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    Fifth place in Premier League set to get Champions League football as England lead way in Uefa coefficient table

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    ENGLAND remain in pole position for an extra Champions League place next term – despite the Prem’s worst European week of the season.Liverpool were the only Champions League side to taste victory, with Manchester City, Arsenal and Aston Villa all slipping to defeats.Liverpool’s dominance in the Champions League has helped England to the top of the national rankingsCredit: AlamyChelsea are also dominating the Conference LeagueCredit: GettySpurs then lost for the first time in their Europa League campaign at Galatasaray, although Manchester United and Chelsea recorded home victories.But since the start of the new league phase in September, the Prem sides have won 18 matches – more than any other nation – and lost the fewest, those four defeats this week.Italy and Germany, both with eight teams in Europe at the start of the season, have won 16 and 15 respectively, with 13 Spanish victories and 11 for French sides.The Bundesliga and La Liga sides have lost 11 matches, with Leipzig pointless from four Champions League fixtures and all four Spanish sides in the senior competition having lost at least one game.Read More in FootballIt leaves England top of the pile at the half-way stage of the initial phase, with a current coefficient score of 9.428, when the points gained by the Prem’s teams are divided by the seven competitors.Portugal, who only have two teams in Uefa’s biggest competition, are next with a score of 9.2, followed by last season’s top two, Italy – on 8.75 – and Germany, with 8.375.France, on 8.071, are fifth, ahead of Spain – 7.857 – and the Czech Republic.Uefa’s revamp means the two nations with the highest score at the end of the season will earn an extra berth in the Champions League next term.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEngland currently top the UEFA nations tableAll teams earn two points for a win and one for a draw but their club and national tally is also boosted by bonus points accrued through the three competitions.Each of the 36 clubs in the Champions League starts with six bonus points, with the possibility of earning up to six more if they finish top of the eight-game table, although there are no pre-competition bonuses for either the Europa or Conference Leagues.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett runs the rule over England’s squad after two players are given first call-upThe top eight sides in all three competitions at the end of the first stage – the Conference League, with just six matches, ends before Christmas but there are two match rounds in each of the others in January – automatically make the last 16 knockout stage.Teams ranked ninth to 24th are then drawn in a knock-out round to join them.Currently, all seven Prem sides are on course to qualify for the knock-out stage, with Liverpool top of the Champions League standings, Villa eighth, City 10th and the Gunners in 12th.In the Europa League, Spurs slipped from second to seventh with United now up to 15th, while Chelsea are romping away at the top of the Conference standings.While things are almost certain to change, if all clubs finished in their current positions, England would extend their lead by picking up a 4.036 in bonus coefficients, taking the Prem tally to 13.464.That would give England an advantage of fractionally under two full points – the equivalent of eight team wins – over Italy, swap places with Portugal, ahead of France, Germany and Spain.Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change. More

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      Chelsea player ratings: Tyrique George has a debut he’ll never forget but team-mate Renato Veiga fails to impress

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      CHELSEA hammered Noah to make it four straight wins in Europa Conference League football. The West Londoners have picked up maximum points after SIX scorers got in on the action. Chelsea celebrate their drubbing of NoahCredit: ReutersTosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Axel Disasi, Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku scored.Here is how Dan King rated Chelsea’s performers from Stamford Bridge.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7Kept out shot before floodgates opened at other end. Made other sharp saves, including late brave one. Looks a solid No 2.AXEL DISASI – 7Out of position for early Noah chance but in right place to head in third. Good link-up with George on the right.READ MORE IN football TOSIN ADARABIOYO – 7Recovered from shaky start defensively to open scoring and his own Chelsea account. Steadier after the break.Tosin Adarabioyo got in on the goalsCredit: GettyBENOIT BADIASHILE – 6Like Tosin, not entirely convincing as Noah created a few first-half openings, although made one good block. Also better in second half.RENATO VEIGA – 5Couple of early mistakes, one of which could have been costly, set tone. Not as impressive as in previous ECL games.ENZO FERNANDEZ – 8On his own in midfield in the first half yet was able to provide three assists, two from corners, and look very comfortable.Most read in FootballEnzo Fernandez put in an improved performanceCredit: RexTYRIQUE GEORGE – 8 Teenage winger made most of first senior start, beating opponents at will and sending in dangerous crosses. Worked back, too.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU – 7Looked less hungry to tuck in to goal buffet. But went up front for 2nd half and scored twice after missing two good chances.JOAO FELIX – 8At it from the start, missed an early chance but then scored twice in a swaggering first half. Disappointed not to complete hat-trick.Joao Felix got two in quick successionCredit: GettyMYKHAILO MUDRYK – 7Much quieter than George until he cut inside and smashed home with confidence that had seemed lacking. Decent workrate.MARC GUIU – 7The 18-year-old striker worked hard as ever and got his reward, bagging his first Chelsea goal and stealing ball ahead of Felix’s first.SUBSKIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL (for Guiu, HT) – 6Some neat touches and won penalty for eighth Blues goal.CESARE CASADEI (for Fernandez, HT) – 6Found life as easy as Enzo, yet unable to make the same creative impact.CARNEY CHUKWUEMEKA (for George, 68) – 5Took a while to get going and missed decent chance to make it nine.READ MORE SUN STORIESSAMUEL RAK-SAKYI (for Nkunku, 80) – 6Teenager mostly composed on first-team debut but shot over bar with goal gaping.Samuel Rak-Sakyi replaced NkunkuCredit: Getty More

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      Chelsea 8 Noah 0: Blues run riot with flood of first-half goals to go top of Conference League table

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      NOT even Noah could handle this flood as Chelsea ran riot and made a mockery of the Conference League.The two-times European champions were six nil up by half time with five different goalscorers as they sunk Armenia’s fourth best team at training ground pace.Chelsea battered Noah 8-0 in the Conference LeagueCredit: APArmenian side Noah were sunk by a sea of goalsCredit: ReutersWhat is most surprising is that qualifiers Noah held out for 11 minutes before going behind and even gave Chelsea a couple of scares on the biggest night in their short history.Neither team belongs in this competition with twice Champions League winners Chelsea slumming it after a couple of crazy seasons following a takeover in 2022.Minnows Noah have only been in existence for seven years and had to scrap all the way through three qualifying rounds and a play off just for the chance to fly 3,000 miles from their hometown to get thrashed under the lights at Stamford Bridge.Blues squad players Tosin Adarabiyo and Marc Guiu scored their first goals for the club since signing in the summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd £42million Portuguese forward Joao Felix helped himself to two goals by the break.Noah – named after the Biblical boat that finally ran aground on Armenia’s Mount Ararat – were holed below the water line very quickly and never recovered.Tosin got the rout underway by heading in an Enzo Fernandez corner on 11 minutes.Teenage centre forward Guiu made it two straight from the kick off when Noah’s defence crumbled after just three passes, allowing the young Spaniard to cash in and bury a shot.Most read in FootballTosin Adarabioyo scored his first Chelsea goal and opened the scoringCredit: PAMarc Guiu doubled Chelsea’s leadCredit: GettyChelsea ratings vs NoahSUNSPORT’S Dan King rates Chelsea’s young guns after their flood of goals against Noah.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7Kept out shot before floodgates opened at other end. Made other sharp saves, including late brave one. Looks a solid No 2.AXEL DISASI – 7Out of position for early Noah chance but in right place to head in third. Good link-up with George on the right.TOSIN ADARABIOYO – 7Recovered from shaky start defensively to open scoring and his own Chelsea account. Steadier after the break.BENOIT BADIASHILE – 6Like Tosin, not entirely convincing as Noah created a few first-half openings, although made one good block. Also better in 2nd half.RENATO VEIGA – 5Couple of early mistakes, one of which could have been costly, set tone. Not as impressive as in previous ECL games.ENZO FERNANDEZ – 8On his own in midfield in the first half yet was able to provide three assists, two from corners, and look very comfortable.TYRIQUE GEORGE – 8Teenage winger made most of first senior start, beating opponents at will and sending in dangerous crosses. Worked back, too.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU – 7Looked less hungry to tuck in to goal buffet. But went up front for 2nd half and scored twice after missing two good chances.JOAO FELIX – 8At it from the start, missed an early chance but then scored twice in a swaggering first half. Disappointed not to complete hat-trick.MYKHAILO MUDRYK – 7Much quieter than George until he cut inside and smashed home with confidence that had seemed lacking. Decent workrate.MARC GUIU – 7The 18-year-old striker worked hard as ever and got his reward, bagging his first Chelsea goal and stealing ball ahead of Felix’s first.SUBSKIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL (for Guiu, HT) – 6Some neat touches and won penalty for eighth Blues goal.CESARE CASADEI (for Fernandez, HT) – 6Found life as easy as Enzo, yet unable to make the same creative impact.CARNEY CHUKWUEMEKA (for George, 68) – 5Took a while to get going and missed decent chance to make it nine.SAMUEL RAK-SAKYI (for Nkunku, 80) – 6Teenager mostly composed on first-team debut but shot over bar with goal gaping.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSChelsea were three up and home and hosed by 18 minutes when defender Axel Disasi scored with his head in a similar fashion to the opening goal and from the same provider.Blues’ skipper Fernandez then teed up Felix to score the first of his first half double with a threaded ball having dispossessed the hopeless visitors in front of their own area.Cole Palmer gives injury boost ahead of Arsenal clash as Chelsea star seen at Stamford BridgeA shot from Felix cannoned in off a defender for his second just before half time.And Mykhailo Mudryk, struggling to make his presence felt in the Premier League this season under new head coach Enzo Maresca gave his confidence a boost by curling in a classy right foot shot six minutes before the interval.Maresca was so confident of victory that he subbed captain Fernandez at half time, replacing him with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. He could have left both off and it would not have mattered a jot.More good news for Chelsea fans was the sight of star forward Cole Palmer walking comfortably pitchside before the game, offering hope he will be recovered from a whack on the knee at Manchester United last Sunday in time to face Arsenal this weekend.Christopher Nkunku claimed his ninth goal of the season and Chelsea’s seventh of the night on 69 minutes when his first shot was blocked by the keeper but he kept his composure to hook home the rebound.Chelsea are clear favourites to win this tournament outright. Their biggest victory in Europe prior to last night was a 13-0 win over luxembourg’s Jeunesse Hautcharage in the 1971 Cup Winners’ Cup.They closed in on it at frightening pace when Nkunku made it 8-0 from the penalty spot 14 minutes from time.Mykhailo Mudryk netted a stunning goal to continue his form in EuropeCredit: ReutersJoao Felix scored a brace but missed an absolute sitter tooCredit: GettyChristopher Nkunku managed the same featCredit: Rex More

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      Man Utd 2 PAOK 0: Amad Diallo at the double as Red Devils pick up first European win in 383 days

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      A LITTLE RED DEVIL finally gave Manchester United a glimpse of European heaven after so many dark days – 383 to be exact.Amad Diallo at 5ft 8in was the smallest man on the pitch last night.Manchester United welcome PAOK to Old Trafford for their fourth Europa League match of the seasonCredit: EPAThe Greek outfit frustrated the Red Devils for the first halfCredit: EPAAmad Diallo broke the deadlock in the 51st minute with a brilliant headerCredit: GETTYPut the pocket dynamo of footballing excellence was the one using his head to loop the ball into the far side of the net in the 50th minute.Then in the 77th minute, the tenacity of the Ivory Coast international saw him wrestle the ball into his possession before he released a stunning drive for his second.The 22-year-old is a star and he is only going to shine brighter and brighter as the years go on.He decided this Europa League contest and gave Manchester United only their second victory in Europe in 12 games.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSIn fact, it was just over a year ago that they had anything to shout about away from domestic football and then it needed a last-gasp Andre Onana penalty save for a 1-0 win over Copenhagen.So this was something of an achievement given recent travails for a club that used to strike fear into the hearts of teams on the continent.This is a very different United, though. The fans visiting from Greece came with huge optimism.They had spent the afternoon enjoying Manchester’s City centre and were in full voice long before kick-off and throughout the game.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/AEven at 2-0 down they kept going but it was the home faithful who had the most to shout about.Having said that, the Greek Champions would produce the best effort of the first half when Mady Camara’s volley was toughed over by Andre Onana.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyBefore that, there was some exciting attacking play from Alejandro, Garnacho, 20, on the left as always, but even better was Diallo on the right.The 22-year-old was in for Marcus Rashford who was benched and he was going to take his chance with some eye-catching play for incoming boss Ruben Amorim to enjoy from Lisbon.He got an early whack from Abdul Baba but he will not be intimidated.He had a penalty shout when he was bundled over by Baba who failed to win the ball. Despite a VAR check, there was no spot-kick given.Amad was firing balls in from the right and when he found Rasmus Hojlund in the centre of the box his header was straight at the goalkeeper.Diallo puts the work in too and when he sprinted from his flank to the left to block a clearance the crowd roared.The two young wingers almost combined to break the deadlock when Garnacho raced to the byline to whip the ball across the face of the goal.Diallo could just not reach it at the far post. United began the second half on the front foot.Fernandes was running the show with his short and long-range passes.It was his deep ball to the far post that was met by the jumping Diallo who nodded an arching ball through the sky, over the goalkeeper and in.He may have been just trying to get it back across goal to Rasmus Hojlund, but let’s give him the benefit of the doubt.Off he raced to the corner flag, kissing the United badge, while a VAR check took place.Diallo bagged his and United’s second with a deflected strike in the 77th minuteCredit: GETTYDiallo proved to be a shining light in an otherwise drab night for the Red DevilsCredit: REXIncoming boss Ruben Amorim will no doubt be thrilled by Diallo’s performanceCredit: PANobody quite knew why, though, but it did give Diallo a second chance to celebrate when the referee confirmed the goal.He could have had a second soon after.With another searching ball, Fernandes picked out his run and after racing into the box his shot was well saved by goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski denying him with an outstretched leg.Garnacho dragged the spotlight across the pitch to him when he went on a wriggling run through three players in the box before hitting the deck.Again there were cries for a penalty again they were waved away.With a slender lead, United still had to be careful and they were caught napping in the 64th minute for what should have been the PAOK equaliser.Taison’s ball rolled unhindered past those in red and settled at the feet of Tarik Tissoudall.There was nobody near him and in football terms, he had all the time in the world, but shot straight at Onana.He held his head in his hands as did his teammates as The Stretford End breathed a sigh of relief.The sighs turned to roars when substitute Christian Eriksen launched a ball forward that PAOK’s Baba seemed to have under control.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Diallo was snapping at his heels, forced him off the ball, ran away with it and then from the edge of the area fired a curling drive home.What a goal, what a night for Diallo. More

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      Chelsea 8-0 Noah LIVE RESULT: Blues put Armenian minnows to the sword with dominant Conference League performance

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      CHELSEA beat minnows Noah FC 8-0 to soar to the top of the Europa Conference League group phase. Goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Joao Felix (2), Axel Disasi, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku (2) sealed the deal for Enzo Maresca’s side at Stamford Bridge. Kick off time: 8pmTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: discovery+Chelsea team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Adarabioyo, Badiashile, Veiga, Fernandez, Felix, Mudryk, Nkunku, George, GuiuFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…FULL TIME – Chelsea 8-0 Noah It’s full time at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have done their job and they now sit top of the Europa Conference League group phase after a thumping performance at Stamford Bridge. Tosin Adarabioyo got things underway with his first goal for the club before Marc Guiu, Axel Disasi and Joao Felix added three more in quick succession. Felix and Mykhaylo Mudryk put the Blues six up just before the break and Christopher Nkunku bagged a brace for himself in the second period to round up the scoring. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90+4. Filip Jorgensen is rolling on the floor in pain holding his head after rushing out to grab the ball from the Noah attacker. Thankfully he gets up and is okay. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90+2. A huge chance for a big moment!Carney Chukwuemeka escapes down the right for Chelsea, and his left footed shot on goal is deflected out by the Noah goalkeeper. The ball bounces out to Sam Rak-Sakyi, but he is just leaning back as his shot goes over the bar. The youngster should have many more chances to get his first Chelsea goal in future games at least. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90. Willy Caballero on the Chelsea bench raises an arm in frustration as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall wastes a chance to add a ninth goal to Chelsea’s already impressive lead. The fourth official’s board goes up, and there will be four minutes added on. That announcement is greeted with chants of “We want ten”.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah88. Noah have another shot from inside the box, but Jorgensen saves again after some good work from the Armenian visitors. Lots of home fans are heading for the exits now to beat the traffic – I mean that’s poor, you could easily miss another 5 goals here! Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah85. Noah get forwards and have a chance from close range with a header, but Jorgensen saves it with ease. You almost want them to score just for their fans, who have been brilliant all night. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah80. Into the last ten minutes here, and you can tell Joao Felix is keen on getting his hat-trick. He lashes a shot from distance well over the bar. Just a minute later Carney Chukwuemeka gets down the right, and sets up Casadei for a shot from range, but he forces a good save from the Noah goalkeeper. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah77. Samuel Rak-Sakyi is ready to enter play here, as the young number 51 comes on for his Chelsea debut. What a moment for the youngster who replaces Christopher Nkunku. Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLLLL! Chelsea 8-0 Noah74. The Chelsea fans continue to chant as Christopher Nkunku holds the ball in his hands, ready to take the penalty. They certainly want an eighth goal here. Nkunku steps up…AND HE SCORES! Straight down the middle from the Frenchman.Copy linkCopiedPENALTY! Chelsea 7-0 Noah73. It’s a penalty to Chelsea after the referee takes a look at the screen! Stamford Bridge erupts once more!Copy linkCopiedVAR CHECK, POSSIBLE PENALTY: Chelsea 7-0 Noah71. Chants of “WE WANT EIGHT” come from the Matthew Harding stand, as Carney Chukwuemeka blasts a shot wide of the goal with Joao Felix cowering in the net to stay onside. There may have been a foul in the box on Christopher Nkunku however in the build up, and VAR will check that. The referee goes over to the screen…Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Chelsea 7-0 Noah68. It’s seven heaven for Chelsea, and after a great move by Joao Felix, it’s Christopher Nkunku who has his goal at last. It was at the second time of asking, but counts all the same. He doesn’t perform his signature balloon celebration, perhaps a touch of respect from the Chelsea man. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah65. Carney Chukwuemeka is ready to come on for Chelsea here, as Noah press forward with the ball. Pinson gets down the left and wins a corner from Axel Disasi. The Noah fans go wild as their side win a corner. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah62. Safe to say incoming Chelsea star Willian Estevao is happy with what he’s seeing over in Brazil. Willian Estevao reacts to Chelsea winning 6-0 in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: X – @EstevaoWillian7Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah59. Just a reminder in case you were wondering, Chelsea’s biggest ever win was a 13-0 triumph over JeunesseHautcharge in the first round of the cup winners cup in 1971. The Blues will need seven goals in the next 30 minutes or so if they want to better that. Not impossible by any stretch, but if the rest of their shots are like that one from Joao Felix then they won’t make it…Copy linkCopiedOFF THE BAR! Chelsea 6-0 Noah57. It’s almost seven for Chelsea, as Nkunku turns once more inside the box and smashes a left-footed shot off of the crossbar and over. He practically had one hand on the balloon there already.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah54. Another big chance for Chelsea, this time it falls for Nkunku. He receives the ball well and turns, but his shot is saved by the Noah goalkeeper. It pings back out at Joao Felix, but the keeper holds onto it at the second time of asking. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah52. A huge mistake from the Noah goalkeeper sees him pass the ball to Joao Felix from close range. Felix is not expecting the pass, but takes a touch and has a go on goal anyway – but the goalkeeper atones for his sin.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah50. Noah get their foot on the ball and have retained possession well here as they work the ball into midfield. But as soon as they try to do anything incisive, Renato Veiga is on hand to cut it out. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah48. Chelsea nicely work a corner into the box which falls to Benoit Badiashile. But the only Chelsea centre-back not on the scoresheet is unable to make it there for now with a volley looped over the bar. Copy linkCopiedSECOND HALF: Chelsea 6-0 Noah46. Back underway for the second half here, and a long ball over the top is immediately played into Tyrique George. A lovely bit of link-up play between him and Joao Felix sees Chelsea get the ball into the middle, but nothing comes of it this time. Copy linkCopiedHT Changes: Chelsea 6-0 NoahHT. Two changes to report for Chelsea before we get back underway here at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Fernandez has been replaced by Cesare Casadei, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is on for Marc Guiu.Copy linkCopiedHALF-TIME: Chelsea 6-0 NoahHT. The referee blows the whistle for half-time. Copy linkCopied45. Chelsea 6-0 NoahThere will be just one minute of added time at the end of the first half, which sees a collective sigh of relief come from the Noah fans and players.Just one more half to go, lads…Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLL! IT’S SIX! Chelsea 6-0 Noah42. The goals are flooding in once more at Stamford Bridge (no I won’t get bored of that pun). This time the ball is rolled into Joao Felix on the left, and he cuts it back under his spell past the defender and fires a shot at the far side of the goal. It takes a big deflection and beats the Noah keeper, who is going to be suffering from back pain after picking the ball up out of his net for the sixth time. Joao Felix is on for a hat-trick against NoahCredit: APCopy linkCopied More

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      Chelsea fans hit by travel chaos for Conference League clash against Noah as club release statement

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      CHELSEA fans have been hit by travel chaos ahead of the Conference League clash against FC Noah.The Blues continue their European campaign by welcoming the Armenian outfit to Stamford Bridge on Thursday evening.Chelsea fans will face travel disruption on ThursdayCredit: AlamyHowever, fans planning to travel to the match via the London Underground will now have to make different arrangements.Tube services will be severely impacted by strike action as there are not expected to be any trains running.Chelsea has warned supporters and notified them of the inconvenience.A statement read: “Supporters coming to Stamford Bridge for this week’s game against Noah are notified in advance that London Underground services are set to be affected by industrial action.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”Chelsea play our next Uefa Conference League fixture against the Armenian side on Thursday (7 November) and currently no tube trains are expected to run that day.”Alternative services are likely to be busier than normal so it is important to plan ahead and check before you travel.”On Sunday (10 November), when we host Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, London Underground is expected to run as normal apart from some services which may be affected by planned works.”The Blues have won both of their Conference League fixtures this season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEnzo Maresca’s side began the league phase with a victory over Gent before dispatching Greek side Panathinaikos.This has left Chelsea at the top of the qualifying league while Noah is in 18th place, having won one and lost one.Shocking moment woman appears to make racial slur live on TV leaving presenter stunned after Man Utd vs ChelseaChelsea player ratings vs Man UtdCHELSEA came from a goal down to rescue a point at Old Trafford.Robert Sanchez brought down Rasmus Hojlund with 20 minutes remaining and Bruno Fernandes rolled in what looked to be a decisive spot kick.But Chelsea hit back swiftly as Moises Caicedo’s sweet strike flew into the bottom corner.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield saw the performances of the Chelsea players in the 1-1 draw…Robert Sanchez – 3Made a few really good saves in the first half, and was much improved after a poor performance last time out against Newcastle.That was until he gave away a reckless penalty on Rasmus Hojlund, which was easily dispatched by Bruno Fernandes.His mistakes are starting to cost Chelsea time after time.Malo Gusto – 2Got in good positions in the first half, but was often wasteful when he got there.Was booked for a late challenge on Manuel Ugarte, before being hooked for Cucurella at half-time after an awful overall showing.Wesley Fofana – 6A strong performance at the back was marred only by the Frenchman letting Rasmus Hojlund escape him before winning a penalty for his side.Showed brilliant recovery pace throughout the game, and made some crucial challenges too.Levi Colwill – 6That was a strong defensive showing from the Chelsea number 6.For a player with a passing range as impressive as his is, it would’ve been nice to see him use it more as Chelsea looked for a goal.Reece James – 5Improved this week, but still showed signs of rustiness as he gave the ball away in dangerous positions a few times.More effective on the right side in Malo Gusto’s position, and more comfortable there as expected with Marc Cucurella on the left.Another 90 minutes in the tank is fantastic news for Chelsea fans.Moises Caicedo – 9Scored a certain contender for goal of the month with a sensational volley from the edge of the box to level the scoring for his side.Effective in breaking up play for the Blues once more, and showed why he is worthy of the £100m price tag Chelsea paid for him.Romeo Lavia – 8Another impressive midfield performance from the Belgian, who shows prowess beyond his years on and off the ball.Seems the perfect pivot partner for Moises Caicedo, and people need to start talking about how Manchester City let him go for peanuts.Noni Madueke – 6Unfortunate to hit the post in the 13th minute with a header following a corner.Worked hard defensively throughout the game too, but was unable to really put his creative abilities to the test.Cole Palmer – 7In the first half, his signature ‘Palmer touch’ got the away supporters off their feet, and he was Chelsea’s most creative outlet on the day.Unable to add another goal or assist to his impressive tally this season, but still had a solid showing.Pedro Neto – 5Showed flashes of brilliance on the left-hand side, and came close with a shot across goal in the second half.Was moved to the right-hand side in the second half, but it was much of the same from there.Nicolas Jackson – 5Pretty invisible up front for Chelsea today.Worked hard and tracked back well when required to, but fans were left confused as to why Christopher Nkunku was left on the bench.In fairness to him, could’ve had an assist if Enzo Fernandez could finish his dinner.SubsMarc Cucurella (for Gusto, 46 mins) – 5A solid showing on the left-hand side. Chelsea look a better team with him in the 11.Mykhailo Mudryk (for Madueke, 70 mins) – 4Tried to light things up on the left hand side, but his spark wasn’t enough to win the game for his side.Enzo Fernandez (for Lavia, 70 mins) – 2Missed an absolute sitter which would have won his team the game after coming on. Looks very short on confidence.Click here to read more Chelsea stories.Chelsea are hoping to return to winning ways after their 1-1 draw at Old Trafford against Manchester United.Moises Caicedo’s superb strike cancelled out Bruno Fernandes’ second-half penalty to earn a point.Levi Colwill hailed his goalscoring team-mate after the match.The defender said: “It was definitely huge. You’ve got two ways to react, you either put your head down or you get on with it and try to get the equalising goal, which obviously we did.”Moi is an amazing player and we’ve got so many of them that, when you’re struggling in a game or when you’re not scoring, they pull out that magic.”We’ve been behind already this season and we know you’ve got to react fast.”We know we’re a good team, we believe we’re going to create more chances to score no matter the time in the game.” More

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      Ex-Wrexham star still playing European football set for stunning career change after completing lorry driver training

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      FORMER Wrexham ace Blaine Hudson is preparing for life after he hangs up his football boots.Hudson, 33, spent two years with the Red Dragons and made 84 appearances before leaving for rivals Chester in 2016.Former Wrexham ace Blaine Hudson has completed a lorry driver courseCredit: Gatewen Training ServicesHudson now plays for The New Saints in the Conference LeagueCredit: GettyNow the centre-back plays for JD Cymru Premier champions The New Saints and competes in the Conference League this season.But he is already looking ahead to life after football, which is why he completed his HGV lorry driver training.According to The Leader, Hudson has been following in his father’s footsteps by linking up with Gatewen Training Services.And the towering 6ft4in footballer is exploring exciting opportunities in logistics and transportation.Read More on FootballHudson told a group of young people from the WeMindTheGap ‘Gappies’ programme, which is an initiative designed to provide new opportunities and skills to young people: “Learning new skills outside of football has been an exciting and rewarding journey.”Gatewen Training Services and NEWSA offer incredible facilities here in Wrexham, and I encourage anyone considering a career change to explore the opportunities available.”The logistics sector is in high demand, and I’m grateful to everyone at Gatewen and NEWSA for helping me on this path.”Hudson started out his footballing career at Norwich before moving to Cambridge United, Wrexham and Chester.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut he has been playing with The New Saints since 2017 where he is a key defensive figure.The Welsh outfit are set to visit Shamrock Rovers on November 7 in the League Phase of the Conference League.The Armenian football club FC Noah will be taking on Chelsea in the Uefa Conference League Craig Harrison’s side have fared well in the competition as despite losing to last season’s finalists Fiorentina they picked up an impressive 2-0 win over Astana. More

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      Who are FC Noah? Armenian football club taking on Chelsea in Uefa Conference League match

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      FC NOAH is an Armenian team that has recently made waves in European football.Here’s everything you need to know about the aspirational club, who are taking on Chelsea in the Europa Conference League.FC Noah was founded in 2017 as FC ArtsakhRui Mota is the head coach of FC NoahCredit: GettyMatheus Aiás is a striker for the Armenian sideCredit: GettyWho Are FC Noah?Founded in 2017 as FC Artsakh, the team was originally based in Stepanakert, Artsakh, Armenia.The club relocated to Armavir and was rebranded as FC Noah in 2019, drawing inspiration from biblical figure Noah.Its name references the story of Noah’s Ark, which is said to have come to rest on the Mountains of Ararat, traditionally identified with Mount Ararat in Armenia.Rise to prominenceThe team’s rise to prominence has been meteoric — they finished second in the Armenian First League in their inaugural 2017-18 season, earning promotion to the Armenian Premier League.More Europa Conference LeagueDespite a disappointing 8th-place finish in their first top-flight season, the club’s fortunes changed dramatically following a change of ownership and the rebranding in 2019.Noah’s first major trophy came in the 2019-20 season, when they won the Armenian Cup, defeating Ararat-Armenia on penalties.This marked the beginning of their European journey, as it meant they qualified for the UEFA Europa Conference League for the first time.They were knocked out in the first qualifying round in the 2021-22 season, losing 5-1 on aggregate to Finish club Kuopion Palloseura.Most read in FootballThe side finished second in the Armenian Premier League in 2023-24, meaning they qualified for Europe’s third-tier tournament once again.Making historyThe 2024-25 season has been a landmark year for FC Noah.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca lauds Cole Palmer as the type of player supporters ‘pay to see’ They made history by becoming the first club in history to enter the Conference League qualifiers in the first round and successfully navigate all four rounds.Their impressive run included victories over Shkëndija, Sliema Wanderers and Greek powerhouse AEK Athens, before a nail-biting 4-3 aggregate win against Ružomberok in the play-off round.They continued their hot streak run into match-day one of the competition on October 3, 2024, beating Czech First League outfit FK Mladá Boleslav 2-0 at Armavir City Stadium, their home ground. Key playersCurrently managed by Rui Mota, Noah boasts a diverse squad filled with both local talent and players from around the world.Key players include Gonçalo Gregório from Portugal and Brazilian Matheus Aiás in attack.Gonçalo Gregório plays up front for FC NoahmaCredit: GettyIn midfield there’s Gustavo Sangaré from Burkina Faso and local lad Gor Manvelyan.The side boasts experienced defenders in Hovhannes Hambardzumyan from Armenia, as well as the Icelandic left-back Guðmundur Þórarinsson.StadiumThe team’s home ground has changed several times since their inception.After initially playing at various stadiums in Yerevan, including the Mika Stadium and Alashkert Stadium, FC Noah moved their home games to the Armavir City Stadium in February 2022.Upcoming Chelsea fixtureFC Noah’s European adventure continues with a highly anticipated match against English giants Chelsea in the UEFA Conference League on November 7, 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fixture represents a David vs Goliath encounter, pitting the Armenian underdogs against one of Europe’s most successful clubs of the past two decades.The match against Chelsea will undoubtedly be the biggest in the club’s short history.Chelsea’s Europa Conference League matchesHere are the Blues’ Europa Conference League fixtures in 2024:Thursday, October 3Chelsea vs GentKick-off: 8pmThursday, October 24Panathinaikos vs ChelseaKick-off: 5.45pmThursday, November 7Chelsea vs FC NoahKick-off: 8pmThursday, November 28Heidenheim vs ChelseaKick-off: 5.45pmThursday, December 12FC Astana vs ChelseaKick-off: 3.30pmThursday, December 19Chelsea vs Shamrock RoversKick-off: 8pm. More

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      Fans spot amazing moment Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall ‘apologises’ to Mykhailo Mudryk and say ‘I’m in love with this team’

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      CHELSEA fans noticed an amazing interaction between Kieran Dewsbury-Hall and Mykhailo Mudryk during last night’s clash with Panathinaikos.Enzo Maresca’s side won 4-1 in Greece to make it six points from two games in this season’s Europa Conference League.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall spoke to his team-mate Mykhailo MudrykCredit: TNT SportsThe pair appeared to clear the airCredit: TNT SportsJoao Felix was at the double for the Blues, with Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku also notching.Mudryk, 23, assisted Felix’s first goal on 22 minutes.Amid the celebrations, Dewsbury-Hall was seen putting his arm around the Ukrainian.It appeared that the pair were talking out their differences, having clashed a few minutes earlier.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Leicester midfielder, 26, had been upset when Mudryk failed to pass to him on the edge of the box.Having ignored Dewsbury-Hall’s cries for the ball, the winger instead took a shot – which sailed harmlessly over the bar.The pair appeared to exchange furious words, with Mudryk seemingly defending his decision to shoot.All was forgiven a few minutes later, when Mudryk teed up Felix’s opener.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMudryk, 23, produced an improved performance in GreeceCredit: APAfter seeing Dewsbury-Hall put his arm around his team-mate, several Chelsea fans gushed on social media.One wrote: “I’m in love with this team.”Mykhailo Mudryk reveals his cheat meal and best Chelsea pals in Q&A While a second commented: “What we love to see.”A third gushed: “Discipline, my club is so back.”And another added: “Class move by DH.”Following Mudryk’s improved display, boss Maresca assessed his start to the season – having not even named him on the bench against Liverpool last weekend.”We’re working with him and all the wingers,” the Italian began. “They need to arrive inside the box in the position where Misha [Mudryk] scored.”He’s struggled to arrive there, now he’s started to. That’s where we’re going to score goals. We want the best for Misha – since day one we’ve tried to help him.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Probably he’s one of the guys that the learning process is more slow compared to the rest. But he’s improving.”I’m sure that slowly, slowly we’re going to arrive where he will score more goals and to be more important for us.”Chelsea ratings vs Panathinaikos: Mudryk gives rare glimpse of his talent but one defender strugglesCHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos.Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…Filip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start.Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet.Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts.Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick.Benoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede.Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central.Renato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post.Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession.Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance.Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal.Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband.Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure.Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner.Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix.Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all.Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again.Joao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home.Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on.Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.Cesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday.Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then. More