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Tag: Premier League

  • FULL LIST: All EPL transfer deadline day deals in January 2026

    FULL LIST: All EPL transfer deadline day deals in January 2026

    Transfer deadline day delivered a late burst of activity across the Premier League, with clubs using the final hours of the January window to fine-tune their squads ahead of the run-in.

    According to Sky Sports, a mix of loan deals, permanent transfers, and recalls was completed before the window was closed.

    Midfielder Angel Gomes joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan from Marseille. Wolves were also busy elsewhere, completing the permanent signing of Adam Armstrong from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.

    Read Also: Five top EPL transfers in January 2025

    At Goodison Park, Everton secured the loan signing of Tyrique George from Chelsea, as the Toffees look to inject pace and creativity into their attacking options.

    Sunderland also landed Nilson Angulo from Anderlecht for £17.5m, making him one of the Black Cats’ most expensive signings.

    Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur added youth with the loan signing of James Wilson from Hearts. Nottingham Forest strengthened defensively by signing Luca Netz from Borussia Mönchengladbach for £2m.

    A major move saw striker Jørgen Strand Larsen complete a £48m transfer from Wolves to Crystal Palace.

    Several recalls also featured prominently: Matt O’Riley returned to Brighton & Hove Albion from Marseille, Sverre Nypan was recalled by Manchester City from Middlesbrough, and James McConnell went back to Liverpool after his Ajax spell ended.

    Axel Disasi also joined West Ham United on loan from Chelsea, while Arsenal completed the signing of youngster Evan Mooney from St Mirren in an undisclosed deal.

  • FULL LIST: Top 15 Premier League most expensive signings since 2010

    FULL LIST: Top 15 Premier League most expensive signings since 2010

    The Premier League’s transformation into world football’s richest and most competitive league has been driven in no small part by record-breaking transfer spending over the past decade and a half.

    Since 2010, English clubs have repeatedly pushed the boundaries of the global market, shattering fee records in their bid to secure elite talent capable of delivering instant success, long-term dominance, or commercial appeal in an increasingly globalised game.

    From midfield generals and defensive lynchpins to creative playmakers and marquee forwards, these high-profile acquisitions reflect not only footballing ambition but also the financial muscle, strategic risks, and evolving recruitment philosophies of Premier League clubs.

    As the January transfer window deadline draws closer, here is a detailed look at the top 15 most expensive signings in Premier League history since 2010.

    1. Alexander Isak – Newcastle United to Liverpool (£125m, September 2025)

    Liverpool shattered the British transfer record to sign Alexander Isak after several prolific seasons at Newcastle United. The Swedish forward was identified as the long-term focal point of Liverpool’s attack, combining pace, technical quality, and elite finishing. His arrival symbolised a new financial era at Anfield and underlined the club’s ambition to remain at the summit of English and European football.

    1. Florian Wirtz – Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool (£116m, June 2025)

    Before Isak’s arrival, Liverpool had already broken their own transfer record by securing Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. Widely regarded as one of Europe’s most gifted creative midfielders, Wirtz was signed to be the cerebral force behind Liverpool’s attacking play. His transfer reflected both the club’s long-term planning and the escalating cost of elite young talent.

    1. Moisés Caicedo – Brighton to Chelsea (£115m, August 2023)

    Chelsea outbid Liverpool in a dramatic deadline-day battle to sign Moisés Caicedo, making him the most expensive defensive midfielder in Premier League history at the time. Brighton’s record sale reflected Caicedo’s meteoric rise from Ecuadorian prospect to elite ball-winner. Tasked with stabilising Chelsea’s midfield, his early struggles were heavily scrutinised, but his athleticism and defensive intelligence justified the club’s heavy investment.

    1. Enzo Fernández – Benfica to Chelsea (£106.8m, January 2023)

    Chelsea broke the British transfer record at the time to sign Enzo Fernández following his standout performances for Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he won the Young Player Award. Signed just six months after joining Benfica, Enzo was brought in to be the long-term heartbeat of Chelsea’s midfield, dictating tempo and providing leadership well beyond his age.

    1. Declan Rice – West Ham United to Arsenal (£105m, July 2023)

    Arsenal made Declan Rice their most expensive signing ever after a prolonged transfer saga involving Manchester City. Already a proven Premier League leader, Rice immediately transformed Arsenal’s midfield balance with his defensive authority, ball-carrying ability, and growing attacking output, becoming central to Mikel Arteta’s long-term project.

    1. Jack Grealish – Aston Villa to Manchester City (£100m, August 2021)

    Grealish became the first £100m signing in Premier League history when Manchester City prised him away from boyhood club Aston Villa. Signed to add creativity and control, Grealish initially faced scrutiny but grew into a vital tactical component, playing a key role in City’s historic treble-winning 2022/23 campaign.

    1. Romelu Lukaku – Inter Milan to Chelsea (£97.5m, August 2021)

    Chelsea re-signed Lukaku for a club-record fee following a prolific spell at Inter Milan. Expected to be the missing piece in Thomas Tuchel’s attack, the move quickly unravelled due to tactical issues, injuries, and off-field controversy, making it one of the most disappointing high-profile transfers in Premier League history.

    1. Paul Pogba – Juventus to Manchester United (£89m, August 2016)

    Pogba returned to Manchester United as a global superstar in what was a world-record transfer at the time. While he delivered moments of brilliance and won domestic and European silverware, inconsistency and injuries prevented him from fully justifying the enormous fee.

    1. Antony – Ajax to Manchester United (£85m, August 2022)

    Erik ten Hag pushed hard to reunite with Antony, inflating the fee during a late-window move. Although signed for his flair and creativity, Antony struggled for consistency and output, becoming emblematic of Manchester United’s recruitment inefficiencies.

    1. Harry Maguire – Leicester City to Manchester United (£80m, August 2019)

    Maguire became the world’s most expensive defender when United triggered his release clause. Initially influential and immediately named captain, later form dips and relentless scrutiny turned him into one of the most polarising figures in Premier League history.

    Read Also: Pedro, Palmer secure first Premier League win for Rosenior

    1. Virgil van Dijk – Southampton to Liverpool (£75m, January 2018)

    Van Dijk’s arrival transformed Liverpool overnight. Then the world’s most expensive defender, he justified every penny by anchoring a defence that won the Champions League and Premier League, redefining elite centre-back standards in England.

    1. Romelu Lukaku – Everton to Manchester United (£75m, July 2017)

    United beat Chelsea to Lukaku’s signature after his prolific spell at Everton. Although he scored regularly, stylistic mismatches limited his long-term impact before he revived his career in Italy.

    1. Jadon Sancho – Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United (£73m, July 2021)

    After years of pursuit, United finally landed Sancho. However, adaptation issues and managerial fallout meant his Premier League career never reached the heights expected.

    1. Kai Havertz – Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea (£71m, September 2020)

    Chelsea signed Havertz as part of a major spending spree. Though inconsistent in the league, he secured his place in club history by scoring the winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final.

    15. Ángel Di María – Real Madrid to Manchester United (£59.7m, August 2014)

    Signed after a Champions League-winning season with Real Madrid, Di María arrived with enormous expectations. Despite a bright start, injuries and off-field issues curtailed his time in England, making the move one of the Premier League’s most regrettable big-money transfers.

  • Customs’  Sports Secretary  credits CGC for driving excellence in premier league

    Customs’  Sports Secretary  credits CGC for driving excellence in premier league

    As the 2025 CGC Volleyball Premier League continues to gather momentum, the Nigeria Customs Sports Secretary, Samuel Onikeku, has voiced his delight over the remarkable progress of the service’s men’s and women’s volleyball teams.

    Speaking recently at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Onikeku applauded the players for their determination, improved coordination, and consistent results.

    He described their upward trajectory as a clear testament to hard work, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose within the teams.

    Onikeku attributed much of this growth to the unwavering support of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC)Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, whose investment, he said, continues to elevate the standard of the competition and the organisers of the league.

    “Both our male and female teams have shown tremendous improvement. Their performance keeps getting better, and it’s a sign that our efforts are yielding results,” he said. “CGC has played a major role in providing a platform that motivates teams to push for excellence.”

    He added that sustained success would only inspire CGC and other partners to further strengthen their support.

    Read Also: Abandoned FIFA Project: Monimichelle faults NFF on funding as equipment  rot away in Ugborodo  

    “I believe the more we continue to play well, the more CGC and other partners will be encouraged to do even more. So let’s remain focused and give our best.”

    Acknowledging the physical and mental demands of competing at the highest level, Onikeku praised the players for their resilience and character.

    “The pressure is there, but our players have remained committed. I appreciate everything they are doing. Their performance yesterday was commendable.”

    Reflecting on the team’s journey, Onikeku expressed confidence that their steady rise since April has firmly positioned them as contenders for this year’s championship.

    “Since April, we’ve seen real progress. CGC is growing the game, and we believe we will continue to get better,” he concluded.

  • Arsenal ask Premier League to move Everton game

    Arsenal ask Premier League to move Everton game

    Arsenal have asked for their Premier League game away at Everton in the run-up to Christmas be played a day earlier as they look to avoid playing two matches in three days.

    It is understood the Gunners have applied for the game, which is currently scheduled for Sunday, 21 December at 14:00, be moved to Saturday, 20 December at 20:00 BST.

    The Premier League leaders are scheduled to play their EFL Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace on 23 December.

    The cup game was moved by the EFL from the original date of 16 December because that scenario would have seen Palace, who are competing in the Conference League in Europe, play three times in five days.

    Arsenal want to play the Everton game a day earlier to allow extra recovery time for Mikel Arteta’s players before they face Palace.

    While Arsenal have made clear their preference for their first visit to Hill Dickinson Stadium be moved to the Saturday, it is understood that is not the only potential date under consideration by the Premier League.

    After the EFL changed the date for the cup quarter-final between the two London clubs, Arteta said: “Hopefully they will move our Premier League match, because to play two days later doesn’t make any sense.

    “So now we decide the date [for the EFL Cup match] I am sure they will change the Premier League [match] as well.”

    BBC

  • FULL LIST: 15 Nigerian players with most Premier League appearances

    FULL LIST: 15 Nigerian players with most Premier League appearances

    Nigeria has produced some of the finest footballers to grace the English Premier League — a competition that has long been a stage for African excellence. 

    From skillful playmakers to commanding defenders and lethal forwards, Nigerian stars have left their mark on English football. 

    Here are 15 Nigerian players with the most Premier League appearances: 

    1. Alex Iwobi – 302 Appearances (Arsenal, Everton & Fulham)

    Alex Iwobi leads the list as the Nigerian with the most Premier League appearances. Bursting onto the scene at Arsenal, Iwobi’s flair, versatility, and consistency have seen him become a mainstay in English football. After leaving Arsenal for Everton, and later Fulham, he has continued to impress as a creative midfielder capable of influencing play.

    2. Shola Ameobi – 298 Appearances (Newcastle United & Crystal Palace)

    Shola Ameobi spent most of his career at Newcastle United. He was a powerful striker with a knack for scoring crucial goals with a total of 43 goals for the side, Ameobi remains a cult hero among Newcastle fans. His loyalty and longevity in the league earn him a well-deserved place near the top of this list.

    3. Nwankwo Kanu – 273 Appearances (Arsenal, West Brom & Portsmouth)

    Two-time African Footballer of the Year, Nwankwo Kanu dazzled at Arsenal, contributing to the famous Invincibles season. His technical brilliance, creativity, and calmness in front of goal made him one of Africa’s most beloved exports to the Premier League. He’s also one of the most decorated Nigerian players, winning multiple titles with Arsenal and an FA Cup triumph with Portsmouth.

    4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 252 Appearances (Everton, Blackburn, Middlesbrough & Portsmouth)

    Nicknamed “The Yak,” Yakubu Aiyegbeni was a natural goalscorer. With 95 Premier League goals, the most of any Nigerian footballer in the competition’s history. His physical presence and clinical finishing made him one of the most feared strikers of his era.

    5. John Obi Mikel – 249 Appearances (Chelsea)

    John Obi Mikel anchored Chelsea’s midfield for over a decade, and was known for his composure and tactical awareness.

    Mikel was crucial to Chelsea’s domestic and European successes, including their historic 2012 UEFA Champions League triumph.

    6. Joseph Yobo – 228 Appearances (Everton & Norwich City)

    Joseph Yobo was a rock at the back for Everton, where he spent the majority of his career. A reliable and composed defender, Yobo captained the Toffees and later became the first Nigerian to reach 200 Premier League appearances — a testament to his durability and professionalism.

    7. Victor Moses – 220 Appearances (Wigan, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Stoke City & Chelsea)

    Victor Moses’s Premier League journey is one of adaptability and resilience. Starting as a winger, he reinvented himself as a wing-back under Antonio Conte at Chelsea, playing a pivotal role in their 2016/17 Premier League title win. His versatility and work rate have been hallmarks of his career.

    8. Wilfred Ndidi – 207 Appearances (Leicester City)

    Wilfred Ndidi has been Leicester City’s midfield engine since arriving in 2017. Renowned for his tackling and defensive intelligence, Ndidi became one of the league’s best ball-winning midfielders, contributing significantly to Leicester’s 2021 FA Cup victory and their memorable 2020 Europa League qualification.

    9. Victor Anichebe – 204 Appearances (Everton, West Brom & Sunderland)

    A product of Everton’s academy, Victor Anichebe combined strength and determination to forge a solid Premier League career. While injuries occasionally hampered his progress, his physicality and work ethic earned him respect at every club he represented.

    10. Kelechi Iheanacho – 196 Appearances (Manchester City & Leicester City)

    Kelechi Iheanacho made his mark at Manchester City with an impressive goal-per-minute ratio before joining Leicester, where he blossomed further. His intelligent movement and finishing prowess saw him earn the Premier League Player of the Month award in March 2021 after a remarkable scoring run.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Nigerian players who moved to EPL this transfer window

    11. Celestine Babayaro – 179 Appearances (Chelsea & Newcastle United)

    Celestine Babayaro was one of the first Nigerians to become a household name in the Premier League. His overlapping runs, pace, and defensive tenacity made him a fan favorite at Chelsea before he moved to Newcastle. His flair and energy on the left flank set the tone for future Nigerian defenders in England.

    12. Efan Ekoku – 160 Appearances (Norwich City & Wimbledon)

    Efan Ekoku was a trailblazer for Nigerian footballers in the Premier League era. Known for his strength and sharp finishing, he made history in 1993 as the first player to score four goals in a Premier League match, doing so for Norwich against Everton.

    13. Peter Odemwingie – 129 Appearances (West Brom, Cardiff City & Stoke City)

    Peter Odemwingie brought excitement and goals wherever he went. His debut season at West Brom saw him score 15 goals, earning multiple Player of the Month awards. Despite a few off-field controversies, his flair and eye for goal made him one of Nigeria’s most entertaining exports.

    14. Jay-Jay Okocha – 124 Appearances (Bolton Wanderers)

    Jay-Jay Okocha’s time in the Premier League with Bolton may have been relatively short, but it was unforgettable. His flair, skill, and joyful approach to football earned him legendary status. Okocha’s creativity transformed Bolton into a formidable side and left fans mesmerized week after week.

    15. Dickson Etuhu – 111 Appearances (Sunderland & Fulham)

    A hard-working midfielder, Dickson Etuhu was a vital presence in the teams he played for. At Fulham, he was instrumental in their remarkable run to the 2010 UEFA Europa League final. His physicality and defensive contributions often went underappreciated but were key to his teams’ stability.

  • LONDON CALLING

    LONDON CALLING

    • Chelsea chase record six wins at ‘impregnable Tottenham’s Stadium

    A London derby that rarely fails to deliver endless entertainment, Tottenham Hotspur host Chelsea today in the pick of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures.

    The fierce rivals enter game-week 10 on the back of contrasting EFL Cup results, as Spurs were dumped out by Newcastle United while the Blues edged a seven-goal spectacular with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

    One shot at domestic silverware has already passed Thomas Frank by, as his consistently inconsistent Tottenham side were no match for Newcastle’s aerial prowess at St James’ Park on Wednesday evening.

    Two headers from Fabian Schar and the towering Nick Woltemade was all it took for the Magpies to eliminate Spurs from the fourth round of the EFL Cup, the rudest of rude awakenings for the Lilywhites after their statement Premier League success a few days beforehand.

    The Europa League winners became the first side to sink Everton at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium home, where flying Dutchman Micky van de Ven inspired Tottenham to their fifth Premier League win of the campaign with a brilliant brace before Pape Sarr also got in on the act.

    A run of just one win from five games does not paint a pretty picture for Tottenham, but the Premier League table arguably does – only leaders Arsenal and second-placed Bournemouth are better off than Spurs, who sit five points below the Gunners after nine games.

    However, the hosts do not have their home form to thank for their bronze medal placement – Tottenham have taken just one point from their last three top-flight games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where only Burnley have succumbed to defeat in the Premier League this term.

    Such a statistic spells pessimism against a Chelsea side rejoicing in their third consecutive win away from home, albeit an incredibly hard-fought one, as Premier League basement boys Wolves came close but no cigar to pulling off a captivating EFL Cup comeback.

    Read Also: Peterside  calls for credible administrators in NFF

    Despite the customary Chelsea red card – this time to Liam Delap – the Club World Cup winners’ young guns did the damage in an absorbing 4-3 success, one that was particularly momentous for the history of English football.

    Indeed, the seven-goal thriller marked the first time that a Premier League side had four different scorers aged 21 or under in a single game, but neither neither Chelsea’s juvenile prospects nor senior stars could prevent the Blues from falling to a shock loss to Sunderland in the top flight.

    That 2-1 upset at Stamford Bridge – Chelsea’s third loss in five league games – left Maresca’s men in an unremarkable ninth in the standings, and only twice before have the visitors lost four times in their opening 10 matches of a Premier League campaign.

    However, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is a particularly happy haunt for Chelsea, whose unforgettable 4-3 success there last season represented their fifth Premier League victory at the ground – no visiting team has won more.

  • Organisation of Volleyball Premier League excites Odozor-Onikeku

    Organisation of Volleyball Premier League excites Odozor-Onikeku

    Newly elected board member of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Mrs. Chinedu Odozor-Onikeku, has commended the organization and competitiveness of the just-concluded first phase of the Nigerian Customs Volleyball League, describing it as impressive and a step in the right direction.

    Speaking after the event, Odozor-Onikeku rated the league high but noted that there is still room for improvement. She called for the inclusion of Nigerian players who have gone professional abroad, stressing that their experience would raise the technical level and overall quality of the domestic league.

     “So far, so good. We are gradually getting there. This first phase has shown promise, and I believe by the second phase, things will get even better. All the teams have improved, but allowing our professionals abroad to participate will further enhance the game with their exposure and experience,” she said.

    Read Also: GTI seeks investors’ partnership after successful NFF’s AGM

    Beyond the on-court performances, Odozor-Onikeku, who is also an AFFAN elected member, took time to advise players on the importance of planning for life after sports.

     “There is life after sport. Athletes must realize that retirement or injury can come at any time. As they earn, they should save and invest wisely to have something to fall back on in the future,” she cautioned.

    The first phase of the Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball League ended with Nigeria Customs Ladies leading the women’s standings, while the Chief of Naval Staff team topped the men’s category.

  • FULL LIST: Top African goal scorers in Premier League

    FULL LIST: Top African goal scorers in Premier League

    African footballers have left an indelible mark on the English Premier League, delivering world-class performances, iconic goals, and unforgettable moments.

    From legendary strikers to dynamic wingers, these players have not only lifted trophies but also inspired a new generation of talent across the continent.

    Here are top African goal scorers in Premier League history:

    1. Mohamed Salah – 188 Goals

    Liverpool’s talisman Mohamed Salah tops the chart with 188 goals.

    Since joining the Reds in 2017, the Egyptian forward has become a Premier League icon, winning multiple Golden Boots and helping Liverpool secure the league title in 2020 after a 30-year wait.

    2. Sadio Mané – 111 Goals

    Former Liverpool and Southampton star Sadio Mané netted 111 goals during his Premier League career.

    Known for his pace, clinical finishing, and tireless work rate, the Senegalese forward was instrumental in Liverpool’s recent era of success alongside Salah.

    3. Didier Drogba – 104 Goals

    Chelsea legend Didier Drogba scored 104 goals in the Premier League.

    Renowned for his physical presence, clutch performances, and big-game mentality, the Ivorian striker remains one of Africa’s most iconic exports to English football.

    Read Also: Newcastle, Arsenal clash headlines EPL weekend on SuperSport

    4. Emmanuel Adebayor – 97 Goals

    Emmanuel Adebayor made his mark with Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham, scoring 97 goals in total.

    The Togolese forward combined flair with power and was a constant threat to Premier League defenses throughout his career.

    5. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 95 Goals

    Nigeria’s Yakubu Aiyegbeni remains one of the league’s most clinical strikers, with 95 goals across spells at Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers.

    His consistency in front of goal earned him the nickname “The Yak.”

    6. Riyad Mahrez – 82 Goals

    Riyad Mahrez was central to Leicester City’s fairy-tale Premier League triumph in 2016.

    The Algerian winger went on to enjoy further success at Manchester City, contributing 82 goals with his skill, creativity, and trademark left-footed strikes.

    7. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 69 Goals

    Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored 69 goals in the Premier League.

    Known for his speed and sharp finishing, the Gabonese striker shared the Golden Boot in 2019 with Salah and Mané.

    8. Wilfried Zaha – 68 Goals

    Wilfried Zaha became Crystal Palace’s all-time Premier League top scorer with 68 goals.

    The Ivorian winger’s flair, dribbling skills, and match-winning ability made him a fan favourite at Selhurst Park.

  • Liverpool 28.9% likely to win Premier League this season

    Liverpool 28.9% likely to win Premier League this season

    Liverpool are most likely to be crowned Premier League champions this season, a research group has said.

    Arne Slot led the Reds to the 2024-25 title in his first season in charge as they finished 10 points clear of second-placed Arsenal.

    And now, the CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) Football Observatory, has said Liverpool have the highest probability of lifting the trophy again, with a 28.9% chance.

    Arsenal are given a 18.8% chance of winning the title, while Chelsea (16.2%) rank third – ahead of 10-time champions Manchester City on 14.4%.

    Manchester United, the most successful team in Premier League history, are given a 2.6% chance of winning their first crown since the 20213-14 season.

    Celtic are 63.3% likely to win the Scottish Premiership again, with rivals Rangers having a 28.9% probability despite enduring their worst league start since 1983.

    In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid (40.6%) are most likely to reclaim the trophy, with Barcelona given a 29.6% chance of defending their title.

    Read Also: Man City and Premier League settle dispute over sponsorship rules

    Bayern Munich stand out as Bundesliga favourites in Germany on 61.4%, ahead of Borussia Dortmund (8.8%).

    In Serie A, the top three are Inter Milan (25.6%), Juventus (18.2%) and Napoli (17.4%).

    Paris St-Germain, meanwhile, are 73.0% likely to win a fifth straight Ligue 1 title in France.

    The CIES Football Observatory have developed a statistical model for predicting which clubs will win the title in 29 leagues.

    The model combines sporting, economic and demographic variables, taking several factors into account – such as passes into the final third and transfer fees .

    Out of the 29 leagues, Crvena Zvezda in Serbia have the highest likelihood of winning the title with a 76.2% chance.

  • EPL: Fernandes’ late penalty secures Man United’s first Premier League win

    EPL: Fernandes’ late penalty secures Man United’s first Premier League win

    Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes kept his nerve to convert an injury-time penalty, giving Ruben Amorim’s side a priceless victory against Burnley at Old Trafford.

    United’s continuing goalkeeping woes looked set to cost them three points after another blunder from Altay Bayindir gifted Jaidon Anthony a second equaliser of the day for the Clarets.

    But Anthony went from hero to villain for Scott Parker’s men as the contest entered stoppage time.

    Trying to halt Amad’s run into the penalty area, Anthony grabbed the Ivorian’s shirt. At first the contact was outside the box, but it continued as Amad ran into it.

    Read Also: Salah, Fernandes up for PFA Player award

    Although referee Sam Barrott initially waved away the penalty claims, video assistant referre (VAR) Stuart Attwell asked for the official to review his decision.

    It took Barrott four minutes to give the penalty, announce his decision to the crowd and clear the penalty area of Burnley players.

    Fernandes – who missed from the spot at Fulham six days earlier – kept his cool before taking a deep breath and finding the bottom corner.