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      Premier League trolled over ‘absolute shambles’ picture on website as fans say ‘I thought this was fake’

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      FANS have slammed the Premier League as an “absolute shambles” over a bizarre photo choice on their website.Refereeing decisions once again caused huge controversy over the weekend as Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off for a challenge on Wolves defender Matt Doherty.The Premier League used a controversial snap on their page about high foot challengesJeremy Doku’s challenge on Alexis Mac Allister was not given as a penaltyCredit: AFPFans have been looking into the laws of the game after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red cardCredit: RexThe 18-year-old was red carded for serious foul play and will now serve a three-match ban.It led to supporters swatting up on the rules of the game, with fans left baffled by a picture on the Prem’s website.One fan investigating the laws on high foot challenges noticed that a snap of Jeremy Doku kicking Alexis Mac Allister was used as the main image on the page.The challenge occurred during Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in March last season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt proved to be one of the most controversial refereeing moments in the title race as Doku’s last-gasp high foot went unpunished.PGMOL chief Howard Webb later came out and BACKED the decision, saying VAR was correct to not give Liverpool a penalty.So fans were left utterly baffled by the photo being used to illustrate a high foot, with one saying: “Premier league website using this Doku challenge on Mac Allister as an example of a high foot when it wasn’t even given as a foul in the game. Absolute shambles.”Another added: “They’re the biggest wind-up merchants going.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA third wrote: “I thought this was fake.”The point City picked up proved crucial as they ended up finishing just two ahead of Arsenal to win the title.Jurgen Klopp confronts referee after 98th minute season-defining VAR call saves Man City at AnfieldOfficial Michael Oliver was the referee that day and he was again the man with the whistle for Lewis-Skelly’s red card.Former head of the PGMOL Keith Hackett claims Oliver and Darren England on the VAR made a “major error” by sending off the Arsenal wonderkid.He even suggested that the under-fire official “needs a rest for a couple of weeks” to recover from the mistake and that VAR needs reforming. MARK HALSEY: Questions have to be asked of VAR after Lewis-Skelly sending off… here’s what SHOULD have happenedBy Mark HalseyVAR Darren England should have recommended a review as soon as referee Michael Oliver showed Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves’ Matt Doherty.An official has to decide whether the challenge was careless or reckless — careless is a free-kick only, reckless is a yellow card — or worthy of a red card.When a player lunges at an opponent with one or two feet from the front, the side or from the back which endangers the player’s safety with excess force or/and brutality, it must be sanctioned with a red.I saw it as a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow, not a red.So why did Darren not recommend a review? Once the red card was shown, the VAR should have intervened.If Michael had the opportunity to view the challenge again, I’m sure he would have changed his mind, cancelled the red card and issued a yellow.As for Arsenal fans’ views that Michael is biased against them, I’m not buying into that. You can never question the integrity of a match official and Michael is one of our best referees.Officials cannot get everything right and that is why we have VAR to help. So questions have to be asked of Darren.With the second yellow for Joao Gomes after catching Jurrien Timber on the ankle, you could argue that was a worse challenge than the Lewis-Skelly one. More

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      Man Utd Supporters Trust release public warning to Sir Jim Ratcliffe about ticket price hikes at ‘worst possible time’

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      THE MANCHESTER UNITED SUPPORTERS’ TRUST (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe following the controversial rise in ticket prices.Britain’s richest man Ratcliffe, 72, angered United fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66.The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: GettyRatcliffe angered Man Utd fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66Credit: GettySir Jim insisted Man Utd should not charge less than Premier League opponents, such as Fulham.That led to an X-rated chant against him and the unpopular Glazers regime by the Red Devils faithful when he was spotted at Craven Cottage watching Sunday’s scrappy 1-0 victory over the Cottagers.United fans were heard chanting: “Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t. Just like the Glazers, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t.”MUST then shared an open letter calling on Ratcliffe to freeze ticket prices and end “the war on season ticket holders”.Read More on Man UtdThe Trust insists this was the “worst possible time” to raise ticket prices.They cite the impact on fan sentiment, the negative affect on “atmosphere and team performance” and how wrong policies which do not engage properly with supporters can “trigger huge reactions”.United fans were initially desperate for Sir Jim and his Ineos company to take over sporting operations from the Glazers, which they finally did in 2023.But recent cut-backs have helped send relations between Ratcliffe and supporters plummeting.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis comes after some other brutal cuts as 250 staff members were made redundant.In addition, club legends and ambassadors saw their wages getting reduced, while Sir Alex Ferguson was axed.Paul Scholes lays into Sir Jim Ratcliffe for ‘having the cheek’ to introduce ‘ridiculous’ Man Utd’s ticket prices SunSport also exclusively revealed the club slashed funding for a charity helping former players.United chiefs say the changes will put the club “on a stronger financial footing” after making a total loss of more than £300million over the past three years.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet.Man Utd fans’ open letter to Sir Jim RatcliffeThe Manchester United Supporters Trust issued the following open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding the rise of ticket prices:We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too.Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.WHY THIS IS THE WRONG TIMEFan Sentiment:A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans’ discretionary spend too.And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.THE VALUE OF SUPPORTIVE FANSHow much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?)The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.A BETTER WAY FORWARDInstead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach – work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.Hold Fire for This Season:Be bold – freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.Rally the Fans and Club Together:Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.Consider Alternative Funding Options:If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.Preserve the Club’s Legacy:Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.THE BUSINESS CASE FOR A BOLD APPROACHThis is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.Yours sincerely,The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) More

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      ‘They have to do better’ – Martinez blames Man Utd stars’ tactic for Hojlund and Zirkzee struggles but sends warning

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      LISANDRO MARTINEZ claims Manchester United have to stop playing long balls to the strikers.The United defender admits that the team have to do more to help forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee who are both struggling up front for Ruben Amorim’s side.Lisandro Martinez hopes a change of approach can see Man Utd turn their fortunes aroundCredit: AlamyThe Red Devils are looking to get Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee firingCredit: ReutersMartinez, who scored the winner in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Fulham to ease the pressure on Amorim, accepted that the service to Hojlund and Zirkzee has been poor.He said: “We take the responsibility. “I think we played many long balls to them [against Fulham] and for them it was really tough. “They fight against two centre-backs and the centre-backs here in the Premier League are really difficult if you are trying to win the ball.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”But they have to do better as well. They are really good players but we have to contribute more and put them in better space or places on the pitch. “We have to find them in the right places and dangerous places to make them score.”Hojlund, on target seven times this season, has failed to score in his last 11 matches. Zirkzee has only four goals following his summer move from Bologna.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut United are now preparing for Thursday’s Europa League game against FCSB in Romania looking for a third successive win under Amorim.Martinez added: “We have to keep this momentum for sure. Amorim fires extraordinary blast at Rashford and says he’d rather put 63-YEAR-OLD coach on Man Utd bench ahead of him”It’s an amazing feeling when you win, but we have to be humble.”Asked about the confidence in the dressing room, the Argentine star did not want to go overboard. He said: “We’re ok. I’m not going to talk about confidence and that kind of thing.”Beating Fulham was really important because we hadn’t got the best results in the Premier League.”MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet.United picked up their first clean sheet since December 1 in the win.Amorim’s side hadn’t stopped a team from scoring since a 4-0 victory over Everton 14 games ago. 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      Why Man Utd were forced into nightmare journey back from Fulham with miserable stars arriving in Manchester at 1.30am

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      MANCHESTER UNITED stars had to be driven back home by coach after their Premier League match at Fulham.United defeated the Cottagers 1-0 on Sunday thanks to Lisandro Martinez’s winner at Craven Cottage.Manuel Ugarte was visibily upset after Manchester United’s hellacious trip backCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeAlejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo had to endure a three-and-a-half-hour coach trip back to ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeRasmus Hojlund saw Man Utd’s flight back from London getting cancelledCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMatthijs de Ligt and co couldn’t board the plane due to problems with the airlineCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Red Devils were scheduled to fly back to Manchester Airport but the flight was cancelled.Problems with the airline meant going back home by plane was no longer an option.And so Man Utd had to endure a THREE-AND-A-HALF-HOUR coach journey to Manchester.Ruben Amorim’s men faced Fulham at 7pm and the manager finished his post-match press conference at about 9.40pm.Read More on Man UtdThe team arrived back at Manchester Airport at about 1.30AM to get on their cars that they had parked nearby anticipating a flight back.Some players, such as Manuel Ugarte, seemed visibly frustrated after the horrendous ordeal.United are training on Monday despite the horrible journey, but have Tuesday off.Amorim will hold practice again on Wednesday morning before the three-hour flight to Romania.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThat is where they will take on FCSB on Thursday’s crunch Europa League clash as they look to seal a place in the top eight.That leads straight to the Last 16, which is quite important for United amid their ongoing woes in the Premier League.Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager’The Red Devils have plunged down to 12th place in the table, which means winning the Europa League poses as their best chance of gaining Champions League qualification next season.The club has dealt with off-field woes as well with fans furious following the rise in ticket prices.That led to the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust issuing an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe warning him about the negative effects of that decision.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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      Why Erling Haaland is currently most transferred-out player ahead of Gameweek 22 despite prolific form

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      ERLING HAALAND (£7.9m) is currently the most transferred-out player ahead Gameweek 22.Even during rare fallow spells it’s rare for Dream Team managers to turn their backs on Manchester City’s prolific striker so it may seem utterly perplexing why his popularity is dipping now he’s back among the most in-form players in the game.Allow us to explain.Replacing Haaland is fraught with risk but perfectly logicalCredit: Dream TeamFirstly, it’s important to note that Haaland has quietly regained his best form in recent outings.The Norwegian poacher scored one and assisted another for a 15-point haul as Pep Guardiola’s side came from behind to beat Chelsea 3-1 on Sunday.This followed a profitable Gameweek 20 when he scored against both Ipswich and PSG for a combined return of 21 points.At the time of writing, only Justin Kluivert (£3.6m) and Alexander Isak (£6.1m) have taken more points than Haaland from their last three outings.More broadly, goals in three consecutive games means the big No9 now has 24 in all competitions, the outright highest tally in the game.Haaland has banked 36 points in his last three outingsCredit: GettyClearly, Dream Team bosses are not ditching Haaland due to form issues.The reason he has already been removed from a few thousand teams is because of the schedule.Most read in FootballMan City have just one fixture to fulfil in Gameweek 22 and a difficult one on paper in the form of Arsenal at the Emirates – the Gunners are the only team yet to lose a home game in the top flight this campaign.Naturally, gaffers will be more interested in the four teams set to fulfil two fixtures in Gameweek 22 because of the Carabao Cup semi-final second legs: Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal and Newcastle.Isak will be a popular recruit for Gameweek 22Credit: ReutersSuch is Haaland’s pedigree, he may well breach Mikel Arteta’s defence and continue his prosperous form but the decision to replace him with a forward with better prospects in Gameweek 22 is an understandable one.Mohamed Salah (£8m), Cody Gakpo (£4.7m), Son Heung-min (£5m), Kai Havertz (£4.7m) and the aforementioned Isak all have 180+ points to their name plus two fixtures in the diary for Gameweek 22.And that’s just the forwards, Anthony Gordon (£5.3m) and Dejan Kulusevski (£4.4m) are among the strong midfield options prior to the next deadline.City assets will be popular again if they make the Champions League play-offsCredit: GettyOne thing to note is that while Man City currently have just one fixture scheduled for Gameweek 23 (against Leyton Orient in the FA Cup) that will change if they can secure a place in the Champions League knockout phase play-offs – a win at home to Club Brugge on Wednesday will do the trick.Should that come to pass, Guardiola’s side will play the first leg of the play-off in Gameweek 23 and the second leg in Gameweek 24.So why Haaland may disappear from a few teams this week, the shoe might be on the other foot soon enough.Plus, Gameweek 21 isn’t done yet with six fixtures still to complete – things can change very quickly in the world of Dream Team.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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      ‘I’m not quite sure what he was doing’ – Harry Kane and Eric Dier make Bundesliga history but striker confused by pal

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      BAYERN MUNICH star Harry Kane and Eric Dier made Bundesliga history by registering a famous goal.Kane, 31, and Dier, 31, go way back as they burst onto the scene during their time at Tottenham where they played together for nine years.Bayern Munich stars Harry Kane and Eric Dier made Bundesliga history togetherCredit: GettyKane and Dier became the first ever English players to combine for a Bundesliga goalCredit: GettyNow the England duo are playing at Bayern and have proven that their chemistry is still very much alive and well.So much so that the two pals made history on Saturday’s 2-1 win at Freiburg.Kane and Dier became the first ever English players to combine for a goal in the Bundesliga since records began in the 2004-05 season.The England captain opened the scoring after just 15 minutes when the defender collected the ball on the right flank and fed his former Tottenham team-mate.Read More on FootballThe star striker poked fun at Dier during his post-match interview claiming he was confused to see him playing so far up the pitch.Kane said: “I’m not quite sure what he was doing in that position in the first place. “Me and Eric are really good friends and it’s good to see him on the pitch.”He’s not played a lot this season but whenever he’s come in he’s done really well. Eric was rock solid again [against Freiburg]. Most read in BundesligaBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives”I’m delighted for him that he picked up an assist and it was nice that it fell to me.”Kim Min-jae sealed the three points for Bayern just nine minutes into the second half.Erling Haaland’s salary is only ninth biggest in football with Chelsea flop Koulibaly earning more than Man City starFreiburg hit back with Matthias Ginter in the 68th minute but the visitors held on and are now top of the table with six points separating them from second-placed Bayer Leverkusen. More

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      ‘Funniest thing I’ve seen’ – Fans spot Arsenal star Leandro Trossard’s 6-word comment about Michael Oliver to Wolves ace

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      ARSENAL fans think they’ve spotted Leandro Trossard making a “hilarious” comment about referee Michael Oliver during the Gunners’ 1-0 win over Wolves on Saturday.Oliver has been the subject of much chatter since the match after controversially sending off Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. Micheal Oliver showed Joao Gomes a yellow card for delaying the restart on SaturdayCredit: RexLeandro Trossard was approached Gomes to seemingly make a comment about OliverCredit: XTrossard appeared to say ‘that’s what he did to me’Credit: XBut it was his first yellow card to Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes that had Trossard passing comment on the Premier League official.Gomes, who was ultimately sent off for a second yellow card offence in the second half, was booked for delaying the restart in the first half.And Arsenal star Trossard was quick to try and intervene while the Brazilian protested his innocence to Micheal Oliver.Gomes was hoping to talk his way out of the booking, but Trossard reminded the 23-year-old that he had suffered the same fate against Man City earlier in the season.READ MORE ON ARSENALA clip of the Belgian forward appeared to show him saying to Gomes: “That’s what he did to me”.Trossard was sent off against Man City back in September after receiving a second yellow card for delaying the restart.Arsenal fans were loving their star’s hark back to the 2-2 draw and reacted on social media.One wrote: “Funniest thing I’ve seen today”.Most read in FootballLeandro Trossard was sent off by Michael Oliver after a second yellow card for delaying the restart against Man City this seasonCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhile another added: “Trossard is low-key hilarious”.A third joked: “He said, ‘welcome to the club bro’.” Mikel Arteta ‘absolutely fuming’ after controversial Myles Lewis-Skelly red cardAnd a fourth posted: “I’m still laughing at this clip the next day”.Oliver would later send off 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly for a trip some 90-yards from the Arsenal box, sparking fury from former players and pundits across the football world.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta claimed he was “fuming” about the decision, but remained calm enough to suggest that he won’t be complaining.Arteta told reporters that he hopes that an appeal won’t even be necessary and that the PGMOL will overturn the decision themselves as they did with Bruno Fernandes’ red card against Tottenham earlier in the season.Ian Wright claimed that the refereeing in the Premier League is “nowhere near it” in a video on social media.While Match of the Day host Mark Chapman claimed the red card was “baffling and nonsensical from supposedly one of our best referees”.Alan Shearer blasted it as “one of the worst decisions I’ve seen in a long time”He said: “As a referee, you can get it wrong on the pitch, you might see something which is incorrect.”How on earth Darren England, the VAR, thinks that the referee has got that right and there is no need to send him to the screen is beyond me.Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off by Michael Oliver against Wolves on SaturdayCredit: PALewis-Skelly was dismissed for a foul on Matt DohertyCredit: AlamyMARK HALSEY: Questions have to be asked of VAR after Lewis-Skelly sending off… here’s what SHOULD have happenedBy Mark HalseyVAR Darren England should have recommended a review as soon as referee Michael Oliver showed Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves’ Matt Doherty.An official has to decide whether the challenge was careless or reckless — careless is a free-kick only, reckless is a yellow card — or worthy of a red card.When a player lunges at an opponent with one or two feet from the front, the side or from the back which endangers the player’s safety with excess force or/and brutality, it must be sanctioned with a red.I saw it as a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow, not a red.So why did Darren not recommend a review? Once the red card was shown, the VAR should have intervened.If Michael had the opportunity to view the challenge again, I’m sure he would have changed his mind, cancelled the red card and issued a yellow.As for Arsenal fans’ views that Michael is biased against them, I’m not buying into that. You can never question the integrity of a match official and Michael is one of our best referees.Officials cannot get everything right and that is why we have VAR to help. So questions have to be asked of Darren.With the second yellow for Joao Gomes after catching Jurrien Timber on the ankle, you could argue that was a worse challenge than the Lewis-Skelly one.”I just cannot see and work out what VAR is thinking going along with Michael Oliver’s decision. No wonder it gets criticised by so many people.”And BBC Five Live pundit Pat Nevin said labelling such a challenge serious foul play was setting “a bar so low even a limbo dancing snake couldn’t get under it”.Even ex-Tottenham star Jamie O’Hara said: “I’m all for Arsenal having a beast but that is never ever a red card, one of the worst decisions I’ve ever seen. Jheez lol”.While the comments on social media from fans went too far, with the PGMOL releasing a statement revealing Oliver had been subject to death threats and “abhorrent abuse”.It read: “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.”No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.”The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times.”We will continue to support all investigations.”Arsenal legend Ian Wright hits out at Myles Lewis Skelly red card decisionIAN WRIGHT has joined the long-list of former professionals and pundits to be left reeling by the decision to send off Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly on Saturday.The cynical challenge left most fans expecting a yellow card, but the Hale End graduate was shown red by referee Michael Oliver instead.Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes led the on-field protests as Arsenal’s players showed their frustration at the decision.And now Gunners icon Ian Wright has weighed in on the incident, claiming that it’s “never a red”.In a video posted on social media by the former Premier Legue bagsman, he fumed: “It’s a joke!”Anyone that has ever played the game, and I’m not even talking Premier League, I’m talking five-a-side, Sunday league, knows that it’s never a red.”Yellow card, nobody says a word. Time and time again, this level of refereeing [and] the decisions in the Premier League… the inconsistency, the excuses, the apologies.”All of them are just the centre of attention for me. We can’t criticise too hard because, where are the refs going to come from? Where are we going to get them?”But I’m sorry, this is the highest level of football and we do not have the highest level of referees. When will the Premier League bring the best refs into the so called ‘best league in the world’?”Because at the moment, with this level of refereeing, we’re nowhere near it. Nowhere near it.” More

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      Tottenham confirm Ange Postecoglou WILL take press conference on Wednesday in huge hint on future

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      TOTTENHAM have dropped a huge hint that Ange Postecoglou WILL be in charge for their next game.The Spurs boss is under huge pressure amid a disastrous run of just one Premier League win in their last ten games. Ange Postecoglou is set to be in charge for Spurs’ next gameCredit: PAFans directed anger at club chiefs during yesterday’s 2-1 defeat to LeicesterCredit: GettyHis side’s next clash is against Elfsborg in the Europa League on Thursday. And the club have confirmed to SunSport that Postecoglou will be in front of the media at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.Spurs sit sixth in the Europa League table and a win against their Swedish opponents guarantees their spot in the Round of 16. Tottenham’s cup performances have taken some pressure off the under-fire boss, with them a goal up heading into the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool next Thursday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut in the Prem, they are in danger of being dragged into a relegation battle.There were boos from supporters and protests at chief Daniel Levy during yesterday’s 2-1 defeat to Leicester that left Postecoglou clinging onto his job.He also confronted a fan with a fierce death stare after a supporter shouted at him: “You’re taking us down. We’re going down with you.”Sacking the 59-year-old Aussie would reportedly cost the club £12million due to him having two-and-a-half years left on his £5m-a-year contract.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWhen asked if he reckons he will still be in a job for much longer, Postecoglou said: “Who knows. I reckon there is probably a fair chunk that will say no. “When you are the manager of a football club you can be very vulnerable and isolated. I don’t feel that.Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou shows his dissagpointment after defeat to Leicester “I feel like this group of players are giving everything for the club. I have a group of staff that is really committed. I focus on that.”I have felt all along that the players are still very committed to what we’re doing. “That’s important to me, because I firmly believe in it.“This is as low as we’ve been so far this year but I still think that in these last three months we can do something really special and these players believe that.”On the defeat to Leicester, he said: “It hurts a lot. The players gave everything again. “We are going to look at a lot of things, but in terms of effort I can’t ask anymore of this group, things just didn’t go our way today.”I know it will turn. We’ll get some players back, we were short again today but in the next couple of weeks there’s some really important players coming back that I know will help this group.” More