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    Marc Guehi breaks silence after escaping FA action for message on rainbow armband for two games

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    MARC GUEHI has broken his silence after writing a religious message on his Premier League captain’s armband. Guehi – a devout Christian – was warned by the FA not to repeat his actions after writing “I love Jesus” on his armband for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle.Marc Guehi broke his silence after writing a religious message on his captain’s armbandCredit: PAHe escaped any FA punishmentCredit: GettyOn Tuesday night, the Eagles skipper ignored the warning as he wrote “Jesus loves you” on his armband as Palace beat Ipswich 1-0. Now, Guehi has spoken out for the first time telling Sky Sports: “I think the message was pretty clear to be honest. “It’s a message of love and truth as well and a message of inclusivity, so it speaks for itself.” The FA do not plan any formal disciplinary action towards Guehi – despite the breach of Rule A4.READ MORE IN football Instead, they have reminded Palace of the kit regulations that are in place.The Laws of the Game allow slogans “promoting the game of football, respect and integrity”.But the Laws forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images”.Breaching this requirement is a strict liability situation with the Laws adding: “For any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”Most read in FootballFA have disappeared down a rabbit hole again with absurd double standardsBy Dave Kidd Cast your mind back two years to the World Cup in Qatar.There, the FA and Harry Kane insisted that the England skipper would wear a rainbow armband in support of the LGBTQ+ community, after FIFA had awarded hosting rights to a nation which criminalises homosexuality.Six other western European nations were going to take the same stand.Until the point when FIFA insisted that those captains making this “political” gesture would be booked.Until the point where that gesture might have some sporting consequence – and therefore a more substantial meaning.At that point, the FA and their six allies all performed a late U-turn. They bottled it.That’s the thing with English football and its “support” for the LGBTQ+ community.READ THE FULL COLUMN HERE The Guehi issue, and Ipswich skipper Sam Morsy’s refusal to wear the rainbow armband on “religious” grounds, will put a spotlight on the campaign that has been part of the Premier League’s season since 2013.Guehi, whose dad is a minister, was one of 19 top flight captains who wore the armband in the weekend fixtures to support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of LGBTQ+ rights.Ipswich’s Morsy was the only skipper to snub wearing the armband.Speaking after Tuesday’s game, which Palace won 1-0 to ease relegation concerns, manager Oliver Glasner backed his captain.Glasner said: “We respect every single player and especially Marc as our captain.”He’s a great guy, very humble and we shouldn’t make it bigger than it is. Keep it calm. He’s very respectful to everyone in the club.”In football we’re all against discrimination, against abuse, every single part. It was a great campaign and I think that’s it.”We spoke about it. I speak to Marc quite often, he’s my captain. He’s no child who is 15, he’s an adult person like every one of us.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion. This is the quote of this campaign, being tolerant and Marc is very tolerant so everything is fine.”Meanwhile, Man Utd’s players abandoned plans to wear a jacket in support of the LGBTQ+ community after Noussair Mazraoui refused to join the initiative ahead of their 4-0 win over Everton. More

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      The FA have disappeared down a rabbit hole again with absurd double standards over Morsy and Guehi rainbow armband row

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      CAST your mind back two years to the World Cup in Qatar.There, the FA and Harry Kane insisted that the England skipper would wear a rainbow armband in support of the LGBTQ+ community, after FIFA had awarded hosting rights to a nation which criminalises homosexuality.Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi wrote ‘I love Jesus’ on his rainbow armbandCredit: RexGuehi was then warned for writing ‘Jesus loves you’ on the armbandCredit: GettyIpswich captain Sam Morsy didn’t wear a rainbow armbandCredit: GettySix other western European nations were going to take the same stand.Until the point when FIFA insisted that those captains making this “political” gesture would be booked.Until the point where that gesture might have some sporting consequence – and therefore a more substantial meaning. At that point, the FA and their six allies all performed a late U-turn. They bottled it.Read More on FootballThat’s the thing with English football and its “support” for the LGBTQ+ community.They are happy to show them support by virtue signalling with meaningless gestures. Meaningful gestures, not so much.Two years later, the FA have disappeared down a rabbit hole again with their absurd double standards in allowing Ipswich captain Sam Morsy – a practising Muslim – not to wear a rainbow armband, while reprimanding Crystal Palace skipper Marc Guehi – a devout Christian – for daubing his armband with the words “I love Jesus” and then “Jesus Loves You”.This is patent nonsense. It is discrimination wrapped up in the excuse of a “rules is rules” technicality. Most read in FootballEnglish football wanted to make a stand against the staging of the World Cup in Qatar.But when it comes to allowing Newcastle to be funded by the Saudi regime – which subjugates women and criminalises homosexuality – or for the Abu Dhabi government to bankroll Manchester City, it turns a blind eye.England star Marc Guéhi’s talks about his father’s faith and missing church on Sundays When England defender Guehi – the son of a Christian minister – made his first stand in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle, visiting captain Bruno Guimaraes dutifully wore his rainbow armband.Yet the regime which is allowed to pay his wages clearly doesn’t share the values this armband supposedly represents.On Tuesday, by quirk of the fixture list, Guehi and Morsy – a British-born Egypt international – were pitted against one another, further highlighting the absurdity of one man being allowed not to wear an armband and another man being warned for writing on that armband.Then there is the case of Manchester United’s Muslim defender Noussair Mazraoui refusing to wear a specially-designed pre-match warm-up jacket to mark the club’s Rainbow Laces match against Everton.As a result, United decided none of their players would wear the jackets so as not to disrupt team unity.So United wanted to show support for LGBTQ+ rights – but only until the point that it became difficult for them.Lot of work to be donePersonally, I feel grateful not to have been brought up with any religion in my life and believe that any organised religion causes more harm than good.But I also recognise Guehi, Morsy, Mazraoui and anyone else with religious faith has every right to practice their beliefs.I also consider the principle behind the rainbow campaign to be a sound one.That people should be free to love whomever they want to love, and not have to hide their sexuality.In an increasingly secular society, most people agree with that basic statement.Inclusivity shouldn’t be a dirty word. Gay people have, with good reason, felt excluded from participating in football and attending matches.Sometimes it’s meaninglessThe fact that there still aren’t any openly “out” gay footballers in the Premier League suggests there remains a lot of work to be done.But when campaigns are besmirched by such absurdities as the FA’s capitulation in Qatar and the double standards shown to Guehi and Morsy, they simply stoke the beliefs of intolerant people and are self-defeating. They give credence to the idea that the FA are a fanatically “woke” organisation, when that isn’t the case.The FA, and English football in general, are simply desperate to recognise everyone and everything all the time.It is rare to attend an England match without a minute’s silence. Which usually turns into applause.Often with a recently-deceased former England player or manager being offered a silence in association with the victims of some terrible war or natural disaster overseas. Rendering it all pretty meaningless.Opposite of ‘wokeness’It also feels weird that before every England game, there are around 100 serving military personnel on the pitch.Even weirder when, last month, the opposition was the Republic of Ireland, whose population are understandably not keen on the sight of uniformed British squaddies.This is actually the opposite of “wokeness” – whatever that means – and it is jarring just the same.Then there’s Remembrance Day. I happen to wear a poppy – or, more often, I buy several and lose them all – as a personal mark of respect to relatives who fought and died, and a recognition of my own good fortune in not having had to suffer the same horrors as my grandfather and great-grandfather.But football has taken Remembrance Day to extreme degrees – with The Last Post being played and silences observed as early as October.And it also allows James McClean, an open supporter of IRA terrorism, to make his own views known. Views which are abhorrent to most of us.READ MORE SUN STORIESGesture politics in football have become an ugly moral maze – underlined by the idiocy surrounding the treatment of Guehi and Morsy.In an angry and divided nation, the only intelligent conclusion is that football should be a safe space – away from politics, religion, the military or any other cause. More

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      Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi writes message on his Rainbow captain’s armband AGAIN after being spoken to by FA

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      MARC GUEHI defied the FA by writing a message on the Rainbow captain’s armband AGAIN.Captains were asked to wear Rainbow armbands over the weekend in a show of support for the LGBTQ+ community.Marc Guehi has written a message on the rainbow captain’s armband againCredit: ReutersHe wrote ‘Jesus loves you’Credit: ReutersThe message on Guehi’s armband was changedCredit: ReutersGuehi is a devote ChristianCredit: ReutersCrystal Palace star Guehi did so against Newcastle on Saturday – but added the words “I love Jesus” on the armband. The defender, a devout Christian, was spoken to by the FA, who reminded him that displaying any religious message on a player’s kit is prohibited.But on Tuesday night, away against Ipswich, Guehi wrote on the armband again but changed the words to “Jesus loves you” with a smiley face.The 24-year-old was one of 19 top flight captains who wore the armband in the weekend fixtures to support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of LGBTQ+ rights.READ MORE IN football Ipswich’s Morsy was the only skipper to snub wearing the armband entirely due to “religious beliefs”.The Ipswich skipper did so again in the game against Crystal Palace.Guehi – whose father is a minister – risked facing action by writing the religious message on his arm against Newcastle.The Laws of the Game allow slogans “promoting the game of football, respect and integrity”.Most read in FootballBut the Laws forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images”.Breaching this requirement is a strict liability situation with the Laws adding: “For any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”FA disciplinary beaks opted to speak with Guehi and Palace rather than going any further.Both Guehi and his club were told that the appearance of any religious message on kits, boots or any other equipment – including the armband – is prohibited under FA Rule A4.The FA declined to comment when approached over any further repercussions following Tuesday night’s repeat offence.Speaking after Tuesday’s game, which Palace won 1-0 to ease relegation concerns, manager Oliver Glasner backed his captain.He said: “We respect every single player and especially Marc as our captain.”He’s a great guy, very humble and we shouldn’t make it bigger than it is. Keep it calm.”He’s very respectful to everyone in the club. “In football we’re all against discrimination, against abuse, every single part. It was a great campaign and I think that’s it.”We spoke about it. I speak to Marc quite often, he’s my captain.”He’s no child who is 15, he’s an adult person like every one of us.”He has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion. This is the quote of this campaign, being tolerant and Marc is very tolerant so everything is fine.”Armband snubIpswich captain Morsy – a practising Muslim – was the only one of the league’s 20 captains not to wear the Rainbow armband.In a club statement, while stressing their commitment to LGBT+ inclusion, Ipswich admit they “respect the decision” of Morsy to don a plain Prem captain’s armband instead.The statement read: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our Foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of the game.“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs.“We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”Morsy has been captain of Ipswich under boss Kieran McKenna since 2021 and also did not wear the Rainbow armband against Palace.McKenna said after the game: “In line with what the club statement said we want to be an inclusive club. We are working really hard on that within the playing group, there is a lot of good work being done. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The club has accepted Sam’s decision based on his religious beliefs and that is a fair assessment.”Sheffield United’s Anel Ahmedhodzic also refused to wear a Rainbow armband in the Prem back in December 2023, but did not give a specific reason as to why, simply saying the word “guess”.Sam Morsy wore a regular captain’s armbandCredit: Getty More

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      Former Premier League manager, 41, left baffled after being caught out by little-known FA Cup rule in extra time

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      RUBEN SELLES was left gobsmacked after not being allowed to make an extra-time substitution in Reading’s FA Cup clash with Harborough Town.The Royals needed extra time to get the better of the eighth-tier side in their FA Cup second-round tie last Saturday.Ruben Selles was left gobsmacked when he couldn’t make a sixth sub in Reading’s FA Cup clash with Harborough TownCredit: PAThe Spaniard thought he could introduce a sixth sub as the match went to extra timeCredit: REXThe rule meant star Royals striker Sam Smith couldn’t be introducedCredit: REXAn extra-time brace from substitute Chem Campbell saw Selles’ troops run out 5-3 winners at the Madjeski Stadium.Star striker Sam Smith was all set to enter the fray before extra time got underway but was denied the opportunity to do so as Selles was unaware of a rule change.Smith had to sit on the subs bench as Selles had already used his permitted five subs in normal time.Selles, 41, would’ve been allowed to make a sixth change during the extra-time period before the rules changed.READ MORE FA CUP NESThe former Southampton manager was left stunned when he was informed he couldn’t make a sixth change.And his frustration stemmed from allegedly being told he COULD introduce a sixth sub if the game went past the allotted 90 minutes.The Spaniard said: “We will get clarification because we were told you can make an extra substitution if you go to extra time.”Their manager was also on the same page because that had been the rule. Most read in Football”The referee said it changed so I need to check a paragraph.”If it should be like that then it was our mistake, but we will ask for clarification.”Gary Neville tells Salford captain ‘you’re getting sacked in the morning’ after comment live on BBC during FA Cup drawReading’s reward for beating Harborough is a third-round tie with Championship side Burnley on January 11.The Royals will be back in action tonight, welcoming Cambridge United at the Madjeski. More

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      FA Cup 3rd round draw in full LIVE: Arsenal face Man Utd in bombshell tie while Man City take on Salford – updates

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      THE FA Cup 3rd round draw has concluded with Arsenal facing Manchester United in a blockbuster tie at the Emirates!Non-league side Tamworth are set to host Premier League giants Tottenham.Manchester City face the class of 92-owned Salford City and Gary Neville has already been poking fun at Pep Guardiola.While Chelsea and Liverpool also face lower-league opposition.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the FA Cup third round draw with our live blog below…Neville trolls PepGary Neville – Salford City’s co-owner – has trolled Pep Guardiola after Man City drew Salford in a mammoth derby.Guardiola was hit with “sacked in the morning” chants from Liverpool fans after suffering yet another loss at the weekend.And Neville has cheekily said more is to come when City host the League Two side.Copy linkCopiedFA Cup 3rd round datesThe big ties will take place across Friday January 10 to Monday, January 13, 2025.And what a draw that was.Kick-off times yet to be announced, with BBC and ITV broadcasting games.Copy linkCopiedFA Cup draw in fullSouthampton vs SwanseaArsenal vs Man UtdExeter City vs Oxford UtdLeyton Orient vs Derby CountyReading vs BurnleyAston Villa vs West HamNorwich vs BrightonMan City vs Salford CityMillwall vs Dagenham & RedbridgeLiverpool vs Accrington StanleyBristol City vs WolvesPreston vs CharltonChelsea vs MorecambeMiddlesbrough vs BlackburnBournemouth vs West BromMansfield Town vs WiganTamworth vs TottenhamHull vs DoncasterSunderland vs Stoke CityLeicester vs QPRBrentford vs Plymouth ArgyleCoventry City vs Sheffield WednesdayNewcastle vs BromleyEverton vs PeterboroughWycombe vs PortsmouthBirmingham vs Lincoln CityLeeds vs HarrogateNottingham Forest vs Luton TownSheffield Utd vs CardiffIpswich vs Bristol RoversFulham vs WatfordCrystal Palace vs StockportCopy linkCopiedYoung set to face his sonAshley Young has broken his silence after it was revealed he might face his son, Tyler.Taking to social media, he said: “WOW…….. Dreams might come true #YoungvVsYoung”It comes with Everton being drawn against Peterborough. Copy linkCopiedNeville pop at GuardiolaGary Neville has poked fun at Pep Guardiola after Salford were drawn against Man City.Echoing Liverpool fans on Sunday, Neville said: “He’s getting sacked in the morning.”Neville owns Salford with other members of the Class of 92.Copy linkCopiedArsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAfter drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time the teams face off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United.Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedDion Dublin on Arsenal v Man UtdI think that might be a TV game, what do you think?They’re the kind of games we need in the FA Cup.Dion DublinBBCCopy linkCopiedFans say FA Cup tie is ‘rigged’THE FA CUP third round draw led to furious reactions from a few disappointed fans, with some going as far as to describe it as “rigged”.The third round draw’s most exciting tie is between Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United, who will face off on the weekend of January 11 at the Emirates.In contrast, Arsenal and United’s rivals were drawn against lower-league opponents.Manchester City got Salford, Chelsea drew Morecambe, Liverpool were paired with Accrington Stanley and Tottenham will face Tamworth.And some fans believe the difference of quality between those ties makes the draw, which was conducted by former Manchester United players Mark Hughes and Dion Dublin, look suspicious.One fan tweeted: “Absolutely f*g rigged.”Copy linkCopiedBromley CEO and assistant manager reactionBromley CEO Mark Hammond and assistant manager Alan Dunne were ecstatic at drawing Newcastle.But their first thought was to call manager Andy Woodman, who said it would be his dream to face his old club.You can see the video below.Copy linkCopiedDream draw for Andy WoodmanBromley manager Andy Woodman praised his Ravens’ side for marking a new piece of history for the club by getting to the third round.However, he has revealed his ideal opponents for the second round.He said: “There’s loads of big teams in there.“Newcastle would be my ideal one. I love my time there.“I also think for the area, Crystal Palace would be a good one.“Let’s see what the football gods throw up.”After being drawn away at Newcastle, Bromley said on social media: “That one’s for you gaffer.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth draw reactionTamworth have released a video of their fans reacting to the FA Cup third-round draw.The heartwarming scenes saw fans get excited when they were pulled out of the hat, before celebrating wildly when they learned they would host Tottenham.Truly the magic of the Cup.You can see the video below.Copy linkCopiedOther huge news for English footballWhile this season has seen FA Cup replays scrapped in a historical yet controversial move, there could be another huge custom that is axed.The Saturday afternoon blackout could be ended after 60 YEARS.And Sun Sport has been told of a growing belief among league chiefs that the concept is now out of date – and should be changed within five years.The new four-year Premier League TV deal, with up to 270 of the 380 matches being shown live, begins next term and will run to the end of the 2028-29 season.Sky’s £935m five year EFL deal, with more than 1,000 games per season being shown, will also run out at the same time, making way for a major rethink by the game’s authorities.And while the FA, which has policed the blackout since it was introduced to protect match attendances in the 1960s, had previously started its opposition to the policy being lifted, the wishes of the leagues could see a change of heart.While 3pm games across the Prem and EFL cannot be shown live on TV other than in specific circumstances, the UK is the last country in Europe with that policy in place.Copy linkCopiedYoung respondsAshley Young has broken his silence after it was revealed he might face his son, Tyler.Taking to social media, he said: “WOW…….. Dreams might come true #YoungvVsYoung”Copy linkCopiedArsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAfter drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time the teams face off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United. Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedNeville pop at GuardiolaGary Neville has poked fun at Pep Guardiola after Salford were drawn against Man City.Neville owns Salford with other members of the Class of 92.Copy linkCopiedFather v son One tie that has been overlooked is Everton v Peterborough.However, the headline on that draw has nothing to do with the teams, but rather with two players. Everton’s Ashley Young could end up playing against his 18-year-old son Tyler.Taking to Instagram he posted a screenshot of the tie and tagged his dad in it.Young Sr. has won the FA Cup in 2016 with Man Utd.He has played 31 FA Cup games across his career.Meanwhile, Tyler only made his pro debut in October in a 2-0 EFL Trophy win over Stevenage.Copy linkCopiedDream tie for Bromley manager WoodmanAndy Woodman said after Bromley made the third round that he wanted one of Newcastle or Crystal Palace.So landing Newcastle away must feel really special for him and the Ravens supporters alike.Bromley said on social media: “This one’s for you, Gaffer.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth elatedYou just have to be happy for the likes of Tamworth after that draw.The club shared pictures to social media of their fans celebrating wildly with the draw.And who can blame them?Manager Andy Peaks probably summed up a lot of the reaction in the BBC studio.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFans declare “greatest draw of all time””101 places between #Tottenham and #Tamworth and yet I’m still certain they’ll score first from a set piece and we’ll need at least 4 to win the game. #TamworthTottenham #facup3rdRoundDraw.””Some brilliant draws there for the FA Cup 3rd Round!! Minnows off to Prem Clubs great to see.””Greatest draw of all time haha, Arsenal v Man United, Leeds v Harrogate, Man City v Salford, Liverpool v Accrington, Newcastle v Bromley, Tamworth v Spurs and quite a few I haven’t mentioned.”Copy linkCopiedFA Cup dates from third roundThird round: Saturday, January 11Fourth round: Saturday, February 8Fifth round: Saturday, March 1Quarter-finals: Saturday, March 29Semi-finals: Saturday, April 26Final: Saturday, May 17Copy linkCopiedDion Dublin on Arsenal v Man Utd drawI think that might be a TV game, what do you think?They’re the kind of games we need in the FA Cup.Dion DublinBBCCopy linkCopiedDraw in fullHere is the FA Cup third round draw in full1 Southampton v Swansea City 2 Arsenal v Manchester United3 Exeter City v Oxford United4 Leyton Orient v Derby County5 Reading v Burnley6 Aston Villa v West Ham United7 Norwich City v Brighton & Hove Albion8 Manchester City v Salford City9 Millwall v Dagenham & Redbridge10 Liverpool v Accrington Stanley11 Bristol City v Wolverhampton Wanderers12 Preston North End v Charlton Athletic13 Chelsea v Morecambe14 Middlesbrough v Blackburn Rovers15 AFC Bournemouth v West Bromwich Albion16 Mansfield Town v Wigan Athletic17 Tamworth v Tottenham Hotspur18 Hull City v Doncaster Rovers19 Sunderland v Stoke City20 Leicester City v Queens Park Rangers21 Brentford v Plymouth Argyle22 Coventry City v Sheffield Wednesday23 Newcastle United v Bromley24 Everton v Peterborough United25 Wycombe Wanderers v Portsmouth26 Birmingham City v Lincoln City27 Leeds United v Harrogate Town28 Nottingham Forest v Luton Town29 Sheffield United v Cardiff City30 Ipswich Town v Bristol Rovers31 Fulham v Watford32 Crystal Palace v Stockport CountyCopy linkCopiedMore reaction”What an FA Cup draw that is!! Liverpool v Accrington. Man City v Salford. Arsenal v United.””What an FA Cup draw that was for the lower league teams.””What a fantastic draw.. The FA cup still has the magic draws.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth stadiumTottenham’s visit to Tamworth’s Lamb Ground will see them squeeze into a stadium with a capacity of just 4,000.Some come down from nearly 63,000.Copy linkCopiedFan reaction”Arsenal again in the fa cup? I’m tired man.””What an absolutely cracking FA Cup Draw!””Got to be the best set of FA cup ties ever.”Copy linkCopied More

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      Man Utd fan ‘KICKED OUT’ of FA Cup draw after making protest against ticket prices live on BBC

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      A MANCHESTER UNITED fan claims he was “kicked out” of the FA Cup draw at Old Trafford after protesting the club’s rising ticket prices live on the BBC.The third-round draw took place at the home of the holders Man Utd on Monday evening.The fan protested Manchester United’s ticket prices by holding up a message on a phoneMan Utd fans protested the rise in ticket prices at Old Trafford before Sunday’s gameCredit: RexRuben Amorim’s side were drawn against record 14-time winners Arsenal in a blockbuster tie at the Emirates.But one Red Devils supporter used the location of the draw to make a point to the club’s owners.Man Utd have hiked Old Trafford tickets to an astonishing £66 per game.They have also abolished concessions for children and pensioners, a move which saw protests before their 4-0 win over Everton on Sunday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBBC host Kelly Somers was surrounded by Man Utd fans as she presented coverage of the FA Cup draw – with the trophy situated next to her.But as she was talking to the camera, one person held up their phone which read: “£66 thieves”.The individual understood to be responsible for the act later took to X to say: “I got kicked out for this btw.”SunSport has contacted Man Utd for comment.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHere is the complete FA Cup third-round drawMan Utd’s Supporters’ Trust have also criticised the decision to increase ticket prices.Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has cut costs in many different areas since taking charge of football operations at Man Utd.Man Utd fans launch foul-mouthed protest at Sir Jim Ratcliffe and call him a ‘c—‘ over ticket price decisionHe let 250 employees go, stopped paying Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salary, cancelled the Christmas party, and axed company credit cards and private chauffeurs.He has also gotten rid of staff lunches, accommodation, extra tickets and post-match parties.As well as Arsenal vs Man Utd, a number of other third-round ties caught the eye including Manchester City vs Salford, Tamworth vs Tottenham and Everton vs Peterborough – which could see Ashley Young face son Tyler.All matches will take place over the weekend of January 11, 2025.The 32 winners of the third round will land £115,000, with losers taking home £25,000.All matches will be completed on the day, with replays scrapped in favour of extra-time and penalties in the case of a stalemate. More

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      FA Cup 3rd round draw LIVE: Arsenal face Man Utd in bombshell tie while non-league Tamworth host Spurs – latest reaction

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      THE FA Cup 3rd round draw has concluded and Arsenal will face Manchester United in a blockbuster tie at the Emirates!Non-league side Tamworth are set to host Premier League giants Tottenham.Manchester City face the class of 92-owned Salford City and Gary Neville has already been poking fun at Pep Guardiola.While Chelsea and Liverpool also face lower-league opposition.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the FA Cup third round draw with our live blog below…Neville pop at GuardiolaGary Neville has poked fun at Pep Guardiola after Salford were drawn against Man City.Echoing Liverpool fans on Sunday, Neville said: “He’s getting sacked in the morning.”Neville owns Salford with other members of the Class of 92.Copy linkCopiedArsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAfter drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time the teams face off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United.Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedDion Dublin on Arsenal v Man UtdI think that might be a TV game, what do you think?They’re the kind of games we need in the FA Cup.Dion DublinBBCCopy linkCopiedFans say FA Cup tie is ‘rigged’THE FA CUP third round draw led to furious reactions from a few disappointed fans, with some going as far as to describe it as “rigged”.The third round draw’s most exciting tie is between Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United, who will face off on the weekend of January 11 at the Emirates.In contrast, Arsenal and United’s rivals were drawn against lower-league opponents.Manchester City got Salford, Chelsea drew Morecambe, Liverpool were paired with Accrington Stanley and Tottenham will face Tamworth.And some fans believe the difference of quality between those ties makes the draw, which was conducted by former Manchester United players Mark Hughes and Dion Dublin, look suspicious.One fan tweeted: “Absolutely f*g rigged.”Copy linkCopiedBromley CEO and assistant manager reactionBromley CEO Mark Hammond and assistant manager Alan Dunne were ecstatic at drawing Newcastle.But their first thought was to call manager Andy Woodman, who said it would be his dream to face his old club.You can see the video below.Copy linkCopiedDream draw for Andy WoodmanBromley manager Andy Woodman praised his Ravens’ side for marking a new piece of history for the club by getting to the third round.However, he has revealed his ideal opponents for the second round.He said: “There’s loads of big teams in there.“Newcastle would be my ideal one. I love my time there.“I also think for the area, Crystal Palace would be a good one.“Let’s see what the football gods throw up.”After being drawn away at Newcastle, Bromley said on social media: “That one’s for you gaffer.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth draw reactionTamworth have released a video of their fans reacting to the FA Cup third-round draw.The heartwarming scenes saw fans get excited when they were pulled out of the hat, before celebrating wildly when they learned they would host Tottenham.Truly the magic of the Cup.You can see the video below.Copy linkCopiedOther huge news for English footballWhile this season has seen FA Cup replays scrapped in a historical yet controversial move, there could be another huge custom that is axed.The Saturday afternoon blackout could be ended after 60 YEARS.And Sun Sport has been told of a growing belief among league chiefs that the concept is now out of date – and should be changed within five years.The new four-year Premier League TV deal, with up to 270 of the 380 matches being shown live, begins next term and will run to the end of the 2028-29 season.Sky’s £935m five year EFL deal, with more than 1,000 games per season being shown, will also run out at the same time, making way for a major rethink by the game’s authorities.And while the FA, which has policed the blackout since it was introduced to protect match attendances in the 1960s, had previously started its opposition to the policy being lifted, the wishes of the leagues could see a change of heart.While 3pm games across the Prem and EFL cannot be shown live on TV other than in specific circumstances, the UK is the last country in Europe with that policy in place.Copy linkCopiedYoung respondsAshley Young has broken his silence after it was revealed he might face his son, Tyler.Taking to social media, he said: “WOW…….. Dreams might come true #YoungvVsYoung”Copy linkCopiedArsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAfter drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time the teams face off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United. Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedNeville pop at GuardiolaGary Neville has poked fun at Pep Guardiola after Salford were drawn against Man City.Neville owns Salford with other members of the Class of 92.Copy linkCopiedFather v son One tie that has been overlooked is Everton v Peterborough.However, the headline on that draw has nothing to do with the teams, but rather with two players. Everton’s Ashley Young could end up playing against his 18-year-old son Tyler.Taking to Instagram he posted a screenshot of the tie and tagged his dad in it.Young Sr. has won the FA Cup in 2016 with Man Utd.He has played 31 FA Cup games across his career.Meanwhile, Tyler only made his pro debut in October in a 2-0 EFL Trophy win over Stevenage.Copy linkCopiedDream tie for Bromley manager WoodmanAndy Woodman said after Bromley made the third round that he wanted one of Newcastle or Crystal Palace.So landing Newcastle away must feel really special for him and the Ravens supporters alike.Bromley said on social media: “This one’s for you, Gaffer.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth elatedYou just have to be happy for the likes of Tamworth after that draw.The club shared pictures to social media of their fans celebrating wildly with the draw.And who can blame them?Manager Andy Peaks probably summed up a lot of the reaction in the BBC studio.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFans declare “greatest draw of all time””101 places between #Tottenham and #Tamworth and yet I’m still certain they’ll score first from a set piece and we’ll need at least 4 to win the game. #TamworthTottenham #facup3rdRoundDraw.””Some brilliant draws there for the FA Cup 3rd Round!! Minnows off to Prem Clubs great to see.””Greatest draw of all time haha, Arsenal v Man United, Leeds v Harrogate, Man City v Salford, Liverpool v Accrington, Newcastle v Bromley, Tamworth v Spurs and quite a few I haven’t mentioned.”Copy linkCopiedFA Cup dates from third roundThird round: Saturday, January 11Fourth round: Saturday, February 8Fifth round: Saturday, March 1Quarter-finals: Saturday, March 29Semi-finals: Saturday, April 26Final: Saturday, May 17Copy linkCopiedDion Dublin on Arsenal v Man Utd drawI think that might be a TV game, what do you think?They’re the kind of games we need in the FA Cup.Dion DublinBBCCopy linkCopiedDraw in fullHere is the FA Cup third round draw in full1 Southampton v Swansea City 2 Arsenal v Manchester United3 Exeter City v Oxford United4 Leyton Orient v Derby County5 Reading v Burnley6 Aston Villa v West Ham United7 Norwich City v Brighton & Hove Albion8 Manchester City v Salford City9 Millwall v Dagenham & Redbridge10 Liverpool v Accrington Stanley11 Bristol City v Wolverhampton Wanderers12 Preston North End v Charlton Athletic13 Chelsea v Morecambe14 Middlesbrough v Blackburn Rovers15 AFC Bournemouth v West Bromwich Albion16 Mansfield Town v Wigan Athletic17 Tamworth v Tottenham Hotspur18 Hull City v Doncaster Rovers19 Sunderland v Stoke City20 Leicester City v Queens Park Rangers21 Brentford v Plymouth Argyle22 Coventry City v Sheffield Wednesday23 Newcastle United v Bromley24 Everton v Peterborough United25 Wycombe Wanderers v Portsmouth26 Birmingham City v Lincoln City27 Leeds United v Harrogate Town28 Nottingham Forest v Luton Town29 Sheffield United v Cardiff City30 Ipswich Town v Bristol Rovers31 Fulham v Watford32 Crystal Palace v Stockport CountyCopy linkCopiedMore reaction”What an FA Cup draw that is!! Liverpool v Accrington. Man City v Salford. Arsenal v United.””What an FA Cup draw that was for the lower league teams.””What a fantastic draw.. The FA cup still has the magic draws.”Copy linkCopiedTamworth stadiumTottenham’s visit to Tamworth’s Lamb Ground will see them squeeze into a stadium with a capacity of just 4,000.Some come down from nearly 63,000.Copy linkCopiedFan reaction”Arsenal again in the fa cup? I’m tired man.””What an absolutely cracking FA Cup Draw!””Got to be the best set of FA cup ties ever.”Copy linkCopiedWhat a drawWhat an incredible third round draw that was.Some huge ties in there. Arsenal v Man Utd is the blockbuster clash.But Leeds v Harrogate, Tamworth v Tottenham and Newcastle v Bromley are some real glamour ties for the lower league sides.Not to mention Man City v Salford, Millwall v Dagenham & Redbridge or Liverpool v Accrington.Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace v StockportCopy linkCopiedFulham v WatfordCopy linkCopiedIpswich v Bristol RoversCopy linkCopied 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

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      Ex-Man Utd star Ashley Young could face his SON in FA Cup third round as Everton ace says ‘dreams might come true’

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      EVERTON star Ashley Young may face his 18-year-old son Tyler in the FA Cup.The Toffees drew Peterborough United in the third round and will face off on the weekend of January 11 at Goodison Park.Everton star Ashley Young may face his 18-year-old son Tyler in the FA CupCredit: GettyAshley could lock horns against his child, who is currently part of Peterborough UnitedCredit: RexThat means ex-Manchester United ace Ashley, 39, could lock horns against his child, who is currently part of the League One outfit’s Under-21 side.Everton’s versatile full-back is very excited about that prospect as he took to social media and stated a great family dream could soon come true.Ashley tweeted: “WOW………. Dreams Might Come True.#FaCup #GoosebumpsMoment #YoungVsYoung.”Fans are also looking forward to that potential clash between father and son.Read More on FootballOne supporter tweeted: “Hoping you play against him mate! Would be a dream for you! Wish you the best!”Another commented: “The Young Derby.”A third wrote: “Football is really special. What a scene that’d be!”This fan said: “That’s brilliant. Hope it happens for you both.”Most read in FA CupAnd that one issued the following hashtag: “#YoungvsOld.”Tyler joined Peterborough from Queens Park Rangers’ Under-18s last summer.Meet non-league star with longest throw in football who plans to put it to good use in FA Cup giant killingThe midfielder counts only one senior appearance with the Posh, which took place in the EFL Trophy. More