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      Official reason ref awarded farcical pen to Club Brugge after Mings blunder – but Arsenal got away with same error

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      TYRONE MINGS gave away an unbelievable penalty in Aston Villa’s Champions League clash with Club Brugge tonight.The Villa centre-back was punished for a lapse in concentration that saw him reach down and pick up the ball in his own box.Tyrone Mings made a calamitous error to give away a penalty for Aston Villa against Club BruggeCredit: GettyEmi Martinez played the ball out to Mings from a goal kickCredit: TNT SPORTSMings thought that his keeper was giving it to him to take and leant down and picked the ball upCredit: TNT SPORTSThe referee was forced to award a penalty despite Unai Emery’s efforts to explain the honest mistakeCredit: AFPHans Vanaken dispatched the spot-kick to put Club Brugge 1-0 upCredit: GettyMings, 31, had the ball passed to him inside the area by goalkeeper Emi Martinez at a goal kick.But the former England defender thought that Martinez was kicking him the ball for him to take the restart, prompting a VAR check for handball.The referee had no choice but to award the penalty, which was dispatched by Hans Vanaken.It was a hammer blow to Villa with the goal being the difference between the two teams and the match ending 1-0.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd Mings’ Champions League debut was cut short after his calamitous error. The towering defender was hooked by manager Unai Emery just over ten minutes later.To make matters worse, Mings now becomes the first English player in history to give away a penalty on their debut in the competition.Unbelievably, Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes got away with the exact same error as Mings in last season’s Champions League.Most read in FootballArsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes escaped punishment for doing the same thing in last season’s Champions LeagueCredit: TNT SPORTSFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Gunners’ star leant down to pick up a pass from David Raya against Bayern Munich, but was not called up on his moment of madness despite pleas from the Bayern players.The decision to punish Mings comes as the ball is already considered as in-play when Martinez plays him the pass – meaning the referee has to give a penalty for handball.The referee for Arsenal’s clash last season was lambasted by then-Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel for his decision not to strictly follow the rules.The now-England manager, said: “I think the referee did not have the courage to give a deserved penalty today in a bit of a crazy and awkward situation.”He admitted on the pitch that he saw the situation and that quarter-final is not enough for him to give a penalty, for a kid’s mistake. He admitted he saw the mistake the player made.“It was a goal kick, the goalkeeper passed to a central defender and one touched the ball with the hand because he thought it was not in game but it was in game and the referee admitted it was in game and was handball. Very frustrating.” More

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      Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and 70s legend spotted at iconic League Two club despite being a Wolves fan

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      LED ZEPPELIN star Robert Plant has stunned fans after he was spotted at League Two club Accrington.The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was seen enjoying a tour on around the Wham Stadium.Robert Plant, second from right, paid a visit to Accrington while on his way to HarrogateCredit: https://www.instagram.com/asfcofficial/The Led Zeppelin star is a lifelong Wolves fanCredit: RexPlant, 76, stopped by the club while on his way up to Harrogate.He is a lifelong Wolves fan and club vice-president, but the musician admitted he had always liked Stanley.Supporter liaison officer Robert Houseman said of Plant’s told the Lancashire Telegraph: “As soon as he walked into the shop, I recognised that this charismatic guy was an entertainer, but I couldn’t place his face.”He told me he was a Wolves fan but had always had a soft spot for Accrington Stanley and had always wanted to visit the club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He was on his way to Harrogate where he was working. “Offering him a quick look around the stadium and a short history of the club.“He took a few pictures and as we left, I asked him about his line of work and who he was.”That is when I realised, I had just spent 20 minutes with Robert Plant, the lead singer of Led Zeppelin. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”He posed for a couple of photos, leaving with his bag of Stanley souvenirs.”London band Led Zeppelin split apart in 1980 after rising to fame in the 1970s to become a household name.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFLFamed for songs including Stairway to Heaven and Whole Lotta Love, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.For all their fame, they somehow never managed to achieve a number one single, but did have seven albums who hit number one in the charts.Plant currently works with low-key acoustic band Saving Grace, whom he has been with since 2019.Accrington sit 20th in League Two, having won just three games from 13 in the division this season. More

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      Inter 1 Arsenal 0 LIVE RESULT: Gunners BEATEN in Champions League as Calhanoglu penalty seals victory – latest updates

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      ARSENAL were beaten 1-0 by Inter Milan in the Champions League thanks to a first-half penalty. Mikel Merino was penalised for a handball in the area and the resulting spot kick was tucked away by Hakan Calhanoglu on the stroke of half-time. Kai Havertz came off late in the game after suffering a bloody gash to his head. Kick-off time: 8pm GMTLive stream: discovery+TV channel: TNT Sports 1Inter XI: Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bisseck; Dumfries, Frattesi, Çalhanoglu, Zielinski, Darmian; Taremi, Lautaro MartínezArsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Partey, Havertz, Mikel Merino; Saka, Martinelli, TrossardFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the San Siro with our live blog below…Midfield looking bare in MilanMost sides in European football would miss players such as Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice.Arsenal certainly did this evening and their cover for these players does not seem to keep them at the levels they want to be at.It will be integral to their season that Arteta is able to wrap them in cotton wool and ensure there are no prolonged spells on sidelines for the remainder of the campaign.Copy linkCopiedChampions League still looking goodDespite tonight’s defeat, Arsenal currently sit in twelfth place in the new format league table.Obviously every side wants to finish in the top eight, to avoid a two-legged play-off, but as it stands they are only two points away from these places.Inter move to fifth in the table and are now three points clear of The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedTough run ahead for GunnersWith an international break thrown in the middle of it, Arsenal have some tough fixtures coming up.They travel to Stamford Bridge this weekend for what seems like a crucial game before the break.Then they face high-flying Nottingham Forest, travel to Sporting Lisbon and also face Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd.Much will rely upon Odegaard getting back to his best form as quickly as possible.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies in MilanWell, what do Arsenal now? Three defeats in their last six in all competitions and no signs of that changing ahead of what is now a HUGE visit to Chelsea on Sunday.Mikel Arteta’s men had nearly 50 crosses and still could not break down an Inter side who were as impressive as they were stubborn.Arsenal have gone 408 minutes away from home in the Champions League without a goal and have not scored in their last two – here and in thew 1-0 loss at Newcastle.They need goals. They need results. If not, the critics will come for Mikel Arteta and he will have no hiding place.Copy linkCopiedBoss not happy with manner of defeatThe Gunners boss spoke with BT Sport after the game in the San Siro:I’m very proud of my players and the game we played. I feel that we were harshly done tonight. If you give that penalty agaiinst us, you have to give the one where our player was punched in the head. The team plays like we did here tonight, we can go to Chelsea and win.Mikel ArtetaArsenalCopy linkCopiedGunners firing blanks once againWhile many pundits will defend the transfer activity of their former employers, no one can deny there is something lacking.They do not have an out and out number nine and often there iis no presence in the penalty area to cause problems for the opposition.The owners have invested heavily in transfers but Arteta has opted not to strengthen in the striking department.Add to that, they sold Folarin Balogun to Monaco in the summer after he scored 21 goals in 37 games on loan to Reims last season.Copy linkCopiedDenzel dominates as the Inside ManInter’s Denzel Dumfries starred for the Italians this evening.As ever, he was up and down the touchline throughout the game.He was a threat going forward but also contributed in a defensive sense to keep The Gunners out.Copy linkCopiedDisappointing night in MilanMikel Arteta’s side are going through a mini-wobble currently.They have lost three of their last six games and their only two wins have come against Preston and Shakhtar Donetsk.With a big game coming up against rivals Chelsea on the weekend, The Gunners need to rediscover their form sooner rather than later.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedFT: Inter 1-0 ArsenalThe Gunners suffer their first defeat in this season’s Champions League competition.Despite all their possession they did not create enough problems for Inter in the San Siro this evening.While the stats look good, they can be somewhat misleading, Sommer only had one real save to make in that second-half.Copy linkCopiedFT: Inter 1-0 ArsenalThe referee brings the game to a close.Inter have inflicted defeat on Arsenal at the San Siro.They just could not breakdown this Italian defence.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90+4. Arteta will be hoping Havertz is able to play Sunday against Chelsea after that gash to his head.The travelling fans are pleased to see their Norwegian playmaker back on the pitch again.No pressure, you have three minutes to change the game.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90+2. We have a break in play after a collision of heads.Bisseck and Havertz are both receiving treatment.The German has been forced off with a nasty cut and is being replaced by Odegaard.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90. Another ball comes into the box.This time Havertz wins the header and knocks it down.Inter are alert to the danger and hack the ball clear.We are going to have five added minutes.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal88. Inter have not offered a lot in an attacking sense in this half.Not that they will be worried about that if they win this game.The ball is very much in Arsenal’s court to try and break them down now in what remains of this game.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal86. Martinelli swings another cross into the box.Arsenal have plenty of numbers in the box but once again the defender is fiirst to it as they head clear.The home fans are making some noise in the San Siro, trying to see their team through to the final whistle.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal84. Inter are dealing with the aerial threat with ease.Apart from when Saliba or Gabriel can come forward, mainly set-pieces, there is no one who can make a nuisance of themselves in the box.Saliba is penalised for a foul on Thuram.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal82. It must be a concern for Arteta how his team do not look like scoring in open play whatsoever.Zinchenko and Nwaneri replace Timber and Trossard.Final roll of the dice from The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal80. Inter bring on Dimarco for Taremi.As we head into the final ten minutes of the game, the hosts will be thinking of holding on to what they have now.Timber sends a cross into the box but it is headed clear once again.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal78. Time is starting to run out for The Gunners now.Arteta may be tempted to bring on Odegaard for the remainder of this game.Despite having all the possession in the final third, they have no one capable of providing that killer pass to create a goal.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal76. What a huge chance for Arsenal.Inter fail to deal with the cross and it drops to Havertz in the middle of the six yard box.He gets a shot away but Bisseck makes a sublime block to send it behind for a corner.Brilliant defending.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal74. Martinelli wins a free kick as he is bundled over by Dumfries.Arsenal manage to force another corner.Chance for the visitors to put Sommer under some more pressure.It is a poor cross from Martinelli and Havertz knocks it straight out of play for a goal kick.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal72. Calhanoglu comes off for Asllani.Unless something changes in this game, he is easily the man of the match in this game.Dumfries receives the ball from Barella but does not catch it well and it goes wide of the target.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal70. Having just been booked, Jesus needs to be careful now.He goes flying into another challenge immediately after but luckily the referee lets it go.The last thing Arsenal need now is to go down to ten men.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal68. Havertz goes down under the pressure from Barella.He is looking for a free-kick but the referee is not interested.The German needs to be stronger in those situations.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal66. Saka mannages to create some space but Inter get numbers back quickly.The best he can do is to win another corner for his team.This time his delivery cannot beat the man at the near post.Copy linkCopied More

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      I asked Sir Alex Ferguson a stupid question moments after he offered me Man Utd job – his response spoke volumes

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      FORMER Manchester United coach and assistant manager Mike Phelan has recalled one of the most telling things Sir Alex Ferguson ever said to him.Phelan, 62, played 138 games under Sir Alex as a player for United, before working alongside him as a coach for 12 YEARS.Mike Phelan worked alongside Sir Alex Ferguson for 12 yearsCredit: GettyAfter working as a coach for the Red Devils between 2001 and 2008, Phelan was promoted to be Ferguson’s assistant.It was in that position that he helped United win three Premier League titles, two Community Shields and two League Cups.But after all those years alongside one the greatest managers in football history, it was his first day on the job that lives longest in the memory for Phelan.The retired pro recalls Ferguson’s answer to his “stupid question” after getting the job as a coach as one of the Scot’s most telling moments.READ ON MAN UTDSpeaking to The Athletic, he said: “I was a player, a coach, and an assistant manager at Manchester United. The only hat-trick I got, to be fair. “And when I started out coaching, the first thing the manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, said when he offered me a job came after I asked a stupid question.“I said, ‘How do you want me to coach?’ He went, ‘Mick, you’re the coach, I’m the manager. You coach. I’ll manage.’ “Simple as that. What he gave me was ownership.”Most read in FootballMike Phelan’s careerA brief look into Mike Phelan’s playing and coaching career…PLAYING CAREER1980 – 1985: Burnley1985 – 1989: Norwich City1989 – 1994: Manchester United1994 – 1996: West Bromwich AlbionCOACHING CAREER1996 – 1997: Blackpool (assistant manager)1997 – 1999: Stockport U18s (manager)1999 – 2001: Manchester United 18s (manager)2001 – 2008: Manchester United (coach)2008 – 2013: Manchester United (assistant manager)2014 – 2015: Norwich (assistant manager)2015 – 2016: Hull City (assistant manager)2016 – 2016 Hull City (manager)2018: Central Coast Mariners (sporting director)2018 – 2022: Manchester United (assistant manager)FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt was that mentality and that kind of leadership that saw Ferguson become the Premier League’s most successful manager, winning the competition 13 TIMES.That dynasty came to an end over 10 years ago now, and United find themselves about to embark on a new era under the management of Ruben Amorim.Nicky Butt reveals time Sir Alex Ferguson caught him and Roy Keane red-handedBut with a new boss comes plenty of changes, with old pal Ferguson now completely off the books at Old Trafford, Phelan has questioned whether an entirely new setup will bring success back to the Theatre of Dreams.He said: “It’s a completely changed environment [at United] now. “The proof of the pudding will come further down the line, as to whether they can achieve what they are setting out to do, but there seems to be a lot going on there.“They’ve got rid of a lot of people — some good people.”It needs streamlining in the right areas but has it still got that unity it had when it was successful? There is more exposure now to open up those cracks.”Ruben Amorim is about to bring in a new era at Old TraffordCredit: PA More

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      Arsenal fixture chaos eased as crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final clash confirmed but women’s fixture moved

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      ARSENAL’S fixture nightmare involving the Carabao Cup quarter-final has been eased after it was announced the game would be played on Wednesday, December 18.The Gunners’ progression into the final eight of the competition – where they drew Crystal Palace at the Emirates – caused a horribly congested schedule in the middle of the month.Mikel Arteta has seen Arsenal’s men handed an eased fixture scheduleCredit: RexThey will face Crystal Palace on Wednesday, December 18Credit: ReutersBut it will force Arsenal Women to have their Champions League game with Bayern Munich moved elsewhereCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side were fearing a two-day turnaround with an Arsenal Women’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich at the Emirates meaning a Wednesday clash was not possible.This would have either led to Crystal Palace being left with a two-day turnaround after playing Brighton on Sunday if the game was played on Tuesday 17 or both sides facing a two-day turnaround before their Premier League clash with the Eagles on Saturday evening if the game was played on Thursday.However, a twist to events has seen Arsenal men given priority to play the fixture at the Emirates on Wednesday.The EFL have confirmed that the fixture will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 18.READ MORE IN FOOTBAL;A club statement on the matter of the moved women’s game said: “We are liaising with UEFA, and further details regarding our UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich will be announced in due course.”Arsenal Women normally play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates.Tickets for the Bayern game have been on sale since September 28.But Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team play the rest of their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSunSport understands that a new venue, rather than a new date, is being targeted for Arsenal on the moved fixture.Fans of the women’s team were furious with the announcement and the priority given to the men’s team over the women’s.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash Taking to social media, the Arsenal Women Supporters Club said: “Really disappointed by the change in priorities for this game. “It’s been set in stone for a while, and now shifting the date affects so many people, especially traveling and international Gooners who have already booked flights and hotels.”A second fan said: “Not that the women’s team didn’t already have a champions league game being played here the same night that fans have already booked tickets, days off work, travel and hotels for or anything… Do better Arsenal.”A third said: “This is ludicrous.”Carabao Cup quarter-final in fullQuarter-final fixture dates and times confirmed:Arsenal v Crystal Palace – December 18, 7.30pmNewcastle v Brentford – December 18, 7.45pmSouthampton v Liverpool – December 18, 8pmTottenham v Manchester United – December 19, 8pmAnother said: “Really disappointing that the women’s game against Bayern has been shifted for this.”A fifth added: “A UEFA game is surely more important than an EFL game, no matter whether it’s the men’s or women’s team?”Arsenal men’s clash with Crystal Palace will be the early kick-off that evening.It will be shown on Sky Sports football.Newcastle’s clash with Brentford will commence at 7.45pm on Wednesday and will not appear on live TV, but rather Sky Sports+.Southampton against Liverpool will start at 8pm that day and be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Tottenham’s clash against Manchester United will take place on Thursday, December 19 at 8pm.It will be aired on live TV with Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.” More

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      Arne Slot breaks astonishing 20-year Jose Mourinho record as Dutch boss enjoys red-hot start to life in Liverpool

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      ARNE SLOT has had no trouble slotting right into the gaping hole left by Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.The Dutchman has guided the Reds to a sensational start to the season, breaking a 20-year record in the process.Arne Slot has enjoyed an electric start to life as Liverpool bossCredit: GettyThe Reds smashed Bayer Leverkusen 4-0 on Tuesday to help them sit top of both the Champions League and Premier League tablesCredit: AlamyA 4-0 thrashing of Bayer Leverkusen means that Slot’s Liverpool side are now top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables.While his team have lost just ONE of their first 16 games under the guidance of the former Feyenoord boss.In fact, Liverpool have won 14 of those 16 games – making Slot the most successful Premier League manager in history in his first 16 games in charge.The 46-year-old has toppled Jose Mourinho off that list of bosses, with the Special One managing 13 wins out of 16 when he first arrived at Chelsea in 2004.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile Carlo Ancelotti also achieved the same record during his first season with the Blues in 2009.Slot has beaten a number of other top gaffers to the title, bettering the records of former Chelsea trio Avram Grant, Antonio Conte and Maurizio Sarri.While also winning two more games than Unai Emery managed in his first 16 matches in charge of Arsenal as Arsene Wenger’s successor.Liverpool have only dropped points to Nottingham Forest and Arsenal so far this season.Most read in FootballSlot’s record breaking statNew Premier League managers with the most wins after 16 games in all competitions…Arne Slot: 14 (Liverpool, 2024) José Mourinho: 13 (Chelsea, 2004) Carlo Ancelotti: 13 (Chelsea, 2009)Avram Grant: 12 (Chelsea, 2007) Antonio Conte: 12 (Chelsea, 2016) Unai Emery: 12 (Arsenal, 2018) Maurizio Sarri: 12 (Chelsea, 2018)Jose Mourinho has been knocked off his perch by SlotCredit: EPAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhile the Merseyside club have conceded just six goals in the Prem and only once in Europe.But the incredible start may be about to hit its toughest test so far.Arne Slot punished for X-rated blast about Arsenal because fourth official thought he was talking to him Liverpool’s next five fixtures in all competitions include clashes against Real Madrid, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Newcastle United.However, Slot doesn’t seem fazed by the task at hand, suggesting that his team will be competing on all fronts this season.Speaking after their victory over Leverkusen, he said: “In our position there’s alway pressure, and this is the pressure we give ourselves as well.”If you work at Liverpool, or if you play at Liverpool as a player or as a manager, you know the manager that is going to come next.”And so many other great players have set the standards so high over here that there always feels like there is a bit of pressure.”But we also embrace this [pressure], because that’s also what we want. We want to be where we are now. We want to compete for everything.”Liverpool face a tricky run of fixtures in the coming weeks More

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      Mikel Arteta must solve three tactical issues to save Arsenal’s Premier League title bid

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      BEFORE the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season it was believed that Arsenal and Manchester City would be the teams to beat in a title shoot-out.Then the loss of Rodri through injury put Arsenal as firm favourites in a lot of people’s minds.Mikel Arteta has a number of tactical issues that need solving to get the season back on trackCredit: ReutersArsenal’s squad profile has both advantages and disadvantagesCredit: RexIt is clear they are missing Martin Odegaard from their midfieldCredit: GettyHowever, the season has unravelled with the Gunners currently sitting outside of the top four and seven points adrift of leaders Liverpool and five behind second-place City.In a season that many fans would have hoped would finally be their time to end the two-decade title drought at the Emirates, disappointing results so far have seen fans show signs of discontent. The bombshell exit of Edu has not helped matters, with questions now quietly being raised around Arteta’s long-term recruitment and tactical plans. Below we take a look at three problems Arteta needs to solve to get Arsenal’s title charge back on track.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhere are all of the ball progressors?While Man City were significantly weakened by the loss of Rodri this season it is fair to say Arsenal suffered a similar blow when captain Martin Odegaard was ruled out with an ankle injury. While he is back on the grass and getting closer to a return to full fitness, there is no doubt whatsoever that Arsenal have missed his passing and ball progression from central areas.Arteta has mainly used a midfield containing Declan Rice and summer signing Mikel Merino in recent weeks.They are two physically superb midfielders who are perhaps more comfortable behind the ball in areas where they can receive the ball and then circulate possession of it.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHere Arsenal play narrow and lack a midfielder who is world class on the ball without OdegaardAgainst Newcastle United last season we saw Leandro Trossard then used as a combination of a 10 and a second striker as Arsenal looked to attack in more of a 4-2-4 shape.Odegaard would typically play as the right-sided 8 in midfield with his ability to come deep to receive the ball, play line breaking passes and find pockets of space in the opposition half to receive the ball key in helping Arsenal to progress the ball into the final third.Mikel Arteta debunks claims referees and VAR have conspiracy against Arsenal after flurry of controversial decisions Odegaard is press resistant and capable of outplaying opposition midfielders in 1v1 situations.However, Arsenal simply do not have another player in their squad, other than the 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who has similar qualities.With Odegaard not being in the Arsenal team, we have seen more and more opposition teams look to sit in a deeper and more compact defensive shape in a mid-block. This essentially puts the onus on Arsenal to look to break them down and with no real central ball progression they are struggling to do so.Here we see how deep Arsenal split the two central defenders with Merino positioned just ahead of himOpposition teams are happy to force Arsenal to be more direct and over the top or to play wide where they can slide across and press in the wide spaces.There is a real need for Arsenal to find a way to bring more ball progression and the ability to break teams down.They are sitting too deepWhen Arsenal spent over £100million to secure Rice from West Ham, it was thought they had signed the perfect midfielder for a team that wanted to attack and play on the front foot with a lot of players pushed forward. By combining Rice with the likes of Gabriel and William Saliba as the two central defenders Arteta had three players with the combination of strength and mobility to play in space in transition.This essentially means the opposition would struggle to hurt Arsenal even if they were able to launch a counter attack when the ball was turned over.The expectation was that Arsenal would commit more players into advanced positions as they attacked in order to help them to break opposition teams down. Instead, Arteta has doubled down on signing physical players who excel in duels – see the addition of Merino in the summer.While Arsenal are physically imposing and are able to dominate duels both in and out of possession, this does take something away from how creative they can be. Here, we see Arsenal with Rice, Merino and Partey all sitting deep in the midfield as opposed to adding some depth and forward movements to take up more advanced positionsThis means that when teams sit in a deeper or even medium block and allow Arsenal to have possession ahead of them then Arsenal can struggle to break them down.With no midfielders that are completely comfortable pushing forward and into the final third in these situations we are seeing Arsenal rely on playing out quickly out to the wide areas.This especially happens on the right-side with Bukayo Saka, and opposition teams are ready and waiting to defend against this. By filling his team with players who are physically dominant there is a sense that Arteta has created a playing squad that are less mobile and versatile.Ethan Nwaneri came on to provide an attacking input and was effective in getting between the lines and causing problemsThere is no doubt Rice and Merino give Arsenal a solid base.But Arsenal could be more aggressive in terms of moving players into advanced attacking positions, with these duel monsters sitting to defend the potential transition.Teams know that Arsenal will attack down the rightSaka is ready to be considered a genuine world class talent.The England star has been unplayable at times and at the time of writing he has four goals and seven assists in 11 appearances in the Premier League and the Champions League. Arsenal have become reliant on passing to Bukayo Saka down the right flank as shown in their pass map against NewcastleSaka has been posing a threat and creating chances for fun, running teams ragged almost on his own.The problem with this is that teams who are well coached and organised know that Arsenal’s greatest threat will come down the right-hand side of the pitch. Here four opposition players look to pin down Bukayo Saka as soon as he gets the ballThis means that teams are isolating that side of the pitch and cutting off passing lanes that Arsenal could use to get the ball out to Saka. When they do get the ball to the right we are seeing opposition teams using two or even three players to press and contain Saka on that side.The pass map against Aston Villa is more varied with Odegaard taking some of the creative burden from SakaOn the left-side of the attack things do not seem to be working with Gabriel Martinelli acting as a more direct but less effective attacking threat when he takes possession.In central areas there are also no players who are making runs from deep to support the attack quickly. As soon as Saka takes possession on the right the opposition are very quick to press with more than one playerThis makes it easier for the opposition to then cut off and press the right-side of the attack to limit the threat of Saka.Arteta needs to find a way to create threat in the attack centrally and from the left in order to unlock Saka and allow him to attack in space where he is deadly.ConclusionArsenal are not out of the title race at this stage, but there are problems to be addressed. It very much feels as though Arteta has become almost too risk averse with players sitting to prevent the threat on the counter attack as opposed to being free to join the attack. READ MORE SUN STORIESIf Arsenal are to challenge at the top for the whole season then Arteta may have to take the breaks off and allow his team to play in a more aggressive style.This weekend’s clash against Chelsea will be key to that, and potentially his trust in exciting prospect Nwaneri.How Edu made Arsenal great againBy Jack RosserEDU GASPAR has been on a mission to ‘Make Arsenal Great Again’ ever since returning to the club he played for 2019.After a few wobbles early on – signing Nicolas Pepe will never reflect well – the Brazilian has, alongside Mikel Arteta, been crucial in the club’s transformation.Arteta was brought in as the new manager within months of Edu’s return to North London and the former midfielder stuck by the boss when the pressure was on two years into the job.Instead of making the knee-jerk decision to change manager again, the former Brazil international, joined forces with Arteta to institute a huge change of culture at The Emirates.Overpaid toxic influences such as Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were purged from the dressing room and Arsenal set about adding strong characters.Edu finally got the club competing in the transfer market again, with Martin Odegaard an outstanding capture for the club. In landing Declan Rice ahead of Manchester City last year Arsenal showed they couple compete for and sign some of Europe’s biggest talents once more.Arsenal have become one of the most attractive clubs in the Premier League and one of the most efficient in the market.While there have been big deals for the likes of Rice and Calafiori, there have been smart ones too – picking out value where others have lost hope.Kai Havertz appeared as a surprising signing after a dreadful season at Chelsea. But after Edu gave the German space and support to rebuild his confidence he has developed into a fine asset for Arteta.Edu does not only have a tight relationship with Arteta – who many fans will be glad signed a new deal before the sporting director’s departure – but the players too, always ready and waiting to check in, keep them going.London Colney and The Emirates will feel a very different place for all of them without Edu.Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories. More

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      Inside the mad world of Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who is worth £2.5billion and owns TWO super yachts

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      WHETHER it is in England, his home of Greece, or even Portugal – Evangelos Marinakis is seemingly universally loved by football fans.The Greek shipping magnate, 57, has earned a staggering fortune of around £2.5billion through his company Capital Maritime Trading Corp.Evangelos Marinakis is one of football’s most colourful ownersMarinakis owns Nottingham ForestMarinakis has splashed his cash on toys like this super yachtHe has pumped that cash into his clubs, funding spending sprees for Nottingham Forest, winning multiple Greek titles with Olympiacos and last year he acquired a large stake in Portuguese outfit Rio Ave.It has been reported he plans to add a Brazilian club to his roster, which is why he lured Arsenal’s sporting director Edu on a reported triple your salary deal to oversee his football empire.But away from the game, Marinakis has his finger in other pies too.He runs a TV station famed for its soaps, sitcoms, political shows and the Champions League, as well as some of Greece’s biggest-selling newspapers.Read more football newsMarinakis hasn’t just spent his millions on football clubs, he is also the proud owner of two super yachts worth over £20million a piece.While back in 2021, he was in the news when one of his shipping boats saved 150 migrants from drowning in the Mediterranean Sea.SunSport looks into his mad world.Making moneyThe son of a politician, Marinakis made his billions after founding Capital Maritime & Trading Corp in 2005.Most read in FootballBy 2017, the company managed a mixed fleet of 70 ships.FA hit Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis with STADIUM BAN after furious tunnel blast at officialsThese included tankers, container ships and dry bulk carriers.A year later, they entered the LNG sector by purchasing ten ships capable of transporting liquified natural gas at the cost of a whopping £1.5billion.A year later, they merged their tanker fleet with DSS Holdings, who are bankrolled by New York private equity firm WL Ross & Co in a £1.3billion deal.Together, they have created one of the biggest listed tanker companies in the world.Marinakis continues to plough cash into his business, last year pumping £82million into the company to invest in seven platform supply vessels.One for giving back, Marinakis has put his money into the regeneration of his hometown Piraeus, including restoring playgrounds, building football pitches and helping the homeless by setting up soup kitchens.The man, who has a tattoo on his left arm that reads ‘Dream Love Create Fight Survive Win’, also has plenty of empathy.Piraeus is a port city, and the first entry for refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq.Marinakis once had a group of people, including Olympiacos staff, welcome those coming off boats with food, clothes and toys for their children.It’s not the first time he has come to the aid of desperate refugees.On his left arm Marinakis has a tattoo that reads ‘Dream Love Create Fight Survive Win’Shipping magnate Marinakis boasts a fleet of impressive tankersIn 2021, one of his tankers saved a group of migrants from drowningIn 2021, an oil tanker belonging to the shipping tycoon came to the rescue of more than 150 migrants who were sinking on a 15-metre wooden boat in the Mediterranean sea.The crew raised the alarm, and with the native coastal guard launched a rescue mission to haul them to safety on the tanker.FootballIn 2010, Marinakis entered the football world by buying a stake in Olympiacos.Incredibly, they won the Greek league seven times in a row from 2010–11 to 2016–17.After lucky number seven, Marinakis set his sights on English football – adding Nottingham Forest to his football club portfolio.A man who isn’t afraid to shoot for the stars, he declared that he wanted the club to qualify for Europe within five years, as well to redevelop the City Ground and transform the team’s Nigel Doughty Academy.Forest were promoted to the Premier League in 2022 for the first time in 23 years, justifying Marikanis’ belief they were a sleeping giant ready to be woken up.Meanwhile, Olympiacos became the first Greek club to win a European competition, after they lifted the Europa Conference League last year – defeating Fiorentina in the final.His next project, after investing around £20million in Portuguese outfit Rio Ave to clear debts and upgrade facilities, sees him working with super agent Jorge Mendes. Fans are hoping for exciting times with bated breath.Marinakis celebrates Forest’s promotion in 2022During Marinakis’ time as Olympiacos president the club has won multiple league titlesOlympiacos became the first Greek club to win a European trophy last seasonread more sport featuresControversyOf course, with so much power and money, Marinakis is one of Greece’s most recognised businessmen.He is a major shareholder in the newsgroup Alter Ego Media, who own broadcaster Mega TV. Not only do they show sitcoms and Champions League football, they pride themselves on their news coverage and aren’t afraid to talk politics.But not everyone loves Marinakis. Back in March, a meeting at his home was the downfall of two Greek ministers who were forced to resign, following a night of drinking expensive whiskey and smoking luxurious cigars.According to Greek news outlet iEidiseis, who published the details of the gatherings, it wasn’t a good look to be wined and dined by the media magnate.There have been further controversies, including a match-fixing and bribery scandal that erupted in 2015 in the Greek league.Marinakis was one of 68 people named, however he denied the allegations and was cleared in court three years later.There was also a wild complaint against him that he was involved in the bombing of a referee’s bakery, which he vehemently denied any involvement with and didn’t even go to trial.Over the years, a number of controversies have followed MarinakisMarinakis was cleared of a match-fixing scandal in 2018PlaytimeBeing a billionaire comes with many perks.Marinakis divides his time between stunning homes in Athens and London.When he’s not there, you’ll likely find him on one of his super yachts.Marinakis boasts TWO – the Amore Mio and Amore Mio II.The former costs around £20million and has a yearly running cost of £1million.It can host up to 10 guests, as well as seven cabin crew in its nine cabins. It is 148 feet in length.The Amore Mio is worth around £20millionMarinakis also owns the slightly bigger Amore Mio II that has 15 cabinsThe Amore Mio II is slightly bigger at 170 feet, and was made by Abeking & Rasmussen in Germany at their Lemwerder shipyard.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was little more expensive – costing around £25million – and boasts fifteen cabins.Don’t we all wish we could live in a Marinakis world right now. More