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      Liverpool are at the end of an era and face a major squad overhaul despite tearing up the Premier League

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      IT’S a strange thing to say about a team cantering towards the Premier League title — but Liverpool are reaching the end of an era.Five players remain from the team which secured the club’s sixth European Cup against Tottenham in 2019.Virgil van Dijk admits he doesn’t know if he’ll be stayingCredit: GettyMo Salah has also revealed little about his future beyond this seasonCredit: RexTrent Alexander-Arnold has been strongly linked with Real MadridCredit: GettyAnd all of them might have played their final Champions League match at Anfield in Tuesday’s defeat by Paris Saint-Germain.Boss Arne Slot did not appreciate being asked about that on TV immediately after the penalty shootout loss to the French champions.But skipper Virgil van Dijk admits he has “no idea” where he will be playing next season, while fellow out-of-contract stars Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold are also tight-lipped on their futures.The form of Andy Robertson, another of Klopp’s 2019 winners, has fallen off a cliff, with Slot prioritising a left-back upgrade this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Alisson — who kept Liverpool in the PSG tie with an extraordinary display in his team’s 1-0 first-leg win — is also under threat.Georgian keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who arrives from Valencia this summer, is regarded as his eventual replacement.It means the last vestiges of Jurgen Klopp’s 2019 European champions could soon be swept away.It would be ludicrous to suggest too much doom and gloom at Anfield as Slot’s side romp towards only their second Premier League title and with Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle up next.Most read in FootballArne Slot could have a tricky summer in the transfer marketCredit: RexCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsKlopp’s midfield revamp worked a treat the summer before last — with Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai all tearing it up in the Premier League.Now similar overhauls may be needed in defence and attack — with two key defenders out of contract, along with goal-machine Salah.Meanwhile, Darwin Nunez’s shootout miss accentuated the fact the  Uruguayan isn’t good enough at the highest level.Liverpool manager Arne Slot says his team were ‘lucky’ to beat PSG Liverpool have been awarded nine penalties in the league this season — no other club besides Bournemouth has had more than four.And yet spot-kicks proved their undoing against Luis Enrique’s impressive side.PSG’s superiority over two legs showed the Premier League isn’t as mighty as we like to think.There is now a high probability of no English club in the Champions League semi-finals for a second straight season.The fact Liverpool are poised to win the title by a double-figure points margin yet were outplayed for three-quarters of the PSG tie was a wake-up call for the domestic game.This after Real Madrid had hammered our four-in-a-row champions Manchester City in the play-off round.In the aftermath of Tuesday’s exit, Slot was moaning about the “unfairness” of having to face PSG so early in the competition — having topped the 36-team qualifying group.Yet that has always been the nature of knockout football.Incoming Giorgi Mamardashvili is regarded as Alisson’s successorCredit: GettyHuge doubts remain about Darwin Nunez’s striking qualitiesCredit: RexPSG, along with Real and City, struggled in Europe before Christmas and ended up unseeded.Enrique’s side were supposed to arrive at the sharp end of the Champions League undercooked due to a lack of domestic competition. But perhaps it was Liverpool.This has not been a vintage  Premier League season, with City in meltdown, Arsenal ravaged by ­injuries and indiscipline, Chelsea severely inexperienced, while Manchester United and Tottenham have disappeared without trace.Slot’s first season in charge will be rightly considered a roaring success whatever happens in Sunday’s showpiece at Wembley.But with Alexander-Arnold likely to miss out through injury, Ibrahima Konate a doubt and the entire team having played two hours of high- intensity football before the misery of a shootout defeat, Newcastle will fancy their chances a hell of a lot more than they did before Tuesday.READ MORE SUN STORIESLiverpool’s players will still get to parade the Premier League trophy in front of a packed Anfield for the first time at some point in April or early May — their previous title win having come during the Covid pandemic.Yet the team which defends that title next season might look very ­different indeed. More

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      Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid LIVE RESULT: Blancos vs Arsenal in quarters after MASSIVE penalty shootout CONTROVERSY

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      REAL MADRID will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals after incredible drama in the penalty shootout!Julian Alvarez seemingly scored his penalty only to have it RULED OUT by the VAR for hitting the ball TWICE as he slipped.Real Madrid eventually went through 4-2 on penalties but the shootout will be remembered for that intervention.During an enthralling Madrid derby, Connor Gallagher had scored a record goal – becoming the fastest English goalscorer in the Champions League after just 28 seconds. Vinicius then had the chance to win the game in normal time for Real Madrid but smashed an AWFUL penalty well over the bar to keep Atletico alive.Arsenal now face Real Madrid in the next round after they went through 9-3 against PSV following a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night.Aston Villa will face Paris Saint-Germain after an impressive 3-0 win against Club Brugge, while Borussia Dortmund also progresses after beating Lille in the early game.Kick-off: 8pm GMTTV Channel/live stream: TNT Sports 3 / Discovery+BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSFollow our live blog for updates… More from XCourtoisThe Belgian added: “I felt like Julian touched the ball twice, so I told the referee. It’s a bit of bad luck.”On the missed Marcos Llorente penalty, he added: “We trained so many times together. “I know how he likes to shoot his penalties.”Copy linkCopiedCourtois hits backReal Madrid keeper Thibaut Courtois hit back at the Atleti boss and said: “I think Uefa sees it clearly.”I’m tired of this victimhood, always crying over things like that.”Referees don’t want to benefit a team, neither in Spain nor in Europe. “They saw it clearly with technology and called it that way.”Copy linkCopiedFurious SimeoneSpeaking after the penalty shootout defeat, a furious Diego Simeone asked those in the press conference: “To anyone here: raise your hand if you saw that Julian touched the ball twice in the penalty. “Come on! And? Ready? Nobody raises theirs. Another question…”I’ve never seen VAR call to review a penalty in a shootout.”Copy linkCopiedEmery speaks on Villa win”We started the match under our expectations. “They dominated the match. We didn’t play the first half like we planned.”We spoke at half-time, changed some thing, tried to change something in our minds to play better and it was completely different.”Copy linkCopiedIFAB’s penalty rulesIn relation to Julian Alvarez’s controversial penalty, here’s what IFAB (International Football Association Board) has to say.Law 14.1, which concerns penalties in a shootout, states: “The kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another player.”Law 14.2 then relates to penalties taken DURING a match.It reads: “If, after the penalty kick has been taken, the kicker touches the ball again before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded.”So with an indirect free-kick unable to be applied during a shootout, cancelling Alvarez’s effort appears to have been the correct decision lawfully.Copy linkCopiedArteta speaks on Arsenal win”We started well and scored the goal We were ahead twice but unfortunately we didn’t mane to win the game. “You could see in the second half we looked tired, we were late for a few things and we lacked a little bit of cohesion, making so many changes. “Overall we are very happy because we are where we want to be.”There were some players that deserved some football and I was very happy to give them a chance. There were a lot of things to improve.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCarlo reigns supremeCarlo Ancelotti managed to keep his cool despite that nervy shootout.The Italian is regarded as the king of European football.And the win means he has now reached his 15th Champions League quarter-final – more than any other manager.Ancelotti had previously been tied on 14 with Pep Guardiola – but Man City’s earlier exit to Real gave him the opportunity to pull clear.Copy linkCopiedSame old storyAtletico fans will have felt sick losing to Real once again.They have now lost to their rivals FIVE times in the Champions League knockout rounds – including the 2016 final.Only Bayern Munich have been defeated more times in the elimination rounds to a single opponent.The Germans have lost seven times to – you’ll never have guessed it – Real Madrid!Copy linkCopiedPenalty controversyVAR took just 20 seconds to conclude that Julian Alvarez had supposedly double-touched the ball while taking his penalty.It was the cruellest way for Atleti to go out.But then Marcos Llorente should have done a lot better with his missed effort.While Jan Oblak, widely regarded as one of the best goalies in the past decade, will be having sleepless nights after failing to save Antonio Rudiger’s winning effort.Copy linkCopiedChampions League quarter-final drawArsenal vs Real MadridBarcelona vs Borussia DortmundBayern Munich vs Inter MilanPSG vs Aston VillaCopy linkCopiedAtletico Madrid 1-0 Real Madrid (AGG: 2-2) PENS 2-4What a way to go out of the competition.Whether you have seen that before is another thing.Julian Alvarez scored his penality but a VAR review adjudged he kicked the ball twice as he slipped when taking it.As a result, it was chalked off with no chance to retake it.It gave Real the adrenaline boost they needed to win the shootout.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedReal Madrid beat Atletico Madrid 4-2 on penaltiesCopy linkCopiedGoal – Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid) 4-2Copy linkCopiedPenalty missed – Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madriid)Copy linkCopiedPenalty saved – Lucas Vasquez (Real Madrid)Copy linkCopiedGoal – Angel Correa (Atletico Madrid) 3-2Copy linkCopiedGoal – Federico Valverde (Real Madrid) 3-1Copy linkCopiedPenalty disallowed – Julian Alvarez (kicked ball twice)Copy linkCopiedGoal – Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid) 2-2Copy linkCopiedGoal – Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) 2-1Copy linkCopiedGoal – Alexander Sorloth (Atletico Madrid) 1-1Copy linkCopiedGoal – Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid) 1-0Copy linkCopiedPenalty shootoutCopy linkCopiedFT: Atletico Madrid 1-0 Real Madrid (AGG: 2-2)Atletico are having the final throw of the dice.A long one into the box from Azpilicueta but it is headed clear.We are heading to penalties in the Madrid derby.Copy linkCopiedAtletico Madrid 1-0 Real Madrid (AGG: 2-2)115. Mbappe tries to use his pace in behind the defence.As he tries to check back, the defender does well to put it behind for a corner.Real cross it into the box but it is easily headed clear by Atletico.Credit: APCopy linkCopied More

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      Atletico Madrid 1 Real Madrid 0 (agg 1-1, pens 2-4): Ancelotti’s men WIN after major penalty shootout controversy

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM and the Kings of Europe will take on Arsenal in the quarter-finals after Real Madrid’s dramatic derby win.Conor Gallagher scored a shocking 27-second opener to level things up, but Atletico Madrid could not find a winner against their old rivals.Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a shootout win over Atletico MadridCredit: EPAAntonio Rudiger scored the decisive spot-kick for Los BlancosCredit: AFPJulian Alvarez’s shootout spotkick proved to be a controversial oneCredit: ReutersVAR ruled out the Argentine’s penalty after he was deemed him to have kicked the ball twiceCredit: TNT SportsEverything looked to be going against Real, especially when Vinicius Junior missed a woeful normal-time penalty.But they turned it around in the shootout – as they always do against Atletico – but not without some controversy.Julian Alvarez slipped as he tucked home a penalty – but it was dramatically referred to VAR.The shootout continued before the effort was disallowed as the ex-Manchester City forward was ruled to have touched the ball twice.READ MORE ON CHAMPIONS LEAGUEHowever, many fans appeared to remain in the dark over the intervention of the assistant referee.Jan Oblak went onto save from Real wideman Lucas Vazquez, but the keeper’s team-mate Marcos Llorente then struck the bar.That enabled Antonio Rudiger to squirm home Real’s winning kick under the grasp of Oblak – with Atleti supporters now realising the full impact of VAR.The fire and fury from Atletico’s fans, who saluted them in defeat, had been imposingat the start.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsConor Gallagher broke the deadlock in the second legCredit: GETTYThe former Chelsea midfielder found the back of the net a mere 28 seconds into the matchCredit: APVincius Jr had the chance to restore Real’s aggregate lead but blazed his penalty high and wideCredit: GETTYBut it was simply ear-splitting inside 30 seconds, when Gallagher struck.It was Atleti’s tenacity which made the goal. After Antoine Griezmann won the ball in the Real half, it was shifted right where Rodrigo De Paul crossed.Mum of Thibaut Courtois’ love-child reveals fear they will be made homeless over unpaid mortgage despite his huge salaryGuiliano Simeone, the boss’ son, could not quite connect but the deflection fell for Gallagher to prod in on just his second start in 11 games.Real steadied themselves but were not at all dangerous. Atleti had all the energy, all the passion.So much so you worried it was too much.But they kept up their intensity after the break, continuing to rattle Real and cause trouble.The 15-time champions had a look of a side who had nothing going for them, evidenced with Vinicius’ horrendous spot kick.The first time Kylian Mbappe – absent until now – had been given space he punished the hosts, winning a penalty from Lenglet’s clumsy attempt at a challenge.But his Brazilian teammate, the man so angered at not winning the Ballon d’Or, sent his shot so high over the bar it could have landed in the Bernabeu.It was a devastating blow, but they were still level in the tie. Atleti tried for a winner in normal time, Simeone and Griezmann both having a go from range. Sub Angel Correa blazed over the bar in the 90th minute when he could have squared.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs has been the case in the previous six cup ties between these rivals, extra time was needed – though both were playing for penalties by the end of it.Bellingham had been off the boil for the most part but converted his spot kick, along with Mbappe and Fede Valverde and Rudiger to send the holders through. More

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      Champions League quarter-finals CONFIRMED with Arsenal and Aston Villa both set for horror last-eight clashes

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      ARSENAL and Aston Villa are both set for horror last-eight clashes after the Champions league quarter-finals were finally confirmed.The pair are English football’s final representatives in Europe’s top competition this season.Arsenal are set for a horror Champions League quarter-final tieCredit: GettyAston Villa also face a tough test in the last eightCredit: GettyManchester City crashed out in the playoffs to Real Madrid, while Liverpool were sent packing by Paris Saint-Germain on penalties last night.And both continental giants are now set to cause chaos for Mikel Arteta and Unai Emery in the final eight.Arsenal defeated PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate after a 2-2 draw at the Emirates this evening.But their reward is a battle against record winners Real, who controversially defeated rivals Atletico Madrid on penalties at the Wanda Metropolitano.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs for Villa, they cruised past Club Brugge 3-0 tonight for a 6-1 aggregate victory.And they will now take on French kings PSG, who ran rings around Liverpool in both legs of their last-16 tie.Amazingly, should Arsenal and Villa come through their quarters unscathed, the English duo will face each other in the semis.On the other side of the draw, Italian champs Inter Milan will take on Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich.Most read in Champions LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsInter beat Feyenoord 2-1 yesterday for a 4-1 aggregate win.While Bayern battered German title holders Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 on aggregate.Arsenal star spotted furiously gesturing at Declan Rice in unseen moment after equaliser against Man UtdThe final quarter tie sees Borussia Dortmund face Barcelona.Dortmund edged past French side Lille 3-2 on aggregate.While Barcelona completed a 4-1 aggregate rout of Benfica on Tuesday. More

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      Arsenal player ratings: Raheem Sterling shines with more confidence against PSV but rusty Ben White makes mistakes

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      ARSENAL set up a Champions League quarter-final showdown with Real Madrid as a 2-2 draw with PSV Eindhoven sealed a 9-3 aggregate win.Raheem Sterling provided two assists for Oleksandr Zinchenko and Declan Rice after Arsenal blew the Dutch champions away by a 7-1 scoreline last Tuesday.Oleksandr Zinchenko scored six minutes into his rare startCredit: GettyDeclan Rice put Arsenal 2-1 up just before the intervalCredit: GettyPSV faced an impossible task of overturning the ridiculous six-goal deficit – but gave it a respectable go.Zinchenko curled in a sixth minute opener, before former Spurs star Ivan Perisic levelled.Rice headed in Sterling’s brilliant cross on the stroke of half-time, before Couhaib Driouech made it 2-2 on the night.But Arsenal now face an even more ominous task of facing 15-time European champions Madrid in the last-eight on April 8.Perhaps Sterling doubling his assist tally for the entire season with two on Wednesday evening was the biggest takeaway. That and Zinchenko refusing to celebrate against his old loan club – where he made 17 appearances in the 2016/2027 season.Arsenal made seven changes ahead of kick-off, with full-back Kieran Tierney playing as a WINGER, alongside stand-in No 9 Mikel Merino.Here is how SunSport’s Dan King rated Arsenal’s performances in North London.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDavid Raya – 7 Had absolutely nothing of note to do before he found himself picking the ball out of the net. Had to find focus quickly because Driouech’s deflected shot was creeping in before the Spaniard fingertipped it around the post.Will not have been impressed with a lot that was going on in front of him, especially down the PSV left. Made another good save, from Isaac Babadi, before being totally exposed again for PSV’s second equaliser, which was also an excellent finish. Saved Jorginho’s blushes late on with another save.Ben White – 4 First start since November 10 after knee surgery just in time for plenty of England speculation..Plenty of energy, pressing high into the PSV half when required and getting forward to deliver a dangerous cross inside 15 minutes.But rustiness clear in two first-half mistakes that almost led to goals for Driouech. He was rescued by Raya the first time, and by Gabriel the second. Hit a tame shot straight at Benitez.Trademark spikiness in a spat with Tyrell Malacia but most of dangers was coming down his flank.Ben White made his first start since NovemberCredit: RexJakub Kiwior – 6 Had to fill in to cover injuries a few times but this was very much a case of his presence indicating a game without much jeopardy. Although he did his best to create some with a panicky attempted clearance that gave Johan Bakayoko a decent chance just before Perisic’s equaliser. Rightly unhappy to be booked for a tussle with Perisic and looked more solid as the game went on.Gabriel – 6 The Brazilian’s decision-making is usually excellent but when faced with a stick or twist dilemma, he left Perisic all on his own to equalise when PSV broke.Regained his composure to make a superb sprinting block in the box when White gave the ball away and could not catch Driouech.Was clearly frustrated with some of his team-mates, judging by the frequent arm gestures and the mini-tantrum after PSV’s second goal.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6 Arteta admitted the youngster became a “liability” in the away leg but gave him the chance to redeem himself in a match with less riding on it.It might be a bit harsh to criticise him for the Perisic goal, but once Gabriel had stepped across MLS really needed to bust a gut to get goal side of the Croat. Almost restored Arsenal’s lead but PSV keeper Walter Benitez actually made a decent smothering save that diverted the ball on to the post. Set up decent second-half chance for Calafiori in solid performance.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7 Instead of inverting into midfield from full back, the Ukrainian was asked to be there all the time. And he made his presence felt with a brilliant finish from outside the box after only six minutes.Zinchenko looked comfortable on the ball, although sometimes looked unsure where he needed to be when out of possession. Yet this was a decent all-round performance, especially compared to Jorginho just inside him. You can never question his commitment to the cause and willingness to do whatever job is asked of him.Jorginho – 4 Man voted most likely by his peers to become a coach was asked to anchor the team in what was at times a 4-1-4-1 formation.There is no doubting the Italian’s footballing brain but you wondered about his legs when he was trying in vain to get back to prevent Perisic’s goal. Important defensive header early in the second half but then caught out, losing the ball and unable to recover as Driouech made it 2-2. Another mistake gave PSV late chance to win it.Declan Rice – 7 The England star had been quietly efficient before restoring Arsenal’s lead with a powerful header. Showed off his usual strength, commitment and stamina in a controlled performance. Arteta had to include some of his regular starting 11 but can ill afford any more injuries to key players, so took the chance to bring Rice off before three-quarter mark. Another Arsenal player to receive a strange yellow card from the Slovenian referee and substituted straight afterwards.Raheem Sterling – 7 Livelier than usual right from the start, releasing the ball for Zinchenko to run on and score.Improved confidence was clear in way he attempted give-and-go’s and solo runs. One of those, and a fine cross, created Arsenal’s second for Rice. Yet the lack of complete belief could be seen in unconvincing finish when Zinchenko played him through late in first half.Faded a bit after the break, but kept going and almost got the goal at the death that most were willing him to score. Booked in stoppage time for rash foul so will miss first leg of QF.Sterling of Arsenal won Man of the Match for his lively first half performanceCredit: GettyKieran Tierney – 6 Having been preferred to Sterling as an attacking substitute in a recent game, the Scottish full back was given the chance to show what he could do from the start.The answer was: not a great deal. His ball retention and passing were fine but he didn’t offer much in the final third.Victim of a spiteful foul by Perisic that somehow didn’t earn a booking.Fair to say that his defensive nous was a help to Lewis-Skelly, the midfielder being picked ahead of him Full-back Kieran Tierney started as a left winger against PSVCredit: GettyMikel Merino – 6 Almost carved himself out a shooting opportunity straight from kick-off but Arsenal’s makeshift striker was soon upstaged by Zinchenko. A backheel flick almost turned into an assist for Lewis-Skelly, but only thanks to a deflection.Adept at holding up the ball and linking play but in terms of threat in the penalty area, the two-goal cameo at Leicester felt like a long time ago. The second half pretty much passed him by until he was taken off in a double change.SUBSLeandro Trossard (’63 for Merino) – 5 Not much is running for the Belgian at the moment. Made little impact, giving a new meaning to the term “false nine”.Riccardo Calafiori (’63 for Rice) – 6 The Italian defender is one of Arsenal’s best finishers but the chance laid on for him by Lewis-Skelly seemed to come too early and his shot was saved. Good block on a Babadi shot.Martin Odegaard (‘ 79 for Zinchenko ) – 6Added a bit of late zip to Arsenal’s attacks lbut did not have enough time to influence proceedings much.Jurrien Timber (‘ 79 for White) – 6On a night when Arsenal used four, five, or even six left backs, depending on your point of view, the Dutchman shored up the Arsenal right in the final minutes..Gabriel Martinelli (’80 for Tierney) – 6Got a few more minutes in his legs ahead of Sunday’s important game against Chelsea.  More

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      Arsenal 2 PSV 2 (agg 9-3): Much-changed Gunners cruise into Champions League quarters despite playing SIX left-backs

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      ARSENAL are back amongst the European big boys – and so is Raheem Sterling.After knocking nine goals past a hapless PSV over two legs, the Gunners have secured back-to-back Champions League quarter finals for the first time in 15 years.Arsenal cruised into the Champions League quarters with an aggregate 9-3 win over PSVCredit: ReutersThe Gunners fielded SIX left-backs as they drew 2-2 on the nightCredit: GettyRaheem Sterling had a blinding game for the GunnersCredit: GettyTheir Prem title hopes may be dashed and injuries continue to cripple them this term, but boss Mikel Arteta has the North Londoners back where they feel they belong on the grandest stage in football.The last time that was the case was under Arsene Wenger, reaching the last eight in 2008 and 2010 – with a semi-final appearance wedged in between in 2009.And there is a growing belief they can go one better than their quarter final defeat to Bayern Munich last term, meeting Real Madrid this time around.Miracles can happen – just look at Sterling.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 30-year-old has spent the majority of this campaign sat on the bench, withering away, crying out for minutes and momentum after failing to make an impression on loan from Chelsea.With accusations his legs had gone, he finally got his chance here – and took it. In just his THIRD 90-minute outing of the season, two first-half assists teed up Oleksandr Zinchenko and Declan Rice.He now has 45 goal involvements in the Champions League (27 goals and 18 assists). Only England legends David Beckham (52), Harry Kane (50) and Wayne Rooney (47) have more.Cheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThe irony is that, after picking up a booking in second half injury time, Sterling will now miss their quarter final first leg. Most read in Champions LeagueBoy do they need Bukayo Saka back from injury sooner rather than later.Jamie Carragher forced to leave CBS Sports studio midway through show after falling illArsenal were never in any danger of failing to progress last night after a record-breaking 7-1 score line out in Eindhoven last week.The visitors earned a second leg draw at the Emirates through goals from Ivan Perisic and Couhaib Driouech, but this was a rare game without any sort of jeopardy or tension.With PSV making five changes, it is why Arteta also opted to experiment with his line-up.A front three of Sterling, Kieran Tierney and Mikel Merino starting a Champions League last 16 clash will be giving Arsenal fans nightmares for weeks.Oleksandr Zinchenko opened the scoring for ArsenalCredit: GettyThe ace refused to celebrate after spending time on loan at PSV earlier in his careerCredit: ReutersHow many Championship clubs would swap their attacking trio for that? It is certainly a world away from first-choice starters Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz.Tierney was one of THREE left-backs starting, alongside Zinchenko and Myles Lewis-Skelly.There was method to the madness. Martinelli has only just returned from injury and, alongside right back Jurrien Timber, is a booking away from missing next month’s quarter final.There was good news at the back. A first start for Ben White since November 10 after his knee operation to complete a muddled-looking outfield that had shades of Hackney Marshes about it.PSV pulled one back to stun the EmiratesCredit: ReutersThe goal came from ex-Tottenham winger Ivan PerisicCredit: PAThe Emirates atmosphere was being fuelled solely by the away end, packed and bouncing over an hour before kick-off dreaming of one of the most improbable comebacks in football history.That lasted all of six minutes. Sterling won the ball and a nice pivot pass sent Zinchenko driving goal wards, darting left and curling a beauty into the far corner.The Ukrainian refused to celebrate, holding his hands up apologetically, paying homage to the 17 appearances he made on loan at PSV back in 2016/17.His teammates barely jumped with joy either – another unnecessary nail in the already-sealed coffin.Declan Rice restored Arsenal’s lead before half timeCredit: ReutersThe ace fired home with a fine headerCredit: GettyYet the visitors were still keen to play a minor role in this North London exhibition, and who else but an old Tottenham foe in Ivan Perisic – the man whose taunts before last week’s first leg backfired spectacularly.Gabriel switched off as Guus Til slipped Perisic in behind before a cute chipped finish over David Raya in the 19th minute. The Dutch travellers erupted ironically in the corner.The Arsenal No.1 was called into more action, tipping a shot from winger Couhaib Driouech around his post. Arteta was irritable, demanding more than the six-goal advantage his team already had.Merino’s back-heeled flick sent Lewis-Skelly through with a jabbed effort that bobbled onto the post.Arsenal ratings vs PSV as Raheem Sterling shines with more confidence but rusty Ben White makes mistakesRAHEEM STERLING provided two assists as Arsenal drew 2-2 with PSV in the second- leg of their 9-2 aggregate Champions League last-16 win.The Gunners set up a Champions League quarter-final showdown with 15-time European champions Real Madrid, who beat Atletico Madrid 4-2 on penalties.Mikel Arteta took the chance to rotate following last week’s 7-1 first-leg win, naming a much-changed side which included Kieran Tierney on the left wing and Oleksandr Zinchenko in midfield.Sterling was also handed a rare start and set up both Arsenal goals in an eye-catching display, first for Zinchenko, and then for Declan Rice before half-time.Ben White struggled during his first start since November after minor undergoing surgery, while Jorginho took over captaincy duties from Martin Odegaard who was named on the bench.Here SunSport’s Dan King delivers his Arsenal player ratings against PSV from the Emirates. There was still time for PSV to find another goalCredit: RexCouhaib Driouech celebrated with passion despite knowing PSV were heading outCredit: GettyAnd then, Sterling rolled back the years with another assist, doubling his entire tally for the season, dinking a 37th minute delivery onto the head of an onrushing Rice.Remarkable what a bit of confidence does, even if he later fluffed two chances to find the net.READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal continued to cruise after the break – perhaps why PSV were gifted another goal as Driouech lobbing Raya in the 70th minute.Not that the home crowd cared one jot. They have the Madrid sunshine on their minds.Mikel Arteta was delighted with his side’s performanceCredit: ReutersArsenal will be heading to Spain in the quartersCredit: Getty More

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      Aston Villa 3 Club Brugge 0 (agg 6-1): Super sub Marco Asensio sets up mouthwatering PSG clash with brilliant double

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      LUIS ENRIQUE could be in for a few sleepless nights as the PSG boss faces up to his worst nightmare.Aston Villa are heading to Paris for a Champions League showdown and Marco Asensio – the man he allowed to leave on loan – is in the form of his life!Marco Asensio celebrates with Marcus Rashford after making it 3-0Credit: PAAsensio cracks the first of his quickfire doubleCredit: GettyBoss Unai Emery’s smile says it all after victoryCredit: GettyThe 29-year-old Spaniard will head back to his old club next month with a point to prove.And he warmed up with a deadly double here to put 10-man Club Brugge to the sword, like a Matador slaying a bull.The three-times Champions League winner has been an absolute steal after joining in the January window.Last night he took this game by the scruff of the neck and delivered his sixth and seventh goals to ease Villa’s nerves – six of which have come in front of an adoring Holte End.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThrow in the fact Unai Emery will also have a grudge to bear against the club who binned him after he delivered a domestic quadruple in 2018, and Enrique might discover beating Liverpool was the easy part!Yet until Asensio came on, with Leon Bailey in a double substitution at half-time Villa looked listless.In truth they did most of the heavy lifting when they won 3-1 in Bruges last week.That left Emery and his side with one foot in the Champions League quarter-finals – his task here was to firmly plant his remaining foot there.Most read in Champions LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsBut there were a few early stumbles along the way as Villa made a nervous start.Brugge knew they had nothing to lose and dominated the first half.Liverpool boss Arne Slot left with sense of shock after Champions League penalty shoot-out exit against PSG Kyriani Sabbe fired a first-time shot over after Matty Cash gifted him the ball with a sloppy pass.Then skipper Jan Vanaken flashed a flashing header inches wide after he burst in front of Tyrone Mings.When Raphael Onyedika blasted in a shot which Ezri Konsa did well to head clear, the Villa fans started to grumble and Emery called for calm on the touchline.But suddenly the pressure valve was eased as Brugge were reduced to 10-men.Emi Martinez deserves credit for doing what none of his teammates could – pierce Brugge’s defence – with a raking 60-yard delivery which picked out Marcus Rashford on the run.The winger sprinted off like a greyhound chasing a hare and although poor Sabbe did his best to halt him, he could only grapple with Rashford before sending him toppling with a clip of his heels.German ref Daniel Siebert reached for his red card and suddenly Villa’s task looked a whole lot simpler with Brugge reduced to 10 men.Youri Tielemans beat the wall from the resultant free kick but Simon Mignolet got down low to push the ball out.Then Ollie Watkins spotted Mignolet off his line but his audacious attempt from 45 yards lacked the height to clear the keeper.Ian Maatsen rejoices after doubling Villa’s lead on the nightCredit: AFPMaatsen helped put Villa in command as they cruised throughCredit: GettyAnd Villa ended the half looking more likely as Rashford slammed a shot into the side netting.But it was Asensio’s arrival at half-time which made all the difference.He finally broke Brugge with a move he started and finished, five minutes after his arrival.His positive burst saw Morgan Rogers feed John McGinn who played in Bailey.The Jamaican’s clever flicked pass was pounced on by Asensio who took the ball off the bounce and fired beyond Mignolet.He almost added a second when he broke clear onto a Tielemans chip, only to hit the post with Mignolet beaten.And Villa doubled their lead before the hour when Rashford’s sublime touch set up Rogers who cut back for Ian Maatsen to score with a deflection off Brandon Mechele.But Asensio wasn’t finished and he made it 3-0 with his second four minutes later.Rashford played a 1-2 with Rogers and cut back for Asensio to beat Mignolet with a simple finish.READ MORE SUN STORIESNext stop – Paris in springtime.I’ll bet Asensio and Emery can’t wait! More

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      ‘WTF is wrong with Chelsea?’ moan fans as Conor Gallagher makes history with one of fastest Champions League goals ever

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      FANS moaned “WTF is wrong with Chelsea?” after Conor Gallagher scored one of the fastest goals in Champions League history.The former Blues star lined up for Atletico Madrid in their hreatbreaking last-16 penalty defeat against city rivals Real.Conor Gallagher scored for Atletico Madrid against Real after just 27 secondsCredit: ReutersChelsea fans bemoaned the situation after selling Gallagher last summerCredit: AFPDiego Simeone’s men lost the first leg 2-1 and came into Wednesday’s game needing a quick goal.But nobody was expecting Gallagher to get off the mark in lightning fashion as he returned to Atleti’s starting XI.The England star needed just 27 SECONDS to fire home past Thibaut Courtois at the Wanda Metropolitano.Gallagher’s first goal in nine games sent Atletico supporters wild and gave his side an immediate platform to launch a potential comeback.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIndeed, Chelsea fans also sang the ace’s praises as they lamented last summer’s shock exit.Gallagher was flogged by Todd Boehly and Co for just £33million to satisfy PSR demands following a £1.2billlion spending spree.The 25-year-old had previously spent nearly two decades at Stamford Bridge after joining the club as a six-year-old.And replacement Joao Felix — signed from Atletico — has already been loaned out to AC Milan after failing to fill Gallagher’s boots.Most read in Champions LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsOne fan, who targeted fellow pricey midfield arrival Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, said: “Chelsea actually sold Gallagher just to end up with Dewsbury-Hall. Wtf is wrong with this club?”Another declared: “Unbelievable goal from Gallagher, why did Chelsea sell this guy?”Ex-Chelsea star Conor Gallagher already has his own song at Atletico Madrid as he’s serenaded by packed stadium on debutOne noted: “Chelsea fans in regret.”Another added: “Gallagher to Atletico has been a slam dunk signing, did not see that coming. Apparently neither did Chelsea.”Indeed, one supporter backed Gallagher to receive a call-up for Thomas Tuchel’s first-ever England squad on Friday.And the German boss was even urged to build his side around Gallagher.The fan said: “Build the team around him Thomas.”Unfortunately for Gallagher though, his goal after 27 seconds was still not enough to be crowned the fastest-ever Champions League strike.Indeed, it doesn’t even make the top five, with Roy Makaay’s 2007 strike for Bayern Munich against Real Madrid coming in just 10.12 seconds.Jonas’ 2011 goal for Valencia against Bayer Leverkusen occurred in 10.96 seconds.While Gilberto Silva’s 2002 effort for Arsenal against PSV Eindhoven came in 20.07 seconds.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Gallagher’s hit does make him the quickest-ever Englishman to net a goal in Europe’s top competition.Unfortunately for the ex-Chelsea man, Atletico still crashed out of Europe as they lost on penalties to Real after a thrilling clash.Fastest Champions League goals10.12 seconds: Roy Makaay (Bayern Munich 2 Real Madrid 1, 2007)2. 10.96 seconds: Jonas (Valencia 3 Bayer Leverkusen 1, 2011)3. 20.07 seconds: Gilberto Silva (PSV 0 Arsenal 4, 2002)4. 20.12 seconds: Alessandro Del Piero (Man Utd 3 Juventus 2, 1997)5. 21.06 seconds: Clarence Seedorf (Schalke 2 AC Milan 2, 2005) More