Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares21 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea discover four potential opponents for Conference League knockouts but won’t know who they play for MONTHS

      by

      CHELSEA have discovered the four teams they could potentially meet in the Europa Conference League round of 16.The Blues concluded their comfortable league phase campaign with a 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers last night.Chelsea breezed through to the last 16Credit: AFPEnzo Maresca will have some big decisions to make for the group stageCredit: EPASix wins out of six saw Enzo Maresca’s men top the 36-team group with minimal fuss.As one of the top eight, Chelsea will skip the play-off round, contested between teams placed between nine and 24.Instead, they will move straight into the round of 16.And waiting for them there will be one of FC Copenhagen, Gent, Heidenheim or Real Betis.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAt the Conference League draw today, Gent were drawn against Real Betis, with Copenhagen facing Heidenheim. Last 16 ties are not due to commence until March, with first legs on the sixth and seconds on the 13th.The play-off round, meanwhile, will take place in February.Chelsea’s position in the bracket will not be confirmed until the draw on February 21, meaning they could still face the winners of either match.Most read in FootballThe Blues and second seeds Vitoria, or Portugal, could end up on either side of the bracket.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea are set to learn their position in the bracket on February 21It means Maresca’s men have a good chance of meeting a side they have already faced in the competition next up.They defeated Gent 4-2 at Stamford Bridge on matchday one back in October.Chelsea clash with Shamrock Rovers temporarily stopped as Christopher Nkunku pelted with TOILET ROLLWhile they triumphed 2-0 at Heidenheim just three weeks ago.It remains to be seen how seriously Maresca will take the competition.Their 25-man squad for the group stage left out star man Cole Palmer, as well as Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia.Maresca was asked by TNT Sports last night about whether Palmer could be added to the squad for the knockouts.’A BIT UNHAPPY’He said: “Depends on January. In January we don’t want to sell players, but players who are not playing a lot will be a bit unhappy.”It depends on what happens in January and then we decide.READ MORE SUN STORIES”This competition will be up until March and then we have the FA Cup.”The players have to be ready as they are going to play.”Chelsea ratings vs Shamrock as Marc Guiu gives keeper nightmares but Casadei fails to impressCHELSEA made it six Europa Conference League wins in a row with a 5-1 drubbing of Shamrock Rovers.Striker Marc Guiu got a hat-trick while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Marc Cucurella also got in on the goals.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…FILIP JORGENSEN – 7Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG –  6All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge.He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40. Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.CESARE CASADEI – 4Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his second Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.NONI MADUEKE – 7His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times.It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third.Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth.TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease.Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands.The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks.Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019.SUBS:HARVEY VALE (MADUEKE, HT) – 5Having looked far too good to be playing for Chelsea’s u21’s this season he was rewarded with a half in this game. Failed to have the impact that Noni did in the first half, but it was far from a bad performance by the youngster.HARRISON MURRAY-CAMBPELL (DISASI, 59) – 6Didn’t look out of place at the heart of the Chelsea defence when making his debut for The Blues, and looked equally as competent at right-back. One to watch for the future.JOAO FELIX (GUIU, 60) – 5Showed signs of promise after coming on from the bench, but was unable to find the back of the net.SAMUEL RAK-SAKYI (DEWSBURY-HALL, 83) – 5Another composed few minutes in midfield for The Blues. More

    • 263 Shares14 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I got to Arsenal at 28’ – Ian Wright’s impassioned defence of Marcus Rashford against fans ‘desperate to see him fail’

      by

      IAN WRIGHT has launched a staunch defence of Marcus Rashford.Rashford, 27, admitted he was “ready for a new challenge” earlier this week, leading to the belief he will be leaving Manchester United in the near future.Ian Wright has leapt to the defence of Marcus RashfordCredit: SportsfileHe has refused to write off the 27-year-old given his own experience at Arsenal having arrived there at 28Credit: GettyThe Red Devils academy graduate has not featured in either of the last two matchday squads under Ruben Amorim.However, some travelling supporters at the 4-3 defeat to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup revealed a banner which said: “Excuses. Ta ra, Marcus,” hinting they were happy he was leaving the club.Rashford has struggled for form over the last two seasons after hitting a career-high 30 goals.His future prospects led to a heated debate on The Overlap on whether the England international would be a good fit at Arsenal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGunners icon Wright leapt to the defence of Rashford during the debate, insisting he would be capable of doing amazing things under the right manager.And in a comment under an Instagram post of the Overlap episode, Wright added more context to his argument and slammed fans who were “desperate” to see him fail.He said: “I got to Arsenal at 28, but you expect ME to write off someone with the ability Marcus has at 27!!!! “So many of you are desperate to see these young people fail so that you can say you were right! Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”You would take one per cent of the career Marcus has had!”Wright, 61, scored 182 goals in 283 Arsenal appearances.Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ The debate in the studio had also seen the topic of hunger brought up, with questions raised over whether Rashford – who has played 426 games and scored 138 goals for United – still had the same hunger to succeed.Roy Keane, who left Man Utd in controversial circumstances in 2005, said: “My only warning for players like that – if you lose that hunger, it’s hard to get it back.”We know that for great players, it’s nothing to do with money – it’s about the next challenge, and your pride. Marcus seems to have lost his way, and he’s lost his hunger.I got to Arsenal at 28, but you expect ME to write off someone with the ability Marcus has at 27!!!! Ian Wright”We’ve mentioned watches and all the stuff off the field, and if he’s a bit distracted by that, it might be hard to get it back.”He might get it back with a change of club and scenery, but I don’t think he’ll get the hunger back at United.”Man Utd are back in action on Sunday hosting Bournemouth at Old Trafford, the club’s first home game following the comments.After the comments first came out, Amorim told the star that United were now entering a new challenge and that the team was better with him than without.Man Utd ratings vs Spurs as Bayindir has a shocker and fans left laughing at AntonyALTAY BAYINDIR had a game to forget as Manchester United were dumped out of the Carabao Cup.Not many of the Red Devils were able to impress as they were beaten by Tottenham Hotspur.SunSport’s Katherine Walsh has provided her ratings of the Man United squad…Altay Bayindir – 2Squandered his audition after Andre Onana’s recent blunders against Nottingham Forest and Plzen.Was responsible for Spurs’ opener when he spilled Pedro Porro’s shot into the path of Dominic Solanke.Was probably fouled but still flapped as Son made it 4-2 from a direct CORNER in the 88th minute. Perhaps Onana isn’t so bad?Victor Lindelof – 4Caught slacking and lacking and a mile off the pace as Spurs’ front line rang rings around United for most of the game.No surprise he came off injured just before half-time.Leny Yoro – 5Was physically targeted by Solanke in the first half, but the 19-year-old stood up to him and Son fairly well.Jeered by the home fans when he was nutmegged by Djed Spence and was lucky when referee John Brooks blew for a foul early on.Made a crunching tackle on Son in the 86th minute right in front of a rowdy home end – but the Korean scored from the resulting corner.Lisandro Martinez – 3All over the place at the back. Directly assisted Tottenham’s second when Maddison’s cross hit off his extended back leg and into the path of Kulusevski from five yards.Solanke eased past him for 3-0 too and was lucky not to gift Spurs a fourth soon after.Diogo Dalot – 6Only United defender who had a clue.Solid crosses and switches in play while pressing the makeshift Spurs backline, which was often overplaying.Christian Eriksen – 6Inches away from bagging the equaliser at 1-0 but was blocked by Yves Bissouma.Overhit several corners as he was tasked with taking from both sides but was clapped off from the home fans when he made way for Kobbie Mainoo.Manuel Ugarte – 4Has perhaps stolen Martinez’s “Butcher” title at Man Utd as the Spurs fans wanted him hit with a booking.Constantly gave away fouls and conceded dangerous free kicks which isn’t ideal with James Maddison on the pitch.He almost poked Kulusevski’s cross into his own net, but did well to make sure it went just wide.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Knew he was in for a difficult evening against Son, who was wonderful going forward with several intricate passes.Booked for catching Spence, Amorim’s head was down when Maddison took the free-kick.Couldn’t get his feet right for chance just before half-time.Antony – 4A nervy start saw him lose the ball in a dangerous position with a minute gone which set Son away to cross into Brennan Johnson.Too casual on the ball and put visitors under pressure in the early passages.Basically gave the home fans something to laugh about every time he lost the ball, which was several times to 18-year-old Archie Gray.Bruno Fernandes – 6He did his creative job when he could, putting Hojlund through inside 11 minutes, only for the Dane to fluff his lines.Curled just wide from outside the area and assisted Zirkzee’s goal to give the travelling end a glimmer of hope.Drew a booking for Sarr for a tackle from behind and was booed before his free-kick clipped the top of the net.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Rarely got a sniff with United working on the counter early on and weak on the ball when did receive it.He was thumped and bullied by the makeshift Spurs backline of Gray and Radu Drăgușin and replaced by Joshua Zirkzee in the 55th minute.SUBSJonny Evans (’44 Victor Lindelof) – 4Solanke drove the ball through his legs for 3-0.Bizarrely got on the scoresheet with a last-minute consolation with a header from a corner.Kobbie Mainoo – (’56 Eriksen) – 6He was waiting on the sidelines before Solanke tripled Spurs’ lead and brought some much-needed composure with his side 3-0 down.Joshua Zirkzee – (’56 Hojlund) – 6Had United’s first attempt on target in the 61st minute but his header was well kept out by Fraser Forster.But gave United hope when he made it 3-1 a minute later from Forster’s blunder.Did better than Hojlund in out-muscling Dragusin.Amad Diallo – (’55 Antony) – 8Just as Martin Odegaard did last night against Palace, Amad’s introduction turned things around for the Red Devils.The tricky winger made it 3-2 when his unbelievable pressing forced Forster into ANOTHER error from a routine free-kick.The star of the show also fed the ball to Fernandes, who assisted Zirkzee’s goal and brought some much-needed impetus to United’s forward play.Alejandro Garnacho (’72 Ugarte) – 5The sub everybody was waiting for after he was dropped for United’s 2-1 win against Man City on Sunday.Chased every ball down but loses points due to the crazy impact of the earlier substitutions.And speaking to Sky Sports before the Spurs defeat, he added: “Nothing has changed – we believe in Marcus.”It’s hard to explain to you guys what I am going to do. I’m a little bit emotional so in the moment I will decide what to do.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s a hard situation to comment [on]. If I give a lot of importance it will have big headlines in the papers and if I say it’s not a problem then my standards are getting low.”I don’t talk about the future, we talk about the present. This kind of club needs big talent and he’s a big talent, so he just needs to perform at the highest level and that is my focus. I just want to help Marcus.”Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time. More

    • 225 Shares15 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend and former manager issues come-and-get-me plea to Ruben Amorim for job on his coaching staff

      by

      ONE of Manchester United’s greatest ever defenders Jaap Stam has issued a come-and-get-me plea to Ruben Amorim.Stam, 52, is currently in charge of amateur team DOS Kampen, in the Dutch sixth tier.Jaap Stam said he would ‘love to help’ out at Manchester UnitedThe Man Utd legend says he’d be more than happy to join Ruben Amorim’s staffBut the iconic stopper, who has previously managed Reading and Feyenoord, reckons he can do a job for United’s new boss.Especially having seen Amorim’s tough first month in charge at Old Trafford.Speaking to Sport Lens, Stam said: “I’d love to coach at Manchester United but they haven’t picked up the phone! “I think everyone who has been associated with the club would love to go back and help, having been in management myself I have coached and helping them in any role would be great.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”I’m always open for talks because I’d love to see the club back winning trophies and maybe I could help coach the defence.”But with the manager lots of new staff has come in so they have plenty of options. But you never know.”United’s leaky defence has been lambasted over the last 12 months, as they conceded 81 goals in competitions last season – the highest total since 1976.It was the first time in Prem history that a United side finished the season with negative goal difference as they yielded 58 to 57 goals scored.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd the backline was embarrassed again on Thursday as Spurs went 3-0 up inside 55 minutes of United’s 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final loss.This isn’t the first time Stam has advertised himself to his former club’s owners as he made similar pleas when Erik ten Hag was announced.Man Utd player ratings vs Tottenham in the Carabao CupIn 2021, Stam said: “If they would ask me to take a coaching role, I would do it straight away without a doubt.””You know United is my life as well. I’ve had great seasons over there, won trophies and it’s been very important for me.”But Amorim will likely move along from Stam’s desire to return to M16, with the 39-year-old bringing his own staff along from Sporting Lisbon.The newcomers joined existing first-team coaches Darren Fletcher and Andreas Georgson, and assistant first-team goalkeeper coach Craig Mawson, who have all remained in their roles.Stam became a United legend after helping the club reach extraordinary heights during his career. Stam is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in Premier League historyThe former Netherlands international finished each of his three seasons at Old Trafford as a Premier League champion. The now 52-year-old also helped the Red Devils secure the historic treble in his debut campaign in 1999.In February 2024, Stam was appointed manager at seventh-tier DOS Kampen, his hometown amateur club where he had begun playing more than three decades earlier. READ MORE SUN STORIESStam had been out of work since being sacked by MLS side FC Cincinnati in 2021.He took Reading to the brink of the Premier League in 2017 and coached Dutch sides PEC Zwolle and Feyenoord.Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time. More

    • 200 Shares23 Views

      in Soccer

      Fraser Forster makes ‘best 5-a-side goalie save ever’ as Gary Neville laughs out loud on commentary

      by

      FRASER F0RSTER made Gary Neville laugh out loud in commentary with a bizarre “5-a-side” save.The veteran Tottenham goalkeeper, 37, has been deputising for Guglielmo Vicario since the Italian fractured his ankle against Manchester City last month.Amad Diallo took aim from rangeCredit: Sky SportsFraser Forster kicked the shot awayCredit: Sky SportsForster, 37, endured a difficult night despite Spurs’ winCredit: GettyLast night, Forster had an evening to forget despite Spurs’ 4-3 win over Manchester United.With the North Londoners 3-0 up and cruising, their back-up keeper pressed the self-destruct button.Forster was guilty of passing the ball straight to Bruno Fernandes, with the Portuguese subsequently squaring for Joshua Zirkzee to prod home.He then took an age to kick the ball following a backpass by Archie Gray, with his subsequently clearance charged down and blocked into the net by Amad Diallo.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith United having pulled it back to 3-2, Forster showed further signs of nerves.In the 83rd minute, Diallo took a shot from range.Although the effort vaguely swerved, it was still arrowing towards the centre of the goal.Rather than use his hands, Forster opted to boot the ball away in unorthodox fashion.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGary Neville was on co-commentary for the matchCredit: AFPOn Sky Sports co-commentary duty, Neville could hardly believe what he was seeing – audibly laughing at the unusual moment before likening it to at the end of training when an outfielder would go in goal.Fans also flocked to social media to have their say.Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario spotted furiously berating his own team-mates in stands after howlers against Man UtdOne wrote on X: “Forster with one of the best “5-a-side goalie” saves you’ll ever see.”While a second commented: “Jamie Carragher post-match trying to convince us it was a “great save” instead of the wild swing of a man mid-yips.”A third joked: “That is how me and my corporate mates play goalkeeper.”Although another pointed out: “Isn’t this the same straight shot Onana conceded from Morgan Gibbs-White?”SIGH OF RELIEFForster was able to breathe a sigh of relief in the 88th minute, when Son Heung-min’s corner looped all the way over Altay Bayindir and in to make it 4-2.But Jonny Evans’ stoppage time header still made for a nervy finish.Following Tottenham’s 4-3 triumph, Vicario could be seen giving Forster a pep talk.The Italian, 28, had been watching with his crutches on the sidelines, and looked visibly furious after United’s second goal.READ MORE SUN STORIESVicario is set to be out until February at the earliest.But Postecoglou has indicated that he will stick with Forster, rather than sign a new reserve stopper.Guglielmo Vicario gave Forster a pep talk after the gameCredit: Reuters More

    • 200 Shares14 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I would never’ – Gabriel Jesus refuses to knock on Mikel Arteta’s door despite Arsenal hat-trick

      by

      GABRIEL JESUS is adamant Arsenal do not need to go looking for a No 9 – because they have one already.The Brazilian forward defended his scoring record for the Gunners and says his critics “don’t watch the game”.Gabriel Jesus netted a hat-trick earlier this week against Crystal PalaceCredit: APThe Brazilian forward has endured a tough year in front of goalCredit: RexJesus, 27, netted his first Arsenal hat-trick in Wednesday’s 3-2 home Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Crystal Palace.Before that, the club’s current No 9 had scored just TWICE in all competitions in 2024 – and it was his first goal at the  Emirates for a year.Jesus has 23 goals in 90 appearances since joining Arsenal from Manchester City for £45million in July 2022, although injuries have hampered parts of his time in North London.He is yet to score in the Prem this term in 13 appearances – starting just twice  – as he battles for a spot with Kai Havertz, who has one league goal since mid-October.READ MORE ON ARSENALFans have called for Mikel Arteta to splash the cash on a more efficient score.But Jesus argued: “A lot of people don’t watch the game. They just see the stats the day after and see who scored.”I want to score every game, like everyone. But sometimes we don’t have chances.”People say, ‘Gabby played 20 games and scored once’. But they don’t see I am coming on for five or ten minutes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Against Manchester City, I came on as a left wing-back.”Against Palace was the first game I played a full 90 minutes without cramp, a problem in my life always. ‘Tell me Arteta didn’t say that,’ says Piers Morgan after Arsenal manager’s ’embarrassing’ trophy claim “Sometimes, if you are not playing it is harder to come on and make an impact.”I am not complaining. I am not happy on the bench but I’m  professional.”I have sometimes been unlucky but I can create, I can run, help the team defending.”But the pressure to score goals will always be there. I am the No 9 for Arsenal. “Even if I score ten they will ask for 20 – and if it is 20 they ask for 30. This is the life.”Arsenal player ratings vs EvertonARSENAL wasted their chance to capitalise on Liverpool dropping points as they were left frustrated by a resilient Everton.Here’s how the players ratedDAVID RAYA – 6/10No save to make. Could have lounged in the dressing room for the majority of the 90 minutes.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 7Started where he left off in mid-week in the Champions League, picking up great pockets of space in midfield and linking defence to attack with pace and precision.GABRIEL – 6Incredible recovery tackle to deny Doucoure with Saliba down injured. Well marked at corners with Everton doubling up on the Brazilian.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Lucky not to see Everton take the lead when he was down and out of position, but other than that was fairly untroubled.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Tried his best to insert some pace and urgency down the right-hand side but lacking in attacking areas.DECLAN RICE – 5A rare anonymous showing from the England international. Did not do enough to impose himself but for a few decent tackles. No shock to see him hooked after 62 minutes.MIKEL MERINO – 6Showed glimpses, but still needs to get up to speed with pace Arsenal want to play at through the middle.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 6Blazed over and dragged wide from two good early chances – missing his shooting boots in the first half just like against Monaco – and looked generally off it.It was still a surprise to see him subbed off just after the hour mark for Nwaneri.BUKAYO SAKA – 7Had a field day up against Mykolenko as Everton struggled to contain his brilliant movement and strength on the ball, yet Pickford made save after save.Got in the way of a free Havertz header towards the end.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Lively, especially because he had the beating of Young with some darting runs that kept the 39-year-old busy and was denied by Pickford from a tight angle.But yet again, was taken off for Trossard.KAI HAVERTZ – 6Lacked a serious goal threat but created Arsenal’s best chance with a delicious flick around the corner for Saka.SUBS:ETHAN NWANERI (ODEGAARD, 62) – 6A few nice touches and turns, looking for that trademark left-footed curling finish.JORGINHO (RICE, 62) – 6Got on the ball as Arsenal’s primary dictator from deep.THOMAS PARTEY (LEWIS-SKELLY, 68) – 5Offered very little.GABRIEL JESUS (MERINO, 68) – 5One dangerous cross easily claimed by Pickford was about it.LEANDRO TROSSARD (MARTINELLI, 74) – 6A bright spark. A few good crosses as Young tired on the left.Arsenal face Palace again in the Prem tomorrow, only this time at Selhurst Park.Jesus could start following his hat-trick, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and ex-Gunner Eddie Nketiah scoring for the Eagles.But Jesus said: “I have knocked on a manager’s door only one time in my life.”I knocked on Pep Guardiola’s door – not to complain but to ask him what I could improve.I would never go to Mikel’s door and say, ‘I want to play’.Gabriel Jesus”I would never go to Mikel’s door and say, ‘I want to play’.”Arteta added: “The movement, the quality of touches, the way he  finished, it’s a message we have got Gabi back at his best.”READ MORE SUN STORIESJesus recently announced he is expecting another child with his partner – and walked out at the Emirates with his daughter for the first time on Wednesday.He said: “I would walk out with my nieces and nephews at City and I always scored. My daughter has given me luck.”Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time. More

    • 250 Shares23 Views

      in Soccer

      England legend ‘Razor’ Ruddock reveals Harry Redknapp show saved his life after doctors feared he had two months to live

      by

      ENGLAND legend Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock has revealed how Harry Redknapp’s show saved his life.The former Liverpool centre-back disclosed that what he initially thought was dementia turned out to be a serious heart condition as doctors feared he had just two months to live.Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock has revealed details about how Harry Redkapp’s show saved his lifeRuddock linked up with his old England team-mates for ‘Harry’s Heroes: The Full English’ in 2019 and it’s sequel a year laterThe ex-England defender ballooned to 27st during the pandemicRuddock, 56, has turned his life around and reduced his alcohol intake as he credits his former gaffer’s TV show ‘Harry’s Heroes’.Speaking to Nigel Farage on GB News, he said: “From when I left school until like 35, every day I was told where I’ve got to be.”What I can eat, what I can’t drink, and all this. And when you’re 35 there was no sort of step back.“There was no help when football finished. I turned into an 18-year-old kid and couldn’t wait to retire at 35 and start drinking and eating what I wanted and then I got 28 and a half stone.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“I did the Harry Heroes TV show. I was feeling dizzy. At the time there was a lot of talk about dementia in football, heading the ball.“So I was going dizzy. So I thought, you know, ‘it’s dementia’. I went to see all the specialists and it was my heart, he said, ‘the way you’re going, you’ve got two months to live’.“Trust me, that changed my life, and then they had to stop my heart, restart my heart. I got a pacemaker. I’ve had the gastric sleeve…because I’d given up on myself, basically.“Without doing that TV show, I wouldn’t be here today.”Most read in FootballNeil Ruddock has shown off his incredible weight transformationThe award-winning documentary series was filmed in 2020.It saw Redknapp tasked with turning a cohort of unfit England football legends from the 1990s into a winning team once more.Neil Ruddock and Paul Merson fall out over the ex-Tottenham star’s drinking habit on Harry’s Heroes: Euro Having A LaughThey included a host of familiar faces – such as David Seaman, Paul Merson and Matt Le Tissier – keen to prove that, even in middle age, they could still cut it on the pitch and beat old rivals Germany.Viewers saw the ex-star players, who came from an era with a more relaxed approach to footie practice and healthy eating, as they adopted a rigorous new training and nutrition regime akin to that of today’s pros.Former Liverpool ace and 2018 King of the Jungle, assistant John Barnes, successfully coached the blokes to a 4-2 victory.’Harry’s Heroes: The Full English’ was filmed in 2020 before Ruddock’s gastric bandNutritionist Luke Worthington did a body mass index with RuddockRuddock, who earned one England cap during his career, memorably told the lads about his heart scare in one of the episodes.Meanwhile, Redknapp managed Ruddock when he played for West Ham in the late 1990s.Asked what advice he would give to anyone else who was worried about their health, he said: “Go and see the doctor. It costs you nothing.“If you’re driving your car and your car makes a noise, you take it to the mechanic and pay to get it fixed.“If you’re not feeling well, go and see the doctor, because men are scared of going to see the doctor. “It’s bad news, and you can’t go out Saturday night and watch football.“Go get yourself checked out. It costs nothing.”Ruddock unveiled his incredible 11-stone weight transformation earlier this year.The 56-year-old began his weight loss journey back in 2021 after meeting TV personality James Argent.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe dad-of-two teenagers had ballooned to 27st during the Coronavirus pandemic, which put his health at serious risk.He made 195 Premier League appearances during his career and played for the likes of Liverpool, West Ham, Tottenham, Southampton and Crystal Palace.In his 17 year career, Ruddock made 355 club appearances and earned one cap playing for England More

    • 188 Shares18 Views

      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace vs Arsenal: Get £40 in free bets and bonuses to spend with BetMGM

      by

      CRYSTAL PALACE and Arsenal do battle for the second time in a few days in a crucial Saturday night Premier League clash.Bookmakers BetMGM are offering brand new customers a cool £40 in free bets when you register an account and stake a tenner on the Selhurst Park showdown.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..BetMGM £40 welcome bonusVisit the BetMGM website HERE*Select SPORTS OFFER on the websiteRegister a new account – No Promo Code necessaryOpt in for this promotion by depositing and placing at least £10 on football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free betsCrystal Palace vs Arsenal: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here*Not got a BetMGM account? No problem!This offer is just for you, and it’s incredibly easy to claim!Simply register a new account, deposit and stake a minimum of £10 on football at odds of Evens (1/1) or greater. This must be done within seven days of opening your account with the bookmaker.Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free bets!Crystal Palace vs Arsenal: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here**BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full 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.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

    • 163 Shares27 Views

      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace vs Arsenal prediction: Free betting tips, odds and Premier League preview

      by

      JUST a few days after battling it out in the Carabao Cup, Crystal Palace and Arsenal go toe-to-toe once again in a Selhurst Park Premier League clash.SunSport betting experts have previewed the Saturday evening contest and selected the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesCrystal Palace vs Arsenal previewCan you read too much into the cup clash just the other night? It’s difficult to say you can.For a start, Mikel Arteta made eight changes to his line-up and Palace could and should’ve been more ahead than the 1-0 half time lead.What it maybe did show is Arteta can’t quite trust his fringe players, having hooked two at the break and when holding onto a slender 3-2 lead late on, he had to throw on Gabriel to see the game out.Nobody could’ve predicted Gabriel Jesus’ hat trick. Will that be enough to see him push for a start here? Again, unlikely. As with everything he’s done in an Arsenal shirt, he’s very rarely backed it up with anything of note.Palace hooked Mateta and Eze on the hour mark with a view to this game, which in itself looked an unusual call from a manager who is in charge of a club that wouldn’t mind a cup semi final outing.That result ended Palace’s five-game unbeaten run which showed an upturn in their early season form.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 1-1 at 7/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Jean-Philippe Mateta at 19/2 with talkSPORT BET – HERECrystal Palace vs Arsenal latest oddsCrystal Palace at 9/2 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Crystal Palace vs Arsenal predictions and tipsLow scoreSeems strange after they played out a 3-2 game the other day.But Arsenal’s usual struggles in front of goal could continue here on the tighter home patch of Crystal Palace and they’ll certainly make the Gunners work hard for any goals.Arsenal struggled to break down Fulham at Craven Cottage and then could’ve played until this weekend against Everton last week without scoring. Two successive, low-scoring draws in the league – it could be three after this.Will he, won’t he?Will Hughes is enjoying something of a rejuvenation at Palace in recent months and looks set to start in what will be a competitive midfield.Arsenal will return to full strength in there come Saturday and his job up against Martin Odegaard could be crucial.Will Hughes to be carded at 23/10 with William Hill – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in, 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, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full 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.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More