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      St Mirren star Shaun Rooney ‘assaulted woman and made homophobic slur’ in city centre chippy bust-up

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      SUSPENDED footie ace Shaun Rooney was nicked over allegations he assaulted a woman and made an alleged homophobic slur in a city centre bust-up, we can reveal.The 28-year-old defender was lifted by cops in Queen Street, Glasgow, after reports over an incident outside the Blue Lagoon chip shop.He has been suspended by the Paisley clubCredit: Kenny RamsayRooney with his girlfriend who is British tennis ace Heather WatsonCredit: InstagramRooney, who dates British tennis ace Heather Watson, was suspended by the Paisley outfit after he informed them about an alleged incident on Thursday, September 19.Prosecutors are currently considering a report submitted by officers who attended the alleged early morning assault.Rooney began his career as a starlet at Dundee United and has enjoyed spells at Dunfermline Athletic, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and St Johnstone.In a statement on Thursday the Paisley club said he had been suspended “on a precautionary basis” after disclosing the alleged incident.They added: “The club will now undertake a full investigation into this incident and will make no further comment during this process.”A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with an assault on an 18-year-old woman and a breach of the peace against an 18-year-old man in takeaway premises on Queen Street, Glasgow, in the early hours of Thursday, 19 September, 2024.”He was released on an undertaking to appeal at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.”A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”Most read in FootballSaints boss Stephen Robinson admitted the shock suspension of the defender is far from ideal for his side. Addressing the situation, he said: “Well Shaun’s not available … so it’s not an ideal scenario for a manager, is it?Shaun Rooney’s career Early Career: Shaun Rooney began his professional football journey at Queen’s Park, a club known for developing young talent in Scotland. He made his debut in the 2013/2014 season, showcasing his potential as a versatile defender.Move to Dunfermline Athletic: In 2015, Rooney transferred to Dunfermline Athletic, a club competing in the Scottish League One at the time. His performances helped the team secure promotion to the Scottish Championship, providing him with valuable experience in a more competitive league.Queen of the South: Rooney’s career progressed with a move to Queen of the South in 2016. Although his time at the club was brief, he gained further exposure in the Scottish Championship, contributing to the team’s defensive line.Return to Queen’s Park: Seeking more playing time, Rooney returned to Queen’s Park on loan in 2017. This move allowed him to refine his skills and gain regular first-team experience, which was crucial for his development as a player.Inverness Caledonian Thistle: In 2018, Rooney signed with Inverness Caledonian Thistle, a club with a strong presence in the Scottish Championship. During his tenure, he became a key figure in their defence, helping the team reach the play-offs in the 2018-2019 season.St Johnstone Signing: Rooney’s performances caught the attention of St Johnstone, and in 2020 he made a significant career move by joining the Scottish Premiership side. This transfer marked a step up to Scotland’s top-tier football, where he continued to develop his defensive prowess.Scottish Cup Success: Rooney played a pivotal role in St Johnstone’s historic 2020-2021 Scottish Cup campaign. His solid defensive performances and crucial goal in the final helped the club secure the prestigious trophy, further establishing his reputation.Scottish League Cup Triumph: In the same 2020-2021 season, Rooney was instrumental in St Johnstone’s Scottish League Cup victory. His contributions throughout the tournament, including a decisive goal in the final, were key to the club’s success in achieving a domestic cup double.Transfer to Fleetwood Town: In 2022, Rooney moved to Fleetwood Town, a club competing in England’s League One. This transfer marked his first venture into English football, where he aimed to bring his defensive skills and experience to a new environment.Return to Scotland with St Mirren: In the summer of 2024, Rooney return to Scotland after agreeing a two-year deal with St Mirren. “But these things happen and it gives other people opportunities and we’ll deal with it.”He spoke to the club and made us aware about an incident and as the club said in a statement last night they are investigating that incident.”I’m not really involved in that decision making, it’s a board level decision and I have got to concentrate on the football side of things.”Our New YouTube ChannelSubscribe to our new Scottish Sun Sport YouTube channel for all the latest football news, views and amazing moments.We’ve got every major development covered from Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, Hibs, Aberdeen and the rest of the Scottish Premiership.Plus we have TWO brilliant new podcasts to watch every week…MONDAYGo Ballistic with Roger Hannah and special guest Kris Boyd will dissect all the weekend action and deliver their no-holds-barred reaction.WEDNESDAYRobert Grieve and Bill Leckie chew over the tastiest topics in Scottish football and offer their unique takes in their Coffee Club.FRIDAYGo Ballistic is back with Roger Hannah and top tipster Jim Delahunt looking ahead to the weekend games and analysing the biggest talking points.Subscribe now and don’t miss a thing. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Premier League club reveal stunning new images of stadium expansion that will include SKY BAR overlooking pitch

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      ONE Premier League club is set to have an incredible SKY BAR overlooking the pitch thanks to a mega stadium expansion.As well as the stunning views from the new Sky Bar, fans will also be able to walk the roof of the ground and stay in a hotel next to the stadium.One Premier League club will soon have a sky bar overlooking the pitchCredit: Manchester CityIt comes as part of their plans to renovate one of their stands and increase the capacityCredit: Manchester CityThere’s going to be over 7,000 new seats in the expanded groundCredit: Manchester CityManchester City are investing over £300MILLION into the Etihad Stadium and the surrounding area to transform the club’s facilities.The four-in-a-row champions are renovating their North Stand in an expansion that will see their stadium capacity rise from 53,400 to over 60,000.That increase will take the Etihad into a similar realm as Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium and Liverpool’s historic home of Anfield.The club have announced that the 7,000 seat expansion will include 3,000 rail seats – offering up one of the Premier League’s largest safe standing areas.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile they have also announced plans to “create a legacy by establishing new pathways for the next generation of Manchester City fans to enjoy matches”.That is expected to mean City will set aside a number of tickets for fans under the age of 21.Other areas of the redevelopment stand will be made to accommodate different cultures and younger fans with breakout spaces, religious rooms and alcohol-free areas.A hospitality area will also be included in the new additions which will house 800 guests and include a 500-seat food hall and a premium bar.Most read in FootballMockups show what the Etihad could look like once the development is completed in late 2026Credit: Man CitySupporters will have a 3,000 capacity fan zone to enjoy on matchdaysCredit: Man CityThe new stand will also feature a roof walkCredit: Man CityFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe improved stand, which is set to open in the 2025/26 season, isn’t the only new change that fans will be able to make the most of either.As well as sky bar with views overlooking the pitch and a stadium roof walk experience, City fans will be able to use a brand new covered fan zone outside the ground.Man City boss Pep Guardiola gives update on Rodri injury The City Square fan zone will hold some 3,000 fans and offer up food and drink as well as screens to catch the match.A brand new club shop and a museum will also be added to the surrounding area to help improve on the matchday experience.City are also building a 400-bed hotel that will mean supporters can stay right by the action.That hotel, alongside the other City Square additions, are expected to open after the new stand and will be ready for late 2026.Man City have been in the Etihad for over 20 years now after ditching Maine Road in the 2003/04 season to take over the purpose built Commonwealth Games stadium.They have already invested heavily to increase the ground’s original 38,000 seat capacity to the 53,400 seats it houses today.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the new investment isn’t just welcomed, but perhaps necessary. Supporters in the ground for City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal last weekend were soaked after a leak in the roof at the Etihad poured down onto the crowd.Changes to the Premier League for 2024/25NOTHING stays the same forever.And that includes the Premier League, which is making a number of tweaks this season.Team news will now be released 75 MINUTES before kick-off, 15 minutes earlier than had been the case before.Things could get crowded on the touchline, with the number of substitutes permitted to warm-up boosted from three players per team to FIVE.There’s also a change to how added time is calculated when a team scores a goal, an update to the ‘multiball’ system and the introduction of semi-automated offsides – but not straight away.Go here to read about all the changes to the Premier League for 2024/25. More

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      Kaminski says Crystal Palace must not to be overhelmed by ‘season of firsts’ in the Women’s Super League

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      LAURA KAMINSKI wants Crystal Palace to avoid being overwhelmed by their top-flight status following their WSL debut.And the Eagles boss reckons her side will show their top-flight pedigree when they host Chelsea tonight.Crystal Palace’s will host Chelsea in their first WSL outing at Selhurst ParkCredit: GettyLaura Kaminksi says her players are prepared for the challenge they will face from ChelseaCredit: GettyThe Blues aim to maintain their unbeaten run under Sonia BompastorCredit: GettyPalace welcome the title-holders to Selhurst Park in their first London derby clash at the stadium in the Women’s Super League. The match will see Chelsea take on the South London side for the first time in the division.And the Eagles hope to take flight in the race for points after their 4-0 loss away to Tottenham last time out.Kaminski, whose side will visit Leicester next Sunday, said: “It’s a big opportunity and a big moment but it’s important that it doesn’t overwhelm the squad or me.Read More Football Stories”We’ve done so well to get into this position. “We need to remember this is what we want to do for many years to come.”Although there are many firsts this season, we need to make sure those moments don’t overwhelm us. “We’re there to play and to compete.Most read in Football“We’re expecting a lot of people and it will be great for the players to experience a night-time game. That will be a little bit new for us.“Our schedule looks different this season with fixtures timings.”Chelsea are a great side in terms of the players they have got. “We have looked at them at length so I know their threats and strengths. We will be prepared for them.”Palace’s rise to the top division in England comes just 14 months after Kaminski’s appointment as head coach.The Eagles boss took on the job following her role as a first-team assistant at Charlton Women and as a Spurs assistant for three years before then.Like Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor, 44, Kaminski is one of three female managers who are new to being head coaches in the WSL.And the Palace chief believes her side will have a point to prove when they face Bompastor’s Blues.  Kaminski adds: “It’s a new manager so a change for them and will bring differences to their squad and tactics no doubt.”It’s only the second game of the season so it’s a tough start for us but that’s what we wanted and expected.”We want to showcase ourselves against one of the best teams in the world. “Sonia is a very respectable manager and she has achieved loads in her career as well as the players on the pitch.”But we have a lot of points to prove as well. We want to be here to stay. We want to make this club proud of our performance.”One key Palace player currently out of action due to an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury is striker Elise Hughes. The Wales ace, who won last term’s Women’s Championship’s Golden Boot, is making good progress in her journey back to fitness. Kaminski said: “Elise in a good place and we need to make sure that we’re doing everything right in the final stages of her rehabilitation.”She’s in a pivotal stage of rehabilitation. She’s moved from inside the condition of the gym to outside in terms of running. “She gets to see the green stuff again and that’s a big turning point for her.”Meanwhile Bompastor has no intention of taking the WSL’s newest contenders lightly despite their limited experience in the league. Bompastor says Chelsea will treat Palace with respect in their derby duelCredit: GettyThe Blues boss, who guided her side to a 1-0 season-opening win, said: “From my experience as a coach, but also as a former, we need to respect everyone.”A lot of teams play differently when they play Chelsea. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I expect them to be at their best level and we have to be prepared for that.”Crystal Palace vs Chelsea can be watched live on Sky Showcase and Sky Sports Premier League at 7:30pm tonight More

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      Horror as football match abandoned after machete-wielding hooligans spark brawl in stands and players are forced to flee

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      A FOOTBALL match in Colombia was suspended last night after a huge fight broke out in the stands, leaving at least 20 people injured.The Prima A clash between Atletico Nacional and Atletico Junior descended into chaos in the second half as Marino Hinestroza made it 2-0 to the hosts.A huge brawl broke out in the stands at the Atanasio Girardot StadiumFans in the away section jumped into the home end to attack the home supportersSome fans were wielding knives, machetes and sticksVisiting fans allegedly jumped into the home section, sparking a huge brawl with Nacional supporters.Players watched the horror scenes unfold before referee Nolberto Ararat officially paused the match.They eventually rushed back to the dressing room when the fight spilled onto the pitch.Some rioters could be seen wielding knives, sticks and machetes as the chaos escalated.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDesperate fans attempted to jump down to the lower stand to get away from the danger.According to reports in Colombia, at least 20 people were injured with many taken to nearby medical centres.Those who suffered injuries were taken down to the lower part of the Atanasio Girardot Stadium for treatment from the Red Cross.Riot police were forced to intervene, but the brawl spilled onto the outskirts of the stadium.Most read in FootballAccording to regional newspaper El Heraldo, stun grenades were heard as police attempted to disperse the crowds.The match was eventually abandoned after 55 minutes due to the violence.Manuel Villa, Medellin’s Secretary of Security, later condemned the horrific violence.He said: “Football should be a celebration of peace, and the culture of football is a collective commitment.”But if someone doesn’t understand that, they have no place in this celebration: those masquerading as fans who create these situations and act outside the law are not fans, but criminals and should be treated as such. Irresponsible! “There will be sanctions, and measures will be taken as necessary.” More

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      Alejandro Garnacho’s brother gives clear reason to back Erik ten Hag and slams Man Utd flops

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      ALEJANDRO GARNACHO’S brother has backed Erik ten Hag and pointed to the real reason behind Manchester United’s failures.The Red Devils have drawn their last two games, including being held at home in the Europa League to FC Twente.Alejandro Garnacho’s brother came out in defence of Ten HagCredit: GettyUnited have just two wins from five Premier League games and are 11th in the table, sparking criticism of Ten Hag.But Garnacho’s brother Roberto has launched a defence of the Dutchman, arguing the players should be able to beat a side like Twente regardless of the manager.He also highlighted poor finishing against Palace as the reason why United failed to win, and pointed to an individual mistake which led to Twente’s goal.Roberto wrote on X: “Btw you all blame Ten Hag, but 11 United players not being able to smash them at home, I don’t think that’s on Ten Hag mate.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We literally dominated the whole game, we couldn’t score more than a goal, individual mistake makes them score, what’s he supposed to do?”They were not even getting into our box, if we are not able to score more than a goal against Twente, it is not on him (their goal was a mistake from one of our players too).”Same last game btw, dominated but couldn’t score a goal, somehow last week it was the wingers’ fault, this one Ten Hag’s.”If last game we would have gone 2-0 at half-time and won (attackers’ fault because they couldn’t score their chances) you all would say he is being perfect, same today.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMan Utd player ratings vs FC TwenteMANCHESTER UNITED’S Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start with a miserable 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford.That result dealt a big blow to their chances of finishing in the top eight and avoiding two extra fixtures.See how the players rated on an underwhelming night at Old Trafford.Andre Onana – 6Good save to push a free-kick from Sem Steijn to safety but might be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for Twente’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 6Early mistake near the corner flag could have been costly but he caused problems at the other end in build up to Christian Eriksen goal.Harry Maguire – 6Missed his tackle to put United on the back foot for the equaliser but almost won it late on with a header cleared off the line.Lisandro Martinez – 7Made several important clearances but one wild challenge on edge of his box could have proven costly.Noussair Mazraoui – 6New boy looks solid. Vital early tackle and another one later to stop Twente going in front.Christian Eriksen – 7Fourth successive start – and the veteran still looked sprightly. What a strike to give United the lead but then spoiled it with mistake for equaliser.Manuel Ugarte – 6A few good tackles from the new boy but might be disappointed not to clear his lines as Twente broke away for equaliser.Marcus Rashford – 8Much improved display in front of watching England interim boss Lee Carsley. Full of energy, a few tricks and a couple of dangerous crosses. More like his old self.Bruno Fernandes – 6Skipper had a hand in the opening goal and was so close to winning it with curler from the edge of the box.Amad Diallo – 6His pace was too much to handle for the visitors at times but not much of an end product this time and made way for Alejandro Garnacho midway through the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A few good moments and forced a flying save from the visitors’ keeper after nice link up with Diogo Dalot – but then hooked for the fit-again Rasmus Hojlund.Find out how the Man Utd subs rated hereGarnacho was brought on as a substitute against Twente shortly before they scored, and pundit Ruud Gullit believes he did not want to listen to the final instructions Ten Hag dished out.Gullit said: “Ten Hag wanted to have a meeting with Garnacho, but he didn’t feel like it at all.Jill Scott ‘reveals’ Roy Keane’s phone pass code leaving Man Utd hardman looking embarrassed “Garnacho was preparing to come on and Ten Hag kept talking to him.“You can just see it when a player thinks: ‘Dude, leave me alone, man!’” More

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      Jordan Henderson gives clear reason why he lashed out at his OWN Ajax team-mate Bertrand Traore in win over Besiktas

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      JORDAN HENDERSON has revealed why he lashed out at Ajax teammate Bertrand Traore in last night’s Europa League win over Besiktas.Former Liverpool captain Henderson played all 90 minutes as his Dutch side fired four goals past the Turkish visitors.Jordan Henderson rowed with teammate Bertrand Traore as Ajax beat BesiktasHenderson has lifted the lid on their public bust-upThe result delighted Ajax fans after Saturday’s disappointing Eredivisie draw against Go Ahead Eagles.But supporters were left shocked when Henderson squared up to Ajax winger Traore on the pitch.The former England midfielder was seething when Traore committed a silly challenge with his side 3-0 up.Henderson shouted at the ex-Chelsea and Aston Villa forward as teammates stepped in to drag him away.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTraore shouted after Henderson as the veteran trudged back while still mouthing off.But the bust-up did not affect Ajax’s performance as they managed to grab another goal at home.And speaking afterwards, Hendo insisted there was no bad blood between him and Traore, insisting he was merely trying to keep standards high on the field.Henderson said: “If you’ve seen me play over the years, that’s normal for me.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”After the whistle, we jumped into each other’s arms straight away. It’s still football. Being 3-0 up is fine, but conceding one goal can turn the game around.”We always have to be alert and sharp and if you sometimes have a discussion with someone, it keeps everyone sharp.”Jordan Henderson’s prickly interview goes viral after seven-word reply to reporter’s blunt question and fans love itHenderson only joined Ajax in January after cutting short his dismal move to Saudi side Al-Ettifaq.The ace failed to settle under Steven Gerrard after moving to the Middle East from Liverpool last summer.And he has already become Ajax captain after just 21 appearances in the Dutch capital.Henderson, who also won 81 caps for England, will hoping to replicate some of his Liverpool success at Ajax.He made 492 appearances for the Reds while winning a Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Club World Cup under Jurgen Klopp.And Henderson also showed his loyalty to Ajax by refusing a move away in the summer following reported interest from several European sides. More

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      Graham Potter gives shocking insight into Chelsea’s overcrowded dressing room and how stars dealt with conditions

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      GRAHAM POTTER has revealed that some of Chelsea’s stars had to sit on the floor in the Blues’ meeting room during his stint at Stamford Bridge.Potter was sacked by Todd Boehly and Co back in April 2023, just 31 games after his arrival and having been backed to the tune of £323MILLION by the club’s new owners in the January transfer window.Graham Potter has opened up on what it was like to manage Chelsea’s inflated squadCredit: GettyThe former Brighton boss, 49, was unable to get his new-look squad ticking in the second half of the campaign, and now he reckons that the heavy investment could have been his downfall.Although he acknowledges that the result were largely down to him, Potter told The Telegraph that an influx of new faces piled more “pressure” onto him and the team.He said: “I take responsibility for the results. I’ve never said I’ve ever been perfect and you live and you learn.”And you are grateful for the opportunity and grateful for the experience you had there. But there’s probably a context that has appeared.”READ MORE ON CHELSEAAdding: “The ownership decided to invest a lot of money in the squad, £300million in the January transfer window. “Now, if you are spending £300million on players that are coming from outside the Premier League, from countries that are having a mid-season break, then the reality is you can’t just imagine they are going to hit the ground running and everything’s going to be fine.“But, obviously, if you spend £300million, the pressure on the team goes up and the pressure on the coach goes up. And people go: ‘Come on then, you’ve spent all this money.’”That pressure did begin to mount on Potter back then and ultimately meant that, because the results didn’t follow the investment, he was let go before the end of the season.Most read in FootballPotter revealed that some players would have to sit on the floor during team meetingsCredit: GettyBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut managing such an inflated squad isn’t easy – as exampled by Enzo Maresca so far this season – and Potter explained what it was like having to leave out so many stars. Discussing what team meetings were like, he revealed: “A few of them just had to sit on the floor.’You have to accept the way he is,’ says Enzo Maresca about Mudryk’s potential as Chelsea flop struggles for minutes “It’s not ideal, of course. Everybody recognised it was a really difficult situation because you can only pick 11 players and if you’ve got 20 players not playing, it doesn’t matter where you are.”If you can find a coach out there who says: ‘Yeah, that’s the best condition for me,’ I’d be very surprised.”Current Chelsea gaffer Maresca hasn’t exactly relished the challenge of balancing the ballooned squad at his disposal either.The Italian, 44, has already publicly told some players they won’t play any minutes under his management – ultimately forcing the Chelsea hierarchy to pay Raheem Sterling £10m to play for Arsenal.While he has had to form a “bomb squad” of players who are training away from the main group in order to ensure his first team stars are his main focus.The Premier League’s official website lists Chelsea’s first team squad as having 34 players.While stars such as Wesley Fofana and Cole Palmer were left out of the Blues’ initial Uefa Conference League squad this season.Maresca seems a little less fazed by difficulties of balancing such a large squad, explaining he “doesn’t care” when describing his “honest” approach.Speaking during the summer transfer window, he said: “I am working with 21 players. Today’s [training] session was with 20 players, yesterday was 21.”The other 15-20 are training apart. I don’t see them. It is not a mess that it looks from outside.“I am here to take decisions and to think who is the best for us. I am not thinking about how many years [are left] on their contracts, it is not my job. Enzo Maresca has taken a bullish approach to managing Chelsea’s inflated squadCredit: GettyChelsea player ratings vs BarrowJOAO FELIX and Christopher Nkunku stole the show as Chelsea thrashed Barrow in the Carabao Cup.A hat-trick from Nkunku along with goals from Felix and Pedro Neto secured a 5-0 third round win at Stamford Bridge.Here’s how the starting XI rated…Filip Jorgensen – 6Looked shaky as Barrow launched a string of early throw-ins into the box. Forced into a smart stop down to his right at the start of the second half but otherwise untroubled.Malo Gusto – 7Lack of threat from visitors allowed him freedom of the right flank and the full-back regularly posed a threat as he linked up with Neto.Axel Disasi – 6Unconvincing in possession despite little pressure but performed defensive duties throughout in solid partnership with Benoit Badiashile.Benoit Badiashile – 6Barely troubled by Barrow forward Emile Acquah. Assured in possession and showed his passing range by switching play to his wingers when available.Renato Veiga – 6Looked a class above when stepping into midfield when Chelsea were in possession but far from convincing in defence. Gave away several needless free-kicks in dangerous areas.Cesare Casadei – 7Shaky at first on his maiden Chelsea touch before growing into the game in the centre of the park.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Afforded plenty of time and space on the ball for much of the game and even came close to a goal of his own.Pedro Neto – 7Link-up play with Malo Gusto was a constant threat down the right. Finished off a flowing team move for his first Chelsea goal.Joao Felix – 8Unlocked the Barrow defence with a beautiful scooped pass to set up Nkunku’s opener. Followed it up with a perfectly placed free-kick off the post to put his side 3-0 up before half-time.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Gave Chelsea an outlet with his pace down the left, showed to perfection as he raced away before squaring for Neto to score moments into the second half.Christopher Nkunku – 9Showed his clinical edge in front of goal by grabbing a hat-trick with three well-taken strikes inside the penalty area, including an exquisite back-heeled flick into the corner.SubsBen Chilwell (45’ for Gusto) – 6Given a rapturous reception on his return from the Chelsea ‘bomb squad’. Tightened up the left-hand side for the Blues, with Veiga moving to central defence.Tyrique George (63’ for Neto) – 6Dragged a brilliant chance to score his first Chelsea goal wide of the post. Later denied by Farman as he showed promise down the right.Josh Acheampong (63’ for Disasi) – 6Slotted into the back four with ease and executed his defensive duties on his second senior appearance.Marc Guiu (76′ for Nkunku) – 6Continued to provide a threat to the tiring Barrow defence late on.Carney Chukwuemeka (76′ for Felix) – 6Quickly imposed himself on the action with several powerful runs through midfield to drive the hosts forward.Click here to read more on Chelsea.”If I don’t like them, they can have 20-year contracts, I don’t care. I am just here to make the right decision for the team, no more than that.“It is the job of all managers to keep players happy. This is something almost impossible because they train every day to get minutes and only 11 are going to play.“I try to be honest with all of them. In this moment the noise is more outside because I am working with 21-22 players since we came back from USA [pre-season tour].”Chelsea’s exiled “bomb squad” had included Ben Chilwell – but the England defender was reintegrated into the side for the London club’s 5-0 thrashing of Barrow on Tuesday.Most of the “15-20” players that Maresca had mentioned earlier the summer managed to find a way out of the club, be it on loan or in a permanent exit before deadline day.But it’s thought that five still remain exiled from the main group including the likes of David Datro Fofana and Lucas Bergstrom.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlthough a rather a bullish approach, Maresca’s man management appears to be getting the best out of the players at his disposal.Chelsea are fifth in the Prem table so far this season and have only lost to four-in-a-row champions Man City in the league.Chelsea’s exiled playersHere’s a look at the five players who are still left in limbo at Stamford Bridge…David Datro FofanaDeivid WashingtonAngeloHarvey ValeLucas Bergstrom More

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      How Erik ten Hag can get Bruno Fernandes and Zirkzee firing in same Man Utd team as stars compete for playmaker role

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE joined Manchester United off the back of a strong season in Italy.The 23-year-old was signed in a £36.5million transfer from Bologna to boost Erik ten Hag’s forward options beyond that of Rasmus Hojlund.Erik ten Hag faces a dilemma to get the best out of two starsCredit: PANew boy Joshua Zirkzee has shown glimpses of his best and how he can work at Man UtdCredit: GettyBut there is a conundrum considering he likes to take up the same spaces as Bruno FernandesCredit: RexBut there is a way the pair can work together to the benefit of the teamCredit: AFPThe Dutch international scored 12 goals and added seven assists in 37 games for the Serie A side as they unexpectedly qualified for the Champions League. However, Zirkzee is a striker who prefers to operate deeper and link play, as opposed to playing high and on the shoulder all of the time.Forwards of this type can work and score goals at the highest level, but there is a need to make sure the rest of the team work in tandem to suit this profile and style of forward.Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino is a famous example of this as he linked with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane to maximise their impact in games as they stayed higher while the Brazilian dropped deeper.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUnited arguably have the players to fill these wide attacker roles in Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, but Zirkzee’s role at present comes into conflict with club captain Bruno Fernandes.It begs the question of whether Ten Hag wants to use Zirkzee or Fernandes as his chief playmaker or whether he can afford to have them both looking to occupy similar spaces and play similar roles.Zirkzee as the deep playmakerZirkzee has had an interesting career path to reach Old Trafford.He moved from the Netherlands to Germany at an early age to join the youth system at Bayern Munich, but he never looked like breaking into the first team at the Bavarian club. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInstead, he had a series of loans before Bologna took him on a permanent deal prior to the 22/23 season. Zirkzee’s talent has never been in question, but instead, the question mark over him is how to get the best out of him – given that he is not the most prolific of goalscorers.Man Utd player ratings: Joshua Zirkzee hooked again as Lisandro Martinez saves Erik ten Hag’s blushes (2)So, United have to have been aware when they were watching the Dutch forward that he was not perhaps a traditional striker in the way that their fans may have expected. Zirkzee described himself as a “9.5” centre-forward, not one to play high all the time but instead dropping deeper to link play.Here Zrikzee drops deep and wins a duel before playing a quick driven pass forwardsHis ability to drop deep and link play was evident in games against Southampton and Crystal Palace, with his line-breaking passes and making the ball stick pivotal to the team’s play through the thirds. Having Zirkzee playing as the striker and dropping back towards the ball gives a strong platform to play forward and into thanks to him being comfortable receiving the ball with his back to goal and with a defender tight to his back.However, he also has the ability to take the ball and turn and dribble to outplay the opposition player to move into space.He is extremely skilful and comfortable in possession for such a strong forward player and as such when opposition defenders get tight to him he is always a threat to get turned and drive towards goal. In this Serie A example he receives wide with his back to goal dribbling past defenders and playing the ball into spaceAnd crucially, when he gets turned in these deeper positions he then has the quality to make forward passes to release teammates and bring others into the game.As a deep creator, Zirkzee offers a lot of creativity as well as the ability to receive and hold up the ball in deeper areas.Creating in the areaThe seven assists Zirkzee registered last season prove he was operating as a more creative forward option for Thiago Motta’s Bologna side.While we have already discussed his effectiveness when dropping deep to receive the ball and bringing others into the game, he can also perform the same function when receiving with his back to goal in the penalty area and creating opportunities for team-mates.This is a role that would actually fit well for this current United squad.They would effectively be able to use both Fernandes and Zirkzee as creative players with the ability to progress the ball from deep and then link with team-mates in and around the opposition penalty area to create shooting opportunities.The key for United, when they do choose to play Zirkzee as the main striker in their system, is to make sure they have enough players around him who can take shots on goal. We have already touched on the likes of Rashford and Garnacho in particular who are very strong in this regard.But Fernandes himself is also a high-shot volume player who can benefit from the creativity of Zirkzee in these positions.Indeed, the numbers show Fernandes is making the most of this by taking 3.06 shots per 90 minutes, with Zirkzee creating 1.29 chances with 6.04 touches in the opposition box per 90 in all competitionsHere he uses his frame to shield the ball before he is able to flick the ball behind him to play in a team-mate for a chance at goalHaving a target striker who is comfortable taking possession of the ball in higher positions will naturally allow United to concentrate their play higher up the field in areas where they can immediately create danger and put stress on the defences of the opposition.And United have the chance to create a system generates a lot of chances on goal – something the numbers are once again proving is happening.Ten Hag’s team have had 127 shot-creating actions in the league this season.This figure is more than Chelsea (112), Aston Villa (107), Newcastle (104) and Arsenal (92), but they have scored fewer goals. So what is going wrong in the final third?Here Zirkzee is unselfish and passes to a better-positioned team-mate following a low crossIn simple terms, they are not clinical. United have the second-worst Expected Goals underperformance with 4.5 fewer goals scored than an average team would have expected to score, while they also have the most big chances missed of any team in the division with 17.What about Bruno Fernandes?Talisman Fernandes is one of the main culprits of these wasted chances.The 30-year-old has so often been United’s saviour since joining, but he appears to have lost his cut-throat edge at the start of this season, with just 0.7 shots on target per 90 minutesThe main question is whether Ten Hag should start to use Zirkzee as more of a playmaker instead of relying on Fernandes as the main creator and ball progressor when they are in the attacking phase. The answer, however, should probably be that they use both. Fernandes is able to keep defenders guessing with his ability to shoot or create chances out of nothingThere are some teething issues at this stage in the season with United getting used to the fact Zirkzee likes to drop deep and at times occupy the same positions as Fernandes. While this does create an issue, it is something that should be easily fixed as the two players get used to playing together.They will both have to make compromises, and perhaps park their egos so that both can shine in the same team.Fernandes in particular will have to adapt the way he plays for United.With Zirkzee capable of staying higher and providing a platform United can play into, his role should work well with Fernandes when he plays deeper or pulls out into wide areas.This should also help to get the best out of the United wide players such as Rashford, Garnacho and Amad Diallo, who are more than capable of peeling off the shoulder with inverted runsHere we see how he drops deep to get on the ball before playing in Alejandro Garnacho who is making an inside runBy having two real creative forces in their team United have the capacity to become a team that can create chances and score goals on a regular basis. The key for Ten Hag and his coaching staff is to find a way to set the team up in such a way that he can get the best out of both players.ConclusionZirkzee’s signing has been a slow burner.But that is not to say elements of his game have not been impressive.READ MORE SUN STORIESRather, the team’s underperformance in front of goal reflects poorly on him as the striker.If United can create a structure to get the best out of Zirkzee and Fernandes – who must refind his scoring touch – then they may well challenge for Champions League qualification this summer.Man Utd player ratings vs FC TwenteMANCHESTER UNITED’S Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start with a miserable 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford.That result dealt a big blow to their chances of finishing in the top eight and avoiding two extra fixtures.See how the players rated on an underwhelming night at Old Trafford.Andre Onana – 6Good save to push a free-kick from Sem Steijn to safety but might be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for Twente’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 6Early mistake near the corner flag could have been costly but he caused problems at the other end in build up to Christian Eriksen goal.Harry Maguire – 6Missed his tackle to put United on the back foot for the equaliser but almost won it late on with a header cleared off the line.Lisandro Martinez – 7Made several important clearances but one wild challenge on edge of his box could have proven costly.Noussair Mazraoui – 6New boy looks solid. Vital early tackle and another one later to stop Twente going in front.Christian Eriksen – 7Fourth successive start – and the veteran still looked sprightly. What a strike to give United the lead but then spoiled it with mistake for equaliser.Manuel Ugarte – 6A few good tackles from the new boy but might be disappointed not to clear his lines as Twente broke away for equaliser.Marcus Rashford – 8Much improved display in front of watching England interim boss Lee Carsley. Full of energy, a few tricks and a couple of dangerous crosses. More like his old self.Bruno Fernandes – 6Skipper had a hand in the opening goal and was so close to winning it with curler from the edge of the box.Amad Diallo – 6His pace was too much to handle for the visitors at times but not much of an end product this time and made way for Alejandro Garnacho midway through the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A few good moments and forced a flying save from the visitors’ keeper after nice link up with Diogo Dalot – but then hooked for the fit-again Rasmus Hojlund.Find out how the Man Utd subs rated here More