Virgil van Dijk backs Mohamed Salah as Liverpool talisman despite uncertain future
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has reaffirmed Mohamed Salah's importance to the club after the Egyptian starred in a 3-0 FA Cup win over Brighton.
Nottingham Forest appoint Vitor Pereira as fourth manager of turbulent season
The decision comes amid growing concern over Forest's slide towards the relegation zone, with the club sitting just three points above danger after a poor run of results. Nottingham Forest acted swiftly after Dyche's departure, which followed a disappointing goalless draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers, to secure Pereira as their fourth permanent manager of the season.
The 57-year-old inherits a side struggling for consistency, having managed only two wins in their last 10 league fixtures. His first major test will arrive quickly, with Forest facing Fenerbahce in the Europa League knockout play-off round - notably a club Pereira has previously managed. He is also set for a demanding domestic return, with a league clash against Liverpool looming shortly after.
Pereira brings extensive managerial experience across several continents. He first rose to prominence at FC Porto, where he secured consecutive league titles, before later enjoying success with Olympiacos, winning both the Greek league and cup during a brief but successful spell. His previous relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is believed to have played a key role in his appointment.
The Portuguese coach also has recent Premier League survival experience after guiding Wolves away from relegation danger last season. Having taken charge with the club in 19th place, he orchestrated a dramatic turnaround that eventually secured a comfortable mid-table finish. However, he was dismissed earlier this season following a difficult start to the new campaign.
Forest hope Pereira can replicate his reputation for organising struggling sides and maximising attacking talent, an area that has reportedly frustrated the club's hierarchy. With 12 league matches remaining and rivals such as West Ham United close behind, the new head coach faces immediate pressure to spark improvement.
Pereira will be supported by assistants Filipe Almeida and Luis Silva, alongside a performance and analysis team, as Forest attempt to stabilise their season and avoid becoming the first club in Premier League history to complete a campaign with four permanent managers.
Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes out for up to two months with hamstring injury
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Man City lynchpin Rodri charged over referee rant
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Brentford ace Igor Thiago signs new long-term deal
Brentford have secured the long-term future of striker Igor Thiago after the Brazilian signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until at least 2031, with the option of a further year.