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      Champions League star’s four-year-old son suddenly dies with footballer ‘on floor destroyed’ by tragic news

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      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE star Meschack Elia had to pull out of a key game after the tragic death of his four-year-old son.The DR Congo striker has won four league titles with Swiss club Young Boys.Meschack Elia has suffered a tragic lossCredit: AlamyLukasz Lakomy holds up Elia’s shirt in tribute last nightCredit: GettyElia played in their 3-0 loss to Aston Villa in September, and scored a stunning goal against Manchester City last season.The 27-year-old was due to figure in the Berne club’s Champions League clash with Stuttgart on Wednesday.But he instead flew back to the Congo after learning one of his twin boys had passed away after a short illness.Elia’s partner Sarah was in the central African country with their sons and one-year-old daughter.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYoung Boys striker Lukasz Lakomy held Elia’s shirt aloft after scoring in the 5-1 loss at Stuttgart.The club announced: “Meschack Elia and Young Boys received incredibly sad news on Tuesday.”To everyone’s surprise, one of Meschack’s sons has died after a brief illness.”Elia’s partner had travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo, with their sons, where the tragic event took place.”Most read in FootballClub spokesman Albert Staudenmann said: “Meschack was on the floor when he heard the news – he was destroyed.”He went to his team-mates, who tried to support him with words and embraces.”We spoke to the players before the Stuttgart game, and nobody said they didn’t want to take part.”They all wanted to be in it together, and to give their all.”Young Boys are bottom of the 36-team Champions League table after losing all six of their games so far.They are due to visit Celtic on January 22.Both teams observed a moment of silence ahead of last night’s gameCredit: Getty More

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      Is this the secret to nullify Arsenal’s corners? Monaco’s two simple tactics could be blueprint for Premier League clubs

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      MONACO nullified Arsenal’s set-piece prowess last night with two interesting tactical manouvres.The Gunners swept past the Ligue 1 side 3-0 at the Emirates in the Champions League.Monaco took a different approach to defending Arsenal corners last nightCredit: APBut in a departure from recent matches, none of their goals came from corners.In their last Premier League game against Fulham, William Saliba equalised from a corner routine.The Frenchman also scored from a corner against Manchester United in a game that saw Jurrien Timber net via the same method.Last night, Monaco boss Adi Hutter tried a different approach to most Prem coaches.READ MORE ON ARSENALIt has become customary across the English leagues for sides to now send everyone back to defend corners.This often leads to congested penalty areas with, at times, all 11 players on the defending team in the 18-yard box.Under the tutelage of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, Arsenal have become masters of chaos as deliveries get whipped in.Monaco, however, found a way to combat their threat.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIn a move reminiscent of a tactic used by Jose Mourinho at Porto 20 years ago, Hutter’s men left three players up near the halfway line for each corner.This led to Arsenal sending three players back in order to stop a potential counter.Arsenal Player Ratings vs MonacoMonaco also sent a player towards the corner to prevent a short option, thus reducing congestion further still.With fewer Arsenal players in the penalty area, Mikel Arteta’s side possessed fewer threats.Ordinarily the Gunners would have at least one player attempting to disrupt the goalkeeper during corner routines.But with fewer men in the box, Radoslaw Majecki found himself to be far less bothered than most Prem stoppers have been against Arsenal this term.Monaco left three men up during Arsenal cornersMonaco also sent a man over to cover the short optionIrrespective of their relative success in defending corners, Monaco still fell to a 3-0 defeat courtesy of two open-play goals by Bukayo Saka and a late Kai Havertz strike.Ahead of the game, a mural of Jover was seen outside the Emirates.The German-born French coach was recent dubbed the “most annoying bloke in football” by Man Utd legend Gary Neville.Jover, 43, joined Arteta’s coaching staff in 2021.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince the start of last season, the Gunners have scored 22 goals from corners.This is more than any other Premier League club in that timeframe.Arsenal ordinarily like to disrupt the opposition goalkeeperCredit: GettyA mural of Nicolas Jover was spotted outside the Emirates last nightCredit: RexHow to stop Arsenal at cornersArsenal have turned into a prolific team when it comes to scoring from corners.The Gunners have now scored 22 goals from them since the start of last season – seven more than their nearest rival Manchester City and eight more than Premier League leaders Liverpool.Two of them came against Manchester United – Jurrien Timber and William Saliba netting in the second half to earn Mikel Arteta’s men a vital win as they chase down Arne Slot’s Reds.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were the architects with their deliveries, and each now have seven set-piece assists since the start of the 2023/24 campaign – more than any other player.United legend Dimitar Berbatov joked Arsenal are the new Stoke City of the top flight – a side under Tony Pulis who terrorised the so-called “bigger clubs” with set-piece mastery.Here are four ways to stop Arteta’s side at corners More

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      Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck rushed to hospital after horror injury leaving manager in ‘shock’

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      BORUSSIA DORTMUND centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck was rushed to hospital after suffering what appeared to be a serious injury against Barcelona.The 25-year-old fell awkwardly on his ankle while attempting to equalise late in the Champions League match.Nico Schlotterbeck suffered a horrific ankle injury against BarcelonaCredit: GettyHe was stretchered off after full-timeCredit: GettyThe defender landed awkwardly after going for a headerCredit: RexWith the score 3-2 to Barcelona at Signal Iduna Park, a free kick from Pascal Gross found Schlotterbeck in the box.The defender’s headed effort flew narrowly over the crossbar and he severely twisted his ankle while landing.Referee François Letexier immediately called the team doctors over before ending the match for full-time.After receiving some immediate treatment, he was eventually stretchered off the pitch.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was later filmed being loaded into an ambulance.Dortmund manager Nuri Sahin provided an update on Schlotterbeck’s injury during his post-match press conference.He explained: “The sight was terrible. We have to deal with this shock.”If you look at the images, it doesn’t look good. A sleepless night awaits.”Most read in Champions LeagueBVB sporing director Sebastian Kehl later added: “His foot is thickly bandaged. We’ll await the diagnosis tomorrow.”And midfielder Emre Can said: “He was in a lot of pain on the pitch. I hope it’s not too bad.”Dortmund went on to lose the match 3-2 against Barcelona.Raphinha opened the scoring for the visitors just after half-time.Serhou Guirassy then equalised but Ferran Torres restored Barcelona’s lead.Guirassy levelled things up again, but Torres responded by netting the winner in the 85th minute. More

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      Ruben Amorim tells Man Utd stars they are ALL on trial ahead of January transfer window with no player safe from axe

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      RUBEN AMORIM told Manchester United’s stars they are ALL on trial before the January transfer window.Erik ten Hag and sporting director Dan Ashworth have already been axed this season — and new boss Amorim admits more exits will follow if results do not improve.Ruben Amorim is willing to play the pantomime villain by axing some the failing Man Utd castCredit: GettyHe has warned that every player is on trial and could leave as soon as January if results do not improveCredit: ReutersAhead of taking on Viktoria Plzen this evening in the Europa League, he said: “We have good players, we need time to teach them our ideas and then we’ll see because this is a massive club.“If we don’t win, the coach goes, the player goes — so you have to know that.”Hit-or-miss opening results for the Old Trafford faithful have also left Amorim with no qualms about playing the pantomime villain as he considers changing the cast.The problem is that, after a £660million splurge under Ten Hag in just over two years, there are just beans rather than gold coins left to work with.READ MORE IN MAN UTDAmorim is ready to search in the land of the giants to start with, believing that the squad is just too short to deal with set-pieces at both ends of the pitch.United have conceded three goals from corners in the last two games, as well as a looping header from Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood.And if United’s players rest for a minute in Amorim’s set-up, it is worth reminding them: “He’s behind you!”Amorim said: “I’m really focused to see my players and to understand my players.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“We have to focus on what we have. We have to focus on the academy and to have a clear profile of the players. So it’s a lot of details you have to manage.“You can see at set-pieces, sometimes you look at our team, we are a small team compared to others.Dan Ashworth leaves Man Utd after just five months with Sir Jim Ratcliffe ordering shock boardroom shake-up“Every detail counts and we have to be very clear in the profiles, arrange all the process and go to that phase of buying and selling players.“We have to improve as a team, we have to arrange a lot of things in our club before thinking just about buying or selling players.”If anyone thought Amorim was a modern-day footballing Merlin who could immediately magic better performances out of this team, two successive defeats have suggested otherwise.The limitations seen under Ten Hag were evident away to Arsenal and at home to Forest.Amorim said that against title-chasing Arsenal in particular, you could see how far behind a team of that calibre United were. It got no better against Forest — and Amorim has no time on the training pitch to try to change things with games coming thick and fast.The Red Devils travelled to the Czech Republic yesterday ahead of tonight’s Europa League game against Viktoria Plzen. And on Sunday it is the Manchester derby at the Etihad.Amorim said: “I know it’s a big job. It’s really tough to win in our league. We have to improve. There’s a lot at stake in this moment — we have a lot to do, a lot of games. We don’t have time to train.Inside Man Utd chaos with Dan Ashworth axed just five months into jobBy Neil CustisThe blame game has another victim as things go from bad to worse at Old Trafford.Manchester United’s first sporting director, Dan Ashworth, arrived in the summer and is gone before Christmas.SunSport exclusively revealed in November that there was trouble at mill.That the new senior management team were already blaming each other for the mess the club were in.Chief executive Omar Berrada and Ashworth were trying to wash their hands of it all, claiming they had arrived too late after serving their gardening leave.New part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said making decisions was all down to them.Meanwhile, Jason Wilcox thought it was all a mess under previous boss Erik ten Hag but was part of the team that encouraged him to stay after every other candidate ran for cover.Defeat Nottingham Forest in December, after their second-half capitulation at Arsenal a few days previously, proved too much.READ MORE ON MAN UTD’S CHAOS “Sometimes I have one idea in the first week, second week I have a different idea and then we have to see what happens as everything is so close, all the games before what is happening in the window in January.”United currently stand 13th in the Premier League but Amorim already has his sights set on the ultimate goal of winning the title during his time in charge.He said: “We want to take this club to win the Premier League and be an elite club, like this club should be.”For now he understands that this season, reaching the Champions League has to be a realistic target.To do that, it could be easier to do so by winning the Europa League, as Jose Mourinho accepted back in 2017 and achieved that by beating Ajax in the final in Stockholm.Amorim said: “You can do the maths and understand what is needed for the Champions League and look at the table and see that the Europa League is easier.”United are currently 12th in the Europa League standings on the same points as tonight opponents Viktoria Plzen in the Doosan Arena.The top eight qualify automatically for the knockout stage and Amorim says it is vital they do that to avoid a two-legged play-off in February.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “It’s really important to go to the next stage. We need to win this game because of all of that.“If you pass to the next stage without the play-off, we take off two games.”Man Utd ratings vs Nottingham ForestMANCHESTER UNTED slipped to another defeat under Ruben Amorim after being shocked 3-2 at Old Trafford by Nottingham Forest.Here’s how Neil Custis rated the players…ANDRE ONANA – 3Had an absolute shocker. For the second Forest goal Morgan Gibbs-White shot is straight down the middle along the floor.It maybe swerves a foot at most and he somehow couldn’t stop it. For the third he just let it loop over his head. He cannot command his area.LENY YORO – 6The 19-year-old was making his first start for United and immediately looked unphased. Ruben Amorim has high hopes for someone he calls ‘a special talent’.He is easing him into the team after his summer injury and subbed him just past the hour.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Amorim has tasked him with bringing the ball out from the back to set United moves going.Looked good in the first balf but what was he doing for Forest’s third as he let Chris Wood’s header go thinking it was going wide.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 4It was said his lack of height would not be a problem but it was after 80 seconds here as Nikola Milenkovic headed home on 80 seconds.Then for Forest’s third he didn’t known what to do as the ball went over him at the far post.AMAD DIALLO – 7Looking more and more like a United star with his positive forward runs from his new wing-back role.Had a couple of good chances himself but shots were weak, then made a great run and cut back before setting up Fernandes for United’s second.MANUEL UGARTE – 7Looked constantly concerned with his defensive duties and understandably.Is a solid presence on the pitch though and a decent buy compared to plenty of others.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Ugarte was having a good game in front of the back three allowing Mainoo to get further forward in the second-half when he became more of a threat.DIOGO DALOT – 6Compared to Amad on the opposite flank did not have much of an influence. Got forward a lot more in the second-half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Was always involved. But does the captain really have to contest every single decision the referee makes against his team.Made up for his loose pass that gave away possession for Forest’s second by scoring a fine goal himself.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6That’s three goals in three games after his pair against Bodo Glimt but there is still not enough movement from the front man.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Not his best game and looked far from happy when he was hauled off early in the second-half for Marcus Rashford.SUBSTITUTIONS…MARCUS RASHFORD (for Garnacho, 58) – 6These are the games he should be starting and starring in but that’s just not the case.MAZRAOUI (for Yoro 66) – 6One of those the recruitment team did at least get right.HARRY MAGUIRE (for De Ligt 65) – 6When Amorim decides on his best starting eleven Maguire should be in it.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (for Ugarte 76) – 5Not surprisingly failed to have an impact.MASON MOUNT (for Fernandes 76) – 6Amorim has high hopes for him but he is still to convince the United faithful. Needs a long injury free run. More

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      Bukayo Saka cheekily hits out at Havertz for stealing hat-trick goal but tells Arsenal fans ‘don’t worry it’s coming’

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      BUKAYO SAKA aimed a cheeky dig towards Kai Havertz after his Arsenal team-mate “got in the way” of his first hat-trick.Saka, 23, was a top performer for the Gunners as they beat Monaco 3-0 at the Emirates in the Champions League.Buakyo Saka scored twice for Arsenal against MonacoCredit: GettyAnd he joked team-mate Kai Havertz ‘got in the way’ of him scoring a hat-trickCredit: GettyThe winger netted twice before assisting the third scored by Havertz, 25.Arsenal’s opener came as Saka got in at the far post for a tap-in after Gabriel Jesus fired the ball across the face of goal in the 34th minute.In the 78th minute pressure on the goalkeeper and defender playing out from Havertz allowed Saka to nick the ball back before doubling his side’s lead and his tally for the night.The third and final goal came as Saka shot a deflected strike on target from close range.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaka had directed the ball towards the far corner before Havertz was quickest to react at the near post and guide the ball into the net in the 88th minute.The Havertz touch potentially denied Saka his first Arsenal hat-trick.And speaking to TNT Sports after the game, he joked: “Yeah, he got in the way of it.”But Saka declared the elusive feat would arrive soon, adding: “But don’t worry it’s coming, it’s coming.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe win saw Arsenal take a major step towards automatic qualification in the Champions League, placing them on 13 points.Their next match in the tournament now won’t arrive until January 22 when they host Dinamo Zagreb, before they head to Girona the following week for the final game in the revamped league phase.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’Saka’s brace also took his tally for the season up to nine goals and 12 assists, with his European goal tally being doubled thanks to his Emirates exploits.Post-match he was also full of praise for teen star Myles Lewis-Skelly, who had an outstanding game out of position at left-back.Saka said of the teen: “I said to him before the game that this is his level and he needs to have no doubts and do what we see him do in training. Amazed with him and he played a big part in the first goal.Arsenal play host to Everton on Saturday for their next game. More

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      Arsenal find answer to left-back conundrum in brilliant Lewis-Skelly as Saka reveals four-word pep talk before Monaco

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      MIKEL ARTETA did not hold back in his praise for Myles Lewis-Skelly after his first Champions League start as Arsenal’s latest graduate more than repaid the faith.Lewis-Skelly showed the confidence and understanding of a player with more than 100 appearances under his belt as the Gunners saw off Monaco 3-0.Myles Lewis-Skelly stole the show on his Champions League debutCredit: GettyBrave on the ball and playing a key role in Arsenal’s first goal – this was a night he can remember fondly.While Arteta continues to worry about just how many injuries are piling up in North London – at least he now has someone he can trust at left-back.With Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori sidelined and Jurrien Timber not ready to start, the 18-year-old was given the nod ahead of Kieran Tierney.Arteta hailed the youngster after his Champions League debut versus Monaco, saying: “A really proud moment. He’s one of our own. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s just a joy to watch it him, a privilege to be able to give the chance to somebody. He took the chance.”Gunners fans have had glimpses in the past, especially when he was involved in a spat with Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland before he had even turned 18.But with his progress this season having been hindered by an infected toe, supporters have had to wait a while longer for a proper display.There was plenty to be excited about here, with even Bukayo Saka raving about his display, saying: “His future is very bright.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.”I just said to him, like I said to him before the game – this is his level.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone'”He needs to have no doubts and play with confidence.“What he’s doing, we see it in training. I was pleased with him, he was a big part of the first goal.”Despite being the youngest player to start in the Champions League for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, Lewis-Skelly was not lacking in confidence.Whether that was on the ball, taking possession in tight spaces and always looking to play forwards, or telling other far more senior team-mates where they should be.Lewis-Skelly completed a very impressive 45 of 47 attempted passes, always looking to keep the tempo up and with team-mates not afraid to hand him the ball.Arteta asks his full-backs to move inside when the Gunners are in possession and, having come through the ranks as a midfielder, the teen looks more than comfortable doing so.He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.Bukayo SakaIt was from this position he helped craft the opener.Having shifted inside alongside Declan Rice, Lewis-Skelly collected a pass from skipper Martin Odegaard.Under pressure from Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, the No49 took a touch backwards to draw the Frenchman in before darting forwards, leaving him stranded.The England Under-19 settled himself and quickly set Gabriel Jesus in behind with a fine pass, from where the Brazilian squared to setup Saka.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs the Gunners had to dig in after the break, Arteta sent on the more experienced Timber to shore things up.But Lewis-Skelly still departed to a standing ovation – surely not the last he will receive from Arsenal supporters.Arsenal ratings vs Monaco as Lewis-Skelly gets standing ovation but Merino is heavy and slowBUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 7/10Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do.Commanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray.Wasn’t caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco’s left side.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten.JAKUB KIWIOR – 7A capable deputy in Gabriel’s absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco.A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco’s press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal’s opener.Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes.DECLAN RICE – 7Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks.Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn’t his job this evening with Merino alongside him.MIKEL MERINO – 4I wasn’t moved.Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard – Merino – Rice midfield they were excited about. Looked heavy and slow, and got booked.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal.Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4A threat down the left side in the first half, he should’ve had an assist were it not for Arsenal’s number nine.While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough.BUKAYO SAKA – 8In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus.Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games – clinical.GABRIEL JESUS – 5Could’ve had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie.What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal.SUBS:LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5Much the same story as the man whom he replaced.JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it.JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal’s level didn’t drop much.KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka’s second.Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third.ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5Another good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future.Some good touches to get the home fans excited. 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      Arsenal 3-0 Monaco LIVE RESULT: Bukayo Saka on the double as Gunners sail into third in Champions League table

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      ARSENAL defeated Monaco 3-0 in a one-sided clash as the Gunners leapt up to third in the Champions League table.Bukayo Saka fired the Gunners ahead after a stunning move which was kicked off by 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, who started at left-back.Saka then doubled Arsenal’s lead with 15 minutes to play, capitalising on a horror Monaco defensive error in their own box.Kai Havertz appeared to knock home the Gunners’ third after connecting with Saka’s shot to put the game out of the French side’s reach – but it was later ruled as a Thilo Kehrer own goal with the defender having the final touch.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the reaction from the Emirates with our live blog below…That’s all from the EmiratesThe frustrations of Fulham have been forgotten.After Premier League disappointment at the weekend, Arsenal roared back with a comprehensive home victory in the Champions League that has them flying high in Europe.Bukayo Saka was once against the Gunners’ star boy with his double added to by an own goal from former West Ham man Thilo Kehrer.The result has Mikel Arteta’s men back in the winning mood, and that could prove crucial when they return to Emirates entertainment against Everton on Saturday.We’ll be in place to bring you all the action on the afternoon – you won’t miss a kick!Until then, thank you for joining us and goodnight.Copy linkCopiedLift off for Lewis-SkellyAt 18 years and 76 days, Myles Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to start a Champions League match for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back in September 2011.And now the teenager has his sights on a similar career at the top level of the game – albeit without the injuries endured by his predecessor.Lewis-Skelly completed 45 of 47 passes evening (96%), the best passing accuracy by an Arsenal teenager in Europe’s top competition since Johan Djourou (97%) against Hamburg in September 2006, the same month Lewis-Skelly was born.After the game, the 18-year-old revealed that he hoped this was the basis for many more European appearances at the Emirates. I’m proud of myself, and I believe in myself. I’ve come a long way and I just want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity; hopefully, it’s the first of many. I’ll push on from here.”Myles Lewis-SkellyTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedArteta delighted with fast startMikel Arteta revealed himself to be a very happy Arsenal manager after this evening’s three-goal win over Monaco. But the Gunners boss admitted his team had to worked hard in the second period to keep their noses in front before a late second from Bukao Saka and an own goal from Thilo Kehrer sealed matters.However, Arteta believed that the result was just rewards for his team’s performance in the opening 45 minutes, a half in which they could have killed the contest off.I’m very happy tonight. I’m happy with scoring three goals, keeping a clean sheet and winning the game. We started the game so very well, and in the first-half we should have been at least three or four up at least. We could have put the game to bed, but we didn’t.Mikel ArtetaTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedBukayo the star of the showSensational Bukayo Saka was the standout star for Arsenal once again as he hit a double at the Emirates to down Monaco.The 23-year-old has now scored in six of his seven Champions League home appearances for the Gunners, while he has been involved in 14 goals in 14 games overall for the Londoners in the competition (eight goals and six assists).In all competitions this season, only Mohamed Salah (16 goals and 12 assists) has been involved in more goals among Premier League players this season than Saka (nine goals and 12 assists).Copy linkCopiedSaka: Myles can go forBukayo Saka scored two goals to fire Arsenal into the top eight of the Champions League table, and then paid tribute to his teenage teammate Myles Lewis-Skelly.Lewis-Skelly was making his first Champions League start at left-back for the Gunners and performed admirably, playing his part in the opening goal.[Myles’ future] is very bright! He just needs to keep the same head that he’s had so far. His mentality is top, and he’s always asking questions and looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.Bukayo SakaTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedKai suffers goal blowOh no for Kai Havertz!OG yes for Thilo Kehrer!UEFA have confirmed in the last few minutes that Arsenal’s third this evening has officially gone down in the record books as an own-goal by Monaco captain Kehrer.The former West Ham man is adjudged to have got the telling final touch despite the slightest deflection from Havertz on Bukayo Saka’s initial shot.Copy linkCopiedChampions League matchday six resultsThe new-look League Phase in the Champions League is now three-quarters of the way through its inaugural campaign, and European life is looking good for Arsenal and their Premier League rivals.The Gunners joined Aston Villa and Liverpool in registering wins on matchday six, and the three clubs now occupy the top five places in the 32-team table.However, it’s a different story for the 2022 champions Manchester City, who fell to another defeat and are now in real danger of not even making the play-off stage of the competition.AC Milan 2-1 Red Star BelgradeArsenal 3-0 MonacoAtletico Madrid 3-1 Slovan BratislavaBenfica 0-0 BolognaDortmund 2-3 BarcelonaFeyenoord 4-2 Sparta PragueJuventus 2-0 Man CityLille 3-2 Sturm GrazStuttgart 5-1 Young BoysCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from the EmiratesSince the start of last season, Arsenal have won seven of their eight Champions League home games (D1), keeping a clean sheet in every single one of those victories.The Gunners’ seven clean sheets are the most by a side on home soil in the competition over the last two campaigns.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn in TurinA good night for Arsenal, but another troubling one for Manchester City. Martin Blackburn has the latest from Turin after the Premier League champions fall to a 2-0 defeat at Juventus…One win in 10 matches now as Manchester City’s season continues to unravel.Seven of those have been defeats and with games against United and Aston Villa to come it could yet get worse before it gets better. City are shipping goals at an alarming rate – while struggling to take their chances when they are on top.In the shadow of the Alps, this defeat shows Pep has a mountain to climb to restore his team to what they were.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Arsenal 3-0 MonacoLife is three and easy for Arsenal this evening.Three goals, three points, and third in the Champions League table to match their third spot in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-0 Monaco90. Three minutes of stoppage time has been signalled by the fourth official, which is just enough time for everyone inside the Emirates Stadium to point out that all the goals this evening were scored from open play.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-0 Monaco88. The ball is turned in, and Arsenal have three goals to match their three points.Kai Havertz is the one claiming the third, but it’s going to take some further inspection to work out what happened.Replays show an angled shot from Bukayo Saka shot on the right deflects up into the net at the near post after a touch off the shin of Havertz, and then a more telling one from Monaco defender Thilo Kehrer.And while the visiting captain doesn’t want any part in the celebrations, the Arsenal substitute is more than happy to have his name back on the scoresheet.Copy linkCopiedIcing on the cake!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco85. There are five minutes left on the clock, and with Arsenal having made all of their substitutions, it means Bukayo Saka will be playing the full 90.The forward has never scored a hat-trick for the Gunners, although he has netted one for England. Is this the night?Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco82. With another three Champions League points in the bag, Mikel Arteta feels its time for another impressive cameo from Ethan Nwaneri.The Hale End wonderkid replaces club captain Martin Odegaard.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco80. Monaco boss Adi Hutter responds with a triple change.Jordan Teze, Eliot Matazo and George Ilenikhena are on for the visitors, replacing Vanderson, the excellent Lamine Camara and Breel Embolo.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco 78. A goal scored by Bukayo Saka in North London – but made at the Southampton defensive circus by Mohammed Salisu.The centre-back may not ply his trade at St Mary’s anymore, but is just as adept at making a mess of playing out from the back as anyone in red and white stripes this season.Salisu’s short pass to goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki is charged down by Kai Havertz, and when the ball pops back up in his direction, he is too slow to react.One player who is never slow is Saka, who nips in to control, and cooly knock home from close range.Game over.Copy linkCopiedSealed by Saka!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco74. Well, it really should have been sealed by the home side on the break!Arsenal turn over play quickly and counter with Leandro Trossard leading the charge.The Belgian has the simple task of playing in the unmarked Martin Odegaard on his right, but fluffs the pass by hitting the only defender in his way.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco 72. You do get the sense that there is a second goal in this, but whether it comes from Monaco finally breaking through or Arsenal capitalising on the counter, I don’t know.Eighteen minutes plus stoppage time remain in North London, and a place in the top eight of the League Phase is up for grabs.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco70. Monaco are pinning Arsenal back with a spell of relentless running, if somewhat lacking in penetration.In particular, 20-year-old Lamine Camara has looked very good in midfield for the visitors.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco68. With a quarter of the contest remaining, Arsenal’s lead remains a narrow one – and they have just not got going in the second period.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco66. Embolo! It should be 1-1!The Swiss striker finds room to turn in the box, and from 10 yards out thumps his shot narrowly wide of the post.It might even have rippled the side-netting on the way through.It’s the closest Monaco have come to scoring this evening.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco65. A trio of changes from Mikel Arteta.The Arsenal coach introduces Jurrien Timber, Jorginho and Leandro Trossard for Myles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli.Lewis-Skelly, in particular, can be pleased with his work on his first ever Champions League start.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco63. The third yellow card of the encounter is shown to Monaco’s right-back Vanderson.The Brazilian is cautioned for pulling the shirt of Gabriel Martinelli.He joins his compatriot in the book along with Mikel Marino, who was yellow carded a few minutes ago. Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal ratings: Lewis-Skelly gets standing ovation after Champions League debut but Merino looks heavy and slow

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      BUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.The Gunners missed several huge chances to wrap the game up in the first-half, with Gabriel Jesus leaving his shooting boots at home.Bukayo Saka scored for the goals for ArsenalCredit: ReutersWonderkid Myles Lewis-Skelly impressedCredit: GettySaka almost got his hat-trick, but a nick from Kai Havertz saw the German credited with the Gunners’ third, to wrap up a vital three points to strengthen Arsenal’s grip on a top eight finish.Here is how SunSport rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 7/10Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCommanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray.Wasn’t caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco’s left side.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWILLIAM SALIBA – 7Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’JAKUB KIWIOR – 7A capable deputy in Gabriel’s absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco.And what a debut it was! A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco’s press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal’s opener.Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes.DECLAN RICE – 7Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks.Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn’t his job this evening with Merino alongside him.A very, very good Premier League or Champions League number six.MIKEL MERINO – 4I wasn’t moved.Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard – Merino – Rice midfield they were giggling and kicking their feet about, with the Spaniard not offering much in midfield.Looked heavy and slow, and got booked.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal.Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4A threat down the left side in the first half, he should’ve had an assist were it not for Arsenal’s number nine.While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough.BUKAYO SAKA – 8In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus.Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games – clinical.Added an assist to his tally too, as his shot was turned in by Kai Havertz at the death.GABRIEL JESUS – 5Could’ve had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie.What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal.SUBS:LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5Much the same story as the man whom he replaced.Plenty of the ball in dangerous areas, but didn’t manage to do anything with it.JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it.Almost got an assist for Nwaneri in added time.JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal’s level didn’t drop much.Not quite as good at progressing the ball as the Hale End graduate tonight.KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka’s second.Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third.ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5READ MORE SUN STORIESAnother good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future.Some good touches to get the home fans excited. More