bbc--2020-12-29--China Covid-19: How state media and censorship took on coronavirus

At the start of the year the Chinese government faced two major challenges ; an unknown disease which threatened to tear through its population and a wave of voices online telling the world what was happening .
The BBC 's Kerry Allen and Zhaoyin Feng take a look back at the country 's online government censors who worked harder than ever to supress negative information , the citizens that managed to break through the Great Firewall , and how the propaganda machine re-wrote the narrative .
At the beginning of the year , it was clear something unprecedented was happening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared on Chinese social media , asking whether local governments were covering up another Sars-like virus .
This is because when facing major disasters , the Chinese government often scrambles to react , and censors are slow to act .
In January and February , multiple media outlets took the opportunity to publish hard-hitting investigations , which were widely shared on social media .
Blame was being pointed in all directions .
In mid-January , Chinese President Xi Jinping suddenly became an absent figure in China 's media .
He was not seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him from the front pages of traditional government outlets like People 's Daily .
There was some speculation that he was , quite physically , avoiding blame .
Li Wenliang has become known internationally as the `` whistleblower '' doctor who tried to warn colleagues about a Sars-like virus .
Dr Li died on 7 February after it came to light that he had been investigated for `` disturbing social order '' by `` making false comments '' .
More than a million users took to Sina Weibo to leave messages of support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death , which many termed China 's `` Wailing Wall '' .
However , posts have been periodically wiped , to people 's frustration .
Many have also written messages that they ca n't say online on their masks .
A trend appeared on both Facebook and the popular WeChat mobile messenger of users writing the words `` I am not able to understand this '' on their masks in response to Dr Li 's death .
Journalists 'disappeared ' , yet gained visibility outside of China However , this came at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notes that in Wuhan , the authorities `` arrested several journalists for coverage that threatened the official narrative of Beijing 's response '' .
CPJ says three are still in prison .
And given YouTube is blocked in China , few in the country know of their impact .
He was n't heard from for two months , but then posted a video saying that he had been cooperating with the authorities and had been in quarantine .
Young people have suffered , but found new ways to get their voices heard Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its success in overcoming the coronavirus , yet it has been especially evident that the censors have tried to stamp out evidence of discontent , particularly among young people .
In August , many students returned to a physical classroom for the first time .
But protests erupted at campuses across the country to universities rationing internet and showering times , due to the sudden overcapacity .
There were also complaints that university canteens exploited the reliance on on-site food and hiked food costs .
Many such conversations were subsequently censored .
History @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV shows Much as there have been concerns that The Crown might tell an inauthentic version of the UK 's royal history , many Chinese are concerned that post-Covid era books and TV programmes have not accurately shown what happened in Wuhan .
This was evident in September when Heroes in Harm 's Way , the first drama `` based on real life stories '' of front-line workers , received backlash for downplaying the role that women had played in the outbreak .
China has come out stronger versus the 'crumbling , unstable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extent that it has become popular for Chinese netizens to call Covid-19 the `` America virus '' or `` Trump virus '' .
Chinese papers and broadcasters have been keen to point out when US media have turned on each other , how politicians have prioritised spending on election campaigns over healthcare , and how a messy , endless election has led to extreme political polarisation .
If there 's one message China wants to take into 2021 , it 's that the country is rounding off the year with unity and prosperity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further divisions and instability .

China Covid-19: How state media and censorship took on coronavirus Published 29 December 2020
Image source, China News Service Image caption, China has celebrated victory over the coronavirus this year
At the start of the year the Chinese government faced two major challenges; an unknown disease which threatened to tear through its population and a wave of voices online telling the world what was happening.
By the end of 2020, a glance at Chinese state-controlled media shows that both appear to be under control.
The BBC's Kerry Allen and Zhaoyin Feng take a look back at the country's online government censors who worked harder than ever to supress negative information, the citizens that managed to break through the Great Firewall, and how the propaganda machine re-wrote the narrative.
Early attempts to shift blame amid unprecedented online anger
Image source, Sina Weibo Image caption, Comments appeared over and over again on Weibo asking if China was experiencing another Sars outbreak
At the beginning of the year, it was clear something unprecedented was happening. Thousands of messages of public outrage appeared on Chinese social media, asking whether local governments were covering up another Sars-like virus.
While government censors routinely mute anti-government messaging on platforms like Sina Weibo, they were of such a large volume that many remained visible.
This is because when facing major disasters, the Chinese government often scrambles to react, and censors are slow to act. In January and February, multiple media outlets took the opportunity to publish hard-hitting investigations, which were widely shared on social media.
Later, as Beijing came up with a propaganda strategy, these reports were stifled.
Blame was being pointed in all directions. In mid-January, Chinese President Xi Jinping suddenly became an absent figure in China's media. He was not seen in public, and pictures vanished of him from the front pages of traditional government outlets like People's Daily. There was some speculation that he was, quite physically, avoiding blame.
Image source, People's Daily Image caption, Images of Xi Jinping normally dominate China's government mouthpiece and he became notably absent
Within a week, however, things changed considerably. Top officials began warning local governments they would "forever be nailed to the pillar of historical shame" if they withheld information about cases in their regions.
Blame shifted in Chinese media and social media towards Wuhan's leadership, with papers like Beijing News writing unusually critical commentaries, asking: "Why didn't Wuhan let the public know sooner?"
Mr Xi then reappeared in early February as a pillar of confidence and strength amid China's recovery.
Image source, Beijing News Image caption, Regional dailies criticised Wuhan officials for outbreaks elsewhere, like here in Shanghai
Censorship stepped up around doctor
Image source, Sina Weibo Image caption, More than 1m Weibo users have left comments on Li Wenliang's Weibo page since his death
Amid all the confusion, it became clear that one man's voice had been silenced where it shouldn't have been.
Li Wenliang has become known internationally as the "whistleblower" doctor who tried to warn colleagues about a Sars-like virus. Dr Li died on 7 February after it came to light that he had been investigated for "disturbing social order" by "making false comments".
More than a million users took to Sina Weibo to leave messages of support for him on his profile after his death, which many termed China's "Wailing Wall". However, posts have been periodically wiped, to people's frustration.
Netizens have, however, found creative ways to keep his memory alive using emojis, Morse code, and ancient Chinese script.
Image source, Facebook Image caption, Users voiced their anger about Dr Li's death with mask protests
A trend appeared on both Facebook and the popular WeChat messaging app of users writing words on their masks in response to Dr Li's death. Many wrote "I cannot" and "I do not understand" - a reference to how Dr Li was interrogated by police, who had asked him: "Can you do it?" and "Do you understand?" when warning him to stop "making false comments".
Journalists 'disappeared', yet gained visibility outside of China
While the authorities have since officially recognised Dr Li Wenliang as a "martyr", several notable activists may be written out of the country's Covid-19 history.
Image source, Youtube/Screenshot Image caption, Citizen journalist Zhang Zhan was imprisoned for reporting from Wuhan
During the Wuhan outbreak, a number of citizen journalists made a notable impact internationally, by circumventing the "great firewall of China" to get word out of the city.
These include Chen Qiushi, Fang Bin and Zhang Zhan. They racked up hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube for videos they say gave the true picture of what was happening in Wuhan.
However, this came at a cost. The Committee to Protect Journalists notes that in Wuhan, the authorities "arrested several journalists for coverage that threatened the official narrative of Beijing's response". CPJ says three are still in prison. And given YouTube is blocked in China, few in the country know of their impact.
Questions have also been raised about whether one journalist who did reappear became part of an overseas propaganda campaign.
Image source, Li Zehua/YouTube Image caption, Li Zehua went missing for two months after last being seen in Wuhan
Li Zehua vanished in February after posting a YouTube video saying he was being chased in his car by police.
He wasn't heard from for two months, but then posted a video saying that he had been cooperating with the authorities and had been in quarantine.
He has not posted since, and many have suggested that he might have been forced into making the video.
Young people have suffered, but found new ways to get their voices heard
Image source, Sina Weibo Image caption, Students shouted from their dorms in protest at being locked down at universities across the country
Since March, China has wanted to mark its success in overcoming the coronavirus, yet it has been especially evident that the censors have tried to stamp out evidence of discontent, particularly among young people.
China has stressed that it wants to avoid another Wuhan-style lockdown. Yet as the South China Morning Post notes, many universities have continued to implement "blanket campus lockdowns".
In August, many students returned to a physical classroom for the first time. But protests erupted at campuses across the country to universities rationing internet and showering times, due to the sudden overcapacity. There were also complaints that university canteens exploited the reliance on on-site food and hiked food costs. Many such conversations were subsequently censored.
Anger and dissatisfaction among China's young caused many this year to go beyond traditional social media platforms onto lesser known ones, to find a shared voice.
Image source, Sina Weibo Image caption, Memes about Chinese going "NetEmo" unsettled the government
News website Sixth Tone notes a surge of "NetEmo" on music streaming platform, Netease Cloud Music, with "pervasive" comments from young Chinese about "failed exams, doomed relationships and shattered dreams".
It says the platform tried to "stem the trend", by announcing a crackdown on what it said were "fabricated" user comments.
History has been rewritten with new books, TV shows
China has also tried to promote an overly optimistic picture.
Much as there have been concerns that The Crown might tell an inauthentic version of the UK's royal history, many Chinese are concerned that post-Covid era books and TV programmes have not accurately shown what happened in Wuhan.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Fang Fang, once an online star, is now accused of spreading a "doomsday narrative"
Chinese author Fang Fang received widespread praise earlier in the year for documenting her life in Wuhan, and providing a rare glimpse into Wuhan residents' fears and hopes.
However, her online diary has since made her the target of fervent Chinese nationalists, who accuse her of trying to smear China and promote a "doomsday narrative".
State media have sought to promote other books, including those of expats, to reinforce the government's optimistic message about the authorities' handling of the virus.
In some instances, there has been backlash at state media dictating a certain narrative on the handling of the Wuhan outbreak.
This was evident in September when Heroes in Harm's Way, the first drama "based on real life stories" of front-line workers, received backlash for downplaying the role that women had played in the outbreak.
Image source, CCTV Image caption, Women were angry with one drama's depiction of their pandemic role
China has come out stronger versus the 'crumbling, unstable West'
It is evident that China wants to end 2020 on a high note.
Beyond telling its own citizens that it has largely won the war over its Covid-19, China also wants to tell the world.
But China now seeks to distance itself from its early connections to the coronavirus, and promote the idea that China's Covid-19 success means its political model is more successful than the West's.
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This has gone beyond calling for an end to loaded terminology, like the "Wuhan coronavirus" - which China's own media even used in the early stages - to stepping up suggestions that the coronavirus could actually have started in the West.
Chinese outlets have wasted no opportunity throughout the year to highlight the United States - and to some extent the UK's - poor handling of the virus, and how these have exacerbated divisions.
This has happened to such an extent that it has become popular for Chinese netizens to call Covid-19 the "America virus" or "Trump virus".
Chinese papers and broadcasters have been keen to point out when US media have turned on each other, how politicians have prioritised spending on election campaigns over healthcare, and how a messy, endless election has led to extreme political polarisation.
If there's one message China wants to take into 2021, it's that the country is rounding off the year with unity and prosperity, whereas other countries can only anticipate further divisions and instability.
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bbc--2020-12-29--Seeking justice for Lion Sleeps Tonight composer

`` That documentary touched me to the point where I said , 'If nobody is going to do anything , @ @ @ @ @ will take it upon myself to try and do something right ' , '' Chanetsa @ @ @ @

"That documentary touched me to the point where I said, 'If nobody is going to do anything, it's fine, I will take it upon myself to try and do something right'," Chanetsa told the BBC.


bbc--2020-12-28--Man City game at Everton off after positive Covid-19 tests

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Manchester City 's Premier League match at Everton on Monday was postponed four hours before kick-off because of an outbreak of coronavirus at the club .
City reported new positive coronavirus tests on Monday , in addition to those they had confirmed on Christmas Day .
The Premier League then agreed at a board meeting to postpone the match .
Following the confirmation of Monday 's positive tests , City said their training ground would be closed for an `` indeterminate period '' .
City cited `` a risk the virus could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` security of the bubble compromised '' .
On Christmas Day , City reported that Gabriel Jesus , Kyle Walker and two staff members had tested positive for coronavirus .
The postponement came on a day that saw a number of English Football League matches called off because of Covid-19 .
In League One , Rochdale announced their next two fixtures would be postponed , while Doncaster confirmed their next three games had been postponed .
League Two side Morecambe said their next two matches had been called off too .
Manchester City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League match to be called off because of coronavirus since the top flight 's resumption in June .
Newcastle 's match at Aston Villa , scheduled for early December , was also postponed .
A City statement said : `` After the latest round of Covid-19 testing , the club returned a number of positive cases , in addition to the four already reported on Christmas Day .
`` Based on strong medical advice the Premier League , in consultation with both clubs , have decided to postpone the fixture . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our players were prepared for the game , as were both the team staff and everyone at Goodison .
Match day is the most important date in our calendar .
And this was a big one .
`` While Everton will always have public safety uppermost , we will be requesting full disclosure of all the information that Manchester City provided to the Premier League so the club can be clear on why this decision was taken . ''
The Premier League said the rise in cases at City `` created uncertainty '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received medical advice that the match should be postponed '' .
A league statement continued : `` The board agreed to rearrange the game as a precaution , and further testing will now take place tomorrow [ Tuesday ] .
`` The decision has been taken with the health of players and staff the priority .
`` The Premier League continues to have full confidence in its protocols and rules , and the way in which all clubs are implementing them . ''
City are scheduled to play at Chelsea on Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cup semi-final at Manchester United on Wednesday , 6 January .
The club said their squad and those in their associated bubble will be tested before a decision is made whether to resume training .
It is fair to say this news has been greeted with disappointment at Everton , given they had the chance to join Liverpool at the top of the Premier League - and are still allowed supporters at matches at Goodison Park , with Merseyside in Tier 2 under the UK government 's coronavirus restrictions .
The club were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday afternoon and while it is understood they are not angry about the situation , they are looking for full disclosure from the Premier League for the precise reasons they came to the decision they did .
As for City , they will probably never know the precise reasons for the outbreak .
However , they did play Arsenal in the EFL Cup at Emirates Stadium on 22 December , by which time London had been put in Tier 4 , and City have been told positive cases have subsequently been reported at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the short term , their training ground has been closed and all players and staff will be tested on Tuesday .
This is the same procedure Newcastle had to go through earlier in December , after their match at Aston Villa was called off .
With a congested fixture list , City 's Premier League match at Chelsea on Sunday 3 January and EFL Cup semi-final at Manchester United on Wednesday 6 January are both at risk .
However , unlike Leyton Orient , who had to forfeit their tie against Tottenham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was ravaged by positive coronavirus tests , the semi-final would be rearranged .
• None Think you 've eaten enough to master this quiz ?

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Manchester City said on Christmas Day that Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus had tested positive for coronavirus
Manchester City's Premier League match at Everton on Monday was postponed four hours before kick-off because of an outbreak of coronavirus at the club.
Everton said they would request "full disclosure" of the information City provided to the Premier League that led to the postponement.
City reported new positive coronavirus tests on Monday, in addition to those they had confirmed on Christmas Day.
The Premier League then agreed at a board meeting to postpone the match.
Following the confirmation of Monday's positive tests, City said their training ground would be closed for an "indeterminate period".
City cited "a risk the virus could spread" among the squad with the "security of the bubble compromised".
On Christmas Day, City reported that Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker and two staff members had tested positive for coronavirus.
The postponement came on a day that saw a number of English Football League matches called off because of Covid-19.
In League One, Rochdale announced their next two fixtures would be postponed, while Doncaster confirmed their next three games had been postponed.
League Two side Morecambe said their next two matches had been called off too.
Manchester City's trip to Everton is the second Premier League match to be called off because of coronavirus since the top flight's resumption in June. Newcastle's match at Aston Villa, scheduled for early December, was also postponed.
A City statement said: "After the latest round of Covid-19 testing, the club returned a number of positive cases, in addition to the four already reported on Christmas Day.
"Based on strong medical advice the Premier League, in consultation with both clubs, have decided to postpone the fixture."
Everton said in a statement: "Our players were prepared for the game, as were both the team staff and everyone at Goodison. Match day is the most important date in our calendar. And this was a big one.
"While Everton will always have public safety uppermost, we will be requesting full disclosure of all the information that Manchester City provided to the Premier League so the club can be clear on why this decision was taken."
The Premier League said the rise in cases at City "created uncertainty" and that the competition's board "received medical advice that the match should be postponed".
A league statement continued: "The board agreed to rearrange the game as a precaution, and further testing will now take place tomorrow [Tuesday].
"The decision has been taken with the health of players and staff the priority.
"The Premier League continues to have full confidence in its protocols and rules, and the way in which all clubs are implementing them."
City are scheduled to play at Chelsea on Sunday, 3 January, followed by their Carabao Cup semi-final at Manchester United on Wednesday, 6 January.
The club said their squad and those in their associated bubble will be tested before a decision is made whether to resume training.
Analysis
BBC Sport's Simon Stone
It is fair to say this news has been greeted with disappointment at Everton, given they had the chance to join Liverpool at the top of the Premier League - and are still allowed supporters at matches at Goodison Park, with Merseyside in Tier 2 under the UK government's coronavirus restrictions.
The club were only alerted to a potential problem on Monday afternoon and whilst it is understood they are not angry about the situation, they are looking for full disclosure from the Premier League for the precise reasons they came to the decision they did.
As for City, they will probably never know the precise reasons for the outbreak.
However, they did play Arsenal in the EFL Cup at Emirates Stadium on 22 December, by which time London had been put in Tier 4, and City have been told positive cases have subsequently been reported at the hotel they were staying in.
In the short term, their training ground has been closed and all players and staff will be tested on Tuesday.
This is the same procedure Newcastle had to go through earlier in December, after their match at Aston Villa was called off.
With a congested fixture list, City's Premier League match at Chelsea on Sunday 3 January and EFL Cup semi-final at Manchester United on Wednesday 6 January are both at risk.
However, unlike Leyton Orient, who had to forfeit their tie against Tottenham earlier in the competition when their squad was ravaged by positive coronavirus tests, the semi-final would be rearranged.


bbc--2020-12-28--Lampard needs wins quickly or Chelsea situation could turn ugly - Sutton

Frank Lampard 's situation at Chelsea could `` turn ugly '' if they do not go on a winning run soon , says their former striker Chris Sutton .
But Monday 's 1-1 draw with Aston Villa means they have taken four points from five matches to slip to sixth .
`` At the moment , they are a crisis club because they are underperforming , '' Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live .
`` They are flat and that 's why Frank needs to get a few wins under his belt and extremely quickly because it can , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
' I do n't think Chelsea can win the title' Club legend Lampard , 42 , marked his first campaign in charge by taking Chelsea to a top-four finish and the FA Cup final last season .
He was heavily backed in the transfer market , spending more than £200m on Hakim Ziyech , Timo Werner , Kai Havertz , Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy .
But Sutton believes Lampard has yet to get his side playing `` in rhythm '' .
`` Whether we like it or not , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Sutton said .
`` The pressure is on ; he has spent the big money .
Now the pressure will build .
`` I do n't want to go too early on Chelsea and Frank because if they win three on the spin , they will be up into second place and we 'll be saying 'can they win the title again ? '
and that 's the way it is .
`` But I do n't think Chelsea can win the title .
They have to get back to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their rhythm . ''
Despite the negatives , Chelsea have lost just one of their past 14 Premier League home games , winning 10 , with that lone defeat coming against Liverpool in September .
And they topped their Champions League group to set up a last-16 tie with Atletico Madrid .
'This is our tough period' During Chelsea 's 17-game unbeaten run - which ended in that defeat at Goodison Park - Lampard was at pains to point out his side were not yet the finished article .
And after his team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he repeated that his players must fight through their current sticky form and kick on .
`` This is our tough period at the moment , '' he told Match of the Day .
`` We have to fight for it and we 'll be stronger for it .
`` You want to get results at this point of the year .
I could feel the players ' disappointment at the end because they want to win .
`` A few weeks ago , people were talking about us as title challengers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The new players are going to get better as they come along . ''
Of those new players signed at expense in the summer , only Mendy and Chilwell started against Villa , with Sutton singling out former RB Leipzig striker Werner for criticism .
Werner scored 34 goals in Germany last season but has managed just four in his first 16 Premier League appearances - admittedly while being asked to play out wide .
`` Timo Werner has been a massive disappointment and Kai Havertz has been too , '' Sutton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money , then the pressure is really on for Frank this season - and it was n't last season .
`` I do n't think Frank has the overall say in the signings policy for Chelsea .
I think there would be a transfer committee of sorts .
In fairness , Havertz is a young man and a really talented player but we have n't seen that yet at Chelsea .
`` I think Werner has been a bigger disappointment .
He has missed some really big opportunities .
I know he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and playing them well .
But I just wonder if Werner would rather play as a central striker . ''
As if Lampard did not have enough on his plate , there is also the prospect that Chelsea 's hopes of finding their rhythm and form could yet come undone thanks to coronavirus .
Chelsea are set to host Manchester City in their next Premier League match on Sunday , followed by another home game against Morecambe in the FA Cup on 10 January .
But City 's game at Everton was postponed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ camp , while League Two side Morecambe have also had two games called off .
Asked about the prospect of his side 's fixture list being disrupted , Lampard said : `` We will have to cross that bridge if it comes .
`` Covid means these are strange times for all of us .
We all sense this month is going to be a tough period for all of us with the surge .
Football will be secondary . ''

Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa: Lampard says Chelsea 'deserved to win' after 'tough night'
Frank Lampard's situation at Chelsea could "turn ugly" if they do not go on a winning run soon, says their former striker Chris Sutton.
The Blues would have gone top of the Premier League with a win at Everton on 12 December.
But Monday's 1-1 draw with Aston Villa means they have taken four points from five matches to slip to sixth.
"At the moment, they are a crisis club because they are underperforming," Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live.
"They are flat and that's why Frank needs to get a few wins under his belt and extremely quickly because it can, as we know, turn ugly at Chelsea."
'I don't think Chelsea can win the title'
Club legend Lampard, 42, marked his first campaign in charge by taking Chelsea to a top-four finish and the FA Cup final last season.
He was heavily backed in the transfer market, spending more than £200m on Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy.
But Sutton believes Lampard has yet to get his side playing "in rhythm".
"Whether we like it or not, this is a totally different season for Frank," Sutton said. "The pressure is on; he has spent the big money. Now the pressure will build.
"I don't want to go too early on Chelsea and Frank because if they win three on the spin, they will be up into second place and we'll be saying 'can they win the title again?' and that's the way it is.
"But I don't think Chelsea can win the title. They have to get back to a way of playing where they really find their rhythm."
Despite the negatives, Chelsea have lost just one of their past 14 Premier League home games, winning 10, with that lone defeat coming against Liverpool in September.
And they topped their Champions League group to set up a last-16 tie with Atletico Madrid.
'This is our tough period'
During Chelsea's 17-game unbeaten run - which ended in that defeat at Goodison Park - Lampard was at pains to point out his side were not yet the finished article.
Chelsea and Leicester are the only sides in the top half of the table to have played 16 games so far
And after his team were held by an excellent Villa side, he repeated that his players must fight through their current sticky form and kick on.
"This is our tough period at the moment," he told Match of the Day. "We have to fight for it and we'll be stronger for it.
"You want to get results at this point of the year. I could feel the players' disappointment at the end because they want to win.
"A few weeks ago, people were talking about us as title challengers. Now it's a difficult period. The new players are going to get better as they come along."
'Werner a massive disappointment'
Of those new players signed at expense in the summer, only Mendy and Chilwell started against Villa, with Sutton singling out former RB Leipzig striker Werner for criticism.
Only Chris Wood, Patrick Bamford and Ollie Watkins have missed more 'big chances' that Timo Werner this season - according to Opta
Werner scored 34 goals in Germany last season but has managed just four in his first 16 Premier League appearances - admittedly while being asked to play out wide.
"Timo Werner has been a massive disappointment and Kai Havertz has been too," Sutton said. "When you spend big money, then the pressure is really on for Frank this season - and it wasn't last season.
"I don't think Frank has the overall say in the signings policy for Chelsea. I think there would be a transfer committee of sorts. In fairness, Havertz is a young man and a really talented player but we haven't seen that yet at Chelsea.
"I think Werner has been a bigger disappointment. He has missed some really big opportunities. I know he is capable of playing a number of positions and playing them well. But I just wonder if Werner would rather play as a central striker."
Covid call-offs?
As if Lampard did not have enough on his plate, there is also the prospect that Chelsea's hopes of finding their rhythm and form could yet come undone thanks to coronavirus.
Chelsea are set to host Manchester City in their next Premier League match on Sunday, followed by another home game against Morecambe in the FA Cup on 10 January.
But City's game at Everton was postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak in the camp, while League Two side Morecambe have also had two games called off.
Asked about the prospect of his side's fixture list being disrupted, Lampard said: "We will have to cross that bridge if it comes.
"Covid means these are strange times for all of us. We all sense this month is going to be a tough period for all of us with the surge. Football will be secondary."


bbc--2020-12-28--Palace needed 'apoplectic' Lewington team talk to improve in draw with Leicester

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson said it took an `` apoplectic '' half-time team talk from assistant boss Ray Lewington to spark them into life in Monday 's draw with Leicester .
`` We were dumbfounded that we were as passive as we were , '' Hodgson told Match of the Day .
`` We were not at all happy with our first half .
They were more aggressive than us and we were being pressured into mistakes . ''
The hosts were much more combative after half-time , however , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ superbly from Andros Townsend 's cross , only for Harvey Barnes ' second goal in as many games to rescue a point for the Foxes .
`` It almost cost [ Lewington ] a heart attack to produce that energy , '' Hodgson said in a separate interview with Amazon Prime .
`` That is what Crystal Palace want to be and we pressurised the ball so much better .
`` We looked dangerous going forward but unfortunately we did not get the full three points because Barnes scored with a wonderful strike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alterations to the team that drew with Manchester United on Saturday , registered 17 attempts but failed to test Guaita from open play until Barnes ' late goal .
The visitors ' only other effort on target was from Ayoze Perez , whose first-half free-kick was easily held by the Spanish goalkeeper .
The point lifts the visitors up to second in the Premier League table , while Palace move eight points clear of the bottom three .
A step in the right direction for Palace Having watched his side lose to Aston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have welcomed the quick turnaround as an opportunity to make amends for that painful defeat .
After Guaita 's penalty save , former Foxes player Jeffrey Schlupp - making his 100th Premier League appearance for Palace - teed up Townsend on the edge of the six-yard box but the winger could only scuff his effort wide .
As has so often been the case this season , it was Zaha who provided the Eagles ' inspiration .
The 28-year-old connected superbly with Townsend 's in-swinging cross to power an unstoppable volley past Kasper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season .
Hodgson will be frustrated at his team 's inability to hold on to their slender lead , but following those heavy defeats against Liverpool and Villa , this was certainly a step in the right direction .
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said his team showed the personality of a `` huge club '' against Manchester United , but he will be disappointed with his team 's profligacy in south-east London .
Jamie Vardy , James Maddison and Youri Tielemans were only named as substitutes , but the visitors created enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a comfortable lead .
Iheanacho 's penalty was too close to Guaita , allowing the Spaniard to claw the ball to safety .
Dennis Praet blazed over from a tight angle after Perez 's deflected cross had struck the top of the crossbar , before Iheanacho sent a close-range header off target from the Belgian 's delivery .
The Foxes struggled to carve out meaningful opportunities in the second half until Barnes sidestepped several Palace defenders and drilled low past Guaita for his eighth goal of the season in all competitions .
Leicester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into second-half stoppage time , but Perez 's wayward shot from James Justin 's pass encapsulated a frustrating afternoon for Rodgers and his players .
'Much happier with the second half ' - what the managers said Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers , speaking to Match of the Day : `` If you get the goal from the penalty , it gives you a foothold in the game but we had good control and then we did n't start the second half at all well .
`` Palace were aggressive and we give away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ view .
But the reaction is what really pleases , some of our play and the speed of our game was really good .
We end up frustrated not to win the game .
`` You ca n't play Jamie Vardy and some of these guys every single minute .
Harvey Barnes is developing really well , it 's a great finish , the strike was fantastic .
He 's been a real threat for us this season . ''
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson , speaking to Match of the Day : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second half and we got our reward with the goal .
Barnes ' strike was a good goal and then the last 10 minutes were tough for us but we saw it through . ''
Eagles ' wait for clean sheet goes on - the stats • None Crystal Palace have n't won their final league game in any of the last nine calendar years ( D7 L2 ) , last doing so against Millwall in the Championship in 2011 ( 1-0 ) .
• None Leicester City have lost just one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020-21 ( W6 D1 ) , after losing five and drawing three of their final eight games on the road last season .
• None Crystal Palace have kept just one clean sheet in their last 24 Premier League games , conceding in each of their last 15 in the competition since beating Southampton 1-0 on the opening day .
• None Leicester City won their 10th penalty in just their 16th Premier League game this season , the quickest side ever to reach spot-kick double-figures in a season in the competition .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crystal Palace goalkeeper to save a penalty in the Premier League since Wayne Hennessey vs Southampton in September 2018 , with that save just the eighth made by a Palace glovesman in the competition ( out of 43 faced ) .
• None Crystal Palace attacker Wilfried Zaha made his 200th Premier League start for the Eagles , the joint-most for the club along with Joel Ward , and netted his fifth top-flight goal against Leicester , more than against any other side .
• None Leicester 's Harvey Barnes has scored eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this season - one more than he netted in 42 appearances for the Foxes last term .
Crystal Palace welcome Sheffield United to Selhurst Park in their next league game on 2 January ( kick-off 15:00 GMT ) , while Leicester travel to Newcastle a day later ( 14:15 GMT ) .
• None Think you 've eaten enough to master this quiz ?

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Harvey Barnes struck with seven minutes remaining to rescue a point for Leicester at Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson said it took an "apoplectic" half-time team talk from assistant boss Ray Lewington to spark them into life in Monday's draw with Leicester.
Coming after a 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool and a 3-0 loss to 10-man Aston Villa, Palace were second best throughout the first 45 minutes and only got to half-time goalless after Vicente Guaita saved Kelechi Iheanachi's 19th-minute penalty.
"We were dumbfounded that we were as passive as we were," Hodgson told Match of the Day.
"We were not at all happy with our first half. They were more aggressive than us and we were being pressured into mistakes."
The hosts were much more combative after half-time, however, and took the lead when Wilfried Zaha finished superbly from Andros Townsend's cross, only for Harvey Barnes' second goal in as many games to rescue a point for the Foxes.
"It almost cost [Lewington] a heart attack to produce that energy," Hodgson said in a separate interview with Amazon Prime. "That is what Crystal Palace want to be and we pressurised the ball so much better.
"We looked dangerous going forward but unfortunately we did not get the full three points because Barnes scored with a wonderful strike."
Leicester, who made seven alterations to the team that drew with Manchester United on Saturday, registered 17 attempts but failed to test Guaita from open play until Barnes' late goal.
The visitors' only other effort on target was from Ayoze Perez, whose first-half free-kick was easily held by the Spanish goalkeeper.
The point lifts the visitors up to second in the Premier League table, while Palace move eight points clear of the bottom three.
A step in the right direction for Palace
Having watched his side lose to Aston Villa 48 hours previously, Hodgson may have welcomed the quick turnaround as an opportunity to make amends for that painful defeat.
After Guaita's penalty save, former Foxes player Jeffrey Schlupp - making his 100th Premier League appearance for Palace - teed up Townsend on the edge of the six-yard box but the winger could only scuff his effort wide.
As has so often been the case this season, it was Zaha who provided the Eagles' inspiration.
The 28-year-old connected superbly with Townsend's in-swinging cross to power an unstoppable volley past Kasper Schmeichel for his eighth league goal of the season.
Hodgson will be frustrated at his team's inability to hold on to their slender lead, but following those heavy defeats against Liverpool and Villa, this was certainly a step in the right direction.
Crystal Palace 1-1 Leicester City: Roy Hodgson says Palace were passive against Foxes
Frustration for wasteful Foxes
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said his team showed the personality of a "huge club" against Manchester United, but he will be disappointed with his team's profligacy in south-east London.
Jamie Vardy, James Maddison and Youri Tielemans were only named as substitutes, but the visitors created enough opportunities in the first half to establish a comfortable lead.
Iheanacho's penalty was too close to Guaita, allowing the Spaniard to claw the ball to safety.
Dennis Praet blazed over from a tight angle after Perez's deflected cross had struck the top of the crossbar, before Iheanacho sent a close-range header off target from the Belgian's delivery.
The Foxes struggled to carve out meaningful opportunities in the second half until Barnes sidestepped several Palace defenders and drilled low past Guaita for his eighth goal of the season in all competitions.
Leicester could have claimed all three points deep into second-half stoppage time, but Perez's wayward shot from James Justin's pass encapsulated a frustrating afternoon for Rodgers and his players.
Crystal Palace 1-1 Leicester City: Rodgers 'frustrated' with draw against Crystal Palace
'Much happier with the second half' - what the managers said
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers, speaking to Match of the Day: "If you get the goal from the penalty, it gives you a foothold in the game but we had good control and then we didn't start the second half at all well.
"Palace were aggressive and we give away a bad goal from our point of view. But the reaction is what really pleases, some of our play and the speed of our game was really good. We end up frustrated not to win the game.
"You can't play Jamie Vardy and some of these guys every single minute. Harvey Barnes is developing really well, it's a great finish, the strike was fantastic. He's been a real threat for us this season."
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson, speaking to Match of the Day: "We were much happier with the second half and we got our reward with the goal. Barnes' strike was a good goal and then the last 10 minutes were tough for us but we saw it through."
Eagles' wait for clean sheet goes on - the stats
Crystal Palace haven't won their final league game in any of the last nine calendar years (D7 L2), last doing so against Millwall in the Championship in 2011 (1-0).
Leicester City have lost just one of their eight away Premier League games in 2020-21 (W6 D1), after losing five and drawing three of their final eight games on the road last season.
Crystal Palace have kept just one clean sheet in their last 24 Premier League games, conceding in each of their last 15 in the competition since beating Southampton 1-0 on the opening day.
Leicester City won their 10th penalty in just their 16th Premier League game this season, the quickest side ever to reach spot-kick double-figures in a season in the competition.
Vicente Guaita became the first Crystal Palace goalkeeper to save a penalty in the Premier League since Wayne Hennessey vs Southampton in September 2018, with that save just the eighth made by a Palace glovesman in the competition (out of 43 faced).
Crystal Palace attacker Wilfried Zaha made his 200th Premier League start for the Eagles, the joint-most for the club along with Joel Ward, and netted his fifth top-flight goal against Leicester, more than against any other side.
Leicester's Harvey Barnes has scored eight goals in 21 games in all competitions this season - one more than he netted in 42 appearances for the Foxes last term.
What's next?
Crystal Palace welcome Sheffield United to Selhurst Park in their next league game on 2 January (kick-off 15:00 GMT), while Leicester travel to Newcastle a day later (14:15 GMT).
Player of the match Guaita Vicente Guaita with an average of 6.85 Crystal Palace Crystal Palace Crystal Palace
Leicester Leicester City Leicester City Crystal Palace Avg Squad number 31 Player name Guaita Average rating 6.85 Squad number 10 Player name Townsend Average rating 6.29 Squad number 11 Player name Zaha Average rating 6.20 Squad number 17 Player name Clyne Average rating 6.10 Squad number 15 Player name Schlupp Average rating 6.05 Squad number 8 Player name Kouyaté Average rating 5.99 Squad number 5 Player name Tomkins Average rating 5.96 Squad number 27 Player name Mitchell Average rating 5.93 Squad number 44 Player name Riedewald Average rating 5.65 Squad number 18 Player name McArthur Average rating 5.57 Squad number 4 Player name Milivojevic Average rating 5.50 Squad number 9 Player name J Ayew Average rating 5.45 Squad number 20 Player name Benteke Average rating 5.42 Leicester City Avg Squad number 15 Player name Barnes Average rating 6.80 Squad number 2 Player name Justin Average rating 6.15 Squad number 6 Player name Evans Average rating 5.93 Squad number 9 Player name Vardy Average rating 5.78 Squad number 18 Player name Amartey Average rating 5.54 Squad number 1 Player name Schmeichel Average rating 5.49 Squad number 33 Player name Thomas Average rating 5.46 Squad number 24 Player name Mendy Average rating 5.44 Squad number 8 Player name Tielemans Average rating 5.32 Squad number 17 Player name Ayoze Pérez Average rating 5.01 Squad number 26 Player name Praet Average rating 5.01 Squad number 20 Player name Choudhury Average rating 4.97 Squad number 7 Player name Gray Average rating 4.48 Squad number 14 Player name Iheanacho Average rating 3.77


bbc--2020-12-28--In-form El Ghazi earns Aston Villa draw at Chelsea

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Anwar El Ghazi scored his fifth goal in as many games as Aston Villa came from behind to earn a point against Chelsea in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge .
Dean Smith 's side started brightly but found themselves behind when Giroud marked his return to the Chelsea starting line-up with a trademark finish from Ben Chilwell 's cross .
Parity was restored five minutes after the interval , though , when the unmarked El Ghazi converted Matty Cash 's inviting delivery at the back post .
Both sides had chances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closest when John McGinn smashed a thunderous long-range effort off the crossbar .
The result sees Villa move up to fifth in the table , level on points with sixth-placed Chelsea - with both sides now a point outside the top four .
Villa have two games in hand on second-placed Leicester and are three points behind the Foxes .
Festive blip or something more damning ?
Chelsea began the month with a 17-match unbeaten run in all competitions , but had lost three of their previous four games before facing Villa , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the west London club going into the match .
Boss Frank Lampard delivered on his promise to make changes from the side beaten at Arsenal and World Cup-winning France forward Giroud was one of six new faces in the starting line-up .
The Blues boss was looking for fresh impetus to kick-start his side 's season and Giroud , as he has so often done against Villa , came up with an answer .
The 34-year-old has now scored in three of his last four league starts for the club and he continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to guide Chilwell 's square ball past Emiliano Martinez .
Giroud has scored in each of his last seven Premier League appearances against Villa , netting nine goals , but the Blues lacked cutting edge in attack after Villa 's equaliser .
From nine second-half attempts , only three were on target , with Callum Hudson-Odoi producing the best effort with a low strike that was well saved by Martinez .
Chelsea spent about £200m this summer but Germany internationals Timo Werner and Kai Havertz were limited to just 18 minutes off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to settle since moving to the Premier League .
Lampard will be looking for more from Werner and the club 's record signing Havertz if they are to establish themselves in this season 's top four and push for silverware .
Having survived on the final day of last season , Villa have enjoyed an impressive upturn in fortune this season .
In contrast to Chelsea , Villa have won three of their last four games and they are playing with confidence , inspired by their talisman Jack Grealish and driven on by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won more points at home than Chelsea this season , but Villa started on the front foot , with the influential Grealish involved in three of their first five attempts within 25 minutes .
In El Ghazi , Villa also suddenly have an unlikely hero , with the 25-year-old discovering a welcome ability to pop up in the right place at the right time .
The Netherlands forward had only scored four goals in his first 37 appearances before this current purple patch .
Villa had not earned a point from a losing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so this draw is further proof Smith 's side continue to make progress from the relegation-haunted team of the last campaign .
'The response was right ' - what they said Chelsea manager Frank Lampard , speaking to MOTD : `` They 're a tough opponent , but we had really good chances .
`` I think there was a handball before the goal right next to the linesman .
When you 're having a tough moment like we are , sometimes that goes against you .
That last bit was n't quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rub of the green at the minute .
`` The response was exactly right other than the win .
We had a couple of little chances .
It felt like the pressure was coming from us .
This is our tough period at the moment .
We have to fight for it and we 'll be stronger for it .
`` You want to get results at this point of the year .
I could feel the players ' disappointment at the end because they want to win .
`` A few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as title challengers , now it 's a difficult period .
The new players are going to get better as they come along . ''
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith , speaking to MOTD : `` It 's a battling point for us .
They got beat in the last game so I certainly understand that .
In my head , I was thinking whether to go with fresh legs or with momentum and confidence .
`` I looked the players in the eye and they looked ready to start the game .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ between defending and attacking and I thought we did that really well .
`` It 's only our second season back in the Premier League .
You have to build gradually .
We had 13 new players last season but only five this year .
They 've settled in quickly .
`` We 've got some tough games coming up .
Every game is tough , but momentum and confidence is a big thing . ''
On Anwar El Ghazi : `` He had an up-and-down season last season .
We started this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side and Trezeguet on the other .
Him and Bertrand ( Traore ) have seized their chance .
Anwar 's come in and scored five goals in five games , you ca n't argue with that . ''
• None Chelsea have lost just one of their last 14 Premier League home games ( W10 D3 ) , with that lone defeat coming against Liverpool earlier this season .
• None Since losing at Liverpool in July , Aston Villa have only suffered one defeat in their last nine away games in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None Aston Villa have conceded 51 Premier League goals away at Chelsea - only against Man City and Man Utd ( both 53 ) have they conceded more on the road in the competition .
• None Aston Villa have n't kept a clean sheet in any of their last 20 Premier League away games against Chelsea since a 1-0 win in March 1998 .
• None Since his Premier League debut in August 2012 , Giroud has scored more headed goals than any other player in the competition ( 32 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first Aston Villa player to score in three successive Premier League appearances since Tom Cleverley in May 2015 .
• None Chilwell equalled his Premier League season-best tally of four assists , with the Chelsea left-back having as many goal involvements in this campaign as 2019/20 ( six - two goals , four assists ) .
Chelsea host Manchester City on Sunday , 3 January ( 16:30 GMT ) , while Aston Villa travel to Manchester United on New Year 's Day ( 20:00 ) .
• None Think you 've eaten enough @ @ @ @ @

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Anwar El Ghazi rescued a point for Aston Villa with a neat side-foot finish at Stamford Bridge
Anwar El Ghazi scored his fifth goal in as many games as Aston Villa came from behind to earn a point against Chelsea in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge.
Villa were trailing to an Olivier Giroud header when El Ghazi scored a second-half equaliser that saw the in-form visitors stretch their unbeaten run to five games.
Dean Smith's side started brightly but found themselves behind when Giroud marked his return to the Chelsea starting line-up with a trademark finish from Ben Chilwell's cross.
Parity was restored five minutes after the interval, though, when the unmarked El Ghazi converted Matty Cash's inviting delivery at the back post.
Both sides had chances to steal victory, with Villa coming closest when John McGinn smashed a thunderous long-range effort off the crossbar.
The result sees Villa move up to fifth in the table, level on points with sixth-placed Chelsea - with both sides now a point outside the top four.
Villa have two games in hand on second-placed Leicester and are three points behind the Foxes.
Festive blip or something more damning?
Chelsea began the month with a 17-match unbeaten run in all competitions, but had lost three of their previous four games before facing Villa, and that meant the spotlight was on the west London club going into the match.
Boss Frank Lampard delivered on his promise to make changes from the side beaten at Arsenal and World Cup-winning France forward Giroud was one of six new faces in the starting line-up.
The Blues boss was looking for fresh impetus to kick-start his side's season and Giroud, as he has so often done against Villa, came up with an answer.
Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa: Lampard says Chelsea 'deserved to win' after 'tough night'
The 34-year-old has now scored in three of his last four league starts for the club and he continued his fine form when he arched his back to guide Chilwell's square ball past Emiliano Martinez.
Giroud has scored in each of his last seven Premier League appearances against Villa, netting nine goals, but the Blues lacked cutting edge in attack after Villa's equaliser.
From nine second-half attempts, only three were on target, with Callum Hudson-Odoi producing the best effort with a low strike that was well saved by Martinez.
Chelsea spent about £200m this summer but Germany internationals Timo Werner and Kai Havertz were limited to just 18 minutes off the bench against Villa after taking time to settle since moving to the Premier League.
Lampard will be looking for more from Werner and the club's record signing Havertz if they are to establish themselves in this season's top four and push for silverware.
Grealish-inspired Villa on song
Having survived on the final day of last season, Villa have enjoyed an impressive upturn in fortune this season.
In contrast to Chelsea, Villa have won three of their last four games and they are playing with confidence, inspired by their talisman Jack Grealish and driven on by the tireless McGinn.
Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa: Dean Smith pleased by side's character
Only Liverpool have won more points at home than Chelsea this season, but Villa started on the front foot, with the influential Grealish involved in three of their first five attempts within 25 minutes.
In El Ghazi, Villa also suddenly have an unlikely hero, with the 25-year-old discovering a welcome ability to pop up in the right place at the right time.
The Netherlands forward had only scored four goals in his first 37 appearances before this current purple patch.
Villa had not earned a point from a losing position this season before this game, so this draw is further proof Smith's side continue to make progress from the relegation-haunted team of the last campaign.
'The response was right' - what they said
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, speaking to MOTD: "They're a tough opponent, but we had really good chances.
"I think there was a handball before the goal right next to the linesman. When you're having a tough moment like we are, sometimes that goes against you. That last bit wasn't quite there today because we haven't got the rub of the green at the minute.
"The response was exactly right other than the win. We had a couple of little chances. It felt like the pressure was coming from us. This is our tough period at the moment. We have to fight for it and we'll be stronger for it.
"You want to get results at this point of the year. I could feel the players' disappointment at the end because they want to win.
"A few weeks ago people were talking about us as title challengers, now it's a difficult period. The new players are going to get better as they come along."
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith, speaking to MOTD: "It's a battling point for us. They got beat in the last game so I certainly understand that. In my head, I was thinking whether to go with fresh legs or with momentum and confidence.
"I looked the players in the eye and they looked ready to start the game. You've got to find a balance between defending and attacking and I thought we did that really well.
"It's only our second season back in the Premier League. You have to build gradually. We had 13 new players last season but only five this year. They've settled in quickly.
"We've got some tough games coming up. Every game is tough, but momentum and confidence is a big thing."
On Anwar El Ghazi: "He had an up-and-down season last season. We started this season really well with Jack on one side and Trezeguet on the other. Him and Bertrand (Traore) have seized their chance. Anwar's come in and scored five goals in five games, you can't argue with that."
Stamford Bridge the fortress - the stats
Chelsea have lost just one of their last 14 Premier League home games (W10 D3), with that lone defeat coming against Liverpool earlier this season.
Since losing at Liverpool in July, Aston Villa have only suffered one defeat in their last nine away games in the Premier League (W5 D3).
Aston Villa have conceded 51 Premier League goals away at Chelsea - only against Man City and Man Utd (both 53) have they conceded more on the road in the competition.
Aston Villa haven't kept a clean sheet in any of their last 20 Premier League away games against Chelsea since a 1-0 win in March 1998.
Since his Premier League debut in August 2012, Giroud has scored more headed goals than any other player in the competition (32).
El Ghazi is the first Aston Villa player to score in three successive Premier League appearances since Tom Cleverley in May 2015.
Chilwell equalled his Premier League season-best tally of four assists, with the Chelsea left-back having as many goal involvements in this campaign as 2019/20 (six - two goals, four assists).
What's next?
Chelsea host Manchester City on Sunday, 3 January (16:30 GMT), while Aston Villa travel to Manchester United on New Year's Day (20:00).
Player of the match McGinn John McGinn with an average of 8.16 Chelsea Chelsea Chelsea
Aston Villa Aston Villa Aston Villa Chelsea Avg Squad number 18 Player name Giroud Average rating 6.10 Squad number 21 Player name Chilwell Average rating 5.73 Squad number 10 Player name Pulisic Average rating 5.40 Squad number 7 Player name Kanté Average rating 5.31 Squad number 20 Player name Hudson-Odoi Average rating 5.13 Squad number 19 Player name Mount Average rating 4.83 Squad number 28 Player name Azpilicueta Average rating 4.79 Squad number 16 Player name Mendy Average rating 4.73 Squad number 2 Player name Rüdiger Average rating 4.48 Squad number 29 Player name Havertz Average rating 4.23 Squad number 4 Player name Christensen Average rating 4.14 Squad number 11 Player name Werner Average rating 3.99 Squad number 5 Player name Jorginho Average rating 3.92 Aston Villa Avg Squad number 7 Player name McGinn Average rating 8.16 Squad number 10 Player name Grealish Average rating 7.61 Squad number 21 Player name El Ghazi Average rating 7.52 Squad number 26 Player name E Martínez Average rating 7.52 Squad number 2 Player name Cash Average rating 7.27 Squad number 6 Player name Douglas Luiz Average rating 7.26 Squad number 11 Player name Watkins Average rating 7.20 Squad number 4 Player name Konsa Average rating 7.20 Squad number 30 Player name Hause Average rating 7.10 Squad number 18 Player name Targett Average rating 6.96 Squad number 41 Player name J Ramsey Average rating 6.78 Squad number 15 Player name Traoré Average rating 6.68 Squad number 39 Player name Davis Average rating 6.39


bbc--2020-12-28--Edinson Cavani: Manchester United want to extend striker's contract

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd Manchester United are already looking to extend Edinson Cavani 's contract , says manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer .
He has started only one Premier League game but has scored three goals in eight games and came off the bench to create Bruno Fernandes ' goal at Leicester on Saturday .
Solskjaer said he expects a new deal to be agreed .
`` Edinson has a few years left in him so I would n't say anything else , '' said Solskjaer .
`` He has made a great impact and I trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former Paris St-Germain and Napoli forward as more than just an impact substitute .
`` He is definitely a starter , '' said the Norwegian .
`` You do n't classify a player of that quality as anything else .
I trust him and he will probably start more games than he wo n't . ''
Cavani 's introduction was delayed as he had so self-isolate for a fortnight after arriving from France .
He then had to build up match fitness after leaving PSG at the end of June .
Minor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short periods but , when he has played , he has shown moments of quality that are befitting of his status as one of the best strikers in the world .
Evidently , confidence is not a problem either .
While another South American , Antonio Valencia , once handed back the number seven shirt at Old Trafford because of the weight of history attached to it , Cavani actively asked for the number which has been worn by iconic club figures such as George Best , Bryan Robson , David Beckham and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first thing he asked me , if he could wear the number seven , '' said Solskjaer .
`` Obviously we are talking about the history of the shirt but when you think of his career , the experience he has had and his personality from the chat I had with him and when I watched him before , it was n't in doubt that he could handle it . ''
• None Think you 've eaten enough to master this quiz ?

Last updated on .From the section Man Utd
Cavani scored against Everton in the Carabao Cup on 23 December
Manchester United are already looking to extend Edinson Cavani's contract, says manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The Uruguay striker, 33, joined on a one-year deal in October, with the option of a further year.
He has started only one Premier League game but has scored three goals in eight games and came off the bench to create Bruno Fernandes' goal at Leicester on Saturday.
Solskjaer said he expects a new deal to be agreed.
"Edinson has a few years left in him so I wouldn't say anything else," said Solskjaer. "He has made a great impact and I trust him."
Solskjaer said he sees the former Paris St-Germain and Napoli forward as more than just an impact substitute.
"He is definitely a starter," said the Norwegian.
"You don't classify a player of that quality as anything else. I trust him and he will probably start more games than he won't."
Cavani's introduction was delayed as he had so self-isolate for a fortnight after arriving from France. He then had to build up match fitness after leaving PSG at the end of June.
Minor injuries have also ruled him out for short periods but, when he has played, he has shown moments of quality that are befitting of his status as one of the best strikers in the world.
Evidently, confidence is not a problem either.
While another South American, Antonio Valencia, once handed back the number seven shirt at Old Trafford because of the weight of history attached to it, Cavani actively asked for the number which has been worn by iconic club figures such as George Best, Bryan Robson, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo.
"It was the first thing he asked me, if he could wear the number seven," said Solskjaer.
"Obviously we are talking about the history of the shirt but when you think of his career, the experience he has had and his personality from the chat I had with him and when I watched him before, it wasn't in doubt that he could handle it."


bbc--2020-12-29--Covid: Sydney beach party sparks 'backpacker' deportation threat

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bbc--2020-12-29--UK shares jump as markets react to Brexit deal

Among the biggest risers in London was drug firm AstraZeneca , which gained 3.9 % on reports that the government @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 vaccine , paving the way for UK citizens to receive it as early as @ @ @

After four years of uncertainty, the deal made it a lot more clear what the UK's relationship with its closest neighbours is likely to look like in the years ahead. It also removed the prospect of a no-deal Brexit, which had put downward pressure on markets.


bbc--2020-12-29--Pierre Cardin: French fashion giant dies aged 98

He was also a pioneer in business , licensing his name to be used on a range of products such @ @ @

After the news was announced, his official Instagram account posted one of his quotes: "I have always worked in my own style, which is different from all others. It was always my intention to be different, because that is the only way to last."


bbc--2020-12-29--Breonna Taylor statue smashed in California weeks after installation

He said he was `` devastated and enraged '' that it had been destroyed , but announced on Monday that @ @ @ @ @ to rebuild the statue in bronze .

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bbc--2020-12-29--Ratatouille musical: Stars join show that was cooked up on TikTok

They also say Disney has given the project its blessing , and that the company is `` excited to see @ @ @ @ @ , and they applaud and thank all of the online theatre makers '' .


bbc--2020-12-29--Keyon Harrold: Jazz trumpeter says son assaulted after false theft accusation

`` I hate I have to post this !
!
! ''
he wrote on Instagram on Saturday .
`` @ @ @ @ @ assaulted my 14-year-old son and me as we came down from our room in the @ @ @ @ @ . ''

"I hate I have to post this!!!" he wrote on Instagram on Saturday. "The lady in this video assaulted my 14-year-old son and me as we came down from our room in the Arlo Soho to get breakfast."


bbc--2020-12-29--Biden accuses US defence department of obstruction on transition

The presidential transition process is the handover of important information and duties from the outgoing administration to the president-elect and @ @ @ @ @ ensuring that they are fully up to speed when they reach the White House on @ @ @

The presidential transition process is the handover of important information and duties from the outgoing administration to the president-elect and his or her team, ensuring that they are fully up to speed when they reach the White House on 20 January.


bbc--2020-12-29--Russian Covid deaths three times the official toll

But Ms Golikova was adamant the Russian government had never hidden mortality data .
`` I would like to draw @ @ @ @ @ over 81 % of that rise in mortality which took place in that period can @ @ @ @ @ the effects of the virus , '' she said .

But Ms Golikova was adamant the Russian government had never hidden mortality data. "I would like to draw attention to the fact that over 81% of that rise in mortality which took place in that period can be attributed to Covid-19 and the effects of the virus," she said.


bbc--2020-12-29--Coronavirus: Spain to keep register of those who refuse Covid vaccine

He added : `` People who are offered a therapy that they refuse for any reason , it will be @ @ @ @ @ that there is no error in the system , not to have given this person @ @ @ @ @ . ''

He added: "People who are offered a therapy that they refuse for any reason, it will be noted in the register... that there is no error in the system, not to have given this person the possibility of being vaccinated."


bbc--2020-12-29--Australian man and child saved after friends walk 12 hours for help

Trapped , the group spent the night in the car , and the next morning , three of them headed @ @ @ @ @ , Mount Isa , about 50km ( 31 miles ) west .

Trapped, the group spent the night in the car, and the next morning, three of them headed to the nearest large town, Mount Isa, about 50km (31 miles) west.


bbc--2020-12-29--China and EU 'on verge' of major investment deal

Under the agreement , China is being asked to pledge to subscribe to the International Labour Organisation 's rules on @ @ @ @ @ expected to cause frictions with the incoming administration of US president-elect Joe Biden.Earlier this month @ @ @ @ @ strategy in which it urged the US to work with it to meet the `` @ @ @ @ @ China .

Once the expected deal is reached, it needs to be ratified by the European parliament, a process that may not begin until the second half of 2021.


bbc--2020-12-29--India coronavirus: The tragedy of the tuk-tuk driver who fled Covid

`` Will poor people like me get the vaccine ?
I am risking my life every day .
I worry @ @ @ @ @ son if I get Covid .
I am not sure anybody is thinking about poor @ @ @ @ @ did n't think about us before announcing the lockdown , '' he says .

"Will poor people like me get the vaccine? I am risking my life every day. I worry what will happen to my son if I get Covid. I am not sure anybody is thinking about poor people like me. They didn't think about us before announcing the lockdown," he says.


bbc--2020-12-29--Pierre Cardin: Designer who ripped up convention

In 2011 , Cardin tried to sell the business .
He wanted a billion euros although it was probably worth @ @ @ @ @ One problem was that he , and indeed nobody else , had much of a @ @ @ @ @ making - it was all so dependent on the licences .
He ended up never @ @

In 2011, Cardin tried to sell the business. He wanted a billion euros although it was probably worth a fraction of that. One problem was that neither he, not indeed anybody else, had much of a clue how much he was making - it was all so dependent on the licences. He ended up never selling.


bbc--2020-12-29--'One of the great comebacks' - India thrash Australia to level series

Last updated on .From the section Cricket India beat Australia by eight wickets with a day to spare in the second Test in Melbourne to level the series .
Debutant Mohammed Siraj took 3-37 , including Cameron Green , who offered some resistance in making 45 for Australia .
India slipped to 19-2 before Shubman Gill , another debutant , and stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane saw them home .
Gill , who made 45 in the first innings , finished unbeaten on 35 and man of the match Rahane followed up his first-innings century with 27 not out .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who were bowled out for 36 in an eight-wicket defeat in Adelaide just over a week ago .
The third Test of a thrilling four-match series begins on 6 January in Sydney .
'One of the great comebacks ' - reaction India head coach Ravi Shastri : `` To be rolled over for 36 , and then three days later , to get up and be ready to punch was outstanding .
`` This will go down in the annals of Indian cricket , world cricket , as one of the great comebacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' India legend Sunil Gavaskar , speaking to Alison Mitchell : `` The most pleasing thing was the determination of the entire team .
The way they carried themselves - there was nothing negative from day one . ''
How did India turn it around ?
Just 10 days ago India were humiliated at the Adelaide Oval as they were bowled out for their lowest total in Test cricket .
They were not at full strength in Melbourne : captain Virat Kohli has returned home for the birth of his first child , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tour with a fractured arm and Umesh Yadav missed much of the match after injuring a calf .
However , man of the match Rahane set up victory with a superb century - made over six hours - in the first innings .
He now has three wins from three Tests as captain .
He was supported by opener Gill , who overcame a fearsome Pat Cummins spell with the new ball , and Ravindra Jadeja later took up the mantle with 57 from number seven .
With Shami ruled out and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impressed as Australia - trailing by 131 on first innings - added 67 to their overnight 133-6 in the second .
Siraj was not certain to play in Australia .
His father died in November , shortly after India had arrived in Australia , but , after speaking to his mother and Kohli , he opted to stay on the tour .
With India awaiting news of Yadav 's fitness , Siraj could be key as they aim to complete what would be a remarkable series win .
Australia will have to improve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` poor , sloppy cricket '' .
No batsman made 50 for the hosts - the first time an Australia team has failed to do so in a home Test since 1988-89 - and they have been dismissed in this series for 191 , 195 and 200 , before chasing down 93 for victory in the first Test .
Opener Joe Burns has made three single-figure scores in four innings , while Steve Smith - the number one Test batsman in the world - has a highest score of eight this series .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ own , with opener David Warner missed the first two Tests because of a groin issue .
`` David looks really good from what I 've seen .
He 's been training this week in the nets and has started running between the wickets , '' Paine said .
`` The early signs with him are very good for the third Test , which is awesome for us . ''
Australia were later fined 40 % of their match fee and docked four ICC World Test Championship points for a slow over-rate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to master this quiz ?

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
India's Mohammed Siraj finished with five wickets on Test debut
Second Test, Melbourne Cricket Ground (day four) Australia 195 (Labuschagne 48, Bumrah 4-56) & 200 (Green 45, Siraj 3-37) India 326 (Rahane 112, Jadeja 57) & 70-2 India won by eight wickets Scorecard
India beat Australia by eight wickets with a day to spare in the second Test in Melbourne to level the series.
The hosts were bowled out for 200 early on the fourth day, leaving India needing only 70 to win at the MCG.
Debutant Mohammed Siraj took 3-37, including Cameron Green, who offered some resistance in making 45 for Australia.
India slipped to 19-2 before Shubman Gill, another debutant, and stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane saw them home.
Gill, who made 45 in the first innings, finished unbeaten on 35 and man of the match Rahane followed up his first-innings century with 27 not out.
It was a remarkable turnaround for India, who were bowled out for 36 in an eight-wicket defeat in Adelaide just over a week ago.
The third Test of a thrilling four-match series begins on 6 January in Sydney.
'One of the great comebacks' - reaction
India head coach Ravi Shastri: "To be rolled over for 36, and then three days later, to get up and be ready to punch was outstanding.
"This will go down in the annals of Indian cricket, world cricket, as one of the great comebacks in the history of the game."
India legend Sunil Gavaskar, speaking to Alison Mitchell: "The most pleasing thing was the determination of the entire team. The way they carried themselves - there was nothing negative from day one."
How did India turn it around?
Just 10 days ago India were humiliated at the Adelaide Oval as they were bowled out for their lowest total in Test cricket.
They were not at full strength in Melbourne: captain Virat Kohli has returned home for the birth of his first child, fast bowler Mohammed Shami is out of the tour with a fractured arm and Umesh Yadav missed much of the match after injuring a calf.
However, man of the match Rahane set up victory with a superb century - made over six hours - in the first innings. He now has three wins from three Tests as captain.
He was supported by opener Gill, who overcame a fearsome Pat Cummins spell with the new ball, and Ravindra Jadeja later took up the mantle with 57 from number seven.
With Shami ruled out and Umesh unable to field, 26-year-old Siraj impressed as Australia - trailing by 131 on first innings - added 67 to their overnight 133-6 in the second.
Siraj was not certain to play in Australia. His father died in November, shortly after India had arrived in Australia, but, after speaking to his mother and Kohli external-link , he opted to stay on the tour.
With India awaiting news of Yadav's fitness, Siraj could be key as they aim to complete what would be a remarkable series win.
Up to 30,000 fans were allowed inside the MCG during the second Test
Problems for Australia?
Australia will have to improve on what captain Tim Paine described as "poor, sloppy cricket".
No batsman made 50 for the hosts - the first time an Australia team has failed to do so in a home Test since 1988-89 - and they have been dismissed in this series for 191, 195 and 200, before chasing down 93 for victory in the first Test.
Opener Joe Burns has made three single-figure scores in four innings, while Steve Smith - the number one Test batsman in the world - has a highest score of eight this series.
Australia also have injury problems of their own, with opener David Warner missed the first two Tests because of a groin issue.
"David looks really good from what I've seen. He's been training this week in the nets and has started running between the wickets," Paine said.
"The early signs with him are very good for the third Test, which is awesome for us."
Australia were later fined 40% of their match fee and docked four ICC World Test Championship points for a slow over-rate.


bbc--2020-12-29--PSG sack Tuchel and line up Pochettino

PSG sack Tuchel and line up Pochettino

Last updated on .From the section European Football Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is the main contender to take over at Paris St-Germain after Thomas Tuchel was sacked .
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi thanked Tuchel and said the club `` will remember the good times we shared '' .
Talks between PSG and Pochettino started at least two weeks ago .
Tuchel , 47 , became the Ligue 1 side 's boss in June 2018 , winning two league titles , the French Cup and French League Cup .
They also reached the Champions League final for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Munich .
Former Borussia Dortmund coach Tuchel 's contract was set to expire at the end of this season .
PSG are currently third in Ligue 1 , a point behind leaders Lyon , while they are also through to the last 16 of the Champions League , where they will face Barcelona .
Pochettino , 48 , led Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019 where they lost to Liverpool and he has been linked regularly with the PSG job in recent months .
He played for PSG between 2001 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job since leaving Spurs in November 2019 .
The former Southampton boss joined Spurs in 2014 and guided them to the League Cup final in his first full season while two third-placed finishes sandwiched a runners-up spot in the Premier League in 2017 .
PSG have been linked with a January loan move for Tottenham 's Dele Alli , who made his Premier League debut under Pochettino .
Will Tuchel manage in the Premier League ?
Analysis Since PSG lost the Champions League final 1-0 to Bayern Munich in August , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and off the pitch .
Towards the end of the summer transfer window , he had a public falling out with the club 's sporting director Leonardo over recruitment .
And earlier this week , he gave an interview with a German TV station saying he felt more like `` a sports politician or sports minister than a coach '' during his first season at the club .
Tuchel claimed that the quotes had been taken out of context and said `` it 's possible they translated incorrectly '' but again it hinted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players seemed to respond well to him but , to the outside world , other relationships at the club did n't seem so comfortable .
It reminded me of comments once made by Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke about Tuchel : `` Thomas is a difficult person , but a fantastic trainer . ''
Meanwhile on the pitch , the team have n't dominated the French league as they usually do , losing four games to find themselves in third place at Christmas behind Lille and Lyon .
And although they ended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappointing defeats by Manchester United and RB Leipzig increased the pressure .
His time at PSG may be over but Tuchel 's reputation as a coach means he will be in demand over the next few weeks and months .
There 's no doubt that one day he will manage in the Premier League .
• None The Isle of Skye is the limit for Romesh Ranganathan

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Thomas Tuchel took training earlier this week before leading PSG to a 4-0 win on Wednesday
Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is the main contender to take over at Paris St-Germain after Thomas Tuchel was sacked.
On Tuesday, PSG announced Tuchel's contract had been "terminated" and it is understood the club's players are aware Pochettino will replace him.
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi thanked Tuchel and said the club "will remember the good times we shared".
Talks between PSG and Pochettino started at least two weeks ago.
Tuchel, 47, became the Ligue 1 side's boss in June 2018, winning two league titles, the French Cup and French League Cup.
They also reached the Champions League final for the first time last season, losing 1-0 to Bayern Munich.
Former Borussia Dortmund coach Tuchel's contract was set to expire at the end of this season.
PSG are currently third in Ligue 1, a point behind leaders Lyon, while they are also through to the last 16 of the Champions League, where they will face Barcelona.
Pochettino, 48, led Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019 where they lost to Liverpool and he has been linked regularly with the PSG job in recent months.
He played for PSG between 2001 and 2003, and has been without a job since leaving Spurs in November 2019.
The former Southampton boss joined Spurs in 2014 and guided them to the League Cup final in his first full season while two third-placed finishes sandwiched a runners-up spot in the Premier League in 2017.
PSG have been linked with a January loan move for Tottenham's Dele Alli, who made his Premier League debut under Pochettino.
Will Tuchel manage in the Premier League? Analysis
BBC World Service Sport's John Bennett
Since PSG lost the Champions League final 1-0 to Bayern Munich in August, it's been a difficult time for Tuchel on and off the pitch.
Towards the end of the summer transfer window, he had a public falling out with the club's sporting director Leonardo over recruitment.
And earlier this week, he gave an interview with a German TV station saying he felt more like "a sports politician or sports minister than a coach" during his first season at the club.
Tuchel claimed that the quotes had been taken out of context and said "it's possible they translated incorrectly" but again it hinted at problems behind the scenes.
The players seemed to respond well to him but, to the outside world, other relationships at the club didn't seem so comfortable.
It reminded me of comments once made by Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke about Tuchel: "Thomas is a difficult person, but a fantastic trainer."
Meanwhile on the pitch, the team haven't dominated the French league as they usually do, losing four games to find themselves in third place at Christmas behind Lille and Lyon.
And although they ended up winning their Champions League group, disappointing defeats by Manchester United and RB Leipzig increased the pressure.
His time at PSG may be over but Tuchel's reputation as a coach means he will be in demand over the next few weeks and months. There's no doubt that one day he will manage in the Premier League.


bbc--2020-12-29--Champions Lakers suffer second defeat in four games

Last updated on .From the section Basketball NBA champions the Los Angeles Lakers lost for the second time in their opening four games of the new season as Damian Lillard inspired the Portland Trail Blazers to a 115-107 victory .
But Lillard 's 31 points were supported by 28 from Gary Trent Jr as Portland made it two wins from three matches .
`` I thought we came out with great energy , '' said Lakers coach Frank Vogel .
`` When they made their runs we were n't able to sustain the energy we began the game with .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a third successive defeat as the Atlanta Hawks made it three wins from three with a 128-120 victory .
Jerami Grant and Josh Jackson both hit 27 points for Atlanta as Pistons coach Dwane Casey chose to rest key players in Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose early in the campaign .
`` We did n't want to run them to the ground because of the back-to-back .
That 's the reason , '' said Casey .
`` I do n't want to say this is going to be the plan throughout the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel will lend a lot to how we want to do it . ''
Donovan Mitchell sank the winning basket with seven seconds left , lifting Utah Jazz to a 110-109 win at Oklahoma City , while Nikola Jokic had 19 points , 18 assists and 12 rebounds in Denver Nuggets ' 124-111 win over Houston Rockets .
The Memphis Grizzlies ' first win of the season came at a cost as Rookie of the Year Ja Morant limped out with a sprained ankle in the first half of a 116-111 overtime success @ @ @ @ @ @ @ averaged 36 points in the first two games of the season - was taken from the court in a wheelchair and watched the closing stages in a protective boot as Kyle Anderson drained three of four free throws late in overtime to amass 28 points in all .

Last updated on .From the section Basketball
Damian Lillard scored 31 points for Portland
NBA champions the Los Angeles Lakers lost for the second time in their opening four games of the new season as Damian Lillard inspired the Portland Trail Blazers to a 115-107 victory.
The Lakers, playing for the second time in as many nights, led 85-84 going into the final quarter at Staples Center.
But Lillard's 31 points were supported by 28 from Gary Trent Jr as Portland made it two wins from three matches.
"I thought we came out with great energy," said Lakers coach Frank Vogel.
"When they made their runs we weren't able to sustain the energy we began the game with."
Atlanta Hawks win again
John Collins helped Atlanta to a third win in a row
Elsewhere, the Detroit Pistons fell to a third successive defeat as the Atlanta Hawks made it three wins from three with a 128-120 victory.
Jerami Grant and Josh Jackson both hit 27 points for Atlanta as Pistons coach Dwane Casey chose to rest key players in Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose early in the campaign.
"We didn't want to run them to the ground because of the back-to-back. That's the reason," said Casey.
"I don't want to say this is going to be the plan throughout the year. Their bodies and how they feel will lend a lot to how we want to do it."
Donovan Mitchell sank the winning basket with seven seconds left, lifting Utah Jazz to a 110-109 win at Oklahoma City, while Nikola Jokic had 19 points, 18 assists and 12 rebounds in Denver Nuggets' 124-111 win over Houston Rockets.
The Memphis Grizzlies' first win of the season came at a cost as Rookie of the Year Ja Morant limped out with a sprained ankle in the first half of a 116-111 overtime success over Brooklyn Nets.
Morant - who averaged 36 points in the first two games of the season - was taken from the court in a wheelchair and watched the closing stages in a protective boot as Kyle Anderson drained three of four free throws late in overtime to amass 28 points in all.