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      Spurs can’t fall into the Ten Hag trap with Ange even if he somehow wins the Europa – he looks lonely, isolated and DONE

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      TOTTENHAM cannot afford to fall into the ‘Erik ten Hag trap’.Manchester United were all but certain of giving Ten Hag the elbow at the end of last season.Ange Postecoglou lost his rag after Tottenham lost 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Thursday nightBut Tottenham cannot afford to fall into the ‘Erik ten Hag’ trapCredit: ReutersEveryone was aligned with the plan — he had to go.And then came the FA Cup final. United somehow managed to beat Manchester City and, for a brief moment, everything looked rosy.Sir Jim Ratcliffe mulled it over and over and eventually he decided on  an almighty U-turn that included giving Ten Hag yet another summer to spend money they didn’t have.And what happened? Nine games into the new season, with just three Premier League wins on the board, they realised they had been duped. It was the same Ten Hag as before. He finally got the chop and United have failed to recover since.Tottenham simply have to look at that situation and think: “Let’s not do that. Let’s not fall into that trap with Ange Postecoglou.”The Spurs boss looks done. No matter what happens, he is gone.And yet everyone is saying that Ange will save his job if he somehow turns things around and guides the club to the Europa League trophy come May.What difference will that make? It just prolongs the inevitable, just like United did with Ten Hag. And look how that ended up.In years gone by, winning a cup would be enough to keep a Spurs manager in the job. Not any more.James Maddison reveals awkward confrontation with Tottenham fans That’s how bad things have become.Spurs and chairman Daniel Levy cannot afford another calamity of a season after this one. But then who do they get next?Mauricio Pochettino seems to be flirting with the idea of a return but he surely won’t be available until after next summer’s World Cup. So what do they do until then?Postecoglou claimed the cupping of the ear to his own fans was because he wanted them to celebrate. Come on. That f***ing wound me up. Does he think we are stupid?Troy DeeneyI have watched Ange’s post-match Sky interview from the defeat at Chelsea about eight times now and my conclusion is that he went there with an agenda and stuck to it.He was expecting people to hammer him — he was expecting there to be nasty questions and the reaction was so unnecessary and odd.I don’t think the interviewer, Patrick Davison, did anything wrong.Postecoglou then claimed the cupping of the ear to his own fans was because he wanted them to celebrate.Spurs fans took to the streets chanting ‘we want Levy out’ in a protest against the club’s ownership in FebruaryCome on. That f***ing wound me up. Does he think we are stupid?Those are the actions of a man who is incredibly frustrated and under pressure.After all, he is human, and that whole club is so f***ing toxic. The whole place needs a revamp.But as a result, Ange has got into this weird, messy state of desperately trying to control the narrative in the most awkward, cringeworthy way possible.He looks like one lonely, isolated guy, especially at full-time at Stamford Bridge.Tottenham fans were angry after another dismal loss at Chelsea this weekThat being said, I am not surprised he did not go over to the away end to applaud them at the end. He got that right, at least.There’s no point stoking the fire even further to get even more abuse.What concerns me is that Ange looks to have no one to bounce ideas off or to seek reassurance from that he is saying the right things and making the right decisions.And why is he still sticking up for this group of players?For too long Spurs have brought in mediocre players who are not up to it to take them to the next level.For Spurs to change, they need to figure out what they are.Are they wanting to be top-four challengers? Are they wanting to simply compete for cups? Do they just want to be a nice, entertaining team  neutrals enjoy watching?At the moment, they aren’t anything — and that’s the biggest concern of the lot.CHELSEA RATINGS V SPURSCHELSEA hung on to clinch a controversial 1-0 win over bitter London rivals Spurs.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Maresca’s players.SANCHEZ – 7Much has been made of the goalkeeping situation at Chelsea this season, with both Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen failing to live up to the standards the home supporters expect. It was the former selected today, and while far from the greatness of Petr Cech, in fairness to him he put in a good display. Question marks came up once more when his blushes were spared by VAR, having been beaten from range by Pape Matar Sarr, but he made up for that with a crucial (even if dramatic) save at the death to stop Spurs levelling the scoring. GUSTO – 6Malo Gusto’s inclusion in the starting XI would’ve taken a few fans by surprise, especially given the electric impact Reece James had on international duty for England. That said, he actually started the game very brightly with a huge block in his own box and a shot that had the fans next in ecstasy, only to realise the ball had hit the side netting and not gone in.  Despite doing enough at the back, he disappointed somewhat with his passing, and the Blues look more comfortable with Marc Cucurella inverting into midfield. CHALOBAH – 8With Wesley Fofana returning to the medical table, where he has admittedly spent most of his time this season, the January re-call of Trevoh Chalobah was needed once more. He’s been a very capable deputy for Big Wes, with a strong physical element to his game as well as a good passing range and ability. It was his long ball over the top that created havoc in the first 50 seconds of the match, leading to Van de Ven hitting his own post. COLWILL – 8A rock personified. Levi was utterly dominant at the back tonight, with a performance that showed just why he is so highly rated by Chelsea fans. Coming up against fellow Cobham academy product Dominic Solanke would’ve been no easy task, but he marshalled him brilliantly and was strong in the air and on the ground. CUCURELLA – 9With Chelsea’s Player of The Season voting being announced this week, Marc Cucurella has been a name on the lips of many this week after what has been his best career campaign. He was influential once more, this time more in the defensive phases, whereas it’s been his forward play that has earned him so many plaudits this season so far. Crucial tackles, winning the ball back high up the pitch, and an eye for a pass too, it was another good display from the Spaniard despite not stealing the headlines. CAICEDO – 9 Enzo Maresca had a look of horror on his face when his star midfielder went down in some real discomfort with his hamstring after a challenge on Djed Spence early on.And rightly so, as his importance to Chelsea this season cannot be underestimated, with the Ecuadorian sensational once again. Many would’ve taken the easy way out after picking up a knock, but not Moises, he battled until the very end, hobbling occasionally but stepping into challenges full of heart when his team needed him most. Had his wonderful half-volley into the bottom corner not been ruled out by VAR, he would’ve had a perfect 10. FERNANDEZ – 9Enzo Fernandez does not shy away from a big occasion, and boy did he step up when it mattered for Chelsea tonight. He perhaps should’ve opened the scoring in the first half when Cole Palmer squared the ball across the box, but he wasn’t able to get that vital touch to divert it into the net. The Argentine though, who shone for his national team against Brazil in the break, was on hand to make amends as he nodded a delightful Palmer delivery into the back of the net to make it 1-0 just after half-time. His passion and love in this side is unmatched which makes him a fan favourite here – and the home fans will feel their £200m midfield was worth every penny tonight. NETO – 6The return of Nicolas Jackson saw Neto back in his favoured position on the right wing tonight, rather than playing as a striker. Neither of Chelsea’s wingers were massively impactful, but the Portuguese star was probably the better of the two on the night, shown by him being switched to the left when Noni Madueke returned. Generally it was more of what we’ve seen from Neto so far this campaign, a lot of hard work and some flashes of good technical ability – but not the kind of end product Chelsea need at the moment. PALMER – 8His performance in the away leg of this fixture was the epitome of Cole Palmer at his ice-cold best, if you think back to his panenka penalty and Man of the Match display at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. But things have changed since then for Cole, with his poor form undeniable since the turn of the year. After battling through injury and illness, many saw this as a chance for Palmer to burst back into life and get his season back on track, which is exactly what he did. A supple second half cross landed on the head of Enzo Fernandez who finished with aplomb, giving him his first direct goal contribution in NINE games. He was a difference maker tonight, and can hopefully kick on for the rest of the season.SANCHO – 4Groans rung around Stamford Bridge when Jadon Sancho was on the ball for much of the first half, with fans frustrated at his lack of desire to just hammer a shot at goal like he did in the away leg to score. It just so happened that one of the Blues’ best chances of the first half fell to his right boot, and when he finally did have a go it was superbly denied by Vicario in the Spurs net. Jadon was replaced by the returning Noni Madueke midway into the second half to loud applause. He is going to to offer more in terms of chance creation and goal threat to convince the Blues to keep him come the summer window. JACKSON – 6Nicolas Jackson being back was a huge boost for Chelsea in this game, and cause for excitement for the home support, particularly given his excellent record in London derbies. A physical presence in the box is something the Blues have missed so much while playing Christopher Nkunku or Pedro Neto up front in his absence. That strength and desire almost paid dividends after just 50 seconds as Van de Ven struck the ball off of his shin and onto the post. Unfortunately that was about it for Nico today, he couldn’t get his comeback goal.SUBSNoni Madueke (Jadon Sancho, 67) – 6Chelsea fans were pleased to see Noni back from injury at last, and he will no doubt be a welcomed boost to the squad as we close in on the end of the season. He may have been more impactful had he been selected from the off by Maresca, with the winger needing to do a lot of defensive work as Chelsea looked to keep their 1-0 lead. His desire and work rate was much appreciated by the crowd. Reece James (Nicolas Jackson, 82) – 6A leader in this side, Reece was bought on at the right time to help his side see out the game. He didn’t have much opportunity at all to venture forward, but did everything asked of him. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Enzo Fernandez, 90+1) – 5Had 10 minutes to see the game out and help his side defend the lead, with his energy helping put some pressure on Spurs to move quickly. Tosin Adarabioyo (Cole Palmer, 90+1) – 5The ‘Uncle’ of the squad was bought on at the death to help marshal his team to victory, which he did. Provides composure and strength at the back for the Blues, and has been a valuable asset to his side this campaign.  More

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      Dean Huijsen warned dream Real Madrid transfer could turn into his worst nightmare with ‘pretty face’ not enough to play

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      DEAN HUIJSEN has been warned a dream move to Real Madrid could turn into his worst nightmare.The Bournemouth centre-back is high on the Santiago Bernabeu hitlist after an amazing debut season in England.Dean Huijsen was warned by former coach Juanito that a move to Real Madrid may turn into a nightmareCredit: RexHuijsen has taken the Premier League by storm with BournemouthCredit: RexThe Spanish giants are preparing to trigger the £50million release clause on a contract that runs to 2030.Yet the man who gave the Netherlands-born Spain defender his break believes joining Real would be a step backwards — because he would struggle to get a game.And the best big-picture decision would be for the 19-year-old to stick with the Cherries for now, as the queue of would-be suitors will only get bigger.Juan Gutierrez, 45, was on the coaching staff at Malaga when Huijsen arrived as a ten-year-old and was snapped up by Juventus — ironically ahead of Real — six years later in 2021.Read More on FootballGutierrez — known as Juanito — was blown away by the youngster’s leadership qualities then and has watched them grow every year since, even though he is still so young.But he thinks that would come to a grinding halt at the Bernabeu, as the European champions have always preferred tried-and-tested to potential.Juanito insisted: “Dean is going to be a leader no matter where he goes, so I hope whoever signs him they play him as a starter, and he’s not a project for the future. He is a player for now.”There are very few like that at his age, which is why I don’t know to what extent it would be a good option to sign for Real.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“No one can guarantee you’ll play because of your pretty face but if he leaves Bournemouth, it shouldn’t be to sit on the bench.“At Madrid, Eder Militao is 27 and Antonio Rudiger is in his second youth.Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen forced to deny being stoned after ‘weird’ question“Those two are untouchable and a recovered David Alaba would also be ahead of him.“Carlo Ancelotti is an incredible manager but not a coach for young players — so Dean would be fourth-choice centre-back. That’s the reality.“Barcelona is the opposite. They’re not afraid to use players from the academy but at Real the problem is the mentality of the club. Dean has to go to a place with a vision for the future, with guarantees he’ll play.“But maybe staying at Bournemouth with Andoni Iraola for another year is the best option.”It has been so far for Huijsen, who was capped by Spain in the recent Nations League break and is due to be in the Bournemouth side heading to West Ham on Saturday.Ramos and Van Dijk comparisonsJuanito is convinced those caps are the first of many for a player some liken to Sergio Ramos — but who he reckons could be as influential as Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.He added: “Maybe mentally, I can see little things similar to Ramos but on the pitch there is no comparison. Dean is more disciplined and, certainly at this age, more confident.“From the start he was a marvel. He’d listen to what you told him and absorb it incredibly well. He would recognise a mistake and the next day would improve.“Dean just doesn’t feel any pressure and has unlimited self-confidence.Read More on The Sun“If injuries are not a problem then, whoever signs him, he’ll be a cheap buy because he will be a dominant defender in world soccer for many years to come.“Wherever he goes, I could see him having the same impact Van Dijk has had on Liverpool’s history in recent seasons. The only team he’s not going to change is Real Madrid.” More

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      Real Madrid stars Mbappe and Rudiger handed one-match Uefa ban – but penalty will NOT be enforced for Arsenal clash

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      REAL MADRID stars Kylian Mbappe and Antonio Rudiger have been cleared to face Arsenal in next week’s Champions League quarter-final – after escaping with SUSPENDED bans.Uefa launched an investigation last week after Atletico Madrid accused the duo and team-mates Vinicius Jr and Dani Ceballos of “indecent conduct” following their shoot-out win in the last 16 tie at the Metropolitano.Kylian Mbappe grabbed his nether regions as Real Madrid celebrated in front of Atletico fansAntonio Rudiger also performed a slit-throat gesture during the celebrationsCredit: GETTYUefa have handed Mbappe and Rudiger suspended one-match bansCredit: ReutersFormer Chelsea defender Rudiger, who scored the decisive penalty,  was accused of making a throat-slitting gesture to home supporters. French ace Mbappe, who had earlier missed a spot-kick in normal time but converted in the shoot-out, was reported for touching his genitals in a clearly derogatory manner.Vinicius – long targeted by rival fans and who has been a regular victim of racist abuse – was involved in two separate confrontations with Atletico supporters before and after the shoot-out, while Ceballos aimed a one-armed gesture with a clenched fist at home fans.That raised the prospect of the quartet all being suspended for the first leg of the tie with the Gunners at the Emirates on Tuesday.A probe saw a Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector decide there was no case to answer for Vinicius Jr while the other three were accused of “violating the basic rules of decent conduct”.But now Uefa’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has backed off serious action despite finding the three players guilty.Rudiger was handed a one-match ban, suspended for 12 months, and fined £34,000, with Mbappe given the same suspended punishment and fined around £25,000, with Caballos facing no ban and ordered to pay £17,000.A Uefa statement read: “Following the investigation of a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector, disciplinary proceedings were opened against the following Real Madrid CF players, Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, Daniel Ceballos Fernandez for potentially violating the basic rules of decent conduct (Art. 11(2)(b) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations).Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWhat happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally.”No disciplinary proceedings were opened against Real Madrid CF player, Vinícius Júnior.”The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) has taken the following decisions.”Arteta gives worrying Gabriel injury update as Arsenal sweat on four defenders ahead of Real Madrid clash”The CEDB has decided to fine Real Madrid CF player, Antonio Rudiger, €40,000 and to suspend him for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match for which he would be otherwise eligible for violating the basic rules of decent conduct. “Said suspension is not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.”To fine Real Madrid CF player, Kylian Mbappe, €30,000 and to suspend him for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match for which he would be otherwise eligible for violating the basic rules of decent conduct. “Said suspension is not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.”To fine Real Madrid CF player, Daniel Ceballos Fernandez, €20,000 for violating the basic rules of decent conduct.”Mbappe and Rudiger’s suspended sentences are bad news for Arsenal fans.The Emirates faithful were clinging onto the hope the duo would be banned for Tuesday’s match at the Emirates due to the team’s defensive crisis.Read More on The SunThe north Londoners are in defensive chaos following Gabriel Magalhaes’ season-ending hamstring injury against Fulham this week. Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori missed Tuesday’s visit of the Cottagers and are major doubts for next week’s clash with Los Blancos.Gabriel Magalhaes’ season-ending hamstring injury has thrown the Gunners into defensive chaosCredit: REUTERS More

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      World Cup 2030 stadium that will rival Bernabeu and Nou Camp looks unrecognisable during major refurbishment

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      A FLAGSHIP World Cup 2030 venue is poised to complete an incredible transformation.Barcelona and Real Madrid will open the new-look La Cartuja Stadium on April 26.La Cartuja stadium has had its famous athletics track removedRenovation is now in its final stages ahead of an April 26 re-openingThe capacity of the venue in Seville will swell by more than 15,000 seats to 72kThe site in Seville was built for the 1999 World Athletics Championships.But there will be few signs of its famous track and field pedigree once the revamp is finished.The athletics track has been ditched – as just one of several major changes.The stand-out development is an increase in capacity by more than 15,000 to 72k.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd a new ring of stands has been installed to underline the dramatic re-think.Spain’s sporting chiefs reckon it will be their third main venue at the World Cup in five years’ time, behind only the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.La Cartuja was also a key part of Seville’s bid to host the summer Olympics in 2004 and 2008.The area in southern Spain is often called “Europe’s hottest city”.Most read in FootballUS sprinter Michael Johnson set a staggering world 400m record at the venue in 1999 and returned here in 2019 for the anniversaryCredit: RexBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut although athletics has warmed to the venue, La Cartuja’s stature was not enough to win the Games for Seville.However, it did host a thrilling 2003 Uefa Cup final, in which Porto beat Celtic 3-2 – when a little-known and now-abandoned rule came into play.Arteta gives worrying Gabriel injury update as Arsenal sweat on four defenders ahead of Real Madrid clashEntering extra time at 2-2, the Scottish giants then had notorious hardman Bobo Balde sent off.It gave Porto hope of triumphing with a “silver goal” – whereby the team leading after the first additional 15 minutes takes the trophy.But the Portuguese club failed to net in that quarter of an hour.Instead Porto went on to win 3-2, thanks to Derlei hitting his second goal of the night shortly before the end of the second added period.Seville boasts two LaLiga clubs in Sevilla and Real Betis, but both use their own grounds.Nonetheless, La Cartuja is Spain’s fifth largest sports stadium and the national team occasionally play there.And when Betis were banned from their Manuel Ruiz de Lopera stadium in 2007, they switched to the bigger venue for a game against Villarreal.Not only that, Betis will temporarily use the ground again while their own Benito Villamarín stadium is redeveloped later this year.La Cartuja has hosted two Davis Cup finals in tennis, four Copa del Rey finals from 2020 to 2023 and was used at Euro 2020.And it was there that athletics saw one of the great world records of modern time.Read More on The SunAmerican legend Michael Johnson clocked 43.18 seconds for the 400m in 1999, a time unsurpassed until South African Wayde van Niekerk ran 43.03 in Rio 17 years later. But the finest hour for La Cartuja is scheduled to arrive a decade after that – when the World Cup comes to Spain for only the second time ever.A new ring of stands has been added to the 26-year-old groundThe stadium is on the the island of La Cartuja More

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      Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 30: European quarter-final first legs key to unlocking bumper points

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      DREAM TEAM managers have until 11am on Saturday morning to confirm their transfers for Gameweek 30.In terms of strategy, it’s all eyes on the European quarter-final first legs with Arsenal, Aston Villa, Tottenham, Manchester United and Chelsea set to play again after the weekend’s Premier League action.Arsenal v Real Madrid is just one mouthwatering fixture included in Gameweek 30Credit: APNaturally, these double headers are the focus of this week’s transfer recommendations.Just to clarify, we consider Bruno Fernandes (£7m), the game’s most in-form player, firmly in the camp of: blindingly obvious.Bukayo Saka (£6.6m)In a week that featured several popular assets suffer ill-timed injuries, Dream Team bosses were boosted by the return of Arsenal’s No7.Saka marked his comeback with a goal against Fulham to underline his credentials.Only Mohamed Salah (£7.7m) averages more points-per-game than the England winger in 2024/25.Mikel Arteta will be delighted to have his star player back ahead of a trip to Everton and Real Madrid’s visit to the Emirates.Saka’s ownership has already increased to nigh on 20%.Saka marked his return with a goalCredit: ReutersMarcus Rashford (£3.7m)It’s a good time to back Unai Emery’s troops amid an unmatched succession of double Gameweeks.Most read in FootballNo fewer than nine Villa assets notched double-digit hauls in Gameweek 29 but Ollie Watkins (£5.2m) was not among them; far from it in fact as he mustered just one point from two substitute appearances.Instead it was Rashford who led the line against Preston and Brighton and boy did he capitalise.The 27 year-old loanee bagged a brace in the FA Cup and then got on the scoresheet again during his side’s win over the Seagulls in midweek for a 29-point return in total.Barring something extraordinary at Stamford Bridge this evening, he will finish as Gameweek 29’s top performer.Villa’s Gameweek 30 is far from favourable with high-flying Nottingham Forest to come before a daunting meeting with PSG in the Champions League but Rashford has form on his side.A word for Marco Asensio (£4.1m) who has now scored EIGHT goals since his loan switch despite having started just four times for Villa.The Spaniard’s minutes are a slight concern but his impressive average of 8.2 points-per-game is the headline right now.Rashford thrived in Gameweek 29Credit: GettyDominic Solanke (£4m)This suggestion comes with the caveat that Spurs are due to face Chelsea this evening and so the outlook may change depending on how things play out in West London.Ange Postecoglou’s side are the only team with the luxury of two home fixtures this coming Gameweek and that includes one against relegation-bound Southampton.Frankfurt are expected to provide stiffer competition next Thursday but it’s an appealing double header nonetheless.Son Heung-min (£4.6m) is currently the second-most popular recruit ahead of Saturday’s deadline on account of him being Spurs’ top points scorer.However, it’s worth noting the South Korean superstar has played just 275 minutes across his last five outings at an average of 55 minutes per appearance.In contrast, Solanke has completed the full 90 minutes three times in a row since his return to the starting line-up after injury.Son may pack more of a punch (he’s first-choice penalty taker too) but the England striker seems to be far more immune to Postecoglou’s rotation.It’s worth remembering that for all Spurs’ problems this season, they have scored plenty of goals across all competitions.Solanke has scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists this seasonCredit: ReutersDjed Spence (£3.2m)It’s a similar story in defence.Pedro Porro (£4.5m) is by far and away the top performer in his position among his team-mates with a mighty 223 points but, like Son, his minutes have decreased lately – he didn’t feature at all against Fulham last time out.Whereas Spence’s form has seen him play every minute of the last four games.This shuffle in the pecking order is interesting as the 24-year-old currently features in just 0.8% of teams, making him a huge differential option.Read More on The SunSpence ranks fifth in his position for bonus points this season despite the fact he hardly featured at all during the first four months of the campaign.He is certainly capable of a satisfying double-digit haul if given the nod against Saints and Frankfurt.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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      Inside the multi-million pound transformation of famous stadium where Celtic won European Cup in Lisbon

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      IT’S the site of Celtic’s most famous triumph – with thousands of Hoops fans still visiting Lisbon each year for their very own Portuguese pilgrimage. But the contours of the famous Estadio Nacional where Billy McNeill once held the European Cup aloft are set to change – to the tune of a cool €25MILLION Euros modernisation.An aerial view of how the stadium will lookCredit: AFL architects Inside the sleek lounges at the refurbished venueCredit: AFL architects It’s a stylish upgrade to the famous old stadiumCredit: AFL Architects The good news for Hoops fans, though, is that the 81-year-old stadium won’t be getting bulldozed and rebuilt and will rather undergo a ‘sensitive and innovative redesign’.Led by Jock Stein and legendary skipper Billy McNeill, the Lisbon Lions triumphed over Italian giants Inter Milan in the Portuguese capital to become the first side from the Britain to win the biggest prize in club football.Goals from the great Tommy Gemmell and Stevie Chalmers saw the Hoops come from behind to win 2-1.The stadium where the match took place is a listed heritage site which was originally built six miles west of the city between 1939 and 1944 to designs by Portuguese architect Jacobetty Rosa.Located in close proximity to two massive stadia neighbours in the form of the Estadio da Luz and Jose Alvalade – the homes of Benfica and Sporting Lisbon respectively – the Estadio Nacional isn’t used so regularly these days. It still plays host to the Portuguese cup final – as well as rugby games.But refurbishment has been on the way since at least 2012 and while there is no start date for the work as yet, it’s closer than ever with AFL Architects winning the job for their designs.AFL are working with Lisbon-based Aires Mateus and Gonçalves Vieira Cruz after they won a competition with their designs – with the Portuguese Football Federation the client.Most read in FootballOne thing that will change with the new development is a new suspended canopy ROOF suspended over the stands. This will use a Pratt truss structure supported by four strategically braced points.Rangers and Celtic fans react to news away fans are BACK at Old Firm gamesThe stadium capacity will change too, actually coming down from 39,000 to 36,388.The architects claim that the stadium’s ‘unique integration into the natural landscape’ of Vale do Jamor will be retained.Estadio Nacional refurbishment – at a glanceKey features of the proposed refurbishment include: A striking new roof inspired by the stadium’s original design and site topography.VIP and VVIP lounges for premium experiences. State-of-the-art media facilities. Updated football, rugby, and athletics facilities. Enhanced accessibility throughout the venue. Extended toilet and concession areas. Improved sightlines for spectators. Refurbished landscaping that blends seamlessly with the Vale do Jamor.Back in 2022, the Lisbon Lions were named the best club side EVER.It topped a poll ahead of a Barca side led by Pep Guardiola and spearheaded by the likes of Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Xavi, who won La Liga with 96 points and secured the Champions League.Manchester United’s famous 1998/99 side came a distant third with 14 per-cent of the vote.Billy McNeill holds aloft the European CupCredit: AFL architects How the covered main stand will now lookCredit: AFL architects Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes’s season OVER as defender needs surgery on hamstring injury sustained in Fulham clash

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      GABRIEL MAGALHAES is set to miss the rest of the season after it was confirmed he needs to go under the knife.The Brazilian injured his right hamstring in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham on Tuesday night.Gabriel Magalhaes injured his right hamstring in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham earlier this weekCredit: EPAThe 27-year-old will miss the rest of the season as he needs to have surgeryCredit: AFPIt soon emerged that the centre-back would miss both legs of the Gunners’ Champions League quarter-final tie with Real Madrid.But the club have now confirmed the 27-year-old needs to have surgery and is unlikely to return to the field again this season.A club statement read: “Further to being substituted during our match against Fulham on Tuesday, we can confirm that Gabriel Magalhaes has sustained a hamstring injury which requires surgery.”Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring in the coming days, and immediately begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, with the aim to be ready for the start of next season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Everyone at the club will be fully focused on supporting Gabi to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”The Emirates faithful were quick to react to news of Gabriel’s season-ending injury.One wrote on X: “Rest up. Player of the season. Another said: “Just end the season now.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd another said: “Get well soon, Gabi.”One remarked: “Come back stronger, king.”Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be missing four defensive starters for a mammoth Champions League quarter final Arsenal’s next five fixturesAnother chimed in: “THREE hamstring injuries so severe they require surgery in the same season.”That begs some serious questions of the fitness/conditioning team. “That’s completely ridiculous.”Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is now facing a defensive crisis ahead of next Tuesday’s visit of Real Madrid following injuries to Gabriel and Jurrien Timber, who also picked up a knock against the Cottagers.Jakub Kiwior will likely deputise for the crocked Gabriel, with Oleksandr Zinchenko in line to fill in for Timber at left-back.Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori missed Tuesday’s visit of Fulham and are also doubts for next week’s showdown with Real.Mikel Arteta now has a massive injury headache ahead of Real Madrid’s visit next weekCredit: REX More

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      ‘It’s difficult’ – Gabriel’s wife gives injury update on Arsenal star with fears he could miss Real Madrid clash

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      GABRIEL’S wife Gabrielle Figueiredo has given a concerning update on the Arsenal star’s injury.The Brazilian, 27, went down clutching his hamstring barely 15 minutes into his side’s 2-1 win over Fulham on Tuesday night.Gabrielle Figueiredo appeared at the Married to the Game screeningCredit: RexGabrielle is married to Arsenal star GabrielCredit: Amazon PrimeThe Arsenal defender went off injured against Fulham on TuesdayCredit: GettyAfter receiving treatment on the pitch, the centre-back shook his head as he limped off.His wife Gabrielle attended a screening of Amazon Prime Video’s Married To The Game season two on Wednesday afternoon.The show follows a selection of Premier League stars and their wives, including Gabriel’s Arsenal team-mate Jorginho.While speaking to the Mail at the event, Gabrielle was asked about how it can be tricky for players’ families when they go through issues on the pitch.READ MORE ON ARSENALShe said: “It’s difficult. I think the perfect example is now, because he got injured yesterday.”So that is why he’s not here with me today. He would love to be here. I would love to be here with him.”Yesterday we got the news he got injured, and now he is with the doctor having scans.”So this is the real life, and we never expected anything like this.”Most read in Champions LeagueBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKGabrielle attended the screening without her injured husbandCredit: GettyOn how she supports her man in times of adversity, Gabrielle added: “I think the only thing that we could do is being together and be the assurance for each other.”That is the thing that I (will) do when I arrive home today. And yeah, it’s not easy, but we try our best to create this bond together every day, in every difficult moment.”Arteta gives worrying Gabriel injury update as Arsenal sweat on four defenders ahead of Real Madrid clashIn addition to Gabriel, Arsenal also lost Jurrien Timber to injury during the victory over Fulham.Asked about the pair after the game, boss Mikel Arteta said: “We will be assessing them tomorrow.”Gabi felt something in his hamstring. We don’t know how big that is.”With Jurrien he was already struggling early. He couldn’t continue.”Arsenal now face a nervous wait for further updates ahead of their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid next Tuesday.In the meantime they will travel to Everton this Saturday.Read More on The SunGunners fans have been boosted by the return to fitness of Bukayo Saka.The England winger scored just seven minutes into his return from the bench against Fulham. More