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      Man Utd 7-0 Barnsley – Carabao Cup LIVE RESULT: Garnacho, Rashford & Eriksen all at the DOUBLE as United cruise through

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have thrashed League One side Barnsley to progress to the Carabao Cup fourth round.Marcus Rashford bagged the game’s opener with an emphatic finish on 16 minutes.Antony made it 2-0 after firing a superb penalty past Chelsea loanee Gabriel Slonina.Right on half time, Alejandro Garnacho got on the scoresheet for 3-0 to give United total control of the cup clash.Just after the interval, the young Argentine doubled his tally for the evening to make it 4-0 to the hosts before Rashford scored his second for 5-0.With 10 minutes to go, Christian Eriksen tapped in from close range to extend the Red Devils’ lead to 6-0 – and later, the midfielder became the third United player to bag a brace for 7-0.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from Old Trafford with our live blog below…Match reportIt is fair to say Alejandro Garnacho is back in Erik ten Hag’s good books.Left out of the starting line-up for the first three games, he was recalled for the defeat against Liverpool only to be dropped again.A ‘liking’ of an Instagram post quoting Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest rant about Ten Hag had probably not helped his cause as it made headlines and he was benched for the trip to Southampton.But he was back on tonight and with a bang.The 20-year-old Argentinian once again underlined why he is on a path to greatness at this club if he keeps his head down and keeps working.With two goals and two assists in a 5-0 win he lit up Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedOn the wayHere’s the next four games for United.Two tricky Premier League games on the horizon and the squad will be tested with European football on the horizon…Copy linkCopiedTen Hag reactsErik ten Hag praised his side for their ‘100% concentration’ and says it was fun to watch his side playing.He also stuck up for Marcus Rashford, insisting every time he plays the manager is confident he’ll score.He told Sky Sports: “First of all it was a difficult start and they found their shape.“But then we scored some good goals starting with Rashford, a great goal.“We had the right attitude and they were 100% concentrated and we played very good.“It was fun to watch and I think the fans liked and appreciated it. We gave them some nice goals.”On Rashford, he added: “When he’s in the team, I’m calm and composed and confident he will score.“Last season was difficult for everyone but we ended with a trophy. We want that again this year.”Copy linkCopiedScores elsewhereBlackpool 0-1 Sheffield WednesdayBrentford 3-1 Leyton OrientEverton 1-1 Southampton (5-6 on pens)Manchester United 7-0 BarnsleyPreston 1-1 Fulham (16-15 on pens)QPR 1-2 Crystal PalaceStoke 1-1 Fleetwood (2-1 on pens)Copy linkCopiedStar manMarcus Rashford was given the man of the match award for his display.A goal at the weekend when operating off the left, two tonight when playing as the main central striker.What does Erik ten Hag do with him this weekend?Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratingsTonight’s Man Utd player ratings from SunSport’s Katherine Walsh.Altay Bayindir – 6Diogo Dalot – 6Harry Maguire – 6Jonny Evans – 6Toby Collyer – 5Casemiro – 6Manuel Ugarte – 6Antony – 7Christian Eriksen – 6Alejandro Garnacho – 8Marcus Rashford – 8Read more to find out why they scored what they did.Copy linkCopiedOne moreThat’s actually the first time United have scored more than four in a game under Erik ten Hag.Copy linkCopiedRecord breakingIt’s a night of records for Manchester United.That 7-0 represents their biggest EVER win in the League Cup!Not surprisingly it’s also Erik ten Hag’s biggest win as Manchester United manager.And ten goals in a few days. Not bad.Copy linkCopiedElsewherePreston have just beaten Fulham 16-15 on penalties in their game after a 1-1 draw.A record in this competition for the longest ever!16-15!More records to come…Copy linkCopiedImmediate reactionMarcus Rashford tells Sky Sports he hopes this is the start of a good run and season for him.He said: “Football’s football, sometimes you have ups and sometimes you have downs.“You have to use these games to find momentum and consistency and try your best to bring your best to each game.“I hope it’s the start for me. We move onto the next game now.”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsMan Utd getting half of their 26 efforts at goal on target tonight.Barnsley getting 0% of their three shots at goal on target tonight.27 fouls conceded and only two bookings with one for dissent in the final couple of seconds. A different way of doing it I guess.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 7-0 BarnsleyA bit of a Tuesday stroll in the end for United.Barnsley couldn’t get close to them at all and were outplayed and bullied in every area of the park.The front three of Rashford, Garnacho and Antony all scored before the break before the two former helped themselves to a second after the break.Christian Eriksen got two of his own in the space of a few minutes late on as United put together their biggest ever win in this competition.Reaction to come.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 7-0 BarnsleyA super seven for Manchester United who cruise into the fourth round.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley90+3. O’Keefe picks up a booking in final seconds after having a pop at the referee for a late decision.Needless, but good to see the referee brought them out the house!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley90+1. Smashing football in the middle of the park for United once again.It’s worked to Fernandes who slides a great ball in behind for Amad to run clean through but his first touch is heavy and Barnsley manage to deal with this one.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 BarnsleyThree minutes addedCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley89. Smart save from Slonina this time as Zirkzee is sent into the box.He swivels and strikes hard and low across the keeper who gets down well to keep it out.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley87. Antony slips just as he’s winding up a shot from the edge of the box.His right-footed attempt hits a defender and the League One side scramble it away.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley85. Still plenty time yet….Clever, one-touch football around the Barnsley box as Fernandes plays a clever one-two with Zirkzee.He then lays it into Eriksen’s path looking for another one-two but Eriksen says thanks very much, curling a first-time finish into the bottom left-hand corner from the edge of the box.Terrific finish after a good move. Starting to get really quite embarrassing for the visitors, unfortunately for them.Copy linkCopiedNONE FOR 13 MONTHS – TWO IN THREE MINUTES!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 6-0 Barnsley84. United change for the final five minutes.OFF: GarnachoON: AmadCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 6-0 Barnsley83. Zirkzee thinks he’s won a corner and there’s plenty of moans around when a goal kick is given.Maybe some pity from the officials.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 6-0 Barnsley81. Eriksen’s first goal in 13 months for United!He starts it with a neat touch 25 yards from goal and then continues his run, darting into the area.It’s worked out to Fernandes on the left side of the area. He slides a clever pass into Eriksen’s path and the Barnsley midfielders let him run and the Dane casually side-foots a finish above Slonina to make it six.A good training ground move!Copy linkCopiedBARNSLEY HIT FOR SIX!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-0 Barnsley78. Zirkzee with a snap-shot from just inside the area.He’s around 17 yards out when hitting it with his left foot, sending it around 17 yards wide.Change for the home side:OFF: EvansON: De LigtCopy linkCopied More

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      Fans say ‘Marcus Rashford is BACK’ after Man Utd star scores stunning solo goal in Carabao Cup clash

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      MANCHESTER UNITED star Marcus Rashford scored an incredible solo goal in the Carabao Cup that left fans insisting he is “back” to form.Rashford, 26, dominated two seasons ago as he scored 30 goals and bagged 11 assists in 56 appearances during Erik ten Hag’s maiden campaign as United manager.Manchester United star Marcus Rashford scored a stunning solo goal in the Carabao CupCredit: GettyMan Utd fans insist Rashford is ‘back’ to his old dominant formCredit: RexThe forward, though, failed to extend his incredible goalscoring prowess last term as he only managed eight goals and six assists in 43 appearances.However, fans have started to believe again during the Red Devils’ third-round clash with Barnsley in the Carabao Cup at Old Trafford.The England international netted a stunning opener to score his second goal in as many days.And Rashford did it in style as he picked up a beautiful long ball by Alejandro Garnacho with a slick touch and dribbled past Barnsley defender Marc Roberts like he wasn’t even there.Read More on Man UtdThe United star then beat Chelsea loanee Gabriel Slonina with a fantastic strike that hit the top right corner after just 16 minutes.The Red Devils’ faithful then stormed social media to praise the popular player’s apparent resurgence. One fan tweeted: “Rashford is back!”Another commented: “Rashford has brought my joy back, no other player when they score has me on cloud 9 like Rashford.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third posted: Rashford’s confidence is coming back.”This fan said: “I can confidently tell you Rashford is back.”Watch as Marcus Rashford has medicine ball whacked off his abs as Man Utd star takes up boxing in international break And that one stated: “If Rashford clicks in consistency then Man United is back.” More

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      When is the Carabao Cup draw? Date, TV channel and live stream as 16 clubs enter the hat for the fourth round

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      THE third round of the Carabao Cup gets underway this week – with the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal competing in the competition for the first time this season.Erik ten Hag’s men face League One promotion hopefuls Barnsley at Old Trafford this evening as they look to avoid a huge upset.Liverpool are the reigning Carabao Cup championsCredit: AlamyThe likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City don’t play their third-round ties until next week due to their Champions League commitments.This means that all Carabao Cup third-round ties will not be completed until Wednesday, September 25.The unique scheduling of the competition stems from the increase in Champions League and Europe League fixtures this season – that have been scheduled during the same period.When is the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw?The Carabao Cup fourth-round draw will take place on Wednesday, September 25.The draw will begin following the conclusion of Liverpool vs West Ham United.It will likely get underway at around 10.15pm BST.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhat TV channel is the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw on and can it be live streamed FREE?The Carabao Cup fourth-round draw will be shown live on Sky Sports Football/Sky Sports Main Event.Subscribers can live stream the draw via the NOW/Sky Sports app.Fear not if you don’t have a Sky Sports subscription, as you can watch the draw for free via the official Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action.When will Carabao Cup fourth-round ties take place?The Carabao Cup fourth-round ties will take place the week commencing Monday, October 28.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, October 29 and Wednesday, October 30.Carabao Cup third-round scheduleTuesday, September 17Most read in FootballStoke vs Fleetwood, 7.30pm (Sky Sports+)Blackpool vs Sheffield Wednesday, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Brentford vs Leyton Orient, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Everton vs Southampton, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Preston vs Fulham, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)QPR vs Crystal Palace, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Manchester United vs Barnsley, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Wednesday, September 18Brighton vs Wolves, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Coventry vs Tottenham, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Tuesday, September 24AFC Wimbledon vs Newcastle United, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Chelsea vs Barrow, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Manchester City vs Watford, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Walsall vs Leicester City, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Wycombe Wanderers vs Aston Villa, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Wednesday, September 25READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal vs Bolton Wanderers, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Liverpool vs West Ham United, 8pm (Sky Sports Football) More

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      How to watch every Carabao Cup match in the UK on Sky Sports+

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      THE Carabao Cup continues this week – with some Premier League giants joining the action in round three.Fear not if you can’t make it to the stadium to watch your team in the flesh – Sky Sports has you covered.Sky Sports will air every Carabao Cup match this seasonCredit: GettyHow to watch every Carabao Cup match in the UK on Sky Sports+For the first time ever, all of this season’s Carabao Cup matches will be available to watch in the UK on Sky Sports.Whichever games are not selected for any of the main Sky Sports channels – will be available to watch on Sky Sports+.Subscribers of the full Sky Sports package will be able to access Sky Sports+ at no extra cost.You can find Sky Sports+ on Sky TV, streaming service NOW and the revamped Sky Sports mobile app.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJust select the game you want to watch on the homepage, which will show all current live matches available to stream and enjoy.You can also press the microphone button on your Sky remote, and then say the name of your club, and it will show what games are available.Carabao Cup third-round scheduleTuesday, September 17Stoke vs Fleetwood, 7.30pm (Sky Sports+)Most read in FootballBlackpool vs Sheffield Wednesday, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Brentford vs Leyton Orient, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Everton vs Southampton, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Preston vs Fulham, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)QPR vs Crystal Palace, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Manchester United vs Barnsley, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Wednesday, September 18Brighton vs Wolves, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Coventry vs Tottenham, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Tuesday, September 24AFC Wimbledon vs Newcastle United, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Chelsea vs Barrow, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Manchester City vs Watford, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Walsall vs Leicester City, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Wycombe Wanderers vs Aston Villa, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Wednesday, September 25READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal vs Bolton Wanderers, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Liverpool vs West Ham United, 8pm (Sky Sports Football) More

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      Pep Guardiola sensationally reveals Man City were offered never-before-seen rule change to ease fixture congestion

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      THE season starts here for Manchester City – and doesn’t Pep Guardiola know it.Today’s home game with Brentford is the start of four matches in just 11 days – spread across three different competitions.Manchester City face four matches in 11 days in three different competitionsCredit: GettyPep Guardiola made a shock revelation about their Carabao Cup tieCredit: AlamyThen come another three in quick succession before the next international break.Guardiola said after the win at West Ham two weeks ago that it still felt like pre-season – despite City’s perfect start to the campaign.So now things get serious – and the scheduling of their Carabao Cup tie against Watford next week is certainly no laughing matter at the Etihad.They will face the Championship high-fliers just 49 hours after their title showdown against Arsenal.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLEven for a club with City’s resources, it will be a test and the Spanish boss fears things are only to get worse for clubs involved in European competitions.Uefa have expanded the group stage of both the Champions League and Europa League meaning the calendar is getting more and more full.And as far as the former Barcelona coach is concerned, all the meetings to try to find solutions are “useless”.His big fear is the physical and mental health of the players is going to suffer as a result.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPep said: “It’s going to happen many times. When someone creates another new competition, it’s going to be even worse.“It’s impossible to fix all the schedules and calendars.Watch moment cheeky Man Utd mascot stops Pep Guardiola before Community Shield with eight-word request“People say with players and managers with the money they shouldn’t complain but it’s not that – it’s about the health.“Doctors especially say the bodies have to recover for four or five days. We did three and now two.“We’re not going to change, the meetings are useless. If they decide they’re going to do it they’re going to do it.”City play title rivals Arsenal next Sunday then go to Newcastle for a lunchtime kick-off on Saturday, September 28 – with both games already locked in for live TV coverage.Normally the Carabao Cup game would be played on the Wednesday but that option was ruled out as Manchester United are at home in the Europa League that night.So Guardiola’s men were told they would have to play on either the Tuesday or Thursday night – or switch the tie to Vicarage Road.He 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.”City were furious when their FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea in April was picked for the Saturday – even though they had played in Europe against Real Madrid on the Wednesday night.Both Guardiola and match-winner Bernardo Silva publicly slammed the decision but the City boss does not see anything changing.He said: “The week is seven days. We cannot create eight days a week or nine days a week.What will happen to Man City?MAN CITY are favourites to win the Premier League title yet again – but there is one elephant in the room that threatens to put the skids under the Etihad giants.Sunsport’s MARTIN LIPTON discusses what the next few months could hold with Head of Sport SHAUN CUSTIS….Custis: So the big question – will there be a resolution this season?Lipton: Yes…. probably! We know the case will start to be dealt with in October or November.It will take at least a month to go through the evidence. So I suspect around March, April time, we will get a result. But that’s where it starts to get tricky.Custis: Why is that?Lipton: If the result is in City’s favour, that’s the end of the matter. They will be cleared. They will have no punishment to face.But if City are found guilty, these will be the heaviest penalties ever imposed by the Premier League.I suspect if they are found guilty, they will be expelled from the league or given a massive points deduction and a huge fine so that they’re not in the Premier League next season.Check out the full discussion on Man City’s future.“So you have to fix all the games and the schedule is so tight it is impossible to handle. We just go for it.“I learned when you are at a club in a lot of competitions it’s important to keep the energy to the moment of the game.“So it is not about training good the day before or after because you need the energy for the 95 minutes you are going to play.“Whether it affects the chances of injury or quality I would love to know but I don’t know the consequences on injury or performance.”Thomas Frank’s Bees were the last team to win at the Etihad – way back on the eve of the 2022 World Cup.Guardiola hopes that is not an omen, saying: “I wish you’d not told me that. But it shows how well we have done – two years without losing a game at home. It’s good.”READ MORE SUN STORIES“I don’t remember an easy game against a Thomas Frank team, he’s a person who I admire.“Since they were promoted, they have always been tough here and there and this will be no exception.”Ivan Toney scored the winner for Brentford at the Etihad just before the 2022 World CupCredit: GettyErling Haaland has hit the ground running this seasonCredit: Getty More

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      EFL minnows ‘to pocket FOUR TIMES more money if they LOSE to Chelsea’ as integrity of Carabao Cup called into question

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      EFL minnows Barrow are reportedly offering their players FOUR times more money to LOSE to Chelsea than if they record a shock Carabao Cup win.And the stunning revelation has called into question the integrity of the competition.Barrow are reportedly offering players £1,000 in a bonus to lose to Chelsea – or £250 to winCredit: GettyThe Premier League giants are the heavy favourites against their League Two opponentsCredit: EPALeague Two Barrow were handed a dream draw away at Stamford Bridge in round three of the domestic cup after beating Derby on penalties in their previous tie. But now according to The Telegraph, the match has raised concerns. The newspaper claims Barrow’s bonus schedule shows the players would receive £250 if they somehow secured a victory in West London on September 24.However, they are set to bank a whopping £1,000 each if they lose the match.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThis therefore could imply a significant additional reward for defeat – and the possibility of incentivising underperformance, even if last season’s runners-up Chelsea are the heavy favourites. The EFL declined to comment but it is thought the organisation spoke to the Bluebirds to clarify an explanation – even though the bizarre bonuses do not appear to break any specific regulations. SunSport also understands the bonus sheet contained errors and has since been rectified – with the club wanting to reward their players for playing a top-tier team with an appearance fee, rather than offering a ‘bonus’ for losing. Bonuses must be agreed between the club and its players before being submitted to the EFL before the start of the season – but the EFL do not have jurisdiction over them. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt is reported that Barrow’s players will receive £250 each for any wins in rounds one to five of the Carabao Cup.Even winning the final at Wembley would only bank the players an extra £1,000. National League boss ‘loses plot’ in outrageous rant at OWN FANS as supporters call it ‘best post-match interview ever’However, the deal also offers £1,000 if they lose to a Premier League club from round three onwards – and £750 for defeat to a Championship side. In the FA Cup, things are far simpler.Barrow have agreed to pay out £400 for a round-one win, then £800 for round two.By round three and beyond, that figure increases to £2,625 per win per player.Again, defeat to a Premier League team would ensure a £1,000 bonus – and £750 if a Championship club knock them out.Barrow are currently third in League Two after an impressive start to the campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir three wins and a draw from five matches has Stephen Clemence’s side on ten points – two behind leaders Doncaster. SunSport has contacted Barrow for comment. Barrow beat Derby on penalties in the previous roundCredit: Getty More

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      Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 4 – target Champions League stars for healthy returns

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      GAMEWEEK 4 promises to be a high-scoring affair with 13 of the 20 teams set to play twice.Rotation is to be expected in the third round of the Carabao Cup but gaffers should expect strong line-ups from Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa in the Champions League.Remember to confirm your transfers before Saturday’s 11am deadlineCredit: Dream TeamAs usual, we have prepared some transfer recommendations for the Gameweek ahead but we won’t waste anyone’s time listing obvious names such as Erling Haaland (£8.8m), Mohamed Salah (£7.3m), etc.And we refuse to rehash our suggestions from Gameweek 3, although we still firmly believe Morgan Rogers (£2.7m) and Andy Robertson (£4.8) are strong options – the former looked sharp for England Under-21s.Rico Lewis (£3.4m)Manchester City’s rotation will shift up a gear from this point onwards – Pep Guardiola has said as much himself.Going forward, the talented teenager will probably have to share more of his minutes with Kyle Walker (£4m), who has barely been involved at all across the first three Gameweeks.However, Lewis will still be a regular having shone brightly during the defending champions’ perfect start to the new campaign.Guardiola has praised Lewis but is conscious of overworking the 19-year-oldCredit: AlamyThe England international has amassed 22 points, which puts him above Josko Gvardiol (£4.8m) and every other Man City defender – he’s joint-seventh among all assets in his position.Lewis’ most-appealing attribute is his affordable price, which will probably rise again after the Gameweek 4 deadline – he’s an excellent enabler right now.Most read in FootballGuardiola’s troops are due to host Brentford on Saturday and Inter on Wednesday.Eberechi Eze (£4.6m)The European competitions are a huge aspect of Dream Team but managers shouldn’t be totally blinded.Looking elsewhere, Crystal Palace’s Gameweek 4 double header of Leicester (h) and QPR (a) looks mightily inviting on paper.Talent to burnCredit: GettyThe Eagles’ No10 is currently joint-second among midfielders having amassed 34 points via two goals and an assist.Some gaffers may be concerned that Eze will be rested in midweek but the fact he played all 90 minutes of Palace’s last Carabao Cup outing suggests he’s got a good chance of starting against his former club at Loftus Road.Looking further ahead, Oliver Glasner’s side aren’t one of the ten teams with two games to fulfil in Gameweek 5 but Eze has the talent to potentially make up a fixture deficit.At the very least, he looks like a great shout for Gameweek 4.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWLuis Diaz (£4.7m) and/or Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.9m)Liverpool’s Colombian winger is by far and away the most-popular recruit for Gameweek 4 and with good reason.His brace at Old Trafford prior to the international break propelled him to the top of the midfield rankings on 35 points.As Arne Slot’s first-choice left winger, Diaz appears to be an excellent option for Dream Team bosses.There might be some concern in the short term as the 27-year-old played 180 minutes for his country over the break (not to mention a long flight home) but he should get plenty of minutes with the Reds’ set to face Nottingham Forest and Milan this coming Gameweek.Dream Team’s top midfielder after three GameweeksCredit: GettyGaffers on a tighter budget would do well to consider Szoboszlai for the weeks ahead.The Hungarian playmaker has played every minute of Liverpool’s first three league games and looks set to continue as the most-advanced midfielder with Harvey Elliott (£3m) now sidelined with injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESSzoboszlai has already registered two assists and will be hopeful of plenty more going forward with Salah, Diaz and Diogo Jota (£4.8m) all in good form.Lock in your transfers before Saturday’s 11am deadline.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Which teams have the most favourable fixtures in September? Gaffers to target European competitions

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      THE English summer is hanging on by a thread amid the first international break of the season.Dream Team managers have until 11am on September 14th to confirm their set-up for Gameweek 4 so there’s plenty of time to reflect upon the campaign so far and plan for the weeks ahead.Dream Team managers should look ahead at the rest of SeptemberCredit: Dream TeamOne crucial factor to consider when devising a strategy for the upcoming Gameweeks is the fixtures, in relation to both difficulty and volume.With that in mind, let’s analyse the September schedule (and beginning of October in some cases) for all 20 Premier League clubs, covering Gameweeks 4 to 6.MANCHESTER CITYBrentford (h)Inter (h)Arsenal (h)Watford (h)Newcastle (a)Slovan Bratislava (a)Pep Guardiola’s side are one of six teams facing three consecutive double Gameweeks after the international break.And with the way the chips have fallen in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, Erling Haaland (£8.8m) and company have the luxury of four home games in a row.Inter, Arsenal and a trip to St James’ Park have to be considered relatively difficult match-ups but most Dream Team bosses will know that points flow freely when City have to play every few days.The points will surely continue to come thick and fast for HaalandCredit: GettyLIVERPOOLMost read in FootballNottingham Forest (h)Milan (a)Bournemouth (h)West Ham (h)Wolves (a)Bologna (h)Like Man City, Arne Slot’s troops have four home fixtures across the next three Gameweeks.Given the Reds have won all three of their games so far without conceding a goal, they won’t be overly concerned about their upcoming schedule at all.The likes of Mohamed Salah (£7.3m), Luis Diaz (£4.7m) and Trent Alexander-Arnold (£5.8m) should continue to provide plentiful returns for their backers.BRIGHTONIpswich (h)Wolves (h)Nottingham Forest (h)Chelsea (a)Without European commitments the Seagulls’ workload appears comparatively light but their double header in Gameweek 4 (Ipswich in the league followed by Wolves in the cup) looks ripe for points.Fabian Hurzeler’s side are third in table having taken seven points from their opening three games and the young coach will be hopeful of positive results against the Tractor Boys and Forest on home soil to keep the ball rolling.Liverpool’s September appears relatively favourableCredit: GettyARSENALTottenham (a)Atalanta (a)Manchester City (a)Bolton (h)Leicester (h)PSG (h)September brings some tough tests for the Gunners with three tricky away days in succession after the break.Bukayo Saka (£6.3m), Kai Havertz (£4.6m) and William Saliba (£5.4m) have started the season in fine form and their owners will be happy to see them in action so frequently cross the next few Gameweeks but a slight dip in returns is to be expected.Arsenal have been the best defensive side in England across the last year or so but they’ll have to work seriously hard to keep their sheets clean this month.NEWCASTLEWolves (a)Fulham (a)AFC Wimbledon (a)Manchester City (h)The Magpies’ home record is far superior to their away record under Eddie Howe so it’s not an ideal schedule for gaffers backing Alexander Isak (£5m), Anthony Gordon (£4.5m) and friends.On the bright side, the quality of the opposition isn’t all that daunting… until City come to town.BRENTFORDManchester City (a)Leyton Orient (h)Tottenham (a)West Ham (h)The Bees have started brightly with two victories from three outings but their league form will be severely tested against City and Spurs.Bryan Mbeumo (£3.6m) has raced to 31 points but he didn’t feature at all in the Carabao Cup second round so he may not get much of a run out at home to the O’s, unless Thomas Frank changes tact.Both Isak and Gordon are among the most transferred-out players ahead of Gamweek 4 currentlyCredit: PAASTON VILLAEverton (h)Young Boys (a)Wolves (h)Wycombe (a)Ipswich (a)Bayern Munich (h)German giants aside, it’s a friendly set of fixtures for the Villains this month.Ollie Watkins (£5.6m) has only played roughly an hour of each game so far in 2024/25 and the striker’s withdrawal from the England squad means he’s a minor doubt for Gameweek 4.However, a fully-fit striker would be licking his lips looking at Villa’s schedule – Watkins will be a popular recruit if he gets up to speed.BOURNEMOUTHChelsea (h)Liverpool (a)Southampton (h)The Cherries have half as many fixtures as the busiest teams across the next three Gameweeks, with one being a trip to Anfield.Antoine Semenyo’s (£2.8m) ownership has increased as a reflection of his impressive form but he’d have to transform into prime Messi to justify his selection with just three games at his disposal.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWNOTTINGHAM FORESTLiverpool (a)Brighton (a)Fulham (h)It’s a similar story for Nuno Espirito Santo’s mob; just three fixtures including Liverpool away.Forest are unbeaten this season (their penalty shootout defeat to Newcastle in the cup technically goes down as a draw) with Chris Wood (£2.8m) having amassed 24 points but it seems as if their returns are about to dry up.TOTTENHAMArsenal (h)Coventry (a)Brentford (h)Qarabag (h)Manchester United (a)Ferencvaros (a)It’s been a mixed bag for Spurs so far with one win, one draw and one defeat from their first three outings.An emotionally-charge North London derby is a difficult match-up to predict but gaffers should be eyeing up the rest of September.Their Europa League fixtures look particularly inviting.Europa League commitments should boost Spurs assets this seasonCredit: RexCHELSEABournemouth (a)West Ham (a)Barrow (h)Brighton (h)Gent (h)A home draw against League Two’s Barrow is a hugely favourable match-up on paper but it’s not all that easy for Dream Team bosses to predict the Blues’ line-up for that game.The Conference League has historically been a reliable source of Dream Team points for the English teams so it’s all eyes on Gent’s visit to Stamford Bridge in early October.FULHAMWest Ham (h)Preston (a)Newcastle (h)Nottingham Forest (a)A middling set of fixtures that will force backers of relatively popular assets Emile Smith Rowe (£2.8m) and Antonee Robinson (£3.4m) to either stick or twist.Gaffers without pressing issues elsewhere should probably explore potential alternatives.WEST HAMFulham (a)Chelsea (h)Liverpool (a)Brentford (a)It’s a similar story for the Hammers.Max Kilman (£2.8m) and Jarrod Bowen (£5m) have started well enough but their viability drops without European commitments.Palmer’s owners will be desperate for him to start as many games as possibleCredit: ReutersMANCHESTER UNITEDSouthampton (a)Barnsley (h)Crystal Palace (a)Twente (h)Tottenham (h)Porto (a)The Red Devils are among the busiest teams from now until the end of Gameweek 6 but back-to-back defeats to Brighton and Liverpool have dampened the mood around Old Trafford.None of their players have broken the 20-point barrier at this stage with Bruno Fernandes (£5.8m) among the most-disappointing performers so far – the Portuguese midfielder has mustered just 13 points. LEICESTERCrystal Palace (a)Everton (h)Walsall (a)Arsenal (a)The Foxes are without a win since promotion and so Dream Team managers are understandably hesitant to shop around the King Power.Moving swiftly on…CRYSTAL PALACELeicester (h)Queens Park Rangers (a)Manchester United (h)Everton (a)Only Luis Diaz has more points than Eberechi Eze (£4.6m) among midfielders right now and the latter’s backers will be hopeful of further returns in Gameweek 4.The Eagles’ No10 played the full 90 minutes last time out in the Carabao Cup and therefore has a good chance of starting against his former club in the third round.Eze is among a select group of talented individuals capable of keeping pace with players active in Europe – especially if Palace go deep in the domestic cups.Replacing Eze with a player active in Europe may not be necessaryCredit: ReutersIPSWICHBrighton (a)Southampton (a)Aston Villa (h)A newly-promoted team without a win, with just three fixtures across the next three Gameweeks.It’s a black hole of Dream Team points.WOLVESNewcastle (h)Brighton (a)Aston Villa (a)Liverpool (h)All four of Wolves’ September opponents are currently in the top seven of the league table – a brutal run.SOUTHAMPTONManchester United (h)Everton (a)Ipswich (h)Bournemouth (a)Saints fans will start to get very twitchy if they don’t see some positive results this month.No Southampton player features in more than 0.9% of Dream Teams currently – that says it all.Wolves face a tough run of fixtures after the international breakCredit: AlamyEVERTONAston Villa (a)Southampton (h)Leicester (a)Crystal Palace (h)READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Toffees are rooted to the bottom of the table after a disastrous start to the campaign, amplified by their traumatic loss to Bournemouth last weekend.Against the odds, Dwight McNeil (£3.2m) is joint-fifth among all midfielders having racked up 31 points but most Dream Team bosses should be repelled by Everton until their form as a collective improves dramatically.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. 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