Hull City extended their dream start to the Premier League season after holding Aston Villa to a hard-fought 0-0 draw at home on Saturday. The result keeps Sergej Jakirovic's newly promoted side unbeaten without conceding a single goal across their opening three top-flight fixtures, sitting second in the early table with an impressive seven points.
Ellie Watkins has admitted she is still in shock after her husband Ollie completed a stunning €60 million transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The England international left Aston Villa after six successful years, prompting an emotional farewell from his family as they relocate to Riyadh.
Mikel Arteta has lauded Xabi Alonso and Chelsea for their shrewd acquisition of Emiliano Martinez as Arsenal prepare to host their London rivals in a blockbuster early-season clash. The Spanish tactician believes the World Cup-winning goalkeeper is exactly what the Blues needed to solidify their defence and significantly enhance their Premier League title credentials this term.
Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery has left new £25 million signing Taylor Harwood-Bellis out of his 25-man Champions League squad. The 24-year-old defender, who is the son-in-law of Manchester United legend Roy Keane, joined from Southampton on deadline day but faces a waiting game for top-tier European action despite expressing his eagerness to perform on the continent's biggest stage.
Aston Villa have received a major boost as club-record signing Johan Manzambi has returned to first-team training on Thursday following a knee injury. The Swiss international midfielder could make his debut sooner than expected, but manager Unai Emery remains determined not to rush him into action against Hull City on Saturday after two tough defeats.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa are reportedly planning to reignite their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen forward Christian Kofane in January. Both Premier League clubs failed to land the 20-year-old before the deadline but remain keen on securing his signature.
Al-Kharitiyath
