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      Meet Ayden Heaven, 18, Arsenal defender and fan who is built like Patrick Vieira and idolises surprise ex-Gunners duo

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      IN Ayden Heaven, it seems Arsenal have got one hell of a player.The 18-year-old centre-back made his competitive senior debut in the Gunners’ 3-0 win at Preston in the Carabao Cup fourth round – from the bench in the 80th minute.Ayden Heaven is greeted by Mikel Arteta after his debut against PrestonCredit: ReutersThe defender (right) made his Gunners bow in the Carabao Cup at DeepdaleCredit: ReutersHeaven (second left) with other Arsenal academy stars after beating Bolton in the Carabao CupCredit: GettyHeaven has represented England at Under-18 levelBefore that, he was one of several academy stars to feature on the club’s pre-season summer tour of the States with boss Mikel Arteta starting him against Manchester United.Heaven – standing at 6ft 3in and a left-footer – was at fault for United’s opener, outmuscled and outpaced by Rasmus Hojlund, but he recovered well as Arsenal won the game 2-1.He has gone from strength to strength since then, looking good on living up to his potential and the lofty expectations Arsenal have of him to succeed.HOW DO THEY PLAY AND WHO DO THEY REMIND YOU OF?The first thing you notice about Heaven is his size and physicality, the body of a young, raw Patrick Vieira who is not afraid to get stuck in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs shown against Hojlund in the summer, Heaven still needs time to bulk up and prove he can mix it with the biggest and most intimidating strikers in the Prem.But Arteta is happy to remain calm in that department, mainly because of Heaven’s technique and calmness on the ball.Avid watchers of Arsenal’s academy sides know Heaven very rarely loses his cool, appears unflappable in possession and has the ability to ping cross-field balls like a prime Steven Gerrard.Arteta will be hoping Arsenal have another William Saliba-style defender in the making – one who is big, quick and able to start attacks from deep.Most read in FootballTELL US ABOUT THEIR RISE?Heaven is extremely highly thought of at Arsenal, having also made the bench for Arsenal’s last 16 first Champions League clash at Porto back in February.He is now a trusted member of the senior squad, expected to step up when called upon, especially after Arsenal’s injury woes at the start of this campaign.Arsenal teenager Jacker Porter made his Gunners debut against Bolton and became a record breakerAfter featuring against Preston, Heaven said: “I’ve waited a long time. Today the day finally came, I’m just happy. I thank my team-mates, my family and everyone that’s got me here.“I feel like Mikel has trust in me. I feel that’s a big part in it and yeah, I just feel like there’s trust when it comes to making your competitive debut.”Heaven signed for the Gunners in 2019 after being released by West Ham as a 12-year-old, having also had trials at Chelsea and Fulham – turning down the latter because training was too far from his north London home in Edmonton.Before being picked up by Arsenal, he played for Sunday League outfit Levels – a grassroots club who give players opportunities to compete against elite football academies.But Arsenal were always going to be his first pick given he was a boyhood fan – his idols being Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott.Heaven explained: “Arsenal were knocking on the door and that made more sense given that, firstly I’m a fan, but also the location was much more convenient.“Hale End was only a 15-minute drive, so everything fell into place perfectly. Signing for the club I’ve supported and my mum was so happy for me – she even cried!“My family are so important, they’re my motivation, I’ve got two younger siblings and an older sister that mean the world to me.”Heaven flourished under former Arsenal U18s coach Jack Wilshere, helping him get chances in the first team and training under Arteta at London Colney.The teenager added: “The intensity is crazy! You get dizzy sometimes because it’s at such a quick tempo. The difference between under-18s, under-21s and the first team is unbelievable.”I don’t know how many players are able to do that on a stage like this at his ageARTETA AFTER PRE-SEASON GAME AGAINST MAN UTDWHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?Arteta is not one for over-hyping a young player too quickly, but the Spaniard had some nice words to say about Heaven after the pre-season victory over United.He said post-match: “At 17, I don’t know how many players are able to do that on a stage like this.“He’s lost a duel against one of the strongest and fastest players in the world, it can happen.“But the reaction afterwards, the composure, the quality, the body language that he had were all remarkable. I’m really happy with him.”WHAT DOES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD?Heaven’s future at Arsenal is not set in stone. After signing scholarship terms with the club last summer, he is yet to begin serious talks over a new deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis contract expires in June 2025. There is confidence an agreement can be made for such a young talent in the coming months. If not, there are big European clubs sniffing around, including Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, who famously developed young English stars like Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham and Jamie Gittens.BOY WONDERSHERE is more from our Boy Wonders series More

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      Ex-Man Utd ace Cleverley reveals which manager was ‘best coach and best tactically’… and it WASN’T Sir Alex Ferguson

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      FORMER Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley revealed the one manager he thinks was better than the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson from a “tactical” and “coaching” perspective.Cleverley, 35, climbed through the ranks at United after an eight-year stint in the academy and received his first senior call-up under Ferguson in 2008.Tom Cleverley claims there is one manager that stood out more than Man Utd legend Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty Images – GettyCleverley claims Marco Silva was the ‘best tactically and the best coach’Credit: PACleverley played under Silva at Watford for about a yearCleverley is following in Silva’s footsteps as he is currently the Watford managerCredit: GettyThe ex-England international spent just over two years playing for Sir Alex and won the Premier League in 2013, just before the Scottish great rolled credits on his glittering 27-year stint at Old Trafford.After five goals and seven assists in 79 appearances, the midfielder left the Red Devils in 2015 for Everton, who loaned him out to Watford two years later where he swiftly made a permanent move.That was where Cleverley claims he met the “best coach” in his entire 15-year playing career.And that was none other than Marco Silva, even though he was in charge of the Hornets for just a year until his sudden departure in 2018.Read More on Man UtdThe ex-United ace claims Silva was capable of setting up a team so that “every decision made such sense to us as players”.Cleverley told The Telegraph when asked about Silva: “The best tactically and the best coach.“I went out every game knowing exactly what he wanted from me. He was clear and thorough with his message.” Cleverley, who retired in 2023, is now following in Silva’s footsteps as he took over as Watford manager in April after an impressive month serving as interim boss.Most read in FootballAnd the rookie head coach, who has gone 13 home games unbeaten, met the Portuguese tactician, who now manages Fulham, in a pre-season friendly at Motspur Park in July.The Cottagers picked up a comfortable 6-1 victory over the Hornets and Cleverley admits: “We got a good serving.”The Premier League’s Top 10 sexiest managers according to AIThe two managers could meet again next season as Watford are currently sixth in the Championship table thanks to their impressive young boss. More

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      King’s Cup Dubai 2024: Date, kick off time, teams and live stream with Paul Pogba, John Terry and Paul Scholes in action

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      THE highly-anticipated King’s Cup Dubai will take place NEXT SATURDAY!Some of the biggest names from the footballing world are set to take part in the huge showpiece.England and Chelsea legend John Terry captains Hedge & Sachs RoyalsCredit: ReutersThe King’s Cup sees two teams jam-packed full of legends face off in a blockbuster one-off spectacle.Dutch icon Edgar Davids captains King’s XI, while former England skipper John Terry leads Hedge & Sachs Royals XI.SunSport brings you all the information you need ahead of the epic footballing spectacle taking place in Dubai.When is the King’s Cup Dubai 2024?The King’s Cup Dubai will take place on Saturday, November 30 2024.The match will kick off at 3.30pm GMT/7.30pm local time.Al Maktoum Stadium, Al Nasr Sports Club, Dubai hosts.READ MORE FOOTBALLHow to watch the King’s Cup Dubai 2024You can live stream the King’s Cup Dubai 2024 via the Sportainment app. Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog.Who’s playing in the King’s Cup?There are some huge names starring in the King’s Cup, including the likes of David Silva, John Terry, Roberto Carlos, Paul Pogba and Michael Owen.Here is where each player’s loyalties lie:King’s XI (subject to change):Most read in FootballEdgar Davids (C)Roberto CarlosBlaise MatuidiLoris KariusRoberto HuthBernard MendyDanny SimpsonFranck RiberyYohan CabayeRyan BabelJay Jay OkochaEl Hadji DioufBobby ZamoraMichael OwenJay-Jay OkochaDavid VillaHedge & Sachs Royals XI (subject to change):John Terry (C)Paul PogbaMaroun FellainiPaul ScholesCiaran ClarkAchraf LazaarMarc AlbrightonDavid SilvaClarence SeedorfBlaise MatuidiKeiren WestwoodStephen IrelandTheo Walcott*Emmanuel Adebayor*King’s Cup 2024 rulesPaul Pogba and Roberto Carlos will wear the exclusive ‘King’s Guard’ shirt, which limits the two stars to just 15 minutes per half for their respective teams.The ‘King’s Guard’ role adds an extra player to the field, meaning it is possible for there to be 24 players on the pitch at the same time if Pogba and Carlos are used simultaneously.The ‘King’s Guard’ players are also exempt from both yellow and red cards, and they cannot be flagged offside.Additionally, if the match ends in a draw, a penalty shootout, including all players, will decide the match.What’s been said?Event founder Mohammed Mousa told Gulf News: “The first event we did involved Manchester United, and the second one also involved the Red Devils and a World 11, so I realised we needed to mix it up this year.”I got involved with the Sheikh and we said, ‘okay, let’s try and build a concept very different to what we’ve been doing all along’. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We both put our A-listers together to create two teams with outstanding quality.”We’re trying to do what they’re doing in Saudi, but we’re doing it a little different. That’s how the King’s Cup was born.” More

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      Fans launched petition to BAN me from playing for England… it’s something I wouldn’t want to see my son go through

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      FORMER Manchester United star Tom Cleverley has revealed his heartbreak after fans started a petition to BAN him from playing for England.The 35-year-old is now manager of Watford after a glittering midfield career.Tom Cleverley has opened up over the pain he felt when fans started a petition to ban him playing for EnglandCredit: PAThe former midfielder made 13 appearances for England between 2012 and 2013Credit: PA:Empics SportThe petition went in ahead of the 2014 World CupCleverley played 79 matches for United, winning a Premier League title.And he also turned out for clubs including Watford, Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton.Cleverley’s time at United also saw him win 13 England caps between 2012 and 2013.But some supporters were not keen on seeing him represent the Three Lions.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne even created an online government petition, urging others to sign so that Cleverley would be banned from playing for England at the 2014 World Cup.The petition, which was rejected and is now archived, read: “Tom Cleverley, owner of 13 England caps, has been regularly selected by Roy Hodgson in his squads without possessing any genuine qualities whatsoever.“We believe for the reputation of this proud footballing nation that he should be prevented from attending this summer’s international showcase.“Whilst England are considered to disappoint at major tournaments, further embarrassment could be avoided by not having his inept performances undermine the rest team’s efforts.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCleverley was not selected for the tournament in Brazil, which saw England finish bottom of their group.And he has now revealed how much the petition hurt.England’s Stellar Performance: Player Ratings vs IrelandCleverley won a Premier League title during his time at Man UtdCredit: GettyHe is now manager of another of his former clubs, WatfordCredit: GettyCleverley claims it was a “difficult process” knowing that he was not a fan favourite.And he admits he would not want his son to ever go through a similar experience.The Hornets gaffer told The Telegraph: “It’s something as a parent I wouldn’t want to see my son go through… to fulfil his dreams and get knocked down quite hard.“I massively respect the players who have gone through that process (criticism) and still come out at the top: Raheem Sterling, Harry Maguire.“To play for United, the biggest club in the country, to play for England, and then for a petition to come out to get you out of the squad.“That’s a pretty difficult process for a 23-year-old to go through.”Tom Cleverley’s career statsClub careerMan Utd, 2008-2015: 79 games, 5 goalsLeicester (loan), 2008-2009: 15 games, 2 goalsWatford (loan), 2009-2010: 35 games, 11 goalsWigan (loan), 2010-2011: 25 games, 4 goalsAston Villa (loan), 2014-2015: 37 games, 3 goalsEverton, 2015-2017: 42 games, 2 goalsWatford, 2016-2023: 146 games, 8 goalsEngland, 2012-2013: 13 games, 0 goalsTrophies: Premier League, Community Shield x2 (Man Utd); League One (Leicester)Managerial careerWatford, March 2024-present: P27 W12 D6 L9 More

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      Saudi Arabia release new pictures of 92,000-capacity ‘germinating seed’ King Salman Stadium ahead of 2034 World Cup

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      SAUDI ARABIA have unveiled new pictures of the King Salman Stadium.Planning is well underway for the new national team stadium, which is being designed by world leader Populous.Saudi Arabia have unveiled pics of their state-of-the-art new stadiumCredit: .It is nature-inspired and the design represents a splitting seedCredit: .The arena could host more than 92,000 fansCredit: .Populous have designed the stadium which could host the 2034 World Cup finalCredit: .The stadium, which is scheduled to be completed by 2029, will boast a capacity of more than 92,000.The Royal Commission for Riyadh City and the Ministry of Sports have released a projection of what the arena could look like, with the design “based on Saudi Arabia’s mesmerising natural landscape”.The stadium will contain sports facilities, commercial areas and recreational facilities, with Saudi Arabia hopeful the ground could host international tournaments including the 2034 World Cup.It will also contain a Royal Box, hospitality skyboxes and lounges, 300 VVIP seats, and 2,200 VIP seats, and will feature internal screens, gardens and a walking path on its roof with panoramic views of King Abdulaziz Park.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaudi envision a state-of-the-art sports park containing an athletics stadium, an aquatics centre with an Olympic-sized swimming pool as well as several training pitches.The stadium itself features a unique design with the external stands akin to leaves or even a broken up football pitch.The concept is a germinating seed that breaks, “cracks the earth and emerges as a dynamic yet seemingly natural intervention”.The idea is supposed to represent Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding sport in the country, from the grass roots to the elite level.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne projection of the stadium even shows the gaps in between the stands flowing out into paths surrounding the stadium, with Populous handed a big task to make the projection a reality.However they have a proven track record having worked on Wembley, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the 2022 World Cup final host Lusail Stadium.Inside futuristic three-sided stadium built on a cliff and covered with LED screens that could host 2034 World Cup games More

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      Sarina Wiegman reckons lack of match action for Chloe Kelly ‘is a concern’ – but says forward has enough England credit

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      SARINA WIEGMAN says Chloe Kelly’s lack of game time is a concern despite the forward’s inclusion in her latest Lionesses squad. The Manchester City player, who has started once in the WSL this term, has been named in Wiegman’s 24-strong England group. Sarina Wiegman says Chloe Kelly has built up enough credit for inclusion in England’s squadCredit: PAKelly’s Man City team-mate Lauren Hemp will miss England’s November camp after successfully undergoing knee surgeryCredit: AlamyElla Toone will also miss England’s last two fixtures this year due to a calf injuryCredit: PAHowever her club pal Lauren Hemp is among the notable absentees with the squad hit by injuries before friendly clashes with the USA and Switzerland. The in-form Man City forward will miss England’s two final matches of the year having successfully undergone a knee operation. Kelly, who is facing a battle for a Cityzens first team spot with forwards Mary Fowler and Aoba Fujino, five WSL appearances as a substitute this term. Of her battle for minutes at club level, England boss Wiegman said: “It’s a concern right now, already, but that’s a hard situation. Read More Football Stories“Competition at Man City is high too. But it’s also to have a look at what’s available? What players do we have available for our squad? “We have some injuries up front. Lauren Hemp is injured, Lauren James is injured, so that competition is still going on too. “Chloe knows that she’s not in the best position at (her) club at the moment but (she has) enough credit to bring her in, related to the whole team and the availability of players.”Hemp, who has impressed this season with five goals in seven WSL games, was absent from Man City’s  2-0 loss to Chelsea in the league on Saturday Most read in FootballMan United’s Ella Toone will also miss England’s matches due after sustaining a calf injury three days ago. Lauren James and Niamh Charles are still unavailable for England duty due to injury and Aston Villa defender Lucy Parker is also sidelined. Leicester City midfielder and defender Ruby Mace has is one of two uncapped players named in the Lionesses squadCredit: GettyWiegman’s latest squad includes senior call-ups for uncapped Leicester and Man City midfielders Ruby Mace and Laura Blindkilde.  And Man United defenders Gabby George and Millie Turner have also been named with George returning to the squad for the first time in two years. England will face Emma Hayes’ USA side at Wembley on November 30 before a December 3 clash with Switzerland at Bramall Lane. More

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      Man City wonderkid James McAtee ‘lined up for January transfer’ after playing ONE Premier League minute all season

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      MANCHESTER CITY ace James McAtee is being targeted by West Ham and Fulham ahead of the January transfer window.McAtee, 22, enjoyed an impressive loan stint with Sheffield United the last two years as he scored 14 goals and bagged eight assists in 75 appearances.Manchester City ace James McAtee is being targeted by Fulham and West HamCredit: GettyMan City could be open to selling McAtee in the January transfer windowCredit: GettyThe playmaker has found opportunities to be limited at the Etihad this season despite a string of injuries in the squad and has only played ONE MINUTE in the Premier League.According to The Guardian, that has led interest from both the Hammers and the Cottagers who are tracking the City academy product.He was reportedly targeted by Chelsea last summer.McAtee has played six times across all competitions, with his most impressive performance taking place last month in the Champions League at Slovan Bratislava where he scored a goal.Read More on FootballThe attacking midfielder could command a fee of at least £20million and the Cityzens would be open to a deal.The versatile midfielder is still highly regarded by the club, who could offer him a new contract with his current deal set to run out in 2026.However, the reigning Premier League champions have proven to be open to selling homegrown players as it helps their position with the English top flight’s profit and sustainability rules.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWest Ham have struggled in midfield this season with star player Lucas Paqueta being unable to replicate last term’s success.Most read in FootballPaqueta has also been charged with a breach of the Football Association’s betting regulations – the Brazil international denies the allegations.City wonderkid James McAtee scores impressive goal in trainingFulham are likely to rekindle their interest in McAtee after failing to land him in the summer.His former England Under-21 international team-mate Emile Smith Rowe has been rejuvenated under Marco Silva at Craven Cottage after he left Arsenal.Fellow Man City academy graduate Cole Palmer has also proven the grass can be greener away from Pep Guardiola’s side as he left the club last year and went on to become Chelsea’s biggest star. More

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      Brazil prodigy Endrick linked with shock transfer to Southampton after Real Madrid struggles

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      REAL MADRID and Brazil prodigy Endrick has been linked with a shock move to Southampton.Endrick, 18, moved to Real Madrid from Palmeiras this summer in a deal worth up to £60m.Real Madrid star Endrick has been linked wirh a switch to SouthamptonCredit: GettyThe highly-rated teenager has been making waves in Brazil, already notching up 13 caps for the Selecao and scoring his first goal against England at Wembley.But life in the Spanish capital has got off to a slow start with the forward well down the pecking order behind the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo.Since his arrival at the Bernabeu, Endrick has played just 55 minutes of La Liga action, albeit managing a goal and assist in that time.And with a lack of game-time, it’s claimed that the rising star could be ready to leave Madrid on loan to develop his game.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLUnbelievably, Russel Martin’s Southampton are one of the teams who have been linked with snapping up the attacker.According to Spanish outlet Sport, the Saints are one of a number of teams who have registered an interest in the teen.They claim that Southampton will face competition from the likes of AS Roma and Real Valladolid for Endrick’s signature.Southampton are crying out for an injection of creativity with the St Mary’s outfit rock bottom of the Premier League having scored just seven goals this term – the least amount of goals in the division.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEndrick was linked to the Prem last summer with Chelsea vying for his services before he decided to join Real Madrid.While the youngster is clearly a fan of the English game after previously admitting that one of his idols is former England and Manchester United star Bobby Charlton.Fans gasp at ‘a crime being committed’ as Brazil wonderkid Endrick ‘humiliates’ rival with filthy skillThe superstar is affectionately called “Bobby” by his Real Madrid teammates as a result.Endrick was born 33 years after Charlton retired from football in 1973. More