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      Tottenham vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Carabao Cup semi-final updates as Spurs look to take lead to Anfield – latest updates

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      TOTTENHAM welcome Liverpool for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final.Spurs will know they will need to take a lead to Anfield to stand the best chance of making March’s huge Wembley final.Ange Postecoglu will be aiming to be the man who leads Tottenham to their first major trophy in almost 17 years.But Premier League leaders Liverpool are looking to secure back-to-back Carabao Cup titles after they lifted the trophy for a record 10th time following their 1-0 win over Chelsea last year.Kick off time: 8pmTV channel: Sky Sports Football / Main EventLive stream: NOWTottenham team: To follow…Liverpool team: To follow…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Trent under pressureSuperstar defender Trent Alexander-Arnold came in for a lot of criticism for his performance on Sunday against Manchester United.The right-back, who continues to be linked with a move away from Anfield was torn to shreds by the likes of Roy Keane and other pundits.Slot was asked about the England star and said: “I think we were all disappointed – not only Trent, we were all disappointed – by the way we played [against Manchester United on Sunday]. “First of all, about the result. Parts of the game we could be quite satisfied with, other parts of our game we weren’t completely happy with. “That was not only Trent, there were more things in the game that we could have done better. Trent didn’t play his best game, I’ve said it already, but that’s not for the first time in his life he didn’t play the best game of his career. “He has played so, so, so many games well for this club. Now it wasn’t his best – like for some others, it wasn’t the best game for some others as well.We just pick it up and start training again, because these players know if you play 50, 60 games in a season, once in a while you don’t have your best performance. “Maybe we should highlight more how good it is that these players are able to play every three days such a good game. “And apart from the game maybe not being the best, it was again an eventful game from Liverpool. “All the games we’ve played in the last six months – and maybe even longer when Jurgen [Klopp] was here – I got many text messages from people saying, ‘What a game again!’ “Unbelievable what happened the last 10 minutes, both teams playing fully for a win. That is also part of our job I think, to make it an eventful game. “That is what we are trying to do every game, mostly with a result or winning. Now it wasn’t enough to win it, but it was definitely an interesting game for everyone to watch.”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedSzoboszlai doubtLiverpool boss Arne Slot revealed that key midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai remains a doubt for the match tonight.Speaking on Tuesday, the Dutch boss said: “[Monday] he wasn’t in yet, if he is in [Tuesday] I would doubt he is available to start the game.”Hopefully he is in today, but yesterday he wasn’t.”Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedGetting to know you Antonin Kinsky is only 21 but could be trusted to start straight away despite the important of the match on Tottenham’s season.And perhaps Ange’s future.Kinsky cost £12.5million and has six Under-21 caps for the Czech Republic – he got his first senior call up in October but didn’t play.He is the son of former pro Antonin Kinsky, who won five international caps and was in squads for Euro 2004 and the 2006 as a backup to Petr Cech.Kinsky Sr also won the Czech top flight with Slovan Liberec in 2002.Kinsky Jr spent last season on loan at Pardubice and had been the first choice for Slavia Prague before his exit.Postecoglu said his lack of experience and age wouldn’t be an issue.Postecoglou said: “He didn’t strike me as somebody who is going to shy away from that kind of opportunity should it come his way.”That was a big part of bringing him in because potentially we might have to throw him in straight away.”Copy linkCopiedReinforcements coming?Spurs boss Ange Postecoglu has hinted that help is on the way and that the club will spend money on a striker during this transfer window.Ange has already brought in goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague – and the goalkeeper could go straight in tonight.But more men could be on the way with Postecoglu staring he hoped to give striker Dominic Solanke some help “in the very near future”.PSG star Randal Kolo Muani has been linked, although he is also said to be wanted by Manchester United.The Spurs boss added: “[Richarlison]’s coming back but we’ve got to try to keep him back. It’s got to be the right fit.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLooking backLiverpool fans will have very fond memories of their most recent trip to Tottenham, which came just two days before Christmas.That Super Sunday fixture was an absolute farce as Spurs fell apart against the Reds, losing 6-3 – it was 6-1 at one point.Tottenham have provided little resistance to Liverpool in the last decade with Spurs winning just FOUR of their last 29 meetings.Liverpool have 18 wins in that time.Head-to-head record (since 2011-12)Tottenham: 4Liverpool: 18Draws: 7Tottenham goals: 38Liverpool goals: 62Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHere we go!Hello and welcome to SunSport’s live coverage of Tottenham vs Liverpool.It’s an early start for us today as we countdown to the huge first leg in north London.Ange Postecoglu’s side head into the game in rancid form with just two wins – one of those in the quarters against Man Utd – in their last 11 matches,Arne Slot’s Liverpool are flying high and have lost only one game all season, although they were lucky to escape with a 2-2 draw against Man Utd on Sunday.The form book says this should be a routine win for the Reds – but this is cup football.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Suspended Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes shares heartwarming clip celebrating famous win in his living room with his son

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      BRUNO GUIMARAES shared a heartwarming clip of himself and his son celebrating Newcastle’s win over Arsenal.The midfielder missed the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg due to suspension.Bruno Guimaraes celebrated Newcastle’s win over Arsenal with his sonCredit: Instagram @analidiamartinssHe will be back for the second legCredit: AlamyThe Brazilian, 27, was unable to feature in the fixture after he picked up two bookings in previous rounds.Guimaraes was not missed on the pitch as the Magpies stunned the Gunners at the Emirates,Alexander Isak netted the opener before Anthony Gordon made it 2-0 on the night.Guimaraes still managed to enjoy the game from the comfort of his sofa.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHis partner, Ana Lidia Martins Guimaraes, took a video of the midfielder celebrating the full-time result.He could be seen jumping up and down with his son Matteo in his arms chanting “Newcastle”.Fan loved the heartwarming moment as it went viral on social media.One posted: “I’m very happy for him, and his son.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA second wrote: “He absolutely loves the Toon.”A third commented: “Aww, that’s adorable.”Arsenal fans will have watched Carabao Cup disaster and wished Alexander Isak was playing for them – he’s unbelievableA fourth said: “Bruno living his best life after that win.”Another added: “Just things you love to see.”Meanwhile, Arsenal fans were left convinced that Isak’s opener should not have counted.They spotted a push from the forward on Martin Odegaard moments before hitting the net.More fans were left stunned when Gordon scored his goal as he pulled off a Thierry Henry-inspired celebration in North London.Guimaraes’ team-mate Martin Dubravka was left in tears at full-time as he appeared to say farewell ahead of a move to Saudi Arabia.After the game, Mike Arteta appeared to blame the ball for Arsenal’s defeat.Arsenal player ratings v NewcastleBy Jordan DaviesDAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8Very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Miised an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner. Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead. Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yardsSUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.]OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton. More

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      Mikel Arteta bizarrely appears to blame Carabao Cup BALL for Arsenal’s missed chances as trophy drought set to continue

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      MIKEL ARTETA has bizarrely blamed the BALL for Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle.The Gunners suffered a shock 2-0 defeat at the Emirates in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.Mikel Arteta has appeared to blame the ball for Arsenal’s defeat to NewcastleCredit: EPAHe addressed the issue after the match in his press conferenceCredit: YouTube/BeanymanSportsThe Gunners only hit the target with three of their 23 shotsCredit: GettyPuma makes the ball for the Carabao Cup matchesCredit: GettyAleksander Isak and Anthony Gordon scored goals to put the Magpies in a comfortable position ahead of the reverse fixture.Arsenal were unable to find a response despite having 23 shots during the match.Arteta’s side were only able to hit the target with three shots which was one less than Newcastle despite having 16 more efforts.After the game, he appeared to point to the ball as one of the reasons his side were unable to score.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe ball used for the Carabao Cup is made by Puma instead of Nike, which provides the official ball for the Premier League.One of the big differences between the two is the Puma one is made of up 12 panels while the Prem version is made of only four.But Arteta has insisted that the differences led to his side not being able to hit the target as well as the fly different.He said: “We also kicked a lot of balls over the bar, and it’s tricky that these balls fly a lot so there’s details that we can do better.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”But at the end that’s gone, there’s no way back it’s about the next game and that’s our world, the reality is our world.”It’s just different. Very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies different.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)Nike make the Premier League ballsCredit: EPA”When you touch it the grip is very different as well so you adapt to that.”Puma has been the ball provider for the Carabao Cup and EFL since the start of the 2021/22 season.The Gunners appeared to have no issues scoring with the ball in previous rounds of the tournament.The club had scored 11 goals in three matches against Bolton, Preston North End and Crystal Palace on their run to the semi-finals.Fans reacted to Arteta’s comments on social media as they were left bemused.One posted: “He will be shocked when he learns Newcastle also used the ball.”A second commented: “Unless Arsenal were playing with a different ball than Newcastle the ball doesn’t matter.”A third wrote: “This guy is now blaming the ball.”A fourth said: “Please tell me he was joking?”Another added: “He’s becoming pathetic.”Arsenal will look to overturn the two-goal deficit on February 5 in the second leg at St James’ Park.Meanwhile, Arsenal fans were left convinced that Isak’s opener should not have counted.They spotted a push from the forward on Martin Odegaard moments before hitting the net.READ MORE SUN STORIESMore fans were left stunned when Gordon scored his goal as he pulled off a Thierry Henry-inspired celebration in North London.Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was left in tears at full-time as he appeared to say farewell ahead of a move to Saudi Arabia.Arsenal player ratings v NewcastleBy Jordan DaviesDAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8Very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Miised an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner. Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead. Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yardsSUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.]OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton. More

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      Arsenal fans will have watched Carabao Cup disaster and wished Alexander Isak was playing for them – he’s unbelievable

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      ARSENAL fans will have nightmares AND Swede dreams – after Alexander Isak turned their Carabao Cup hopes sour.Gunners’ supporters would love to see Mikel Arteta sign the £150million-rated striker – as he showed just what they are missing.Alexander Isak was ice-cool as he helped down Arsenal in the first legCredit: GettyIsak’s predatory instincts are just what the Gunners needCredit: GettyUnfortunately for Arsenal, he did it by firing Newcastle to a 2-0 semi-final first leg win at the Emirates.It’s been 70 years since the Magpies last won a major domestic cup, 56 years since any trophy at all.But after this victory you’d put your money on Newcastle being just one month away from the Carabao Cup final.Swedish hitman Isak slotted a clinical opener and Anthony Gordon set them up promisingly for the return leg at St James’ Park on February 5 by doubling their victory margin early in the second period.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThere’s still plenty to do for the Magpies but Eddie Howe’s men are looking good in more ways than one to make Wembley on March 16.Newcastle lost 2-0 to Manchester United in the 2023 final.But at the moment the Toon are flowing, whereas Arteta’s side were a major disappointment.Despite that, the Gunners were pretty unlucky to be trailing at the break.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal had a fair few chances before the interval, Gabriel Martinelli hitting the post, but they were really poor in the second half.Newcastle did enough, with Isak taking his tally to seven goals in the last five games and 50 since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)Once again Jacob Murphy delivered the assist. The English winger has been unbelievable this season for the Toon.It’s his best campaign since arriving seven years ago for £12 million and Isak must relish playing with him.You can see why Arsenal fans watching this semi-final would have been wishing Isak played for their team.He’s got Thierry Henry-style qualities – a class player, getting better each week and the reason Newcastle have got such a great chance of ending their trophy drought.Isak is also why the Magpies are serious contenders for a top-four finish.They’re helped by the fact their defence is playing really well.Newcastle were really solid at the Emirates, particularly in the second period.Dan Burn, at 32, is arguably having his finest campaign.And Sven Botman, in only his second game since returning from an ACL injury picked up in March, headed a flick-on which led to Isak’s opener.The Dutch centre-back looked a bit rusty in Saturday’s 2-1 Prem win at Tottenham but was immense on Tuesday night.Howe is in the fortunate position that he can actually rest a few players against Bromley in the FA Cup on Sunday.In contrast, Arteta is badly missing Bukayo Saka and faces another massive cup game at home to Manchester United on the same day.Arsenal are really struggling in terms of a jam-packed January.It’s nine matches so far, which is an extraordinary number of fixtures, but they’ve got to somehow overcome it.At the moment, however, they look flat.Supporters were streaming out of the exits against Newcastle with about ten minutes to go, and they need someone to lift them.READ MORE SUN STORIESOrdinarily you’d say that man would be Saka, but the Gunners have got to get used to being without him for a couple more months.Meanwhile, it’s seven wins in a row for the Magpies and they’re absolutely flying.Arsenal ratings vs Newcastle as Havertz fluffs golden chance with academy statlet the only bright light for GunnersARSENAL have a mountain to climb to reach the Carabao Cup final after a shock 2-0 first-leg defeat to Newcastle.Here SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates every Arsenal player on a disappointing night at the Emirates…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8The academy product was very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Missed an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner.Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead.Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yards.SUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton. More

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      Arsenal 0 Newcastle 2: Alexander Isak channels inner Thierry Henry as Mikel Arteta’s trophy wait looks destined to go on

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      THE comparisons between Alexander Isak and Thierry Henry are frequent and obvious.And here, against the club where the great Frenchman became Invincible, Newcastle’s lethal Swede sent his side to the brink of a second Carabao Cup Final in three years.Alexander Isak fired Newcastle to victory in the first leg of their Carabao semi against ArsenalCredit: ReutersAnthony Gordon was also in target as Toon won 2-0 at the EmiratesCredit: GettyArsenal failed to get going on a miserable night for their fansCredit: GettyThe Gunners will need a miracle to turn things around at St James’ ParkCredit: GettyJust a month ago, the Geordie Arabia revolution seemed to have stalled.After a miserable beating at Brentford, Eddie Howe’s men were marooned in the bottom half of the Premier League table with the club’s spending plans frustrated by Profit and Sustainability Rules.The turnaround since has been staggering – seven straight victories, powered by Isak’s goals.Like Henry, he is tall, languid, dangerous coming off the left flank and dead-eyed in front of goal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere, he netted a tenth goal in nine appearances, then produced the shot which led to Anthony Gordon’s second.Arsenal’s hopes in the second leg – which is, ridiculously, being staged four weeks from now on February 5 – are slim, approaching zero.This was a hideous night for Mikel Arteta who saw his own set-piece specialists concede from the most basic of up-and-under free-kicks.The Gunners dominated possession and the shot count but were hopeless in both boxes.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWithout Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard seems to lack spark and Arsenal are often prone to looking bang average in attack. Arsenal have seven fixtures in three different competitions before the return leg. Perhaps this will give them time to forget what a disaster this first leg had been.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)Arsenal haven’t won the League Cup for 32 years, while Newcastle have never got their hands on the trophy.And while Arteta has propelled the Gunners into title contention over the previous couple of seasons, his side haven’t won any silverware since his old mate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang fired them to the FA Cup in 2020. Howe’s men, who had racked up countless celebratory dressing-room teamshots on their recent winning run – were without the suspended Bruno Guimaraes but it scarcely seemed to matter.After dropping points at Brighton on Saturday, the Gunners welcomed back Kai Havertz, who’d missed the previous two matches through illness. The clashes between these two sides became extremely heated over the past couple – Arteta spewing that his side had been robbed at St James’ Park last season.Arsenal ratings vs Newcastle as Havertz fluffs golden chance with academy statlet the only bright light for GunnersARSENAL have a mountain to climb to reach the Carabao Cup final after a shock 2-0 first-leg defeat to Newcastle.Here SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates every Arsenal player on a disappointing night at the Emirates…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8The academy product was very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Missed an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner.Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead.Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yards.SUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton.Isak gave Newcastle the lead in the 37th minuteCredit: GettyThe striker kept his amazing goal-scoring run goingCredit: ReutersEarly on, Joelinton spooned a shot over early on, then William Saliba had a shot blocked by Dan Burn.The Geordie alarm bells started ringing when Arsenal won one of their dreaded corners – Declan Rice whipped an in-swinger and Jurrien Timber rose to head over from close range.It was end to end and compelling. Soon, Isak was wriggling free and teeing up Lewis Hall for a shot which Saliba hacked clear.Arsenal had been struggling to break down Newcastle’s defence but when they were able to sit deep and launch a counter, Arteta’s men were inches away from the lead.Leandro Trossard released Gabriel Martinelli, who galloped clear from the halfway line and drilled a shot against the post. Gordon doubled Toon’s lead early in the second halfCredit: GettyHis strike sent the visiting fans into rapturesCredit: AFPWhen another Rice corner arrived, Toon keeper Martin Dubravka dropped it, causing an almighty scramble with Timber attempting a back-heel Sven Botman making a saving block from Havertz.So it was against the run of play when Newcastle grabbed the lead, Martin Dubravka punted a free-kick forward, Botman won a header and Jacob Murphy was able to tee up Isak to ram home off the underside of the bar.Arsenal’s defending resembled a game of musical statues – freeze when the ball comes close – and Arteta was raging on the touchline. His side have earned many comparisons with Tony Pulis’ Stoke, due to their attacking set-piece prowess but that bruising Potters side would never have conceded this goal.For Isak, it was a 50th Newcastle strike in just 89 appearances.Kai Havertz was guilty of missing several clear chancesCredit: GettyThe German looked off the pace on his return from injuryCredit: ReutersJoelinton was booked for chopping down Thomas Partey on the edge of the Newcastle box but Odegaard planted the resulting free-kick into the wall.It summed up a frustrating first half for the hosts.But far worse was to come at the start of the second half, when Murphy picked out Isak with a sweet pass and the Swede’s shot, bound for the far corner, was pushed out by David Raya, only as far as Gordon who beat Timber to poke home the rebound.Once more Arsenal’s defending left much to be desired.Havertz was soon heading wide, seemingly in slow motion, when Trossard located him four yards out.Arteta sent for Gabriel Jesus and Jorginho but his side continued to pass up opportunities and began to run out of ideas.READ MORE SUN STORIESMikel Arteta has plenty to think about for the return legCredit: EPANewcastle have one foot in the final at WembleyCredit: GettyNewcastle froze when they faced Manchester United in the final of this competition two years ago.But unless there is a miracle in that distant second leg, the Toon Army will be marching on Wembley again with genuine hope of a first major trophy in 56 years. 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      Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle LIVE RESULT: Gunners left with mountain to climb in Carabao Cup semi-final after superb Toon win

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      NEWCASTLE have beaten Arsenal in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final.The Magpies took the lead against the run of play after the in-form Alexander Isak slammed home on 37 minutes.Just after half-time, Anthony Gordon doubled Newcastle’s lead with a close-range finish to leave the Gunners with a mountain to climb in the second leg on Tyneside.Arsenal travel to the North East for the return leg on February 5 – and Mikel Arteta’s men are in need of something special.Match result: Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle (1st leg)Arsenal team: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Partey, Odegaard; Martinelli, Havertz, TrossardNewcastle team: Dubravka; Livramento, Botman, Burn, Hall; Joelinton, Tonali, Willock; Murphy, Isak, GordonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Arteta needs to strengthen for challengeDespite finishing runners-up to Man City for the last two seasons, North London has not seen a trophy since 2020.This evening’s performance showed that when they strongest isn’t available, The Gunners do not have enough creativity or potent scorers in the final third.If they want to challenge for major honours this season, Mikel Arteta needs to bring in reinforcements in the January transfer window.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedNewcastle with chance to climbBetween now and the second leg, Eddie Howe will change his attentions to the Premier League.Their run of fixtures are games that they would say are more than winnable to put pressure on those top four places.It would also mean coming into this second-leg with confiidence sky high to get the job done.Copy linkCopiedHowe reflects on big London victoryThe Newcastle manager looked back at the performance as he gave his thoughts to Sky Sports:We started on front foot and tried to take the game to them. Then it was about our mentality to defend and we did it really well. We know what’s at stake, we put our bodies on the line. This is a tough ground, we have suffered here previously. We still have a tough game ahead at home. We are still going to need to everything right to get through this tie.Eddie HoweNewcastleCopy linkCopiedMan of the moment for MagpiesThe one thing Newcastle may have to do this month is bat away enquires about Alexander Isak.He is one the most in-form strikers in Europe right now and nobody can argue with the stats he is producing.Rarely does the Swede spurn a chance and his clinical finishing is the envy of many big clubs.Another man of the match performance from Isak for The Magpies.Credit: GettyCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedBoss focussing on positivesMikel Arteta spoke with Sky Sports after the match, reflecting on how he saw the game this evening.In any other aspect we were the better team. It was just scoring goals. Obviously when we missed the chances we did, we reacted. They blocked a lot of shots, we can do better. We had a one vs one chance with the keeper, that was the biggest chance of the game. I’ve seen the goal, the ball bounces and he puts it away. We have to disappointed, it is another result they did not deserve.Mikel ArtetaArsenalCopy linkCopiedMagpies spring surprise at EmiratesNewcastle can be proud of their performance in the Carabao Cup semi-final this evening.They came into the game with nobody giving them a chance and showed what they were all about against The Gunners.Eddie Howe’s side seem to have Arsenal’s game sussed out and set themselves up well to counter it.They can take a lot of confidence from this result when travelling to other big teams in the remainder of the season.Credit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedGunners needing too rediscover formArsenal have a little break from Premier League duties as Mikel Arteta focusses on a FA Cup tie with Man Utd.The Spaniard needs to help his side find their mojo once again as they start to blunt in attack.This result will hurt, the tie is not over, but they have given themselves a mountain to climb next month.Copy linkCopiedToon Army relish trip to capitalOn a cold winter evening in North London, the travelling Newcastle fans loved every minute of this game.At a ground they have an abysmal record at, they stuck to their tactics and dealt with Mikel Arteta’s men.They now take a two-goal advantage into the second-leg at an intimidating St James’ Park.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedClueless Arsenal struggle to find grooveA lot has been said about the attacking threat of Mikel Arteta’s side but this was another example of quite the opposite.They dominated possession but when they got into the final third, they seemed to have run out of ideas on how to create goals.It seems there is far too much of a reliance on set-pieces being their route to goals and run the risk of being found out this season.Saka’s return to fitness cannot come quick enough for The Gunners.Credit: ReutersCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedSwede smell of success for AlexanderSpeaking with Sky Sports after the game, Newcastle’s striker spoke ahead of being given the man of the match award:I think we have been very solid defensively. Then we have a lot of quality up top. Jacob with the assist for me again. He seems to get in good positions and find me a lot, which is good for me. We came here with the intention to bring a good result home, which we did.Alexander Isak NewcastleCopy linkCopiedGunners with time on their handsArsenal will have some time to dwell on this result and try to plan how they get back into this semi-final in the return leg.The match at St James’ Park is just under a month from today, with plenty of football to be played inbetween.It will be a tough ask to go The Magpies’ stadium and turn this around, it will be a cauldron of noise for their arrival.Copy linkCopiedBrazilian carries out orders to perfectionIt was easy to see from the first few minutes of the game that Eddie Howe had told Joelinton to track Odegaard wherever he went.As soon as the ball came into the Norwegian, before he had time to think, Joelinton was all over him.The Brazilian put in a brilliant peformance, doing a job that often goes unnoticed in the modern game.Arsenal’s playmaker went seriously missing tonight as a result.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 0-2 NewcastleIt is an impressive win for The Magpies in the capital.Nobody gave them a chance coming into this game, maybe people are giving this Arsenal side too much credit.Isak terrified the hosts’ defence every minute he spent on the pitch this evening.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 0-2 NewcastleThe referee brings the game to a close.Eddie Howe’s side had done a real number on The Gunners here in North London.A deserved win for The Magpies in the capital.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle90+4. The stadium has emptied out like there is a David Ginola tribute on in The Emirates.Nothing like seeing it through to the end.It all looks like nothing but desperation from the hosts now.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle90+2. Newcastle are camped out in their own half now.Jesus looks to square the ball to nobody but fortunately Joelinton puts it behind for a corner.Chance for that legendary set-piece team to rock up here.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle90. Another hopeful ball is sent into the box.As it is sliced into the air, Dubravka gathers with a huge cheer from the away end.This result has certainly made that long trip from Newcastle seem worth it tonight.We are going to have five added minutes, lord only knows where they get this time from.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle88. Jorginho has a sight of goal but sends his shot high into the stands.This has been a dreadful display from Arteta’s side and they deserve the scoreline to boot.It is all too predictable and The Magpies have simply played like they have seen this script unfold many times before.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle86. This result and the draw on the weekend will give the rest of the Premier League some confidence when playing The Gunners.Arsenal win a free-kick in a dangerous position as Almiron fouls Rice.Odegaard swings the resulting dead ball into the box but it is easily headed away by the visitors.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle84. It is like the old Highbury library in North London again.Martinelli tries to make something happen as he lifts a ball into the box.This is just meat and drink to Burn and Botman.Jesus is penalised for a clear foul in the box but still has a lot to say about the decision.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle82. Time is starting to run out for The Gunners.The ball is lofted in towards Havertz wide in the box.He takes it on his chest and tries a shot from a ridiculous angle and it deflects wide for a corner.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle80. It shows the lack of depth Arteta has at Arsenal.Two-nil down, chasing the game, all he has to bring on is an injury-prone left back.To his credit he is much more of an attacking threat than he is a defender.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle78. Zinchenko comes on for The Gunners, replacing Lewis-Skelly.Newcastle look content to hold onto what they have now.Without Isak on the pitch, there is very little attacking threat.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle76. Joelinton is bundled over by a tag team of Saliba and Jorginho.They have a lot to say for themselves the Arsenal players when things are not going their way.Almiron comes on for Gordon for the visitors.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-2 Newcastle74. Eddie Howe readies another change on the touchline.It looks like Miguel Almiron is going to join the action.Gordon is looking so isolated playing in that centre-forward position whenever The Magpies look to come forward.Copy linkCopied More

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      Who is Arsenal vs Newcastle referee John Brooks and how will in-stadium VAR announcements work?

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      ARSENAL welcome Premier League rivals Newcastle United to the Emirates for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final TONIGHT.The Gunners will be looking to go into February’s return leg in the North East with a healthy advantage.Arsenal and Newcastle go head-to-head in the Carabao Cup semi-finalCredit: GettyBut the Magpies arrive in the capital on a superb run of form after six straight wins in all competitions.Toon boss Eddie Howe will know the huge opportunity his side has to end Newcastle’s near 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy this season.Mikel Arteta will see the competition as an opportunity to add to his slim trophy cabinet from his Arsenal tenure.The Gunners have been one of the best teams in Europe under the Spaniard, but they have won just the 2020 FA Cup since he arrived in North London.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHistory will be made during tonight’s blockbuster Carabao Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Newcastle, with VAR trialling in-stadium announcements this evening.How will in-stadium VAR announcements work?VAR has not been in use for any Carabao Cup matches this season.However, it will feature in this week’s semi-finals – and for the first time in the English domestic game, in-stadium VAR announcements will be trialled.This means the crowd inside the stadium and fans watching at home on the TV will be able to hear referees announce final decisions after they have been advised to go to the pitchside monitor.Most read in FootballThat said, it will not be the case for decisions made not using the monitor.A referee announcing decisions to the crowd isn’t totally new to the world of football, as it was trialled at the Women’s World Cup in 2023.But it has never been in operation during an English football match until this week.A statement from the PGMOL, the referees’ body, said: “Referees will announce the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor or upon the conclusion of factual matters, such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside offences where the attacker touches the ball.”The referee who will take charge of the historic match at the Emirates is John Brooks.Who is referee John Brooks?John Brooks will referee tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg between Arsenal and Newcastle.Brooks is a football referee from the UK, who has risen up the ranks at a relatively young age.He was born in 1990, and is from Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire.Brooks began refereeing in 2004, and the majority of matches he has officiated in his career have been in the Championship.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe officiated his first Premier League game in December 2021, with Brooks in charge of Wolves vs Burnley at Molineux.He has been in charge of 54 top-flight games, with nine coming this season. More

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      Arsenal vs Newcastle live stream FREE: How to watch huge Carabao Cup semi-final first leg

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      ARSENAL and Newcastle are set to battle at the Emirates in the first leg of their thrilling Carabao Cup semi-final – and fans can watch it for FREE!The Gunners got off to the worst possible start in their quarter-final clash against Crystal Palace as they conceded inside the first four minutes.Gabriel Jesus’ hat-trick fired Arsenal into the semisCredit: APSandro Tonali bagged two against BrentfordCredit: GettyArsenal vs Newcastle LIVEHowever, Gabriel Jesus’ spectacular hat-trick fired Mikel Arteta’s men to a crucial comeback win, booking their spot in the last-4.As for Newcastle, their night was a lot more straight forward as Sandro Tonali’s double and Fabian Schar’s 69th minute strike helped the Toon brush Brentford aside.But Eddie Howe will expect a much tougher test in the first leg of this moutwatering Carabao Cup semi.Read more on ArsenalAnd SunSport can reveal how fans can watch the entire action for free below.How to watch Arsenal vs Newcastle for FREEArsenal’s thrilling Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle will be broadcast live for FREE on ITV 1 in the UK.Fans also have the option to stream the entire action for FREE on the ITV X app which is available to download via any compatible mobile device or tablet.Kick-off for the huge match is scheduled to get underway at 8pm GMT and the semi-final will take place on Tuesday, January 7.Who is playing in the other Carabao Cup semi-final?Tottenham are set to take on defending champions Liverpool in the other Carabao Cup semi-final.The first leg of this blockbuster tie is scheduled for Wednesday, January 8.Most read in FootballSpurs progressed to the semi-finals after beating Manchester United in a 4-3 thriller.While Liverpool escaped St Mary’s with a 2-1 victory.Carabao Cup full scheduleTuesday, January 7Arsenal vs Newcastle (1st leg)Wednesday, January 8Tottenham vs Liverpool (1st leg)Wednesday, February 5Newcastle vs Arsenal (2nd leg)READ MORE SUN STORIESThursday, February 6Liverpool vs Tottenham (2nd leg) More