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      Injuries & suspensions update ahead of Gameweek 26: Latest on Alexander Isak ahead of FA Cup weekend

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      DREAM TEAM brings you all the latest injury, suspension and availability news for Gameweek 26 in one convenient location.Eddie Howe was characteristically vague when discussing Alexander Isak’s availability.Newcastle’s top scorer, who is the fifth-most popular player in the game at present, was absent from the squad at Anfield on Wednesday night because of a groin issue.Speaking in his Friday press conference, Howe said: “We’ll see today. I haven’t seen him since the [Liverpool] game, so we’ll have a discussion with him. We don’t think it’s a long-term problem. We’ll see how he is today.”Isak is a doubt having missed Newcastle’s trip to LiverpoolCredit: Dream TeamBoth Joelinton and Sven Botman “have a chance” of featuring against Brighton in the FA Cup on Sunday but a final decision will be made after today’s training session.The Seagulls are expected to have the same squad available from their win over Bournemouth on Tuesday night.Unai Emery named Matty Cash, Tyrone Mings, Emi Martinez, Boubacar Kamara and Donyell Malen as doubts for tonight’s meeting with Cardiff.Ross Barkley and Pau Torres are definitely out.Morgan Rogers shook off his niggle and started against Crystal Palace in the week.There were some concerns about Alejandro Garnacho’s fitness after he headed straight down the tunnel after being substituted against Ipswich in midweek but Ruben Amorim has said there is “not an issue”.Most read in FootballThe Argentina winger did pick up a knock but will be involved in some capacity against Fulham.Patrick Dorgu starts a three-game domestic ban following his red card against the Tractor Boys.Dorgu was dismissed against IpswichCredit: GettyRyan Christie has played through a groin injury of late but the Bournemouth midfielder may have to sit out against Wolves on Saturday.Oliver Glasner reported no new injuries ahead of Millwall’s visit to Selhurst Park on Saturday, alleviating concerns about Marc Guehi, who underwent treatment last time out.Adam Wharton’s workload may be managed following his first start of the calendar year.Wharton impressed against VillaCredit: GettyARSENALInjuries: Takehiro Tomiyasu, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai HavertzSuspensions: NoneASTON VILLAInjuries: Pau Torres, Ross Barkley, Donyell Malen (doubt), Boubacar Kamara (doubt), Tyrone Mings (doubt), Emi Martinez (doubt), Matty Cash (doubt), Amadou Onana (doubt)Suspensions: NoneBOURNEMOUTHInjuries: Julian Araujo, Marcos Senesi, Adam Smith, Evanilson, Enes Unal, Ryan Christie (doubt)Suspensions: Illia ZabarnyiBRENTFORDInjuries: Aaron Hickey, Josh Dasilva, Gustavo Nunes, Igor Thiago, Rico Henry, Sepp van den Berg, Mathias Jensen, Christian NorgaardSuspensions: NoneBRIGHTONInjuries: James Milner, Ferdi Kadioglu, Jason Steele, Igor Julio, Lewis Dunk, Joel VeltmanSuspensions: NoneCHELSEAInjuries: Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, Nicolas Jackson, Marc Guiu, Noni Madueke, Trevoh ChalobahSuspensions: Mykhailo MudrykCRYSTAL PALACEInjuries: Cheick Doucoure, Joel Ward, Chadi RiadSuspensions: NoneEVERTONInjuries: Dwight McNeil, Armando Broja, Seamus Coleman, Orel Mangala, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Iliman NdiayeSuspensions: NoneFULHAMInjuries: Kenny Tete, Reiss Nelson, Harry Wilson, Emile Smith Rowe (doubt)Suspensions: Sasa LukicIPSWICHInjuries: Chiedozie Ogbene, Conor Chaplin (doubt), Christian Walton, Wes Burns, Julio Enciso, Kalvin PhillipsSuspensions: NoneLEICESTERInjuries: Ricardo Pereira, Abdul FatawuSuspensions: NoneLIVERPOOLInjuries: Joe Gomez, Conor BradleySuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER CITYInjuries: Oscar Bobb, Rodri, Manuel Akanji, John StonesSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER UNITEDInjuries: Altay Bayindir, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Tom Collyer, Kobbie Mainoo, Amad DialloSuspensions: Patrick DorguNEWCASTLEInjuries: Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman (doubt), Joelinton (doubt), Alexander Isak (doubt)Suspensions: NoneNOTTINGHAM FORESTInjuries: Carlos MiguelSuspensions: NoneSOUTHAMPTONInjuries: Ross Stewart, Ryan Fraser, Juan Larios, Adam Lallana, Jan Bednarek, Kyle Walker-Peters (doubt), James BreeSuspensions: NoneTOTTENHAMInjuries: Cristian Romero, Dominic Solanke, Radu Dragusin, Richarlison, Micky van de Ven, Ben Davies (doubt)Suspensions: NoneWEST HAMInjuries: Michail Antonio, Vladimir Coufal, Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville, Lucas PaquetaSuspensions: NoneWOLVESREAD MORE SUN STORIESInjuries: Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, Yerson Mosquera, Leon Chiwone, Hwang Hee-chan, Sam Johnstone (doubt), Rodrigo Gomes, Emmanuel AgbadouSuspensions: None More

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      ‘My opinion matters more’ – Ruben Amorim hits back at Roy Keane after Man Utd legend’s explosive Bruno Fernandes rant

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      RUBEN Amorim has hit back at Roy Keane and told him his opinion matters more than the former Old Trafford skipper.Keane launched his angriest attack yet as he singled out Bruno Fernandes in a heated row with Ian Wright about Manchester United’s flops.Ruben Amorim hit back at Roy Keane over his savage attack on Bruno FernandesCredit: GettyKeane launched into a sensational rant as he targeted the Man Utd captainCredit: YouTube/The OverlapFernandes has cut a frustrated figure this seasonCredit: GettyKeane joined Wright, Gary Neville and Jill Scott to discuss United’s recent form before the dramatic 3-2 win over Ipswich on Wednesday.The 53-year-old went off in an explosive monologue, hitting out at United’s current cast, who are rotting in 14th in the Prem.Keane laid into Fernandes and said the captain’s “talent is not enough”, before slamming his celebration after scoring a free-kick in United’s 2-2 draw with Everton.But Wrighty overwhelming disagreed and reckons United would be in a real relegation scrap without the Portuguese star.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAnd now Amorim has hit back at Keane and said the only opinion that matters is that of the United manager.Amorim said: “I heard about that and I have a different opinion.“Bruno is really important for us at the club, especially for me. He is playing well in a difficult context and always wants responsibility.“I know sometimes, as captain, he does things with his hands and you see him criticising his team-mates but, most of all, there is a lot of frustration for this year and last year.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“Everybody has an opinion. Roy Keane has big standards, for him and for his team, and it’s normal to have an opinion.“I have the opposite opinion and I think my opinion is more important than Roy Keane’s is because I’m the coach.”Roy Keane slams Man Utd in angriest ever rant and has bust-up with Wright over BrunoFernandes is United’s leading scorer this season, with ten goals, and has started all but one game for his struggling side.And his countryman Amorim feels strongly that the Portugal international’s only failing is letting his frustration show.The 40-year-old said: “He wants to win and sometimes it is really hard to deal with that frustration.”Keane had fumed on Stick To Football, brought to you by Sky Bet: “You go back to the recruitment and the team.”Show a bit of fight, a bit of speed, a bit of quality in your play.”They draw at Everton and it’s like they’ve won the cup. It’s f***ing bizarre.”Even the fans. I see fans at matches, and they sing for Bruno [Fernandes]. I see these boys, I think they’re f***ing imposters.”But Wright interjected: “No bro, not Bruno.”Keane flopped back in his chair and snarled: “You know what Wrighty? I’ve had enough of that rubbish man.”People [including him] are pretending to be closing people down.”Keaane argued with Ian Wright about who was to blame for the Red Devils’ issuesWright continued to push his point, claiming Fernandes had the talent to “save” United from their slump.A staggered Keane hit back: “They’re 15th in the league. And he’s saving them?! Praise the Lord.”Bruno won man of the match against the Tractor Boys and had a hand in all three goals at Old Trafford.But Fernandes’ captaincy has drawn plenty of criticism in recent seasons.Fingers have pointed to his perceived petulance and histrionics on the field as reasons why he is perhaps not the best leader.Fernandes and Amad Diallo are United’s top goalscorers in the Prem this season, with six goals a piece.Only Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has created more chances than Fernandes since he joined in January 2020.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Belgian great has provided 109 opportunities, while Fernandes is nine behind the City legend with 100.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… More

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      ‘Champions League’s worst stadium’ set to be demolished after hosting infamous England clash and ‘starting a war’

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      STADION MAKSIMIR is set to be torn down and completely reconstructed.The 112-year-old stadium is the historic home of Dinamo Zagreb and the Croatia national team.Stadion Maksimir is set to be torn down and reconstructedCredit: GettyThe Croatian stadium has witnessed plenty of historic momentsCredit: GettyDespite its poignant past, the ground has been deemed no longer fit for purpose at the highest level.Dubbed the “Champions League’s worst stadium” by Stadium DB, Stadion Maksimir has received the green light from government to be reconstructed.The stadium, which currently holds 25,912, will have its capacity increased to 35,000 as part of the £145million project.It will also be built in compliance with Uefa’s highest standards.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIn addition to a plush new football venue, the site will also have a pool, recreational area and 1,500 parking spaces constructed.The project is expected to begin in late 2026, after the redevelopment of Stadion Kranjceviceva across the city is completed.At that point, Dinamo will temporarily play home games at Stadion Kranjceviceva until the reconstruction of their own traditional home is completed.The Stadion Maksimir project is expected to be completed during the 2028-29 season.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMaksimir has been the home of some infamous nights for English football fans.In 2006, Croatia beat the Three Lions 2-0 there in a Euro 2008 qualifier.Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival AnfieldThe match is best remembered for Gary Neville’s own goal, which saw a backpass bobble over Paul Robinson’s foot and in.Dinamo knocked Tottenham Hotspur out of the Europa League there in 2021, beating Jose Mourinho’s side 3-0 to overturn a two-goal first leg deficit.Two seasons later they beat Chelsea 1-0 in the Champions League, a result that led to Thomas Tuchel being sacked by the Blues.Paul Robinson conceded a bizarre Gary Neville own goal at Stadion MaksimirCredit: PATottenham Hotspur were embarrassed at Maksimir in 2021Credit: GettyThe famous stadium hosted Thomas Tuchel’s final match as Chelsea managerCredit: GettyIn May 1990, Zvonimir Boban infamously kicked a policeman during a riot on the Maksimir pitch.Amid growing tensions within Yugoslavia, Dinamo Zagreb hosted Red Star Belgrade at their famous old home.The match witnessed some of the most shocking hooliganism in football history, with the match abandoned amid the violence after just 10 minutes.With fighting having spilled onto the pitch, Boban spotted a policeman getting in the way of Croatian fans.In a fit of anger, the legendary midfielder, who would go on to star for AC Milan, ran over and launched a flying knee at the copper.While obviously not solely responsible for starting the Croatian War of Independence, Boban’s kick served as an emblem of the simmering tensions of the day.The war would formally start the following year, tragically resulting in 100,000 deaths over the following decade.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs for Boban, he went on to win four Serie A titles and the Champions League during his time with AC Milan.A national hero, he helped an iconic Croatia team to the 1998 World Cup semi-finals.Zvonimir Boban launches a flying knee at a policemanCredit: YouTube/Trans World Sport More

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      Stunned Arsenal fans say ‘can it play up front?’ as club sell £550 gold leaf vase as part of new collection

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      ARSENAL fans have been left scratching their heads after the club listed a hand-painted 24ct gold leaf vase on their website for a whopping £550.The Gunners have launched a new collection on their online store selling fine china for hefty price tags.Arsenal have listed a £550 24ct gold leaf vase on their websiteCredit: https://arsenaldirect.arsenal.com/The vase is part of collection that also includes £75 platesCredit: https://arsenaldirect.arsenal.com/Artist Nick Dynan is the man behind the stunning designs, but they come at a costCredit: https://arsenaldirect.arsenal.com/Arsenal have partnered with local North London artist and lifelong fan Nick Dynan, also known as Me Old China, to create a number of limited edition homeware products.The hand painted collection includes stunning mugs, plates and vases that have a price that matches their quality.A mug will set fans back £40, while a plates range between £55 and £75.But it’s the two vases on offer that will empty your wallet the fastest, with prices for the limited release of vases costing between £385 and £550.READ MORE ON ARSENALAs outrageous as the prices are, it didn’t stop Arsenal fans from snapping it all up.The entire collection, which was limited to just 100 pieces, was sold out around an hour after Arsenal announced it was on sale.Arsenal fans were quick to tease their club on social media for the unusual merch, suggesting that changing things on the pitch should be taking priority.One fan poked fun at Arsenal’s injury crisis, writing: “Can the pot play striker?”Most read in FootballThis limited edition plate is £55Credit: https://arsenaldirect.arsenal.com/A mug would cost Arsenal fans £40Credit: https://arsenaldirect.arsenal.com/CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhile another added: “Season has been ruined and you’re trying to sell me a handmade vase.”A third wrote: “Fans – Sign a striker. Arsenal – How about some lovely pottery?”Ian Wright fears three Arsenal superstars could run down contract, including Saka And a fourth posted: “Read the room”.One wishful fan even thought about investing in the vases to help fund some summer business, writing: “How many of these would buy Alexander Isak?”Arsenal have had a hard week that has seen them slip 13 points behind league leaders Liverpool.The Gunners are without any of their first choice attackers due to injuries to Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.And their lack of attacking threat has seen them go two consecutive Premier League games without scoring for the first time since May 2023.Arsenal’s crumble now means they sit closer to 10th placed Aston Villa (12 points ahead) than they do to Liverpool.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey take on PSV Eindhoven in the last 16 of the Champions League on Tuesday, after sitting out the weekend’s action following their elimination from the FA Cup to Man Utd in January.But they will still be without any real attacking threat for that clash after Arteta revealed that Saka and Martinelli are expected to be sidelined until April, while Havertz and Jesus won’t return this season.Arsenal have slipped 13 points behind Liverpool in the Premier LeagueCredit: PAThe Gunners are missing Bukayo Saka’s attacking threatCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal files: Why Gunners didn’t buy a striker in January, worrying relegation omen… and the two starlets Arteta LOVES

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      ARSENAL have always been one of England’s biggest and best clubs.But with that comes a huge spotlight that has seen them crack under pressure and fail to live up to expectations in recent years.Arsenal have struggled to live up to their own high standards this seasonCredit: GettyStarting today, only on Sun Club, our team of reporters will bring you the inside track on what’s going right and what’s going wrong at the Emirates every week.DESTINED FOR THE DROP?THE only way is down for Arsenal after four years of progress and success in the Premier League – at least that’s what the stats suggest.From 2020/21 to 2023/24, the Gunners improved their points tally in four straight seasons – one of just SIX sides to do so in the Prem era.They join Leeds United (1996/97 to 1999/00), Chelsea (2001/02 to 2004/05), Aston Villa (2006/07 to 2009/10), Southampton (2012/13 to 2015/16) and Leicester (2017/18 to 2020/21).Those five all fell off in their fifth season, and all but one was later relegated in the years that followed. A poisoned chalice?So, should we be surprised that Mikel Arteta’s men have fallen into the same trap, nudged slightly off course on their quest for a Prem crown after four successive campaigns of growth?The real question is: how will they react?Having ended the 2019/20 campaign in eighth with 56 points, the Gunners began their rise with 61 points in 20/21, 69 points in 21/22, 84 points in 22/23 and 89 points last season.A glowing period that has seen the North Londoners transform from top flight obscurity into Prem title challengers.It is why this 24/25 campaign is feared to be the start of a potential soft decline, one deemed a step backwards by the Emirates faithful.In the unlikely event Arsenal win every game from now until the end of the season, they would finish on 87 points, and most probably in second place for the third year running with runaway leaders Liverpool 13 points ahead with 10 games left.The Gunners have fallen 13 points behind Liverpool in the title raceCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSInjuries to key attacking players have badly hampered Arteta and Arsenal on their pursuit of the title, as well as a Prem-high five red cards so far. A near-fatal combination.It has Arteta scrutinised and the club’s recruitment policy criticised for the first time in years.Ian Wright fears three Arsenal superstars could run down contract, including Saka Yet those inside the club are consistent in their message of patience, context and looking at the bigger picture, often describing it as peering through a telescope, instead of a microscope.The bigger picture includes finances. Despite home-grown sales and club-record revenues, Arsenal made overall losses of £17.7m in the financial year ending May 2024.And while the ultimate goal is silverware, there is a recognition that stability in the Champions League places with the increased revenue from the new 36-team format will stand them in good stead to improve the squad in the near-future without the need to sell big stars.It is why they chose not to panic in January, regardless of being without a fit centre forward.But keeping their powder dry and purses full ahead of this summer is viewed as a real game changer, especially with the potential funds on offer should they finish second and reach the latter stages in Europe.Patience and calm. It is also the reason for the club not rushing into a sporting director replacement for Edu after his November resignation.They realise how important that appointment is, and is bigger than just a quick January fix.Make the wrong call in that role, and it could set them back years, while there is trust in interim Jason Ayto to do the groundwork on summer incomings in the meantime.Meanwhile, Arteta is becoming more and more irritable in press conferences by the suggestion that progress has not been made this term.Edu Gaspar left his role as Arsenal’s Sporting Director in NovemberCredit: GettyIn his eyes, given the injuries and suspensions, to ensure they did not fall down the table is an achievement in itself. The numbers suggest he is not far off.Of the 116 Prem teams to have racked up five or more red cards over a season since 1992/93, they have an average league finish of 11th. Of those teams, 22 were relegated and only five crowned champions.But maybe, this season was always out of Arteta’s hands, destined to be the stumbling block where the physical and mental fatigue finally catches up with you.The historians in the Prem archives library would agree.Jose Mourinho’s Blues may have dropped off in 05/06 – from 95 points to 91 points – but they still won the league, dropping to second place with 83 points in 06/07.And over the next four years, despite Jose’s September 2007 departure, Chelsea averaged 84.3 points, winning another title under Carlo Ancelotti in 09/10.For the rest, this four-year curse left its mark. Leeds peaked with Champions League football in 99/00, yet suffered financial meltdown and were relegated four years later.Martin O’Neil masterminded Villa’s jump from mid-table to a third-straight sixth-place finish in 09/10, only to leave that summer. A dramatic fall culminated with relegation in 15/16.Southampton enjoyed a glorious four years under Mauricio Pochettino and Ronald Koeman, ending 15/16 in sixth on 63 points. A mighty tumble followed, relegated in 22/23.Brendan Rodgers twice had Leicester on the brink of the top four in 19/20 and 20/21. By the summer of 2023, the Foxes were in the Championship.So, Arsenal know the challenge of being knocked back and going again.We should not underestimate the job Arteta has done in four seasons.Pep Guardiola has only managed two successive years of points-tally progress at Manchester City. The same went for Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.Sir Alex Ferguson managed three years of Prem progress on TWO separate occasions with Manchester United.The difference? All three of them marked those periods with Prem titles – Fergie won three, Pep two and Klopp one.So far, Arteta has nothing to show for it.Arteta is lagging behind his managerial rivals when it comes to silverwareCredit: PAINJURIES – BAD LUCK OR MISMANAGEMENT?BUKAYO Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus were all injured in the space of 53 days this season – three of them requiring surgery and the latter two ruled out for the rest of the season.Arteta believes this is down to bad luck more than anything, especially given their impressive injury record over the past few seasons, despite the loss of hugely respected head of medical services Gary O’Driscoll to Manchester United in July 2023.Yet there is an argument to suggest this flurry of injuries was a ticking time bomb. Arteta is hesitant to rotate and Saka is hardly ever rested – missing just three Prem games between August 2021 and May 2024.Last season, Saka and Havertz played a combined 5,572 Prem minutes – more than Jesus (1,482), Martinelli (2,029), Leandro Trossard (1,646) and Reiss Nelson (257) put together.And this term, after a gruelling Euros campaign, Saka and Havertz have been heavily leaned on again, playing a combined 3,116 minutes before their injuries.Raheem Sterling – a last-ditch Deadline Day loanee from Chelsea – has played just 307 Prem minutes so far, with 160 of them coming since Saka’s injury on December 21.Sterling has started just once in all competitions since January 30 and last started back-to-back games in October.In contrast, Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush has already played more Prem minutes (373) despite only signing for the club on January 23.SunSport understands that Sterling has a good relationship with Arteta, despite the lack of game time, but is desperate to get more of a chance before the end of the season.Bukayo Saka’s injury left Arsenal lacking up frontCredit: GettyRaheem Sterling hasn’t been given many minutes and had failed to impress when he’s had the chanceCredit: The TimesTHE FUTURE?ARSENAL host Manchester United at the Emirates in the FA Youth Cup quarter finals tonight.The capacity will be capped at 10,000, with an expected attendance of just over 5,200. In comparison, over 34,000 watched the final between Arsenal and West Ham in April 2023.But those inside will have eyes on potential Arsenal stars of the future, and two that are already on Arteta’s mind: Jack Porter and Max Dowman.Owing to injury and a cup-tied No2, Porter made his senior debut in a Carabao Cup third round 5-1 win against Bolton in September – the youngest ever starter for the club at 16 years and 72 days.And then there is Dowman – the 15-year-old who has been heavily involved in first team sessions this season having made his Premier League 2 debut as a 14-year-old back in December, and joined Arsenal’s mid-season Dubai camp this month.SunSport understands that if Arteta had it his way, the midfielder would already have had his chance in a top flight match day squad by now, just like Ethan Nwaneri did.But Prem regulations prevent players from a lower age category than the U16s from being included in a match-day squad, and Dowman was registered with the U15s at the start of the season.Chido Obi-Martin could have returned to North London with United – but the Danish 17-year-old has made such an impact since moving to Manchester that he has been included in the match-day squad for the FA Cup clash with Fulham on Sunday. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri have excelled for the Gunners this seasonCredit: GettyMax Dowman, 15, could be the next academy graduate to burst on to the sceneCredit: GettyAI-RSENALARSENAL fans questioning the club’s transfer strategy may not be surprised to hear the Gunners now use Artificial Intelligence to help determine their targets.Former chief executive Vinai Venkatesham gave an insight into the Emirates internal mechanics and the data-led approach adopted by the club.Venkatesham, who left the club in the summer after four years at the helm, said: “There’s definitely science involved, although it’s not an exact science.“Data and technology have transformed lots of industries and football is no different.“So we have reams of medical data, data around every single match that’s played and whenever a team is thinking about a transfer data is at the heart of that.“If we want to process a deal quickly, AI has a role as well to get through that data more quickly to find conclusions more quickly.”It’s a significant part of football and it’s here to stay.”Arsenal have long been using data to drive the club forward and even appointed one of the developers of mobile app Candy Crush to act as a ‘data scientist’.Mikhail Zhilkin helped oversee the launch of Candy Crush Soda and Candy Crush Jelly, and is now helping Arsenal try and crush their opposition on the pitch.Former Arsenal Chief Executive Vinai Venkatesham has said the club uses AI to aid their transfer businessCredit: GettyRICE-IPE FOR SUCCESSDECLAN Rice is officially Arsenal’s biggest transfer success of the past two seasons.Statistics revealed at the FT Business of Football Summit in London this week showed the England midfielder has played 86 per cent of the available Arsenal minutes since his £100m arrival from West Ham.That compares with the injured Kai Havertz, whose tally of 76 per cent of minutes will drop as he is missing for the rest of the season.While England right back Ben White has played 73 per cent since he moved to North London.But questions will be asked about the reliability of Italian Riccardo Calafiori, who has played barely a third of the available time on the pitch this season.While Gabriel Jesus’ current 43 per cent availability stats in three seasons will also plunge by the end of the campaign.Declan Rice’s availability has been one of his biggest assets, while Riccardo Calafiori has spent most of his time injured since arriving in North LondonCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd vs Fulham: Get £30 in free bets and £10 casino bonus with BoyleSports, plus 25% boost on your winnings

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and Fulham meet at Old Trafford on Sunday for a spot in the FA Cup quarter final.Punters who register a brand new account with BoyleSports and stake a tenner on the cup duel will be rewarded with £30 in football free bets plus an extra £10 casino bonus!BoyleSports are also offering customers an extra 25% boost on their Bet Builder winnings!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim…BoyleSports offerVisit the BoyleSports website HERE*Register a new account and depositPlace a qualifying bet of £10 or more at odds of Evens or greaterRemember, your qualifying bet must be placed within 30 days of account openingOnce that’s settled, you will receive £30 in free bets and a £10 casino bonusBoyleSports: Get £30 in free bets and a £10 casino bonus HERE*Not got a BoyleSports account? No Problem!Simply visit the BoyleSports website and register for your brand new account.Deposit at least a tenner and then place a tenner or more on any football betting market at odds of Evens or greater.Once that’s settled, you will receive £30 in free bets and a £10 casino bonus. You will also be eligible for BoyleSports’ amazing special, which offers all customers an extra 25% on their Bet Builder winnings – claim that HERE*BoyleSports: Get £30 in free bets and a £10 casino bonus HERE*Man Utd vs Fulham – Get 25% boost on Bet Builder winnings HERE**18+. New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. £40 in FREE Bets (FB) as £30 in sports bets & a £10 casino bonus (CB). Min Deposit £10. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. FB applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. FB 7-day expiry. 1 FB offer per customer, household & IP address only. Account & Payment restrictions. 14 days to accept £10 CB, then active for 3 days. CB 5x wagering & max redeemable £100. Game restrictions apply. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. 30 days to qualify. T&Cs Apply  18+. Digital customers only. Min Odds of (3/1). Max stake 20. Available on one bet per selected event. 25% Boost. Boost will be added once all selections have settled. Max boost payout £/€1,000. Offer does not apply to multiple bets. Free/void/cashed out bets won’t qualify. T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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      Man City vs Plymouth FA Cup super boost: Get Cityzens to win both halves at 6/4 with talkSPORT BET, plus £40 free bets

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      MANCHESTER CITY’S only hope of a trophy this season is the FA Cup and they’re eyeing a quarter final spot this weekend.Pep Guardiola’s side host Championship strugglers Plymouth in the teatime kick-off on Saturday, looking to make the last eight.And talkSPORT BET have a terrific SUPER BOOST if you fancy them to do it convincingly, with the Cityzens NOW 6/4 to win both halves of the tie.That’s up from the usual price of just 7/10!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles heretalkSPORT BET SUPER BOOSTFA Cup tie – Saturday, March 1 – 5.45pmGet Man City to win both halves against PlymouthNormal price – 7/10SUPER BOOST PRICE: 6/4Available to new and existing customersAdd to bet slip HEREMan City to win both halves – 6/4It’s been a far from vintage season for Manchester City.Less than two years after winning a treble, it’s pretty mind-blowing that they could go a season without winning ANY trophies.That looks a very realistic outcome though, with just the FA Cup left to play for, trophy wise.That’s why you can bet he’ll put a strong side out against Championship strugglers Plymouth, who recorded a stunning result to knock Liverpool out in the last round.Guardiola can’t take any chances and you fancy City will get the job done and well.talkSPORT BET are offering SUPER BOOST odds of 6/4 for City to win both halves against Plymouth.Which is up from the usual price of just 7/10 and you can add to your bet slip HERE.Better still it’s for new and existing customers to take advantage of!But if you are new to talkSPORT BET, you could also claim their sensational sign-up offer and a cool £40 in free bets!*Man City to win both halves – 6/4What’s the offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of up to £40* when they register an account.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website HERE* on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £20 or more on any football market at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.What happens next?Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first bet bet.For example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets. If you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free bets:On settlement of your qualifying bet, your account will be credited with the following:£10 free bet – Bet Builder (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Correct Score (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:£10 free bet – To Win and Both Team to Score – 90 mins (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Acca 4+ selection (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)talkSPORT BET: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim Here**18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile device, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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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