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      Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman, 15, is touted as ‘Next Kaka’ – but little-known rule means he can’t play in Premier League

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      ARSENAL are producing talented youngsters once again.This season, teenagers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri have gone from Hale End hopefuls to first team stars.Max Dowman, 15, has been tipped to star in Arsenal’s first teamCredit: GettyManager Mikel Arteta has introduced Dowman to first team training sessionsCredit: GettyArsenal’s trio of starlets Dowman, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly pose for a snap in DubaiCredit: GettyAnd the same is expected of 15-year-old Max Dowman – who travelled with the first team for the Gunners’ winter training camp in Dubai.The attacking midfielder has been compared to AC Milan legend Kaka by his youth coach.While he was fast-tracked into Arsenal’s U18 team at the tender age of just 13 by former teen prodigy Jack Wilshere.Even a staunch Manchester United pundit has waxed lyrical about Dowman’s exceptional ability.Read more Arsenal news However, he won’t be able to help Mikel Arteta’s injury-hit side out for the remainder of the season due to his age.According to Premier League rules, no player below the under-16 age group can be named in a match day squad.Absolute ballerIt’s early days in Dowman’s development. So early, in fact, he doesn’t even have a profile on Arsenal’s website.But according to reports, he is well known at other academies in the country who have approached his father to let him know of their interest.Most read in FootballFor the moment, his future is being monitored closely.Dowman can’t sign scholarship terms until he turns 16, before the  2026-27 season.Incredibly, he only turned 15 on December 31. Already, though, he turned heads in matches in the Uefa Youth League. ‘Now everyone’s calling me it…’ – Declan Rice reveals hilarious new nicknameArsenal’s U19 team suffered a miserable campaign overall, finishing 26th in the 36-team table.But Dowman was the bright spark, impressing in games against Sporting Lisbon, Inter Milan and Atalanta.An attacking midfielder, he can play on the flanks, or as a No10.Arsenal youth team coach Gus Oliveira compared him to a Brazilian great.”He plays in the style of Kaka,” Oliveira told PL Brasil last year.”He can write his name. One day he will play for the England national team and in the Premier League.”Dowman can’t sign scholarship terms until he’s 16, or make his Prem debutCredit: GettyAccording to reports, Dowman is being tracked by rival Premier League clubsCredit: GettyAn attacking midfielder, Dowman can operate as a No10Credit: GettyArsenal youth team coach Gus Oliveira compared Dowman to Kaka last yearCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresRecord breakerThose comparisons to Kaka are obviously flattering.But Dowman has been creating his own impressive history – breaking records in the Gunners youth team.Last year, his goal against Atalanta in the Uefa Youth League made him the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history – then aged 14 years, eight months, and 19 days.When Jack Wilshere was coach of the U18s, he wasn’t afraid to hand Dowman a debut at 13 – again, breaking another record for youngest debutant.After the game, Wilshere said: “Debut opportunities aren’t handed out lightly and Max has demonstrated over the past few months that he deserves this chance.”He handled the moment admirably, sending an important message to the team that, when we introduce players, they possess the quality to contribute effectively.”Dowman has been called up on England duty for the U16s and U17s, scoring three goals in eight games for the latter.Dowman and fellow youth star Ethan Nwaneri tussle for the ball in trainingCredit: GettyDowman has broken records, including youngest ever Uefa Youth League scorerCredit: GettyRed Devil praiseDowman’s potential hasn’t gone unnoticed by sportswear giants, either.Nike and Puma made early plays to sign him on a lucrative boot deal.Eventually, he chose Adidas to partner up with.And it’s not just in North London, where Dowman is being raved about.Ex-Man Utd star Rio Ferdinand tipped the talent to follow in the footsteps of Ethan Nwaneri by starring in the Gunners’ first team.”This isn’t to add pressure on these young players because I don’t want to do that, but I was just a bit disappointed in Arteta not giving Nwaneri a bit more of a chance,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ back in November.”I saw him come on the other day against Inter, not only looking dangerous, he takes the ball, retains the ball, looks after it, plays like an adult. He plays that Odegaard position.READ MORE SUN STORIESDowman shows Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino a clean set of heels at Arsenal’s winter training campCredit: GettyBehind the scenes, Arsenal are aware they have a gem in DowmanCredit: Getty”They’ve got another one under him by the way, a kid call Max Dowman. Please go online and check out this kid.”He was 14, I saw him coaching 18 and 19-year-olds on the pitch when he was playing with them. And he plays a little bit in that Odegaard position as well, bad player.” More

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      Man Utd staff heartbroken as ‘mum to everyone’ and ‘oil in the machine’ part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s latest shocking cuts

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      MANCHESTER UNITED staff have been left heartbroken after the “mum of everyone” Jackie Kay was dismissed.Jackie has been a part of the furniture at the club since 1995 and was widely considered as “oil in the machine” by many staff members.Jackie Kay has been axed from her job at Manchester UnitedCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe is set to sack up to 200 employees from the clubCredit: PASunSport exclusively revealed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to sack up to 200 more United employees.This follows the 250 redundancies out of the 1,150 workforce that were made last July.The Times have now claimed that Jackie is one of the victims of the latest round of cost-cutting.Her exit from the club has been described as “brutal” as she left her role as the head of team operations.READ MORE ON SPORTShe has also worked as an executive assistant to the former United CEO David Gill.Jackie also worked at United’s Carrington training ground for a time in charge of the first-team logistics.The report has also suggested that she was well-liked by managers and players alike at the club.She was also labelled as the “oil in the machine” at the Red Devils.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt is believed that she was informed of the club’s decision last week.Her exit is a part of the overhaul by Sir Dave Brailsford and Jason Wilcox.Fury as Sir Jim Ratcliffe cuts ties with charity helping Man Utd legendsAshley Young has previously spoken highly of Jackie KayCredit: Alan Walter – The TimesHowever, it is not thought to be linked to the latest spate of redundancies.It is also claimed that her fellow staff members were “upset” as the news of Jackie’s exit.Many had claimed that she had “given her life to the club”.Former Manchester United star Ashley Young has previously highlighted her efforts at the club.He said: “She’s just brilliant.”She’s like the mum to everyone.”If there are any problems or there is anything we need sorting out it’s a case of ‘Jackie can you do this’, ‘Jackie can you help with this’.”I’m sure there are times when she looks at her phone when it’s ringing and she must think ‘no, I’m not answering’.”But she’s always there for you.”Meanwhile, Ratcliffe has suffered a fresh blow as he is being sued by the All Blacks rugby team for “failing to pay sponsorship fees”.Ratcliffe’s Ineos agreed a six-year deal as an All Blacks’ shirt sponsor in 2021, with the move worth £3.65million each year.However, New Zealand rugby chiefs have now accused the petrochemical company of attempting to end their sponsorship three years early.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey claim Ineos are yet to pay out any of this year’s fee.And legal proceedings have now been launched as the All Blacks look for a new sponsor.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      Brit FIFA official arrested for ‘arranging to meet boy, 14, for sex while on work trip’ in US

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      A BRITISH FIFA official has been arrested in America after allegedly arranging to meet a 14-year-old boy for sex while on a work trip.Jack Edward Coles, 39, was detained by federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations at a hotel near FIFA’s offices in Coral Gables, Miami.Jack Edward Coles, 39, was arrested after allegedly arranging to meet a 14-year-old boy for sexCredit: InstagramColes is now facing federal charges of enticement of a minor and traveling to the United States with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minorCredit: BSOColes, a project leader with FIFA Sound — the organization’s music division — allegedly met the boy on the dating app Grindr last October and engaged in sexual activity with him at a hotel, reports the Miami Herald.He reportedly returned to Miami last week and attempted to meet the teen again, unaware that he was under federal investigation.FIFA confirmed it was aware of the case but stressed that the allegations were a “personal matter” unrelated to Coles’ work with the organisation.“FIFA is aware of ongoing legal proceedings in Miami. The alleged offenses are serious and of a personal matter with no link to his work at FIFA,” the world soccer body said in a statement Wednesday.Read more on football“The individual has been suspended with immediate effect and until further notice from all duties. FIFA has no further comment at this stage,” it said.The Miami Herald reports that Coles first contacted the teen via Instagram on October 10, asking him to visit him at the Hyatt Regency in Coral Gables. The boy told Coles he was 16, according to the complaint.The Brit initially responded that they would not have sex because of his age, writing: “I don’t want to break any laws.”Most read in FootballHowever, according to the arrest complaint, Coles allegedly later ordered an Uber to bring the boy to his hotel, bought him a White Claw alcoholic beverage, and engaged in sexual activity with him. Honduras slapped with final punishment decision after Mexico coach hit by beer can and left with blood pouring down face Afterwards, he allegedly messaged the teen, saying: “Can’t wait to see you again” and “You’re gonna be my Miami boyfriend by the way.”Coles returned to Zurich on October 21 but resumed contact with the boy in February, arranging to meet him again, reports the Miami Herald.What the Brit didn’t know was that the teenager had been in contact with federal investigators after their first encounter. On February 2, Coles messaged the boy again, saying: “I’m back Wednesday to Saturday So I see u.” This time, a Homeland Security agent took control of the boy’s Instagram account.The agent continued messaging Coles, who allegedly asked if he could record their next encounter and inquired about the boy’s grooming habits.On Friday, Coles arranged for an Uber to pick up what he believed was the boy at Dolphin Mall. Instead, a federal agent got into the car, which drove to Coles’ hotel, the Courtyard Miami Coral Gables.When Coles opened the door expecting the teenager, agents and police officers arrested him on Friday.According to the complaint, he was “naked, except for a shirt” at thetime.Coles was charged with enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activities and travelling to the US with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was initially booked into the Broward Sheriff’s Office jail but has since been released. It was not immediately clear whether he has legal representation. More

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      Dream Team bosses can turn Arsenal injuries into opportunities as door opens for Ethan Nwaneri

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      DREAM TEAM managers might be able to work Arsenal’s injury problems to their advantage.Bukayo Saka (£6.6m) and Gabriel Martinelli (£4.1m) aren’t expected to return until March while Gabriel Jesus (£3.7m) and Kai Havertz (£4.7m) have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season.These absences have left the Gunners short in attack and while some Dream Team bosses will see that as a reason to stay clear, others might be tempted by bargain option Ethan Nwaneri (£1.9m).The door has opened for NwaneriCredit: Dream TeamMikel Arteta has used the 17-year-old sparingly this season but he seemingly has little choice but to give the academy graduate a run in the side over the next few Gameweeks.And based on recent evidence, it’s certainly not inconceivable that the teenager will rise to the challenge.Nwaneri, who features in just 0.7% of teams at the time of writing, has scored seven goals in all competitions this season at an impressive rate of one every 100 minutes.His two most recent strikes, against Girona and Manchester City in Gameweeks 21 and 22 respectively, were both expertly guided left-footed efforts from just outside the box, which is fast becoming his trademark goal.Consequently, he banked 21 points across his last three outings and that was before Martinelli and Havertz were deemed unavailable.The numbers suggest Nwaneri has the ability to supply more than his fair share of points if given enough minutes on the pitch.Nwaneri has exhibited a keen eye for goalCredit: GettyLeandro Trossard (£3.9m) and Raheem Sterling (£1.7m) are considerably more experienced but it’s simply a fact that Nwaneri has scored more goals than the two 30-year-olds combined in 2024/25.Most read in FootballGaffers should consider this alternative option for Gameweek 24 as Arsenal have a favourable fixture in the form of a trip to 18th-placed Leicester.The Foxes were thrashed 4-0 by Everton in their last league game and beaten by a beleaguered Manchester United in the FA Cup fourth round.Whereas Arteta’s side head into Saturday’s fixture fresh off a mini break to Dubai, something that worked wonders for them last season.Arsenal have had a long time to prepare for their trip to LeicesterCredit: GettyLooking further ahead, Arsenal are due to face West Ham and Nottingham Forest in Gameweek 25.Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are flying high in third right now and should not be taken lightly but it’s worth remembering that Forest lost 3-0 at the Emirates back in November.And who scored Arsenal’s third goal that day? Ethan Nwaneri…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 NOW More

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      Diego Costa and two Arsenal flops among uninspiring free agents as Kai Havertz ruled out for season

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      ARSENAL are reeling after losing Kai Havertz for the season – but could there still be a transfer solution?The Gunners forward, 25, has been ruled out until the summer with a torn hamstring. Mikel Arteta took his squad to Dubai for winter training – only to lose Kai Havertz for the seasonCredit: GettyHavertz has suffered a torn hamstring and won’t play again in 2024-25Credit: PAEx-Gunners striker Lucas Perez is among those currently looking for a new clubCredit: PA:Empics SportHavertz sustained the injury during a training session on the club’s midseason training break in Dubai. The German joins Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka in a crowded treatment room at the Emirates. Arsenal opted against signing a striker in January, despite a late £60million bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins. They are now left with Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard and Raheem Sterling as their only fit striking options.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOne option for the Gunners is to delve into the free agent market.Arsenal haven’t yet filled up their 25-man allocation for their Premier League squad, per the Mirror. As such, they can bring in an unattached player at any time – even outside the transfer window. The current free agent list features some familiar names, including ex-Chelsea striker Diego Costa. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCosta scored 59 goals in 120 games for the Blues and won two Premier League titles – but that was back in 2017.He left Brazilian club Gremio in January and netted just once in 23 games during a barren spell with Wolves in 2022-23.Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard is looking forward to the teams training break in Dubai Uruguayan Maxi Gomez could also be a left-field option for the Gunners.The 28-year-old is surprisingly without a club after leaving Turkish side Trabzonspor last month.He has 32 caps for Uruguay and just five years ago was linked with a £125m switch to the Emirates.Mariano Diaz is also without a club since leaving Sevilla in the summer.The former Real Madrid striker also boasts Lyon on his CV – but mustered just 7 goals in 60 games across his time at the Bernabeu. Ex-Wolves and Chelsea forward Diego Costa is also a free agentCredit: GettyARSENAL PLAYER RATINGS: Saliba will be having nightmares about Isak as Lewis-Skelly is only Gunners star to show upARSENAL were humbled by Newcastle at St James’ Park as the Magpies beat them 2-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final.The North Londoners knew they needed to take an early advantage if they were to overturn the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.But Jacob Murphy was on hand to put the Magpies a goal ahead after Alexander Isak’s shot rebounded off of the post and out to him.Shortly after the break, Anthony Gordon doubled the lead to all but confirm a second League Cup final in three years for Eddie Howe.Here’s how SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse rated the Gunners.David Raya – 5Stitched Declan Rice right up for the second goal.And that absolutely killed this as a contest for his side.Jurrien Timber – 6Tried to get forward and support the attack early but soon found himself dropping deeper to avoid being caught on the counter.Tough night for the Dutchman up against Gordon in front of the red-hot home crowd.William Saliba – 4Let frustration get the better of him when he got himself booked for grabbing Anthony Gordon’s shirt.And the winger almost embarrassed him again at the start of the second period when he caught the defender sleeping, nicked the ball from him, but could only shoot wide.The usually assured star will be having nightmares of Gordon and Isak.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Another who struggled to contain Toon’s two pacey attacking threats but did fair slightly better than his usually formidable partner.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Another assured performance from the full-back in a raucous atmosphere.Could not be faulted for any of the goals and showed flashes off his potential despite the humbling.Martin Odegaard – 6Everything Arsenal did try came through the skipper.Although he loses a mark as things could have been a very different story if he had finished his first half effort had hit the inside rather than outside of the post.Thomas Partey – 6Plenty of running about but very little to show or product for his efforts.Declan Rice – 6Looked to take a knock late in the first half and continued to struggle on after the restart.Was hung out to dry by his goalie for the second goal and he did keep pushing until the very end.But it was a disappointing night for the England star and his partner Partey as they came up short against Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.Gabriel Martinelli – 5Struggled to get past big Dan Burn during his brief time on the pitch.And his night was brought to an abrupt end when he limped off before the break.Kai Havertz – 4Outmuscled, outbattled and outthought but Svan Botman and Fabian Schar.Produced zilch on an evening when he and his team-mates lacked creativity and ideas.Leandro Trossard – 5Many will have been fancying him to cause some problems for the 34-year-old Kieran Trippier but the veteran had him in his pocket all night.Arteta had seen enough by the hour mark and opted to let Raheem Sterling have a go instead.Subs usedEthan Nwaneri (37 mins for Martinelli) – 6Desperately tried to inject some pace and threat into the faltering Arsenal attack but the task proved too much for the young Gunn.He should have plenty more big occasions to look forward to though in his career.Mikel Merino (70 mins for Odegaard) – 5The game was already done and dusted when he entered the fray for battle.Some nice touches, but like those before him, he couldn’t produce anything for the visitors.Raheem Sterling (61 mins for Trossard) – 4Got half an hour to try and get at Trippier but, just like Trossard before him, he was not given an ounce of joy.Riccardo Calafiori (78 mins for Timber) – 4Was brought on simply to get some minutes in his legs.Jorginho (78 mins for Partey) – 4See above. Little chance to make an impact with the game well and truly over.Should the Gunners want a trip down memory lane, Carlos Vela and Lucas Perez are both currently free agents. Vela, who began his career with Arsenal in 2005, has spent the last six years scoring for fun at Los Angeles FC in the MLS.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut he looks likely to stay in America, despite recently losing his home in the Californian wildfires.While Perez – who flopped at the Emirates in the 2016-17 season – left Deportivo La Caruna in January due to “personal reasons.” More

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      How many injuries do Arsenal have? Full list of players currently on the sidelines

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      KAI HAVERTZ’s latest injury means Arsenal’s list of injured key players extends further.It was confirmed on Wednesday that the German attacker tore his hamstring during a warm-weather training camp in Dubai, and although a surgical decision has not yet been made, he could miss the rest of the season.Kai Havertz is Arsenal’s top scorer in the Premier LeagueThe injury would reportedly see Havertz miss Arsenal’s remaining 14 Premier League games, which would be the longest layoff of his career.The former Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen man has struggled with knee injuries in the past, but the hamstring tear is the first of his career.Mikel Arteta returns to the Gunner’s Colney training ground with more key men out than in ahead of a crucial four-month stretch to the end of the season. How many injuries do Arsenal have?Before Arteta’s men headed to the Middle East, the injury list was lengthy in quality and quantity, with five first-teamers already missing.READ MORE IN ARSENAL Attacker-wise, Bukayo Saka was the headline absentee after picking up a hamstring injury in December.Gabriel Martinelli is expected to be out for almost a month after hurting his hamstring in the Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle, while Gabriel Jesus will miss the remainder of the season owing to a knee injury.Further back, full-back pairing Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also sidelined with knee injuries with the latter’s return date still unknown. Full list of Arsenal players currently on the sidelinesBen White – Knee injury / Mid-February 2025Takehiro Tomiyasu – Knee injury / Mid-February 2025Bukayo Sake – Hamstring injury / Late February 2025Gabriel Martinelli – Hamstring injury / Late March 2025Gabriel Jesus – Cruciate ligament injury / Out for seasonKai Havertz – Hamstring injury / Out for seasonMost read in Football More

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      Four ways Arsenal could line up until end of Premier League season with Mikel Arteta facing unprecedented striker crisis

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      MIKEL ARTETA has some huge decisions to make in the coming weeks.Arsenal are in the midst of an injury crisis.Mikel Arteta has an injury crisis on his handsCredit: PAKai Havertz has been ruled out for the remainder of the seasonCredit: GettyKai Havertz became the club’s latest star to suffer a significant injury this week.The striker sustained a torn hamstring while training in Dubai and is now set to miss the remainder of the season.And with Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli already on the treatment table, the Gunners now find themselves severely limited in attack.Arteta currently has just three first team forwards at his disposal – loanee Raheem Sterling, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri and Leandro Trossard.Read More in FootballThe Spaniard could be forced to play some stars out of position while he waits for the likes of Saka and Martinelli to return next month.Here, SunSport look at four ways Arsenal could line up in attack in the coming weeks.Nwaneri strikerEarlier this season, Arteta admitted he would like to see Nwaneri in the No9 role one day.He said: “I think he can develop into a No9. He has got the goal in front of him and he looks at the goal and he has a tremendous ability to put the ball in the back of the net.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArteta sees Ethan Nwaneri as a potential strikerWith Havertz now absent, that day could come sooner rather than later.Should Nwaneri move into the centre, Sterling could take his place on the right until Saka returns to fitness.Where Arsenal’s transfer window went wrong with Mikel Arteta more reliant on Havertz than ever and no back-up strikerMeanwhile, Trossard will probably keep his role on the left.Sterling strikerThe 30-year-old played as up top on several occasions during his Manchester City and Liverpool days.Arsenal’s current injury crisis could see him move back into that position.Sterling played as a No9 during his time with Man City and LiverpoolIn 62 outings as a centre-forward, Sterling scored 25 goals and provided ten assists.The Gunners will be hoping he can find his form as he approaches the end of his loan spell.Should Sterling move inside, Nwaneri will probably go to the right with Trossard on the left.Trossard strikerTrossard has played central on a number of occasions for Arsenal, usually in a false nine-style formation.Arteta could utilise that again in the next few weeks to combat the absence of a striker.Leandro Trossard has played centrally beforeShould that be the case, the Spaniard could try something completely different by moving Kieran Tierney to the wing.Tierney played left midfield on a handful of occasions during his time at Celtic but never as high as a winger.Such a move will probably see Nwaneri stay on the right.Merino strikerProbably the most unexpected option on this list, Merino is also allegedly being considered as a potential striker for Arsenal.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe midfielder has never played as a No9 professionally but Arteta could give him a chance in the near future.There is talk of the 6ft 2in star using his physique and stature as a makeshift central striker – a little bit like the way Marouane Fellaini was deployed by Manchester United.Mikel Merino could start as a No9 More

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      Jude Bellingham showed why is England’s best player in 50 years – with wonderfully un-English winning mentality

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      WHEN Jude Bellingham rescued England’s Euros campaign from humiliation with a spectacular overhead-kick, his celebration caused a stir.After that 95th-minute equaliser in the last-16 clash with Slovakia, Real Madrid’s Brummie was seen yelling: ‘Who else?’Jude Bellingham scored an added-time winner for Real Madrid at Manchester CityCredit: AFPBellingham goaded the City fans with his trademark celebrationCredit: APBellingham rescued England’s Euros campaign with his spectacular injury-time overhead kick against SlovakiaCredit: GettyHe also netted TWO injury-time Clasico winners last season, this one at the BernabeuCredit: AFPAnd this one was in Barcelona last seasonCredit: EPADid it indicate arrogance? An over-inflated ego? A desire for individual glory over team success?Not really. It was probably just the instinctive reaction of a player who seizes big moments so frequently, that he simply expects them to happen.When Bellingham poked home in the 92nd minute at Manchester City on Tuesday, it was the sixth time in his 75-match Real career that he had netted an injury-time winner.“Who else?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTwo of those previous efforts arrived in Bellingham’s first two Clasicos against Barcelona – the most prestigious and ferocious club fixture on Earth.Bellingham had been quiet in the first half at the Etihad. He hadn’t illuminated the place like his fellow Galacticos – especially Vinicius Jr, his club’s spurned unofficial ‘winner’ of last year’s Ballon d’Or.But in the second half his influence grew, although he missed a couple of very presentable chances.And when Vinicius lobbed Ederson in the dying seconds, it was Bellingham who found the killer touch which allowed Real to carry a 3-2 advantage into the second leg of their Champions League play-off.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBecause that’s what Bellingham does.This time, it was his trademark celebration – standing with his arms outstretched in front of the seething City faithful. Like Christ the Redeemer peering down over Rio.Man City player ratings vs Real MadridIf there is an element of arrogance about this then, well, Bellingham has plenty to be arrogant about.Bellingham is England’s best and most influential footballer in more than half a century, since Sir Bobby Charlton was in his pomp.Paul Scholes, one of England’s finest since Charlton, says Bellingham is ‘better than anything we’ve seen’.And he is also quite unlike any other English footballer we have known.He can often seem other-worldy because, despite the Premier League’s global financial dominance, the 21-year-old has never played in England’s top flight.Leaving Birmingham as a 16-year-old for Borussia Dortmund then snubbing Liverpool, most notably, before joining Madrid and firing the world’s famous club to the Spanish title and their 15th European Cup in his maiden campaign as Real’s top scorer and La Liga’s Player of the Season.We don’t see all that much of him, and we hear even less.Bellingham rarely speaks to the media. After 40 caps, he is yet to be interviewed by the written press. During the Euros, a set-piece TV interview was suddenly cancelled at the last minute to the disappointment of the FA.In an era of openness and accessibility around the England camp, Bellingham’s fiercely-protective father Mark – who seems constantly angry at the world his son inhabits – keeps the 21-year-old wrapped in cotton wool.This contributes towards the feeling that, while Bellingham is admired in England, he isn’t loved.It adds to the idea of detachment, of difference, of ‘otherness’.Bellingham has inherited some of his father’s anger. That irrational belief that the world is against him.Last weekend, he was heard F-bombing a linesman who had failed to award Real a throw-in during the Madrid derby against Atletico and earlier this season he called a referee a ‘piece of s***’ during a victory over Espanyol.While at Dortmund, Bellingham was fined for bringing up the match-fixing past of referee Felix Zwayer.Since joining Real 18 months ago, Bellingham has clocked up 22 yellow cards for club and country, as well as one red for dissent after the final whistle robbed him of another injury-time winner against Valencia.This is no Mr Nice Guy. In truth, winners rarely are.And then there is that supreme self-belief, which seems, rather wonderfully, un-English.England players, even the best of them, so often end up as plucky losers.The idea of heroic failure is a national characteristic. But it’s not for Bellingham.Bellingham keeps on winning games in injury-time.He was widely perceived to have suffered a disappointing Euros last summer.And yet he dominated the first half of England’s tournament opener against Serbia, scoring the only goal, he saved the summer with that extraordinary leveller against Slovakia and he assisted Cole Palmer’s equaliser in the final defeat by Spain.There is that supreme self-belief, which seems, rather wonderfully, un-EnglishDAVE KIDD ON BELLINGHAMThis despite being shunted out to the left wing for much of the campaign to accommodate Phil Foden, who has never seized the momentum and turned international matches in England’s favour as Bellingham has often done.There were mutterings about Bellingham’s character. Suggestions he didn’t fit into Gareth Southgate’s team ethos.And yet even in that tournament, with Bellingham physically and mentally drained after an all-conquering campaign in Spain, he was able to bend big occasions to his will.For Real last season, despite no previous experience in the role, he played much of the campaign as a ‘false nine’.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, he has reverted to his preferred midfield role and yet when Real needed an injury-time winner at the Etihad, who was in the right place at the right time?Bellingham, who else?SAVED BY THE BELLJUDE Bellingham’s injury-time winners for Real MadridGetafe (h) Sept 2 2023 – 2-1 winUnion Berlin (h) Sept 20 2023 – 1-0 winBarcelona (a) Oct 28 2023 – 2-1 winBarcelona (h) Apr 21 2024 – 3-2 winValencia (a) Jan 3 2025 – 2-1 winMan City (a) Feb 11 2025 – 3-2 win  More