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      Man Utd seek new algorithm to predict injuries with just seven players remaining fit all season

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      MANCHESTER UNITED want to create an algorithm to help predict injuries for new signings.That is because only SEVEN players from the start of the season have stayed out of the medical room all season.Lisandro Martinez tore his ACL against Crystal Palace last monthCredit: AlamyHe will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgeryCredit: AlamyNoussair Mazraoui had a scare against EvertonCredit: RexMason Mount’s Man Utd career has been marred by injuriesCredit: RexUnited are reportedly on the hunt for an innovative “injury-predicting” algorithm to tackle the club’s woes.The Red Devils have reached out to the University of Manchester to tap into their pool of bright young minds.According to the Manchester Evening News, this initiative is part of United’s grand scheme to overhaul their data analytics strategy.In 2012, United claimed their new medical centre at Carrington had the facilities to predict injuries.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSSir Alex Ferguson billed the centre as “a big signing for us and probably the most important step forward we have taken in a long, long time”.United recorded 66 separate cases of injury or illness last season.While 12 players were unavailable for the 1-0 defeat at Tottenham a fortnight ago. Ruben Amorim was forced to included eight untried teenagers to his matchday squad in North London.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNine senior squad members were sidelined for the draw with Everton last week and the win against Ipswich Town on Wednesday.Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui and Casemiro have avoided injury this season.How Bruno Fernandes’ ‘Steven Gerrard syndrome’ spoils Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd systemBruno Fernandes, Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Garnacho make up the seven stars who have been available for every game.But Mazraoui did miss two games in October through a heart scare, but hasn’t been injured per say.New signing Patrick Dorgu has avoided any injuries in his four games since joining on January.The left-back will, however, serve a one-match ban after being sent off for a horror tackle on Ipswich star Omari Hutchinson on Wednesday.United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe claimed that data analysis “doesn’t really exist. We’re still in the last century on data analysis here”.There is no specific return date for Mason Mount, who joined for a fee rising to £60million from Chelsea in July 2023.The former Chelsea captain has played in 33 games out of a possible 93.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Maguire saves the day after Onana makes case to be WORST ever signingMANCHESTER UNITED eased their fears of the drop in a topsy-turvy relegation six-pointer with Ipswich.The Red Devils triumphed 3-2 despite playing the second half with ten men.A major cock-up from Patrick Dorgu and Andre Onana saw Ipswich take a third-minute lead through Jaden Philogene.Then, after United had recovered to lead 2-1, Dorgu saw a straight red card for a poor challenge on Omari Hutchinson.Philogene scored again to level it before the break only for Harry Maguire to nod in to be United’s saviour.But who was United’s best player on the night?Here, SunSport’s Phil Thomas reveals his Manchester United player ratings…A United source said the club has used extensive data science to manage players’ workloads to try and reduce and avoid injuries.Luke Shaw, who has not started a match for United in over a year, has featured just three times from the bench this season.The first significant injury of Shaw’s career was the fractured tibia and fibula he suffered in his second season at the club. While the 29-year-old has enjoyed sustained periods of fitness since then, his career has been dogged by persistent injury issues.READ MORE SUN STORIESAccording to Transfermarkt, Shaw has suffered 29 injuries during his time at United and spent a remarkable 1,630 days out injured. Lisandro Martinez (anterior cruciate ligament) and Amad Diallo (ankle) have been ruled out for the remainder of the season. More

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      Lautaro Martinez facing ban for BLASPHEMY as Inter Milan star says ‘this accusation bothered me a lot’

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      LAUTARO MARTINEZ is reportedly facing a ban for BLASPHEMY, according to sensational reports.It comes after the FIGC Federal Prosecutor found evidence of this blasphemy during Inter Milan’s 1-0 defeat to Juventus.Lautaro Martinez has been accused of blasphemyCredit: RexThe Argentinian World Cup winner is accused of using a blasphemous phrase after the defeat.The proof was only found days after the FIGC prosecutor opened an investigation.FIGC chief Giuseppe Chinè asked DAZN for all the images recorded during the episode and in the end found incriminating audio to confirm the blasphemy.However, the 27-year-old is unlikely to actually be hit with a ban.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLGazzetta dello Sport explains the sport judge could not intervene in the aftermath of the game as there was no audio evidence of the act.Martinez now has one week to decide how to respond.One option is to face a sports trial in the Federal Court and risk a one-game ban.The other pathway is to agree a plea bargain and get a fine.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSIt is reported his club will likely push for the second option, even if he denies the claim.Martinez has said of the accusation: “I have never blasphemed, never. Watch as Lionel Messi is FLOORED by his own team-mate as fans demand ‘someone check his passport, he’s not Argentinian'”I try to teach respect to my children too, this accusation bothered me a lot.”Martinez has scored 16 goals in 35 games this season. More

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      World Cup winner, 36, rents out stunning four-bedroom villa with infinity pool and private beach for £655 a night

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      MATS HUMMELS is renting out a luxurious villa on the stunning Croatian coast.The 2014 World Cup winner, 36, owns an incredible four-bedroom property near Zadar.Mats Hummels own a luxurious villa in CroatiaCredit: CrovillasThe master bedroom possesses a remarkable viewCredit: CrovillasThe property oozes opulence and luxuryCredit: CrovillasHummels, 36, plies his trade for AS Roma in ItalyCredit: RexThe sprawling four-bedroom villa is situated by the sea, and offers guests opulent luxury in addition to privacy.Located right by the beach, the property includes incredible sea views.It is the perfect getaway for relaxation, boasting its own infinity pool, sauna, jacuzzi and gym.The private beach has its own jetty, complete with water sports equipment.READ MORE SPORT NEWSWhile inside, it features a spacious living room complete with luxurious modern furnishing.The main bedroom possesses a breathtaking sea view from floor-to-ceiling windows.While guests can also cook up a storm in the kitchen.Managed by Crovillas, the palatial villa can be rented from £655 per night.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSGuests can have a dip in the pool or the seaCredit: CrovillasThe spacious living room provides space to relax indoorsCredit: CrovillasThe glorious location is available for £655 per nightCredit: CrovillasVeteran defender Hummels has own the Croatian property for more than a decade.He previously visited alongside ex-wife Cathy.Watch Dortmund star Karim Adeyemi’s insane skill before PSG clash leave Mats Hummels on floor in shock Hummels is still going strong in football aged 36.Last summer he left German football for the first time, moving to AS Roma in Italy after leaving Borussia Dortmund.The property includes a jacuzziCredit: CrovillasThere are also shaded outdoor areas to relaxCredit: Crovillas More

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      When is FA Cup quarter-final draw? Date, start time and FREE live stream as iconic competition reaches business end

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      THE last 16 teams in the FA Cup fifth round take centre stage to toil against one another in hopes of reaching the quarter-finals. Clubs will be setting their sights on a trip to Wembley by claiming a quarter-final place, which would put them within one stage of reaching the home of English football.The FA Cup is heading towards the business end of the competitionCredit: GettyAfter Plymouth Argyle’s outstanding win against Premier League leaders Liverpool, their FA Cup run hasn’t gotten any easier, with a trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City on the horizon.Other fifth-round fixtures include the current holders of the competition, Manchester United hosting Fulham at Old Trafford. The fifth round of the FA Cup will be sure to have some surprise teams advance to the quarter-finals, as nothing is ever predictable in this hallowed competition.When does the FA Cup quarter-final draw take place?The draw will take place on Sunday, March 2. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis is following Manchester United vs Fulham, with the draw set to start at 6.30pm GMT approx.How to watch the FA Cup quarter-final draw for FREEThe FA Cup quarter-final draw will take place on BBC One after the United and Fulham match has concluded. You can live stream the draw for FREE via the FA Cup’s YouTube channel.Alternatively, you can find out all the ties as they are drawn by following SunSport’s live blog.FA Cup fifth round fixtures and resultsPreston North End vs BurnleyAston Villa vs Cardiff City Most read in FA CupCrystal Palace vs MillwallManchester United vs Fulham Newcastle United vs Brighton & Hove AlbionAFC Bournemouth vs WolvesManchester City vs Plymouth ArgyleNottingham Forest vs Ipswich Town More

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      Awkward moment David Seaman overhears former Premier League star calling Peter Schmeichel his favourite goalkeeper

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      DAVID SEAMAN hilariously overheard Jamie O’Hara name Peter Schmeichel as his favourite goalkeeper. Sky Sports captured the awkward moment Arsenal legend Seaman side eyed O’Hara – who is speaking off camera. David seaman overheard Jamie O’Hara name Peter Schmeichel as his favourite goalkeeperCredit: Sky SportsSeaman and Schmeichel were former rivalsCredit: ReutersAnd after bursting into laughter, he said: “I heard that!” The whole room were left chuckling as ex-Tottenham star O’Hara gave former Gunner Seaman a hug. Seaman made 563 Arsenal appearances winning two Premier League titles and four FA Cups in his 13 seasons. For England, he made 75 caps and sits behind only Peter Shilton as the most capped Three Lions keeper. READ MORE IN footballSchmeichel meanwhile made 398 appearances for Manchester United, winning FIVE Prem titles, three FA Cups and the Champions League in 1999. The great Dane is widely considered to be one of the best keepers the league has ever seen. And according to Seaman himself, Schmeichel is the best. He told The Metro in 2024: “I’ve got to go for Peter Schmeichel. Look at what he did and what he achieved. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”The way he kept goal was totally different from me, both styles obviously work, but he brought a new style into the Premier League.”Schmeichel had stints with Sporting Lisbon, Aston Villa and City before retiring in 2003 and now works as a pundit. Seaman also joined City after leaving Arsenal and hung up his gloves in 2004 – occasionally working in the media as well. Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival Anfield More

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      Liverpool paid Jurgen Klopp and staff MILLIONS to leave as Reds announce record losses for last season

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      LIVERPOOL lost a record £57MILLION last season – despite an all-time revenue high.The £9.6m cost of paying off Jurgen Klopp and his coaching staff at the end of a campaign without Champions League football meant the Anfield side posted the loss even though the club grossed £614m in income.Liverpool lost a stunning £57million last season – despite producing an all-time revenue highCredit: AFPThe departure of club icon Jurgen Klopp had a small part to do with the huge lossesCredit: GETTYKlopp and his coaching staff were paid £9.6million at the end of the 2023/24 seasonCredit: GETTYBeing out of the European elite represented the bulk of the £38m drop in broadcast income.Wages rose by £14m to £386m, with the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.But the losses – up by more than £40m from 2022-23 – were mitigated by the opening of the new Anfield Road Stand adding £22m to matchday revenues.There was also a substantial uptick in commercial income, up by £36 million to £308million after four new global partner sponsorship deals were struck.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLiverpool are on course to make £100m-plus from their Champions League campaign if they get past PSG in this month’s last 16 tie.Chief Financial Officer Jenny Beacham said: “Operating a financially sustainable club continues to be our priority.”And with the continued increase in costs, it’s essential to grow income streams year on year to maintain financial stability.“The global appeal of this football club continues to be phenomenal and is the underlying strength and opportunity we have for continued growth.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe arrivals of Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister contributed to a £14million increase in club wagesCredit: Rex“We will continue to operate in accordance with football’s financial rules and regulations while maintaining investment opportunities in our operations, infrastructure and players.“Our focus right now is to finish this season as strong as possible, both on and off the pitch, to fulfil our collective ambitions for success.”Ex-Liverpool boss and heavy metal fan Jurgen Klopp soundproofs £6m mansion in Germany’s ‘Beverly Hills’Prem table-toppers Liverpool will be back in action on Wednesday, travelling to Paris to take on PSG in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. More

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      Arsenal ‘in Joshua Kimmich talks’ as Gunners step up transfer chase after Bayern Munich contract offer ‘withdrawn’

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      ARSENAL are stepping up their interest in Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, reports in Germany say. Kimmich’s future in Munich is in question following speculation that the Bundesliga leaders withdrew a contract extension. Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their interest in Bayern Munich’s Joshua KimmichCredit: GettyHis current deal expires in 2028 and according to Sky in Germany, Arsenal have held talks with the midfielder over a move. It comes amid speculation 33-year-old Jorginho is ready to leave the Gunners in the summer when his deal expires. But they are believed to be in competition with at least two others clubs outside of Germany for Kimmich.Bild that first reported Bayern had withdrawn their contract offer to the 30-year-old Champions League winner.READ MORE ON ABut an extension has not been ruled out completely with Bayern said to still want to keep Kimmich – who can also play at right-back. Arsenal have been linked with Kimmich for over a year now – with Germany team-mate Kai Havertz rumoured to have helped in talks. Bayern are top of the Bundesliga by eight points and travel to Stuttgart next – but Kimmich is ruled out due to a hamstring problem.Manager Vincent Kompany said: “We only have our sights set on Stuttgart. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”But he probably won’t be travelling with us. The game is probably too early for him.”Kimmich went off injured in Bayern’s 4-0 win over Frankfurt in their last match. He has 36 appearances this season with one goal to his name. Benni McCarthy and John Barnes troll Sammy Kuffour about 1999 Champions League Final More

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      Arsenal ‘expected to sign big-money midfielder with lots of work done on Sesko and notable exit in summer transfer plan’

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      IT IS set to be a busy summer at Arsenal with moves for a striker, midfielder and goalkeeper all being worked on, according to reports.Mikel Arteta’s side appear to have once again failed in their bid to win the title this season, with their 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest now leaving them 13 points behind Liverpool.Mikel Arteta’s influence on Arsenal transfers and the club’s future plans has been revealedCredit: GettyArteta wants to sign Alexander IsakCredit: ReutersBenjamin Seskois edging closer to a moveCredit: RexArteta wanted to sign Ollie Watkins in JanuaryCredit: RexAfter three years of playing second fiddle to Manchester City and now Liverpool, they are set to invest heavily in a new forward or two this summer.The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports two big names in the attacking department.The first is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, who Arteta “loves”, while the other is Benjamin Sesko, who Arsenal are said to have done a lot of work on to complete a deal.Ornstein reports how Arsenal are in a strong financial position with PSR.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, with other plans to bring in midfielder Martin Zubimendi and a new back-up goalkeeper, a major departure may be needed to ensure this PSR position is not compromised.Ornstein also spoke about the influence of Arteta in the transfer process and how his voice impacted the recent January window.He explained that while Arteta was a hugely influential voice and wanted to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, he does not control the purse strings at the Emirates.Mathys Tel, who eventually signed on loan for Tottenham, was discussed internally but was not pursued as the club wanted a natural No9.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSArsenal suffered a huge blow to their title bid just days after the transfer window closed when Kai Havertz picked up a season-ending injury during the club’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai.The club have failed to score in both of their last two games, which has all but ended their hopes of winning the title barring a miraculous comeback.Ian Wright fears three Arsenal superstars could run down contract, including Saka Arsenal ratings vs Forest as NOBODY looks like scoring for Gunners but Saliba’s a Rolls Royce againMIKEL ARTETA may not have anyone to put the ball in the back of the net but in William Saliba he has one of the best defenders in the Prem.The Arsenal boss watched his side’s faint title hopes go well and truly up in smoke in the goalless draw with Nottingham Forest.But his brilliant backline emerged, once again, with credit from this tricky clash at the City Ground.Together with Gabriel, Saliba kept a tight lid on Forest dangerman Chris Wood, who scored a hat-trick in his last appearance on this ground.But the fact the Gunners’ biggest threat at the other end of the pitch came from left-back Riccardo Calafiori – who was subbed off at half-time – says it all about the dire situation Arsenal somehow find themselves in.Here is how SunSport’s Graeme Bryce rated the Gunners stars’ displays… More