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      Bizarre reason Jorginho’s form dipped after fiancee’s late-night doorstep showdown with beautician revealed

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      FOOTIE ace Jorginho lost form after leaving his two lucky bracelets with a beautician pal at the centre of a Ring doorbell row with his fiancée.The Arsenal star, 33, took off the charms during a meeting with Vanessa Sandora.Jorginho’s footy form dropped off after he left a charm at a beautician’s house, the star is pictured here with partner Catherine HardingThe Arsenal star took off two bracelets during a meeting with Vanessa SandoraHe asked for them back but Vanessa, 39, could not find them.The midfielder’s Chelsea form slumped and later he was sold to Arsenal for £12million.This month his fiancée Catherine Harding, 34, arrived at Vanessa’s London home at 11.30pm asking about her and the star.Vanessa explained they had met in the past but had not had any contact since.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSVanessa told The Sun on Sunday: “At one of our meetings, Jorginho took off his beaded bracelets.“He left them behind. “I didn’t think much about it.“I heard he wanted them back but I couldn’t find them anywhere.Most read in Football“Afterwards his form for Chelsea dipped and I was told by friends he blamed the fact he wasn’t wearing his lucky bracelets. “Apparently they’d been blessed in a church.Arsenal star Jorginho gets engaged to stunning Wag Catherine Harding and shares intimate snaps of proposal“Without them he felt he wasn’t the same player.”Vanessa added: “After our third meeting, we continued to message.“But we didn’t meet again and I deleted Jorginho from social media in December 2022. “I thought that was the end of it.”Last week The Sun on Sunday told how Catherine visited Vanessa on December 4.In a chat captured on her Ring doorbell, Vanessa said she had met Jorginho but added: “He’s not my type, and I’m not into football, so I was pretty unfazed.”Vanessa and Jorginho matched on dating app Raya in 2019, the year he met Catherine.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe couple have a son, four, got engaged a year ago, and star in Amazon Prime’s Married to the Game.Jorginho and Catherine were asked for comment.After losing the charm, the midfielder’s Chelsea form slumped and a year later he was sold to Arsenal for £12millionCredit: GettyThe footballer’s bracelets were blessed in a churchJorginho in a cup clash for the Gunners against Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyCatherine confronts Vanesssa in a late-night doorstep showdown More

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      Bukayo Saka posts picture from hospital bed after Arsenal star undergoes surgery and faces months on sidelines

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      BUKAYO SAKA has given fans a health update after undergoing surgery.Mikel Arteta confirmed the Arsenal star would be heading to hospital after he was hit with a hamstring injury during their 5-1 win at Crystal Palace before Christmas.Bukayo Saka has posted a health update following surgeryCredit: Instagram / bukayosaka87The Arsenal star was hit by a hamstring injury before ChristmasCredit: RexSaka was seen on crutches following the gameCredit: The SunSaka, 23, limped off the pitch at Selhurst Park with fears he could be out for a prolonged period of time.And those fears came true when Arteta confirmed his star man would need surgery and would be out until at least March.He said: “Yes Bukayo had a procedure and everything went well, but unfortunately he will be out for many, many weeks.”I said many weeks, so I think it will be more than two months. I don’t know exactly how much longer.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaka has now undergone his operation and provided anxious Gooners with an update on his health by releasing a picture on Instagram.The stricken winger shared a photo to his page showing him in a hospital bed with his right thumb up.He captioned the post: “The majority see obstacles, but few see the opportunities. “Recovery has begun and I’m coming back stronger! Thank you all for your messages #Godsplan.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIn a bid to alleviate the problem caused by Saka’s absence, Arsenal deployed Gabriel Martinelli on the right wing in their 1-0 win over Ipswich.On the game and the Brazilian’s new role, Arteta said: “[It was] Very different we will evolve that. Bukayo Saka is spotted on crutches after Arsenal’s win at Crystal Palace”In the second half I liked it more. It will take a bit of time.”Arsenal face back to back away trips to Brentford on New Year’s Day and Brighton the following Saturday.The Gunners then host Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg before taking on Manchester United at the Emirates in the FA Cup third round.Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining. More

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      Every out-of-contract Premier League star revealed including crucial Arsenal duo and Real Madrid-linked Alexander-Arnold

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      PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are facing a nightmare January transfer window if they cannot tie major stars down to a new contract.A number of the best and biggest clubs in the land face losing their top stars to foreign clubs due to their contracts expiring in the summer.Mo Salah is one of the biggest stars under threat of being lost to a pre-contract dealCredit: RexArsenal are also set to lose a crucial duo including JorginhoCredit: GettyStars with just six months remaining on their contracts are free to negotiate pre-contract deals with clubs from other leagues. And the Premier League could be one of the hardest hit by this rule.Liverpool trio Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been making the headlines over this fear, while reserve goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros is also in a similar boat contractually.Salah has openly admitted this season could be his last for the Reds, while Alexander-Arnold has been extensively linked with a transfer to Real Madrid.Manchester City are similarly under threat of losing key playmaker’s Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan, along with back-up goalkeeper Scott Carson.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLArsenal are also on course to lose two crucial midfielders from their ranks in the form of Thomas Partey and Jorginho, while Kieran Tierney also looks set to be on his way out.Chelsea have no major stars on the list, but do have reserve goalkeeper Lucas Bergström with just six months left on his deal as of Janaury.Across town, Tottenham could be set to lose talisman Son Heung-min, while Ben Davies, Fraser Forster, Sergio Reguilon and Alfie Whiteman are also on this list. Further down the table, Manchester United could end moving for some stars in this market during the window due to their new penny-pinching motivations.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, the Red Devils have six stars who could be poached by rivals; Amad Diallo, Harry Maguire, Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton.Likewise, Newcastle have eight stars on the pre-contract countdown with Sean Longstaff, Callum Wilson, Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles, Martin Dubravka, Emil Krafth, Mark Gillespie and John Ruddy.Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ Everton are the most heavily hit by this threat, with eight stars out of contract next summer.Many other clubs also face this threat with their stars, which are listed below:Nottingham Forest – Chris Wood, Ola Aina, Harry Tofolo, Willy BolyFulham – Kenny Tete, Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez, Carlos Vinicius, Tom CairneyAston Villa – Kourtney Hause, Robin OlsenBrighton – Tariq Lamptey, Jakub Moder, Joel Veltman, James Milner, Imari SamuelsBrentford – Christian Norgaard, Josh Dasilva, Ben MeeWest Ham – Vladimir Coufal, Danny Ings, Michail Antonio, Lukasz Fabianski, Aaron CresswellEverton – Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Michael Keane, Idrissa Gueye, Ashley Young, Seamus Coleman, Joao Virginia, Asmir BegovicWolves – Nelson Semedo, Mario Lemina, Pablo Sarabia, Craig DawsonCrystal Palace – Tyrick Mitchell, Will Hughes, Jeffrey Schlupp, Nathaniel Clyne, Joel Ward, Remi MatthewsLeicester – Jamie Vardy, Daniel Iversen, Danny WardIpswich -Axel Tuanzebe, Cameron Burgess, Massimo LuongoSouthampton – Kyle Walker-Peters, Adam Lallana, Jack Steptens, Joe LumleyOn the other hand there is some top talent overseas who could in turn be poached by English clubs.In the Bundesliga this includes Bayern Munich quartet Alphonso Davies, Joshua Kimmich, Manuel Neuer and Leroy Sane and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah.La Liga sees Real Madrid’s Ferland Mendy up for grabs, as well as Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke.Ligue 1 side Lille have top stars Jonathan David and Angel Gomes both under threat of sealing moves elsewhere, while Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette could also leave his club at the end of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Serie A has Napoli’s Frank Anguissa and Alex Meret, AS Roma’s Nicolo Zalewski and Paulo Dybala and Atalanta’s Mario Palasic and Sead Kolasinac and Fiorentina’s David de Gea all with contracts expiring in the summer.Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Hilal’s Neymar all also have expiring deals in the summer. More

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      Amazon Prime Video presenter and John Legend give fans ‘second hand embarrassment’ after Arsenal’s win over Ipswich

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      JOHN LEGEND gave his best rendition of North London Forever in a “cringeworthy” interview at the Emirates Stadium last night.The superstar singer was in north London to watch on as Arsenal jumped back up to second place in the Premier League thanks to a 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town.John Legend left fans ‘cringing’ live on Amazon Prime VideoCredit: Amazon SportLegend and wife Chrissy Teigen were at the Emirates Stadium for Arsenal vs Ipswich TownCredit: Amazon SportLegend was gave his best rendition of Arsenal’s pre-match song ‘The Angel’Credit: Amazon SportAmazon presenter Alex Aljoe had to feed the lyrics to the global superstarCredit: Amazon SportCameras had found Legend and his wife Chrissy Teigen sitting in the stands during the game with their kids.But the folks at Amazon Prime Video managed to wangle themselves a pitch-side interview after the game had come to an end too.Presenter and reporter Alex Aljoe had a chat with the 12-time Grammy Award winner about his time in the capital and even managed to get him to sing live on the coverage.Aljoe asked Legend to give his best shot at singing Arsenal’s pre-match song ‘The Angel’, better known as ‘North London Forever’.READ MORE ON ARSENALWith a little help from Aljoe feeding him the lyrics line-by-line, Legend was able to sing a small part of the song while fans at home watched on.However, not all supporters were impressed and instead found the interaction to be a tough watch.On social media, one fan wrote: “Second hand embarrassment”. While another added: “Awkward interview”.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third commented: “Every bit of my body is cringing”.And a fourth posted: “This is proper cringeworthy”. Mikel Arteta reveals Bukayo Saka is set to miss months after surgery as he gives injury update on Arsenal starPerhaps the main reason that it was hard for fans to watch was Legend’s own admission that he didn’t know the words.Clearly attending for the first time since the Gunners’ began singing the pre-match song, Legend had told Aljoe that he was trying to figure out what the fans were singing.He said: “I was listening and trying to figure out what everyone was singing. But I love how synced up everyone is – it’s incredible”. It wasn’t exactly a thriller for the Hollywood couple, with Arsenal somewhat limping their way to a 1-0 victory in the absence of star man Bukayo Saka.But a goal from Kai Havertz helped the Gunners to earn three points in the busy festive schedule where points are always more important than performances.Kai Havertz was the difference maker as Arsenal beat Ipswich 1-0Credit: GettyArsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining. More

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      Bukayo Saka undergoes surgery and set for MONTHS out as Mikel Arteta gives update on Arsenal star’s injury

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      ARSENAL star Bukayo Saka is set for MONTHS out after undergoing surgery.Saka, 23, was forced off just 23 minutes into the Gunners’ 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace with a hamstring injury last week.Arsenal star Bukayo Saka suffered a hamstring injury last weekCredit: GettyArsenal boss Mikel Arteta confimed Saka may be out for more than two monthsCredit: RexMatches Bukayo Saka is set to missHere are the matches Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is set to miss after his hamstring injury:Brentford (A) – Jan 1Brighton (A) – Jan 4Newcastle (H) Carabao Cup – Jan 7Man Utd (H) FA Cup – Jan 12Tottenham (H) – Jan 15Aston Villa (H) – Jan 18Dinamo Zagreb (H) Champions League – Jan 22Wolves (A) – Jan 25Girona (A) Champions League – Jan 29Man City (H) – Feb 2Newcastle (A) Carabao Cup – Feb 5Leicester (A) – Feb 15West Ham (H) – Feb 22Nottingham Forest (A) – Feb 25And manager Mikel Arteta issued a bleak update regarding his star winger’s fitness as he confirmed he underwent a procedure. The Arsenal boss confirmed the England international may be out for more than two months.Arteta said: “I prefer to leave it to the doctor or himself. “But yes Bukayo had a procedure and everything went well, but unfortunately he will be out for many, many weeks.Read More on Arsenal“I said many weeks, so I think it will be more than two months. I don’t know exactly how much longer.“It will depend on how the scar tissue starts to heal, the first week or so, the mobility of that. Let’s see, it’s very difficult to say.“We have to rely on the team, that is our strength, we are a team of players who can score 20-30 goals together.”Saka has been a focal point for Arsenal this season as he dominated opponents down the right flank.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe forward has amassed a total of nine goals and 13 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.And Saka’s injury poses as a blow to the North Londoners’ Premier League title hopes after climbing to second place behind leaders Liverpool, who are six points ahead with a game in hand.Arsenal player ratings: Havertz shines in different role but Jesus can’t keep up hot streak against IpswichThat could force Arteta’s hand ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.Many have claimed that Arsenal have been in need of attacking reinforcement since the summer as they lack a natural centre-forward.That has led to links with the likes of Sporting Lisbon’s Victor Gyokeres, Lille’s Jonathan David, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush.Most recent reports have claimed the Premier League giants could also move for Wolves’ Matheus Cunha and Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani.Kai Havertz, who scored the winner against Ipswich on Friday during Saka’s absence, has been carrying the burden up front for most of the season.Arteta appears open to tackle the winter market as he said that “preparation is done” and Arsenal are ready to spend in January “if something happens .”The Spanish tactician said when asked if the club planned to do business this coming month: “Yes, the preparation is done. We are ready if something happens. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Obviously we didn’t predict the situation with Bukayo and Raheem [Sterling] at the same time. We predicted more if something has happened, for example, in the defensive line. But the job is done. “Then, okay, if something has to happen we will be open. But the main focus is now how we should strive to distil the potential that there is in this squad.”Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining. More

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      Arsenal player ratings: Havertz shines in different role but Jesus can’t keep up hot streak against Ipswich

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      KAI HAVERTZ scored his 12th goal of the season to send Arsenal second with a 1-0 win over Ipswich at the Emirates.It was the German’s close-range strike that broke the deadlock as the Gunners moved within six points of Prem leaders Liverpool.Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the game against Ipswich TownCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus struggled to make an impactCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side started brilliantly, suffocating Ipswich’s back five at every opportunity as the visitors failed to have a touch in the opposition box in the first 45 minutes.The question heading into this game was how would Arsenal cope without Bukayo Saka, who registered 28 goal involvements in 2024.But Havertz, who roamed all over the pitch, is next on the list after earning his 24th contribution of the year in the 23rd minute.An expected second-half push from Ipswich saw the home fans grow anxious but it finished 1-0 to the Arsenal.READ MORE ON ARSENALHere’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSClearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full back and driving up the pitch. William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.Arsenal star Thomas Partey shares Christmas video of the Grinch stealing presents and then poses for family photo William Saliba was solid at the backCredit: GettyThe Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Declan Rice was able to push up field against Ipswich TownCredit: GettyRice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack when he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout. Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly has the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.READ MORE SUN STORIESSubsMikel Merino (Jesus ’73) – 6The Spanish star came on to secure the game after Ipswich started growing into the game.Thomas Partey (Rice ’83) – N/AUnusedJakub Kiwior, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Riccardo Calafiori, Ethan Nwaneri, Kieran Tierney, NetoWho are these famous footballers? More

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      Arsenal 1 Ipswich 0: Gunners may as well drive Prem trophy to Liverpool after making meal of beating Tractor Boys

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      IF we are going to have some sort of a title race, then it is up to Arsenal to really raise their game.But without Bukayo Saka in their team, you really have to wonder whether Mikel Arteta’s mob are capable of giving Liverpool manager Arne Slot some sleepless nights.Kai Havertz scored the winner as Arsenal beat IpswichCredit: GettyThe German made no mistake with his close-range finishCredit: RexOn this evidence, they may as well drive the Premier League trophy up to Merseyside now.Kai Havertz scored his 12th goal of the season against an Ipswich side who failed to land a glove on their opponents but defended stubbornly.The fact Arsenal made a meal of beating such a limited team does raise some questions over whether they can close this enormous gap at the top.The fact Liverpool are six points clear at the top of the Premier League – with a game in hand – merely underlines how much better Slot’s team have been this season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile Arsenal have to keep on plugging away, they must still hope for a major blip from the leaders and at this stage, it still seems unlikely.After squeezing past Kieran McKenna’s team, Arsenal now have away trips to Brentford and Brighton and once again, Saka’s genius on the right will be sorely missed.Maybe, this game was further evidence for Arteta to persuade his board to dip into the January transfer market. Arteta switched Gabriel Martinelli to the right with Leonardo Trossard, who delivered the assist for the first goal, starting out on the left.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut this was still not particularly impressive stuff from an Arsenal team who really hoped that this year, would be THEIR year.Former midfield favourite Santi Cazorla was welcomed on to the pitch before the game and the crowd sang his name at regular intervals.Arsenal star Thomas Partey shares Christmas video of the Grinch stealing presents and then poses for family photo Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.Although now aged 40, he is – remarkably – still playing in the second tier of Spanish football for Real Oviedo and is only over here because he is on a winter break.He picked up a couple of FA Cup winners’ medals with Arsenal and would dearly love it if his former team-mate – and close friend – Arteta was finally able to win the title.Such was the pace of the game throughout that Cazorla could easily have slotted into the home team’s midfield without any problems.This was Ipswich’s first-ever Premier League trip to the Emirates although their last win at Arsenal came way back in 1979 when Arnold Muhren and Allan Hunter were the scorers in a 2-0 victory.Those were heady days for Ipswich when seasons in European competition were standard but now all they would love is a second successive season in the Premier League.Yet the 4-0 loss at Newcastle on Saturday was their best proper hammering so despite being dominated, at least they avoided another battering.McKenna reverted to the back-three system which sprung a surprise for a 2-1 win at Spurs on November 10 but a repeat never looked likely.To illustrate Arsenal’s dominance in the first quarter of the game, they had a staggering 91 per cent of possession. Yes, 91 per cent.The problem was that they kept trying to walk the ball into the net and their only chance was a long-range shot by Jurrien Timber straight at Ipswich goalkeeper Aro Muric.Yet finally, and predictably, Arsenal found a way past all the blue shirts who were blocking the goal.Visiting defender Ben Johnson failed to cut out a decent cross from Trossard and Havertz was literally standing on the line for a simple tap-in.Yet while he did not have much of a chance for that one, keeper Muric got lucky when he was somehow beaten at his near-post by Gabriel Jesus who was then flagged offside.In the second half, Ipswich had a bit more of the ball without really hurting Arteta’s team.Arsenal somehow failed to make it 2-0 when Gabriel Magalhaes headed wide from a couple of yards out.Martin Odegaard danced his way past a few Ipswich players before seeing his shot deflected for a corner, Declan Rice’s volley was blocked by Dara O’Shea and sub Mikel Merino had a shot well saved by Muric.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis was hardly a sitter for Arteta. But even so, you get the feeling that if he is to win a trophy this season it will be the Cup… Liverpool look home and dry in the Premier League. Gabriel should have made it 2-0 with this free headerCredit: GettyThe Brazilian defender could not believe he had put the ball wideCredit: PAGabriel Jesus scored from a seemingly impossible angle but it was chalked off for offsideCredit: GettyAro Muric kept the scoreline down with a string of savesCredit: GettyIpswich remain 19th in the table following another narrow defeatCredit: ReutersMikel Arteta would have preferred a more comfortable scorelineCredit: GettySanti Cazorla was back at the Emirates to watch the GunnersCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich LIVE RESULT: Havertz fires Gunners up to second in Premier League as Arteta’s side end 2024 with win

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      ARSENAL have beaten Ipswich 1-0 as Mikel Arteta’s side end 2024 with a huge three points.Kai Havertz’s 23rd-minute strike was the only goal on the night as the German took his tally to 12 for the season in all competitions.Arsenal’s win saw them leapfrog London rivals Chelsea into second in the Premier League table.Match result: Arsenal 1-0 IpswichArsenal team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Havertz, Odegaard, Martinelli, Trossard, JesusIpswich team: Muric, Johnson, O’Shea, Woolfenden, Greaves, Davis, Phillips, Cajuste, Hutchinson, Szmodics, DelapFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Match reportIf we are going to have some sort of a title race, then it is up to Arsenal to really raise their game.But without Bukayo Saka in their team, you really have to wonder whether Mikel Arteta’s mob are capable of giving Liverpool manager Arne Slot some sleepless nights.On this evidence, they may as well drive the Premier League trophy up to Merseyside now.Kai Havertz scored his 12th goal of the season against an Ipswich side who failed to land a glove on their opponents but defended stubbornly.The fact Arsenal made a meal of beating such a limited team does raise some questions over whether they can close this enormous gap at the top.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – FORWARDSGabriel Martinelli – 6 : All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right hand side. The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy but he’s saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus. Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’ goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7: Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season. Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout. Gabriel Jesus – 5: Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush. Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment. Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – MIDFIELDERSDeclan Rice – 7: Rice was pushed into a defensive No 6 role but didn’t have to stay there long. Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8: Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top. But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes. Rotated and exchanged the No 9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6: Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing. Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – DEFENDERSHere’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated tonight’s Arsenal players, beginning with those at the back.David Raya – 5: Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession. Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6: Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric. Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full back and driving up the pitch. William Saliba – 7: Joined Gabriel in the highest line set up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half. The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8: Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday. Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7: Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess. But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark. The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Copy linkCopiedLegend – aryQuite a strange moment on Prime Video Sport.John Legend and Chrissy Teigen were in the stands with their family, with the singer saying he was an Arsenal fan.Though it quickly came across that he wasn’t quite sure what he’d just watched for 90 minutes.It seemed Chrissy Teigen was a Chelsea fan and arrived in a Chelsea shirt, but meant for it to be Ipswich, but kept calling them Chelsea. I think…He told Prime Sport: “This was so fun! It was our first Premier League game ever. We’re here for the holidays and having a great time.“I don’t know the league very well. My friends said Arsenal would win by six goals but it was closer than we expected. It was entertaining though.”While Chrissy added: “I love an underdog and love being surprised by how a team could do. I wanted to really give Ipswich the support they needed!“We don’t know what we’re doing, we’re clueless!”The family then ran on the pitch playing some variation of tig.Copy linkCopied’Could’ve shown more’Kieran McKenna believes hesitancy prevented his side making more of a fist of the later stages of the game.But he insists his players can take confidence from a lot of what they did tonight.He told Prime Video Sport: “It was a difficult first 20 minutes, we got pinned in by a good side. We grew into the game well and turned a bit of momentum at the end of the first half and got into some good positions in the second half.”There were a few situations late in the game where we could have shown more belief but we were too hesitant.”It was important that we ended the game solid and feel we can be compact. We’ll take confidence from that. The way we turned momentum to put the game in a good position for us, I think is something to take confidence from.”Copy linkCopiedHuge news!SunSport’s Katherine Walsh has reported that Mikel Arteta confirm Bukayo Saka will be out for MORE than two months with his hamstring issue.The initial reports were up to six weeks but the winger has since undergone surgery and he’ll now be out for ‘many weeks’.Ouch, that’s a major blow for Arsenal.Arteta said: “I prefer to leave it to the doctor. But yes Bukayo had surgery, and he will be out for many, many weeks.“Many weeks, I think it will be more than two months, I don’t know how long it will take with the scar tissue or improving his mobility.“We have to rely on the team, that is our strength, we are a team of players who can score 20/30 goals together.”Copy linkCopiedTough to Kalvin Phillips reckons Liverpool have been the standout team so far but expects Arsenal to nip away at them for the remainder of the campaign.He told Prime Sport:  “Arsenal are very good team and they had a lot of the ball and created a few chances. We created a few in the second half but we just need that extra bit of special play at the end.”It’s always difficult coming to Arsenal and we didn’t have much to lose when at 1-0 so we came out and tried to force them into mistakes in the second half.”They are a really good team, really strong. I think Liverpool are the standout team so far but I think Arsenal are the ones who will push them in the end.”Copy linkCopiedMore from MikelOn having to adapt without Bukayo Saka and how the players did tonight, Arteta added to Match Of The Day: “Very good. It will be different. “We had moments in the second half. It is a unit that is new and will take time for players to understand fully.”Copy linkCopiedArteta speaksMikel Arteta says there’s no frustration despite his side’s flat display, but admits there’s plenty they need to improve on.He told Prime Sport: “Frustration when you win? No! Things to improve, yes!“We played the ball back to David [Raya] from the restart and were in trouble and gave them some momentum.“Then we give some simple balls away which gave them a chance to get some belief and win some set pieces without creating anything.“You see the first half and the stats were significant. We have to get used to that and we are used to that.“Credit to them, they’re very organised. We restricted them to nothing.”Copy linkCopiedComing up…The next four games for Arsenal and Ipswich.Two tricky away games in the league before attentions turn to cup duty for Arsenal.Brentford and Brighton played out a 0-0 draw tonight and they’re the next two trips for the Gunners.Chelsea and Fulham the next two for Ipswich.Copy linkCopiedMore from HavertzOn the team having to step up without Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz told Prime Sport: “I try to help the team, it was a different role for me today.”Everyone has to step up because we know Bukayo Saka is a very important player for us. But we have to adapt.”Home games are so important to us and we feel the energy. Everyone is together, we are one football club. The players, the fans, everyone needs to raise their level to win football matches.”Copy linkCopied’Frustration’Declan Rice admits it’s becoming a ‘theme’ for Arsenal of dominating games and struggling to break teams down.He told Prime Sport: “Yeah definitely [a frustration]. It’s been a bit of a theme for us recently. We’ve dominated games but teams are coming here in low blocks, putting men behind the ball.“It’s really tough to break down a 4-5-1. You just have to keep probing, keep going.“Luckily enough it was an important win and that’s all that matters.”Copy linkCopiedHow we stand – bottomAnd for Ipswich, as mentioned before the game they have kept that goal difference almost as it was.They’re three points adrift of safety almost at the halfway mark.Copy linkCopiedRounding off with a winThe matchwinner has taken to social media to thank fans for their support.This game was Arsenal’s last of 2024 – another eventful one for the club without being able to get over the line.Here’s what Kai Havertz said when back in the changing room.Copy linkCopiedHow we stand – topArsenal now up to second with Chelsea dropping points yesterday and they move six points behind Liverpool.But having played a game more and on the evidence of tonight without Bukayo Saka, they are battling it out for second unless something drastic happens.Copy linkCopiedTough to crackKai Havertz says tonight’s win was just about getting the job done.He told Prime Sport: “Three points at home is nice. Tough opponent.“They didn’t have a proper chance so we controlled the game well.“Every team is the same, this is the Premier League. Every team is hard to break down.”Copy linkCopiedFull time statsNine more shots at goal for Arsenal in the second half but Muric only really forced into one save.Kieran McKenna will be really disappointed his side created virtually nothing of note as they looked scared to lose the ball in the final third.But they had considerably more of the ball after the break that in the first half. Though it would’ve been impossible not to.Copy linkCopiedSummed up perfectlyAlan Shearer tells Prime Video Sport: “You take the points and you move on.”Arsenal have just done enough. They’ve found it difficult to break down the defensive Ipswich.”Copy linkCopiedFT! Arsenal 1-0 IpswichThree Points, 2nd place, one goal and next-to-zero quality.But job done for Arsenal.Copy linkCopied90+4 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichPenalty appeal from Ipswich as Broadhead’s strike flying towards goal hits Havertz’s arm.It’s tucked behind him so VAR don’t take long to check it.Copy linkCopied90 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichFour minutes added on. Hopefully those minutes don’t drag on like the 90 that preceded it.Copy linkCopied89 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichOmari Hutchinson should be running at Lewis-Skelly but opts to try a ball in from deep which Raya claims.A sign of how nervy Arsenal are at present, Raya lies on the ball for 10 seconds to kill that bit of time.Ipswich make one final change:OFF: WoolfendenON: Harry ClarkeCopy linkCopied88 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichTrossard with a poor pass back to his own defender – he’s not learned his lesson – and Ipswich pounce.Taylor drives to within a few yards of the box but opts not to shoot, instead finding Leif Davis on the left but he shows too much of the ball to Timber.The two players then grapple for the ball, grabbing each other’s shirts before Arsenal are given the free kick.Copy linkCopied86 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichStraight swap for Arsenal with five to play:OFF: RiceON: ParteyCopy linkCopied More