influence to contribute to the respect of human and women’s rights in society.”

Huawei has responded to Griezmann's post by offering to sit down with the 29-year-old to clarify the situation, while insisting that the company will not tolerate discrimination in any form.

"Huawei is obviously saddened by the decision of Mr. Griezmann to end his relationship with the company," the Chinese multinational organisation said in a statement to Goal. 

"We would like to extend an invitation to speak to him personally, to explain the work that is currently being done at the highest level, inside the company, to address the issues of human rights, equality, and discrimination at all levels, and to reassure him, and all our customers and partners, that Huawei takes these concerns very seriously.

"The language used in the document he refers to in the news reports is completely unacceptable. It was not Huawei’s language, rather descriptions of functions provided by the company Megvii. It is not compatible with the values of Huawei.

"Our technologies are not designed to identify ethnic groups. Non-discrimination is at the heart of our values as a company.

"Furthermore, the person responsible for approving the document was not a Huawei employee, but rather was a subcontractor.

"This mistake was three years ago. He was clearly not aligned with our company’s values.

"Since then the company has made substantial progress. Indeed, Huawei is a signatory to the UNGC which states 'businesses should support and respect the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights.'"

Express FC youngster Ivan Mayanja believes the unity in the team is a sign of success.

The attacker joined the six-time Uganda Premier League (UPL) champions in the recently closed transfer window from Fufa Big League side Catda FC. The striker has since expressed his feelings after joining the Wankulukuku-based charges.

"For me, it has been surreal ever since I joined Express FC," Mayanja said on Thursday.

"Everyone has helped me settle in and I am grateful. Management has done tremendously well, so has the technical team; and as for the players, we are a family which for me is a sign of success."

The new signing was an unused substitute in his team's league assignment against Onduparaka.

The Red Eagles came into the match seeking a positive start and they indeed took a deserved lead in the 11th minute when Frank Kalanda converted from the penalty spot.  

Despite taking the lead, Express still looked vulnerable at the back and it needed the experience of Uganda international defender Murushid Juuko to deny Onduparaka, as he raced to clear a ball that was rolling into an empty net in the 18th minute.

Godfrey Lwesibawa of Express was booked in the 20th minute as Onduparaka continued to search for a leveller which never came, with the teams heading into the half-time break with Express leading 1-0.

Earlier, Express suffered a set-back in the 26th minute with midfielder Ibrahim Kayiwa picking up a knock and was replaced by Charles Musiige, allowing the Caterpillars to mount more attacks but Mathias Muwanga was the difference with good stops.

After the recess, Kabong continued his fine display and in the 68th minute all hell broke loose when Express skipper Enock Walusimbi was sent off for handling the ball deliberately in the box, and Kabong made no mistake sending Mathias Muwanga the opposite way for a 1-1 draw.

"I am glad I made the travelling squad," Mayanja stated.

"We prepared well for the game and the boys put up a good fight. Sadly, our captain [Enock Walusimbi] got sent off but I am happy the boys soldiered on."  

On Saturday, December 12, the former champions will be hosting Bright Stars and Mayanja hopes he will make his debut for his new team.

"We have learned from our mistakes and we are ready. I am personally looking forward to making my debut and helping the team win."  

Zlatan Ibrahimovic caused something of a stir at the end of 2020 when he asked who had given EA Sports permission to use his name and face on FIFA 21.

It served to demonstrate that the question of image rights is a serious one for footballers and football teams, with financial considerations associated.

In many cases, video game companies such as EA Sports, Sports Interactive and Konami must negotiate agreements with various parties in order to gain permission to reproduce likenesses in virtual media.

EA Sports' FIFA franchise is one of the most extensive and realistic football games on the market, but even it has been impacted.

Here, Goal takes a look at the clubs that are not officially in FIFA 21.

The most high-profile 'absence' from FIFA 21 in terms of official nomenclature and team badges is undoubtedly Juventus - known as 'Piemonte Calcio' in the EA Sports game.

Juve's absence is the result of an exclusive deal the Italian club has with Konami, which has been in place since FIFA 20.

While Juventus are not officially in FIFA 21, it is in appearance only - EA Sports says "generic kits and crests" are used. Real-world players, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Dybala, are still included.

A number of other clubs from Serie A are also not officially represented in FIFA 21, including Roma (Roma FC), Spezia (La Spezia) and FC Crotone (Crotone).

Argentine behemoths Boca Juniors and River Plate are known as 'Buenos Aires' and 'Nunez' in the game, meaning the Superclasico will have a different feel to it in the latest edition of FIFA.

One Brazilian club appears in altered form in FIFA 21 is Corinthians - donning the moniker 'Oceanico FC'.

A number of other major Brazilian clubs only appear in the game in the Copa Libertadores tournament: Sao Paulo, Vasco da Gama, Flamengo, Palmeiras, Sport Recife and Red Bull Bragantino.

According to EA Sports, Brazilian clubs launch with generic player names and are not included in Ultimate Team.

It is also somewhat complicated when it comes to international teams on FIFA 21, with a number of teams playing in generic kits and flags used in place of official badges.

The following international teams have generic kits, badges and players on FIFA 21:

The following international team has authentic kit and badge, but generic players on FIFA 21:

The following international teams have generic kits and badges but real players on FIFA 21:

Read more about FIFA 21 on Goal!