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      Mikel Arteta is in the doghouse with Arsenal fans and running out of time to show he has pedigree to end trophy drought

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      IT IS A WELL KNOWN fact that dogs learn through repetition.Especially their names. Call it over and over again and soon your clever pooch will be your loyal pal performing tricks for treats.Mikel Arteta is under pressure to win another trophy with ArsenalCredit: AFPArteta won the FA Cup with Arsenal just months after taking over but is yet to secure any other titlesCredit: APSo spare a thought for Arsenal’s poor pet chocolate labrador.Boss Mikel Arteta came up with the idea of having man’s best friend live at the club’s training ground to give the place a family feel. And she was named ‘Win’.That is not a word being heard quite as often as it should at London Colney today. At least not when it comes to getting over the line and winning a trophy.A crushing home defeat to Newcastle in last night’s Carabao Cup semi final first leg leaves Arteta licking his wounds after blowing a great chance of silverware.Read More in FootballWin will be licking other bodily parts as per usual.The concept of having a dog at a Premier League training ground is a positive one even if the choice of name is so North London and cringey.And there is no doubt that Arteta has re-energised Arsenal in the five years since he took over as manager in December 2019.But Tuesday’s inglorious stuffing feels like a barometer moment in the Spaniard’s time at the club. And the pressure is increasing.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArteta introduced a dog named Win to the training ground two years agoCredit: GettyAs if to ram the message home in terms that Win would understand – Arsenal have let the lead slip five times this season – twice against Brighton but more importantly against their main rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea. Boom boom.All of those games ended in draws, dropping vital points in the title race in the process.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)Arteta won the FA Cup at the end of his first half season in charge – breathing life into a flatlining football giant in December 2019 when taking over from the uninspiring Unai Emery.Victory in the 2020 FA Cup final over Chelsea should have been the trigger for more trophies to follow.But since then there has been nothing tangible to celebrate. No open top bus parade through the London Borough of Islington where skipper Martin Odegaard can show off a shiny cup.Since the FA Cup win four and a half years ago, even car-crash Manchester United have won something. And they are considered a laughing stock, now taking a punt on their third manager since Arteta took over the reins at the Emirates with a mission to make Arsenal great again.Ironically, Manchester United beat Newcastle in the 2023 Carabao Cup Final.The Geordies are renowned as serial chokers. Seven times losers in the FA Cup Final, twice in the League Cup, even throwing it away five times in the old Charity Shield. Without a major domestic trophy in 70 years.Succumbing to the Toon at home in such a feeble way does not mean Arteta’s time is up. Far from it, even if social media tells a different story with the notoriously fickle Gooners jumping on their keyboards over their chai lattes to ensure ‘Arteta Out’ has been trending.His 59.2 percent win rate is superior to that of his immediate predecessor Unai Emery and surprisingly better than that of Arsene Wenger – the man who laid the foundations for modern Arsenal.The French legend won 57.3% of his 1235 games. But Arteta has had only 262 so far which makes it slightly easier to maintain a higher ratio of victories.Wenger also had the Premier League in the bag in his second season – ripping the trophy from the best Manchester United team of all time led by the most successful British manager in history in Alex Ferguson.Arteta has enjoyed three full seasons of goodwill as he attempts a similar assault on football’s Mount Everest, overhauling Manchester City’s imperious four-in-a-row champions.The Gunners suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final on TuesdayCredit: EPAAlexander Isak was a thorn in Arsenal’s side againCredit: GettyThat’s a big ask and the club and the fans have been patient up to now. It’s still too early to panic but there is a growing fear Arsenal have reached a ceiling unless bold moves are made.Their arch-tormentor Alexander Isak, opening scorer against them last night, is a £150 million transfer target.Former players like Paul Merson are demanding swift action by the board to sign the Swede and provide Arteta with the dedicated number nine they appear to crave so badly.Kai Havertz is only three goals behind Isak this season but will never be the consistent out-and-out centre forward they so painfully lack. Neither is Gabriel Jesus.It’s curious that in more than five years Arteta has overseen a net spend of £483.79 million but he is yet to find a player like Isak to lead the forward line with such venom.Wenger got away without one too for donkey’s years but then he had Thierry Henry and few players compare favourably to the masterful Frenchman.It is no shame to have finished second in the Premier League twice in succession to imperious Man City.But the dominant force in English football suddenly looks fallible so there’s a big excuse for failure gone.Champions League quarter finals last season, the last 16 of the Europa League the year before that. Gallant defeats but defeats nonetheless.The title race looks beyond them this season. Third time in a row.Arteta is a bright, young, energetic coach with a lengthy managerial career ahead of him at only 42.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd if he takes Arsenal up to St.James’ Park next month and turns Newcastle over in a stunning second leg comeback to get to Wembley, ignore all of the above.But for now time is not on his side as the clock keeps ticking and Arsenal’s near-misses mount up.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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      Mikel Arteta faces third different ball this week after Newcastle excuse as Man Utd target FA Cup surprise vs Arsenal

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      ARSENAL manager Mikel Arteta bizarrely suggested the Carabao Cup ball factored into his team’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on Tuesday.But the Gunners will be forced to play with ANOTHER different football this weekend when they face Manchester United in the FA Cup third round.Mikel Arteta suggested the Carabao Cup ball contributed to Arsenal’s loss against NewcastleCredit: ReutersThe Gunners missed several opportunities on TuesdayCredit: GettyAs things stand, Arsenal remain competitive in four different major competitions – each of which use a different ball.Arteta highlighted the main difference between the Carabao Cup and Prem balls after the club’s defeat to Newcastle earlier this week, citing numerous missed attempts on goal.He explained: “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.”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.Read More in Football”It’s just different. Very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies different.”When you touch it the grip is very different as well so you adapt to that.”In response to Arteta’s comments, an EFL spokesperson said: “As is required throughout the professional game, the PUMA ball used in this season’s Carabao Cup and in EFL competition since 2021/22 is tested in accordance with the FIFA Quality Programme for Footballs, and meets the FIFA Quality Pro standard.”In addition to the Carabao Cup, the same ball has been successfully used in other major European leagues, including both Serie A and LaLiga and our three divisions in the EFL.Most read in FA CupFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal’s average shot on target percentage with different footballsThe Gunners have enjoyed a slightly higher success rate in the Champions LeagueCredit: GettyArsenal play with the Premier League football mostCredit: Getty”All Clubs play with the same ball, and we have received no further comments of this nature following any of the previous 88 fixtures which have taken place in this season’s Carabao Cup.”Before Tuesday’s semi-final first leg against Newcastle, 27 of Arsenal’s 51 shots in the Carabao Cup this season were on target – an average of 53 per cent with the Puma football.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)In comparison, 102 of Arsenal’s 197 shots in the Premier League have been on target – an average of 52 per cent with the Nike ball.And in the Champions League, the Gunners have managed to direct 58 per cent of their shots on target – 33 out of 57 shots with the Adidas ball.The Carabao Cup ball slammed Arteta will be used in the Prem next season.SunSport understands that an exact version of the ball has already been developed and agreed as the new Prem model – despite the complaints by some managers about it this season.Like other competitions, the FA Cup also involves the use of a different ball.The beloved domestic competition has its footballs supplied by Mitre.Arsenal will use them for the first time this season on Sunday when they face Man Utd.The Gunners will go into the match with some key players absent.READ MORE SUN STORIESBukayo Saka remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while his replacement, Ethan Nwaneri, is also unavailable due to a muscle problem.Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu both remain absent from the squad due to injuries.Cup ball to be used in PremBy Martin LiptonTHE Carabao Cup ball slammed by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be used in the PREMIER LEAGUE next season.Gunners chief Arteta suggested the “tricky” Puma ball used by the EFL in its flagship competition had been a factor in his side’s shooting woes during the 2-0 semi-final first leg defeat by Newcastle.Arteta said the Puma balls “fly a lot”, admitting “there’s details that we can do better”.Pressed further, Arteta added: “It’s just different. It’s very different to a Premier League ball.“You have to adapt to that because it flies different. “When you touch it, the grip is very different as well, so you adapt to that.”But Arteta  and his players will certainly have to adapt next term as Prem chiefs will switch to the SAME ball for the new season.The Prem has used Nike balls since 2000 but a contract dispute saw the decision to switch to the German manufacturer from the 2025-26 season in what was described as a “lucrative” deal.Sun Sport understands that an exact version of the Carabao Cup ball has already been developed and agreed as the new Prem model – despite the complaints by some managers about it this season.Moving to Puma may, though, help ease the delayed introduction of semi-automated offside technology.The versions used by Fifa and Uefa have been developed in collaboration with Adidas, while Italy’s Serie A has brought in the technology with a Puma ball.PGMOL had hoped to introduce a semi-automated system developed by US-based Genius Sports in the autumn but it is now not expected to be unrolled until next term after issues in decision-making accuracy.Working with Puma specialists, who have already used a similar system, over the coming months should enable a fool-proof version to be ready for the big kick-off in August. More

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      Why Dream Team managers should prioritise Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal players for the next month

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      DREAM TEAM managers need to stay alert at this time of year.The upcoming Gameweeks will not only feature fixtures from both domestic cups alongside the bread and butter of the Premier League but the resumption of the Champions League and Europa League league phases as well.It’s a busy time of year for Spurs, Liverpool and ArsenalCredit: Dream TeamThere will be plenty of points on offer in the next month or so but only if gaffers stay on top of the schedule.With this in mind, it’s important to note that Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham are the only three teams with EIGHT games to fulfil across the next four Gameweeks.These three clubs being the only ones involved in the Carabao Cup semi-finals as well as the European competitions.LIVERPOOL’S UPCOMING FIXTURESGW19: Accrington Stanley (h), Nottingham Forest (a)GW20: Brentford (a), Lille (h)GW21: Ipswich (h), PSV (a)GW22: Bournemouth (a), Spurs (h)ARSENAL’S UPCOMING FIXTURESGW19: Manchester United (h), Spurs (h)GW20: Aston Villa (a), Dinamo Zagreb (h)GW21: Wolves (a), Girona (a)GW22: Manchester City (h), Newcastle (a)TOTTENHAM’S UPCOMING FIXTURESMost read in FootballGW19: Tamworth (a), Arsenal (a)GW20: Everton (a), Hoffenheim (a)GW21: Leicester (h), Elfsborg (h)GW22: Brentford (a), Liverpool (a)Mohamed Salah is Dream Team’s top points scorer this seasonCredit: AlamyThere are several factors to consider when making transfers but it’s simply true that more fixtures equals more point-scoring opportunities.Cole Palmer (£6.1m) is one of the standout performers of the season with a mega average of 10.4 points-per-game but he will have a maximum of five outings in the same stretch that will see Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs will play eight times each.This is not to say backers of Chelsea’s talisman should rush to ditch him but Dream Team bosses should ensure the fixture deficit doesn’t get out of hand.Alexander Isak (£5.9m), Bryan Mbeumo (£4.5m) and Anthony Gordon (£5m) are other popular players in fine form who may suffer when the European competitions resume later this month.Palmer owners will have a big decision to make in Gameweek 20Credit: GettyOn the surface, it might seem there’s little difference between three Stamford Bridge residents and three Spurs assets but if all six players appeared in every available fixture between the start of Gameweek 19 and the end of Gameweek 22, that’s a disparity of nine games in favour of the North Londoners, which could equate to a significant points swing!That being said, this is only theory.In reality, it’s likely Arne Slot, Mikel Arteta and Ange Postecoglou will rotate their squads throughout this busy period to some degree at least.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor starters, second-string outfits from Liverpool and Spurs should be expected against Accrington Stanley and Tamworth in the FA Cup third round this weekend.But the point being there are healthy returns to be had if gaffers can identify which form players are about to experience an increased workload.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 NOW More

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      Ex-Chelsea and Arsenal star David Luiz ‘locked in talks over transfer to European giants’ after leaving Brazilian side

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      DAVID LUIZ is in talks to return to European football during the January transfer window.Luiz, now 37, had two trophy-laden spell with Chelsea before leaving the Premier League in 2021 after two years with Arsenal.David Luiz is holding talks regarding a move to Olympiacos, as per his agentCredit: GettyLuiz stood out during two stints at Chelsea before joining ArsenalCredit: PA:Empics SportThe versatile defender returned to his native Brazil where he spent the last three season with Rio de Janeiro giants Flamengo.However the bushy-haired centre-half is now a free agent and could be set to make a shock return to Europe.Luiz’s representative Julio Taran has confirmed he is in talks with Greek side Olympiacos.And Taran revealed that talks with reigning Conference League champions are progressing well.Read More on FootballTaran told Greek journalist Johnny Georgopoulos: “Yes, there are chances David Luiz will play for Olympiacos.”We are in contact with the Greek club.”Luiz is also close friends with Olympiacos star Rodinei, with whom he played for a year at Flamengo until the full-back moved to Greece in 2022.Taran even claimed that the right-back is “pushing” for a reunion with his former team-mate in Piraeus.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe added: “Yes, this is among the reasons [Luiz’s friendship with Rodinei].”Rodinei is like family for David Luiz. Rodinei has spoken highly about David Luiz to Olympiacos management and is pushing for his arrival.”Carragher hits back at David Luiz for title jibe after ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star said ‘it’s funny’ as he never won it Luiz experienced immense success at Chelsea where he amassed 248 appearances across two stints.The defender also won the 2017 Premier League title, two FA Cup trophies, the 2012 Champions League and two Europa League honours. More

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      Moment new AC Milan manager whips out cigar and dances in repeat of iconic celebration after trophy win in second game

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      SERGIO CONCEICAO recreated his most famous celebration after guiding AC Milan to a trophy in only his SECOND game in charge.The Portuguese gaffer guided AC Milan to Supercoppa Italiana glory against their bitter rivals Inter on Monday night.Sergio Conceicao guided AC Milan to Supercoppa Italiana glory in only his second match in charge ofCredit: GETTYThe Portuguese gaffer was in jubliant mood in the dressing room and recreated his viral 2022 celebrationCredit: GettyHe puffed on an expensive-looking cigar as he danced with the trophyCredit: GettyMilan came from 2-1 down to win the match 3-2 thanks to goals from Theo Hernandez, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham.And their epic comeback prompted Conceicao to recreate his incredible viral celebration after Porto’s title win in 2022.Conceicao puffed away on a cigar and bust-a-groove as he danced in front of the trophy.His recreation of the celebration, understandably, went viral.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOne footie fan commented on the video: “I love Conceicao.”Another said: “Love the energy from Sergio Conceicao!”And another said: “Never want this video to end.”One remarked: “Proper gaffer!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSergio Conceicao celebrates winning the Supercoppa Italiana with his backroom staffCredit: GETTYAnother chimed in: “Proper gaffer.”Conceicao only took charge of Milan before the turn of the New Year, replacing the sacked Paulo Fonseca.Watch AC Milan star stitch up her OWN gory wound in incredible video thanks to side hustle as a DOCTORHe said of the triumph: “I am very happy for the players, because it was not easy.”The atmosphere wasn’t the best when I arrived, there wasn’t much time to work on the details before these two games and we were up against two top level sides.“The players were magical, they absorbed everything we discussed.”Clearly there are things we need to improve, but they are aware of that.”I feel that with humility, we can have some great months together in the Champions League, Serie A and to take Milan where it deserves to be.“Now we are happy, we celebrate and from tomorrow we will begin to focus on Cagliari.” More

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      James Rodriguez becomes unemployed again as Colombia legend, 33, is released on sixth free transfer in six years

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      JAMES RODRIGUEZ has become unemployed for the sixth year in a row and is reportedly considering a return to the Premier League.The 33-year-old is available as a free agent after his contract at LaLiga side Rayo Vallecano was mutually terminated.James Rodriguez has become unemployed again after leaving Rayo VallecanoCredit: GettyHe moved to Rayo in August but has been restricted to just seven appearances in all competitions.Rodriguez had signed a one-year deal with Rayo, who sit 12th in the Spanish top-flight, with the option of a further 12 months.There are both economic and sporting reasons for the former Real Madrid man’s early departure, according to The Athletic.The Colombia international joined Rayo off the back of winning the Golden Ball at the 2024 Copa America.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe produced six assists to help fire Colombia to the final, only for he and his team-mates to suffer heartbreak with a 1-0 defeat to Argentina.However, Rodriguez has featured just six times in LaLiga this season and predominantly as a substitute.And the former World Cup breakthrough star has not played in the league since a 13-minute cameo against Las Palmas on November 8.Rodriguez moved to Rayo on a free transfer in the summer after leaving Sao Paulo one season into a two-year contract.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe former Bayern Munich forward has had spells at Everton, Olympiacos and Al-Rayyan since leaving the Bernabeu in 2020.He joined the Toffees in 2020 to reunite with his former Madrid and  Bayern Munich boss Carlo Ancelotti.Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersRodriguez became a favourite at Goodison Park, before being frozen out by Ancelotti’s unpopular successor Rafael Benitez.He starred 26 times for the Toffees, scoring six goals and laying on eight assists, but they could only finish 10th.And a return to Premier League action is not off the table, according to Portuguese outlet O Jogo.The report cites Aston Villa, Wolves, Fulham and Nottingham Forest as all being interested in the Colombian.It was at the 2014 World Cup when Rodriguez burst on to the scene as one of the hottest properties in football.Rodriguez burst on to the scene with Colombia at the 2014 World Cup in BrazilCredit: Getty Images – GettyBut amid offers from Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, he opted to join Real Madrid after lighting up the tournament in Brazil.Rodriguez went on to win two LaLiga titles and a pair of Champions Leagues with Madrid.He then spent two years on loan at Bayern Munich between 2017 and 2019, adding a pair of Bundesliga titles to his trophy collection.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe returned to Real Madrid for the 2019-20 campaign, before joining Everton on a free in September 2020.He captains Colombia and has been capped 112 times at international level, scoring 29 goals.Rodriguez played 26 times for Everton More

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      Mo Salah names Chelsea icon as one of best friends in football as Liverpool fans ask ‘what about Lovren?’

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      MO SALAH has stunned fans with his list of close friends in football.And not just because a Chelsea legend was the first name he mentioned.Fans say they love Anfield hero Mo Salah even more after he named and explained some of his top footballing palsCredit: TNT SPORTSSalah was with Eden Hazard at Chelsea before his Reds’ moveCredit: Times Newspapers LtdFans were shocked Salah didn’t mention former team-mate Dejan LovrenCredit: AFPThe Liverpool strike hero did mention five Anfield players past and present, including a “crazy” current team-mate linked to Real Madrid.But Salah – who has given a bombshell transfer update saying it his “last year” at Liverpool – neglected to name-check the one star who Reds’ supporters reckoned should have been a banker for the honour.Fans say the way the 32-year-old spoke of his pals is why “you have to love Salah” and everyone must “push for a contract renewal” at Arne Slot’s Prem leaders.However, when asked on TNT Sports to name footballing friends, the first player he talked of notched four goals and an assist in 13 games AGAINST Liverpool.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat’s the now-retired Eden Hazard, who was the star man during Salah’s 2014-16 Chelsea spell but was never the same after joining Real.In contrast, the Egyptian attacking icon failed to say a word about Dejan Lovren.The Croatia centre-back, 35, played alongside Salah at Anfield from 2017-2020 and is now with Greek side PAOK.Salah did select five Liverpool contemporaries in Konstantinos Tsimikas, Andy Robertson, Dominik Szoboszlai, Bernabeu target Trent Alexander-Arnold and Reds’ skipper Virgil van Dijk.Most read in FootballOne fan revealed he wanted to be a fly on the wall if Salah and Virgil van Dijk chatted about their contract situationsCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS He told TNT: “Best friends in football? I have many ones…”Me and Eden are very good friends when we see each other.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly “We had so much fun together. But I’m close to Kostas, I’m close to Dominik.”Salah added: “Virgil, with us it gets long because we’ve been together for eight years, so when we sit down and discuss it we always have an incredible time.”We have so much respect for each other.”And he revealed a huge difference in his friendship with the contrasting characters of Alexander-Arnold and Robertson.Salah smiled as he said: “I like Trent a lot but he is crazy. “Trent, you say something. Doesn’t like to talk but I love him.”Robbo more talking, Robbo more listening. They both do what they want, it’s fine.”Fans responded to Salah’s comments almost as one.Replies included: “Lovren?” … “Lovren in tears right now” …”He forgot Lovren”…”Loven crying somewhere”…. and “Poor Lovren”.Another supporter posted: “He is no longer close to Lovren? They used to be best buddies back then.”And fans were also unanimous in their overall verdict on Salah’s enthusiastic words.One wrote: “That’s why u have to love Salah both on and off field and need to push for a contract renewal.”He is someone that will be a brother to everyone in the squad, that is why he is so loyal and close to them all.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA second said: “We all love Mo and no doubts about that.”And a gossip-hungry third fan suggested: “That Virgil sit down with Salah discussing their contracts must have been an epic conversation.”Salah rates Trent Alexander-Arnold as ‘crazy’Credit: GettyLiverpool left-backs Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas made the listCredit: Rex More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson took 27 years to ‘knock Liverpool off their f***ing perch’… Slot could undo that in his first season

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON famously claimed his biggest challenge as Manchester United manager was “knocking Liverpool off their f****** perch”.When the great Scot left Old ­Trafford after clinching one last  Premier League title in 2013, it was mission f****** accomplished.Legendary Man Utd manager Sir Alex Ferguson took pride in ‘knocking Liverpool off their perch’Credit: PAHowever, the Red Devils are now far from the threatening club they once wereCredit: GettyBut what Fergie achieved during the course of a glorious 27-year reign, new Kop manager Arne Slot is threatening to undo in his debut season.The crown United won 12 years ago was their 20th, putting them two clear of Liverpool at the top of the list of English champions.Jurgen Klopp brought the Merseysiders back to within one of United by clinching the crown in 2019-20.So if Slot can convert his team’s current lead at the top of the table into a trophy lift in May, he will put them level with their North-West rivals.Read More in FootballAnd given Liverpool’s superior European Cup and Champions League record — with six wins to United’s three — the Anfield faithful would once more have the numbers to back their claim to be England’s greatest club.The one crumb of comfort for United fans in recent years is the other lot down the M62 have failed to take advantage of United’s decline in the same way Fergie filled his boots during Liverpool’s barren years.Many Reds supporters would argue their team fell off that perch rather than being pushed by United.Poor recruitment and a failure to exploit the commercial opportunities of the Premier League breakaway cost the Kop dear as much as United’s quality under Fergie.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArne Slot has carried Liverpool to the top of the Prem table in his first seasonCredit: AlamyIn between Kenny Dalglish’s third and final league title as Liverpool boss in 1990 and Klopp’s victory 30 years later, Ferguson and United were champions 13 times.After Klopp announced his decision to leave Anfield last January — and his second bid for a Quadruple fell even flatter than the first — United supporters probably breathed a sigh of relief.Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedThey have seen just how hard it is to replace an iconic manager and to compete with those other noisy neighbours, Manchester City.But Slot has come in to Anfield — and, rather than picking up where Klopp left off, has coaxed new levels from a group of players who looked spent when finishing third in last season’s three-way title race.So the United faithful will travel to Anfield for Sunday’s game fearing not only another hiding on the day but also a more long-lasting kick in the guts at the end of the season.The Red Devils’ recent Premier League record against Liverpool is humiliating, with just one win in the last eight meetings and six goals scored compared to the Reds’ 26.Losing to your fiercest rivals is bad enough, but the manner of the defeats has often been shocking.In the 2021-22 season, Klopp’s Reds won 5-0 at Old Trafford and then 4-0 at home. But United’s real nadir came at Anfield on March 5, 2023 when Liverpool scored seven without reply.So the United faithful will travel to Anfield for Sunday’s game fearing not only another hiding on the day but also a more long-lasting kick in the guts at the end of the season.It was not only the biggest margin of victory in a rivalry dating back to 1894, it also equalled the worst defeat of United’s entire history.Yet most Liverpool supporters would swap a one-off thrashing like that for another championship.And despite their team’s apparent superiority right now, there will be a small voice of caution in the back of the mind of all but the most optimistic fans.Because failing to beat United damaged title bids led by Klopp more than once.United have suffered some embarrassing defeats against Liverpool in recent yearsCredit: AFPIn February 2019, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side held Liverpool to a 0-0 draw at Anfield. The Reds finished one agonising point behind City at the end of the season.And Erik ten Hag’s United drew both league games against Klopp’s side last season.Had Liverpool beaten United at Old Trafford on April 7, they would have been level on points with City and two ahead of Arsenal with six games to go.But after Mo Salah’s late penalty salvaged a 2-2 draw, Liverpool lost at home to Crystal Palace the following weekend and watched another title chance slip away.Losing to your fiercest rivals is bad enough, but the manner of the defeats has often been shocking.There is further encouragement for United fans that their team can still lift themselves when playing Liverpool and form can go out the window in this fiercely-contested derby.Bruno Fernandes grabbed the  winner in a 3-2 FA Cup fourth round victory in January 2021.And most memorably last March, United came from behind twice to beat Liverpool 4-3 in the sixth round and went on to lift the trophy.The hero of that Old Trafford ­victory was Amad Diallo, with a dramatic winner in  stoppage-time at the end of extra-time. Or, to put it another way, in Fergie time.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow the United fans would love another shock win for new boss Ruben Amorim’s side on Sunday.And recapture hope their club can remain alone on the title-winning perch where Ferguson left them.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More