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    Tottenham 0 Crystal Palace 2: Spurs drop to 17th in Premier League table and suffer yet more injury woes

    ANGE POSTECOGLOU’S Tottenham revved up for the Europa League Final in record-breaking fashion – as they crashed to an all-time-low 20th Premier League defeat of the season.In the process, they showed exactly why – whatever happens in that final against Manchester United in Bilbao on May 21 – they will surely not be Postecoglou’s Tottenham next season.Crystal Palace were dominant as they beat London rivals Tottenham 2-0Credit: EPAAnge Postecoglou’s side were dismal and now sit in 17th in the leagueCredit: GettyDejan Kulusevski was taken off injured in the first half, handing a huge blow to Spurs’ Europa League hopes tooCredit: AlamyThis was a truly pitiful performance from Spurs – not so much a case of poor defending but of vast institutional negligence, as Palace ran riot, the scoreline never reflecting their dominance.And an early knee injury to Dejan Kulusevski – one of only three players retained from Thursday’s semi-final victory at Bodo/Glimt – was further cause for misery.An Eberechi Eze double either side of half-time gave Oliver Glasner’s side the perfect pep-up before Saturday’s FA Cup Final against Manchester CityPalace also had two first-half goals ruled out and twice struck the crossbar as they outclassed their hosts, who now sit just one place above the relegation places before they contest what – in terms of league positions – is the worst Europa League Final of all time.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpurs may yet lift their first trophy in 17 years in the Basque country next week – after all, they have defeated United three times this season – but this dog’s breakfast of a league campaign must surely spell the end of their Australian manager’s reign.With those Cup finals on the horizon, it threatened to be a case of players spending 90 minutes trying to avoid injury.Yet Palace were at full pelt in their final run-out before next weekend’s Wembley final.After returning from the semi-final trip to northern Norway at 4.30am on Friday, Postecoglou made eight changes to his starting line-up but this was still a team of experienced pros and the display they bordered on disgraceful.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEbere Eze scored both of Palace’s goalsCredit: GettyThe England star was dominant throughout the clashCredit: GettyDjed Spence – at left-back, according to the teamsheet – gave one of the worst individual performances of the season.Glasner selected his first team, minus the injured Adam Wharton, the Eagles still eyeing a top-half finish.’I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him’ – Ange Postecoglou’s rallying speech reduces Tottenham fans to tearsAnd within nine minutes, Palace thought they had the lead after a sweeping crossfield move – Eze to Jean-Philipe Mateta to a marauding Daniel Munoz on the right.When the full-back centred low to the back stick, Ismaila Sarr darted to the back post for a tap-in.Yet Mateta had been marginally offside in the build-up because his shoulder was leaning across the halfway line – another triumph for VAR.Soon, Tottenham’s back-up keeper Antonin Kinsky almost chucked a weakly-struck Munoz volley into his own net.And then came the moment Postecoglou had been dreading even more than a Palace goal, as Marc Guehi’s challenge sent Kulusevski up into the air, the Swede hurting his right knee as he fell.Kulusevski, who had briefly been acting as a false nine, was replaced by Mikey Moore.And then came one of those familiar passages in a match during which Tottenham simply stopped trying to defend.Kinsky made a point-blank save from Mateta, whose angled pass soon found Munoz for a shot which was drilled against the crossbar.Spurs seemed to have decided that, under no circumstances, would they mark Munoz, who was soon given acres of space for a shot on goal, yet mishit a pass to Mateta instead.Soon after, from a corner, a Chris Richards header was pushed against the bar by Kinsky.Tottenham have now lost 20 Premier League games this seasonCredit: ReutersSpurs chief Daniel Levy must be contemplating Postecoglou’s futureCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe atmosphere was funereal and the defending comedic – but somehow Palace were not in front.Next, Eze had a long-range shot deflected narrowly wide and from the resulting corner, there was another disallowed goal – Maxence Lacroix’s header cannoning in off the out-stretched arm of Guehi.Then, after a lengthy VAR check, an actual goal.Munoz, who must have been feeling as though he was part of a one-man Covid lockdown, careered down the right in blissful isolation once more and centred for Eze to tap home.Yves Bissouma arrived as a half-time sub and was booked within 90 seconds for kicking Will Hughes in the head.And then it was 2-0, Eze locating Sarr who sprinted down the right and cut back a return ball for Eze – unmarked, as you may have guessed – to drill past Kinsky.Mateta then ploughed forward and had a shot saved and from a long throw-in, Kevin Danso almost headed into his own net, Kinsky pushing wide.Then, in a shock twist to a rather repetitive plot, Spurs almost scored – Pedro Porro’s cross to the back post met by a flying header from Pape Matar Sarr, which fell wide.Glasner made a triple substitution, showing mercy to his hosts, who eased up a little while continuing to dominate.Read More on The SunThroughout it all, Postecoglou stood by the edge of his technical area, largely motionless. He will be moving soon enough.Postecoglou could lose his job this summer even if he wins the Europa LeagueCredit: ReutersMORE TO FOLLOW…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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    Barcelona vs Real Madrid LIVE SCORE: Mbappe’s bags a hat-trick as Los Blancos chase equaliser – updates

    BARCELONA host bitter rivals Real Madrid for another edition of the mouthwatering El Clasico – and there has been SIX goals in the opening 35 minutes!Kylian Mbappe converted from the penalty spot before scoring a second to put Los Blancos two up.Ryan Garcia then scored a well-timed header to pull one back for the hosts.And then Lamine Yamal and Raphinha’s quickfire double, has now flipped this match completely on its head.Live stream/TV: Premier Sports 1Barcelona starting XI: Szczesny, Cubarsi, Martinez, Eric, Gerard Martin, De Jong, Pedri, Olmo, Ferran, Yamal, Raphinha.Real Madrid starting XI: Courtois, Lucas, Tchouameni, Asencio, Fran Garcia, Ceballos, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from the El Clasico with our live blog below…Barcelona 4-3 Real Madrid86 – For those wondering, the referee is Alejandro José Hernández Hernández. Only 24 games ever officiated for the 43-year-old – none for Barcelona – and he has handled this game expertly so far.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid83 – A goal-chasing move from The Whites. Young attacker Endrick enters the fray for right-back Lucas Vasquez. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid82 – Penalty denied! A crucial decision in a vert tense situation as the referee maintains his initial decision. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid81 – The referee will head to the video not without contest from each side on and off the pitch. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid79 – CHANCE! Yamal weaves his way past Fran and sparks a shot off Courtois. His ricochet comes towards the path of Ferran, whose shot clips of Tchouameni’s arm resulting in shouts of a potential handball. VAR will check. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid77 – Two changes from the hosts. Olmo, who has struggle to maintain the tempo set by the other forwards, comes off for Fermin. And Garcia makes way for Fort. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid75 – Madrid have their chance at some pressure-induced attacking. The Whites get into the final third with purpose but are unable to craft out a real opportunity of note from Fran’s cross as Barcelona scrap their way out of danger. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid72 – SHOT! Yamal cracks an effort from a good 20 yards out and is denied by the lanky frame of Courtois. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid69 – Three of the best, he’s made em pay as the famous line goes. Mbappé, has had a love-hate relationship with the Barcelona high-line, profits from it for the third time today. Assisted by running mate Vinicius, the forward taps in the squared ball from inches out. This game is not done yet! Copy linkCopiedGOAL – Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid68 – Ferran had seemingly beaten the Madrid line with a big chance on the way. But slipped in the process. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid67 – Ferran, who is deputising for the benched Lewandowski, has operated adeptly as a makeshift No.9. The Spaniard has roamed about with significant interest complementing the dual threats of Yamal and Raphinha. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid64 – Yamal and Olmo combine a quick 1-2 in the right half-space as Barca continue to push Madrid back. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid61 – Balde continues the thrust that Martin provided down the left hand side to the disadvantage of those defending as Vinicius capitalises on the free space.However is unable to get his cross into an open Mbappe as Christensen recovers to block. Chants of “Pedri” ring around the Olympic stadium. He’s been that good and more this season.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid58 – Modric works a ball over the top to Mbappe, who dances his way past the Barca defenders but the move fizzes out. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid56 – Cubarsi goes down with discomfort and is replaced by Christensen. Whilst, Martin is taken off for the returning Balde. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid55 – It teases that Barca defensive line and prompts any attacker to believe they have a chance. Mbappe gets beyond it again and sees his shot crack wide of the far post. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid52 – OFFSIDE! Ferran clips a ball around the corner for Raphinha to latch onto and he does as he glides into the box and plays across for Yamal to tap home but Raphinha’s initial run was too early. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid49 – The first signs of humiliation have come out for Madrid. Asencio, who has been victim to the fluidity of Barca’s attack, comes charging in with one intention on Ferran and nails him to the ground. Moment of nativity and frustration rewarded a yellow. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid48 – A miscommunication from two of Madrid’s attackers. Mbappe and Vinicius get beyond the defensive line and in the way of each other for a ball intended for one.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid46 – Another Madrid offside. As Barcelona’s high-line catches a trailing Valverde. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real MadridAnd we’re back underway. Two substitutions from Madrid as Brahim comes on for Arda Guler and Modric on for Ceballos. Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedThe Madrid hunterSurely a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or? Copy linkCopiedHalf-time reading Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid – HALFTIME Simply enthralling stuff from the grandest fixture of them all. Madrid via Mbappe raced into a two-goal led but their fragilities that sees them trail this tight title race were laid bare by Garcia, Yamal Raphinha and Raphinha again.In his final Classico, Ancelotti has got to pull something out of the bag before this gets truly ugly.Copy linkCopied More

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    Man City ace Phil Foden in shock after brave cousin forced to rescue her three kids from horror house fire

    MANCHESTER City ace Phil Foden has been left shocked after his “sister” and her three young children narrowly escaped a house fire.The England attacking midfielder, 24, was left distraught after his cousin’s house set on fire in the middle of the night.Phil Foden’s cousin narrowly escaped a house fireCredit: GettyCodie Owen is said to be like a ‘sister’ to PhilCredit: FacebookCodie Owen, who Phil classes as his sister after they grew up together, bravely managed to get two of her young children outside the property in Stockport, Gtr Manchester.She then returned into the house to rescue her third child.The fire brigade attended the blaze at the property near Stockport County’s stadium and spent more than two hours putting it out.Codie and her children were all taken to Stepping Hill hospital to be checked for smoke inhalation.Read More in FootballThe fire is believed to have been started by a faulty extractor fan in the upstairs bathroom.A source said: “Phil was really upset when he heard what had happened. “He is really really close to Codie.“They are best pals and spent loads of time together as children. He regards her as a sister and dotes on her children.Most read in Football“He’s now helping her find alternative accommodation as she can’t return to the house for a while due to the smoke damage.”In 2021 Codie posted a touching tribute to Phil on her Facebook page, adding: “We are so proud of you”.How to cure England’s Bellingham, Foden and Palmer headacheAnd in 2018 she posted another Selfie of Phil with her and her son, adding: “Big happy 18th birthday to my rondog.”A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At 1.20am on Friday 2 May, three fire engines attended a house fire in Edgeley, Stockport.”The fire was on the first floor, and crews used two breathing apparatus, one hose reel and a positive pressure ventilation fan to tackle it.“One adult and three children were taken to hospital for precautionary checks.”Crews were in attendance for two hours.”Foden’s agent was approached for comment.Earlier this month, the Prem star was pictured getting kitted out in full Burberry.Foden promoted the designer brand with snaps of himself in jacket, shorts and trainers at one the label’s upmarket shops.Read More on The SunLast month, The Sun revealed Foden went to take his mind off football by going on a fishing trip.The ace held up a beauty caught on a trip with the team from Manchester-based Carp Fever. More

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    Man Utd star Leny Yoro fights back tears and goes straight down tunnel in another injury blow before Europa League final

    MANCHESTER UNITED have suffered a major Europa League final blow as Leny Yoro picked up an injury.The French centre-back covered his face with his shirt and appeared to be holding back tears as he trudged straight down the tunnel during the 2-0 defeat to West Ham today.Leny Yoro appeared to sustain a foot injuryCredit: PAThe centre-back appeared close to tears as he left the fieldThe injury comes just over a week before the Europa League finalCredit: GettyRuben Amorim had his head in his hands when Yoro went downYoro appeared to go down holding his foot, which he broke and needed surgery on earlier this season.He received treatment on the pitch and was immediately subbed off for Harry Maguire after.A physio was seen breaking the news to Amorim that Yoro could not continue and the manager put his head in his hands.Maguire, Alejandro Garnacho and Patrick Dorgu consoled the 19-year-old as he headed to the tunnel.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe injury comes just ten days before Man Utd’s blockbuster Europa League final against Tottenham on May 21.Fans were left devastated, with one saying: “God no please, this is not happening. Yoro injured.”Another added: “End the season now.”More wrote: “Yoro hurting the same foot that he missed three months with earlier in the season is pretty much the worst case scenario from this game.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSA fourth commented: “I actually cba with football if he’s injured.”But it was not just United who suffered an injury blow ahead of the final as Spurs star Dejan Kulusevski picked up a problem in their 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace and was subbed off. Man Utd ratings vs West Ham as Ugarte awful and Mainoo invisible in latest horror showMANCHESTER UNITED dropped to 16th in the Premier League after suffering an embarrassing 2-0 defeat to West Ham at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim named a strong team for United’s return to domestic duty, but not even Amad Diallo could save the day.United gave fans a lively start, but reverted back to factory settings after the visitors took the lead inside 27 minutes.West Ham picked off United against the run of play, before former Man Utd star Aaron Wan-Bissaka came back to haunt his old club.The full-back fed a clever ball through to Mohammed Kudus, who thrashed a low cross into the six yard box for Tomas Soucek to tap home.United got caught cold again and were the masters of their own undoing, after Kudus pounced on Manuel Ugarte’s mess up to set up Jarrod Bowen, who doubled West Ham’s lead in the 58th minute.Apart from some bright moments from Amad, this was another awful performance from the home side, as West Ham became the SIXTH team to the double over United this season.The Red Devils haven’t haven’t won a Prem game since their 3-0 win at Leicester on March 16, which incidentally was the last team West Ham beat in February.Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated every Man Utd star’s performance at Old Trafford… More

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    Jordan Pickford set for Everton pay-rise with England keeper keen on new deal to see out career with Toffees

    ENGLAND No 1 Jordan Pickford wants a new deal at Everton — and is willing to see out his career at the club.Pickford, 31, has been outstanding for the Toffees again this season and stayed loyal amid the club’s ups-and-downs.Jordan Pickford wants to sign a new deal with EvertonCredit: Shutterstock EditorialNow the keeper is looking for a pay rise and an extension of his stay on Merseyside — and hopes talks can work out.Pickford, 31, has been at Everton since joining from Sunderland in 2017 and signed his last deal two years ago.That contract ties him up until the summer of 2027 — but he is keen to stay for a couple more seasons after that.Pickford worked with David Moyes at Sunderland and the pair get on well, a partnership that has helped Everton climb the table.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd despite pretenders to his England jersey — plus a new coach in Thomas Tuchel — Pickford has also confirmed his status as Three Lions first choice this season.Over the years Pickford has seen off Nick Pope, Aaron Ramsdale, Dean Henderson and Sam Johnstone in the battle to be England’s No1.While he has consistently been among the Prem’s top keepers in recent history and has now breached 320 top flight appearances.The experienced gloveman hasn’t missed a Prem clash for Everton since 2022, becoming a crucial part of the Toffees set-up.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEverton beat Fulham 3-1 at Craven Cottage on Saturday, lifting them above Wolves in the table as their fine form continues under Moyes.They face Southampton next week in their last game at Goodison.Watch Jordan Pickford’s hilarious expression in tunnel as England emerge for Euro 2024 final More

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    Huge Tottenham blow as Dejan Kulusevski forced off injured with James Maddison already out of Europa League final

    TOTTENHAM have suffered a major Europa League final blow as Dejan Kulusevski has limped off injured.The Swedish midfielder sustained a problem in Spurs’ Premier League clash with Crystal Palace.Dejan Kulusevski has gone off injuredCredit: PAThe Swedish midfielder was consoled by Ange Postecoglou as he trudged down the tunnelCredit: Shutterstock EditorialIt comes just over a week away from the Europa League finalCredit: ReutersKulusevski was hurt after a challenge from Eagles captain Marc Guehi.He received treatment on the pitch and briefly tried to continue.But he trudged down the tunnel just minutes later and was replaced by Mikey Moore.Kulusevski had his head in his hands and was consoled by boss Ange Postecoglou as he went into the changing room with a Spurs physio. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt is a huge blow for Tottenham ahead of their blockbuster Europa League final against Manchester United on May 21.Spurs are already light in midfield as they are without James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall, who are sidelined with knee and ankle ligament injuries respectively. And with nothing but pride to play for in the Premier League, some fans were fuming over Kulusevski starting today’s game.One fan said: “No reason to play him today at all, was already not fully fit and only played a few days ago, silly move as we have no real No10 now.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnother added: “Kulusevski off and went straight down the tunnel. This is exactly why Mikey Moore should’ve started.”But others disagreed, writing: “He’s no where near match ready for the final, he needs minutes now or he doesn’t play.”Kulusevski recently missed six games with a foot issue and has zero goals and one assist in his eight appearances since returning. More

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    Man Utd flop Memphis Depay suffers ultimate humiliation as Panenka penalty goes hilariously wrong in Corinthians loss

    MEMPHIS DEPAY was left red-faced after his Panenka penalty went horribly wrong.The Manchester United flop had the perfect chance to hand his Corinthians side an early lead from the spot, but he fluffed his lines against Mirassol.Memphis Depay stepped up to take a penalty in the 33rd minuteCredit: X / pvsportbrBut Depay was left humiliated after his Panenka was comfortably savedCredit: X / pvsportbrCorinthians won the penalty after Igor Coronado’s strike hit Joao Victor’s arm in the 27th minute.The referee was sent to check the monitor before awarding the spot kick a few minutes later.But after all the drama, Depay stepped up and missed the penalty after attempting a Panenka chip.The former Old Trafford star was left embarrassed after Mirassol goalkeeper Walter extended his body to keep the shot out.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDepay followed it up for the rebound but his header went wide, before angry Mirassol players confronted the 31-year-old.The home side were clearly annoyed with his outrageous dinked attempt, as Depay’s team-mates came over to back him up.The Netherlands international did make up for it a few minutes later after assisting his side’s opener. Depay’s corner was converted by centre-back Caca to send his side 1-0 in first half stoppage time.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut the former Premier League star was hauled off before the hour mark as Mirassol equalised in the 49th minute.Mirassol then took the lead within minutes of Depay’s substitution and held on to win 2-1.Ex-Man Utd star Memphis Depay sparks mass brawl with cheeky trick as four red cards are handed out in derby clash Depay joined the Brazilian outfit last September after leaving Atletico Madrid in the summer.The forward is reportedly paid a staggering £170,000-per-week, which would make him the highest paid player at Corinthians.Depay struggled to make an impact at Man Utd between 2015 and 2017 after joining from PSV.He scored seven goals in his 53 appearances, before leaving the Red Devils and rebuilding his career in Lyon.After four years in France, he made the move to Barcelona and, after two seasons, joined Atletico Madrid in 2023.Mirassol players confronted Depay after his outrageous Panenka attempt was kept outCredit: X / pvsportbr More

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    Chelsea player ratings: Nicolas Jackson’s mindlessness sums up lacklustre Blues with Chalobah the only bright spark

    CHELSEA suffered a double blow to their Champions League hopes as they lost the game and their striker at St James’ Park.European rivals Newcastle played the Blues off the park in the first half as Nicolas Jackson’s moment of madness saw him shown a straight red card for an elbow on Sven Botman.Chelsea lost 2-0 to NewcastleCredit: AlamySandro Tonali put Newcastle 1-0 up inside two minutesCredit: AFPNicolas Jackson was sent off in the first halfCredit: GettyNewcastle opened the scoring with a Sandro Tonali goal after just two minutes, making it difficult for Chelsea to fight their way back into the game.It was made harder by Jackson’s elbow to Sven Botman’s head that meant Enzo Maresca’s side played the majority of the match with just 10 men.Bruno Guimaraes scored a stunning 90th minute screamer to make it 2-0 and hand a huge blow to Chelsea’s European hopes.It’s advantage Newcastle in the Champions League race now as they put three points between themselves and Chelsea who could now end the day outside the top five.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere’s how SunSport’s Joshua Hall rated every Chelsea star’s performance at St James’ Park…Chelsea ratings vs NewcastleCHELSEA suffered a double blow to their Champions League hopes as they lost the game and their striker at St James’ Park.European rivals Newcastle played the Blues off the park in the first half as Nicolas Jackson’s moment of madness saw him shown a straight red card for an elbow on Sven Botman.Newcastle opened the scoring with a Sandro Tonali goal after just two minutes, making it difficult for Chelsea to fight their way back into the game.It was made harder by Jackson’s elbow to Sven Botman’s head that meant Enzo Maresca’s side played the majority of the match with just 10 men.Bruno Guimaraes scored a stunning 90th minute screamer to make it 2-0 and hand a huge blow to Chelsea’s European hopes.It’s advantage Newcastle in the Champions League race now as they put three points between themselves and Chelsea who could now end the day outside the top five.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Hall rated every Chelsea star’s performance at St James’ Park…Robert Sanchez – 6It’s rare that Robert Sanchez isn’t one of the main reasons that Chelsea have been on the receiving end of a defeat, but he didn’t do an awful lot wrong today.The shot-stopper wasn’t peppered with shots, but did enough when faced with efforts you would expect him to save.Moises Caicedo – 5The Chelsea Player of the Season didn’t track Sandro Tonali’s run into the box in the opening exchanges that gave Newcastle the early lead.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeYou can offer the caveat that he was playing out of position, but the makeshift right-back was chasing shadows for most of the game as Anthony Gordon got the better of their 1v1 battle.He looked much more comfortable when slotting into midfield in possession, but didn’t do the main part of his job – defending – very well at all.He was shifted back into midfield for the second half after Reece James’ substitution and looked much better with the ball at his feet.Very lucky not be be booked for making FIVE fouls.Moises Caicedo lost his first-half battle with Anthony GordonCredit: GettyTrevoh Chalobah – 7You have to wonder why Chelsea ever let Chalobah leave on loan to Crystal Palace.Since returning he has become a crucial part of their back line and he was one of few players who could hold their head up high in the first half after making some crucial blocks and vital tackles.He also looked comfortable on the ball at times in the second spell before he was replaced by Malo Gusto as Mareca tried to change things up.Levi Colwill – 5Not the best showing from the young centre-back who was a reflection of how Chelsea played as a whole more than anything.He did make a crucial tackle inside the area to prevent Harvey Barnes from having free reign at Sanchez’ net in 73rd minute.Marc Cucurella – 5Drew a strong save out of Nick Pope in the second half in what was one of very few positive moments for Chelsea.The Spaniard had plenty of space down the left flank at times, but with Jackson sent off he had nobody to aim for in the box.He’s had a great season for the Blues, but this was one of his weaker performances – by no means the worst performer on the day though.Marc Cucurella had no support down the left flankCredit: GettyRomeo Lavia – 4You’d be forgiven for thinking he wasn’t on the pitch in the first half the way that Newcastle’s midfielders were just bypassing him.But he saw much more of the ball in the second half when Chelsea’s overall play improved massively.He’s still only 21 and there’s definitely signs that he can be a top player, but when he’s surrounded by a malfunctioning group of megastars you can see why he might struggle.Hooked on 75 mins for Jadon Sancho.Enzo Fernandez – 5Probably the best midfielder for Chelsea on the day, but that wasn’t a hard task given the state of the performances.The Blues spent over £200m on Caicedo and Fernandez and neither of them looked close to their price tags today.They need to step up in the big moments – this was a huge game for the club’s Champions League hopes.Cole Palmer – 4Maybe we all jumped the gun when we said that a 96th minute penalty had turned Cole Palmer’s season around against Liverpool last weekend.The England star still seems to be struggling to play the free-flowing football that got everyone excited last season this term. It doesn’t help that Palmer was forced to play as a false nine for the second half following Nicolas Jackson’s moment of madness.Still though, he’s a shadow of his former self – typified by his ballooned attempt at a first time cross in the 80th minute.Cole Palmer struggled to influence the game once againCredit: GettyPedro Neto – 5Had Chelsea’s only bright spark in the first half when he used his pace to break down the wing and test the athleticism of Newcastle’s back line.But like the rest of Chelsea’s attack, he had very little real impact on the game. He cost Chelsea £55m in the summer and has managed just four goals in 33 Premier League outings this season – he needs to offer more.Noni Madueke – 4Offered very little as Chelsea were put under the cosh in the first half by Newcastle.Sometimes he feels like he is too much of a luxury player to be working in such a well-drilled system like Maresca’s.Fell victim to the tactical half-time switch for Reece James following the Nicolas Jackson red card.Nicolas Jackson – 1 Mindless decision to raise his elbow and plough straight into the face of Sven Botman in the first half.VAR were right to send John Brooks to the monitor and make sure that he brandished a red card.Jackson will now miss the rest of the season which, coupled with Christopher Nkunku’s injury, leaves the Blues without a striker as they try to earn a spot back in the Champions League.Jackson now has more cards (4) than goal contributions (3) in the Premier League in 2025.Enzo Maresca has every right to be fuming.Nicolas Jackson was sent off for hitting Sven Botman in the head with his elbowCredit: ReutersSUBSReece James (for Madueke, 45min) – 5Had to come on to help change the system following the red card decision. Didn’t have much of an influence on proceedings as Chelsea struggled to create any clear-cut opportunities. Read More on The SunJason Sancho (for Lavia, 75min) – 5A few nice moments on the ball, but should be doing more when he’s brought on to make a difference.Malo Gusto (for Chalobah, 75min) – 4Did very little in the time he was given on the pitch. More