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    Arne Slot aims dig at Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool boss says ‘I’m a stupid manager if 12.30pm kick offs are more difficult’

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    ARNE SLOT is leading an unlikely revolution at Liverpool – by embracing early Premier League kick-off times. Slot’s predecessor Jurgen Klopp regularly railed against his hated “breakfast slot” during his Anfield tenure. Arne Slot is embracing 12.30 kick-offs as he looks to lead Liverpool to the titleCredit: EPAThe Premier League’s scheduling was a constant bug-bear for Jurgen KloppCredit: GettyKlopp was a vocal critic of the early kick-offs, which he argued were bad for both players and fans.He memorably raged in May: “They dare to give us Thursday-Sunday-Wednesday-Saturday 12.30 – it’s a crime! “I was waiting for Amnesty International to go to them.”But Slot – who has broken records over his first two months in charge on Merseyside – is currently more accepting of the gruelling schedule.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Reds boss said: “In general, the league where I’m coming from in Holland, they are more aware and try to help the teams that play in Europe more than it happens over here.”But to be fair to the English FA, our schedule is so tight that it is so, so difficult.”I think it is also something that has to do with the people sitting in front of me [the broadcasters], for the television stations – I have the feeling I do an interview every day.”That is why we play at 12.30 because they can pick which team they want to have, and then nine out of 10 times Liverpool is included.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSlot went on to claim it was not the kick-off time that was the issue for him, but tough Premier League away days. He continued: “I don’t think it has so much to do with the 12.30 kick-offs. For me, it is that every away game is difficult.Fans stunned as Arne Slot ‘cooks’ Man Utd with savage statement after Red Devils’ Tottenham humiliation”Because we play so many times then at 12.30, people talk about 12.30. “I think we have to talk about an away game because that is difficult.”If 12.30 was a difficult time to perform, then I’m a really stupid manager because we train every day at 12 o’clock!”I don’t see the idea behind it being that difficult performing at that time.”Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave KiddNOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.Klopp got it wrong.Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.Liverpool’s record over the years suggests they would prefer to avoid the 12.30pm kick-off time at all costs.Since the start of the Premier League, they have played 50 games in the early time slot.Of those matches, Liverpool have run out winners on 23 occasions, drawing 16 and losing 11.It makes the time slot the second-worst overall for the club, only behind 1.30pm starts. According to the stats, Liverpool’s best time to play is at 2pm. Of the 24 Premier League games they’ve played in that slot, they’ve won 18 at a win percentage of 75 per cent.Managers across the league continue to hit out at the Prem’s scheduling, despite Klopp departing over the summer. Most recently, Man Utd’s Erik ten Hag was fuming ahead of his team’s game against Southampton last month. READ MORE SUN STORIESTen Hag told TNT: “First of all, for the fans it is very unfair to deal with this, with 8pm away games on a Saturday night.”The 12.30pm, it’s not right, but they are always there. I’m so proud of our fans that they are always there. More

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      Aerial photos of Stamford Bridge show stadium damage caused by Gent fans during Conference League clash

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      CHELSEA’S first Conference League match of the season was marred by violent scenes from Gent fans at Stamford Bridge.The Blues hosted the Belgian outfit in the League Phase and won 4-2 with a convincing display by Enzo Maresca’s men.Shocking aerial photos show the full extent of the damage caused by Gent fansCredit: PAGent fans tore seats out of Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge groundCredit: PAGent fans caused chaos both inside and outside of Chelsea’s groundCredit: PAGent fans threw the seats away after tearing them outCredit: PAHowever, travelling fans caused chaos both inside and outside of the stadium before the game even began.The visitors filled the plush streets of west London with flares and loud chants as they made their way into the ground.Fans waved scarves over their heads and blocked the middle of the road as cyclists tried to weave between the crowd while buses were completely halted.And when inside, the carnage continued when some fans tore up chairs in the stands and threw them away.Read More on ChelseaThe Chelsea fans were left further horrified when the Bobby Tambling banner from the upper tier was torn down.And shocking aerial footage showed the full extent of the damage done.Almost entire rows of seats have been ripped off in what poses as a shameful site.Chelsea, though, had a smooth evening on the pitch as they cruised to their first ever Conference League victory.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe hosts opened the scoring after just 12 minutes with Renato Veiga’s first ever goal for the club and doubled their lead one minute into the second half with Pedro Neto.Gent hit back with Tsuyoshi Watanabe just four minutes later but Christopher Nkunku put the game away on 63 minutes.Enzo Maresca insists identity of Chelsea is starting to take shape Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall also scored his first ever Chelsea goal only seven minutes later.And Wouter Vrancken’s side grabbed another consolation goal with Omri Gandelman in the 90th-minute mark.Chelsea went on to pick up an easy victory over GentCredit: GettyChelsea won 4-2 despite the shameful scenes at the standsCredit: GettyChelsea’s Renato Veiga and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored their first Chelsea goals despite the chaosCredit: GettyGent fans caused bedlam in the Conference LeagueCredit: Rex More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe REFUSES to back under-fire Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag and reveals ‘it’s not my decision’ if he’s sacked

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has refused to back Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.Instead, the Red Devils co-owner has revealed “it’s not my decision” if the under-fire boss is sacked.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has revealed ‘it’s not my decision’ if Erik ten Hag is sackedCredit: GettyThe Manchester United manager is under mounting pressure already this seasonCredit: GettyTen Hag is under mounting pressure at Old Trafford following a slow start to the new season.His side are currently 13th in the Premier League after winning just two of their opening six matches.Sunday’s 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham added to his woes United suffered their third league defeat of the campaign.Meanwhile, a stoppage time header from Harry Maguire was needed to rescue a draw against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTen Hag, who had his contract extended in July, could now be the first managerial casualty of the season.However, Ratcliffe has admitted it will not be up to him if the Dutchman stays or goes.Asked if he has faith in Ten Hag, the British billionaire told BBC Sport: “I don’t want to answer that question…”I like Erik. I think he’s a very good coach but at the end of the day it’s not my call, it’s the management team that’s running Manchester United that have to decide how we best run the team in many different respects.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”But that team that’s running Manchester United has only been together since June or July.”They weren’t there in January, February, March or April – [CEO] Omar [Berrada], [sporting director] Dan Ashworth – they only arrived in July.Erik ten Hag bemoans defensive lapses as Man Utd waste flying start in Porto Man Utd ratings vs PortoMAN UTD ended up with a 3-3 draw after throwing away a 2-0 lead away to Porto.Here’s how SunSport’s Dylan Terry rated the Red Devils’ stars performances in PortugalAndre Onana – 6/10Reacted brilliantly the first time he was called into action with a flying save, only for Porto to score the rebound.Porto then scored with their next shot on target too – Omorodion’s header – and Onana could do little about the excellent finish for Porto’s third.Made two great stops to keep Man Utd in the game.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Looked fairly stable in the first 45 minutes but waned as the game went on.All at sea at the start of the second half as Porto cut through the right-hand side of Man Utd’s defence with ease.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Looked imposing in the air as he dealt with Porto’s crosses from both sides, but then failed to get in front of Omorodion for the hosts’ second goal.Like most of the Man Utd side, his performance dropped as the game went on and he was bullied by Porto’s No9.Lisandro Martinez – 4Should have reacted quicker for the first Porto goal as Pepe got ahead of him to nod into an empty net – with Martinez static on the six-yard box.There is clearly not much of a partnership with De Ligt as Porto pulled them apart all evening.Diogo Dalot – 4Porto enjoyed a lot of success down Man Utd’s left-hand side and Dalot looked all at sea on several occasions.Had little help from Martinez but still looked exposed.Casemiro – 3Anonymous yet again in Man Utd’s midfield – the ball just passes him by.Could not even manage one of his customary fouls.Christian Eriksen – 5Looked leggy out of possession but produced an impressive run before laying it off to Hojlund for Man Utd’s second goal.Then failed to make much more of an impact and his delivery from wide areas left a lot to be desired.Bruno Fernandes – 4A damning indictment of Man Utd’s current predicament as Fernandes was shown a red card for a second successive game.Two high boots, two yellow cards, and another early bath for the Portuguese playmaker – who had worked tirelessly prior to his dismissal.Amad Diallo – 5Very quiet aside from one burst through the middle as Rashford received all of the ball over the other side.Replaced by Antony who arguably created even less.Rasmus Hojlund – 7Made his case for starting ahead of Joshua Zirkzee with a goal, firing beyond Costa at the near post.Held it up and then showed his strength and pace to run at Porto before the break – showing little rustiness in his first start of the season.Marcus Rashford – 8Rashford showed his directness for the opening goal, driving at the Porto back line and forcing the error from Costa.A constant threat in the first half as he assisted Hojlund’s strike.But he was then surprisingly hooked at the break, a decision that will need an explanation from Ten Hag.See how the Man Utd subs rated here”They’ve only been there…you can count it in weeks almost – they’ve not been there a long time so they need to take stock and make some sensible decisions.”Our objective is very clear – we want to take Manchester United back to where it should be, and it’s not there yet, obviously – that’s very clear.”Ten Hag has been in charge since replacing interim boss Ralf Rangnick in the summer of 2022.As for Ratcliffe, he purchased a 27.7 per cent stake in the club back in February and has since overhauled the football operations at United.Newly-appointed CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth are now overseeing Ten Hag’s performance.The United boss’ next test comes on Sunday, when his side visit Aston Villa in their final match before the international break.Omar Berradea (centre) and Dan Ashworth (right) will decide the manager’s futureCredit: PATen Hag’s side have already lost three times in the league and are winless in EuropeCredit: Reuters More

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      Wolves star caught up in bizarre international row after he’s called up by both England AND Portugal U18s on SAME DAY

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      MATEUS MANE is in a bizarre country vs country row – after being called up by TWO nations.Club vs country spats are commonplace, especially during the international breaks so early in the season.Mateus Mane has been called up by both England and PortugalCredit: GettyThe teenager was born in Portugal and played for them last seasonCredit: instagram @mane.mateus11But two different nations are battling it out to have a Wolves youngster play for them this month.That is because England AND Portugal named Mateus Mane in their Under-18s squads. Young Lions’ U18s boss Liam Bramley confirmed his group of players for an upcoming tournament in Marbella.England face Sweden next Friday in the semi-final of the four-team event.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey will then take on either Ukraine or Netherlands in either the final or third-place play-off. However, Emilio Peixe wants Mane to be available 24 hours earlier on Thursday when Portugal U18s play Turkey in a friendly on Thursday evening. It is understood Mane is eligible for both teams having played for the Portugal U17s last season before making his England debut against Portugal in September ahead of fixtures against Switzerland and France.But because U18s is a non-UEFA age group, both nations are entitled to call the player up.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, Mane will need to make up his mind on the dilemma as he finds himself at the centre of the unusual tug of war. And both Wolves and England confirmed he would feature for the Young Lions in Marbella next week. Boy Wonders: Meet Wes Okoduwa, the Wolves teenager already linked to Man Utd and ChelseaTeenager Mane was born in Barreiro – just outside Lisbon – in September 2007.He spent time in the academy of FC Barreirense.But in 2016, Mane switched sunny Portugal for the north-west of England as he switched to Rochdale’s youth set-up.Then in 2024, the youngster signed for Wolves. He has started the 2024-25 Premier League 2 season in red-hot form, too, with two goals and two assists from his three appearances so far. So it is little surprise two countries he is eligible to represent are battling over his allegiance.However, Mane knows he will not need to commit to one national team permanently just yet due to Fifa rules which allow players to swap until they have earned a senior competitive cap. The striker has made an emphatic start to the Premier League 2 campaignCredit: instagram @mane.mateus11Mane made his debut for England against Portugal in SeptemberCredit: Getty More

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      Mikey Moore, 17, is Spurs’ own Grealish and has been tipped for stardom since age of 8 as coach credits BOXING for rise

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      THERE has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some time – and his full debut against Ferencvaros on Thursday showed why.Having only turned 17 in August, the South Londoner is viewed by many at Tottenham as the most exciting prospect to come through their academy since Harry Kane.There has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some timeCredit: AlamyMoore showed why Spurs fans are so excited in the Europa League win over FerencvarosCredit: GettyMoore played 90 minutes for Spurs in HungaryCredit: GettyWatching him tear around the Groupama Arena – where he played the full 90-plus minutes – backed up the hype.HOW DO THEY PLAY AND WHO DO THEY REMIND YOU OF?Moore can play across the front line from left wing, right wing, No10 and even No9.He started wide right in Budapest and caused the Hungarian side’s left-back all manner of problems with his mazy dribbles – before switching to the left in the second half.He reminds you of Jack Grealish, mainly because of his short-socked look, but also because of his excellent control of the ball when running forward.READ MORE IN footballMoore does not quite have Grealish’s physicality yet but to be fair, for one so young, he still has robustness and power that belies his tender years.As impressed team-mate James Maddison put it on Wednesday: “When he first came up (to the seniors) I had to remind myself how young he actually is.“He was 16 and more of like a man already.“When I watch him play, he’s very powerful, and he’s only going to get stronger as he develops into his body.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe is yet to score his first senior goal for Spurs but when he does, do not be surprised to see him nick Son Heung-min’s ‘taking a photograph’ celebration as that is what he has done at youth level.Spurs captain Son is a huge fan of the whizkid, who he has praised for his inquisitive nature and has tipped to be a “top player”.Transfer fees could be SCRAPPED forever after Lassana Diarra wins landmark court case against FifaThe South Korean icon said last month: “Mikey is coming to me most of the time and asking questions, which is very fun. I enjoy talking to him.“He’s a fantastic boy and I’m definitely sure that he can be a fantastic player. There’s no doubt because he has such amazing quality.”TELL US ABOUT THEIR RISEMoore first joined Tottenham at eight and instantly stood out because of his technical ability, his dribbling and ball-striking skills, his determination and enthusiasm.People at the club quickly took notice of his potential and he was involved in England’s youth set-up from Under-15 level.That physique Maddison referenced may well have been finessed thanks to another sport popular with many footballers such as Wayne Rooney.As Moore’s former youth coach Sam Cox revealed to SunSport: “He did a bit of boxing in his younger ages which probably helped his game.”Moore also impressed with his professional approach to his game from an early age, and has been supported by what Cox refers to as a “fantastic” family of his mum, dad and brothers.Moore came up through Spurs’ academyCredit: GettyHe is the most exciting Spurs graduate since Harry KaneCredit: RexHe helped Spurs to win the Premier League 2 title last season, often linking up with PL2 player of the year Will Lankshear, who also made his bow against Ferencvaros.The pair are close and it speaks to how young they are that they are that they still get changed in the academy section of the training ground as they are viewed as Under-21 players.His maturity when dealing with the few media duties he has had so far has been noted by his coaches.Moore expressed how he felt like he had not achieved anything yet when signing his first professional contract earlier this summer, underlining his level-headed attitude.WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?Cox, a former Tottenham academy product himself, worked in Spurs’ academy for a decade and has seen a lot of talent in that time.He first started working with Moore at Under-11 level, describing the youngster as “standing out from the pack”.Cox, who recently managed non-league Oxford City, believes the same reports that were being written about Moore then would bear a resemblance to the ones now: ie two-footed, being respectful and hungry to succeed.You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.Sam CoxThe 33-year-old added: “I’ve worked with a lot of young players over my years of Spurs and the ten years I was working in the academy and then previous to that my six years playing there, there’s been some super talent that’s come through.“You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.“Marcus Edwards was a phenomenal talent. Back in my day there was a young player called Terry Dixon, who was a phenomenal talent, and then obviously Harry Kane. I would quite confidently say Mikey is in and amongst that company.James Maddison with MooreCredit: Getty“There are probably two moments for me that stand out with Mikey, having worked with him across the age groups up to Under-16s.“One was Under-11s, we were playing a tournament over at Charlton and there was one incident where he dribbled past a couple of players and was near the halfway line and dinked the goalkeeper.“He’s always the youngest of the age group too which is always difficult because players are often physically better.”But Mikey had no fear and that tournament he went past a couple of players and lobbed the goalkeeper from the halfway line, I thought, ‘Wow, he’s a ten-year-old doing this. Unbelievable to have that kind of football IQ’.“The other moment was Under-14s. I used to join in training sometimes in games and in practice and I was marking Mikey. He was 14 and I was about 27.“He got the ball, he dropped the shoulder, jinked, ended up going past me and sticking it in the top bins and I thought, blimey he’s doing this at 14 to me and I’m supposed to be in the peak of my career.”Those little moments make you think this boy has got something.”WHAT DOES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD?Spurs fans were already serenading Moore with chants of “he’s one of our own” – just as they used to with Kane – before he made his full debut.So they were fully aware of his exciting potential.The question then was how quickly would Ange Postecoglou throw him in and the answer, at least in the Europa League, was pretty darn fast.Now the question has become is Moore ready to start a Premier League game at such a tender age.There is a chance it could happen this Sunday at Brighton, given captain Son is “unlikely” to be involved, though it is more probable Timo Werner gets the nod.But a first Prem start does not feel long away and there is an opportunity for him to stake a first-team claim over the next year under Postecoglou, who is unafraid of giving kids a shot.Moore heaped praise on his boss after his full debut in Budapest, commenting: “He is giving me little tips all the time, really.READ MORE SUN STORIES“To be fair him putting me in the team, you get the trust straight away so I am thankful for him starting me and putting his trust in me.”Spurs have done well not to block Moore’s development path and, in a similar manner to how Manchester City handled a young Phil Foden, you could see him slowly but surely becoming a key figure over the coming years.Moore announced himself against FerencvarosCredit: Rex More

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      EFL icon recalls his wildest stories, including spiked team-mate turning into Spider-Man and hothead boss’ topless rant

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      EFL legend Darren Pratley has revealed his team-mate once turned into Spider-Man after being spiked on a night out.Pratley helped Swansea up the divisions earlier in his career and played one season in the Premier League for Bolton.Darren Pratley shared a deep dive on his career in ‘What the EFL?’Credit: PA:Empics SportEx-team-mate Rory Fallon acted like Spider-Man after being spikedCredit: GettyBut it is Swansea where he has some of his fondest memories – including his funniest training ground story.He shared some tall tales from his career with SunSport as part of the “What the EFL?” series.From topless manager rants to a moment that still haunts him, Pratley shared all on his 21-year career.WILDEST TRAINING GROUND TALERory Fallon, and we always used to go on a jog. He’d been out the night before, came to training late, he’d been spiked, so he was Spider-Man the night before, apparently jumping around and doing crazy stuff.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBEST EFL PLAYERAdel Taarabt played against him. I played in that game that they keep showing on the EFL where he nutmegs Joe Allen and cuts inside and scores.BEST EFL FANSI’d have to go Swansea, wouldn’t I? Swansea, Swansea, Jacks. Yeah, apart from Leyton Orient, I’d have to go Swansea.DODGIEST EFL FACILITIESAgain, probably be Swansea. We used to train at the David Lloyd gym, so we would be showering after training with the public.If you didn’t have a good result, they would be asking you why when you’re naked in the showers.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEFL FANS WHO LIVE RENT FREE IN YOUR HEADI’d say Millwall. I’ve scored a few goals against them. Six-, seven-, eight-year-olds who give you a bit of stick when you warm up. It’s an intimidating place to go, so probably I’d say Millwall.EFL star banned for eight matches for biting Liverpool legend Ian Rush’s nephew MOMENT THAT STILL HAUNTS YOUWe played Blackpool in the last game of the season. I think we just had to get a win. So they turned up, Phillips, Ince and all them, and it was 3-0 down after, I think, 15 minutes, and then we ended up missing out on goal difference, I think, on the play-offs.MADDEST DRESSING ROOM TALEIn my first loan at Brentford, at half-time, Martin Allen sits in the centre of the room on a chair with his top off, screaming, shouting at everyone. Didn’t know what was going on.MADDEST TRANSFER STORYAt Charlton, David Cotterill, he was texting me the night before saying that Charlton had offered him a contract, a couple of years and all that, and good money and that, and I was quite shocked, to be fair. And then he turned up the next day at the gates, thinking that he was coming in to sign a contract. Lee Bowyer had come to the gates and was like, show me the emails you’ve been getting, I have a messenger. It wasn’t the manager who he’d been speaking to, someone had pretended to be the manager on an email. He had to go home.WILDEST OWNER ANTICSAt Bolton, Lee Anderson, so he used to come in, we’d be in the changing room, the boys would have discussions whether they were going on a strike, whether they were going to train today.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe wasn’t paying wages for the players. We were in a good time at that time, when he wasn’t paying the players, so I just have to say, Lee Anderson.WILDEST NIGHT OUT”I’ve had a few. Got to say Marbella. We got promoted here, at Leyton Orient. We went to Marbella as a team and staff and had a good time.” More

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      Injuries & suspensions update ahead of Gameweek 7: Arsenal defenders among notable doubts

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      DREAM TEAM brings you all the latest injury, suspension and availability news ahead of Gameweek 7 in one easily digestible dose.Bruno Fernandes is available for Manchester United’s trip to Villa Park after his red card against Tottenham was overturned upon appeal.The Portuguese midfielder was sent off against Porto on Thursday night and will serve a one-game suspension in the Europa League.Kobbie Mainoo is due to be assessed before Sunday’s game and is therefore considered a doubt at present.Arsenal have some concerns at the backCredit: Dream TeamMikel Arteta was typically vague with reporters when discussing potential absentees.Arsenal’s head coach declared that late decisions would be made on Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber, describing all three defenders as “close”.The latter was substituted at half time in midweek as a precaution and had not been included in the latest Netherlands squad.Carney Chukwuemeka and Reece James are expected to be Chelsea’s only absentees when they host Nottingham Forest on Sunday.As for the visitors, Morgan Gibbs-White is available again having served his suspension in Gameweek 6.Kevin De Bruyne and Nathan Ake have been ruled out again this weekend with Rodri and Oscar Bobb being Manchester City’s long-term injuries.De Bruyne won’t return until after the international breakCredit: GettyAnge Postecoglou is relatively confident Destiny Udogie will be available for Tottenham v Brighton on Sunday but a final decision will be made after the final two training sessions.Son Heung-min is said to be “pushing hard” but a return after the international break is more likely for the South Korean forward.As for Fabian Hurzeler’s side, Joel Veltman has recovered from illness but the young coach has several other availability hurdles to navigate, including the doubtful Simon Adingra.Jan Paul van Hecke and Joao Pedro remain sidelined but the Seagulls might be able to call upon Brajan Gruda and Solly March, who both trained throughout the week.Federico Chiesa is a major doubt for Liverpool’s trip to Selhurst Park in what is the early kick-off on Saturday.Otherwise the Reds have a clean bill of health with the exception of Harvey Elliott, who remains sidelined with a fractured foot.Joao Pedro’s injury has turned out to be worse than first thoughtCredit: GETTYEddie Howe told journalists that both Nick Pope and Fabian Schar “should be okay” for Newcastle’s visit to Everton this weekend.However, Gameweek 7 comes too soon for strikers Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak with Anthony Gordon expected to lead the line – Kieran Trippier is also a doubt.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWARSENALInjuries: Takehiro Tomiyasu (doubt), Kieran Tierney, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Martin Odegaard, Ben White (doubt), Jurrien Timber (doubt)Suspensions: NoneASTON VILLAInjuries: Tyrone Mings, Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana (doubt), Jacob Ramsey (doubt), John McGinn, Leon Bailey (doubt)Suspensions: NoneBOURNEMOUTHInjuries: Tyler AdamsSuspensions: NoneBRENTFORDInjuries: Aaron Hickey, Igor Thiago, Josh Dasilva, Yoane Wissa, Gustavo Nunes, Mathias Jensen, Rico HenrySuspensions: NoneBRIGHTONInjuries: Solly March (doubt), Matt O’Riley, Brajan Gruda (doubt), James Milner (doubt), Joao Pedro, Jan Paul van Hecke, Simon Adingra (doubt)Suspensions: NoneCHELSEAInjuries: Reece James, Carney ChukwuemekaSuspensions: NoneCRYSTAL PALACEInjuries: Matheus Franca, Chadi Riad, Cheick Doucoure, Trevoh ChalobahSuspensions: NoneEVERTONInjuries: Nathan Patterson, Jarrad Branthwaite (doubt), Youssef Chermiti, Seamus Coleman, Armando Broja, Vitaliy Mykolenko (doubt)Suspensions: NoneFULHAMInjuries: Carlos Vinicius, Jorge CuencaSuspensions: NoneIPSWICHInjuries: Jens CajusteSuspensions: NoneLEICESTERInjuries: Patson Daka, Jakub Stolarczyk, Hamza ChoudhurySuspensions: NoneLIVERPOOLInjuries: Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa (doubt)Suspensions: NoneMANCHESTER CITYInjuries: Nathan Ake, Oscar Bobb, Kevin De Bruyne, RodriSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER UNITEDInjuries: Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount (doubt), Kobbie Mainoo (doubt)Suspensions: NoneNEWCASTLEInjuries: Callum Wilson, Lewis Miley, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Alexander Isak, Matt Targett (doubt), Kieran Trippier (doubt), Martin Dubravka (doubt)Suspensions: NoneNOTTINGHAM FORESTInjuries: Danilo, Ibrahim SangareSuspensions: NoneSOUTHAMPTONInjuries: Gavin Bazunu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Will SmallboneSuspensions: Jack StephensTOTTENHAMInjuries: Richarlison, Wilson Odobert, Son Heung-min, Destiny Udogie (doubt)Suspensions: NoneWEST HAMInjuries: Niclas FullkrugSuspensions: NoneWOLVESInjuries: Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, Boubacar Traore, Bastien Meupiyou, Yerson MosqueraSuspensions: NoneBetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Europa League supercomputer predicts Man Utd to finish shocking 19th in table… but there’s much better news for Spurs

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      MANCHESTER UNITED Europa League struggles look set to continue.Erik ten Hag’s side surrendered a 2-0 lead to draw 3-3 with Porto last night.Man Utd’s Europa League woes have been tipped to continueCredit: ReutersErik ten Hag’s side surrendered a 2-0 lead at PortoCredit: ReutersHaving drawn 1-1 with FC Twente in their European season opener, the Red Devils are still searching for their first win in the revamped competition.United’s two points earned so far has them 21st in the 36-team league phase.After each team has played eight league phase games, the top eight in the table will qualify for the round of 16.Those placed between ninth and 24th will then go into a knock-out play-off round, which they must win to advance.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBoffins and brainiacs over at CSDB have built a supercomputer tasked with predicting the outcome of this season’s competition.They have tipped United to rise from their current 21st-place position, but not by much.The Red Devils have been predicted to finish 19th in the league phase – with a record of three wins, two draws and three defeats.Ten Hag’s men will next travel to Turkey to face former boss Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.Most read in Europa LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTheir remaining league phase games will then be against PAOK, Bodo Glimt, Viktoria Plzen, Rangers and Steaua Bucharest.The supercomputer has then determined that United could face Dutch side Alkmaar in February’s play-off round.Man Utd blasted by pundits after horror Tottenham maulingIt reckons the Red Devils will have enough to get past the Eredivisie outfit and into the round of 16.Incredibly from there, the supercomputer backs United to get all the way to the final by beating Lazio, Olympiakos and Hoffenheim.In the final, the supercomputer believes that the Red Devils will face… Tottenham.Brennan Johnson has scored in both of Spurs’ Europa League games so far this seasonCredit: RexAnge Postecoglou has masterminded two wins from two in Europe this termCredit: RexCompared to United, Spurs are predicted to cruise through the competition.Ange Postecoglou’s men began their campaign with a 3-0 win over Qarabag last month, despite Radu Dragusin’s seventh minute red card.They then beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in Hungary last night, having fielded four teenagers in their starting XI.The supercomputer backs Tottenham to come third in the league phase, with an unbeaten record of six wins, two draws and zero defeats.Spurs’ next European action will come on October 24, when they host Alkmaar in North London.Their further league phase games will be against Galatasaray, Roma, Rangers, Hoffenheim and Elfsborg.Coming third would see Postecoglou and Co jump straight into the round of 16, with no need for a play-off.From that point, they are tipped by the supercomputer to beat Athletic Bilbao, whose stadium will host the final, and then Braga and Roma.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis would set up an incredible all-Premier League final – with huge stakes for both teams.The supercomputer tips Tottenham to come out on top 1-0 in Bilbao, beating Man Utd to see Son Heung-min lift the Europa League trophy, therefore ending his club’s agonising 17-year trophy drought. More

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      Transfer fees Q&A: How landmark court ruling could mean NFL-style player trades and stars suing clubs for millions

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      FORMER Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth midfielder Lassana Diarra has won his landmark case at the European Court of Justice.And the decision could have major ramifications on the future of football transfers. Lassana Diarra won his landmark case against Fifa at the European Court of JusticeCredit: APThe ruling could spell the end of transfer fees entirelyCredit: GettyWill an NFL-style draft and the complete scrapping of transfer fees really come to pass? SunSport explains what it was all about – and what it might mean.What was the case about?Diarra argued Fifa’s transfer rules were illegal after the world body backed Lokomotiv Moscow’s claim that he had broken his contract by refusing to train with them.Is that it?No. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBelgian club Charleroi wanted to sign Diarra but were told they would have to pay the money – which was halved from £16m to £8m after the player appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.He was fined by Moscow, while Fifa refused to issue an International Transfer Certificate unless they coughed upWhat did the Court say?Basically, a 3-0 victory for Diarra and his lawyer, Jean-Louis Dupont. Pointing to Moscow’s compensation claim after Diarra was deemed to have broken his contract, the proposed sanction against Charleroi and Fifa’s stance, the ECJ said: “All of those rules are contrary to EU law.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOkay, so what does that mean?Theoretically, if the ECJ ruling is now ratified by the court in Mons, Belgium, where the case began, players will have the right to break their contracts and switch clubs without a fee changing hands – just like any employee in any other industry.Hang on – does that mean the END of transfer fees?Potentially, yes. Transfer fees could be scrapped in biggest change to football in 30 years after landmark court case brought against Fifa Although players would have to want to move. We would basically end up with a US-style “collective bargaining” model where players would be free to move within transfer windows without impunity. Clubs might be able to “trade” players – swap deals – but with no extra cash changing hands.Is everybody agreed about this?Absolutely not. Fifa claimed the ruling “only puts in question two paragraphs of two articles” of its transfer regulations. Yet the Judges said the current rules were “prohibited” under EU law and “anti-competitive” as they “limit the freedom of action” of players to change employer.So what happens next?Fifa will try to find a way of tweaking its rules to meet with the approval of the Court. But that seems unlikely given the tone of the ruling.Inside Lassana Diarra’s legal case with FifaLASSANA DIARRA’S case with Fifa dates back to 2014 when he was playing for Lokomotiv Moscow.The former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder was in a dispute with Lokomotiv over wages – with the Russian side ultimately terminating his contract.The case was referred to Fifa’s Dispute and Resolution Chamber (DRC) which ruled against Diarra, fining him £16MILLION.During this time, Diarra received a new contract offer from Belgian side Charleroi.But Charleroi wanted clarification from Fifa that they would not be liable to pay any of the money owed to Lokomotiv.Fifa could not make that guarantee and the move never happened.As a result, Diarra brought new legal action against Fifa and the Belgian league claiming a loss of earnings.That started the long process that has led to this week’s groundbreaking judgment.Does that mean players will be able to move whenever they want?No. The Court confirmed the legitimacy of the current transfer window regulations which “ensure the stability of squad compositions during a given season” by banning “unilateral termination” of contracts during the campaign. Like other businesses, players seeking to move may have to serve notice periods, potentially up to 12 months.Anything else?If Dupont is right, the result will mean a large number of players who can claim they were restricted from moving clubs by the current rules will be able to make back-dated compensation claims, running into millions of pounds.And how soon could this all start to happen?Once the court in Mons ratifies the ECJ ruling, which might take a few months, it would come into effect across Europe.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s all right then. We’re not in the EU any more, are we?No. But English clubs, the FA and the leagues would have no option but to fall into line as Premier League clubs could argue any attempts to hold them to the current regulations breach competition law as they will be put at a disadvantage to their rivals in Europe.Former France international Diarra was at Chelsea for the 2005-06 title winCredit: GettyDiarra’s case was heard at the European Court of Justice in LuxembourgCredit: EPA More