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..::Football III::..
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Wenger opens door to Henry Arsenal return
Arsene Wenger believes Thierry Henry will "certainly" return to Arsenal one day.
The Frenchman left New York Red Bulls following their elimination from the MLS playoffs on Saturday, with his future unknown at this stage.
Bordeaux manager Willy Sagnol has already offered his former France team-mate a place among his coaching staff should he retire from playing while a role in the media remains an option.
But Wenger believes the 37-year-old will have a role in north London at some point in the future but said he must consider what part he wants to play.
"What I understand is that he wants to reflect for a while on how he wants to go into his next life,” the Arsenal manager is quoted as saying by the club's official website.
“The only thing I would like to say is that I gave him his start at the age of 17 at Monaco, today he is 37 so he had 20 years of competitive football and that deserves high respect and congratulations. Not only for what he achieved but also for his attitude, his exemplarity and his focus on football.
“He has the right to reflect and think of what he wants to do now. He is an Arsenal man - the best moments of his life and career have been experienced here.
"Certainly one day he will come back here. In what role I don’t know, that is what he has to think about: what direction he wants to give to his next life.
“He has all the qualities [to be a coach] because he is intelligent, committed, he loves the game. He just has to think: 'Do I want to sacrifice all the rest of my life to be involved in that job?'”
However, Wenger does not believe that Henry would want to return to the Premier League as a player, having enjoyed a loan spell at the Emirates in 2011-12.
"I don't think he wants to do that again. He has given a lot, he has come out with an image that is fantastic. I'm not sure that he wants to play again in the Premier League."
Arsene Wenger believes Thierry Henry will "certainly" return to Arsenal one day.
The Frenchman left New York Red Bulls following their elimination from the MLS playoffs on Saturday, with his future unknown at this stage.
Bordeaux manager Willy Sagnol has already offered his former France team-mate a place among his coaching staff should he retire from playing while a role in the media remains an option.
But Wenger believes the 37-year-old will have a role in north London at some point in the future but said he must consider what part he wants to play.
"What I understand is that he wants to reflect for a while on how he wants to go into his next life,” the Arsenal manager is quoted as saying by the club's official website.
“The only thing I would like to say is that I gave him his start at the age of 17 at Monaco, today he is 37 so he had 20 years of competitive football and that deserves high respect and congratulations. Not only for what he achieved but also for his attitude, his exemplarity and his focus on football.
“He has the right to reflect and think of what he wants to do now. He is an Arsenal man - the best moments of his life and career have been experienced here.
"Certainly one day he will come back here. In what role I don’t know, that is what he has to think about: what direction he wants to give to his next life.
“He has all the qualities [to be a coach] because he is intelligent, committed, he loves the game. He just has to think: 'Do I want to sacrifice all the rest of my life to be involved in that job?'”
However, Wenger does not believe that Henry would want to return to the Premier League as a player, having enjoyed a loan spell at the Emirates in 2011-12.
"I don't think he wants to do that again. He has given a lot, he has come out with an image that is fantastic. I'm not sure that he wants to play again in the Premier League."
Griezmann backing Neuer for Ballon d'Or
Antoine Griezmann has revealed that he would like to see Manuel Neuer win the Ballon d'Or for 2014 ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo is expected to retain his crown on the back of a year in which the prolific Portuguese attacker propelled Real Madrid to Champions League glory, although Messi is again a major contender having led Argentina to the final of last summer's World Cup.
However, Germany goalkeeper Neuer ended up on the winning side that day in Rio and Griezmann feels that the 28-year-old shot-stopper should be recognised for his fantastic performances in Brazil, as well as the key role he played in Bayern Munich's Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double last season.
"I'm with Neuer because, basically, I'm neither in favour of Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo," the Atletico Madrid ace stated a promotional event in Paris.
"Neuer is a great goalkeeper and is now a world champion.
"But all three deserve the Ballon d'Or. They all had great years, so may the best man win."
Meanwhile, Griezmann revealed that Franck Ribery would be welcomed back into the France fold with open arms were the Bayern Munich ace to reverse his controversial decision to retire from international duty earlier this year.
Indeed, the 23-year-old insists that he would have no problem with having greater competition for a place in Didier Deschamps' starting line-up.
"He knows that if he wants to return, he will be welcome," Griezmann declared.
"But if Ribery is there or not, it will not change anything in relation to my desire to do well with France."
Antoine Griezmann has revealed that he would like to see Manuel Neuer win the Ballon d'Or for 2014 ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo is expected to retain his crown on the back of a year in which the prolific Portuguese attacker propelled Real Madrid to Champions League glory, although Messi is again a major contender having led Argentina to the final of last summer's World Cup.
However, Germany goalkeeper Neuer ended up on the winning side that day in Rio and Griezmann feels that the 28-year-old shot-stopper should be recognised for his fantastic performances in Brazil, as well as the key role he played in Bayern Munich's Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double last season.
"I'm with Neuer because, basically, I'm neither in favour of Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo," the Atletico Madrid ace stated a promotional event in Paris.
"Neuer is a great goalkeeper and is now a world champion.
"But all three deserve the Ballon d'Or. They all had great years, so may the best man win."
Meanwhile, Griezmann revealed that Franck Ribery would be welcomed back into the France fold with open arms were the Bayern Munich ace to reverse his controversial decision to retire from international duty earlier this year.
Indeed, the 23-year-old insists that he would have no problem with having greater competition for a place in Didier Deschamps' starting line-up.
"He knows that if he wants to return, he will be welcome," Griezmann declared.
"But if Ribery is there or not, it will not change anything in relation to my desire to do well with France."
Messi is magical, Ronaldo isn't - Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho has praised Cristiano Ronaldo, saying he is a "complete" player, but says "magic" Lionel Messi is better.
The Barcelona star and Real Madrid talisman have both been named in the final three for the 2014 Ballon d'Or alongside Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
And Messi's former Barca team-mate insists that the Argentina captain is the better of La Liga's superstars.
"We players asked [then Barca coach] Frank Rijkaard to bring Messi into the first team’s training sessions," he told El Enganche.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is a very complete player, but Messi is better because he has magic."
The former Brazil star revealed that he almost joined Manchester United, but it was former president Sandro Rosell who convinced him to join the Camp Nou side.
"Everything was beautiful and happened fast. A great friend of mine was about to become a part of the Barcelona board: Sandro Rosell.
"Before the offers came, he had asked me if I would play in Barcelona when they won the election and became the presidents, and I had said 'Yes'.
"I was almost on my way to Manchester United and only the details needed to be put onto that deal. But in the last minute Rosell called me to tell me they would win the election. That made everything happen fast.
"I wanted to play in Barcelona. When I signed, I didn’t feel pressure, I felt joy. I had the chance that all of the players wanted, to play in a great club like Barcelona.
"I had the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of my idols. I was proud to play where Romario, Ronaldo and Rivaldo had played and I had the chance to be Barcelona’s new 'R'. I loved that."
Ronaldinho has praised Cristiano Ronaldo, saying he is a "complete" player, but says "magic" Lionel Messi is better.
The Barcelona star and Real Madrid talisman have both been named in the final three for the 2014 Ballon d'Or alongside Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
And Messi's former Barca team-mate insists that the Argentina captain is the better of La Liga's superstars.
"We players asked [then Barca coach] Frank Rijkaard to bring Messi into the first team’s training sessions," he told El Enganche.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is a very complete player, but Messi is better because he has magic."
The former Brazil star revealed that he almost joined Manchester United, but it was former president Sandro Rosell who convinced him to join the Camp Nou side.
"Everything was beautiful and happened fast. A great friend of mine was about to become a part of the Barcelona board: Sandro Rosell.
"Before the offers came, he had asked me if I would play in Barcelona when they won the election and became the presidents, and I had said 'Yes'.
"I was almost on my way to Manchester United and only the details needed to be put onto that deal. But in the last minute Rosell called me to tell me they would win the election. That made everything happen fast.
"I wanted to play in Barcelona. When I signed, I didn’t feel pressure, I felt joy. I had the chance that all of the players wanted, to play in a great club like Barcelona.
"I had the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of my idols. I was proud to play where Romario, Ronaldo and Rivaldo had played and I had the chance to be Barcelona’s new 'R'. I loved that."
Van Gaal: Di Maria will miss Manchester United clash with Southampton
Louis van Gaal admits he does not expect Angel Di Maria to be fit for Manchester United’s clash with Southampton on Monday.
The Argentina international limped out of Saturday’s 3-0 win over Hull City with a hamstring injury and subsequently missed United’s 2-1 win over Stoke City on Tuesday evening.
Wayne Rooney was also absent due to a knee problem and the forward is set to undergo a scan on Wednesday to determine his availability for United's trip to St Mary's on December 8.
"We have to wait for tomorrow to say anything about it because you never know with a knee," said Van Gaal.
"But in my opinion it is not so heavy - but I am not a doctor. We have to wait for a scan and then we will know more. Di Maria is not so heavy, but of course he shall not play against Southampton, but you never know."
Van Gaal also revealed that Daley Blind, who continues to recover from a knee injury, is unlikely to feature before Christmas.
"It is not so heavy. Christmas maybe. I think that at the end of December maybe we will see light in the tunnel [for Blind]," said Van Gaal.
United's win over Stoke was their fourth consecutive victory in the Premier League and they now sit a point behind third-placed Southampton, who travel to Arsenal on Wednesday evening.
Marouane Fellaini opened the scoring but Steven N'Zonzi pulled Mark Hughes' men level before the break. Juan Mata's free-kick secured the three points for United, and Van Gaal believes the win was well deserved, despite a sub-par display in the first half.
"I am not happy with the performance. I was not pleased with the first half. We were not so aggressive as in the last match and we want to play in the same style," said the Dutchman.
"In the second half we played much better, keep the positions, more aggressive but then you have to finish it. [James] Wilson could have finished it, Fellaini could have finished it.
"In England when it is like that you know the coach of the other team shall do something and Peter Crouch we knew in advance. It is difficult to defend long balls and a great save from [David] De Gea.
"You have to see the whole match and say there is one team that deserved it and that is Manchester United."
Gerrard: I'm still undecided on Liverpool contract
Steven Gerrard has refused to elaborate on his contract situation with Liverpool and admits he is undecided over his future.
The 34-year-old’s current deal at Anfield expires at the end of the season, although Brendan Rodgers has confirmed an extension has been offered to the midfielder.
"I'll decide when I'm ready. There's nothing to say on the contract at the moment," Gerrard told BT Sport.
"When there is - the fans have known me long enough - I'll come out and I'll say what I need to say."
After starting on the bench in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Stoke City, Gerrard returned to the side for Wednesday night’s trip to Leicester City and scored the second goal in a 3-1 win which keeps Liverpool five points behind fourth-placed Manchester United.
"I think over the last three performances we've been superb and we need to keep trying to improve on that," said the midfielder.
"The reason I don't want to answer your questions on my contract is because it's not about me, it's about the performance and a great three points, and that's what the headline should be."
Steven Gerrard has refused to elaborate on his contract situation with Liverpool and admits he is undecided over his future.
The 34-year-old’s current deal at Anfield expires at the end of the season, although Brendan Rodgers has confirmed an extension has been offered to the midfielder.
"I'll decide when I'm ready. There's nothing to say on the contract at the moment," Gerrard told BT Sport.
"When there is - the fans have known me long enough - I'll come out and I'll say what I need to say."
After starting on the bench in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Stoke City, Gerrard returned to the side for Wednesday night’s trip to Leicester City and scored the second goal in a 3-1 win which keeps Liverpool five points behind fourth-placed Manchester United.
"I think over the last three performances we've been superb and we need to keep trying to improve on that," said the midfielder.
"The reason I don't want to answer your questions on my contract is because it's not about me, it's about the performance and a great three points, and that's what the headline should be."
Ancelotti: Real Madrid happy with humble James
Carlo Ancelotti hailed "humble boy" James Rodriguez after the summer signing bagged a double in Real Madrid's 5-0 hammering of Cornella on Tuesday.
The Colombian's goals, in the 16th and the 30th minutes, set the tone for an easy evening for the reigning Copa del Rey champions as Isco, an own goal and injury returnee Jese Rodriguez sealed the 9-1 aggregate triumph.
Ancelotti, who continues to reside over a record-breaking winning streak for the club as Madrid acquired their 17th triumph in a row, lauded the way the ex-Monaco attacker has blended into the Blancos' first-team without fuss.
"It was not easy for James to arrive to Real Madrid," he told reporters. "But he has proved his quality and attitude.
"We're happy with him, he is a humble boy and that's important.
"We have won properly and showed quality in our play. We will never think in terms of breaking records. We have an important game now against Celta on Saturday to stay as leaders in La Liga."
Ancelotti also lauded the work of Real Madrid reserve team coach Zinedine Zidane after half a dozen players who play under the legendary Frenchman this season were involved in the Copa del Rey last-32 victory.
"Zidane's doing a good job," he added. "He has charisma and every player listens to him.
"The job of reserve team coach will be important for us. We finished the game with six players from the cantera squad, which is great news."
Sami Khedira, whose Real Madrid career has been plagued with injury problems, had to be taken off with a head injury in the 57th minute and the Italian coach confirmed he would be receiving medical care overnight but that it was not a serious blow.
"Khedira is spending the night at hospital for safety reasons," Ancelotti added. "It was just a minor hit."
Carlo Ancelotti hailed "humble boy" James Rodriguez after the summer signing bagged a double in Real Madrid's 5-0 hammering of Cornella on Tuesday.
The Colombian's goals, in the 16th and the 30th minutes, set the tone for an easy evening for the reigning Copa del Rey champions as Isco, an own goal and injury returnee Jese Rodriguez sealed the 9-1 aggregate triumph.
Ancelotti, who continues to reside over a record-breaking winning streak for the club as Madrid acquired their 17th triumph in a row, lauded the way the ex-Monaco attacker has blended into the Blancos' first-team without fuss.
"It was not easy for James to arrive to Real Madrid," he told reporters. "But he has proved his quality and attitude.
"We're happy with him, he is a humble boy and that's important.
"We have won properly and showed quality in our play. We will never think in terms of breaking records. We have an important game now against Celta on Saturday to stay as leaders in La Liga."
Ancelotti also lauded the work of Real Madrid reserve team coach Zinedine Zidane after half a dozen players who play under the legendary Frenchman this season were involved in the Copa del Rey last-32 victory.
"Zidane's doing a good job," he added. "He has charisma and every player listens to him.
"The job of reserve team coach will be important for us. We finished the game with six players from the cantera squad, which is great news."
Sami Khedira, whose Real Madrid career has been plagued with injury problems, had to be taken off with a head injury in the 57th minute and the Italian coach confirmed he would be receiving medical care overnight but that it was not a serious blow.
"Khedira is spending the night at hospital for safety reasons," Ancelotti added. "It was just a minor hit."
Barclays Premier League 2014.12.03 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2014.12.03 Fixtures
Arsenal Vs Southampton
Chelsea Vs Tottenham
Everton Vs Hull City
Sunderland Vs Manchester City
Arsenal 1-0 Southampton: Alexis the hero as Gunners down stubborn Saints
Alexis Sanchez was once again the hero for Arsenal as they claimed a late, late 1-0 victory against a stubborn Southampton at the Emirates Stadium.
It looked like being yet another frustrating night for the Gunners faithful as Fraser Forster put on a goalkeeping masterclass to sensationally deny Danny Welbeck twice and Olivier Giroud late on.
Southampton had chances of their own, though neither Graziano Pelle nor Shane Long could find the target, but Forster was the star of the show and did not deserve to be on the losing side.
However, Alexis popped up in the last two minutes from close range to net his 14th goal of an impressive campaign in all competitions.
It provided Arsene Wenger with some welcome relief after some fans made their displeasure known following Saturday's slim 1-0 victory at West Brom.
Wenger chose to start former Southampton man Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain instead of Giroud as Alexis moved into the central role up front, with Welbeck kept out wide despite his winner at the Hawthorns.
The Frenchman's opposite number Koeman was without the injured Morgan Schneiderlin, so Jack Cork was one of two changes.
Southampton won at the Emirates in the League Cup earlier this season and almost shocked their hosts again after 14 minutes when Pelle played a neat one-two with Steven Davis, whose cushioned header found the Italian in the area but he blasted over.
At the other end, Oxlade-Chamberlain forced a fine low save from Forster after pinching the loose ball in the area and finding space to fire goalwards when surrounded by opposing defenders.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was at the heart of Arsenal's best moves and it was his low cross that found its way to Welbeck after 35 minutes, but the striker had to improvise with a backheel and could only find the side netting from close range.
Southampton were grateful to Forster in first-half injury time as he showed great reflexes to tip over a Welbeck header and keep his side on level terms.
Stung into action, Southampton started the second half impressively, with Pelle forcing a vital block from Laurent Koscielny and a lightning break after 52 minutes saw Victor Wanyama feed Long, who could only fire high and wide instead of cross for Pelle.
Giroud was introduced to provide some much-needed impetus and he got on the end of an Alexis pass after 66 minutes to unleash a fierce drive that Forster palmed away.
The Southampton stopper was at it again a minute later as Giroud's neat touch found Welbeck in the box and his shot was somehow clawed away along with the rebound from the French forward.
Forster produced an even better save to tip away a Giroud header late on but, just as it looked like a point was secured, Aaron Ramsey found space to cross and Alexis was in the right place to sweep home the winner.
Alexis Sanchez was once again the hero for Arsenal as they claimed a late, late 1-0 victory against a stubborn Southampton at the Emirates Stadium.
It looked like being yet another frustrating night for the Gunners faithful as Fraser Forster put on a goalkeeping masterclass to sensationally deny Danny Welbeck twice and Olivier Giroud late on.
Southampton had chances of their own, though neither Graziano Pelle nor Shane Long could find the target, but Forster was the star of the show and did not deserve to be on the losing side.
However, Alexis popped up in the last two minutes from close range to net his 14th goal of an impressive campaign in all competitions.
It provided Arsene Wenger with some welcome relief after some fans made their displeasure known following Saturday's slim 1-0 victory at West Brom.
Wenger chose to start former Southampton man Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain instead of Giroud as Alexis moved into the central role up front, with Welbeck kept out wide despite his winner at the Hawthorns.
The Frenchman's opposite number Koeman was without the injured Morgan Schneiderlin, so Jack Cork was one of two changes.
Southampton won at the Emirates in the League Cup earlier this season and almost shocked their hosts again after 14 minutes when Pelle played a neat one-two with Steven Davis, whose cushioned header found the Italian in the area but he blasted over.
At the other end, Oxlade-Chamberlain forced a fine low save from Forster after pinching the loose ball in the area and finding space to fire goalwards when surrounded by opposing defenders.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was at the heart of Arsenal's best moves and it was his low cross that found its way to Welbeck after 35 minutes, but the striker had to improvise with a backheel and could only find the side netting from close range.
Southampton were grateful to Forster in first-half injury time as he showed great reflexes to tip over a Welbeck header and keep his side on level terms.
Stung into action, Southampton started the second half impressively, with Pelle forcing a vital block from Laurent Koscielny and a lightning break after 52 minutes saw Victor Wanyama feed Long, who could only fire high and wide instead of cross for Pelle.
Giroud was introduced to provide some much-needed impetus and he got on the end of an Alexis pass after 66 minutes to unleash a fierce drive that Forster palmed away.
The Southampton stopper was at it again a minute later as Giroud's neat touch found Welbeck in the box and his shot was somehow clawed away along with the rebound from the French forward.
Forster produced an even better save to tip away a Giroud header late on but, just as it looked like a point was secured, Aaron Ramsey found space to cross and Alexis was in the right place to sweep home the winner.
Everton 1-1 Hull City: Aluko rescues point for struggling Tigers
Hull City ended their losing run in the Premier League as Sone Aluko's strike secured a hard-earned 1-1 draw at Everton.
Coming into the game on the back of four straight defeats and a morale-sapping 3-0 reverse at Manchester United at the weekend, Hull had dropped into the bottom three after Tuesday's results.
And Everton sliced through them at will in the first half and took a richly deserved lead through Romelu Lukaku.
Steve Bruce's side had looked bereft of ideas before the break, but Aluko's introduction in the second half sparked them to life and the Nigerian pegged the hosts back with a fine individual equaliser.
Hull could have snatched all three points, but would have been happy with a draw which lifts them back above Burnley and into 17th place.
For Everton, the draw came on the back of a defeat at Tottenham on Sunday, somewhat checking their recovery from a whirlwind set of early-season defeats on home turf.
Desperate to turn his side's woeful run around, Bruce ripped up his Old Trafford teamsheet with four changes of personnel - captain Curtis Davies among those suffering the axe - and a switch from 3-5-2 to a 4-5-1 system.
Though a high-pressure opening from the visitors pushed Roberto Martinez's side back, they soon found their flow having dominated possession.
Lukaku dwelt when well-positioned after smart interplay between Gareth Barry and Ross Barkley - the ball deflecting onto Liam Rosenior's upper arm to prompt home appeals for a penalty which referee Robert Madley dismissed.
Everton's incessant play was too much for Hull to hold back, with Kevin Mirallas and the reintroduced Leon Osman forcing Allan McGregor into action before they finally took a merited lead 11 minutes before the break through Lukaku's seventh goal of the season.
Having flicked the ball into the path of Mirallas, Lukaku showed great endeavour to get on the end of his fellow Belgium international's cut-back and bury a finish past the helpless McGregor.
Mohamed Diame spurned a gilt-edged chance to equalise just after the interval and was soon forced off with a recurrence of a recent knee injury, but his replacement, Aluko, provided the perfect impact.
Picking the ball up 25 yards from goal, Aluko burst past Sylvain Distin and into the penalty area before slotting past Tim Howard at the American's near post.
Aluko's presence energised Hull with the Merseysiders, and Distin in particular, shaken as he again beat the Frenchman before crossing for former Everton striker Nikica Jelavic, whose header dropped an inch wide of the left-hand post.
Neither side could muster another chance for a winner, with the home fans growing increasingly frustrated as Everton refused to take a direct approach and settled for a point.
Hull City ended their losing run in the Premier League as Sone Aluko's strike secured a hard-earned 1-1 draw at Everton.
Coming into the game on the back of four straight defeats and a morale-sapping 3-0 reverse at Manchester United at the weekend, Hull had dropped into the bottom three after Tuesday's results.
And Everton sliced through them at will in the first half and took a richly deserved lead through Romelu Lukaku.
Steve Bruce's side had looked bereft of ideas before the break, but Aluko's introduction in the second half sparked them to life and the Nigerian pegged the hosts back with a fine individual equaliser.
Hull could have snatched all three points, but would have been happy with a draw which lifts them back above Burnley and into 17th place.
For Everton, the draw came on the back of a defeat at Tottenham on Sunday, somewhat checking their recovery from a whirlwind set of early-season defeats on home turf.
Desperate to turn his side's woeful run around, Bruce ripped up his Old Trafford teamsheet with four changes of personnel - captain Curtis Davies among those suffering the axe - and a switch from 3-5-2 to a 4-5-1 system.
Though a high-pressure opening from the visitors pushed Roberto Martinez's side back, they soon found their flow having dominated possession.
Lukaku dwelt when well-positioned after smart interplay between Gareth Barry and Ross Barkley - the ball deflecting onto Liam Rosenior's upper arm to prompt home appeals for a penalty which referee Robert Madley dismissed.
Everton's incessant play was too much for Hull to hold back, with Kevin Mirallas and the reintroduced Leon Osman forcing Allan McGregor into action before they finally took a merited lead 11 minutes before the break through Lukaku's seventh goal of the season.
Having flicked the ball into the path of Mirallas, Lukaku showed great endeavour to get on the end of his fellow Belgium international's cut-back and bury a finish past the helpless McGregor.
Mohamed Diame spurned a gilt-edged chance to equalise just after the interval and was soon forced off with a recurrence of a recent knee injury, but his replacement, Aluko, provided the perfect impact.
Picking the ball up 25 yards from goal, Aluko burst past Sylvain Distin and into the penalty area before slotting past Tim Howard at the American's near post.
Aluko's presence energised Hull with the Merseysiders, and Distin in particular, shaken as he again beat the Frenchman before crossing for former Everton striker Nikica Jelavic, whose header dropped an inch wide of the left-hand post.
Neither side could muster another chance for a winner, with the home fans growing increasingly frustrated as Everton refused to take a direct approach and settled for a point.
Sunderland 1-4 Manchester City: Aguero leads Pellegrini's resurgent side to victory
Sergio Aguero once again provided the inspiration as Manchester City kept the pressure on Chelsea at the top of the Premier League with an impressive win over Sunderland.
The striker took his goal tally to 19 in all competitions for the campaign as Manuel Pellegrini's side claimed the points on Wednesday to remain second in the table.
It looked like City may be in for a tricky evening against a team they have not beaten in their last four league meetings when Connor Wickham fortuitously put Sunderland ahead.
But Aguero had other ideas and, having rocketed home a brilliant solo goal, turned provider for Stevan Jovetic to make it 2-1 six minutes before half-time.
Suddenly struggling to repeat the defending that earned a goalless draw against Chelsea on Saturday, Gus Poyet's men were pegged back further as Pablo Zabaleta added a third goal not long after the interval.
And Aguero was back on centre stage in the 71st minute, converting coolly to wrap up a comfortable night's work for City.
The visiting side went into the game under a cloud of defensive issues with skipper Vincent company injured and Eliaquim Mangala suspended after his dismissal in Sunday's 3-0 win over Southampton.
Sensing a chance to attack the unfamiliar centre-back pairing of Martin Demichelis and Dedryck Boyata, Sunderland began the game impressively and should have taken the lead after just seven minutes.
Jack Rodwell was the guilty party when, having been picked out by Will Buckley, he struck his effort straight into former City team-mate Zabaleta with the goal gaping.
But the miss did not prove too costly as Wickham's goal, which had more than a hint of good fortune about it, put the home side ahead.
The forward played a superb one-two with Sebastian Larsson, before Zabaleta's sliding tackle ricocheted off his foot and into the corner.
City found an immediate riposte through the brilliance of Aguero, though.
The Argentine picked the ball up 20 yards from goal, nutmegged Sebastian Coates and powered an unstoppable shot beyond former City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon.
He was not done there, however, and produced another world-class intervention in the 39th minute, brilliantly flicking Yaya Toure's fizzing pass sideways to Jovetic - who powered a strike through the legs of Pantilimon.
The hosts emerged from the break with confidence, epitomised by Larsson immediately stinging the hands of Joe Hart.
Yet City snuffed out their hopes of a comeback with a beautifully worked goal.
Toure sent the ball forward to Zabaleta, who played a lovely one-two with Samir Nasri and chipped over Pantilimon in a manner that would have made his countryman Aguero proud.
Further gloss was added to the scoreline, Aguero making a superb run and expertly turning James Milner's cross in off the inside of the post.
Sergio Aguero once again provided the inspiration as Manchester City kept the pressure on Chelsea at the top of the Premier League with an impressive win over Sunderland.
The striker took his goal tally to 19 in all competitions for the campaign as Manuel Pellegrini's side claimed the points on Wednesday to remain second in the table.
It looked like City may be in for a tricky evening against a team they have not beaten in their last four league meetings when Connor Wickham fortuitously put Sunderland ahead.
But Aguero had other ideas and, having rocketed home a brilliant solo goal, turned provider for Stevan Jovetic to make it 2-1 six minutes before half-time.
Suddenly struggling to repeat the defending that earned a goalless draw against Chelsea on Saturday, Gus Poyet's men were pegged back further as Pablo Zabaleta added a third goal not long after the interval.
And Aguero was back on centre stage in the 71st minute, converting coolly to wrap up a comfortable night's work for City.
The visiting side went into the game under a cloud of defensive issues with skipper Vincent company injured and Eliaquim Mangala suspended after his dismissal in Sunday's 3-0 win over Southampton.
Sensing a chance to attack the unfamiliar centre-back pairing of Martin Demichelis and Dedryck Boyata, Sunderland began the game impressively and should have taken the lead after just seven minutes.
Jack Rodwell was the guilty party when, having been picked out by Will Buckley, he struck his effort straight into former City team-mate Zabaleta with the goal gaping.
But the miss did not prove too costly as Wickham's goal, which had more than a hint of good fortune about it, put the home side ahead.
The forward played a superb one-two with Sebastian Larsson, before Zabaleta's sliding tackle ricocheted off his foot and into the corner.
City found an immediate riposte through the brilliance of Aguero, though.
The Argentine picked the ball up 20 yards from goal, nutmegged Sebastian Coates and powered an unstoppable shot beyond former City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon.
He was not done there, however, and produced another world-class intervention in the 39th minute, brilliantly flicking Yaya Toure's fizzing pass sideways to Jovetic - who powered a strike through the legs of Pantilimon.
The hosts emerged from the break with confidence, epitomised by Larsson immediately stinging the hands of Joe Hart.
Yet City snuffed out their hopes of a comeback with a beautifully worked goal.
Toure sent the ball forward to Zabaleta, who played a lovely one-two with Samir Nasri and chipped over Pantilimon in a manner that would have made his countryman Aguero proud.
Further gloss was added to the scoreline, Aguero making a superb run and expertly turning James Milner's cross in off the inside of the post.
Chelsea 3-0 Tottenham: Drogba stars in routine win
Didier Drogba and Loic Remy stepped up in the absence of Diego Costa as Chelsea maintained their six-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a comfortable win over Tottenham.
Spain forward Costa - scorer of 11 goals in 11 Premier League matches this season - missed Wednesday's London derby at Stamford Bridge due to suspension, but that mattered little.
Chelsea legend Drogba, who returned to the club from Galatasaray in July, led the line superbly as Jose Mourinho's unbeaten side overcame a bright start from the visitors to win convincingly.
Harry Kane hit the crossbar early on for Tottenham, but Chelsea responded like the champions many fancy them to become with two quick-fire goals.
Eden Hazard set Chelsea on their way in the 19th minute before Drogba netted less than 180 seconds later for his second league goal of the season.
Substitute Loic Remy, who replaced Drogba, sealed the convincing home win 17 minutes from time as Tottenham's winless run at Chelsea - which dates back to 1990 - continued.
Despite the absence of Costa, Chelsea fielded a familiar and settled line-up, while Tottenham, fresh from six wins in their last seven matches in all competitions, made just one change - with Roberto Soldado dropping to the bench despite his rare goal in a 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday.
Erik Lamela replaced Soldado for Spurs, who started brightly, and only the woodwork denied Kane in the seventh minute.
Aaron Lennon, continuing to impress after a recent recall, crossed for Kane from the right and the striker peeled off Gary Cahill to steer a header onto the bar, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois well beaten.
Kane then stripped Cahill off the ball in the 12th minute and charged into the box, only shooting just wide with his left foot.
The early chances buoyed the vocal travelling supporters, but they were soon silenced by a simple but brilliant Chelsea move.
Hazard played a neat one-two with Drogba and the Belgian glided past three Tottenham players before shooting under Lloris from a tight angle.
And Lloris was to blame for Chelsea's second goal - scored just three minutes later - after his sloppy clearance fell to Hazard.
He fed Oscar and the Brazilian's excellent ball played in Drogba, who beat Jan Vertonghen and took two touches before slotting home.
Chelsea dropped the tempo slightly following Drogba's strike, happy with their two-goal lead, but Willian shot twice at Lloris as the first half winded down.
Cahill took a knock to the head in the early stages, and was replaced at the break by highly rated Kurt Zouma, who had work to do early as Chelsea sat back.
The best Spurs could muster, though, was a tame Christian Eriksen shot from distance, and a wayward Vertonghen header, before Drogba came off to a healthy ovation.
And his replacement, Remy, wrapped up the three points, beating Vertonghen with strength before side-footing past Lloris in stylish fashion as Chelsea underlined exactly why they are considered title favourites with a dominant display.
Didier Drogba and Loic Remy stepped up in the absence of Diego Costa as Chelsea maintained their six-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a comfortable win over Tottenham.
Spain forward Costa - scorer of 11 goals in 11 Premier League matches this season - missed Wednesday's London derby at Stamford Bridge due to suspension, but that mattered little.
Chelsea legend Drogba, who returned to the club from Galatasaray in July, led the line superbly as Jose Mourinho's unbeaten side overcame a bright start from the visitors to win convincingly.
Harry Kane hit the crossbar early on for Tottenham, but Chelsea responded like the champions many fancy them to become with two quick-fire goals.
Eden Hazard set Chelsea on their way in the 19th minute before Drogba netted less than 180 seconds later for his second league goal of the season.
Substitute Loic Remy, who replaced Drogba, sealed the convincing home win 17 minutes from time as Tottenham's winless run at Chelsea - which dates back to 1990 - continued.
Despite the absence of Costa, Chelsea fielded a familiar and settled line-up, while Tottenham, fresh from six wins in their last seven matches in all competitions, made just one change - with Roberto Soldado dropping to the bench despite his rare goal in a 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday.
Erik Lamela replaced Soldado for Spurs, who started brightly, and only the woodwork denied Kane in the seventh minute.
Aaron Lennon, continuing to impress after a recent recall, crossed for Kane from the right and the striker peeled off Gary Cahill to steer a header onto the bar, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois well beaten.
Kane then stripped Cahill off the ball in the 12th minute and charged into the box, only shooting just wide with his left foot.
The early chances buoyed the vocal travelling supporters, but they were soon silenced by a simple but brilliant Chelsea move.
Hazard played a neat one-two with Drogba and the Belgian glided past three Tottenham players before shooting under Lloris from a tight angle.
And Lloris was to blame for Chelsea's second goal - scored just three minutes later - after his sloppy clearance fell to Hazard.
He fed Oscar and the Brazilian's excellent ball played in Drogba, who beat Jan Vertonghen and took two touches before slotting home.
Chelsea dropped the tempo slightly following Drogba's strike, happy with their two-goal lead, but Willian shot twice at Lloris as the first half winded down.
Cahill took a knock to the head in the early stages, and was replaced at the break by highly rated Kurt Zouma, who had work to do early as Chelsea sat back.
The best Spurs could muster, though, was a tame Christian Eriksen shot from distance, and a wayward Vertonghen header, before Drogba came off to a healthy ovation.
And his replacement, Remy, wrapped up the three points, beating Vertonghen with strength before side-footing past Lloris in stylish fashion as Chelsea underlined exactly why they are considered title favourites with a dominant display.
L'Hospitalet 0-3 Atletico Madrid: Griezmann and Gabi grind out the win
It took Atletico Madrid more than an hour to break down L'Hospitalet on Wednesday but the Spanish champions ultimately claimed a 3-0 win in their Copa del Rey clash.
Antoine Griezmann ghosted into the penalty area 20 minutes after coming on at half-time to head Diego Simeone's side in front from close range in the first leg of the round-of-32 clash.
Alessio Cerci and Raul Jimenez had come close in the first half, but it was the introduction of France international Griezmann that gave the visitors the cutting edge they had lacked.
Jimenez almost found the net with 15 minutes to play, before the Liga champions were able to double their lead courtesy of Gabi's penalty after Cerci had been upended.
Cristian Rodriguez then added a third goal in stoppage time and Atleti will be expected to secure their place in the fifth round when the two sides meet in the second leg at the Vicente Calderon on December 18.
Simeone gave a first-team debut to 18-year-old Lucas Hernandez, while Jan Oblak and Cerci were handed their first domestic starts for the 2013 winners. The hosts were without top scorer David Haro, who dropped to the bench.
After a slow start the visitors began to find their rhythm on the artificial surface, and were unlucky not to take the lead after 11 minutes.
Rodriguez delivered a dangerous cross from the left towards Cerci, who met the ball first time but Oliver Sanchez got down well to push the ball away.
Oliver was beaten eight minutes later, but the crossbar came to his rescue when Jimenez's header clipped the woodwork after he was picked out by Cerci.
L'Hospitalet showed brief glimpses that they could pose a threat going forward, but Atletico continued to look more likely to open the scoring and were frustrated again when Saul and Cerci wasted good chances in the closing minutes of the first half.
No doubt with Simeone's words ringing in their ears Atletico were much more attacking in the early stages of the second half, with substitute Griezmann making an immediate impact.
Griezmann saw an attempted cross hit the bar within two minutes of the restart, and then set up Jose Gimenez, but his effort was cleared off the line.
Atletico did have the ball in the net on 49 minutes as Gimenez reacted quickest after Oliver had failed to collect a corner, however the assistant referee denied him the opening goal as he flagged for offside.
It was no surprise when Griezmann got the game's opening goal 66 minutes in, the forward escaping the attentions of his marker to meet a Jesus Gamez cross with a deft header past Oliver.
After Jimenez had fired a low shot wide Atletico were handed a second goal when Cerci was pulled down in the penalty area by Agustin Fernandez.
Gabi assumed responsibility from the spot, and he made no mistake and there was still time for a third goal for the visitors.
It was Rodriguez who gave the scoreline a more emphatic look with a stunning left-footed strike in stoppage time, the ball swerving out of Oliver's reach from 25 yards.
It took Atletico Madrid more than an hour to break down L'Hospitalet on Wednesday but the Spanish champions ultimately claimed a 3-0 win in their Copa del Rey clash.
Antoine Griezmann ghosted into the penalty area 20 minutes after coming on at half-time to head Diego Simeone's side in front from close range in the first leg of the round-of-32 clash.
Alessio Cerci and Raul Jimenez had come close in the first half, but it was the introduction of France international Griezmann that gave the visitors the cutting edge they had lacked.
Jimenez almost found the net with 15 minutes to play, before the Liga champions were able to double their lead courtesy of Gabi's penalty after Cerci had been upended.
Cristian Rodriguez then added a third goal in stoppage time and Atleti will be expected to secure their place in the fifth round when the two sides meet in the second leg at the Vicente Calderon on December 18.
Simeone gave a first-team debut to 18-year-old Lucas Hernandez, while Jan Oblak and Cerci were handed their first domestic starts for the 2013 winners. The hosts were without top scorer David Haro, who dropped to the bench.
After a slow start the visitors began to find their rhythm on the artificial surface, and were unlucky not to take the lead after 11 minutes.
Rodriguez delivered a dangerous cross from the left towards Cerci, who met the ball first time but Oliver Sanchez got down well to push the ball away.
Oliver was beaten eight minutes later, but the crossbar came to his rescue when Jimenez's header clipped the woodwork after he was picked out by Cerci.
L'Hospitalet showed brief glimpses that they could pose a threat going forward, but Atletico continued to look more likely to open the scoring and were frustrated again when Saul and Cerci wasted good chances in the closing minutes of the first half.
No doubt with Simeone's words ringing in their ears Atletico were much more attacking in the early stages of the second half, with substitute Griezmann making an immediate impact.
Griezmann saw an attempted cross hit the bar within two minutes of the restart, and then set up Jose Gimenez, but his effort was cleared off the line.
Atletico did have the ball in the net on 49 minutes as Gimenez reacted quickest after Oliver had failed to collect a corner, however the assistant referee denied him the opening goal as he flagged for offside.
It was no surprise when Griezmann got the game's opening goal 66 minutes in, the forward escaping the attentions of his marker to meet a Jesus Gamez cross with a deft header past Oliver.
After Jimenez had fired a low shot wide Atletico were handed a second goal when Cerci was pulled down in the penalty area by Agustin Fernandez.
Gabi assumed responsibility from the spot, and he made no mistake and there was still time for a third goal for the visitors.
It was Rodriguez who gave the scoreline a more emphatic look with a stunning left-footed strike in stoppage time, the ball swerving out of Oliver's reach from 25 yards.
Huesca 0-4 Barcelona: Iniesta and Rakitic inspire emphatic first-leg win
Barcelona look set to progress to the next round of the Copa del Rey after Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic both hit stunning goals in a 4-0 first-leg win over a spirited Huesca on Wednesday.
Jeremy Mathieu was the sole survivor in Barca's starting XI from Sunday's 1-0 Liga victory at Valencia, but Luis Enrique's makeshift side showed the gulf in class between the two teams in the first leg at Estadio El Alcoraz.
Rakitic was the driving force in Barca's midfield and his tremendous free kick opened the scoring, before Iniesta - playing his first match since October 25 due to a calf injury - grabbed his first goal of the season with an excellent finish.
Pedro effectively ended the game as contest with a fierce drive seven minutes before the break, and Rafinha made it four in the second half with his first Barca goal - albeit with the help of a huge deflection.
The two teams will meet again on December 16 at Camp Nou, when there will surely be no way back for the Segunda B side after Barca's ruthless first-leg display.
Unsurprisingly Barca started on the front foot, but goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen got lucky with a clearance that struck Guillem Marti Misut and almost crept in.
That proved a momentary blip, though, and Rakitic opened the scoring when he bent a sublime 25-yard free kick into the top right-hand corner in the 12th minute.
It took just three minutes for the visitors to double the lead, as a swift five-on-three break eventually resulted in Rakitic picking out Iniesta on the edge of the box and he showed excellent technique with a crisp outside-of-the-boot finish.
Huesca were enjoying some success in wide areas and Juanjo Camacho's excellent centre from the left picked out Guillem, whose side-footed shot was saved by the feet of Ter Stegen on the half-hour mark.
Shortly after Rakitic came desperately close to a second with another free kick that rattled the woodwork, but Barca did extend the lead seven minutes before the break when Pedro cut in from the left and hit a stinging shot inside Dani Jimenez's near post.
The hosts showed plenty of grit after the break, with Guillem coming close when he bent a shot wide of Ter Stegen's left-hand post before testing the German with a shot from distance.
Barca's pace in attack remained a constant threat, though, and Pedro wasted a great chance to add his second goal when he fired high and wide from the right of the box.
A fourth arrived with more than a hint of fortune in the 71st minute, as Rafinha broke his Barca duck via a huge deflection that left Jimenez helpless.
The home side almost grabbed a consolation in the closing stages when a goalmouth scramble led to chances for Guillem and Juan Esnaider, while Chus Sosa volleyed over from a promising position but Barca were not to be denied a clean sheet.
Barcelona look set to progress to the next round of the Copa del Rey after Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic both hit stunning goals in a 4-0 first-leg win over a spirited Huesca on Wednesday.
Jeremy Mathieu was the sole survivor in Barca's starting XI from Sunday's 1-0 Liga victory at Valencia, but Luis Enrique's makeshift side showed the gulf in class between the two teams in the first leg at Estadio El Alcoraz.
Rakitic was the driving force in Barca's midfield and his tremendous free kick opened the scoring, before Iniesta - playing his first match since October 25 due to a calf injury - grabbed his first goal of the season with an excellent finish.
Pedro effectively ended the game as contest with a fierce drive seven minutes before the break, and Rafinha made it four in the second half with his first Barca goal - albeit with the help of a huge deflection.
The two teams will meet again on December 16 at Camp Nou, when there will surely be no way back for the Segunda B side after Barca's ruthless first-leg display.
Unsurprisingly Barca started on the front foot, but goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen got lucky with a clearance that struck Guillem Marti Misut and almost crept in.
That proved a momentary blip, though, and Rakitic opened the scoring when he bent a sublime 25-yard free kick into the top right-hand corner in the 12th minute.
It took just three minutes for the visitors to double the lead, as a swift five-on-three break eventually resulted in Rakitic picking out Iniesta on the edge of the box and he showed excellent technique with a crisp outside-of-the-boot finish.
Huesca were enjoying some success in wide areas and Juanjo Camacho's excellent centre from the left picked out Guillem, whose side-footed shot was saved by the feet of Ter Stegen on the half-hour mark.
Shortly after Rakitic came desperately close to a second with another free kick that rattled the woodwork, but Barca did extend the lead seven minutes before the break when Pedro cut in from the left and hit a stinging shot inside Dani Jimenez's near post.
The hosts showed plenty of grit after the break, with Guillem coming close when he bent a shot wide of Ter Stegen's left-hand post before testing the German with a shot from distance.
Barca's pace in attack remained a constant threat, though, and Pedro wasted a great chance to add his second goal when he fired high and wide from the right of the box.
A fourth arrived with more than a hint of fortune in the 71st minute, as Rafinha broke his Barca duck via a huge deflection that left Jimenez helpless.
The home side almost grabbed a consolation in the closing stages when a goalmouth scramble led to chances for Guillem and Juan Esnaider, while Chus Sosa volleyed over from a promising position but Barca were not to be denied a clean sheet.
Lille 1-1 Paris Saint-Germain: Sirigu own goal denies champions the chance to go top
An own goal from Salvatore Sirigu cost Paris Saint-Germain the chance to go top of Ligue 1 as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Lille on Wednesday.
Sirigu's error shortly before the interval proved costly for Laurent Blanc's men, who had led through Edinson Cavani, as they stayed second and a point behind Olympique de Marseille.
PSG had won the previous nine matches in all competitions and, after a rocky start, were ahead 29 minutes in against struggling Lille as Cavani finished Ezequiel Lavezzi's dangerous cross from the left.
The champions were unable to take that lead into the break, however, as Sirigu failed to deal with David Rozehnal's header - clumsily fumbling the ball into his own net.
With first place at stake following Marseille's draw with Lorient on Tuesday, Blanc's side could not find a winner in the absence of rested striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
In fact, Lille - whose winless run now stands at 11 games in all competitions - had opportunities to gain a surprise victory as they held firm to frustrate Blanc and pick up a deserved point.
Despite their woeful recent form, the hosts had three opportunities to take the lead in the very first minute of the match.
Sirigu's terrific double save denied Divock Origi and then Nolan Roux before the ball broke loose to Florent Balmont, who could only hit the post.
Origi and Roux continued to threaten PSG's backline, which included Gregory van der Wiel and Maxwell at the expense of Lucas Digne and Serge Aurier, although Lucas Moura's low drive tested Vincent Enyeama at the other end inside the opening 10 minutes.
Cavani then wasted a gilt-edged opportunity as he sidefooted Maxwell's cutback wide from inside the area, with Lille's bright start fading before the half-hour mark.
Conversely, PSG grew into the game and duly took the lead through Cavani.
After a purposeful burst infield from Lucas, the Brazilian played in Lavezzi to cross with Cavani applying the finish for his seventh league goal of the campaign.
While Balmont's withdrawal due to an apparent foot injury looked set to cap a disappointing half for Girard's men, a slightly fortuitous equaliser brightened the mood at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.
Rozehnal's glanced header was fumbled by Sirigu, with neither the goalkeeper nor Javier Pastore on the post able to keep it out.
Lille started the second half on top - Origi and Simon Kjaer both testing Sirigu - before a jinking run from Lucas allowed the PSG man strike the underside of Enyeama's crossbar.
Blanc then gave Marco Verratti his first taste of action since November's win over Marseille off the bench following an adductor injury, but the Italian could not lift a below-par PSG and they were forced to settle for a point.
An own goal from Salvatore Sirigu cost Paris Saint-Germain the chance to go top of Ligue 1 as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Lille on Wednesday.
Sirigu's error shortly before the interval proved costly for Laurent Blanc's men, who had led through Edinson Cavani, as they stayed second and a point behind Olympique de Marseille.
PSG had won the previous nine matches in all competitions and, after a rocky start, were ahead 29 minutes in against struggling Lille as Cavani finished Ezequiel Lavezzi's dangerous cross from the left.
The champions were unable to take that lead into the break, however, as Sirigu failed to deal with David Rozehnal's header - clumsily fumbling the ball into his own net.
With first place at stake following Marseille's draw with Lorient on Tuesday, Blanc's side could not find a winner in the absence of rested striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
In fact, Lille - whose winless run now stands at 11 games in all competitions - had opportunities to gain a surprise victory as they held firm to frustrate Blanc and pick up a deserved point.
Despite their woeful recent form, the hosts had three opportunities to take the lead in the very first minute of the match.
Sirigu's terrific double save denied Divock Origi and then Nolan Roux before the ball broke loose to Florent Balmont, who could only hit the post.
Origi and Roux continued to threaten PSG's backline, which included Gregory van der Wiel and Maxwell at the expense of Lucas Digne and Serge Aurier, although Lucas Moura's low drive tested Vincent Enyeama at the other end inside the opening 10 minutes.
Cavani then wasted a gilt-edged opportunity as he sidefooted Maxwell's cutback wide from inside the area, with Lille's bright start fading before the half-hour mark.
Conversely, PSG grew into the game and duly took the lead through Cavani.
After a purposeful burst infield from Lucas, the Brazilian played in Lavezzi to cross with Cavani applying the finish for his seventh league goal of the campaign.
While Balmont's withdrawal due to an apparent foot injury looked set to cap a disappointing half for Girard's men, a slightly fortuitous equaliser brightened the mood at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.
Rozehnal's glanced header was fumbled by Sirigu, with neither the goalkeeper nor Javier Pastore on the post able to keep it out.
Lille started the second half on top - Origi and Simon Kjaer both testing Sirigu - before a jinking run from Lucas allowed the PSG man strike the underside of Enyeama's crossbar.
Blanc then gave Marco Verratti his first taste of action since November's win over Marseille off the bench following an adductor injury, but the Italian could not lift a below-par PSG and they were forced to settle for a point.
Hazard delighted with Chelsea response after poor start against Tottenham
Chelsea star Eden Hazard hailed his side's response to a slow start against Tottenham on Wednesday.
Spurs started best in the London derby at Stamford Bridge, and could have taken the lead when Harry Kane headed against the crossbar.
The Premier League leaders quickly got going, though, with Hazard's 19th-minute strike paving the way for their 3-0 victory.
Didier Drogba quickly doubled that advantage before substitute Loic Remy sealed the three points 17 minutes from time as Chelsea maintained their six-point lead at the top of the table.
That gap was eight before last weekend, when Chelsea were held to a goalless draw at Sunderland and second-placed Manchester City won at Southampton, and Hazard felt bouncing back was crucial.
"It was important to win today because we lost two points last week against Sunderland," the Belgian told reporters.
"We want to stay on top. Today was a very good match, I think. We played very good. It was important.
"Through the first 15 minutes, [it] wasn't good. After the start, we did very well. We created a lot of chances and we scored three beautiful [goals].
"We have six points in front ... and we want to stay there."
Hazard also praised Drogba's contribution during the victory, after the Ivorian helped set up the opener before getting on the scoresheet himself.
Drogba led the line in Diego Costa's enforced absence through suspension, and Hazard said: "He does everything. He is very important for the team.
"Every game, he plays very well. He scored a beautiful goal against Manchester United [in the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in October] - today again. It's a pleasure to play with him."
Chelsea star Eden Hazard hailed his side's response to a slow start against Tottenham on Wednesday.
Spurs started best in the London derby at Stamford Bridge, and could have taken the lead when Harry Kane headed against the crossbar.
The Premier League leaders quickly got going, though, with Hazard's 19th-minute strike paving the way for their 3-0 victory.
Didier Drogba quickly doubled that advantage before substitute Loic Remy sealed the three points 17 minutes from time as Chelsea maintained their six-point lead at the top of the table.
That gap was eight before last weekend, when Chelsea were held to a goalless draw at Sunderland and second-placed Manchester City won at Southampton, and Hazard felt bouncing back was crucial.
"It was important to win today because we lost two points last week against Sunderland," the Belgian told reporters.
"We want to stay on top. Today was a very good match, I think. We played very good. It was important.
"Through the first 15 minutes, [it] wasn't good. After the start, we did very well. We created a lot of chances and we scored three beautiful [goals].
"We have six points in front ... and we want to stay there."
Hazard also praised Drogba's contribution during the victory, after the Ivorian helped set up the opener before getting on the scoresheet himself.
Drogba led the line in Diego Costa's enforced absence through suspension, and Hazard said: "He does everything. He is very important for the team.
"Every game, he plays very well. He scored a beautiful goal against Manchester United [in the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in October] - today again. It's a pleasure to play with him."
Iniesta: My Barcelona comeback felt good
Andres Iniesta says he is thrilled with his successful Barcelona comeback in the Copa del Rey victory over Huesca on Wednesday.
After recovering from a calf injury, the Spain midfielder's first appearance since the Clasico defeat to Real Madrid in October was a successful one as he scored with a fine strike from 20 yards and played the full 90 minutes of his side's impressive 4-0 rout.
Coach Luis Enrique made big changes to his starting XI for the tie and Iniesta believes the whole squad will be needed if Barca are to challenge for silverware in 2014-15."I felt good out there, which is the most important thing after my injury," said the 30-year-old.
"Injuries are what they are but when they come you always want them to go as fast as possible."When you try a long shot sometimes you score and this time it went in. We have played well in this leg. These matches always have dangerous moments but our effectiveness gave us some peace.
"The most important thing is that the people who play, play well and are able to win. Titles are not won by four or five players but by entire teams. The requirements at Barca are always high - everybody wants to do well and earn minutes."
Barcelona face Espanyol in a crunch La Liga derby on Sunday before they meet Paris Saint-Germain in a vital Champions League clash that will determine the winners of Group F.
Andres Iniesta says he is thrilled with his successful Barcelona comeback in the Copa del Rey victory over Huesca on Wednesday.
After recovering from a calf injury, the Spain midfielder's first appearance since the Clasico defeat to Real Madrid in October was a successful one as he scored with a fine strike from 20 yards and played the full 90 minutes of his side's impressive 4-0 rout.
Coach Luis Enrique made big changes to his starting XI for the tie and Iniesta believes the whole squad will be needed if Barca are to challenge for silverware in 2014-15."I felt good out there, which is the most important thing after my injury," said the 30-year-old.
"Injuries are what they are but when they come you always want them to go as fast as possible."When you try a long shot sometimes you score and this time it went in. We have played well in this leg. These matches always have dangerous moments but our effectiveness gave us some peace.
"The most important thing is that the people who play, play well and are able to win. Titles are not won by four or five players but by entire teams. The requirements at Barca are always high - everybody wants to do well and earn minutes."
Barcelona face Espanyol in a crunch La Liga derby on Sunday before they meet Paris Saint-Germain in a vital Champions League clash that will determine the winners of Group F.
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