Fans will notice no Premier League matches are scheduled for January 10-13, despite it traditionally being an EPL matchday. The Sporting News explains the reason behind this break.

Matthijs de Ligt was at the centre of another penalty controversy in Liverpool’s thrilling draw with Manchester United. Referee Michael Oliver initially missed the Dutchman’s handball, but VAR intervened, deeming his raised arm to be in an unnatural position. Mohamed Salah converted the resulting penalty, giving Liverpool the lead temporarily.

If January is a month for restraint and cutting back, football begins each year dutifully following the memo. Another transfer window might have opened across Europe but, in stark contrast to the lavishness of summer,

Premier League teams have made eight signings for more than £30m combined in the first week of the January transfer window, with the promise of more to come.