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      Watch Man Utd flop Van de Beek score first goal in more than TWO YEARS then celebrate wildly in Champions League

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      DONNY Van de Beek scored his first goal in over two years as new club Girona suffered a 3-2 defeat to Feyenoord in the Champions League.The former Manchester United man found the back of the net for the first time since August 2022.Donny van de Beek scored his first goal in over two years against Feyenoord on Wednesday nightCredit: GettyArnaut Danjuma set Van de Beek up inside the boxCredit: TNT SportsHe tucked it past the Feyenoord keeper and into the back of the netCredit: ReutersVan de Beek ran off and celebrated wildly after ending his goalscoring droughtCredit: TNT SPORTSThe former Manchester United man relished his moment in the spotlightCredit: EPAVan de Beek, 27, failed to settle in at Man Utd after his £40m move from Ajax back in 2020.The Dutchman was sent on a string of loans after struggling for game time, with his last goal coming against Arsenal back in August 2022 during a loan spell with Everton.But that all changed this summer when he finally earned a permanent move away from Old Trafford and joined Spanish side Girona.A new home seems to have come with a return to form too as the midfielder scored his first goal since that day at the Emirates Stadium 26 months ago.READ MORE ON MAN UTDVan de Beek was teed up by Arnaut Danjuma inside the area and smashed home to level the scores to 2-2 against Feyenoord in the Champions League league phase clash.The 19-time Netherlands international celebrated wildly having pulled his side back level and finally got on the scoresheet after a lengthy goal drought.However, his goal was ultimately in vain as just six minutes later teammate Ladislav Krejci turned the ball into his own net and put Feyenoord back ahead. The 3-2 defeat is Girona’s second in the Champions League this season, compounding their 1-0 loss to PSG on matchday one.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe La Liga club put together a spectacular season last term, finishing third in the Spanish top flight – just four points behind Barcelona in second.Van de Beek will be hoping he has taken the right step to re-track his off the rails career after his nightmare spell at the Theatre of Dreams.Cristiano Ronaldo ‘agreed to rejoin Man Utd with Real Madrid star in £200m deal’ After making the switch to Man Utd, Van de Beek only made 23 STARTS in four years for the Red Devils.While his loan spells with Everton and Eintracht Frankfurt were just as fruitless making just five starts for the Toffees and only four for Frankfurt. More

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      Elated Prince William celebrates as Aston Villa beat Bayern Munich in Champions League – after posing with legends

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      AN ELATED Prince William roared as his his beloved Aston Villa beat Bayern Munich in a huge Champions League clash.Villans fan Wills was at Villa Park to watch his team’s battle with the Bundesliga giants – led by England skipper Harry Kane.Prince William celebrates Aston Villa’s victory against Bayern MunichCredit: GettyPrince William in the stands during the UEFA Champions League match at Villa ParkCredit: TNT SportsThe Prince of Wales posing with Aston Villa and Bayern Munich LegendsCredit: InstagramThe Prince of Wales, 42, was seen cheering on his team from the stands as they beat Bayern Munich 1-0.Television footage showed William clapping and cheering as home fans thought they took the lead through Pau Torres – but the goal was ruled out for offside.Jhon Duran was the matchwinner this time as he continued his role of super sub, with a 79th-minute strike his fifth goal after coming off the bench this season.It sent Villa Park wild as memories of that famous night in 1982 were evoked, with Prince William leading the celebrations from the stand.read more on footballAfter the game, William said: “I’ve lost my voice. I can’t quite believe it. 42 years.”Players from the 1982 Euro final – where Villa beat Bayern 1-0 thanks to a Peter Withe strike – met before the game.And Wills got a chance to speak to Villa legends and even get close to the famous European Cup trophy.In a touching tribute, the players posed with football shirts including one in the name of former striker Gary Shaw.Most read in FootballThe footy legend died earlier this month aged 63-years-old.Wills posted online at the time: “The last time @AVFCOfficial won in the top European competition, it was the month before I was born.Prince William cheers for Aston Villa “Let’s hope tonight is the first step towards another European adventure!”My thoughts this evening are also with Villa legend Gary Shaw’s friends and family following his passing yesterday.”The Prince of Wales shared the group photo with the football legends on X, formerly known as Twitter.He wrote: “42 years on, our 1982 European Cup winning legends are here on a historic night for @AVFCOfficial.The Prince of Wales celebrates Villa’s victory on the final whistle in BirminghamCredit: GettyWills spoke to Villa legends and even got close to the famous European Cup trophyCredit: InstagramWilliam celebrating a Villa goal during the clash – unfortunately, it was disallowedCredit: APPrince William led the celebrations from the standCredit: Getty”Ready for the first game on home turf in this year’s European adventure… #UTV (Up the Villa).”Villa, who opened their European campaign with a 3-0 win away at Swiss side Young Boys, played their first home fixture in Europe’s top competition since a quarter-final defeat to Juventus in 1983.Earlier on Wednesday, footballing stars including former Scotland player Ally McCoist received honours from William at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.McCoist, who was made an OBE, said the pair talked about football, including Aston Villa’s European tie.McCoist said: “I’m obviously well aware that the prince is an Aston Villa fan – they’ve got a very, very big game tonight, which I think he’s going to.”So we spoke about that, and just generally working in broadcasting and life really.”Former England international Karen Carney, who was made an OBE, said she had “some banter” with William – who supports the rival team to her Birmingham City.”To be brutally honest, a lot of people know I’m a Birmingham City fan, there’s a big game at Aston Villa tonight,” Carney said.”Obviously with Prince William being a Villa fan I thought there was a good opportunity for some banter with him.”He was really gracious, he’s going to the game, which is cool.”So we just chatted about football really which is I think the common language for everybody.”I think everyone can talk about football which is really good.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve met him previously with the Lionesses. He’s a football fan for both the men’s and women’s game, which is really cool.”Earlier this year, William was seen cheering on the England men’s national team at the Euros.Inside Prince William’s love of Aston VillaPRINCE WILLIAM is an avid Aston Villa fan who goes crazy watching matches and regularly speaks to players.The Prince of Wales revealed he chose to support the club when he was younger as they were a middle-of-the-table team who could offer him the rollercoaster of emotions he was looking for in football fandom.William recalled the start of his Villa journey, saying: “A long time ago at school I got into football big time.”All my friends were Chelsea or Manchester United fans and I didn’t really want to follow the run-of-the-mill team.”I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table that could give me more emotional rollercoaster moments.”Aston Villa has always had a great history.”William’s love for the Villans is now shared by wife Kate.The couple and their children have attended Villa games in the past and Prince George used to a big fan.But George has turned to Chelsea as his club of choice, with a disappointed William revealing: “I said you can support anyone but Chelsea, so naturally he supports Chelsea.” More

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      Champions League clash refereed by identical twins as fans joke ‘does this mean there will be consistency?’

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      IDENTICAL twins stunned viewers – by flagging up as assistant referees in the same thrilling Champions League match.Zurcher brothers Marco and Benjamin took to the touchlines for Girona’s 3-2 home defeat against PSV Eindhoven, which included NINE bookings.David Lopez gave Girona the lead but Feyenoord fought back to winCredit: ReutersAnd the only difference spectators could see between the two was that they were soon on opposite sides of the field!Sharing a snap of the siblings in the tunnel, one fan wondered: “Does this mean there will be consistency, or….”However, another observer warned him: “My twin and I could never agree on anything…”TNT Sports showed a clip of the brothers, with the same short haircut and serious look, standing either side of ref Urs Schnyder.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe broadcaster then challenged viewers to “spot the difference”.But it was a test that fans readily admitted to failing.”No difference,” said one, while another just responded: “WOW that’s amazing.”  Once the action started, it was double vision, not tunnel vision, that viewers focused on.Most read in Champions LeagueTwins Marco and Benjamin Zurcher were assistant refs for Girona’s Champions League tie with FeyenoordCredit: X formerly Twitter / @footballontntThat included Feyenoord fighting back from David Lopez’s opener with two quick strikes.Yangel Herrera’s own goal and Antoni Milambo put the Dutch visitors 2-1 up before the break.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSGirona’s ex-Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek levelled in the 73rd minute.But incredibly a second own goal sneaked Feyenoord an away win, with Ladislav Krejci the unlucky scorer this time.Serie A clash involving Champions League club POSTPONED after torrential rain as 19-word statement releasedSo it was a twin sin for an unfortunate Girona duo.But a double delight for the Zurcher family on a proud night. More

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      Ten Hag’s former Man Utd coach hints at ‘problem’ between fan favourite and manager and says ‘he needs to play more’

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      FORMER Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has questioned whether Erik ten Hag has a “problem” with an exciting fans’ favourite.Boss Ten Hag is arguably under heavier pressure than at any time in his two-year reign ahead of two daunting away games in three days.Erik ten Hag must start Alejandro Garnacho more, says Benni McCarthyCredit: RexEx-assistant coach McCarthy spoke out on current United starsCredit: GettyThursday night’s Europa League clash at Porto is followed by a Premier League trip to Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon.Ex-England chief Gareth Southgate and Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi have been talked up as possible replacements if Ten Hag departs Old Trafford.Former Porto and Blackburn striker McCarthy can now take a more detached look at things after leaving United in the summer when his two-year coaching deal ended.The South African has suggested Ten Hag lacks “fire and passion”.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd he’s also singled out two starlets he reckons should be leading the Red Devils’ revival bid.McCarthy is a big admirer of wingers Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo.And it’s the Argentinian’s situation that appears to concern McCarthy most.The 46-year-old told zerozero: “I really like Garnacho, but he needs to play more regularly.Most read in Europa LeagueMarcus Rashford is rediscovering his best form, says McCarthyCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I don’t know if there’s a problem between him and Erik, but he hasn’t been a regular starter.”Meanwhile, McCarthy called Diallo an “incredible, incredible player, still little known”.’He’s done!’ | How woeful tactics & Dalot shocker saw Spurs smash Man Utd to spell end for Ten HagThe one-time West Ham man added: “He defends and attacks well, always makes the best decisions and knows how to score goals.”McCarthy also believes under-fire England frontman Marcus Rashford is “getting back to his best and could hurt Porto with some moves”.And he reckons United centre-back Lisandro Martinez could play “for any team in the world because he has the right mentality”.Whether Ten Hag agrees with all of that is unclear.That’s especially because McCarthy revealed he and the Dutchman have contrasting personalities.He claimed the former Ajax chief “lacks a bit of that fire, that passion. That’s where we differ, him and I”.Man Utd ratings vs TottenhamMANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 3-0 thrashing against Tottenham at Old Trafford.Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the first half for fouling James Maddison, forcing Erik Ten Hag’s side to play with 10 men against Ange Postecoglou’s team.After back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and FC Twente fans hoped United would redeem themselves against Spurs.However, the match at Old Trafford quickly turned sour. Brennan Johnson scored early and things worsened when Fernandes was sent off allowing Spurs to extend their lead to 3-0.And here is how SunSports Charlie Wyett rated the Manchester United stars.Andre Onana – 5Stood his ground to deliver a good save from Timo Werner who was clean through – no chance for either goal.Noussair Mazraoui – 5First in the refs’ book for chopping down Destiny Udogie. Could also have blocked Micky van de Ven for the goal. Just watched Solanke make it 3-0.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Shocking first half. Failed to cut out the cross from Micky van de Ven which led to the first goal.Lisandro Martinez – 5Switched off for the Spurs goal and was drawn to the ball and Johnson was left unmarked.Diogo Dalot – 5Gave the ball away in dangerous areas and struggled against Johnson.Manuel Ugarte – 5Suffered a stinker and was lucky to last until the 73rd minute.Kobbie Mainoo – 5Not one of his better performances and was taken off just before half-time following Fernandes’ sending-off.Marcus Rashford – 5Over-ran the ball for Tottenham’s first. Way off the pace.Bruno Fernandes – 4Arguably the worst captain in United’s history. Deserved red card for his challenge on James Maddison.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Had United’s only chance in the first half but hit the outside of the post. Improved in the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Looked completely lost up front – threatening to be another poor Erik ten Hag signing. Replaced at half-time.Subs:Mount (for Mainoo 45)  5, Casemiro (for Zirkzee 46) 7, Hojlund (for Rashford 73) 5, Eriksen (for Ugarte 73) 5. More

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      Watch Thierry Henry awkwardly admit ‘I saw Bukayo Saka at the Arsenal academy and didn’t think he’d be that good’

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      THIERRY Henry admits Bukayo Saka didn’t wow him in the Arsenal academy – but has since forced him to eat humble pie. The Gunners legend made the admission during an appearance on CBS’ Champions League preview show.Thierry Henry has opened up on Bukayo Saka’s rise – and how he wasn’t sure if he’d be good enoughCredit: X / CBSSportsGolazoThe Gunners star believes Arsenal can win the Premier League this seasonCredit: GettyHenry joined host Kate Scott and fellow analysts Michah Richards and Jamie Carragher for Tuesday’s games.Saka was in action for Arsenal as they welcomed Paris Saint-Germain to the Emirates. The Three Lions star was on the scoresheet as the Gunners cruised to a 2-0 victory. But Henry stunned the panel – and fans at home – by admitting he’d initially overlooked the 23-year-old’s potential. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHenry said: “I saw him at the academy and I didn’t think he would be that good, I’ll be honest with you.”Henry went on to praise “humble” Saka’s incredible work ethic, highlighting his tireless efforts in different positions at Euro 2024.He continued: “When you work, you have that work ethic, and you have a good family behind you, it’s very important.”He makes the job easier for everyone.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne fan responded: “Well, that’s high praise considering Henry’s credibility.”Another said: “His humbleness considering his exposure, expectation and no doubt wealth is something he should be rightfully proud of. He carried our club when he was a teen.”Bukayo Saka declares ‘this is Arsenal’s year’ and they will win Premier League titleWhile a third added: “A second glance often reveals unexpected talent, doesn’t it? Thierry recognizing worth.”Ahead of Henry’s comments, Saka joined the CBS crew to discuss the game and Arsenal’s season.And the Gunners winger confidently declared the club’s two-decade wait for a Premier League title could soon be over.Henry asked: “Do you think it is important this year to win the title?”Arsenal ratings vs PSG as Havertz makes striker spot his own… but Calafiori shows chinks in his armourKAI HAVERTZ and Bukayo Saka sent Arsenal to a deserved victory borne of first-half dominance.Paris Saint-Germain did hit the bar and the post as they improved after the break in this Champions League tie.But Emirates chief Mikel Arteta will mostly be delighted with his side’s latest solid display in Europe’s top club competition.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the Gunners at the Emirates on Tuesday.DAVID RAYA – 7Was perhaps busier than he usually is at home.Helplessly watched a Nuno Mendes effort smack his far post and stood firm to deny Achraf Hakimi at his near post.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6A frantic display, one that had more shaky moments than good. Kept busy by Hakimi and was done for pace on a few occasions but recovered well.A mistake early in the second half almost gave PSG a way back into the game. Needs to iron out these errors from his game, particularly when he is so dangerous in attack.However, he was playing at right-back for the first time in his career after the break.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Did not have much to do. A stray pass early on could have been costly but other than that another reliable and strong performance.GABRIEL – 7Sprayed some nice passes about from deep but this was a stress-free night’s work compared to the Premier League.JURRIEN TIMBER – 8Just how on earth does Ben White get back in this side at right back? Another immaculate display from a man who seemingly has it all in defence and attack.Well, White may well get his chance after Timber was subbed off at half-time.DECLAN RICE – 7Solid as a rock and building a real partnership with Partey in midfield. Had a chance to drive forward just before the half hour mark but his pass to Saka was cut out.THOMAS PARTEY – 8So consistent at the moment, something Arsenal fans have not seen from the Ghanaian midfielder in a long time owing mostly to injury.Made some crucial interceptions and showed real composure playing out from deep.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 8One of Arsenal’s most important players right now. Since his red card at Man City, he has notched a goal and an assist – the latter here for Havertz to open the scoring with a perfectly-timed cross.BUKAYO SAKA – 7After an early shot over the bar from a trademark cut inside, the England international had a slight drop off in influence before his scuffed free-kick flew in untouched from out wide.Still, he gave Mendes a torrid time at left-back. Even PSG manager Luis Enrique watched on at times in awe inside his technical area.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7A quiet night for the Brazilian following his first goal since March against Leicester, which may have been down to a big collision with Gianluigi Donnarumma in the first few minutes.Should have made it 3-0 with a volley inside the box after the break but it was straight at Donnarumma. Unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.KAI HAVERTZ – 9Brave and brilliant to head in from Trossard’s teasing cross, despite the onrushing lump that is Donnarumma trying to take his head off.Almost had an assist too with a cute lay-up for Martinelli in the box. The striker-midfield debate should be over – Havertz is a top-class centre forward.SUBS:JAKUB KIWIOR (TIMBER, 45) – 7Did what was expected of him at left-back. Produced a good recovery tackle on Kang-in Lee in the box.MIKEL MERINO (PARTEY, 64) – 7Finally, a debut for the Spaniard. Some neat touches under pressure, slotting in seamlessly next to Rice.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 74) – 6Looked desperate to impress having struggled for starts so far and that looks to be working against him – things just aren’t clicking.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY (SAKA, 92) – N/ASaka replied: “I don’t want to put too much pressure on us but I do think that this is the year.”I think we’ve been close the last two years and we’re getting closer, but this hopefully will be the year.”And he later added in an interview with Amazon: “It’s just that spirit in me that I want to win this season and of course, I believe in myself a lot.READ MORE SUN STORIES”With those two things, it helps. We believe in ourselves, we believe we’re a top team. We showed that tonight.”I did tell the boys we have to make a statement when big teams are coming to the Emirates.” More

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      Watch heartwarming moment Myles Lewis-Skelly’s mum screams with excitement as son makes Arsenal Champions League debut

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      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY’S mum leapt up with joy as her son made his Champions League debut for Arsenal.Mikel Arteta’s men comfortably beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 in their opening home European tie of the season on Tuesday night.Myles Lewis-Skelly made his Champions League debut against Paris Saint-GermainCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly’s mum was in shock after realising her son was coming onCredit: X/ footballontntShe could not believe he was about to make his Champions League debutCredit: X/ footballontntShe applauded wildly as Lewis-Skelly made his way onto the pitchCredit: X/ footballontntEnglish midfielder and left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, made his first Gunners appearance off the bench at the end of their 2-2 draw with Manchester City last month.Three days later he started in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Bolton in the Carabao Cup.But it was not until Tuesday evening when he got a taste of Champions League football at the Emirates.Lewis-Skelly replaced Bukayo Saka in stoppage time and had 60 seconds to soak in the atmosphere before the whistle was blown.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it was a special moment for the Arsenal youngster’s mum as TNT Sports shared a heart-warming clip of her reaction to him coming on.She inhaled deeply in shock after spotting he was coming on via the big screen in the stadium.Her eyes widened as the realisation dawned on her, before she jumped out of her seat and gave the 18-year-old an excitable round of applause.Reacting to the loving moment, one social media user said: “Proud moments like this remind us why we love the game.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “Such a proud moment for her! Congrats to Myles on his Champions League debut!”A third replied: “There’s nothing like a proud mum moment! Myles’ journey is just getting started, and what a debut to kick it off!”Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal’s win over PSG While a fourth responded: ” What a proud moment for her! Debuting in the Champions League is a huge achievement!”Lewis-Skelly has made 27 appearances for Arsenal’s U21s and also represented England’s U18s four times. More

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      Champions League LIVE SCORES: Aston Villa vs Bayern Munich, Liverpool host Bologna, Bellingham in action – updates

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      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE returns for another thrilling night of action after Tuesday’s goal-fest.Aston Villa face a mammoth encounter against German giants Bayern Munich while Liverpool host Italian outfit Bologna.Jude Bellingham and Real Madrid are also in action tonight as the Champions League kings face Lille.Both English sides will be determined to follow in the footsteps of Arsenal, who cruised to a 2-0 win against French champions PSG, and Manchester City, who thrashed Slovakian kings Slovan Bratislava 4-0.Kick-off times: 5.45pm/8pm BSTTV channel: TNT SportsLive stream: discovery+FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Champions League with our live blog below…Villa vs Bayern team newsWe’re not able to give you the lineups for tonight’s headline clash just yet but here’s a peek at some of the early news.Aston Villa will be without John McGinn after he picked up a hamstring injury over a week ago.Matty Cash has suffered a similar fate and will miss tonight’s game at Villa Park, while Tyson Mings and Boubacar Kamara are both expected to miss the match despite returning to training after long-term injuries. For Bayern Munich it’ll be all eyes on Harry Kane.The prolific bagsman has been expected to take part, but there had been much concern after he hobbled off with injury during Bayen’s 1-1 draw with Leverkusen at the weekend.Sacha Boey, Hiroki Ito and Josip Stanisic are all confirmed as out.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedOne hour warningWe’re now just an hour away from the two early kick off’s of today’s Champions League fixtures.Clashes between Girona and Feyenoord and Shakhtar Donestsk and Atalanta are due to kick off at 5:45pm.Seven other games will follow at 8pm – including English sides Aston Villa and Liverpool in action.Copy linkCopiedSlot back inArne Slot has called for his Liverpool side to prove they belong back in the Champions League after missing out on qualification for the competition last season.The Reds boss is hoping their absence last year will light a fire under his players’ bellies as they take on Bologna at Anfield tonight.The [players] have missed out on the Champions League for a year so when they step out on the pitch tomorrow I want to see this, I want to feel like they feel ‘Ah, we missed it for a season’.A club of this standard has to be ready and I’m hoping and expecting the same from our fans.Arne SlotCopy linkCopiedKane be tamedAston Villa will have to do all they can to try and stop Harry Kane at Villa Park this evening.Villa boss Unai Emery has called on his team to be “alert and focused” to try and prevent Kane from hurting his side.Here’s a look at the numbers that the England captain put up in last season’s Champions League campaign…Copy linkCopiedAston-born Brummie Ozzy Osbourne tweets to show support for VillaVilla host European giants Bayern Munich in the West Midlands tonight.Boss Vincent Kompany has remained tight-lipped on whether Harry Kane will feature, after the striker came off injured on the weekend.But Kane has travelled to Villa Park and trained with the team yesterday.Copy linkCopiedVilla’s Ollie Watkins on Champions League nights Copy linkCopiedWins tonight will take Villa & Liverpool joint-topIf Aston Villa pull off a historic victory over Bayern Munich later, Unai Emery’s side will jump into joint-top of the table.Likewise, a routine win for Liverpool will see them up into the top eight as well with six from six points.The exact positioning will obviously depend on goals scored, with Dortmund leading the way with a plus 10 goal difference.It means both Villa and Liverpool will overtake Arsenal and City – albeit there’s a long way to go.Remember 16 points should be enough to secure automatic qualification.Credit: TNT – Not full tableCopy linkCopiedHas Jude Bellingham lost his goalscoring touch?The Real Madrid star is now the left-sided No8 and the goals have begun to dry up. But he remains effective as an all-around, all-action, box-to-box player with versatility.Bellingham is yet to score in this campaign, but only returned from injury to start Madrid’s 3-1 European win over VfB Stuttgart.The former Dortmund captain has started every Los Blancos game since – including the feisty Madrid derby on the weekend.Madrid, the 15-time champs, travel to France to face Lille tonight.Copy linkCopiedJames McAtee scored his first goal for Man City last night Copy linkCopiedChampions League ref suspended after threats to killA Champions League referee has been suspended from officiating after allegedly threatening to kill a player during a game.Italian referee Fabio Maresca has been removed from ref duties for a month, according to Corriere della Sera.Maresca was also taken out of Tuesday’s Champions League clash between PSV and Sporting CP.The alleged incident occurred during a brief conversation in English between Maresca and Al-Arabi star Khald Al Mershed on Friday.Read more about the shocking incident here.Copy linkCopiedGravenberch becoming increasingly important for LiverpoolRyan Gravenberch was named Player-of-the-Match during Liverpool’s 3-1 opening win over AC Milan last month.The former Bayern man followed that up with another great display in the 2-1 victory over Wolves on Saturday.Gabby Agbonlahor told talkSPORT: “He didn’t get much game time under Jurgen Klopp.”But this season under Arne Slot he has had more opportunities.”He’s got strength, he’s got aggression, he’s got pace, he’s got skill, he can run with the ball and he’s a unit.”Gravenberch was also the driving force in midfield in Liverpool’s 3-0 win at Old Trafford last month.He is set to start against Bologna tonight from 8pm.Copy linkCopiedReminder of tonight’s Champions League scheduleHere’s all the Champions League action scheduled for Wednesday.5:45pmGirona vs FeyenoordShakhtar Donetsk vs Atalanta8pm:Aston Villa vs Bayern MunichBenfica vs Atletico MadridDinamo Zagreb vs MonacoLille vs Real MadridLiverpool vs BolognaRB Leipzig vs JuventusSturm Graz vs Club BruggeCopy linkCopiedHow many points do teams need to qualify for the knockout rounds?A new ‘Swiss-style’ 36-league format has been introduced this season.The top eight sides in the league will qualify automatically for the last 16.While the teams finishing in ninth to 24th place will compete in a two-legged play-off against each other to join the top eight teams.The Opta supercomputer believes 16 points from a possible 24 – so five wins and a draw from eight matches would be automatically qualify.The bottom 12 teams – from 25th to 36th – will be eliminated with no access to the Europa League.Copy linkCopiedMost Champions League goal involvements since September 2023Harry Kane – 16Vinicius Junior – 10Phil Foden – 10 Bukayo Saka – 9Kylian Mbappe – 9Antoine Griezmann – 9Jude Bellingham – 9Copy linkCopiedErling Haaland’s greatness continues as he overtakes legendsHaaland scored his 42nd Champions League goal against Slovan Bratislava last night – and did it in 41 games.The 24-year-old has now jumped to 18th on the all-time list for goals scored in the Champions League.He has bagged more times than Ferenc Puskas, Edinson Cavani, Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, Gerd Muller and Luis Suarez.If the Man City star records 99 more…. he’ll surpass Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.Copy linkCopiedAston Villa fans have “goosebumps” after watching club Champions League videoVilla’s European Cup winning captain Dennis Mortimer stars in the touching clip.Copy linkCopiedCurrent Champions League table after Game 1 of Week 2Credit: TNTCopy linkCopiedLiverpool team news v BolognaNew signing Federico Chiesa not “expected to be in the team” after undergoing a scan on a foot issue this week.Harvey Elliott is also unavailable through injury.Diogo Jota is expected to be fit despite the fact he also missed training in front of cameras on Tuesday, so it’s likely he won’t start.Darwin Nunez looks set to return to the squad after missing Wolves win through illness.Andy Robertson is set to be available in some capacity after suffering a late knock at the Molineux.Copy linkCopiedMore from Bayern Munich boss Kompany on Kane’s fitness Will Harry Kane be available to start against Aston Villa?Kompany said: “I think you have seen Harry was training yesterday, that went well.”But we will still have to wait and see how the situation is and then we will make the correct decision. “He trained with us and hopefully everything will work out fine.”Copy linkCopiedWatkins: These are the nights we all dreamt ofWatkins is ready to fulfil his childhood dream by scoring on Wednesday in a repeat of the 1982 European Cup final.The Torquay-born striker, who was playing at Exeter seven years ago, is loving his meteoritic rise and is determined to enjoy the moment.It’s really exciting for me, for my journey and the club.It’s a long time since there were Champions League nights at Villa Park.These are the nights we all dreamt of especially since I came here. Playing Champions League football for Villa is the best it can get really.I think we’ve all got to go out there and enjoy it.Not make the most of it, because that sounds like we’re underestimating ourselves, but just enjoy it because it’s so long since the club has been involved in a competition like this.I haven’t experienced Champions League football before so I want to enjoy it because this is what I dreamt of as a kid.Ollie WatkinsCopy linkCopiedWhat channels are Aston Villa and Liverpool on tonight?Villa’s mouthwatering showdown with Bayern Munich is on TNT Sport 1 at 8pm.Bologna face their biggest match in 60 years when they take on six-time champs Liverpool at Anfield.The Reds are on TNT Sport 2 from 8pm.Copy linkCopiedSaka walked out with team-mate’s son against PSGArsenal star Bukayo Saka walked out with Raheem Sterling’s son last night.Thiago Sterling was all smiles as he travelled onto the pitch before kick-off.Though, Sterling didn’t manage to get off the bench.Copy linkCopiedAston Villa early team news for debut Champions League home matchUnai Emery gave an injury update ahead of Aston Villa’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.Captain John McGinn has been ruled out with the injury he picked up against Wolves.Matty Cash remains unavailable to face the Bundesliga side with a hamstring issue, but has returned to training.Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings are nearing returns. Villa put in a strong performance to beat BSC Young Boys 3-0 on the club’s Champions League debut.Copy linkCopiedHarry Kane faces late fitness test ahead of Villa clashKane will be assessed on Wednesday morning to see whether he can feature for Bayern Munich tonight.The England captain hobbled out of Bayern’s 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday after suffering an ankle injury.He trained on Tuesday morning and travelled with the squad to Birmingham, but a final decision has not be made on his fitness.Kane has already scored 10 goals and added five assists in seven games this season.Including FOUR in Bayern’s 9-2 dismantling of Dinamo Zagreb a fortnight ago.Copy linkCopiedSaka first since Henry to score direct free-kick in Champions League for ArsenalBukayo Saka’s curling and bouncing free kick against PSG was Arsenal’s first from a direct free-kick in 144 Champions League games.The last free-kick was Thierry Henry’s hit against Roma in 2002, Arsenal won 3-1 on the night.Copy linkCopied More

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      Karim Adeyemi lined up for shock £42m Premier League transfer to replace club icon after hat-trick against Celtic

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      DORTMUND star Karim Adeyemi has been linked with a shock move to the Premier League. The 22-year-old winger is reportedly a surprise transfer target for Liverpool. Karim Adeyemi struck a hattrick against Celtic in the Champions League on TuesdayCredit: RexReports suggest Liverpool are plotting a move for the 22-year-oldCredit: PAAdeyemi hit a brilliant hat trick during Dortmund’s crushing 7-1 win over Celtic on Tuesday. The German found the net three times before the break as the Scottish champions wilted in front of the Yellow Wall. According to BILD, Liverpool have already had scouts watching Adeyemi in the Bundesliga this season.The outlet claims he could be the successor to Mo Salah, whose contract expires on Merseyside next summer. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLiverpool would have to stump up around £42.6million to land the whizkid, per the report. But Adeyemi has indicated he is enjoying his football at Dortmund, where is contracted until 2027. The youngster was on the books at Bayern Munich as a boy, before moving to Red Bull Salzburg in Switzerland. Dortmund snapped up the exciting winger for a reported fee of £24million in 2022. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollowing Tuesday’s heroics, Adeyemi told BILD: “I feel great here in Dortmund. “I was already a big fan as a little boy.”Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers meets the media after the 7-1 Champions League rout to Borussia DortmundAsked about his hat-trick performance, he added: “I had a good start. “I set myself to get at least one goal. Today, every shot went in.”Former Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers could only watch on helpless as Celtic crumbled. Rodgers admitted: “It was a tough watch.”Nights like that are tough but they can happen at this level. You have to learn from it and move on. “We came in high on confidence but we needed to start the game much better than we did.”Liverpool welcome Bologna tonight as they look to make it two wins from two in his year’s Champions League. Arne Slot’s side had too much for AC Milan last time out, recording a 3-1 win at the San Siro. Last month, Salah dropped his biggest hint yet that the 2024-25 season would be his last in Liverpool red.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe told Sky Sports: “I had a good summer, I had a long time to stay with myself and try and think positive because as you know it’s my last year in the club.”I just want to enjoy it and I don’t want to think about it. I feel I am free to play football and we will see what happens next year.”Mo Salah could leave Anfield next summer when he contract expiresCredit: Reuters More