Manchester City-Arsenal stalemate leaves Liverpool top

Manchester City and Arsenal handed Liverpool the advantage in the Premier League title race as they played out a bitterly disappointing goalless stalemate at Etihad Stadium. Liverpool are now top of the table, two points clear of Arsenal and three ahead of City, after they came from behind to beat Brighton at Anfield, their delight increased by their two closest rivals cancelling each other out.

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Xabi Alonso to stay at Bayer Leverkusen amid Liverpool interest

Xabi Alonso says he will remain in his role as Bayer Leverkusen manager next season as he believes the club is the “right place” to be as a young coach. The Spaniard had been heavily linked with the manager’s job at Liverpool since Jurgen Klopp said he would stand down at the end of the season. “I am convinced it is the right decision, I am happy,” said Alonso.

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Sandro Tonali charged for alleged breaches of betting rules

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association for alleged breaches of betting rules. The 23-year-old is currently serving a 10-month ban issued by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in October for breaking betting rules in Italy. Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan in July for £55m.

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Shaqiri free kick hands Swiss victory over Ireland

The Republic of Ireland fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat by Euro 2024-bound Switzerland in a low-key friendly in Dublin. Xherdan Shaqiri struck the winner in the 23rd minute when he curled a free-kick into the bottom corner. Granit Xhaka hit the post from 40 yards as he almost capitalised on a poor clearance by Gavin Bazunu.

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Nottingham Forest lodge appeal against points deduction

Nottingham Forest have lodged an appeal against their four-point deduction for breaching Premier League profit and sustainability rules, the club has confirmed. An independent commission found Forest’s losses to 2022-23 breached the threshold of £61m by £34.5m. The loss of points has placed Forest into the relegation zone in 18th place, one point behind Luton Town.

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