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      Fuming Leicester boss Steve Cooper accuses refs’ chiefs of ‘hiding’ footage that showed they made major VAR error

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      LEICESTER boss Steve Cooper has accused refs’ chiefs of ‘hiding’ footage that showed they made a major error.Cooper hit out after VAR ruled Jean-Philippe Mateta’s goal for Crystal Palace was onside in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with the Foxes.Steve Cooper has accused referees of hiding footage that shows they made an errorCredit: PAVAR ruled Jean-Philippe Mateta to be onside for his goalCredit: X @PLMatchCentreLeicester maintained the decision had been made on the basis of the wrong piece of footage — and that the clip released to Match of the Day and Sky Sports was ‘false’.Cooper said: “It was an awful human error which has been hidden a little bit in the media. That’s been as disappointing as the decision.“Everything you’ve seen on Match of the Day or Sky has been false. I didn’t like the fact that it didn’t reach the public or the media.“Don’t hide away from mistakes — own them and stand up for it.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLeicester were 2-0 up at Selhurst Park when Mateta scored from Tyrick Mitchell’s cross.The assistant ref flagged for offside but VAR overturned the decision and gave the goal.Mateta then levelled with a late penalty.Cooper claimed: “We’ve seen different images which show that, when they froze the footage for offside, he was.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“In the meeting we had on Monday with the Premier League, we said we’ve had a massive error go against us.”Cooper had run-ins with referees’ body the PGMOL during his time as Nottingham Forest manager. ‘I’d expect a foul’ – Paul Merson claims Arsenal’s winner at Tottenham shouldn’t have stood as VAR fails to interveneBut he added: “I’ve never had to have a conversation like this before. The referees’ department met us on Monday, it should’ve been Sunday.“We showed them broadcast footage that’s been nowhere near the media.“We showed them extra footage, plus some we have, and there’s been no response.”Cooper said the footage Leicester showed at Monday’s meeting was available to VAR during the game, but was not used.Everything you’ve seen on Match of the Day or Sky has been false. I didn’t like the fact that it didn’t reach the public or the media.Steve CooperHe added: “Errors like that should never happen, particularly when VAR is in place.“Have the humility to admit you made a mistake. Show the footage, don’t show the wrong footage.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We can’t release the clips but the Premier League have it as part of our presentation.”The Premier League has been contacted for comment. More

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      Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris fans flames ahead of the derby that’s not a derby with Newcastle claim

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      REGIS LE BRIS echoed the claims of Sunderland’s supporters that it’s not a derby – despite an expected full-house set to attend the clash with Middlesbrough.His Black Cats are looking to bounce back from their first defeat of the season after the 3-2 loss at Plymouth when they host their North East rivals from 31 miles down the A19 tomorrow.Regis Le Bris has claimed Middlesbrough is not a real derby for SunderlandCredit: GettyOver 42,000 tickets had been sold by Friday morning and it looks set to be the biggest crowd at the Stadium of Light since 44,814 attended January’s FA Cup clash with Newcastle.However, even though there is a huge clamour for tickets, Le Bris went on the wind-up to the visitors by claiming no-one at Sunderland views the Wear-Tees showdown as a real derby. The Frenchman, who took charge in June, said: “The most important derby from my knowledge is Newcastle.“Middlesbrough is an interesting fixture but I am not sure for the fans that we play a specific derby this Saturday.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAlthough he did acknowledge that he is expecting a stern test from Geordie boy Michael Carrick’s Boro, who are tenth with eight points from their first five games.Le Bris said: “It will be an interesting game with a different style.“They are a well-organised side, in and out of possession, with specific attention in the way of building the game.“We will have specific attention on many details and it will be interesting for us to solve that problem.”Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMeanwhile, Le Bris has received a huge boost on the injury front as Dan Ballard is expected to be involved after his scare at Plymouth.He left Home Park on crutches and with his foot in a protective boot but the Frenchman claims that was only a precaution.Meet the EFL icon, 36, with more hat-tricks than Haaland this season in ninth tier as he’s dubbed ‘absolute cheat code’Ballard looks set to start but Irish midfielder Alan Browne is out due to a minor knee issue.Le Bris added: “Ballard should be OK for this weekend and for Browney we need at least one week more to be available.”The non-derby is set to be the biggest attendance since the Newcastle clash in JanuaryCredit: Getty More

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      From a ‘Wetherspoons plate’ to something you’d throw up after a night out, the worst footie kits ever revealed

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      MANCHESTER City fans are looking back in anger at their side’s 0-0 draw on Wednesday against Inter Milan in the new “Oasis-inspired” fourth kit.After the match, City defender Manuel Akanji admitted he’d accidentally passed to the assistant ref because the official’s top looked like his side’s special-edition shirt.Erling Haaland in Wednesday’s disappointing 0-0 Champions League draw with InterCredit: AlamyThe Definitely City strip was part-designed by Noel Gallagher to mark the 30th anniversary of debut album Definitely MaybeCredit: PUMA / BEEMOne supporter fumed that the Definitely City strip – part-designed by the band’s Noel Gallagher to mark the 30th anniversary of debut album Definitely Maybe – was “the worst footie kit I’ve ever seen.”But in the league of garish football garb, the peach and blue shirt is nowhere near top of the table. Garish classic replica football shirts are trendy with Gen Z, who are as likely to flaunt an obscure top as they are a team’s main colours.True collectors will want all three – home, away and third kits, which can cost £80 to £110 each. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIf the strips have been “match-worn” by a star player in a memorable game they can fetch thousands of pounds.That has led to clubs battling to put out even more eye-catching kit.Premier League champs City went further, by introducing the Definitely City strip – inspired by the front room shown on the album’s cover – to be worn during home matches in the Champions League this season.The “authentic” shirt will set fans back £125. But it does come in a “collector’s box” featuring Noel on the front.Most read in FootballSo which club kits are winners and which deserve to be relegated to the nearest charity shop?Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend is our referee.How much every Premier League club earns in shirt sponsorsMANCHESTER CITYBOSS Pep Guardiola strummed the guitar in a photoshoot recreation of Oasis’s Definitely Maybe album for the fourth kit’s launch.And while the shirt’s colours, seen above on Erling Haaland, are inspired by the famous album cover, they don’t appear to be in tune with fans who prefer the famous sky-blue hues.Clemmie says: “Some might say this Oasis themed shirt is Wonderwall, but Man alive, it’s reminding me of a dinner lady’s tabard.”NORWICH CITYThere is no excuse for this Norwich City multi-coloured goalie kitCredit: Norwich CityTHE Canaries can’t do much about the fact their yellow and green colours resemble what might be regurgitated after a heavy night out.But there is no excuse for this multi-coloured goalie kit, which is even more offensive to the eyes than their much sought-after early Nineties home shirt.Clemmie says: “The print looks like it’s come straight off a bus seat, and that’s not a fashion goal or a keeper.”TOTTENHAMTottenham’s army-green kitsCredit: tottenhamhotspur.comIT’S perhaps understandable that Tottenham fans might want to go out in camouflage after the Premier League side’s poor start to the season.But surely their army-green third shirt blends in too much with the turf and will make it difficult for team-mates to pick each other out.Clemmie says: “It may be ‘first the worst’ in the children’s rhyme, but third has outdone it when it comes to Tottenham’s reserve shirt.”IPSWICH TOWNIpswich Town’s pink and white third kit is sponsored by Ed Sheeran’s world tourED SHEERAN has worn his beloved Ipswich Town’s third kit, which is sponsored by his world tour.While the ­pop collaboration makes sense, the pink colour with white musical frequencies on it is nothing but a bad equation.Clemmie says: “Featuring sound waves from fans at Portman Road, plus the local coastline, Framlingham Castle and Wolsey’s Gate – local tourism chiefs must be thrilled.”CHELSEAIt looks like Chelsea have stuck a white top in a washing machine with blue dye to create this kitHAVING splashed out more than £300million on players this summer, it seems the West London club didn’t have much cash left over to hire a kit designer.Instead they seem to have stuck a white top in a washing machine with blue dye and left it to see what would happen.Clemmie says: “It’s not very likely that this child-like design is going to ignite any fires in fashion.”STOKE CITYStoke City’s third kit reminds Clemmie of ‘Lady Gaga’s famous meat dress’Credit: Southampton FCTHE Championship side have just sacked their manager Steven Schumacher – but the designers who did their third kit deserve the push as well. For a part of the world that is famous for its potteries, you might think they could do better.Clemmie says: “Stoke City’s third kit reminds me of Lady Gaga’s famous meat dress with its patchy pink design – and not in a good way.”ARSENALArsenal supporters blasted the decision to have kits with similar colours to those of Man CityTHE Gunners have gone for a sky-blue third kit, with very similar colours to those of their biggest league rivals, Man City.But that decision has been blasted by supporters of the North London side.Clemmie says: “The light blue and lilac colours have a look of the Premier League title holders’ shirt about them. “But despite the critics, it is the most versatile and fashionable of the lot.”SUNDERLANDSunderland’s shirt looks like a Wetherspoons plate, say fansSTARE too long at The Black Cats’ third kit and you are liable to be hypnotised by its Seventies-style pattern.Look closer at the blue shirt and you will see a colliery wheel, which celebrates the city and wider North East’s proud coal mining history.Clemmie says: “Some fans have taken a stand against it saying it looks like a Wetherspoons plate.”LEICESTER CITYLeicester City’s black Adidas shirt, with gold and pink splashes, looks fadedTHERE is nothing foxy about the away kit Jamie Vardy is wearing for The Foxes this season.The black Adidas shirt, with gold and pink splashes, looks faded – a bit like Leicester City’s ­survival hopes.Clemmie says: “There’s the vintage look and then there’s ‘mouldy’. Bit of an own-goal.”BRIGHTONBrighton’s striped yellow and blue away kit ‘has a retro feel’, says ClemmieCredit: NikeBRIGHTON’S striped yellow and blue away kit has drawn comparisons with those pesky cartoon Minions.But the Seagulls have had a strong start to the season, so maybe those bright colours are helping to put off the opposition.Clemmie says: “Brighton’s new kit has a retro feel that bumps it right up the fashion league table.”SOUTHAMPTONSouthampton’s pink kit has been described as ‘up there with the worst kits ever’Credit: Southampton FCFANS of newly promoted Saints described their new third kit as “needing sunglasses to see it” and “up there with the worst kits ever”.Pondering the South coast side’s dodgy history of questionable shirts, Clemmie says: “While they say their strip ‘follows the dazzle concept’, the Pepto Bismol pink colour makes me feel a little queasy and should be quickly relegated.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHOW THEY PEPPED UP  OASIS  LP  COVERMan City stars recreate Oasis’ legendary album coverCredit: PUMA / BEEMThe original Definitely Maybe cover by OasisTHE Definitely City kit is inspired by the Definitely Maybe cover, and the publicity material for it was shot in a living room based on the cover, with City’s Kyle Walker, Jess Park, Ederson and Mateo Kovacic joining manager Pep Guardiola. It also features images of City legends Colin Bell and Sergio Aguero. More

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      Arsenal player ratings: David Raya shines in strong defence but Thomas Partey struggles in drab Champions League draw

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      ARSENAL began their new-look Champions League campaign with more David Raya heroics. The defences won out in the first half, with just one save of note from a Bukayo Saka free-kick.David Raya kept his clean sheet with a piece of genius goalkeepingCredit: GettyBut within three minutes of the restart – and then a lengthy VAR check – Atalanta had a penalty.Raya, though, spared Thomas Partey’s blushes with a truly extraordinary double save.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw. Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…READ MORE ON ARSENALDavid Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour. William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRetegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday. Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Refs’ chief Howard Webb reveals Declan Rice red card was correct – but Arsenal wronged by different incorrect decisionStarting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances. Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season. Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”. But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics. Thomas Partey gave away the penalty just after half-timeCredit: RexDavid Raya produced a stunning double save from the penalty and reboundCredit: RexBen White was up against Ademola LookmanCredit: GettyDeclan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards. Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle. Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save. Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday. Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area. Withdrawn before the hour mark. Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over. Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City. Bukayo Saka went close with a drilled free-kickCredit: PAKai Havertz played deeper in midfieldCredit: GettyMarco Carnesecchi made the save then thwarted Partey’s follow-up effortCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus struggled to get involved at the business end of pitchCredit: ReutersSUBSLeandro Trossard (for Jesus, 58 mins) – 5Plenty of energy from the Belgian. Jorginho (for Partey, 58 mins) – 5Headed on for Partey before the hour mark – presumably knowing a strong showing could get him a starting spot at the Etihad. READ MORE SUN STORIESRaheem Sterling (for Saka, 73 mins) – 6Became first player ever to represent four English clubs in the Champions League and immediately set up Martinelli. Riccardo Calafiori (for Timber, 73 mins) – 6Helped ensure Arsenal kept the clean sheet – crucial minutes with his new team-mates. Arsenal went to Italy to face the Europa League championsCredit: Reuters More

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      Atalanta 0 Arsenal 0: David Raya the hero in drab game as Gunners get off to underwhelming start to Champions League

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      WITH Manchester City up next, this was not the week for Arsenal to go cold in front of goal.But with David Raya in between the sticks, the Gunners will always be in safe hands.David Raya pulled off a stunning double saveCredit: RexMateo Retegui saw his penalty saved then had a golden chance on the reboundBut Raya was somehow able to scoop the ball of the lineCredit: RexThe save helped Arsenal keep a clean sheet and earn a pointCredit: TNT SportThe Spaniard pulled off a stunning double save from Mateo Retegui’s 51st minute penalty – the latest addition to his collection of world class stops since becoming the club’s No.1.As VAR checked Thomas Partey’s foul on Atalanta’s Ederson in the box, Raya sprinted over to the Arsenal dug-out for a last-minute chat with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana.Not that Raya needs any advice on saving penalties, such is his superb record, sending Arsenal to the Champions League quarter finals with two shoot-out stops against Porto last season.He won the Prem’s Save of the Month in August for an insane reactive stop on his own goal line to deny Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but this one was arguably even more jaw-dropping.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDown to his right to palm away Retegui’s first attempt and then back to his feet like a tasered eel scrambling to his left to fingertip the follow-up header destined for the corner.It is a save that earned a below-par Arsenal a point in their Champions League opener against a tough Italian outfit, but a performance that will leave Mikel Arteta potentially far more concerned than relieved.A reasonable result at any other time, this will feel like a confidence-deflator ahead of their title-defining trip to the Etihad in two days’ time.In their hard-fought victory at Tottenham on Sunday, attacking flair was few and far between, instead replaced by defensive solidity, winning the game via more set-piece magic.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut yet again in Bergamo, Arteta’s boys were found guilty of lacking an eye for goal, unable to dig out a moment of brilliance from open play to win a tight contest.Another goalless draw against City would not be disastrous, but last season’s 0-0 between the pair ultimately cost Arsenal a first Prem title in 20 years, ending the term two points from glory.Ex-Arsenal star Jay Emmanuel-Thomas charged with importing drugs after £600,000 worth of cannabis seized at airportArsenal ratings vs Atalanta as Raya saves uninspiring Gunners in ItalyARSENAL had some David Raya heroics to thank for a points in the Champions League opener.Raya’s stunning double save just after the break spared Thomas Partey’s blushes after the midfielder gave away a penalty.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…David Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour.William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Retegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday.Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Starting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances.Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season.Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”.But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics.Declan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards.Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle.Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save.Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday.Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area.Withdrawn before the hour mark.Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over.Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City.There is the sense that Arteta’s men need to change the narrative, seize the initiative and dent Pep Guardiola’s winning-machine when they get the chance.But right now, Arsenal couldn’t ripple a child’s paddling pool, let alone the back of the net.Through gritted teeth in the build-up, Arteta revealed his skipper and talisman Martin Odegaard would be out for the foreseeable future with ankle ligament damage.But amid the injury crisis growing by the day in his squad, Arteta had options to play with as Declan Rice was back after suspension and Riccardo Calafiori returned from a calf knock.Yet there was no rest for the big hitters with just two changes from the North London Derby – Rice and Gabriel Jesus coming in for Jorginho and Leandro Trossard.A bold call from Arteta with a potentially title-defining clash sooner than he would have liked. The Spaniard eyed momentum and a winning mentality heading to the Etihad.In the early stages, it looked as though Arteta’s decision would be validated as Arsenal took control with some slick play, dominating proceedings with ease.Saka cut inside and had a fizzed effort deflected out for a corner. Kai Havertz then linked up with Jesus but the German’s attempt dribbled wide after driving into the box.Gabriel Martinelli missed Arsenal’s best chance to scoreCredit: AFPThe win at Spurs was at times edgy, nervy and an unpleasant watch for the neutrals. The Gunners were pinned in with their backs against the wall and defending resolutely for spells.There was a different feel to this one. A sense from the visitors that they could toy with their opponents and hit them with moments of brilliance at any given moment.But there was a no real urgency or aggression as Arsenal looked to be going through the motions. Saka’s low curler of a free-kick forced Marco Carnesecchi into his first stop.Another Ballon d’Or nominee in Ademola Lookman was doing his best to spark his own side into life, drifting inside and chipping into the box as Rice covered well at the back post.Charles De Ketelaere pinged over after a rare foray into the Arsenal box. Raya was yet to muddy his shorts.Huff and puff responded Arsenal in attack. Gabriel Martinelli blazed over with a panicked finish after a cute throw-in routine from the playbook of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.For all their possession, Arteta’s men were as blunt as airport cutlery as the half-time whistle blew. The travelling Arsenal fans are not usually kept waiting for goals these days.Three minutes into the second half, they were treated to some goalmouth action, but at the wrong end as Partey was turned far too easily, tangling himself up in Ederson’s legs and sending the Brazilian to the deck.Referee Clement Turpin pointed to the spot immediately before VAR decided to take an age to complete their check. Arteta spent it waggling his finger in the air from his technical area.Raya’s save – something that is now expected, not just hoped for – did little to galvanise his teammates.Subs Raheem Sterling, Jorginho, Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori were ineffective.READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal have now won just one of their last six away games in Europe, a real surprise given their incredible run of 10 wins from 11 on the road in the Prem in 2024.Bergamo blushes spared, Arteta needs a significant away-day moment this weekend. More

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      Atalanta 0-0 Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Raya’s SUPERB double-save after pen secures Gunners’ first point in Champions League

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      ARSENAL have kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 0-0 draw at Europa League champions Atalanta.The main talking point of the game came early in the second half as David Raya’s superb double-save denied the hosts the lead after a controversial penalty was awarded.Declan Rice was suspended for the Gunners’ 1-0 North London derby win against Tottenham last weekend, but the midfielder returned for his side’s Champions League opener on Thursday night.The Gunners now look ahead to Sunday’s mammoth clash with title rivals Manchester City at the Etihad.Match result: Atalanta 0-0 ArsenalAtalanta team: Carnesecchi, Djimisti, Hien, Kolasinac, Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri, De Ketelaere, Retegui, LookmanArsenal team: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber, Rice, Partey, Havertz, Saka, Jesus, MartinelliFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Stadio di Bergamo with our live blog below…Defend teams into submissionWhile it worked at Tottenham and got them a point against Atalanta, it will be a very different story this weekend.They will need to have some different tactics as not many teams are able to go to the Etihad Stadium and defend for a 0-0 draw.Erling Haaland is on fire this season and Pep Guardiola’s side have creativity all over the park.A tough test lies ahead for Mikel Arteta’s side.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedChances win matchesWhen Mikel Arteta reviews his sides’ performance this evening, the reasons why they did not come away with victory are obvious.Aside from Saka’s free kick in the first half, The Gunners created very little in Bergamo this evening.They play some decent football but there is a lack of creativity and clear-cut chances in the final third.If he were to issue a school report for his squads’ performance, it would simply read ‘must try harder’.Copy linkCopiedGunners needing to improveWhile many will see this as a point gained, Arsenal will have to be a lot better than this if they want to progress in the competition.The result leaves them in 16th place in the new format Champions League table.Mikel Arteta’s side will be aiming to finish in the top eight to progress through to the last 16 without having to play another play-off tie.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedChampions League resultsFeyenoord 0-4 Bayer LeverkusenRed Star Belgrade 1-2 BenficaAtletico Madrid 2-1 RB LeipzigBrest 2-1 Sturm GrazMonaco 2-1 BarcelonaCopy linkCopiedFT: Atalanta 0-0 ArsenalIn a game of very chances, a draw may have been a fair result.Atalanta will feel they should have won this, having missed a second-half penalty.While it was a great double save by Raya, Retegui should have buried the rebound.Copy linkCopiedFT: Atalanta 0-0 ArsenalThe referee brings the game to a close.Atalanta and Arsenal share the points in Bergamo.The Gunners have David Raya to thank for that one.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal90+2. When you see shows on TV of Champions League classic games, do not expect to see this one feature.Zaniolo dispossesses White as he dwells on the ball and wins a corner.It could provide one last chance for the hosts to find a winner.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal90. Atalanta are awarded a free kick deep in their own half.Sterling is the player penalised for the foul.It is hard to see either side grabbing a winner now.We are going to have four minutes added.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal88. That was such an important challenge from an Arsenal perspective.He only had Raya to beat if he had got his shot away.Great defending by Saliba.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal86. Zaniolo picks the ball up in the middle.He is crowded out but manages to get the ball into Lookman.The young forward runs at the Arsenal defence and an important challenges comes in before he can pull the trigger.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal84. The intensity of the game has dropped massively now.Neither side seem to be in attacking mode for fear of defeat.Atalanta have a throw in deep into Arsenal territory, hoping to find a goal to seal the three points.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal82. Into the last ten minutes of the game, a goal now for either side surely wins this game.Atalanta do not have a recognised striker on now but Cuadrado has looked dangerous when they can get the ball to him.If he were to score the winner, it would hurt even more, given that he is an ex-Chelsea player.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal80. One thing we have learnt from this game, if we didn’t already know, Arsenal need to keep Odegaard fit.If they are hoping to make an impression on this tournament they need to be a lot better than they have been tonight.Not many teams in the competition will be shaking in the boots watching this one.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal78. We edging towards the time of the game where Arsenal may be thinking about sticking with a point.The more they send players forward, the more open they are to the counter attack.Neither side will be overly happy with just a point here this evening.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal76. Arsenal are awarded a free kick in a wide position.It is a chance for The Gunners to load the penalty area.Rice steps up to take it and sends it sailing into the stands, Jonny Wilkinson would be proud of that one.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal74. Calafiori and Sterling replace Timber and Saka.Cuadrado tries another bending effort from outside the box.Raya is at full stretch and it narrowly misses the far post.He is starting to cause The Gunners all sorts of problems.Arsenal counter and Martinelli is played in with the goal at his mercy but puts his effort in Row M.Classic Martinelli.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal72. Saka is penalised for a foul on Cuadrado.The Arsenal winger is not happy that the Atalanta player is seemingly making a meal of the challenge.Somewhere Alanis Morissette is having a massive migraine, her superpower when incredibly ironic moments occur.Copy linkCopiedChampions League latest scoresAtletico Madrid 1-1 RB LeipzigBrest 2-1 Sturm GrazMonaco 1-1 BarcelonaCopy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal70. Trossard is showing more intent, moving into gaps, looking for the ball.You wonder what options Arteta has on the bench to add that creativity to this team.Bellanova and Zaniolo come on for Atalanta.Zappacosta and Retegui are the players to make way.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal68. The home fans continue to make themselves heard.Cuadrado has a shot from outside the box, looking to bend one in the top corner.It narrowly misses the upright with Raya at full stretch.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal66. White is penalised for a foul on Cuadrado.He almost felt like he had to ensure the move stopped there as he was well out of position in the heart of midfield.The Gunners are starting to look more frustrated as the game goes on in Bergamo.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal64. The Gunners are lacking that killer pass in the final third.This is where the absence of Odegaard is so obvious.Aside from that Saka free kick, they have rarely worked the Atalanta keeper this evening.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal62. Arsenal force their first corner of the second half.It is a deep cross into the back post, headed back across goal by Havertz.The ball ends up being spooned over the bar and a goal kick is awarded.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal60. Jorginho will offer something different for Arsenal now.He can pick a short pass through the hosts’ midfield.That said, if Atalanta are on the attack, he is prone to a rash challenge.The Italians bring Cuadrado on for De Ketelaere.Copy linkCopiedAtalanta 0-0 Arsenal58. Trossard and Jorginho are joining the action.Jesus and Partey make way.Arteta is looking to freshen things up in this second half.Copy linkCopied More

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      Jude Bellingham ‘handed £4MILLION A YEAR wage boost after one season as Real chiefs fear Kylian Mbappe friction’

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      REAL MADRID superstar Jude Bellingham has received a massive pay rise following the arrival of Kylian Mbappe at the Santiago Bernabeu.Mbappe, 25, joined Real as a free agent following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain this summer and quickly became the club’s top earner at a staggering €15million (£12.6m) per year.Jude Bellingham received a pay rise as Real Madrid feared friction with Kylian MbappeCredit: GettyVinicius Junior and Bellingham both got a raise to match Mbappe as top earnersCredit: GettyThe star forward overtook Bellingham, 21, and Vinicius Junior who were joint top on the salary list as they made a whopping €10m (£8.4m) per season.According to OK Diario, however, club chiefs feared the €5m (£4.2m) difference would create friction between the three stars in the dressing room.That is why Real president Florentino Perez decided to match all three of their wages by giving Bellingham and Vinicius a significant raise.Now they are all on €15m, which is the most anyone has ever earned in Madrid.Read More on FootballThe likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard also received the same amount during their time with Los Blancos.Bellingham set the world alight last season during his debut campaign with Real.The star midfielder amassed an impressive total of 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances.The England international didn’t have an ideal start to this season as he suffered a muscle injury in August.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat led to Bellingham missing out on Lee Carsley’s first matches in charge of the Three Lions as interim manager in the Nations League.But the ex-Borussia Dortmund star returned to action on Tuesday in the Champions League and helped Real beat Stuttgart 3-1 in Spain.Top ten Instagram rich list of sportMbappe already counts five goals in seven appearances across all competitions for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. More

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      Watch David Raya’s sensational double-save after penalty as Robbie Savage dubs it ‘one of the best saves I’ve ever seen’

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      DAVID RAYA pulled off a truly miraculous double save to prevent Arsenal from falling behind to Atalanta.The goalkeeper first saved a penalty down to his right to deny Mateo Retegui.David Raya pulled off an incredible double saveFirst the goalkeeper dived to his right to stop Mateo Retegui’s penaltyCredit: RexThen he got back up to claw out the reboundCredit: RexRaya discussed tactics with a coach before the spot-kick was takenCredit: GettyThe ball then popped back up perfectly for the striker to tap in with his head.But Raya had other ideas and reacted brilliantly to scramble across and claw away the ball just centimetres from the goal line.The double save left the commentators gobsmacked with Robbie Savage describing it as “one of the best saves I’ve ever seen”.Mikel Arteta was also left in awe by the stop, saying: “It was probably the best save in my career, both the penalty and the second action from David.”Raya had a helping hand with his effort as he went over to the touchline to discuss tactics with Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach Inaki Pena before the spot-kick was taken.The Arsenal No1 had time to consult his coach, who was celebrating his 49th birthday, as the referee waited for a VAR check to be completed.Raya said of that chat and his save: “I was lucky to go to the right way and save it.”I was unlucky to get the rebound straight to him but I was just quick enough to get up and save the rebound.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal ratings vs Atalanta as Raya saves uninspiring Gunners in ItalyARSENAL had some David Raya heroics to thank for a points in the Champions League opener.Raya’s stunning double save just after the break spared Thomas Partey’s blushes after the midfielder gave away a penalty.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…David Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour.William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Retegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday.Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Starting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances.Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season.Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”.But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics.Declan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards.Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle.Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save.Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday.Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area.Withdrawn before the hour mark.Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over.Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City.”It’s fantastic to be able to keep a clean sheet and help the team to at least get a point.”I took the decision to go to the sideline because it took a long time to decide if it was a pen.Ex-Arsenal star Jay Emmanuel-Thomas charged with importing drugs after £600,000 worth of cannabis seized at airport”I went to speak with the goalie coach to work out which way to go and what to do. He helped me a lot in every aspect so credit to him as well that he does all the work with everything, so credit to him with the save.”Atalanta were awarded a penalty as referee Clement Turpin judged Thomas Partey had fouled Ederson.It was probably the best save in my career, both the penalty and the second action from David.Mikel ArtetaA VAR review confirmed the Gunners midfielder clipped the Brazilian and a penalty was awarded despite a foul first taking place outside the box before continuing into the penalty area.But Raya came to the rescue to keep the score goalless and protect his clean sheet.And his save ended up being crucial as Arsenal held onto a 0-0 draw to open their Champions League campaign.The keeper has been in terrific form this season, conceding just one goal in four games. More