bbc--2020-12-26--Next week crucial for Arsenal to avoid relegation battle - Arteta

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says the next week is going to be crucial in ensuring his side is not dragged into an unexpected relegation battle .
`` I do n't make any excuses , '' said Arteta , who succeeded the sacked Unai Emery in December 2019 .
The 38-year-old Spaniard retains the backing of the Arsenal hierarchy .
The Gunners host Chelsea on Saturday and then face trips to two of the sides below them - Brighton , whose only home win in 2020 came against Arsenal last season , and West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is important if his side are to avoid becoming serious relegation candidates , Arteta said : `` Yes , absolutely .
The next seven to eight days are going to be crucial to see where we 're going to be heading to in the Premier League . ''
After ending last season by winning the FA Cup , then beginning this one by lifting the Community Shield , winning three of the opening four league games and beating Leicester and Liverpool away from home in the Carabao Cup , Arsenal 's campaign has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said on Wednesday he regarded the Gunners as a rival at the bottom of the table .
Arteta said : `` I have been very clear in many moments that we are losing football matches .
It is my responsibility to put that right and , regardless of what happens , it 's been us that have let ourselves down and it 's down to us to change that . ''
Saturday 's opponents Chelsea responded to losing last season 's FA Cup final to Arsenal by spending £200m on new players .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ won at Emirates Stadium in 2019-20 and have lost only twice in their past nine Premier League visits .
`` In this moment , you 're probably talking about the strongest squad in the Premier League and a team that is going to be fighting for the top spot for sure , '' said Arteta .
`` What they did seems to be working fine and at the moment we are not there . ''
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Arsenal have won one of their past 10 Premier League matches
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says the next week is going to be crucial in ensuring his side is not dragged into an unexpected relegation battle.
The Gunners have managed one victory in their past 10 Premier League games, a run which has seen them slide down the Premier League table to 15th position.
"I don't make any excuses," said Arteta, who succeeded the sacked Unai Emery in December 2019.
The 38-year-old Spaniard retains the backing of the Arsenal hierarchy.
The Gunners host Chelsea on Saturday and then face trips to two of the sides below them - Brighton, whose only home win in 2020 came against Arsenal last season, and West Brom.
Asked whether the next week is important if his side are to avoid becoming serious relegation candidates, Arteta said: "Yes, absolutely. The next seven to eight days are going to be crucial to see where we're going to be heading to in the Premier League."
After ending last season by winning the FA Cup, then beginning this one by lifting the Community Shield, winning three of the opening four league games and beating Leicester and Liverpool away from home in the Carabao Cup, Arsenal's campaign has nosedived.
West Brom boss Sam Allardyce said on Wednesday he regarded the Gunners as a rival at the bottom of the table.
Arteta said: "I have been very clear in many moments that we are losing football matches. It is my responsibility to put that right and, regardless of what happens, it's been us that have let ourselves down and it's down to us to change that."
Saturday's opponents Chelsea responded to losing last season's FA Cup final to Arsenal by spending £200m on new players.
In addition, Frank Lampard's side won at Emirates Stadium in 2019-20 and have lost only twice in their past nine Premier League visits.
"In this moment, you're probably talking about the strongest squad in the Premier League and a team that is going to be fighting for the top spot for sure," said Arteta.
"What they did seems to be working fine and at the moment we are not there."


bbc--2020-12-26--India on top as Australia's Smith makes first Test duck since 2016

Last updated on .From the section Cricket Australia 's talisman Steve Smith fell for his first Test duck in over four years as India dismissed the hosts for 195 on day one of the Boxing Day Test .
But Jasprit Bumrah 's superb 4-56 led to Australia losing their last seven wickets for just 71 runs in Melbourne .
India endured a hostile spell to end the day on 36-1 , trailing by 159 runs .
The tourists are 1-0 down in the series after a crushing eight-wicket defeat in the first Test , during which they were bowled out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
India , without regular captain Virat Kohli , still face a tough ask to overhaul Australia 's total on a testing Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch , but they will be bolstered by an impressive start as they seek to level the four-Test series .
Smith edged Ashwin to slip for one in the first innings of the first Test and Ajinkya Rahane , leading India because Kohli has returned home for the birth of his first child , quickly turned to Ashwin once Smith arrived at the crease .
This time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leg slip after only eight balls to fall for his first duck since the first Test against South Africa at Perth in November 2016 .
Any analysis of Smith 's record shows the supremely talented batsman has very few weaknesses , but the canny Ashwin drew him into an awkward shot by sending down one of his slowest deliveries of the day .
`` The Ashwin versus Smith battle is fascinating in this series and right now it 's 2-0 to Ashwin , '' said former Australia bowler Dirk Nannes on ABC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Extra .
On a pitch offering notable turn on day one , Ashwin also removed opener Matthew Wade , who lofted a rash shot to Ravindra Jadeja to fall for 30 , before captain Tim Paine was also caught round the corner for 13 .
Paine added only seven runs after he was given not out by the third umpire on a tight run out call in which it was unclear whether any part of his bat was grounded behind the line .
India may have to bat last on a challenging surface @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems to Australia 's key batsmen in their second innings , the tourists have a strong chance of levelling this enthralling series .
After Australia won the toss and elected to bat , India fast bowler Bumrah impressively exploited the seam and swing movement on offer to ensure the hosts were unable to fully recover from their poor start .
Having had opener Joe Burns caught behind for a duck , Bumrah had the seemingly settled Head caught brilliantly at gully by Rahane , before helping to clear up the tail by removing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pace bowler Mohammed Siraj backed up Bumrah superbly by taking the crucial wicket of Labuschagne and trapping all-rounder Cameron Green lbw .
With 30,000 socially distanced fans making a noise comparable to a sellout crowd at the 100,000 capacity stadium , Australia fast bowlers Starc and Pat Cummins roared in during a thrilling finale .
Left-arm quick Starc bowled an immaculate opening over , tormenting Mayank Agarwal with brutal inswinging yorkers before the final ball snared the India opener lbw for a duck .
Fellow opener Shubman Gill , making his Test debut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off Cummins but held firm and started to play some sumptuous strokes to end on 28 not out , with Cheteshwar Pujara unbeaten on seven .
Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne : `` We hung in there , me and Head had a good partnership and we were close to breaking the back but then we had two innocuous dismissals and that 's a bit disappointing .
`` It 's hard to tell you what a par score is out there - the first hour tomorrow is massive . ''
Former Australia leg-spinner Kristen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ India .
It should 've been a good day for batting - Australia 's batsmen got starts but no one was able to dig in and go on .
`` Ashwin and India 's quicks made it a very fine all-round bowling performance . ''
Former Australia fast bowler Dirk Nannes : `` A wonderful day of Test cricket and an arm wrestle throughout .
`` Australia are behind in this game but if they bowl as well as they did in the first Test and as well as they started here then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can listen to live coverage of day two on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and on the BBC Sport website on Saturday from 23:05 GMT .
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Last updated on .From the section Cricket
Ravichandran Ashwin has dismissed Steve Smith in the first innings of both Tests in this series
Second Test, Melbourne Cricket Ground (day one) Australia 195: Labuschagne 48; Bumrah 4-56, Ashwin 3-35 India 36-1 Australia lead by 159 runs Scorecard
Australia's talisman Steve Smith fell for his first Test duck in over four years as India dismissed the hosts for 195 on day one of the Boxing Day Test.
Smith was removed by off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to leave Australia 38-3 before Marnus Labuschagne (48) and Travis Head (38) steadied the innings.
But Jasprit Bumrah's superb 4-56 led to Australia losing their last seven wickets for just 71 runs in Melbourne.
India endured a hostile spell to end the day on 36-1, trailing by 159 runs.
The tourists are 1-0 down in the series after a crushing eight-wicket defeat in the first Test, during which they were bowled out for just 36 in the second innings.
India, without regular captain Virat Kohli, still face a tough ask to overhaul Australia's total on a testing Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch, but they will be bolstered by an impressive start as they seek to level the four-Test series.
Ashwin v Smith heats up
Smith edged Ashwin to slip for one in the first innings of the first Test and Ajinkya Rahane, leading India because Kohli has returned home for the birth of his first child, quickly turned to Ashwin once Smith arrived at the crease.
This time, the Australian nudged Ashwin round the corner to leg slip after only eight balls to fall for his first duck since the first Test against South Africa at Perth in November 2016.
Any analysis of Smith's record shows the supremely talented batsman has very few weaknesses, but the canny Ashwin drew him into an awkward shot by sending down one of his slowest deliveries of the day.
"The Ashwin versus Smith battle is fascinating in this series and right now it's 2-0 to Ashwin," said former Australia bowler Dirk Nannes on ABC Grandstand on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra.
On a pitch offering notable turn on day one, Ashwin also removed opener Matthew Wade, who lofted a rash shot to Ravindra Jadeja to fall for 30, before captain Tim Paine was also caught round the corner for 13.
Paine added only seven runs after he was given not out by the third umpire on a tight run out call in which it was unclear whether any part of his bat was grounded behind the line.
India may have to bat last on a challenging surface, but if Ashwin continues to cause problems to Australia's key batsmen in their second innings, the tourists have a strong chance of levelling this enthralling series.
Seam, swing and spin
Jasprit Bumrah (right) used the conditions brilliantly to trouble Australia throughout
After Australia won the toss and elected to bat, India fast bowler Bumrah impressively exploited the seam and swing movement on offer to ensure the hosts were unable to fully recover from their poor start.
Having had opener Joe Burns caught behind for a duck, Bumrah had the seemingly settled Head caught brilliantly at gully by Rahane, before helping to clear up the tail by removing Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon.
Debutant pace bowler Mohammed Siraj backed up Bumrah superbly by taking the crucial wicket of Labuschagne and trapping all-rounder Cameron Green lbw.
With 30,000 socially distanced fans making a noise comparable to a sellout crowd at the 100,000 capacity stadium, Australia fast bowlers Starc and Pat Cummins roared in during a thrilling finale.
Left-arm quick Starc bowled an immaculate opening over, tormenting Mayank Agarwal with brutal inswinging yorkers before the final ball snared the India opener lbw for a duck.
Fellow opener Shubman Gill, making his Test debut, was dropped on four by Labuschagne off Cummins but held firm and started to play some sumptuous strokes to end on 28 not out, with Cheteshwar Pujara unbeaten on seven.
'The day belongs to India' - reaction
Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne: "We hung in there, me and Head had a good partnership and we were close to breaking the back but then we had two innocuous dismissals and that's a bit disappointing.
"It's hard to tell you what a par score is out there - the first hour tomorrow is massive."
Former Australia leg-spinner Kristen Beams: "The day belonged to India. It should've been a good day for batting - Australia's batsmen got starts but no one was able to dig in and go on.
"Ashwin and India's quicks made it a very fine all-round bowling performance."
Former Australia fast bowler Dirk Nannes: "A wonderful day of Test cricket and an arm wrestle throughout.
"Australia are behind in this game but if they bowl as well as they did in the first Test and as well as they started here then it's game on."
You can listen to live coverage of day two on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and on the BBC Sport website on Saturday from 23:05 GMT.


bbc--2020-12-26--LeBron James helps Lakers to Christmas Day win - NBA round-up

Last updated on .From the section Basketball LeBron James and Anthony Davis led the Los Angeles Lakers to a comfortable 138-115 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Christmas Day .
James , 35 , has now scored 383 points in games on Christmas Day , moving him into second all-time above Oscar Robertson .
Only late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant has scored more , with 395 .
It is a 10th victory for four-time NBA champion James in Christmas Day games , tying the record held by former Miami Heat team-mate Dwyane Wade .
Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury that kept him out of last season as he scored 29 points in the Brooklyn Nets ' 123-95 win over the Boston Celtics .
Nets guard Kyrie Irving hit 37 points against his former side in Boston .
The Los Angeles Clippers made it two wins in a row as they beat the Denver Nuggets 121-108 .
Paul George scored 23 points , while fellow Clippers star Kawhi Leonard scored 21 before exiting in the fourth quarter after an accidental collision with team-mate Serge Ibaka left him needing eight stitches in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Antetokounmpo was held to 15 points but his Milwaukee Bucks side still saw off the Golden State Warriors 138-99 .
Bucks small forward Khris Middleton scored 31 points as the hosts landed some sublime three-pointers to stretch away from the Warriors , who have now lost their opening two games .
The Miami Heat , who lost last season 's finals to the Lakers , beat the New Orleans Pelicans 111-98 , despite star guard Jimmy Butler leaving the game with an ankle injury in the first half .
Former number one overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Pelicans , but Duncan Robinson hit seven of 13 three-point attempts in scoring 23 overall to lead the Heat to victory .
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Last updated on .From the section Basketball
LeBron James has now won 10 and lost five of the 15 games he has played on Christmas Day
LeBron James and Anthony Davis led the Los Angeles Lakers to a comfortable 138-115 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Christmas Day.
Davis scored 28 points and had eight rebounds, while James had 22 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds for the defending NBA champions.
James, 35, has now scored 383 points in games on Christmas Day, moving him into second all-time above Oscar Robertson.
Only late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant has scored more, with 395.
It is a 10th victory for four-time NBA champion James in Christmas Day games, tying the record held by former Miami Heat team-mate Dwyane Wade.
Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant continued his impressive return from an Achilles tendon injury that kept him out of last season as he scored 29 points in the Brooklyn Nets' 123-95 win over the Boston Celtics.
Nets guard Kyrie Irving hit 37 points against his former side in Boston.
The Los Angeles Clippers made it two wins in a row as they beat the Denver Nuggets 121-108.
Paul George scored 23 points, while fellow Clippers star Kawhi Leonard scored 21 before exiting in the fourth quarter after an accidental collision with team-mate Serge Ibaka left him needing eight stitches in his mouth.
Reigning Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo was held to 15 points but his Milwaukee Bucks side still saw off the Golden State Warriors 138-99.
Bucks small forward Khris Middleton scored 31 points as the hosts landed some sublime three-pointers to stretch away from the Warriors, who have now lost their opening two games.
The Miami Heat, who lost last season's finals to the Lakers, beat the New Orleans Pelicans 111-98, despite star guard Jimmy Butler leaving the game with an ankle injury in the first half.
Former number one overall pick Zion Williamson scored 32 points for the Pelicans, but Duncan Robinson hit seven of 13 three-point attempts in scoring 23 overall to lead the Heat to victory.
Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving enjoyed a successful return to former side Boston Celtics
Paul George top scored for the Los Angeles Clippers with 23 points


bbc--2020-12-26--Former world number one Norman in hospital with coronavirus symptoms

Last updated on .From the section Golf Former world number one Greg Norman is in hospital in the United States @ @ @ @ @ 1986 and 1993 Open champion then posted a picture of himself on social media from @ @ @ @ @ `` This sums it all up .
My Christmas Day , '' he said , @ @ @ @ @ `` get this [ virus ] behind us '' .
Norman spent more than 300 @ @ @ @ @ the world rankings and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001 @ @ @ @ @ week 's PNC Championship in Orlando with his son , Greg Jr , finishing in @ @ @ @ @ His son confirmed that he and his wife had tested positive for Covid-19 and were @ @ @ @ @ 's Ian Poulter was among those who sent messages to Norman , wishing him a @ @ @ @ @ • None Follow the footballer 's campaign for free school meals • None Need a @ @ @ @ @ festive period ?
All episodes of the epic fantasy drama are streaming now

Last updated on .From the section Golf
Greg Norman had been quarantining at his Florida home
Former world number one Greg Norman is in hospital in the United States with coronavirus symptoms.
The 65-year-old Australian tested negative on Tuesday but said on Thursday he had a mild fever, cough, aches and pains and a headache.
The 1986 and 1993 Open champion then posted a picture of himself on social media from his Florida hospital bed.
"This sums it all up. My Christmas Day," he said, adding that he wanted to "get this [virus] behind us".
Norman spent more than 300 weeks at the top of the world rankings and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001.
He competed in last week's PNC Championship in Orlando with his son, Greg Jr, finishing in a share of ninth.
His son confirmed that he and his wife had tested positive for Covid-19 and were isolating at home.
England's Ian Poulter was among those who sent messages to Norman, wishing him a "speedy recovery".


bbc--2020-12-26--From the 'cage' to the Premier League - Eze's rise to the top

`` Every day , you 're learning new tricks and creating your own style of play . ''
It was the first place he and many of his friends went after school , as they grew up in Greenwich .
The cages are the small enclosed football pitches in south London that have helped develop many top talents - Jadon Sancho , Wilfried Zaha and Callum Hudson-Odoi among them .
Eze learned to be tough , physically and mentally , and to be skilful .
Those qualities served him well as he continued to push for a football career after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fulham and Millwall .
The 22-year-old has now made it to the Premier League , having joined Crystal Palace from QPR on a five-year deal for £19.5m in August .
As he prepares for Saturday 's Premier League trip to Aston Villa , which will be broadcast live on BBC One , Eze can reflect on how the cage shaped him .
He told Football Focus : `` For me , it was a huge thing , being able to take that .
`` Even though I was in the academy system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play football .
I think it shaped me to become the type of player I am and focus on enjoying football as I did when I was a kid .
`` You play with older boys as well .
You have to be strong and you have to be better .
That was the mentality .
If you were small and you were young , you had to try to be the best on the ball .
For sure , it shaped us to be who we are as young footballers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cages and players , whether they like it or not , are taught to be resilient .
Self-expression is the only way to grab the attention and respect of those watching .
Eze said : `` You have to do a lot to get the people on the side to scream - by doing a nutmeg or something like that .
`` That 's how I 've always been .
I think growing up in London , with all the cages , everyone thrives off of the nutmeg or that skill ; that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Being able to have the opportunity to do it in the Premier League for me is great . ''
Eze 's journey has been far from straightforward ; having been knocked back by four clubs , he signed for QPR after a successful trial .
What kept him going ?
`` My family and also my love and enjoyment for playing football , '' he said .
`` I did n't want to do anything else and I did n't see myself doing anything else .
For me , it was either do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any clue about what I was going to do . ''
The attacking midfielder has hit the ground running at Palace , becoming a regular starter and being lauded by fans for his confident displays .
`` I think it comes from when you 're young and you 're playing in these cages with older boys and being able to hold your own , '' he said .
`` I 've sort of carried that with me and said to myself that wherever I go and wherever I play , I want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't want to put any type of pressure on myself or any restrictions .
I want to feel like I 'm enjoying myself as I think that 's when I 'm most effective . ''
• None Premier League Christmas fixtures - where to watch on TV Eze is already drawing comparisons with Zaha .
Both grew up in south London , both learned their trade in the cages .
Both glide past players with ease .
Zaha suggested earlier this month that the two players were in the same `` wavelength '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been an inspiration to him .
`` It 's been a great privilege because of the type of player he is and the type of person he is , '' Eze said .
`` He 's taken to me so well and made it easy for me to settle in .
`` Even our little talks and conversations have improved my understanding of what it 's like being a Premier League player and playing for Palace .
`` He 's sort of taken me under his wing , which has been good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him ; he 's such a great player and with such a similar style .
I want to look to him and take the positives from doing that and add them to my game .
`` It 's fun because it 's always good to have someone that you know that when you give them the ball he 's going to express himself and do what he wants to do .
Then when he passes it back , it 's almost like it makes the other person want to do more .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do more things on the pitch , which is at the end of the day is most important . ''
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All episodes of the epic fantasy drama are streaming now

'Great privilege' to play with Zaha - Eze
"Every day, you're learning new tricks and creating your own style of play."
Overcoming rejection after rejection, Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze puts his rise to the Premier League down to one thing - 'the cage'.
It was the first place he and many of his friends went after school, as they grew up in Greenwich. The cages are the small enclosed football pitches in south London that have helped develop many top talents - Jadon Sancho, Wilfried Zaha and Callum Hudson-Odoi among them.
Eze learned to be tough, physically and mentally, and to be skilful. Those qualities served him well as he continued to push for a football career after being released by Arsenal, Reading, Fulham and Millwall.
The 22-year-old has now made it to the Premier League, having joined Crystal Palace from QPR on a five-year deal for £19.5m in August.
As he prepares for Saturday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa, which will be broadcast live on BBC One, Eze can reflect on how the cage shaped him.
He told Football Focus: "For me, it was a huge thing, being able to take that.
"Even though I was in the academy system, I was still going to the cages to play football. I think it shaped me to become the type of player I am and focus on enjoying football as I did when I was a kid.
"You play with older boys as well. You have to be strong and you have to be better. That was the mentality. If you were small and you were young, you had to try to be the best on the ball. For sure, it shaped us to be who we are as young footballers."
There are few rules in the cages and players, whether they like it or not, are taught to be resilient. Self-expression is the only way to grab the attention and respect of those watching.
Eze said: "You have to do a lot to get the people on the side to scream - by doing a nutmeg or something like that.
"That's how I've always been. I think growing up in London, with all the cages, everyone thrives off of the nutmeg or that skill; that's what you want to do. Being able to have the opportunity to do it in the Premier League for me is great."
Eze's journey has been far from straightforward; having been knocked back by four clubs, he signed for QPR after a successful trial.
What kept him going? "My family and also my love and enjoyment for playing football," he said.
"I didn't want to do anything else and I didn't see myself doing anything else. For me, it was either do this or... I didn't have any clue about what I was going to do."
The attacking midfielder has hit the ground running at Palace, becoming a regular starter and being lauded by fans for his confident displays.
"I think it comes from when you're young and you're playing in these cages with older boys and being able to hold your own," he said.
"I've sort of carried that with me and said to myself that wherever I go and wherever I play, I want to play to enjoy myself. I don't want to put any type of pressure on myself or any restrictions. I want to feel like I'm enjoying myself as I think that's when I'm most effective."
Eze is already drawing comparisons with Zaha. Both grew up in south London, both learned their trade in the cages. Both glide past players with ease.
Zaha suggested earlier this month that the two players were in the same "wavelength"; Eze says the Ivory Coast international has been an inspiration to him.
"It's been a great privilege because of the type of player he is and the type of person he is," Eze said. "He's taken to me so well and made it easy for me to settle in.
"Even our little talks and conversations have improved my understanding of what it's like being a Premier League player and playing for Palace.
"He's sort of taken me under his wing, which has been good for me. I'm learning from him; he's such a great player and with such a similar style. I want to look to him and take the positives from doing that and add them to my game.
"It's fun because it's always good to have someone that you know that when you give them the ball he's going to express himself and do what he wants to do. Then when he passes it back, it's almost like it makes the other person want to do more.
"You're always pushing each other to do more things on the pitch, which is at the end of the day is most important."


bbc--2020-12-26--Covid: Biden urges Trump to sign coronavirus bill into law

He praised the example of members of Congress in compromising and reaching a bipartisan agreement , adding : `` President @ @ @ @ @ and make sure millions of Americans can put food on the table and keep a @ @ @ @ @ this holiday season . ''

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bbc--2020-12-26--Coronavirus: Cases of new variant appear worldwide

Switzerland identified three cases , two of which are known to be British citizens currently in the country .
Switzerland @ @ @ @ @ keeping its ski slopes open to tourism over the Christmas and New Year period , @ @ @ @ @ Britain have arrived in the last couple of weeks .

Switzerland identified three cases, two of which are known to be British citizens currently in the country. Switzerland is alone in Europe in keeping its ski slopes open to tourism over the Christmas and New Year period, and thousands of tourists from Britain have arrived in the last couple of weeks.


bbc--2020-12-26--Chinese economy to overtake US 'by 2028' due to Covid

`` They seem to be trying to have centralised control at one level , but quite a free market economy @ @ @ @ @ he told the BBC .
`` And it 's the free market bit that 's @ @ @ @ @ in areas like tech . ''

"They seem to be trying to have centralised control at one level, but quite a free market economy in other areas," he told the BBC. "And it's the free market bit that's helping them move forward particularly in areas like tech."


bbc--2020-12-26--Brexit: What are the key points of the deal?

Almost at the 11th hour , the UK and EU have struck a Brexit deal that will have many implications @ @ @ @ @ UK 's future relationship with other countries .

The full complicated agreement is more than 1,200 pages long, but here are some of the key points.


bbc--2020-12-26--Coronavirus: EU countries begin mass vaccination

Countries across the EU received their first shipments of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines .
A healthcare worker in Budapest was @ @ @ @ @ shot .

Countries across the EU received their first shipments of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines. A healthcare worker in Budapest was the first to get the shot.


bbc--2020-12-26--Storm Bella: Gusts of more than 80mph recorded in UK

If you are reading this page and ca n't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version @ @ @ @ @ submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay @ bbc.co.uk .
@ @ @ @ @ age and location with any submission .

A further yellow warning for snow and ice affecting travel was issued for much of Wales, the Midlands, the south of England and parts of the east of England from midnight on Sunday to 18:00 on Monday.


bbc--2020-12-26--Nashville explosion: Businesses and celebrities pledge $315,000 reward

BREAKING : This is the RV that exploded on 2nd Ave N this morning .
It arrived on 2nd Ave @ @ @ @ @ seen this vehicle in our area or do you have information about it ?
Please @ @ @ @ @ at 615-742-7463 or online via https : //t.co/dVGS7o0m4v .
@ ATFHQ pic.twitter.com/JNx9sDinAH


bbc--2020-12-26--South African cricketers raise fists before Test

Last updated on .From the section Cricket South Africa have expressed their `` ongoing commitment '' to supporting the Black Lives Matter movement after their players raised their fists before the first Test against Sri Lanka .
Former South Africa president Nelson Mandela raised a clenched fist after his release from prison in 1990 .
`` The raised fist is a powerful gesture in our history , '' said a team statement .
Referring to Mandela 's salute , the Proteas added it was `` an acknowledgment of the struggle against apartheid '' and represented a `` commitment to continuing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freedom '' .
South Africa were excluded from international cricket from 1970 until 1991 because of apartheid .
Under Cricket South Africa 's ( CSA ) ethnic quota policy - intended to help redress imbalances created during the apartheid era - the team should contain at least two black Africans and four others from the country 's mixed-race and Indian communities .
South Africa said last month they `` unanimously '' decided not to take the knee before matches against England .
American football star and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick became a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when he kneeled in protest during the United States national anthem in 2016 .
Many sports teams and individuals have taken the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement this year following the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis and subsequent protests across the world .
• None From Trayvon Martin to Colin Kaepernick : The story of Black Lives Matter in sport Every South Africa player raised their right fist before the start of play on day one of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Centurion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own our journey , '' said CSA in a statement .
`` We recognise that our actions will most likely result in criticism from some community , one way or another , but we work to prioritise the team , to be honest about our own learning journey and to continue to make decisions that we can own in good conscience as a team , first and foremost , and as individuals . ''
The Proteas said that through a `` process of deep democracy '' the team had decided to raise their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ongoing commitment '' to racial equality .
They added that as Kaepernick 's gesture has a `` deep significance in the USA political environment '' , they have chosen one which `` resonates in our South African context '' , while also citing Tommie Smith and John Carlos ' Black Power Salute on the podium at the 1968 Olympics .
`` We recognise the historical and political connotations of the raised fist as a gesture of ongoing solidarity in the fight for racial justice and anti-racism work , '' the statement added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fists as a gesture of solidarity and commitment to continuing the work of pursuing racial justice in our lifetimes . ''
• None Follow the footballer 's campaign for free school meals • None Need a new box set for the festive period ?
All episodes of the epic fantasy drama are streaming now

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
South Africa are hosting Sri Lanka in a two-Test series
First Test, SuperSport Park, Centurion (day one) Sri Lanka: 340-6 Chandimal 85, De Silva 79 ; Mulder 3-68 South Africa: Yet to bat Scorecard
South Africa have expressed their "ongoing commitment" to supporting the Black Lives Matter movement after their players raised their fists before the first Test against Sri Lanka.
The Proteas opted not to take a knee before their limited overs matches against England last month.
Former South Africa president Nelson Mandela raised a clenched fist after his release from prison in 1990.
"The raised fist is a powerful gesture in our history," said a team statement.
Referring to Mandela's salute, the Proteas added it was "an acknowledgment of the struggle against apartheid" and represented a "commitment to continuing to fight for equality, justice and freedom".
South Africa were excluded from international cricket from 1970 until 1991 because of apartheid.
Under Cricket South Africa's (CSA) ethnic quota policy - intended to help redress imbalances created during the apartheid era - the team should contain at least two black Africans and four others from the country's mixed-race and Indian communities.
South Africa said last month they "unanimously" decided not to take the knee before matches against England.
American football star and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick became a symbol in the fight against racial injustice when he kneeled in protest during the United States national anthem in 2016.
Many sports teams and individuals have taken the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement this year following the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis and subsequent protests across the world.
Every South Africa player raised their right fist before the start of play on day one of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Centurion on Saturday.
"We continue to own our journey," said CSA in a statement. external-link
"We recognise that our actions will most likely result in criticism from some community, one way or another, but we work to prioritise the team, to be honest about our own learning journey and to continue to make decisions that we can own in good conscience as a team, first and foremost, and as individuals."
The Proteas said that through a "process of deep democracy" the team had decided to raise their fists as a symbol of their "ongoing commitment" to racial equality.
They added that as Kaepernick's gesture has a "deep significance in the USA political environment", they have chosen one which "resonates in our South African context", while also citing Tommie Smith and John Carlos' Black Power Salute on the podium at the 1968 Olympics.
"We recognise the historical and political connotations of the raised fist as a gesture of ongoing solidarity in the fight for racial justice and anti-racism work," the statement added.
"We stand together and raise our fists as a gesture of solidarity and commitment to continuing the work of pursuing racial justice in our lifetimes."


bbc--2020-12-26--Iran: Climbers die in blizzards and avalanche

There had been warnings of possible avalanches , and also reports that the GPS system that climbers were relying on @ @ @ @

On social media, some people reported malfunctions to GPS systems, which climbers rely on in the mountains. But it is unclear if those caught up in the blizzards and avalanche were affected.


bbc--2020-12-26--Brexit deal 'moment of national renewal'

Speaking to reporters on Saturday , Lord Frost said : `` There 's no more role for the European Court @ @ @ @ @ no direct effects of EU law , there 's no alignment of any kind , @ @ @ @ @ the single market and out of the customs union just as the manifesto said we @ @

Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Lord Frost said: "There's no more role for the European Court of Justice, there's no direct effects of EU law, there's no alignment of any kind, and we're out of the single market and out of the customs union just as the manifesto said we would.


bbc--2020-12-25--What a pandemic Christmas looked like

What a pandemic Christmas looked like

What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world. Video, 00:01:36What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world


bbc--2020-12-26--Pompeii: Ancient 'fast food' counter to open to the public

A `` fast food '' shop from the ancient Roman city of Pompeii , which was destroyed in a volcanic @ @ @ @ @ , is to open to the public - for viewings only - next year .

A "fast food" shop from the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was destroyed in a volcanic eruption almost 2,000 years ago, is to open to the public - for viewings only - next year.


bbc--2020-12-27--2020 and me: 'EndSARS was our Black Lives Matter'

Kiki , a student from Lagos , Nigeria , can ’ t wait for 2020 to be over .
Dealing @ @ @ @ @ by university lecturers that has set back her education by a year , and then @ @ @ @ @ peaceful protests over EndSars turned violent .
This film , by BBC Africa 's Joshua @ @ @ @ @ 2020 and Me , a series of films about how the events of 2020 have @ @ @ @ @ .

Kiki, a student from Lagos, Nigeria, can’t wait for 2020 to be over.
Dealing with lockdown, a strike by university lecturers that has set back her education by a year, and then watching as what started as peaceful protests over EndSars turned violent.
This film, by BBC Africa's Joshua Akinyemi, is part of 2020 and Me, a series of films about how the events of 2020 have affected individuals around the world.
Series producer: Dan Curtis


bbc--2020-12-27--Covid in the classroom: How the pandemic changed these three teachers' lives

The coronavirus pandemic has forced teachers to rethink how they interact with students .
From remote learning to managing socially-distanced @ @ @ @ @ been anything but normal .
As the term came to a close , three teachers @ @ @ @ @ to the BBC about how drastically their jobs have changed in 2020 .

The coronavirus pandemic has forced teachers to rethink how they interact with students.
From remote learning to managing socially-distanced classes, this year has been anything but normal.
As the term came to a close, three teachers from across the US spoke to the BBC about how drastically their jobs have changed in 2020.
Video by Shrai Popat and Koralie Barrau


bbc--2020-12-27--Coronavirus: What has Covid done for climate crisis?

When Covid-19 sparked lockdowns around the world , emissions of one of the greenhouse gases responsible for climate change , @ @ @ @ @ .
But is this record drop a short-term effect of the 2020 pandemic or a @ @ @ @ @ Weather 's Ben Rich explores the impact of coronavirus on the global climate .

When Covid-19 sparked lockdowns around the world, emissions of one of the greenhouse gases responsible for climate change, atmospheric carbon dioxide, plummeted. But is this record drop a short-term effect of the 2020 pandemic or a 'new normal'? BBC Weather's Ben Rich explores the impact of coronavirus on the global climate.
Motion graphics by Jacqueline Galvin
Produced by Soraya Auer


bbc--2020-12-26--Gingerbread monolith appears in San Francisco's Corona Heights

Mr Ackerman , who tweeted photos of his encounter , said he had seen a social media post about the @ @ @ @ @ a run on Christmas morning , but had not believed the news .


bbc--2020-12-26--US presidents' pets: Biden dogs Major and Champ to restore White House tradition

From Socks the cat to Macaroni the pony , it 's a long-running tradition for US presidents to have pets @ @ @ @ @ the first president in more than 100 years to not have a pet at the @ @ @ @ @ tradition will be reinstated when President-elect Joe Biden moves in with his German shepherds Champ @ @ @ @ @ latter making history as the first presidential rescue dog .
Reporting by Barbara Plett Usher @ @ @ @ @ , edited by Joaquim Salles

From Socks the cat to Macaroni the pony, it's a long-running tradition for US presidents to have pets.
Donald Trump is actually the first president in more than 100 years to not have a pet at the White House.
But the tradition will be reinstated when President-elect Joe Biden moves in with his German shepherds Champ and Major - with the latter making history as the first presidential rescue dog.
Reporting by Barbara Plett Usher, produced by Samantha Granville, edited by Joaquim Salles


bbc--2020-12-27--Has Thomas Becket's treasured 'little book' been found?

The front flyleaf of the psalter in front of de Hamel and Poleg had long been missing .
But the @ @ @ @ @ a version of it , judging from the final phrase - `` as is recorded @ @ @ @ @ .
Perhaps in the 16th Century it was already hard to read , or the @ @ @ @ @ would explain why someone might have copied it on to a different page .
And @ @ @ @ @ the obliteration of the cult of St Thomas of Canterbury not long before , it @ @ @ @ @ to `` St Thomas '' had been changed to `` Thomas Becket , late archbishop @ @ @ @

The front flyleaf of the psalter in front of de Hamel and Poleg had long been missing. But the Elizabethan note appeared to be a version of it, judging from the final phrase - "as is recorded in the old inscription". Perhaps in the 16th Century it was already hard to read, or the flyleaf was loose? That would explain why someone might have copied it on to a different page. And as Henry VIII had ordered the obliteration of the cult of St Thomas of Canterbury not long before, it was understandable that the reference to "St Thomas" had been changed to "Thomas Becket, late archbishop of Canterbury".


bbc--2020-12-27--Seismic change: How Covid-19 altered world events in 2020

`` People suddenly felt there was a state of emergency , and Netanyahu took charge of Covid policy , saying @ @ @ @ @ leading the country in an emergency , '' Mr Pfeffer says .
`` The pandemic @ @ @ @ @ political timing for Netanyahu - it certainly helped put more pressure on Gantz to join @ @ @

A month later, amid a third wave of infections, the government announced that legislative elections would be postponed by a year - despite some health experts saying it was still possible to hold polls safely. The government said the postponement was necessary given the "immense infection risk", and dozens of other elections around the world had also been delayed.


bbc--2020-12-27--How Ugandan Nasa scientist Catherine Nakalembe uses satellites to boost farming

`` You can give a forecast ; if you combine satellite estimates of rainfall and temperature , you can tell @ @ @ @ @ rain in the next 10 days and farmers should prepare their fields .
Or if @ @ @ @ @ they do n't have to waste their seeds and can wait a few weeks , @ @ @ @ @

"You can give a forecast; if you combine satellite estimates of rainfall and temperature, you can tell that it is going to rain in the next 10 days and farmers should prepare their fields. Or if there is no rain, they don't have to waste their seeds and can wait a few weeks," Dr Nakalembe says.


bbc--2020-12-27--Why is India denying prisoners spectacles and straws?

`` I walked into jail barefoot and with just two sets of clothes .
I had a bag with shampoo @ @ @ @ @ toothbrush , etc but I was not allowed to take it in .
I also @ @ @ @ @ outside - they had a bit of heel and I was told that was not @ @ @ @

"I walked into jail barefoot and with just two sets of clothes. I had a bag with shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc but I was not allowed to take it in. I also had to leave my shoes outside - they had a bit of heel and I was told that was not allowed either."


bbc--2020-12-26--Sigurdsson's late winner at Sheff Utd sends Everton second

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Everton moved up to second in the Premier League after edging a tight contest against Sheffield United at rain-lashed Bramall Lane .
It also inflicted more heartbreak on the Blades , who remain without a win and rooted to the bottom of the table .
In a game of few openings , Oliver Burke 's flashing drive represented the hosts ' best effort while Oli McBurnie steered a stoppage-time chance to rescue a point just wide .
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Sigurdsson both threatened to break the deadlock for the visitors before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The victory marked Everton 's first league game since Ancelotti 's one-year anniversary at the helm and was the perfect response to the disappointment of their Carabao Cup quarter-final exit .
`` These three points are very important for us , '' Ancelotti said .
`` When I put on Andre Gomes I put Gylfi Sigurdsson a little bit back but he found the solution .
`` We feel good also because we have problems at this moment with a lot of players out but this team has a lot of spirit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pleased to manage these players .
`` I am really pleased because I found the right club , a nice club , a family club .
I live in a nice area so after one year I can say I was lucky . ''
• None Premier League Christmas fixtures : How to follow on TV Ancelotti 's side get the job done While Everton looked resolute in defence and competent in midfield there was a noticeable absence of invention to their play for large periods of this encounter .
But even without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a calf injury and Richarlison who is adhering to concussion protocols , Ancelotti 's side eventually got the job done .
After a relatively uneventful opening , which the Blades appeared to shade , Alex Iwobi 's speculative drive prompted more urgency from the Blues .
England forward Calvert-Lewin almost scored a contender for goal of the season , expertly running on to and chesting Michael Keane 's raking pass beyond Jack Robinson but then volleying just wide of the far-left corner from the edge of the penalty area .
Sigurdsson was next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike that just missed the top-right corner from 20 yards .
However , after the interval they displayed few signs they were capable of a winner until Sigurdsson brilliantly latched on to Abdoulaye Doucoure 's touch and dispatched a low drive past Aaron Ramsdale .
Everton have now enjoyed four consecutive wins twice in a season for the first time since the 1986-87 campaign , when they were last champions of England .
Prior to Sigurdsson 's late intervention Sheffield United looked like they were going to collect only their third point of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many of their other matches this season the result did not match the level of endeavour they showed .
Collectively , Chris Wilder 's side covered over five kilometres more than their high-flying opponents but found no reward for their hard running .
They have now lost 13 of their 15 Premier League fixtures , with 10 of those defeats by a solitary goal .
But until they add goals to their game the league table is going to continue to make for uncomfortable reading for Sheffield United supporters .
Only Burnley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been as unproductive in attack as the Blades , and while they managed more shots than Everton ( 10-7 ) just two , from Oliver Burke and David McGoldrick , found the target .
While he was flagged offside McGoldrick 's scampering run past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford , appeared symbolic of their season , when his tame effort was hacked off the line by Ben Godfrey .
'We found the right opportunity ' - what they said Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder , speaking to BBC Sport : `` It was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the games we have played this season .
It was a game of not many chances , we were playing a side bang in form but our lack of quality shone through .
`` The same players that played with that momentum and belief from last year are not doing it this year .
Nothing has really changed , the league has n't changed , Everton have n't really changed but our team has in terms of the lack of quality we are showing this year .
`` I ca n't go and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system against the other , we changed it a little bit but for me it is the same again , it is our lack of quality that let us down .
`` There will not be the possibility of bringing many players in .
We are looking to add one or two bits of quality .
The players who are here are good enough to step up because they did it last year but they have to find that in themselves .
`` Good , experienced players who have played at this level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand up and making my job easier .
`` I 'll pack it in if I ever feel I have to motivate a side in the Premier League .
That should n't be my job but the players need to go and express themselves and play with a bit of belief . ''
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti , speaking to BBC Sport : `` We defended well but also we did n't play so well with the ball but defensively we were strong and concentrated .
`` We were patient .
We were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game most times , we defended pretty well and we found the right opportunity to score a goal .
`` Every game is really difficult , complicated .
Sheffield United are a good team , we are really pleased to be second .
We did n't expect that at the start of the season but we are there and we want to stay there .
• None Everton have won back-to-back away league games against Sheffield United for the first time since 1897 .
• None Sheffield United are now winless in 18 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , conceding in every match - the longest run without a victory or a clean sheet among current teams in the competition .
• None Everton have won four consecutive Premier League games for the second time this season .
They last had two runs of four-plus wins in a single league season in 1986-87 .
• None Sheffield United are the first side to end Boxing Day without a single Premier League win ( D2 L13 ) , while only QPR have gone longer without victory from the start of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2012-13 ) .
• None Everton are unbeaten in their past eight away Premier League matches played on Boxing Day ( W5 D3 ) , since a 4-0 defeat at Aston Villa in 2005 .
• None In all competitions , Gylfi Sigurdsson has been directly involved in seven goals ( three goals , four assists ) in 18 appearances for Everton this season , one more than he recorded in the whole of 2019-20 ( six in 38 games ) .
• None Sheffield United have scored just four goals from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League this season , the worst shot conversion rate in the competition ( 5.6 % ) , while no side have scored fewer home goals .
Sheffield United travel to Burnley for their next Premier League fixture on Tuesday , 29 December ( 18:00 GMT ) .
Everton return to top-flight action when they welcome Manchester City to Goodison Park on Monday , 28 December ( 20:00 ) .
• None Follow the footballer 's campaign for free school meals • None Need a new box set for the festive period ?
All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streaming now

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Gylfi Sigurdsson scored with the first shot on target in the second half
Everton moved up to second in the Premier League after edging a tight contest against Sheffield United at rain-lashed Bramall Lane.
Gylfi Sigurdsson's late effort, which found the bottom-left corner, saw Carlo Ancelotti's side extend their winning run to four matches as they leapfrogged Leicester and Manchester United in the process.
It also inflicted more heartbreak on the Blades, who remain without a win and rooted to the bottom of the table.
In a game of few openings, Oliver Burke's flashing drive represented the hosts' best effort while Oli McBurnie steered a stoppage-time chance to rescue a point just wide.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Sigurdsson both threatened to break the deadlock for the visitors before the Iceland midfielder sealed all three points.
The victory marked Everton's first league game since Ancelotti's one-year anniversary at the helm and was the perfect response to the disappointment of their Carabao Cup quarter-final exit.
"These three points are very important for us," Ancelotti said.
"When I put on Andre Gomes I put Gylfi Sigurdsson a little bit back but he found the solution.
"We feel good also because we have problems at this moment with a lot of players out but this team has a lot of spirit and this is good. I am really pleased to manage these players.
"I am really pleased because I found the right club, a nice club, a family club. I live in a nice area so after one year I can say I was lucky."
Ancelotti's side get the job done
'I've found the right club' - Ancelotti 'lucky' to be Everton manager
While Everton looked resolute in defence and competent in midfield there was a noticeable absence of invention to their play for large periods of this encounter.
But even without James Rodriguez, who is still nursing a calf injury and Richarlison who is adhering to concussion protocols, Ancelotti's side eventually got the job done.
After a relatively uneventful opening, which the Blades appeared to shade, Alex Iwobi's speculative drive prompted more urgency from the Blues.
England forward Calvert-Lewin almost scored a contender for goal of the season, expertly running on to and chesting Michael Keane's raking pass beyond Jack Robinson but then volleying just wide of the far-left corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Sigurdsson was next to go close, unloading a curling strike that just missed the top-right corner from 20 yards.
However, after the interval they displayed few signs they were capable of a winner until Sigurdsson brilliantly latched on to Abdoulaye Doucoure's touch and dispatched a low drive past Aaron Ramsdale.
Everton have now enjoyed four consecutive wins twice in a season for the first time since the 1986-87 campaign, when they were last champions of England.
Blunt Blades lose again
Sheffield United's lack of quality shone through - Wilder
Prior to Sigurdsson's late intervention Sheffield United looked like they were going to collect only their third point of a dismal campaign.
However, like so many of their other matches this season the result did not match the level of endeavour they showed.
Collectively, Chris Wilder's side covered over five kilometres more than their high-flying opponents but found no reward for their hard running.
They have now lost 13 of their 15 Premier League fixtures, with 10 of those defeats by a solitary goal.
But until they add goals to their game the league table is going to continue to make for uncomfortable reading for Sheffield United supporters.
Only Burnley - also with eight goals - have been as unproductive in attack as the Blades, and while they managed more shots than Everton (10-7) just two, from Oliver Burke and David McGoldrick, found the target.
While he was flagged offside McGoldrick's scampering run past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, appeared symbolic of their season, when his tame effort was hacked off the line by Ben Godfrey.
'We found the right opportunity' - what they said
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder, speaking to BBC Sport: "It was the same as possibly a good dozen of the games we have played this season. It was a game of not many chances, we were playing a side bang in form but our lack of quality shone through.
"The same players that played with that momentum and belief from last year are not doing it this year. Nothing has really changed, the league hasn't changed, Everton haven't really changed but our team has in terms of the lack of quality we are showing this year.
"I can't go and play the game for them. One system against the other, we changed it a little bit but for me it is the same again, it is our lack of quality that let us down.
"There will not be the possibility of bringing many players in. We are looking to add one or two bits of quality. The players who are here are good enough to step up because they did it last year but they have to find that in themselves.
"Good, experienced players who have played at this level for a season are not sticking their hand up and making my job easier.
"I'll pack it in if I ever feel I have to motivate a side in the Premier League. That shouldn't be my job but the players need to go and express themselves and play with a bit of belief."
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti, speaking to BBC Sport: "We defended well but also we didn't play so well with the ball but defensively we were strong and concentrated.
"We were patient. We were in the game and stayed in the game most times, we defended pretty well and we found the right opportunity to score a goal.
"Every game is really difficult, complicated. Sheffield United are a good team, we are really pleased to be second. We didn't expect that at the start of the season but we are there and we want to stay there.
Superb Sigurdsson - the stats
Everton have won back-to-back away league games against Sheffield United for the first time since 1897.
Sheffield United are now winless in 18 consecutive Premier League games (D2 L16), conceding in every match - the longest run without a victory or a clean sheet among current teams in the competition.
Everton have won four consecutive Premier League games for the second time this season. They last had two runs of four-plus wins in a single league season in 1986-87.
Sheffield United are the first side to end Boxing Day without a single Premier League win (D2 L13), while only QPR have gone longer without victory from the start of a season in the competition (16 games in 2012-13).
Everton are unbeaten in their past eight away Premier League matches played on Boxing Day (W5 D3), since a 4-0 defeat at Aston Villa in 2005.
In all competitions, Gylfi Sigurdsson has been directly involved in seven goals (three goals, four assists) in 18 appearances for Everton this season, one more than he recorded in the whole of 2019-20 (six in 38 games).
Sheffield United have scored just four goals from 71 shots at home in the Premier League this season, the worst shot conversion rate in the competition (5.6%), while no side have scored fewer home goals.
What's next?
Sheffield United travel to Burnley for their next Premier League fixture on Tuesday, 29 December (18:00 GMT).
Everton return to top-flight action when they welcome Manchester City to Goodison Park on Monday, 28 December (20:00).
Player of the match Keane Michael Keane with an average of 7.46 Sheff Utd Sheffield United Sheffield United
Everton Everton Everton Sheffield United Avg Squad number 12 Player name Egan Average rating 4.68 Squad number 22 Player name Ampadu Average rating 4.47 Squad number 1 Player name Ramsdale Average rating 4.47 Squad number 6 Player name Basham Average rating 4.45 Squad number 17 Player name McGoldrick Average rating 4.44 Squad number 2 Player name Baldock Average rating 4.31 Squad number 14 Player name Burke Average rating 4.22 Squad number 23 Player name Osborn Average rating 4.18 Squad number 9 Player name McBurnie Average rating 4.17 Squad number 19 Player name Robinson Average rating 4.16 Squad number 3 Player name Stevens Average rating 4.14 Squad number 11 Player name Mousset Average rating 4.13 Squad number 24 Player name Brewster Average rating 4.05 Squad number 16 Player name Norwood Average rating 3.97 Everton Avg Squad number 5 Player name Keane Average rating 7.46 Squad number 10 Player name G Sigurdsson Average rating 7.44 Squad number 22 Player name Godfrey Average rating 7.23 Squad number 16 Player name Doucouré Average rating 7.19 Squad number 13 Player name Mina Average rating 7.17 Squad number 20 Player name Bernard Average rating 7.09 Squad number 9 Player name Calvert-Lewin Average rating 7.02 Squad number 23 Player name Coleman Average rating 6.96 Squad number 26 Player name Davies Average rating 6.94 Squad number 4 Player name Holgate Average rating 6.78 Squad number 21 Player name André Gomes Average rating 6.78 Squad number 17 Player name Iwobi Average rating 6.65 Squad number 1 Player name Pickford Average rating 6.49 Squad number 24 Player name Gordon Average rating 6.14


bbc--2020-12-26--Manchester City 2-0 Newcastle United: Ferran Torres and Ilkay Gundogan on target

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Manchester City secured their customary home win over Newcastle as Ilkay Gundogan and Ferran Torres scored the goals that moved them up to fifth in the Premier League .
And the margin of victory could have been far more as Newcastle keeper Karl Darlow produced two excellent first-half saves to deny Kevin de Bruyne , then an even better one to repel a close range shot from substitute Sergio Aguero near the end .
In addition , John Stones and Raheem Sterling both wasted glorious chances after the break and Bernardo Silva @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , City had far too much for their visitors and after a difficult start to the season have now moved into a position from which they can mount a title challenge , having previously only been in the top five for a paltry one day and five hours all season .
For Newcastle , it felt like an exercise in damage limitation on a grim night weather-wise .
The Magpies had 24 % possession and just two shots on target as manager Steve Bruce opted not to risk top scorer Callum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 days which has seen his team collect a single point from three league games and exit the Carabao Cup at the hands of Championship outfit Brentford .
• None Premier League Christmas fixtures : How to follow on TV Although both sides lost two players to coronavirus related issues , the damage to Newcastle caused by the loss of Allan Saint-Maximin and captain Jamaal Lascelles was far more significant than that inflicted on City by the positive tests for Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus revealed on Christmas Day .
Even without Jesus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sergio Aguero on the bench as the City boss preferring to use Torres in the centre-forward role instead .
The decision was vindicated , both by the result and Torres ' seventh goal of the season .
It was not the hardest of finishes .
Federico Fernandez slid in to block Joao Cancelo 's low cross but succeeded only in providing Torres with a clear sight of goal from eight yards .
That goal doubled the advantage given to City by Gundogan , who capitalised on Raheem Sterling 's 14th-minute cut-back .
Remarkably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League record of a side scoring in 24 consecutive games against the same club .
But it may well be of concern to Guardiola that his side failed to increase their tally .
They have still only scored more than twice in a single home game in the Premier League this season , although this was their fourth clean sheet in that run .
It is coming up for four-and-a-half seasons since City paid Borussia Dortmund £20m for Gundogan .
So keen was Guardiola to have the midfielder in his squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though Gundogan had a patchy injury record and would not be fit for the start of his debut campaign .
It would be unfair to say the 30-year-old has failed to deliver .
He was given a new four-year contract in 2019 so Guardiola must be happy with him .
However , the feeling remains he has not quite hit the heights anticipated and , as City come to terms with life without David Silva , the onus is on Gundogan to step up .
Gundogan has never scored more than six goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort takes him to four for the current campaign and the intelligent way he found space for Sterling to pick him out in a packed penalty area , then found the net through the narrowest of gaps , hints at someone who can do more .
It also means he has scored in consecutive home games and , in producing a tidy performance in an advanced role alongside De Bruyne - who is yet to score from open play - showed the capability to at least partially fill the void Silva 's departure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trips to Everton and Chelsea will offer an indication as to how close to Liverpool , City will get .
For Newcastle fans , the four days to wait for Liverpool 's visit to St James ' Park are unlikely to be filled with much optimism .
'This season you have to be calm' Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola : `` That is the tempo we need to play .
Today our positional game was perfect , unfortunately we could not score more goals but it is a good result and three more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much , the schedule is a game every three days .
The players are committed and focused .
`` Last week we were 10th in the table , all the season is up and down .
There are weird results for everyone , this season you have to be calm in the good and the bad moments . ''
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce : `` The attitude was pleasing after a difficult week or so , you always know you will come here against a world-class team and we were beaten by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decent performance .
The game in midweek has gone , we needed to respond to the criticism and they have done as much as they could .
They rolled their sleeves up and had a go .
`` You accept mistakes , the one thing I wanted to see was a response from a poor display in midweek and they did that . ''
• None Manchester City have won their last 12 Premier League home games against Newcastle , scoring 41 goals and conceding just seven .
• None Newcastle have lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Premier League ( W1 ) , more than they had in their previous eight on the road ( W3 D3 L2 ) .
• None Manchester City have kept 13 clean sheets in all competitions this season , more than any other team in the top five European leagues .
• None Newcastle have lost more Boxing Day games than any other side in Premier League history ( 15 ) , and have now lost each of their last six league games in a row on this date .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opener was his 150th goal involvement in all competitions since Pep Guardiola joined in 2016 - he has scored 96 goals and made 54 assists , more than any other player at the club in that time .
• None Manchester City have won all seven games in all competitions in which Ferran Torres has scored for them , with five of his seven strikes coming at the Etihad .
City 's next Premier League game is against second-placed Everton at Goodison Park on Monday , 28 December ( 20:00GMT ) .
Newcastle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders Liverpool at St James ' Park on Wednesday , 30 December ( 20:00GMT ) .
• None Follow the footballer 's campaign for free school meals • None Need a new box set for the festive period ?
All episodes of the epic fantasy drama are streaming now

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
lkay Gundogan scored his second Premier League goal of the season
Manchester City secured their customary home win over Newcastle as Ilkay Gundogan and Ferran Torres scored the goals that moved them up to fifth in the Premier League.
The triumph was City's 12th in a row in this particular fixture.
And the margin of victory could have been far more as Newcastle keeper Karl Darlow produced two excellent first-half saves to deny Kevin de Bruyne, then an even better one to repel a close range shot from substitute Sergio Aguero near the end.
In addition, John Stones and Raheem Sterling both wasted glorious chances after the break and Bernardo Silva hit a post from an acute angle.
However, City had far too much for their visitors and after a difficult start to the season have now moved into a position from which they can mount a title challenge, having previously only been in the top five for a paltry one day and five hours all season.
For Newcastle, it felt like an exercise in damage limitation on a grim night weather-wise.
The Magpies had 24% possession and just two shots on target as manager Steve Bruce opted not to risk top scorer Callum Wilson at the end of a difficult 10 days which has seen his team collect a single point from three league games and exit the Carabao Cup at the hands of Championship outfit Brentford.
Torres the star striker
Ferran Torres is City's joint-top scorer this season with seven goals in all competitions
Although both sides lost two players to coronavirus related issues, the damage to Newcastle caused by the loss of Allan Saint-Maximin and captain Jamaal Lascelles was far more significant than that inflicted on City by the positive tests for Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus revealed on Christmas Day.
Even without Jesus, Pep Guardiola could afford to leave Sergio Aguero on the bench as the City boss preferring to use Torres in the centre-forward role instead.
The decision was vindicated, both by the result and Torres' seventh goal of the season.
It was not the hardest of finishes. Federico Fernandez slid in to block Joao Cancelo's low cross but succeeded only in providing Torres with a clear sight of goal from eight yards.
That goal doubled the advantage given to City by Gundogan, who capitalised on Raheem Sterling's 14th-minute cut-back.
Remarkably, the goal allowed City to equal the Premier League record of a side scoring in 24 consecutive games against the same club.
But it may well be of concern to Guardiola that his side failed to increase their tally.
They have still only scored more than twice in a single home game in the Premier League this season, although this was their fourth clean sheet in that run.
City's best game of the season - Guardiola
Good night for Gundogan
It is coming up for four-and-a-half seasons since City paid Borussia Dortmund £20m for Gundogan.
So keen was Guardiola to have the midfielder in his squad, he pushed the transfer through even though Gundogan had a patchy injury record and would not be fit for the start of his debut campaign.
It would be unfair to say the 30-year-old has failed to deliver.
He was given a new four-year contract in 2019 so Guardiola must be happy with him.
However, the feeling remains he has not quite hit the heights anticipated and, as City come to terms with life without David Silva, the onus is on Gundogan to step up.
Gundogan has never scored more than six goals in a season. Friday night's effort takes him to four for the current campaign and the intelligent way he found space for Sterling to pick him out in a packed penalty area, then found the net through the narrowest of gaps, hints at someone who can do more.
It also means he has scored in consecutive home games and, in producing a tidy performance in an advanced role alongside De Bruyne - who is yet to score from open play - showed the capability to at least partially fill the void Silva's departure for Real Sociedad has left.
Forthcoming trips to Everton and Chelsea will offer an indication as to how close to Liverpool, City will get.
For Newcastle fans, the four days to wait for Liverpool's visit to St James' Park are unlikely to be filled with much optimism.
'This season you have to be calm'
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola: "That is the tempo we need to play. Today our positional game was perfect, unfortunately we could not score more goals but it is a good result and three more points.
"We cannot think much, the schedule is a game every three days. The players are committed and focused.
"Last week we were 10th in the table, all the season is up and down. There are weird results for everyone, this season you have to be calm in the good and the bad moments."
Bruce praises Newcastle 'attitude' after recent difficulties
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce: "The attitude was pleasing after a difficult week or so, you always know you will come here against a world-class team and we were beaten by the better side.
"It was a decent performance. The game in midweek has gone, we needed to respond to the criticism and they have done as much as they could. They rolled their sleeves up and had a go.
"You accept mistakes, the one thing I wanted to see was a response from a poor display in midweek and they did that."
Sterling thriving under Guardiola - the stats
Manchester City have won their last 12 Premier League home games against Newcastle, scoring 41 goals and conceding just seven.
Newcastle have lost three of their past four away games in the Premier League (W1), more than they had in their previous eight on the road (W3 D3 L2).
Manchester City have kept 13 clean sheets in all competitions this season, more than any other team in the top five European leagues.
Newcastle have lost more Boxing Day games than any other side in Premier League history (15), and have now lost each of their last six league games in a row on this date.
Raheem Sterling's assist for City's opener was his 150th goal involvement in all competitions since Pep Guardiola joined in 2016 - he has scored 96 goals and made 54 assists, more than any other player at the club in that time.
Manchester City have won all seven games in all competitions in which Ferran Torres has scored for them, with five of his seven strikes coming at the Etihad.
What next?
City's next Premier League game is against second-placed Everton at Goodison Park on Monday, 28 December (20:00GMT). Newcastle's next game is at home to leaders Liverpool at St James' Park on Wednesday, 30 December (20:00GMT).
Player of the match João Cancelo João Cancelo with an average of 7.70 Man City Manchester City Manchester City
Newcastle Newcastle United Newcastle United Manchester City Avg Squad number 27 Player name João Cancelo Average rating 7.70 Squad number 5 Player name Stones Average rating 7.45 Squad number 8 Player name Gündogan Average rating 7.43 Squad number 21 Player name F Torres Average rating 7.27 Squad number 3 Player name Rúben Dias Average rating 7.25 Squad number 6 Player name Aké Average rating 7.08 Squad number 17 Player name De Bruyne Average rating 7.05 Squad number 10 Player name Agüero Average rating 6.89 Squad number 31 Player name Ederson Average rating 6.88 Squad number 25 Player name Fernandinho Average rating 6.87 Squad number 20 Player name Bernardo Silva Average rating 6.80 Squad number 16 Player name Rodri Average rating 6.74 Squad number 7 Player name Sterling Average rating 6.71 Squad number 47 Player name Foden Average rating 6.55 Newcastle United Avg Squad number 26 Player name Darlow Average rating 7.35 Squad number 2 Player name Clark Average rating 4.69 Squad number 14 Player name Hayden Average rating 4.56 Squad number 5 Player name Schär Average rating 4.52 Squad number 4 Player name M Longstaff Average rating 4.51 Squad number 18 Player name Fernández Average rating 4.49 Squad number 23 Player name Murphy Average rating 4.49 Squad number 22 Player name Yedlin Average rating 4.23 Squad number 11 Player name Ritchie Average rating 4.18 Squad number 24 Player name Almirón Average rating 3.99 Squad number 12 Player name Gayle Average rating 3.85 Squad number 15 Player name Lewis Average rating 3.84 Squad number 9 Player name Joelinton Average rating 3.67 Squad number 7 Player name Carroll Average rating 3.67


bbc--2020-12-26--Arsenal beat Chelsea to ease pressure on Arteta

Last updated on .From the section Premier League A rejuvenated Arsenal recorded an important victory over Chelsea to end their seven-game run without a win in the Premier League and ease the pressure on boss Mikel Arteta .
Alexandre Lacazette sent goalkeeper Edouard Mendy the wrong way from the penalty spot and Granit Xhaka curled in a superb free-kick 10 minutes later to put Arteta 's side in control .
Bukayo Saka 's cross then dropped into the top corner early in the second half to put the game beyond the visitors .
Tammy Abraham scored from close range to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the hosts and Jorginho then saw his weak penalty saved by Bernd Leno .
But it was an otherwise lacklustre performance by Frank Lampard 's side , who missed the chance to go second .
It was a well-deserved victory for Arsenal , who climb to 14th and will hope any talk of a relegation battle is now behind them .
• None Premier League Christmas fixtures : How to follow on TV It has been an arduous couple of months between Premier League wins for Arsenal boss Arteta but , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in charge of the Gunners , his side delivered arguably one of the most important victories of the Spaniard 's tenure .
Five months ago , Arsenal and Arteta were celebrating winning the FA Cup against their London rivals , only to watch the title-chasing Blues invest £200m on new players while the Gunners spent Christmas in their lowest league position since 1982 .
Arteta made six changes to the side beaten by Everton last time out in the league and trusted in youth with 19-year-old pair Saka and Gabriel Martinelli and 20-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with renewed energy and , despite there appearing to be minimal contact when Reece James fouled Kieran Tierney in the box , Lacazette made no mistake from the spot to deservedly put the hosts in front .
Xhaka , back in the side following suspension , found the top corner with his free-kick soon after and when Saka 's attempted cross dropped over Chelsea goalkeeper Mendy into the net , Arteta must have felt his luck was changing .
Martinelli forced Mendy into a low save after a smart move down Arsenal 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Lacazette failed to capitalise on his mistake .
Mohamed Elneny struck the bar as Arsenal threatened to add to their tally before Chelsea 's late reprieve , but the Gunners held on for a first win in the Premier League since they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford almost two months ago .
New West Brom boss Sam Allardyce suggested the Gunners are one of their relegation rivals this week but Arteta will hope this victory proves the catalyst to propel them up the table .
Lampard said beforehand he did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment '' and will be furious that his Chelsea side did exactly that .
Mason Mount hit the post with a free-kick after the dangerous Christian Pulisic was fouled , but the Blues otherwise struggled to break Arsenal down in the first half .
One of the concerns for Lampard will be Timo Werner 's failure to score in his past 10 games in all competitions , his longest run without a goal for four years .
The German forward was taken off at half-time as Lampard brought on Jorginho and Callum Hudson-Odoi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into his side , but Arsenal 's third goal 10 minutes into the second half quashed any hopes of a comeback .
It was only in the final few minutes that Chelsea really threatened , though Abraham 's chested effort was initially ruled out for offside before being awarded by the video assistant referee .
Had Jorginho netted from the spot moments later it may have been different , but Chelsea will head back across London disappointed with their performance at Emirates Stadium .
'This was a big day for us' Arsenal boss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The result is the main thing , we really needed that win .
We have been unlucky and frustrated with our results in the last eight weeks so this was a big day for us .
`` From the first whistle you could see the team had the energy and willingness to come out and win the game .
`` The spirit before the game was really positive , they really wanted it .
I am pleased for the players and for the supporters , We have let them down for many weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give them something to cheer about . ''
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard told BBC Sport : `` In the second half we showed some urgency but it was too late .
The first half we gave ourselves too much to do , we were very poor .
You ca n't lack energy and desire in the Premier League and we did .
`` You can prepare as well as you want but if you turn up like that that 's another thing .
It 's in the mind .
`` If you perform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Saka goal .
That 's life .
On another day we could have scored the penalty and come back but it 's not a day for us .
`` The teams that win , win , win relentlessly were n't winning two or three years ago .
We are not there yet , that 's clear .
I felt it when we are on our long unbeaten run and I feel it now .
We got a lot wrong today . ''
Lacazette leads the way - the stats • None Arsenal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League matches on 26 December , the second-best run in the competition after Manchester United won 12 in a row between 1997 and 2016 .
• None Arsenal recorded their first win in eight Premier League matches , and their first at the Emirates since a 2-1 win over Sheffield United in October .
• None Chelsea have lost their past three away games in the Premier League , their worst run since February 2019 .
• None Arsenal netted more than once during the first half of a Premier League game for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by at least two goals at the interval for the first time since a 3-2 victory over Watford in July .
• None Since the start of last season , Tammy Abraham ( 21 ) has scored more than twice as many Premier League goals for Chelsea than any of his team-mates .
• None No Premier League player has scored the opening goal of the game on more occasions this season than Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette , who has netted four of the Gunners ' six such goals .
• None After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Chelsea in all competitions , Jorginho has since missed three of his past six for the club , also failing to do so against Liverpool in September and Krasnodar in October .
Chelsea host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Monday ( 17:30 GMT ) , before Arsenal visit Brighton on Tuesday ( 18:00 ) .
• None Follow the footballer 's campaign for free school meals • None Need a new box set for the festive period ?
All episodes of the epic fantasy drama are streaming now

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Lacazette is Arsenal's top goalscorer in all competitions this season with six goals
A rejuvenated Arsenal recorded an important victory over Chelsea to end their seven-game run without a win in the Premier League and ease the pressure on boss Mikel Arteta.
Two first-half goals set the platform for the Gunners' first top-flight win since 1 November.
Alexandre Lacazette sent goalkeeper Edouard Mendy the wrong way from the penalty spot and Granit Xhaka curled in a superb free-kick 10 minutes later to put Arteta's side in control.
Bukayo Saka's cross then dropped into the top corner early in the second half to put the game beyond the visitors.
Tammy Abraham scored from close range to make it a nervy final five minutes for the hosts and Jorginho then saw his weak penalty saved by Bernd Leno.
But it was an otherwise lacklustre performance by Frank Lampard's side, who missed the chance to go second.
It was a well-deserved victory for Arsenal, who climb to 14th and will hope any talk of a relegation battle is now behind them.
Arteta celebrates anniversary in style
It doesn't get any better than that - Arteta joy at derby win
It has been an arduous couple of months between Premier League wins for Arsenal boss Arteta but, on the first anniversary of his first game in charge of the Gunners, his side delivered arguably one of the most important victories of the Spaniard's tenure.
Five months ago, Arsenal and Arteta were celebrating winning the FA Cup against their London rivals, only to watch the title-chasing Blues invest £200m on new players while the Gunners spent Christmas in their lowest league position since 1982.
Arteta made six changes to the side beaten by Everton last time out in the league and trusted in youth with 19-year-old pair Saka and Gabriel Martinelli and 20-year-old Emile Smith Rowe.
He was rewarded with renewed energy and, despite there appearing to be minimal contact when Reece James fouled Kieran Tierney in the box, Lacazette made no mistake from the spot to deservedly put the hosts in front.
Xhaka, back in the side following suspension, found the top corner with his free-kick soon after and when Saka's attempted cross dropped over Chelsea goalkeeper Mendy into the net, Arteta must have felt his luck was changing.
Martinelli forced Mendy into a low save after a smart move down Arsenal's left and the Blues stopper was relieved when Lacazette failed to capitalise on his mistake.
Mohamed Elneny struck the bar as Arsenal threatened to add to their tally before Chelsea's late reprieve, but the Gunners held on for a first win in the Premier League since they beat Manchester United at Old Trafford almost two months ago.
New West Brom boss Sam Allardyce suggested the Gunners are one of their relegation rivals this week but Arteta will hope this victory proves the catalyst to propel them up the table.
Chelsea 'lacked' energy and desire - Frank Lampard
Chelsea struggle to break down Gunners
Lampard said beforehand he did not want to let Arsenal off this "moment" and will be furious that his Chelsea side did exactly that.
Mason Mount hit the post with a free-kick after the dangerous Christian Pulisic was fouled, but the Blues otherwise struggled to break Arsenal down in the first half.
One of the concerns for Lampard will be Timo Werner's failure to score in his past 10 games in all competitions, his longest run without a goal for four years.
The German forward was taken off at half-time as Lampard brought on Jorginho and Callum Hudson-Odoi in a bid to inject some life into his side, but Arsenal's third goal 10 minutes into the second half quashed any hopes of a comeback.
It was only in the final few minutes that Chelsea really threatened, though Abraham's chested effort was initially ruled out for offside before being awarded by the video assistant referee.
Had Jorginho netted from the spot moments later it may have been different, but Chelsea will head back across London disappointed with their performance at Emirates Stadium.
'This was a big day for us'
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told BBC Sport: "The result is the main thing, we really needed that win. We have been unlucky and frustrated with our results in the last eight weeks so this was a big day for us.
"From the first whistle you could see the team had the energy and willingness to come out and win the game.
"The spirit before the game was really positive, they really wanted it. I am pleased for the players and for the supporters, We have let them down for many weeks so it was a good day to give them something to cheer about."
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard told BBC Sport: "In the second half we showed some urgency but it was too late. The first half we gave ourselves too much to do, we were very poor. You can't lack energy and desire in the Premier League and we did.
"You can prepare as well as you want but if you turn up like that that's another thing. It's in the mind.
"If you perform below par things go against you like the Saka goal. That's life. On another day we could have scored the penalty and come back but it's not a day for us.
"The teams that win, win, win relentlessly weren't winning two or three years ago. We are not there yet, that's clear. I felt it when we are on our long unbeaten run and I feel it now. We got a lot wrong today."
Lacazette leads the way - the stats
Arsenal have won their past 10 home Premier League matches on 26 December, the second-best run in the competition after Manchester United won 12 in a row between 1997 and 2016.
Arsenal recorded their first win in eight Premier League matches, and their first at the Emirates since a 2-1 win over Sheffield United in October.
Chelsea have lost their past three away games in the Premier League, their worst run since February 2019.
Arsenal netted more than once during the first half of a Premier League game for the first time this season, leading by at least two goals at the interval for the first time since a 3-2 victory over Watford in July.
Since the start of last season, Tammy Abraham (21) has scored more than twice as many Premier League goals for Chelsea than any of his team-mates.
No Premier League player has scored the opening goal of the game on more occasions this season than Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette, who has netted four of the Gunners' six such goals.
After netting each of his first eight penalties for Chelsea in all competitions, Jorginho has since missed three of his past six for the club, also failing to do so against Liverpool in September and Krasnodar in October.
What's next?
Chelsea host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Monday (17:30 GMT), before Arsenal visit Brighton on Tuesday (18:00).
Player of the match Tierney Kieran Tierney with an average of 8.35 Arsenal Arsenal Arsenal
Chelsea Chelsea Chelsea Arsenal Avg Squad number 3 Player name Tierney Average rating 8.35 Squad number 7 Player name Saka Average rating 8.32 Squad number 35 Player name Gabriel Martinelli Average rating 8.00 Squad number 32 Player name Smith Rowe Average rating 7.77 Squad number 1 Player name Leno Average rating 7.73 Squad number 9 Player name Lacazette Average rating 7.65 Squad number 34 Player name Xhaka Average rating 7.53 Squad number 16 Player name Holding Average rating 7.36 Squad number 2 Player name Bellerín Average rating 7.12 Squad number 25 Player name Mohamed Elneny Average rating 6.92 Squad number 22 Player name Marí Average rating 6.87 Squad number 28 Player name Willock Average rating 6.18 Squad number 19 Player name Pépé Average rating 5.77 Squad number 20 Player name Mustafi Average rating 5.52 Chelsea Avg Squad number 20 Player name Hudson-Odoi Average rating 4.42 Squad number 10 Player name Pulisic Average rating 4.37 Squad number 6 Player name Thiago Silva Average rating 4.14 Squad number 15 Player name Zouma Average rating 4.07 Squad number 9 Player name Abraham Average rating 4.00 Squad number 7 Player name Kanté Average rating 3.94 Squad number 16 Player name Mendy Average rating 3.87 Squad number 19 Player name Mount Average rating 3.76 Squad number 21 Player name Chilwell Average rating 3.51 Squad number 17 Player name Kovacic Average rating 3.48 Squad number 24 Player name James Average rating 3.41 Squad number 29 Player name Havertz Average rating 3.24 Squad number 11 Player name Werner Average rating 2.85 Squad number 5 Player name Jorginho Average rating 2.79