Mourinho hopes Palace ‘go soft’ on United

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho hopes Crystal Palace go “soft” on his team as he again vented his frustration with his side’s schedule.

11 footballers who played through the pain barrier

FourFourTwo takes a look at 11 tough footballers from around the world who have played through the pain barrier.

Baxter: We will give the Super Eagles a game

Stuart Baxter says he is looking forward to stamping his authority as the new Bafana Bafana coach when they take on Nigeria in the Afcon qualifiers in June.

Wenger rules out Arsenal swoop for Pickford

Arsene Wenger insists Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is not on Arsenal’s radar, as the Gunners already have plenty of options between the posts.

Stand-in Romero shines in De Gea’s absence

Sergio Romero staked his claim in David de Gea’s absence as he pulled off a string of superb stops – including an early penalty save – to help Manchester United claim a 0-0 Premier League draw at Southampton.

Coutinho is Liverpool’s Hazard – Mignolet

Simon Mignolet has hailed Philippe Coutinho’s creativity and feels the Brazilian international is as important for Liverpool as Eden Hazard is to Chelsea.

Batshuayi convinced of progress despite frustrations

Michy Batshuayi concedes that there have been frustrations during his maiden campaign at Chelsea, but the striker is confident the experience will stand him in good stead.

Zabaleta proud of ‘wonderful nine years’ at City

Pablo Zabaleta thanked Manchester City for making him a better player and a better person as he bade a poignant farewell to the Etihad Stadium after the 3-1 win over West Brom.

Wenger: Sanchez like a devil on the pitch

Arsene Wenger has hailed Alexis Sanchez’s desire, after he played through the pain barrier to help Arsenal beat Sunderland 2-0 at Emirates Stadium.

Guardiola hails ‘main man’ Sergio Aguero

Sergio Aguero drew rich plaudits from manager Pep Guardiola, after he inspired Manchester City to a 3-1 win over West Brom.