Philippa Kaur

More stories

  • 238 Shares37 Views

    in Soccer

    ‘He is replacing Garnacho’ – Man Utd fans spot Ruben Amorim ‘tapping up’ Wolves star in dismal home defeat

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans think they spotted Ruben Amorim ‘tapping up’ Wolves striker Matheus Cunha.Amorim was spotted with his arm around Cunha while the pair walked through the Old Trafford tunnel at half-time on Sunday.Man Utd fans think they spotted Ruben Amorim ‘tapping up’ Wolves striker Matheus CunhaWolves snatched a 1-0 victory after Pablo Sarabia’s incredible free-kickWolves handed United their 15th defeat of the season and secured Premier League safety themselvesWolves went onto snatch a 1-0 win through Pablo Sarabia’s sublime free-kick, securing Cunha and Co. Premier League safety this season.But as the players headed down the tunnel, with the scores goalless, at the break Amorim could be seen endearingly tapping the side of Cunha’s head in an affectionate way.While this could be just a friendly greeting, it is rare for opposition managers and players to interact at half-time.One fan wrote: “Amorim’s literally tapping him up 👀.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA second hopefully said: “He is replacing Alejandro Garnacho in our starting line-up next season.”A third added: “Amorim’s begging him to come 😂.”United fans also got excited at a video which appears to show Cunha waving at the Old Trafford support before kick-off.Cunha has been reportedly linked with a move to Man Utd as his future in the West Midlands remains up in the air. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordThe Brazilian forward has been a revelation for Wolves this season, despite the Molineux club struggling towards the bottom of the table.Last weekend, he posted a photograph to his Instagram story with the caption: “Time to be happy, I will follow my dreams, not yours… So stay cool.”Amorim is officially WORST Man Utd manager of post-Sir Alex Ferguson era as under-fire boss admits- I’m underperformingWolves supporters were furious with the striker and he was forced to apologise.Cunha’s 14 goals in 27 Prem appearances have lifted Wanderers away from danger with their survival secured on Sunday.The 25-year-old signed a new four-year contract in January making him the highest paid player in Wolves’ history.But the deal included a £62.5m minimum fee release clause that is widely expected to be activated by multiple clubs when the transfer window re-opens.Arsenal, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest are also believed to be among his admirers amid an impressive campaign for Wolves. More

  • 238 Shares48 Views

    in Soccer

    ‘My dad was the greatest’ – Ex-Man Utd starlet Joe Thompson’s daughter pays heartbreaking tribute after death at 36

    JOE THOMPSON’S daughter has paid a heartbreaking tribute after he died at the age of 36.The Bath-born midfielder was diagnosed with cancer for the third time in April last year.Joe Thompson’s daughter Lula has made a touching tribute to her fatherCredit: MUFCThompson tragically passed away last weekCredit: MUFCLula would often go to Thompson’s work with himCredit: MUFCShe said he was the best daddy and husband to his wife, ChantelleCredit: MUFCThompson had hung up his boots in 2019, having come through the academy at Manchester United.The former Rochdale star was found to have stage four lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, which had spread to his lungs.He passed away on Thursday after becoming a public speaker following his retirement.His daughter, Lula, 10, has now made a heartbreaking tribute to her father, which the Red Devils shared.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe video showed moments of his footballing career, including scoring a memorable goal for Rochdale that saved them from relegation.Pictures showed Thompson celebrating with Lula after the game.The video continued to display the good charity work that the former footballer did in order to raise money to help battle cancer.She said: “When my dad got cancer for the third time, he didn’t let that stop him from doing good and start fundraising to get treatment that can help lots of other people.Most read in Football”He always wanted to be known as a great man, but I can say my dad was the greatest man.”The best dad to me and my sister Athena, and the best husband to my mummy Chantelle.Ex-Man Utd trainee Joe Thompson diagnosed with cancer for 3rd time and says ‘aggressive’ lymphoma has spread to his lungs “I love you so much dad.”Thompson was first diagnosed with the cancerous disease Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013.After bravely battling to overcome it, he managed to return to professional football, playing for Bury the following year.Thompson went on to have spells at Wrexham, Southport, and Carlisle United before he returned to Rochdale in 2016.However, his disease came back for a second time just a few months later.Rochdale also paid tribute to Thompson as the team wore black armbands during the game against Altrincham.Chantelle’s tributeIn a tribute to her husband, who died on April 17, 2025, Chantelle posted on Instagram…She wrote: “Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounding by his family when he transitioned.“Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds.“He was the most Incredible husband,son,brother,friend & father to our beautiful daughters who will now carry his light and legacy on and I will continue to keep filling them up with Joes love every single day. “It’s been a long battle, and one that he fought with all his might and he did things HIS way!! “He choose his path and walked every step with courage and pride growing closer and closer to god each day whilst still being there for so many others. “He held on to his plans for the future to continue that legacy but It’s now time for him to rest up and watch over us from heaven.“I know he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy. Long may his legacy and impact live on!!” More

  • 250 Shares63 Views

    in Soccer

    Arsenal player ratings: Leandro Trossard gives Mikel Arteta food for thought as David Raya has quiet day at the office

    ARSENAL continued their fine form after beating Real Madrid with a professional win over Ipswich Town.There were very few signs of tiredness in Mikel Arteta’s side despite the brilliant win in the Spanish capital.Arsenal cruised to victory over Ipswich TownCredit: GettyLeandro Trossard netted a braceCredit: ReutersArteta used the match against the Tractor Boys as a dress rehearsal ahead of the Champions League clash against PSG on April 29.The manager opted to drop makeshift forward Mikel Merino back into the midfield while Leandro Trossard took the striker role.The plan worked nicely as the Belgian netted the opening goal with a neat finish in the 14th minute.He continued to impress as he played a key role in Arsenal’s second, which was tapped home by Gabriel Martinelli.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTrossard made it a brace for himself in the second half as he got the better of Palmer for a second time in the 69th minute.Ethan Nwaneri put the cherry on top as his deflected effort made it four in the closing stages.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated Arteta’s men from inside Portman Road…David Raya – 7David Raya did not have a shot on target to saveCredit: GettyHe could have nipped down the tunnel to go to the toilet at several stages during the game and I would not have noticed. That’s how little I was made to look at Arsenal’s goal.Most read in FootballBenjamin White – 7Benjamin White was not at full speedCredit: GettyJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIn need of minutes and rhythm following complications from his knee surgery, White got just that here. A solid run-out and some air in the lungs.There are still signs he is not totally up to speed, and looks to currently be the second choice at right back behind Jurrien Timber.Tunnel footage shows Arsenal stars’ team-talk before Real Madrid clash including Rice’s inspirational 5-word command But he is such a good squad option to have, especially in games like this – a reliable figure that barely puts a foot wrong.William Saliba – 8William Saliba was composed throughoutCredit: EPAIt looked at times like the Frenchman was being forced to play against a bunch of school kids, barely breaking a sweat. It felt unfair for him to be on the pitch, he’s that good.If anything, it was just a useful 90-minute slog of building more of a relationship with Jakub Kiwior, something the pair need if they are to reach the Champions League final next month.Jakub Kiwior – 7Jakub Kiwior was shaky at timesCredit: ReutersThe Pole has received nothing but praise for his recent Champions League outings against Real Madrid, and rightly so, keeping Kylian Mbappe and co at bay comfortably.From Spain to Suffolk, as is often the case with Kiwior, there were a few nervy moments on the ball, needing to be bailed out by Declan Rice after an underhit pass from the back.Mikel Arteta even found time to angrily berate the defender early on.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7Oleksandr Zinchenko made his seventh start of the seasonCredit: AFPThe perfect game for the Ukrainian to come in for – just his seventh start of the season in all competitions. It was as if this contest was designed with him in mind.Lots of time on the ball, given plenty of space to cut inside and not a lot of defending or chasing back to worry about.He was so comfortable that he even moved into midfield on the hour mark.Clearly an understudy to Myles Lewis-Skelly right now, he should make the most of this as it is unlikely he will be getting much action from here on in, especially if Arsenal remain in Europe and continue to keep the title race alive for as long as possible.Martin Odegaard – 7Martin Odegaard was back to his best in midfieldCredit: ReutersBack to his creative best, and looked to be having so much fun with Bukayo Saka as his sparring partner down the right.Boy have we missed this sort of performance from the Norwegian – the cute, dinked passes, the dictating around the box, the orchestrating of everything good Arsenal produced.So unlucky not to grab a late goal as his long-range stinger rattled the inside of the post.Declan Rice 72′ – 7Declan Rice set up Trossard’s second goal of the gameCredit: GettyHe is oozing with confidence right now and it shows, bossing any midfield he sets his eyes on, galloping his way into any space he so chooses.His corner deliveries are also still on the money – it is just a shame he does not have someone to convert with usual suspect Gabriel out for the season.Mikel Merino 56′ – 8Mikel Merino picked up an assist for Martinelli’s goalCredit: GettyNo matter the position, wherever Merino plays at the moment he is involved in goals, just like he proved over two legs against Madrid with a goal and two assists.There was another assist here and wasn’t it a beauty? A first-time, no-look, back-heeled flick from Bukayo Saka’s cut-back straight into the path of Gabriel Martinelli at the far post.He was deployed in midfield, but often roamed forward and drifted into pockets of space with Leandro Trossard regularly switching to the flanks.Bukayo Saka 56′ – 8Bukayo Saka was a constant threat on the rightCredit: GettySpent most of the first half being booed by the Ipswich fans, mainly because he was on the end of an awful studs-up tackle by Leif Davis that had the defender shown a straight red.But the jeers were also as a sign of respect – they witnessed a player at the top of his game rip them apart at times down the right and should have had a hat-trick of goals and assists inside the first 45 minutes but for several missed sitters.Understandably was brought off in the 57th minute to protect him for bigger games to come.Gabriel Martinelli 72′ – 8Gabriel Martinelli netted his 50th goal for ArsenalCredit: ReutersJust like in Madrid, the Brazilian can drift in and out of games, on the periphery of attacks, and then in the blink of an eye he is in the right place at the right time.The movement for his goal and Arsenal’s second was superb.These are the sorts of consistent, weekly numbers he needs to be producing if he wants to keep his place on that left wing with next season and a big summer transfer splurge in mind.Leandro Trossard 82′ – 9Leandro Trossard impressed in the striker roleCredit: GettyThis was a real chance to prove his worth to Mikel Arteta down the middle – a potential option for the Champions League semi-final first leg.There were some good moments, his two goals included.For both, he calmly slotted into the corner from close range, thanks largely to some pretty dire defending, while he also got involved in some impressive attacks down the right with Saka.The Belgian was also wasteful – an identical set-up to his goal saw him take a touch when he could have fired it home first time, but to mark him down for that would be harsh.SUBSEthan Nwaneri 56′ – 8Had a few darting runs down the right that came to nothing and then a bit of luck as his shot cutting inside deflected off two Ipswich defenders and in.Has lost a bit of momentum since Saka’s return from injury but that will do him the world of good.Myles Lewis-Skelly 56′ – 6Came on at left-back but was quickly moved inside into a holding midfielder role – his natural habitat from his Arsenal academy days. Unsurprisingly, the 18-year-old was not fazed at all.Raheem Sterling 72′ – 6You really have to feel sorry for the guy. He still looks rusty and it’s the business end of the season, but that’s because he has hardly been played.Read More on The SunKieran Tierney 72′ – 6Another chance for the Arsenal fans to serenade their favourite Scot before he departs this summer.Nathan Butler-Oyedeji 82′ – N/AA Premier League debut for the 22-year-old.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates More

  • 263 Shares75 Views

    in Soccer

    Ipswich 0-4 Arsenal LIVE SCORE: Bukayo Saka seen with ICE on leg after horror Leif Davis red card – updates

    ARSENAL denied Liverpool the chance to win the Premier League title this afternoon with a dominant 4-0 win at Ipswich.Though the victory came at a cost with Bukayo Saka limping off in the second half and receiving ice to his leg after a horror lunge from Leif Davis, which the Ipswich defender was red carded for.Leandro Trossard was on the double alongside strikes from Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri as the Gunners ran riot.Live stream: NOW TVTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/ Sky Sports Premier LeagueIpswich starting XI: Palmer; Tuanzebe, O’Shea, Greaves, Davis; Morsy, Cajuste; Johnson, Enciso, Clarke; HirstArsenal starting XI:  Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Zinchenko; Rice, Merino, Odegaard; Saka, Martinelli, TrossardBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from Portman Road with our live blog below…Period to define fortunes for ArsenalThe next five games will decide whether The Gunners are going to end this season with any silverware at all:Copy linkCopiedMartin continues to pull stringsArsenal’s skipper Martin Odegaard seemed to have the freedom of Portman Road as nobody got close to him throughout the game.It never pans out well for sides who give the Norwegian time and space on the ball.Try as he might, he could not get himself on the scoresheet but being the team player that he is, the win is all that matters.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGunners keeping Reds’ honestVictory at Portman Road saw Arsenal move to within ten points of league leaders Liverpool.With five games remaining, it is highly unlikely The Gunners will be able to catch Arne Slot’s side.They will want to keep on winning and take this title race as far in the season as possible.Copy linkCopiedBelgian treats at Portman RoadLeandro Trossard was the standout player for Arsenal this afternoon.His intelligent runs into pockets of space caused constant problems for the hosts.The Belgian forward even managed to get two goals for himself as well.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Ipswich 0-4 ArsenalRoutine work for The Gunners at Portman Road.They dominated the game from start to finish.Even before the Ipswich red card, there only ever seemed like there was going to be one outcome here.Copy linkCopiedFT: Ipswich 0-4 ArsenalThe referee brings the game to a close.A comfortable victory for Mikel Arteta’s side.It has been a good week for The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-4 Arsenal90+2. Saka is sat on the bench with an ice pack attached to his ankle.Not the sort of sight Gunners’ fans want to see.He could have scored a hat-trick today if he had brought his shooting boots.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-4 Arsenal90. The Tractor Boys will be glad to see the end of this game.Once Davis was shown a red card, this stopped being a contest.We are going to have four added minutes.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-4 Arsenal88. Odegaard slides a pass to Nwaneri in space.He turns onto his left foot and fires a shot off.It takes a massive deflection off O’Shea and wrong foots the keeper.No danger of it being given to the Arsenal man, his effort seemed to be going well wide.Copy linkCopiedOwn goal – Dara O’Shea (Ipswich)Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal86. Zinchenko steps up to take the free-kick but drills it straight into the wall.The Gunners get it out wide and it played into Odegaard.He tries to beat Palmer at his near post but it strikes the woodwork.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal84. This has been an a Sunday afternoon stroll for Arsenal.Their defence have been tested rarely.Morsey is penalised for a foul on Zinchenko.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal82. Ipswich are dropping deep, looking to get numbers behind the ball.It has been the tactic for the majority of this game, trying to invite Arsenal to try and break them down.Trossard is replaced by Bulter-Oyedeji.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal80. Lewis-Skelly is the latest player to try and get a shot off in the box.Once again, Ipswich manage to get bodies in front of the ball to get an important block in.Hirst and Cajuste are placed by Luongo and Delap.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal78. No doubt both sides would take the final whistle right now.Arsenal have achieved their goal, to keep the pressure on Liverpool.Well, as much as being thirteen points behind can be considered as pressure.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal76. Delap seems to warming up on the touchline.He may ask more questions of the Arsenal defence than Hirst has.Sterling tries to make a run into the box but is dispossessed.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal74. Arteta opting to rotate his squad now.He could have it done it some time ago but seemed intent on getting that third goal.Ipswich are just focussed on trying to keep this scorelinne respectable.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal72. The travelling fans are enjoying their day out in Suffolk.Most of these Ipswich fans wish they had opted for that Easter egg hunt with the family now.Sterling and Tierney are coming on for Rice and Martinelli.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedIpswich 0-3 Arsenal70. Well if Ipswich had any ambitions of getting back into this game, they are completely extinguished now.Rice plays a great reverse pass into Trossard, who checks onto his right foot and drills it into the bottom corner.Poor defending from the hosts again as nobody is touch tight on the Belgian.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-2 Arsenal68. Rice bursts forward down the flank.He lays it off to Odegaard but his pass is intercepted.Arsenal recycle it and Rice wins the visitors another corner.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-2 Arsenal66. It would be astonishing if Arsenal do not score anymore goals in this game.With Ipswich just defending now, this game has turned into a real non-event.Martinelli tries a left-footed shot but it deflects wide for a corner.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-2 Arsenal64. As Ipswich come forward, it is collected by Raya.He looks to get it out quickly but runs into an opposing player.The referee awards a free-kick, for what, is another question.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies at Portman RoadBukayo Saka is getting his ankle wrapped in ice on the bench here after being subbed.Mikel Arteta will hope it is just precautionary as the England winger was able to play another 12 minutes in the second half before coming off, but it is not a good look.You would not be surprised if Saka was now rested for the mid-week clash at home to Crystal Palace.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-2 Arsenal62. Greaves does well to block another shot.Odegaard continues to pull the strings in the middle of the park.Martinelli clips a cross into the box but it is headed clear.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopied More

  • 263 Shares56 Views

    in Soccer

    Man Utd ratings: Hojlund strong contender for one of worst signings EVER… but Harry Amass is a star in the making

    MANCHESTER UNITED suffered their 15th defeat of the Premier League season after a stunning Pablo Sarabia free-kick saw Wolves snatch a 1-0 win.Ruben Amorim made five changes from Thursday night’s dramatic 5-4 win over Lyon for United’s return to domestic duty.Christian Eriksen went the closest with a first half free kickRasmus Hojlund spurned a chance in the 64th minute as United struggled to break Wolves downOne of those changes saw Amorim hand a first start to 20-year-old academy centre-back Tyler Fredricson.Christian Eriksen – who had mare against Newcastle last Sunday -went the closest with a first half free kick, but both side’s looked dull.Struggling striker Rasmus Hojlund then spurned a promising chance after failing to find Kobbie Mainoo’s run early in the second half.And minutes later, the Dane couldn’t get on the end of a delicious cross from Alejandro Garnacho, before being subbed for Chido Obi.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut Sarabia brought United back down to earth with a stunning late free-kick into Andre Onana’s top corner from 20 yards.So United dropped to 14th in the Premier League table – level on points with the visitors- and look set for their worst ever Premier League finish. Here’s how SunSport’s Ken Lawrence rated the Red Devils from a sunny Old Trafford on Easter Sunday.ANDRE ONANA – 5 Likely to be given a reprieve this summer when Ruben Amorim would have liked to bring in a more reliable No 1. Most read in FootballBut what money the manager has for the transfer window must go elsewhere so the calamities are likely to keep on coming.There were none, however, in this performance and no goalkeeper would have stopped Sarabia’s 78thminute wonder free kick. NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6The right wing back once again deployed as a central defender in a back three and again looked comfortable.The Morocco international’s a safe player, he gets his positioning and passing right and there is rarely any panic in what he does.His defending has constantly improved and he showed that with one brilliantly – timed challenge to rob Rayan Ait-Nouri when he was in full flow with the rest of the United rear guard scattered.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Started the day as captain before Bruno Fernandes took the stage in the second half and was rock- solid. Will almost certainly be out of there at the end of the season when his contract expires and this was only his fifth start since Ruben Amorim arrived in November. West Ham wanted him in January and in terms of selling himself to future employers this was a very good show window for the Swedish centre back.TYLER FREDRICSON – 6The academy kid from South Manchester made his debut and hardly put a foot wrong.He was on the left side of a back three that had never  played together as a unit but showed plenty of composure and nerve.It helped that Vitor Pereira’s side rarely showed their teeth until Sarbabia struck but the kid is definitely one for the future.PATRICK DORGU – 6The wing back was switched from left to right wing back but did not look out of place at all.Indeed he delivered one delicious cross which, unsurprisingly, Rasmus Hoijlund failed to get his head to.Only arrived for £25million from Lecce in February, but has settled in well and again gave every indication that he will become a force to be reckoned with.MANUEL UGARTE -4 Got himself done three times in a row  over 20 yards in under five seconds mid-way through the first half.In that awful sequence he even failed in an attempt to foul Nelson Semedo. That’s how slow he is.The former PSG midfielder, 24, has had his good moments since last summer’s £45million arrival but just like in this clash, plenty of bad ones too. CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6 His fine free kick forced a very good tip-over from goalkeeper Dan Bentley, last-minute replacement for Wolves No 1 Jose Sa who was injured in the warm – up.The Danish veteran has already announced he’ll be leaving in the summer in search of a new club and showed there’s still a bit left in the tank.At the age of 33 he’ll probably find himself in a less-physical environment than the Prem but that old head will be of value wherever he goes.HARRY AMASS – 8Making his second Prem start and looked right at home – confident, clever feet, and with vision that belies his age and experience.Delivered one superb cross early in game and the 18 year old is already making himself a fans favourite thanks to his guts, work rate and talent.Truly a star in the making and one who looks like he was born to be a left wing back but who ultimately find himself used further up the pitch in future.Harry Amass is a star in the making in a bleak season for UnitedALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Maddening. Magical. Or a muppet combination of the two – you never quite know with the Argentinian.Started on the right die but often switched flanks with Mainoo and spent every minute he could running at the opposition.The problem, as it almost always is with him, is the final ball – that lack of composure will keep costing him and his team mates until he learns to calm down.RASMUS HOJLUND – 3 That’s now one goal in 28 games and even that one was against doomed Leicester in a 3 – 0 away win last month. At a cost of £72million he has become one of the great white elephants in Old Trafford history so if he’s to be sold this summer good luck with getting half that fee.Often complains he doesn’t get the right service but in the 53rd minute had the chance to show how that’s done but went alone instead of squaring for the unmarked Garnacho and Dorgu.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6First start in two months after being out with a muscular injury having come off the bench to score in United’s midweek Europa League miracle comeback.Used in an unfamiliar role wide left of the front three and didn’t look bad at all out there in his tidy new short hair cut.Read More on The SunLooks to have bulked up in his injury absence and while he should have been booked for a penalty box dive after 12 minutes almost replicated the superb strike that took the score to 4-4 in Thursday night’s miracle comeback against Lyon.SUBSMason Mount 5 (for Mainoo 58).Bruno Fernandes 5 (for Ugarte 58)Scuffed wide from Alejandro Garnacho’s perfect set – up.Digo Dalot 5 for Dorgu 58)Chido Obi 5 (for Hoijlund 70)Leny Yoro 5 (for  Lindelof 78). More

  • 225 Shares56 Views

    in Soccer

    Ipswich 0 Arsenal 4: Gunners make light work of Championship-bound Tractor Boys… but Saka in another injury scare

    IT would not have just been Mikel Arteta who held his breath the moment Leif Davis sunk his studs into Bukayo Saka in the 32nd minute.If their team are to sweep away Paris St Germain in the Champions League semi-finals and book their spot in the Munich final, they obviously need a fit and firing Saka.Leandro Trossard’s brace helped Arsenal cruise to victory over Ipswich TownCredit: GettyHe got Arsenal off the mark with his first of the afternoonCredit: ReutersGabriel Martinelli grabbed Arsenal’s second goal of the matchCredit: PAHaving tormented doomed Ipswich for the first 30 minutes, Saka collapsed to the ground and was left screaming with agony after a stupid tackle from behind by Ipswich left-back Davis.Yet Arteta and every Arsenal fan were not looking at referee Chris Kavanagh brandishing a red card. They were praying for Saka to get up unscathed.And the England international dusted himself down and continued playing, even though he then should have scored a hat-trick before half-time.Saka had set up the opening goal for Leandro Trossard for his 11th Premier League assist and then played a part in the second for Gabriel Martinelli.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTrossard made it 3-0 and sub Ethan Nwaneri scored a deflected fourth but before then, Arteta made his changes and substituted Saka and as soon as he arrived on the bench, the club’s medical staff strapped his right ankle in ice.Although he should be okay, Arsenal will now face a nervous wait to see whether there is any major swelling when Saka reports for training tomorrow at London Colney.Arteta’s team face Crystal Palace on Wednesday in their final match before the first leg clash against PSG at the Emirates on Tuesday week.Arsenal delayed Liverpool’s title celebrations by a few more days with this win while it pushed awful Ipswich a step closer to their inevitable relegation.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThroughout the second half, Arsenal’s fans sang: “we’ll never play you again.” That might be incorrect as Ipswich should be strong in the Championship next term but having spent £130million in the last two windows, they should have been better than this.Meanwhile, while their manager Kieran McKenna is planning for the Championship, Arteta can continue to focus on their unlikely semi-final against PSG.Myles Lewis-Skelly winds up Real Madrid fans as Arsenal knock Los Blancos out of Champions League Leif Davis was sent off for this challenge on Bukayo SakaCredit: GettyThe Tractor Boys are as good as relegated following the lossCredit: GettyAnd that means keeping his players ticking along by resting a few of the tired ones, giving minutes to those who need a run-out and most importantly of all, avoiding a nightmare injury – and silly tackles like the one from Davis.Saka was making only his third start for Arsenal since spending three months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.And while he featured from the beginning in both matches against Real Madrid, this was his first Premier League start since a 5-1 win at Crystal Palace on December 21.With Thomas Partey to miss the PSG first leg with a suspension, Arteta has to look at how to fill the gap. So it was also only the fourth time this season that Arteta started with a midfield three of Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Mikel Merino. And for Rice, it was his first game at No.6 for three months.One option is to keep Merino in midfield and keep Trossard up front and both did their jobs well enough here.While PSG, like Ipswich, play in blue shirts, the similarities certainly end there, so Arteta could still have done with an available Partey.Yet Trossard, who has been inconsistent this season, was certainly playing against the right side to boost his goals tally of seven.The Argentine had a close-range shot blocked but it was inevitable he would get a few more chances as Arsenal caused so many problems, particularly down the right.And in the 14th minute, Martin Odegaard had a ridiculous amount of time to run forward with the ball, Saka delivered a first-time cross and Trossard, despite falling to the floor under a challenge from Sam Morsy, stuck a shot through the legs of Dara O’Shea and into the bottom corner.An unmarked Merino should have made it 2-0 but missed a close-range header from Saka’s corner.And it was Saka again who was involved in the brilliant second goal as he accelerated past Jacob Greaves and cut the ball back to Merino who delivered a magnificent flick with his back heel which bamboozled the home defence and gave Martinelli an easy tap-in.Maybe it was frustration that Davis delivered a silly tackle on Saka even though there did not seem to be too much malice in the challenge.After continuing, Saka then found himself jeered each time he touched the ball, which did seem a bit harsh, and much to the amusement of the home supporters, he could have had that hat-trick before half-time and two of the chances were quite easy.Arteta made his changes just before the hour, which included replacing Saka, and Arsenal then made it 3-0 as Ipswich switched off at Rice’s short corner and Trossard threaded a shot through the legs of George Hirst and past keeper Alex Palmer.Read More on The SunSaka was taken off in the second halfCredit: ReutersArteta made sure to rest key membersCredit: GettyWith less than 10 minutes less, Trossard was replaced by 22-year-old Nathan Butler-Oyedeji whose only previous senior appearance came against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League in January.After Odegaard saw his shot hit the post, sub Nwaneri grabbed the fourth with a shot deflecting off Cameron Burgess’ backside. More

  • 213 Shares67 Views

    in Soccer

    Man Utd 0 Wolves 1: Pablo Sarabia scores sublime free-kick as woeful United fall to 45-year low

    PABLO SARABIA brought Manchester United back down to earth with a stunning late free-kick.The Old Trafford faithful arrived still basking in the glory of Thursday night’s Europa League comeback against Lyon.United suffered a 15th Premier League defeat of the seasonChristian Eriksen went the closest with a first half free kickKobbie Mainoo made his first Premier League start since FebruarySuper sub Pablo Sarabia finally found a breakthrough with a stunning free-kick past Andre Onana in the 77th minuteSarabia had only been on the pitch for three minutes before finding Andre Onana’s top binWolves are now mathematically safe after securing their fifth straight winBut they were provided with a brutal reality check and a reminder of what a worrying season this has been for the Red Devils.Super sub Sarabia had been on the pitch just three minutes when scored a goal that was out of keeping with a largely forgettable game.And just like Newcastle did last week, the Wolves earned their first league double over United since the 1979-80 season.It gave Vitor Pereira’s men a fifth straight top flight win – the first time they have enjoyed such a run since 1970.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHow United could do with a run like that – this was a FIFTEENTH defeat in the league this term.And to think they could be playing Champions League football next term if they can win their next three European games.It was always likely to be low key after the astonishing scenes here around 64 hours previously.But the faithful would have expected slightly more than this.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordWolves were forced to change their keeper when Jose Sa was injured in the pre-match warm up.His replacement Dan Bentley might have been busier if he’d stayed on the bench.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim issues open invite to Rory McIlroy as Masters champion’s private jet lands in EnglandUnited had chances but failed to take them – and the vast majority did not even hit the target.How often have we heard that before in the Prem this season.United had the better of a forgettable first half but Emmanuel Agbadou got across to deny Alejandro Garnacho when he got a sight of goal.A cross from Patrick Dorgu evaded stand in skipper Victor Lindelof and Rasmus Hojlund as it drifted wide of the far post.The home crowd only stirred into life when some of Thursday night’s heroes – Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro – got off the bench to warm upA Christian Eriksen free-kick tipped over by Bentley and another decent cross from Dorgu went begging,It must have crossed Amorim’s mind to throw Harry Maguire on as a centre forward again.Kobbie Mainoo tried an effort that was not dis-similar to his famous equaliser against Lyon – but this time he was just off target.Hojlund latched onto a pass from Harry Amass and turned his man nicely but dallied too long and allowed Toti Gomes to make a last ditch tackle.That was the cue for Ruben Amorim to make a triple substitution with skipper Fernandes one of the changes.Without their Portuguese talisman, United routinely lack creativity – no wonder he has only missed one league game before this.He instantly pepped them up and was involved in the build up as Garnacho low cross just evaded the on-rushing HojlundThe £72 million Dane has just one goal in his last 28 appearances – dating back to mid December.That turned out to be his final chance to find the net here – as he was replaced by youngster Chido Obi midway through the second half.Fernandes so often comes to United’s rescue and when he got on the end of Garnacho’s pull-back, everyone expected him to score.Bruno Fernandes perhaps missed the biggest chance of the game – by his standardsRuben Amorim made five changes from his side that defeated Lyon in dramatic fashion on ThursdayYet he got it all wrong and screwed his shot miles wide – which just about summed up United’s day.A couple of minutes later, Matheus Cunha was pulled down by Eriksen on the edge of the box.Sarabia had only been on the pitch three minutes after replacing Strand Larsen but backed himself – and with good reason.His left-footed free-kick was just his second touch but it was almost unstoppable as it curled into the top corner beyond Andre Onana.  Despite six minutes of added time, this time there was no late rescue act by United.“It’s your round Vitor” sang the jubilant Wolves fans.Read More on The SunTheir own Portuguese boss loves to go to the local pubs in Wolverhampton to enjoy a drink with fans.After five wins on the bounce – and a rare double over United – he and his players would have been the toast of the town last night. More

  • 250 Shares52 Views

    in Soccer

    Fulham 1 Chelsea 2: Pedro Neto keeps Blues’ Champions League hopes on track with last-gasp winner in West London derby

    PEDRO NETO produced an injury time winner to rescue Chelsea’s Champions League dreams – and their self-respect.The Portuguese winger blasted home a stunning shot to snatch a last gasp victory that completed a dramatic ten minute turnaround.Pedro Neto completed a stunning comeback for ChelseaCredit: GettyFulham were heading for their first double over their next door neighbours before sub Tyrique George equalised in the 83rd minute.And three minutes into stoppage time Neto pounced with a classy rising shot that handed his team an undeserved win but which lifts them up into fifth place in the Premier League table.And a first league away win since December is a huge relief for under pressure boss Enzo Maresca.His side went into their closest derby on the back of losing to Polish minnows Legia Warsaw on Thursday in the Conference League and an underwhelming draw at home to struggling Ipswich last Sunday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFulham were so close to rewriting history and boss Marco Silva and his players will be gutted at throwing away their precious lead so late on.Winger Alex Iwobi put them ahead in the 20th minute and they looked like holding on until rookie George and Neto dug Chelsea out of trouble.George came on for striker Nicolas Jackson in the 78th minute with The Blues running out of ideas and steam.But the home grown academy graduate latched onto a mistake by Fulham full back and skipper Antonee Robinson to lash home a powerful shot from 20 yards to level just five minutes after coming on.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd with the visitors pressing, Neto scored one of the best goals of his career to round off a three man move involving Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez to beat Leno with a thunderbolt drive.Chelsea were second best for the vast majority of the game though and got out of jail with this late double.Defeat would have left them in seventh place with only five games of the season left and pressure cranking up on boss Maresca.The two West London teams are just two stations apart on the District Line tube and are playing in the same season for the 40th time.Fulham have never managed to beat their more illustrious neighbours twice in the same campaign and will never get a better chance.They won 2-1 at Craven Cottage on Boxing Day and were within a whisker of securing an unprecedented win before George and Neto broke their hearts.Alex Iwobi put Fulham aheadCredit: GettyThe Cottagers were close to doing the double over ChelseaCredit: ReutersTyrique George kickstarted the fight backCredit: GettyGeorge proved to be an inspired subCredit: ReutersNeto scored Chelsea’s late winnerCredit: ReutersIt keeps Chelsea’s Champions League hopes aliveCredit: Reuters More