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    Meet Ayden Heaven, 18, Arsenal defender and fan who is built like Patrick Vieira and idolises surprise ex-Gunners duo

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    IN Ayden Heaven, it seems Arsenal have got one hell of a player.The 18-year-old centre-back made his competitive senior debut in the Gunners’ 3-0 win at Preston in the Carabao Cup fourth round – from the bench in the 80th minute.Ayden Heaven is greeted by Mikel Arteta after his debut against PrestonCredit: ReutersThe defender (right) made his Gunners bow in the Carabao Cup at DeepdaleCredit: ReutersHeaven (second left) with other Arsenal academy stars after beating Bolton in the Carabao CupCredit: GettyHeaven has represented England at Under-18 levelBefore that, he was one of several academy stars to feature on the club’s pre-season summer tour of the States with boss Mikel Arteta starting him against Manchester United.Heaven – standing at 6ft 3in and a left-footer – was at fault for United’s opener, outmuscled and outpaced by Rasmus Hojlund, but he recovered well as Arsenal won the game 2-1.He has gone from strength to strength since then, looking good on living up to his potential and the lofty expectations Arsenal have of him to succeed.HOW DO THEY PLAY AND WHO DO THEY REMIND YOU OF?The first thing you notice about Heaven is his size and physicality, the body of a young, raw Patrick Vieira who is not afraid to get stuck in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs shown against Hojlund in the summer, Heaven still needs time to bulk up and prove he can mix it with the biggest and most intimidating strikers in the Prem.But Arteta is happy to remain calm in that department, mainly because of Heaven’s technique and calmness on the ball.Avid watchers of Arsenal’s academy sides know Heaven very rarely loses his cool, appears unflappable in possession and has the ability to ping cross-field balls like a prime Steven Gerrard.Arteta will be hoping Arsenal have another William Saliba-style defender in the making – one who is big, quick and able to start attacks from deep.Most read in FootballTELL US ABOUT THEIR RISE?Heaven is extremely highly thought of at Arsenal, having also made the bench for Arsenal’s last 16 first Champions League clash at Porto back in February.He is now a trusted member of the senior squad, expected to step up when called upon, especially after Arsenal’s injury woes at the start of this campaign.Arsenal teenager Jacker Porter made his Gunners debut against Bolton and became a record breakerAfter featuring against Preston, Heaven said: “I’ve waited a long time. Today the day finally came, I’m just happy. I thank my team-mates, my family and everyone that’s got me here.“I feel like Mikel has trust in me. I feel that’s a big part in it and yeah, I just feel like there’s trust when it comes to making your competitive debut.”Heaven signed for the Gunners in 2019 after being released by West Ham as a 12-year-old, having also had trials at Chelsea and Fulham – turning down the latter because training was too far from his north London home in Edmonton.Before being picked up by Arsenal, he played for Sunday League outfit Levels – a grassroots club who give players opportunities to compete against elite football academies.But Arsenal were always going to be his first pick given he was a boyhood fan – his idols being Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott.Heaven explained: “Arsenal were knocking on the door and that made more sense given that, firstly I’m a fan, but also the location was much more convenient.“Hale End was only a 15-minute drive, so everything fell into place perfectly. Signing for the club I’ve supported and my mum was so happy for me – she even cried!“My family are so important, they’re my motivation, I’ve got two younger siblings and an older sister that mean the world to me.”Heaven flourished under former Arsenal U18s coach Jack Wilshere, helping him get chances in the first team and training under Arteta at London Colney.The teenager added: “The intensity is crazy! You get dizzy sometimes because it’s at such a quick tempo. The difference between under-18s, under-21s and the first team is unbelievable.”I don’t know how many players are able to do that on a stage like this at his ageARTETA AFTER PRE-SEASON GAME AGAINST MAN UTDWHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?Arteta is not one for over-hyping a young player too quickly, but the Spaniard had some nice words to say about Heaven after the pre-season victory over United.He said post-match: “At 17, I don’t know how many players are able to do that on a stage like this.“He’s lost a duel against one of the strongest and fastest players in the world, it can happen.“But the reaction afterwards, the composure, the quality, the body language that he had were all remarkable. I’m really happy with him.”WHAT DOES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD?Heaven’s future at Arsenal is not set in stone. After signing scholarship terms with the club last summer, he is yet to begin serious talks over a new deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis contract expires in June 2025. There is confidence an agreement can be made for such a young talent in the coming months. If not, there are big European clubs sniffing around, including Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, who famously developed young English stars like Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham and Jamie Gittens.BOY WONDERSHERE is more from our Boy Wonders series More

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      Snorting ref David Coote set up drugs party in Travelodge before Man City game – & even sent half time text about it

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      SHAMED ref David Coote sent messages arranging a drugs party just before a key game where he was officiating — and even during the half-time break.A pal said they were shocked at Coote’s behaviour around last month’s Spurs Man City Carabao Cup clash, where he was fourth official.David Coote was fourth official at last month’s Spurs vs Man City Carabao Cup clashCredit: ReutersCoote sent messages arranging a drugs party in a Travelodge for after the cup gameCredit: XFootage has emerged of Coote sniffing white powder in a hotel at Euro 2024Credit: APShamed ref David Coote sniffing white powder in a hotel at Euros 2024The 42-year-old was suspended this week for a foul-mouthed rant about Jurgen Klopp before footage emerged of him sniffing white powder in a hotel at Euro 2024.We can now reveal that Coote tried to arrange a drugs party in a Travelodge for after the cup game at Spurs on October 30.He booked the room at 7.38pm, just 37 minutes before the game was due to start, and sent a booking notification to someone else at 8.04pm, perilously close to kick-off.Coote then took his spot on the touchline before messaging his pal at the break, saying “hope you’re getting ready” to meet.Read more on David CooteThe friend, who was watching the match in disbelief on the TV, told The Sun: “On the day of the game he was messaging me repeatedly and wanting a drugs party after he’d finished at Spurs.“He didn’t book the Travelodge until just before kick-off, then sent a notification 11 minutes from the game starting. It was crazy.“City striker Erling Haaland was on the bench, so I was watching them on TV pretty much side by side.”And moments before and afterwards he sent me messages.Most read in Football“When he messaged me at half-time I thought it was so surreal.”Surely he should have been concentrating on the game, not arranging drugs parties.”Moment scandal-hit Prem ref David Coote snorts white powder in shocking video during Euro 2024To Coote’s fury, the party never even happened. The pal said: “I didn’t feel like meeting up in the end so told him I couldn’t make it.”He went mad and asked for the £73.99 total booking fee back.”Uefa yesterday opened an investigation after we revealed footage of wide-eyed Coote snorting powder while on duty at the Euros.He was already suspended by refs’ governing body PGMOL after he was filmed calling then-Liverpool boss Klopp a “German c***”.The PGMOL has been approached for comment.Footage showed a wide-eyed Coote snorting powder while on duty’No plans to test officials’PREMIER League referees do not face mandatory drugs testing, it emerged last night.Footballers and other sportspeople are subject to testing — anytime and anywhere — under the World Anti-Doping Authority code.But it does not mention match officials, who are classed as “athlete support personnel”.Despite ref David Coote’s powder video, The Sun understands there are no plans for future testing. More

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      Arsenal fixture chaos eased as crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final clash confirmed but women’s fixture moved

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      ARSENAL’S fixture nightmare involving the Carabao Cup quarter-final has been eased after it was announced the game would be played on Wednesday, December 18.The Gunners’ progression into the final eight of the competition – where they drew Crystal Palace at the Emirates – caused a horribly congested schedule in the middle of the month.Mikel Arteta has seen Arsenal’s men handed an eased fixture scheduleCredit: RexThey will face Crystal Palace on Wednesday, December 18Credit: ReutersBut it will force Arsenal Women to have their Champions League game with Bayern Munich moved elsewhereCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side were fearing a two-day turnaround with an Arsenal Women’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich at the Emirates meaning a Wednesday clash was not possible.This would have either led to Crystal Palace being left with a two-day turnaround after playing Brighton on Sunday if the game was played on Tuesday 17 or both sides facing a two-day turnaround before their Premier League clash with the Eagles on Saturday evening if the game was played on Thursday.However, a twist to events has seen Arsenal men given priority to play the fixture at the Emirates on Wednesday.The EFL have confirmed that the fixture will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 18.READ MORE IN FOOTBAL;A club statement on the matter of the moved women’s game said: “We are liaising with UEFA, and further details regarding our UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich will be announced in due course.”Arsenal Women normally play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates.Tickets for the Bayern game have been on sale since September 28.But Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team play the rest of their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSunSport understands that a new venue, rather than a new date, is being targeted for Arsenal on the moved fixture.Fans of the women’s team were furious with the announcement and the priority given to the men’s team over the women’s.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash Taking to social media, the Arsenal Women Supporters Club said: “Really disappointed by the change in priorities for this game. “It’s been set in stone for a while, and now shifting the date affects so many people, especially traveling and international Gooners who have already booked flights and hotels.”A second fan said: “Not that the women’s team didn’t already have a champions league game being played here the same night that fans have already booked tickets, days off work, travel and hotels for or anything… Do better Arsenal.”A third said: “This is ludicrous.”Carabao Cup quarter-final in fullQuarter-final fixture dates and times confirmed:Arsenal v Crystal Palace – December 18, 7.30pmNewcastle v Brentford – December 18, 7.45pmSouthampton v Liverpool – December 18, 8pmTottenham v Manchester United – December 19, 8pmAnother said: “Really disappointing that the women’s game against Bayern has been shifted for this.”A fifth added: “A UEFA game is surely more important than an EFL game, no matter whether it’s the men’s or women’s team?”Arsenal men’s clash with Crystal Palace will be the early kick-off that evening.It will be shown on Sky Sports football.Newcastle’s clash with Brentford will commence at 7.45pm on Wednesday and will not appear on live TV, but rather Sky Sports+.Southampton against Liverpool will start at 8pm that day and be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Tottenham’s clash against Manchester United will take place on Thursday, December 19 at 8pm.It will be aired on live TV with Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.” More

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      Hilarious moment Mikel Arteta ‘fines’ journalist during press conference as brutal discipline rules apply to everyone

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      ARSENAL manager Mikel Arteta jokingly threatened to fine a reporter for being late to his post-match press conference.The Spaniard was in good spirits as he addressed the media following Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Preston North End on Wednesday.Mikel Arteta jokingly threatened to fine a reporter during a press conferenceCredit: XOne reporter appeared to ask a question about young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, seemingly unaware Arteta had already spoken about him.The Arsenal boss quickly jumped in to joke: “You are late! We already talked about him!”That’s a fine for you!”Gabriel Jesus ended a 25-game goal drought to put the Gunners 1-0 up against Preston at Deepdale.Read More in FootballNwaneri then fired a stunning shot into the top-left corner to extend the advantage.And Kai Havertz sealed the win with a bullet header after coming off the bench in the second half.Discussing Nwaneri’s impressive performance at full-time, Arteta said: “He’s a big talent, he’s got the right attitude, he’s got the right players and context around him and we need to make sure that we put brick by brick in the right order but we have some player here.”He’s going to really dictate how fast that’s going to go but I’m really happy with him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes.”So much personality there, he wants every ball, he wants to make things happen.”Outside and around he’s still a bit quiet as usual, he’s 17 years old, very respectful, his work ethic is tremendous and he loves what he does, you can tell that.”Arsenal Dominates Preston: Player RatingsArsenal next face Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday.The Gunners currently sit third in the table, behind Liverpool and Manchester City. More

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      Arsenal face fixture chaos with ‘no obvious date’ to play crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final vs Crystal Palace

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      ARSENAL are facing a nightmare fixture pile up in December after being drawn against Crystal Palace in the League Cup.Mikel Arteta’s side progressed into the quarter-finals of the competition after beating Preston 3-0 on Wednesday.Arsenal have been left with a huge fixture headache in DecemberCredit: GettyThey are due to host Crystal Palace in the League Cup quarter-final but the two day turnaround for Palace could mean the game changes dateCredit: RexHowever, that is set to cause club chiefs a huge headache due to a major scheduling issue involving them and the women’s team.The Emirates tie against Crystal Palace is due to be played on either Tuesday 17 or Wednesday 18 in December.It came with Palace being due to play Brighton on Monday, December 16, though this fixture has since been moved to Sunday at 2pm with Bournemouth v West Ham now filling the Monday evening slot.Holding the clash on Wednesday is not possible due to Arsenal Women facing Bayern Munich in the Champions League at the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLogically this would leave Thursday as the obvious solution.However, the two-day turnaround is far from ideal, with Palace due to host Arsenal on Saturday, December 21 in the evening clash, also leaving Friday out of the question.It would be possible to host the Palace game on Wednesday, December 18 if the women’s game could be moved.Arsenal Women play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates, with tickets for the Bayern game on sale since September 28.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team used to play their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.However, one possible solution could be Arsenal agreeing to a stunning VENUE SWAP with Palace. ‘Watching Arsenal is like watching Netflix… you always have to wait for the next season’, says Man Utd legendThere has been a precedent in the League Cup this season to move fixtures to another stadium.Newcastle’s third round fixture with Wimbledon was switched from Plough Lane to St. James’ Park after floods caused a sinkhole to form in the middle of the pitch.Manchester City faced a similar problem to Arsenal earlier this season when they faced Watford in the third round.They were due to meet on the Wednesday, but local rivals Manchester United were already playing at home that night and the two teams can’t play at the same time.Pep Guardiola’s side were offered the chance to play away at Vicarage Road or switch dates to Tuesday or Thursday, which left them with less of a turnaround for either the League Cup game or Prem clash.They ultimately opted to play on the Tuesday just 48 hours after their 2-2 draw with Arsenal, and emerged with a 2-1 win over Watford at the Etihad.Speaking of the dilemma at the time, Guardiola said: “I prefer to play at home than go to London because this way our fans can watch this lovely, adorable team at home.“That’s why I decided to play on Tuesday. If we had said Thursday we wouldn’t have time to recover to go to Newcastle.“Hopefully we can select two teams and be fit and have no injuries but everyone knows the schedule will be tight this season.”On fixture congestion, he had previously said: “The week is seven days. We cannot create eight days a week or nine days a week.”It means the EFL could, based on precedent, offer Arteta’s side the chance to swap the venue of the League Cup clash from the Emirates to Selhurst Park to allow it to then be played on Wednesday and give Arsenal appropriate rest days between their league games.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe ultimate decision over the date of the game is in the hands of the EFL.It is understood the organisation are currently consulting all the relevant stakeholders on the timings and broadcast arrangements for each of the four quarter-finals.A Wednesday clash is not possible due to Arsenal women playing at the Emirates in the Champions LeagueCredit: AlamyArsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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      Ruud van Nistelrooy took just 59 minutes to break Ten Hag record after replacing him as Man Utd interim boss

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      MANCHESTER UNITED interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy needed less than an hour to best former manager Erik ten Hag on his debut at the helm.Van Nistelrooy, 48, took over at the United hotseat on a temporary basis following Sunday’s 2-1 loss at West Ham under Ten Hag which extended the club’s worst ever Premier League start.Manchester United interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy beat an Erik ten Hag recordCredit: GettyMan Utd scored five goals against a Premier League side under Van Nistelrooy, something Ten Hag never managedCredit: GettyThe club legend oversaw the Red Devils’ Carabao Cup clash with Leicester in the Round of 16 at Old Trafford on Wednesday and led them to an impressive 5-2 win.The former striker saw his team score four goals in the first half with a brace by Casemiro and strikes by Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes.Goals by the Foxes’ Bilal El Khannouss and Conor Coady sealed an entertaining six-goal spectacular in the first half before both teams slowed down in the second half.That was when Fernandes completed his brace in the 59th minute before Van Nistelrooy took his foot off the gas.Read More on Man UtdThat means that in his first game in charge of Man Utd, the ex-PSV Eindhoven boss has already beaten a Ten Hag feat by netting five goals against a Premier League side.Ten Hag’s biggest win was last month’s 7-0 triumph over League One outfit Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup.The Dutch tactician’s biggest win before that was a 4-1 victory against Chelsea and Real Betis last year in the Premier League and Europa League respectively.United looked much better in just one match under Van Nistelrooy, who hinted he wants to stay and work under incoming new boss Ruben Amorim.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe told Sky Sports: “I came here as an assistant to help the club. Now in this role, I’m helping as long as needed.”I’m here to help and serve and give my everything for the club in any capacity with so many people here around me that want the best for the club and that will never change.”Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy caught in heated conversation during Man Utd’s draw at Villa Sporting Lisbon boss Amorim is expected to replace Ten Hag on a full-time basis.The Portuguese tactician, though, may not assume duties until after next month’s international break, meaning his first match could take place at Ipswich on November 24.And Van Nistelrooy’s future at the club is currently uncertain as United appear to be trying to also sign Amorim’s coaching staff at Sporting.Those are assistant coaches Adelio Candido, Carlos Fernandes and Emanuel Ferro as well as goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital and sports scientist Paulo Barreira. More

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      Pep Guardiola admits Man City were ‘HUNGOVER’ for FA Cup final loss against Man Utd following Premier League title bash

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      PEP GUARDIOLA has admitted that his Manchester City stars were “hungover” during their FA Cup final defeat last season.The City boss, 53, was speaking after his side were dumped out of the Carabao Cup by Tottenham last night.Pep Guardiola spoke after his side’s 2-1 defeat to Tottenham last nightCredit: GettyMan City won the Prem title on the final day of last seasonCredit: GettyJack Grealish and Co subsequently went out to celebrateCredit: SplashMan Utd beat Man City in the FA Cup final the following weekendCredit: APThe 2-1 defeat was City’s first loss of the season, which was pointed out to Guardiola after the game.Their last defeat had come at Wembley in last season’s FA Cup final, in which they were beaten 2-1 by Manchester United.Referencing that match last night, Guardiola said: “This is the news, not that we lose, but how long it has been since we lose.”Of course, with the FA Cup final we were a little bit hungover, but it is good news.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Wembley showpiece had come just a week after City had clinched the Premier League title on the final day of the season.City stars let their hair down after pipping Arsenal to the post, with the likes of Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland leading the celebrations.After lifting the Premier League trophy, City stars and their partners headed to plush Manchester bar and restaurant Fenix to continue their revelry.The following weekend at Wembley they looked sluggish, with goals by Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo giving Man Utd a 2-0 half-time lead.Most read in FA CupBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGuardiola comforts Phil Foden after the FA Cup finalCredit: ReutersCity stars were left disappointed at WembleyCredit: ReutersJeremy Doku did pull one back for City late on, but Guardiola’s men were unable to conjure an equaliser.The cup final win largely contributed to Erik ten Hag clinging on to his job as Man Utd boss at the time.Jack Grealish is helped out of bar at 5am as Man City’s wild celebrations continue into the night after record titleHe had appeared all but certain to get the sack after his side finished a dismal eighth.But following the cup final victory the Dutchman was given a reprieve by United’s Ineos chiefs.After another summer at the helm, Ten Hag was unable to change United’s league fortunes.He was finally sacked on Monday following last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham, with United 14th in the table after nine games.Ruud van Nistelrooy has been placed in caretaker charge, with Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim primed to take over.City, meanwhile, are facing an injury crisis – having lost Manuel Akanji in last night’s warm-up and Savinho during the match.After the game, Guardiola confessed: “We have 13 players, we are in real difficulties.”The guys that play, they finish most of them with problems and we’ll see how they recover.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think we are in trouble, because in nine years we’ve never been in the situation with so many injuries.”The players make a step forward, more together than ever, and we will try to do this week in this short time of recovery.” More

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      Carabao Cup draw LIVE: Tottenham facing Man Utd in huge clash, Arsenal meeting Crystal Palace in quarter-final – updates

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      THE draw for the Carabao Cup quarter-finals has concluded – and there has been some cracking ties.Tottenham will face Man Utd at home in the pick of the draw, while Arsenal face Crystal Palace at the Emirates.Newcastle take on Brentford and Southampton host Liverpool with the all-Premier League draw complete.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow all the action with our live blog below…Special NwanArsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri lit up the Carabao Cup yet again last night with a wondergoal at Preston.Cutting inside from the left and then curling into the top corner, Nwaneri added to his two strikes against Bolton in the previous round.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedQuarter-final draw in fullTottenham will be taking on Man Utd at home in the pick of the draw.While Arsenal are hosting Crystal Palace in a huge London derby at the Emirates.Tottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedReminder of the fourth-round resultsSome huge shocks in the fourth round saw Premier League champions Man City crash out to Tottenham after Spurs beat the Cityzens 2-1.Crystal Palace also beat Aston Villa away 2-1 from home in a huge result for Oliver Glasner.Here are the fourth-round results in full:Southampton 3-2 StokeBrentford 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday (5-4 pens)Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedWhen will Carabao Cup quarter-final matches be played?Carabao Cup quarter-final ties will be played in the week commencing Monday, December 16.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.Credit: Rex FeaturesCopy linkCopiedTottenham host Manchester United in the quarter-finalsSpurs overcame the Blue side of Manchester in the fourth-round and they will face the Red side in the last-8.Tottenham vs Manchester United is certainly the standout tie from tonight’s draw.Another highlight is Arsenal taking on London rivals Crystal Palace in a blockbuster clash at the Emirates.Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup quarter-final ties in FULLTottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedNewcastle vs BrentfordCopy linkCopiedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceCopy linkCopiedTottenham vs Manchester UnitedCopy linkCopiedHere we go!The draw for the Carabao Cup quarter-final is underway!Copy linkCopiedDraw detailsSky Sports host Mark Chapman will present tonight’s quarter-final draw.Former England and Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp will pick out the all-important balls alongside ex-England and Manchester City forward Izzy Christiansen.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAll eyes on the drawTonight’s Carabao Cup quarter-final draw is expected to begin at approximately 10.40pm GMT.SunSport will bring you all the ties in full as they come in.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedRecap of fourth-round resultsSome standout results from the fourth round include Tottenham’s 2-1 win over Man City and Newcastle dumping out Chelsea with a 2-0 triumph.Crystal Palace stunned Aston Villa in the Midlands, with the Eagles running out 2-1 winners.Here are the fourth-round results in full:Southampton 3-2 StokeBrentford 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday (5-4 pens)Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 Arsenal Aston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man CityCredit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBall numbers CONFIRMEDTottenham are the final side to secure their spot in the hat for tonight’s Carabao Cup quarter-final draw.Spurs claimed a mammoth 2-1 win over Manchester City in the capital.The draw is set to begin at around 10.40pm GMT.1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Crystal Palace4 Liverpool5 Manchester United6 Newcastle United7 Arsenal8 Tottenham HotspurCopy linkCopiedSpurs edging closer to quarter-final spotTottenham are less than 10 minutes away from massive win over Premier League champions Manchester City.Spurs lead Pep Guardiola’s men 2-1 after goals from Timo Werner and Pape Sarr.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBall numbers reminderHere is a reminder of those all-important ball numbers following the conclusion of fourth-round ties:1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Crystal Palace4 Liverpool5 Manchester United6 Newcastle United7 Arsenal8 Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester CityCopy linkCopiedToon get revengeNewcastle have secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Chelsea.The Blues beat the Magpies 2-1 in the Premier League just three days ago, but tonight the Geordies got revenge.Elsewhere, Man Utd cruised through with a 5-2 win over Leicester, while Crystal Palace stunned Aston Villa.Brighton 2-3 Liverpool (FT)Newcastle 2-0 Chelsea (FT)Man Utd 5-2 Leicester (FT)Preston 0-3 Arsenal (FT)Aston Villa 1-2 Crystal Palace (FT)Tottenham 2-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedArsenal in the hatArsenal have beaten Preston 3-0 in a dominant night’s work at Deepdale.Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring with his first goal since January.Before a wondergoal from Ethan Nwaneri and a stunning header from substitute Kai Havertz.Number 7 in the draw confirmed!Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFestive quarter-final datesThe Carabao Cup quarter-final ties will be played in the week commencing Monday, December 16.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReds into the hatLiverpool are the first side from tonight’s fourth-round matches to secure their spot in the draw.The defending champions beat Brighton 3-2 in a thrilling clash on the Seaside.Liverpool will be ball number 8 in the draw later.Here are the latest scores from around the grounds:Brighton 2-3 Liverpool (FT)Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man City Copy linkCopiedLiverpool closing in on quarter-finalsLiverpool are minutes away from the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.The current champions will be hoping to avoid any late drama as they lead Brighton 3-2 on the South Coast.Manchester United and Arsenal both look to be heading for the last-8 too, while Chelsea are on the verge of being knocked out in Newcastle.Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man City (HT)Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup draw ball numbersAnother reminder of those all-important ball numbers for the Carabao Cup quarter-final draw tonight.The big draw is expected at approx 10.20pm tonight following Spurs vs Man City.1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Aston Villa or Crystal Palace4 Brighton & Hove Albion or Liverpool5 Manchester United or Leicester City6 Newcastle United or Chelsea7 Preston North End or Arsenal8 Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester CityCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBru the dayBruno Fernandes has bagged his second of the night to make it Man Utd 5-2 Leicester.The Red Devils are cruising towards the quarter-finals after a superb showing from Ruud van Nistelrooy’s men.Here are the latest scores from around the grounds:Brighton 1-2 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 Chelsea Man Utd 5-2 Leicester Preston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal Palace Tottenham 2-1 Man City (HT)Copy linkCopiedHav some more of thatAnd Kai Havertz has scored Arsenal’s third with a stunning header at Preston!The Gunners are closing in on a spot in the quarter-final draw tonight.Lovely ball from Jakub Kiwior and the game now appears out of Preston’s reach.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Carabao Cup quarter-final draw sees Man Utd handed horror tie at City conquerors Tottenham as Arsenal get Palace

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been handed a horror Carabao Cup quarter-final tie at Tottenham.The Red Devils will travel to North London after cruising past Leicester in the last 16.The draw for the Carabao Cup quarters has been madeCredit: PASpurs beat United’s rivals Man City 2-1 at home this evening.And they will be hoping to inflict more misery on Manchester when United pay a visit.Elsewhere, Arsenal will host Crystal Palace after easing past Preston.Palace defeated Aston Villa in the Midlands but face another tough trip away from home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the third tie, Newcastle have been rewarded for beating Chelsea with a home clash against Brentford.The Bees sealed their place in the last eight with a penalty win over Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday.Finally, Southampton will take on Liverpool after beating Stoke 3-2 yesterday.But Arne Slot’s Reds continue to look strong and slipped past Brighton 3-2 this evening.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe draw was made on Wednesday night following a six-game epic on Sky Sports, with Jamie Redknapp and Izzy Christiansen drawing the balls alongside host Mark Chapman.But there will be a lengthy wait until the quarters are played.Incredible before and after video shows AFC Wimbledon’s progress fixing huge sinkhole after Carabao Cup clash postponedThe full draw for the Carabao Cup quartersTies to be played week commencing Monday December 16:Tottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolThe matches will not take place until the week commencing Monday December 16.The winners of the quarters will then progress to the semis, with the first of two legs to be played on the week commencing Monday January 6.And as for the holy grail, the final will take place at Wembley on March 16 — nearly a month later than last season’s match between Liverpool and Chelsea. More