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      Man Utd ratings: Mount best of a bad bunch with first goal in 400 days but Red Devils youngsters struggle vs Brentford

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      MANCHESTER UNITED players were outclassed as they were beaten by Brentford.Despite taking an early lead, a much-changed Red Devils team were overpowered by the London side.Manchester United were beaten by BrentfordCredit: AFPThe team featured many fringe playersCredit: GettyRuben Amorim made wholesale changes ahead of the Europa League semi-finalCredit: PAMan United fielded a weak-looking side as manager Ruben Amorim rang the changes.It was also the club’s youngest ever starting XI in the Premier League, including Chido Obi.But it was not enough to deal with Brentford as they succumbed to a 4-3 defeat that was only made more palatable after late goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo.SunSport’s Conor Jones has given his ratings for the Man United players…READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAltay Bayindir – 4Altay Bayindir did not cover himself in glory against BrentfordCredit: GettyThe Turkish keeper put in an unconvincing display and Manchester United’s goalkeeper issue remains unsolved.He wasn’t entirely at fault for Mikkel Damsgaard’s equaliser, as the ball crept in after an unfortunate deflection off captain Luke Shaw, but very nearly got a hand to it. He did manage a solid stop to deny Kevin Schade and blocked a near post flick from Norgaard but conceding four is a terrible day out no matter the circumstances. CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTyler Fredricson – 4Tyler Fredricson could not deal with Kevin SchadeCredit: GettyThe young defender relentlessly tracked Schade’s runs on the right but couldn’t prevent the German from rising to score the home side’s second. Most read in FootballLiam Delap tipped to snub Man Utd and Chelsea for EVERTON transfer after fans spot gesture following match vs ToffeesSchade became increasingly dangerous throughout the game and managed to lose Fredricson again to score the third goal. While he clearly has potential, Fredricson has a long way to go before he becomes a Premier League level defender. Matthijs de Ligt – 5Matthijs de Ligt went off injuredCredit: AFPThe Dutchman started well, making a number of important clearances to stop the ball entering the danger area until he was forced off after a challenge with Yoane Wissa.The Bees went on to score their second whilst De Ligt was down making for a disappointing run out, even if it did only last half an hour.For Amorim, this will cause a huge headache with a Europa League semi-final on Thursday marking his side’s biggest game of the season and only real lifeline. Luke Shaw – 5Luke Shaw was unfortunate to score an own goalCredit: AFPShaw returned to the Manchester United eleven to bring experience and composure amidst a sea of academy talent joining the lineup.The Englishman had a shaky start to say the least, nearly heading into his own net in the third minute as he tried to nod back to Bayindir.Defensively, United’s day went from bad to worse with the first two goals both resulting from set pieces and the English defender was pulled off at half time. Patrick Dorgu – 4Patrick Dorgu struggled to make an impactCredit: GettyThe Danish wing-back had a quiet first half, not finding much joy down the right and failed to prevent Kevin Schade from scoring with his back-post header to make it 2-1.When United struggle to create anything going forwards the wing back needs to offer more.The Dane was replaced at half time by Amad, wrapping up a disappointing display.Manuel Ugarte – 5Manuel Ugarte was outmuscled by Brentford’s midfieldCredit: GettyThe midfielder was tenacious and sat deep to sweep up behind Mainoo, allowing his younger counterpart more freedom to progress in the double pivot. However, loose passes let the Uruguayan down and the pivot struggled to match up to the Bees’ midfield trio. After Christian Eriksen’s introduction, Ugarte dropped further back and looked more comfortable, making a couple of important challenges. Kobbie Mainoo – 5Kobbie Mainoo tried his best to force his way into the Europa League teamCredit: PAThe midfielder is desperately trying to make a case for himself ahead of the Red Devils’ Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Club.Linking up well with Garnacho after a sliced clearance from Flekken, the youngster set his winger free and kickstarted the move for Mason Mount’s opener – not a bad start.However, the young midfielder failed to create much else and Eriksen’s introduction felt necessary.Harry Amass – 4Harry Amass had a tough task against Byran MbeumoCredit: GettyAmass’ return to the first team was destined to be a challenging afternoon facing up against Bryan Mbeumo and Michael Kayode.Sadly, the academy star looked out of his depth against one of the Premier League’s strongest wingers and struggled to contain their attacks or offer anything going forwards.An opportunity came in the second half as he brought down a cross in Brentford’s area but the finish left a lot to be desired and sailed into the stands. Mason Mount – 6Mason Mount did put Man United ahead in the matchCredit: PAMount managed a goal on his return to Ruben Amorim’s starting lineup despite his side’s poor performance, ending a painstaking 400-day drought.A fantastic run and finish from the Englishman saw him score his second goal for Manchester United, the first also coming against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium just over a year ago.Mount should have had an assist after crossing to Garnacho at the end of the first half but his colleague could only produce a horrendous miss.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Alejandro Garnacho netted a stunning goalCredit: AFPThe winger provided a quality assist for Mason Mount’s opener, latching on to a loose slice from Flekken and neatly playing off of Mainoo before setting off down the left and releasing a deadly ball into the penalty area.Garnacho’s goal was a wonderful strike, but only acted as a consolation to round off a sad display in West London.Unfortunately, a number of loose passes and a huge missed chance to equalise before half time tainted the young attacker’s performance. Chido Obi – 4Chido Obi became the youngest ever starter for Man UnitedCredit: GettyChido Obi became the youngest player to start a Premier League match for Manchester United, aged just 17 years 156 days. While his appearance was record breaking, Obi failed to move mountains and led a limp Manchester United frontline which managed just one shot in the first half. Acting as a target man for the Red Devils’ deep lying defensive line, Obi struggled to hold up play or bring his wide players into the game.Subs: Harry Maguire – 4A reluctant introduction from Amorim who clearly wanted to rest the centre half for Thursday. Maguire came on and played fairly well, cutting out an important counter-attack early in the second half.However, Brentford still found their way through the Red Devils’ back line far too easily. Amad Diallo – 5Much like his predecessor, Amad struggled to create on the right hand side and, after being brought on to bring some life to the United attacking line, disappointed. He managed a good goal in added time as Flekken poorly allowed the ball to fly between his legs but will need to provide a lot more on Thursday if Manchester United are hoping to reach the Europa League final.Too little too late from the Ivorian winger.Leny Yoro – 4Came on to join Maguire and bring some much-needed experience to the third youngest starting eleven in Premier League history. Yet, their introduction didn’t stop Brentford easily creating chances and putting the game to bed with Schade and Wissa scoring.Christian Eriksen – 5The Dane came on to bring some experience into the midfield and push further forwards alongside Mainoo. Read More on The SunEriksen instantly tried to unleash Garnacho with a first-time ball over the back line and put a dangerous cross into the area later on.Still, the substitutions didn’t have enough to turn the game around. Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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      Brighton 1 Newcastle 1: Late Isak penalty earns Toon point in Champions League race after Minteh haunts old club

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      HOW ironic it would be if a player Newcastle had to sell to satisfy the bean-counters ended up costing them the riches of the Champions League.Yankuba Minteh was one of two fall-guys, along with Geordie boy Elliot Anderson, who were flogged in the summer to comply with profit and sustainability rules.Brighton Yankuba Minteh returned to haunt his old clubCredit: PABut a late Alexander Isak goal earned a huge point for Toon in their Champions League raceCredit: ReutersIt was the Gambian’s early strike that dented the Toon’s top-five charge here.Though Alexander Isak’s late penalty, after the Toon had two overturned by VAR, prevented the damage from being too severe.Minteh, 20, flew South to Brighton having never actually played in the black-and-white.Eddie Howe did not want to lose the winger or Anderson, 22, who has become the beating heart of Nottingham Forest’s unexpected push to be in Europe’s elite club competition.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut his hand was forced by the financial strait-jacket that PSR has become to the Toon in spite of their Saudi wealth.And Minteh showed exactly why here with his opener just before the half-hour.The youngster seemed to revel in it too, almost baiting the away fans by waving his finger at them and pointing to the turf as if to say, ‘This is my home now’.It was in stark contrast to his decision not to celebrate at all after netting the leveller in Albion’s FA Cup triumph at St James’ Park in March.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKSupporters were left wondering why the attitude shift.But all Howe would have been worrying about was how much it would impact his side’s ambitions, which were boosted by Isak’s last-gasp spot-kick.‘Raiders of The Selhurst Park’ – Bidding war for Geuhi and Eze imminient?The Magpies remain in the boxseat but face a tricky run-in with Chelsea and Everton at home to go, plus a trip to the Emirates in between.Trying to work out the complex permutations for who exactly can qualify for Europe would give Professor Brian Cox a headache. It could be up to TEN sides – albeit a few unlikely scenarios would have to occur to make that happen.Safe to say both Brighton and Newcastle, who already have a Europa Conference League place in the bag from the EFL Cup triumph, are right in the mix.The visitors only had to look at their dreadful, winless record at the Amex to know how tough this game would be.Albion may have conceded 15 in their last six league games, but they have not lost to Newcastle in any of their seven Prem home games against them.Minteh was put up against Dan Burn – who made the opposite move to the jet-heeled winger when leaving Brighton to kickstart Howe’s revolution in 2022 – from the off.But the youngster’s game looked like it might be up after only five minutes when he went down clutching his knee and requiring treatment.Fortunately he was able to carry on, and was later incensed when no foul, let alone a yellow card, was given after Burn looked to have cleaned him out.Whether that got Minteh’s blood up that led to his fiery reaction to his goal, or the fact that a foul WAS given against him for a challenge on Tino Livramento soon after, is unclear.But after Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock had wasted half-chances for the visitors, Minteh suddenly found himself with space in the box.He evaded Livramento and Sandro Tonali before firing a shot, which whipped up off Burn, and flew into the corner.It prompted his curious celebration in front of the away fans and eventually team-mate Mats Wieffer had to drag Minteh away.Dutchman Wieffer looked momentarily in trouble early into the second half after catching Tonali when already on a yellow, but ref Craig Pawson rightly showed leniency.Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler sensibly subbed him off straight after for Tariq Lamptey, minutes before Anthony Gordon came on for Newcastle.Within seconds of the England man’s introduction, the first of two penalties that were later overturned was given when Lamptey tripped Gordon.Yet VAR showed the initial contact came just outside the box and Pawson altered his decision to a free-kick.With 20 minutes to go, Pawson again pointed to the spot when Joe Willock went down under Jan Paul van Hecke’s challenge.But once again Pawson changed his mind after consulting the pitchside monitor and booked Willock for a dive.Brighton could have had a spot-kick of their own when Tonali looked to catch Matt O’Riley, but nothing was given.With four minutes to go, Newcastle finally had a penalty that would stand after Fabian Schar’s belting free-kick hit the outstretched hand of sub Yasin Ayari.Read More on The SunThere was a lengthy VAR check despite this one being a stonewaller, and eventually Isak was allowed to do the business from 12 yards.Nine minutes of injury-time followed, during which sub Diego Gomez missed a sitter of a header with his first touch, as Howe was left wondering if his old player may end up costing his side a Mint. More

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      Brentford 4 Man Utd 3: Red Devils’ youngest ever Prem side battered by Bees despite late comeback in seven-goal thriller

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      RUBEN AMORIM rewrote the history books by playing the kids.Yet unfortunately for the United manager, he is also breaking records for all the wrong reasons and in the club’s worst ever Premier League season, here was defeat no 16.Man Utd’s youngest-ever side was well beaten 4-3 by BrentfordCredit: AFPThe Bees ran riot in west London on SundayCredit: ReutersUnited were brought back down to earth after their Europa League heroicsCredit: RexThe Red Devils’ dismal domestic campaign shows no signs of letting upCredit: AFPAfter Mason Mount scored for only the second time since joining United, Luke Shaw scored an own goal, Kevin Schade grabbed two and Yoane Wissa added the fourth for Brentford. Alejandro Garnacho and sub Amad Diallo scored late goals but there was no stopping United collapsing to their 16 Premier League loss, a club record. Incredibly, Amorim is still stuck on just six top-flight wins.In most other seasons, United would be in a relegation fight so they are lucky the bottom three teams are so rubbish.At least the club’s fans have a Europa League final to look forward to as surely they cannot mess up their semi-final second leg against Bilbao.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith one eye on Thursday’s game, Amorim made eight changes from the win in Spain. With an average age of 22 years and 270 days, this was the third youngest team to start a Premier League game. And at 17 years and 156 days,  striker Chido Obi became United’s youngest Premier League starter.But Brentford, an outstanding, intelligent and physically imposing team, were the last team any manager should play the kids against.After another impressive season, it remains a mystery why so-called bigger clubs are not going for manager Thomas Frank.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSMaybe, United should not have been so snobby and moved for the Danish coach when Erik ten Hag was sacked in October.A Europa League success would be a big triumph for United and hand them a passport back to the Champions League.’How can you sell him?’ Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasts Man Utd for Scott McTominay’s transfer to NapoliBut aside from the cash which United would earn, it is debatable whether the club would really want to play in the Champions League as this current squad could end up getting humiliated.But on a lousy day for Amorim, he also suffered an injury blow with Matthijs de Ligt going off with an injury after the second goal.Luke Shaw, given the captain’s armband, nearly suffered one of the most embarrassing moments of his career in what would have been a spectacular own goal but there was lots of spin on the ball and his header went wide.A relieved Shaw allowed himself a brief smile although that was nothing compared to the grin on the face of team-mate Mount a few minutes later. Mason Mount opened the scoring after 14 minutesCredit: GettyLuke Shaw got Brentford back into it with an own goal soon afterCredit: AFPGarnacho was at the heart of the move down the left and his low cross was superbly dispatched into the corner by Mount whose only other United goal came at the same stadium 13 months ago.This was Mount’s first start since the Manchester derby in December and it is an understatement to say his United career has been stop-start.In the crowd was England manager Thomas Tuchel although considering Mount has not played for his country since the World Cup quarter-final defeat to France in 2022, he will not yet be thinking about a Three Lions return quite yet.While Shaw got lucky earlier, he was not quite so fortunate as Brentford scored the goal they had been threatening.Kevin Schade then ran riot with two goals, one in the 33rd minute and the other in the 70thCredit: ReutersYoanne Wissa compounded United’s misery with a 74th minute effortCredit: PAUnited failed to clear a long throw from Michael Kayode, the Brentford defender raced into the area, beat Harry Amass to a header and Mikkel Damsgaard’s strike took a heavy deflection of Shaw past a wrong-footed Bayindir.Every time Brentford booted the ball into the air they looked like scoring and their second was down to more weak defending. De Ligt was on the floor after suffering the injury in a challenge with Wissa but the referee was never going to stop play as it was not a head injury.United failed to deal with Christian Norgaard’s cross with Schade getting between Patrick Dorgu and Tyler Fredricson to plant a header past Bayindir.Alejandro Garnacho gave United a glimmer of hope with a wonder strikeCredit: GettyAmad Diallo then came off the bench for United’s third but it was too little, too lateCredit: AFPLeny Yoro and Amad Diallo replaced Shaw and Dorgu at half-time while there was a mixture of jeers and applause when Christian Eriksen – who played for Brentford in 2022 – replaced Mount just before the hour.Although Odi did not see too much of the ball, he had a terrific chance to score on his big day but was denied by a stunning block by Norgaard.Amass, suffered a torrid day at the back, wasted a good chance and soon after, Schade put the game out of United’s reach with a far post header from Bryan Mbeumo’s cross.Schade was given a standing ovation when he was replaced but the goals kept on coming with Mbeumo squaring for Wissa who had a tap in.Read More on The SunGarnacho scored a decent goal from outside the area and in the fifth minute of injury time, Diallo fired a shot through the legs of home keeper Mark Flekken.While the scoreline made the game look close it was anything but. 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      West Ham 1 Tottenham 1: Bowen cancels out Odobert’s opener as lacklustre draw leaves both London rivals in bottom five

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      WEST HAM’S season has fallen so flat they cannot even get up for the visit of their biggest rival.The Hammers and a much-changed Tottenham played out one of the feeblest London derbies in living memory.Jarrod Bowen equalised for West Ham against TottenhamCredit: ReutersThe Hammers captain kissed the badge in celebrationCredit: ReutersThere was no spark, no fight and not even a full-house in the stands.Graham Potter’s side have nothing to play for, but the fact he cannot get them going for this game – especially after a run of seven without a win beforehand – is cause for concern.Ange Postecoglou, on the other hand, will be glad to have avoided a record 20th defeat of the season and safely navigated their way past an awkward game between two European semi-finals.The Aussie made eight changes from Thursday night’s win and would have just wanted the afternoon to pass without incident.And beyond Jarrod Bowen, whose goal cancelled out Wilson Odobert’s opener, West Ham did nothing to trouble their rivals.Potter had irked some home fans by wishing Spurs well in Europe ahead of this game and at times his players rolled out the red carpet for them.For a sense of the apathy which has engulfed West Ham this season, you only needed to look in the stands here.Tottenham at home is traditionally the biggest game of the year at the London Stadium – but there were empty seats everywhere you looked.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt made for another flat atmosphere early on, only livened up by the boos which followed Tottenham’s comical goal.Max Kilman, a £40million signing last summer, twice tried to clear the ball but kicked it straight at Mathys Tel – allowing the Frenchman to square for Odobert to score his first Premier League goal for Spurs.’Give Fullkrug the manager’s job’ – West Ham star launches expletive-laden rant at team-mates for ‘not playing football’There was little in the way of quality on display from either side, though the one person who has been reliable for West Ham this season stood up again.Bowen has been the Hammers’ only effective player for the majority of the season and applied another cool finish to make the most of some sloppy Spurs defending.Mohammed Kudus spread the ball wide to Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Allowed to move forwards, the right-back picked out Bowen’s run – something no Spurs defender had managed – allowing the England man to square up Gugilelmo Vicario and roll it through his legs.It offered West Ham a reminder that Tottenham have been almost as soft a touch as themselves all season.But for the most part, the Hammers were too disjointed to make chances count, and were keen on handing out encouragement at the other end too.Jean-Clair Todibo took a swing and a miss at a clearance while Lucas Paqueta rolled a simple pass straight to Richarlison, starting a move which almost led to a second for Spurs.Paqueta and Kudus both looked ineffective, as did Niclas Fullkrug – back in the side for the first time since calling his side “s***” last month.The hard work for West Ham was being done by Bowen and Wan-Bissaka, trying to force space down the right.Though that left gaps, one of which Tel slipped into and drew a save from Alphonse Areola at the near post.Bowen was trying to push his side ahead, flashing a volley wide of the far post, but too often being undermined by his team-mates.Paqueta, for a second time, played a simple pass straight to a white shirt which resulted in Aaron Cresswell having to hook behind for a corner.The Brazilian was having a terrible day, and even started crying after being shown a yellow card for a clear foul on Spurs sub Mikey Moore.It was another drab day in a poor season for the midfielder, who is still playing under the cloud of an FA investigation into spot-fixing allegations.Potter made sweeping changes but saw no benefit, while Spurs were simply ticking over now – Pape Sarr having a go from range and just putting one over.West Ham had no energy or inspiration, Tottenham were happy to save theirs for Thursday.It was still only Bowen refusing to accept the point for the hosts and the skipper saw a stooping header well saved by Vicario.James Ward-Prowse had swung in a dangerous free-kick to set up that chance up and also whistled an effort just wide of the post from a dead ball in the dying minutes.Read More on The SunPotter has warned that he is ready to make huge changes to the squad this summer.It would be hard to argue against selling everyone but Bowen on the evidence of games like this.Wilson Odobert opened the scoring on 15 minutesCredit: ReutersIt was the Frenchman’s first Premier League goal for TottenhamCredit: ReutersJames Ward-Prowse went close with a free-kick late onCredit: ReutersLucas Paqueta endured a nightmare afternoonCredit: GettyGraham Potter and Ange Postecoglou have both endured tricky times of lateCredit: Rex More

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      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reveals just THREE Man Utd players have spoken to him since he was sacked

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has revealed that only three of his former Manchester United players have spoken to him since his sacking.The Red Devils icon took charge as manager in 2018, initially on a caretaker contract before he was given the job full-time.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed only three of his old Man Utd squad have spoken to him since he leftCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCSportHe said one of them was his captain Harry MaguireCredit: Marc Aspland – The TimesHe also said Bruno Fernandes had got in touchCredit: AFPSolskjaer called the pair ‘top human beings’Credit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCSportThe Norwegian then remained in charge of the team until November 2021, with a dramatic dip in performances after two years of finishing in the top four.The 52-year-old spent years away from the dugout before landing a managerial gig in Turkey with Besiktas in January.However, in a recent BBC interview, he has revealed that only three of his former players have spoken to him since his Man Utd sacking.Solskjaer started with his appointed captain Harry Maguire, who he called a “leader” and a “fighter”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe second star he was highlighted was his star signing and current club captain, Bruno Fernandes, before he finally referenced Victor Lindelof.He said: “For me, Harry [Maguire] has always been a leader and a fighter. “I was never in doubt when I signed him and he walked in the door he would be captain for us.”There is another captain there in Bruno [Fernandes]. The two of them are top human beings. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”I was so happy for them last night [Europa League semi-final first leg].“Those two and Victor [Lindelof] are probably the only ones I have heard from in the club since I left. ‘How can you sell him?’ Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasts Man Utd for Scott McTominay’s transfer to Napoli”You want the best for them.”In the interview, Solskjaer also slammed the decision by the club to sell Scott McTominay to Napoli.He also named Victor Lindelof as a third star who had reached outCredit: ReutersJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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      Harry Kane given special dispensation to break little-known Bundesliga rule – but it backfires spectacularly

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      HARRY KANE was given special dispensation to break a little-known Bundesliga rule. But it spectacularly backfired in a cruel twist of fate.Suspended Harry Kane had to watch Bayern Munich from the stands on SaturdayCredit: GettyHe went down to be pitchside for the end of the game – but RB Leipzig equalisedCredit: APBayern Munich looked set to clinch the Bundesliga title on Saturday.A win over RB Leipzig would have been enough and see Kane win the very first major trophy of his career. The England captain, though, was suspended for accumulating too many yellow cards. That meant he had to sit in the stands to watch the match and hope his team-mates could get the job done. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd Bundesliga legislation states that suspended players are not allowed on the pitch from 30 minutes before kick-off until 30 minutes after the full-time whistle. However, according to Bild, league officials gave Kane permission to take to the field at the end of the game.The idea being that he could join in the title celebrations with his team-mates.But it did not go according to plan for Kane.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe watched on helpless as RB Leipzig took a 2-0 lead at half-time.Ex-Premier League trio Eric Dier, Michael Olise and Leroy Sane turned it around in the second half, though, to put Bayern 3-2 ahead and on the cusp of the title.I tried Harry Kane’s knobbly sticks after England star did a Gary Lineker by releasing snack brand – here’s my verdictSo much so that Kane headed down to be pitchside for the full-time whistle when their status as champions would be confirmed.But in the fourth minute of injury time, Yussuf Poulsen struck a dramatic equaliser for Leipzig.And that left Bayern nine points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, who have three games left and a 30-goal inferior goal difference. So although it is all but a done deal, Bayern are technically not champions just yet, leaving Kane to wait a little longer. Bayer take on Freiburg on Sunday and know failure to pick up all three points would officially hand Bayern the title. Should Leverkusen do their part, Kane and Bayern know they can get over the line by avoiding defeat at home to Borussia Monchengladbach next Saturday. Kane – who was denied a first trophy last season when Leverkusen stopped Bayern’s ten-year Bundesliga monopoly – has scored 24 league goals this term. But it was his fifth yellow card of the campaign that ruled him out at Leipzig, getting booked for preventing Mainz from taking a quick free-kick.The seething striker said: “First of all, it’s an insane decision. It’s never a yellow card.”Unfortunately, sometimes people come to the Allianz Arena and try to make a name for themselves.”That’s why I’m really disappointed that I got the yellow card, because of course I knew I already had four.”And secondly, I think the rule is crazy anyway. Five yellow cards in 34 games means a suspension. That’s crazy.Read More on The Sun”Crazy, crazy decision. It’s kind of my story that I’ll miss the Leipzig game. But no worries, I’ll celebrate more than anyone else.”But those celebrations will just have to wait that little bit longer for Kane. Kane’s wait to clinch his first major trophy goes onCredit: GettyThe striker was furious to miss the matchCredit: GettySuspended players are usually blocked from going on the pitch before and after the matchCredit: GettyKane was given special dispensation to join his team-matesCredit: Getty More

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      Chelsea vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Premier League updates as Blues look to give top-5 hopes a boost with win over champs

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      CHELSEA welcome Premier League champions Liverpool for a huge clash at Stamford Bridge on Super Sunday.The Reds secured their 20th league title last weekend after Arne Slot’s men thrashed Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield.Liverpool head to the Bridge for their first match since their status as champions has been confirmed.Chelsea are in need of three huge points to give their top-five aspirations a boost as Enzo Maresca looks to lead the Blues back to the Champions League.Kick off time: 4.30pm BSTTV channel: Sky Sports Main EventLive stream: NOWChelsea team: Sanchez; Caicedo, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; JacksonLiverpool: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Elliot, Endo, Jones; Salah, Jota, GakpoCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Chelsea 1-0 Liverpool35. Liverpool win a corner as Trent puts in a hanging cross and Neto has to head it out.Wasn’t really a great corner as it’s dealt with by Chelsea easily.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool30. Few poor corners from Fernandez here as they don’t beat the first man. 31. Madueke’s quick feet are to good for Alexander-Arnold to contain. The ball makes it’s way out to Caicedo on the right hand side of the box where he puts in a loopy cross and it hits the bar!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool29. Liverpool really now starting to dominate the ball but still can’t really create any clear cut chances. Chelsea win the ball back and attempt to counter as Palmer tries to shoot but Quansah does well to catch him and block the cross for a corner. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool24. Caicedo brings down Gakpo in a position where Liverpool can loft the ball in the Chelsea box. Tsimikas puts it in and the ball drops to Van Dijk but it’s all a bit messy in the box and it is cleared. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool22. Nearly chance for Liverpool. Trent fires the ball into Cheslea’s box and it finds Salah but he just can’t control it well enough making the ball go out for a goal kick. An unexpected heavy touch from Salah.Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom SunSport’s Martin LiptonPlenty of baiting by both sets of fans, with the home supporters going back 11 years to Steven Gerrard’s  infamous, title-costing, Anfield slip and the visitors biting back with chants of “champions” as well as questioning Chelsea’s true footballing heritage.Wide open at both ends so far as well.Fernandez’ goal, coolly taken, came after Palmer and Neto unlocked the Liverpool left, but none of the midfielders in red were in the same post code as the Argentine.Further up the same flank, Gakpo has looked too hot for Caicedo.But Alisson would have been sent off for up-ending Jackson outside the box if the Senegalese striker had timed his run better.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool20. Palmer lofts the ball up forward and Jackson nearly finds himself in behind. However, Alisson was alert to the danger and collected the ball.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool16. Chelsea win the ball back instantly. Neto finds himself up 1v1 vs Tsimikas who defends well just using his body and strength. Fans ask for a pen but it is not entertained at all.Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom SunSport’s Martin LiptonBoos all round, then.As soon as the Chelsea players lined up either side of the tunnel, the chorus of disapproval started. And it kept going as the Liverpool players made their way through.Pretty shoddy, that. And might prove a massive mistake – if it provokes Liverpool to go through the gears rather than turn on cruise control.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool15. Sloppy from Trent giving the ball away straight to Palmer.Neto puts the ball in, Fernandez is first to it but the ball really just bounces of the top of his head and over the bar.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool12. Good move from Liverpool here. Liverpool seeing a bit more of the ball now.Van Dijk plays a pass through the middle to Endo who shifts it out wide to Gakpo. He puts in an alright cross but Salah just can’t reach it. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool8. Liverpool’s first chance of the game comes through the left hand side of their attack with Gakpo. His shot is fairly tame as Sanchez clings onto to the ball. 9. Jackson’s looks like he’s before Alisson absolutely wipes him out but the flag is up for offside. Alisson was definitely relieved when he saw that flag go up.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool5. Chelsea really have their tales up now!The blues come steaming forward and Madueke pulls his shot just wide.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool3. WHAT A START FOR THE BLUES!Some brilliant work from Palmer in the middle of the pitch who spins away from his marker and gets it out wide. Neto puts the ball in and Fernandez is there to just slot the ball home in the bottom right corner. Chelsea looking very much up for this!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 0-0 Liverpool1. And we’re off.Quick start from Liverpool as Salah gets in behind Chelsea’s defence and tries to pull it back but Sanchez claws it away.Chelsea will know a win here will be absolutely massive in the fights for top four and it will be interesting to see what kind of performance Liverpool cook up here. Copy linkCopiedMoments away from Kick OffChelsea come out first as they’re getting ready for the champion’s guard of honour. Murmurs of boo’s from the home crowd but the away end are absolutely loving every second of it!The away end bellows ‘CHAMPIONES’ ‘CHAMPIONES’ ‘CHAMPIONES’Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom Martin Lipton pitchside…If Chelsea wanted encouragement in their desperate fight for a top five finish, then a glance at the Liverpool team-sheet would have been as big a boost as Newcastle dropping points at Brighton.No Mac Allister, Gravenberch or Szoboszlai in the champions’ midfield surely represents an opportunity for three crucial points.Blues boss Maresca reverts back to the team that started last week’s win over Everton. A chance for Cole Palmer to end what is now an 18-match goalless streak.But real interest pre-match on how the home fans react to the “Guard of Honour” their team are expected to give Arne Slot’s side.There is no love lost – to put in mildly – between the teams but you do think respectful applause, rather than a fusillade of jeers, might be the smart play. If a tiger is asleep, you don’t want to wake it up…Copy linkCopiedGuard of honourEnzo Maresca has said that Chelsea will give Liverpool a guard of honour today at Stamford Bridge.The Blues boss said: “It’s tradition. We have to do that, and we are going to do that.”They won the Premier League, so they deserve it.”I don’t think we need to give a guard of honour to understand how good it is to win the Premier League – we know that it’s something very nice.”Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedOur teams are here Copy linkCopiedTeam news recapThe Blues remain unchanged from their triumph over Everton last week because Robert Sanchez has recovered enough to start for Chelsea after missing the midweek victory in Djugarden.For Christopher Nkunku, who had a slight injury during training, the game does come too soon with the Frenchmen’s name heavily involved in the transfer mill. From the squad that defeated Spurs 5-1 to win the title last weekend, Liverpool has made six changes. Rotation was promised by Arne Slot, and the Reds head coach has fulfilled it.Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate are replaced at the back by Kostas Tsimikas and Jarrel Quansah. Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones, and Harvey Elliott start in place of the whole midfield.Diogo Jota replaces Luis Diaz as the last substitution as the No.9Copy linkCopiedChelsea vs Liverpool line-ups Chelsea XI: Sanchez; Caicedo, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; JacksonSubs: Jorgensen, Tosin, Badiashile, Acheampong, Gusto, James, Dewsbury-Hall, Sancho, George.Liverpool XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Elliot, Endo, Jones; Salah, Jota, Gakpo.Subs: Kelleher, Konate, Diaz, Szoboszlai, Nunez, Mac Allister, Chiesa, Robertson, BradleyCopy linkCopiedHead2HeadStoried game to say the least. The Blues were edged out 2-1 in the reverse fixture at Anfield in early October. Chelsea 65-46-87 Liverpool. Copy linkCopiedSuper SundayAfternoon and welcome to the headline fixture of this weekend as Champions League-chasing Chelsea take on newly-crowned champions Liverpool at the Bridge. It’s a fixture that, regardless of where the two are, still gets the blood pumping. Even more so, with quite a bit on the line for the hosts. Champions League football has long been in short in West London. Three years out of the competition has sparked frustrations from supporters and has diminished the credibility of the fairly new ownership group. This year has prested the best opportunity, especially given the addition of a fifth place – which the Blues currently occupy. Those worries are no more for Liverpool. Concerns about how Arne Slot would adapt to English football have been answered resoundingly and are firmly back on their perch after last week’s coronation as league champions. 82 points and continuing. It’s just about showing the rest why they are champions.It’s Blue v Red. South v North. Chels v Pool. Kick-off at 4.30pmCopy linkCopied More

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      Brentford planning £25m transfer raid on relegated Leicester for key first team star

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      THOMAS FRANK wants to splash out on Leicester’s £25million-rated keeper Mads Hermansen.The Brentford boss is keen on a move for his fellow Dane, 24, who has been a standout during the Foxes’ disastrous season.Thomas Frank could swoop in for relegated Leicester’s Mads HermansenCredit: AlamyHermansen has only kept one clean sheet in the Premier LeagueDutchman Mark Flekken, 31, is the Bees’ current No 1 but Hermansen could boost Frank’s side.Hermansen has been linked with Champions League clubs but the Bees’ dressing room has a strong Danish feel with internationals Christian Norgaard, Mathias Jensen and Mikkel Damsgaard already there.The keeper has played for Denmark at youth level from under-16s all the way through to under-21s and was called up to the senior squad for their Euro 2024 qualifying matches.More football transfer gossLEEDS are making Marseille centre-half Leonardo Balerdi one of their top targets for the Premier League.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhites scouts went to France to check out the Argentina ace, 26, and an offer is being prepared.Balerdi was at Borussia Dortmund then went to Marseille in 2021 and has been a regular starter since.The French giants will be looking for around £20million for Balerdi but he could fancy a move to the Premier League at this stage of his career.JOHN COLEMAN has made a surprise dugout return with Irish side Waterford.Coleman, 62, has been out of work since leaving League Two Gillingham in March and jumped at the chance of taking charge.The veteran boss is no stranger to working in Ireland – he managed Sligo Rovers in 2014 – but is best known for his two spells at Accrington, where he took charge of more than 1,000 games.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDaniel Bachmann’s Watford future is in doubt.The Austrian keeper, 30, last played for the Hornets on January 4 after he was ruled out with an ankle ligament injury and returned to the bench at the end of March.Egil Selvik has filled in between the sticks and Watford would sell Bachmann, who joined them in the summer of 2017, even though he has three years left on his deal. More