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Liverpool and Everton are confident that the upcoming Merseyside Derby in the Premier League will take place at Goodison Park, despite police recommending that it should be held at a neutral venue.

The clash between the north-west rivals was one of several Premier League fixtures it was suggested should be played away from the stated home ground, due to fears of fans congregating and contravening social distancing rules, with the game to take place behind closed doors to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Liverpool are six points away from securing a first top-flight league title in 30 years, and could win the championship if they beat Everton, should Manchester City lose to Arsenal a few days prior.

A statement from South Yorkshire Police last month said there is a desire for at least five Premier League games to be played away from the home team's ground due to concerns of fans gathering at the stadiums.

Everton vs Liverpool was selected as a match to be played at a neutral venue, as well as the game in which Jurgen Klopp's side could secure the league title.

However the Premier League said they wanted games played home and away "where possible", and now both Liverpool Council's Ground Safety Advisory Group (GSAG) and Merseyside Police have backed the game being played at Everton's ground.

Liverpool said they welcomed the decision following discussions with Everton, the council and fan groups from both teams.

They said: "Following already positive discussions with key partners including Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, Spirit of Shankly, Everton Football Club and Blue Union we have committed to working together to restart the season safely with the overriding aim of ensuring these games are completed by prioritising public health so the return to football is a success for Merseyside.

"These discussions are very much part of our normal match day planning and arrangements. Further dialogue between all partners is scheduled this week and together will provide clear and regular updates for supporters throughout this process."

Councillor Wendy Simon, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool and chair of GSAG, said: “We are satisfied that the considerable evidence and guidance provided will ensure that the outstanding fixtures for the 2019/20 Premier League season can be safely and securely played at both Goodison Park and Anfield.  

“A lot of factors have been taken into consideration by the GSAG, especially the safety of the players, match officials and staff in attendance at both stadia.

"We are confident the measures in place will allow the matches to be held behind closed doors without any detrimental impact to all concerned and recommend to the city council that the safety certificates for both grounds be amended to allow this to happen. 

“I’m sure fans of both teams will welcome this recommendation and, subject to ratification, we look forward to watching the first of these matches - the Merseyside Derby on 21 June - which will be broadcast live on free-to-air TV for the first time since the Premier League began.

“We would also advise that everyone, wherever they may be watching these fixtures, to strongly adhere to the guidance on social distancing around the current Covid-19 pandemic and for not only these matches but the wider relaxation measures anticipated for the city.”          

Merseyside Police assistant chief constable Rob Carden, said: “In relation to crime and disorder we have no objections to any of the Everton, or Liverpool, home fixtures being played at their respective grounds.

“The main issues of concern was always going to be public health. It is not the role of the police to make operational decisions on the basis of public health. We are guided by experts in public health and the government. We accept the decision of the GSAG in this respect and will work closely with our partners to play our part in delivering safe events. 

“We are still in unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and there are strong concerns in Merseyside, and the wider North West, due to the fact that the R rate here is still higher than the rest of the country.

"For that reason, we would urge supporters to do the right thing – stay at home, enjoy the opportunity to watch every second of the game free of charge on your own TV , in your own living room and keep yourself, your family, friends and neighbours safe.” 

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential aspirant Omondi Aduda has called on Nick Mwendwa to consult with clubs to find a solution on the fate of Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

Five days ago, FKF president Mwendwa categorically stated they will have no business to discuss with the league managers when their term in office expires at the start of September.

The KPL has been the one mandated to run the top-flight after they signed a five-year contract with the previous regime led by Sam Nyamweya.

But with their term of office coming to an end in September, Mwendwa revealed to Goal they will not renew their contract and will instead, take back the running of the league in the country.

“It is over between FKF and KPL, we don’t have anything to discuss nor to negotiate about, they [KPL] have finished their mandate and that is it, the league will now move under FKF,” Mwendwa told Goal at the time.

However, Gor Mahia CEO Aduda has now called on Mwendwa to stop applying force to solve the matter and instead, convene a meeting with the clubs to decide on the way forward.

“KPL is a company owned by 17 clubs and it’s those clubs which [Mwendwa] is supposed to engage, he can only engage with those clubs because those clubs are the owners of KPL, he needs to engage with the clubs to come up with a direction on how the league or which body will run the league,” Aduda told Goal on Wednesday.

“Mwendwa is not the owner of KPL and FKF is not the owner of KPL, they [KPL] are owned by the 17 clubs and Mwendwa should take note of that.

“What I am saying we should stop the war of words and people should sit down and map out what to do next, it is not a contest, if FKF are not keen to renew the contract of the body that has been running the league, then he [Mwendwa] should sit down with members and come up with what to do next.

“What does he want to do? Kenyan football is not the preserve of Mwendwa, he should understand that and stop holding stakeholders at ransom.

“We know the policies of Kenyan football because some of us have been there long enough to know why the clubs formed themselves into that third party to run the league, we know what used to happen when the league was under FKF, so can’t people sit down and sort out the mess?

“I don’t have a problem with him [Mwendwa], but it is high time people sat down to discuss the way forward because it is not within the preserve of an individual but it is about Kenyan football.”

The battle for supremacy between the FKF and the KPL started when Mwendwa and his team took the mantle to run football in the country four years ago.

In their recent spat, the FKF moved to end the league owing to the coronavirus pandemic and declared Gor Mahia the champions while promoting National Super League (NSL) table-toppers Nairobi City Stars and Bidco United.

However, the move was quickly protested by the KPL, who insisted they are the ones mandated to run the top-flight, and thus they are supposed to decide the state of the league.

Pyramids FC winger Abdul Lumala has expressed a wish to quit the Egyptian club and return to Europe.

Lumala was among the Ugandans who signed for other clubs after the conclusion of the 2019 African Cup of Nations (Afcon) tournament in Egypt.

Although he had started well at Pyramids under his former international coach Sebastien Desabre, his playtime has been limited since the coach was sacked in December following what the club said were poor results.

The 22-year-old joined the Egyptian side from Kalmar FF of Sweden.

“It’s been very difficult for me to adopt because of their system of play. It’s not a game for me and hopefully, very soon I will be moving back to Europe. That’s for sure,” Lumala said as he was quoted by Daily Monitor.

“It’s not [Sebastien] Desabre who brought me here. Of course, he wanted me but the club wanted me more. I am still in the coach’s plans. It’s only football. You play good football and people will always want you in their team.”

Lumala suggested he is not happy being on the bench under the Croatian manager Ante Cacic, who succeeded Desabre.

“No ambitious player in the world would want to be on the bench. It is a character. I want to always be playing,” added the winger.

“There were many links to many teams but this was the best deal for me because I was with my coach.”

Lumala, who spent loan stints at Helsingborgs IF, IFK Varnamo and at Syrianska FC, revealed why Uganda players often seem to struggle in Europe, unlike their West African counterparts.

“Most of those West African players you see playing in Europe were either born or have lived there,” he explained.

“They have been in that system for a long time. You cannot compare someone who has been in that system for long. It is not easy. It is a process and Ugandans must be patient.”

Meanwhile, coach Asaph Mwebaze has blasted KCCA FC head coach Mike Mutebi for claiming Muzamiru Mutyaba has not lived up to expectations.

“Blossom to what?” Asaph asked when responding to Mutebi's claims as quoted by Football256.

“Mutyaba has helped the team to all the league titles they’ve won since he joined KCCA. He has been named the Fufa player of the year [2017]! Is there anything else to prove?

“Let him [Mutyaba] move on and achieve more elsewhere.”

Simon Sserunkuma, Jackson Nunda, Mike Mutyaba and Jamil Malyamungu are the other players expected to leave the Kasasiro Boys when their contracts expire in June.

Mutyaba won three league titles and two domestic cups with the 13-time UPL winners.

Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has confirmed that PSL teams will not receive their monthly grants beyond June 30 if football doesn't return in the country. 

This is in light of Absa's decision not to renew their contract with the league coupled with the coronavirus pandemic which has forced the suspension of the 2019/20 season. 

As things stand, there's no clear indication as to what is going to happen to the current campaign as both the South African Football Association (Safa) and the PSL awaits the go-ahead from the government on when the season can resume. 

Khoza says it will be everyone for themselves if no resolution is found by June 30 because it wouldn't make sense to continue paying the monthly grants if teams aren't providing a service to the league. 

All the 16 PSL teams receive R2.5 million every month, and the suspension of the season has hit the majority of them hard in the pocket.  

"The 30th of June is the end of the grants for the PSL teams; everybody must see for themselves," Khoza told eNCA. 

"Because nobody can give money when you are doing nothing, providing no service, no contract. So, it's a challenge that's why it's a question of balancing the act. It's not being insensitive, it's a reality that is facing us. 

"If the mines; the most generous industry, media voice is stronger to resume work. You can understand why they do that because it takes money and years to make a profit if you close the mines.

While both the PSL and Safa are confident of resuming the season, the ball remains in the hands of the South African government to ease coronavirus regulations and allow competitive matches to take place even if it's behind closed doors like in Germany, Italy and England.

Safa has maintained that no football should be played under Level 3 of the lockdown which is expected to come to an end on June 30. 

However, it's unclear if the country's FA will endorse the PSL for football to return under Level 2 lockdown when making submissions to Minister of Sport Nathi Mthethwa, Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize and Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula.  

Luke Shaw has confirmed that he scored twice during Manchester United's in-house 4-4 friendly draw on Saturday which also saw Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes find the back of the net.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad split into two teams of 11 to take part in a 90-minute game at Old Trafford over the weekend.

The game was arranged to build up the players' match fitness ahead of their return to the pitch against Tottenham on June 19.

Rumours over the final scoreline and team members have been circulating on social media over the last few days, and Shaw has now come out to set the record straight.

The United full-back told MUTV: "We had a great 11-a-side training game on the Old Trafford pitch over the weekend and it was eventful!

"There have been a lot of different things circulating on social media and I’m happy to set the record straight: it did end 4-4 and I did score twice! Also on my team, Bruno [Fernandes] got one and Jamo [Daniel James] got one, while, on the other team, Rashy [Marcus Rashford] got two and so did Odion [Ighalo].

"To be fair, my first goal was decent. It was from a great cross by Bruno and my volley went straight in. I was happy with it. My other one was just getting forward, Juan [Mata] played it to me on the edge of the box, I took a touch and shot in. It was quite an open game, as you can probably gather, with a lot of space, since it was the first game back.

"Everyone looked good and the most important thing was getting minutes in the tank. This was definitely a step forward from the games we’ve been having at the training ground."

Shaw added on the experience of playing a full home game without supporters: "It was also our first chance to get used to a silent Old Trafford, which was different. We all felt like it made the pitch seem bigger because the stands are totally empty.

"Sometimes during games the fans push you on when you’re tired, but now we’ve got to get to grips without that support. It was a really valuable exercise to be able to play at Old Trafford without that.

"We were creating our own noise around the stadium and that’s something we’ve got to make sure we do.

"The important thing is that it’s another step forward. It’s getting more and more exciting now and we just want to get playing games. We’ve got a couple of in-house games at the training ground scheduled over the next few days, which will help us step things up even further before the big game next week against Spurs."

Shaw went on to talk up the importance of their meeting with Tottenham, as both clubs continue to chase down a top-four finish in the Premier League.

"It's a massive fixture and I think everyone on both sides has got full-strength squads now, so it should be a really good game. It’s definitely one we’re all looking forward to," he said.

"In training, we’re looking really sharp, really fit and ready to go. We’re looking forward to it. We just need to pick up where we left off, doing the things we were doing before the break, and, hopefully, we can climb towards the Champions League spots, which is what we really want."

The Federation of Uganda Football Association (Fufa) alongside Uganda Premier League (UPL) Board has held a consultative meeting despite a snub by nine clubs.

Fufa had invited the Premier League clubs to discuss matters relating to the 2020/21 season and the club licensing programme, but some teams raised concerns and stated they would not attend the meeting scheduled for June 10 at Fufa House.

The league CEO Bernard Bainamani had invited Vipers SC, KCCA FC, SC Villa, Busoga United, URA FC, BUL FC, Mbarara City FC, Express FC, Wakiso Giants FC, Kyetume FC, Police FC, Bright Stars FC and Onduparaka FC and newly-promoted side MYDA FC for the consultative meeting.

But on Tuesday SC Villa, Busoga United, BUL FC, Mbarara City FC, Express FC, Wakiso Giants FC, Kyetume FC, Bright Stars FC and Onduparaka FC confirmed they would not be part of the Fufa-UPL board meeting.

“The invitation to discuss club licensing and league reforms in one meeting is ineffective and will not deliver the desired outcome of the meeting,” read a letter signed by Mbarara City Chairman Mwine Mpaka on behalf of the nine objecting chairmen.

"The under-listed chairmen have noted with concern the following anomalies that we would like to draw your attention to; the invitation to discuss club licensing and league reforms in one meeting is ineffective and the notice given is rather too short for us to make the necessary preparations and consultations.

“We had earlier planned for a similar meeting scheduled for June 18th, 2020 as communicated by yourself on the UPL forum.

“Owing to the above, therefore, we have unanimously agreed not to attend the scheduled meeting due on June 10th, 2020. The following suggestions are also proposed for better planning going forward.”

Fufa went ahead to call the consultative meeting after it had cancelled the 2019/20 season and awarded the title to Vipers SC.

The local federation also sent notification to clubs in the other leagues for a similar meeting on different dates as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Wednesday's meeting is understood to have been attended by Fufa president Moses Magogo, the UPL Board and Fufa Club Licensing Committee together with eight representatives from different clubs.

Britt Assombalonga scored a goal as Middlesbrough lost 3-2 to Newcastle United in a friendly game on Tuesday.

The Premier League is expected to resume on June 17 while the Championship kicks off three days later and clubs are being allowed to organise friendly matches with teams that are within close proximity, while observing strict hygiene and social distancing measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Boro led 2-0 in the first half thanks to George Saville and Assombalonga, the Democratic Republic of the Congo international scoring a screamer from outside the penalty area which left Newcastle's goalkeeper Martin Dubravka no chance.

The Magpies resurged in the second half via the efforts of Yoshinori Muto, Miguel Almiron and Joelinton.

Assombalonga will be looking to be part of the Boro XI that tackles Swansea City at the Riverside next Saturday.

The Teeside outfit are currently in a big relegation battle, sitting in 19th place, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

Jonathan Woodgate's men have claimed just nine wins from 37 Championship games this term, drawing 14 and losing another 14.

Assombalonga has the third-highest goal involvement in the team (eight - six goals, two assists) behind Ashley Fletcher (13 - eight goals, five assists) and Lewis Wing (eight - seven goals, one assist).

Middlesbrough never lost a game in which Assombalonga scored this term, his goals coming in a 3-3 draw at Luton Town on the opening day of the season, a 1-0 win over Wigan Athletic, a 2-2 draw at Bristol City, a 1-1 draw at home to Preston North End, and a brace at Queens Park Rangers.

Assombalonga bagged his assists in a 2-1 defeat at Birmingham City and a 2-2 home draw with Hull City.

The 27-year-old joined Boro in 2017 and has previously been on the books of Watford, Wealdstone, Braintree Town, Braintree Town, Southend United, Peterborough United and Nottingham Forest.

Assombalonga was born in the Congolese capital of Kinshasa and though he grew up in London, he opted to represent the DRC and has been capped eight times, scoring one goal which came in a 4-0 victory over Zimbabwe at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghana Football Association Premier League (GPL) Management Committee chairman Alhaji Lepowura MND Jawula has disclosed plans to continue with the 2019-20 championship despite calls for its cancellation.

The elite domestic competition has been on hold since a national ban on public gatherings, including sporting and religious events, came into effect as part of measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

There is currently a divided front on the ideal way forward. There have been calls for complete annulment of the 2019-20 season in favour of an all-new one in August/September and there have been calls for the continuation of the current term when safe to do so.

“We want to continue the league to avoid legal tussles but that will be contingent on what comes out from our engagement with government [of Ghana] and Caf for financial assistance,” Jawula told Opemsuo Radio.

The Government of Ghana has placed a ban on all contact sports, including football, until at least July 31.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has, meanwhile, set a June 30 deadline to make a final decision on the future of football in the country.

"I think the 2019-20 season is over, taking into the consideration the extension of the ban on social gatherings," Aduana Stars striker Yahaya Mohammed, second top scorer of the league, told Shaft FM in Obuasi.

"It will be appropriate if the season is terminated for us to start preparing for the next season. Staying at home for more than four months will even have a toll on us if the season is resumed.

"I am second-highest scorer in the league and also Aduana Stars are leading the table so I wouldn't wish the season is cancelled but the situation we find ourselves in doesn't permit us to do our wishes."

The GFA, through the Ghana Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS), made a proposal to the national government for a possible prompt return of football under conditions such as playing of matches behind closed doors.

The request was, however, turned down.

The championship was at the match week 15 stage when the competition was brought to a halt.

Joseph Yobo paid tribute to former Nigeria coach Shuaibu Amodu, who passed away on this day four years ago, with a moving post on social media.

Amodu passed away in his sleep having complained of chest pains the previous night at the age of 58 – three days after the demise of Stephen Keshi, who was his assistant at the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations in Mali.

The seasoned tactician first handled the Super Eagles in 1994 and his first game was a 1-0 defeat to England in an international friendly at Wembley.

Yobo made his international bow against Zambia on March 2001 under Amodu, before getting to captain the three-time African champions in his third cap against Namibia.

Even after retirement, both shared a bond and the deceased was instrumental in the former Olympique Marseille, Everton and Fenerbahce defender’s star-studded testimonial in 2016.

Wednesday marks the anniversary of Amodu’s passing and the Super Eagles’ assistant coach took to social media to pen an emotional message to his former international coach.

“Rest on coach Shuaibu Amodu. We lost this great man barely three days after coach [Stephen] Keshi,” Yobo wrote on Instagram.

“This was very tough to take; I was devastated because he was more than just a coach to me.

“Coach Amodu was a father-figure; he was my go-to anytime I was in doubt and needed clarity or support. You're greatly missed Coachee, continue to rest in peace.

The six-time Nigeria boss won the Federation Cup titles with Gboko’s BBC Lions and El Kanemi Warriors before a short spell with South Africa's Orlando Pirates.

With Jo Bonfrere getting axed in the thick of the country’s 2002 World Cup qualification campaign, Amodu was called upon and he qualified the Super Eagles for the global football showpiece in South Korea and Japan.

Nevertheless, he was kicked out after leading the country to a third-place finish at the 2002 Afcon in Mali.

On April 10, 2008, he was recalled to handle the African powerhouse alongside Daniel Amokachi, Alloy Agu and Fatai Amoo with the task of qualifying the country for the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

Again, he delivered but was fired after the Super Eagles settled for bronze at the 2010 Afcon in Angola.

In May 2013, he was appointed as technical director of Nigeria’s national teams.

Former South Africa midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala says it took some strong words from then Bafana Bafana assistant coach Pitso Mosimane for him to regain his "A game" following an unconvincing patch of form in the run-up to the 2010 Fifa World Cup.

Tshabalala got the World Cup going with a superb goal in the opening match of the tournament although South Africa drew 1-1 with Mexico at FNB Stadium on June 11.

But the season before he muscled his way into Carlos Alberto Parreira's final squad for the tournament, the coaches went hard on the midfielder who had six Premier Soccer League (PSL) goals for Kaizer Chiefs and provided two assists in 26 matches.

“Six months before the World Cup we played Japan in PE and I didn’t have a good game‚ and coach Parreira publicly criticised me – and it really hit me‚” said Tshabalala as per Sowetan Live.

“In January‚ on the first day of our camp in Brazil, I had a long one-on-one with Pitso. He was very harsh and his usual self‚ expressing how he felt with regards to my performance.

“I listened to him‚ even though it hurt me and I went to bed very disappointed. But I took it positively. And from that moment I worked very hard on and off the ball‚ and at training.

"And out of the six games we played [at a training camp] in Brazil I think I scored in five. And from there I never looked back – we went to Germany and I did the same.”

Then 25-years-old, Tshabalala became the toast of the World Cup with the goal against Mexico although South Africa went on to become the first-ever hosts to be eliminated in the first round.

The draw with Mexico was followed by a 3-0 thumping by Uruguay before Bafana salvaged a bit of respect with a 2-1 victory over France in their final group game.

“June 11 I was nervous‚ like any other game. If you were to play a friendly game you would still get nervous. But I was really touched by the crowd and the support‚” Tshabalala said.

“I still remember the moment when I sang the national anthem. I sang it with pride and teary eyes as well. And I was very positive. I knew that I was going to do well.

"Because I visualise all the time. I dream‚ I plan‚ I execute my plan‚ I dominate and then I repeat again. So it was no different from that.

“Obviously it was a big stage – the whole world was watching‚ and one had to bring his ‘A’ game.”

It was the only World Cup Tshabalala participated in and also the last global quadrennial tournament South Africa featured in.

Southampton head coach Ralph Hasenhuttl has backed Timo Werner to be a big hit in the Premier League as he hailed the natural goalscoring abilities of the RB Leipzig striker.

Germany international Werner is all set to join Chelsea in a £54 million (€60m/$68m) deal, with the Blues having agreed to activate the forward's release clause after it initially appeared that the 24-year-old would be heading to Liverpool.

The Reds decided to end their interest for financial reasons, however, and Werner is now being tipped to be a big hit for Frank Lampard's side in the 2020-21 season.

One man who knows all about Werner's qualities is Southampton boss Hasenhuttl, with the Austrian having been in charge at RB Leipzig between 2016 and 2018.

He told Sport Bild: "Football is very intense and fast [in England]. That, in turn, suits Timo: with his speed he's a brutal weapon in the right team.

"He sometimes needs a shoulder to lean on, or a little more encouragement but what I've always liked about him is that he scores goals that nobody else scores. Give him a bit of space and it's hard to stop him. He has so many qualities that will always put him above others."

The Express reports that Chelsea could make a public announcement over Werner's signing by the end of the week amid suggestions his release clause expires on June 15, while the Blues have also been linked with a move for Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz.

Saints boss Hasenhuttl, meanwhile, signed a new four-year contract to remain at St Mary's on June 2 and, ahead of his side's first Premier League fixture after the coronavirus-enforced break against Norwich, he insisted staying put was an easy decision.

He told the club's official website: "This, for me, was a simple decision. Simple because of the relationship that I have built with the club, the players and the fans, and also because of the relationship they have built with me too

"I said when I arrived at the club that we were at the beginning of a long journey, and also a journey that would bring emotion and hopefully enjoyment. We have already had some moments where we could celebrate together, and some that have been emotional and also challenging.

"The way we have handled this together as a group of people has been incredible for me, and I believe we now have strong foundations here that can allow us to take the next steps in our progress as a team.

"For me, this is an important step in the journey. My players, our staff, and of course the supporters must understand my commitment to this club and to what we are trying to build together. We value the same philosophies, and this is a big part of why I want to stay here, and I hope we can share in some very successful moments moving forward."

Thulani Hlatshwayo's advisor Mike Ntombela has responded to reports that the Bidvest Wits skipper is heading either to Mamelodi Sundowns or Orlando Pirates. 

While Ntombela didn't confirm any of the rumours linking the defender to a move to the two domestic giants, he also didn't deny the fact that there's a possibility the Soweto-born player could move. 

Reports suggest Pirates lead the race to sign Hlatshwayo, who previously admitted that he grew up supporting the Buccaneers. 

Ntombela, however, reiterated that Hlatshwayo still belongs to the Students as he's contracted to them for the next two seasons. 

He made it clear that whoever wants to sign the Bafana Bafana captain should first speak to his current employers. 

"The fact of the matter is that he belongs to Wits. He renewed his contract and has two years to run still‚" Ntombela told Sowetan.

"For anything to happen‚ Wits must give the go-ahead."

Ntombela further revealed that his job is to advise Hlatshwayo more than to decide for what's best for his football career. 

The former Sundowns captain is confident Hlatshwayo can go to any team, including both Sundowns and Pirates, and play. 

"He decides for himself. I can only advise here and there but ultimately‚ he decides. He can play at any team‚ including Sundowns and Pirates," added Ntombela. 

Pirates have been in the market for a quality centre-back since last season when Brazilian defender Marcelo Caio left the club. 

And Hlatshwayo is regarded as the perfect partner for Happy Jele in the heart of the Sea Robbers defence by the majority of the club fans. 

'Tyson' has been with Wits for six years and has played 171 matches across all competitions to date. 

Despite being a defender, the 30-year-old has scored 20 goals and provided seven assists for his Wits teammates since 2014.

The continued speculation around Hlatshwayo's future was fueled by reports that Wits are in the process of selling their PSL status to TTM owner Masala Maluadzi ahead of next season. 

Nonetheless, the Students have vehemently denied putting their PSL status on sale while the players have been banned from talking to the media about the matter.  

KMC coach Harerimana Haruna has come out to claim Simba SC did not deserve to beat his side in a friendly played on Monday.

Simba defeated their fellow league side 3-1 in a build-up match staged at Mo Simba in Bunju, Dar es Salaam with captain John Bocco notching a brace while Ibrahim Ajibu grabbed the third.

Charles Ilanfya scored a consolation for KMC, who went into the match having beaten Young Africans (Yanga SC) 3-0 in another friendly the previous day.

Haruna has since claimed the game should have ended in a 1-1 draw since Taifa Stars striker Bocco scored his two goals from an offside position.

“We only conceded one goal against Simba, the other two [scored by Bocco] came from an offside position,” Haruna is quoted by Sokaletu.

“If you ask me, the match should have ended 1-1, that is the correct scoreline for the friendly, but I don’t know what the referee was thinking allowing the two goals to stand whereas Bocco scored from an offside position.”

Haruna has, however, said despite losing in the friendly, his players gave a good account of themselves and managed to push the Mainland Premier League champions to the limit.

“We played well, especially in the first half when we managed to get the first goal, Simba were forced to chase for an equaliser and had the goal been disallowed, then they could have not managed to pick themselves up," he added.

“I am happy with my boys because prior to playing Simba we had beaten Yanga and that shows we are ready to compete in the league when it resumes on Saturday.”

Prior to the KMC friendly, Simba had also beaten lower league side Transit Camp 4-2 at the same venue.

Simba will face Ruvu Shooting at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam in their first league on Sunday as they seek to win a third straight league title.

The Wekundu wa Msimbazi enjoy a good lead at the top and head coach Sven Vandenbroeck has urged them to ensure they bag the first 12 points to win the title in earnest.

Simba are likely to miss the services of midfielder Jonas Mkude against Ruvu Shooting after he picked up a nasty injury against KMC.

Adrian has insisted he is happy at Liverpool and "wouldn't change anything" about his current situation, despite rumours of a potential return to La Liga swirling ahead of the summer transfer window.

Liverpool brought Adrian in to serve as a back-up goalkeeper behind Alisson as previous number two Simon Mignolet made his way to Club Brugge back in August.

The 33-year-old, who enjoyed a previous stint in the Premier League with West Ham between 2013 and 2019, was initially expected to play a bit-part role in the Reds' latest campaign, but has benefitted from Alisson's struggles with a series of niggling injuries.

Adrian has stepped in for the Brazilian in 18 games across all competitions for the Reds this season, helping them rise to the top of the table while also starring in a UEFA Super Cup final win over Chelsea.

The experienced shot-stopper is contracted to remain at Anfield until 2021 and has the option to extend his stay by an extra year, but he has been linked with a move away from the club when the transfer market reopens.

A number of La Liga clubs have been credited with an interest in Adrian, including his former employers Real Betis, who are reportedly eager to lure the keeper back to Benito Villamarin Stadium for a second spell.

However, the Spaniard is content in his current surroundings on Merseyside, as he told Radio Sevilla: “I see myself in Liverpool at the moment.

“I still have many years of football left, and we will see. I have one more year and another optional one. Right now I wouldn’t change anything to be here in Liverpool and enjoy this beautiful moment.

"After this moment I honestly don’t know, football is a lot of fun. In the summer, being a free agent, I saw the possibility of returning to Betis was there, but it vanished.

“You have to live in the present, and we’ll see what happens next. Having to leave home was complicated but looking at it now with perspective it’s clear that I’ve grown as a professional and as a person.”

Adrian went on to reveal how close he came to re-joining Betis last summer, before insisting his mindset has changed after a "fantastic" year at Liverpool.

"To tell you the truth, now I see it being a little more difficult (to return to the Betis)," he added.

“After six seasons at West Ham and being free this past summer, it is true that I saw myself closer to returning home or to Spain and continuing my career there.

“Here I signed two seasons plus an optional one and this has been my first year, which has been fantastic.

“We hope to finish the season if possible, with total security, on the pitch, but then we don’t know anymore.

“The future is very uncertain; we can’t plan much more about tomorrow and what we have now. If the opportunity is given in the future, God will say.”

Chelsea have donated the winnings from their Women's Super League triumph to the charity Refuge.

The WSL was suspended in March amid the coronavirus pandemic and on Friday Chelsea were confirmed as champions on a points-per-game basis.

The team received a £100,000 prize fund, all of which has been given to a charity that provides support services to people suffering from domestic abuse.

Manager Emma Hayes expressed her pride at the gesture, which was supported by Chelsea football club.

"It's a charity that's close to the hearts and minds of the Women's team, and is very important to our owner Mr [Roman] Abramovich and everyone at the club," Hayes told Chelsea's official website. "It makes me proud our club is supporting those less fortunate in times of need.

"Up until now our involvement was about supporting the campaign publicly with a call to action but we all wanted to do more than that and if donating our prize money can ease some of the concerns and worries people have then it's the least we can do.

"It's an important message. It's a campaign that's really dear to us and the best way we can demonstrate our support further is by committing our prize money towards it and helping those in need."

Refuge are the United Kingdom’s largest single provider of domestic abuse services, providing specialist and confidential support to women experiencing violence at home. Reports have indicated an increase in such incidents during the coronavirus lockdown.

Sandra Horley, chief executive of Refuge, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Chelsea Women. Refuge has seen a huge increase in demand to its services during Covid-19 which has shone a light on the thousands of women who need our support across the country right now.

"We are incredibly grateful to Chelsea Women for not only shining a light on domestic abuse, but also supporting us with a significant financial commitment - this is an incredible gesture. Every penny we raise helps Refuge to provide lifesaving and life-changing specialist services.

"The Covid-19 crisis has placed a huge financial strain on domestic abuse services and the generous support of Chelsea Women will help Refuge to ensure that no woman or child is turned away from safety."

Midfielder Roland Putsche said he has had the best four years of his life in South Africa after parting ways with Cape Town City on Tuesday. 

Speaking to SA FM, Putsche admitted he was overwhelmed by the reaction on social media soon after his departure from the Citizens was announced, adding that it will be difficult for him to eventually leave the country. 

"Honestly, I had the best four years of my life here in South Africa. I'm very emotional after I saw the reaction on social media. It feels like I'm leaving home. I never expected it to be like this. It will be hard to eventually leave these shores," Putsche said in an interview with SA FM. 

The 29-year-old made a shocking revelation that he didn't plan to play professional football when he first came to South Africa four years ago. 

According to Putsche, assisting underprivileged children through the Young Bafana project was his original reason for coming to the country, but was tempted when City offered him an opportunity to showcase his talent.  

"I hadn't set out to play football when I came to South Africa - I was part of a project called Young Bafana and my friend asked me to come and help out. It was a project to assist underprivileged children. It felt right in my heart to come here but I also ended up playing professional football," he revealed.  

"Honesty, I don't know what the future holds, but now my focus is getting back to Austria to be with my family again during this crisis. When I'm there, I will make up my mind. I'm a bit uncertain right now, but I have a few options open. I'd like to stay in football.

"I want to thank everyone for giving me this experience to see the beauty of South Africa. How I'm leaving right now is not ideal, but I hope to come back to South Africa and say goodbye in a proper manner."

Putsche leaves City with his head held high after helping the club win two major trophies, and he admitted one of the highlights of his career was being coached by South African football icon Benni McCarthy.  

"I have many highlights at Cape Town City - winning MTN8 and Telkom [Knockout Cup titles] and also working with Benni McCarthy. I was also really enjoying my football before the injury and I was having a wonderful partnership with Nodada," concluded Putsche. 

Simba SC have sent a passionate appeal to their fans to follow the rules and regulations issued by the government when attending Mainland Premier League matches.

The Tanzanian top-flight is finally set to return on June 13, after it was halted in mid-March owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

With Simba, who are chasing a third straight title, set to host Ruvu Shooting in their first match on June 14 at National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the club has now sent a plea to the fans to make sure they follow the guidelines to help combat the spread of Covid-19.

Simba information officer Haji Manara has stated in a statement on the club’s official website: “We want to inform our fans that the Covid-19 virus is still with us and they should adhere to the tough measures put in place by the Ministry of Health when attending matches.

“Starting on Sunday when we play our first match, we want the fans to follow the rules, wear masks when coming to the stadium, wash hands outside the venue, and also make sure they keep social distance.

“Our President Magufuli loves all Tanzania and it is good if we follow the rules to avoid contracting the disease which has become a big pandemic across the world. I am very confident Simba fans respect laws and will follow what the Ministry wants them to do.”

Some of the measures the government wants adhered to include all the players and officials undergoing mandatory Covid-19 tests, while temperature readings should be done under the supervision of medical experts.

The government also wants players and officials travelling in team buses to ensure they sit far enough apart on the way to the stadium.

The government ordered the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) to make sure they have enough water in place as well as sanitizers inside and outside match venues, and all this will be used when entering the pitch before matches.

The organisers will also be required to open gates early enough to avoid fans crowding the area, while the seating arrangements must see the one-metre distance rule followed.

The government, additionally, warned against wild celebration, saying any goal scored should not invite hugging, while the exchange of jerseys at the end of the match and handshakes before and after the match will also not be tolerated.

Furthermore, substitutes sitting on the bench will be required to wear masks and must sit a metre apart, while players coming off the pitch will be required to wear masks immediately after leaving the field.