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    Chelsea fans fume after Gent supporters throw chairs and rip down banners from stands in ugly scenes during clash

    GENT supporters caused chaos both inside and outside of Stamford Bridge before Chelsea’s Europa Conference League match. Enzo Maresca’s Blues hammered the travelling Belgian side 4-2. Gent fans threw chair seats at Stamford BridgeCredit: AFPIt caused ugly scenes inside Stamford BridgeCredit: AFPThe Bobby Tambling banner from the upper tier was torn downCredit: GettyScenes turned ugly in the Chelsea away endCredit: GettyA ripped up broken seat is chucked by away fansCredit: GettyBut the visiting Gent fans made their presence known in the hours leading up to the game. They filled the plush streets of West London with flares and loud chants as they made their way into the stadium. Fans waved scarves above their heads and blocked the middle of the road as cyclists tried to weave between the crowd while buses were completely halted.And when inside, the carnage continued when some fans tore up chairs in the stands and THREW them. READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe Chelsea faithful were left further horrified when the Bobby Tambling banner from the upper tier was torn down. One said: “Disgraceful.”Another added: “The Gent fans were absolutely disgraceful.”Both sets of fans engaged in aggressive chanting back and forth as things looked to be on the brink of escalating. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOn the pitch, Chelsea breezed to a comfortable win thanks to goals from Renato Veiga, Pedro Neto, Christopher Nkunku and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. It was Maresca’s fifth win on the spin and he said: “We are performing not only in attack but defensively very well. We are happy. Enzo Maresca insists identity of Chelsea is starting to take shape “I need to repeat always the same: For sure, we can do many, many things better – we can attack better and defend better. “Tonight probably the most important thing we can learn is even if we are 4-1, even to the final whistle you have to switch on, you cannot switch off.”I think we conceded the second goal just because we saw the game was already finished. “I think if we want to be one step forward, even when you are 4-1 and the game is almost finished, you need to continue and not concede another goal. “We are really happy with the performance. We approached it very well. These games are never easy. “So I am very happy with the performance and the result.”Enzo Maresca celebrates with his playersCredit: Reuters More

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    Chelsea legend cheers on RIVALS Gent from stands during Conference League clash as son, 22, plays against Blues

    CHELSEA icon Eidur Gudjohnsen was caught in two minds as was spotted at Stamford Bridge, cheering on his son.Gudjohnsen, 46, starred for Chelsea across six seasons from 2000 to 2006.Chelsea icon Eidur Gudjohnsen returned to Stamford Bridge last nightCredit: GettyBut he was there to cheer on their rivals as his son starred for GentCredit: GettyAndri Gudjohnsen chipped in with an assist but was on the losing side as Chelsea won 4-2Credit: GettyGudjohnsen, 46, was joined in the stands by eldest son Sveinn Aron GudjohnsenCredit: RexWhile at Stamford Bridge the Iceland international made 263 appearances, scoring 78 goals and adding 40 assists.His exploits helped the Blues win the Premier League twice under Jose Mourinho and landed the League Cup and Community Shield twice – one of which was pre-Mourinho.Gudjohnsen returned to his old stomping ground during Chelsea’s clash with Gent in the Europa Conference League on Thursday night, but was not simply there to support the home side.Instead, Gudjohnsen was present to cheer on his son, Andri, who was appearing for the visitors. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 22-year-old managed to chip in with an assist as Tsuyoshi Watanabe scored for the Belgian side in the second half.However, it was not enough to overcome Enzo Maresca’s side as they romped to a 4-2 victory thanks to goals from Renato Veiga, Pedro Nero, Christopher Nkunku and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.Gudjohnsen senior was spotted in the stands wearing a black jumper, blue blazer and flat cap while also enjoying a hot beverage.The 88-cap Iceland star has one daughter and three sons, all of whom are footballers at different levels.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAndri is his middle son, while 26-year-old eldest son Sveinn Aron stars for Norwegian outfit Sarpsborg 08 and youngest son Daníel Tristán stars for Swedish club Malmo.Sveinn Aron joined his father on the trip, taking to Instagram to share a video as the stars emerged from the tunnel before the game.Chelsea’s player ratings against GentFollowing his time at Chelsea Gudjohnsen went on to star for Barcelona from 2006, winning the Continental Treble under Pep Guardiola in 2009.After moving to Monaco, Gudjohnsen then returned to England on loan with Tottenham from January 2010 to June 2010.This was followed by a permanent transfer to Stoke that summer, where he stayed until January when he went to Fulham on loan.Stints with Club Brugge, Bolton and Molde would follow before he retired in 2017.Andri called it a “nice moment for me and my family” as he spoke on TNT Sports following the match. More

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    Ex-Chelsea star Alvaro Morata forced to move house just days after moving in after town’s Mayor leaked new home

    ALVARO MORATA has said he had to make an instant house move – after his new town’s mayor revealed where the striker lives.Spain captain Morata, 31, joined AC Milan in July after leaving Atletico Madrid.Alvaro Morata made an instant house move after his new town’s mayor revealed where he livesMorata made the reveal onlineThe ex-Chelsea striker moved into a luxury home in Corbetta, a town of 18,000 people west of Milan.But the former £60million Chelsea record buy felt his family’s security was endangered after Corbetta’s mayor Marco Ballarini posted news of their arrival on social media.The report swiftly went viral among townsfolk, prompting the Moratas to move out.Euro 2024 winner Morata fumed on Instagram: “Dear Mr Mayor, thanks for violating my privacy. Thankfully I don’t have anything of value.READ MORE IN football”The only treasures I have are my children, whose security has been jeopardised by you.”I thought that the town of Corbetta could afford me a certain amount of privacy.”Instead I find myself having to move house straight away, thanks to your inabilities to use social media and to safeguard your citizens.”Mayor Ballarini had previously proudly written: “Alvaro Morata is a Corbetta citizen. Here We Go!Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”The Spanish striker, newly signed by Milan, is finalising the paperwork for the move to his marvellous new home in our town.”I am a huge Inter Milan fan, but it is with pleasure that I offer Alvaro Morata a welcome to our big family in Corbetta.”Morata scored 24 goals in 72 Chelsea appearances following his 2017 arrival from Juventus.However, he spent just 18 months at Stamford Bridge before returning home to join Atletico.Premier League’s Biggest Spenders: Top 10 Seasons More

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    Chelsea fans fume ‘this guy hates us so much’ after Arsenal star Havertz takes swipe at old club over Champions League

    KAI HAVERTZ sparked ire from Chelsea fans with his brutal verdict on chasing Champions League glory with Arsenal.The German attacker hit the winner when the Blues lifted the top prize in European club football three years ago.Kai Havertz netted when Chelsea won the 2021 Champions League finalCredit: PAThe attacker seems more settled with Arsenal and is seen here celebrating his breakthrough goal against PSG on TuesdayCredit: GettyBut he failed to fully convince either supporters or the Chelsea management while at Stamford Bridge from 2020-2023.And although he launched his Arsenal career with similarly mixed displays, the 25-year-old has impressed with his consistency this term.Havertz even headed the opener as the Gunners hosted Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday’s Champions League tie. But before kick-off he angered many fans of his old club with a frank assessment of his bid to lift the crown for a second time.READ MORE ON ARSENALHavertz scored the only goal of the 2021 final against Manchester City in 2021.He said: “It was a good moment for me in my career and something that I’m always going to think about.”It’s a nice feeling but it would be even nicer if I can do it with Arsenal and it would mean a lot more.”    One supporter quickly snapped back: “This guy hates Chelsea so much I really wonder why.”Most read in FootballHavertz notched a rare headed goal against PSGCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnother fan called the former Bayern Leverkusen hero “ungrateful”.A third Chelsea follower told him: “We made you.”‘Get off the phone’ snaps Troy Deeney after his wife called him out live on air over Arsenal commentBut other supporters reckoned Havertz’s feelings are understandable as he never became a fans’ favourite at Stamford Bridge.One said: “Just like (Jadon) Sancho (at Man Utd) he didn’t get the love, coupled with the trolls he sees on X after his move, can’t blame him but we don’t care either cuz we have a better team now.”Enzo Maresca’s Blues sit fourth in the Premier League – a point and a place below Havertz and Co.But Chelsea are only in the Europa Conference League – launching their group bid at home to Gent on Thursday. More

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    Cole Palmer’s Chelsea shirt from four-goal Brighton game put up for auction with fan lodging HUGE bid for sweaty kit

    COLE PALMER’S shirt from his four-goal thriller against Brighton is set to land a sizeable sum after it was put up for auction.The Chelsea star became the first player in Premier League history to score four goals in the first half of a single game.Cole Palmer’s shirt from his four goal showing over Brighton has been put up for saleBids for Palmer’s shirt are already flying inPalmer’s jersey has been listed on MatchWornShirt, with the club promising to make a donation to the Chelsea FC Foundation.It has been provisionally authenticated by Fabricks – the most advanced technology in memorabilia.The description reads: “We will replace these images with photographs as soon as the product arrives for authentication. “It is important to note that there may be minor differences between the actual product and our digital representation of it.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”First player to score four goals in the first half of a Premier League game.”One user has already bid £16,000 for the 22 year old’s shirt at the time of writing.That same person, who appears to be from Hong Kong, had initially offered £9,000 and £12,000 for Blue shirt earlier this week.The talented England forward is maintaining the form that saw him register 25 goals for Chelsea last season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSChelsea fans and collectors are scrambling to get their hands on this piece of football history.Palmer’s shirt is expected to fetch a healthy sum, possibly even breaking Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of £36,000 for a Manchester United jersey worn during his second spell at Old Trafford.Chelsea Player vs Brighton RatingsFans have just four days left to submit their offers, according to the website.Other shirts worn by Chelsea players at Stamford Bridge on Saturday are also listed – but the bids are significantly less than Palmer’s.One eager fan has offered £1,008 for Enzo Fernandez’s shirt.But that’s despite the fact that the Chelsea captain didn’t do anything of note during the club’s 4-2 win over Brighton.The least popular shirt is the kit worn by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, with the highest bid £159.You can have the shirts framed for further cash, with basic prices starting at £207.Selling match worn shirts can be lucrative, with someone once paying £600 for one of Jude Bellingham’s Birmingham City shirts in 2019 – despite the club losing 1-0 to Fulham in the fixture. More

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    Graham Potter hilariously breaks silence on Man Utd talks and ‘being linked with Napoli and Stoke in the same week’

    GRAHAM POTTER addressed speculation linking him with the top job at Manchester United with a hilarious quip.Potter, 49, has been a free agent since his dismissal by Chelsea 18 months ago but continues to be touted as a potential successor to under-fire United boss Erik ten Hag.Graham Potter addressed speculation linking him with Manchester United with a jokeCredit: ReutersMan Utd boss Erik ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford is becoming increasingly untenableCredit: PATen Hag’s position at Old Trafford is under threat after Sunday’s 3-0 thumping by Tottenham in another hapless display by the Red Devils.And the ex-Brighton manager broke his silence amid all the continuous talk linking him with the job.Potter, who was appearing on MNF on Sky Sports, said when asked if he’d enjoy the challenge of managing United: “I am sitting here enjoying the challenge of answering your questions.”The ex-Chelsea boss was less coy when asked about reports suggesting he was approached by Man Utd chiefs during the summer before they decided to hold on to Ten Hag.Read More on Man UtdThe former Swansea manager added: “I take what the media say with a pinch of salt.”I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week. “I have had lots of conversations with lots of people and I think out of respect to those people it’s best those are kept private.”BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPotter also joked about taking the England job ahead of Bournemouth’s 3-1 win over Southampton. He said: “I think it’s time for a commercial break, isn’t it?!Most read in Football”As an Englishman, of course it’s a fantastic job and I’m supportive of FA and what they decide to do and whoever the next coach is.”Gareth did a fantastic job and I’m sure Lee will in his time, however long that is.”Potter, though, doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to return to the dugout after 12 years of non-stop work for the likes of Ostersunds, Swansea, Brighton and Chelsea.The Solihull tactician admitted he deliberately decided to step away from the limelight and focus on his family.Watch Graham Potter’s reaction as he is asked about England manager job moments after earning uni degreePotter recently admitted: “I spent some time with the family, [to] connect with them after a 12-year journey which has started in the fourth tier of Swedish football and ends in the last eight of the Champions League.”Graham Potter’s managerial careerA brief look at Graham Potter’s managerial career to date…2008 – 2011: Leeds Beckett University Carnegie2011 – 2018: Ostersund 2018 – 2019: Swansea City2019 – 2022: Brighton and Hove Albion2022 – 2023: Chelsea More

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    Jadon Sancho reveals why childhood pal Cole Palmer will be ‘FUMING’ despite scoring four in Chelsea’s win over Brighton

    JADON SANCHO has revealed that Cole Palmer will be “fuming” with his showing against Brighton – despite the fact that he scored FOUR goals.Palmer became the first player in Premier League history to score four before half-time, as Chelsea came from behind to beat Brighton 4-2 at Stamford Bridge.Jadon Sancho has revealed that Palmer will be ‘fuming’ not to have scored more goals against BrightonPalmer was the hero on Saturday after bagging FOUR first-half goalsSancho, who set up Palmer’s fourth goal and earned a penalty, was full of praise for his childhood pal and team-mate.The Manchester United loanee told Chelsea’s website: “When you have a player in your team like Cole Palmer, then anything is possible.”I’ve known Cole a long time, since our days together at Man City. “I’ve always watched him and I always thought he would go on to be a great player. He’s showing that now at Chelsea.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS’We see what he’s capable of each day in training, we see the quality he has and honestly, it’s no real surprise to me to see him score four goals.”In fact, he could have scored five or six goals. I’m sure he will be fuming not to add to his tally.”But in all seriousness, he’s such a quality player.”Palmer, 22, and Sancho, 24, both came through the ranks at Manchester City before the latter left for Dortmund in 2017.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPalmer had seven shots against Brighton and was disappointed that he failed to convert more of his chances. He told Match of the Day: “I should have had five or six. When I missed the first chance I was upset. Man Utd flop Jadon Sancho makes bizarre claim about Enzo Maresca being reason he joined Chelsea but it doesn’t add up”But with the way they played and their high line I felt we’d get more chances.”The manager set up a good game plan, we knew how to attack them with first-time passes in behind.”Meanwhile, Sancho’s performance takes his season assist tally up to three in as many games, after setting up the winner against Bournemouth and providing Nicolas Jackson’s opener at West Ham.The former Dortmund star is enjoying life at Stamford Bridge after a miserable few years at United.Sancho marked Chelsea’s win with a celebratory post on Instagram, writing: “Special afternoon to make my first appearance at the bridge! +3 @colepalmer10 … no words needed🥶.”The post has chalked up more than 600,000 likes, with Palmer commenting “My Boy!” More

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    Chelsea ratings: Cole Palmer untouchable but Robert Sanchez endures day to forget against former side

    FOUR incredible first-half goals from Chelsea starboy Cole Palmer secured a 4-2 victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.Palmer, 22, became the first player to score four in a first half of a single Prem match to end Brighton’s unbeaten run.Palmer drew Chelsea level in the 21st minute moments after having a goal disallowedCredit: GettyHe then slotted home a penalty five minutes laterCredit: EPAPalmer then powered in a stunning free-kick from 25 yardsCredit: GettyIt was a game of goalkeeping howlers, high-lines, THREE offside goals and a Cold Cole Palmer free-kick.The six-goal thriller leaves Chelsea third in the Prem, with Brighton down to eighth after their first defeat of the season.Brighton opened the scoring after four Chelsea stars – who all left the Seagulls for West London – couldn’t clear their lines. Before Chelsea took control through the former Manchester City man.Here SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rates every Chelsea player…READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSRobert Sanchez – 4Booed by Brighton fans who were not happy to see their former keeper again. Before bizarrely coming too far out of his box to be beaten by Georginio Rutter who headed home from 12 yards At fault AGAIN when his shocking blundering pass out from the back directly caused Brighton’s second goal. The ball was intercepted by Carlos Baleba after Caicedo got caught slacking by not being quick enough to control it.Most read in FootballLater produced a big save before half-time.Robert Sanchez was partly to blame for both of Brighton’s first-half goalsCredit: ReutersMalo Gusto – 6His first start since Chelsea’s 0-0 with Crystal Palace was hindered just 60 seconds in after asking to change his boots. Conceded some questionable free-kicks in closing stages.Wesley Fofana – 6Unconvincing in possession despite little pressure but performed defensive duties after Brighton’s early opener in the seventh minute.Overhit a pass intended for Nkunku in the final five minutes. That would have set the Blues away for a dangerous counter.Levi Colwill – 6Awful clearance for Brighton’s opener as his horror attempt to get rid is headed in by Rutter who beats Sanchez to the ball.Under pressure in the opening 20 minutes, with a half-hearted block almost going in the back of his own net.Marc Cucurella – 6Involved in the Brighton opener as well by being out jumped and pushed aside by Rutter. But grew into the game in the second half, with some threatening crosses for Jackson. Thought he’d scored against his former employers, but a slight Pedro Neto deflection slowed the ball down to leave Cucurella offside.Marc Cucurella was involved in Brighton’s openerCredit: GettyMoises Caicedo – 5Started the comedy of errors for Brighton’s goal after played it to Colwill who hoofs it in the air for a clearance. He was then involved in Brighton’s second, failing to react quick enough to Sanchez’s short pass. And gave possession away far too often in the second half. Surprised he lasted longer then Fernandez.Moises Caicedo was at fault for Brighton’s second goal with SanchezCredit: ReutersEnzo Fernandez (c) – 7Weak on the ball in the opening 15 minutes. Delicious ball for Palmer’s chance off the post. But settled into the game after the England winger’s second after going in the book inside 29 minutes.Noni Madueke – 8Moves quickly down that right hand side. Looked to have assisted Sancho’s first Prem goal for Chelsea and the side’s second of the afternoon before it was rebuked for offside.Stunning run and chance in the 38th minute, after a good passage of play from the back, by kneeing it down and sitting Webster down before marginally hitting past the post.Cole Palmer – 10Chelsea’s quadruple hero!The England star hit the post in the 18th minute after a period of Brighton pressure. Before some brilliant runs in behind saw his next strike disallowed for offside a minute later.But Palmer made no mistake in the 21st minute with a brilliant finish amid an extremely high Brighton line. The turnaround was completed when he converted a penalty just five minutes later.Palmer then Curled in a stunning 25-yard free-kick past Bart Verbruggen who could only get a fingernail to the ball.Before some horror defending and a terrible pass out saw Palmer run through from Jadon Sancho’s ball to score his fourth of the game. Continued to cause problems in the second half.Palmer’s heroics saw him take the match ball homeCredit: RexJadon Sancho – 7Was caught tormenting Brighton’s full-backs before and after his 23rd minute tap in was ruled out for offside. But he won a nailed on penalty for Chelsea just three minutes later after brilliantly storming past Dunk and picked up his third assist of the season for Palmer’s fourth.Sancho’s link-up play with Palmer will be a threat moving forward.Sancho is doing well to get his career back on trackCredit: GettyNicolas Jackson – 7Assisted Palmer’s opener. But largely quiet in Chelsea’s flourishing attack in the first half.Started the second half brighter with a shot saved in the 46th minute. Headed over in 55th minute.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut a series of missed chances left Jackson visibly frustrated in the final 45… he should have passed quicker at times too.Nicolas Jackson missed a flurry of chances in the second halfCredit: GettySubsPedro Neto (62′ for Madueke) – 6 Continued to provide a threat to the tiring Brighton defence late on.Mudryk (71′ for Sancho)R Veiga (70′ for Cucurella)Christopher Nkunku (78′ for Jackson)R Lavia (78′ for Fernandez) More