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      Arsenal and Liverpool in three-horse transfer race to sign Brentford star who’s scored same amount of goals as Man Utd

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      ARSENAL are engaged in three-way transfer race to sign Brentford ace Bryan Mbeumo, reports suggest.Mbeumo, 25, has enjoyed a fantastic start to the season by scoring eight Premier League goals in just nine matches for Thomas Frank’s Bees.Bryan Mbeumo is the subject of a three-team transfer race after scoring the same number of goals as Man UtdCredit: GettyNewcastle are discussing a deal while Arsenal are also interestedCredit: GettyThese eight goals astonishingly put him level with Manchester United’s league tally for the season so far, which sums up the Red Devils’ troubles pretty well.Cameroon international Mbeumo courted interest from some of England’s top clubs over the summer, with Newcastle top of a list including the Gunners and Liverpool, according to the Chronicle.However, the £50million price tag saw them baulk at a transfer.But the winger’s strong start to the season has kept Eddie Howe and co keen on a deal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Telegraph report Newcastle are looking to strengthen their forward options and are internally discussing a move for Mbeumo in January.The Magpies were hit with spending restrictions in the summer in order to comply with league Profit and Sustainability rules.This saw them part ways with huge talents in Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh, with the pair now doing well at Nottingham Forest and Brighton respectively.Since the takeover of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in October 2021, the Toon have spent more than £400m on new talent.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, following news that PIF will cut investment from their sovereign wealth fund on international spending from 30 per cent to 18-20 per cent, the Toon may have to deal with tighter pockets a little longer.PIF have assured supporters their backing will not change and will press on with plans for a new stadium, though this will not help with the immediate issues regarding PSR compliance. ‘Watching Arsenal is like watching Netflix… you always have to wait for the next season’, says Man Utd legendStruggles in terms of recouping transfer fees have left their hands tied, which the Telegraph report could restrict their winter plans too.In the meantime, Toon have triggered a one-year extension to Sean Longstaff’s contract.The St. James’ Park outfit tried to land Marc Guehi in the summer with a deal that almost hit £70m, which was rejected by Crystal Palace.Newcastle sit 12th in the league, while rivals Liverpool are second and Arsenal are third after playing out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Emirates last weekend.Liverpool brought in one player in Federico Chiesa in the summer, with Arne Slot largely using the stars left over from Jurgen Klopp’s reign.This being said, the club did also confirm the signing of Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili for next summer in a £25m deal.On the other hand, Mikel Arteta recruited heavily with Riccardo Calafiori the main arrival from Bologna for £42m.READ MORE SUN STORIESMikel Merino was added in midfield for £33m and David Raya’s loan transfer from Brentford was made permanent for £27m.Raheem Sterling and Neto also came in on loan.Liverpool impressed at Arsenal, but it was a match Jurgen Klopp probably would’ve wonBy Jordan DaviesON the face of it, Liverpool continue to go from strength to strength with Arne Slot’s tenure still in its infancy.Away at Arsenal as title contenders — with a formidable record at the Emirates having won four of their last six there — the Reds fought back, not once, but twice to earn an impressive point to remain four clear of the Gunners.Nine games in, Liverpool have seven wins, 22 points collected and sit in second in what is one of the club’s best ever starts to a Prem campaign.Nothing to sniff at there, and that is without mentioning three straight wins in the Champions League and a 5-1 Carabao Cup third-round thumping of fellow top-flight side West Ham.So to even attempt to pick flaws in Slot’s start with a run that solid would come across needlessly pedantic, deliberately nit-picky.But, and there is a but, given the standards Liverpool have set in these early months, it needs to be said: this draw in North London was a massive missed opportunity.And to go one step further, maybe this is a game Jurgen Klopp would have found a way to win?It has been a long time since Arsenal have gone into a game feeling so vulnerable defensively with world-class centre-back William Saliba missing through suspension.Full-back Riccardo Calafiori was also out injured, usual right-back Ben White began the game at centre-half and midfielder Thomas Partey started on the far right side of the defence.And then, in a chaotic second half, both Jurrien Timber and Gabriel limped off, forcing Gunners boss Mikel Arteta to swap around his back line THREE times by the 76th minute.And yet, despite all of that, a Liverpool side boasting attacking talents like Mo Salah, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo were hardly making the home fans sweat with a peppering of the Arsenal goal.It was not until a Klopp-style counter-attack from back to front in the 81st minute did the visitors properly test the home defence.But even that finish was a tame one — Salah tapping in past David Raya into an almost empty net.And with nine minutes left plus seven minutes injury time, the expected onslaught for another, to nick all three points — the tally-ho approach — never came.Not Klopp’s heavy metal style, more pleasant folk music with a ukulele in a country pub.You get the impression that Slot was delighted with this outcome.For large parts, Liverpool were defensively sound, gave very little away and snuck away back to Merseyside with a point tucked under their arm and a bloody nose avoided.Yet it was in these sorts big blockbuster matches that Klopp and Liverpool thrived over their nine-year romance, full of excitement, thrills and last-gasp wins that earned them a Prem trophy in 2019-20 and plenty more down-to-the-wire chases with Manchester City.And with Arteta’s Arsenal on their knees — quite literally in some cases — and hanging on for dear life, these are the moments in title races that require a bit of crazy, not caution.A Klopp team of the past would have gone completely and totally Kloppy, throwing men forward at will, blasting their opponents away and forcing the ball into the net through passion and thunder alone, regardless of how open it left them at the back.Slot is not this sort of coach.He is measured, considerate, calm. Good qualities, but not always needed in do-or-die matches that ultimately determine where you finish in May.It is hard to say if this will come back to haunt Slot, who still insists on avoiding any use of the phrase ‘title contenders’ despite clearly being title contenders.With Aston Villa and Manchester City visiting Anfield over their next five Prem outings, we will see whether the Dutchman can loosen the leash and let his team grab games by the scruff of the neck instead of playing it safe.Because as we have seen in this league, going for broke often rewards you — just ask the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and Pep Guardiola.Fortune favours the brave.Slot needs to discover his own version of that if he is to truly emulate Klopp and transform this Liverpool side into one capable of seizing moments when they matter most. More

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      Man Utd and Arsenal ‘go head to head for cut price Kolo Muani transfer with PSG willing to sell France star for £33m’

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      PARIS-SAINT GERMAIN flop Randal Kolo Muani could be set for a cut-price move to the Premier League. The 25-year-old striker joined the French giants from Eintracht Frankfurt for £77million last year.Randal Kolo Muani joined PSG in a £77m deal in 2023Credit: GettyThe French international has struggled for form and playing time in ParisCredit: GettyMuani has struggled to find his shooting boots since his big-money switch to the Ligue 1 champions. He has netted just 11 goals in 50 appearances and has been unable to nail down a regular place in the starting XI. Reports suggest PSG bosses are ready to take a loss on the French international. According to L’Equipe, both Manchester United and Arsenal are ready to battle it out for his signature.READ MORE TRANSFER NEWSThe outlet claims the speedster could be available in January for between £33m and £42m.Muani was linked with a £103m move to Man Utd in the summer of 2023. It followed a stunning season with Frankfurt, with the former Nantes forward bagging 15 goals and 11 assists in just 32 Bundesliga games. He ultimately made the move to the French capital instead.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the switch has not worked out, with Muani’s future with the club increasingly unclear. Prior to joining PSG, the World Cup runner-up declared it would be a “dream” to play in the Premier League.Man Utd want Ruben AmorimHe said: “Honestly, who doesn’t dream of playing in the Premier League? “It’s one of the best leagues that exists. You dream about it. “These are childhood dreams. But I’m not searching for the perfect club or the best club in the world. “I’m really looking for the club that will give me the chance to be able to express myself, to earn game time and most importantly allow me to grow.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.Muani’s final decision could come down to Utd’s next managerial appointment.The Red Devils parted ways with Erik ten Hag on Monday following weeks of speculation. Old Trafford bosses have swooped for Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club has agreed to pay Amorim’s £8.3m release fee.The Portuguese coach – plus three of his backroom staff – are expected to fly into Manchester later this week for advanced talks, More

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      Huge Arsenal blow as Gabriel Magalhaes forced off in Liverpool clash to deepen defensive crisis

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      GABRIEL MAGALHAES has become the latest Arsenal player to fall foul of injury.The defender was forced off the pitch during the Sunday afternoon 2-2 draw between the Gunners and Liverpool at the Emirates.Gabriel is the latest Arsenal injury set to cause Mikel Arteta a headacheCredit: GettyHe was forced to leave the pitch following a tussle with Darwin Nunez which left him grimacingCredit: GettyGabriel could be out for at least six weeks depending on the severity of the injuryCredit: ReutersMikel Arteta’s defensive options had already been depleted with injuries to Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Kieran Tierney and the suspension of William Saliba.However, following a second-half tussle with Darwin Nunez, Gabriel appeared to feel something and was then seen grimacing.He then fell to the floor in pain before receiving treatment to try and help him to carry on.But it proved to be ineffective, and Gabriel was taken off through injury in the 54th minute and replaced by Jakub Kiwior.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe knock was reported to be a knee injury sustained after it was jolted during his duel with Nunez.Footage of Gabriel while receiving treatment saw him holding his left knee, seemingly confirming this assessment as the club doctor also checked for a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury.He was able to walk off the pitch and down the tunnel, but could now face weeks on the sideline.If Gabriel has suffered an MCL injury, then the amount of time he will miss will depend on the grade of the blow.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA grade 1 issue will heal within 1-3 weeks while a grade 2 could take between four and six weeks and a grade 3 will take at least six with proper treatment.Jurrien Timber then added to these problems when he was replaced by teen Myles Lewis-Skelly in the 75th minute after the Dutchman was also forced to the floor with injury and received treatment.Arsenal fans say ‘time to upgrade the wardrobe’ as Gunners release ‘orgasmic’ new clothing range Gabriel returned to the side of the pitch later on to see out the remainder of the match.While Arteta will see the return of Saliba following his one-game suspension, Calafiori, Tomiyasu and Tierney remain out.Arsenal were also dealing with knocks to Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka before the Liverpool game.However, star player Saka was deemed fit enough to play before he opened the scoring with a vicious close-range shot after ten minutes.Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk scored from a set-play to level the score.Arsenal ratings vs LiverpoolARSENAL lost further ground in the title race with a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.Arne Slot’s side are a top team, but it will still frustrate Mikel Arteta that his team couldn’t clinch all three points having twice led the match.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the Arsenal players…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Very little he could do for Liverpool’s equaliser, forced to stay on his line from the flicked-on corner, and the same goes for Mohamed Salah’s tap in from a speedy counter.JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Kept Salah quiet for the majority and proved his worth with ball at feet, but starting him was clearly a risk as he hobbled off late on.BEN WHITE – 7He may have been at centre back but his telepathy with Saka remained, curling a peach of a ball over the top for the opener and remained solid even when those around him chopped and changed.GABRIEL – 7Missed his centre-back partner but did well until he worryingly limped off. No surprise that Salah and Darwin Nunez found space when he was absent.THOMAS PARTEY – 8Was targeted in his unnatural position within the first 30 seconds but held his ground for the most part. One of Arsenal’s best players.MIKEL MERINO – 8A stray touch gifted Salah a great chance to score before getting a bang to the same shoulder that kept him out at the start of the season. And then, after a so-so performance, he steps up with a thumping header just before the break to regain the lead.DECLAN RICE – 8Did the nitty-gritty very well in the middle of the pitch with some crucial interceptions and timely tackles. Carried on covering every blade of grass until the very last.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Drifted in and out of the game as a floating 10 and striker but got stuck in when needed and pressed like a rabid dog. Still, was quiet given his recent form.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Lively enough without creating too many clear-cut chances in the first half. Unlucky not to win a penalty after being hauled down by Ibrahima Konate.BUKAYO SAKA – 9Injury? What injury? His hamstring seemed right as rain as he cruised in behind Andy Robertson, cutting it back through the full-back’s legs and firing into the roof of the net.Was understandably taken off in the second half with a need to protect him going into a hectic period of the season.KAI HAVERTZ – 7Given freedom to roam and drop deep. Missed a sitter in the box after Martinelli’s penalty shout but lacked the service via crosses to really be effective in the first half.Remained a physical nuisance after the break but never had that one golden opportunity.SUBS:JAKUB KIWIOR (GABRIEL, 54) – 6Impressive to come in out of the cold to stay firm, but again, his work with the ball at his feet left a lot to be desired.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY (TIMBER, 76) – 6Caught out of position for Liverpool’s late leveller but showed signs of real maturity too.GABRIEL JESUS (SAKA, 85) – N/AETHAN NWANERI (MARTINELLI, 85) – N/AClick here for more Arsenal news.But the hosts responded with a free-kick of their own as Declan Rice’s superb free-kick was headed home by Mikel Merino shortly before half-time, and then confirmed following a lengthy VAR check for offside.Liverpool equalised for a second time in the 81st minute through Mohamed Salah.Arsenal did get the ball in the net through Gabriel Jesus in injury time, but the goal was ruled out for a foul earlier in the move.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result leaves Liverpool a point behind Manchester City at the top of the table, while Arsenal are now five adrift of the league leaders.Jurrien Timber was also forced off through injuryCredit: GettyGabriel returned to the Arsenal bench later on More

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      ‘He shouldn’t even be on the pitch’ fume Arsenal fans as Virgil van Dijk escapes red card minutes before equaliser

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      VIRGIL VAN DIJK scored for Liverpool in Sunday’s 2-2 draw at the Emirates – but Arsenal fans raged that he should not have even been on the pitch.Bukayo Saka opened the scoring in the huge North London clash with a sublime solo effort on nine minutes.Virgil van Dijk escaped a red for this kick outVan Dijk equalised for LiverpoolCredit: ReutersBut just ten minutes later and Van Dijk levelled from a Liverpool corner. That was after he escaped a red card just five minutes into the game following a collision with Kai Havertz. The centre-back appeared to twice kick out at Havertz during a tussle as the Arsenal forward went to ground. So when Van Dijk popped up with the equalising goal – Gooners were not too pleased. READ MORE IN football One said: “He shouldn’t even be on the pitch, but let’s save that for later.”Another added: “So Van Dijk equalises not long after he should have been sent off. “Any other side would have seen their player off but Livarpool get away with it. Make it make sense.”One fumed: “Ah. Van Dijk who should’ve been sent off scores. Of course.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother raged: “Van dijk should be sent off, doesn’t even go to var and he goes and equalises, the game is f***ing destroyed.” Arsenal regained their lead before the break with Mikel Merino heading home from Declan Rice’s stunning free-kick cross.’If Arsenal lose to Liverpool, they are out of the Premier League title race… the gulf is massive’However Mo Salah scored a late leveller as the clash ended 2-1.Arsenal ratings vs LiverpoolARSENAL lost further ground in the title race with a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.Arne Slot’s side are a top team, but it will still frustrate Mikel Arteta that his team couldn’t clinch all three points having twice led the match.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the Arsenal players…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Very little he could do for Liverpool’s equaliser, forced to stay on his line from the flicked-on corner, and the same goes for Mohamed Salah’s tap in from a speedy counter.JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Kept Salah quiet for the majority and proved his worth with ball at feet, but starting him was clearly a risk as he hobbled off late on.BEN WHITE – 7He may have been at centre back but his telepathy with Saka remained, curling a peach of a ball over the top for the opener and remained solid even when those around him chopped and changed.GABRIEL – 7Missed his centre-back partner but did well until he worryingly limped off. No surprise that Salah and Darwin Nunez found space when he was absent.THOMAS PARTEY – 8Was targeted in his unnatural position within the first 30 seconds but held his ground for the most part. One of Arsenal’s best players.MIKEL MERINO – 8A stray touch gifted Salah a great chance to score before getting a bang to the same shoulder that kept him out at the start of the season. And then, after a so-so performance, he steps up with a thumping header just before the break to regain the lead.DECLAN RICE – 8Did the nitty-gritty very well in the middle of the pitch with some crucial interceptions and timely tackles. Carried on covering every blade of grass until the very last.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Drifted in and out of the game as a floating 10 and striker but got stuck in when needed and pressed like a rabid dog. Still, was quiet given his recent form.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Lively enough without creating too many clear-cut chances in the first half. Unlucky not to win a penalty after being hauled down by Ibrahima Konate.BUKAYO SAKA – 9Injury? What injury? His hamstring seemed right as rain as he cruised in behind Andy Robertson, cutting it back through the full-back’s legs and firing into the roof of the net.Was understandably taken off in the second half with a need to protect him going into a hectic period of the season.KAI HAVERTZ – 7Given freedom to roam and drop deep. Missed a sitter in the box after Martinelli’s penalty shout but lacked the service via crosses to really be effective in the first half.Remained a physical nuisance after the break but never had that one golden opportunity.SUBS:JAKUB KIWIOR (GABRIEL, 54) – 6Impressive to come in out of the cold to stay firm, but again, his work with the ball at his feet left a lot to be desired.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY (TIMBER, 76) – 6Caught out of position for Liverpool’s late leveller but showed signs of real maturity too.GABRIEL JESUS (SAKA, 85) – N/AETHAN NWANERI (MARTINELLI, 85) – N/AClick here for more Arsenal news. More

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      Invincible says don’t judge Kai Havertz on goals as Dennis Bergkamp-like ace becoming ‘major part of Arsenal history’

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      BELIEVE it or not, there ARE similarities between Kai Havertz and Dennis Bergkamp.Arsenal legend and three-time Prem winner Bergkamp was heavily criticised upon signing for the club on June 21, 1995 – taking seven league games to score his first goal.Kai Havertz has become a vital member of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal starting XICredit: GettyDennis Bergkamp was heavily criticised before becoming a club legendCredit: GettyHavertz – a £65m buy from Chelsea on June 28, 2023 – was considered by some a waste of money after he took 10 games in all competitions to open his account in North London.Their positions too. Bergkamp was never considered a conventional goal-getting No.9, while Havertz has so far under Mikel Arteta been used as a central striker, No.10 and marauding midfielder.And importantly, for all of the flair and beauty, aggression and physicality, their influence on their respective Arsenal teams is undeniable, regardless of goals.Deemed one of the club’s and Prem’s all-time greats, Dutch master Bergkamp never scored more than 16 goals in a single league season for the Gunners.read more arsenalAs an integral, world class cog in Arsene Wenger’s Invincible side of 2003/04, he scored just four Prem goals, alongside seven assists for the likes of Thierry Henry and Robert Pires.On the hunt for a first league title since then, Havertz notched 13 Prem goals and seven assists in his debut season as Arteta’s men finished two points behind champions Manchester City.Havertz already has four goals and one assist in eight games this term after a fine start solely as a No.9, while his influence on those around him grows by the week.And ahead of a blockbuster title clash against Liverpool, Jeremie Aliadiere – a member of the Invincibles and ex-teammate of Bergkamp – told SunSport: “I don’t rely on [Havertz] scoring goals.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“The team shares goals from everywhere, and as long as you keep winning games, that’s all that matters. Do you always need an Erling Haaland scoring 20 to 30 goals a season?“You can share it around and still win a Premier League title. I would never judge Havertz on a minimum number of goals because he brings so much more than that to the team.”Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card?More often than not right now, when Havertz gets a chance, he takes it – recently on a run of scoring in seven successive home games – while continuing to drive others forward with a cuteness and technical brilliance under pressure.The German international’s 6ft 4in frame sees him dominate duels in the air, his work rate off the ball is relentless and he has recently revealed he has started to “enjoy” physical battles.Bergkamp – occasionally nicknamed ‘Dirty Den’ during his 11-year Arsenal stint – also had a mean streak to him that paved the way for others to grab the headlines.Frenchman Aliadiere – who made 51 appearances for the club between 2001 and 2007 – continued: “I see [the similarities]. Dennis could play anywhere.Jeremie Aliadiere (bottom left) won the title with Arsenal in 2004Credit: Getty“He was a magician, the best footballing brain I have ever seen. He saw things and could read the game quicker than anybody and saw things no one else could. He was the ‘Iceman’.“You would try to copy him in training and it was impossible. He was on a different level, feeding the likes of Henry, Pires, Freddie Ljungberg. He was the conductor, the chief.“I must say, I was not convinced of Havertz initially as a No.9, maybe not sharp or quick enough, but like Dennis, he is not a typical player.“A big lad who holds the ball well and his intelligence and selflessness to get Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard involved.“When you start to feel important in the team, not wondering if you’re going to start, suddenly the confidence grows and he is playing like he has never played before.“He’s slowly becoming a major part of Arsenal’s history and hopefully it is a winning season.”All that is missing is the “aura” that comes from lifting titles and being recognised as one of the world’s best – something a 16-year-old Aliadiere experienced first-hand with Bergkamp.Speaking on behalf of William Hill Vegas, Aliadiere explained: “As a young boy joining the club, the first six months being in the first team, [Bergkamp] never spoke to me. He barely said hello in the morning.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I thought: ‘Oh god, he doesn’t like me’. It made me even more anxious and scared in training, but after that he suddenly completely changed. He accepted me.“He wanted to see if I was good enough to be around him. He had such an aura around him. You couldn’t get his friendship just like that. You had to earn it.” More

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      Arsenal’s title hopes are OVER if they lose to Liverpool, warns Gunners legend Tony Adams

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      TONY ADAMS has warned Arsenal ahead of today’s Prem showdown with Liverpool: Lose and you can forget the title.Gunners legend Adams believes they will have more chance of lifting the Champions League if they slip SEVEN  points  behind  Arne Slot’s Reds and SIX behind Manchester City.Arsenal’s legendary captain Tony Adams says the Gunners’ title hopes will be OVER if they lose to LiverpoolCredit: GettyMikel Arteta has an injury headache for the crunch title clashCredit: GettyThe ex-Arsenal captain, four times a champion with the club, said: “This is not quite a must-win game but it is a must-not-lose.“We can’t lose, because then we would not be far off having more chance of winning the Champions League than the title, even this early.“At the back end of the season, you will also have a City squad that has been rotated and is full of beans. Usually they don’t lose a game.“You have to stay in touch with your rivals. If you get to April within three points of the title, you still have a chance.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAdams is the only player to win the title in three different decades — skippering the Gunners to glory in 1989, 1991, 1998 and 2002.But Adams, 58, feels his injury-hit former club have it all to do at the Emirates this afternoon.Defender William Saliba is banned after a red card against Bournemouth.Boss Mikel Arteta fears Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber will not be fit while skipper Martin Odegaard is a long-term absentee.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTony Adams: Red cards are sign of a winning mentality… Arsenal need to be MORE aggressiveBACK in the day at Arsenal, red cards were regarded as signs of a winning mentality — not a failing that could cost them titles.The Gunners go into Sunday’s clash with Liverpool without defender William Saliba after he became the THIRD player in Mikel Arteta’s squad to be sent off this season.When fellow Frenchman Patrick Vieira was dismissed in a home game with the Reds in August 2000, there was indeed talk of crisis in Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal team.But for Arsenal’s captain that day, Tony Adams, Vieira’s disciplinary record and reaction to his latest misdemeanour were water off a duck’s back.Adams told SunSport’s Dan King, chuckling: “It was par for the course, Patrick getting sent off — everyday occurrence. “If I thought Patrick was being out of order, I would have had a quiet word. But I wasn’t going to go up to Patrick and say, ‘Calm yourself down, for God’s sake!’“Because that was half of his game. I needed that from him.“And if sometimes we got red cards — and Arsene said, ‘Oh, I didn’t see it’ — then that’s the way it was.”“When they were closing down people, putting in tackles and getting involved, putting pressure on teams and maybe mistiming a tackle to get a yellow or a red, I didn’t have a problem with that.“I would rather have had that than have no-one getting sent off and accepting losing every week.”I’d like Arsenal to be MORE aggressive in making tackles and closing down.”Read Tony Adams’ full thoughts on Arsenal’s red card woes…Adams added: “With Saliba out and the injuries, everything is pointing to an away win.“As soon as Saliba went off against Bournemouth, you saw it fall apart. We lost our balance.’If Arsenal lose to Liverpool, they are out of the Premier League title race… the gulf is massive’“It’s the first time in about three years that we’ve had a few injuries and it is highlighting weaknesses in the squad.“City have got an array of talent. That level of quality throughout your squad makes a difference over the season.”Adams is also not sure if Arteta has a centre-back good enough to make up for the absence of Saliba.The ex-England captain said: “When we won the league in ’89, we had me and Steve Bould, with Dave O’Leary as back-up.We can’t lose, because then we would not be far off having more chance of winning the Champions League than the title, even this early.Tony Adams“If one of us was out, we were OK. When you have that level of quality in your squad, you are winning titles.”But Adams reckons they CAN get a result.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “Liverpool are confident and Mo Salah is on fire but I have a funny feeling Arsenal will get a point.“I would love it if we got all three — and if that means getting another red card in the process, so be it.”Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      ‘It causes a little bit of a tummy ache’ admits Mikel Arteta as Liverpool game gives Arsenal boss sleepless nights

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      MIKEL ARTETA is having sleepless nights and getting “tummy ache” over picking his ravaged Arsenal team to face Liverpool.The Gunners boss must do without the suspended William Saliba and is also sweating on the fitness of Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber.Mikel Arteta took one small step in training but isn’t expecting one giant sleep before Sunday’s match with Liverpool as he sweats on injuriesCredit: GettyDeclan Rice will be handed an extra big role as fellow midfield star Martin Odegaard is still out injured for the GunnersCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Gabriel are still hoping for lift-off without a handful of top men at home to the Prem leadersCredit: GettyAnd with injured captain Martin Odegaard still missing, Arteta says he has no fears about fielding the kids as the Londoners aim to avoid falling seven points behind Arne Slot’s Prem leaders on Sunday.Spaniard Arteta, 42, revealed: “Normally, I prefer to go to bed with the line-up in my head so I can sleep like a baby.“But sometimes it cannot be as you have to wait for the next day.“Sometimes two or three days before, you already have the idea, ‘Against this team this is what I am going to do’ — but when you have uncertainty with injuries it is tricky.READ MORE TOP STORIES“The stress comes from two things. First, when you don’t have options, what do you do? And then you get in the shoes of the players.“And every time you make a decision it is a positive one for somebody and not so positive for one.“That’s what causes a little bit of tummy ache but that happens every week.“The process of choosing the line-up and understanding how everyone will feel about it.Most read in FootballBen White is tipped to start but Raheem Sterling’s situation is less clearCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“There is going to be a lot of possibilities, a lot of ifs.“Probably the team that we start won’t be the team that finishes.Arsenal star Saka of three key men to miss training ahead of crunch Liverpool Premier League showdown “How prepared we are to make the changes we need to?“Get on with it. Show your teeth. Show how much you want it.“We know how good we are and how difficult we can be for the opponents.“You need the team prepared. When you lose your captain, that’s a big thing. When you lose your central defender, a full-back, another full-back,   a striker, a winger. . .“The team has to have the resources. First of all, mentally to adapt and then maintain the same belief that even like this we’re a great team.”Star winger Saka, 23, faces a late fitness test on a hamstring injury picked up in England’s Nations League clash with Greece 16 days ago.Defender Calafiori, 22, will have more tests on his knee today, while full-back Timber, 23, is still struggling with a muscle issue.Normally, I prefer to go to bed with the line-up in my head so I can sleep like a baby.Mikel ArtetaMyles Lewis-Skelly, who was a sub in Tuesday’s 1-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk, could get his first Prem start at left-back.READ MORE SUN STORIESAsked whether he would be scared to start the 18-year-old in such a big game, Arteta said: “No. He is in contention.“Myles came on the other night and he did really well. He is a first-team player.”Myles Lewis-Skelly looks relaxed as Arteta ponders starting the teenCredit: GettyArsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      Troy Deeney: There is NO conspiracy against Arsenal – their red cards have been stupid and petulant… it’s worrying

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      ARSENAL’S red-card run has me worried — but not for why you might think.If the likes of Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba had been sent off for violent conduct, aggressive behaviour or arguing with refs, I could understand.Mikel Arteta can’t legislate for stupid things his players are doingCredit: AlamyDeclan Rice’s red card was unlucky but showed Arsenal’s recklessnessCredit: RexLeandro Trossard’s actions for his dismissal were so needlessCredit: GettyThese things happen, move on.But in Arsenal’s case, none of them were for tackles. They were simply for petulant, lazy and stupid actions — things that manager Mikel Arteta cannot account for.In all fairness, Rice’s red against Brighton for kicking the ball away was mental. The ref handled that badly.But Trossard’s against Manchester City was incredibly petulant.READ MORE TOP STORIESAnd with Saliba’s at Bournemouth, he has got credit for reacting to a poor pass — ironically from Trossard — but I would have backed him to get back and for David Raya to save it.It is something that keeps happening.My other concern is the Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.I have seen it in dressing rooms — you can find an excuse if you are looking for it. As players, it is never our fault.Most read in FootballWilliam Saliba saw red for a challenge that was clumsy in more ways than one as he felled Bournemouth striker Evanilson in mid-pitchCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd if you are hearing it on social media and begin talking about it then it will seep in.I am also worried that when these red cards have been given, I haven’t seen or heard of anyone screaming or shouting, pointing fingers.  That’s maybe a sign of the times.Arsenal star Saka of three key men to miss training ahead of crunch Liverpool Premier League showdown I was sent off five times in my professional career and every time in the dressing room after the games, I’ve got hammered for letting the team down.I have experienced all of the emotions. Sometimes you feel hard-done-by and there is an element of smashing the dressing room up because you are angry, and sometimes I felt like a kid again getting told off by my parents — there is so much shame.I don’t sense that has happened at Arsenal; more: “Unlucky, mate. Better luck next time.”Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.Troy DeeneyYou need accountability, you need players to show their frustration.When Saliba was sent off and the team then lost 2-0, I would expect someone to at least ask: “Why did you do that?”You are supposed to have conflict. You are allowed to hold people to a high standard.Arsenal have obviously been doing that to get to the position they are at, challenging for the title.But in these situations, if they are going into games without their best players — especially an avoidable one in Saliba — then that should rightly boil over behind the scenes.And do not underestimate the toll it takes on you playing with ten men on several occasions in quick succession.It is almost impossible physically to pull it off just once, let alone three times, as well as the psychological damage of not having the ball.When that is the case, it becomes a long, hard slog.You can still see what that draw at Man City did to them — it is still in their legs, in their heads.Bukayo Saka showed commendable confidence in saying it will be Arsenal’s year but ‘with great expectation comes great responsibility’Credit: ReutersDrawing 2-2 so late on. You’ve played for so long with ten men, defended so well, contained them, and then someone scores and the whole emotion leaves your body.City now have an effect on Arsenal whereby if they are not six or seven points ahead going into the last ten games of a season, they know they will be caught.At the start of this campaign, they put a lot of pressure on themselves — maybe too much.Bukayo Saka came out and said: “This is our year, we can do it.” I liked it.I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do.Troy DeeneyBut with great expectation comes great responsibility and I don’t remember a game this season where they have looked like the Arsenal of the previous two years.They have looked clunky and looked like they are forcing things.And they are now in a position already this season where they have to go out and attack and win games, like against Liverpool on Sunday.I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do. And as a neutral fan, I don’t want them to be done. Seven points adrift is huge.So Arsenal have to deliver. And I am beginning to think of the question: When is Arteta under pressure?READ MORE SUN STORIESMaybe if they drift away from the title race by Christmas?It is a harsh question given what he has done for the club but you have to deliver at some point.Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More