Dumbarton Panoramica

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has firmly dismissed suggestions that Cole Palmer was ever close to joining Manchester United during the summer transfer window. The Spanish tactician insists the England international remains a fundamental part of the project at Stamford Bridge despite a difficult period last term.

Manchester United midfielder Andrey Santos has lifted the lid on the rapid summer negotiations that sealed his £50 million transfer from Premier League rivals Chelsea back in July. Ahead of Saturday's return to Stamford Bridge, the Brazilian explained how a routine family medical trip suddenly turned into a career-changing phone call.

Premier League club Aston Villa have announced plans to take legal proceedings against former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher following a heated dispute over manager Unai Emery's future. The Midlands outfit reacted furiously on Friday after the television pundit aimed an X-rated tirade at their supporters while linking the Spaniard with Manchester United.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso provided comprehensive injury updates ahead of Saturday's match against Manchester United, confirming Maxence Lacroix faces weeks on the sidelines. Alonso also reflected on his hectic first three months in charge at Stamford Bridge.