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    Moment Cole Palmer stops interview to quiz Chelsea team-mate Marc Cucurella on his boots after Tottenham clash

    COLE PALMER stopped an interview in order to quiz Marc Cucurella on his boots after Chelsea’s win over Tottenham.The Blues ran out 4-3 winners in their away visit to North London after a thrilling match.Cole Palmer paused his interview to speak to Marc CucurellaCredit: Sky SportsThe Chelsea star wanted to know what the defender did with his bootsCredit: GettyCucurella threw the boots away after they caused him to slip against TottenhamCredit: instagramSpurs raced into a two-goal lead with both strikes coming after slips from Cucurella.The defender could be seen complaining about his boots after the second goal.Cucurella, 26, changed his footwear after the second slip cost his side.After the game, Palmer was being interviewed but could not resist asking his team-mate about his boots.READ MORE ON CHELSEAPalmer said: “Yo Marc, the boots, where are they?”To which the Spaniard replied: “They are in the bin.”Cucurella was telling the truth as he posted a picture of the boots in the bin on his social media.The snap was accompanied with the caption: “Sorry Blues”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDuring the match, Cucurella improved his performance after his change of footwear.He helped his side back into the contest by assisting Jadon Sancho in scoring.Marc Cucurella charges over to Chelsea bench and changes boots after being totally at fault for Tottenham’s second goalHe was able to poke fun at himself after the contest in another social media post.He wrote: “It almost slipped away…but proud of the amazing team effort to turn things around.”Manager Enzo Maresca insisted that the players are “mature enough” to decide on their own boots for matches.He said: “He said to me after the game that he was trying to bring emotion to the game.”No, being serious, to come this stadium against this team and be 2-0 down, but continue then with the same plan on and off the ball and then second half we changed things tactically.”I think overall we deserved to win.”It’s more a question for Marc. They are mature enough to decide what boots they need for the game.”The most important thing is that we were 2-0 but we continued the same way to create chances.”Palmer impressed himself during the match as he netted a brace from the spot.His two penalties saw him break a Premier League record by scoring 12 spot-kicks in a row.Team-mate Levi Colwill hailed him after being awarded the Player of the Match award.The defender said: “Congratulations, keep saving us.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTottenham star Yves Bissouma conceded the first penalty for a reckless foul on Moises Caicedo.The midfielder apologised to supporters after the game as he took to social media.Chelsea ratings vs TottenhamRobert Sanchez – 4The home fans were on to him for the entirety of the first half after he lumped the ball out of play early on. Not an awful lot he could’ve done about the goals, and he did recover well in the second half.Moises Caicedo – 6Chelsea’s best defender on the day, he put in some strong challenges inverting into midfield and put in a solid performance once again. Fortunate to escape a card for a late challenge on Pape Matar Sarr, before a brilliant second half.Benoit Badiashile – 4Looked uncomfortable playing as a left-footed centre-back on the right-hand side. Often didn’t help Robert Sanchez by playing him into trouble, and looked awkward when trying to progress from the back.Levi Colwill – 6Allowed Solanke to get in front of him and finish brilliantly at the near post for the opening goal. Didn’t have an awful lot to do in the second half, which was perhaps a good sign, as the whole defence was improved.Marc Cucurella – 4 Slipped at the vital moment to practically set Spurs through and open the scoring within five minutes, before slipping AGAIN which saw Kulusevski double the lead.Recovered really well after swapping his ice skates for football boots, nabbing the assist for Sancho’s goal and giving a solid showing for the whole second half. That said, he has to be marked down for the two goals.Romeo Lavia – 8Energetic, strong and smooth on the turn in midfield, with some brilliant line-breaking passes too. Much the same as Caicedo, he is becoming a dependable, impressive body in the Chelsea midfield. Came off at half-time for Malo Gusto, which must have been a tactical switch.Enzo Fernandez (c) – 9Didn’t misplace a single one of his 28 passes in the first half, the same as Lavia – before adding a stunning, game-winning, left-footed volley to his myriad of impressive actions.His best game in a Chelsea shirt came in one of their biggest matches of the season, as he continues his remarkable run of goal contributions.Pedro Neto – 7A threat on the right wing in the first half for Chelsea, he pressed well and came close to scoring Palmer’s deflected effort. A constant danger, he was creative but slightly lacked in end product if you’re being critical.Cole Palmer – 9Mis-kicked a chance in the first twenty minutes you would usually bet your house on him scoring, before coming close again with a shot from range moments later.Calmly dispatched his equalising penalty into the bottom corner, before setting up Enzo Fernandez to put his side in the lead. Added the cherry on the Chelsea cake with an ice-cold panenka from the penalty spot.Jadon Sancho – 8Excellent finish to pull one back for the Blues and spark hope among supporters. Generally sharp in build-up, and tricky feet as always, with a great slide-rule pass to see Caicedo win the penalty for Chelsea’s equaliser.Nicolas Jackson – 6Looked a threat going forward for Chelsea in spells, but failed to get himself on the scoresheet on this occasion. Seemed troubled as he departed the pitch for the oncoming Christopher Nkunku.SUBS: Malo Gusto (Romeo Lavia, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank. However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.Christopher Nkunku (Nicolas Jackson, 76)Got in some good positions and pressed well, remaining an outlet for the Chelsea attack when they countered. Ultimately not enough time to have the impact he would’ve liked.Noni Madueke (Pedro Neto, 86)Not enough time to impact the game in any way.Renato Veiga (Marc Cucurella, 90)Not enough time to give a solid review, hardly touched the ball.Joao Felix (Cole Palmer, 90)Came on with seven minutes to go, in which Chelsea were defending for the most part. More

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    Chelsea fans love Enzo Maresca’s ‘Frank Lampard tribute’ in live TV interview after win over Tottenham

    ENZO MARESCA pulled a “Frank Lampard” live on TV, leaving Chelsea fans in stitches. Chelsea staged an incredible comeback from 2-0 down to beat Tottenham 4-3 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday.Enzo Maresca pulled a ‘Frank Lampard’ in a live TV interview with Sky SportsCredit: Sky SportsAfter the comeback win Maresca saw the funny side of Marc Cucurella’s two early slips that gave Tottenham the leadCredit: GettyThe win left the Blues four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.However, speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Maresca was asked about Marc Cucurella’s nightmare opening minutes which saw him slip twice to gift Spurs their early advantage.The Italian saw the funny side of the situation and joked: “He said to me after the game that he was trying to bring emotion to the game!”But after a brief chuckle, the 44-year-old then switched to a more serious tone, saying: “No, being serious.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd fans could not help but notice the similarities between Maresca and former manager Lampard.Blues legend Lampard, who now manages Championship side Coventry, became well known for trying to crack a joke in interviews before switching to a more serious tone.Reacting to the similarities on social media, one fan said: “Lovely Frank Lampard tribute from Enzo Maresca here.”A second said: “‘No but seriously’,” followed by a pair of crying emojis.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third added: “This is brilliant.”Another said: “It’s a Chelsea thing.”Fans spot Frank Lampard do his trademark face change as clip of his first day at Coventry training emergesNumerous others responded by replying with laughing face emojis.Lampard himself is aware of the gimmick, revealing how his daughter teases him by sending him videos of the meme.In his “serious” reaction to Cucurella, Maresca said: “No, being serious, to come to this stadium against this team and be 2-0 down, but continue then with the same plan on and off the ball and then second half we changed things tactically. “I think overall we deserved to win.”It’s more a question for Marc. They are mature enough to decide what boots they need for the game. “The most important thing is that we were 2-0 but we continued the same way to create chances.”Chelsea ratings vs TottenhamCHELSEA came from two goals behind to beat Spurs 4-3 in a chaotic game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,Here’s how the Blues players rated…Robert Sanchez – 4The home fans were on to him for the entirety of the first half after he lumped the ball out of play early on.Not an awful lot he could’ve done about the goals, and he did recover well in the second half.Moises Caicedo – 6Chelsea’s best defender on the day, he put in some strong challenges inverting into midfield and put in a solid performance once again.Fortunate to escape a card for a late challenge on Pape Matar Sarr, before a brilliant second half.Benoit Badiashile – 4Looked uncomfortable playing as a left-footed centre-back on the right-hand side.Often didn’t help Robert Sanchez by playing him into trouble, and looked awkward when trying to progress from the back.Levi Colwill – 6Allowed Solanke to get in front of him and finish brilliantly at the near post for the opening goal.Didn’t have an awful lot to do in the second half, which was perhaps a good sign, as the whole defence was improved.Marc Cucurella – 4Slipped at the vital moment to practically set Spurs through and open the scoring within five minutes, before slipping AGAIN which saw Kulusevski double the lead.Recovered really well after swapping his ice skates for football boots, nabbing the assist for Sancho’s goal and giving a solid showing for the whole second half.That said, he has to be marked down for the two goals.Romeo Lavia – 8Energetic, strong and smooth on the turn in midfield, with some brilliant line-breaking passes too.Much the same as Caicedo, he is becoming a dependable, impressive body in the Chelsea midfield.Came off at half-time for Malo Gusto, which must have been a tactical switch.Enzo Fernandez (c) – 9Didn’t misplace a single one of his 28 passes in the first half, the same as Lavia – before adding a stunning, game-winning, left-footed volley to his myriad of impressive actions.His best game in a Chelsea shirt came in one of their biggest matches of the season, as he continues his remarkable run of goal contributions.Pedro Neto – 7A threat on the right wing in the first half for Chelsea, he pressed well and came close to scoring Palmer’s deflected effort.A constant danger, he was creative but slightly lacked in end product if you’re being critical.Cole Palmer – 9Mis-kicked a chance in the first twenty minutes you would usually bet your house on him scoring, before coming close again with a shot from range moments later.Calmly dispatched his equalising penalty into the bottom corner, before setting up Enzo Fernandez to put his side in the lead.Added the cherry on the Chelsea cake with an ice-cold panenka from the penalty spot.Jadon Sancho – 8Excellent finish to pull one back for the Blues and spark hope among supporters.Generally sharp in build-up, and tricky feet as always, with a great slide-rule pass to see Caicedo win the penalty for Chelsea’s equaliser.Nicolas Jackson – 6Looked a threat going forward for Chelsea in spells, but failed to get himself on the scoresheet on this occasion.Seemed troubled as he departed the pitch for the oncoming Christopher Nkunku.SUBS…Malo Gusto (Romeo Lavia, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.Christopher Nkunku (Nicolas Jackson, 76)Got in some good positions and pressed well, remaining an outlet for the Chelsea attack when they countered.Ultimately not enough time to have the impact he would’ve liked.Noni Madueke (Pedro Neto, 86)Not enough time to impact the game in any way.Renato Veiga (Marc Cucurella, 90)Not enough time to give a solid review, hardly touched the ball.Joao Felix (Cole Palmer, 90)Came on with seven minutes to go, in which Chelsea were defending for the most part.After the game, Cucurella apologised to fans by showing a picture of his old boots in the bin.Maresca added the win – Chelsea’s fourth in a row in the league – was “perfect”, though he remained coy on title talk.He said: “To come to this stadium and think you are going to win and not suffer, it’s impossible. It’s the perfect win probably because of this.”After the game, my message to the players is to be focused in the day by day, our sessions, the next game on Thursday and then Sunday. “The main focus has to be to enjoy the day off and when we come back, 100%, train well, go for the game.”The fans can dream because from the outside, it is quite clear and inside, the reality is we are not ready but the important thing is we improve day by day.”READ MORE SUN STORIESChelsea face Astana in their next game in the Europa Conference League on Thursday at the extraordinary kick-off time of 3:30pm.They then host Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. More

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    Ipswich legend rushed to hospital after ‘medical emergency’ in directors’ box during Bournemouth clash

    IPSWICH TOWN have confirmed that club legend Simon Milton was taken ill and rushed to hospital during Sunday’s match at Portman Road.Milton, 61, suffered a “medical emergency” midway through the club’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth while sat in the directors box.Ipswich confirmed that club ambassador Simon Milton was taken ill on SundayCredit: @IpswichTownMilton made over 300 appearances for the Tractor Boys as a playerCredit: PA:Empics SportHe immediately received treatment from first responders before being rushed to a nearby hospital.But the Tractor Boys have confirmed that he is now “in good spirits” following the incident.A statement from Ipswich on Sunday evening read: “We can confirm that former player and Club Ambassador Simon Milton fell unwell during Sunday’s Premier League fixture at home to AFC Bournemouth and was taken to hospital.”Simon is now stable and communicating. He is in good spirits and will head home to rest.Read More in Football”He would like to thank the first responders at Portman Road and those that have passed on their best wishes.”At this time we ask everyone to respect the privacy of Simon and his family.”Fans took to social media to wish the ex-midfielder well following the announcement.One person wrote: “With best wishes for a speedy recovery @Milts25.”Most read in FootballAnother commented: “Wishing Simon a very speedy recovery!”While a post from the official AFC Bournemouth account read: “Wishing Simon all the best.”Football teams that controversially changed their badgeMilton joined Ipswich from Bury Town in 1987 and went on to spend 11 years with the club.During that time he made over 300 appearances.After retiring from football in 1998 he became a club ambassador.Ipswich suffered a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth on Sunday.Conor Chaplin put the Tractor Boys ahead in the 21st minute before Enes Unal and Dango Ouattara struck late to flip the match on its head.The result left Ipswich 18th in the Premier League table. More

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    David Moyes refuses to rule out sensational return to West Ham for third spell with Julen Lopetegui on the brink of axe

    DAVID MOYES has refused to rule out a return to West Ham under the right circumstances. The Scottish manager left the London club last summer, being replaced by Julen Lopetegui in the hopes of him engineering a more positive style of play.David Moyes could return to West Ham under the right circumstancesCredit: AFPJulen Lopetegui is on the brink of being axed after losing seven of his opening 14 league gamesCredit: PAHowever, seven defeats in the opening 14 Premier League games have left the Spaniard on the brink of the axe.Moyes has spent two previous spells at West Ham, landing the club a historic Europa Conference League trophy during his second.And with Lopetegui on the brink, a remarkable third spell at West Ham is possible in the right circumstancesThe 61-year-old has told Hammers owner David Sullivan he is available for work but is happy to wait for the right opening.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSunSport exclusively revealed how Lopetegui’s future rests on the outcome of the clash with Wolves on Monday evening.Gary O’Neil in the other dugout is also thought to be on the brink, seeing the game dubbed “El Sackico”.Wolves have also made an approach for Moyes as they eye a replacement for O’Neil.But Moyes has told Wolves chiefs he is not interested in discussing a move while they still have a manager in place.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlthough there are severe doubts over Moyes’ willingness to take the job even if it was vacant.In all, Moyes has managed 261 games at West Ham across two spells firstly from November 2017 to May 2018 and then from December 2019 to June this year.Awkward moment new BBC MOTD favourite upsets David Moyes with comment live on TV as he gives deadpan response More

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    Tottenham star Bissouma says he ‘takes all the responsibility’ for Chelsea shambles after crucial turning point in game

    YVES BISSOUMA has taken full responsibility for Tottenham’s defeat to Chelsea.Spurs were beaten by the Blues in the Premier League 4-3 at home on Sunday.Moises Caicedo was fouled in the box by Yves BissoumaCredit: APThe Spurs star has apologised for his errorCredit: GettyCole Palmer scored from the spot to inspire a Chelsea victoryCredit: GettyThe North London outfit had raced into a two-goal lead before the visitors pulled off a stunning comeback.Jadon Sancho fired in a brilliant goal before Chelsea were handed the opportunity to level proceedings.Bissouma, 28, was penalised for a reckless foul on Moises Caicedo in the Spurs box in the 59th minute.Cole Palmer converted the chance to equalise before he and Enzo Fernandez scored to make it 4-2.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSon Heung-min netted a late consolation, but by then, the result was Chelsea’s.After the game, Bissouma took to social media to apologise to fans as he was “burning” by his error.He wrote: “I’m so sad for that mistake. It’s burning me because we lost the game today from this mistake.”I feel sorry for my teammates, staff, and fans. I take all the responsibility for that one.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”l’ll learn from this one. It’s time now to show the real me.”Thanks for all the support.”Chelsea stars Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez pelted with missiles from stands during Tottenham clashJamie Carragher slammed the midfielder on Sky Sports for his foul and labelled the decision as “braindead”.He said: “I’ve said all day that some of the things Tottenham players do is absolutely ridiculous.”It’s a certain penalty, and it was his [Bissouma’s] mistake initially on the far side, losing the ball to Neto.”And he maybe comes flying across thinking I’ve got to try and rectify this in some way.”He was really poor on the first challenge on Neto. That is absolutely braindead. I mean, who’d be a manager?”Palmer’s brace of penalties in the match saw him break a Premier League record.He has now scored 12 spot-kicks in a row, which has surpassed Yaya Toure’s record of 11.Spurs started the game in fine form as they took advantage of Marc Cucurella’s poor boot choice to go two goals up.During the match, Palmer had to contend with being pelted with cards from the home crowd.READ MORE SUN STORIESChelsea star Nicolas Jackson was also involved as he stopped Fernandez landing himself a yellow card after his goal.The Argentine appeared to be about to take off his shirt before the striker intervened. More

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    Luke Littler could become second-youngest winner of BBC SPOTY as shortlist revealed including Bellingham & Hodgkinson

    LUKE LITTLER will vie with Jude Bellingham and Keely Hodgkinson for the affection of the British public after being shortlisted for the 2024 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.The teen sensation is the youngest of the six contenders” for the prestigious TV award, which has been running annually since 1954.Luke Littler has won 10 titles in his incredible 12 months in dartsCredit: GettyKeely Hodgkinson took 800m gold at the Paris Olympics in AugustCredit: GettyJude Bellingham landed Champions League glory in his first Real seasonCredit: GettyLionesses’ keeper Mary Earps took the 2023 SPOTY awardCredit: PAThe Nuke will be up against Real Madrid’s Champions League winner Bellingham, Olympic 800 metres gold medallist Hodgkinson, record-breaking cricketer Joe Root, Paralympic cycling champion Dame Sarah Storey and triathlete Alex Yee.Littler, 17, has been deservedly recognised for his exceptional exploits in his first year as a darts professional.The Warrington ace made it to the PDC World Championship final on January 3 – he was defeated 7-4 by Luke Humphries at Ally Pally – and then became Premier League champion in May following a superb nine-dart leg.Littler – who has banked more than £1million in prize money throughout 2024 – has won 10 titles in total and thrilled crowds across the country with his outstanding displays despite leaving school only last year.READ MORE TOP SPORTIf Littler receives the most votes on the night of Tuesday December 17 – and Hodgkinson is the bookies’ favourite – he would be the second-youngest winner in the event’s history.The youngest recipient was 17-year-old Scottish swimmer Ian Black, who was victorious in 1958 ahead of footballers Bobby Charlton and Nat Lofthouse.Littler turns 18 next month and is the fave for this year’s World Championship, which starts on Sunday. He could even have double success on the night as he is also shortlisted for the Young Sports Personality of the Year category.Most read in DartsJoe Root become England’s leading Test scorer and also hit a 262Credit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPhil Taylor was second behind jockey Tony McCoy at SPOTY 2010 but has told Littler he should consider skipping the night and staying at home so can fully focus on trying to win the Sid Waddell Trophy in the New Year.Football has provided seven winners of the main award, including Paul Gascoigne, Michael Owen, David Beckham and Ryan Giggs.Jude Bellingham’s glorious England moment brought back in styleBBC SPOTY 2024 CONTENDERSHere are the runners and riders in with a shot of ultimate glory…Luke Littler – DartsJude Bellingham – FootballKeely Hodgkinson – AthleticsJoe Root – CricketDame Sarah Storey – Paralympic cyclingAlex Yee – TriathlonBellingham helped Madrid win the LaLiga title and the Champions League at Wembley, contributing a remarkable 23 goals across all competitions in his debut season at the Bernabeu.Though England lost the European Championship final to Spain in Berlin, the 21-year-old scored twice in the competition, including an incredible bicycle kick in the 2-1 Last 16 win over Slovakia.Hodgkinson, 22, became the tenth British woman to claim an Olympic title in athletics as she stormed to glory over two laps at the Stade de France.Root, 33, made history in style as he surpassed Alastair Cook’s mark of 12,472 runs to become England’s leading scorer in Test cricket with a career best 262 against Pakistan in October.Mum-of-two Storey, 47, is Britain’s greatest Paralympian and added two more gold medals to her impressive collection as she won cycling’s C4-C5 road race and C5 road time trial in Paris.And Yee, 26, enjoyed a stunning 2024 in which he was crowned both Olympic and world champion.What is most surprising is that the shortlist has been confined to six people for the seventh year running – rather than be expanded because it is an Olympic and Paralympic year.It does not include the likes of cycling hero Mark Cavendish, who retired after winning a record 35th Tour de France stage.Road cyclist Tom Pidcock and trampolinist Bryony Page – who are both Olympic champions – have also been snubbed as organisers kept it to a small list.And swimmer Poppy Maskill, 19, would consider herself unlucky not to be nominated after winning five medals at the Paralympics, including three golds.Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott will present the show live on BBC One but Gary Lineker has stepped down as host after 23 years in the role.The judging panel consisted of 12 people – former sportspeople, broadcasters, journalists and BBC executives – and included retired cyclist Laura Kenny and ex-Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha.READ MORE SUN STORIESOther awards presented on the night are World Sport Star of the Year, the Helen Rollason Award, Young Sports Personality of the Year, Unsung Hero, Coach of the Year, Team of the Year and Lifetime Achievement award .Lioness goalkeeper Mary Earps took home the coveted title of BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2023.Team GB’s greatest Paralympian Sarah Storey won two more goldsCredit: RexTriathlete Alex Yee won both Olympic and world titlesCredit: Rex More

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    Artificial ‘intelligence’ reveals the sexiest male football pundit on TV according to ‘golden ratio’

    ARTIFICIAL “intelligence” has named Peter Crouch the sexiest male football pundit on TV.The 6ft 7in ex-England forward, famed for his robot goal celebration, scored 17.39 out of 20 on the AI beauty tool.Pundit Peter Crouch scored 17.39 out of 20 on the AI beauty toolIt measured facial ­symmetry and structure, health, smile and eyes and social media feedback.Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist was second with a score of 16.12, ­followed by ex-Tottenham Hotspur player Michael Dawson on 14.63.BBC Match of the Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman was fourth on 14.42.Ex-Man United hardman Roy Keane was in last place with just 9.59.READ MORE ON PETER CROUCHGary Neville came twenty-fourth on 11.67 with Gary Lineker twenty-fifth on 11.21 and Rio Ferdinand twenty-seventh on 11.11.Betting tips and news site Footy Accumulators used the Golden Ratio Face app to measure the looks of 38 pundits.A spokesman said: “Crouch was the clear winner and is the most attractive male pundit on TV.”“As well as expert knowledge he brings sex appeal to punditry and gets female viewers hot under the collar.”Most read in FootballMy Premier League team-mate was catfishing fans… it really annoyed me and I can’t believe supporters fell for it’Peter Crouch – 17.39Ally McCoist – 16.12Michael Dawson – 14.63Mark Chapman – 14.42Shay Given – 14.41Dion Dublin – 13.94Don Hutchison – 13.45Glenn Hoddle – 13.1Joleon lescott – 13.06Ashley Williams – 13.04 More

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    Sonia Bompastor praises ‘brave’ Chelsea display as WSL leaders extend winning run with defeat of Brighton

    SONIA BOMPASTOR hailed Hannah Hampton for helping Chelsea snuff out Brighton despite a clearance leading to an Albion goal.The Blues goalkeeper pulled off some stunning saves as Sjoeke Nusken’s brace contributed to a 4-2 defeat of the Seagulls on Sunday.Chelsea’s win enabled them to maintain their five-point lead at the WSL’s summit following Man City’s 4-0 defeat of LeicesterCredit: PASome well-executed saves from Hannah Hampton helped Chelsea protect their advantageCredit: GettySjoeke Nusken bagged her first two WSL goals for this season netting twice for ChelseaCredit: ReutersBrighton had nine shots on target including one from ex-Blues ace Jelena Cankovic who scored their first-half equaliserCredit: PAThe hosts registered their ninth win in nine games to maintain their flawless run and five-point lead at the summit. Bompastor’s side also equalled Arsenal’s record of nine straight victories in the top-flight set during 2018 to 2019 campaignAnd the six-goal thriller at Kingsmeadow included two goals conceded by Chelsea and Albion following wobbly moments at the back. This included Hampton’s 71st-minute attempted clearance paving the way for Kiko Seike netting Brighton’s second goal. Read More Football StoriesBlues boss Bompastor said: “Hannah had a great game even when you analyse her performance and you can also see the (second) goal we conceded. “But I don’t care about that when we get a win. “For me it’s more important for my players to try even if they don’t succeed. I want them to be brave and confident enough to try again. “And when you look at her performance the balance is more positive.Most read in Football”She made some great saves that allowed us to stay in the game and that’s what I focus on.” The Seagulls, who had forward Fran Kirby absent due to a calf injury, pushed their hosts all the way as they mounted a late fightback. The visitors had nine shots on target during the match and prompted some quality saves from Hampton, including a close-range stop from a Seike strike late on. Bompastor added: “Before the game in the press conference, someone told me you are dominating the league and it was not good for the league “This game showed we have a competitive league. “We were expecting a difficult game with players returning from international duty. “And at this time of the year they are fatigued and at these times it’s important to focus on performance and having good energy to win”Ex-Blues midfielder Jelena Cankovic had a ninth-minute strike cleared off the line in a frantic first half. Jorelyn Carabali forced Hampton to save her headed effort with an outstretched leg at the half hour point. And the deadlock was broken when Nusken exploited Brighton’s attempts to pass out from the back, easing the ball across the line in the 35th minute. Albion goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley was caught dawdling by Aggie Beever-Jones as Chelsea took a 2-0 lead in 40 minutesBut the Seagulls rallied with Cankovic pulling a goal back with a swept-in effort close to half-time. The second half saw highly-rated forward Michelle Agyemang come on for the visitors.But their hosts took a 3-1 lead with Johanna Rytting Kaneryd netting after Baggaley’s 51st minute save of Lucy Bronze’s shot deflected off herBut Agyemang, on loan from Arsenal, gave Brighton hope of a possible draw as her charge down of Hampton’s clearance teed up Seike’s walloped finishThe Japan striker had a late shot stopped by Hampton before Chelsea put the game to bed with Nusken’s injury-time header. And the result saw Albion drop to fifth before their league clash with Tottenham on Saturday, as Arsenal moved up to third spot with Manchester United sitting fourth. Brighton boss Dario Vidosic said: “We knew we had to come out and we wanted to try to win. “We probably could have scored five or six. “We made a few little mistakes that we normally don’t make, but that’s all part of the process.”But I’m really proud (of the players’ performance) after a short period with disruptions leading into this. Kiko Seike netted her fifth goal in eight WSL appearances when she scored Brighton’s secondCredit: Getty “We lost three players in Fran (Kirby), Maisie (Symonds) and Madison (Haley to injuries) during the international break. READ MORE SUN STORIES”To put in the performance we did it would have been just that we got something out of it.”We didn’t but we’ll learn from this and we’ll be ready to go again on Wednesday night (in the League Cup against Bristol City).” More