Philippa Kaur

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    Leicester 1 Chelsea 2: Blues go just one point behind Man City with comfortable win that inflicts more misery on Foxes

    ENZO MARESCA’S jet-lagged duo combined to make his return to Leicester a victorious if not an impressive one.The former Leicester boss went back to the club where he won last season’s Championship title and came away with three points thanks to goals in each half.Nicolas Jackson scored his eighth goal in all competitions this seasonCredit: GettyThe striker finished clinically after 15 minutesCredit: RexEnzo Fernandez headed home for Chelsea’s secondCredit: AFPThe midfielder nodded in a rebound after Jackson’s effort was savedCredit: RexJordan Ayew scored a consolation from the spotCredit: ReutersNicolas Jackson and captain Enzo Fernandez have barely touched down on the Heathrow tarmac following international duty but shrugged off the fatigue to clinch the win.Striker Jackson has been away in Africa playing for Senegal and Fernandez was with Argentina.Yet they came to their manager’s rescue as Chelsea’s weary-looking band of cosmopolitan stars struggled against the wind of Storm Bert to see off struggling Leicester.Jackson scored the first after 15 minutes and Fernandez wrapped it up with 15 to go. The result keeps Chelsea firmly in the top four despite a wobbly performance on the road.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMaresca is always wary of his squad’s fitness and fatigue levels after an international break.Fernandez in particular was one of the last of his men back from playing for their respective countries after 90 minutes for Argentina against Paraguay in the early hours of Wednesday morning, UK time.England star Cole Palmer played a full 90 minutes on his return to action after withdrawing from international duty because of a knee injury. As did defender Levi Colwill, who went down injured at full-time.Palmer had a great chance to score early in the second half, but his goalbound shot hit team-mate Noni Madueke and rolled wide.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMaresca always fears the first fixture back following a fortnight with his players spread far and wide around the globe.So it will be a big relief to have come through a painful early kick-off with three points and to emerge from his return to the King Power Stadium triumphant.Leicester were always going to be up against it defensively but they were pretty feeble going forwards too with 37-year-old Jamie Vardy leading the line.However, despite going a goal down when Wout Faes could not quite clear the danger comprehensively under pressure from Jackson, so much of their disappointing first half came from poor passing and breakdowns in the middle third.It didn’t help losing midfielder Harry Winks after only 11 minutes. The former Tottenham player looked to have twisted his ankle falling awkwardly and was replaced by his old White Hart Lane team-mate Oliver Skipp.But Winks had been enjoying a bright start to the game and for a team under the cosh like Leicester to have a key man come off so soon made the struggle uphill even steeper.Faes looked to be the culprit when Maresca’s visitors went ahead four minutes after Winks limped off.His cumbersome attempt at an overhead hook while tangling with Jackson was risky.The ball only went as far as Chelsea skipper Enzo Fernandez charging through and the Argentinian threaded the ball back through to Jackson to latch onto and prod the ball home.Leicester have now gone behind in the last six games. And with confidence low and a relative OAP up front, albeit a classy one in vastly experienced Vardy, conceding first is a big problem.Madueke scored a second for Chelsea but it was ruled out for offside. But how City stopped from being overrun is worthy of praise and a worry for Maresca that his team could not finish this game off long before half-time.Madueke missed a great chance to double the lead with a volley wide, Joao Felix went wide and then high with other chances. No wonder Maresca remains constantly critical of his team’s attacking prowess even though it sits comfortably in the Premier League top four.For failing to kill off games leads to hairy moments like the couple that the home managed to muster just before half time.Both Kasey McAteer and Wilfred Ndidi should have put Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez under far more pressure than they did with their shots but it was still a warning that the Blues had work to do.Palmer should have put the seal on the game on 54 minutes when Cucurella chipped a shot into the box.It was when Jackson’s first time header was parried by keeper Mads Hermansen but another unforced error by Leicester’s defence left Fernandez unmarked to pretty much fall forwards and head the ball into an empty net from five yards.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is now five games without a win for the Foxes even though they were handed a late, late lifeline from the penalty spot.Chelsea sub Romeo Lavia tripped Bobby Decordova-Reid and Jordan Ayew rolled home his spot-kick.  More

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    Leicester vs Chelsea second half delayed after freak injury to linesman

    THE second half of Leicester’s Premier League clash with Chelsea was delayed due to a freak injury.The match, which the visitors won 2-1, was all set to restart on time before it emerged the linesman Mark Scholes had suffered an injury.The second half of Chelsea’s trip to Leicester was delayedCredit: GETTYLinesman Mark Scholes suffered an injury during the matchCredit: TNT SPORTSHe was replaced by fourth official Leigh DoughtyCredit: TNT SPORTSAnd the injury prompted referee Andy Madley to call on the services of the fourth official, Leigh Doughty.Doughty, thankfully, was warmed up and ready to jump in on short notice, which he did before the restart.Despite being injured, Scholes wasn’t completely pulled off duty.The lino ended up swapping roles with Doughty, taking over fourth official duties for the remainder of the match.READ MORE ON CHELSEAIt’s currently unknown what injury Scholes suffered.But it’s seemingly not that severe if he’s been able to swap gigs with colleague Doughty.Chelsea went into the second half at the King Power leading 1-0.A neat finish from Nicholas Jackson in the 15th minute put Enzo Maresca’s troops ahead in the Italian’s return to the Midlands club.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though.They should have doubled their lead in the 54th minute when Cole Palmer tapped the ball toward the gaping goal after a save from Mads Hermansen.But team-mate Noni Madueke sensationally STOPPED the ball from going in, despite his best efforts to get out of the way of the shot.Gianfranco Zola reveals Cole Palmer pledge as Chelsea icons meet for first time after EA FC comment Enzo Hernandez, however, put the Blues 2-0 up in the 75th minute, heading home after a brilliant save from Hermansen.Jordan Ayew pulled a goal back for the home side in stoppage time but his penalty ended up being nothing more than a consolation.Chelsea will be back in action on Thursday night, travelling to Germany to take on Heidenheim in the Europa Conference League. Leicester, meanwhile, will travel to west London next Saturday to take on Brentford. More

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    Ruben Amorim already has plan for Mason Mount with TWO positions for forgotten Man Utd star to thrive in

    RUBEN AMORIM has revealed he has TWO positions for a forgotten Manchester United star.The new Red Devils manager will take charge of his first game away at Ipswich Town on Sunday.Mason Mount could play in two positions for Ruben Amorim at Manchester UnitedCredit: XThe midfielder has struggled to impress since joining the Red DevilsCredit: ReutersAmorim, 39, was appointed to the Manchester United hot seat as the replacement for Erik ten Hag.The Portuguese coach could revive Mason Mount’s career at the club.The former Chelsea star has struggled to impress since his £60million switch in 2023.Mount suffered from injuries and poor form, which made him a fringe figure in the squad.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut Amorim has insisted that he “loves” the midfielder and that his system will be “perfect” for Mount to flourish.He said: “Mason Mount, I have to tell you I love that kid.”You can look in his eyes that he wants this so bad. This is the most important thing.”He played in this system, so it’s perfect for him.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I have two positions for Mason Mount, so he should be very happy.”Amorim was stunned by the lack of speed and intensity during his first training sessions with the squad.Gary Neville admits ‘I got it wrong’ and apologises over Rashford criticism as Amorim demands Man Utd ‘change standards’ There are several stars at the club who should be fearing for their future.This includes underperforming attackers such as Antony and Amad Diallo.The manager has cleared out the club’s pre-existing coaching staff after his appointment, including ousting Ruud van Nistelrooy.Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has taken up boxing and martial arts in order to build his fitness.Club legend Gary Neville recently apologised over his criticism of the forward for his trip to the US during the international break.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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    Coventry vs Sheff Utd descends into chaos as mass brawl breaks out and star is sent off for moment of madness

    SHEFFIELD UNITED’S clash with Coventry descended into chaos as a mass brawl erupted.With 44 minutes on the clock, Blades star Anel Ahmedhodzic was fouled by Sky Blues striker Norman Bassette.Norman Bassette taunted Anel Ahmedhodzic after a foulCredit: Sky SportsAhmedhodzic shot up and grabbed Bassette by the neckCredit: Sky SportsThe Coventry man then hit the deck to spark a huge fightCredit: Sky SportsBassette winked at a Sheffield United player after the brawlHe also appeared to kiss his lipsThe Belgian, who had already scored in the game, shouted at the opposition centre-back and lightly grabbed him by the neck as he lay on the deck.A fuming Ahmedhodzic then jumped to his feet and pushed Bassette in the neck.He dropped to the floor and the incident sparked a mass brawl with several players involved from both teams. Sheffield United star Vinicius Souza sprinted across and charged forcefully into Milan van Ewijk, with the Brazilian perhaps lucky to not be punished.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCallum O’Hare, who used to play for Coventry, also had heated words with Jack Rudoni.Once things had calmed down, Ahmedhodzic was sent off for violent conduct.Bassette, who also appeared to wink and kiss his lips towards a Sheffield United player after the incident, got a yellow and no other cards were given.Fans were left shocked by what happened, with one saying: “Absolute head loss from Ahmedhodzic.”Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere were clashes all over the pitch as tempers flaredCredit: Sky SportsVinicius Souza charged into Milan van EwijkAnother added: “Ahmedhodzic is a muppet for reacting, but Bassette rolling around holding his face when he pushed his throat is embarrassing.”A third commented: “Bassette is a Neal Maupay regen I swear.”Sheffield United stars held back as Championship clash with Portsmouth descends into brawl at full-time whistleThe shocking brawl occurred just before half-time, with Sheffield United 2-1 up at the time. More

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    ‘Come off or you’ll be grounded for a month’ says EFL boss as he removes sons from pitch over an hour after full-time

    CHELTENHAM boss Michael Flynn hilariously stopped his two sons from having a kickabout on the pitch.The Robins beat Tranmere Rovers 1-0 last night to go 14th in League Two.Michael Flynn celebrated victory with his son on the pitchCredit: GettyCheltenham won thanks to an 89th minute Joel Colwill strike and celebrated with one of his sons.Over an hour after the game finished, two of the manager’s kids were still enjoying themselves and showed off their skills on the Whaddon Road turf.Flynn was ready to go home following his pitch-match duties and tried to get them off the pitch.But his sons reportedly continued to play football and ignored their father.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then brilliantly shouted: “Come off, or you’ll be grounded for a month.”Flynn has five kids named Dionne, 24, Charlie, 10, Theo, 10, Edward, 9, and Samuel, 7.The Welshman became Cheltenham boss in May after their relegation from League One last season.Flynn formally managed Newport, Walsall and Swindon.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis children were perhaps making the most of being on the field given that several other EFL games have been postponed today due to Storm Bert.In League Two, Bradford vs Accrington and Fleetwood vs MK Dons have been called off.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFLAnd due to torrential rain, Blackburn vs Portsmouth in the Championship has also been postponed. More

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    Storm Bert causes chaos in football as several EFL clashes are CALLED OFF just hours before kick-off

    STORM BERT caused chaos in the EFL as a number of matches were called off due to heavy snow and rain battering the UK.Fans of many clubs had already begun their journeys to stadiums up and down the country when announcements were made.Games up and down the country have been called off, with Bradford’s first to goCredit: GettyFleetwood vs MK Dons was postponed after a pitch inspectionHeavy rain at Ewood Park sees Blackburn vs Portsmouth called offCredit: X/ROVERSThe League Two clash between Bradford and Accrington Stanley was first to get called off.It was revealed at 10:30am that there would be a pitch inspection and just 20 minutes later the game was postponed.The turf at Valley Parade was deemed “unplayable” by the referee following torrential “snow and rainfall”.Staying in League Two, Fleetwood were set to welcome MK Dons this afternoon but the clash has also fallen victim to Storm Bert.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSalford’s clash against Bromley was called off just an hour before kick-off.Meanwhile, Portsmouth supporters had already begun the 270-mile journey up to Blackburn for their Championship clash when it was officially called out.Fans raged: “Disgrace for travelling fans. Why not do this at 8 or 9am?”Another added: “Genuinely upset.”Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third Pompey fan said: “In this day and age how can a Championship match be postponed? We’ve just arrived in Blackburn.”More commented: “We’ve spent over £300 on fuel, hotels and tickets this weekend.”The postponements give the EFL a major headache with the games needing to be rearranged in an already tight schedule.’Thunder and hail’ on route amid flooding & second overnight Storm Bert warningIn the National League, Halifax Town vs Sutton United and Rochdale vs Oldham Athletic have been axed due to the conditions.There is a Met Office amber weather warning in the north for snow and rain. More

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    Seven Man Utd stars who should be fearing for their future in January as Ruben Amorim already knows who he doesn’t want

    RUBEN AMORIM will want to stamp his mark on his new Manchester United squad as soon as possible.The former Sporting boss replaced Erik ten Hag and is preparing to take charge of his first match in charge at Ipswich on Sunday.Ruben Amorim will be weighing up which players he will be willing to let go in JanuaryCredit: GettyHe must make do with the current crop of players for the first few weeks of his tenure until the January transfer window opens.However, even then, it is understood he may not have an abundance of cash to splash to bring in his top targets straight away.And that could therefore see Amorim try and raise some funds by selling off some of the United players that fail to impress or fit into his favoured 3-4-3 system.But who is most at risk of facing the chop and could be heading out of the Old Trafford exit door early in 2025?READ MORE ON FOOTBALLJOSHUA ZIRKZEEJoshua Zirkzee may have only joined United in the summer but may already find himself as the third-choice striker under Amorim.The new manager’s preferred style favours the likes of Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund and there are concerns Zirkzee won’t fit the mould. It has been a tough start to life at Old Trafford for the Dutch striker, who has just one goal in his opening 17 appearances and allegedly was not even wanted by former boss Erik ten Hag before his £36.5million arrival. United and Zirkzee may decide this has not worked out and allow the 23-year-old to move elsewhere to continue his career before things turn sour. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSJoshua Zirkzee’s United spell could be over within six monthsCredit: AlamyCHRISTIAN ERIKSENThe Danish midfielder, 32, is out of contract at the end of the season and was linked with leaving last summer. Ten Hag kept Christian Eriksen on but the reality is his game time will be very limited in the Amorim formation and selling the veteran would mean United can get a fee for him.Ruben Amorim gives first Man Utd interview and reveals number one priority to revive fallen giantsChristian Eriksen might be on his way outCredit: AlamyCASEMIROCasemiro’s United career has been turbulent to say the least – but could it be about to fizzle out?The experienced Brazilian, 32, has struggled to have the impact he would have wanted and his impact was waning under Ten Hag.And that could reduce even further if Amorim opts for a midfield duo of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo. He is under contract until 2026 but is United’s top-paid player on a staggering £375,000 per week – meaning shipping him out to the Middle East would be an ideal solution.Casemiro may find his game time limited in the new Amorim systemCredit: ReutersALEJANDRO GARNACHOThis one could ruffle a few feathers but Alejandro Garnacho, 20, could be on his way of Old Trafford, too.The new 3-4-3 formation will likely see two supporting playmakers in behind the main striker – with wing-backs instead of wingers.And that could spell bad news for the Argentine.He is undoubtedly one of the most exciting talents in the Red Devils squad and fans would hate to see him leave.But a big offer for an unfancied star who could generate a huge profit may be appealing for Amorim and his boardroom bosses.Alejandro Garnacho is one the most valuable men in the Red Devils squadCredit: RexAMAD DIALLOSimilarly, Amad Diallo, 22, could find himself out of favour under Amorim.The winger’s contract is also expiring next summer and if Amorim does not want to use him, he may try and convince the club to sell him in January – rather than offer a new contract or let him go for free.Incredibly, Antony could be handed a lifeline at Old Trafford – with early training sessions hinting he could get a new lease of life as a wing-back. Amad Diallo’s future is up in the airCredit: ReutersHARRY MAGUIREAmorim is keen for a 3-4-3 formation with three centre-backs.The reality is Harry Maguire, 31, can play in a back three and has done so previously – including for England at the World Cup.But the reality is also that he will be behind Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro in the pecking order – plus potentially Luke Shaw if he moves into a left centre-back role.Maguire has been on the cusp of leaving several times and shaving his £190,000 off the weekly wage bill would help the finances. Harry Maguire may be on his way out of the clubCredit: EPAVICTOR LINDELOFOne could be forgiven for forgetting Victor Lindelof, 30, was still on the books at Old Trafford – more than seven years after arriving in 2017.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe will surely not get an extension on his current deal which expires at the end of the season.So trying to flog him in January would present the final chance to get anything for the Swedish defender. Victor Lindelof is way down the pecking order among the centre-backsCredit: Getty More

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    Sky Sports commentator stunned by ‘one of the strangest reactions to a goal I’ve ever seen’ by Watford fans

    WATFORD fans’ bizarre celebration of one of their goals against Plymouth Argyle left a Sky Sports commentator absolutely stunned.The Hertfordshire side drew 2-2 with Wayne Rooney’s troops at Home Park, with Vakoun Issouf Bayo opening the scoring for the visitors with a tap-in inside the 18-yard-box.Vakoun Issouf Bayo opened the scoring in Watford’s 2-2 draw with Plymouth on FridayCredit: GettyBut Watford fans didn’t celebrate the goal for nearly six seconds after the ball had hit the back of the netCredit: REXBut the travelling Hornets fans seemingly didn’t realise the Ivory Coast international had broken the deadlock as they celebrated SIX SECONDS after the ball had hit the back of the net.And Sky Sports commentator Don Goodman was left stunned, saying: “Well, that was one of the strangest reactions to a goal I think I’ve ever seen from an away section.”They had no idea where the ball had good.”You see it nestle in the back of the net. [Well], what they could see.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe clip of Watford fans’ delayed celebrations went viral and received a slew of comments on social media.One wrote on X: “Interesting reaction lol.”Another said: “Fans were buffering.”And another said: “Watford fans watching on the fire stick.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAndre Gray secured a point for Plymouth with a stoppage-time equaliserCredit: REUTERSOne remarked: “Was the away fans watching this on Netflix?”Another chimed in: “Interesting reaction.”I grabbed director of football by the throat and picked him off the floor in front of my team-mates, reveals Troy Deeney Andre Gray put Argyle back on level terms in the 23rd minute, although Watford restored their lead just before half time through Ryan Porteous.But the spoils ended up being shared thanks to a stoppage-time equaliser from former Hornet Gray.Watford will be back in action on Tuesday night, welcoming Bristol City to Vicarage Road.Plymouth, meanwhile, will travel to Carrow Road to take on Norwich City. More