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      Arsenal 0-0 Everton LIVE SCORE: Gunners knocking at the door as they look to close the gap on Liverpool – updates

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      ARSENAL are taking on Everton in a huge Premier League clash RIGHT NOW.Gabriel has returned from injury to partner William Saliba, while Dwight McNeil is a notable absentee in the Toffee’s eleven.The Gunners are looking to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool, who are currently facing Fulham at Anfield.TV/Stream: Not available in the UK due to 3pm blackoutArsenal team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Odegaard, Merino, Saka, Martinelli, HavertzEverton team: Pickford, Young, Mykolenko, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mangala, Gueye, Doucoure, Ndiaye, Harrison, Calvert-LewinFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Arsenal 0-0 Everton47. What a save!!Bukayo Saka must have thought he had broken the deadlock seconds into the second half, but his volley is somehow clawed out by Jordan Pickford.It was a scrappy build-up from kick-off, but when a loose header from Branwaite inside the area went up instead of out, Saka was on to it in a flash.The shot wasn’t the cleanest but still looked destined for the bottom corner until Pickford’s heroics.Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Arsenal 0-0 Everton46. Neither boss has made a change at the start of the second half which indicates that both are fairly happy with how their teams performed in the first.Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly want more from an attacking perspective. Can his side deliver?Copy linkCopiedFirst half facts and figuresDominic Calvert-Lewin – who I forgot was playing – had just 12 touches of the ball during the first half.Copy linkCopiedFrom Dan King at the EmiratesJordan Pickford and James Tarkowski really are in a “none shall pass” mood.A personal highlight of a goalless half was Myles Lewis-Skelly dropping the ball on his own head and then trying again, but having a foul throw awarded against him. Not enough foul throws are given these days, especially in European competition.The atmosphere at the Emirates is curiously flat. Arsenal should be one or two up but aren’t turning domination into goals. Yet.Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Arsenal 0-0 EvertonCraig Pawson calls time on the opening 45 minutes, and there’s very little to report.Everton have not had an attempt since Abdoulaye Doucoure’s fifth minute shot that was brilliantly blocked behind by the returning Gabriel.Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli have both had chances for the hosts, only to find Jordan Pickford in inspired form. Copy linkCopied Arsenal 0-0 Everton45. There will be just an extra minute at the end of a first half dominated by Arsenal, but lacking any real cutting edge.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton44. Myles Lewis-Skelly undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, but it’s doubtful he’ll ever take a worse throw-in than this.The ball slips out of the teenager’s hands, bobbles about a bit and then drops on his head, resulting in a most embarrassed and surprised look from the left-back.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton42. Pickford denies Martinelli!A sloppy pass from Branthwaite is pounced upon by Rice in midfield, who quickly moves the ball on to the Brazilian via Havertz.A nice switch of feet by Martinelli in the box takes him away from Young, but his follow-up shot is well blocked by the Everton goalkeeper at the near post.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton40. Ashley Young takes an age to take a throw-in deep in the Arsenal half.It’s hard to know if it’s blatant time-wasting or if the 39-year-old right-back is just feeling his age.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton38. The home fans try to lift the tempo of their team.While in complete control of the game, they are not putting Everton under real pressure – and the visitors remain content to mop up the little that is coming their way.Copy linkCopiedFrom Dan King at the EmiratesThe second enjoyable contest so far was between the fans. The home crowd told Jordan Pickford he was “just a s**t Aaron Ramsdale” and the travelling Blues responded by reminding everyone that their man is “England’s No 1”.Even better is the way Everton boss Sean Dyche keeps moaning to the fourth official and nearside assistant referee about the decisions that keep going against his side. The Arsenal fans take every chance to mock his gesticulations and rants.The news from Anfield must have filtered through and it feels like an Arsenal goal is coming.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton35. A loose header back towards Pickford from Tarkowski prompts the England goalkeeper into an unorthodox vollleyball punch clear.It’s lucky he made contact with the ball otherwise he could have knocked Havertz’s head off.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton33. Half of the game over the past quarter of an hour has been played inside the Everton defensive third.Are we witnessing a Sean Dyche masterclass, or will Arsenal break down the Toffees before the break? Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton31. The Toffees survive another set-piece, and continue to lay down the blueprint for the rest of the division in how to repel Arsenal at free-kicks and corners.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton29. Pickford finally begins to earn his money!Superb stuff from Saka on the right takes him beyond Mykolenko and Branthwaite, and then the England ace still has the composure to pick out Odegaard in the middle.The Norwegian midfielder takes a nice touch and looks certain to open the scoring until his shot is blocked up and over by the Everton goalkeeper.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton26. Nice work from Saka to pick out Odegaard’s run into the area with a clever reverse pass.The captain then tries to work one of his own, but it’s clattered behind by Branthwaite.The visitors certainly aren’t afraid to give up corners to the Premier League’s set-piece kings. Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton24. We’re still awaiting the game’s first shot on target.Perhaps the news that Liverpool currently trail Fulham at Anfield and are down to ten men might wake up those inside the Emirates.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton22. Defenders assemble as corner number three is awarded to the Gunners.Again, Saka’s delivery is flat and fast, and once more Tarkowski heads out before the intended flick-on.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton20. It’s one-way traffic at the Emirates, but Arsenal’s football has still lacked something in the opening 20 minutes.Dare I say it, they look a little leggy after their Champions League exploits in midweek.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton17. The home fans get excited as another corner is won.This time it’s on the right and taken by Saka, but the delivery is unusually poor and easily headed clear.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton15. The Gunners have been responsible for 79% of possession so far but are yet to fully test Pickford in the Everton goal. Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton13. A promising attack for Arsenal is halted because Martinelli is offside.Where have we heard that before?Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton11. Odegaard goes close!The Arsenal captain receives a square pass 20 yards from goal, drifts beyond Gueye with ease, and then drags a right-footer wide of Pickford’s left-hand post.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton9. Up the other end of the pitch, a Martinelli effort is blocked behind for Arsenal’s first corner.The Gunners pack the area as Rice prepares the set-piece, an inswinger that is eventually punched away by Pickford.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton7. The first attempt of the game comes courtesy of Everton’s Doucoure.The midfielder somehow finds himself in space behind the Arsenal defence, and it requires an excellent recovery from Saliba in order to turn it behind for a corner.Copy linkCopied More

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      Premier League release statement on Andy Robertson after Liverpool star’s red card against Fulham

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      THE Premier League have rushed to explain Andy Robertson’s controversial red card in Liverpool’s dramatic clash against Fulham.The defender cut across and hauled ex-Reds winger Harry Wilson down just outside the right of the box after just 17 minutes.Andy Robertson was sent off for this foul on Harry WilsonWhistler Tony Harrington instantly dismissed the Scot – sparking divided opinion from fans on social media.The Prem promptly released a statement to clarify Harrington’s verdict.It read: “The referee issued a red card to Robertson for a foul on Wilson which denied a goal scoring opportunity. “VAR checked to confirm the red card and that Wilson was in an onside position.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRopbertson had deflected in Andreas Pereira’s opener for Fulham six minutes earlier.And it meant Prem leaders Liverpool faced a tough second-half test to rescue the match.Some fans reckoned Robertson was harshly done by – but others claimed he’d obviously robbed the visitors of a clear scoring chance.But it was certainly true that it was his poor touch – as Wilson zoomed across – that left him vulnerable.Most read in FootballIn the end Robertson flew into a tangle with Wilson that sent the Welsh wideman tumbling over.Fulham almost scored from the loose ball anyway.But when Harrington blew for the foul – and flashed his red card – Robertson and his team-mates protested in vain.One viewer posted: “No way the referee gave Andrew Robertson red card for this after not giving 2 blatant ones [for two Fulham challenges].”But others suggested the left-back has struggled for form since returning from injury – and might need replacing in the January transfer window.Onhe wrote: “What an absolute stinking afternoon for Andrew Robertson. Had that collision earlier, then deflected Pereira’s shot in and then has been sent off.”Another added: “Andy Robertson has been woeful since coming back from injury. Two penalties conceded and now sent off. I think we need a new left back.”THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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      Ruben Amorim already matches Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Matt Busby’s Man Utd record after just six games

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      RUBEN AMORIM has already matched records held by Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Matt Busby.The Portuguese manager has won three of his first five games since replacing Erik ten Hag.Ruben Amorim has matched a record held by Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Matt BusbyCredit: ReutersFerguson won his first four games in a major European competition at Man UnitedCredit: GettyBusby also won his first two games in EuropeCredit: The TimesAmorim, 39, is yet to get his Red Devils firing in the Premier League with only one win in four.However, in Europe, he has overseen two wins from two games in charge of the team.Manchester United beat Bodo/Glimt in the first Europa League clash with Amorim at the helm.The former Sporting Lisbon boss also oversaw the comeback victory over Viktoria Plzen on Thrusday.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe two victories mean that Amorim boosts the same record as legendary managers Ferguson and Busby.He has followed in their footsteps by winning his first two games in a major European competition as Man United manager.Ferguson, 82, won his first four games in the Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup in 1990.His side beat Pecsi MFC and Wrexham over two-legged ties before being held to a 1-1 draw against Montpellier.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAmorim will be planning on extending his run to match that of Ferguson.His next games will be against the Rangers and the Romanian outfit FCSB before the end of the league phase in the Europa League.Man Utd team-mates in furious on-pitch argument at final whistle after Red Devils scrape past Viktoria PlzenMan Utd ratings vs Plzen as Hojlund and Amad spare Onana’s blushes are horror showANDRE ONANA had his blushes spared by Rasmus Hojlund as Manchester United fought back to win against Viktoria Plzen.Here’s how SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson rated the Red Devils stars…Andre Onana – 4It was a very shaky start to the game in which Onana hurt Casemiro and failed to deal with the host’s crosses convincingly.He made a massive error that led to Plzen taking the lead with his poor pass, leaving his defenders with no chance of bailing him out.Diogo Dalot – 6Dalot made some decent runs forward to join in with the attacks.Defensively was fairly solid and was not often caught out.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Playing a bit more central, Mazraoui used his pace well to help out at the back.Matthijs de Ligt – 6He was sold short by Onana’s pass that led to the opener but otherwise was fine during the 90 minutes.Lisandro Martinez – 6Made himself available when Man United got forward but struggled with the physicality of the Plzen attackers.Tyrell Malacia – 6He offered very little going forward in the wing-back role as he struggled to combine with Marcus Rashford.Casemiro – 6He moved the ball forward when he could and recovered from an early blow from Onana.Bruno Fernandes – 7He was lucky to have escaped an early yellow card. Stung the goalkeeper’s gloves in the first half with a good effort.His quick thinking set up Rasmus Hojlund to fire in a late winner.Amad Diallo – 8Diallo was a rare bright spark in Man United’s attack against Plzen.It was his run that led to the equaliser, and he used his pace and skill to get past his defender.Marcus Rashford – 4Rashford was often loose on the ball and surrendered possession in the attacking third.He received the first booking of the game for a needless foul and was lucky not to be sent off in the second half before being hooked by Ruben Amorim.Joshua Zirkzee – 6Took on the centre-forward role well, held the ball up and linked up play well enough.SubsRasmus Hojlund 55′ – 8Hojlund showed his striker instincts by being in the right position to grab Man United’s equaliser.He then latched onto Fernandes’ clever pass to score the winner.Antony 60′ – 6He was involved in the equaliser by linking up with Diallo.Mason Mount 60′ – 7Made a positive impact after coming on and was unlucky not to score as he was denied twice by the goalkeeper after coming into the action.Alejandro Garnacho 80′ – N/AFailed to make a positive impact on his short spell on the pitch.Manuel Ugarte 80′ – N/AHe slotted into the midfield as he replaced Casemiro late on.Meanwhile, Amorim will be hoping to improve Man United’s Premier League form this weekend.Sunday will hand Amorim his first taste of the Manchester derby as the Red Devils boss.Manchester City host Amorim’s side at the Etihad Stadium as Pep Guardiola will also be hoping for an upturn in form.The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager is currently going through his worst form as a coach at City.City have only won once in their last ten games with their latest defeat coming against Juventus in the Champions League.Speaking ahead of the derby Amorim has insisted he is only focused on problems closer to home.He said: “I never think about these things.”We will face a great opponent and I’m more focused on our problems.READ MORE SUN STORIES”So we have a lot of issues here, so I’m more focused on what we should do on Sunday to win the game.”So I’m really focused on my team.”Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner takes their kids on Man City’s Xmas trip after filing for divorce – but he isn’t there

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      KYLE Walker’s wife Annie Kilner had her hands full with their four sons on Manchester City’s Christmas trip last night.The glamorous WAG, 31, looked to be having plenty of fun at the Winter Funland at Trafford Park, Manchester.Annie Kilner took her sons to Manchester City’s Christmas tripCredit: Click News and MediaHer four boys posed for a pic with SantaCredit: Click News and MediaAnnie pushed youngest, Rezon, at Trafford ParkCredit: Click News and MediaAnnie and her sister tested their hook a duck skillsCredit: Click News and MediaClub captain Kyle, 34, wasn’t in attendance but his teammates Phil Foden, Nathan Aké, Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva all turned up.Annie, who filed for divorce from Kyle in October, kept things casual in a cropped zip-up black jacket and jeans.She wore antlers and held youngest Rezon, seven months, for a family photograph with Santa, while Roman, 11, Riaan, seven, and Reign, five, stood close-by.And she had great success hooking ducks, which put a big smile on her face.READ MORE ON ANNIE KILNERThe off-duty footballers got to embrace their inner children, with England ace Foden and Dutchman Aké enjoying rides with their young families.It comes amid a woeful run of form for City which has seen them win just once in 10 games, their worst run in manager Pep Guardiola’s nine-year tenure.Just last week Annie was pictured wearing her wedding ring again after a period of time without it.She previously instructed lawyers to help her fight for half of Kyle’s £27million fortune after their relationship soured following the birth of his second child with Lauryn Goodman.Most read in FootballIn October a source told us that there was still a chance they could work through their issues despite the litigation.The move certainly took right back Kyle by surprise.A source said: “Kyle was stunned when he got the papers.Kyle Walker and ex-lover Lauryn Goodman in fresh row over intercom security system at her £2.4m home”He’s spoken to Annie about them and they are discussing the next steps.”This doesn’t necessarily mean they will divorce.”This is as much Annie flexing her muscles as it is anything else.”She wants Kyle to know she’s not messing about. But if this is a bluff, it may well back-fire.”The couple separated at Christmas after the full-back was exposed for fathering a second child with Instagram influencer, Lauryn.She revealed the truth in a text message to Annie – and the couple have been battling to save their relationship ever since.They were childhood sweethearts and met in Sheffield as teenagers but only got married in November 2021 during an intimate ceremony at Mottram Hall in Cheshire.The wedding took everyone by surprise – not least because of a slew of sex scandals involving the player after his £50million move to City from Spurs in 2017.First, Ex on the Beach TV reality star Laura Brown said she and Kyle repeatedly romped in his Bentley.Footy ace Kyle didn’t attend the eventCredit: AlamyPhil Foden is hoping to be on Santa’s nice list this yearCredit: Click News and MediaBernardo Silva gave a hearty wave on one rideCredit: Click News and MediaEngland ace Foden had a great time on a Goofy rideCredit: Click News and MediaThe Silvas and Gundogans smiled with Father ChristmasCredit: Click News and MediaAnnie kicked him out of their sprawling Cheshire home but they got back together.She gave him the boot again when he revealed Lauryn was having his baby.In an exclusive interview with The Sun, Annie said: “What he has done to me and our children is obscene.”I can’t begin to put it into words.”In late March last year he was unfaithful with a reality TV star.”I found out a month later and was broken by it.”He begged me to take him back but by July he was at it again.”Not even three months later and someone was pregnant. My youngest was one. Who does that?”I don’t think I’ll ever be the same again because of what he’s done.”I’ve tried to hate him but how can I hate the man my kids love so much?”I knew it was always a possibility Kyle would do it again but getting someone pregnant was my worst nightmare.”The couple miraculously stayed together against all the odds and Kyle proposed with a £250,000 ring.They wed in secret in front of a handful of guests but less than a year later he cheated on her with Lauryn once again.The Instagram influencer, 34, fell pregnant after they met in London whilst he was waiting for groin surgery ahead of the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.Gundogan was in high spirits despite City’s woes on the fieldCredit: Click News and MediaNathan Aké grinned on a little roller coasterCredit: Click News and MediaLauryn Goodman has two children with WalkerCredit: AlamyKyle and Annie are childhood sweetheartsCredit: GettyShe gave birth to a baby girl, Kinara, in July last year – as Kyle begged her not to reveal the truth to Annie.He even considered quitting City for Bayern Munich in a desperate bid to avoid the looming scandal.But on December 27, as he played for City in a 3-1 win against Everton at Goodison Park, Annie’s phone lit up with a message.It read: “Hey it’s Lauryn. I just wanted to quickly tell you that Kyle is the father of our daughter.”Annie, who was heavily pregnant at the time with the couple’s fourth son, announced their shock split two weeks later.Kyle moved into a rented mansion close to their Cheshire home and in an exclusive interview with The Sun spoke of his shame.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe admitted: “What I’ve done is horrible and I take full responsibility.”I made idiot choices and idiot decisions.”Annie gave birth to their fourth son Rezon in April with Kyle at her bedside. More

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      Premier League LIVE SCORES: 10-man Liverpool TRAILING to Fulham, Newcastle thrashing Leicester – latest

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      MATCHWEEK 16 of the Premier League promises to be a blockbuster – with some huge games taking place RIGHT NOW!League leaders Liverpool are currently trailing to Fulham, and are now down to 10 men after Andy Robertson’s red card.Elsewhere, Newcastle are hosting Leicester, who are unbeaten under new boss Ruud van Nistelrooy.Plus, SunSport will bring you all the goals from the remaining three games taking place on Saturday.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Goal – Alexander Isak (Newcastle)Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Leicester47. The Magpies make the perfect start to the second-half.As a free kick is worked into the box, Hall heads it across goal for Guimaraes to head home from close range.This would seem like game, set and match at St James’ Park.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Ken Lawrence on Anfield matchAnother Nottingham Forest moment could well be happening for Arne Slot.His only defeat since replacing Jurgen Klopp was early in the season against them at Anfield.Nobody saw that 1 – 0 loss coming, far less that Fulham might have a chance of coming up with another shock result against the Dutchmen’s ten men following Andy Robertson’s 17th minute straight red.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Graham Hill at MolineuxIpswich have the upper hand thanks to a farcical Matt Doherty own goal, but while Wolves are still in it and have created openings, they will have to up their game in the second half. Wolves fans were patient before the break, but there were loud boos at half-time.Meanwhile, the TV cameras have highlighted the fact that Wolves have Led Zeppelin legend Robert Plant in their directors’ box – with Ipswich’s Ed Sheeran here today. Ipswich may be leading, but there’s only one winner in the music stakes.Copy linkCopiedHT: Wolves 0-1 Ipswich TownKieran McKenna’s side have seemingly stepped up to the plate so far today in this six-pointer.They have taken the game to the hosts and created the better chances.The next goal will crucial in this one, if the visitors are able to get it, it is hard to see a way back for Wolves.Copy linkCopiedHT: Newcastle 1-0 LeicesterIt has been a solid start by Eddie Howe’s side.Leicester have looked like a rabbit in the car headlights for the majority of the first-half.The Magpies are dominating and should be leading by more.Copy linkCopiedHT: Liverpool 0-1 FulhamIt has all gone pear-shaped for the league leaders at the moment.Fulham took the lead before the hosts then had a player sent-off.It seems like a big struggle for Arne Slot’s side to come from behind to win this game with the visitors having a man advantage.Copy linkCopiedHT: Arsenal 0-0 EvertonIt all going according to plan for Sean Dyche right now.He will be more than happy to go in at the break with their clean sheet intact. Arsenal need to get their shooting boots on, despite all their possession, they are not working Pickford enough in the Everton goal.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at The EmiratesJordan Pickford and James Tarkowski really are in a “none shall pass” mood. A personal highlight of a goalless half was Myles Lewis-Skelly dropping the ball on his own head and then trying again, but having a foul throw awarded against him. Not enough foul throws are given these days, especially in European competition. The atmosphere at the Emirates is curiously flat. Arsenal should be one or two up but aren’t turning domination into goals. Yet. Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse at St James’ ParkIt should really be game over here in Newcastle, who lead by just one goal at the break.But Alexander Isak wasted a great opportunity to double that advantage when he was sent through, but the usually lethal Swede shot straight at the goalie.And even though Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Foxes have barely mounted an attack, they are still firmly in this one ahead of the second period.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 1-0 Leicester43. Van Nistelrooy needs to find a ‘plan B’ in this one.His team are not even at the races at St James’ Park.It is all one-way traffic and only baffling thing is how The Magpies have only scored one goal so far.Pope could go and do his Christmas shopping this afternoon and not be missed as it stands.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Everton38. Arsenal are dominating the game at The Emirates.With in excess of 70% possession, they are just struggling to find the target to work Pickford.It is one of those games where you constantly think the goal is coming from the hosts, but we are still waiting.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-1 Fulham37. The Reds are struggling with ten men at Anfield.To their credit, Fulham are playing well and taking the game to the hosts.As it stands, it is hard to see a way back into this game for Arne Slot’s side with the sending off.That could all change.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 1-0 Leicester30. Anthony Gordon provides the assist as The Magpies take the lead.His ball into the box finds Murphy, who sweeps the ball into the bottom corner of the goal.St James’ Park erupts as it hits the back of the net.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Jacob Murphy (Newcastle)Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Ken Lawrence on match at AnfieldIt also denied the Fulham attacker and obvious scoring opportunity.A bad, bad day for the Scotland captain for while Andreas Pereira did connect acrobatically to score in the 11th minute the ball deflected off the right back to leave Alisson with no chance.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Graham Hill at MolineuxThings are going from bad to worse for Wolves – with a comedic own goal giving Ipswich a 15th minute lead.Liam Delap got the better of new skipper Nelson Semedo. Keeper Sam Johnstone pushed the ball out to Omari Hutchinson whose shot is blocked by Matt Doherty on the line – before Conor Chaplin’s shot hit Toti and bounced in off Doherty.Cue abusive chants from the fans – but aimed at chairman Jeff Shi. Jean Bellegarde then blazed over when presented with a clear chance to equalise.Copy linkCopiedWolves 0-1 Ipswich Town25. There will be massive pressure on Gary O’Neil here now.Ipswich have come to Molineux to go for Wolves today, that is for sure.They are looking creative and testing the hosts’ keeper regularly.The fans are getting disgrutled and are not happy with what they are seeing from the home side.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at The EmiratesThe second enjoyable contest so far was between the fans. The home crowd told Jordan Pickford he was “just a s**t Aaron Ramsdale” and the travelling Blues responded by reminding everyone that their man is “England’s No 1”.Even better is the way Everton boss Sean Dyche keeps moaning to the fourth official and nearside assistant referee about the decisions that keep going against his side. The Arsenal fans take every chance to mock his gesticulations and rants. The news from Anfield must have filtered through and it feels like an Arsenal goal is coming. Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 0-0 Leicester20. It is all Newcastle at St James’ Park so far.The Foxes have yet to register a shot on or off target.The Magpies are keeping Hermansen very busy in these early stages.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-1 Fulham20. It is adjudged Wilson was onside and Robertson is given his marching orders.Liverpool are a goal down and also reduced to ten men.The former Liverpool youngster almost scores with the resulting free-kick.This is a massive uphill struggle at Anfield.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-1 Fulham15. It is all going an Anfield.The referee has sent Andrew Robertson off for a foul on the edge of the box, being the last man.He allowed play to continue and Jimenez chipped over Alisson, only for van Dijk to clear off the line.He brought it back for the foul and showed the Liverpool man red.However, VAR is now reviewing it as Harry Wilson may have been offside in the build-up.Copy linkCopiedRed card – Andrew Robertson (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedWolves 0-1 Ipswich Town10. Drama at Molineux.Of all the times to get an own goal, this was not it for Wolves’ Matt Doherty.The Tractor Boys take an early lead here.Copy linkCopied More

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      Fuming Ukrainian FA blast Fifa over ‘unacceptable error’ during World Cup 2026 qualifying draw

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      THE Ukrainian FA sent a furious letter to Fifa and Uefa complaining about an “unacceptable error” during the World Cup qualifying draw. Ukraine learnt who they will face to try and book their spot at the 2026 tournament in North America. Ukraine hit out at Fifa and Uefa following an ‘unacceptable error’Credit: ReutersThe World Cup qualifying draw map excluded Crimea from UkraineCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCHowever, the country was left apoplectic following a map graphic depicting countries which could not cross borders to face each other – such as Ukraine and Belarus, Spain and Gibraltar and Kosovo versus either Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia.On it, though, the shaded Ukrainian region excluded the territory of Crimea.The peninsula in the Black Sea – officially the Autonomous Republic of Crimea – is classed as an administrative division of Ukraine after previously being annexed by Russia in 2014.Russia occupy the territory and have several military air bases stationed there during the war between the two nations, which has now claimed the lives or injured a million people since Vladimir Putin ordered the illegal invasion in February 2022. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUkraine, though, continue to view the region as part of their country so they were understandably indignant following Friday’s draw.And the Ukrainian Association of Football wrote to Fifa Secretary General Matthias Grafstrom and Uefa Secretary General Theodore Theodoridis to express their anger. The raging letter said: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024. “The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.Most read in Football”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable. “It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion ok his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukranian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time.SunSport has contacted Fifa for comment.  Ukraine were pitted in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and the winners of the two-legged France vs Croatia Nations League quarter-final.Thomas Tuchel’s England, meanwhile, got Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra in a five-team Group K. World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar More

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      Former Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer watches on at struggling Premier League club amid talks of managerial return

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER is in attendance at Molineux as Wolves take on Ipswich this afternoon.The former Manchester United boss, 51, has been out of work since being sacked by the Red Devils in 2021.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been spotted at Molineux this afternoonCredit: PAHe has since turned down several opportunities to return to the dugout.Solskjaer snubbed the Denmark national team job.While he recently turned down a third stint at Norwegian side Molde following talks.The former striker is in the stands for today’s game between Wolves and Ipswich Town.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAhead of the game, he caught up with old pal Kieran McKenna.The Tractor Boys boss, 38, was part of Solskjaer’s coaching staff at Old Trafford.After briefly remaining at United under Ralf Rangnick, McKenna departed in December 2021 to take over at Ipswich.He has since guided the Tractor Boys from League One to the Premier League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSolskjaer, 51, caught up with Kieran McKenna ahead of the gameCredit: GettyThe Norwegian also chatted with Shaun DerryCredit: PAIn addition to McKenna, Solskjaer also chatted with Wolves first-team coach Shaun Derry.Molineux boss Gary O’Neil has been under intense pressure in recent weeks.Gary O’Neil confirms Nelson Semedo will replace Mario Lemina as Wolves captain Wolves go into today’s match 19th in the Premier League, having won just twice in 15 games.Last time out they were beaten 2-1 by West Ham, while in their previous game Wolves were whacked 4-0 at Everton.Following the Hammers defeat, Wolves’ hierarchy continued to back their boss.Yesterday O’Neil announced that he’d stripped Mario Lemina of the club captaincy, with Nelson Semedo now taking on the armband.Under-fire O’Neil arrived at today’s gameCredit: Getty More

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      Ben Godrey willing to give up winning Serie A for Premier League return as two clubs lead transfer chase

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      BEN GODFREY is willing to give up winning Serie A for a return to the Premier League.The 26-year-old joined Italian table-toppers Atalanta from Everton in a £10million deal last summer.Ben Godfrey is keen on a move back to EnglandCredit: GettyBut Wolves and Nottingham Forest are leading the chase in bringing versatile defender Godfrey back to England.Godfrey has made just four appearances for last season’s Europa League winners Atalanta since the move to Italy.In his four games, only one came in Serie A, which came as a substitute in the 4-0 over Lecce in August.But the two-cap England ace has had to wait for minutes in Gian Piero Gasperini’s side because of the Italian club’s shock success in Serie A.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGodfrey’s last appearance came in the 6-1 Champions League away victory over Young Boys last month.Atalanta currently have a two-point lead at the top and play Cagliari on Saturday afternoon while second-placed Napoli travel to Udinese.But SunSport understands Godfrey would be prepared to play football rather than sit on the bench and potentially collect a medal next May.Atalanta will also have to deal with the likes of Inter Milan and Fiorentina, who are hot on their heels.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBoth teams are three points behind the Bergamo side with a game in hand.Back in September, it was claimed that Godrey had been “struggling” to adapt to Gian Piero Gasperini’s system.Ruben Amorim introduces rarely-seen pre-match training tactic ahead of 4-0 thrashing of Everton Godrey came through the youth academy at York City before hearing a move to Norwich City in 2016.He spent four years at Carrow Road and helped the club back into the Premier League in 2019.However, after suffering relegation in 2020, he remained in the top-flight after sealing a transfer to Everton for a potential £25m fee.Godrey went on to make 93 appearances for the Toffees before leaving the club for Italy.Who are these famous footballers? More