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Merseyside Police are investigating a series of offensive tweets aimed at Everton stars Jordan Pickford and Richarlison following Saturday's contentious clash with Liverpool.

The two rivals met at Goodison Park on Sunday with the match finishing as a 2-2 draw with the Toffees seeing goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Michael Keane while the Reds benefitted from strikes from Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

Sunday's match was filled with controversy, though, with two Liverpool stars going off injured before a questionable VAR ruling saw them denied a late winner.

Everton goalkeeper Pickford was criticised for his part in injuring Liverpool talisman Virgil van Dijk, with the Dutch star now out for several months due to an ACL injury caused by a tackle from the England No. 1.

Richarlison, meanwhile, came under fire for a tackle that earned him a straight red card, injuring Liverpool summer signing Thiago Alcantara in the process.

The Brazilian star has since apologised for the tackle, saying the foul was not meant to be malicious and was instead a case of "sheer over-dedication".

In the hours after the game, both Richarlison and Pickford were targeted on social media, with the Merseyside Police confirming that there would be a full investigation into the abuse.

A  spokesperson for the police told the BBC on Monday: "We are currently investigating a number of offensive Tweets made in relation to two Everton footballers.

"The language used in the Tweets is totally unacceptable and we are taking the reports extremely seriously.

"Those who use the internet to target others, and who commit criminal offences such as making threats or committing a hate crime in doing so, are not beyond the law.

"Detectives are making enquiries to identify the individuals who posted the Tweets and where we identify offences we will take action to bring those responsible to justice."

The FA has confirmed that Pickford would face no retroactive punishment for his role in Van Dijk's injury, while Richarlison will serve a three-match ban against Southampton, Newcastle and Manchester United.

Everton currently sit atop the Premier League, having earned 13 points through the first five Premier League matches of the campaign in Carlo Ancelotti's first full season in charge.

Indian Super League (ISL) side Kerala Blasters are set to complete the signing of Australian forward Jordan Murray, Goal has learnt. 

The 25-year-old has been released from his contract by A-League club for an undisclosed fee so that he can complete a deal to move to the ISL. 

Murray joined the Mariners in 2018 from APIA Leichardt, scored seven times in 41 appearances in A-League. He scored four goals in 18 appearances (13 starts) in the league as his club finished at the bottom of the table last season. 

The A-League club announced his departure on Monday and the player said, "This is a good opportunity for me to grow as a player and gain experience, but I wouldn’t change anything about my time here.

“The Mariners fans have been absolutely terrific, and I’ve had nothing but love since I arrived at the club. It’s been a tough couple of years, but this club is on the rise and I’d like to say thanks for everyone’s support.”

Murray is the sixth foreign footballer at Kerala Blasters for the 2020-21 season. The Kochi-based club has signed Facundo Pereira, Vicente Gomez, Gary Hooper, Costa Nhamoinesu and retained Sergio Cidoncha for newly-appointed head coach Kibu Vicuna's debut ISL season. 

India international defender Narayan Das has officially joined East Bengal for the upcoming 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) season.

On joining East Bengal, Narayan Das said, "Having donned the Red and Gold colours before, I know what it feels to play for SC East Bengal. I am over the moon to sign for this club which is 100 years old. I have grown up watching SC East Bengal play and I cannot wait to take the field and put my best foot forward."

Narayan Das had earlier played for the Red and Golds for two seasons in 2015-16 and 2016-17 and had 16 appearances under his belt in the I-League.

The Bengali player started his professional career with All India Football Federation's (AIFF) developmental side Pailan Arrows in 2012. The next season he went to Goan giants Dempo SC and spent two seasons there.

In the inaugural season of the ISL, the defender had joined FC Goa and remained at the club for two years before joining now defunct FC Pune City in 2016. After just one year he returned to FC Goa in 2017-18.

In the last two seasons, he was at erstwhile Delhi Dynamos and now Odisha FC. In the last season, he had appeared in 18 ISL matches where he had provided one assist, made 39 tackles and made 93 clearances.

The 27-year-old defender is a quality addition to the East Bengal's backline. Das have to compete with Abhishek Ambekar in the left-back position.

Barcelona are working on new contracts for Frenkie de Jong and Clement Lenglet after thrashing out fresh terms with Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Goal is able to confirm.

The Liga giants have seen discussions with their Germany international goalkeeper drag on longer than they would have liked.

An agreement has been reached, though, with Ter Stegen and an official announcement is in the pipeline.

He had only been tied to a deal through to 2022, but Barca have overcome the problems caused by the coronavirus pandemic to rekindle talks and get pen to paper.

Ter Stegen is set to become one of the highest-paid players at Camp Nou, with his importance to Ronald Koeman’s squad being recognised in a lucrative contract.

With that saga about to be brought to a close, the Blaugrana are in a position to turn their attention elsewhere.

Lenglet is another of those that the Camp Nou board are eager to reward for his impressive progress since joining the club.

The French defender has become a key part of their plans and is still working on the deal that he signed upon his arrival in 2018.

His consistent performances and positive attitude have made him a popular figure with team-mates and coaching staff, and that standing will see a new deal put to him despite already being tied down until the summer of 2023.

Goal has also learned that talks will be held with Dutch midfielder De Jong.

The Netherlands international is another that is committed to the Blaugrana for the foreseeable future, with his contract running until 2024.

He has not yet hit the heights expected of him in Spanish football since completing a big-money move from Ajax, but still boasts plenty of potential at 23 years of age.

Koeman is convinced that he can bring the best out of a fellow countryman and wants him to form part of long-term planning in Catalunya.

Josep Bartomeu is prepared to act on that, with the under-fire Barca president eager to deliver positive news amid serious questioning of his ongoing presence.

It could be that his final act is to deliver a flurry of renewals, with those at Camp Nou confident that the confirmation of Ter Stegen’s extension will be followed by more good news when it comes to Lenglet and De Jong.

Simba SC coach Sven Vandenbroeck has revealed the friendly against Mlandege FC gave his charges the kind of test to expect when they take on Tanzania Prisons in a Mainland Premier League match on Thursday.

Simba defeated Mlandege 3-1 in a friendly staged at Azam Complex in Chamazi on Saturday with new signing Chris Mugalu notching a double, and Ibrahim Ame scoring one.

The outcome of the match has left coach Vandenbroeck praising his rivals for giving them the kind ‘of game I wanted’ ahead of their league match against Tanzania Prisons at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Sumbawanga.

“It was the kind of the friendly I was looking forward to, they played really well, they pressed us hard, controlled the ball and even tried to deny us space to play, it was a good build-up for my players,” Vandenbroeck is quoted by the club’s official website.

“When you play such a strong friendly, it gives you direction, it tells you where to move to, and now we know our weaknesses and we will make sure that we are ready for Thursday's match.”

Wekundu wa Msimbazi were using the game to continue sharpening up and testing players who have not had a chance to show what they are capable of doing in the Tanzania Mainland League.

On how prepared they are to face Tanzania Prisons, Vandenbroeck said: “I can say we are ready, we had a good preparation with the Mlandege friendly, I know it will not be an easy game, we will have to fight to get maximum points.

“Tanzania Prisons are a very good side, they have always given us hard times when we play against them at Mandela Stadium, but this time around, we want to do our job and get maximum points, we will do it.”

Simba have started their title defence on a high note winning four matches from the five played with one match ending in a 1-1 draw against Mtibwa Sugar.

They were also due to face their rivals Young Africans (Yanga SC) after the international break but the derby was pushed to November 7.

Azam FC are the only team with a 100% winning record; and they have collected 18 points in the six matches played.

Wekundu wa Msimbazi are second on 13 points with 27-time league champions Yanga SC who are third owing to an inferior goal difference.

AmaZulu have unveiled their new signings for the upcoming Premier Soccer League (PSL) season, with Siphiwe Tshabalala and Luvuyo Memela among the headline arrivals.

The KwaZulu-Natal outfit have also added ex-Orlando Pirates star Augustine Mulenga, while his former teammate Xola Mlambo is another new arrival to an increasingly strong roster.

36-year-old Tshabalala is the stand-out arrival, and arrives at AmaZulu following a storied career both domestically and in Europe.

As well as his 90 Bafana Bafana appearances, Shabba also made over 200 PSL appearances for Kaizer Chiefs, and also represented Free State Stars earlier in his career.

He’s been without a club since ending a brief spell at Turkish side BB Erzurumspor, and his trophy-winning experience—he was twice a PSL champion with Chiefs—represents a boost to his new employers.

Memela arrives at AmaZulu after leaving Orlando Pirates, with Buccaneers confirming earlier in the week that contract talks with the 33-year-old had been halted.

He spent five years with Bucs after leaving Cape Town All Stars, establishing himself as a key player with the domestic heavyweights during that period.

He wasn’t involved in the squad that defeated Cape Town City in the MTN8 quarter-final on Saturday, fuelling rumours of an imminent departure, while Pirates’ decision to hand Deon Hotto Memela’s Number 11 shirt also suggested that an exit was near.

Makhehleni Makhaula, Sicelo Mkhize, Siphelele Nene, Thembela Sikhakhane, Limbikani Mzava, Samkelo Mgwazela and Siphelele Mthembu are the other signings unveiled by AmaZulu, while Mulenga confirmed his imminent arrival last week after his own Pirates career came to an end.

The considerable recruitment drive is testament to AmaZulu’s renewed ambition under businessman Sandile Zungu, whose successes with Zungu Investment Company have allowed him to invest heavily in order to restore the Warriors to their former glory.

The Sowetan reported earlier this week that both Tshabalala and Memela will begin training with their new employers on Monday, as AmaZulu look to target a top four finish this term and push for continental qualification.

AmaZulu ended the 2019-20 PSL season in 13th place, only evading the bottom two places by one spot.

One of South Africa’s oldest clubs, they were winners of the National Professional Soccer League (NASL) in 1972.

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (Nock) has congratulated Nick Mwendwa for his re-election as the Football Kenya Federation president for the next four years but challenged him to help Kenya qualify for the Olympics. 

The youthful administrator managed to bag 77 votes out of the 85 cast to get back at the helm of the Federation for the second time.

"We write to congratulate you on your re-election to serve another term as the president of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF)," Nock said in a statement obtained by Goal.

"We further convey through you our congratulations and good wishes to your [National] Executive Committee (Nec).

"We have noted the tremendous work and development which has been carried out by FKF and are excited to note that with the new mandate from your members, it can only get better."

The Federation head has now been challenged to help the country play in the Olympics.

"Mr Mwendwa, can we challenge you to deliver to Kenya, a team to participate in the Olympics. We trust and believe you can do it.

"We assure you and your Executive of our continued support in all the areas of mutual interest."

On Sunday, Confederation of African Football (Caf) president Ahmad Ahmad also offered his congratulatory message to Mwendwa stating his win did not come as a surprise. 

"I was not surprised when I learned about your brilliant re-election as the head of the Football Kenya Federation, thus confirming the high performance and the high efficiency of your work since 2016, the year of your first taking office, and I hasten to present you my most warm and sincere congratulations," Ahmad said in a letter to Mwendwa obtained by Goal.

"On behalf of the Executive Committee of Caf and personally, I wish you every success in your endeavours.  

"This second term, which you obtained by an impressive majority, is the demonstration that your entire term has been appreciated and strongly supported."

"Considered as one of our youngest National Association presidents, you represent a role model and an example of pride to follow for African sports youth, and I remain convinced that you will continue all of your action with the same vigour and the same determination," the letter added.

"I encourage you on this path to success which reflects the prestigious ambition of the Kenyan nation which has made the sport a national priority."

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal will “respect the process” when it comes to Thomas Partey, with the Gunners eager to avoid rushing the £45 million ($58m) signing into their Premier League plans.

The deadline day signing from Atletico Madrid was included in the Gunners’ squad as they visited Manchester City on Saturday.

Arteta resisted the urge to throw the new recruit in at the deep end against the Blues. Partey had to make do with a place on the bench at Etihad Stadium, with just eight minutes of competition action seen on debut.

The expectation is that he will play a significantly more prominent role over the coming weeks. Many are tipping the 27-year-old to follow in the footsteps of Patrick Vieira by becoming the next great enforcer in Arsenal’s engine room.

Arteta, though, is wary of expecting too much too soon and plans to continue easing Partey into life at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners boss said after the game: “We will see how quickly we can make it with him.

“I think we have to respect that process and that timing for him because he only trained for a day really and there’s a lot of new information and different game models for him to understand, and we have to respect that, but I think when he came on he looked good.”

Partey was unable to prevent Arsenal from slipping to a 1-0 defeat against title hopefuls City.

He will be hoping that a first victory in new colours arrives in a Europa League clash with Rapid Vienna on Thursday, with Arteta looking for his side to offer a positive response as a collective in that contest.

The Spaniard added: “Absolutely. We have to get used to this because we are going to be playing every three days in different competitions. We have a big squad at the moment, everyone is so willing to play so we'll give opportunities to everyone.

“I'm very encouraged because I see the progress every day. I see how united they come in, I see the chemistry that they are creating them, how much belief they have in what we are trying to do.”

Joel Matip is a doubt for Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Ajax this week, Goal has learned.

The Cameroon defender made his return to action in Saturday’s Merseyside derby, having missed the start of the season due to a hamstring problem.

He completed 90 minutes, the first time he has done so in a competitive fixture since October 2019, but Goal can confirm he complained of some discomfort after the game and was subsequently sent for a scan by the club’s medical staff.

The good news is that no major issue was detected, but Liverpool will tread with caution knowing Matip’s injury history, and may choose to leave him out of their side for Wednesday’s trip to Amsterdam.

The Reds have already been rocked by the news that Virgil van Dijk will be missing for a number of months after suffering damage to his anterior cruciate ligament against Everton.

The Dutchman will undergo surgery on the injury, sustained after a reckless challenge from Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the first half of Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.

Van Dijk’s injury leaves Matip and Joe Gomez as Liverpool’s specialist senior centre-backs, although both have had fitness issues of their own in the past. Neither have managed to complete 30 league games in a single campaign at Anfield, while Matip managed just 13 appearances in all competitions last season.

It means Fabinho could be in line to deputise at centre-back against Ajax, while untried trio Rhys Williams, Nat Phillips and Billy Koumetio will also be on standby. Liverpool also have a Premier League game at home to Sheffield United on Saturday evening to prepare for.

They also have concerns over midfielder Thiago Alcantara, despite the Spaniard avoiding serious injury after a challenge from Richarlison in the dying stages against Everton. The 29-year-old will be monitored closely having suffered pain in his knee following the tackle.

Alisson Becker, though, could offer some positive news, with the goalkeeper due to return to training after a shoulder injury this week, well ahead of schedule.

Liverpool had feared he would miss as many as six weeks, but are hopeful he will now be able to return to action before the end of October.  

The Champions League begins this week, with every match throughout the group stage live on SuperSport.

Almost all of Europe’s biggest sides will be involved in the first round, with all eight groups boasting immense quality, and a few new faces as well.

While all of the title favourites will be expected to advance from their groups, don’t be surprised if some of the big names struggle after receiving tricky opening draws.

Will heavyweights such as Barcelona, Juventus, Manchester City and reigning champions Bayern Munich cruise into the knockouts, or will at least one of them come unstuck?

As the likes of Atalanta and RasenBallsport Leipzig demonstrated last term, there’s a growing middle class of European sides who are capable of upsetting the big boys and advancing to the latter stages of the tournament.

Will they kick on this season, and which of the other relatively unfamiliar faces in the UCL could advance to the knockout stages?

Perhaps the most tantalising clash of the opening round of fixtures comes in Paris on Tuesday, as defeated finalists Paris Saint-Germain host Manchester United.

The Red Devils had the international break to dwell on their 6-1 demolition at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur, but responded in style against Newcastle United on Sunday, bouncing back from a goal down to win 4-1.

Eighteen months ago, these two sides met in a fascinating Champions League double-header, at the start of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s time in charge, as the spirit of ’99 saw the Red Devils into the final eight.

A year and a half later, and while an argument could be made that United haven’t truly kicked on, despite a strong end to last season, PSG are on a five-game winning streak domestically, and now have the experience of reaching the UCL final.

Thomas Tuchel’s side ultimately fell short against Bayern Munich last term, but having added Rafinha, Moise Kean and Alessandro Florenzi, will be keen to go one step further this time around.

The potential return to the Parc des Princes of United new boy Edinson Cavani is another intriguing subplot to this meeting between Europe’s old and new money.

Juventus will be without Cristiano Ronaldo when they travel away to Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday, as Group G—the group billed as CR7 vs Lionel Messi—kicks off.

Both they and Barcelona should advance at the expense of Dynamo and Ferancvaros, although the Hungarian heavyweights—who are at the Nou Camp on Tuesday—will note Barca’s mixed start to the season, and their defeat by Getafe on Saturday.

Also in action on Tuesday, Sevilla will look to exploit the enduring weaknesses in Chelsea’s defence, although they too dropped points domestically this weekend as they were defeated by Granada.

Again, the Blues were hurt by errors from the backline—Kepa Arrizabalaga again a culprit—against Southampton at the weekend, and if Chelsea’s defenders again let Frank Lampard down on Tuesday, expect Sevilla to capitalise.

UEFA Champions League Key Matches | Matchday One

Tuesday 20 October

Dynamo Kyiv vs Juventus | Kickoff at 18:55 (CAT) | SS Premier League (SA) & SS Football Plus (ROA)

PSG vs Manchester United | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Premier League (SA) & SS Football Plus (ROA)

Chelsea vs Sevilla | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Variety 1

Lazio vs Dortmund | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Variety 2 (SA) & SS Premier League (ROA)

Barcelona vs Ferencvaros | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Action

Wednesday 21 October

Real Madrid vs Shakhtar Donetsk | Kickoff at 18:55 (CAT) | SS Premier League (SA) & SS Football Plus (ROA)

Ajax vs Liverpool | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Premier League (SA) & SS Football Plus (ROA)

Bayern Munich vs Atletico Madrid | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Variety 1

Inter Milan vs Monchengladbach | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Variety 2 (SA) & SS Premier League (ROA)

Manchester City vs Porto | Kickoff at 21:00 (CAT) | SS Action

On Wednesday, the likes of Bayern, Man City and Real Madrid are all in action, although the tie of the night could be in Amsterdam, where Ajax host Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp’s side can rightly be disappointment with their performance in Europe last term, where their exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid contrasted starkly with their rampant domestic form.

This year they’ll be aiming to improve on that return, and while they bounced back from their 7-2 trouncing at the hands of Aston Villa with a strong showing in the derby draw with Everton, the long-term injury to Virgil van Dijk is a hammerblow for Jurgen Klopp’s side’s hopes domestically and in Europe.

Ajax, despite significant departures in recent transfer windows, are seasoned European competitors, and are certainly capable of taking all three points.

Reigning champions Bayern are among the favourites for the crown, but the presence of Atletico Madrid and RB Salzburg in their group could yet make things tricky.

Atleti vs Bayern is a European blockbuster by any stretch of the imagination—a rematch of the 1974 European Cup final no less—and having lost their 32-game unbeaten run earlier this season, the Bavarians may find themselves under pressure.

Can Diego Simeone, whose side stumbled in the knockout stages last term, take a major scalp to kick off this campaign as they look to announce their continental credentials.

Also on Wednesday, Manchester City have a stern test when they face FC Porto, Internazionale host Borussia Monchengladbach, while Shakhtar Donetsk are at Real.

Will Los Merengues, who came unstuck in the UCL against City last term, come unstuck in a group containing the proactive pressing teams in Inter, Gladbach and Shakhtar?

Robinson Kamura believes it is time AFC Leopards players rise and bring joy to their fans and club in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League.

Although AFC Leopards are the second-most successful side in the Premier League after Gor Mahia, they are yet to win a trophy since they last did 22 years ago.

“Almighty as we start the journey to the new season, we pray for your guidance, protection and favour,” Kamura wrote on his Facebook page.

“I believe it's our time to rise and bring joy to our big amazing club and have good times back.”

The captain also outlined specific roles that each one around the club should play if they have to achieve the ambitions of lifting the league title again.

“To our fans and followers, have the faith, believe in us and love your team it won't be an easy road but with togetherness as Ingwe family and hard work from us players, we shall all smile in the end,” he concluded.

AFC Leopards have confirmed the signing of Harrison Mwendwa from Kariobangi Sharks who is the first new player to be confirmed in the transfer window. It is understood Ingwe have already agreed on terms with five players to join their side ahead of the new season.

On the other hand, Washington Munene, Collins Shichenje and goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan have extended their respective contracts while defender Lewis Bandi was promoted from the junior side.

Meanwhile, AFC Leopards are expected to face the National Super League side Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium on October 20 during the Mashujaa Day – a public holiday – as part of their pre-season plans.

They will then leave for Elgeiyo-Marakwet County for a 12-day training camp. The training camp in the Rift Valley Highlands is sponsored by Galana Oil Kenya Limited.

The pre-season sponsorship was flagged off on Monday as the oil firm fuelled the team’s bus heading to Kisii County for the Shabana meeting.

Ingwe will open the season on November 20 against Western Stima while on November 28, the former champions will be away to league debutants Bidco United.

On December 4, AFC Leopards will tackle Zoo FC at home in a game that will be expected to start at 18:30.

After facing Zoo, Leopards will play host to Nzoia Sugar on December 9. The Sugar Millers have always proved a tough opponent for Ingwe and the last time the two met at Sudi Stadium a 2-2 draw was recorded.

On December 14, AFC Leopards will either face Kisumu All-Stars or Vihiga United in what will be their fifth match of the much-anticipated 2020/21 season.

Wayne Rooney has posted a negative Covid-19 test result, but the Manchester United and England legend is still “angry and disappointed” at being forced into a period of self-isolation.

The 34-year-old is currently filling a player-coach role at Championship side Derby.

He played the full 90 minutes of their 1-0 defeat at Watford last time out, with the former Red Devils and Three Lions star unaware at that stage that he had come into contact with a coronavirus carrier.

Josh Bardsley, the younger brother of Burnley defender Phil, had delivered a watch to Rooney last Thursday despite being advised by NHS Track and Trace to stay at home as he waited on a test result.

The 21-year-old has since discovered that he is positive, meaning that all of those he has mingled with must now head into quarantine.

Rooney falls into that category and he will now sit out a crucial run of games for Derby – including a meeting with Nottingham Forest on Friday – despite being fit and healthy.

He posted on social media: “Just received the news that my Covid-19 test has shown that I do not have the virus.

“Delight for myself and family but obviously angry and disappointed that I now have to self-isolate and miss vital games for @dcfcofficial”

Rooney’s representatives revealed on Saturday that their client had been left frustrated by the actions of Bardsley, with the Rams star unaware that he was putting himself in a problematic situation.

A statement from his management team released to The Sun read: “It was only today [Saturday] following media approaches and his own investigations that Wayne became aware that Josh had been contacted by track and trace before the visit and should not have come to his house.

“Wayne also today discovered that Josh had subsequently tested positive for Covid-19. Had he known either that Josh had been contacted by track and trace or had tested positive he would have refused to have seen him.

“Wayne is angry and disappointed that he, his family and his club have been put in this position by someone acting secretly and in breach of Government and NHS guidelines. He is now taking a coronavirus test as a result of his contact with Josh.”

That has come back negative, but Derby will not be able to call upon Rooney for meetings with Huddersfield and Forest this week or a clash with Cardiff on October 28.

“On being made aware of this news the club has ensured that the appropriate measures were taken in line with strict EFL Covid-19 protocols and UK Government guidelines, which the club is operating under,” Derby said in a statement.

“The club will continue to adhere to the Covid-19 rules and protocols to ensure that the safest possible environment is provided for its players and staff. The club will make no further comment unless a further update is required in relation to this matter.”

Bruno Fernandes has vowed to make amends for the first missed penalty of his Manchester United career when the Red Devils are next presented with an opportunity to convert from the spot.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have had plenty of practice from 12 yards in recent times.

Portugal international Fernandes has been their go-to man in that department, with the 26-year-old boasting an impressive record when embracing individual pressure.

He had been faultless for the club heading into an outing against Newcastle, but suffered a rare fluffing of his lines against the Magpies as Karl Darlow achieved what few before him have managed by keeping out a penalty from Fernandes.

The former Sporting CP star did make amends for that miss by sparking a late flurry of goals from United that guided them to a 4-1 win, but he is eager to right a personal wrong.

He will not be hiding away the next time a match official points to the spot, with a talismanic part of Solskjaer’s plans keen to retain the responsibility he embraced when arriving in English football.

Fernandes told MUTV of his future penalty plans, having seen a run of 10 successes for the Red Devils brought to a close: “I'm human, it happens.

“I don't want it to happen again, I didn't want it to happen [against Newcastle].

“The keeper did well, I didn't do the right things. I studied the keeper but I didn't shoot the ball the way I want, but the keeper deserves credit.

“I need to do much better on the penalty and the next one I will do for sure.”

Fernandes has converted 30 of the 33 penalties he has taken in his career to date and, prior to being denied by Darlow, his last failure from the spot had come back in October 2018 while still on the books at Sporting.

Given United’s recent record on the penalty front, he should expect to get an opportunity to put things right at some stage in the near future.

The Red Devils will be back in action on Tuesday when opening their Champions League campaign away at Paris Saint-Germain, while their next Premier League outing is set to see them play host to Chelsea.

The Carabao Cup is Manchester United's best hope of a trophy this season, according to Mikael Silvestre, who says the Red Devils are not ready to challenge for the Premier League title.

United finished third last season after an impressive post-lockdown run which raised optimism among supporters after seven years of mediocrity in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was ultimately unable to deliver a trophy in his first full campaign at the helm, but a return to the Champions League and a run to three semi-finals was seen as a major step in the right direction.

The Red Devils have allowed their standards to slip once again at the start of the new season, picking up just six points from a possible 12 in the Premier League.

Humiliating home defeats against Crystal Palace and Tottenham raised fresh doubts over Solskjaer's credentials, with EFL Cup wins over Luton and Brighton doing little to ease pressure on the Norwegian.

United returned to action after the international back in impressive fashion, beating Newcastle 4-1 at St James' Park, but still find themselves seven points behind early pace-setters Everton, albeit having played a game less.

It has been suggested that the title race will be closer than ever this term in the continued absence of supporters, with all of the top sides struggling for consistency while looking surprisingly vulnerable in defence.

However, Silvestre has ruled out a tilt at the trophy for his old club, insisting Solskjaer still has plenty of work to do before the team can compete on an elite stage again.

“They have an opportunity to progress in the Carabao Cup and that is realistically United’s best hope of getting a trophy," the former Red Devils defender told 888 Sport.

"To have a successful season though they must finish inside the top four and to continue progressing as a group and as a club. It is too early to talk about challenging for a title.

"The base is to be in there and to maybe finish higher than their third place from last season."

Silvestre thinks Bruno Fernandes will be vital to United's chances of achieving their goals in the coming months, having seen the €55 million (£65m/$50m) midfielder add a creative spark to Solskjaer's team since his arrival from Sporting CP in January.

“He is key to United performances because of his quality and his ability to feed the strikers," the Frenchman added. "There are his set-pieces too and yesterday was a great finish from a very good build-up.

"He is bringing that extra quality that was missing so when he is on top of his game he finds the right pass at the right tempo – he can do everything that Juan [Mata] can but at a quicker pace.

"It is important that he stays fit and carries on doing what he is doing at the moment.”

Neto has expressed his delight after seeing "quality" Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho return to Barcelona as well as his confidence that Antoine Griezmann will silence his doubters.

Coutinho spent last term on loan at Bayern and won a Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Champions League treble – the latter triumph including a star turn off the bench in an 8-2 battering of Barca in the quarter-finals.

Even though Bayern opted not to make the move permanent, it still appeared as though Coutinho's future lay away from Camp Nou until Ronald Koeman's arrival as head coach signalled a fresh lease of life at Barca.

Coutinho has two assists and a goal, as well as an 88.96 per cent pass success rate, from four La Liga games this season and compatriot Neto is glad to see him back doing what he does best at Barca.

"I am happy to have a friend like Coutinho back in the squad, with his quality," The Spanish goalkeeper said at a news conference previewing Barca's Champions League opener against Ferencvaros. 

"He has shown his quality and that he is excited to return to the club. The Champions League title that he has won at Bayern will give him a lot of security and will give us a lot."

Conversely, Griezmann has endured a slow start to the campaign, failing to score, assist or even create a chance for a team-mate yet from four appearances.

Much was expected of Griezmann when he arrived from Atletico Madrid ahead of the 2019-20 campaign but the France World Cup winner has struggled for top form at Camp Nou.

Neto, though, offered his backing to his under-fire team-mate.

"I see Griezmann very well, as always, we know what this profession is like, sometimes things turn out better and others worse," he added. 

"But I see him happy and working in training and I'm sure he will continue to provide us with many things as before."

This week, it was reported Barca's squad had signed a burofax against a 30 per cent reduction to pay, with only three players apparently not putting their name to the document.

Barca announced big losses to revenue, largely due to the coronavirus pandemic, but Neto was reluctant to go into too much detail over the issue.

"On the salary issue, I think it would be incoherent to answer now," he said. 

"The whole squad and I are focused on the game and with being a personal and individual issue, each one has their opinion.

"The important thing now is the game and we are focused on getting a positive result."

Fred admits a “massive club” like Manchester United “should have never been away” from the Champions League, with the Red Devils hoping to make more European memories against Paris Saint-Germain.

The last time Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side faced the Ligue 1 title holders, a dramatic turnaround on French soil saw them stun their hosts and secure progress to the quarter-finals.

That was as good as it got for United in 2018-19, with a sixth-place finish in the Premier League meaning that they missed out on booking a return ticket to elite continental competition.

Solskjaer was, however, to secure third spot last term, meaning that the Red Devils are back among the big boys in 2020-21.

Their first outing on that stage is set to present them with the toughest of tests against PSG – last season’s beaten finalists and one of three heavyweight rivals in a so-called ‘Group of Death’ that also includes RB Leipzig and Istanbul Basaksehir.

United can, however, call upon past experience when it comes to visiting Parc des Princes, with Fred hoping to emulate those achievements as another quest for European glory is sparked.

The Brazil international midfielder told the Red Devils’ official website: “The Champions League is always brilliant.

“It's somewhere that Manchester United should have never been away from and we should be competing in the Champions League every season.

“We have good memories against PSG and I remember that night [in 2019] like it was yesterday. We got a great result there and a real turnaround after the bad result we had against them at home. 

“That's how Manchester United needs to be, always. We have to get big results. We're a massive club and we have to always be doing our best to get big wins.

“I hope we have a good start in the Champions League this season, get off on the right foot and on our way to qualifying.”

United suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to PSG in February 2019, but secured a stunning 3-1 victory on the road – with Marcus Rashford crashing home a decisive penalty in the fourth minute of stoppage-time.

Scott McTominay was among those to figure in a memorable continental contest and the Scot is another looking to give a loyal fan base more to shout about, even if they cannot witness the occasion in person this time around.

He said: “I’m sure everyone will be excited to go back to the Parc de Princes.

“Last year was probably some of the best memories you’ll ever have on a football pitch. For us we want deja vu.

“It’s a real shame the fans can’t be with us for the games, hearing that Champions League music again and seeing the games. We’re hoping and praying that the fans can come back and the whole world can get back to normal as soon as possible.

“It’s been a terrible thing what’s happened for everyone in the world and it must be so difficult for everyone involved. But for us it’s so important to get our fans back safe and sound.”

Ronald Koeman admits Lionel Messi's form "could be better" but insists he has no complaints about the Barcelona captain's application.

Messi attempted to leave the club during the transfer window but was unable to engineer an exit after something of a power struggle played out in public with president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

He has since affirmed his commitment to the Catalans for at least the final year of his contract, but his performances have not been up to his usual standards in 2020-21.

In four La Liga matches, Messi has scored just once - a penalty in the 4-0 win over Villarreal last month - and has zero assists.

He has created just six chances, well short of the league-leading numbers of David Ferreiro (22), and only five from open play, eight fewer than Sevilla's Jesus Navas (13).

With 11 dribbles completed from 19 attempts, Messi has a success rate of 57.9, well down on last season's average of 64.3, which further highlights his relative struggle to impact upon Barca's play - a problem that came to a head in their 1-0 loss to Getafe.

However, speaking ahead of their first Champions League group game against Ferencvaros, Koeman made it clear he is happy with Messi's efforts and believes the player himself is feeling positive.

"There is always pressure to win games as a player or coach at Barcelona. We know the club's situation; there are things outside the pitch that we can't influence," he said on Monday.

"What we can do is work with the players to adjust to the new system and we have a lot of new and young people, but we're optimistic about the game tomorrow. I think the best way to think right now is game by game.

"Maybe Messi's form could be better at this moment, but he's happy, he's training well, he's focused, he wants to play and he wants to be captain of the team and he's improving. I haven't got any complaints.

"He also had bad luck with the ball that hit the post and with the final play of the match. Normally, he puts it between the posts! I have no doubt about his form and we'll see that in the coming games.

"I'm not worried because we've scored eight goals in four games and I don't think many teams have done that. It's normal that, against Sevilla and Getafe, it's more difficult to create chances.

"I'm not disappointed with the players. I see a happy team. I can never be disappointed with a player who works their hardest."

Given Barca's 8-2 humiliation at the hands of Bayern Munich in last season's Champions League quarter-finals, Koeman accepts his side are unlikely to be considered firm favourites for the trophy this time around.

However, he is keen to get their campaign off to a strong start in a week that ends with the first Clasico of the season against Real Madrid at Camp Nou.

"We know that, with what happened last time, we're not the ultimate favourites, but we can go far," he said. "You always play to win games and trophies at Barca, in Spain and in Europe, but there are more favourite teams, like us.

"We want to start the Champions League on the right foot. The most important thing is to prepare for two difficult matches at home that we have to win.

"It's not an easy game and we don't think about resting people for Saturday because Saturday isn't important right now, only tomorrow is."

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers said his players need to understand how to play with Islam Slimani upfront after he made his Premier League return in their 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday.

The 32-year-old who spent the last two-and-a-half seasons on loan at Newcastle United, Fenerbahce and Monaco, made his first appearance in English football since April 2018 as a second-half substitute at the King Power Stadium.

Slimani replaced Nigeria’s Kelechi Iheanacho in the 71st minute but could not register a shot on target as the Foxes conceded their second straight loss in the English top-flight.

The encounter was his first game since March 7 when he played in a Ligue 1 fixture between Nice and Monaco before the abrupt end to the season due to coronavirus.

However, Rodgers acknowledged the Slimani's ability in the penalty area and wants his players to supply him with more balls in the air.

"He had a couple of good contacts in the box,” Rodgers was quoted by Leicestershire Live.

“I think with Slim, it’s just a case of the players getting used to playing with that type of striker.

“We’re always looking to get in behind defenders or pull it back, because we don’t usually have that same presence, even though Jamie is really good in the air.

“But when you have Slim on the field, you can wrap it in there that bit earlier for him. It’s something that's a very important part of our game, from half-spaces out wide, we tend to get crosses in, but we probably couldn’t find the quality that makes the difference.”

Slimani might have another opportunity to prove himself in Leicester City’s attack on Thursday with Jamie Vardy expected to miss their Uefa Europa League opener against Zorya.

"Jamie will probably miss Thursday [v Zorya]", Rodgers said, per Football London. “It's a recurrence of a problem he’s had for a number of years with his calves.

"This isn’t serious so we're hopeful he’ll be ready for the next league game."

East Bengal announced the signing of their sixth foreigner in former Birmingham City midfielder Jacques Maghoma ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season.

The Congolese midfielder was delighted to join the Red and Golds as he said, "I am looking forward to joining my teammates in Goa and having a successful season with SC East Bengal. I also know that the fanbase of SC East Bengal is very big and very passionate. As always I will do my utmost for them."

Maghoma, a youth product of Tottenham Hotspur, started his professional career with Burton Albion FC in 2009 in the League Two. He remained at the club for four seasons where he scored 27 goals in 142 League Two appearances.

In 2013 he moved to Championship side Sheffield Wednesday and spent two seasons before heading to Birmingham City where he stayed until last season. The experienced midfielder has appeared in 382 league matches where he has scored 49 goals.

The 32-year-old has represented his country Congo DR in 17 international matches. He has also played in the African Nations Cup in 2017 and 2019.

The Red and Golds have so far announced the signings of six foreign players. Other thanMaghoma, Scott Neville, Anthony Pilkington, Aaron Joshua Amadi-Holloway, Daniel Fox and Ville Matti Steinmann. Earlier today, they had announced the arrival of India international defender Narayan Das.

Ajax have launched their new Gaming Academy - a mobile app that will help FIFA fans improve their skills as well as compete in weekly tournaments and play mini-games.

As any FIFA player knows, mastering the latest installment in the series can be a difficult task, whether it's picking up the latest skill moves, making a fortune on the Ultimate Team transfer market or just being able to score from a corner.

Ajax's new app contains more than 30 tutorial videos, featuring Ajax professional FIFA player Dani Hagebeuk and presented by David Butler.

Hagebeuk is a two-time eDvisie champion and has competed at the highest level representing Ajax and the Netherlands.

As well as tutorials, the app will host weekly FIFA 21 tournaments for both Xbox and Playstation users, such as the Ziggo eBattles which will launch in the coming months.

The app will match players with their opponents at the beginning of the day and notify them when their matches are scheduled to be played. These tournaments will be open to both amateur and professional players with prizes on offer for the winners.

To eliminate cheating, players will have to upload a photo of the result when the match is over.

Menno Geelen, commercial director at Ajax said: "Together with Ziggo we will host the Ziggo eBattle for our fans on a weekly basis where people can win unique prizes. Also, we’re introducing FIFA 21 tutorials that fans from all over the world can utilise to improve in the new game. Now, we are not only helping future talent on the pitch, but also in the virtual world."

Over the next few months, Ajax Esports will further develop the app by adding a ranking system.

Ajax Esports will be competing in the EA Sports FIFA 21 global series and boast a roster that features Dani Hagebeuk, Joey Calabro and Tjardo Paliama.

Paliama joined Ajax Esports after winning last season's Ziggo eBattle. 

Android users can download the Ajax Gaming Academy App from the Google Play Store. The app is also available on the Apple App Store.

Goal is the global media partner for the Ajax Gaming Academy.