bbc--2020-12-31--New Year Honours: Lewis Hamilton knighted as Rob Burrow becomes MBE

Last updated on .From the section Sport Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the Queen 's New Year Honours list .
Rugby league legend Rob Burrow is made an MBE for services to rugby and his awareness campaign since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease .
British Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong also becomes an MBE .
The former British number one , 37 , represented Great Britain in the event - previously known as the Fed Cup - before becoming captain in 2016 .
Others made an MBE include former Tottenham and Chelsea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Flowers , both World Cup winners with England in 1966 .
Greaves , who later became a popular television personality , suffered a severe stroke in 2015 and his son Danny said of the MBE : `` We are very , very proud of Dad .
Always have been , always will be .
`` At almost 81 , to receive an honour from Her Majesty the Queen is just something very , very special . ''
Following rugby union side Exeter Chiefs ' domestic and European titles last season , director of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while captain Joe Simmonds becomes an MBE .
`` I could n't quite work out if it was real or whether it was spam or someone having bit of a prank , '' Baxter said of the moment he received the news .
`` It turned up by email and not in an official letter .
You download it , read it and check who it has been emailed from with a Google search .
`` I was sat there with my wife , both of us in a slightly bemused state .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ England captain Gillian Coultard has been appointed an MBE for services to football , along with former Swansea City and Wales forward Alan Curtis .
Chairman of the Racecourse Association Maggie Carver has been made a CBE , as has former jockey Bob Champion and chief executive and secretary of the R & A Peter Dawson .
Promoter Barry Hearn becomes an OBE for services to sport , having been involved in boxing , snooker and darts among other sports .
`` It has been a great joy to be involved in such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 years , '' said Hearn .
`` To be recognised for that work is an honour . ''
Former Rugby Football League chairman , ex-Football Association chief executive and former BBC head of sport Brian Barwick , now chairman of football 's National League , receives an OBE .
Meanwhile , Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby chair Kevin Aitchison is made an MBE , and footballer-turned-boxer Curtis Woodhouse is among those to receive the British Empire Medal .
Hamilton won his first world title with McLaren in 2008 , with further successes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 2019 .
He clinched a seventh World Championship and became the most successful F1 driver ever when he won the Turkish Grand Prix in November 2020 .
The Mercedes driver had already surpassed Schumacher 's record number of race wins the previous month , with Hamilton 's total now standing at 95 .
After the Istanbul victory , Hamilton said he felt like he was `` only just getting started '' , adding : `` To all the kids out there , dream the impossible . ''
He said he would `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to continue to campaign for change when it comes to human rights , diversity and environmentalism .
Former world champion Damon Hill told BBC Radio 5 Live : `` It 's fantastic the way he calls out to all the young kids .
He 's going to ignite a whole army of Hamilton wannabe emulators and he deserves his knighthood .
`` He 's always has been an exceptional talent but it 's incredible what he 's achieved this year .
It 's not been a good year for most of us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pretty good year for Lewis . ''
Burrow among those recognised for charity work Several sporting names have earned their place on the honours list through charity work , with their contributions during the coronavirus pandemic recognised .
Burrow , who made 493 appearances for Leeds Rhinos , was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019 , two years after retiring from playing .
With the support of his former club and the rugby league community , the 38-year-old has spent the past year working to raise awareness of the degenerative condition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brain and spinal cord function .
Also recognised for his charity work is former jockey Champion , who fought cancer to win the Grand National on Aldaniti in 1981 .
The 72-year-old has been made a CBE for his work with the Bob Champion Cancer Trust , which he founded two years after his fairytale win .
`` I 'm so proud , '' Champion said .
`` But really it 's for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust , and all the people involved in it .
The award is for them really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union , former player Matt Hampson has been appointed an OBE after founding the Matt Hampson foundation .
The 36-year-old was paralysed from the neck down in 2005 following an accident in training and set up his foundation to offer support to others who have suffered catastrophic sporting injuries .
Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire ( CBE ) Maggie Carver ( Racecourse Association chairman ) , for services to sport and to the media sector .
Bob Champion ( former jockey and founder of Bob Champion Cancer Trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dawson ( chief executive and secretary of R & A ) , for services to golf .
Officers of the Order of the British Empire ( OBE ) Brian Barwick ( National League chairman ) , for services to sport and broadcasting .
Rob Baxter ( director of rugby at Exeter Chiefs ) , for services to rugby union .
Donna Fraser ( diversity lead at UK Athletics ) , for services to equality , inclusion and diversity in the workplace .
Barry Hearn ( promoter and chairman of World Snooker Tour and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sport .
Matt Hampson ( former rugby union player and founder of Matt Hampson Foundation ) , for voluntary and charitable service .
Samantha Orde ( director of English Federation of Disability Sport ) , for services to people with disabilities .
Members of the Order of the British Empire ( MBE ) Kevin Aitchison ( chair of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby ) , for services to wheelchair rugby and to people with disabilities .
Rob Burrow ( former Leeds Rhinos player ) for services to rugby and to motor neurone disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former England captain ) , for services to football .
Alan Curtis ( former Swansea City and Wales forward ) , for services to Welsh football .
Susan Deaves ( vice-president of British Athletics Supporters Club ) , for services to athletics .
Robert Dick ( head coach of Scottish Disability Bowls ) , for services to disability sport .
Katie Dodd ( former England hockey player ) , for services to hockey .
Emma Evans ( goalball coach , player and referee ) , for services to goalball and to athletes with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves and England midfielder ) , for services to football .
Jimmy Greaves ( former Tottenham and England striker ) , for services to football .
Damian Hopley ( chief executive of the Rugby Players Association ) , for services to rugby union .
David Mahoney ( chief operating officer of England and Wales Cricket Board ) , for services to sport .
Martin Mann ( chair of the Special Olympics ) , for services to people with intellectual disabilities .
David McGowan ( former Olympic rower ) , for services to sport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mick O'Neill ( chairman of Keighley Cougars ) , for services to rugby league , the community in Keighley and to charity during the Covid-19 pandemic .
Nigel Payne ( former chair of Professional Jockeys Association ) , for services to horse racing and to charity , particularly during the Covid-19 response .
Andrew Shelley ( former World Squash Federation chief executive ) , for services to squash .
Joe Simmonds ( captain of Exeter Chiefs ) , for services to rugby union .
Paul Thorogood ( chief executive officer of Football Foundation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shahab Uddin ( director of legal , British Olympic Association ) , for services to sport during the Covid-19 response .
Brendan Warburton ( head coach at Sheffield City Amateur Boxing Club ) , for services to boxing and to the community in Sharrow , Sheffield .
Bob Wright ( Parson Cross Amateur Boxing Club ) , for services to amateur boxing and to the young people in Parson Cross , Sheffield .
Roland Wycherley ( chair of Shrewsbury Town Football Club ) , for services to the community in Shrewsbury .
David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Games ) , for services to athletics and to the community in Burntisland , Fife .
Salma Bi , for services to cricket and to diversity in sport .
Debra Courtenay-Crane ( head coach at Carterton Gymnastics Club ) , for services to gymnastics and to young people in Carterton , Oxfordshire .
Sophie Dunnett , for services to amateur athletics in Scotland .
Sharon Gill , for services to kickboxing and to young people in Bristol .
Evelyn Graham , for services to badminton and to the community in County Antrim .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' football in Merthyr Tydfil , Mid Glamorgan .
Albert Scruby ( instructor at Lea Rowing Club ) , for services to rowing in Clapton , London .
Gregory Silvester ( trustee at Special Olympics GB ) , for services to people with learning disabilities in sport .
Gladys Turnbull ( coach at Whitmore Netball Club ) , for services to sport and the community in Wolverhampton .
Peter Warden , for services to athletics in north-west England .
Curtis Woodhouse , for services to football and boxing .
Graham Wright , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Rossendale , Lancashire .
• None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Sport
Lewis Hamilton won a seventh F1 world championship in 2020
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the Queen's New Year Honours list.
The Briton, 35, sealed a seventh drivers' title at the Turkish Grand Prix in November - equalling Michael Schumacher's championships record.
Rugby league legend Rob Burrow is made an MBE for services to rugby and his awareness campaign since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
British Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong also becomes an MBE.
The former British number one, 37, represented Great Britain in the event - previously known as the Fed Cup - before becoming captain in 2016.
Others made an MBE include former Tottenham and Chelsea striker Jimmy Greaves and ex-Wolves midfielder Ron Flowers, both World Cup winners with England in 1966.
Greaves, who later became a popular television personality, suffered a severe stroke in 2015 and his son Danny said of the MBE: "We are very, very proud of Dad. Always have been, always will be.
"At almost 81, to receive an honour from Her Majesty the Queen is just something very, very special."
Following rugby union side Exeter Chiefs' domestic and European titles last season, director of rugby Rob Baxter is made an OBE while captain Joe Simmonds becomes an MBE.
"I couldn't quite work out if it was real or whether it was spam or someone having bit of a prank," Baxter said of the moment he received the news.
"It turned up by email and not in an official letter. You download it, read it and check who it has been emailed from with a Google search.
"I was sat there with my wife, both of us in a slightly bemused state. My family are delighted."
Former England captain Gillian Coultard has been appointed an MBE for services to football, along with former Swansea City and Wales forward Alan Curtis.
Chairman of the Racecourse Association Maggie Carver has been made a CBE, as has former jockey Bob Champion and chief executive and secretary of the R&A Peter Dawson.
Promoter Barry Hearn becomes an OBE for services to sport, having been involved in boxing, snooker and darts among other sports.
"It has been a great joy to be involved in such a wide range of sports for over 40 years," said Hearn.
"To be recognised for that work is an honour."
Former Rugby Football League chairman, ex-Football Association chief executive and former BBC head of sport Brian Barwick, now chairman of football's National League, receives an OBE.
Meanwhile, Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby chair Kevin Aitchison is made an MBE, and footballer-turned-boxer Curtis Woodhouse is among those to receive the British Empire Medal.
Hamilton honoured after historic year
'Recognise me now?' Lewis Hamilton's career illustrated
Hamilton won his first world title with McLaren in 2008, with further successes in 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
He clinched a seventh World Championship and became the most successful F1 driver ever when he won the Turkish Grand Prix in November 2020.
The Mercedes driver had already surpassed Schumacher's record number of race wins the previous month, with Hamilton's total now standing at 95.
After the Istanbul victory, Hamilton said he felt like he was "only just getting started", adding: "To all the kids out there, dream the impossible."
He said he would "love to stay" in F1 and wanted to continue to campaign for change when it comes to human rights, diversity and environmentalism.
'He's going to ignite an army of Hamilton wannabes'
Former world champion Damon Hill told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It's fantastic the way he calls out to all the young kids. He's going to ignite a whole army of Hamilton wannabe emulators and he deserves his knighthood.
"He's always has been an exceptional talent but it's incredible what he's achieved this year. It's not been a good year for most of us on the planet but it's been a pretty good year for Lewis."
Burrow among those recognised for charity work
Several sporting names have earned their place on the honours list through charity work, with their contributions during the coronavirus pandemic recognised.
Burrow, who made 493 appearances for Leeds Rhinos, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019, two years after retiring from playing.
With the support of his former club and the rugby league community, the 38-year-old has spent the past year working to raise awareness of the degenerative condition, which affects how nerves in the brain and spinal cord function.
Also recognised for his charity work is former jockey Champion, who fought cancer to win the Grand National on Aldaniti in 1981.
The 72-year-old has been made a CBE for his work with the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, which he founded two years after his fairytale win.
"I'm so proud," Champion said. "But really it's for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, and all the people involved in it. The award is for them really not just me."
In rugby union, former player Matt Hampson has been appointed an OBE after founding the Matt Hampson foundation.
The 36-year-old was paralysed from the neck down in 2005 following an accident in training and set up his foundation to offer support to others who have suffered catastrophic sporting injuries.
New Year Honours list for sports
Knighthood
Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1 driver), for services to motorsport.
Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Maggie Carver (Racecourse Association chairman), for services to sport and to the media sector.
Bob Champion (former jockey and founder of Bob Champion Cancer Trust), for charitable services.
Peter Dawson (chief executive and secretary of R&A), for services to golf.
Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Brian Barwick (National League chairman), for services to sport and broadcasting.
Rob Baxter (director of rugby at Exeter Chiefs), for services to rugby union.
Dee Bradbury (Scottish Rugby Union president), for services to rugby union.
Donna Fraser (diversity lead at UK Athletics), for services to equality, inclusion and diversity in the workplace.
Barry Hearn (promoter and chairman of World Snooker Tour and Professional Darts Corporation), for services to sport.
Matt Hampson (former rugby union player and founder of Matt Hampson Foundation), for voluntary and charitable service.
Bill O'Hara (Olympic sailor), for services to sailing.
Samantha Orde (director of English Federation of Disability Sport), for services to people with disabilities.
Nicholas Rust (outgoing chief executive, British Horseracing Authority), for services to horse racing.
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Kevin Aitchison (chair of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby), for services to wheelchair rugby and to people with disabilities.
Colleen Blair (regional swimming development manager, Scottish Swimming), for services to swimming.
Rob Burrow (former Leeds Rhinos player) for services to rugby and to motor neurone disease awareness during Covid-19.
Gillian Coultard (former England captain), for services to football.
Alan Curtis (former Swansea City and Wales forward), for services to Welsh football.
Susan Deaves (vice-president of British Athletics Supporters Club), for services to athletics.
Robert Dick (head coach of Scottish Disability Bowls), for services to disability sport.
Katie Dodd (former England hockey player), for services to hockey.
Emma Evans (goalball coach, player and referee), for services to goalball and to athletes with visual impairments.
Ron Flowers (former Wolves and England midfielder), for services to football.
Jimmy Greaves (former Tottenham and England striker), for services to football.
Damian Hopley (chief executive of the Rugby Players Association), for services to rugby union.
Anne Keothavong (British Billie Jean King Cup captain), for services to tennis.
David Mahoney (chief operating officer of England and Wales Cricket Board), for services to sport.
Martin Mann (chair of the Special Olympics), for services to people with intellectual disabilities.
David McGowan (former Olympic rower), for services to sport and to reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
John McGuinness (motorcyclist), for services to motorcycle racing.
Mick O'Neill (chairman of Keighley Cougars), for services to rugby league, the community in Keighley and to charity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nigel Payne (former chair of Professional Jockeys Association), for services to horse racing and to charity, particularly during the Covid-19 response.
Andrew Shelley (former World Squash Federation chief executive), for services to squash.
Joe Simmonds (captain of Exeter Chiefs), for services to rugby union.
Paul Thorogood (chief executive officer of Football Foundation), for services to football.
Shahab Uddin (director of legal, British Olympic Association), for services to sport during the Covid-19 response.
Brendan Warburton (head coach at Sheffield City Amateur Boxing Club), for services to boxing and to the community in Sharrow, Sheffield.
Bob Wright (Parson Cross Amateur Boxing Club), for services to amateur boxing and to the young people in Parson Cross, Sheffield.
Roland Wycherley (chair of Shrewsbury Town Football Club), for services to the community in Shrewsbury.
British Empire Medal (BEM)
David Adamson (honorary chieftain of Burntisland Highland Games), for services to athletics and to the community in Burntisland, Fife.
Salma Bi, for services to cricket and to diversity in sport.
Debra Courtenay-Crane (head coach at Carterton Gymnastics Club), for services to gymnastics and to young people in Carterton, Oxfordshire.
Sophie Dunnett, for services to amateur athletics in Scotland.
Sharon Gill, for services to kickboxing and to young people in Bristol.
Evelyn Graham, for services to badminton and to the community in County Antrim.
Simon Daniel Jackson-Turner, for services to sport.
Dave Knight, for voluntary service to Newport Community Cricket Club, South Wales.
Mike Knight, for voluntary service to Newport Community Cricket Club, South Wales.
John Mapletoft, for services to table tennis.
Jennifer McArtney, for services to squash.
Rhys McClenaghan, for services to gymnastics.
Dennis Murphy, for services to veterans' football in Merthyr Tydfil, Mid Glamorgan.
Christina Peacock, for services to boxing.
Richard Saunders, for services to disability golf.
Albert Scruby (instructor at Lea Rowing Club), for services to rowing in Clapton, London.
Patricia Sharpe, for services to gymnastics.
Gregory Silvester (trustee at Special Olympics GB), for services to people with learning disabilities in sport.
Gladys Turnbull (coach at Whitmore Netball Club), for services to sport and the community in Wolverhampton.
Peter Warden, for services to athletics in north-west England.
Curtis Woodhouse, for services to football and boxing.
Graham Wright, for services to athletics and to the community in Rossendale, Lancashire.


bbc--2020-12-31--Pogba to Juve? Alli to PSG? The players who could be on the move in January

Last updated on .From the section Football No winter break , a shorter season and injuries piling up .
Will clubs decide to splash out or aim to bring in players on short-term deals ?
BBC Sport takes a look at players who could move when the transfer window opens on 4 January .
Will he leave ?
Wo n't he leave ?
It has been a running theme during Pogba 's time at Manchester United and this transfer window is no different .
The France World Cup winner has been a regular performer for United this season , making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier this month the player is `` unhappy '' at the club and `` has to change teams '' in the next transfer window .
Ozil has been banished by manager Mikel Arteta , failing to make Arsenal 's squad for both the domestic and European campaign this season .
A World Cup winner with Germany in 2014 , Ozil is one of the Gunners ' highest earners .
His contract runs out next summer but he may leave earlier if a deal can be agreed .
England international Alli 's future at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has fallen out of favour under Jose Mourinho and made just one Premier League start so far this season .
Paris St-Germain tried to sign Alli last summer but owner Daniel Levy refused to agree a deal .
The French champions look set to make another attempt in January .
Olivier Giroud 's Chelsea career seemed to be nearing an end this summer as boss Frank Lampard bolstered his attacking options with the likes of Timo Werner .
However , the veteran France striker has been in great form for club and country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - including all four in a 4-0 win against Sevilla .
That form has apparently alerted a number of clubs including Atletico Madrid .
The Spanish side released Diego Costa recently and could see Giroud as the ideal replacement .
Anfield cult hero Origi has seen his game time reduced at Liverpool following the summer arrival of Diogo Jota , playing just eight games and scoring one goal .
Wolves retain a long-held interest and may well bid as they look for cover for striker Raul Jimenez , who is recovering from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 appearances for Chelsea last season but has barely featured this term , playing just three games in all competitions .
Leeds looks the likeliest destination with the West Yorkshire side needing cover for long-term absentee Robin Koch .
Adama Traore had a hugely impressive season in 2019-20 but has not quite been able to carry that form into this campaign and has struggled for game time this season .
The Spain international has started just nine games this season and has failed to score a goal or provide any assists .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to pastures new might be what the winger needs to rediscover his form .
Ukraine full-back Zinchenko has fallen down the pecking order at Etihad Stadium , playing just 12 Premier League minutes this season .
With no guarantee of first-team football , City `` will listen to offers '' for the player and will not be short of suitors .
Mali midfielder Bissouma has been a regular in the Brighton line-up since signing from Lille in 2018 .
But with Georginio Wijnaldum yet to sign a new contract at Liverpool , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replacement for the Dutchman .
Centre-back Tarkowski has been a firm fixture in the Clarets backline and has also gone on to win two England caps .
But he has so far failed to agree a new contract at Turf Moor , with his current deal expiring in 18 months ' time .
Republic of Ireland international McCarthy has failed to hold down a first-team place at Crystal Palace and has played just four games this season .
The experienced midfielder has played more than 250 top-flight games but is out of contract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could secure a move away in January .
King almost moved to Manchester United last summer but ended up staying with Bournemouth following relegation to the Championship .
The Cherries are flying high in the second tier and could cash in on King , whose contract runs out at the end of the season .
Buendia has been in superb form this season , scoring six goals and providing six assists as Norwich look to bounce back to the Premier League at the first attempt .
The Argentine may well be looking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be a creative force for Arsenal , who are in desperate need of inspiration in the final third .
Teenage defender Sorinola has caught the eye in his breakthrough season for MK Dons in League One , playing 19 games .
A host of scouts have been impressed with his progress and a number of clubs are said to be chasing his signature next month .
Many expected the France Under-21 international to leave in the summer - and Edouard himself was among them .
As transfer noise buffeted around him , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at best .
No offers were forthcoming before the summer window closed and Edouard has been some way off his best ever since .
Celtic are unlikely to be searching for suitors but , should one come along with an enticing offer , it is entirely possible a deal could be done .
This time last year , the Colombian was in fine fettle .
Goals followed goals in the opening half of the domestic season and the striker was rampant in the Europa League , too .
Clubs across the continent cast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The goals dried up as Rangers ' title challenge faltered .
Lille were sniffing around in the summer and , with Rangers eager to generate revenue from player sales , Morelos would seem like a likely candidate to depart after a frustrating opening half of this season .
Austria international Alaba won the Treble with Bayern Munich last season but is in the final year of his contract and has yet to agree a new one .
The defender can start talking to other clubs in January .
A host of top clubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Argentine attacking midfielder appears to have fallen out with his coach Gian Piero Gasperini .
He 's 32 years old but is one of Atalanta 's most important players and a huge part of their recent success in the Champions League , reaching the knockout stages in the last two seasons .
The Denmark star 's move to Italy from Tottenham 12 months ago has not worked out and he has a strained relationship with Inter head coach Antonio Conte .
At 28 , he is at a key moment in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
France midfielder Aouar was strongly linked with Arsenal in the last transfer window .
With Lyon challenging PSG for the title this season , he is more likely to move in the summer than in January .
According to the Italian media , a swap deal involving Marcelo Brozovic and Leandro Paredes collapsed on deadline day in October .
Paredes was in and out of the PSG starting XI before manager Thomas Tuchel 's recent sacking , and they could let him leave in order to free up space and money to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zinedine Zidane no longer seems to consider Isco as one of his key players and Spanish media are reporting that the 28-year-old sees his future outside La Liga .
His contract does n't expire until 2022 so anyone interested would still need to pay a considerable fee .
Costa 's departure from Atletico Madrid in December has paved the way for a possible Premier League return .
However , the 32-year-old will be keen for regular football after making just three substitute appearances since mid-October .
The Spain striker scored 59 goals in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017 and still has the aggression to upset defenders even if he is not as prolific as he once was .
When it comes to this time of year , RB Salzburg are European football 's top supermarket .
Takumi Minamino and Erling Braut Haaland left the Austrian club 12 months ago and Dominik Szoboszlai has already agreed his move to RB Leipzig , to go through officially once the January window opens .
Berisha has caught the eye , notably with goals against Bayern Munich and Lokomotiv Moscow in the Champions League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burst on to the scene as a teenager at Benfica , has rebuilt his reputation after life at Bayern Munich did n't work out .
Like many French clubs , Lille are having financial difficulties and with new owners in charge he may be allowed to leave to raise funds .
The Polish striker was omitted from Napoli 's Serie A and Europa League squads this season after a contract dispute .
He has scored 48 goals in 122 appearances across all competitions for the Italian club , having joined from Ajax in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Will Paul Pogba and Dele Alli be on the move in January?
No winter break, a shorter season and injuries piling up.
Whether a team is challenging for the title, aiming for a European spot or looking to avoid relegation, reinforcements may well be needed for that push in the second half of the season.
Will clubs decide to splash out or aim to bring in players on short-term deals? BBC Sport takes a look at players who could move with the transfer window now open.
Premier League
PAUL POGBA (27, midfielder, Manchester United)
Linked with: external-link Juventus
Will he leave? Won't he leave? It has been a running theme during Pogba's time at Manchester United and this transfer window is no different.
The France World Cup winner has been a regular performer for United this season, making 19 appearances, but his agent said earlier this month the player is "unhappy" at the club and "has to change teams" in the next transfer window.
MESUT OZIL (32, midfielder, Arsenal)
Linked with: external-link Fenerbahce, DC United, LA Galaxy, Inter Miami
Ozil has been banished by manager Mikel Arteta, failing to make Arsenal's squad for both the domestic and European campaign this season.
A World Cup winner with Germany in 2014, Ozil is one of the Gunners' highest earners. His contract runs out next summer but he may leave earlier if a deal can be agreed.
DELE ALLI (24, midfielder, Tottenham)
Linked with: Paris St-Germain, Everton
England international Alli's future at Tottenham has become increasingly uncertain; he has fallen out of favour under Jose Mourinho and made just one Premier League start so far this season.
Paris St-Germain tried to sign Alli last summer but owner Daniel Levy refused to agree a deal. The French champions look set to make another attempt in January.
OLIVIER GIROUD (34, striker, Chelsea)
Linked with: external-link West Ham, Atletico Madrid, Marseille
Olivier Giroud's Chelsea career seemed to be nearing an end this summer as boss Frank Lampard bolstered his attacking options with the likes of Timo Werner.
However, the veteran France striker has been in great form for club and country, scoring 14 goals in 23 appearances - including all four in a 4-0 win against Sevilla.
That form has apparently alerted a number of clubs including Atletico Madrid. The Spanish side released Diego Costa recently and could see Giroud as the ideal replacement.
DIVOCK ORIGI (25, striker, Liverpool)
Linked with: external-link Wolves, Newcastle, Leeds
Anfield cult hero Origi has seen his game time reduced at Liverpool following the summer arrival of Diogo Jota, playing just eight games and scoring one goal.
Wolves retain a long-held interest and may well bid as they look for cover for striker Raul Jimenez, who is recovering from a fractured skull.
FIKAYO TOMORI (22, defender, Chelsea)
Linked with: external-link Leeds
England international Tomori made 22 appearances for Chelsea last season but has barely featured this term, playing just three games in all competitions.
Leeds looks the likeliest destination with the West Yorkshire side needing cover for long-term absentee Robin Koch.
ADAMA TRAORE (24, winger, Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Linked with: external-link Leeds
Adama Traore had a hugely impressive season in 2019-20 but has not quite been able to carry that form into this campaign and has struggled for game time this season.
The Spain international has started just nine games this season and has failed to score a goal or provide any assists. With Euro 2020 on the horizon, a move to pastures new might be what the winger needs to rediscover his form.
OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (24, full-back, Manchester City)
Linked with: external-link Southampton, Wolves, Leicester, West Ham
Ukraine full-back Zinchenko has fallen down the pecking order at Etihad Stadium, playing just 12 Premier League minutes this season.
With no guarantee of first-team football, City "will listen to offers" for the player and will not be short of suitors.
YVES BISSOUMA (24, midfielder, Brighton)
Linked with: external-link Liverpool, Manchester United, Monaco
Mali midfielder Bissouma has been a regular in the Brighton line-up since signing from Lille in 2018.
But with Georginio Wijnaldum yet to sign a new contract at Liverpool, Bissouma has been touted as a possible replacement for the Dutchman.
JAMES TARKOWSKI (28, defender, Burnley)
Linked with: external-link West Ham, Leicester
Centre-back Tarkowski has been a firm fixture in the Clarets backline and has also gone on to win two England caps.
But he has so far failed to agree a new contract at Turf Moor, with his current deal expiring in 18 months' time.
JAMES MCCARTHY (30, midfielder, Crystal Palace)
Linked with: external-link Celtic, Aston Villa, Burnley
Republic of Ireland international McCarthy has failed to hold down a first-team place at Crystal Palace and has played just four games this season.
The experienced midfielder has played more than 250 top-flight games but is out of contract at the end of the season and could secure a move away in January.
EFL
JOSHUA KING (28, striker, Bournemouth)
Linked with: external-link Aston Villa
King almost moved to Manchester United last summer but ended up staying with Bournemouth following relegation to the Championship.
The Cherries are flying high in the second tier and could cash in on King, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.
EMILIANO BUENDIA (24, midfielder, Norwich)
Linked with: external-link Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Valencia
Buendia has been in superb form this season, scoring six goals and providing six assists as Norwich look to bounce back to the Premier League at the first attempt.
The Argentine may well be looking for a return to the top flight and would be a creative force for Arsenal, who are in desperate need of inspiration in the final third.
MATTHEW SORINOLA (19, defender, MK Dons)
Linked with: external-link Leeds, West Ham
Teenage defender Sorinola has caught the eye in his breakthrough season for MK Dons in League One, playing 19 games.
A host of scouts have been impressed with his progress and a number of clubs are said to be chasing his signature next month.
Scotland
ODSONNE EDOUARD (22, striker, Celtic)
Linked with: external-link AC Milan
Many expected the France Under-21 international to leave in the summer - and Edouard himself was among them. As transfer noise buffeted around him, the striker's early-season form was underwhelming at best. No offers were forthcoming before the summer window closed and Edouard has been some way off his best ever since.
Celtic are unlikely to be searching for suitors but, should one come along with an enticing offer, it is entirely possible a deal could be done.
ALFREDO MORELOS (24, striker, Rangers)
Linked with: external-link Lille
This time last year, the Colombian was in fine fettle. Goals followed goals in the opening half of the domestic season and the striker was rampant in the Europa League, too. Clubs across the continent cast covetous glances. Then it stopped. The goals dried up as Rangers' title challenge faltered.
Lille were sniffing around in the summer and, with Rangers eager to generate revenue from player sales, Morelos would seem like a likely candidate to depart after a frustrating opening half of this season.
Across Europe
DAVID ALABA (28, defender, Bayern Munich)
Linked with: external-link Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Barcelona, Real Madrid, PSG
Austria international Alaba won the Treble with Bayern Munich last season but is in the final year of his contract and has yet to agree a new one.
The defender can start talking to other clubs in January. A host of top clubs across Europe are interested in his signature.
PAPU GOMEZ (32, forward, Atalanta)
Linked with: external-link Juventus, Inter, AC Milan, Napoli, Roma, PSG
The Argentine attacking midfielder appears to have fallen out with his coach Gian Piero Gasperini. He's 32 years old but is one of Atalanta's most important players and a huge part of their recent success in the Champions League, reaching the knockout stages in the last two seasons.
CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN (28, midfielder, Inter Milan)
Linked with: external-link PSG, Arsenal, Manchester United
The Denmark star's move to Italy from Tottenham 12 months ago has not worked out and he has a strained relationship with Inter head coach Antonio Conte. At 28, he is at a key moment in his career and wants regular first-team football.
HOUSSEM AOUAR (22, midfielder, Lyon)
Linked with: external-link Real Madrid, Juventus, PSG, Arsenal
France midfielder Aouar was strongly linked with Arsenal in the last transfer window.
With Lyon challenging PSG for the title this season, he is more likely to move in the summer than in January.
LEANDRO PAREDES (26, midfielder, PSG)
Linked with: external-link Inter Milan
According to the Italian media, a swap deal involving Marcelo Brozovic and Leandro Paredes collapsed on deadline day in October. Paredes was in and out of the PSG starting XI before manager Thomas Tuchel's recent sacking, and they could let him leave in order to free up space and money to bring in one of their targets.
ISCO (28, midfielder, Real Madrid)
Linked with: external-link Sevilla, Juventus, Arsenal, Everton
Zinedine Zidane no longer seems to consider Isco as one of his key players and Spanish media are reporting that the 28-year-old sees his future outside La Liga. His contract doesn't expire until 2022 so anyone interested would still need to pay a considerable fee.
DIEGO COSTA (32, striker, free agent)
Linked with: external-link Arsenal, Wolves
Costa's departure from Atletico Madrid in December has paved the way for a possible Premier League return.
However, the 32-year-old will be keen for regular football after making just three substitute appearances since mid-October. The Spain striker scored 59 goals in 120 games for Chelsea between 2014 and 2017 and still has the aggression to upset defenders even if he is not as prolific as he once was.
MERGIM BERISHA (22, striker, RB Salzburg)
Linked with: external-link Parma, Sassuolo, Torino
When it comes to this time of year, RB Salzburg are European football's top supermarket. Takumi Minamino and Erling Braut Haaland left the Austrian club 12 months ago and Dominik Szoboszlai has already agreed his move to RB Leipzig, to go through officially once the January window opens.
Berisha has caught the eye, notably with goals against Bayern Munich and Lokomotiv Moscow in the Champions League.
RENATO SANCHES (23, midfielder, Lille)
Linked with: external-link Liverpool, Inter Milan
The Portugal international midfielder, who burst on to the scene as a teenager at Benfica, has rebuilt his reputation after life at Bayern Munich didn't work out.
Like many French clubs, Lille are having financial difficulties and with new owners in charge he may be allowed to leave to raise funds.
ARKADIUSZ MILIK (26, striker, Napoli)
Linked with: external-link Roma, Juventus, Fiorentina, Everton, Tottenham
The Polish striker was omitted from Napoli's Serie A and Europa League squads this season after a contract dispute. He has scored 48 goals in 122 appearances across all competitions for the Italian club, having joined from Ajax in 2016.


bbc--2020-12-31--Offloading players is Arsenal priority - Arteta

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal Arsenal will prioritise offloading players in the January transfer window , says manager Mikel Arteta .
Defenders Shkodran Mustafi and Sead Kolasinac have barely featured in the league in 2020-21 .
`` We can not sustain the numbers that we have in certain positions , '' said Arteta .
`` There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave , and that is the priority .
`` Then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions where we need some more help .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the move in January ?
When asked about reports that Bosnia-Herzegovina left-back Kolasinac is close to a return to former club Schalke , Arteta said : `` '' The numbers we have in the squad at the moment are really big , but we can not confirm anything yet . ''
Arsenal have three first-team players out on loan - centre-back Konstantinos Mavropanos is at Stuttgart , while midfielders Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are at Atletico Madrid and Hertha Berlin respectively .
The Gunners are 13th in the Premier League after 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Chelsea that ended a run of seven matches without a win .
• None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal
Arsenal left-back Sead Kolasinac has appeared in only one Premier League match this season
Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac is joining Schalke on loan for the rest of the season after Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said offloading players was the January transfer window "priority".
Bosnia-Herzegovina left-back Kolasinac, 27, began his career with the German side before moving to Arsenal in 2017.
"We cannot sustain the numbers we have in certain positions," Arteta had said earlier on Thursday.
"There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave."
He added: "That is the priority. Then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions where we need some more help."
Kolasanic has made 113 appearances for Arsenal and was part of last season's FA Cup-winning squad.
This term, he has started only one Premier League match but has featured in the Europa League and Carabao Cup.
Arsenal technical director Edu said: "Sead needs to be playing regularly, so we have decided together that a move back to Germany with Schalke will benefit him at this moment."
Germany defender Shkodran Mustafi has also barely featured in the league in 2020-21, while German midfielder Mesut Ozil, whose deal expires in summer 2021, was left out of the Gunners' Premier League and Europa League squads this season.
Arsenal already have three first-team players out on loan - centre-back Konstantinos Mavropanos is at Stuttgart, while midfielders Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are at Atletico Madrid and Hertha Berlin respectively.
The Gunners are 13th in the Premier League after 16 games, following back-to-back victories over Brighton and Chelsea that ended a run of seven matches without a win.
They host 19th-placed West Bromwich Albion on 2 January (20:00 GMT kick-off).


bbc--2020-12-31--Hammon becomes first woman to lead NBA team after Spurs' head coach ejected

Last updated on .From the section Basketball Becky Hammon became the first woman to lead an NBA team after the San Antonio Spurs ' head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected against the Los Angeles Lakers .
LeBron James led the Lakers with 26 points on his 36th birthday .
`` Obviously it 's a big deal , a substantial moment , '' said Hammon , who joined the Spurs in 2014 .
`` I try not to think of the huge picture and huge aspect of it because it can be overwhelming . ''
Former WNBA star Hammon , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NBA coaching staff , said she did not know she would take charge if Popovich were to be sent off until he pointed at her and said : `` You got 'em . ''
Popovich was thrown out by official Tony Brown after shouting and entering the court when he felt a foul was incorrectly not called .
James scored double figures for a 1,000th consecutive game , extending his own NBA record .
`` It 's a beautiful thing just to hear her barking out calls , barking out sets , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and congratulations for our league . ''
Kawhi Leonard returned after two games out to score 28 points and lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a 128-105 win over the Portland Trail Blazers .
Leonard wore a face guard , having required eight stitches in his mouth after accidentally colliding with team-mate Serge Ibaka in the Christmas Day game against the Denver Nuggets .
The Clippers lead the Western Conference with a record of four wins from five games .
Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant hit 33 points as the Brooklyn Nets beat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Nets guard Kyrie Irving added 17 points to help deny the Hawks a fourth win in a row .
Two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 26 points but could not prevent the Milwaukee Bucks from falling to a 119-108 defeat by the Miami Heat .
The Bucks set an NBA record of 29 three-pointers in a crushing 144-97 victory over the Heat on Tuesday , but Miami did a fine job of keeping their shooters in check this time .
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown scored a career-high 42 points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Memphis Grizzlies , while the Charlotte Hornets beat the Dallas Mavericks 118-99 .
• None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Basketball
Becky Hammon played for the San Antonio Stars WNBA franchise, who have since become the Las Vegas Aces
Becky Hammon became the first woman to lead an NBA team after the San Antonio Spurs' head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Popovich put assistant coach Hammon in charge after he was removed in the second quarter of the Spurs' 121-107 defeat by the Lakers in Texas.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 26 points on his 36th birthday.
"Obviously it's a big deal, a substantial moment," said Hammon, who joined the Spurs in 2014.
"I try not to think of the huge picture and huge aspect of it because it can be overwhelming."
Former WNBA star Hammon, who was the first woman to join an NBA coaching staff, said she did not know she would take charge if Popovich were to be sent off until he pointed at her and said: "You got 'em."
Popovich was thrown out by official Tony Brown after shouting and entering the court when he felt a foul was incorrectly not called.
James scored double figures for a 1,000th consecutive game, extending his own NBA record.
"It's a beautiful thing just to hear her barking out calls, barking out sets," said James. "Congratulations to her and congratulations for our league."
Kawhi Leonard returned after two games out to score 28 points and lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a 128-105 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
Leonard wore a face guard, having required eight stitches in his mouth after accidentally colliding with team-mate Serge Ibaka in the Christmas Day game against the Denver Nuggets.
The Clippers lead the Western Conference with a record of four wins from five games.
Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant hit 33 points as the Brooklyn Nets beat the Atlanta Hawks 145-141 in New York.
Nets guard Kyrie Irving added 17 points to help deny the Hawks a fourth win in a row.
Two-time reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 26 points but could not prevent the Milwaukee Bucks from falling to a 119-108 defeat by the Miami Heat.
The Bucks set an NBA record of 29 three-pointers in a crushing 144-97 victory over the Heat on Tuesday, but Miami did a fine job of keeping their shooters in check this time.
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown scored a career-high 42 points in his side's 126-107 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, while the Charlotte Hornets beat the Dallas Mavericks 118-99.


bbc--2020-12-31--Football in 2021 - make your predictions

Last updated on .From the section Football Aston Villa winning the Premier League , Dominic Calvert-Lewin grabbing the Golden Boot and Scotland winning Euro 2020 - does that sound feasible ?
As we prepare to enter a new year , it 's time to predict what 's going to happen in 2021. Who will win the Premier League ?
This season has seemed more unpredictable than ever , with several unlikely title contenders near the top of the table .
Southampton , Tottenham and Leicester all went top in one weekend in November , while Everton have led the table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arsenal , meanwhile , have flirted with the possibility of a relegation fight but an upturn of form towards the end of the year appears to have them heading back in the right direction .
Here 's how the table looks now , but who do you think will be top of the tree come the end of the season ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
While we are on the topic of the Premier League , who is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Previous Golden Boot winners Harry Kane , Jamie Vardy and Mohamed Salah are all in the mix but so are some players you might not have expected ... Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored six Premier League goals two seasons ago .
Patrick Bamford and Ollie Watkins were in the Championship last season , and Son Heung-min and Bruno Fernandes are n't even strikers .
So who do you think will win the Golden Boot this season ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain turn the lights off ? '
is the kind of joke we could have made about England , Wales and Scotland being at Euro 2020 this summer - were a load of their games not in London and Glasgow .
Do you think any of those home nations can win ?
Or is this finally the year Belgium 's golden generation go all the way ?
Could world champions France do the World Cup-Euros double ?
Or can Portugal retain their crown ?
Will Germany , Italy , Spain or the Netherlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Who will win the Ballon d'Or ?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have won 11 of the past 12 Ballons d'Or between them - with Luka Modric taking the other .
Robert Lewandowski would surely have won the 2020 version had it not been cancelled , but who do you fancy to win it this year ?
Do you think Kylian Mbappe will fire Paris St-Germain and France to European glory and win the illustrious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grab a Premier League-Euro 2020 double and win it ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Who will win the Women 's Super League ?
We are into the 10th season of the Women 's Super League , and it is Manchester United who lead the way at the end of 2020 .
They are four points clear at the top of the standings , but have some big sides in close attention .
Can Chelsea retain their title to win for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vivianne Miedema and Arsenal have something to say about that ?
Manchester City have finished second for the past three years but is this their time ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Who will win the Championship ?
The Championship promotion battle looks as if it 's going to be closely fought once again .
Norwich top the table as they look to make an immediate return to the Premier League , but Swansea , Bournemouth , Brentford and Watford make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Canaries ' heels .
Who do you think will win the title this season ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Celtic have won the past nine Scottish league titles and are looking for a record-breaking 10th in a row .
You have to go back to 2016 for the last time anybody else won a major trophy in Scotland .
But Rangers are 16 points clear of Celtic in the table and looking in good shape under Steven Gerrard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait for a Scottish title this year ?
Or will it be a decade of Celtic dominance ?
Or , in the interest of balance , we should also ask you if another team might win it ...
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo only needs seven goals to move level with Iran legend Ali Daei , currently the top-scoring player in men 's international football .
Daei hit 109 goals between 1993 and 2006 .
Ronaldo will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2021 - plus friendlies - to break the world record .
Do you think he will ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Who will win the Champions League ?
Bayern Munich look like they could be the team to beat again in this season 's Champions League , and three English teams - Manchester City , Liverpool and Chelsea - navigated the group stages .
Barcelona finished second in their group and have to play Paris St-Germain , while Real Madrid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atalanta .
Who do you think will be crowned European champions ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
Lionel Messi tried to leave Barcelona last summer , claiming a clause in his contract meant he was allowed to leave on a free transfer .
The club disputed that and , rather than take them to court , he stayed .
But his contract ends in the summer of 2021 and Neymar wants the Argentine to join him at PSG .
Will the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Messi to stay , or do you think he will leave the only club he has ever played for ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
It was one of the transfer sagas of 2020 , but could Manchester United actually , finally , meet Borussia Dortmund 's valuation of Jadon Sancho and sign the England winger ?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote .
• None When Peter Crouch got a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Football
Will Rangers win the Scottish title? Who will lift the English version? Can Dominic Calvert-Lewin win the Golden Boot? Is this the year Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona?
Aston Villa winning the Premier League, Dominic Calvert-Lewin grabbing the Golden Boot and Scotland winning Euro 2020 - does that sound feasible?
Or do you think it'll be more like Liverpool, Harry Kane and Germany?
As we prepare to enter a new year, it's time to predict what's going to happen in 2021.
Who will win the Premier League?
This season has seemed more unpredictable than ever, with several unlikely title contenders near the top of the table.
Southampton, Tottenham and Leicester all went top in one weekend in November, while Everton have led the table and Aston Villa are flying high.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have flirted with the possibility of a relegation fight but an upturn of form towards the end of the year appears to have them heading back in the right direction.
Here's how the table looks now, but who do you think will be top of the tree come the end of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win Golden Boot?
While we are on the topic of the Premier League, who is going to top the scoring charts this season?
Previous Golden Boot winners Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy and Mohamed Salah are all in the mix but so are some players you might not have expected...
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored six Premier League goals two seasons ago. Patrick Bamford and Ollie Watkins were in the Championship last season, and Son Heung-min and Bruno Fernandes aren't even strikers.
So who do you think will win the Golden Boot this season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win Euro 2020?
'Will the last person out of Britain turn the lights off?' is the kind of joke we could have made about England, Wales and Scotland being at Euro 2020 this summer - were a load of their games not in London and Glasgow.
Do you think any of those home nations can win? Or is this finally the year Belgium's golden generation go all the way?
Could world champions France do the World Cup-Euros double? Or can Portugal retain their crown?
Will Germany, Italy, Spain or the Netherlands be good again like the old days?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win the Ballon d'Or?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have won 11 of the past 12 Ballons d'Or between them - with Luka Modric taking the other.
Robert Lewandowski would surely have won the 2020 version had it not been cancelled, but who do you fancy to win it this year?
Do you think Kylian Mbappe will fire Paris St-Germain and France to European glory and win the illustrious award - or maybe Harry Kane could grab a Premier League-Euro 2020 double and win it?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win the Women's Super League?
We are into the 10th season of the Women's Super League, and it is Manchester United who lead the way at the end of 2020.
They are four points clear at the top of the standings, but have some big sides in close attention.
Can Chelsea retain their title to win for a record fourth time? Or will Vivianne Miedema and Arsenal have something to say about that?
Manchester City have finished second for the past three years but is this their time?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win the Championship?
The Championship promotion battle looks as if it's going to be closely fought once again.
Norwich top the table as they look to make an immediate return to the Premier League, but Swansea, Bournemouth, Brentford and Watford make up a chasing pack that are hot on the Canaries' heels.
Who do you think will win the title this season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Will Rangers end Celtic's dominance?
Celtic have won the past nine Scottish league titles and are looking for a record-breaking 10th in a row. You have to go back to 2016 for the last time anybody else won a major trophy in Scotland.
But Rangers are 16 points clear of Celtic in the table and looking in good shape under Steven Gerrard.
So can they end that long wait for a Scottish title this year? Or will it be a decade of Celtic dominance? Or, in the interest of balance, we should also ask you if another team might win it...
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Will Ronaldo break the world record?
Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo only needs seven goals to move level with Iran legend Ali Daei, currently the top-scoring player in men's international football. Daei hit 109 goals between 1993 and 2006.
Ronaldo will have at least 11 competitive games in 2021 - plus friendlies - to break the world record.
Do you think he will?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who will win the Champions League?
Bayern Munich look like they could be the team to beat again in this season's Champions League, and three English teams - Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea - navigated the group stages.
Barcelona finished second in their group and have to play Paris St-Germain, while Real Madrid only just squeezed through and play entertainers Atalanta.
Who do you think will be crowned European champions?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona?
Lionel Messi tried to leave Barcelona last summer, claiming a clause in his contract meant he was allowed to leave on a free transfer. The club disputed that and, rather than take them to court, he stayed.
But his contract ends in the summer of 2021 and Neymar wants the Argentine to join him at PSG. Will the exit of president Josep Maria Bartomeu persuade Messi to stay, or do you think he will leave the only club he has ever played for?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Will Jadon Sancho finally join Man Utd?
It was one of the transfer sagas of 2020, but could Manchester United actually, finally, meet Borussia Dortmund's valuation of Jadon Sancho and sign the England winger?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.


bbc--2020-05-09--The day the pirates came

The day the pirates came

The frail Ghanaian man in his mid-60s who approached in a boat that afternoon , nervously clutching a heavy plastic @ @ @ @ @ out of the top , did not look like a seasoned negotiator .
Within minutes @ @ @ @ @ was clear something was not right .
A group of pirates began beating the old @ @ @ @ @ bellowing about the money being short , pulled a small knife out of his belt @ @ @ @ @ leg , leaving him writhing on the muddy ground .
He then approached the Indians @ @ @ @ @ the Ghanaian would be staying , all six captives were free to go .
His @ @ @ @ @ , but if another pirate group picked them up , they were on their own @ @ @ @ @ the eye : `` Bye-bye . ''

The frail Ghanaian man in his mid-60s who approached in a boat that afternoon, nervously clutching a heavy plastic bag with US dollars peeking out of the top, did not look like a seasoned negotiator. Within minutes of his arrival, it was clear something was not right. A group of pirates began beating the old man. The King, bellowing about the money being short, pulled a small knife out of his belt and stabbed him in the leg, leaving him writhing on the muddy ground. He then approached the Indians and told them that while the Ghanaian would be staying, all six captives were free to go. His men wouldn't stop them, but if another pirate group picked them up, they were on their own. He looked Sudeep in the eye: "Bye-bye."


bbc--2020-12-31--Brexit: New era for UK as it completes separation from European Union

The two sides still need to talk about the practicalities .
We still have to find out what access Brussels @ @ @ @ @ UK financial services to the single market , there 's that cooperation on climate change @ @ @ @ @ trade deal there is a renewal clause every five years .

And while this historic move happens at a moment in time, the impact, in some areas, may be less instant or obvious than others - for example, it's expected there'll be relatively little traffic at Dover on the first day of 2021 as new border checks kick in.


bbc--2020-12-31--Brexit marked by the chimes of Big Ben

Brexit marked by the chimes of Big Ben

The bongs of Big Ben at at 23:00 GMT at the Palace of Westminster in London have signalled the UK @ @ @ @ @ rules .
The trade deal was agreed by the two sides on Christmas Eve , @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
It means changes to UK rules on travel , trade , immigration and @ @ @ @ @ been being undergoing restoration work since 2017 , but the chimes were turned back on @ @ @ @ @

The bongs of Big Ben at at 23:00 GMT at the Palace of Westminster in London have signalled the UK's departure from EU trading rules.
The trade deal was agreed by the two sides on Christmas Eve, and passed by MPs on Wednesday.
It means changes to UK rules on travel, trade, immigration and security.
Big Ben has been being undergoing restoration work since 2017, but the chimes were turned back on for the historic day.


bbc--2020-12-31--Brexit: Gibraltar gets UK-Spain deal to keep open border

The deal does not address the thorny issue of sovereignty .
Spain has long disputed British sovereignty over the Rock @ @ @ @ @ in 1713 and which is now home to about 34,000 people .
The Remain vote @ @ @ @ @ % in the 2016 EU referendum .

The deal does not address the thorny issue of sovereignty. Spain has long disputed British sovereignty over the Rock which was ceded to Britain in 1713 and which is now home to about 34,000 people. The Remain vote there was an overwhelming 96% in the 2016 EU referendum.


bbc--2020-12-31--Ontario finance minister Rod Phillips resigns over Caribbean vacation

`` It 's not believable that a senior member of cabinet did n't tell the premier 's office he was @ @ @ @ @ during the height of a global emergency , '' she said in a statement .
@ @ @ @ @ , that in itself would be enough reason to demote him . ''

"It's not believable that a senior member of cabinet didn't tell the premier's office he was leaving the country for weeks during the height of a global emergency," she said in a statement. "If he didn't, that in itself would be enough reason to demote him."


bbc--2020-12-31--How 2021 is being celebrated around the world

Countries around the world have welcomed 2021 with fireworks , but crowds were only allowed at some displays .
Strict @ @ @ @ @ New Zealand have all but eliminated Covid , so New Year 's Eve plans were @ @ @ @ @ Sydney fireworks display went ahead , but crowds were n't allowed to gather on the @ @ @ @ @ it .
Restrictions are being placed on New Year festivities around the world as many @ @ @ @ @ spikes in coronavirus cases .
Read more : Covid dampens New Year celebrations around world

Countries around the world have welcomed 2021 with fireworks, but crowds were only allowed at some displays.
Restrictions were placed on new year festivities as many countries struggle to curb new spikes in coronavirus cases.
Strict lockdown and border closures in New Zealand have all but eliminated Covid, so New Year's Eve plans were held as usual.
The Sydney fireworks display went ahead, but crowds weren't allowed to gather on the city's harbour to enjoy it.
Read more: Covid dampens new year celebrations around world


bbc--2020-12-31--Hacked home cams used to livestream police raids in swatting attacks

`` After this we 'll log out , tell him to change his Yahoo password , his Ring password , @ @ @ @ @ passwords for the same [ stuff ] , '' the offender was quoted as saying @ @ @ @ @ .

"After this we'll log out, tell him to change his Yahoo password, his Ring password, and stop using the same passwords for the same [stuff]," the offender was quoted as saying by local news station WHAS11.


bbc--2020-12-31--MF Doom: Hip-hop star dies aged 49

MF Doom: Hip-hop star dies aged 49

The musician , real name Daniel Dumile , was known for his rhyme style and his performances in which he @ @ @ @ @

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bbc--2020-12-31--Covid pandemic dampens New Year celebrations around the world

Officials have placed restrictions on festivities in many states and cities .
In New York the illuminated Times Square Ball @ @ @ @ @ traditional countdown to midnight , but the area will not be open to the public @

Several departments banned the sale of fireworks and limited alcohol sales as part of measures to stop the unrest and torching of cars that often takes place on the final night of the year. Although incidents of violence were reportedly fewer, police were attacked while trying to break up several large illegal raves. In Alsace, a 25-year-old man died when a firework he was holding exploded, local media said.


bbc--2020-12-31--Covid-19: China approves Sinopharm vaccine for general use

`` After a series of strict reviews , verification , test and data analysis in accordance with the law and @ @ @ @ @ that the known and potential benefits of Sinopharm 's new inactivated coronavirus vaccine are bigger @ @ @ @ @ risks , and it fully meets the pre-set requirements of conditional marketing standards , '' @ @ @

"After a series of strict reviews, verification, test and data analysis in accordance with the law and procedures, it is concluded that the known and potential benefits of Sinopharm's new inactivated coronavirus vaccine are bigger than the known and potential risks, and it fully meets the pre-set requirements of conditional marketing standards," he said.


bbc--2020-12-31--Mohammad Hassan Rezaiee: UN condemns Iran over 'juvenile execution'

`` Imposing the death penalty on someone who was a child at the time of the crime is a serious @ @ @ @ @ law , which absolutely prohibits the use of the death penalty for crimes committed by @ @ @ @ @ in a statement earlier this month .

"Imposing the death penalty on someone who was a child at the time of the crime is a serious violation of international human rights law, which absolutely prohibits the use of the death penalty for crimes committed by children," it said in a statement earlier this month.


bbc--2020-12-31--Australia changes national anthem to reflect indigenous past

In December , rugby players for the national team sang the national anthem in an indigenous language for the first @ @ @ @ @ in the language of the Eora nation - a group of peoples from the Sydney @ @ @ @ @ anthem in English .

In December, rugby players for the national team sang the national anthem in an indigenous language for the first time. The team sang in the language of the Eora nation - a group of peoples from the Sydney area - before performing the anthem in English.


bbc--2020-12-31--Closed mountain road turns into ski run

Closed mountain road turns into ski run

A group of local ski students have been taking advantage of the winter snow on a closed mountain road .
@ @ @ @ @ a charity based in the Cairngorms , which promotes ski racing and its benefits .
@ @ @ @ @ out a group of kids from Aviemore and the surrounding area for the unusual post-Christmas @ @ @ @ @ access road .
Murray said : `` It was pretty surreal skinning up and skiing @ @ @ @ @ from the mountain . ''

A group of local ski students have been taking advantage of the winter snow on a closed mountain road.
The Alpine Training Centre is a charity based in the Cairngorms, which promotes ski racing and its benefits.
Head coach Murray Howie took out a group of kids from Aviemore and the surrounding area for the unusual post-Christmas run on the closed Cairngorms access road.
Murray said: "It was pretty surreal skinning up and skiing down the road to and from the mountain."


bbc--2020-12-31--Australia-China row: 'I'm Australian - why do I need to prove my loyalty?'

Negative sentiment towards China has also grown with Beijing 's arrests of Australian citizens and its actions in Hong Kong @ @ @ @ @ a draconian and controversial new security law , and Xinjiang , where at least a @ @ @ @ @ have been incarcerated in camps China describes as `` re-education '' centres .
The animosity @ @ @ @ @ end of November when a Chinese official posted a fake image of an Australian soldier @ @ @ @ @

Negative sentiment towards China has also grown with Beijing's arrests of Australian citizens and its actions in Hong Kong, where it has imposed a draconian and controversial new security law, and Xinjiang, where at least a million people are alleged to have been incarcerated in camps China describes as "re-education" centres. The animosity reached new levels at the end of November when a Chinese official posted a fake image of an Australian soldier murdering an Afghan child.


bbc--2020-12-31--Former Scotland, Man Utd & Chelsea boss Docherty dies

Last updated on .From the section Football Former Manchester United and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty has died at the age of 92 following a long illness .
He went on to manage 12 clubs , leading Chelsea to League Cup success in 1965 and United to a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the 1977 FA Cup final .
`` Tommy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home , '' his family said in a statement .
`` He was a much-loved husband , father and papa and will be terribly missed .
`` We ask that our privacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None Docherty - manager of many clubs , quicks and one-liners Docherty - affectionately known by his nickname 'The Doc ' - died at home in the north west of England on 31 December .
After spells managing Chelsea , Rotherham , QPR , Aston Villa and Porto , he took over as Scotland boss in September 1971 on a temporary basis before getting the job full-time two months later .
But he was best known for his five-year spell at Manchester United , who approached him to succeed Frank O'Farrell in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to qualify for the 1974 World Cup finals .
United were relegated in 1974 under Docherty but they kept the Scot and returned to the top flight at the first time of asking .
Two years later , they won the FA Cup with victory over Bob Paisley 's Liverpool , who had won the league and would go on to also win the European Cup that year .
Docherty 's time at Old Trafford also saw George Best fail to revive his United career , the retirement of Bobby Charlton , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2014 , he told the BBC he still regretted his decision to leave the Scotland job for United .
`` I was stupid , '' he said .
`` I should have stayed with Scotland .
[ It was ] partly the money , I have to be honest about that . ''
Docherty was sacked shortly after the Wembley triumph for having an affair with Mary Brown , the wife of United physiotherapist Laurie Brown .
The pair later married and they remained together until his death .
Docherty returned to management @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1977 , then rejoined QPR two years later .
A turbulent time at Loftus Road saw him sacked in May 1980 , reinstated after just nine days , then sacked again the following October .
Spells at Sydney Olympic , Preston , South Melbourne and Wolves followed , with Docherty 's final managerial job coming at non-league Altrincham in 1987-88 .
Post-retirement , he worked as an after-dinner speaker and media pundit .
Docherty was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in November 2013 .
`` He was tenacious on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Petrie added .
`` Tommy was a regular in the Scotland side in the 1950s that qualified for two World Cups , and his record as Scotland manager was impressive , albeit cut short .
`` Looking at the results and performances he inspired , it is hard not to wonder what might have been had he remained .
`` His charisma and love for the game shone even after he stopped managing and it was entirely fitting Tommy should be inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame for his @ @ @ @

Last updated on .From the section Football
Docherty (left) managed Scotland from 1971-72 and is seen here with Billy Bremner before a 1974 World Cup qualifying match in Denmark
Former Manchester United and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty has died at the age of 92 following a long illness.
As a player, Glasgow-born Docherty made more than 300 appearances for Preston and won 25 caps for Scotland.
He went on to manage 12 clubs, leading Chelsea to League Cup success in 1965 and United to a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the 1977 FA Cup final.
"Tommy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home," his family said in a statement.
"He was a much-loved husband, father and papa and will be terribly missed.
"We ask that our privacy be respected at this time."
Docherty - affectionately known by his nickname 'The Doc' - died at home in the north west of England on 31 December.
After spells managing Chelsea, Rotherham, QPR, Aston Villa and Porto, he took over as Scotland boss in September 1971 on a temporary basis before getting the job full-time two months later.
But he was best known for his five-year spell at Manchester United, who approached him to succeed Frank O'Farrell in December 1972 while Scotland were on course to qualify for the 1974 World Cup finals.
Docherty won the biggest honour of his managerial career by leading United to the 1977 FA Cup
United were relegated in 1974 under Docherty but they kept the Scot and returned to the top flight at the first time of asking. Two years later, they won the FA Cup with victory over Bob Paisley's Liverpool, who had won the league and would go on to also win the European Cup that year.
Docherty's time at Old Trafford also saw George Best fail to revive his United career, the retirement of Bobby Charlton, and the departure of Denis Law.
In 2014, he told the BBC he still regretted his decision to leave the Scotland job for United.
"I was stupid," he said. "I should have stayed with Scotland. [It was] partly the money, I have to be honest about that."
Docherty was sacked shortly after the Wembley triumph for having an affair with Mary Brown, the wife of United physiotherapist Laurie Brown.
The pair later married and they remained together until his death.
Docherty returned to management with First Division side Derby in September 1977, then rejoined QPR two years later. A turbulent time at Loftus Road saw him sacked in May 1980, reinstated after just nine days, then sacked again the following October.
Spells at Sydney Olympic, Preston, South Melbourne and Wolves followed, with Docherty's final managerial job coming at non-league Altrincham in 1987-88.
Post-retirement, he worked as an after-dinner speaker and media pundit.
Docherty was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in November 2013.
Scottish Football Association president Rod Petrie said Docherty's death meant football had lost "a tremendous personality".
"He was tenacious on the park and a great leader off it," Petrie added.
"Tommy was a regular in the Scotland side in the 1950s that qualified for two World Cups, and his record as Scotland manager was impressive, albeit cut short.
"Looking at the results and performances he inspired, it is hard not to wonder what might have been had he remained.
"His charisma and love for the game shone even after he stopped managing and it was entirely fitting Tommy should be inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame for his lifelong service."


bbc--2020-12-31--Man Utd's Cavani banned for three matches over social media post

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd Manchester United 's Edinson Cavani has been given a three-match ban and a £100,000 fine for a social media post containing a Spanish phrase that is offensive in some contexts .
Cavani sent the message after scoring a winner at Southampton on 29 November .
The striker subsequently deleted the post and apologised when the meaning that could be attached was pointed out .
Along with the ban and fine , Cavani must also complete a `` face-to-face '' education programme .
Cavani 's ban will begin immediately , ruling him out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aston Villa on New Year 's Day .
He is also set to miss the EFL Cup semi-final against Manchester City on 6 January and FA Cup third-round tie with Watford on 9 January .
Cavani issued an apology shortly after posting the message on Instagram following United 's 3-2 comeback win against the Saints .
`` It was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend , thanking him for his congratulations after the game , '' said the former Napoli and Paris St-Germain striker .
`` The last thing I wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I am completely opposed to racism and deleted the message as soon as it was explained that it can be interpreted differently . ''
The FA charged Cavani for the post on 17 December .
With reference to new guidelines agreed in the summer , it said the post was alleged to be `` insulting and/or abusive and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute '' .
It was also alleged `` that the comment constitutes an aggravated breach '' which `` included reference , whether express or implied , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In response to the ruling , a Manchester United statement said : `` Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend , he chose not to contest the charge out of respect for , and solidarity with , the FA and the fight against racism in football .
`` The club trusts that the independent regulatory commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist , nor was there any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
' A big lesson for Cavani and the whole of English football ' - analysis This is a pretty big lesson - not just for Cavani and United but the whole of English football .
There is sympathy for the Uruguayan in what was an innocent personal post .
However , there is simply no excuse for not being aware of the wider aspect of the society he is living in - and either he should have been aware , or the club should have made him aware of the offence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd
Former Paris St-Germain striker Cavani joined United on a free transfer in October
Manchester United's Edinson Cavani has been given a three-match ban and a £100,000 fine for a social media post containing a Spanish phrase that is offensive in some contexts.
The Uruguayan, 33, pleaded guilty to a Football Association charge of using insulting and/or improper words.
Cavani sent the message after scoring a winner at Southampton on 29 November.
The striker subsequently deleted the post and apologised when the meaning that could be attached was pointed out.
Along with the ban and fine, Cavani must also complete a "face-to-face" education programme.
Cavani's ban will begin immediately, ruling him out of United's Premier League game with Aston Villa on New Year's Day.
He is also set to miss the EFL Cup semi-final against Manchester City on 6 January and FA Cup third-round tie with Watford on 9 January.
Cavani issued an apology shortly after posting the message on Instagram following United's 3-2 comeback win against the Saints.
"It was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend, thanking him for his congratulations after the game," said the former Napoli and Paris St-Germain striker.
"The last thing I wanted to do was cause offence to anyone.
"I am completely opposed to racism and deleted the message as soon as it was explained that it can be interpreted differently."
The FA charged Cavani for the post on 17 December.
With reference to new guidelines agreed in the summer, it said the post was alleged to be "insulting and/or abusive and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute".
It was also alleged "that the comment constitutes an aggravated breach" which "included reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race and/or ethnic origin".
In response to the ruling, a Manchester United statement said: "Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend, he chose not to contest the charge out of respect for, and solidarity with, the FA and the fight against racism in football.
"The club trusts that the independent regulatory commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist, nor was there any racist intent in relation to his post."
'A big lesson for Cavani and the whole of English football' - analysis
Simon Stone, BBC football reporter
This is a pretty big lesson - not just for Cavani and United but the whole of English football.
There is sympathy for the Uruguayan in what was an innocent personal post. However, there is simply no excuse for not being aware of the wider aspect of the society he is living in - and either he should have been aware, or the club should have made him aware of the offence it could cause.


bbc--2020-12-31--Kolasanic rejoins Schalke as Arteta starts to trim Arsenal squad

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac is joining Schalke on loan for the rest of the season after Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said offloading players was the January transfer window `` priority '' .
`` We can not sustain the numbers we have in certain positions , '' Arteta had said earlier on Thursday .
`` There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave . ''
He added : `` That is the priority .
Then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Kolasanic has made 113 appearances for Arsenal and was part of last season 's FA Cup-winning squad .
This term , he has started only one Premier League match but has featured in the Europa League and Carabao Cup .
Arsenal technical director Edu said : `` Sead needs to be playing regularly , so we have decided together that a move back to Germany with Schalke will benefit him at this moment . ''
Germany defender Shkodran Mustafi has also barely featured in the league in 2020-21 , while German midfielder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer 2021 , was left out of the Gunners ' Premier League and Europa League squads this season .
• None Who could be on the move in January ?
Arsenal already have three first-team players out on loan - centre-back Konstantinos Mavropanos is at Stuttgart , while midfielders Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are at Atletico Madrid and Hertha Berlin respectively .
The Gunners are 13th in the Premier League after 16 games , following back-to-back victories over Brighton and Chelsea that ended a run of seven matches without a win .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal
Arsenal left-back Sead Kolasinac has appeared in only one Premier League match this season
Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac is joining Schalke on loan for the rest of the season after Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said offloading players was the January transfer window "priority".
Bosnia-Herzegovina left-back Kolasinac, 27, began his career with the German side before moving to Arsenal in 2017.
"We cannot sustain the numbers we have in certain positions," Arteta had said earlier on Thursday.
"There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave."
He added: "That is the priority. Then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions where we need some more help."
Kolasanic has made 113 appearances for Arsenal and was part of last season's FA Cup-winning squad.
This term, he has started only one Premier League match but has featured in the Europa League and Carabao Cup.
Arsenal technical director Edu said: "Sead needs to be playing regularly, so we have decided together that a move back to Germany with Schalke will benefit him at this moment."
Germany defender Shkodran Mustafi has also barely featured in the league in 2020-21, while German midfielder Mesut Ozil, whose deal expires in summer 2021, was left out of the Gunners' Premier League and Europa League squads this season.
Arsenal already have three first-team players out on loan - centre-back Konstantinos Mavropanos is at Stuttgart, while midfielders Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are at Atletico Madrid and Hertha Berlin respectively.
The Gunners are 13th in the Premier League after 16 games, following back-to-back victories over Brighton and Chelsea that ended a run of seven matches without a win.
They host 19th-placed West Bromwich Albion on 2 January (20:00 GMT kick-off).


bbc--2020-12-31--Andy Murray pulls out of ATP event in Delray Beach

Last updated on .From the section Tennis Britain 's former world number one Andy Murray has pulled out of next week 's ATP event in Delray Beach - but not because of injury concerns .
`` Given the increase in Covid rates and the transatlantic flights involved , I want to minimize the risks ahead of the Australian Open , '' said the Scot .
Players will have to pass a series of Covid tests during a 14-day quarantine in Melbourne before the Grand Slam .
British number one Dan Evans has also decided not to play Delray Beach , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
Evans , 30 , has decided he is not ready to compete and will instead do an extra couple of weeks of pre-season training in preparation for the Australian Open .
The tournament starts on 8 February after being pushed back three weeks because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Murray 's appearance at Melbourne Park will come two years after he played there in what he feared would be his final match as a professional .
At 122 in the world , Murray is ranked too low to gain direct entry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a five-time runner-up in Melbourne , has been given a wildcard .
The three-time Grand Slam singles champion was able to play only seven official matches in 2020 because of a lingering pelvic injury , and the five-month suspension of the tours .
Murray looked sharp in December 's Battle of the Brits exhibition event , beating both British number one Dan Evans and number three Cameron Norrie in straight sets .
• None Alerts : Get tennis news sent to your phone • None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Murray beat both British number one Dan Evans and number three Cameron Norrie in straight sets during December's Battle of the Brits event
Britain's former world number one Andy Murray has pulled out of next week's ATP event in Delray Beach - but not because of injury concerns.
Murray had accepted a wildcard to start his 2021 season at the Florida event.
"Given the increase in Covid rates and the transatlantic flights involved, I want to minimize the risks ahead of the Australian Open," said the Scot.
Players will have to pass a series of Covid tests during a 14-day quarantine in Melbourne before the Grand Slam.
British number one Dan Evans has also decided not to play Delray Beach, where he was a beaten finalist in 2019.
Evans, 30, has decided he is not ready to compete and will instead do an extra couple of weeks of pre-season training in preparation for the Australian Open.
The tournament starts on 8 February after being pushed back three weeks because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Murray's appearance at Melbourne Park will come two years after he played there in what he feared would be his final match as a professional.
At 122 in the world, Murray is ranked too low to gain direct entry into the tournament so the 33-year-old, a five-time runner-up in Melbourne, has been given a wildcard.
The three-time Grand Slam singles champion was able to play only seven official matches in 2020 because of a lingering pelvic injury, and the five-month suspension of the tours.
Murray looked sharp in December's Battle of the Brits exhibition event, beating both British number one Dan Evans and number three Cameron Norrie in straight sets.