Philippa Kaur

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    Arsenal player ratings: Gabriel Jesus resurrects Gunners career with three fine finishes but Sterling still yet to shine

    GABRIEL JESUS netted a hat-trick to see Arsenal into the Carabao Cup Semi-Finals after the Gunners found themselves 1-0 down within three minutes. Disaster looked like it had struck in just the third minute when Jakub Kiwior failed to clear a Dean Henderson long ball up the pitch, which allowed Jean Phillipe Mateta to open the scoring. Gabriel Jesus scored a hat-trick against Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersRaheem Sterling continued to struggle in an Arsenal shirtCredit: GettyThe chances came and went for Arsenal, with Raheem Sterling missing from just inches out TWICE which saw it 1-0 at the break. Mikel Arteta made two key changes which changed the game for the Gunners, one of which was the magisterial Martin Odegaard who almost instantly set up Jesus to level things up. And before you knew it Jesus, who looked like his career was over as Arsenal’s number nine, had buried two more fine finishes to secure the Gunners’ victory.A late consolation from returning striker Eddie Nketiah was not enough to see Palace get back in the game. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHere’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…DAVID RAYA – 7/10Didn’t have much to do after conceding to Jean Phillipe Mateta early inside three minutes, and there wasn’t a whole lot he could do about the goal. Claimed crosses well and distributed well from the back too, another pretty solid performance. THOMAS PARTEY – 4Sideways. Backwards. Sideways. Backwards. Sideways…Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSYou get the jist – very poor in an attacking sense and seemed laborious throughout the game.Was hooked at half-time and replaced by the imperious William Saliba. JURRIEN TIMBER – 6Was physically targeted by Mateta in the first half, but stood up to him fairly well before moving to right-back in the second half. Watch Arsenal legend Thierry Henry’s hilarious reaction after being called out by boxing champ Oleksandr UsykWas significantly improved as a full-back, and provided impetus and energy on the flank. JAKUB KIWIOR – 4Failed to deal with a long ball over the top, which saw Mateta shrug him off and slot home Palace’s opening goal. Improved in the second half, but looked a class apart from William Saliba next to him. KIERAN TIERNEY  – 7Kieran Tierney impressed on his return to the teamCredit: GettyMade his first start for Arsenal in 584 days, and fans were excited to see him get down the left-hand side and put crosses into the box, which he delivered.A solid showing on his return to the side, he should’ve been rewarded with an assist but for the finishing of Raheem Sterling. JORGINHO – 4Kept things ticking over in midfield for the Gunners as he has for much of his career. Didn’t show any sort of cutting edge though, and looked like his legs were gone in the second half. Didn’t look any better than his opposite number Will Hughes. MIKEL MERINO – 4Tough to really see what he provides to this Arsenal team, or why he was bought in. Sometimes showed moments of quality with his passing, but still looks worlds away from Granit Xhaka whom he ‘replaced’. ETHAN NWANERI – 6Ethan Nwaneri impressed before he was subbed offCredit: GettyThe youngster who has more than impressed in his time at Arsenal so far was probably their most eloquent attacker on the night. He’s no Martin Odegaard yet, but showed heaps of promise and out-performed stars on heaps more money than he is. Was replaced at half-time by Martin Odegaard. RAHEEM STERLING – 3Forced a good save from Dean Henderson with a dangerous free-kick in the first half but often took too long on the ball and lost possession. Missed a huge chance early in the second half from a few yards out, before somehow hitting the bar with the rebound. We are still waiting to see the best of him in an Arsenal shirt, as he promised. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Was a threat to Crystal Palace in the first half, but ultimately lacked any sort of end product, often being let down by his touch and finish. To give him some credit, he worked infinitely harder than any other Arsenal attacker.GABRIEL JESUS – 10Jesus got to keep the match ballCredit: GettyJust when Gabriel Jesus’ career looked dead and buried as Arsenal’s number nine, it was resurrected by three brilliant finishes to win the game for the Gunners. The first was a delicate chip over Dean Henderson after showing great tenacity to stay on his feet, the second a composed finish into the bottom left corner and the third almost a replica of the second. Jesus and Christmas time, a match made in heaven.SUBS:MARTIN ODEGAARD (ETHAN NWANERI, 64) – 9Replacing his apprentice at half-time, he instantly showed why he’s the master. An eye of the needle pass into the feet of Gabriel Jesus allowed Arsenal to equalise, before he delivered again for Jesus to net his third.He was generally the shot of quality Arsenal needed in the 2nd half, and a pleasure to watch with the ball under his spell. WILLIAM SALIBA  (THOMAS PARTEY, 64) – 7A calming presence for this Arsenal team, as soon as he came on they looked 10x better. Was out-jumped by ex-teammate Eddie Nketiah who scored a brilliant header to provide a nervy ending for the home fans. BUKAYO SAKA (RAHEEM STERLING, 69) – 8 Came on and instantly showed Raheem how it’s done. Just a few touches before a perfect ball into Gabriel Jesus who finished brilliantly, that’s why he’s the starboy. MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY  (KIERAN TIERNEY, 69) – 6Another confident performance from Hale End’s latest superstar, he is growing into the side really well. Ultimately didn’t have too much of the ball or really offer the threat that Tierney did, but with limited game time it was another good showing with minutes in the tank. READ MORE SUN STORIESGABRIEL (JAKUB KIWIOR, 87) – 6Was crucially in the right place to clear an Eddie Nketiah cross which could’ve levelled the scoring at the end. Didn’t have much time to impact the game, but his return was welcomed and he was strong in the air to see out the match. Who are these famous footballers? 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    Newcastle 3 Brentford 1: Sandro Tonali’s first-half double sends Toon one step closer to first trophy in nearly 70 YEARS

    SANDRO TONALI finally took centre stage at Newcastle – and you can bet your bottom dollar he has the Toon Army dreaming of silverware.The Magpies, who have not lifted a domestic trophy since 1955, are a step closer after the Italian single-handidly downed Brentford.Newcastle sealed qualification to the Carabao Cup semi-finalsCredit: ReutersSandro Tonali fired Newcastle to victory with a braceCredit: AlamyFabian Schar sealed qualification for Newcastle in the Carabao CupCredit: AlamyBrentford got a consolation with a late goal by Yoane WissaCredit: GettyAnd it could prove to be a fairytale finish if the second coming of the Italian Stallion on Tyneside keeps producing nights like this.The midfielder, 24, scored his first goals since his debut in August 2023 and has had to wait since then for a performance as magical as this.Newcastle forked out £55million to bring Tonali to Tyneside to help them end their long drought for a cup.That momentum from his brilliant scoring bow quickly evaporated when he was hit with a ten-month betting ban.Read More on FootballNow he is back and ready to repay the faith and support from Newcastle and their fans by delivering the Carabao Cup.Less than ten minutes were on the clock when Tino Liramento’s low cross from the right was cleared to the edge of the area by the Bees’ backline.But it was met by the charging Tonali, and he drilled home from 20 yards to send St James’ Park wild.The party, however, threatened to be pooped big style when Yoane Wissa was picked out by Kevin Schade in the Newcastle box.Most read in FootballThe Brentford forward attempted to go round Toon goalie Martin Dubravka, who got a touch to the ball, and threw himself to the ground but the ref was having none of it and with no VAR play continued.And the nightmare start soon got even worse for Thomas Frank with the Brentford boss now looking set to be without TWO defenders for the festive period. Former Newcastle boss Alan Pardew reveals why he axed Hatem Ben Arfa despite him being an ‘unbelievable talent’ Sepp van den Berg pulled out of the starting XI with an injury in the warm-up, replaced by Nathan Collins, and then Ethan Pinnock hobbled off.And only a lengthy stoppage for Joelinton to receive treatment for a nasty cut on his mouth stopped the hosts from building up a head of steam.But after both Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon had curled wide, it was time for Tonali to get his adoring public back on their feet.Gordon floated a corner in, and with the Bees defence too busy trying to block Joelinton, Tonali had the freedom of the Leazes End to nip in and volley home unmarked.The main man then linked up with Bruno Guimaraes and teed up Murphy, but the woodwork denied him a third before the break.In truth, apart from Tonali, there was not much quality on display and Brentford failed to offer much after the restart.Newcastle score a thirdThey did give Newcastle one scare as Keane Lewis-Potter got away from Livramento and forced Dubravka into action at his near post.Up the other end, Murphy curled another wide after a brilliant move but Toon eventually got a third as the Bees threw in the towel with just over 20 to go.Lewis Hall’s shot was saved after a corner routine, but Bruno reacted quickest and unselfishly rolled the ball across for Fabian Schar to tap home into an empty net.Unfortunately for the Swiss defender and captain Bruno both had already been booked for first half challenges on Fabio Carvalho and Ben Mee respectively.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd in what was the only sour point of the evening, which nearly got better as sub Harvey Barnes was prevented a fourth by the woodwork, that means the key pair will both be suspended for the semi-final first-leg next month.Brentford pulled one back right at the death as Yoane Wissa finished off a counter – but nothing was stopping Tonali from being the talk of the Toon. More

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    My dad’s a former Arsenal star who reached Champions League final – I’m now planning Chelsea’s downfall

    CHELSEA fans may clock a familiar surname in the opposition for tonight’s Conference League clash with Shamrock Rovers.Former Derby and Sunderland keeper Mart Poom’s son Markus will be in midfield, on loan from Estonians FC Flora.Markus Poom will face Chelsea for Shamrock RoversCredit: SportsfileHis father Mart spent time at Arsenal during his careerCredit: GettyMart also spent a short spell at Arsenal between 2005 and 2007 during which he picked up a Champions League runners-up medal.He was in the squad as the Gunners were beaten 2-1 by Barcelona in the final.Poom Jr was born here while his famous dad was playing at Derby but he is an Estonia international like his father.Markus Poom, 25, is under no illusion how tough Chelsea will be.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut with his own side sixth in the Conference League, he is determined to enjoy a big night out in London.Poom said: “It’s something to look forward to.“When the draw was happening, you want that game and you do kind of want it at Stamford Bridge.“But we’re not going to go there to just play the game.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We’ll have a plan for it and hopefully get points.”Poom’s spell in the League of Ireland could get him noticed by English clubs.Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea futureWho are these famous footballers?His UK passport means he can play without needing a work permit.He added: “Chelsea are probably the biggest team in the competition.“With their new manager, it’s an exciting time to play them.”Can you name the famous fathers?Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca how vowed to stick by Mykhailo Mudryk in his fight against a doping ban.He believes the Ukrainian did not knowingly take a banned substance.Mudryk’s urine showed traces of meldonium, considered a performance enhancing drug.The 23-year-old could be banned for up to four years if convicted.Maresca said: “We trust Misha and we support Misha. And trust means that we believe Misha.“It’s not just about Misha or about young players in general.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s my duty to try to have a close relationship with players because I like it that way. So even with Misha it’s exactly the same and I’m there to try to help Misha in anything he needs.“I think he’s going to come back. We just don’t know when.” More

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    Gianluigi Donnarumma suffers horror facial injuries after sickening tackle that could have blinded him

    PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was left bloodied and bruised after suffering a horrendous facial injury during a crunch clash with Monaco.PSG face Monaco in a crucial Ligue 1 match at Stade Louis II, but the visitors lost their keeper early in the first half after a blood-curling challenge.Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma suffered a horrendous injuryCredit: AFPDonnarumma suffered the injury during PSG’s Ligue 1 match at MonacoCredit: AFPMonaco’s Wilfried Singo stepped on Donnarumma’s faceCredit: AFPThat reckless challenge could have blinded PSG star DonnarummaCredit: AFPDonnarumma was forced off after that horror injuryCredit: AFPDonnarumma’s cheek had been sliced open by the studsCredit: ReutersDonnarumma later shared a photo on X of his face with ten staples on his woundsWilfried Singo broke down the right flank and looked to beat Donnarumma, 25, while under pressure by Joao Neves.Singo, 23, fired a weak shot that was blocked by the Italy international and the Monaco ace then tried to jump over his opponent.However, the Ivory Coast international caught Donnarumma’s face – studs first – with his right foot.The Italian star was left bleeding with an awful wound on his face.Read More on FootballAnd PSG boss Luis Enrique had no other option but to take him off the pitch and replace him with back-up keeper Matvei Safonov after just 22 minutes.Singo was already on a yellow after a rough challenge on Desire Doue just nine minutes earlier.But shockingly enough, the referee opted against booking the Ivorian again.That is despite the fact Donnarumma was left with a devastating wound just a few inches away from his right eye, which could have led to something far worse.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Italian shared the full extent of his facial injury after receiving staples in the dressing room.Fans were left devastated and stormed social media claiming the ex-AC Milan star could have been blinded by Singo’s reckless challenge – that was no punished by a yellow or red card.Gianluigi Donnarumma didn’t celebrate after saving Bukayo Saka’s penalty as he didn’t know he had just won Euro 2020One fan tweeted: “Singo is already on a yellow card and this leap, while it was a collision, was incredibly reckless play and it could have taken Donnarumma’s eye off to be honest. Singo is on thin ice right now.”Another commented: “Donnarumma is 2cm away from losing his eye.”A third wrote: “Donnarumma’s injury tonight is scary.”This fan said: “Donnarumma is literally DISFIGURED.”And that one stated: “Gigio Donnarumma’s face… But it doesn’t even deserve a yellow card… Mind-blowing.” More

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    Gary Lineker’s final BBC appearance confirmed as Match of the Day presenter prepares to step down after 25 years

    GARY LINEKER’s final appearance of his historic BBC career has been confirmed.The Sun exclusively revealed last month that Lineker will LEAVE the national broadcaster in the summer of 2026.Gary Lineker will leave the BBC in the summer of 2026Credit: PAThe 64-year-old will leave his role as Match of the Day presenter at the end of the seasonCredit: BBCThe ex-Everton and England striker will, however, cover the 2025/26 FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup for the broadcasterCredit: PALineker’s 25-year stint presenting Match of the Day will come to an end at the culmination of the 2024-25 season.He will, however, head up the Beeb’s coverage of the 2025/26 FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in Canada, Mexico and the USA.And the final of the tournament, which will take place at the MetLife Stadium in New York on July 19, will be the 64-year-old’s swansong.BBC chiefs are weighing up who will replace the former Everton and England striker at the MOTD helm, which he took from Des Lynam.READ MORE ON LINEKERLineker has loved every minute of his run presenting the show but believes it is time “for a change” after dedicating nearly half his life to the footie institution.He said on the The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker said: “It has been an absolute joy and privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC.”But all things have to come to an end.”It came at a point where really the BBC and Match Of The Day, they’ve got the rights for another three years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWho could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment.”The cycle starts from next season so it felt like if I just do one more year it would be a bit weird. I feel this is now the right time.”I think the next contract they’re looking to do Match Of The Day slightly differently.Gary Lineker reveals he turned DOWN huge ITV show as he reveals salary demand for reality shows”So I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm.”Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott are among the favourites to replace Lineker.Lineker will have no say in who ends up being his successor, but that hasn’t stopped him from giving his replacement a few words of wisdom.He said: “Obviously I don’t know who it’ll be, and I would never tell publicly my preference.”I don’t think that’d be the right thing to do – but whoever it is, I would say be yourself.”I had to fill the ginormous shoes of certain Des Lynam. I would say just be yourself and enjoy it.”It’s a wonderful programme to be a part of. It was brilliant before I took over and it will be brilliant after I leave.” More

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    Do Carabao Cup quarter-finals have extra-time or go straight to penalties after 90 minutes if draw?

    WE have reached what promises to be a thrilling quarter-final round of Carabao Cup fixtures – and there is always one question at the front of everyone’s mind.Is there extra time and penalties if the match ends all square after 90 minutes? Liverpool are the current Carabao Cup championsCredit: GETTYWill Carabao Cup fourth-round ties go to extra-time and penalties if needed?If the scoreline is level after 90 minutes, the match WILL go straight to penalties.Extra-time is only used in the Carabao Cup from the semi-finals and onwards.What happened in the final last year?Last year, Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea contested the Carabao Cup final.The Reds secured Jurgen Klopp a piece of silverware in his swansong season after Virgil van Dijk headed in a 118th-minute winner.The Dutchman’s winner in last gasp winner secured a 10th League Cup for Liverpool, the most in the competition’s history.What is the Carabao Cup quarter-final schedule?Wednesday, December 18Arsenal vs Crystal Palace (7.30pm)Newcastle vs Brentford (7.45pm)Southampton vs Liverpool (8pm)Thursday, December 19Tottenham vs Man Utd (8pm)Including the semi-final draw following the Spurs vs Man Utd from 10.15pm More

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    Awkward moment footballer sent off seconds after celebrating team-mate’s goal as he leathers ball into goalie’s face

    A FOOTBALLER has been sent off just seconds after his team scored for leathering the ball into the goalkeeper’s face.The awkward moment happened in Peterhead’s 1-1 draw at Forfar in the Scottish League Two.Andrew McCarthy booted a ball at the goalkeeper after his side scoredCredit: https://x.com/HutchisonjournoHe was shown a red card for his effortCredit: https://x.com/HutchisonjournoAndrew McCarthy was the unfortunate man to see red just seconds after his side took the lead.Kieran Shanks belted in the opening goal at Station Park Forfar in the 46th minute.McCarthy tried to join in the celebrations by booting the ball back into the goal.However, his powerful effort missed the goal and smashed into goalkeeper Marc McCallum.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe midfielder was met with a furious reaction from the home side’s players.To make matters worse, the referee instantly brandished a red card for “violent conduct”.McCarthy was in disbelief at what had happened as he fell to his knees at the sight of the red card.A clip of the moment has been shared on social media, and fans have found it hilarious.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOne posted: “An utterly bizarre few seconds of football.”A second wrote: “Scottish football is the best.”What’s the ‘Unify League’ and which Prem teams would play in new version of European Super League?A third commented: “Scottish football simply unrivalled.”A fourth said: “Honestly, if I was marketing Scottish football I would lean into the madness.”Another added: “Scottish football has peaked.”Forfar would find an equaliser through Nathan Cannon in the 78th minute to grab a share of the spoils.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Who is Liverpool wonderkid Rio Ngumoha, and why was he ineligible for the Champions League?

    RIO NGUMOHA has been included in Liverpool’s squad for their Carabao Cup quater-final clash with Southampton.But who is the 16-year-old that is currently the talk of the Anfield faithful?England Under-17 international Rio Ngumoha has been included in Liverpool’s squad to face SouthamptonCredit: REXThe 16-year-old recently started training with the Reds’ first-team squadCredit: AFPSunSport is on hand to shed some light on the starlet, who reckons he has the brightest of futures ahead of him.How long has Rio Ngumoha been at Liverpool?The teenager joined the Merseysiders in September from Chelsea in a deal that proved to be the last of Arne Slot’s first transfer window.Liverpool made their move to sign the 16-year-old in April after seeing his goalscoring exploits in Chelsea’s U17 Premier League Cup final win over Wolves.But the west Londoners’ fury at the Reds’ snapping up of Ngumoha meant he wouldn’t be able to play for the Kop club’s Under-18s until September.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe forward has impressed Slot during his brief stint at the club, so much so that he was called up to train with the first team last month.Ngumoha recently travelled with the Reds for their Champions League clash with Girona.But he was ineligible to play in the match as he didn’t meet the List B criteria for Europe’s elite club competition. The only way he could’ve played in the match would have been if he’d taken a place in the 25-man List A squad.Most read in SportLiverpool snapped up Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea in the summerCredit: GETTYWhat position does Rio Ngumoha play?The right-footed starlet can play across the front line but predominately features on the left wing.Arne Slot punished for X-rated blast about Arsenal because fourth official thought he was talking to him Has Rio Ngumoha represented England?Ngumoha has been capped at Under-15 and Under-17 level for the Three Lions, finding the back of the net twice for the former side.What has Rio Ngumoha said?Ngumoha isn’t short of confidence and has already set his sights on winning the Ballon d’Or – despite not having a single first-team appearance to his name.During an appearance on Inside the Academy, he said: “I truly believe I can win the Ballon d’Or one day.”I want to be regarded as one of the best players to ever play football and be a legend of the game.”The love for football started when I was four or five. Rio Ngumoha has represented England at Under-15 and Under-17 levelsCredit: REXThe starlet has ambitions of one day winning the Ballon d’OrCredit: AFP”I was watching my brother and I wanted to be like him.”I was going to academies from a young age and it was a big thing when so many clubs wanted to sign me.”I have learned you have to be resilient and believe in yourself. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You can have a few bad games but you have to have that belief that you are the best.”For me, if I am in bad form I just put it behind me and work hard.” More