Football

Gerrard became the third player in the club's history to reach the 700-game mark, behind Ian Callaghan (857) and Jamie Carragher (737).

The 67-year-old spent just over two years in charge of the London side, gaining promotion to the top flight last season.

Coutinho has committed his future to Liverpool after agreeing a double-your-money pay rise to almost 70,000 pounds a week in a five-year contract.

Robert Huth became Leicester City's third signing of the transfer window when he joined on loan from their Premier League rivals until the end of the season.

Bottom-of-the-table Parma visit AC Milan on Sunday in a meeting of crisis clubs.

City ended Chelsea's perfect home record in the Premier League this season with a 1-1 draw between the top two teams on Saturday.

Crouch has settled his immediate future by signing a two-year contract extension with Stoke City, the Premier League club said.

Madrid went too far in a bid to unsettle Barcelona in their King's Cup defeat but coach Simeone was proud of his team's rebellious streak.

"I already imagine myself playing in the Olympic Games in my own country - it will be a dream come true. It will bring me a lot of joy," said Neymar.

"I am very happy that a dream has come true," the footballer stated after signing a deal that will keep him with the Spanish giants until June 30, 2020.

Swansea City director John van Zweden thinks the Ivory Coast star will play second fiddle to Sergio Aguero and Co. at the Etihad Stadium.

Mourinho described Chelsea's performance as unacceptable and a disgrace after the Premier League leaders slumped to a 4-2 home defeat against third-tier Bradford City.

Barcelona's recent strong run is helping the club put a series of off-field problems behind them.

The clash between Sevilla and Valencia will be more about securing a lucrative Champions League berth on Sunday.

"It's hard to play Atletico because they leave you very few options but I still think we played well and were superior in areas," said Iniesta.

Atletico, however, arrive on firm footing after eliminating cup holder and crosstown rival Real Madrid in the round of 16.