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      Clarification on Dream Team Gameweeks over festive period – don’t get caught out by schedule quirks

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      DREAM TEAM managers need to be aware of the schedule throughout the festive period.Gameweeks typically run from Friday night or Saturday morning until Thursday evening but there are some quirks to be aware of in the coming weeks.Dream Team bosses should be aware of the scheduling quirks around ChristmasCredit: Dream TeamGameweek 16 contains a full round of Premier League fixtures to be played over the weekend followed by eight games on Boxing Day (Thursday 26th December) as well as two more the day after (Friday 27th December).Usually, those Friday night games would kickstart the following Gameweek but to simplify things, the two fixtures due to take place on 27th December — Brighton v Brentford and Arsenal v Ipswich – will be included in Gameweek 16.Simply put, all 20 teams will play twice in Gameweek 16 and just once in Gameweek 17 – this is the most important point for gaffers to bear in mind.Arsenal v Ipswich on Friday December 27th is included in Gameweek 16Credit: APLooking ahead to January, Gameweek 18 is also little unusual because of a quirk in the FA Cup scheduling.The majority of the FA Cup third round games will take place in Gameweek 19 but three fixtures have been scheduled for the preceding Thursday and will therefore be part of Gameweek 18.Sheffield United v Cardiff is irrelevant in the context of Dream Team since it’s a meeting between two Championship sides but points will be scored during Everton v Peterborough and Fulham v Watford.This means the Toffees and the Cottagers are set to pull double duty in Gameweek 18.And they won’t be alone since the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals are scheduled for Gameweek 18 — four of the following teams will be involved: Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Southampton, Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle, Brentford.Most read in FootballAll teams except Everton and Fulham will then double up in Gameweek 19 when a full round of Premier League games follows in midweek after the bulk of the cup action.Fulham and Everton have two fixtures to fulfil in Gameweek 18Credit: GettyIf that all seemed like a word scramble, here’s a concise summary.DREAM TEAM FESTIVE SCHEDULE:GAMEWEEK 16: All 20 teams play twiceGAMEWEEK 17: All 20 teams play onceGAMEWEEK 18: Everton, Fulham and Carabao Cup semi-finalists play twice, 14 other clubs play onceGAMEWEEK 19: All clubs except Everton and Fulham play twiceScore PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWUPCOMING GAMEWEEK DEADLINES:GAMEWEEK 16: 11am Saturday 21st DecemberGAMEWEEK 17: 1pm Sunday 29th DecemberGAMEWEEK 18: 11am Saturday 4th JanuaryGAMEWEEK 19: 6:30pm Friday 10th JanuaryThe schedule is subject to change, as Dream Team bosses recently discovered when the Merseyside derby was postponed on the morning of the game, but you can always check consult the Match Centre if in doubt.You’ll have other things on your mind in the coming weeks but remember to stay on top of all things Dream Team as there will be plenty of points on offer.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Dele Alli joins Hollywood A-listers in stands at Como vs Roma and could begin training with new club

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      DELE ALLI rubbed shoulders with the Hollywood A-list at Como’s drama-packed Serie A win over Roma.But the former England midfielder might be more interested in finding out if he’ll be on an Italian club’s PLAYER list after Christmas.Dele Alli must have been impressed by Como’s spirit in beating RomaKeira Knightley and James Righton were also at Como’s 2-0 home winCredit: GettyMichael Fassbender was another acting star at the Serie A gameCredit: GettyCesc Fabregas’ Como have been inviting big names to help make them more fashionable.Actors Keira Knightley, Adrien Brody and Michael Fassbender were there on Sunday – all looking pretty glam.In contrast, Alli went for a more low-key watching brief – with a cap as well as his hoodie covering his head as he sat in the stands.But there was a promising hint that the ex-Tottenham ace, 28, could soon take the first step towards reviving his career.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlli saw striker Alessandro Gabrielloni and Argentina midfielder Nico Paz strike on 93 and 97 minutes to sink Roma.Then he heard Fabregas speak on his future, after he was released by Everton last summer following months out injured.The Arsenal and Chelsea legend said: “I met him yesterday.”There’s a chance he could train with us after Christmas, but only to get back into shape.”Most read in FootballComo chief Cesc Fabregas suggested Alli might train after XmasCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe former Spain midfielder added he “didn’t want to talk about it” more about it at this stage.That’s not too surprising as Fabegas will want most of the attention on a victory that lifted Como one point above the drop zone.Cesc Fabregas shuts down England position debate as World Cup winner ‘shows why he got over 100 caps’ He said: “The important thing is the team, Gabrielloni’s goal and the feeling of playing face to face against a great team. “The boys and the city deserved a night like this. “Sometimes it’s not a question of tactics, but of resilience and desire. We are Como and to get a result against these teams you have to do more than them.”Knightley and Righton added glamour to the sporting occasionCredit: GettyPeaky Blinders star Adrien Brody looked transfixed by the matchCredit: Getty More

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      Anthony Joshua shows his caring side as he hands out gifts at children’s hospital and hails ‘hero’ NHS staff

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      ANTHONY Joshua dished out Christmas presents during a surprise visit to a children’s hospital.The two-time heavyweight boxing champion stunned poorly children on the Kids Starfish ward at Watford General Hospital and hailed “hero” NHS staff.Anthony Joshua posed up for pictures with happy patientsCredit: SuppliedThe boxing star visited Watford General Starfish WardCredit: SuppliedHe hailed the NHS staff as heroesCredit: SuppliedThe heavyweight boxing champion gave out giftsCredit: SuppliedAnthony beams alongside NHS staffCredit: SuppliedDuring his moving visit, Joshua chatted with youngsters about sport and posed for selfies with patients and staff.The boxing star was seen handing out gifts to beaming children as he spent hours touring the specialist ward.He also spent time chatting to parents and West Hertfordshire NHS staff who help keep the ward operational during the festive period.On the visit the world champ said: “Today was all about trying to put smiles on a few faces and to acknowledge the tireless work of all NHS staff across the entire nation.Read More in Boxing”I met some amazing kids and some inspirational parents. I waslucky Santa was available to help me hand out a few small gifts.”Christmas can be a really tough time of year so it is important to do your bit, especially in your own local community.”Joshua’s association to the hospital goes back years – as he was born there in 1989.As a teenager he visited the A&E department a few times too many for his mothers liking.Most read in BoxingThen following his Olympic triumph in 2012 he returned to open the Leigh Warman Mural in the Children’s A&E Department.Paediatric Consultant Lynn Sinitsky said: “The joy that Anthony has spread today is truly healing. Anthony Joshua attends surprise birthday party for coach who ‘saved his life’ and shares incredible throwback snap”The smiles on the faces, especially from one ten year old who woke up to see Anthony was incredible.”Meanwhile, Ward Manager Kerry Beasley said: “Its a great thing he has done, its amazing for the staff and the patients. “It really boosts morale and spreads Christmas spirit. We couldn’t get him out!”During the Coronavirus Pandemic Joshua led a program to gift NHS staff members at the hospital with 2,000 pieces of Under Armour kit.The idea was to give a little bit back to the tireless efforts from staff, including medical professionals, cleaning and kitchen staff.Clean Herts Community’s mission is to provide aid and opportunities for people of various demographics across Anthony’s home town of Watford, with a focus on young people.The Olympic Gold Medallist has always been very passionate about providing opportunity to specifically the younger generation in his local area. This year CHC has launched both physical and educational programs from football camps to cooking and science classes.They also teamed up with Hollywood legend Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson in November to give some Watford-based kids the opportunity of a life time.And they took part in the launch of his blockbuster Christmas film Red One.It comes as Joshua attended the surprise birthday party for the boxing coach he credited for saving his life.AJ first walked into the Finchley Amateur Boxing club aged 18 in a bid to get himself out of trouble on the streets of London.And head trainer Sean Murphy guided Joshua to elite national championships before setting up an Olympic gold victory.The two have remained close over the years and AJ was a guest at Murphy’s surprise bash – organised by Finchley ABC.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe posed alongside Murphy and posted a throwback snap of his amateur days with the caption: “Ride Or Die.”In Joshua’s last three bouts, he has been cornered by British coach Ben Davison.Joshua playing with a childCredit: SuppliedJoshua set up the Clean Hearts Community, a community-interest company dedicated to uplifting the local communityCredit: SuppliedThe boxer looked very happy speaking with NHS staff and parentsCredit: SuppliedJoshua showed off his caring side in the visitCredit: Supplied More

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      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta surprises Laura Woods with heartwarming present as TNT Sports host says ‘this was amazing’

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      ARSENAL manager Mikel Arteta surprised Gunners superfan Laura Woods with an early Christmas present.TNT Sports presenter Woods, 37, is a well known Gooner and covered her favourite club’s Champions League clash with Monaco on Wednesday at the Emirates.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta surprised Laura Woods with a giftArteta and Woods met after Arsenal’s Champions League win over MonacoArteta gave Woods a baby onesie as she expects her first childWoods announced her pregnancy back in JulyArteta, 42, led the North Londoners to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Ligue 1 giants with a brace by Bukayo Saka and a goal by Kai Havertz.And the Spanish tactician met with Woods after full-time where he offered her a heartwarming present as she prepares to welcome her first child with Love Island alumni Adam Collard.The Arsenal boss offered the TV star a baby onesie straight from the club’s official store.The reporter was left with a big smile on her face as she shared pics on Instagram thanking the Spaniard.Read More on ArsenalWoods issued the following caption: “This was amazing, thank you.”And she followed it with: “My club.”Woods broke the news that she was pregnant back in July.The journalist managed to keep her pregnancy a secret throughout the entirety of Euro 2024.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSShe made the announcement before jetting off to Paris to cover the Olympics.Woods and Collard broke the news of their engagement back in September.Watch hilarious moment Laura Woods cracks cheeky joke live on TNT Sports leaving Ferdinand and Crouch in stitchesThe couple started dating last year and the reality TV personality got down on one knee on the beach in Cornwall to pop the big question.Woods covered Arsenal’s clash with Monaco and spoke to Arteta at full-timeCredit: GettyArsenal 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 Monaco 0: Bukayo Saka scores twice to save wasteful Gunners and boost automatic qualification hopes

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      THANK GOD for Bukayo Saka.Without him, Arsenal could still be playing now without finding the net – the Gunners racking up enough glaring misses in either half to fill an Argos Christmas catalogue.After countless chances from the home side, Bukayo Saka opened the scoring inside 34 minutesThe England star then doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 78th minuteBukayo Saka scored a double as Arsenal eased past Monaco in the Champions LeagueSaka then set up Kai Havertz in the dying embers to make it a 3-0, in what was otherwise an own-goal but the German had it on targetIt came close to being three games on the spin in all competitions without a goal from open play before Saka stepped up in the 34th and 78th minute to decide this bizarre Champions League clash.Monaco were incredibly average, defensively naïve and offensively mute, but were in the contest thanks to Mikel Arteta’s merry band of wasteful wobblers – who ironically only had one corner kick the entire game.But in Saka, they have a man in form, a man for the occasion, a man whose numbers shine on the global stage, and even grabbed an assist from a late Thilo Kehrer own goal.He has 21 goal involvements in 21 games so far this term – nine goals and 12 assists.READ MORE ARSENALAnd since the start of last season, only Harry Kane (18) and Vinicius Jr (16) have been involved in more Champions League goals than Saka – eight goals, six assists.This European elite league phase does not look too shabby either for the North Londoners, surely coasting their way to a top eight automatic last 16 finish with four wins from six.Hale End academy grad Myles Lewis-Skelly, 18, was thrown in for his first Champions League start amid yet another defensive crisis Arteta has lost sleep over.As was the case for the 1-1 draw at Fulham on Sunday, defenders Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori and Oleksandr Zinchenko were absent with Jurrien Timber dropping out for Lewis-Skelly.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThomas Partey began at right-back for the second game in a row – another player that missed training in the build-up to this one, thrown in out of necessity.The spotlight was up the other end of the pitch, however, with Gabriel Jesus starting just his seventh game of the campaign in all competitions – his first in this competition since October 22.Arsenal Player Ratings vs MonacoGabriel Jesus missed a couple of sitters in the first halfWith just one goal to his name this term, it is easy to understand why. Arteta spent pre-match defending the Brazilian’s stinking form and insisting he would not be leaving in January.Jesus had the chance to back up his manager’s positivity with an early goal, but his current form appears to be harder to shake off than the common cold.Put through down the left inside the opening four minutes, his finish softly into the arms of Monaco keeper Radoslaw Majecki was tame and awkward.A brilliant one-two then allowed Mikel Merino to flash a delicious ball across goal. Jesus fell to the floor attempting a lunge, but he was on his toes and never getting there.Monaco were suffocating and needed to take a breath, doing some briefly as Aleksandr Golovin jinked is way into some space outside the box and worried David Raya with a whipped curler.A minor relief the French giants. Martin Odegaard responded with a curling effort of his own, trying to build some momentum and positivity with fluidity in short supply.Declan Rice took matters into his own hands by hoofing it long from his own box and Jesus was in with acres of green grass to gallop into but he never looked comfortable under the bouncing ball.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.The touch was clumsy and the volleyed finish was inviting of a save from the right leg of Majecki.How about a do-over? Jesus got that chance seconds later but the same result, driving into the box with his shot deflected into the body of the busy Pole between the sticks.Arteta kicked the air in frustration, but he was soon jumping for joy. Lewis-Skelly brilliantly wriggled out of trouble and fed Jesus down the left.This time his touch was good, his delivery across goal to the far post for Saka to nudge in even better. A goal that should have put a pin in the anxiety balloon hanging over the Emirates.Instead, it gained in size thanks to the biggest miss of the lot.Odegaard pressed like a maniac, nicked the ball off a sleeping Soungoutou Magassa, nut-megged Kehrer and was in for a certain goal.Myles Lewis-Skelly, 18, got a standing ovation at full-timeMartin Odegaard missed the biggest chance of the nightIn this sort of funk, nothing is certain. The Norwegian took several looks and shanked wide. Moments later, Odegaard fed Martinelli only for the winger to do the same.Whatever had infected Arsenal’s shooting boots, it was spreading.The half-time whistle blew to stunned silence. Odegaard shook his head and flapped his arms.The nerves were jangling after the break.Ex-Hammeer Kehrer headed wide from a free-kick and Breel Embolo should have found the bottom corner from a William Saliba error in the 65th minute.Odegaard missed another soon after, firing straight at Majecki from a cross by sub Leandro Trossard.Arsenal needed the gift of all gifts, and they got it with 12 minutes remaining. READ MORE SUN STORIESMajecki tossed away all his good work by taking too long in his own six-yard box under pressure to another sub Kai Havertz, as Saka pounced and showed the rest of his pals how it is done.Ten minutes later, with the pressure lifted, even Monaco were teaching the hosts scoring lessons, Kehrer fumbling into his own net from a cross by – who else – Saka. More

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      Inside Man Utd chaos with Dan Ashworth axed just five months into job as Amorim’s ‘storm coming’ words come true

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      THE 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.Dan Ashworth has left his role at Man UtdCredit: ZenpixAshworth lasted just five months under Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: PAThere is word Ashworth did not favour appointing new head coach Ruben AmorimCredit: AlamySunSport exclusively revealed last month 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.READ MORE IN footballMeanwhile, 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.There is word Ashworth did not favour appointing his successor and new head coach Ruben Amorim, preferring an English manager with more experience in our game.Perhaps that was why ex-England gaffer Gareth Southgate’s name was always mentioned after they worked together at the FA.Either way, Saturday’s showing against Nottingham Forest, after their second-half capitulation at Arsenal a few days previously, proved too much.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWas it the sight of the ineffective Joshua Zirkzee coming on as a sub that finally did it?You see, the 23-year-old Dutchman was thought to be a good buy at £36.5million. Ten Hag did not agree but had the player forced upon him.Man Utd pay emotional tribute to much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps after tragic passing aged 85That is on Ashworth.Already the club are looking to offload the flop forward.The word from Old Trafford was that Ratcliffe had issued a ‘liberating decree’ when he arrived on his white charger after acquiring 27.7 per cent of the club last February.Instead, it all just gets worse. They are locked in a mess of their own making, and nobody seems to have the key to get them out.Ashworth was supposed to have it, but he spent as much time on gardening leave from Newcastle as he did overseeing much-needed change at Old Trafford.He walked through the post-match media area with a security guard and the club’s chief operating officer, Collette Roche, around 30 minutes after the full-time whistle following the 3-2 loss on Saturday.It was odd as he marched with his head down without exchanging pleasantries.As we go through that process, we are constantly learning about what the best structure will be to help us to win.Manchester United statement He was on his way to the boardroom in the East Stand to finally agree to part ways.He was apparently “not a good fit”.Although he seems to have been everywhere else he worked.But a disagreement with the others brought in to put the former foot-balling juggernaut back on the right path had done for him.The explanation from the club was that the decision had been made “collaboratively following a period of transition for the club”.Yet it was Ashworth who was supposed to be central to that transition.It was also said to be a “difficult decision”. The club stressed that they have been building “a new team and structure here at pace”.’This is down to Ratcliffe’They added: “As we go through that process, we are constantly learning about what the best structure will be to help us to win.”So, the much-sought-after Ashworth, whom the club fought so hard to have released from Toon and paid £3m in compensation for, is now felt not good enough to be part of that ‘structure’.This is down to Ratcliffe, who is already vying with the Glazers as the most unpopular man at the club.If a mutual agreement was done collaboratively, it makes you wonder why Ashworth was at Old Trafford on Saturday. Or had tea cups flown in the directors’ room afterwards?The sheer enormity of the job on everyone’s hands at Old Trafford appears to be proving too much.Not a single boss, chief executive, technical director or whatever has gotten to grips with it.Everyone has an idea of what to do but from the outside it looks like nobody has a clue. And in the meantime a whopping £1.6BILLION has been spent on players post Sir Alex Ferguson.Wilcox is now in charge of recruitment but there is nothing left to recruit anyone with.Spending rules, cost-cutting, payments to departing staff, and a massive wage bill for under-performing stars have all stymied the club.There will be no big signings in January, nor next summer.The club is stuck with this lot and they are simply not good enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESAshworth knows it, everybody knows it. Amorim said there was ‘a storm coming’.It has well and truly hit. More

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      Top five Christmas gifts for a football fan from an immersive experience to much-loved novelty fashion

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      CHRISTMAS is just around the corner and for football fans who have and know it all – it is hard to find something they will love.But we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of five sublime gifts that will leave your footie fanatic feeling like they have taken home all three points.Classic Football Shirts have shops in Manchester and LondonCredit: AlamyA fun footie experience could be something newWhether you’re looking for a memorable experience, a budget treat for your Sunday league strike partner, or need ideas for the work Secret Santa – we have got you covered. 5. FC25: £26.99 + Clothing rangeIf you’re buying for a die-hard supporter and they somehow haven’t got EAFC25, your mind should be made up already.The ultimate football game, available on whatever console you choose – it’s a no brainer to let them jump on Ultimate Team Rush and play the winter nights away with their mates. Buy it from just £26.99 here. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFC25 is guaranteed fun for any football fanCredit: Getty“But they’ve already got FC25, in fact, they never get off of it” Well, you can buy your gaming addict some clothing to match their hobby, such as these stunning numbers released by EA themselves, available until the 8th December.EA Sports’ FC 25 apparel collection has some hidden gems for gamers 4. ClubLegacyz Limited Edition Football Cards, £20Fans all over the world grew up collecting football cards as a kid. Whether they were Shoot Out specials, shiny Match Attax or magical Merlin stickers – there was something special about that feeling of pulling your favourite star. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSo why not give a bit of nostalgia with a twist this Christmas?This is where ClubLegacyz comes in… forget flimsy cards with creased edges.Spending a fortune just to get some washed up players from a team you do not support is now a thing of the past too.Instead choose a premium quality card of your favourite player – limited to a small number of people in the world.Or even get a metal poster of the star of their choice to decorate any space.Club Legacyz cards have a brilliantly premium feelMetal posters offer a premium feel to decorate any roomA gift guaranteed to bring a smile to any fans’ face – shop the ultimate football cards here. 3. Football themed Christmas jumpers, £25-£45.A present perfect for the fans of any team, this will serve them perfectly for lounging around, going to Christmas parties and games over the festive season.The ultimate football Christmas jumpers can be found at Classic Football Shirts – where you can find a sublime variety of football knits.Some even feature a legendary player on the back. From Didier Drogba to Lionel Messi, CFS has it all.Their Arsenal number is invincible themedThis belter from the Man Utd treble season has a Christmas twistIf £40 is stretching your budget a bit far, we’ve got a budget option for you too…While you make a slight compromise on quality, you can make an exceptional gift from this choice of witty sweaters from GiftDelivery.Our personal favourite is this Cold Palmer “Baby it’s Cold Outside” number, but they also feature the perfect gift for fans of Bukayo Saka, Mo Salah, and of course Cristiano Ronaldo. We love this brilliant Cole Palmer jumper2. Classic Football Shirt: Price variesFrom a football fan, here’s a tip, treat them to a shirt from Classic Football Shirts this Christmas.A virtual football shirt heaven, CFS offers something for everyone – whether it’s a retro kit with a legend on the back from their favourite team.A shirt they missed out on a few seasons back at a much cheaper price than a modern strip.Or an entirely random European number, which quite frankly just looks cool as a fashion piece as well as a piece of history.Classic Football Shirts are in style, just ask Snoop DoggCredit: PA:Press AssociationDua Lipa loves a classic tooCFS has truly got it all, and if you don’t know which one they’d like the most – just treat them to a gift card.They have stores in Manchester and London – they will be almost guaranteed to find something they want.1. Trip to Toca Social: £12.50 Per PersonSo you’re after an experience, but match tickets are seemingly impossible to get a hold of and they have already done the stadium tour. Well here it is, your final destination.READ MORE SUN STORIESTOCA Social is the world’s first interactive football and dining experience, offering heaps of fun for all. You can choose from a range of mini-games, enjoy some brilliant music, and have some great food in either Birmingham or London. Try your hand at interactive football challenges against your matesHarry Kane is a big TOCA Social supporterCredit: PA More

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      Arsenal will travel just 250 miles in next 13 matches thanks to favourable fixture schedule

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      CHRISTMAS and New Year are some of the busiest times around for people, with travelling often making up a big part of that schedule.That rule also commonly applies to football, with Arsenal being no different in terms of having a busy schedule.Arsenal have avoided any huge away days over the Christmas and New Year periodCredit: GettyBut Arsenal have found some nice luck in their Christmas schedule with a surprisingly low amount of travelling on the itinerary for them over their next 13 games.In fact, they will travel outside of London just ONCE before January 22, with three away games all coming in the capital.Their clash with Brighton on January 4 2025 will be the only Premier League game that is not a London derby away from home.Arsenal remarkably play nine games at the Emirates Stadium during the run, starting with Manchester United on Wednesday and ending with Dinamo Zagreb on January 22.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe run will see them rack up just under 250 miles of travel on the road.Brighton alone will account for 177.4 miles of this overall figure.Meanwhile, Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brentford will count for 21.2, 26, and 24 miles respectively.Mikel Arteta and co might have feared travel fatigue from an unfavourable FA Cup third-round tie in tonight’s draw.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, they were spared any with new travel arrangements in tonight’s FA Cup third-round draw as they were drawn at the Emirates against Manchester United. It means they will face Crystal Palace and Man Utd twice during the run.Moment huge brawl breaks out in West Ham end with punches thrown and fan knocked to ground in London derby vs ArsenalAfter their 5-2 win over West Ham on Saturday, which in itself was a trip of 11.8 miles, Arsenal are nine points off of league leaders Liverpool.The favourable fixture list of not travelling a lot could help them close that gap.In the same period, Arne Slot’s side travel to Newcastle, Girona, Southampton, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Brentford – none of which are exactly around the corner.Regardless, Arsenal will be aiming to take advantage and chase down the leaders by the end of the season, though a nine-point lead at this stage of the season has never been lost before in Prem history.Arsenal ratings vs West HamWEST HAM and Arsenal served up one of the finest London derbies in recent memory on Saturday night, with SEVEN goals in the first half alone.The Gunners sailed into a 4-0 lead in the opening 35 minutes before the Hammers reduced the deficit with two quickfire goals, including a sublime Emerson free-kick.Bukayo Saka’s penalty on the stroke of half-time made it 5-2, becoming only the fourth Premier League match in history to see seven goals before the break.A relatively lacklustre second half followed, with Mikel Arteta ringing the changes, particularly with Wednesday night’s showdown with Man Utd at the Emirates in the back of his mind.The result pulled the Gunners up to second in the Premier League table, six points behind Liverpool ahead of Sunday’s huge showdown between the leaders and a struggling Man City.Read how SunSport’s Charlie Pittock rated the Gunners stars. More