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Wenger: No fight with Chelsea over ‘perfect’ Cech
Arsene Wenger has hailed Petr Cech as the “perfect” goalkeeper for Arsenal and says there was “no fight” with Chelsea over his £10 million transfer from Stamford Bridge.
Cech, 33, lost his No.1 role at Chelsea to Thibaut Courtois last season and moved to the Premier League champions’ rivals Arsenal despite the protests of Jose Mourinho.
Wenger believes that Cech has already become a leader for the Gunners and is delighted to have snapped up the Champions League winner from their neighbours with minimum fuss.
“I met Petr and he told me he could be available for that money and I said: ‘For that money, I’ll do it, so you do the job,’ he told reporters. "I had no fight with Chelsea, honestly.
“He had an agreement with his chairman that he could go for a certain price anywhere. We managed to get him here and we are happy with it.
“He has given us all his experience and his leadership because he is a leader on the pitch.
“He talks, is brilliant intellectually, he can analyse and is highly focused. He is the perfect goalkeeper.”
The Gunners are level on 25 points with league leaders Manchester City after 11 games ahead of Sunday's North London derby with Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsene Wenger has hailed Petr Cech as the “perfect” goalkeeper for Arsenal and says there was “no fight” with Chelsea over his £10 million transfer from Stamford Bridge.
Cech, 33, lost his No.1 role at Chelsea to Thibaut Courtois last season and moved to the Premier League champions’ rivals Arsenal despite the protests of Jose Mourinho.
Wenger believes that Cech has already become a leader for the Gunners and is delighted to have snapped up the Champions League winner from their neighbours with minimum fuss.
“I met Petr and he told me he could be available for that money and I said: ‘For that money, I’ll do it, so you do the job,’ he told reporters. "I had no fight with Chelsea, honestly.
“He had an agreement with his chairman that he could go for a certain price anywhere. We managed to get him here and we are happy with it.
“He has given us all his experience and his leadership because he is a leader on the pitch.
“He talks, is brilliant intellectually, he can analyse and is highly focused. He is the perfect goalkeeper.”
The Gunners are level on 25 points with league leaders Manchester City after 11 games ahead of Sunday's North London derby with Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium.
'I'll never be the same again' - Mourinho hits out at stadium ban
Jose Mourinho says “everything will be different” about how he manages Chelsea after hitting out at his one-game stadium ban from the Football Association.
Mourinho will not be allowed to attend Saturday’s trip to Stoke after the FA activated a suspended one-game stadium ban following the Portuguese coach’s half-time dismissal at West Ham.
The FA published referee Jon Moss' report from the match on Friday, detailing Mourinho’s expletive-laden rant in the officials’ dressing room.
Moss’ report read: “[Mourinho] shouted that you f****** referees are weak… Wenger is right about you…you are f****** weak.”
Asked about the punishment, Mourinho told reporters: “I’ve been banned from the bench before but this is a stadium ban, stopping me working.“It will make me change. Change everything, change everything. The dimension of my punishment, and the stadium ban that stays suspended [for comments made after the Southampton defeat], obviously affects everything.
"My answers to questions, obviously, are going to be different. The way I participate with the game, obviously, is going to be different."
Mourinho hinted that he is being treated differently to other managers, citing Jurgen Klopp’s animated reactions during Liverpool’s 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge last weekend as a “message” from the FA.
"I had a game a few days ago where I stood for 90 minutes on my side," he said. "The other manager was jumping like Michael Jordan and nothing happened.
"So, for me, I know everything is different. I have to adapt to it. I think the message that the power want to give me is more than clear."
When Mourinho was asked whether his recent punishments may force him to look abroad for another club, he added: "I don't know.
"In the future, we are going to have lots of managers with stadium bans because a stadium ban should relate to something really, really serious in terms of aggression, words I don't want to use."
Jose Mourinho says “everything will be different” about how he manages Chelsea after hitting out at his one-game stadium ban from the Football Association.
Mourinho will not be allowed to attend Saturday’s trip to Stoke after the FA activated a suspended one-game stadium ban following the Portuguese coach’s half-time dismissal at West Ham.
The FA published referee Jon Moss' report from the match on Friday, detailing Mourinho’s expletive-laden rant in the officials’ dressing room.
Moss’ report read: “[Mourinho] shouted that you f****** referees are weak… Wenger is right about you…you are f****** weak.”
Asked about the punishment, Mourinho told reporters: “I’ve been banned from the bench before but this is a stadium ban, stopping me working.“It will make me change. Change everything, change everything. The dimension of my punishment, and the stadium ban that stays suspended [for comments made after the Southampton defeat], obviously affects everything.
"My answers to questions, obviously, are going to be different. The way I participate with the game, obviously, is going to be different."
Mourinho hinted that he is being treated differently to other managers, citing Jurgen Klopp’s animated reactions during Liverpool’s 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge last weekend as a “message” from the FA.
"I had a game a few days ago where I stood for 90 minutes on my side," he said. "The other manager was jumping like Michael Jordan and nothing happened.
"So, for me, I know everything is different. I have to adapt to it. I think the message that the power want to give me is more than clear."
When Mourinho was asked whether his recent punishments may force him to look abroad for another club, he added: "I don't know.
"In the future, we are going to have lots of managers with stadium bans because a stadium ban should relate to something really, really serious in terms of aggression, words I don't want to use."
'Mourinho behaves like a petulant baby!'
Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has criticised manager Jose Mourinho for behaving "like a big petulant baby" during his side's poor start to the season.
The Stamford Bridge club face Stoke City on Saturday on the back of league losses to West Ham United and Liverpool, which have left them sitting in 15th place in the Premier League after 11 games.
The Portuguese manager has become increasingly critical in his media appearances and received a stadium ban for Saturday's match after launching a tirade at a referee.
And Sutton, who played for Chelsea as well as Blackburn Rovers and Celtic, is tired of Mourinho's histrionics.
"I’ve always been a fan of Mourinho up until this season – I think he’s been charismatic, charming, brilliant for the Premier League,” he said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“But his behaviour in recent times – he has behaved like a petulant, big baby.
The former Chelsea striker was also critical of Mourinho's attitude following the defeat to Slaven Bilic's West Ham, suggesting that the manager had nothing to complain about with regards to Cesc Fabregas' disallowed strike and Nemanja Matic's dismissal.
"i can understand his frustration, we all can, because the team aren't playing well but the bottom line is that at West Ham he was wrong.
"If he was factually right he would be okay but he was wrong. The goal was offisde. Matic should have gone and he shouldn't have any complaints. And to argue those points is utterly ridiculous."
Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has criticised manager Jose Mourinho for behaving "like a big petulant baby" during his side's poor start to the season.
The Stamford Bridge club face Stoke City on Saturday on the back of league losses to West Ham United and Liverpool, which have left them sitting in 15th place in the Premier League after 11 games.
The Portuguese manager has become increasingly critical in his media appearances and received a stadium ban for Saturday's match after launching a tirade at a referee.
And Sutton, who played for Chelsea as well as Blackburn Rovers and Celtic, is tired of Mourinho's histrionics.
"I’ve always been a fan of Mourinho up until this season – I think he’s been charismatic, charming, brilliant for the Premier League,” he said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“But his behaviour in recent times – he has behaved like a petulant, big baby.
The former Chelsea striker was also critical of Mourinho's attitude following the defeat to Slaven Bilic's West Ham, suggesting that the manager had nothing to complain about with regards to Cesc Fabregas' disallowed strike and Nemanja Matic's dismissal.
"i can understand his frustration, we all can, because the team aren't playing well but the bottom line is that at West Ham he was wrong.
"If he was factually right he would be okay but he was wrong. The goal was offisde. Matic should have gone and he shouldn't have any complaints. And to argue those points is utterly ridiculous."
Klopp vows to maintain positive approach in Europe
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will continue to take a positive approach to his Europa League team selection and said he has no concerns over Premier League form ramifications.
Former boss Brendan Rodgers regularly named weakened sides for European ties to ensure his players remained at peak fitness, easing the pressure of playing on Thursdays and Sundays.
Klopp, in contrast, has vowed to continue fielding his strongest team following Thursday's 1-0 win over Rubin Kazan and claimed fatigue will not be a problem.
"If you play Champions League, you are playing Wednesday and Saturday," Klopp said.
"Nobody says 'okay, come on, go to Real Madrid with 17 year old guys!', that is not fair for them. They get experience but not the experience they should get.
"Where is the difference [with Thursday and Sunday]? Is the only benefit that you like the other tournament more?"
Klopp, who joined the Anfield club in October, said the players continue to come around to his preferred style but needs more time to stamp his mark on the team.
"We have to play. We cannot rest. That is our situation. This has been really good," he said.
"Four weeks, it's a short time we've been working together. Six games? That is not a big number and we have a common experience.
"We can work with this. The best training at the moment is our matches.
"It is very intensive. It is good for physical condition and it is good to talk about after games. It's much easier when we win."
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will continue to take a positive approach to his Europa League team selection and said he has no concerns over Premier League form ramifications.
Former boss Brendan Rodgers regularly named weakened sides for European ties to ensure his players remained at peak fitness, easing the pressure of playing on Thursdays and Sundays.
Klopp, in contrast, has vowed to continue fielding his strongest team following Thursday's 1-0 win over Rubin Kazan and claimed fatigue will not be a problem.
"If you play Champions League, you are playing Wednesday and Saturday," Klopp said.
"Nobody says 'okay, come on, go to Real Madrid with 17 year old guys!', that is not fair for them. They get experience but not the experience they should get.
"Where is the difference [with Thursday and Sunday]? Is the only benefit that you like the other tournament more?"
Klopp, who joined the Anfield club in October, said the players continue to come around to his preferred style but needs more time to stamp his mark on the team.
"We have to play. We cannot rest. That is our situation. This has been really good," he said.
"Four weeks, it's a short time we've been working together. Six games? That is not a big number and we have a common experience.
"We can work with this. The best training at the moment is our matches.
"It is very intensive. It is good for physical condition and it is good to talk about after games. It's much easier when we win."
Ozil reveals reason behind his outstanding Arsenal form
Mesut Ozil feels he is reaping the benefits of a full pre-season with Arsenal, having enjoyed a bright start to the season.
The Germany international tops the Premier League assist chart with nine after 10 games and has created more chances than any other player in the English top flight, according to Opta.
After suffering with injury last term, the World Cup winner feels he is much fitter this year and is happy with his performances, as his side look to challenge for the league title.
“Last season, I was out with my knee injury for a few months,” he told Arsenal's official website. “This year I feel fit. I have no injuries and can perform well in games.
"At the moment, things are going really well."
The Gunners sit joint top of the table with Manchester City and take on Tottenham in Sunday's north London derby, and Ozil is impressed with the team spirit building in the dressing room.
“We fight for each other and are like a small family. You can sense that on the pitch. It shows that we are hungry for success and that’s why I want to praise the whole team.
“You see in the games that we can change players. Olivier Giroud is a different type of player to Theo Walcott or Alexis Sanchez.
“We have important and good players in attack who are hungry for goals. Those three have scored many goals already this season and you can see that we need them because they always want to score. That’s good for Arsenal.”
Mesut Ozil feels he is reaping the benefits of a full pre-season with Arsenal, having enjoyed a bright start to the season.
The Germany international tops the Premier League assist chart with nine after 10 games and has created more chances than any other player in the English top flight, according to Opta.
After suffering with injury last term, the World Cup winner feels he is much fitter this year and is happy with his performances, as his side look to challenge for the league title.
“Last season, I was out with my knee injury for a few months,” he told Arsenal's official website. “This year I feel fit. I have no injuries and can perform well in games.
"At the moment, things are going really well."
The Gunners sit joint top of the table with Manchester City and take on Tottenham in Sunday's north London derby, and Ozil is impressed with the team spirit building in the dressing room.
“We fight for each other and are like a small family. You can sense that on the pitch. It shows that we are hungry for success and that’s why I want to praise the whole team.
“You see in the games that we can change players. Olivier Giroud is a different type of player to Theo Walcott or Alexis Sanchez.
“We have important and good players in attack who are hungry for goals. Those three have scored many goals already this season and you can see that we need them because they always want to score. That’s good for Arsenal.”
Valbuena still affected by sex tape blackmail - Gonalons
Lyon captain Maxime Gonalons has offered support to Mathieu Valbuena as a criminal investigation into allegations of a sex-tape blackmail attempt against his team-mate continues.
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, Valbuena's France international colleague, was charged with complicity over the alleged plot this week, while both players were subsequently left out of national coach Didier Deschamps' squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Germany and England.
Nevertheless, Lyon coach Hubert Fournier refused to rule Valbuena out of Sunday's local derby against Saint-Etienne and Gonalons praised the midfielder's mental strength during what he conceded was a trying time.
"It's true that it's always very tough to have to hear such things," Gonalons said.
"It becomes difficult for us to comment. This is a matter that touches Mathieu.
"Inevitably, he is still affected. This is a situation which is not easy for him.
"In any case, we are going to make sure to support him even if the situation is delicate for him.
"I repeat and I repeat that Mathieu is mentally strong. These are things not easily accepted."
Lyon captain Maxime Gonalons has offered support to Mathieu Valbuena as a criminal investigation into allegations of a sex-tape blackmail attempt against his team-mate continues.
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, Valbuena's France international colleague, was charged with complicity over the alleged plot this week, while both players were subsequently left out of national coach Didier Deschamps' squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Germany and England.
Nevertheless, Lyon coach Hubert Fournier refused to rule Valbuena out of Sunday's local derby against Saint-Etienne and Gonalons praised the midfielder's mental strength during what he conceded was a trying time.
"It's true that it's always very tough to have to hear such things," Gonalons said.
"It becomes difficult for us to comment. This is a matter that touches Mathieu.
"Inevitably, he is still affected. This is a situation which is not easy for him.
"In any case, we are going to make sure to support him even if the situation is delicate for him.
"I repeat and I repeat that Mathieu is mentally strong. These are things not easily accepted."
Mancini opens up on potential Inter move for Pirlo
Roberto Mancini has insisted there has not yet been contact between Inter and Andrea Pirlo, but suggested the club could make a move for the experienced playmaker come January.
The 36-year-old left Juventus for New York City earlier this year, but has been heavily linked with a temporary return to Serie A now that the MLS season has come to an end for his side.
Inter have reportedly already been in touch to discuss a loan spell, but Mancini has made it clear such reports are premature.
"It is not true that we have already been in touch with Pirlo. I have never spoken with him," Mancini said at a news conference.
"Anything can happen in football, but there is nothing in those rumours for now.
"The MLS campaign has ended for him, but I don't know what his intentions are, whether he is interested in returning to Serie A for a few months. He could return to Serie A and would definitely be an important player for any team.
"Pirlo is a real champion. He is not a normal player. He understands what's happening on the pitch before anyone else.
"We are always looking at players with his abilities, because we have enough midfielders who are very strong physically and he could add something."
Pirlo was previously at Inter between 1998 and 2001, a spell which included loans to Reggina and Brescia.
Roberto Mancini has insisted there has not yet been contact between Inter and Andrea Pirlo, but suggested the club could make a move for the experienced playmaker come January.
The 36-year-old left Juventus for New York City earlier this year, but has been heavily linked with a temporary return to Serie A now that the MLS season has come to an end for his side.
Inter have reportedly already been in touch to discuss a loan spell, but Mancini has made it clear such reports are premature.
"It is not true that we have already been in touch with Pirlo. I have never spoken with him," Mancini said at a news conference.
"Anything can happen in football, but there is nothing in those rumours for now.
"The MLS campaign has ended for him, but I don't know what his intentions are, whether he is interested in returning to Serie A for a few months. He could return to Serie A and would definitely be an important player for any team.
"Pirlo is a real champion. He is not a normal player. He understands what's happening on the pitch before anyone else.
"We are always looking at players with his abilities, because we have enough midfielders who are very strong physically and he could add something."
Pirlo was previously at Inter between 1998 and 2001, a spell which included loans to Reggina and Brescia.
Benitez: Real Madrid are standing by Benzema
Rafael Benitez says Real Madrid are standing by Karim Benzema, but the French striker will not be involved against Sevilla on Sunday because of fitness problems.
Benzema has been charged with conspiracy to blackmail, having been caught up in a scandal surrounding a sex tape involving France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena.
Having returned to training earlier this week, Benitez says the 27-year-old has the support of his team-mates and the club.
However, the Madrid boss added he will not be available the trip to face Unai Emery's men because he has not yet recovered from a hamstring strain.
"Benzema is in the final part of his recovery and we have decided to leave him in Madrid so that he is 100 percent," he told reporters.
"He trained and he did the work that he had to do.
"The biggest concern that I have is how my team is ahead of the Sevilla match."
Regarding the external matters, Benitez continued: "Emotionally [Benzema] is fine, there was a statement from the club which said he has everyone’s support.
"His team-mates are with him and support him. As for the rest, we must wait and see - that is the most sensible thing [to do]."
The Spanish coach is happy to welcome James Rodriguez back into the team, who is ready to return to first team action following his recovery from an injury, and insists star forward Cristiano Ronaldo is happy and in good shape,
"For me, the important thing is that James returns well and that he is fundamental for the rest of the season.
"I have seen a happy team that has trained well, especially today, and a happy, goalscoring Ronaldo.
"Sevilla have a great coach, great supporters and a very complete team. They have experience and quality.
"It's not going to be an easy match, so we must be focused."
Rafael Benitez says Real Madrid are standing by Karim Benzema, but the French striker will not be involved against Sevilla on Sunday because of fitness problems.
Benzema has been charged with conspiracy to blackmail, having been caught up in a scandal surrounding a sex tape involving France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena.
Having returned to training earlier this week, Benitez says the 27-year-old has the support of his team-mates and the club.
However, the Madrid boss added he will not be available the trip to face Unai Emery's men because he has not yet recovered from a hamstring strain.
"Benzema is in the final part of his recovery and we have decided to leave him in Madrid so that he is 100 percent," he told reporters.
"He trained and he did the work that he had to do.
"The biggest concern that I have is how my team is ahead of the Sevilla match."
Regarding the external matters, Benitez continued: "Emotionally [Benzema] is fine, there was a statement from the club which said he has everyone’s support.
"His team-mates are with him and support him. As for the rest, we must wait and see - that is the most sensible thing [to do]."
The Spanish coach is happy to welcome James Rodriguez back into the team, who is ready to return to first team action following his recovery from an injury, and insists star forward Cristiano Ronaldo is happy and in good shape,
"For me, the important thing is that James returns well and that he is fundamental for the rest of the season.
"I have seen a happy team that has trained well, especially today, and a happy, goalscoring Ronaldo.
"Sevilla have a great coach, great supporters and a very complete team. They have experience and quality.
"It's not going to be an easy match, so we must be focused."
Luis Enrique: Barcelona have improved without Messi
Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has acknowledged the Catalans are a better team with Lionel Messi, but is adamant they have developed without him.
The reigning Liga champions have been without Messi ever since he picked up a knee injury in the win over Las Palmas in September and have since won six out of eight games in all competitions.
Luis Suarez and Neymar in particular have stepped up in the 28-year-old's absence, having contributed to 17 out of 20 goals since the injury.
And Luis Enrique feels Barcelona have shown they can cope without Messi.
"That we are dependent on Messi is just something the press keeps on mentioning. Of course, we are better with Messi, but we have shown that we can cope without him," the Barca coach said at a news conference on Saturday.
"We have a great team and everybody has stepped up in his absence. Irrespective of who is unavailable, we have a great team both defensively and in attack.
"The team made a step beyond without Messi.
"We are more than just Neymar and Suarez. We should also look at how much the defence and midfield contributes."
A number of recent reports suggested Messi will not be fit in time for the Clasico against Real Madrid on November 21, but Luis Enrique is adamant the attacker's recovery is going according to schedule.
"Messi's recovery is going very well," he added.
"Of course, I would prefer to have everyone available all the time, but the player's health always comes first. There is nothing worse for an injured player than a recovery setback.
"Injured players will not be rushed back. They will return when they are.
Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has acknowledged the Catalans are a better team with Lionel Messi, but is adamant they have developed without him.
The reigning Liga champions have been without Messi ever since he picked up a knee injury in the win over Las Palmas in September and have since won six out of eight games in all competitions.
Luis Suarez and Neymar in particular have stepped up in the 28-year-old's absence, having contributed to 17 out of 20 goals since the injury.
And Luis Enrique feels Barcelona have shown they can cope without Messi.
"That we are dependent on Messi is just something the press keeps on mentioning. Of course, we are better with Messi, but we have shown that we can cope without him," the Barca coach said at a news conference on Saturday.
"We have a great team and everybody has stepped up in his absence. Irrespective of who is unavailable, we have a great team both defensively and in attack.
"The team made a step beyond without Messi.
"We are more than just Neymar and Suarez. We should also look at how much the defence and midfield contributes."
A number of recent reports suggested Messi will not be fit in time for the Clasico against Real Madrid on November 21, but Luis Enrique is adamant the attacker's recovery is going according to schedule.
"Messi's recovery is going very well," he added.
"Of course, I would prefer to have everyone available all the time, but the player's health always comes first. There is nothing worse for an injured player than a recovery setback.
"Injured players will not be rushed back. They will return when they are.
Benitez: Impossible to guarantee Ronaldo will be at Madrid next season
Rafael Benitez has admitted that he cannot guarantee Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Real Madrid next season.
The three-time Ballon d'Or winner has been at the Santiago Bernabe since 2009, but a complicated relationship with the fans and president Florentino Perez has seen him linked with a return to Manchester United as well as a move to Paris Saint-Germain in recent seasons.
The Portuguese star added fuel to the speculation surrounding his future on Tuesday as he whispered something into the ear of PSG coach Laurent Blanc after his side's 1-0 Champions League win over the French side.
Benitez admits there is uncertainty surrounding his side's talisman, but maintains he is happy at the club.
"You want my opinion about what Ronaldo whispered to Blanc?" the Spaniard asked journalists at a news conference before turning to his press officer and whispering in his ear.
"Do you know what I just said to him? No? Well then, you already have my answer.
"You all know the relationship between the president and the player, and you know how professional Ronaldo is.
"Can I assure you that Ronaldo will remain here next year? Could you assure that you will have a job next year? It's impossible. And that's the same for everybody.
"I have seen a happy team that has trained well, and a happy, goalscoring Cristiano Ronaldo."
Rafael Benitez has admitted that he cannot guarantee Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Real Madrid next season.
The three-time Ballon d'Or winner has been at the Santiago Bernabe since 2009, but a complicated relationship with the fans and president Florentino Perez has seen him linked with a return to Manchester United as well as a move to Paris Saint-Germain in recent seasons.
The Portuguese star added fuel to the speculation surrounding his future on Tuesday as he whispered something into the ear of PSG coach Laurent Blanc after his side's 1-0 Champions League win over the French side.
Benitez admits there is uncertainty surrounding his side's talisman, but maintains he is happy at the club.
"You want my opinion about what Ronaldo whispered to Blanc?" the Spaniard asked journalists at a news conference before turning to his press officer and whispering in his ear.
"Do you know what I just said to him? No? Well then, you already have my answer.
"You all know the relationship between the president and the player, and you know how professional Ronaldo is.
"Can I assure you that Ronaldo will remain here next year? Could you assure that you will have a job next year? It's impossible. And that's the same for everybody.
"I have seen a happy team that has trained well, and a happy, goalscoring Cristiano Ronaldo."
Atletico Madrid will not change - Simeone
Diego Simeone has insisted that Atletico Madrid will not alter their tactics as it would go against the history of the club.
Under the Argentinian, the team have employed a hard-working, physical and compact style of play.
Not only did it send Atletico to the Liga title in 2013-14 season, the 45-year-old believes it is a strategy that is part of the club's history – which he has no desire to go against regardless of any complaints.
"For those who do not know what Atletico have been about throughout history, I remind you that it is working, pressure, counter-attack and strong defence," Simeone said.
"Those who want to change that go against the history of what Atletico are.
"You can play well in many ways. We will compete along those lines beyond any comments.
"We are the ones that demand the most and we are looking at the details to try and improve.
"After four years competing very well, it's good, healthy and criticism makes you better."
In the past two Liga seasons Atletico have scored 48 goals from set-pieces.
However, this term just two of their tally of 15 have come via that method, and Simeone believes that is down to the preparation of opponents.
"We will try to surprise and go back to being strong at set-pieces," he said.
"Not only last year but also the year that we were Liga champions we scored goals from set-pieces. Now our opponents prepare for these well."
Diego Simeone has insisted that Atletico Madrid will not alter their tactics as it would go against the history of the club.
Under the Argentinian, the team have employed a hard-working, physical and compact style of play.
Not only did it send Atletico to the Liga title in 2013-14 season, the 45-year-old believes it is a strategy that is part of the club's history – which he has no desire to go against regardless of any complaints.
"For those who do not know what Atletico have been about throughout history, I remind you that it is working, pressure, counter-attack and strong defence," Simeone said.
"Those who want to change that go against the history of what Atletico are.
"You can play well in many ways. We will compete along those lines beyond any comments.
"We are the ones that demand the most and we are looking at the details to try and improve.
"After four years competing very well, it's good, healthy and criticism makes you better."
In the past two Liga seasons Atletico have scored 48 goals from set-pieces.
However, this term just two of their tally of 15 have come via that method, and Simeone believes that is down to the preparation of opponents.
"We will try to surprise and go back to being strong at set-pieces," he said.
"Not only last year but also the year that we were Liga champions we scored goals from set-pieces. Now our opponents prepare for these well."
Bournemouth 0-1 Newcastle United: Perez winner defeats dominant Cherries
Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot made light of fitness concerns by turning in an inspired display as Steve McClaren's team stole a 1-0 win over fellow Premier League strugglers AFC Bournemouth with a goal from Ayoze Perez.
Striker Perez netted the winner after 27 minutes from Newcastle's only shot of the first half.
That measured up to 12 attempts on goal from Bournemouth in the opening period but Elliot - whose thigh problem left Newcastle pondering a plunge into the emergency loan market this week - ensured there would be no way through.
Wasteful finishing also played its part as Eddie Howe's side drew a blank for the third consecutive match in all competitions.
Newcastle climb out of the relegation zone at the expense of Bournemouth, who have lost all four Premier League games between the October and November international breaks.
Josh King and Junior Stanislas came on at half-time to spark an improved performance in their side's 2-0 defeat at Southampton last time out and they were rewarded with starts against an unchanged Newcastle.
King stung Elliot's palms with an angled shot in the fourth minute before Paul Dummett blocked a Matt Ritchie attempt amid a sluggish start from the visitors.
Elliot's fitness concerns were done no favours in the 14th minute as he was forced to spring from his goal and deny King after Chancel Mbemba sloppily gave away possession.
Bournemouth were zipping the ball around on a slick playing surface to fine effect and Elliot was called upon once more when the impressive King danced around Fabricio Coloccini.
It was therefore against the run of play when Georginio Wijnaldum collected Aleksandar Mitrovic's backheel and played in Perez to open the scoring - Adam Federici getting a strong hand to the ball before it crossed the line for Bournemouth's latest forgettable piece of goalkeeping this season.
By contrast, Elliot continued to distinguish himself by keeping out set-piece headers from King and Dan Gosling either side of Adam Smith fizzing a drive narrowly over.
The story continued inside the first minute of the second half, with Elliot at full stretch to keep out Ritchie's header after the Scotland international's wonderful dummy sent Smith charging down the right.
Former Newcastle midfielder Gosling then missed his kick from close range and Stanislas blazed over as Bournemouth's composure in front of goal again undermined their dominance of the contest.
McClaren substituted Mitrovic after 63 minutes, switching to a central midfield three and moving Perez to a wide role - a tactical tweak that served to stem the hosts' free-flowing approach.
Bournemouth lacked for ideas and could not conjure an equaliser during the closing stages, meaning Howe's men have now taken a solitary point from their past six Premier League outings.
Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot made light of fitness concerns by turning in an inspired display as Steve McClaren's team stole a 1-0 win over fellow Premier League strugglers AFC Bournemouth with a goal from Ayoze Perez.
Striker Perez netted the winner after 27 minutes from Newcastle's only shot of the first half.
That measured up to 12 attempts on goal from Bournemouth in the opening period but Elliot - whose thigh problem left Newcastle pondering a plunge into the emergency loan market this week - ensured there would be no way through.
Wasteful finishing also played its part as Eddie Howe's side drew a blank for the third consecutive match in all competitions.
Newcastle climb out of the relegation zone at the expense of Bournemouth, who have lost all four Premier League games between the October and November international breaks.
Josh King and Junior Stanislas came on at half-time to spark an improved performance in their side's 2-0 defeat at Southampton last time out and they were rewarded with starts against an unchanged Newcastle.
King stung Elliot's palms with an angled shot in the fourth minute before Paul Dummett blocked a Matt Ritchie attempt amid a sluggish start from the visitors.
Elliot's fitness concerns were done no favours in the 14th minute as he was forced to spring from his goal and deny King after Chancel Mbemba sloppily gave away possession.
Bournemouth were zipping the ball around on a slick playing surface to fine effect and Elliot was called upon once more when the impressive King danced around Fabricio Coloccini.
It was therefore against the run of play when Georginio Wijnaldum collected Aleksandar Mitrovic's backheel and played in Perez to open the scoring - Adam Federici getting a strong hand to the ball before it crossed the line for Bournemouth's latest forgettable piece of goalkeeping this season.
By contrast, Elliot continued to distinguish himself by keeping out set-piece headers from King and Dan Gosling either side of Adam Smith fizzing a drive narrowly over.
The story continued inside the first minute of the second half, with Elliot at full stretch to keep out Ritchie's header after the Scotland international's wonderful dummy sent Smith charging down the right.
Former Newcastle midfielder Gosling then missed his kick from close range and Stanislas blazed over as Bournemouth's composure in front of goal again undermined their dominance of the contest.
McClaren substituted Mitrovic after 63 minutes, switching to a central midfield three and moving Perez to a wide role - a tactical tweak that served to stem the hosts' free-flowing approach.
Bournemouth lacked for ideas and could not conjure an equaliser during the closing stages, meaning Howe's men have now taken a solitary point from their past six Premier League outings.
Bayern Munich 4-0 Stuttgart: Unstoppable Die Roten extend Bundesliga lead
Stuttgart had no answer for Bayern Munich's attacking prowess, as four goals in the first-half sent the Bundesliga champions strolling to a 4-0 win at the Allianz Arena.
Pep Guardiola's men outplayed their opponents with 45 minutes of irresistable football and opened up an eight-point lead at the summit, with second-placed Borussia Dortmund playing on Sunday.
Arjen Robben, Douglas Costa, Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller shared out the goals to secure a routine victory, repeating the haul against Arsenal midweek.
Stuttgart, meanwhile, created little with their best chance falling to Filip Kostic, his shot hitting the bar.
Defending Bundesliga champions Bayern have now taken 34 points from 12 games, scoring an impressive 37 goals in the process.
Bayern opened the scoring after just 11 minutes. Rafinha set up Douglas Costa down the right and the Brazilian winger beat his marker before sending in a cross for Robben, who knocked the ball in off his stomach to make it 1-0.
Stuttgart goalkeeper Tyton was called into action when Lewandowski deflected a shot goalwards in the 15th minute and the shot-stopper showed his class once more 60 seconds later when Muller attempted to round him after a clever through ball from Robben.
Stuttgart could not hold out, however, and Bayern scored again after 18 minutes. Muller raced down the right after a quick counter-attack, picked out Douglas Costa on the left-hand side of the area and the former Shakhtar Donetsk man found the net with a powerful low shot.
Guardiola’s side continued to dominate proceedings and Robben and Lewandowski came close to netting a third, only for Tyton to deny the Dutchman and his fellow Poland international.
Stuttgart were unfortunate not to pull one back in the 34th minute when Kostic hit the crossbar with a superb shot after some good work from Florian Klein down the left.
Lewandowski did get his goal in the 37th minute. Muller sent in a dangerous cross from the right and the prolific striker timed his run to perfection before making it 3-0 with an easy finish.
Bayern added another shortly before the interval. Arturo Vidal hit the crossbar with a powerful header after a cross from Kingsley Coman, but Muller was alert and pounced on the rebound to make it four.
Robben should have doubled his personal tally shortly after the break following a fine pass from Douglas Costa, but the Dutchman lobbed wide from close range, ignoring the unmarked Lewandowski to his left.
Coman got the chance to add his name to the scoresheet on the hour mark after an intelligent through ball from Robben, only for Tyton to show his class again with another fine save.
Joshua Kimmich tried his luck from outside the area shortly after, but the Stuttgart goalkeeper was once more equal to it and deflected it wide for a corner.
The return of Holger Badstuber after a lengthy spell on the sidelines was another highlight for Bayern as they cruised to a routine win.
Stuttgart had no answer for Bayern Munich's attacking prowess, as four goals in the first-half sent the Bundesliga champions strolling to a 4-0 win at the Allianz Arena.
Pep Guardiola's men outplayed their opponents with 45 minutes of irresistable football and opened up an eight-point lead at the summit, with second-placed Borussia Dortmund playing on Sunday.
Arjen Robben, Douglas Costa, Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller shared out the goals to secure a routine victory, repeating the haul against Arsenal midweek.
Stuttgart, meanwhile, created little with their best chance falling to Filip Kostic, his shot hitting the bar.
Defending Bundesliga champions Bayern have now taken 34 points from 12 games, scoring an impressive 37 goals in the process.
Bayern opened the scoring after just 11 minutes. Rafinha set up Douglas Costa down the right and the Brazilian winger beat his marker before sending in a cross for Robben, who knocked the ball in off his stomach to make it 1-0.
Stuttgart goalkeeper Tyton was called into action when Lewandowski deflected a shot goalwards in the 15th minute and the shot-stopper showed his class once more 60 seconds later when Muller attempted to round him after a clever through ball from Robben.
Stuttgart could not hold out, however, and Bayern scored again after 18 minutes. Muller raced down the right after a quick counter-attack, picked out Douglas Costa on the left-hand side of the area and the former Shakhtar Donetsk man found the net with a powerful low shot.
Guardiola’s side continued to dominate proceedings and Robben and Lewandowski came close to netting a third, only for Tyton to deny the Dutchman and his fellow Poland international.
Stuttgart were unfortunate not to pull one back in the 34th minute when Kostic hit the crossbar with a superb shot after some good work from Florian Klein down the left.
Lewandowski did get his goal in the 37th minute. Muller sent in a dangerous cross from the right and the prolific striker timed his run to perfection before making it 3-0 with an easy finish.
Bayern added another shortly before the interval. Arturo Vidal hit the crossbar with a powerful header after a cross from Kingsley Coman, but Muller was alert and pounced on the rebound to make it four.
Robben should have doubled his personal tally shortly after the break following a fine pass from Douglas Costa, but the Dutchman lobbed wide from close range, ignoring the unmarked Lewandowski to his left.
Coman got the chance to add his name to the scoresheet on the hour mark after an intelligent through ball from Robben, only for Tyton to show his class again with another fine save.
Joshua Kimmich tried his luck from outside the area shortly after, but the Stuttgart goalkeeper was once more equal to it and deflected it wide for a corner.
The return of Holger Badstuber after a lengthy spell on the sidelines was another highlight for Bayern as they cruised to a routine win.
Sunderland 0-1 Southampton: Tadic penalty keeps Koeman's side unbeaten on the road
Southampton extended their unbeaten run away from home in the Premier League this season with a 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Ronald Koeman's side dominated proceedings for much of the match, but required a penalty to make it six top-flight games in succession, home and away, without defeat.
Costel Pantilimon was the busiest goalkeeper in the first half, coming out on top against Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mane before the interval.
Sunderland showed more desire after the restart but left themselves vulnerable defensively, with DeAndre Yedlin and Sebastian Coates forced into goal-line clearances.
The breakthrough finally came for Southampton in the 69th minute, with Tadic converting from the penalty spot after Yann M'Vila brought down Ryan Bertrand.
Sam Allardyce's side were unable to grab an equaliser and subsequently fell to a third defeat in four outings under their new coach.
The Sunderland manager opted to revert to a back four and made four changes following the 6-2 defeat at Everton, with Duncan Watmore among those introduced for a first Premier League start.
The 21-year-old started brightly, applying pressure on Maya Yoshida – in at right-back for the hosts in place of Cedric – with his direct running, but Southampton soon took control of the match.
Following wayward strikes from Jordy Clasie and Mane, Pantilimon rushed off his line to deny Tadic after a lovely back-heel from Graziano Pelle teed the Serbian up inside the box in the 16th minute.
The Romanian goalkeeper showed great reflexes six minutes later to parry Mane's venomous strike away from goal, with James Ward-Prowse in an offside position as he attempted to follow up.
Sunderland struggled to get hold of possession; a terrible 25-yard strike from Ola Toivonen that ended up closer to the corner flag than the goal the best they could muster before the interval.
The Swede was replaced by Fabio Borini for the second half and Sunderland appeared energised.
However, a surging run from Mane culminated in a ferocious strike that Pantilimon had to bat away, before blocks from Younes Kaboul and Billy Jones denied the Senegalese and Pelle respectively in the 55th minute.
The resulting corner was flicked on at the near post by Jose Fonte, but Yedlin headed off the line before colliding with Mane.
More last-ditch defending was required on the hour-mark as Coates produced a goal-line clearance to deny Steven Davis following a swift counter-attack.
Southampton's relentless pressure finally paid dividends when Bertrand raced into the box and was sent to ground by a poorly judged tackle from M'Vila.
Referee Mike Jones awarded Koeman's side the penalty and Tadic produced a confident finish, lashing the ball out of the reach of Pantilimon with 21 minutes remaining.
Sunderland responded positively but Maarten Stekelenburg clawed a Borini strike away from the top corner before Adam Johnson saw his curling free-kick fly just over in the 73rd minute.
The visitors had a penalty claim of their own turned when Jack Rodwell's header was blocked by the arm of Yoshida five minutes from time, but the referee did not judge it to be worthy of a spot-kick.
Southampton extended their unbeaten run away from home in the Premier League this season with a 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Ronald Koeman's side dominated proceedings for much of the match, but required a penalty to make it six top-flight games in succession, home and away, without defeat.
Costel Pantilimon was the busiest goalkeeper in the first half, coming out on top against Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mane before the interval.
Sunderland showed more desire after the restart but left themselves vulnerable defensively, with DeAndre Yedlin and Sebastian Coates forced into goal-line clearances.
The breakthrough finally came for Southampton in the 69th minute, with Tadic converting from the penalty spot after Yann M'Vila brought down Ryan Bertrand.
Sam Allardyce's side were unable to grab an equaliser and subsequently fell to a third defeat in four outings under their new coach.
The Sunderland manager opted to revert to a back four and made four changes following the 6-2 defeat at Everton, with Duncan Watmore among those introduced for a first Premier League start.
The 21-year-old started brightly, applying pressure on Maya Yoshida – in at right-back for the hosts in place of Cedric – with his direct running, but Southampton soon took control of the match.
Following wayward strikes from Jordy Clasie and Mane, Pantilimon rushed off his line to deny Tadic after a lovely back-heel from Graziano Pelle teed the Serbian up inside the box in the 16th minute.
The Romanian goalkeeper showed great reflexes six minutes later to parry Mane's venomous strike away from goal, with James Ward-Prowse in an offside position as he attempted to follow up.
Sunderland struggled to get hold of possession; a terrible 25-yard strike from Ola Toivonen that ended up closer to the corner flag than the goal the best they could muster before the interval.
The Swede was replaced by Fabio Borini for the second half and Sunderland appeared energised.
However, a surging run from Mane culminated in a ferocious strike that Pantilimon had to bat away, before blocks from Younes Kaboul and Billy Jones denied the Senegalese and Pelle respectively in the 55th minute.
The resulting corner was flicked on at the near post by Jose Fonte, but Yedlin headed off the line before colliding with Mane.
More last-ditch defending was required on the hour-mark as Coates produced a goal-line clearance to deny Steven Davis following a swift counter-attack.
Southampton's relentless pressure finally paid dividends when Bertrand raced into the box and was sent to ground by a poorly judged tackle from M'Vila.
Referee Mike Jones awarded Koeman's side the penalty and Tadic produced a confident finish, lashing the ball out of the reach of Pantilimon with 21 minutes remaining.
Sunderland responded positively but Maarten Stekelenburg clawed a Borini strike away from the top corner before Adam Johnson saw his curling free-kick fly just over in the 73rd minute.
The visitors had a penalty claim of their own turned when Jack Rodwell's header was blocked by the arm of Yoshida five minutes from time, but the referee did not judge it to be worthy of a spot-kick.
Norwich City 1-0 Swansea City: Howson strike good enough for the Canaries
Jonny Howson scored with 20 minutes to go to give Norwich City a crucial 1-0 victory over Swansea City in the Premier League.
Alex Neil's men went into Saturday's game at Carrow Road having lost four consecutive top-flight games, but ended that streak with a gutsy home win in a match of few clear chances.
Howson's decisive close-range header came moments after Gylfi Sigurdsson had hit the crossbar at the other end midway through the second half.
The victory moves Norwich to within one point of out-of-form Swansea, who failed to register a shot on target and have now won only once in their last eight Premier League matches as the pressure grows on manager Garry Monk.
Neil made three changes to his team, with Andre Wisdom, Wes Hoolahan and Gary O'Neil coming in to replace Russell Martin, Youssouf Mulumbu and Matt Jarvis, while Swansea were unchanged.
Norwich created the best chance of the early stages when Cameron Jerome escaped his marker but failed to keep his header down from six yards out after Robbie Brady's free kick from the left.
Howson warmed the hands of Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski with a stinging shot from distance moments later, but the first half would produce barely any further goalmouth action.
Swansea were dominating possession without threatening in attack, but they did have a penalty claim turned down by referee Mark Clattenburg shortly before half-time after Bafetimbi Gomis felt he had been tugged down in the box by Sebastien Bassong.
Norwich made a fast start to the second period and Fabkianski had to get down sharply to save Brady's well directed header after Howson had made ground down the right to set up the opportunity.
A patient passing move saw the visitors create a good opening midway through the second half.
Substitute Wayne Routledge's low cross found Sigurdsson, whose lofted effort clipped the top of the crossbar.
That missed chance sparked the hosts into life and Gary O'Neil shot just wide prior to Brady forcing Fabianski to tip a powerful effort wide.
From the resulting corner, Dieumerci Mbokani - who had only just come off the bench - headed back across the face of goal, allowing Howson to nod home from close range.
Wes Hoolahan had an effort pushed over as Norwich pushed for a second, while Routledge was just off-target for Swansea as Neil's men held on for their first clean sheet of the season in the league and a much-needed victory.
Jonny Howson scored with 20 minutes to go to give Norwich City a crucial 1-0 victory over Swansea City in the Premier League.
Alex Neil's men went into Saturday's game at Carrow Road having lost four consecutive top-flight games, but ended that streak with a gutsy home win in a match of few clear chances.
Howson's decisive close-range header came moments after Gylfi Sigurdsson had hit the crossbar at the other end midway through the second half.
The victory moves Norwich to within one point of out-of-form Swansea, who failed to register a shot on target and have now won only once in their last eight Premier League matches as the pressure grows on manager Garry Monk.
Neil made three changes to his team, with Andre Wisdom, Wes Hoolahan and Gary O'Neil coming in to replace Russell Martin, Youssouf Mulumbu and Matt Jarvis, while Swansea were unchanged.
Norwich created the best chance of the early stages when Cameron Jerome escaped his marker but failed to keep his header down from six yards out after Robbie Brady's free kick from the left.
Howson warmed the hands of Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski with a stinging shot from distance moments later, but the first half would produce barely any further goalmouth action.
Swansea were dominating possession without threatening in attack, but they did have a penalty claim turned down by referee Mark Clattenburg shortly before half-time after Bafetimbi Gomis felt he had been tugged down in the box by Sebastien Bassong.
Norwich made a fast start to the second period and Fabkianski had to get down sharply to save Brady's well directed header after Howson had made ground down the right to set up the opportunity.
A patient passing move saw the visitors create a good opening midway through the second half.
Substitute Wayne Routledge's low cross found Sigurdsson, whose lofted effort clipped the top of the crossbar.
That missed chance sparked the hosts into life and Gary O'Neil shot just wide prior to Brady forcing Fabianski to tip a powerful effort wide.
From the resulting corner, Dieumerci Mbokani - who had only just come off the bench - headed back across the face of goal, allowing Howson to nod home from close range.
Wes Hoolahan had an effort pushed over as Norwich pushed for a second, while Routledge was just off-target for Swansea as Neil's men held on for their first clean sheet of the season in the league and a much-needed victory.
Leicester City 2-1 Watford: Vardy scores again as Leicester City move level at the top
Jamie Vardy moved one behind Ruud van Nistelrooy's record of scoring in 10 consecutive Premier League games as two calamitous errors from Heurelho Gomes gave Leicester City a 2-1 victory over Watford.
Shortly after allowing N'golo Kante's tame strike to squirm through his grasp for Leicester's opener, Gomes raced from his line and conceded a penalty which Vardy, after taking the ball from team-mate Riyad Mahrez – powered home.
Claudio Ranieri's side made life difficult for themselves with 15 minutes remaining, as Kante brought down substitute Juan Carlos Paredes in the box, and Troy Deeney stepped up to roll in his second Premier League goal.
Though Leicester have lost just once this season, it was Watford who had the better of the opening period, with Kasper Schmeichel pulling off an excellent save to tip Odion Ighalo's effort onto the post.
The Nigeria striker, Watford's top-scorer this term with seven league goals so far, almost turned provider on the stroke of half-time, but Deeney could not turn home his delightful cross.
However, despite the Watford skipper's penalty making matters more difficult for Leicester, the hosts stood firm to seal the win and move level on points with league leaders Manchester City and Arsenal.
While Quique Sanchez Flores stuck with the same Watford side that triumphed in their previous two Premier League encounters, Ranieri made one change as defender Christian Fuchs returned from a muscular injury.
Following a sluggish start to proceedings, Robert Huth almost gave Leicester the lead after latching onto Marc Albrighton's free-kick, but the former Stoke City man could not direct his header on target.
The hosts had Schmeichel to thank at the other end – the keeper doing superbly to tip Ighalo's strike onto the post before reacting sharply to parry away Almen Abdi's effort on the rebound.
Vardy forced Gomes into a save shortly before the interval, while Wes Morgan got a crucial touch on Ighalo’s cross to prevent Deeney from giving Watford the lead.
Leicester began the second half in strong fashion, and Albrighton should have done better after slaloming through Watford's retreating defence, but his tame effort did not trouble Gomes.
But the keeper was entirely at fault when Leicester finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute – Gomes somehow fumbling Kante's weak strike into the net.
Despite suffering an apparent groin injury following an awkward landing, Vardy refused to be substituted, and had his reward when he was clattered into clumsily by Gomes – coolly stepping up to smash in the resulting spot-kick and extend Leicester's advantage.
Kante provided Watford with a perfect opportunity to pull one back when he fouled Paredes, and Deeney made no mistake from the spot, sending Schmeichel the wrong way.
Gomes went some way to making amends for his earlier howlers with an instinctive save to deny Mahrez late on, before Leicester held firm to claim their seventh win of the season.
Jamie Vardy moved one behind Ruud van Nistelrooy's record of scoring in 10 consecutive Premier League games as two calamitous errors from Heurelho Gomes gave Leicester City a 2-1 victory over Watford.
Shortly after allowing N'golo Kante's tame strike to squirm through his grasp for Leicester's opener, Gomes raced from his line and conceded a penalty which Vardy, after taking the ball from team-mate Riyad Mahrez – powered home.
Claudio Ranieri's side made life difficult for themselves with 15 minutes remaining, as Kante brought down substitute Juan Carlos Paredes in the box, and Troy Deeney stepped up to roll in his second Premier League goal.
Though Leicester have lost just once this season, it was Watford who had the better of the opening period, with Kasper Schmeichel pulling off an excellent save to tip Odion Ighalo's effort onto the post.
The Nigeria striker, Watford's top-scorer this term with seven league goals so far, almost turned provider on the stroke of half-time, but Deeney could not turn home his delightful cross.
However, despite the Watford skipper's penalty making matters more difficult for Leicester, the hosts stood firm to seal the win and move level on points with league leaders Manchester City and Arsenal.
While Quique Sanchez Flores stuck with the same Watford side that triumphed in their previous two Premier League encounters, Ranieri made one change as defender Christian Fuchs returned from a muscular injury.
Following a sluggish start to proceedings, Robert Huth almost gave Leicester the lead after latching onto Marc Albrighton's free-kick, but the former Stoke City man could not direct his header on target.
The hosts had Schmeichel to thank at the other end – the keeper doing superbly to tip Ighalo's strike onto the post before reacting sharply to parry away Almen Abdi's effort on the rebound.
Vardy forced Gomes into a save shortly before the interval, while Wes Morgan got a crucial touch on Ighalo’s cross to prevent Deeney from giving Watford the lead.
Leicester began the second half in strong fashion, and Albrighton should have done better after slaloming through Watford's retreating defence, but his tame effort did not trouble Gomes.
But the keeper was entirely at fault when Leicester finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute – Gomes somehow fumbling Kante's weak strike into the net.
Despite suffering an apparent groin injury following an awkward landing, Vardy refused to be substituted, and had his reward when he was clattered into clumsily by Gomes – coolly stepping up to smash in the resulting spot-kick and extend Leicester's advantage.
Kante provided Watford with a perfect opportunity to pull one back when he fouled Paredes, and Deeney made no mistake from the spot, sending Schmeichel the wrong way.
Gomes went some way to making amends for his earlier howlers with an instinctive save to deny Mahrez late on, before Leicester held firm to claim their seventh win of the season.
Manchester United 2-0 West Brom: Lingard strikes in comfortable win
Jesse Lingard's first goal for Manchester United and a late Juan Mata penalty secured a 2-0 Premier League win over West Brom at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Louis van Gaal's side snatched a late goal in midweek against CSKA Moscow and the match looked to be following a similar pattern as West Brom's defensive approach kept them at arm's length.
But Lingard broke the deadlock with a fine finish shortly after half-time as United finally made their dominance count.
Saido Berahino, surprisingly left on the bench, headed a wonderful chance over the crossbar in the closing stages as West Brom looked for an equaliser, but United extended their lead in injury-time as Anthony Martial was fouled by Gareth McAuley - an offence which earned the Northern Ireland international a red card - and Mata netted from the spot.
United began with typical control of possession, but it took 15 minutes for the first real chance to be created, as Mata curled a shot just wide of goalkeeper Boaz Myhill's right-hand post after Wayne Rooney had found him in space in the area.
Van Gaal's men enjoyed 76 per cent possession in the opening 35 minutes but found it difficult to break through West Brom’s defensive lines, though it took a superb sliding block from Jonny Evans to deny Lingard as he broke into the area.
Myhill remained unchallenged until just before the break, when Martial turned superbly on the edge of the area before firing a shot straight at the 32-year-old.
United's pressure finally told seven minutes into the second half. Martial's cross from the left was headed away only as far as Lingard, who took a touch before placing a side-footed finish into the far corner from 20 yards out.
The game began to open up as West Brom sought an unlikely equaliser and Pulis opted to throw on Berahino in hope of a repeat of his Old Trafford strike from two seasons ago.
And the 22-year-old wasted a glorious chance within minutes of his introduction, heading Craig Dawson's cross over when totally unmarked inside the six-yard box.
Evans was fortunate to escape a handball on the edge of the area from a Mata flick as United, who handed a senior debut to Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, chased a crucial second goal to alleviate the tension inside Old Trafford.
Lingard's penalty appeals were waved away after a soft push by McAuley but United clinched the victory in stoppage time, with the defender again at fault. Martial was brought down by a desperate challenge from the centre-back, allowing Mata to clip a penalty straight down the middle of Myhill's goal.
McAuley was dismissed and United saw out the remaining three minutes in comfortable fashion as they ended a run of three straight draws in domestic competition.
Myhill remained unchallenged until just before the break, when Martial turned superbly on the edge of the area before firing a shot straight at the 32-year-old.
United's pressure finally told seven minutes into the second half. Martial's cross from the left was headed away only as far as Lingard, who took a touch before placing a side-footed finish into the far corner from 20 yards out.
The game began to open up as West Brom sought an unlikely equaliser and Pulis opted to throw on Berahino in hope of a repeat of his Old Trafford strike from two seasons ago.
And the 22-year-old wasted a glorious chance within minutes of his introduction, heading Craig Dawson's cross over when totally unmarked inside the six-yard box.
Evans was fortunate to escape a handball on the edge of the area from a Mata flick as United, who handed a senior debut to Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, chased a crucial second goal to alleviate the tension inside Old Trafford.
Lingard's penalty appeals were waved away after a soft push by McAuley but United clinched the victory in stoppage time, with the defender again at fault. Martial was brought down by a desperate challenge from the centre-back, allowing Mata to clip a penalty straight down the middle of Myhill's goal.
McAuley was dismissed and United saw out the remaining three minutes in comfortable fashion as they ended a run of three straight draws in domestic competition.
West Ham 1-1 Everton: Lukaku cancels out Lanzini opener
Romelu Lukaku scored for the seventh consecutive match against West Ham as Everton came from behind to extend their unbeaten Premier League run against the London club to 15 matches with a 1-1 draw.
The Belgian striker added to his record of having netted in every game he has played for Everton against West Ham to earn Roberto Martinez's side a deserved point in the capital.
Manuel Lanzini's first goal at Upton Park put the hosts ahead on the half-hour mark, but Lukaku's cool finish from Gerard Deulofeu's defence-splitting pass levelled matters before the break.
In an open game that both sides will feel they could have won, West Ham suffered a double injury blow when Dimitri Payet hobbled off before replacement Enner Valencia was taken off on a stretcher.
Winston Reid planted a header over the crossbar and Lukaku also spurned a late opening as Everton remained unbeaten against West Ham in the top flight since 2007.
The hosts, who beat rivals Chelsea 2-1 last time out at Upton Park, pressed forward in the second minute as Victor Moses shot narrowly wide from inside the box, while Ross Barkley - having brilliantly worked space for himself with a clever flick - stung the palms of Adrian at the other end.
Arouna Kone was selfish in opting to go for goal in the 18th minute when he had Lukaku in space, with the Ivorian’s shot going well wide to compound his strike partner's frustration.
It was West Ham who threatened next and Aaron Cresswell's neat effort with the outside of his right boot bent just beyond Tim Howard's far post.
Then, after Deulofeu had been denied, the home side took the lead when Lanzini collected a loose ball on the edge of the area before sending a measured finish into the top-right corner.
Everton were level before the interval, though, with Deulofeu's perfectly weighted pass setting up Lukaku to round the goalkeeper and stroke the ball home.
Payet was forced off injured early in the second half, with Valencia coming on in his place. The Ecuador forward's teasing 55th-minute cross was soon flicked behind for a corner by John Stones.
There was further cause for concern on the West Ham bench when Valencia himself went down injured and his game was cut short after only 18 minutes on the pitch.
Reid, back in the West Ham side for the suspended James Collins, headed over the crossbar from Mark Noble's 71st-minute corner.
Everton put six past Sunderland last weekend, but they had some defending to do in the final 10 minutes as Slaven Bilic's side piled on the pressure.
However, it was Everton who almost snatched the points when Lukaku got across his man at the near post to stab a close-range shot just wide.
Romelu Lukaku scored for the seventh consecutive match against West Ham as Everton came from behind to extend their unbeaten Premier League run against the London club to 15 matches with a 1-1 draw.
The Belgian striker added to his record of having netted in every game he has played for Everton against West Ham to earn Roberto Martinez's side a deserved point in the capital.
Manuel Lanzini's first goal at Upton Park put the hosts ahead on the half-hour mark, but Lukaku's cool finish from Gerard Deulofeu's defence-splitting pass levelled matters before the break.
In an open game that both sides will feel they could have won, West Ham suffered a double injury blow when Dimitri Payet hobbled off before replacement Enner Valencia was taken off on a stretcher.
Winston Reid planted a header over the crossbar and Lukaku also spurned a late opening as Everton remained unbeaten against West Ham in the top flight since 2007.
The hosts, who beat rivals Chelsea 2-1 last time out at Upton Park, pressed forward in the second minute as Victor Moses shot narrowly wide from inside the box, while Ross Barkley - having brilliantly worked space for himself with a clever flick - stung the palms of Adrian at the other end.
Arouna Kone was selfish in opting to go for goal in the 18th minute when he had Lukaku in space, with the Ivorian’s shot going well wide to compound his strike partner's frustration.
It was West Ham who threatened next and Aaron Cresswell's neat effort with the outside of his right boot bent just beyond Tim Howard's far post.
Then, after Deulofeu had been denied, the home side took the lead when Lanzini collected a loose ball on the edge of the area before sending a measured finish into the top-right corner.
Everton were level before the interval, though, with Deulofeu's perfectly weighted pass setting up Lukaku to round the goalkeeper and stroke the ball home.
Payet was forced off injured early in the second half, with Valencia coming on in his place. The Ecuador forward's teasing 55th-minute cross was soon flicked behind for a corner by John Stones.
There was further cause for concern on the West Ham bench when Valencia himself went down injured and his game was cut short after only 18 minutes on the pitch.
Reid, back in the West Ham side for the suspended James Collins, headed over the crossbar from Mark Noble's 71st-minute corner.
Everton put six past Sunderland last weekend, but they had some defending to do in the final 10 minutes as Slaven Bilic's side piled on the pressure.
However, it was Everton who almost snatched the points when Lukaku got across his man at the near post to stab a close-range shot just wide.
Lingard denies feeling pressure after first Manchester United goal
Jesse Lingard has denied feeling the pressure to perform for Manchester United after scoring his first goal for the club against West Brom.
The England Under-21 international struck a fine effort from 20 yards to break the deadlock at Old Trafford on Saturday before Juan Mata sealed the points with a stoppage-time penalty.
Lingard was thrilled to see United's dominance of the game pay off and says his focus is on providing entertainment for the fans after opening his account for Louis van Gaal's side.
"I'm very happy, I thought we dominated throughout, they sat back so we had to break them down," he said after the match.
"Yeah, definitely [2-0 is a fairer reflection]. We created a few chances in the first half, it's good we put two away in the second.
"No, I don't feel any pressure. I try to enjoy it as much as I can every time I play and get the fans off their feet, and try to score some goals."
Excluding a penalty shootout defeat to Middlesbrough, United have now conceded just one goal in their last seven matches in all competitions, and Lingard was keen to praise the work-rate of his defensive team-mates.
"The lads work day in, day out, they work hard, and obviously it pays off," he added.
Jesse Lingard has denied feeling the pressure to perform for Manchester United after scoring his first goal for the club against West Brom.
The England Under-21 international struck a fine effort from 20 yards to break the deadlock at Old Trafford on Saturday before Juan Mata sealed the points with a stoppage-time penalty.
Lingard was thrilled to see United's dominance of the game pay off and says his focus is on providing entertainment for the fans after opening his account for Louis van Gaal's side.
"I'm very happy, I thought we dominated throughout, they sat back so we had to break them down," he said after the match.
"Yeah, definitely [2-0 is a fairer reflection]. We created a few chances in the first half, it's good we put two away in the second.
"No, I don't feel any pressure. I try to enjoy it as much as I can every time I play and get the fans off their feet, and try to score some goals."
Excluding a penalty shootout defeat to Middlesbrough, United have now conceded just one goal in their last seven matches in all competitions, and Lingard was keen to praise the work-rate of his defensive team-mates.
"The lads work day in, day out, they work hard, and obviously it pays off," he added.
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