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      Tottenham 4 Man Utd 3: Spurs limp into Carabao Cup semi-final after Son scores from corner and Forster howlers

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU always wins a trophy in his second season at a club and maybe history is about to repeat itself.But he will need someone other than Fraser Forster in goal.Tottenham have booked their spot in the Carabao Cup semi-finalsCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim watched on as his side lost 4-2Credit: AlamyDominic Solanke bagged a brace for the hostsCredit: GettyFraser Forster’s mistakes made for a nervy ending for the hostsCredit: PATottenham were absolutely cruising to the semi-finals tonight. They properly had the cigars out. Their fans, dreaming of a first trophy since 2008, were dancing in the aisles, singing about their heroes and laughing at how bloody hopeless United were proving to be.Dominic Solanke had scored twice, sandwiching a goal at the start of the second half by Dejan Kulusevski.But this is Tottenham Hotspur. The team which specialises in tormenting their fans each and every season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLForster proved exactly why managers have to stop telling goalkeepers to play out from the back. Particularly those keepers who cannot kick the ball properlyWe see it each and every week, from the Premier League to League Two. Managers need their heads testing for being so stupid, so reckless.Unbelievably, at 3-0, Forster dragged United back into the game by passing the ball to Bruno Fernandes who squared to sub Josh Zirkzee.And then the former England keeper seemed to click into slow-motion as he delivered a clearance and Amad Diallo slid in and the ball somehow ended up in the top corner.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDominic Solanke opened the scoring for SpursCredit: GettyDejan Kulusevski doubled Tottenham’s leadCredit: ReutersJoshua Zirkzee pulled a goal back for United after a horror error from Fraser ForsterCredit: ReutersForster made another howler as Amad Diallo closed him down to pull a second backCredit: RexUnited’s fans sensed the ultimate comeback but even Forster avoided a hat-trick of cock-ups.United keeper Altay Bayindir proved to be just as bad and failed to keep out a corner from Heung Min-Son to seal the tie although there was still time for Jonny Evans to make it 4-3 in the 94th minute.Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ Tottenham’s no 1 keeper Guglielmo Vicario is currently injured and could be back in February. Postecoglou must hope so.It has been over five-and-a-half years since Spurs moved into their new stadium and there have not been many better nights in terms of the atmosphere generated by their supporters until Forster pressed the self-destruct button – which also acted as the mute switch.Despite defeat, and United were awful for an hour, this spirited end to the game gives something for Amorim to work on in terms of belief. The problem is that United, most of the time, do not have goalkeepers like Forster giving them gifts.It is truly remarkable when you consider that United have spent all this money over the years to be one of the lowest scorers in English football’s top-flight. Only Crystal Palace, Everton, Ipswich and Southampton have managed less than United’s embarrassing tally of 21.Although United boss Amorim claims he wants Marcus Rashford to stay, it does seem some fans have run out of patience with the striker. One banner in the away end read: “Excuses ta ra Marcus.”Once again, like Sunday, there was no place in the matchday squad for Rashford although Alejandro Garnacho – who was also missing at the Etihad – was on the bench in north London.But even had they both featured, it is questionable how much difference they would have made.Yet United’s issues have not only been up front and there have also been at the back.Last night, Bayindir was was terrible but so too was Lisandro Martinez.Turkish keeper Bayindir was making only his fourth appearance for United and had not been called into action before parrying Pedro Porro’s shot which led to the opening goal.In a move which started from a James Maddison free-kick, Porro’s shot from 25 yards did fly through some bodies and there was also some movement from the ball.Son Heung-Min came up with the good to secure the win for SpursCredit: GettyThe forward scored directly from a cornerCredit: ReutersYet Bayindir should still have done better. He could only push the ball towards the right boot of Solanke who did require a bit of help from the post to score.Former Spurs favourite Christian Eriksen, who received a warm reception from the home fans in the South Stand when taking his first corner, had a shot blocked by Yves Bissouma but Fraser Forster would have saved it anyway.United lost Victor Lindelof with an injury just before half-time and Amorim sent out his team a few minutes earlyThey had to wait a little bit more as Tottenham’s players gathered for a huddle and 47 seconds into the second half, Spurs got the second.Maddison attempted to drive the ball across the face of the goal to Solanke but Martinez stuck out his leg and Kulusevski was never missing from eight yards.As United teetered on the brink of total collapse, Solanke raced onto a ball over the top from Spence and then breezed past Martinez and then fired his shot through the legs of Evans for 3-0.United pulled one back when keeper Forster passed the ball to Fernandes who squared for Zirkzee.And unbelievably, Forster did it again when he took far too long to deal with a backpass from Archie Gray. Sub Diallo delivered the block and the ball rebounded into the goal.READ MORE SUN STORIESJust when Tottenham were doing their best to toss it all away, Bayindir completely missed the corner from the home team’s South Korean skipper for 4-2.And the madness finally ended 90 seconds after a header from defender Evans. It was certainly bonkers, but with Spurs, it is always the same. More

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      Tottenham 4-3 Man Utd LIVE RESULT: Spurs secure spot in Carabao Cup semi-final despite nervy end to frantic clash

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      TOTTENHAM have beaten Manchester United 4-3 to secure their spot in the Carabao Cup semi-final.Dominic Solanke tapped in to make it 1-0 on 15 minutes after Altay Bayindir fumbled Pedro Porro’s thunderstrike.Seconds into the second half, Dejan Kulusevski stroked home to make it 2-0 to the hosts.Solanke got his second of the night on 54 minutes with a superb finish to make it 3-0 before Man Utd got one back through Joshua Zirkzee.Minutes later, Amad Diallo pounced on a horror error from Fraser Forster to make it 3-2 and set up a grandstand finish.Spurs’ nerves were eased after Son Heung-min’s corner controversially flew straight past Bayindir in goal to make it 4-2 at the death.Man Utd weren’t done as Jonny Evans headed in from a corner to make it nervy once again for Spurs.But Tottenham hung on to secure a 4-3 win and progress to the Carabao Cup semi-final.Match result: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdTottenham team: Forster, Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence, Sarr, Bissouma, Maddison, Kulusevski, Solanke, SonMan Utd team: Bayindir, Lindelof, Yoro, Martinez, Dalot, Eriksen, Ugarte, Mazraoui, Antony, Hojlund, FernandesCarabao Cup draw LIVEFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Having to trust the processMan Utd fans have some wishes granted this year.Fed up with The Glazers, in came Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the financiial saviour.Wanting ten Hag sacked, they got their wish and Ruben Amorim arrived.However, despite these two positives, they are being asked to trust a process without knowing what it actually is.There is no short-term soluton but surely things can only get better.Copy linkCopiedSpurs to get to know Reds wellTottenham now prepare for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures where they welcome Liverpool to North London.Having drawn each other in the Carabao Cup, it looks like this pair are guaranteed at least four games against each other this season.This will be a tough test for Ange Postecoglou as he looks to derail the fantastic start Arne Slot has made to life at Anfield.Copy linkCopiedAnge quotes fellow AussieIt is hard not to like Ange Postecoglou, he is a man’s man.Most managers swerve questons and rarely say what they think, Tottenham’s Australian manager does not play that way.When he quizzed about how crazy his side’s matches are with seemingly all attack and no defence, he seemed to channel his inner Russell Crowe when he replied….’are you not entertained?’Legend.Although duriing the game he seemed to want three more goals from his free-flowing attack.That said, with his tactiics, he could have been telling his team to switch to 2-1-7.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedThe answers everyone craves to findWhen Sir Jim Ratcliffe is quizzed about the club’s future, he is good at deflecting and saying neutral things fans want to hear without actually answering anything.Ruben Amorim is honest about the size of the task at hand and just how long it will take to change.It is obvious that it cannot happen with the majority of this squad, he is not a magician.That then brings you onto the question of what the owners offered him to get him to accept this role.Currently, the only logical answer is a huge war-chest for the forthcoming transfer windows but that is not so easy to do in the modern game with PSR rules.It will be interesting to see how things unfold, after all, Erik ten Hag spent in excess of £600m and nothing improved.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBoss leaves door open for forwardDuriing his post-match interview, Ruben Amorim was also asked about the obvious elephant in the room, Marcus Rashford.The manager said that they will training tomorrow and Marcus will be part of that.When pushed further as to whether he still had a future at the club, Amorim said ‘of course, everyone does’. Copy linkCopiedRuben being realistic about jobSpeaking with Sky Sports about tonight’s game, the new manager seems to have learnt nothing new in North London:We looked comfortable in the first-half even when we were trailing. Tonight there is nothing I can say to you about it. I will analyse it tomorrow, take a night to think. We cannot think winning silverware fixes everything. It will be a long wait. Our goal iis to win the Premier League. How long will that take? I do not know.Ruben AmorimMan UtdCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup semi-final drawJamie Redknapp and Jamie Carragher have made the draw:Arsenal vs NewcastleTottenham vs LiverpoolSome cracking games to look forward to there.Copy linkCopiedBoss opens up on performanceThe Tottenham manager was asked his thoughts on tonight’s game and whether their open nature causes him concerns:We made it harder than iit should have been. We made two mistakes and it hit us. I like the whole bit mate, are you not entertained? I like teams who play entertaining football. Obviously we cannot give goals away like tonight, we want to win trophies.Ange PostecoglouTottenhamCopy linkCopiedAnge looking to keep his promisePostecoglou may have regret saying it at the time but when he told the media that he always wins trophies in his second season with a club.The tongue-in-cheek comment may come back to haunt him but as it stands, they are two games away from a final.Tottenham fans would love nothing more than him to keep that impressive managerial record intact.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Tom Barclay in North LondonTOTTENHAM are through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals – but that does not tell half the story from this mad night in N17.Ange Postecoglou’s hosts  were wiping the floor with Ruben Amorim’s sorry side thanks to Dominic Solanke’s double either side of a Dejan Kulusevski’s strike.But then Fraser Forster attempted to play out from the back and got caught out TWICE.It saw subs Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo inflict unnecessary stress on the home fans – until Son Heung-min scored directly from a corner.There was still time for Jonny Evans to head in a seventh goal of the game in fourth minute of stoppage time – of course there was – but Spurs managed to see it out.The result means Postecoglou can still make good on his bold claim that he “always wins something in his second season”.Arsenal, Liverpool or Newcastle await in the last four.Copy linkCopiedAmorim with early headache to fixWhatever the Portuguese manager has planned for the club long-term, you cannot win matches when you concede so easiily.They have problems with the keeper position and none of the defenders can be certain of a starting spot.There is no communication, they look like it is the first time they have ever played the game at times.Now Amorim has to work out who he can fix it.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedSpurs march on to semi-finalsTottenham will be checking out the semi-final draw now from the changing rooms to see who they get.Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle have been waiting for them.What odds on a North London derby over two legs?Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdNo Spurs fan can say they don’t get value for money on their ticket prices, that is for sure.This will be a painful defeat for the visitors, something they really need to learn from.Postecoglou can forget the performance now and just focus on the result.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdThe referee brings an entertaining game to a close in the capital.Most neutral fans wanted to see another half hour of that.Spurs are into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-3 Man Utd90+5. It seems a lot of Man Utd fans left when Spurs’ fourth goal went in.They may live to regret that.As a corner is whipped in, Evans rises to head it and beats Forster to give the Red Devils a small glimmer of hope.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedGoal – Jonny Evans (Man Utd)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90+4. The mood has changed once again in North London.If Spurs can ensure they are in that semi-final draw all will be forgotten for their calamity keeper.They be considering his place for the next round though.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90+2. Zirkzee looks to get a shot away iin the box.It is well blocked, at the expense of corner.Fernandes’ cross is poor and it is easily headed clear.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90. Surely there is no way back for the visitors now.Tottenham have a two-goal cushion to protect.We are going to have six added minutes however.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd88. This game should be on Comedy Central.Son takes a corner and puts an inswinging cross in towards goal.Bayindir completely misses the ball and it ends up in the back of the net.He claims he was fouled but the referee is not interested and there is no VAR in place tonight.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Heung-min Son (Tottenham)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd86. If you were a Spurs player and had arranged a lift home from Forster after the game, you would be thinking up ways to let him down right now.He is having a nightmare and only a daredevil would get in a car with him behind the wheel, head shot to bits from this performance.Tottenham fans are just hoping they can hold on for the win here.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd84. Amad looks to take on Gray for pace . He tries to get to the byline and cut it back into the box.Forster blocks for a corner but it is decided that it was out of play before he touched it.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd82. Wow. Just wow.Man Utd try a shot from outside the box that is straight at the Tottenham keeper along the floor.He decides to go ‘full Onana’ and clears it off the line like a backtracking defender.This is mental.To dare is to do.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd80. Often teams leave cards on the seats in the stadium for the fans to hold up and make some kind of image for the cameras.Tottenham could do with leaving blood pressure medication on the seats in North London, proving they look out for their fans.They were safely in that semi-final draw and now it is anyone’s guess how this finishes.Copy linkCopied More

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      Chelsea 5 Shamrock Rovers 1: Marc Guiu bags first-half hat-trick as Blues make light work of Irish

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      CHELSEA were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.Chelsea ace Marc Guiu scored a hat-trick against Shamrock RoversCredit: GettyKiernan Dewsbury-Hall added to Chelsea’s Conference League triumphCredit: GettyMarc Cucurella sealed another big victory and Chelsea’s perfect winning runCredit: GettyChelsea’s young side dominated Shamorck RoversCredit: AFPBut the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.The Spaniard put his team in front on 22 minutes when Rovers full-back Darragh Burns and keeper Leon Pohls got in a muddle with a cushioned back header.Read More on ChelseaChelsea were pegged back briefly when Markus Poom – son of former Derby keeper Mart – scored with a heavily-deflected shot four minutes later to level.The wild scenes among the Irish contingent in the Shed End were quickly quelled though as Chelsea regained their lead from another cock-up in defence when Dan Clearly underhit a back-pass and Guiu nipped in to round the keeper and score.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall made it 3-1 five minutes before the break and Guiu wrapped up a memorable first half for himself by heading home a cross from Noni Madueke.Maresca included teenage centre-back Josh Acheampong in the starting line-up just a few days after the 18-year-old signed a new five-year contract.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThere was also experience in the team with Spain Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella playing in only his second Conference League game of the campaign.Cucurella is banned from Sunday’s away trip to Everton for being sent off after the final whistle once the Blues had beaten Brentford 2-1.Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea futureHe signed off with a goal in the 58th minute by knocking in a shot off the inside of a post.European football takes a back seat until March for Maresca now and that might not be the total blessing it looks on paper.He has a strong squad of young and hungry players who are desperate to be part of his plans.The FA Cup, which kicks off on January 11 against League Two outfit Morecambe, will not offer so many matches as a secondary competition to keep them happy the way the Conference League has up to now.Maresca took his foot off the gas after Cucurella’s goal and handed a debut to academy full-back Harrison Murray-Campbell. More

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      Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock Rovers LIVE RESULT: Guiu bags hat-trick as Blues top Conference League table – updates

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      CHELSEA has thrashed Shamrock Rovers 5-1 in the Conference League.Marc Guiu headed in for the game’s opener on 22 minutes after a defensive howler from the visitors.Minutes later, Markus Poom’s heavily deflected strike equalised for Shamrock Rovers.Guiu got his second of the night before Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted in to make it 3-1 to Chelsea.Right on half-time, Guiu completed a stunning first-half hat-trick with a superb header.Left-back Marc Cucurella added a fifth with an excellent finish just before the hour mark.Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers secured their spot at the top of the league phase table.Match result: Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversChelsea team: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Disasi, Veiga, Cucurella, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Madueke, Nkunku, George, GuiuShamrock Rovers team: Pohls, Lopes, Grace, Cleary, Honohan, O’Neill, Poom, Watts, Burns, Farrugia, KennyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Stamford Bridge with our live blog below…Match reportChelsea were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.But the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.Copy linkCopiedWinning run to continue?Looking at their next five games, you’d have to say they have a great chance to continue racking up victories.Though it is a tough, grueling schedule for all those involved…It’s an away trip to Goodison at the weekend before a home derby with Fulham on Boxing Day.Away trips at Ipswich and Crystal Palace round off the festivities.Copy linkCopiedUnhappy star man tonight…Marc Guiu was given a 10 by Lloyd.But Enzo Maresca admits tonight’s star man is UNHAPPY.Purely as the two names ahead of him in the pecking order – Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku – are also doing well.He told TNT: “Marc is a bit unhappy as Nicolas and Christopher are doing well.”When you’re a nine and another nine is doing well it is a matter of being questioned. It is important that they work hard day-by-day and then they get a chance.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – AttackersNONI MADUEKE – 7: His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times. It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7: Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third. Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth. TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7: Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease. Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10: Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands. The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks. Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019. Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – MidfieldersCESARE CASADEI – 4: Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8: His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his first Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – DefendersSunSport’s Lloyd Canfield runs the rule over tonight’s Chelsea players, starting with those at the back.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7: Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG – 6: All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge. He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6: A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6: A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40.  Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8: Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.Copy linkCopiedEnzo speaksEnzo Maresca admits being ‘very happy’ with the performance from his young side tonight as they swept away Shamrock Rovers.He told TNT Sports: “I am very happy with the performances and results. In these kind of games, it is easy not to do. They showed how professional they are and this is the right way.”Since we started we have tried to share minutes – tonight was for young players. Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George are still very young, but we are very happy with them.”In these kind of games it is easy not to do and have the right performance, but they know if they don’t work properly they are not going to play.”Copy linkCopiedSome runIt’s now 11 games unbeaten in all competitions for Chelsea after tonight as they continue to roll on nicely.More impressively, as Andy pointed out earlier, it’s now EIGHT wins on the bounce for the Blues.Their best run of form for eight years!Copy linkCopiedChelsea’s European resultsGranted, they’ve not come up against too much.But it’s been a really good campaign up until now for Chelsea’s second string.Chelsea 4-2 GentPanathanaikos 1-4 ChelseaChelsea 8-0 NoahHeidenheim 0-2 ChelseaAstana 1-3 ChelseaChelsea 5-1 ShamrockCopy linkCopiedMore from KDHOn his goal, Dewsbury-Hall added: “That is what the gaffer wants, he wants the attacking midfielders to sniff out opportunities.”I am happy to get another one.”Copy linkCopiedTop scorersIt looked set to be a Chelsea man at the top of the scoring charts with Christopher Nkunku in a three-way dead heat before kick-off.This has been his competition and it looked like he had a huge chance to top the standings.But his team-mate MARC GUIU has pipped him to the post with his hat-trick tonight!Three Blues players amongst the top scorers….6 – MARC GUIU5 – Christopher Nkunku, Krzysztof Piatek, Johnny Kenny, Milos Pantovic, Afimico Pululu4 – Kevin Denkey, Frederik Ihler, Jonathan Ikone, Joao Felix, Matheus AiasCopy linkCopied’Good vibes’Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall says playing in this competition is helping ‘relieve’ the pressures of Premier League football and giving fringe players a chance to shine.He told TNT: “Another good night at the Bridge.”A lot of people will say we are big favourites and honestly, we probably are, but in football it is not easy to keep winning.”Six wins out of six is pretty good.”This tournament is relieving a lot of pressure for some of the people who play in the Premier league and it’s a chance for young academy lads to make their debuts.”It is a good vibe at the moment.”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsOne final look at tonight’s stats, with Chelsea registering five goals, from ten shots on target, from 20 shots in total.A nice piece of symmetry there and Enzo Maresca will be delighted with his fringe players for the work they put in.They registered over 3x as many completed passes as the visitors, with the possession hitting over 80% at one stage before the substitutions in the second half.Copy linkCopiedPerfect sixSix wins from six games.A ridiculous =21 goal difference after scoring 26 goals in those six games.Chelsea miles clear of the opposition heading into the latter stages.As for Shamrock Rovers – ouch. They’ll be absolutely gutted to just miss out on the top six after a stellar run so far.Copy linkCopied’Smiling again’Chelsea hero Joe Cole told TNT Sports: “To come out of the cold be professional and clinical. Young lads make another appearance and Chelsea moved the ball really well.”Everyone at Chelsea is smiling again.”Copy linkCopiedFT!Chelsea round off a perfect Conference League phase in style!CHELSEA 5-1 SHAMROCK ROVERSCopy linkCopied90 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversTwo minutes added.Copy linkCopied89 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversLate chance for Shamrock Rovers to get another one on the night.Cleary’s goal bound attempt is blocked and Burke’s follow-up is well saved by Jorgensen.Copy linkCopiedSecond half view from SunSport’s Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea about to clinch their eighth win in a row in all competitions – their best run of form since 2016.A sign of the marked upturn in confidence under head coach Enzo Maresca, although it helps when you face the cannon fodder of the Conference League like they have tonight in Shamrock Rovers.Three of those eight victories have been in Europe so let’s not get carried away with things.Shamrock Rovers, Astana of Kazakhstan and Germans Heidenheim did not present the biggest test for a billion squad Blues squad. Copy linkCopied85 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversDelightful play from George who works space inside the box.He sits the defender down with a fake shot to work it inside onto his left foot and his curled attempt for the far corner is well blocked on the line by a retreating defender.Copy linkCopied83 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversFinal Chelsea change with seven minutes to play, as the final goalscorer left on the park is replaced.OFF: Dewsbury-HallON: Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopied81 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversAnd by the way, it was a foul that was as clear as day.But just outside the box.Copy linkCopied80 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversReally, really nice play from Shamrock to work through the thirds and eventually Burke picks it up 25 yards from goal.A change of pace from him as he darts towards the box before going to ground.The referee makes an odd movement towards him as if he’s about to award a free kick or penalty, or something anyway. But he waves play on.Copy linkCopiedCan’t stop scoringCopy linkCopied72 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversThe game a bit stop-start at the minute as Shamrock Rovers make a couple of quickfire double substitutions.Copy linkCopied More

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      Man Utd fans unveil anti-Marcus Rashford banner in away end days after he revealed plan to leave Old Trafford

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have hit out at Marcus Rashford with a banner following the star’s admission that he is ready to leave the club.Red Devils supporters displayed a message for their wantaway ace in the away end during their Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Tottenham – a game which Rashford had been left out of.Manchester United fans displayed a banner showing their feelings towards Marcus RashfordCredit: TNT SportRashford has explained that he is ‘ready for a new challenge’Credit: GettyThe Man Utd banner was a nod to a banner about Sir Alex Ferguson in 1989Credit: YouTubeThe fans held out a banner that read: “Excuses. Ta ra, Marcus”, hinting that they are happy for Rashford to leave the club.The banner was a nod to an old message of protest to former boss Sir Alex Ferguson back in 1989.A fan held up a banner three years into Fergie’s stint at Man Utd that read “Three years if excuses and it’s still crap… ta ra Fergie”. Of course Ferguson didn’t leave until 2013, going on 13 league titles, five FA Cups, five League Cups and two Champions Leagues.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFor Rashford, an exit seems far more likely. The 27-year-old publicly declared he is “ready for a new challenge” after being left of Ruben Amorim’s squad for the Manchester derby.He told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”Adding: “When I leave it’s going to be ‘no hard feelings’. You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.”If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.”When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me.”Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ Boss Amorim insisted that he wasn’t “sending a message” with his selection for the 2-1 win over Man City.But has since claimed that he would have liked Rashford to speak to him first before declaring his desire to wave goodbye to his eight-year stint as a Man Utd player.Speaking this week Amorim said: “If this was me, probably I would speak with the manager.”Any exit from Old Trafford for Rashford would likely be a costly one with the star currently tied down to a £325,000-a-week deal until 2028.Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea have both been touted as potential suitors, while rumours continue to swirl about Paris Saint-Germain reigniting their former interest in the forward.Other reports have claimed that Saudi Arabian sides could offer Rashford an escape route from the Theatre of Dreams.Ruben Amorim has suggested that Rashford should have spoken to him first about his futureCredit: Getty More

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      Victor Lindelof storms straight down tunnel as he hands Ruben Amorim yet another Man Utd injury scare

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      VICTOR LINDELOF has stormed straight out of Manchester United’s clash with Tottenham after picking up an injury.The Swedish defender picked up a knock in the first of the Carabao Cup tie.Victor Lindelof stormed down the tunnel after picking up an injuryHe picked up an injury against TottenhamCredit: RexHe looked visibly upset at suffering another injuryCredit: RexLindelof, 30, went down in the closing stages of the first half and looked upset on the pitch.After being checked on by Manchester United’s medical staff he was subbed off the pitch.The defender went straight down the tunnel and looked visibly emotional as he took off his shirt.Manager Ruben Amorim was forced to send on veteran defender Jonny Evans in his place.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFans have reacted to the injury to Lindelof on social media, and many feel sympathetic for the former Benfica man.One posted: “Sad seeing Lindelof leave the field injured. You could see how upset he was too.”A second commented: “Not nice to see players upset like that due to injury. Hope Lindelof’s injury isn’t too bad.”A third wrote: “An absolute nightmare for Victor Lindelof as he’s forced off with another injury.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA fourth said: “Feel sorry for him that he’s injured again.”Another added: “Poor Lindelof.”Man Utd cult hero Nani announces retirement with emotional video after tragic death of his fatherMan United were 1-0 down in North London when Lindelof was forced off the pitch.Dominic Solanke fired Spurs ahead in the 15th minute as he capitalised on an error from Altay Bayindir.Dejan Kulusevski made it 2-0 as he capitalised on a poor clearance from Lisandro Martinez.Lindelof joined Manchester United back in 2017, but his time at the club was blighted by injury.His latest setback will be another blow to Amorim, who lost Mason Mount to injury in the 2-1 victory over Manchester City. More

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      Barcelona face having to play Champions League knockout rounds in MADRID as stadium nightmare emerges

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      BARCELONA face the prospect of playing their Champions League knockout games in MADRID.The Catalonians are set to qualify out of the league phase in the competition, having won five of their six games.Barcelona have been playing in the Estadi Olímpic Lluís CompanysCredit: RexThe Nou Camp is being redevelopedCredit: EPAAtletico Madrid’s Metropolitano could be an option for BarcelonaCredit: GettyBarcelona have played their home games in the Champions League at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys so far.However, due to the stadium’s commitment to the city council, it will not be available for the knockout stages.Barcelona has been playing on the ground while the Camp Nou undergoing an £1.25billion redevelopment.The hope was for the work to be completed this season so the club could move back into their spiritual home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe club are looking at potential options to solve the problem.Uefa requires clubs to play all of its knockout matches at the same stadium.Due to this, Barcelona will have to designate a stadium in the coming days.If the club does drop into the play-offs, then the decision will have to be made before the draw takes place for the last 16.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe games will be played on February 11 and 18 before the Nou Camp is ready.If the club finishes in the top eight, then it will have more time to make the decision.Horror moment Barcelona star finds his tooth on the pitch after losing it in battle with Real Betis defender Barcelona have won five of their six Champions League gamesCredit: GettyThe quarter-finals will be played on March 4 and 11, but the decision will have to be made before February 21.This would make it difficult for the club to guarantee the Camp Nou’s work to be completed.The development includes increasing capacity from 99,000 to 104,000, as well as the additions of a roof, luxury bar and new escalators.Barcelona would then have to find a new stadium to play the knockout fixtures in.One option would be to go to Madrid, at Atletico Madrid’s Metropolitano, which would meet Uefa’s requirements.However one problem with that choice would be the distance for home fans to travel.The club could also look to stadiums in Catalonia but many of the options would have a very limited capacity.Espanyol’s 40,000-seater RCDE Stadium could be an ideal option, but some in Barcelona’s board do not want to “hear anything” about playing at the rival’s ground according to Marca.Another potential option would be negotiating with the city council to extend their deadline to use the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, Marca’s report has claimed the chances of this are “minimal”.The Camp Nou’s improvements are set to earn Barcelona £25m more in revenue each year.The new stadium will be sponsored by SpotifyThe Nou Camp will look incredible when the work is completeOver £1.3bn has been splashed on the stadium and the surrounding area More

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      Chelsea clash with Shamrock Rovers temporarily stopped as Christopher Nkunku pelted with TOILET ROLL

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      CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU was pelted with TOILET ROLL in Chelsea’s clash against Shamrock Rovers. The Blues hosted the travelling Irish side in the Europa Conference League group stage. Christopher Nkunku was pelted with toilet roll in Chelsea’s clash against Shamrock RoversThe ref had to stop the gameNkunku looked fed upCredit: PAKiernan Dewsbury-Hall joined Nkunku in clearing it upCredit: ReutersBut the game was temporarily halted as Nkunku was unable to take a corner amid the onslaught of loo roll being chucked his way. The referee stopped the game as Nkunku and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall did their best to clean up the corner area. The game did resume shortly afterwards. Chelsea are unbeaten in their five Conference League matches and so too are Rovers – with Blues boss Enzo Maresca scouting them.READ MORE IN football Maresca said: “We try to approach every game in the same way: to do our best and win the game.”Today in football it is difficult to find a team that has no strengths. “All the teams have something good, and some things we can try to work on and win the game.”I watched four or five [Shamrock] games and they are a good team. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”They try to defend as a block all together, and play face to face with the other team. “I’m quite convinced all the games are difficult. It depends on us, the way we take that game, and it can become easier or more difficult, but for sure it will be another game we try to win.” Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea future More