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      Sporting wonderkid, 17, shows how Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution could work as Gyokeres hits hat-trick against City

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      RUBEN AMORIM gave Manchester United fans a tantalising glimpse into the future as his Sporting side thrashed City 4-1 in the Champions League.The occasion began in a raucous atmosphere, with Sporting fans waving goodbye to their beloved Man Utd-bound manager in what was his final home game in charge.Ruben Amorim gave Man Utd fans a thrilling glimpse into the futureCredit: ReutersViktor Gyokeres bagged his latest hat-trickCredit: AFPGeovany Quenda was brilliant down Sporting’s right flankCredit: GettyThe home faithful unfurled a huge banner reading “Obrigado” – Portuguese for “thank you” – ahead of kick-off.And after tonight’s performance, it’s easy to see how Amorim left such a mark.Sporting actually got off to a ropey start, with Phil Foden giving City a fourth-minute lead.The side Amorim has built in Lisbon is resilient, however, and after weathering City’s storm they came roaring back to win 4-1.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLViktor Gyokeres grabbed the headlines by scoring a stunning hat-trick – taking his season tally to an astonishing 23 goals in just 17 games.The Swede’s numbers would make United’s current forwards Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund blush.But how has Amorim given the former Brighton and Coventry star such a platform on which to shine?The 39-year-old has generally favoured a 3-4-3 formation with Sporting, although tonight’s average positions show that his system turned into more of a 3-5-2, or even 3-4-1-1 – with Francisco Trincao, formerly of Wolves and Barcelona, playing off Gyokeres.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHow Amorim will be able to introduce his three-at-the-back system into the Premier League will be fascinating.After Antonio Conte’s Chelsea won the Premier League in swashbuckling style using a back three in 2017, the system suddenly became all the rage.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyEven Arsene Wenger, after more than 20 years of deploying a back four at Arsenal, dabbled with it during his final season at the Emirates.These days, however, back threes have become more scarce.In fact, none of last season’s top 13 used it as their primary formation.Despite Sporting’s left wing-back Maxi Araujo grabbing a goal on the night, it was actually right wing-back Geovany Quenda who consistently got further forward.TEENAGE SENSATIONThe Guinea-Bissau-born wonderkid is just 17-years-old but has already made himself a regular in Sporting’s first team.As a left-footer playing on the right, Quenda cut inside to great effect as he created Sporting’s equaliser.His brilliant through-ball found Gyokeres who, having fluffed an earlier one-on-one, made no mistake when through on Ederson’s goal for a second time.This sort of chance was typical of the service Gyokeres received all night, with Sporting consistently forcing turnovers with their solid base.BUILDING A PLATFORMIrrespective of conceding a harsh penalty in the second-half, which Erling Haaland went on to miss anyway, 20-year-old centre-back Ousmane Diomande was impressive at the heart of Sporting’s defence.While midfielders Hidemasa Morita and Morten Hjulmand offered excellent protection and were rarely far from the scene when Sporting’s back line needed help.As soon as Sporting won the ball back, Gyokeres would be sent on his way.It was Araujo’s turn to cause havoc from the left wing-back position right at the start of the second period, the Uruguayan converting beyond Ederson after a brilliant run by Pedro Goncalves.Gyokeres then showed coolness to convert two penalties and complete his hat-trick.READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorim will have another crack at Pep Guardiola in April, as United host City at Old Trafford in the Portuguese’s first Manchester derby.When he begins work at Carrington on Monday, United’s new boss will seek to begin developing a Red Devils team that can emulate what Sporting did to City tonight. More

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      Noel Gallagher hit by commentator’s curse as eight-word statement live on TNT Sports backfires horribly

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      NOEL GALLAGHER is perfectly suited to become a full-time commentator, after showing he had the commentators curse.The Oasis star made a surprise appearance on TNT Sports co-commentary alongside Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist for Manchester City’s clash against Sporting Lisbon.Noel Gallagher was hit by commentators curse while working on TNT Sports’ coverage of Sporting Lisbon v Man CityCredit: RexGallagher commented how easy the game was before Sporting scored two minutes later and went on to put four past the Oasis star’s favourite teamCredit: EPAAll eyes were on the fixture due to it being Ruben Amorim’s final home game in the charge of the Eagles before he moves over to join City’s fallen rivals Manchester United.And TNT bizarrely opted to include City superfan Gallagher as part of their commentary team.Supporters are used to seeing the Rock ‘N’ Roll Star in the crowd at City games, but his presence on the broadcast is Half the World Away from his usual Tuesday night.Pep Guardiola’s side threatened to ruin Amorim’s farewell after Phil Foden smashed them into the lead early on.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCity seemed to be in their usual cruise control tempo and were cutting open the Portuguese champions at will.Speaking on co-comms, Gallagher was then heard saying: “I didn’t think it would be this easy.”However, moments after the musician’s comments Viktor Gyokeres was put through on the City goal and scored past Ederson to net an equaliser. Gallagher’s curse continued in the second half, as Sporting doubled their tally just seconds after the restart.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGyokeres then went on to score hat-trick as he scored twice from the penalty spot, while Erling Haaland saw his own penalty hit the bar.The 4-1 defeat was City’s third defeat on the bounce, and the first time they had conceded four goals in the Champions League since playing Barcelona in 2016.New Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim in awkward interview with reporter Taking to social media, fans highlighted Gallagher’s commentator curse.One fan said: “Glad to see Noel Gallagher now knows what a commentator curse feels like.”A second said: “What was @NoelGallagher saying about it being easy?”A third said: “Noel Gallagher banging on about how easy it is for City. Just before conceding.”Another said: “I’m here for the Noel Gallagher ‘didn’t expect it to be this easy’ equaliser.”A fifth added: “Noel Gallagher was just saying how easy this game is.”A sixth said: “Noel Gallagher 35’ : ‘I didn’t expect it to be this easy’. Sporting CP 37’ : Go up the other end and score. Please put Noel on Co-Comms every week.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnother said: “Noel Gallagher curse, he should never commentate on a City game EVER!”An eighth said: “Did anyone else catch Noel Gallagher on commentary, saying ‘I didn’t think it would be this easy’ at 0-1.”Oasis – The Gallagher Feud TimelineBrothers Noel and Liam Gallagher have a long history of ongoing fights – both physical and verbal – here’s the full history of the band and what they’ve said to each other.1991 – Liam Gallagher forms Oasis with Paul Arthurs, Paul McGuigan and Tony McCarroll, later asking Noel to join.1993 – The band sign to Creation Records and start work on their debut album.August 1994 – Oasis shoot to fame with their debut album, Definitely Maybe, with tracks including Rock n Roll Star, Live Forever and Supersonic. It’s one of the fastest selling debuts ever for a British band.September 1994 – Noel temporarily leaves the band’s tour after Liam smacks him in the face with a tambourine on stage in Los Angeles.1995 – The band release their second album, (What’s The Story) Morning Glory? which features Wonderwall, Don’t Look Back in Anger, and Champagne Supernova.1996 – Liam is forced to sit out a leg of tour shows due to laryngitis, but causes chaos when he was filmed heckling his brother from a balcony while a taping of MTV Unplugged.2000 – Noel quits the band temporarily for a second time when, while partying in Barcelona, Liam riles Noel by questioning if his daughter, Anais, is actually his. The pair get into a fist fight.2005 – Noel tells Q Magazine that he’s ‘never forgiven’ Liam for his comments about Anais and he’s ‘never apologised. He tells the mag: “He’s my brother. I hope he’s reading this and realises that. He’s my brother but he’s at arm’s length until he apologises for what he’s done.”2009 – Noel admits in an interview with Q that he ‘doesn’t like Liam’, branding him “rude, arrogant, intimidating, and lazy”. “He’s the angriest man you’ll ever meet,” he added. “He’s like a man with a fork in a world of soup.”Liam later retaliates and tells NME: “It takes more than blood to be my brother. He doesn’t like me and I don’t like him.”August 23, 2009 – Oasis pull out of a headline slot at V Festival in the UK due to Liam having laryngitis.August 28, 2009 – Ahead of the Rock en Seine festival, Noel and Liam get into another fight, during which time Liam breaks one of Noel’s guitars after “waving it like an axe” according to Noel.August 28, 2009 – Noel quits the band for the third and final time, saying in a statement: “It’s with some sadness and great relief to tell you that I quit Oasis tonight. I simply could not go on working with Liam a day longer.”2010 – Oasis win ‘best album of the last 30 years’ at the Brit Awards for (What’s the Story) Morning Glory. Liam picks up the gong, and thanks everyone except Noel. He later says this was misinterpreted as a dig.2011 – Liam tries to sue Noel after he claims in the interview they cancelled their V Festival performance due to Liam being hungover. Liam disputed it said the comment “questioned my professionalism”. He later apologised and the lawsuit was dropped.2011 – Noel admits regrets at quitting before the Paris gig, telling Absolute Radio and admits if he did “we may never have split up.”2011 – 2014 – Liam and the other bandmates continue under new name, Beady Eye, while Noel forms new band, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.2015 – After years of jabs online, especially through media and Twitter, Liam teases he’s buried the hatchet with Noel by sharing an All Areas pass from a High Flying Birds gig. However, the fight would recommence two months later after Noel publicly dismissed suggestion Oasis would reunite for Glastonbury 2016.2017 – Liam performs at Manchester’s One Love concert after the bombing at Ariana Grande’s show, with Don’t Look Back In Anger becoming a unifying anthem for the incident. He then slams Noel for not attending. Noel later tells Sunday Times: “Young music fan were slaughtered, and he, twice, takes it somewhere to be about him. He needs to see somebody.”2018 – Liam suggests a reunion for the 2018 World Cup on Twitter, writing: “let’s get the big O back together and stop f***ing about the drinks are on me”. When it fell on deaf ears, he added: “I’ll take that as a NO then.”2019 – Noel speaks out after Liam sends ‘threatening messages’ to Anais after a comment made about then wife Sara McDonald. Liam later apologises publicly to Anais.2020 – Liam urges Noel to reunite for a one-off charity gig. More

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      Mikel Arteta gives update on Arsenal’s future plans after transfer chief Edu’s shock exit for Nottingham Forest group

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      MIKEL ARTETA insists Arsenal’s plans for the future “remain intact” – despite Edu’s shock departure.The Gunners – including boss Arteta – were left stunned after the club’s Sporting Director announced his resignation on Monday.Mikel Arteta has opened up on Edu’s departureCredit: GettyBrazilian Edu, 46, is expected to join up with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakas as head of his expanding multi-club empire in a triple-your-money deal.The switch has the potential to leave Arsenal vulnerable in their recruitment strategy after their recent meteoric rise under Edu and Arteta to become Prem title challengers.But Arteta said: “The plan and the vision that starts with the ownership [Stan and Josh Kroenke] – that is very clear and very ambitious – is going to continue.“We have a very strong leadership team with an unbelievable know-how, a real passion and great feelings for the football club. We’re not going to stop where we are at the moment.READ MORE ON ARSENAL“Then across the club, the excitement, the passion, the understanding of where we want to take this journey remains intact.”Arteta hinted that the club are currently on the look-out for a replacement, admitting: “This means opportunities as well for somebody else to come and fulfil their role.”Edu – an Invincibles hero who made 127 appearances from 2000 to 2005 – returned to the club in July 2019 as technical director before hiring Arteta five months later.He was then appointed as Sporting Director in November 2022, and spoke of his long-term plans for the club just two months ago as Arteta signed a new three-year deal.Most read in FootballEdu helped transform Arsenal during his tenure in north LondonCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArteta added: “Everything happened very quickly. Obviously I loved working with him, I really enjoyed being alongside him in this incredible journey.“From day one, we’ve been together. First of all, I’m very grateful personally for everything has done for me and for the amazing work that he’s done for the football club.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash “I think we both had this special chemistry working together, we really both enjoyed our roles and working together.“I’m very blessed that he’s been part of my life in such a beautiful place that I am right now, managing this incredible club and he’s been a massive part of that.“He’s had an amazing opportunity now to do something else in a different role and he believes that it’s the right professional move for him.“We have to respect that and from the bottom of my heart I think everybody really feels that we want the best for him and that’s it.“We say thank you and we have to move on because that’s the reality of our industry.”Winger Bukayo Saka said: “We all know what Edu’s done for the club and he’s a top, top person. So first of all, we just want to wish him all the best.“We all know what he’s done for the football club. He’s been involved in the transformation and getting us back to performing at the highest stage.“So, we’re all grateful for him and we’re just wishing him all the best.”Skipper Martin Odegaard is in the squad that has travelled to Milan to face Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday night and is in contention to feature.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt would be a first Arsenal appearance since August 31 after suffering an ankle injury on international duty with Norway on September 9.Midfielder Declan Rice has not travelled due to a foot injury, one that Arteta admits has left the Englishman unable to put his boot on.Bukayo Saka has wished Edu well with his future endeavoursCredit: APMartin Odegaard has returned to training for ArsenalCredit: GettyDeclan Rice is set to miss the Gunners’ clash with Inter MilanCredit: Getty More

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      Zinchenko reveals ‘s***’ Champions League final display left him in tears with Arsenal star not eating for two days

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      EVERY day at Arsenal training Oleksandr Zinchenko gets a reminder of the worst day of his career.It is the painful moment he feels a Champions League trophy slipped out of his hands — and the Ukrainian still blames himself for it.Manchester City’s final loss to Chelsealeft Oleksandr Zinchenko in tearsCredit: The SunZinchenko even lost his appetiteCredit: AFPHis Manchester City side lost 1-0 to Chelsea in the Covid-hit 2021 final in Porto and Zinchenko said: “No two ways about it. I was s**t.”The full-back claimed he was at fault for allowing “my man” Kai Havertz a critical run on goal as the forward scored the 42nd-minute winner at the Estadio do Dragao.He describes it as “probably the worst day in my football life” and says it left an “emotional scar” that has yet to heal.And his former City team-mate Fernandinho often joked he was denied the chance to get an arm tattoo of the big-eared pot because of Zinchenko.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe problem is, he cannot be allowed to move on and forget about it — because he and Havertz are now pals at the Gunners.Zinchenko, 27, said: “If I tell you now what I’m saying to him every day, you would laugh!“It’s better that I will be quiet. Because as soon as I see him . . . my scar. I feel him.“Jokes aside, I mean definitely, one of the most painful moments in my career so far. My wife Vlada, she remembers that day.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“The way that she is watching my games is something only the closest circle knows, how she is living these kinds of moments.“That night, when we came back to the hotel, our families were already in our rooms.Jamie Carragher SAVAGES Arsenal on Monday Night Football and says they’re ‘like a Mourinho team without the trophies’“When I opened my door she was waiting for me, she hugged me, we were just crying for a while.“For the next two days probably, I didn’t really eat. It was a super-tough moment.“But thank God I had this experience which made me, for sure, much stronger.“Also thank God that the week later we had training with the national team before the Euros. Football again saved my life. That is how it was.”One way Zinchenko got over his ordeal was a heart-to-heart chat with Andriy Shevchenko, the Ukraine boss at the time.He, of course, was part of AC Milan’s side that lost the 2005 Istanbul final to Liverpool on penalties despite being 3-0 up at half-time.Pep Guardiola’s City went on to become European champions in 2023, beating Inter Milan — also in Turkey’s Ataturk Stadium — to seal an incredible Treble- winning campaign.For the next two days probably, I didn’t really eat. It was a super-tough moment.Oleksandr Zinchenko on Champions League final defeatBut Zinchenko, a four-time Premier League champion with City, had moved to North London at the start of that season for an initial transfer fee of £30million.It was an attempt by boss Mikel Arteta to add experience and a winning mentality to his dressing room.And one way for Zinchenko to erase his memory of missing out would be to win the tournament with Arsenal — who have won two of their opening three games this campaign.Zinchenko, who hopes to play at Inter Milan in the Champions League tonight, reckons City’s dominance of English football must end soon.He said: “It’s not just in football, you cannot carry on like this forever.“For sure, there will be changes. Of course, the players will get old, the manager might look for another job. Something will happen.“The dominance which they have had during the last years is incredible.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The stats and also trophies talk for themselves. Being there, you straight away think of this winning mentality.” l  Believe: The Autobiography by Oleksandr Zinchenko is published by Bloomsbury. RRP £22Zinchenko in Arsenal trainingCredit: AFP More

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      Celtic 3 RB Leipzig 1: Kuhn the star of the show as Hoops blow Bundesliga side away in stunning Champions League triumph

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      RED Bull Leipzig gave him wings.Last night at Celtic Park they watched him soar.GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Nicolas-Gerrit Kuhn of Celtic celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Celtic FC and RB Leipzig at Celtic Park on November 05, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)Credit: GettySoccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v RB Leipzig – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 5, 2024 Celtic’s Nicolas Gerrit Kuhn with Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers after being substituted Action Images via Reuters/Lee SmithCredit: ReutersSoccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v RB Leipzig – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 5, 2024 Celtic’s Reo Hatate reacts REUTERS/Russell CheyneCredit: Reutersepa11703744 Leipzig’s head coach Marco Rose reacts during the UEFA Champions League soccer match between Celtic FC and RasenBallsport Leipzig, in Glasgow, Britain, 05 November 2024. EPA/ROBERT PERRYCredit: EPANicolas Kuhn played for the Bundesliga’s Under-16’s side and showed signs of taking off.In this Champions League tie against them, he was flying.There will likely be some Academy coach at the German club telling how he once watched the Celtic star scored 18 goals in 22 youth team appearances.But they count for nothing compared to his double here and performance to go with them.Kuhn, at 24, is now the real deal as he produced on the big stage to be the catalyst for this sensational comeback victory.The German side took an early lead but after Kuhn’s double Reo Hatate sealed the three points.For Brendan Rodgers, it’s arguably his biggest European result in his two spells at the club given the standard of opposition.His side gave him everything he hoped for and more to respond to an early set-back. Most read in Champions LeagueCeltic had initial control of the game.Right up until they didn’t.Celtic fans left stunned by US TV star’s ‘incredible’ knowledge of club Rodgers’ side made such a promising start and were the dominant team for the first 20 minutes.The packed stadium brought the big match atmosphere and the early signs were the players would deliver the performance to go with it.But European outfits like Leipzig only need a sniff of a chance to pounce.And teams like Celtic cannot afford to make two mistakes in quick succession and expect to get away with it.That’s precisely what Rodgers warned in his pre-match press conference.He talked about how keeping possession of the ball was the best form of defence.So there was real frustration when Auston Trusty passed straight to a Leipzig player on 23 minutes.The centre-back had picked up an ankle knock earlier. But it was still slack play from the big defender when he was under no real pressure.The error led to a shot on target which was going wide.But Kasper Schmeichel threw out his right arm to turn the ball out for a corner.Rodgers turned away in annoyance, knowing it was needless.The first ball into the box was cleared by Arne Engels.But when it came back in a second time, Cameron Carter-Vickers could only flick the ball on and Leipzig scored through Christoph Baumgartner.The Bundesliga side started to look like a really, really good side and they could have doubled their lead.There was a panicky few minutes for Celtic, without doubt.Alistair Johnston was required to make a vital last ditch block in that worrying spell with Antonio Nusa blasting another chance high over the bar.Those were big moments.But just as Celtic had control of the game and lost it, so too did Leipzig.Rodgers’ side deserve huge credit for the way they composed themselves after that shaky five minutes.Skipper Callum McGregor led by example in the middle of the park with a proper captain’s performance.But the star of the show was wearing the number ten jersey.Kuhn is just playing with so much confidence right now that he doesn’t run around the pitch, he swaggers.It’s amazing to think he was so ordinary looking last season after he initially joined the club in January.But he’s settled now, alright. Kuhn made it 1-1 with a tremendous goal after 34 minutes.He struck the ball almost nonchalantly from outside the box to beat goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi with a sensational curling shot.Kuhn held his arms out, when the ball hit the net off the post, like it was nothing special. But that’s exactly what it was.Celtic could easily have settled for that before half-time.But with Leipzig rocking they grabbed the initiative, pushed forward and scored again seconds before the break.Hatate did brilliantly to feed the ball into the box from the left and this time Kuhn was in the right place at the right time to score again.The goal raised the roof but no-one inside the stadium believed there were no more goals to come.The match was still very much on a knife-edge going into the second half.Leipzig were always capable of getting the next goal and going on to get the much needed victory.While they turned up here with zero points from their first three European games this season, their defeats weren’t exactly against the minnows of the competition.In truth, while they lost to Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Liverpool, their performances deserved better.So Celtic had to beware.But when push came to shove, Rodgers’ side were in no mood to let this opportunity slip.They made it 3-1 in 72 minutes, Hatate reacting brilliantly to slam the ball into he roof of the net after the Leipzig keeper spilled a low cross from Johnston.Rodgers took off Kuhn at that point with the wide-man getting a standing ovation from the Celtic support.There was still some work to do in the closing stages.Play being held up as young Celtic supporter invaded the pitch was an unwelcome distraction for the players.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the final whistle wasn’t long in coming with Rodgers and his team able to take the applause of the whole crowd who were thrilled with their performance.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Champions League LIVE SCORES: Gyokeres nets HAT-TRICK as Amorim’s Sporting STUN Man City, Liverpool beat Leverkusen

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      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE football returned in style on Tuesday night – and there is plenty more thrilling action in store for Wednesday!New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim led Sporting to a 4-1 win over his new rivals Manchester City – in the Portuguese coach’s final home game in charge of the Lisbon club.Xabi Alonso didn’t have the return to Anfield he would have hoped for after Luis Diaz’s stunning hat-trick helped fire Liverpool to a 4-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.Wednesday’s action sees Arsenal travel to Inter for a blockbuster Champions League clash.Elsewhere, Aston Villa will be looking to continue their perfect start to their European campaign with another win against Club Brugge.Kick-off times: 5:45pm/8pm GMTLive stream: discovery+TV channel: TNT SportsFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from matchday four of the Champions League with our live blog below…Arteta unlikely to risk talismanThere is no doubting that Arsenal have looked a pale comparison of their best without Martin Odegaard.The good news for Gunners’ fans is that he has returned to training a lot earlier than expected.While he is travelling with the squad to Italy, it remains to be seen whether Mikel Arteta will risk him in this crucial match.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEmery looking to bounce back from defeatAston Villa took a heavy defeat on the chin on the weekend.Despite going ahead in North London, Tottenham ran out as 4-1 winners in the Premier League.Unai Emery’s side need to win if they want to leapfrog Liverpool at the top of the Champions League table.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCeltic keep qualification hopes aliveWhen Brendan Rodgers’ side got heavily beat against Borussia Dortmund, many expected yet another early exit from Europe’s elite competition.Having amassed seven points from their first four games, Celtic are now well-placed to build on this and secure a place in the latter stages.They showed grit and determination after going a goal down against RB Leipzig but turned the game around to run out 3-1 winners.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedChampions League tableHere is how the league is looking in the new format Champions League before we head into tomorrow night’s games:Credit: @FootRankingsCopy linkCopiedThe curse of Kylian MbappeSigning arguably the best striker in the world seemed to make Real Madrid unbeatable given their current squad.Mbappe’s career in Madrid has not taken off as many expected.A player who has never won the Champions League, could his curse mean Ancelotti’s side miss out on the biggest trophy this season?A heavy defeat at home against rivals Barcelona has been followed up by a 3-1 loss to AC Milan this evening.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedPep left frustrated in PortugalFootball can be a cruel mistress at times.Man City dominated the first-half against Sporting Lisbon but did not take their chances and paid the ultimate price.It means that Pep Guardiola’s side have now lost back-to-back games and the injuries are mounting up.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGaffer continues dream startLiverpool sit top of both the Premier League and Champions League under new manager Arne Slot.Nobody expected him to make this start to his Reds’ career and he continues to rewrite the record books.Slot has won 14 of his first 16 games as Liverpool manager.This could be a season to remember for their fans if it continues how it has started.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Real Madrid 1-3 AC MilanThe big surprise result of the evening came in Spain.AC Milan scored three goals to stun Santiago Bernabau.Alvaro Morata got the third goal as the Spaniard rubbed salt in the wound capping off a brilliant display from the Italians.Copy linkCopiedChampions League resultsPSV 4-0 GironaSlovan Bratislava 1-4 Dinamo ZagrebBologna 0-1 MonacoBorussia Dortmund 1-0 Sturm GrazCeltic 3-1 RB LeipzigLille 1-1 JuventusLiverpool 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenReal Madrid 1-3 AC MilanSporting 4-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedFT: Celtic 3-1 RB LeipzigA massive result for Brendan Rodgers’ side.They fell behind to a goal from Cristoph Baumgartner but that is as good as it got for the visitors.Celtic move to seven points in this season’s Champions League.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Charlie WyettIncredible second half performance from Liverpool. There will certainly not be any Reds fans wishing Xabi Alonso was their manager instead of Arne Slot. Next up at Anfield in the Champions League are Real Madrid and what a game that could be.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 4-1 Man CityWhat a way to say goodbye to their fans.Pep Guardiola’s side have been trampled by Sporting Lisbon.All of that after having so many chances to score before the hosts had even registered their first.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LisbonWho writes Ruben Amorim’s scripts? A fairytale way to say goodbye to the home fans at the Jose Alvalade – and endear himself to the new ones at Old Trafford. A night they will be talking about for years to come in this part of Lisbon. And what about Viktor Gyokores – he even eclipsed Erling Haaland by scoring a hat-trick – while the Norwegian thumped a pen against the bar. Copy linkCopiedFT: Liverpool 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenMany Liverpool fans wanted Xabi Alonso to replace Jurgen Klopp.They got Arne Slot and they are top of every league in which they compete so far this season.A Luis Diaz hat-trick and a Cody Gakpo goal make for an emphatic win for The Reds.Touch of class from the home fans as they sing their Xabi Alonso chant once the victory is sealed.Copy linkCopied90+1. GOAL – LIVERPOOL 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenHis name is Lucho, he came from Porto……….he came to score, score, score.Diaz gets his first hat-trick in a Liverpool shirt.Levels.Copy linkCopiedReal Madrid 1-3 AC Milan85. A huge cheer from the away end at Santiago Bernabeu.VAR has ruled out Rudiger’s goal.Huge blow for Madrid.Copy linkCopied86. GOAL – Bologna 0-1 MONACOThilo Kehrer grabs a late goal for the visitors.Heartbreaking for the hosts at this stage of the game.The French side may have just won this one late on.Copy linkCopied85. GOAL – BORUSSIA DORTMUND 1-0 Sturm GrazDonyell Malen gives last season’s finalists the lead.The visitors had worked so hard to try and get a point.Now that seems a distant dream.Copy linkCopied82. GOAL – REAL MADRID 2-3 AC MilanAntonio Rudiger claws one back for Madrid.There is still time in this game to get something from it.Nervy times for the travelling fans.Copy linkCopied82. GOAL – LIVERPOOL 3-0 Bayer LeverkusenHe’s Luis Diaz, he’s from Barrancas, now he plays for Liverpool.The Columbian gets his second of the game.Alonso sinks into his seat.Copy linkCopied80. GOAL – SPORTING 4-1 Man CityViktor Gyokeres scores from the spot once again.TNT Sports have got the black cat of pundits on this one.Noel Gallagher, stick to the music, you are a commentary jinx.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LisbonFasten your seatbelts Manchester United fans as its going to some ride under Ruben Amorim on this evidence. Two goals in the opening five minutes of the second half put mighty Manchester City on the ropes and Sporting on the brink of a famous scalp. Erling Haaland missed a penalty too – it felt like it was definitely Amorim’s night.Copy linkCopied73. GOAL – Real Madrid 1-3 AC MILANTijjani Reijnders doubles the lead for the visitors.Leao lays it on a plate for him to slot home a left-footed shot from the middle of the goal.This is not what the Madrid fans were expecting to see tonight.Copy linkCopied72. GOAL – CELTIC 3-1 RB LeipzigReo Hatate gives Celtic a bit of breathing space in this one.They have been superb since going a goal down.Brendan Rodgers will be overjoyed with his team tonight.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Bayer Leverkusen72. Liverpool are all over Xabi Alonso’s side right now.He is on the receiving end of some of those famous Anfield atmospheres he was part of on so many occasions.Szoboszlai has come on for Jones for The Reds.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      FA Cup surprise package Harborough Town sign former Premier League star, 35, who played with Ronaldinho

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      FA CUP history-makers Harborough Town have surprised football fans once again after announcing the signing of former Tottenham star Sandro.The Leicestershire outfit produced a giant-killing in the first round of the FA Cup as they ran out 4-1 winners over Tonbridge Angels.Ex-Tottenham star Sandro has sealed a shock transfer to Harborough TownCredit: https://www.instagram.com/harborough_town_fc/Sandro, 35, made 106 appearances for SpursCredit: GettyHe starred with Ronaldinho and Neymar in the Brazil teamCredit: AFPHarborough were playing a first-round tie for the first time in the club’s history against the Vanarama National League South side.The Southern League Premier Central club – step seven of the English pyramid – struck first in the 41st minute before regrouping after conceding an equaliser to go on and register an emphatic win.Their place in the second round saw them drawn against ex-Premier League side Reading.However, the club have now stunned fans by announcing the signing of 17-time Brazil international, Sandro.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 35-year-old retired from football in September 2023 at the age of 34 after a career that also saw him star for West Brom, QPR, Udinese, Genoa, and Internacional.Manager Mitch Austin said of the move: “What an unbelievable signing for the club, I really cannot express how I am feeling. “I had a chance conversation with Sandro a couple of weeks ago and we got talking about football, told him about Harborough Town FC and the journey we are on and he has been messaging me ever since to sign on, totally unbelievable and gobsmacked is how I would describe this signing. “These sort of signings don’t happen every day but when you get a chance to sign an ex-professional footballer who has played at the highest level in the Premier League and Internationally with Brazil, you just cannot turn it down.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAustin added: “Being a Tottenham Hotspur fan myself I knew all about Sandro.”But when I looked back at a few photos online and there he was stood in a Brazil team photo with the likes of Neymar Jr., Ronaldinho, Thiago Silva, Dani Alves, Marcelo, I was like what is going on, pinch me!Tottenham snubbed Ollie Watkins transfer as Jose Mourinho refused to pay price tag and signed flop striker instead “But credit to Sandro he has kept himself really fit and is an absolute great guy, down to earth who when the Chairman and I met with him came across very genuine, polite and humble, you could really sense there was a real desire to get the signing done on his part, I am absolutely delighted to have him at our club. “I think the players and staff around the club can learn great things from him and develop and watch his professionalism and understand what is needed if they want to progress and play at the highest possible level of the game. “However long he stays we will all become better for it.”Bees chairman Peter Dougan also said: “What can I say, Mitch has done it again! “I don’t know how but what a signing this is, a real show of intent from the club to be as good as they can. “When I met Sandro I have to say there was trepidation, but really I cannot speak highly enough of him and his professionalism and will to make this signing happen. “Everything about the signing was positive, what negative could there possibly be? READ MORE SUN STORIES”He will certainly help all the players around him and what a time to be one of those players, I am sure they will relish him being at the club as should we all.”Sandro starred for Spurs between 2010 and 2014, making 106 appearances and scoring three goals.Tottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. 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      Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1: Ruben Amorim produces tactical masterclass to make huge statement ahead of Man Utd move

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      THEY’LL be rolling out the red carpet for Ruben Amorim in Manchester on Monday now.And they should be having a whip round at Old Trafford to get Viktor Gyokeres to follow him to Old Trafford as soon as possible.Ruben Amorim said farewell to Sporting fans ahead of joining Manchester UnitedCredit: AFPGoal machine Viktor Gyokeres was on the scoresheet again with a clever finish over EdersonCredit: ReutersMaximiliano Araujo put Sporting ahead after a brilliant team move just seconds into the second-halfCredit: AFPGyokeres made it 3-1 from the spotCredit: RexErling Haaland saw a penalty hit the barCredit: ReutersGyokeres completed his hat-trick with another coolly dispatched penCredit: ReutersTogether they produced the ultimate fairytale farewell to the Jose Alvalade Stadium for the United-bound boss.What an extraordinary way to endear himself to his new fans.His team inflicted a first Champions League defeat in 90 minutes on Pep Guardiola’s mighty Manchester City since May 2022 – 32 matches ago.Not to mention the heaviest loss in any competition in over four years for the ‘noisy neighbours’.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIf this is the kind of entertainment that is heading for the Theatre of Dreams, then fasten your seatbelts.Gyokeres got a hat-trick – including two penalties – to enhance his reputation as one of the hottest properties in Europe.He could have had more too and looks exactly what goal-shy United need right now.  They say if you can’t be a good manager then be a lucky one – and Amorim certainly had his share of good fortune.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCity bossed the first-half and should have been out of sight – while Erling Haaland also uncharacteristically missed a second-half pen.But credit to Amorim and his team for hanging in there and then hitting the English champs with some stunning breakaways.New Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim in awkward interview with reporter The manager was given a huge ovation by the crowd before kick-off – while a huge banner showed the trophies he has won and simply said “thank you”.Yet he had expressed his worries before kick-off that the emotion of the last week might affect his players.And sure enough they began nervously despite their excellent start to the season and fell behind within four minutes.Keeper Franco Israel rolled a pass to Hidemasa Morita who didn’t look best pleased when he was dispossessed in the blink of an eye by Foden.The England ace took a couple more touches before thumping a shot past the Sporting keeper – who might be disappointed not to keep it out.Foden has now scored in eight of his last nine appearances in this competition and seems to be going through the gears after a slow start to the season.Yet the home side could have levelled within a couple of minutes as Gyokeres nipped in ahead of Rico Lewis and raced through on goal from his own half.The in-form former Coventry man never looked confident though as Ederson stood up to him and his chipped effort was weak.Back at the other end, Haaland saw one chance clawed away by Israel and blazed another wide after a delightful pass from Matheus Nunes.The Norwegian was getting plenty of opportunities and saw a looping header hoofed off the line before Israel flung himself to keep out a volley.Haaland was being made to wait for his 45th goal in this competition – but you know with him it wont be long.Stand-in skipper Bernardo Silva latched onto a cheeky back-heel from Foden but steered his shot just past the post.Sporting have won all ten of their domestic league games this season and were neck-and-neck with City in the table.City should have been out of sight given their chance – they weren’t though – and were made to pay shortly before the break.Geovany Quenda found Gyokeres and this time he held off teenage defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey before clipping home his shot.The Swedish forward – who now has 25 goals this season for club and country – is a huge cult figure in Lisbon and the fans went wild.Don’t be surprised if a bid comes in from Old Trafford before long.As the home fans celebrated, Amorim called a quartet of players over to dish out some tactical advice. No sign of him clocking off early.He can clearly give a half-time team talk too as his side came roaring out for the second-half.Just 19 seconds after the restart the home side were ahead as Pedro Goncalves threaded a pass to Max Araujo whose shot went straight through Ederson.Sporting fans unveiled a huge tifo to say goodbye to AmorimCredit: TNT SPORTSThe home fans were still celebrating as Josko Gvardiol lost the ball on the left and then upended Francisco Trincao.It was a clear penalty and Gyokeres did the rest – sending the City keeper the wrong way with an emphatic spot-kick.City were shell-shocked as they faced up to the prospect of losing three games in a row for the first time in six years.They got a lifeline midway through the second-half as Silva’s shot hit the arm of Ousmane Diomande.After a long VAR check a penalty was given and after an even longer wait, Haaland hammered his spot-kick against the bar.It was clearly Amorim’s night – and not City’s.And that much was clear as former Sporting star Nunes shoved over Geny Catamo in the box to earn the third pen of the night.READ MORE SUN STORIESGyokeres kept his cool and rattled in from the spot again to spark more bedlam and complete his hat-trick.Welcome to Manchester, Ruben Amorim.Phil Foden opened the scoring after just four minutesCredit: Getty More