Chelsea’s Belgian playmaker responded in style to Antonio Conte’s call to raise his game at the elite level and left Atlético Madrid trailing in his wakeIt was about two minutes after the final whistle, while Antonio Conte and his victorious players were still massing to acknowledge their fans’ delirious celebrations up in the gods, when the television cameras focused in upon their man. Diego Costa was sitting among the Atlético Madrid dignitaries, initially wearing the same haggard, disbelieving look as those immediately around him, before sinking his head into his hands. It was an image to sum up the locals’ dismal night but, deep inside, even the departed striker must have admired everything his former team‑mates had done here.Conte had...
Southampton victory shows José Mourinho’s men have rediscovered their ruthless streak just as a testing month of fixtures loomsFor more than half an hour, José Mourinho sat waiting on the Manchester United team coach outside St Mary’s doubtless basking in the comfort of a job well done after extending his side’s unbeaten run to eight matches. They displayed a callous efficiency and a charming stubbornness in an unforgiving and occasionally ugly performance that earned United victory and a fifth clean sheet in six Premier League matches. Romelu Lukaku, though, was still stationed inside in doping control, and, such is the ruthlessness of this United team at present, they left for Southampton airport without him.Lukaku was ultimately the match‑winner but this was a...
José Mourinho’s side are well placed to challenge the cream of the continent but on recent form it’s hard to justify England’s Champions League prominenceEuropean football returns this week, and though the individual highlight may well be the look of distaste on Alexis Sánchez’s face as he comes to terms with Europa League football on Thursday, before that England’s new big five get the chance to establish their credentials in the Champions League. Related: Champions League squads: Chelsea’s Costa left out but United include Ibrahimovic Related: Champions League 2017-18: how will your club do this season? Continue reading...
Anfield’s other Brazilian provided a masterclass in the second leg against Hoffenheim with his coveted countryman Philippe Coutinho absentBarcelona are expected to test Liverpool’s resolve with one final bid for Philippe Coutinho in the next few days before looking around to see if there are any credible alternatives. For the sake of Jürgen Klopp’s peace of mind it is to be hoped they do not settle on his other Brazilian, Roberto Firmino, because in the absence of the little magician this season the former Hoffenheim player has not only stepped up to the plate but also stepped up his game. Related: Liverpool return to big time after early flurry sinks Hoffenheim Continue reading...
Celtic have a foot in the Champions League group stage after beating Astana 5-0 in the first leg of their play-off but this success will not benefit other clubsIt was not enough to appreciate Celtic’s 5-0 trouncing of Astana in isolation. The full-time whistle had barely blown on yet another stirring European occasion when the tired cliche arose regarding how wonderful imminent Champions League qualification was for Scottish football. There should be no harm in dismissing such a theory even if it is obvious why it arises: Scottish football is desperate for all the scraps of hope it can gather. Related: Scott Sinclair double inspires classy Celtic to march towards group stages Continue reading...