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    David Raya reveals secret behind incredible penalty double save after Arsenal star took advantage of delay

    DAVID RAYA has revealed the secrets behind his penalty heroics in Arsenal’s 0-0 draw with Atalanta.The Spanish shot-stopper was the Gunners’ hero last night as he stopped Mateo Retegui from 12 yards before leaping back across his goal to miraculously claw a headed rebound off the line.David Raya saved Mateo Retegui’s penalty to preserve Arsenal’s clean sheetCredit: GettyHe then clawed a rebound off the lineCredit: RexHe has now revealed the secret behind his successCredit: ReutersRaya, 29, has conceded just one goal so far this season which has helped Mikel Arteta’s side to an unbeaten start.Their away trip to Europa League champions Atalanta looked to be a tricky test on paper, and so it proved, with Gian Piero Gasperini’s side having more possession and shots than Arsenal.However, Raya was there to thwart the Italian side’s attempts, and he has now revealed the secret behind his latest heroics.During the delay before it was taken, the 29-year-old went to speak with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana, whom he had also previously worked with at Brentford.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking to TNT Sports after the game, he said: “I made the decision to go to the sideline during the VAR consultation because there was a long wait.”So I just wanted to speak to the goalkeeper coach to have more of a sense of which way I should go, what to do and what not to do.”Credit to him because he helps me a lot in every aspect. He does all the work with everything and he also deserves credit for the save.”Raya saw praise heaped on him by boss Arteta, who said the save was “probably one of the best saves I have seen in my career”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe also drew praise from Gasperini, who labelled him a “cat”.It has been some journey for Raya, who 10 years ago today lost 3-0 on his National League debut playing for Southport.The Sun’s Shaun Custis and Martin Lipton break down the new changes for the UEFA Champions League format for 2024/25He will doubtless be hoping to add to his list of clean sheets with a shutout against title rivals Manchester City on Sunday.City leads Arsenal by two points, with the match at the Etihad potentially pivotal in the season’s title charge for both.Raya revealed he spoke to goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana during the delay before the penaltyCredit: GettyArsenal ratings vs Atalanta as Raya saves uninspiring Gunners in ItalyARSENAL had some David Raya heroics to thank for a points in the Champions League opener.Raya’s stunning double save just after the break spared Thomas Partey’s blushes after the midfielder gave away a penalty.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…David Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour.William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Retegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday.Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Starting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances.Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season.Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”.But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics.Declan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards.Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle.Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save.Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday.Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area.Withdrawn before the hour mark.Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over.Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City. 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    Watch Micah Richards’ hilarious reaction after Arsenal hero David Raya reveals favourite CBS pundit in awkward interview

    MICAH RICHARDS celebrated a big win in the Champions League… with the help of Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.Richards, who never made it past the last-16 of Europe’s elite club competition, was appearing on CBS Sports alongside Jamie Carragher, Thierry Henry and newly-married presenter Kate Scott – formerly Abdo.Arsenal hero David Raya was interviewed by CBS Sports after his heroics against AtalantaRichards asked Raya who is favourite member wasRaya replied by saying Richards was his favouriteThis prompted a huge celebration from RichardsHe then ran over to Raya to hug and kiss himFollowing Arsenal’s game against Atalanta, which ended in a 0-0 draw thanks to a stunning double save from Raya which included a save from the penalty spot, the Spaniard appeared on the show.During the interview, former Manchester City star Richards asked Raya who his favourite member of the CBS crew was.In reply, Raya said: “Oh you put me right on the spot there.”I like you all, but for me I think Micah takes it, he’s quite funny.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis sparked a jubilant celebration from the 36-year-old, who then proceeded to get up before running over to the screen where Raya was and “hugging” and “kissing” him.Richards also shouted “I love you”, towards the goalkeeper.Fans loved Richards’ reaction, with one saying: “Who doesn’t love Big Meeks.”A second said: “Big meeks all the way.”Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third added: “l love this guy.”Another said: “You gotta love micah… He’s so lively.”Watch hilarious moment Kate Abdo gets the giggles after Micah Richards’ X-rated slip of the tongue live on CBS Sports, CBSSportsGolazoArsenal ratings vs Atalanta as Raya saves uninspiring Gunners in ItalyARSENAL had some David Raya heroics to thank for a points in the Champions League opener.Raya’s stunning double save just after the break spared Thomas Partey’s blushes after the midfielder gave away a penalty.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…David Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour.William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Retegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday.Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Starting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances.Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season.Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”.But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics.Declan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards.Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle.Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save.Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday.Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area.Withdrawn before the hour mark.Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over.Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City. More

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    Atalanta 0 Arsenal 0: David Raya the hero in drab game as Gunners get off to underwhelming start to Champions League

    WITH Manchester City up next, this was not the week for Arsenal to go cold in front of goal.But with David Raya in between the sticks, the Gunners will always be in safe hands.David Raya pulled off a stunning double saveCredit: RexMateo Retegui saw his penalty saved then had a golden chance on the reboundBut Raya was somehow able to scoop the ball of the lineCredit: RexThe save helped Arsenal keep a clean sheet and earn a pointCredit: TNT SportThe Spaniard pulled off a stunning double save from Mateo Retegui’s 51st minute penalty – the latest addition to his collection of world class stops since becoming the club’s No.1.As VAR checked Thomas Partey’s foul on Atalanta’s Ederson in the box, Raya sprinted over to the Arsenal dug-out for a last-minute chat with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana.Not that Raya needs any advice on saving penalties, such is his superb record, sending Arsenal to the Champions League quarter finals with two shoot-out stops against Porto last season.He won the Prem’s Save of the Month in August for an insane reactive stop on his own goal line to deny Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but this one was arguably even more jaw-dropping.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDown to his right to palm away Retegui’s first attempt and then back to his feet like a tasered eel scrambling to his left to fingertip the follow-up header destined for the corner.It is a save that earned a below-par Arsenal a point in their Champions League opener against a tough Italian outfit, but a performance that will leave Mikel Arteta potentially far more concerned than relieved.A reasonable result at any other time, this will feel like a confidence-deflator ahead of their title-defining trip to the Etihad in two days’ time.In their hard-fought victory at Tottenham on Sunday, attacking flair was few and far between, instead replaced by defensive solidity, winning the game via more set-piece magic.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut yet again in Bergamo, Arteta’s boys were found guilty of lacking an eye for goal, unable to dig out a moment of brilliance from open play to win a tight contest.Another goalless draw against City would not be disastrous, but last season’s 0-0 between the pair ultimately cost Arsenal a first Prem title in 20 years, ending the term two points from glory.Ex-Arsenal star Jay Emmanuel-Thomas charged with importing drugs after £600,000 worth of cannabis seized at airportArsenal ratings vs Atalanta as Raya saves uninspiring Gunners in ItalyARSENAL had some David Raya heroics to thank for a points in the Champions League opener.Raya’s stunning double save just after the break spared Thomas Partey’s blushes after the midfielder gave away a penalty.And that was the closest either side came to a goal in the 0-0 draw.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mikel Arteta’s men…David Raya – 9Produced a simply stunning double save to stop Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then flung himself across to push away the follow-up rebound header – even better than his effort to deny Ollie Watkins.Robbie Savage labelled it the “best save I’ve ever seen” while Gunners fans lauded their Spanish hero, who has conceded just once in five games so far this term.Ben White – 7Given the daunting task of trying to keep Ademola Lookman quiet inside a rocking Gewiss Stadium but completed the job with his classic relaxed, languid demeanour.William Saliba – 8One of the world’s top centre-backs but did not need to be anywhere near his best – solid enough when called upon, including excellent late sliding tackle in own box.Retegui showed great movement but Saliba will have far sterner tests this season, none more so than up against Erling Haaland on Sunday.Gabriel Magalhaes – 7Like his partner Saliba, Gabriel helped ensure the Arsenal defence came out on top.Starting to run out of words to say about this pair who just concede so few chances.Jurrien Timber – 7Adds an extra dimension to this Arsenal side – showing just how much he was missed when sidelined last season.Arguably had the easiest evening’s work of the four defenders.Thomas Partey – 4Martin Keown described the Gunners’ retraction en masse during the transition as Arteta putting up his own “Thames Barrier”.But Partey nearly allowed the floodgates to open by giving away the penalty three minutes into the second half – only to be rescued by Raya’s heroics.Declan Rice – 6Top awareness to sniff out the Atalanta danger and help control midfield.But squandered a great chance to drive Arsenal forward when he won the ball on the halfway line and could have launched a potent counter.Kai Havertz – 6With Jesus starting up front, Havertz dropped into a deeper role – but he is perfectly comfortable there, too, and can carry the ball forwards.Little to show for his evening, though, but continued to put a shift in defensively until the final whistle.Buakyo Saka – 6Drew the foul from Ederson who collected an early yellow and from the resulting free-kick almost squeezed a low effort into bottom corner but for top save.Given a breather for final 20 minutes with an eye on Sunday.Gabriel Jesus – 5Captain on the night was his typical busy self early on getting himself around but virtually all of his involvement was outside the Atalanta penalty area.Withdrawn before the hour mark.Gabriel Martinelli – 4Struggled to get in the game and then when he did get in, squandered a really good chance when he blazed over.Definitely not hitting top form so far this season and may well find himself among the subs against Manchester City.There is the sense that Arteta’s men need to change the narrative, seize the initiative and dent Pep Guardiola’s winning-machine when they get the chance.But right now, Arsenal couldn’t ripple a child’s paddling pool, let alone the back of the net.Through gritted teeth in the build-up, Arteta revealed his skipper and talisman Martin Odegaard would be out for the foreseeable future with ankle ligament damage.But amid the injury crisis growing by the day in his squad, Arteta had options to play with as Declan Rice was back after suspension and Riccardo Calafiori returned from a calf knock.Yet there was no rest for the big hitters with just two changes from the North London Derby – Rice and Gabriel Jesus coming in for Jorginho and Leandro Trossard.A bold call from Arteta with a potentially title-defining clash sooner than he would have liked. The Spaniard eyed momentum and a winning mentality heading to the Etihad.In the early stages, it looked as though Arteta’s decision would be validated as Arsenal took control with some slick play, dominating proceedings with ease.Saka cut inside and had a fizzed effort deflected out for a corner. Kai Havertz then linked up with Jesus but the German’s attempt dribbled wide after driving into the box.Gabriel Martinelli missed Arsenal’s best chance to scoreCredit: AFPThe win at Spurs was at times edgy, nervy and an unpleasant watch for the neutrals. The Gunners were pinned in with their backs against the wall and defending resolutely for spells.There was a different feel to this one. A sense from the visitors that they could toy with their opponents and hit them with moments of brilliance at any given moment.But there was a no real urgency or aggression as Arsenal looked to be going through the motions. Saka’s low curler of a free-kick forced Marco Carnesecchi into his first stop.Another Ballon d’Or nominee in Ademola Lookman was doing his best to spark his own side into life, drifting inside and chipping into the box as Rice covered well at the back post.Charles De Ketelaere pinged over after a rare foray into the Arsenal box. Raya was yet to muddy his shorts.Huff and puff responded Arsenal in attack. Gabriel Martinelli blazed over with a panicked finish after a cute throw-in routine from the playbook of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.For all their possession, Arteta’s men were as blunt as airport cutlery as the half-time whistle blew. The travelling Arsenal fans are not usually kept waiting for goals these days.Three minutes into the second half, they were treated to some goalmouth action, but at the wrong end as Partey was turned far too easily, tangling himself up in Ederson’s legs and sending the Brazilian to the deck.Referee Clement Turpin pointed to the spot immediately before VAR decided to take an age to complete their check. Arteta spent it waggling his finger in the air from his technical area.Raya’s save – something that is now expected, not just hoped for – did little to galvanise his teammates.Subs Raheem Sterling, Jorginho, Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori were ineffective.READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal have now won just one of their last six away games in Europe, a real surprise given their incredible run of 10 wins from 11 on the road in the Prem in 2024.Bergamo blushes spared, Arteta needs a significant away-day moment this weekend. More

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    Arsenal face losing Takehiro Tomiyasu in January transfer with Japan star open to move to Champions League giants

    ARSENAL could be set to lose Takehiro Tomiyasu in January, Sun Online can reveal.Inter Milan, Napoli and Juventus are all tracking the Japanese ace who is thought to be open-minded to the idea of a move.Arsenal could be set to lose Takehiro Tomiyasu in JanuaryCredit: GettyInter Milan, Napoli and Juventus are all tracking the Japanese ace who is thought to be open-minded to the idea of a moveCredit: GettySunSport understands the Gunners are expected to demand at least £25m for the utility man, who is a favourite among supporters at the Emirates.But he has slipped down the pecking order and Mikel Arteta is understood to have accepted he might lose the player in the New Year.Inter are thought to be in the driving seat for the player and have identified him as their number-one target for January.Tomiyasu has established himself as an asset for Arsenal since arriving from Bologna in August 2021.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe defender did not take long to find a stable footing at the Emirates, and his ability to play across the backline has made him an important utility man for the North London club.The 25-year-old has turned out 83 times thus far for Arsenal while chipping in with two goals and six assists.While Tomiyasu has struggled with fitness issues throughout his spell with the Premier League outfit, he has made his mark whenever he has taken the field.He is currently on the sidelines as he recovers from a knee injury. So, he has yet to make an appearance for Arsenal thus far this season.Most read in FootballHe suffered a knee injury just before the start of the season – leaving manager Mikel Arteta stunned.”It’s unbelievable,” Arteta said in the run-up to the season. “The kid works so hard but he had an incident in training.How superstar Mikel Merino is the final piece of Arsenal’s jigsaw – City should watch out”We don’t know the extent yet but we kept him there for precaution and we’ll see what happens.” More

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    Jonas Eidevall backs Arsenal to do the business in Champions League qualifier battle with BK Hacken

    JONAS EIDEVALL hopes Arsenal can bask in the pressure of battling to keep their Women’s Champions League dream alive.And the Gunners gaffer was tight-lipped on whether Rosa Kafaji and Stina Blackstenius will face their old club BK Hacken tonight.Rosa Kafaji could be line to start for Arsenal against BK Hacken in the first leg of their Champions League second round qualifierCredit: EPAThe Gunners are hoping for a repeat of the ruthless efficiency that saw them beat Rangers in the first roundCredit: APTomorrow in Sweden Arsenal play the first of three high stakes games in nine days. These include a WSL season-opener against Manchester City at the Emirates on Sunday.First priority is collecting a victory in the first leg of the Champions League qualifier second-round and avoiding the shock exit they suffered in this round last year.Eidevall said: “Of course, everyone feels a little bit of pressure and for me that’s not a negative thing, it’s positive and a necessity for high performance.Read More Football Stories “This is really business time for us where we put everyone’s competence into the hot seat.”We have prepped for this period because we knew this was going to be busy. “It’s exciting to be here and close to going into the group stage of the Champions League.”It’s exciting to go to the Emirates to play Manchester City this weekend, but we need to keep our focus on the day-by-day activity. Most read in Football”We’re really hungry and I expect Hacken to be too.”Tomorrow’s 6:00pm duel at the Bravina Arena in Gothenburg could see Sweden duo Kafaji and Blackstenius return to haunt their former side.Should Kafaji feature, it would be her first appearance for against her old club since sealing a permanent move to Eidevall’s side for a reported fee between £200,000 and £250,000.The Sweden-born head coach added: “There is always some emotion and all of us who are from Sweden think it’s nice to come here and to be able show the team this country.”And it’s a little bit special for Stina and Rosa having played for Hacken before. “There’s a lot of ingredients for an exciting game between two teams who like to be in possession.”Elsewhere Arsenal’s WSL rivals Man City will be looking to get their push for a Champions League group stage place off to flier.They face visit Paris FC who finished third in France’s top-flight last term and are due to play Guincamp in their Division One Feminine opener.And the match could see ex-Gunners ace Vivianne Miedema make her first appearance for the Cityzens in Europe since joining club as a free agent inLast season the French side pulled off two major Champions Leagues shocks – knocking Arsenal and two-time contest winners Wolfsburg out of the tournamentYesterday Man City boss Gareth Taylor said: “They’re a dangerous opponent and will not make it easy. Vivianne Miedema could be in line to feature for Man City when they play Paris FC in the Champions League second qualifiersCredit: Getty”They’re a tough opponent for us but actually the signs from our team in pre-season has been really good.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Regardless of who we drew, this is a really tough stage of the competition.”I’ve said previously, that in this round, you will probably face tougher games than you would in the group stages in the league format.” More

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    Ian Wright hails two stars who ‘dragged Arsenal through’ nightmare before Mikel Arteta turned fortunes around

    ARSENAL legend Ian Wright reckons two academy starlets “dragged” the club through its toughest times in recent years.The Gunners floundered between the end of Arsene Wenger’s 22-year reign in May 2018 and Mikel Arteta’s arrival as boss in December 2019.Ian Wright believes two academy products ‘kept the fans going’Credit: SportsfileMikel Arteta has guided the Gunners to runners-up spot twice in a rowCredit: AlamyUnai Emery, now in charge of Aston Villa, flopped in his 18 months at the helm for Arsenal.The Spaniard was finally sacked when a 2-1 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt at a half-empty Emirates made it seven winless games in a row.The Gunners were eighth at the time but, after a month under caretaker chief Freddie Ljungberg, Arteta took over to earn a fifth-place finish.The ex-Arsenal midfielder has since guided the club to runners-up spot in the Premier League for the past two seasons.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut Wrighty believes a pair of home-grown talents deserve more credit than many might realise for holding the Gunners together before Arteta’s appointment.One name will be no surprise – because of his achievements then and now.But Wright’s other choice is more thought-provoking – as the player in question has been forced to depart the Emirates to revive his career.Step forward winger Bukayo Saka, now 23, and 24-year-old attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe.Most read in FootballBukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe held Arsenal together, Wrighty claimsCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSaka has gone on to win 42 England caps while fellow Londoner Smith Rowe picked up three before losing his regular Arsenal place, partly due to injuries.Wright said: “When you consider when he (Saka) got into the Arsenal side, where Arsenal were.Arsenal icon Merson says ‘I’ve got more chance of winning Strictly’ in reply to Postecoglou’s second-year trophy claim“It was almost on him and Emile Smith Rowe’s shoulders to try and get Arsenal through a certain period in the (Alexandre) Lacazette and (Pierre-Emerick) Aubameyang period, in and around that time.“He was around 19 and 20. They dragged the club through. “Just being able to support them two kept the fans going and gave Mikel the support he needed. It was down to them two.”Frontmen Lacazette and Aubameyang both finally left the Gunners in 2022 – the latter leaving under a cloud for Barcelona after disciplinary problems at the Emirates.After such an uncertain period, Arsenal have finished second twice in succession – their highest position since 2016, although the last time they actually lifted the Prem crown was 20 years ago.Meanwhile, Saka has become Arsenal’s main man but Smith Rowe left in August for Fulham, where he’s quickly regained his dazzling best form.Arsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero.  More

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    Erling Haaland is scoring so many that we’re starting to laugh about it, says Arsenal star ahead of huge Man City clash

    ERLING HAALAND’S blistering goalscoring form is becoming such a joke that even Arsenal’s dressing room find it funny.The Manchester City striker, 24, has netted NINE goals in his first four league games this term.Erling Haaland is on fire this seasonJorginho said Arsenal stars can’t help but laugh at the Norway star’s unbelievable formAnd Arsenal are next in the Norwegian’s sights with Sunday’s Prem title showdown at the Etihad.Gunners midfielder Jorginho revealed: “Erling scoring again is starting to make us laugh!“We look because we look at all the games and we love football.”Arsenal can go above leaders City with a win as they bid for a first Premier League title in 25 years.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSItaly star Jorginho insists Mikel Arteta’s side do not fear Haaland  despite his 99 goals in 103 games under boss Pep Guardiola.He added: “It doesn’t get to our head. We need to focus on us and that is what we are trying to do.”Haaland is on course to smash his own Prem record tally of 36 goals from the 2022-23 season.If he continues at the current rate, he would net 86 this campaign! Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFormer Arsenal centre-back William Gallas, 47, warned: “This is a guy who is in beast mode.“He looks like he is going to break every scoring record in the Premier League this season.Arsenal ratings: Gabriel puts in impeccable display in North London Derby but Rice replacement struggles“It’s impossible to predict how many he will get but you can say with confidence it will be loads.”Haaland’s brace in City’s 2-1 win over Brentford saw him overtake Wayne Rooney’s record of the most goals scored in the first four games of a Prem season. The goal machine will be looking for his 10th goal of the new campaign against Arsenal on Sunday, after bagging back-to-back hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham.Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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    Meet the unknown trio of Arsenal teenagers on bench for North London derby including giant centre-back and rapid winger

    MIKEL ARTETA was left with the bare bones of an Arsenal squad last weekend.The Gunners boss had six first team stars missing in Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko.Declan Rice was suspended for Arsenal’s 1-0 winning visit to TottenhamCaptain Martin Odegaard was missing through injury picked up with NorwayAs a result, Arteta was forced to assemble a bench that included FIVE teenagers – four of which had never made a senior appearance for the club.Arsenal fans will already be aware of talented academy stars Myles Lewis-Skelly, 17, and Ethan Nwaneri, 17 – the latter becoming the youngest ever Prem debutant in September 2022 at the age of 15 years and 181 days.However, there was an “unknown” trio sat alongside them at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. SunSport’s Jordan Davies gives a profile on each of them:READ MORE ON ARSENALAYDEN HEAVENPOSITION: Centre backNATIONALITY: EnglishAGE: 17Heaven signed from West Ham in 2019 and has become a real stand-out in the Hale End academy, drawing praise from Arteta after appearing on the club’s pre-season tour of the States this summer in a clash with Manchester United.Most read in FootballThe 6ft3 teenager is no stranger to an Arsenal first team squad, featuring on the bench during last season’s 1-0 defeat away to Porto in the Champions League last 16 first leg.Ayden Heaven earned his first senior Premier League call up on SundayMALDINI KACURRIPOSITION: Centre backNATIONALITY: AlbanianAGE: 18This Albanian youth international has a reputation in the academy for his crunching tackles and robust style.And he could soon be making them in the Prem with the seniors.Kacurri signed a new pro deal with the club this summer after establishing himself as a regular for the youth teams following his free agent exit from Fulham in 2022.Maldini Kacurri was named on the Arsenal bench in the North London derby’Arsenal’s Timber dodged red card v Spurs because of safe ref call’ | The Whistleblower, Mark HalseyISMEAL KABIAPOSITION: Right wingerNATIONALITY: DutchAGE: 18Another youngster who penned new terms this summer after joining in 2022, known for his rapid pace on the flanks.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has made an impact in the older age groups, scoring one and providing another in three Prem 2 outings.While he was also on-target against Leyton Orient in the EFL Trophy.Ismeal Kabia signed a new contract with the Gunners this summerArsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero.  More