Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Neymar’s shocking Saudi spell that saw him rake in £200MILLION yet score just ONE goal in seven appearances

      by

      NEYMAR’S shocking spell in Saudi Arabia earned the superstar nearly £200MILLION in return for just one goal in seven outings.The Brazilian star’s Al-Hilal contract was terminated today after a dismal 18 months in the Middle East.Neymar banked a cool £2.5million per week during his dismal time at Al-HilalCredit: AFPThe ace made just seven appearances after suffering an ACL injuryCredit: GettyNeymar, 32, ruptured his ACL after just five games in October 2023.And on his comeback a year later, the Brazilian immediately returned to the medical room with a hamstring injury.Neymar is now on the verge of penning a stunning return to boyhood club Santos.But despite failing to impress in Saudi, the forward returns to his homeland with his bank balance overflowing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNeymar penned a two-year deal with Al-Hilal when he arrived in a £78m transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.The Saudis agreed to pay Neymar a mind-boggling £129.2m per year.And after leaving following 18 months at the club, it meant he earned £193.8m in total.That breaks down to an outrageous £2.5m per week.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSCombined with his transfer fee, Al-Hilal effectively paid £271m for Neymar’s single goal.While each of his seven appearances cost an outrageous £38.7m.Erling Haaland’s salary is only ninth biggest in football with Chelsea flop Koulibaly earning more than Man City starNeymar will still pocket £51.9m of the wages he was owed for the remainder of the season, agreeing to given up just 15 per cent – which works out to £8m.That means by the end of the season, his single goal will have cost over £322m, while each appearance will have been worth £46m.If all that wasn’t enough, Neymar also raked in a cool £136m from commercial income, separate to his wage from Al-Hilal.’Terminated’Just like his career in Saudi, Al-Hilal’s statement confirming Neymar’s exit was short and sweet.It read: “Al-Hilal and Neymar agree to terminate contract by mutual consent.“The Club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al-Hilal, and wish the player success in his career.”The decision to release Neymar came after boss Jorge Jesus admitted the player was no longer capable of the required physical demands.He said: “Neymar can no longer perform at the level we are used to.“Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately.”Neymar acknowledged his lack of game time at the club with a statement of his own.He said: “To everyone at Al Hilal, to the fans, Thank you !!!I gave everything to play and I wish we enjoyed better times on the pitch together.”To Saudi, thank you for giving me and my family a new home and new experiences. I now know the real Saudi and have friends for lifeI always felt your love and passion for the game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I will be following your journey ahead as a club and a country towards 2034.”Your future will be incredible, special things are happening and I will always support you!!!” More

    • 200 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal submit official appeal to FA over Myles Lewis-Skelly red card that left Mikel Arteta raging

      by

      ARSENAL have officially appealed the controversial red card that Myles Lewis-Skelly received against Wolves at the weekend.The teenager was sent off in the 43rd minute for a challenge on Matt Doherty.Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off for a challenge on Matt DohertyCredit: PAHe was shown a straight red card by Michael OliverCredit: PAArsenal stars were left furiousCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly tripped the defender as Wolves began to break away on the counter attack following an Arsenal corner.He was immediately dismissed by referee Michael Oliver, much to the dismay of Mikel Arteta and Co.After the match, the Spaniard was reluctant to say too much about it but declared: “I am absolutely fuming. But I will leave it with you, it is that obvious that I don’t think my words are going to help.”Fans and pundits were also left raging, with some branding it “the worst decision ever.”Read More in FootballIt is understood the Gunners were hoping that the PGMOL would overturn the decision – much like they did when Bruno Fernandes was “wrongfully” sent off against Tottenham in September.But with that still yet to happen, Arsenal chiefs have made the decision to submit one themselves.Club legend Ian Wright berated the state of Premier League officiating after the controversial red card incident.He said: “It’s a joke. Anyone who has ever played the game, and I’m not even talking Premier League, 5-a-side, Sunday League, they know it’s never a red.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Yellow card and nobody says a word. Time and time again this level of refereeing the decisions in the Premier League, the inconsistency, the excuses, the apologies. All of them are the centre of attention for me.”We can’t criticise too hard because otherwise where are the referees going to come from. Where are we going to get them?Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants FA to overturn controversial Myles Lewis-Skelly red card “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 referees into the so called best league in the world. At the moment with this level of refereeing we’re nowhere near it.”Meanwhile, Alan Shearer branded it “one of the worst decisions that I’ve seen in a long time.”The PGMOL released a statement on Sunday condemning the abuse directed at Oliver after the match.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 player ratings: David Raya saves all three-points for Arsenal but Trossard’s woeful deliveries an issue againARSENAL finally won a match with ten-men after Myles Lewis-Skelly was controversially sent off.It was the Gunners’ fourth sending off this season and they had not won any of their matches without 11 players this term.But Arsenal showed their character and battled past Wolves 1-0.Here is how SunSport rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 8/10Very little to do until the 63rd minute when he brilliantly tipped a deflected Matheus Cunha effort wide. He then stopped Rayan Ait-Nouri in a one-on-one in the 84th minute.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 6Was having another fine game before being the victim of one of most ludicrous red cards in Prem history. His cynical trip was worthy of a yellow and nothing more.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Arsenal just look so solid with him in this backline. A welcome return from a minor hamstring injury. Kept Cunha at bay.GABRIEL – 7Led from the front and put his body on the line. Constantly headed away from danger.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6Hit with some nasty challenges that required treatment – including one that had Joao Gomes sent off – but carried on playing and was resolute.DECLAN RICE – 7More of a goal threat than in recent weeks and stood up when Arsenal needed him.THOMAS PARTEY – 7Steady Eddie for most parts back in his favoured midfield position after spells at right-back this season. Displayed his importance to this side once more.ETHAN NWANERI – 6Unfortunately made way at half-time as a sacrificial lamb following Lewis-Skelly’s sending off. Was a lively, creative spark in the first-half.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5In the absence of Bukayo Saka, the Belgian is on corner-taking duty, but his deliveries were woeful. A quiet afternoon that sums up why he is in and out of the team currently.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Was lacking that clinical edge in the first half, but came up with the cross after the break that led to Arsenal’s vital opener.KAI HAVERTZ – 7Missed two glorious first half chances with his head and another in the second half, but worked tirelessly on his own – especially with Arsenal down to ten.SUBS:RICCARDO CALAFIORI (NWANERI, 45) – 8The sort of goal that keeps title dreams alive. Added real height and danger aerially, as well as a sweet volley from a tough angle.KIERAN TIERNEY (MARTINELLI, 87) – N/A More

    • 263 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Annie Kilner seen for 1st time since REFUSING to watch Kyle Walker’s AC Milan debut as she steps out without ring

      by

      ANNIE Kilner has been spotted for the first time amid claims she’s refusing to watch Kyle Walker’s AC Milan debut.The mum-of-four, 31, was seen without her wedding ring as she wrapped up in a black coat to shelter from the rain today.Annie Kilner has been spotted for the first time since refusing to fly out to ItalyCredit: ZenpixAnnie did not have her wedding ring onCredit: ZenpixAnnie is allegedly refusing to fly to ItalyCredit: ZenpixIt is claimed she is refusing to travel to Italy to see her love cheat husband, 34, play against arch-rivals Inter this weekend.She was last seen in public pushing a pram on December 19 in Alderley Park, Cheshire.A source told the Sun: “She’s sick and tired of dropping everything for Kyle and is putting her foot down.“He’s flown his mates out and she’s livid. “He appears to be settling in very well and that’s not helping matters either.”Sources said they are barely speaking after a series of rows over his ex-mistress Lauryn Goodman’s reported plans to relocate abroad.Annie was expected to fly to Milan last weekend with their four boys to see Kyle being unveiled to fans after his shock loan transfer to Italy from Manchester City.But the mum, sporting a new braided hairstyle, celebrated a pal’s 40th birthday instead.Most read in FootballShe is now refusing to fly out this weekend, it is claimed.One source said: “Annie was supposed to go on Friday but Storm Eowyn put it back until Saturday.Kyle Walker takes England legend’s old shirt number after completing ‘incredible’ AC Milan loan transfer“Then a row over Lauryn and her future plans blew up and Annie did a full 180.”She was also p***ed off he flew his friends out before her.“So she went on a girls’ night out and posted the pictures as a big ‘f*** you’.”The source added: “Kyle’s mum and dad are going to be in the San Siro on Sunday to support him.”Again, she had no idea and was furious when she found out. They’re not communicating whatsoever.”BIG BROTHERIt comes as Annie has been told to “name your price” to sign up for CBB, which airs this Easter.A source told The Sun: “ITV have approached Annie’s team. Coleen Rooney’s success on I’m A Celebrity proved how much interest there is for Wags and they would love to replicate her success on CBB.“Annie’s team were told to name their price — they’ll do anything to get her on board. It would be an absolute coup to get her in the Big Brother house.”Annie filed for divorce from Kyle last August and wants half of his £27million fortune.But now she is set to move to Milan with Walker, in a bid to re-kindle their marriage.The hope is to start afresh by moving away from Cheshire – and Lauryn.But a source claimed Annie feels “terrorised” by the long and bitter feud.Kyle allegedly blocked Lauryn from renting out her £2.4million Sussex pad, which he owns, to stop her moving abroad.The insider added: “They could go to the ends of the Earth and still not escape Lauryn.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Because of what he’s done, she is going to be in their lives for a long time to come and there’s nothing they can do about it.“It’s all Annie thinks about. She feels terrorised by it all and worries constantly about what Lauryn is likely to do next.”Annie was last seen in public on December 19 in CheshireCredit: BackGridAnnie and Kyle are reported to be trying to rekindle their relationshipCredit: BackGridAnnie shows off new hair braidsCredit: annievkilner/InstagramKyle poses with Annie and their kids for ChristmasCredit: InstagramAnnie during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Round of 16 matchCredit: GettyWalker had two children with Lauryn GoodmanCredit: PA More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘He’s let a lot of people down’ – Marcus Rashford should be ‘BANISHED’ from Man Utd dressing room, slams Paul Scholes

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Paul Scholes claims wantaway star Marcus Rashford should be “banished” from the dressing room amid the ongoing saga regarding his future.Rashford, 27, hasn’t played for United since December 12 and admitted last month he is “ready for a new challenge”.Manchester United legend Paul Scholes slammed Marcus RashfordCredit: YouTube / The OverlapMan Utd boss Ruben Amorim suggested he’s unhappy with the way Rashford trainsCredit: AlamyMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim has left him out of the squad for every game since his last appearance apart from one, in which he was an unused substitute.Amorim also omitted the forward from Sunday’s 1-0 victory at Fulham suggesting he is so unhappy with the way he trains he would rather pick 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital ahead of him.Scholes addressed the ongoing drama and criticised the England international’s attitude as he “let a lot of people down”.The United legend warned Rashford that he’s making the same mistake he committed years ago when he asked Sir Alex Ferguson not to play in a cup game against Arsenal.Read More on Man UtdThe ex-England international believes he should be banned from the dressing room as he sets the wrong example for younger players.Scholes told Sky Bet’s The Overlap: “I think Marcus has let a lot of people down with his attitude and I think that’s what the manager is trying to say.”You think of the young players coming through the team and think of [Alejandro] Garnacho.”They’re looking up to people like Marcus now and he’s 27, he’s clearly not training properly, he’s not living his life properly. They’re the examples these people should look at.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”I remember years ago when I told the manager [Ferguson] I didn’t want to play in that Arsenal cup game. “The meeting we had afterwards, I thought I was going to get a right b********g here, he said to me, ‘The worst thing you did was let your teammates down’. And that really stuck with me.Rashford admitted last month he is ‘ready for a new challenge’Credit: RexScholes insists Rashford should be ‘banished’ from the Man Utd dressing roomCredit: GettyRuben Amorim has pulled out the nine-millimetre revolver, there’s no way back for Marcus Rashford at Man Utd”Because I wasn’t really thinking about that and now I think Marcus Rashford is doing exactly the same. “Ok, he’s not refusing to play, but in the way he is behaving and the way he’s training…”In a way, he’s saying he doesn’t want to be involved with the team and the fact of letting his teammates down, he should be banished from the dressing room. “If he’s in and around that and young people are seeing that as an example, the sooner he’s gone the better.”England striker Rashford has been offered to clubs all over Europe this January.But only Barcelona remain in the race as teams struggle to take on Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wage packet.Dortmund, AC Milan, and Napoli have all enquired about taking the unsettled star this January.But all have found his wages to be a stumbling block in negotiations.His situation hit a new low last weekend when Amorim claimed he would rather name goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital, 63, on the bench than Rashford.Asked directly about Rashford’s absence against Fulham, Amorim said: “I’d put Vital on the bench before a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day. I’ll not change in that department.“It’s always the same reason. The reason is the training. The way that I see what a footballer should do in training,  in life, every day.  If things don’t change, I will not change.”Rashford’s showdown with Amorim began in December when he was left out of the squad for Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe then gave an interview saying he is ready for a “new challenge”.He told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.” More

    • 225 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal ‘working out shock transfer move for Aston Villa star Jhon Duran’ but Alexander Isak remains ‘dream target’

      by

      ARSENAL are reportedly exploring a shock move for Aston Villa star Jhon Duran – even though Alexander Isak remains their “dream target.”The Gunners are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements after several injury blows.Arsenal are exploring a shock deal for Aston Villa striker Jhon DuranCredit: GettyNewcastle’s Alexander Isak remains the Gunners’ dream targetCredit: GettyBukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus are both long-term absentees.And Mikel Arteta is keen to add an out-and-out striker to his squad of title hopefuls.The Londoners are known to be big fans of Newcastle superstar Isak, who has 19 goals in 25 games this season.While RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who has 14 in 27, has also been linked.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut now, Fabrizio Romano reckons that Villa ace Duran has emerged as a likely target before deadline day.The Colombian has netted 12 goals in 29 games so far this term.Duran, who recently signed a new long-term contract, was the subject of a failed £57million bid from West Ham earlier this month.Villa are thought to want £80m to sell their young asset.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnd Arsenal are now showing a strong interest in Duran, with “dream target” Isak deemed too expensive right now.Romano told Give Me Sport: “What I’m told is Arsenal made a call in recent weeks to understand the situation of Duran.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants FA to overturn controversial Myles Lewis-Skelly red card “At the moment, there’s no green light from Leipzig for Sesko.“Also Isak, the dream target of Arsenal, he’s super expensive. It’s almost very complicated, nothing in football is impossible but it’s very complicated.“And so in recent weeks, Arsenal called to understand Duran’s situation, but there’s been no direct negotiations with Villa.” More

    • 213 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Michael Oliver handed huge Premier League title clash after Arsenal controversy as referee’s next games are revealed

      by

      MICHAEL OLIVER will referee a Premier League game this Saturday and a huge title clash next month.The official is at the centre of huge controversy for sending off Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly in a decision that has been slammed by fans and pundits.Michael Oliver’s next games have been confirmedCredit: AlamyOliver controversially handed Myles Lewis-Skelly a red cardCredit: RexThe ref has come under fierce criticism from fans and punditsCredit: PABut he will be back on the field in the Champions League on Wednesday for Barcelona vs Atalanta and then this weekend he will oversee the Ipswich vs Southampton.The 39-year-old ref will then have the whistle for the Merseyside derby on February 12 as Everton welcome Liverpool to Goodison Park.The fixture has been re-arranged from December 7 after it was postponed due to Storm Darragh. Liverpool currently sit six points above Arsenal at the top of the table and the derby is their game in-hand over the Gunners.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOliver was the subject of fierce criticism for red carding Lewis-Skelly against Wolves for a foul on Matt Doherty.The wonderkid cynically tripped the defender as he broke away on the counter-attack, with most expecting a yellow to be shown.But Oliver shockingly brandished a red for serious foul play and the decision was not overturned by VAR.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was left “absolutely fuming” and club icon Ian Wright slammed it as a “joke”.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBBC pundit Pat Nevin hit out at the standard of officiating, claiming it set a “bar so low even a limbo dancing snake couldn’t get under it”.Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett agreed that Oliver made a “major error” and felt he needed a “rest for a couple of weeks” to stay out the firing line.Fans spot Arsenal star Leandro Trossard’s 6-word comment about Michael Oliver to Wolves ace Police have also launched an investigation after the Newcastle-born whistleblower received vile death threats.The PGMOL issued a statement on Sunday, saying it was “appalled” by the “abhorrent” threats and abuse aimed at their official.Darren England, who was on VAR in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Wolves and decided not to overturn Lewis-Skelly’s red card, has also come under fire.He will ref another title-impacting game this Saturday as he has been given Bournemouth vs Liverpool.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

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen gives glimpse inside £20million mansion as she shares pic of stunning foyer and chandelier

      by

      COLEEN ROONEY gave fans a glimpse inside the stunning £20milllion mansion she shares with husband Wayne.The Rooney family moved into the luxury home in Cheshire three-and-a-half years ago.Coleen gave fans a rare glimpse inside the Rooney mansionCredit: InstagramShe previously shared a snap of a lavish bar from inside the homeCredit: InstagramThe Cheshire house is valued at £20mCredit: The Mega AgencyColeen and Wayne live there with their four sonsCredit: Getty ImagesColeen shared a rare snap from inside the property to her 1.5 million Instagram followers this morning.The photo shows the house’s grand foyer, lavish winding staircase and huge chandelier.There is also a seating area before a few steps take you down to what appears to be the living room.Coleen captioned the post: “Thanks Hyper Cleaning for coming to the rescue while I was in the jungle. Fab as usual.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe company is popular with several celebs, including Paris Fury, Peter Andre, Ashley Banjo and Joey Essex.Rooney paid a rumoured £4million for the plot of land the mansion is built on in 2017.The home’s official name is High Lake Manor and it sits on 50 acres of old farmland.Inside the six bedroom palace is a football pitch, an underground tunnel, a wine cellar, a home cinema, a huge swimming pool and a few bars.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThere is also a glittering trophy room where Rooney’s displays his awards. An incredible array of memorabilia from England caps, Manchester United shirts, match balls, trophies, medals and man of the match bottles of champagne line the walls.Coleen Rooney opens up on husband Wayne’s bizarre bedroom habit and the time Man Utd legend started a fire Their property is situated in Cheshire’s affluent “Golden Triangle”, which is an area that several footballers call home.Rooney has a huge trophy room displaying his football accoladesCredit: ITVRooney’s England caps are proudly on displayCredit: ITVHis Champions League winners medal is in his trophy cabinetCredit: ITVUnopened man of the match champagne bottles cover the walls More

    • 113 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Which Dream Team defenders provide the most attacking threat?

      by

      DREAM TEAM managers should ensure at least one of their defenders provides a certain degree of threat going forward.Clean sheets are important but comparatively rare and so gaffers should make use of individuals who also chip in with their fair share of goal involvements.More than just defendersCredit: Dream TeamAt the time of writing, just eight players have reached double figures for clean sheets in Dream Team this season.Whereas 21 players have notched at least ten goals with two standout stars, Erling Haaland (£7.9m) and Mohamed Salah (£8m), on 20+ in all competitions.Defenders who have multiple avenues to points are worth their weight in gold.With that in mind, let’s analyse which individuals have provided the greatest attacking threat from the back so far this season.MOST GOALS AMONG DEFENDERS THIS SEASON:5 – Gabriel5 – Josko Gvardiol4 – Toisin Adarabioyo4 – Rayan Ait-Nouri4 – Fabian Schar4 – James JustinArsenal’s Brazilian centre-back is a top-tier defender because not only is he ranked joint-fourth for clean sheets, he doubles up as a potent threat from set pieces.The Gunners have honed their corner routine to devastating effect this season and Gabriel is generally the primary target, hence his handy return of five goals to date.Most read in FootballManchester City have struggled in defence this season but Gvardiol remains a top ten defender in terms of total points because he persistently takes up advanced positions from left-back.The Croatia international has banked 152 points while only one other City defender (Rico Lewis) has more than 81 to his name.Gabriel’s aerial threat is a huge boostCredit: GettyMOST SHOTS ON TARGET AMONG DEFENDERS THIS SEASON:13 – Pedro Porro11 – Josko Gvardiol11 – Daniel Munoz9 – Trent Alexander-Arnold9 – Rayan Ait-Nouri9 – James JustinTottenham’s right-back is encouraged to influence play in the final third by Ange Postecoglou and he’s certainly not shy when it comes to testing the opposition goalkeeper.Some Spurs fans might say Porro is overly shot-happy but from a Dream Team perspective, his unwavering desire to contribute in attack is a huge plus.The Spaniard has registered just six clean sheets in 2024/25, fewer than Ashley Young (£2.9m) and Tino Livramento (£2.8m), but he’s currently second among defenders overall with 171 points to his name, such is the value of his offensive play – he’s also a bonus point magnet.Crystal Palace’s Munoz averages a mightily impressive 6.2 points-per-game this season – the third highest rate among players in his position.The Colombian wing-back gets through mountains of defensive work – only Noussair Mazraoui (£2.7m) has made more tackles – but his role in the Eagles’ set-up means he often occupies shooting areas.A dual threatCredit: GettyMOST ASSISTS AMONG DEFENDERS THIS SEASON:9 – Antonee Robinson 8 – Trent Alexander-Arnold8 – Pedro Porro5 – Rayan Ait-Nouri5 – Nathan Collins5 – Lewis HallFulham’s left-back leads the way in this metric; a hugely impressive feat without additional European fixtures to bolster his schedule.The USA international also comes out on top for bonus points (29) in his position.Robinson deserves plenty of praise but he’ll have to produce something special to keep Liverpool’s No66 at bay in the final third of the campaign…Robinson has played superbly this season but has perhaps been a tad lucky in regards to his assist tallyCredit: GettyMOST BIG CHANCES CREATED AMONG DEFENDERS THIS SEASON: 15 – Trent Alexander-Arnold13 – Lucas Digne10 – Leif Davis8 – Tyrick Mitchell7 – Andy Robertson7 – Kostas Tsimikas7 – Yukinari SugawaraAlexander-Arnold has long rubbed shoulders with Dream Team’s best playmakers in the creative department and so it’s no surprise to see him leading the way here.He remains Liverpool’s best passer and crosser of a ball in Liverpool’s ranks.Robinson’s absence from his list suggests he’s been rather fortunate to amass nine assists – his team-mates have been clinical from his service.Aston Villa should have made more of Digne’s service this season and the Frenchman’s backers probably deserve a flurry of assists at some point in the coming months.Ipswich’s forward-thinking left-back produced a shed-load of assists in the Championship and he’s doing his best to carve out opportunities in the top flight but the Tractor Boys’ defensive vulnerabilities means Davis isn’t truly a viable option for Dream Team bosses.A playmaking giant from right-backCredit: GettyMOST GOAL INVOLVEMENTS (GOALS + ASSISTS) AMONG DEFENDERS THIS SEASON:10 – Trent Alexander-Arnold10 – Pedro Porro9 – Antonee Robinson9 – Rayan Ait-Nouri7 – Gabriel7 – Nathan CollinsAit-Nouri features in all but one of the above lists but much like Davis, his attacking contributions are negated by his team’s broader problems in defence.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt would be interesting to see what the 23-year-old could do as a regular starter for one of the league’s stronger teams.Combining goals and assists probably gives the fairest reflection of attacking threat as Alexander-Arnold and Porro have been the standout defenders in this regard, hence why they are ranked first and second in the position for total points right now.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