Premier League reaction

1. Man Utd beaten 2-1 at home by Norwich
2. Leicester top at Christmas after 3-2 win at Everton
3. Chelsea beat Sunderland 3-1 in front of new boss Hiddink
4. Spurs move into top four with 2-0 win at Southampton
5. Former Match of the Day presenter Jimmy Hill dies aged 87

And with that, we bid you farewell.

See you all tomorrow for another busy afternoon of Premier League football. Until then!

The second half is about to get under way in Newcastle.

You can follow that game in full here.

BBC Sport

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David Higginson: How can we be this bad? Do the players actually go to training or do they just nip to the Belfry instead?

Aidan Mifsud: Hard finding something witty to say about villa struggling and sinking on this waterlogged pitch. At least it's funny.

'The hosts have been the better side'

BBC Newcastle

Former Newcastle United defender John Anderson on BBC Newcastle

"Newcastle haven't created a great deal or worked the Villa keeper much, but the hosts have been the better side and deserve the lead. 

"Newcastle's groundsmen need to get on there now and get to work, because there are patches of standing water."

PA

This game could be in doubt you know, the rain shows no signs of slacking off and the ball is not rolling too well across the centre circle. 

That's half time. 

'It wasn't the greatest strike in the world!'

BBC Newcastle

Former Newcastle United defender John Anderson on BBC Newcastle

"It's an awful corner kick, and it wasn't the greatest strike in the world either! It was poor defending as well to let the ball roll all that way, but Fabricio Coloccini and Newcastle will take it!"  

Reuters

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GOAL - Newcastle 1-0 Aston Villa

A goal out of nothing as a scruffy corner is bundled in by captain Fabricio Coloccini.

The rain is horrendous, could this one even get called off? Follow it here.

Reuters

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Ho ho ho, Mike...

Ton up for Kane

I'm not going to lie to you, this is a shocker.

But if I can tempt you for more coverage of said shocker join Andy Cryer here.

'Villa will grow in confidence'

BBC Newcastle

Former Newcastle United defender John Anderson on BBC Newcastle

"Newcastle are so lacklustre. Both sides are passing the ball around so aimlessly, it's like they both want a ball each. 

"The longer this goes on, Villa will grow in confidence because they haven't been asked any questions by the Magpies."

Getty Images

Aston Villa have gone 15 Premier League games without a win (D3, L12), the longest run without a victory in their league history. No Premier League team with as few points after 16 games as Aston Villa (six) has stayed up. They have kept just two clean sheets in their 16 league games this season.

'Villa haven't yet shown anything at all'

BBC Newcastle

Former Newcastle United defender John Anderson on BBC Newcastle

"Villa haven't yet shown anything at all. There are a number of visiting players, particularly certain midfielders, that look really poor."  

Leicester on top

'We came here with no fear'

Norwich City

Norwich captain Russell Martin told Sky: “I’m sure a lot of people will be talking about Manchester United’s performance, but I thought we thoroughly deserved it. To a man we were outstanding. 

"You can talk about game plan and tactics all you like, but this week we just decided to go out on the front foot and see where that took us.

“We came up here with no fear, even though they’d not lost a league game at Old Trafford all season. We used the ball well, pressed with intensity and there was a real desire that has won us the game."

Ten minutes into a rainy night in Newcastle and quite literally nothing has happened.

You can join Andy Cryer for that one here if you wish. It might get better! 

'We can't accept that'

Manchester United

Asked if the pressure is building, Louis Van Gaal added: "That’s the football world. I know that, my board knows that, my players know that. We’re not used to that because normally we win, so it’s a difficult period. 

"We've lost three matches in a row so it’s not happening so much for Manchester United. We can’t accept that and that’s why I have to repeat, we have to stick together and believe in ourselves.

“I’ve encountered these circumstances also with other teams and other staff. The main thing is that you have to be professional and do the things that you have to do and work very hard to come out of this bad period."

Asked if he will be given time to turn it round, he added: “It’s not up to me I think to say about that question but we shall see."

Getty Images

'Today we eradicated those mistakes'

Norwich City

Norwich boss Alex Neill told BBC Sport: “It’s a really important win. We’ve been in most of the games against the bigger sides, our problem has been that we’ve been the makers of our own downfall if you like, but today we eradicated those mistakes. The boys were fantastic and deserved to win the game.

“We wanted to attack this league and sometimes you take a bit of a hiding on the back of that, but since we lost to Newcastle we’ve been a lot more resilient and harder to break down. Hopefully we’ve kick-started something with this win. We deserved this victory.

"We’ve got important games coming up, we’ve not got as many points on the board as we’d have liked but this is a welcome three points and hopefully we can add to that tally over the Christmas period."

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'That was not good enough'

Empics

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal told BBC Sport: “I can say a lot of things but every word is too much I think. You can see what confidence is doing to the players.

"Now it’s very important that everybody sticks together, but that was not good enough today. We have to win against Norwich and we know that."

'Deeper into the pressure pot'

Sunderland

Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce, speaking to BBC Sport: "We looked frightened of going out to play. We didn't get to grips in midfield and we didn't go up against them. We picked a team to put them under pressure but we didn't really do that.

"When we gave them the first goal early it lifted the whole stadium. Right from the start we made life very difficult for ourselves. I was happy to get in at half-time just 2-0 down. The worrying thing for me is that again the personnel haven't carried out instructions and again I have had to change things. It’s not what you want to do but you have to react and for a time we were a little better, but then we did the most stupid thing of all which was to give them a penalty.

"After that we saw something like what we should be, we put them under a bit of pressure, but it was far too late.  

"This performance didn't deserve anything but certainly against Watford and Arsenal we felt hard done by. My worry is that we are not picking up points with the performances, and that is what we have to turn around. If we can do some business in the January window it will help us.

"Every game that goes by without a point puts you deeper and deeper into the pressure pot."

KICK-OFF

Under way at St James' Park. Check out full coverage of that one here. 

LvG in trouble?

As if this week was short of football stories, could we possibly see a change in management at Manchester United?

Louis van Gaal was asked if he will be given time to turn things around. 'We shall see,' he said. Rather unconvincing...

'Man Utd can win title'

Gary Bowyer

Former Blackburn manager on BBC Radio 5 live

"Louis van Gaal has a philosophy he knows works. They’re fourth and there’s not much in it. You get judged on results. 

"If they finish top, then I don’t think many people will be moaning. 

"If they can get the right player in January to give them a boost, and with the players they have coming back from injury, there’s no reason they can’t win it."

'We need an experienced manager'

Chelsea

Reuters

Chelsea coach Steve Holland: 

On fans appearing to criticise certain players:

“It’s a difficult question for me to answer. My personal situation would be last season we won the Premier League and the League Cup and I felt part of that. When things aren't going well you have to accept equal responsibility if you are involved.

"As far as I am concerned I am always involved in the bad periods as well as the good periods. It’s an issue of collective responsibility.

"It's difficult for everyone. Obviously the supporters have a right to express their opinion. I have to say I am not a big social media guy, that’s not a road I go down but clearly the fans had a view on certain things today and it is their right to do that.

"I don’t know Guus [Hiddink] well but I have spoken to Ray Wilkins who has worked with him before to try and get an idea of the sort of guy he is. Ray was very complimentary on the football and as a person.

"My own view is that we need an experienced manager. We had one, and now we have another."

'It’s an issue of collective responsibility'

Chelsea

Chelsea coach Steve Holland, who took charge of the Blues today: “The situation today for me is one that comes with my role as a club man. You get close to the people you work with, and it’s sad when that changes, but we had an important game two days after and I had a responsibility to the fans and the club. I am happy with the result but it is raw. I feel the way I feel.

“The first half they played well in general. The early goal gave the players a boost of confidence, but the team is still fragile to an extent. They are used to setbacks in recent weeks so we wobbled a bit in the second half. In the end I thought they saw the game out fairly comfortably."

United on the verge of 'a serious problem'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Manchester United have got Stoke away and Chelsea at home in their next two games. If they fail to win in both of those then United will have a serious problem."

Reuters

I'll bring you the best bits from Newcastle - but there's a full commentary on that game here.

'The Magpies should win'

BBC Newcastle

Former Newcastle United defender John Anderson on BBC Newcastle

"I don't think Newcastle have to play as well as they did against Tottenham in order to beat this Villa side. Show anything like the same effort and commitment and the Magpies should win."

'Mahrez is the real deal'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Huth was missing today for Leicester, which could have been big. But Mahrez is the real deal, and I wouldn't be surprised if some of the big teams, even big teams on the continent, come in for him in January."

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Good point

'We were totally dominant'

Stoke City

Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "We were the totally dominant side, there is no way we should have lost that game. Crystal Palace were resolute and had the benefit of a penalty and then they were happy to sit back and hit us on the break. It's two years running they have come here and nicked the pionts. If they were honest they would say they didn't deserve to win today.

"We tried to get back into the game, could have converted any number of chances and then the lad scores a wonder goal. He hasn't scored many like that in his career!

"We are playing well enough, on another day we would have won."

PA

'We still feel the faith'

Manchester United midfielder Daley Blind told Sky: "We still feel the faith of our fans, even when we were behind today they still gave us their backing. It’s important to stick together and try to bounce back.

“It’s very disappointing if you have most of the possession but Norwich countered us well.

“We’re working hard out on the training ground on every aspect of the game. We must stick together as a team and work hard to improve. I believe we’ll come good doing it this way.

“It’s important for us that the fans are standing behind us. We feel that support out on the pitch and it’s important that we stick together. We have the best fans in the world." 

'It will wake Asia up'

Crystal Palace

PA

"WAKE UPPPPP!!!!!!!!!"""

Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew: "Stoke bossed us in the second half but we showed the qualities which are why we are where we are. We have been terrific away from home ever since I have been here.

"We are dangerous when he have the first goal as we have pace on the break. Stoke were due a goal for sure, they put some real quality in and a draw would have been a fair result.

"The goal which won it was brilliant. It will wake all of Asia up tonight. We want to fight for that sixth place."

'Players had smiles on their faces'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Chelsea had attitude and desire, and came out energetic and on the front foot. They looked like they wanted to win the game. Players had smiles on their faces, something you weren't seeing under Mourinho. 

"I am a massive fan of Jose but it looks like the right decision because, based on today, it's obvious that players weren't playing for him."

'Our thoughts are with Jose'

Chelsea defender John Terry: "We needed to win and we've done that. Second half was not as good but we are delighted with the three points.

"There was a lot of pressure before the game but we brought it on ourselves. Absolutely and rightly so as well. Chelsea is such a big club. We are not used to being here, we've had a lot of good times in the last 10 years. 

"Rightly so the fans are disappointed and so are we, we don't want to be where we are.

"Guus Hiddink's training is very intense. He is a great man manager as well. Credit to all the players. Our thoughts are with the manager, because we are disappointed, it falls on his head unfortunately."

Reuters

TEAM NEWS

Newcastle manager Steve McClaren names an unchanged side from the team that won 2-1 at Tottenham last weekend.

Newcastle XI: Elliot, Janmaat, Mbemba, Coloccini, Dummett Sissoko, Anita, Colback, Wijnaldum, De Jong, Cisse

.

Aston Villa manager Remi Garde makes one change from the side that lost 2-0 at home to Arsenal last weekend. Striker Rudy Gestede drops to the bench, and midfielder Ashley Westwood comes in.

Aston Villa XI: Guzan, Hutton, Okore, Lescott, Bacuna, Sanchez, Gueye, Westwood, Sinclair, Ayew, Veretout.

.

'An emotional day for us all'

Chelsea

Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic: "We started the game well. The first couple of goals helped make the pressure on us before the game go away.

"The early goal brings you confidence, which you need for this kind of game. When we concede we are still a little bit shaking, we don't have confidence to hold this pressure but we will improve.

"I can understand the frustration of the fans, it is normal. We all know what Jose Mourinho to this club and nothing can change that. It was an emotional day for all of us.

"We all have responsibility. The players put Chelsea in this position and the only way to change this position is the players. We have to be strong as a group."

'Disgraceful!'

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender at Goodison Park for 5 live Sport

"That result tells you everything you need to know about footballers. Disgraceful." 

Football League round-up

Derby climb to second place after Tom Ince scored his fourth goal in two games to seal a 1-0 win at Ipswich. Paul Clement's side replace Brighton, who surrendered their unbeaten league record after going down 3-0 at home to leaders Middlesbrough earlier in the day.

Hull missed a chance to go third, the Tigers losing 2-0 to a Rotherham side who stemmed a three-game losing streak as Joe Newell added to a first-half penalty from Lee Frecklington. Scott Arfield inspired Burnley to a first win in six games with two goals as they beat Charlton 4-0.

Brentford made it 12 games unbeaten against teams in the bottom half with a comfortable 4-2 victory over Huddersfield. Bottom side Bolton were five minutes away from a first victory in 16 attempts until Ross McCormack levelled for Fulham.

Nottingham Forest beat MK Dons 2-1 thanks to early goals from Nelson Oliveira and Ryan Mendez, and it's three straight draws for new QPR boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, whose side failed to hold onto the lead at Bristol City.

Get Involved

Ted, Salford: Mourinho for United? With his contempt for rules, for decency and, his contempt for bringing through youth players, his disdain for attacking football, his win-at-all-costs philosophy? It would be the final nail in the coffin of a once great club.  

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Topsy-turvy

'Leicester look like the only team trying to win the league!'

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender at Goodison Park for 5 live Sport

"It was a really entertaining game and very, very open. You can't miss a heartbeat. 

"The pace is everywhere in the Leicester team. Once they run at you they find space and they are so very difficult to play against. 

"It's that pace on the break, and their finishing, which is why they are top of the league at the moment. And I think they look like the only team trying to win it!"

Reuters

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Leicester were bottom of the table last Christmas, but will tuck into their (calorie-controlled, nutritionally balanced) dinner on Christmas Day top of the pile.

What a year!

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Quite Interesting

FULL-TIME

Reuters

A brilliant, brilliant game. Leicester are top at Christmas!

FULL-TIME

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FULL-TIME

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Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"Chelsea made the right decision at the right time to sack Jose Mourinho, but watching that today he will be feeling robbed. They did not play like that for him."

RED CARD FOR WEST BROM

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What are you doing?

Salomon Rondon leans into Bournemouth's Adam Smith with his head and sends him tumbling.

The Baggies are down to nine.

Leo Ulloa is in on the counter, he comes inside and Tim Howard saves well!

FULL-TIME

Reuters

What a win for Norwich! More home woe for Manchester United.

FULL-TIME

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SITTER!

What a chance! Manchester United lamp it downfield, Chris Smalling is in behind, he can head it home or lay it off to Wayne Rooney but instead he heads wide!

Stoke are pushing for another leveller. Xherdan Shaqiri has a shot blocked...

Abramovich justified?

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"This performance almost justifies Abramovich sacking Jose Mourinho..."  

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"Anthony Marital scored because he was in the box, but he's spent most of the game out wide.

"Manchester United have not thrown enough caution to the wind today. There has been no bodies in the box, and Norwich have had the greater threat going forward."

FULL-TIME

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Muted celebrations at Chelsea.

The second half wasn't entirely convincing but the are back to winning ways.

Mirallas miracle?

Everton back in it? Ross Barkley with a wonderful backheel to sub Kevin Mirallas, who swivels and plants a low shot into the corner from 17 yards out,

GOAL - Everton 2-3 Leicester

Reuters

That is brilliant from Lee Chung-Yong.

He strikes from 30 yards and it rifles into the back of the net.

Palace go sixth in the table as results stand, level with fifth and fourth.

'Now Palace are up into fifth!'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Fabulous finish after a bit of pinball, with the ball bouncing all over the shop. And now Palace are up into fifth!"

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Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"The initial contact for Bournemouth's penalty was outside the box. I am absolutely sure it is not a penalty."

Vardy injury?

Jamie Vardy comes off for Leicester, just holding the back of his leg on his way out. A hamstring injury?

That is emphatic from Charlie Daniels.

The midfielder's spot kick goes in off the bar after Dan Gosling is brought down by Darren Fletcher.

Outside the area? Possibly.

Ryan Giggs is out on the touchline waving his arms around. Can he inspire a comeback? United still have only had two shots on target...

GOAL - Stoke 1-2 Crystal Palace

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GOAL - West Brom 1-2 Bournemouth

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'It's just not good enough'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"United have had all the possession today, but with two shots on target in the entire game it's just not good enough."

PENALTY TO BOURNEMOUTH

CLOSE!

Xherdan Shaqiri - that is audacious.

The Stoke midfielder fires a free-kick towards goal from 40 yards and it is just wide.

Something to work on. I've not seen this from Romelu Lukaku before, he approaches a free-kick like Cristiano Ronaldo, stalking it head on and then leaning back and firing into the Gladwys...

Craig Dawson rises unmarked but heads Craig Gardner's free kick wide. The Baggies are going for a winner.

GREAT SAVE!

David de Gea was at fault for Norwich's opener but he's made a key save there to keep out Youssouf Mulumbu! Almost game over.

Pedro should score.

He is put through by Willian but, with just goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon to beat, he prods the ball over.

A poor first touch lets him down.

Football League latest

Bradford City have kept clean sheets in eight of their last nine games, a handy statistic after Tony McMahon put them 1-0 up at Chesterfield.

Paul Keegan has levelled for Doncaster, who fell behind to a Callum Butcher Brace after taking a first-half lead through Andy Williams at leaders Burton. It's 2-2 at the Pirelli Stadium.

The Hawthorns erupts.

Gareth McAuley rises to glance a header from a corner towards goal. It hits the far post and crosses the line.

Getty Images

GOAL - West Brom 1-1 Bournemouth

PA

Spurs are managing this game really well, just ticking over and seeing it out. Harry Kane almost got on the end of a Christian Eriksen free-kick.

Loic Remy bursts down the right, he cuts in but his curling shot is easily parried away by Costel Pantilimon.

Does anyone think that Leicester winning the league would be a bad thing? They might do it you know. Not many teams come to Goodison and put Everton away. It's not done yet though as Ross Barkley has a shot deflected narrwoly over.

Everton haven't played poorly this afternoon. Still well in this as we reach the last 10...

SUBSTITUTION

Striker Rickie Lambert is brought on for West Brom.

Can he find an equaliser for the 10-man Baggies?

SUBSTITUTION

Diego Costa is not a popular man at Chelsea.

The striker is replaced by Loic Remy and gets a barrage of boos from his own fans.

There are a few who applaud, but not many. The fans feel he let Jose Mourinho down.

GOAL - Stoke 1-1 Crystal Palace

No mistake.

Getty Images

Football League latest

Carlisle might ask to play at Preston's Deepdale on a more regular basis. Jabo Ibehre has added two goals to an early Danny Grainger penalty, as they lead Notts County 3-0.

Liam Sercombe has levelled for Oxford at Wycombe.Dagenham have been brought down to earth after sealing an FA Cup third round trip to Everton in midweek. They trail 1-0 at home to Bristol Rovers and currently sit bottom of the table as results stand. 

Tom Nichols has halved Exeter's deficit at home to Luton, who led through two early goals.

Chris Smalling is almost in on a back-post header as Manchester United pepper the Norwich area with crosses. Can Norwich survive?

PENALTY TO STOKE CITY

Hand ball given against Damien Delaney.

'Have we ever had a Saturday like this?'

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender at Goodison Park for 5 live Sport

"Have we ever had a Saturday like this, in terms of stories and headlines? This season just ramps up every week..."

Doesn't it just, Lawro?

Another good chance for Stoke.

Bojan, eight yards out, should score. He can only shoot straight at Wayne Hennessey. Time running out.

Shinji makes it three

You have to admire the way this Leicester team attack don't you?! So incisive, they can cut you to ribbons in the blink of an eye. Jamie Vardy has another assist, laying the ball off to Shinji Okazaki and he makes no mistake from 10 yards. 

GOAL - Everton 1-3 Leicester

Reuters

Bournemouth well on top.

Glenn Murray heads over Matt Ritchie's free-kick.

West Brom aren't in this.

That penalty will be a big talking point tonight, I reckon. It was one of those where you wonder what a goalkeeper is really supposed to do? Jamie Vardy ran straight at him!

'I don't understand why Tim Howard has not been sent off'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"I don't understand why Tim Howard has not been sent off. It's a clear goalscoring opportunity that he has prevented. There is massive inconsistency from referees."

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Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"Tim Howard should be sent off for me. Maybe the referee thought Jamie Vardy's touch took him too far away from goal? 

"Both Riyad Mahrez and Vardy are so full of confidence. Great composure from Mahrez to score his second penalty of the day."  

SUBSTITUTION

Cesc Fabregas is replaced by Jon Obi Mikel.

A few jeers but more applause from the crowd. Bridges being built perhaps?

Reuters

Norwich's containment plan is looking sketchy now - they are so deep at Old Trafford. Get out!

Football League latest

Alan Judge has restored Brentford's three-goal advantage against Huddersfield from the penalty spot after Mustapha Carayol gave Huddersfield a glimmer of hope. It's 4-1 at Griffin Park.

Burnley look to have sealed a first win six games, Scott Arfield grabbing a second goal before record signing Andre Gray made it 3-0 at home to Charlton. QPR have taken the lead at Bristol City and there's a surprise on the cards as Rotherham have doubled their lead against Hull thanks to Joe Newell.

Zach Clough has levelled for Bolton at home to Fulham as Neil Lennon's side search for a first win in 16 games.

Mahrez gets his second

Different corner, same outcome! Riyad Mahrez steers his penalty calmly into the bottom corner. Are Leicester Christmas number ones?

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CLOSE!

Stoke are not getting the rub of the green.

Marko Arnautovic advances into the penalty area before his shot takes a massive deflection, leaves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey stranded, but the ball bounces just wide.

GOAL - Everton 1-2 Leicester

PENALTY TO LEICESTER

Tim Howard is out to close down Jamie Vardy - penalty!

Martial on the money

Is that the breakthrough Manchester United needed? A cross into the box is not dealt with, Anthony Martial reacts with predatory instincts to toe the ball away from the last man and then hammer it into the roof of the net.

GOAL - Man Utd 1-2 Norwich

Reuters

SUBSTITUTIONS

Everyone's Plan B Shane Long is on, along with Juanmi as the Saints go in desperate search of a breakthrough. 

CLOSE!

A massive chance for Sunderland.

Sam Allardyce has his head in his hands as Jermain Defoe waltzes through the Chelsea defence before wildly firing a shot wide.

He has to hit the target.

CLOSE!

Jamie Vardy driving at the Everton defence, Jamie Vardy shown inside onto his right foot, Jamie Vardy curling one, curling one, wide! Not far wide though. Lovely. 

This game is far from over.

The busy Duncan Watmore bustles his way along the 18-yard box, tumbles, but never a penalty.

He looks almost apologetic.

Football League latest

Scunthorpe know all about Billy Sharp's goal-scoring prowess, the forward finding the net 56 times in 95 appearances for the Iron earlier in his career. So it comes as no surprise that he has scored against them for Sheffield United, who lead 1-0.  

Aaron Martin has given Coventry the lead against Oldham with his first goal for the club in his 60th appearance.

SUBSTITUTION

Reuters

Huge cheers as fall guy Marouane Fellaini is replaced by Ander Herrera just after Wayne Rooney miscues an overhead kick over the top. Old Trafford is not a happy place. Apart from a delirious yellow and green section of course, and Delia..

'Three wins in three for Bournemouth?'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Adam Smith cuts in on his left-hand side and drives into the bottom corner. He's been involved in a lot this afternoon - that goal could cost West Brom dear. Three wins in three for Bournemouth? Amazing."

PA

It  looks a long way back for Southampton from here but Graziano Pelle is keeping the faith. He's had one effort side-footed over the top and another blocked. Can the Saints come back?

CLOSE!

Crystal Palace are so dangerous on the break.

Yannick Bolasie crosses from the right and James McArthur slides in to meet but, put off by goalkeeper Jack Butland, he can only divert wide.

Football League latest

What are the odds? Rare victories are in sight for York, who have lost their last nine games but lead Morecambe 2-1, and Yeovil, who are without a league win in 13 attempts, who are 1-0 ahead at Leyton Orient. 

Garry Thompson has broken the deadlock for Wycombe against Oxford with his sixth goal of the season. 

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"It's an old- fashioned toe-punt, but that is a brilliantly clever finish from Alex Tettey, because David de Gea is caught by surprise - he just wasn't ready for it."  

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CLOSE!

Sunderland have a strut...

Jermain Defoe drills a cross wide of goal before Fabio Borini shoots just wide,

Another goal for the Black Cats and this is going to be very interesting.

Tettey at Old Trafford!

Well, well, well! Again it's a shambles at the heart of the Manchester United defence as Phil Jones chases the ball across the pitch like a labrador on a windy beach, completely out of position. It allows a massive gap to open up and Norwich midfielder Alex Tettey takes full advantage, a powerful toe-poke into the corner from 18 yards!

West Brom are in trouble now.

Adam Smith cuts in from the right and strikes low into the corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.

Bournemouth deserve that and are on their way to three wins in a row...

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A bit of hope for Sunderland?

Younes Kaboul's header is fumbled by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and substitute Fabio Borini is on hand to tap home.

Will the Chelsea nerves kick in?

GOAL - Man Utd 0-2 Norwich

Reuters

The second half hasn't been up to the same standard as the first at a wet and wild Goodison but Seamus Coleman has just gone close with a cross/shot that almost caught out Kasper Schmeichel...

GOAL - West Brom 0-1 Bournemouth

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GOAL - Chelsea 3-1 Sunderland

Reuters

GREAT SAVE!

Almost an opener for the Baggies.

Salomon Rondon hits a fierce volley on the turn but goalkeeper Artur Boruc brilliantly parries over the bar.

Reuters

Get Involved

Karen: Don't normally comment on here but I feel sick to my stomach today with the goings on at Stamford Bridge. Cannot believe that the board caved in to player power again. Shame on you - you know who you are. Clearly more than one judas and I'm glad the supporters let them know how they feel.

James at Goodison: It's not player power but poor man management that cost jose his job.

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Football League latest

Leaders Burton have levelled at home to Doncaster, but Gillingham remain hot on their heels, leading 10-man Millwall 2-0, Bradley Dack claiming his 11th goal of the season.

Ian Henderson has scored against his former side Colchester as Rochdale lead 2-1. Swindon lead 1-0 at Shrewsbury. Andy Kellett has scored Wigan's first goal in four league games. They lead 1-0 at Barnsley. 

Coventry are being held by Oldham and it's also without a goal in Sheffield United's trip to Scunthorpe, and Chesterfield against Bradford. 

It was the Norwich fans singing Jose Mourinho's name! Just to clear that up.

They are suggesting that Jose may soon be taking Louis van Gaal's spot...

GOAL - Chelsea 3-0 Sunderland

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No mistake.

Oscar steps up and rolls the ball into the corner of the net.

Jose Mourinho's name is sung loudly by the Chelsea fans.

A chance for Chelsea to make the match safe.

Willian latches on to Pedro's pass, rounds goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon and is caught by the Sunderland goalkeeper.

Oscar to take...

PENALTY TO CHELSEA

SUBSTITUTION

Stephane Sessegnon replaces James Morrison for West Brom in midfield at half time.

They wouldn't...

Mark Pougatch

Presenter, on BBC Radio 5 live

KICK-OFF

Wayne Rooney gets us back under way at Old Trafford - with the game's other matches about to follow suit...

Sunderland make their second change of the afternoon. Forward Fabio Borini replaces the ineffectual midfielders Ola Toivonen.

Under way here.

Football League latest

Brentford are cruising 3-0 at home to Huddersfield, Nottingham Forest lead MK Dons, who are without an away win in nine attempts, 2-0. Burnley are 1-0 ahead at home to Charlton, Derby lead 1-0 at Ipswich and it's all square between Bristol City and QPR, Fulham lead at Bolton, and Rotherham are looking to spring a surprise against Hull, who they lead 1-0.

Problems?

Reuters

69.6% possession.

0 shots on target.

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The goal train

Jamie Vardy's fresh record may be under threat already!

Could VIlla end up in League One?

Jermaine Jenas

Ex-Villa and Newcastle midfielder on BBC Radio 5 live

"I’ve seen it happen with my own town, Nottingham Forest – they went down from the top flight and then again. it’s doable. Villa are holding on rather than pushing the boat out. Bolton and Charlton are near the bottom of the Championship – it’s ruthless. They were both Premier League teams in recent years.

"Villa are a big club. A lot of top players would go there. Some players are wilting away, like Andros Townsend. At some point if you have aspirations for going to Euro 2016, you have to play, it doesn’t matter who for, so Roy Hodgson can remember him. They need to stay in the league – you need to get players who are driven, who have a cause, something to play for. It can’t be a financial thing at all."

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Leicester will definitely be top on Christmas Day if they win today but as it stands, Arsenal could take the spot with a win on Monday night. 

'Wickham hit that so hard!'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"I think that was a penalty, a challenge from behind. It was soft but it was a spot-kick. And Wickham hit that so hard - it hit the back of the net and straight back out again!"

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HALF-TIME

Bournemouth will expect to go on and win this after James McClean's stupid red card.

HALF-TIME

An impressive half of football from Chelsea. Not so from Sunderland.

I suggest Jose Mourinho doesn't watch Match of the Day this evening - or at least go to the bathroom during the Chelsea highlights.

The players who were so hopelessly bad during the last few months of his reign, have miraculously found their form again.

Football League latest

That's four goals in one-and-a-half games for Thomas Ince, the in-form midfielder who has put Derby 1-0 up at Ipswich. The Rams will claim second place ahead of Brighton if they can hold onto their lead. Burnley, who are without a win in six games, lead Charlton thanks to a goal from Scott Arfield.

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"Everybody laughed at me when I said Crystal Palace would finish above Spurs this season. 

"But they have played well again today - and without Yohan Cabaye. They are set up well for the counter attack."

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HALF-TIME

A very enjoyable half of football. Well done all. 

'Spurs are heading into the top four'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"As it stands Spurs are heading into the top four, ahead of Manchester United on goal difference. Tottenham really should be targeting a top four finish."

HALF-TIME

What an end to the half for Crystal Palace.

Wilfried Zaha is running away from goal inside the penalty area, when Glenn Whelan inexplicably trips him.

Connor Wickham steps up and converts the penalty. Against the run of play, but they will take it.

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Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"I just wonder if there was a bit of confusion in the Southampton defence, because Harry Kane was in an offside position in the middle. But Dele Alli runs off the the right-back and slots it in.

"For me the assistant referee was correct to wave play on."  

HALF-TIME

Reuters

BOOS at Old Trafford. 

GOAL - Stoke 0-1 Crystal Palace

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HALF-TIME

PENALTY FOR CRYSTAL PALACE

CLOSE!

Bournemouth should be ahead.

Junior Stanislas stands up a delicious cross from the right but, from just five yards, he Matt Ritchie heads wide.

Football League latest

Gareth Evans has equalised for Portsmouth with their 15th goal in the last five league games, as they look to record an eighth match unbeaten against leaders Northampton.

It's not just Chelsea's players responding to their manager being sacked. Luton, who parted company this week with John Still, lead 2-0 at Exeter after goals from Cameron McGeehan and Danny Green. Caretaker Andy Awford must reckon this management lark is easy.

Alli at the double

It's all gone wrong for Southampton in the space of a few minutes, and there is some more rank defending here. Kyle Walker has all sorts of room down the right, he puts over a low cross and everyone switches off, they must think that Dele Alli is offside! he's very much not though and he steers home with ease. 

Reuters

And still Chelsea come...

Oscar drives forward, Pedro crosses and goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon collects,

This looks like the old Chelsea.

'Southampton's defending was comical'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Brilliant finish from Harry Kane, once he got through. 

"But Southampton's defending was comical - Kane ran through three challenges with no-one getting any contact on the ball or the man."  

GOAL - Southampton 0-2 Tottenham

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Football League latest

Rotherham have lost their last three games to leave them in the relegation zone, but could all that be about to change? They lead fourth-placed Hull City thanks to a Lee Frecklington penalty. 

It's more bad news for rock-bottom Bolton, who have fallen behind to a first goal in almost two years from Luke Garbutt, the Fulham defender on loan from Everton. Lasse Vibe and Alan Judge had added to Brentford's lead against Huddersfield. It's 3-0 at Griffin Park.

Bournemouth are well on top against 10-man West Brom.

Plenty of patience from the Cherries as they await their chance.

Kane breaks the deadlock

Superb, individual goal from Harry Kane! The England man had it all to do when he collected the ball 40 yards out, with three defenders on him. But he beats the lot - Virgil van Dijk's rather rash lunge as last man helped him out - but once in on goal he provided a clinical side-footed finish into the corner.

Reuters

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea & Norwich striker on Final Score

"Cameron Jerome missed a sitter last week but that is a big goal for Norwich. They can cope with this - the way they play is set up for the counter attack." 

GOAL - Southampton 0-1 Tottenham

Jerome at Old Trafford!

As the awful weather descends upon Old Trafford, so does more woe as Norwich bundle themselves ahead. It's a scruffy goal as Cameron Jerome somehow breaks two half-hearted challenges and then shoots right through David de Gea - who was very poor there. Crisp-packet wrists!

HITS THE WOODWORK

Chance for Stoke as Erik Pieters sees his cross on the left deflected goalwards by Marco van Ginkel and it comes back off the post with the keeper beaten.

'That's happened to me!'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"It was an awful challenge! McClean has cleaned him out completely, and has lost his head. But, I'll be honest... that's happened to me!"

Chelsea are playing with real freedom.

Pedro swings the ball in from the left and Diego Costa heads wide.

Where were these players earlier this season?

GOAL - Man Utd 0-1 Norwich

Reuters

Harry Kane, on his 100th game in a Spurs shirt, has a shot saved easily by Paulo Gazzaniga. 

What are you doing James McClean?

Talk about gifting your opponents the advantage. The midfield takes a wild swing at Bournemouth's Adam Smith and connects.

A straight red card is the only option.

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That's seven Premier League games in a row that Romelu Lukaku has scored in now. A machine. 

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea striker on Final Score

"Romelu Lukaku was in the right place at the right time. Kasper Schmeichel made a terrific save from Ross Barkley's first shot, and when the rebound came to him Lukaku's finish was instinctive.

"Everton are superbly expansive going forward but that can be a weakness - Leicester look capable of exploiting them on the break." 

RED CARD FOR WEST BROM

West Brom striker Salomon Rondon's touchmap. 

Sums up the goalmouth action.

Opta

'Everton deserve the 1-1 scoreline'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"I think Everton deserve the 1-1 scoreline. And think... Lukaku now has a chance of passing Vardy's record!"

Lukaku leveller!

An excellent goal and Everton are deservedly level! Lovely, flowing football too as Romelu Lukaku tees up Tom Cleverley inside the box, he zips it on one more to Ross Barkley on his left, Barkley has the presence of mind to step inside a challenge but Kasper Schmeichel saves his effort.

Barkley then clips the ball back across goal only to see Andy King head it off the line, before Lukaku smashes the loose ball into the net!

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Chelsea are in cruise control.

The fans appear a tad happier than they were pre match, but Jose Mourinho's name is still not far from their lips.

Sunderland almost grab one against the run of play but Duncan Watmore - he has a degree don't you know - fires wide after some decent control.

GOAL - Everton 1-1 Leicester

Reuters

Here's the build-up to that Bojan shot which was tipped wide. Some nice play from Stoke who are beginning to impose themselves on the contest.  

.

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea striker on Final Score

"You can tell by the players' reaction it was definitely a penalty. Riyad Mahrez just stood up the keeper and slotted it in the corner." 

'Mahrez is full of confidence'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Mahrez is full of confidence. He took his time and slotted that penalty right into the corner. No question too - that was a penalty."

Football League latest

Can Chris Wilder celebrate his 100th game in charge of Northampton with a win? The leaders have started well against fourth-placed Portsmouth, Ryan Cresswell's header boosting their bid for an eighth consecutive victory as they enjoy a 1-0 advantage.

Carlisle have settled in well to their temporary base at Preston's Deepdale. Having been forced to switch their game against Notts County due to floods hitting their Brunton Park home, they lead 1-0 after a Danny Grainger penalty.

Mahrez Penalty

Jamie Vardy does not take the penalty as instead Riyad Mahrez steps up and glides the ball into the bottom corner with his left foot. Silky, nonchalant. The leaders on the march again - albeit against the run of play. 

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GOAL - Everton 0-1 Leicester

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Reuters

It's so, so easy for Chelsea.

This time, twinkle-toes Oscar dances through Sunderland's defence before shooting straight at goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon. He should score.

PENALTY TO LEICESTER

Ramiro Funes Mori brings down Shinji Okazaki! Clumsy!

Is there a better team to watch at the moment than Everton? What a lovely crisp, direct move as Gerard Deulofeu slides a perfectly-weighted pass down the right, Romelu Lukaku bundles his man over and then stands up a cross to the back post, Ross Barkley arrives on it like a train but a potentially amazing goal is ruined by the England man's sliced volley wide.

Goodison Park rings out its applause though...

A rare shot on goal at Stoke.

Bojan strikes from 20 yards and goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey parries it away.

Rex Features

Louis van Gaal promised Manchester United fans more passion and thunder this afternoon and while it's not Fergie Time just yet there are a few more efforts on goal coming in. Wayne Rooney has another strike from 20 yards, again though it's well off target.

SUBSTITUTION

At Stamford Bridge, Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce cuts a pretty forlorn figure on the sidelines.

A long afternoon ahead as Chelsea dominate. A third goal seems a matter of time...

The Black Cats bring midfield Adam Johnson on for Sebastian Coates. A switch to four at the back.

Football League latest

Early goals from Nelson Oliveira and Ryan Mendes have given Nottingham Forest a 2-0 lead at home to MK Dons. Brentford, who are unbeaten in 11 games against teams in the bottom half, have started well in their bid to stretch that run, Sergi Canos giving them the lead against Huddersfield.

Get Involved

Carl in Reading: The only "palpable" thing today is the support for Jose and discontent for players... Costa, Oscar and Fabregas all booed by crowd here at the Bridge.

Lisa: Players at the bridge getting stick and rightly so after selling out Jose and the fans  

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Norwich have had just 28% of the possession in this testing opening 20 minutes but as plenty of teams will tell you, that means nothing at Old Trafford this year.

Norwich do put their first attack together and Alex Tettey scuffs a left-footed shot wide form 20 yards. 

It's not a classic in the Potteries.

A clash of two in-form teams... but we are seeing little evidence of that so far.

The proverbial 'stinker' so far.

Get involved

Christian Eriksen has hit a speculator well wide for Spurs but it's the home side who remain in the driving seat(s). A test of Spurs' ambitions this afternoon?

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Buoyed by back-to-back wins over Manchester United and Chelsea, Bournemouth are looking full of purpose.

Neat, intricate, passing football from the Cherries that West Brom are struggling to deal with.

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England's got talent?

Plenty of England players on display today and Roy Hodgson is in the stands, sitting alongside the former Mrs. Les Dennis, Amanda Holden.

Juan Mata runs at the Norwich defence, they back off in fear and Mata slips it to Wayne Rooney, instant left-footed shot bobbles wide from 22 yards. All United, no shots on target yet.

'Chelsea look a different side'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Chelsea look a different side. They are playing with a fast tempo. Oscar just tried an audacious cross, something we were not seeing under Mourinho. 

"Looking at this, it's clear the players just weren't playing for Jose. They were unprofessional."

This is looking horrible for Sunderland.

Chelsea are all over them and the Black Cats don't look as though they will be climbing out of the relegation zone today...

You can follow the match live here

Football League latest

Not a good start for returning Burton boss Nigel Clough, as the League One leaders trail Doncaster after a seventh goal in nine games from Andy Williams. Struggling Blackpool lead play-off chasing Peterborough thanks to Mark Cullen, who followed up to score after his penalty was saved. Crewe's bid to climb off the foot of the table received a boost thanks to a goal from Ryan Lowe, but Fleetwood quickly levelled through David Ball.

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea striker on Final Score

"For these Chelsea players to turn up and play at this tempo today just shows how disgraceful they have been so far this season." 

Chelsea are enjoying themselves.

Branislav Ivanovic whips in a low cross from the right, it cannons off Sebastian Coates and Pedro rifles the ball into the net from inside the penalty area.

Jose Mourinho, if he is watching somewhere, must be thinking 'why couldn't they do this for me?"

The fans are asking the same question in song. Mourinho's continues to be sung by the fans.

In-form Everton are giving even-more-in-form Leicester a working over in these opening stages but here's the first sight of Jamie Vardy. He glides past players, even the mighty John Stones, with ease but he can't quite find a team-mate at the end of it. 

Two of the best counter-attacking sides in the trade going at it toe-to-toe. Pace!

GOAL - Chelsea 2-0 Sunderland

Rex Features

DISALLOWED GOAL

Wayne Rooney toe-bungs the ball into the bottom corner after a decent move for Manchester United - but he and Marouane Fellaini are clearly offside. 

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GREAT SAVE!

Southampton cut through Spurs again, Dusan Tadic down the left to find Sadio Mane in the 'D', he hits it first time at a good height for a keeper, and Hugo Lloris obliges with a flying save to his right/. Great start from the hosts. 

'He's done it again'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

Reuters

"It's interesting that Hiddink is watching on with Drogba sitting next to him...

"But that is a great corner, and how often have we seen the likes of Ivanovic score crucial goals for Chelsea? He's done it again."  

Crystal Palace start brightly.

They are having plenty of possession but, as yet, very few chances. 

This well get better.

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'Bournemouth's attacking football is in complete contrast to West Brom's'

Danny Mills

Former Man City defender, Final Score

"Bournemouth are in fantastic form, are on a real upward curve at the moment. Their attacking football is in complete contrast to West Brom's. There is absolutely no reason why the Cherries can't continue to pick up points and move up the table."

Everton have started brilliantly at a sodden Goodison Park. Ross Barkley is at the heart of a flowing move which ends with a low cross into the middle, and Aroune Kone is inches away from converting it. Think Gazza, Euro 96 semi-final. 

Chris Sutton

Former Chelsea striker on Final Score

"It's a superb header. Branislav Ivanovic has done brilliantly to generate that much power."

The perfect start to life after Jose Mourinho.

Willian's right-wing corner is met by Branislav Ivanovic, who heads the ball into the roof of the net.

The defender was jeered by some of his own fans pre match. He is cheered now.

The goal came just as the home supporters were in the middle of singing Jose Mourinho's name.

Sadio Mane remains one of the division's most exciting attackers and the Southampton man has the first moment of real danger at St Mary's, latching on to a searching ball over the top and taking aim but his shot is well blocked by former Saint Toby Alderweireld. 

GOAL - Chelsea 1-0 Sunderland

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Almost a stunner from West Brom.

James Morrison collects a hopeful punt from goalkeeper Boaz Myhill, before sending a looping volley inches wide.

Close, very close.

Everton make a strong start at Goodison, controlling the early possession with fit-again Leighton Baines on the ball plenty early on. Leicester in a neat black away kit today. 

Smart save from West Brom goalkeeper Boaz Myhill down low to his right as Bournemouth's Junior Stanislas tries his luck from 20 yards.

Not popular? Marouane Fellaini's first touch is a dreamy one on the chest, and he dribbles basketballer-like past two men to set Anthony Martial free on the left. He looks up and clips over a cross which Fellaini is close to meeting on the full.

Are you backing United?

KICK-OFF

Reuters

It is the last Saturday before Christmas, and all around the houses everyone is stirring. Let's do this!

The teams are out. "You let Jose down. You let us down." reads another banner.

A surreal atmosphere at a subdued Stamford Bridge... Jose Mourinho's name is sung by the fans.

Boos meet Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa's name. John Terry receives huge cheers.

Interim boss Guus Hiddink is sat next to Didier Drogba and Roman Abramovich. A return for Didier?

PA

PA

Wayne Rooney is keeping Sir Bobby Charlton busy these days isn't he? The legend hands Rooney a silver platter to mark his 500th game in a United shirt. 

Leaders Leicester look in buoyant mood but a word of warning, weather-wise. Parts of the country may be unseasonably warm but it is a filthy afternoon in Liverpool. Gloomy, murky, and very, very wet. A good day for slide tackles...

A blow for Bournemouth...

opta

Still Chelsea's special one?

"30 pieces of silver. Judas the Players v Jose one of us. The legend always in our hearts".

Another banner at Chelsea showing the love for sacked manager Jose Mourinho.

The teams are coming out...

Here come the players, Wayne Rooney back at the head of the line as Norwich parade a particularly unpleasant tracksuit top.

All set?

Christmas fever

You could not have given us more...

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'Instigator, innovator, inspiration'

John Motson

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"The innovations he introduced when Coventry manager were remarkable. He created the first all-seater stadium, he started the 'Sky Blues Train' to take fans to away matches, he even rode a horse on the pitch and wrote a song that resounded round Wembley. 

"It never stopped with Jim, and he moved into TV and became an innovator there too - the first pundit of his kind to use clips of matches to analyse what was going on on the pitch. He was original and revolutionary, and when he brought his gifts to the BBC, he found himself sitting next to a very nervous John Motson at my first ever FA Cup final in 1977, and would stay there by my side, a reassuring presence, until the 1987 edition.

"He thought of things before other people did. He had that perception and humanity, but also a great sense of humour. He was an instigator, an innovator, an inspiration. What more can I say about Jimmy Hill?"

You've said it all John. A wonderful tribute.

'It's been tough for the fans'

Final Score

PA

Chelsea captain John Terry in the tunnel at Stamford Bridge: "The players remain responsible. Our performances and league position are not good enough, and we're accountable for that. We need to start winning football matches. 

"It's been tough for the fans - we know how much they loved the manager. But if we get three points today we'll be back on track and back to winning ways."

Watching brief

Guus Hiddink is at Stamford Bridge.

The new Chelsea interim boss has just been pictured with owner Roman Abramovich behind a window.

He will just have a watching brief today...

As for Chelsea fans? There are plenty of pro Mourinho banners in evidence. "Our Jose sacrificed. Why?" says one.

AFP

AFP

Tune in now

Final Score

All the goals, gaffes and glory as fast at Danny Mills and Chris Sutton can describe them.

That is the stonking offer that Final Score is making you this afternoon in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

Train your antenna towards the Red Button or click at the top of this page on the play icon.

"A genuine football person"

Match of the Day presenter and former England captain Gary Lineker has been speaking about his memories of Jimmy Hill:

"It’s all very well having good ideas but most of his ideas became part of football’s fabric.

"He will be remembered as a genuine football person in all facets of the game. There are so many different sides to him but it all involved football. He was a football man.

"There will be a great degree of sadness, l know he had been ill for a long time, but he had a long and expansive life. Over the next few days whenever we gather there will be some genuinely warm reminiscences."

'He'd stick that bearded chin out and say things!'

Pat Murphy

BBC Radio 5 live Midlands football reporter

PA

"He was a great, great bloke to deal with. He'd stick that bearded chin out and say things that other people were afraid of saying. 

"I love that he used to get under the skin of Terry Venables on television. He wouldn't be part of that cosy punditry mafia. 

"I'm not sure there has been a greater all-rounder in football. The modern footballer owes him a lot. 

"I loved the way he would be contrary, and he would do it to get a reaction. 

"I can see him in my mind's eye, once bestride a horse on the Coventry City pitch. Can you imagine what a groundsman would say today?"

'Lukaku is a beast'

"Romelu Lukaku is a beast. Every time I listen to him, I’m always impressed. He seems very focused on becoming a great player.  

"Everton have been clinical this year and he’s at the forefront. He missed chances last Saturday, but they weren’t easy chances. He was getting into positions and getting the chances."

AP

Will injuries derail Leicester?

Jermaine Jenas

Ex-Spurs & England midfielder on BBC Radio 5 live

"At some point during these next two or three months, Leicester will pick up injuries here and there. Are they strong enough to sustain it? The next two or three months are pivotal. 

"They’ve been brilliant so far. But they’ve had few injuries compared to other teams in the league. 

"This will be a brilliant game bit I think Everton will win it."

Football League preview

Brighton's unbeaten record is GONE after Middlesbrough romped to a 3-0 win over lunch. Away from the battle of the top two at the Amex, there are seven other Championship games this afternoon. The best of this rest arguably takes place at Portman Road, where sixth-placed Ipswich host fourth-placed Derby. A win for the latter will take them into the top two.

Bolton boss Neil Lennon is hopeful the club will avoid administration, but what he really needs right now are points. Wanderers are six from safety at the bottom of the table and host Fulham today. Rotherham, who are just above Bolton, host Hull, while 22nd-placed Charlton face a tough trip to promotion-challenging Burnley.

Elsewhere, Bristol City host QPR, Huddersfield travel south to Brentford and Nottingham Forest face MK Dons.

Still time for that last-minute Christmas present...

Getty Images

Roll up! Roll up! 2016 Jose Mourinho calendars on sale at Stamford Bridge...

"A great, great man"

BBC

Match of the Day presenter and former England captain Gary Lineker has been speaking about his memories of Jimmy Hill:

"My first experience of TV was actually at the 1986 World Cup, when I came in for the final, and he was the first person to congratulate me on winning the golden boot when Diego Maradona didn’t score, he was always switched on in that way.

"He became a friend and we would sometimes play golf together. He was a great, great man.

"He was a genuine innovator, constantly thinking how to improve the game. He had a real love and affection for football but also really made things happen. He was very motivated, hugely ambitious."

Team news

Striker Graziano Pelle returns to the Southampton starting XI following injury and starts in place of Shane Long. Dusan Tadic is recalled after being on the bench for the loss at Crystal Palace and Jordy Clasie starts, with Maya Yoshida and Oriol Romeu dropping to the bench.

Southampton starting XI: Gazzaniga, Soares, Fonte, van Dijk, Bertrand, Wanyama, Clasie, Mane, Steven Davis, Tadic, Pelle. 

Subs: Kelvin Davis, Yoshida, Long, Romeu, Ward-Prowse, Juanmi, Targett.

BBC Sport

Tottenham make two changes from the side that lost at home to Newcastle last weekend. Ben Davies is in for Danny Rose at left-back, while Mousa Dembele returns from injury and replaces Tom Carroll in midfield.

Tottenham starting XI: Lloris, Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Davies, Dembele, Dier, Lamela, Alli, Eriksen, Kane.  

Subs: Bentaleb, Son, Vorm, Chadli, Wimmer, Carroll, Winks.

BBC S

"Football is the better for Jimmy Hill"

Match of the Day presenter and former England captain Gary Lineker has been speaking about his memories of Jimmy Hill:

"He was a Match of the Day presenter but when he worked at ITV sport he introduced the panel of experts that we now take for granted. I think at one stage on the BBC he actually presented and did all the analysis himself.

"He had a long and amazing life in football and football is much the better for Jimmy Hill.

“In my first ever presenting role at the European Championship in 1996 I was terribly nervous but Jimmy helped relax me. He was terribly magnanimous, and kind."

'He was the footballing equivalent of Christopher Columbus'

BBC Radio 5 Live

PA

PFA chairman Gordon Taylor on 5 live Sport: "As a young apprentice at Bolton I saw first-hand how Jimmy Hill had brought everyone together to abolish the maximum wage. All players owe him a big debt. 

"He is probably the football personality of my lifetime, and I've been in the game for a long time. He was just such a gentleman, so innovative. He was always thinking about the game. 

"He was the footballing equivalent of Christopher Columbus - a great explorer of ideas."

'One of the most important in football history'

Former Manchester United and Denmark goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has this tribute to Jimmy Hill:

A minute's silence

"An extraordinary man"

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Match of the Day presenter and former England captain Gary Lineker has been speaking about his memories of Jimmy Hill:

“He had such an extraordinary life, he was an extraordinary man. He was a football man through and through.

"The kind of things he introduced we now take for granted: the three points for a win, electronic scoreboards at matches, he built the first all-seater stadium, he abolished the maximum wage and I’m sure there are quite a few players, like myself, who will be grateful for that."

'I used to play a game then go home and watch Jimmy Hill'

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender at Goodison Park for 5 live Sport

"I used to play a game then go home and watch Jimmy Hill on Match of the Day. 

"I remember just after signing for Liverpool we'd played at Arsenal. Jimmy did his post-match analysis on me. On the Monday I turned up for training - Bob Paisley came over and asked if I'd seen Jimmy on Match of the Day? That was the boss' way of telling me I'd done well, because I'd been picked out for praise by Hill."

Football League preview

A change of manager didn't seem to halt Burton's momentum in their 3-0 win at Gillingham last Saturday. Today the League One leaders host mid-table Doncaster and will have new/returning boss Nigel Clough in the dug-out. Should Albion slip up, second-placed Coventry can close the gap at the top with victory over Oldham.

There is a significant battle at the bottom as 24th-placed Crewe host Fleetwood, who are four places and two points above them. Colchester and Barnsley are also in the relegation mix. They face Rochdale and Wigan, respectively. 

Elsewhere, Blackpool host Peterborough, Bradford are at Chesterfield, Millwall take on Gillingham, Scunthorpe face Sheffield United and Swindon travel to Shrewsbury.

'He was an innovator and a bit of a firebrand'

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live Football Correspondent

PA

"Think of the phrase “a football man”. Well, Jimmy Hill was the embodiment of that. He fulfilled virtually every role you can within the game. 

"He was an innovator and a bit of a firebrand. He was the PFA chairman instrumental in the scrapping of the maximum wage, which at the time was such a big story in football.

"He was ahead of his time by probably 20 or 30 years.

"And then, people will remember him on television – he had a brilliant TV career, a driving force behind punditry."

If you are just tuning in you may have missed the sad news that Jimmy Hill, one of English football's most influential figures, has died aged 87.

As chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association, he led the campaign for the scrapping of maximum wages for professional footballers.

The former Match of the Day presenter made more than 600 appearances on the programme.

His other numerous roles in football included player, manager, chairman and analyst.

Read much more about Jimmy's remarkable life in football here.

Team News

Stoke's Xherdan Shaqiri passes a late fitness test as he continues to struggle with a hamstring injury.

Phil Bardsley and Stephen Ireland miss out, while Geoff Cameron, Marc Muniesa, Shay Given, Peter Odemwingie and Peter Crouch are all still out.

Crystal Palace captain Mile Jedinak is again absent because of an ankle injury, although Joe Ledley is now fully fit.

Bakary Sako and Dwight Gayle remain sidelined with hamstring injuries.

Stoke XI: Butland; Johnson, Shawcross (c), Wollscheid, Pieters; Whelan, van Ginkel; Shaqiri, Afellay, Arnautovic; Bojan.

Crystal Palace XI: Hennessey; Ward, Dann, Delaney (c), Souare; McArthur, Ledley; Zaha, Puncheon, Bolasie; Wickham.  

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'What a top bloke he was'

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender at Goodison Park for 5 live Sport

"We owe a massive amount to Jimmy Hill. Three points for a win is one of his legacies. He made so many appearances on Match of the Day, and I worked with him loads.

"He was a funny man, very clever. A great fella and a massive, massive influence. 

"Today’s players should have a lot of thanks for what Jimmy Hill did in football. What a top bloke he was."

Team news

West Brom manager Tony Pulis names an unchanged starting line-up from the one that drew 2-2 with Liverpool.

Opta

Bournemouth name an unchanged XI from the one that started in the win against Manchester United.

Opta

Chelsea first team coach Steve Holland has made two changes to the team that Jose Mourinho picked for the Leicester game on Monday. Cesc Fabregas and Pedro both come in for Ramires and Eden Hazard respectively.

Chelsea XI: Courtois; Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry, Azpilicueta; Matic, Fabregas; Willian, Oscar, Pedro; Costa.  

Opta

Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce makes three changes as Younes Kaboul, Jermain Defoe and Jack Rodwell all come into the side.    

Sunderland XI: Pantilimon, Jones, Coates, Kaboul, O’Shea,Van Aanholt, M’Vila, Rodwell, Toivonen, Watmore, Defoe.  

Opta

'Van Gal has the reins on'

Jermaine Jenas

Ex-Spurs & England midfielder on BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

"They [Manchester United] look like a group of players not happy with the way they’re playing, the direction they’re being led in. Each manager looks at each team differently. 

"At Spurs, Juande Ramos said he’d free me up and not to worry about defensive play and I loved it. But Harry Redknapp came in and he wanted me to have more of a responsible role and hold back. 

"Louis van Gaal has the reins on them too much. They look like they’re doing what they’re told – his methods almost guarantee that you’ll get OK results – but they’re not enjoying that or getting the best out of each individual."

Butland for England?

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Predict the unpredictable

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It may have been mentioned once or twice that this season has been the most coupon-busting of coupon-busting seasons.

Unpredictable? Not half.

So why not have a go at seeing if you can buck the trend with our Football Predictor game - you can play it right here.

Team news

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney returns after injury and makes his 500th appearance for the club. Chris Smalling also returns and partners Phil Jones, while Ashley Young gets a start.

Man Utd XI: De Gea, Young, Jones, Smalling, Blind, Carrick, Fellaini, Memphis, Mata, Martial, Rooney

BBC

Declan Rudd continues in goal for Norwich, while Cameron Jerome leads the Canaries line alone up front.

Norwich XI: Rudd; Martin, Bennett, Bassong, Olsson; Redmond, O'Neil, Tettey, Brady; Hoolahan; Jerome

BBC

Cherries on top?

Alan Green

BBC Match of the Day commentator

Reuters

"While, clearly, Tony Pulis incurred the wrath of Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for West Brom's reliance on 'long balls' last Sunday, the Baggies' manager is rightly concentrating on his primary task - keeping the club in the Premier League.

"I wonder if he looks on with a little envy at the contrast in views displayed towards Eddie Howe. I never hear a word of criticism about the Bournemouth boss who clearly decided promotion wasn't an excuse to ditch the attractive principles underlying their football.

"Whether in defeat or, recently, in those victories at Chelsea and against Manchester United, the Cherries are a joy to watch. Is it conceivable, in this 'daft' season, they can win a third consecutive game?"

Off target

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And to think, Stoke scored three against Man City a couple of weeks ago.

Cherries strikers not pulling their weight?

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Team news

Striker Graziano Pelle returns to the Southampton starting XI following injury and starts in place of Shane Long. Dusan Tadic is recalled after being on the bench for the loss at Crystal Palace and Jordy Clasie starts, with Maya Yoshida and Oriol Romeu dropping to the bench.

Southampton starting XI: Gazzaniga, Soares, Fonte, van Dijk, Bertrand, Wanyama, Clasie, Mane, Steven Davis, Tadic, Pelle. 

Subs: Kelvin Davis, Yoshida, Long, Romeu, Ward-Prowse, Juanmi, Targett.

BBC Sport

Tottenham make two changes from the side that lost at home to Newcastle last weekend. Ben Davies is in for Danny Rose at left-back, while Mousa Dembele returns from injury and replaces Tom Carroll in midfield.

Tottenham starting XI: Lloris, Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Davies, Dembele, Dier, Lamela, Alli, Eriksen, Kane.  

Subs: Bentaleb, Son, Vorm, Chadli, Wimmer, Carroll, Winks.

BBC Sport

Leicester make three changes

Reuters

Everton,unbeaten in six Premier League games, name an unchanged side. So that means Romelu Lukaku can have a go at scoring in seven consecutive league matches.

Everton XI: Howard, Baines, Funes Mori, Stones, Coleman, Barry, Cleverley, Kone, Barkley, Deulofeu, Lukaku

Subs: Joel, Gibson, Mirallas, Lennon, Besic, Osman, Galloway

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Claudio Ranieri makes three changes. Robert Huth and Danny Drinkwater have hamstring problems, so Marcin Wasilewski and Andy King come in. And upfront Shinji Okazaki replaces Leonardo Ulloa.  

Leicester XI: Schmeichel, Simpson, Morgan, Wasilewski, Fuchs, Mahrez, Kanté, King, Albrighton, Okazaki, Vardy

Subs: De Laet, Kramaric, Ulloa, Dyer, Benalouane, Schwarzer, Inler

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Remembering Jimmy

Football League preview

Northampton fans have been on a rollercoaster of emotion so far this season. Having avoided folding entirely, the club are now top of League Two. However, today they face a tough test courtesy of a visit from fourth-placed Portsmouth, who are proving a tough nut to crack this season. Second-placed Oxford and Plymouth, who are third, will be hoping to usurp the Cobblers at the top. They are at Wycombe and Hartlepool, respectively. 

York and Yeovil are both on 12 points at the bottom of the table. The former face Morecambe at Bootham Crescent, while the latter are at play-off chasing Leyton Orient. Dagenham and Redbridge are just a point above the duo and host Bristol Rovers.

Elsewhere, Barnet take on Crawley, Cambridge host Mansfield, Carlisle face Notts County, Luton are at Exeter, Newport host AFC Wimbledon and Stevenage play Accrington.

Coming up on BBC radio

BBC Radio 5 Live

BBC Radio 5 live full match commentary of the 15:00 BST kick-off between Everton and Leicester, plus updates from around the grounds as the goals go in.

And later this evening you can have your say on the big football stories on 606 with Robbie Savage and Darren Fletcher, from 18:06.

Relegation form from United?

#bbcfootball

The end of the drought?

ap

Will a change in manager lead to a change in form up front?

Diego Costa has scored just three goals in 13 Premier League appearances this season - in his first 13 appearances of last season he had netted 12 goals.

RIP Jimmy

Team News

Getty Images

The big news from Old Trafford is that Wayne Rooney returns... Full team news to follow.

'Manchester United stand out on the list for Mourinho'

BBC Radio 5 Live

Reuters

Sam Wallace, football writer at the Independent, on 5 live Sport: "Jose's statement, issued via his representatives this morning, is very defiant.

"Isn't he basically saying to Manchester United that he is available when necessary? Looking at the great clubs of Europe which he hasn't either managed before or burned bridges with, Manchester United stand out on the list!"

Team News

Getty Images

Stand by for team news from our 15:00 GMT games...

Lukaku wrestles an Everton great

Shay Given

Stoke keeper on Football Focus

"If Romelu Lukaku's been wrestling with Duncan Ferguson as he says... that will really help him I can tell you... I was with Duncan at Newcastle. He is a really strong man. 

"He'll be learning from the best. Ferguson's an Everton great and will have spoken to him and told him what he needs to do to be a success there."

'Lukaku is so strong with such physique'

Trevor Sinclair

Former England winger on Football Focus

Reuters

"Romelu Lukaku seems like a really nice lad - I'm not sure he's a natural at being edgy or nasty. But a striker needs that edge, and his link-up play has been different class last season. He didn't have that in his game last season. He is so strong with such physique, and this year he looks a miles better player.

"But I'd still rate Jamie Vardy above him, because of his pace. If a defence haven't got pace then you just can't match him."

Perfect 10?

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Have you heard that Manchester United don't score a lot of goals? It may have been mentioned once or twice...

Remembering Jimmy

Fulham, one of Jimmy Hill's former clubs, have confirmed that they will be wearing black armbands in tribute this afternoon.

Fulham are at Bolton.

Romelu's run

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Romelu Lukaku and Jamie Vardy on the same pitch? If we don't get at least 17 goals I want a refund.

Remembering Jimmy

'Norwich can either bring players in, or coach the ones they have'

Trevor Sinclair

Former England winger on Football Focus

Reuters

"Norwich can either bring players in during January, or coach the players they have to create better performances and deliver better results. 

"The manager will be working on his strategies, but I'm sure he'll also be looking at the transfer market."

Today's action

It's a huge afternoon of football news already. Please keep your reactions and tributes to the late, great Jimmy Hill coming in, as well as your thoughts on Chelsea's managerial situation.

Coming up though we will have team news for all of this afternoon's games:

Chelsea v Sunderland

Everton v Leicester

Man Utd v Norwich

Southampton v Tottenham

Stoke v Crystal Palace

West Brom v Bournemouth

'There are no leaders on that pitch'

BBC Radio 5 Live

Tim Rolls, Chelsea Supporters Trust on 5 live Sport: "Everyone knew we needed a striker and a centre-back in pre-season, and we didn't get them. And there are no leaders on that pitch. The hierarchy makes the final decisions at Chelsea regarding transfers."

Are Blues fans backing the Board?

What next?

This afternoon's other major talking point of course is the appointment of Guus Hiddink at Chelsea. What next for the Premier League champions?

Jimmy Hill

If you only remember Jimmy Hill as a superb TV pundit, you may not know all he achieved in the game.

It's an outstanding story - one that Hollywood are no doubt considering.

Read all about it here.

RIP, Jimmy Hill

Hill reaction

He really did do it all...

Can Saints' decade-long wait end today?

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Had anyone else forgotten Andy Reid used to play for Spurs?

Martinez should avoid Foxes curse

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Goodison Park

PA

"First Garry Monk, then Jose Mourinho - but we can relax about Roberto Martinez being safe enough to beat the Leicester curse of the last fortnight.

"Just beating them will be a big enough challenge, with the Foxes guaranteed to be top at Christmas with yet another win. Last year they were bah-humbug bottom.

"For the first time this season they'll have a changed central defensive duo - not ideal when facing Romelu Lukaku, the only man stopping the table-toppers from also having the top two scorers in the Premier League in their team."

Jimmy Hill dies at 87

Jimmy Hill dies at 87

Getty Images

Jimmy Hill dies at 87

There will be many of you who, like me, grew up with Jimmy Hill as a BBC pundit and presenter.

His achievements in football are really remarkable, from player to chairman, linesman to pundit, and everything else in between.

If you would like to share any memories on our page this afternoon you can tweet us at #bbcfootball or text us on 81111 (UK Only). 

Getty Images

BreakingBreaking news

BBC Sport

Some sad news to bring you.

Jimmy Hill, one of English football's most influential figures, has died aged 87. 

As chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association, he led the campaign for the scrapping of maximum wages for professional footballers.  

The former Match of the Day presenter made more than 600 appearances on the programme. His other numerous roles in football included player, manager, chairman and analyst.

You can read more here.

'We have been backing Mourinho throughout the season'

BBC Radio 5 Live

David Chidgey of the Chelsea Fancast on 5 live Sport: "A lot of the match-going fans will be disappointed - we have been backing Mourinho throughout the season, regardless of how bad the results have been. 

"I blame the players, the ones who kick the ball on the pitch and who have been so poor this season. They need to look in the mirror and admit that, for whether reason, they haven't been performing."

'One of the biggest clubs in the world'

Chelsea

New interim Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink: "I am excited to return to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the world but is not where it should be at the moment. However, I am sure we can all turn this season around.

"I am looking forward to working with the players and staff at this great club and especially renewing my wonderful relationship with the Chelsea fans."

PA

BreakingHiddink appointed

Chelsea

That's that one wrapped up then. Chelsea have re-appointed former manager Guus Hiddink as manager until the end of the season.

Getty Images

Watford strikers impress pundits

BBC Radio 5 Live

Jermaine Jenas: "Watford’s form is down to the organisation Quique Sanchez Flores has put in place. Defensively they look so solid too and then they have Troy Deeney and Odion Ighalo up front."

Gary Bowyer: "Watford’s front two are unbelievable. They were such a handful in the Championship. You always have a chance when you have strikers like that. They had fantastic movement and great understanding. You can’t keep them quiet for too long."

Getty Images

Not bad by half

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I wonder where Alan Pardew's side would be in a table of half-time results?

Bad away days

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At least it's not a long journey back to Norfolk from pretty much every away game.

Oh, wait...

What next?

Dillon Naidoo: La Liga made Mourihno lazy. He only had to focus on one opponent. Here he has to focus on all of them.

Fouadyounis: JM should go for Swansea, they are in a relegation battle and no top class players. JM could prove alot there!

All eyes on Poch

John Motson

BBC Match of the Day commentator

Getty Images

"The focus on this game will inevitably be on Mauricio Pochettino, who led Southampton to eighth in his one full season in charge and guided Tottenham to fifth last term.

"The Argentine has had a profound influence at both clubs - constructing young sides who play attractive, attacking football.

"And he has also played a key role in developing English talent - of England's last 17 debutants, 10 were being coached by Pochettino at the time.

"Both sides come into this match on the back on defeats, with Saints winless in five league and cup games, and Tottenham smarting from an unexpected defeat at home to Newcastle."

Double centurion

There are six Premier League games coming up at 15:00 GMT - so what are the other lines away from Chelsea?

Championship latest

Brighton's long, long unbeaten record is under serious threat now as Middlesbrough grab a second before the break. Albert Adomah is trying to claim it but it looks like an own goal to me.

Follow that game in full here.

Mourinho's statement 'has defiance written across it'

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live Football Correspondent

Getty Images

"That statement from Jose Mourinho is, I think, a direct response to talk of a "palpable discord" between manager and players. 

"It's very interesting that he mentions the supporters in the first sentence but makes no mention at all to any player or to the owner. He says he isn't tired and is very positive - that has defiance written across it. 

"I also think that it's interesting in the section where he makes it plain that he will continue to live in London. To me, that suggests he is saying that he is open to the idea of continuing to work in England..."

Where next?

Mourinho for England?

He's at Brighton this afternoon but where is Jose Mourinho going next? Manchester United? Fulham? Bayern Munich? England?

Our chief football writer Phil McNulty tells us his thoughts here. (Full disclosure: he doesn't mention Fulham)

Meanwhile Real Madrid say he's not on his way back to the Spanish capital to replace old nemesis Rafael Benitez.

Getty Images

Could Wembley be Jose Mourinho's permanent home as England boss?

Just where did it go wrong?

Complacency? Losing the dressing room? Third season syndrome?

Where did it go wrong for Jose Mourinho at Chelsea? Our chief football writer Phil McNulty investigates.

AP

Hiddink to be confirmed today

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

"Chelsea hope to announce Guus Hiddink later today on a deal until the end of the season."

How Mourinho antics dominated social media

BBC Sport

Jenas doubts player power reports

Jermaine Jenas

Ex-Spurs & England midfielder on BBC Radio 5 live

"People keep talking about player power like it’s brand new. It’s been around forever. But no-one in that dressing room is saying 'let’s down tools'. Nobody wants to embarrass themselves. 

"But you can get to a point where you think I can’t follow the manager’s path and you’re not giving it your all. 

"In Chelsea’s situation, I watched certain games, like Stoke away, where the players put in a decent performance and looked like they were giving their all for the manager. 

"Giving what he did for the players last year, leading them to the title, I’d be surprised if it was a case of player power and let’s get the gaffer sacked. It doesn’t happen like that."

Terry has his say on Mourinho

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea captain John Terry has used his programme notes to deny suggestions player unrest saw off manager Jose Mourinho.

He writes: “We are aware there have been rumours about player power at the club but I want to make it clear that is not the case. We leave all the decisions to Mr. Abramovich and the board and know our job, as players, is to focus on getting results on the pitch.”

Bored of talking about Chelsea and Jose yet?

I've got bad news for you - we're nowhere near finished with it...

'Something needed to be done'

Chelsea

Getty Images

You were all watching Chelsea TV on Thursday night, yeah?

Well in case you missed it - technical director Michael Emenalo stuck the boot in a bit to Jose Mourinho.

A "palpable discord between manager and players," he called it.

"This club is in trouble and something needed to be done."

 Read more about it here.

Championship latest

It's an open and entertaining game so far down on the south coast, where on-loan Manchester United forward James Wilson has just screwed Brighton's best chance wide of the target.

Will we be seeing both of these sides in the Premier League next season?

You can follow that game in full here.

It's all about you...

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Even in his last week it was all about him. His players had 'betrayed' his work. He had delivered the title by overachieving with players who weren't really up to it.

"Now the Jose Mourinho soap opera starring, directed by and produced by himself has been pulled. Grim stats read nine defeats in the opening 16 games - Chelsea's worst start since 1978-79's relegation. He still might have hung on though if not for this week's stinging barbs. Bridges were burned."

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"The new manager will have to hit the ground running. Though Mourinho insisted Chelsea weren't in a relegation fight, Premier League history suggests they have less than a 50-50 chance of staying up!

"Of the 92 teams to have 15 points or fewer from their opening 16 games - 52% of them went down."

Buck explains Mourinho sacking

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has written a column in today's match programme for the game against Sunderland explaining the decision to sack manager Jose Mourinho.

Buck writes: "The difficult decision was made for Jose Mourinho to leave the club. I can assure you it was not a decision we took lightly. Nor was it a spur of the moment decision. Mr. Abramovich and the board agonised over it for some time."

He added: "But the start we have made to the season has come as a major disappointment to the owner, the Board and Chelsea fans everywhere and I think it is fair to say nobody expected us to be in the position we are in the Premier League just before Christmas."

Buck also says: "We are one of the biggest clubs in  the world and we are all determined, as a collective unit, to get back to where we should be."

An elite group...

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Only 14 other managers have reached this "achievement".

Does this mean Tony Pulis loses a lot of games? Or does it just mean he's managed a load of games?

Let's go with the latter.

Hiddink close to Chelsea deal

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

"Guus Hiddink is close to finalising a deal to become Chelsea manager on an interim basis.

"The 69-year-old Dutchman has yet to sign a contract but is understood to be happy with talks he held with Chelsea's hierarchy on Thursday.

"He will watch today's visit of Sunderland from the stands at Stamford Bridge.

"Coaches Steve Holland and Eddie Newton will be in charge of the team, with Hiddink sitting in the seats surrounding Blues owner Roman Abramovich.

"The former Netherlands coach will take his 15th role in management across club and international football.

"He plans to work with British coaches rather than turn immediately to foreign staff he has worked with previously."

Don't expect goals

Simon Brotherton

MOTD commentator at Britannia Stadium

Reuters

"Stoke were really impressive in beating Manchester City 2-0 in their last home game and this one is a sellout, but Crystal Palace will likely prove to be stubborn opponents.

"They've won 10 away games in the league since Alan Pardew took over in January, a figure bettered only by Arsenal (12 victories) in that time.

"It'll probably be tight with goals at a premium. Stoke have kept clean sheets in seven of the last nine in the league, while Palace have only let in half a dozen goals on the road."

Championship update

Jose Mourinho has seen a very early goal as Kike stoops to plant a diving header into the net and put Middlesbrough in charge.

Follow that game here.

Don't cross the Saints

While we're on the south coast, let's take a look at another game in the region today.  

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Southampton manager Ronald Koeman seemed a bit down when faced with the media this week. The Dutchman said his side must improve their "productivity." 

The Saints go into their meeting with Tottenham with just one draw to show from their last five matches, form which leaves them 12th in the table.

KICK-OFF

Our first game of the afternoon is under way, with top place in the Championship up for grabs and with a certain Mr. Mourinho watching on.

Getty Images

You can follow that game in its own live page here. 

Your festive football tales

Tell us of the football trips you've made at Christmas, the gifts & the games you've played in...

Getty Images

Tweet using #bbcfootball, or text on 81111 (UK only and please include a name). Alternatively, post a comment on the MOTD Facebook page.

'Jose's no beach bum'

Shay Given

Stoke keeper on Football Focus

"I don't think Jose Mourinho will be out of the game too long. In a sense he could well have his choice of the top clubs, because we look set to have this managerial merry-go-round. There's pressure on Louis van Gaal, everybody wants Pep Guardiola... 

"One thing is for sure, Mourinho won't be sitting on the beach for too long." 

Jose's had a trim...

Jose Mourinho is definitely at the Amex Stadium and he's starting afresh in more ways than one. That's a close shave. Looks like a number two all over to me.

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'Chelsea's stars should be embarrassed'

Trevor Sinclair

Former England winger on Football Focus

Getty Images

"Chelsea's stars should be embarrassed. Mourinho is a great manager with a great record of winning trophies. But he's just been sacked, and if you're one of the players in the squad who has not been performing for him, than that is simply unacceptable. There has to be pride in the badge."

Chelsea players in for frosty reception?

Shay Given

Stoke keeper on Football Focus

"It's easy to sit here and say Chelsea's poor league position is the manager's fault. The players have to perform better. 

"Today's game will be interesting because the fans seem to be very much behind Jose Mourinho. What will their reaction to the players be like?"

We've found Jose and he's at...

BBC Radio 5 Live

There are reports on 5 live Sport that Jose Mourinho will be attending today's early Championship kick-off between Brighton and Middlesbrough (12:30 GMT).

Mourinho is an associate of Boro boss Aitor Karanka - his former number two at Real Madrid - and the ex-Chelsea manager made is clear in his statement this morning: "Because of his love of football, you will see Jose at grounds working and supporting friends."

Has the Special One flown south for the winter?

There is a live commentary of the game at the Amex Stadium here.

PA

'Mourinho could have gone sooner'

Graeme Le Saux

BBC Football Focus

On BBC One's Football Focus: "When a player is looking for his manager to be in control of the situations, I think that’s where he struggled. 

"So much of what he did off the pitch would have raised questions within the dressing room, some of his post-match comments about performances, his deflection onto other factors, excuses about how the team were playing, whether it was officials or ballboys getting a mention.

"In some ways I was surprised he had his job for so long. I thought the club were very loyal to him and one of the main factors behind that were the fans, they stood by him. They deserve a lot of credit in that they didn’t turn on him.

"He brings people with him and gets them to buy into his philosophy, but it comes with consequences. It is very much about him, he doesn’t have the ability to see things from a different perspective and he creates unnecessary conflict I think. 

"All of those factors that help him be successful are probably the same factors that end in failure because it is such an intense relationship that it’s unsustainable."

Your festive football tales

Tell us of the football trips you've made at Christmas, the gifts & the games you've played in... Jamie Vardy's face atop your tree?

Tweet using #bbcfootball, or text on 81111 (UK only and please include a name). Alternatively, post a comment on the MOTD Facebook page.    

Watch Football Focus now

Football Focus

Join Football Focus for a preview of the weekend’s action on BBC One now. Trevor Sinclair and Shay Given are on the sofa today and you can watch them by clicking 'live coverage' at the top of this page.

You can watch reaction as all the goals go withFinal Score, live on the Red Button from 14:30 and on BBC One from 16:30 except for viewers in Scotland, who can watch Sportscene from the same time. 

And of course later there’ll be Match of the Day – today it’s on at 22:30 on BBC One.

'Mahrez maybe best player in England'

Gary Bowyer

Former Blackburn manager on BBC Radio 5 live

Getty Images

"Leicester have been massively impressive. Nigel Pearson deserves a lot of credit. He recruited a lot of the squad. 

"The exciting thing is a lot of players are from the Championship and they’ve got better and better. Riyad Mahrez was bought for about £400,000 when they were in the Championship and he’s maybe the best player in the Premier League at the moment."

'Let's get it'

Everton keeper Tim Howard is up for it...

You'll have your work cut out though Tim, this Leicester side ain't half bad.

'Van Gaal is a Picasso manager'

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Old Trafford

AP

Pablo Picasso"s 'Man with a Sword', a self-portrait of the artist as a musketeer created in 1969, in case you don't recognise it

"When was there last any real excitement at Old Trafford? You could almost distil the moments of genuine joy down to Anthony Martial's body swerve and sweeping finish against Liverpool. The rest has been much ado about nothing.

"If United can't break down Norwich, expect the spotlight which had been on Jose Mourinho to fall squarely on Louis van Gaal. 

"United's lengthy injury list doesn't help, but nor does it dispel the feeling that he's proving to be a Picasso manager: some see genius, others see someone putting all the right bits in all the wrong places."

Festive Theatre of nightmares...

Manchester United

A festive design welcomes any reader of Manchester United's official match programme today.

"We have to win because when you lose too much, also for me it's the end of the world," United boss Louis van Gaal told reporters this week.

Did you know United have beaten Norwich 4-0 in their last three meetings at Old Trafford. What chance that happening again though? The Red Devils have scored just 10 goals at home all season - that's the lowest home return of any Premier League side.

Shoot on sight

BBC Sport

If Chelsea want to get back to winning ways today, they'll probably have plenty of opportunities to do it.

Has Hiddink lost his mojo?

"It remains to be seen whether his failure as Netherlands boss last year has had a great effect on Hiddink. It may well be that the veteran boss has come out a little bit jaded and not quite as confident as he used to be."

We asked Dutch football journalist Elko Born what Guus Hiddink has done since his first spell at Chelsea. Find out here.

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What did the managers think?

Arsene Wenger

This image of a doctored Arsene Wenger smile was prolifically shared on social media in the aftermath of Jose Mourinho's sacking at Chelsea.

But was the Arsenal manager really that happy? You can find out as we have made a video which gathers the reaction of Premier League managers to the news of Mourinho's dismissal.Watch it by clicking here.

Get your XI in the right frame of mind

Saturday means football which in turn means it's time to iron out your Fantasy Football side ahead of the Christmas fixtures.

Has Jamie Vardy peaked? Any more mileage in Riyad Mahrez? Do you know the pair are the most selected players in the game at the moment?

The team below is called 'Barcafellova' and it's top from roughly 3.5 million players involved in the Premier League's official game.

Premier League

Did Mourinho pull one final trick?

Like a conspiracy theory? Of course you do.

My colleague Mike Henson dug deep to find out if it was really Jose Mourinho in the photo on the back pages. Read that here.

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Get Involved

Today we are asking you for your Christmas football tales. The matches you've really worked to get to, the dodgy Christmas presents linked to the beautiful game, the games you've played in.

Send them to #bbcfootball, text 81111 or comment on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

The back pages

Is former Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti on his way to Bayern Munich? It's on the front of Italian sports paper La Gazzetta dello Sport... 

Gazzetta dello Sport

Day off to a flyer

Comedian Bob Mortimer has had a victorious Saturday so far...

Can Brighton return top?

We have a Christmas cracker of an early match in the Championship for you, where league leaders Middlesbrough travel to second-placed, and unbeaten, Brighton.

You can follow a live text online and commentary on BBC Radio 5 live and online. Former Southampton and Middlesbrough midfielder Neil Maddison will be pundit on BBC Radio Tees.

The back pages

Spanish sports paper AS leads on a mouthwatering transfer story. They claim Robert Lewandowski has not shut down talk of a potential move from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid.

AS paper

The back pages

And a look at The Daily Mirror follows on from The Independent nicely as the paper leads on Louis van Gaal stating he faces "the end of the world" if results do not improve at Manchester United.

Mirror

The back pages

Football managers are under attack it seems. Where is the festive cheer?

The Independent leads with a look at the two Manchester-based managers - Louis van Gaal and Manuel Pellegrini. It statest they "are fighting for their future".

Independent

Your festive football tales

Tell us of the football trips you've made at Christmas, the gifts & the games you've played in...

Getty Images

Tweet using #bbcfootball, or text on 81111 (UK only and please include a name). Alternatively, post a comment on the MOTD Facebook page.

The back pages

Chelsea dominate the back pages as you can imagine and The Star claim owner Roman Abramovich has "urged his players to make a fresh start".

The Blues take on Sunderland later they could end up in the relegation zone should Norwich win at Manchester United,

Star

Why would Chelsea want Vardy?

Richie de Laet

Did you know that if you combine goals scored and assists, Leicester City have the two most productive individuals this season?

Jamie Vardy has a combined 17 goals and assists, with Riyad Mahrez one ahead of the striker. Everton's Romelu Lukaku has 16 goals and assists combined.

These are lofty times at the King Power Stadium. This week Leicester's players had Christmas lunch after training and engaged in a bit of fancy dress. Who is this?

The back pages

And The Sun lead today with a transfer target for Guus Hiddink already. It may not surprise you but the Premier League's top scorer - Jamie Vardy - is reportedly top of the list. Thoughts Leicester fans?

The Sun

The back pages

Express

So Jose Mourinho's sacking has seemingly left a void which Guus Hiddink will fill in the short term, but what about next season?

The Daily Express claims owner Roman Abaramovich "will pull out all the stops" to land Pep Guardiola, who is heavily linked with a move away from Bayern Munich.

Jose wants to work...

Quite an interesting statement. Is Jose Mourinho doing this on a Saturday morning?

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We can help you Jose.

There's an opening at Charlton, Chesterfield, Colchester, Fulham and Swansea.

If you're eager to get back involved, John Still's boots at Luton are big ones to fill.

Jose Mourinho statement - part two

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Statement on behalf of Jose Mourinho continued: "Because of his love of football, you will see Jose at football grounds working and supporting friends. He will not be attending any high-profile games because he wants to discourage any speculation about his future.

"Jose will remain living in London and hopes he and his family will be given the opportunity to do this privately.”

"Jose will not speak about his current situation for the foreseeable future.  He asks the media to respect this decision.”

Jose Mourinho statement - part one

CAA Sports management on behalf of Jose Mourinho: “José Mourinho is pleased that he returned to Chelsea Football Club because he was able to give the fans another Premier League title, which they had not won for many years. He is immensely proud of his eight trophies at Chelsea, and thanks the fans for all their support throughout his two spells at the club.

"During his career, José has sometimes chosen to leave a club, but only at Chelsea has the club decided that he should leave.

"Each time represents for him the end of a cycle, and the opportunity to start a new one.  José hopes that his future after Chelsea this time will be as successful as when he left the club in 2007.

"He will not be taking a sabbatical, he isn’t tired, he doesn’t need it, he is very positive, and is already looking forward."

More to come in our next entry...

Jose Mourinho statement

Get

Some early news reaching us on Saturday morning as a statement is issued on behalf of Jose Mourinho.

An agent representing the former Chelsea manager says his client "will not be taking a sabbatical, he isn’t tired, he doesn’t need it, he is very positive, and is already looking forward."

I'll bring you the full statement next. 

Get Involved

BBC Radio 5 Live

Arsenal

As always on a Saturday morning we are linking up with The Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live.

They are asking listeners today for their untold stories about football and Christmas (including unique football presents).

So tell us of the football trips you have made at Christmas, the gifts, the games you've played in. Keep it festive and keep it coming to #bbcfootball.

Follow the trend

The terms 'Match Day' and 'GAME DAY' are trending on social media in the UK right now. 

It was of course 'Mad Friday' yesterday, so many of you may be sporting a sore head. But it seems, if social media trends are anything to go by, you're up for this.

Good morning...

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Good morning one and all.

Ho Ho Ho Ho Jose Mourinho gets to spend Christmas with his family this year. Yes, it was some week as the 'Special One' faced up to what for many seemed unthinkable.

This live text will bring you all the latest on Jose's absence and we'll take a look at the side who were at odds of 2,500/1 to win the title and yet still top the table.

All in all we have seven Premier League games to get to grips with, a full Championship card, tonnes of social media debate and the best from 5 live and Football Focus.

Please Santa...

BBC

I don't want a lot for Christmas,

A win is just what I need,

I don't care about the table,

Just one point above Swansea,

I just want to replace Mo,

With someone you all know,

Guus are you still blue (oooh oooh)

All we need for Christmas,

Is

Youuuuuuuuuuu!

Welcome to our live page for Saturday Football. We’ll have television, radio and text commentary here from 09:00 GMT.