SHORT CORNER

Chelsea fan banned for three years

Reuters

A Chelsea supporter has been banned from attending games for three years after being found guilty of homophobic chants during the club's Premier League game against Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium last month.

George Bradley pleaded guilty at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Thursday to the offence of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

The 20-year-old was also fined 965 pounds ($1,219).       

Spurs extend Toby contract

AFP

Tottenham Hotspur have triggered an extension clause in veteran Belgian international Toby Alderweireld's contract which ties him to the Premier League highflyers until the summer of 2020.

The 29-year-old central defender has a £25-million ($31.7m) release clause should a suitor come in for him.

"The club can confirm that we have activated the option to extend Toby Alderweireld's contract until 2020," Tottenham said in a statement on their website.

"The Belgium international defender has made 135 appearances for us to date since signing from Atletico Madrid in 2015."                

Benfica sack Rui Vitoria

AFP

Benfica fired their coach Rui Vitoria on Thursday after a series of poor results for the team he led to back-to-back Portuguese titles in 2016 and 2017.

Benfica came second in Portugal last year but in December failed to qualify for the Champions League knock-out rounds, and after defeats to modest clubs now sit fourth in the domestic league.

On Wednesday the side scored two own goals in a 2-0 defeat to Portimonense.

"Benfica have come to an agreement with Rui Vitoria for an immediate end to his contract," the club said in a statement on Thursday.

Benfica's 'B' team coach Bruno Lage, has been appointed as an interim coach.    

'No talks yet on long-term Man Utd future'

AFP

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has not yet spoken to Manchester United bosses about extending his stay at Old Trafford beyond the end of the season despite a perfect start to his reign.

The Norwegian former striker has won his first four Premier League matches as United manager -- a record that only former boss Matt Busby can match.

He made clear after the victory at Newcastle this week that he would love to stay in the job beyond the summer.

"It's early days," said Solskjaer. "When I came in they were open and honest. They have a process to look for the next manager but the more you're here the more you enjoy it.