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      ‘He is everything you need in a human’, say fans after ex-Chelsea star N’Golo Kante’s latest amazing gesture on pitch

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      N’GOLO KANTE amazed fans with a thoughtful gesture during Al-Ittihad’s clash with Al-Ahli yesterday.The midfielder, 33, became a terrace favourite during his eight-year Premier League stint with Leicester and then Chelsea.N’Golo Kante’s gesture had social media swooningCredit: XThe Frenchman further cemented his fan favourite statusCredit: XThe midfielder was in action for Al-Ittihad against Al-AhliCredit: GettyIn 2023 he departed Stamford Bridge, signing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.While his matches may be less visible to fans in England these days, Kante is still new finding new ways to delight them.As reported by Ben Jacobs, Al-Ittihad supporters hurled hundreds of flags onto the pitch at yesterday’s game.During a drinks break, humble Kante decided to tidy up, picking up the flags so that a member of staff did not have to.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA clip of Kante’s simple gesture has since received more than 700,000 views – with plenty of fans also leaving a comment.One Chelsea supporter wrote: “Sometimes I wish Kante stayed forever. He has everything you need in a human being and footballer.”While a second gushed: “No matter the football club Kante plays you can never dislike this guy.”A third swooned: “Should still be at The Bridge.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd another added: “I have always known N’Golo Kante to be very humble. Man takes life so simple.”Kante and Co went on to win the match 1-0, courtesy of Saleh Alshehri’s 42nd minute goal.Former Chelsea star N’Golo Kante reduces fans to tears with incredibly humble arrival to France’s Euro 2024 camp The French international was deployed alongside Fabinho in Al-Ittihad’s midfield, with Moussa Diaby, Houssem Aouar and Steven Bergwijn forming an attacking trio behind Alshehri.Kante’s former Leicester team-mate Riyad Mahrez was in action for Al-Ahli, as well as summer acquisition Ivan Toney.The two-time Premier League champion struggled desperately with injuries during his latter seasons with the Blues.He has since managed to largely stay fit – featuring in 30 of Al-Ittihad’s 34 league games last season, and eight of nine thus far in this campaign.Earlier this year, fans gushed over Kante’s arrival at France national team HQ Clairefontaine.Having earned a recall following two years out of the national team, the humble star looked excited as he reported for duty.Fans loved Kante’s arrival at ClairefontaineCredit: Reuters More

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      The Sun’s Footie for All campaign wins prestigious award after handing £300k grants to grassroots kids’ clubs

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      THE Sun’s amazing Footie for All campaign has won a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalism.Our campaign which ran during the last football season in partnership with Tesco handed out grants totalling £300k to hundreds of grassroots kids’ football clubs across Britain.Pop star Olly Murs has joined in on The Sun’s amazing Footie for All campaign which has now won a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalismWest Ham and England footballer Jarrod Bowen visiting Brent Cross football academy as part of The Sun’s Footie For All campaignCredit: Paul EdwardsFormer Premier League manager Harry Redknapp is also a huge advocate of the campaignCredit: Chris BalcombeWe launched our ‘Footie for All Fund’ after a Sun investigation found financial pressures triggered by the Cost of Living Crisis were forcing kids to ditch recreational football.The initiative was backed by England footballers such as Jarrod Bowen, Phil Foden, John Stones, and Harry Maguire.Former Premier League manager Harry Redknapp is also a huge advocate of the campaign.The Sun has officially won the Making a Difference Award, organised by News Media Association (NMA), for the brilliant scheme.read more in football The award highlights how journalism benefits society.NMA chief executive Owen Meredith said: “The Making a Difference shortlist this year has highlighted the exceptional dedication from UK news brands, who have worked tirelessly to inform and engage the public.“The Sun can take great pride in their achievements. “The ‘Footie For All Fund,’ serve as prime examples of how journalism can effectively spotlight critical issues, demonstrating to us all the vital role of trusted, independent journalism. Most read in Football”My congratulations to you.”Our Footie for All Fund was voted for by members of the public.Strictly Star Kai Widdrington goes back to his roots for Sun footie campaignIt came about when local football clubs told how they’d seen a membership drop as parents struggled to find the cash to pay for their kids sport fees.Some even said they were tragically forced to stop their child playing sport as they couldn’t find enough money for a bus fare.Tesco went on to provide us with our grants through its Stronger Starts programme which funds healthy activities for kids.Celebrities across the country also dropped into regular footballing sessions to see how the funds were being spent.They noted how good it was to see the difference it has made to the children who could still play.It was also supported by singer Olly Murs, 40, who visited Crown and Manor football club in Hackney, London.He said: “In 2024 the cost of living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco did this will help families to get their children playing football.”That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”Harry took part in a coaching session earlier this year as part of the schemeCredit: Chris BalcombeChelsea legend John Obi Mikel, 37, visited Wapping FC in East London last November as he hailed the scheme as very importantCredit: Paul EdwardsChelsea legend John Obi Mikel, 37, also visited Wapping FC in East London last November.He greeted 20 excited children who were bounding with enthusiasm when the beloved ex-Chelsea ace went to meet them.Obi Mikel said: “For many kids, growing up nowadays you play a sport or you’re on the street.“I chose sport, just like these kids, and it completely changed my life. I don’t know what I would have been without football.“I remember being this age like it was yesterday.“It’s great to still see kids running around and enjoying themselves. That’s the most important bit.”Founder Nahimul Islam, 25, started Wapping FC, in Mile End, East London, when he was just 17 to give kids a place to play football and stay out of trouble.Now more than 250 children are on their books – including 50 girls and 16 players with a range of disabilities.Nahimul said: “We operate in one of the most deprived areas of the country, and this incredible grant will help us give the boys high-class training and facilities without passing that cost on to mum and dad back home.“Having someone like Mikel come visit the club is inspirational to our players. It shows them just what is possible.”One grant recipient Mike Smith, 54, who runs Curzon Ashton FC in Ashton-Under-Lyne promises income is no barrier to playing with the club. They also take children with disabilities.READ MORE SUN STORIESMike used the club’s Footie for All grant to start a new girls team. He said: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”Nicola Mclean visits the Flackwell Heath girls teamCredit: Olivia WestStrictly Come Dancing star Kai Widdrington helped to put young kids through their paces at a training sessionCredit: Simon Jones More

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      Box office Ruben Amorim already has mentor Mourinho’s aura and can now match his Chelsea feats by sorting Man Utd mess

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      RUBEN AMORIM smiled when Man United’s soon-to-be manager was asked what he likes about the Premier League and said: “Everything”.One of Europe’s most sought-after young coaches clearly wanted to expand on SunSport’s question here in Lisbon.Ruben Amorim revealed he likes ‘everything’ about the Premier LeagueCredit: EPAThe Portuguese coach already has mentor Jose Mourinho’s auraCredit: GettyBut he found himself in an utterly ridiculous situation before he left the media room at Sporting’s training ground.Amorim has promised he will be able to talk more freely about his impending job at Old Trafford after Friday’s Primeira Liga match at home to Estrela Amadora.Yet already, it is clear that this bloke is proper box office.And it is blindingly obvious he is relishing the chance of getting to grips with English football.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHis pre-match press conferences at the club’s training base — the Academia Cristiano Ronaldo — are such a terrific watch that on social media, there is a countdown clock for each of his media briefings.Entertaining press conferences? Does this remind you of another coach from Portugal?Indeed, Jose Mourinho was 41 when he announced he was the Special One after arriving at Chelsea. Amorim will head to Old Trafford even younger, aged 39.Most read in FootballBack in 2018, Amorim completed a performance internship under Mourinho at United as he got an early taste for life in ManchesterCredit: Twitter @Mourinho_XtraFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMourinho’s birthday is on January 26, while Amorim’s is on January 27, but it looks as though he will follow in his fellow countryman’s footsteps in all sorts of ways.Even though Amorim has been unable to confirm he is heading to England, his two press conferences since the United news emerged have been fascinating.Sir Dave Brailsford appears to confirm Ruben Amorim deal to Man Utd fans as he leaves Old Trafford He has a twinkle in his eye, a good sense of humour, answers most questions in great detail and is obviously a terrific communicator in perfect English.He will certainly need those skills at Old Trafford, in both the way he deals with the playing staff, the board members and how he talks to the fans.Mourinho often used his press conferences — in fact he still does — with a clear plan of what he wants to say. He releases certain messages to his own players, opponents and the supporters. Amorim is the same.Erik ten Hag handled himself impressively throughout his time at Manchester United but he was lacking in charisma.Amorim has an aura, just like Mourinho.His career has been on an upwards trajectory so it has been an easy ride so far.There have certainly been no touchline histrionics like a certain other coach.It will also be fascinating how he deals with a run of poor results.Or when he is thrown a curveball, like a star player doing something stupid like going on a booze bender in Belfast.What is crazy, though, is Sporting president Frederico Varandas has insisted that Amorim stays for the next three games.Firstly, Friday’s local derby, then Tuesday’s home Champions League game with Manchester City and the trip to Braga on November 10.Amorim has already won two Primeira Liga titles with Sporting but faces a huge test against Pep Guardiola’s Man City in the Champions League next TuesdayCredit: GettyAmorim did not watch United’s win over Leicester on Wednesday because he was studying City in their Carabao Cup defeat at Spurs.And this City match really is rotten timing for Amorim.Despite boasting a 100 per cent record in the league, Sporting have also done well in the Champions League and are currently unbeaten in eighth place.But what happens if Sporting are taken apart by City?If Amorim engineers a famous win, then this will enhance his burgeoning reputation.But if Sporting are thrashed 5-0 and Erling Haaland scores another hat-trick, which is hardly out of the question, then United’s fans will be forced to welcome a manager who has just been out-smarted by Pep Guardiola. Not a good start.Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change.Amorim often talks about stability and he was asked about the prospect of leaving his comfort zone at yesterday’s press conference.He was also quizzed about playing a part in his backroom staff enjoying life-changing pay rises by going to Old Trafford.As for a change in scenery, he said: “I think all coaches need that.“I don’t want to go into too much detail. Staff? We have very good conditions here.“Six years ago we were at Casa Pia and we were almost paid to work. It’s not about money.“When I said staff, staff involves a lot more people. Physiotherapists, wardrobe assistants. Not just the staff you’re referring to.“It’s hard to find these environments. That was one of the reasons I always wanted to stay here.“It was the people I work with. Stability. “I think that in everyone’s life there are times when we’re doing really well, but then we want something more, maybe to prove something more.”Amorim is about to get that chance. The problem is that inherits a dysfunctional United squad, and one without an A-lister.They could do with a player of the stature of the old Red Devils star who now has Sporting’s training ground named after him.READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorim, though, will be supremely confident he can sort out this mess at Old Trafford.If he is able to do so, this achievement would be every bit as impressive as what Mourinho managed at Chelsea.Mourinho won two Prem titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups in three seasons at ChelseaRuben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Meet non-league star with longest throw in football who plans to put it to good use as club target FA Cup giant-killing

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      HE IS the Rory Delap of the National League — and can hurl a football further than most can kick it.Tom Tonks intends to put ­Huddersfield through hell with his long-throws in the FA Cup at The Lamb tonight.Tom Tonks hopes his long throw will fire Tamworth to FA Cup glory over HuddersfieldCredit: X/ tamworthfcTonks’ long throws are just like the ones used back in the day by Rory DelapCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdTamworth’s not-so-secret weapon has also earned a reputation for scoring spectacular long-range goals which have made him a huge hit on social media.So Terriers’ Aussie goalkeeper Jacob Chapman is sure to be tested whenever Tonks picks up the ball.Former Stoke midfielder Delap made long-throws fashionable under boss Tony Pulis during their promotion to the Premier League in 2008 and their run to the FA Cup final in 2011.Tonks, 33, said: “I’ve been hurling in throw-ins since primary school.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“My headteacher at primary school said to me: ‘You never threw that in,’ because he had his back to me and assumed I’d kicked it.“So I asked him if he wanted me to do it again and he couldn’t believe the distance.“I’ve had a lot of joy with it since and get called the Rory Delap of the National League but I wouldn’t mind his wages from a few years ago! I’ve never actually measured how far I can throw the ball, I just launch it as far as I can.“The lads sometimes ask me to take something off it and keep it between the goalposts, because I can deliver it well beyond the back post if I want.Most read in FA CupFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I can see it in the faces of opposing defenders and goalies — they absolutely hate it.”Teams are obviously now planning for Tonks’ arrival and Huddersfield will no doubt be well aware of it on the artifical surface at The Lamb. I broke FA Cup record against Man Utd in final.. 20 years later I’m playing for non-league side in qualifying roundTonks’ long throws have become the stuff of legendCredit: YOUTUBE / Vanarama National LeagueAnd since a 7-0 defeat at Barnet in August, the National League North champions have shown they have what it takes to compete at a higher level.Tonks added: “When we played Barnet, we got a bit of a turning over.“But they are full-time and spent a day of analysis on us.“Their players were actually told NOT to give away any throw-ins in their half. Fair play to them I don’t think I took one in the 90 minutes!”While Jurgen Klopp famously employed a throw-in coach at Liverpool, Tonks has never been taught how to perfect his technique.He said: “It’s just natural to me. I just do the same weights as the other lads.“I’m not chucking medicine balls around the gym or anything like that.“I’d probably get banned for putting the ball through the wall if I did!JACK OF ALL TRADES“It’s more to do with timing. Someone asked me the other day how many assists I’ve had but I’ve never kept count.”As one of the few part-time teams in the National League, 5am gym sessions before work are not uncommon for Tonks and his team-mates.But, as well as the throws, Tonks is more than useful with his feet.A David Beckham-esque goal from the halfway line he scored for Stourbridge against Peterborough Sports in the FA Cup went viral.He revealed: “That got a million views in a week and my phone didn’t stop ringing for two weeks.“You can hear team-mate Luke Benbow’s mum screaming on the audio. That’s a funny listen on Youtube, well worth 20 seconds of anyone’s time!”Tonks also scored a screamer for Tamworth earlier this season to seal a stoppage-time win at Braintree.He charged into a tackle on the right touchline and, when his opponent pulled out of the challenge, Tonks sent the ball sailing over the goalie’s head from 40 yards and found the top corner.Hopefully big Dave is looking down and I can get another goal for him on Friday nightTom TonksTonks added: “My phone blew up after that as well!“I had a tweet from some Italian sports news station and someone in Kuwait too. Mad.“I’ve watched it a few times since and I’m still asking myself how it actually went in!“It was also special because it was my first goal after my grandad passed away.“He used to love coming to watch me. He’s been to so many cold parks in step six of non-league and used to be instantly noticeable in his white vest!“Hopefully big Dave is looking down and I can get another goal for him on Friday night.”Tonks is a Wolves fan and has a score to settle with Huddersfield.He went to a Premier League game at Molineux when Town’s Aaron Mooy put two free-kicks past Rui Patricio in 2018.READ MORE SUN STORIESPart-time Tonks, who also sells sandwiches and sausage rolls from a food truck, added: “I’ll never forget that so I owe them one.“It’s going to be very tough but we’ve had some good results at home and fancy ourselves against anyone at The Lamb.” More

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      I’ve played with special talents like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden… Ethan Nwaneri can be one of the best in the world

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      GABRIEL JESUS knows a young star when he sees one — and has vowed to help Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri reach the top.The Brazilian watched two of the Prem’s best — Phil Foden and Cole Palmer — come through the ranks at Manchester City.Gabriel Jesus has predicted great things for Ethan NwaneriNwaneri holds the record for the youngest ever Premier League playerAnd he hopes his Gunners team-mate, 17, is on the same route right to the top.Nwaneri gave yet another glimpse of his special talent by scoring a beauty in Arsenal’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win at Preston on Wednesday.Jesus says the playmaker may have to be patient, just like Foden was at the Etihad — but is excited to see how far he can go.He said: “I have been with some very special youngsters, like Phil and Cole — and also James McAtee at City, he is also very good. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“So to see Ethan in training and in the game is good, because I am a fan of football.“So when I see someone young with this quality, I am happy and then obviously I want him to grow, grow, grow.“Then if he needs something from me personally, I am here to help him because I am 27.”Gunners starlet Nwaneri rewrote history as the Premier League’s youngest ever player at the age of 15 and 181 days -smashing the previous record held by Harvey Elliott, who was 16 years and 30 days old.Most read in FootballAnd at 17 years and 223 days, he became the youngest Arsenal player to score on his first two starts for the club — eclipsing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s previous mark of 18 years and 44 days.The Arsenal legend also said Phil Foden had to ‘wait his turn’ before becoming one of the world’s bestJesus watched Chelsea’s Cole Palmer come through the ranks at Man CityCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBoss Mikel Arteta believes he is ready to play more regularly — but he also has a huge array of talent to choose from.Jesus says the youngster should look no further than last season’s PFA Player of the Year Foden for inspiration if he gets frustrated at the wait.’Stay humble,’ Erling Haaland tells Arteta who gives him brutal death stare before Gabriel Jesus confronts Man City ace He said: “I saw people like Phil waiting for his chance and then now, look at Phil. He is one of the best players in the world.“So I hope Ethan keeps his toes on the grass, works, and then it’s a question of time for him to shine.”The wonder strike from the young Londoner overshadowed a good night for Jesus, who ended a 274-day goal drought by opening the scoring in the 3-0 Deepdale victory.The £45million forward admits that is not good enough — but insists there are reasons behind his long wait.He added: “It looks a long time — nine months, I understand. But people need to understand I am starting less, I am playing less.“Last season I had a few issues with injuries and stuff that people don’t understand.“But I am not here to make excuses. I know I am the type of player, with my quality, that has to be there and score more. I want to and I am working really hard to get there.”When he does get his opportunities, Jesus has vowed to try his luck more often.He said: “Now I am more focused on goals. Now I am more focused to shoot.“What has changed for me now is I try to look for the goal.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s good to be back scoring and I want to keep scoring when I have my chance.“I am here to work, try to be fit and, when I get my chance, enjoy playing football and try to help the team win.”Arsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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      Man City might be laughing noisily at United’s decline but Pep & Co must learn from arrogant Reds or suffer same fate

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      PEP GUARDIOLA was certain about Manchester City’s future when he was quizzed about it last week.He said that everything was in place for the incredible success story under him to continue long after he was gone.Man City must be prepared for Pep Guardiola’s exit and not make the same mistakes as Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Red Devils have failed to recover ever since Sir Alex Ferguson leftCredit: PA:Press AssociationBecause have no doubt about it, Guardiola could be gone at the end of this season.Already he has stayed at the Etihad longer than people thought he might and there is nothing else to prove, nothing more to achieve.But the belief that things will just continue when he goes could well be misplaced.Let us not forget that it may be no small coincidence that director of football Txiki Begiristain, 60, has already stated that he is definitely on his way next summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis is not even taking into account what punishment may come the Manchester club’s way due to the charges of 130 financial rule breaches that are on their doorstep.Although I have my doubts anything will ever come of that.There are haunting parallels for City supporters over what has happened down the road when an era came to an end.There was a similar arrogance at Old Trafford that things would just continue because, well, they were Manchester United.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSenior figures would scoff at the suggestion that with Sir Alex gone they might now do a Liverpool and take decades to regain their place on their perch.Now, with already 11 years gone they remain further away than ever.Sir Alex Ferguson phoned and tried to convince me to join Man Utd – but their transfer plan made me say noThat belief that it would just continue saw the Red Devils take their eye off the ball.When Sir Alex went in 2013, the United that was so dominant went with him. Now, titles were won at City before Guardiola under Roberto Mancini in 2012 and two years later when Manuel Pellegrini was boss.But the startling dominance that the club has achieved under this manager since 2016 sets him apart.Have no doubt it is down to him, nobody else, just him.His energy to continue getting the best out of players is remarkable and continues unabated.Not only does he, with Begiristain, source and buy great players he makes them better.Txiki Begiristain’s exit is already set to shake things up massively at CityCredit: GettyThe future of star man Erling Haaland remains unclearCredit: AlamyHis standards never drop. You just have to watch the Spaniard on the sidelines.But that level of intensity can wear anyone down.Even at Bayern Munich they claimed everyone was basically frazzled after his time there.The man himself will need a rest and maybe the club and players too.You look at this team, much like United of old, and there are certain players that simply cannot be replaced like for like.Star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, 33, is unlikely to still be at the club beyond this season.The incredible Kyle Walker at 34 cannot continue rampaging up and down that wing.FUTURE QUESTIONSErling Haaland is only 24 but there has been no secret about his desire to one day end up at Real Madrid.Guardiola has turned John Stones from an average centre-back into one of the best players in Europe but he is already 30.There is still much more to come from Rodri who is 28 but how will this ACL injury impact him going forward?In any case how can you guarantee that he and these City players will react in the same way to a new boss when 53-year-old Guardiola does go?Down the road, when Sir Alex went it was like the tough head-master had gone and a young supply teacher was in.Remember that, at school, when everyone just took the mick. That’s what happened at United.Everything had been achieved, the team was coming to an end and basically nobody could be bothered anymore, everyone was knackered with it all.Fergie axe comes at the right time – and he knows itBy Phil ThomasIT is over a decade since he left the dugout but Sir Alex Ferguson has lost none of his sense of timing.When to sell, when to buy, when to change and ultimately when to go, Fergie has always been in a class of his own.Over the years there were countless decisions which had everyone scratching their head — but Sir Alex always knew the time was right.Some were more obvious than others. Like the night Manchester United won the Treble on the back of his substitutions.Others less so, like the summer of 1995 when terrace legends Mark Hughes, Paul Ince and Andrei  Kanchelskis were sold at the peak of their powers.The whole of football thought the manager had lost his marbles.But Fergie knew better, as he chose that year to unleash his “you win nothing with kids” Double heroes.Just as he knew best when it came to right-hand men.Brian Kidd, Steve McClaren, Archie Knox and Co — an endless list of world-class coaches who all came and went.And, of course, the biggest decision of all. Calling time on 26 years in which he had gone from the brink of the bullet to English football’s greatest-ever gaffer.The majority of people are convinced Ferguson stepped down because he knew United’s era of dominance was over.Maybe not the nosedive to come but certainly that an almighty rebuild was just around the corner. Another mass overhaul, yet not one he was prepared to oversee.Now another end has arrived. Not as dramatic or as out-of-nowhere, admittedly, but an end nonetheless.Next summer Fergie will leave his 12-year role as global ambassador. Many see it as the most ruthless swing of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting axe — and they are wrong.For while he is trying to save every penny in making United great again —  how’s that going, Sir Jim? — Ferguson has not suddenly and callously been told he is surplus to requirements.This decision was a two-way call. An amicable parting. Football’s own conscious uncoupling, in Chris  Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow lingo.And not, incidentally, a departure which means we will no longer see Fergie at Old Trafford on a matchday.That  simply  will  not  happen.   He  will still be there rain, wind or shine . . .Only now as a high-profile non-executive director, rather than a man with the ear — and the sway — behind the owners’ biggest decisions.Like he was when urging United to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo in 2021.Admittedly not his finest hour, rather an indication of the influence he still retained.Back then, until just before  Ratcliffe and his Ineos team arrived, in fact, Ferguson had the owners’ ear. Almost a hotline to the Glazer family, you could say.And those days are done.Not that Sir Alex is bereft at the thought. For a start, some of the staff sackings have enraged the Scot — long-serving photographer John Peters and kitman Alec Wylie, for example.This is not a cosy-cosy relationship with Ratcliffe being severed.If anything, it is closer to the opposite. And as Fergie the Red, in every sense The Boss — those who played under him still call him that  — knows, trousering £2million or so a year in such tight times is not a good look.Fair enough, not an amount anyone would turn down in normal circumstances.Yet when many in the steerage class are losing their livelihoods, it is not something that would have sat well with him.There is also the practical side of things as well.At the end of December, Sir Alex will be 83 years old, albeit still a freakishly fit 83 years old.Yet even though the grey matter remains oh-so-sharp and the mind clear as a bell, the bones grow creakier and even Superman had to put his feet up on occasion.That does not mean you will not see shots of Fergie alongside Ratcliffe at various points — Sir Jim loves too much the associated glamour of being pictured with the greatest.But any idea of Sir Alex having an emperor’s thumbs-down power has gone for good — and quite frankly that is something which suits both sides.The fans, meanwhile, had grown so used to success that it was basically expected.Sir Alex was frustrated in the belief that people thought silverware just kept arriving without any work going into it.He didn’t like how the atmosphere could dip because people just sat back and waited for the win rather than roared their team on.Last weekend when City beat Southampton 1-0, friends of mine described the spectacle as “boring”.Another said that the team had “lost it’s fizz”. Have they too become complacent?City could easily lose it’s fizz without Guardiola because there is no obvious candidate to take up the reins.There are plenty of clubs snapping at their heels as well. Liverpool and Arsenal will not go away, Chelsea for all the apparent chaos at Stamford Bridge will always be there.READ MORE SUN STORIESTottenham might have their day and just look at what Unai Emery is doing at Aston Villa.As City’s less than noisy neighbours will tell you, nothing is a given. More

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      Ex-Wrexham star still playing European football set for stunning career change after completing lorry driver training

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      FORMER Wrexham ace Blaine Hudson is preparing for life after he hangs up his football boots.Hudson, 33, spent two years with the Red Dragons and made 84 appearances before leaving for rivals Chester in 2016.Former Wrexham ace Blaine Hudson has completed a lorry driver courseCredit: Gatewen Training ServicesHudson now plays for The New Saints in the Conference LeagueCredit: GettyNow the centre-back plays for JD Cymru Premier champions The New Saints and competes in the Conference League this season.But he is already looking ahead to life after football, which is why he completed his HGV lorry driver training.According to The Leader, Hudson has been following in his father’s footsteps by linking up with Gatewen Training Services.And the towering 6ft4in footballer is exploring exciting opportunities in logistics and transportation.Read More on FootballHudson told a group of young people from the WeMindTheGap ‘Gappies’ programme, which is an initiative designed to provide new opportunities and skills to young people: “Learning new skills outside of football has been an exciting and rewarding journey.”Gatewen Training Services and NEWSA offer incredible facilities here in Wrexham, and I encourage anyone considering a career change to explore the opportunities available.”The logistics sector is in high demand, and I’m grateful to everyone at Gatewen and NEWSA for helping me on this path.”Hudson started out his footballing career at Norwich before moving to Cambridge United, Wrexham and Chester.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut he has been playing with The New Saints since 2017 where he is a key defensive figure.The Welsh outfit are set to visit Shamrock Rovers on November 7 in the League Phase of the Conference League.The Armenian football club FC Noah will be taking on Chelsea in the Uefa Conference League Craig Harrison’s side have fared well in the competition as despite losing to last season’s finalists Fiorentina they picked up an impressive 2-0 win over Astana. More

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      Premier League legend in shock career move as he heads to Scotland after 24 years and 450 games in English top-flight

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      FORMER Premier League referee Martin Atkinson is set to take over as VAR manager at the Scottish FA.The 53-year-old will say goodbye to the English game after 24 years.Martin Atkinson is set to take over as VAR manager at the Scottish FACredit: PAThe SFA moved quickly to steal Atkinson after Jon Moss left his VAR manager role after just 52 days of startin it.SunSport understands Moss will be taking up a top job with the Australian FA.Now, Atkinson will begin work as Scottish head ref Willie Collum’s No 2 in early December.Collum, 45, said: “I am delighted to appoint someone of Martin’s calibre.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”I did not expect to be recruiting for that position again so quickly, but Jon received a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and went with our best wishes.”I am pleased Martin has agreed to continue the considerable work undertaken to date in optimising our VAR operation.”And I’m sure our VAR officials and match officials generally will look forward to working with someone of Martin’s experience.”Atkinson was a Prem official for 20 years and refereed the 2015 Europa League final, won by Aston Villa manager Unai Emery during his time with LaLiga outfit Sevilla.Most read in FootballJon Moss left the SFA after little more than a month in postCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAtkinson oversaw 463 games in the English top-flight before turning to manage PGMOL’s Select Group. The Select Group meet twice per month for training sessions and analysis of match videos and data to help improve refereeing performances.Football analyst bizarrely blames ref Anthony Taylor for ‘hindering Man Utd’s play’ in humiliating loss to LiverpoolHe leaves the Select Group after joining in 2022 following his last Prem match – where Crystal Palace beat Manchester United 1-0 at Selhurst Park.Incidentally, that was the ground where he made his debut 17 years prior.Atkinson is only behind Mike Dean (521) for most Prem games refereed. PGMOL said: “Everyone would like to thank Martin and wish him every success for the future.”Atkinson refereed games at Euro 2016 and became a regular Champions League official.He also took charge of the FA Cup Final in 2011 and the 2014 League Cup final. More