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      Fist-swinging street fighter Matheus Cunha is making us forget everything we once knew about Brazilian footballers

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      IT IS TIME to forget everything we used to believe about ­Brazilian footballers.Gliding around a pitch, Samba ­soccer, tiny sky-blue shorts, lovers, philosophers, 40-a-day smokers. Gone.Matheus Cunha was sent off for lashing out at Milos KerkezCredit: GettyHe had scored a spectacular goal earlier in the gameCredit: GettySocrates became iconic for his long hair and headbandCredit: Getty – ContributorHe smoked regularly during his playing daysCredit: Times Newspapers LtdConsigned to the dustbin of history in just a few weeks. Matheus Cunha has replaced all that with the 2025 version.An eye-bulging, fist-swinging, raging street-fighter looking for a tear-up on the cobbles of any market town.Those who grew up in the late 1970s and 80s have fuzzy childhood memories of Socrates, Zico, Falcao.Football at a snail’s pace. Ice-cool virtuosos waltzing while the Europeans combusted under searing sunshine at World Cups.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLEven if they didn’t win, they lost in style and with good grace.Socrates was more than an elegant midfielder.He got through almost as many women as fags, was married four times and loved a beer.And it only further romanticised his reputation during the politically incorrect 20th Century.A left-leaning intellectual, Socrates wouldn’t punch a four-eyed, ginger-haired, Ipswich steward.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd rather than kick s**t out of Bournemouth’s left-back, he would light up a B&H and consider Karl Marx while performing keepy-ups.Wolves’ irascible striker should take note as he awaits the outcome of a second FA misconduct charge in less than two months.Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsThe Brazilian is facing an extended banCredit: GettyGrabbing Milos Kerkez by the throat and appearing to launch his head towards the young Serb in last Saturday’s FA Cup tie felt quite un-Brazilian.Then fighting the friends trying to save you from further trouble is simply not done down in Rio.And if you harbour ambitions of a move to clubs like Arsenal, who are taking a serious interest in Cunha’s abilities, it might pay to be a bit more Socrates and a little less sock it to ’em.For years Brazil maintained a dignified position as the intelligentsia of the game. Brazilian footballers were a beacon on the South American continent.They were not the snappy Uruguayans overly-aggressive Argentines — they were jazz musicians in football boots.Even hot-headed ex-Chelsea and Wolves striker Diego Costa opted to represent Spain despite being born not far from Brazil’s Atlantic coast.It’s not that silly to think his government quietly suggested he switch nationalities because his fiery temper would ruin their reputation.Cunha is not all bad news.The sensational goal scored with a tiny backlift of his right boot prior to his latest meltdown would win serious approval from the ghosts of Brazil’s silky past. Which begs the question why such a talented player is so far removed from the Samba stars of yesteryear?The closest to an answer is that prior to pre-globalised football, the transfer rat-run between Latin America and Europe was a barely-trodden path.Socrates spent one season outside of his homeland — playing roughly two dozen games for Fiorentina in Italy.Plus a cameo role as player-coach of non-League Garforth Town in his 50s.Zico played less than 40 times for Udinese, also of Italy, then wound up his career in Japan.Falcao managed 100 or so appearances at Roma over two years.But the vast majority of their careers were spent safe from the Europeanisation of their approach to the beautiful game. That has all changed.Real Madrid’s dynamic winger ­Vinicius Jr was shipped to Real Madrid’s youth set up at 18.Willian was carted off to Ukraine’s Shakhtar Donetsk at 19 on a pathway to England. It’s a now familiar pattern.Cunha quit South America before kicking a competitive ball aged 18 to join Swiss side Sion.From there he headed for RB Leipzig, Hertha Berlin and Atletico Madrid, before landing up in the Black Country where he is now fighting the world to avoid Premier League relegation.Perhaps he has just been tainted by the European model of pumped-up, win-at-all-costs football.REF’S SLOT OF BOTHERArne Slot has been fined for his outburst at Michael Oliver after the Merseyside derbyCredit: ReutersLET us all stop and think of David Coote for a moment as Liverpool boss Arne Slot goes back to work £70,000 lighter.Slot’s incendiary outburst at ref Michael Oliver at the end of last month’s fiery Merseyside derby showed what officials have to put up with at times.And it has parallels with his predecessor Jurgen Klopp raging at Coote for not awarding his team a penalty against Burnley some years earlier.As indefensible as ‘not sober’ Coote’s racist remarks were, he didn’t come up with the idea of letting rip at the German for a bit of fun.It was a reaction to the kind of in-your-face verbal violence Oliver had to swallow at Goodison Park when Slot’s team had simply drawn a match.This was Slot’s first serious offence in the Premier League, so let’s give him that.But referees are human despite what many people think. They have feelings.And long memories.CIT IT OUTNico O’Reilly helped Man City past Plymouth in the last round of the FA CupCredit: GettyANYONE else an ABC in the FA Cup this year? Anyone But City!It’s not their fault but to reinstate some romance back into the competition, can one of the other seven quarter-finalists win itManchester City have won the Prem four times in a ­row, FA Cup twice in the past six years and the bloody Champions League.Any two from Preston, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Fulham, Brighton, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest would make for a refreshing final on May 17 — and a memorable day out for their fans.JURGEN’S JACKPOTJurgen Klopp admitted he was out of energy as Liverpool managerCredit: AlamyJURGEN KLOPP said he had ‘run out of energy’ so needed to quit Liverpool at the end of last season.Yet the club’s accounts show Klopp and his staff still trousered a whopping £9.6million pay-off.I know you can get money for voluntary redundancy but were Liverpool looking to cut numbers like Manchester United are? And even if they were, would Klopp have been ‘at risk’.Such generosity. Not so much You’ll Never Walk Alone as you’ll never need a loan. Not with that kind of golden goodbye anyway.READ MORE SUN STORIESWAD-ING INJames Wage beat Luke Humphries at the UK OpenCredit: GettySTORY of the week has to be darts’ lickgate scandal where James Wade was called ‘disgusting’ for licking the neck of rival Luke Humphries at the UK Open.Perhaps that is what they mean by ‘tongue-sten shafts’? More

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      How Arteta’s Merino experiment is surprising defenders and crucial to Arsenal’s attack

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      ARSENAL travel to Manchester United on Sunday looking to get their stuttering title challenge back on track.The Gunners went from blanking in back to back league games against West Ham and Nottingham Forest to smashing seven past PSV in the Champions League.Mikel Merino’s performances are revitalising Arsenal’s attackCredit: GettyMartin Odegaard triggering the press will be key for Arsenal against Man UtdCredit: GettyThe sudden reverse in attacking fortunes begs the question, has Mikel Arteta finally unearthed a strong attacking recipe with his makeshift Arsenal attack.Leandro Trossard, Mikel Merino and Ethan Nwaneri have lined up in the attack for the Gunners in the last three games following an injury to Kai Havertz.It has left them without Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus as forward options.But the performances of Merino up front have been leaving a surprising impact, which we will look into on our latest episode of Tactics Exposed Team Talk, brought to you by Betfair.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHow do Arsenal replace Kai Havertz?For all the criticism Havertz takes as Arsenal’s frontman, his absence is clear to see when he missing. He has done a fabulous job for Arsenal during his time there, although it may be fair to say he is not the force they need to win them the title.But Arteta likes himself a utility forward who can play in lots of positions, and while Havertz may not be a top-class forward he is a top class player.Against Man Utd, Merino will be the star asked to adapt his game to get Arsenal ticking in the final third.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWith Arteta opting to invert his full-backs and create overloads to give them a 3-2-5 shape, Arsenal will be coming against a back five with United expected to play defensive wing-backs.This means individual duels will be the key to winning the game.Mikel Arteta makes light of Arsenal goal rush after PSV thrashing In the case of Merino, who has admitted he has been watching Havertz videos, he has a bit of a striker’s instinct, as seen when he scored his brace against Leicester.But Merino has taken lesson’s from Havertz to drop into a deeper area of the pitch, which leaves the United defender with the problem of whether to follow him or potentially leave him open.Kai Havertz has been a big miss for ArsenalBut Merino has been stepping up to fill the voidHis numbers playing up front show a player capable of facilitating for his team-matesAgainst PSV Arsenal always had at least three runners beyond the ball, including Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.These runs forced defenders back and caused an issue for the goalkeeper, with Merino’s presence facilitating runners to move beyond him.If Riccardo Calafiori is selected at left-back, he will certainly run forwards into a striker type position, adding another option.Regardless, Merino is filling the Havertz role and he will be pivotal in the result at Old Trafford.Can Nwaneri replace Saka?It is a big compliment to be compared to Saka, no matter how old of a player you are. But to me compared with one of the world’s best wingers at the age of 17 earmarks Nwaneri’s quality.Against United, Nwaneri will almost certainly start from the right wing, the side Arsenal predominantly play down because their best players tend to favour that side.But what Arsenal have done in the absence of their top stars is balance the attack a lot more.And against PSV, the share of attacks was even favoured more to the left flank.This gives the opposition defence a far bigger problem than if all the attack all came down one side.Arsenal’s attack as become more balanced since Ethan Nwaneri’s introductionThis balancing act will give Nwaneri more of a chance to go one on one against rivalsCredit: GettySaka typically hugs the right touchline to open space for team-mates to run in underlapping moves. But what Nwaneri has been given the licence to do is move inside earlier.This means he is another central option to play in and around Merino, who as we already mentioned is likely to drop deeper to vacate space where the striker would normally be.Nwaneri’s movement should then attract the right wing-back more centrally, which will then give the likes of Jurrien Timber the chance to have more space to overlap with down the right flank.Another difference between the teen and Saka is his willingness to shoot with both feet and wanting to isolate his defender in one v one situation.Against United’s defence this new balancing act will give Nwaneri more of a chance to get one v one more.How will Man Utd play out against Arsenal’s high press?We spoke a bit last week about Bruno Fernandes’ new position as one of the two pivot midfielders. But unlike some rivals, Arsenal are a top side who are very comfortable without the ball.Arsenal defend mainly in 4-4-2 shape – the 1990s are back – while United play out in their 3-4-3 shape.He previously touched on how Arsenal’s press really hurt Liverpool, and this time they will set traps against United.Arsenal captain Odegaard will be the star to orchestrate and trigger the press.What he will do is have his hand up before telling his team where to play.Bruno Fernandes’ new position will make him a huge player for Man Utd against ArsenalCredit: GettyThe Red Devils success at playing out will largely be determined by how the central centre-back performsCredit: RexWhen the ball moves wide and United look to switch the play with a long cross-field pass, like they did a lot against Ispwich, they will be left in a 3v1 situation in Arsenal’s favour.The odds favouring the visiting side for winning the ball here would then allow Arsenal the chance to bomb forward down the flank with superior numbers.So what United will have to do is figure out how to play through this, with Fernandes, Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee being the key men to solve this problem.It may be as simple as Fernandes pushing higher to keep Merino and Odegaard on their toes and potentially pushing them back to give the defenders more time on the ball to pick a pass.The Arteta defensive blueprint is successful for a reason, but ultimately United’s play will be determined by the success of the central centre-back – likely to be Harry Maguire.The central defender could drop back alongside Andre Onana against the front two of Odegaard and Merino which, once combined with the other two defenders showing for options, will open up the passing lanes going forwards.READ MORE SUN STORIESWe are likely to see a W passing shape from United to bypass Arsenal, with someone like Eriksen showing further forwards to create extra triangles between the defence and attack.If United can make these triangles against Arsenal’s box midfield then they will at least have a chance of playing out.Arsenal ratings vs PSV as Nwaneri comes of age in Champions League drubbing but rash Lewis-Skelly is hooked earlyARSENAL steamrolled a hapless PSV side to all-but book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.The Gunners started without a recognised striker once again but unlike at Nottingham Forest last week, goals were not a problem in Eindhoven.A quick-fire double from Jurrien Timber and Ethan Nwaneri around the 20th minute put the Gunners in control in what was an assured display.Every Arsenal player impressed and they were clinical with their finishing.Only Myles Lewis-Skelly will feel a little disappointed as he was hooked after half an hour to avoid him picking up a second yellow.It was a shame as the youngster was performing well on the ball – he played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal.But he could not be trusted by Mikel Arteta after he dived and caught his man with a challenge that could easily have resulted in a second booking.It was another careless moment that allowed PSV back into the match as Thomas Partey conceded a penalty that was converted on the stroke of half-time.But the Gunners did not rest on their laurels and came out racing after the break, scoring twice in two minutes to put the match, and the tie, to bed.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Gunners’ display… More

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      Man Utd ratings: Zirkzee goes from tears to cheers with crucial strike but Dalot deserves telling off from Hojlund

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      MANCHESTER UNITED were left to rue missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, before a tame Sociedad outfit levelled through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty.Joshua Zirkzee scored a deserved opener in the 57th minuteCredit: GettyMikel Oyarzabal’s penalty drew it level for the home sideCredit: ReutersManchester United have it all to play for next ThursdayCredit: EPAUnited, perhaps, deserved more. And should’ve come away with a lead going into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.Ruben Amorim’s side started on the front foot and found space on the counterattack, which has been a rarity this season.They even prevented the hosts threatening Andre Onana’s goal in the first half.Sociedad, in truth, offered very little, perhaps still shellshocked from their 4-0 demolition away at Barcelona this past weekend.The gameplan should’ve been simple at half-time: simply pass the ball in behind to Rasmus Hojlund, with the Basques slow at back.United’s dominance of the match was rewarded when Zirkzee’s shot crept past Alex Remiro in the 57th minute.But the noise – and the Poznan – came back into the Reale Arena after Bruno Fernandes’ handball was spotted by VAR and allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to level from the spot.From that point on, the home side, who had offered nothing, were the better team.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it is Man Utd who have more right to feel aggrieved about taking just a share of the spoils back to Old Trafford.Here SunSport’s Katherine Walsh runs the rule over how each Manchester United star performed in the Basque Country.‘We’ve broken the poor man, he must hate us’ – Ruben Amorim bizarrely stands on different pitch as Man Utd flops trainAndre Onana – 5 The under-fire keeper was surely delighted to avoid any shots being peppered his way in the first half. And you could argue that he attempted to command his area a bit more and made decisions early.Wasn’t called upon to save anything of note before being sent the wrong way for Oyarzabal’s penalty and was under pressure from then on.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Moved into the back three with Harry Maguire injured and added some all-important aggression.Solid both defensively and in possession. The Moroccan won most of his duels and played some good and accurate long passes around the pitch.Made an important sprint to deny lively sub Sheraldo Becker the ball at the death.Matthijs de Ligt – 7Came up against a Sociedad front-line that didn’t perform as expected, but got a vital foot in to prevent the hosts getting a shot off on the stroke of half-time.Was very disciplined when making some key tackles and his importance ramped up after the equaliser as Becker sent several dangerous crosses into the box.In the 86th minute, the Dutch international slipped with a Sociedad player behind him, but still managed to get a vital toe in to clear the ball and save Onana.Leny Yoro – 6Still a kid, still new to United and definitely full of promise. Took another step forward here as well, with a couple of key interceptions. Important clearance at the start of the second half, which was followed up by an excellent defensive touch at the front post moments later.The teenager is becoming stronger, making it tougher on strikers, and his growing confidence means he is now stepping into midfield and defending on the front foot.Diogo Dalot – 3Loved by the players, highly rated by former managers, but so often the scapegoat for supporters. Think that’s harsh?You should have seen his lack of instinct to cross a first-time ball into Hojlund, who make a great run into the box and was five yards from Sociedad’s goal line inside 20 minutes.He’s not a real wing-back. It took a while for him to get into things and did better to find Fernandes for a chance inside the box just before half-time. But so, so sloppy in possession. Gets himself into too many good areas to keep making the wrong decision in a side so short of goals.Casemiro – 6 The five-time Champions League winner looked to launch the ball forward at the earliest opportunities to try and release one of his forwards.His efforts were rewarded for Zirkzee’s opener, when Dalot collected his long pass and laid on Garnacho for an assist.But United desperately lack a No 6, as Sociedad benefited from far too many gaps in midfield. On the whole, Casemiro operated well in tight spaces with Zirkzee. Bruno Fernandes – 5 Was denied the opener when Sociedad defender Aritz Elustondo blocked his shot off the line with his thigh five minutes before half-time.Minutes later, United’s forever creative master chipped a lovely cross into Dalot for a fleeting straight-on header.But just when United were on top, the club captain was so unlucky to concede a penalty via a jumping hand ball after the ref was sent to monitor in the 70th minute.Was booked for mouthing off to the ref in the 55th minute. That could hurt United later on, if he picks up too many yellow cards in Europe.Patrick Dorgu – 6With five outfield players on the bench, Dorgu worried Amorim when he signalled a knock to his thigh inside 30 minutes. But he carried on.The physical wing-back showed Dalot the benefits of whipping early crosses in. Did he make up for being sent off against Ipswich last week? Kind of. United look so much more threatening with him is in the side.Alejandro Garnacho – 6 Amorim kept swapping his flanks, but he got his first bit of success on the left hand side, but sorely lacked in end product AGAIN.The young Argentine fired far too many powerless shots at Alex Remiro. He is without a goal since the end of November.But his brilliant pull-back to assist Zirkzee brought United’s opener. The 20-year-old looked devastated when he was withdrawn for Christian Eriksenwith 12 minutes remaining.Joshua Zirkzee – 7Went from crying on the pitch after missing the fifth penalty against Fulham on Sunday, to gun fingers after opening the scoring tonight.And what a crucial goal it was in the 57th minute, with United fans growing tired of watching so many scuffed opportunities. Just as he did against Marco Silva’s side, he worked hard throughout the pitch and had some tidy moments of link-up play when he dropped deep to create.No doubting there’s a good player in there – he just isn’t blessed with pace and his follow-up attempt on Fernandes’ chance was far too casual.Rasmus Hojlund – 6 The under-fire Dane might not deserve all the hate he gets. His lively display in Spain was not matched with ball deliveries from his team-mates.He made smart driving runs and was right to be furious with Dalot and co. for their lack of service on several occasions. None of his team-mates provided balls he could run on to, in fact, they were always quite short in the second half.Drew fouls but again lacked a striker’s instinct when he dummied on a few crosses. Subs: Christian Eriksen (’78 for Garnacho)Didn’t do much after coming on. In fact, only offered a scuffed high cross in added time.Victor Lindelof (’88 for Yoro)Important clearance from Becker in the 92nd minute. Toby Collyer (’88 for Zirkzee)Unused: Heaven, Amass, More

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      Cole Palmer brilliantly celebrates Chelsea goal with a beer as he gets first taste of Conference League football

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      COLE PALMER toasted his first taste of Conference League football with a beer.The Chelsea star played in the tournament for the first time this season in the 2-1 win over Copenhagen in Denmark.Cole Palmer toasted a beer after Enzo Fernandez’s goalCredit: GettyHe was later subbed off against CopenhagenCredit: GettyPalmer, 22, was left out of the club’s Conference League squad for the League Phase.He finished the game on the winning side despite a stubborn performance from the hosts.Reece James finally broke the deadlock in the 46th minute before Enzo Fernandes made it 2-0 in the 65th minute.It was after the Argentine’s calm finish that Palmer celebrated with a taste of beer.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA cup of beer had been thrown onto the pitch from the crowd as the England international joined his team-mates.He could be seen holding the plastic cup in jest in front of team-mate Trevoh Chalobah.Fans loved the moment from Palmer as they reacted on social media.One posted: “Raise that beer high! You all deserve it! Congrats.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA second wrote: “This is class I can’t lie.”A third commented: “Cole Palmer raising a cup of beer after the second goal.”Cole Palmer left bemused as Chelsea star is asked about fighting giant chicken wingA fourth said: “Cole Palmer says, ‘Hold my Beer’.”Palmer finished his match without a goal or assist as his dip in form continued.He was subbed out of the action in the 72nd minute and replaced by Jadon Sancho.He has not picked up a single goal contribution since scoring against Bournemouth on January 14.After the win over Southampton, he released a ten-word statement in which he insisted that he “will be back”.In total this season, he has scored 14 goals and provided six assists in 31 appearances in all competitions.Meanwhile, the Blues let Copenhagen back into the tie before full time, as Gabriel Periera headed in.Manager Enzo Maresca insisted that the goal should have been avoided.He said: “Because it has been a little bit of a sloppy goal.”We can avoid that. It’s football, it can happen.”Now 90 minutes have finished and now we have 90 more minutes against them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The main game for us is Sunday’s game, at home and we need our fans for 100 minutes behind the team and pushing the team.”If we can win against Leicester on Sunday, we can do one more step to finishing in the Champions League… top four or top five, I do not know.”Enzo Maresca was not happy that Copenhagen scored late onCredit: Rex More

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      Chelsea ratings: Reece James recovers from surprise early position change but Dewsbury-Hall looks lost wherever he plays

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      REECE JAMES ensured Chelsea will have a lead to defend at Stamford Bridge next week despite not being at the races.Enzo Maresca would have been scratching his head at half-time after the Blues put in one of their worst first half performances of the season.Reece James celebrates putting Chelsea 1-0 upCredit: RexEnzo Fernandez scored after coming on at half-timeCredit: ReutersCole Palmer looked out of sorts againCredit: GettyThe Chelsea boss wrung the changes at the break and they paid off instantly as James opened the scoring from 30 yards.It was a stroke of genius from Maresca to play James in the midfield – he would not have been in the position to score otherwise.The skipper battled brilliantly in the middle of the park and his ability to pick out a pass meant his display was one of few positives to take from this clash.Cole Palmer again looked lethargic while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall looked out of his depth – as did Shim Mheuka making his full debut.Fellow youngster Tyrique George looked bright while Christopher Nkunku and Marc Cucurella made impacts from the bench.But in truth Chelsea were lucky to escape Parken with a win.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Blues display.Robert Sanchez – 7Nothing he could do to stop Gabriel Pereira’s thumping header.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMuch better than he has been in recent weeks. Made saves with minimal fuss and for once did not put his own team-mates under pressure when playing it out from the back.Trevoh Chalobah – 7Solid performance but he isn’t really a right-back so struggled to get forward in support of George.Good in the air and generally kept possession well.Enzo Maresca urges Chelsea fans to show trust after BlueCo protest Tosin Adarabioyo – 7Another assured performance but yet again part of a defence that failed to keep a clean sheet.Copenhagen got in down his side early in the second half and hit the post.Saw a lot of the ball and completed a very impressive 131 passes.Benoit Badiashile – 6Battled well at the back and made good use of his physicality.Kept the ball well too but was hooked at half-time.Malo Gusto – 6Was forced off injured midway through the first half. He initially went down and had his foot well strapped but was unable to continue.He had looked sharp before that, blocking a number of crosses, and will be disappointed that injury prevented him playing the part in the game that he would have liked.Reece James – 9Opened the scoring with a daisy-cutter that caught out the goalkeeper.Appeared a little lost operating in the No8 role in the first half but moved into Caicedo’s position after he went off and looked much more comfortable.He was a focal point for the Blues, spraying passes across the pitch and starting attacks.Moises Caicedo – 7Chelsea’s standout performer. As effective off the ball as he was on it, which was crucial as his side struggled to get a foothold in the first half.Maresca’s decision to take him off at half time appeared baffling, but the team ended up benefiting from the change of shape that resulted.Tyrique George – 6Was positive on the ball and regularly tried to beat his man. George also picked out a number of clever positions.He showed good composure and awareness to pick out a pass for Fernandez to score when he was quickly being closed down in the box.Cole Palmer – 4Where is the real Palmer? It is now eight games without a goal and 15 without an assist for the Chelsea talisman.Sent one long-range effort past the post and that was as close as he came before being subbed with 20 minutes to go.He appears to have lost his influence and was in and out of the game. Perhaps it is time he was moved back to the right flank where he thrived last season.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 3Dewsbury-Hall was given a rare start and then showed just why he starts so rarely.The former Leicester man does not fit into this Chelsea team, certainly not on the left wing where he started the match.Moved to the right in the second half but looked equally as lost there. Maresca’s decision to play him there and leave Cole Palmer in the middle appeared more bizarre by the minute.Shim Mheuka – 4He became Chelsea’s youngest-ever starter in European competition, but may have to wait a while before he is called into Premier League action.The 17-year-old fed off scraps, such was the lack of service to him, and struggled to make the ball stick – but it is difficult to criticise the youngster given his age and lack of experience. Lasted until half-time.SubsMarc Cucurella (for Gusto, 25mins) – 7He was the Energizer Bunny for his first 20 minutes as he frantically tried to close down every opposing player on the pitch for reasons only he can explain.But eventually came into his own as he showed quick thinking to pick up the ball and square it for James, who had space and time to net Chelsea’s first goal.Levi Colwill (for Badiashile, half-time) – 5England star has been woefully out of form in recent weeks and that didn’t change tonight.Caught ball watching and lost track of two runners at the back post, one of which was Pereira who headed in.But there could be no complaints about his performance on the ball, where he looked very assured and composed.Enzo Fernandez (for Caicedo, half-time) – 7Scored with a clinical finish. He did well to open his foot up and side foot into the far corner.Played a nice ball in behind the defence but Cucurella headed wide and was offside anyway.Booked late on for a coming together with Amin Chiaka at a set-piece.Christopher Nkunku (for Mhueka, 45mins) – 7Helped to set-up the second goal as he harried a defender with Cucurella and won the ball back before feeding George with a clever pass.Did well for the first goal too and generally showed good link-up play.Jadon Sancho (for Palmer, 72mins) – 5Ineffectual, barely got on the ball. Although Chelsea were under pressure for pretty much the entirety of the time he spent on the pitch. More

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      Real Sociedad 1 Man Utd 1: Controversial VAR penalty cancels out Zirkzee opener as Amorim rues chances to put tie to bed

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      NO English football fan will forget the name Mikel Oyarzabal any time soon.He was the Spain striker who popped up with the late winner which broke Three Lions hearts in the Euro 2024 final.Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring for Manchester United in SpainCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes gave away a penalty for handball which was awarded by VARCredit: TNT SPORTSMikel Oyarzabal then scored the equaliser from the penalty spotCredit: GettyEight months later he was at it again – the calmest man on the park as he stroked home the penalty that keeps this Europa League tie very much in the balance.It meant more penalty woe for Ruben Amorim’s men four days after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by Fulham in a shoot-out.For a few second half minutes at least – it looked as though Manchester United were going to put that disappointment firmly behind them.And there was redemption for Joshua Zirkzee, who had seen the final spot-kick saved by Bernd Leno before slumping to the turf in tears.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis time he was all smiles as he swept home a cross from Alejandro Garnacho to give the visitors a crucial lead on the hour.But Oyarzabal – just as he did in Berlin last summer – had the last word and the tie is still on a knife edge.As is United’s season.Ruben Amorim has tried to play down the importance of winning this competition – but surely he isn’t kidding anybody.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWinning a trophy would lift the gloom which is hanging over Old Trafford, not to mention give them a passport to the Champions League next season.It would also put a very different slant on a season which is in danger of becoming the worst since the club was relegated more than 50 years ago.’I know the consequences’ – Ruben Amorim insists he’s the right man for Man Utd but fears he may not get time to show itYet for all the problems in the current campaign, United have not lost a game in Europe – which is why they are among the favourites to go all the way to Bilbao on May 21.So there was so much at stake in San Sebastian – particularly after their FA Cup exit.And Amorim had to go into the game with a squad of just 18 – and only five outfield players on the bench – as the injury problems got worse still.United’s form at Old Trafford has been so dismal this season that it was hard to work out what would be classed as a good result here.Man Utd ratings vs Real SociedadMANCHESTER UNITED were left to rue missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, before a tame Sociedad outfit levelled through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty.United, perhaps, deserved more. And should’ve come away with a lead going into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.Ruben Amorim’s side started on the front foot and found space on the counterattack, which has been a rarity this season.They even prevented the hosts threatening Andre Onana’s goal in the first half.Sociedad, in truth, offered very little, perhaps still shellshocked from their 4-0 demolition away at Barcelona this past weekend.The gameplan should’ve been simple at half-time: simply pass the ball in behind to Rasmus Hojlund, with the Basques slow at back.United’s dominance of the match was rewarded when Zirkzee’s shot crept past Alex Remiro in the 57th minute.But the noise – and the Poznan – came back into the Reale Arena after Bruno Fernandes’ handball was spotted by VAR and allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to level from the spot.From that point on, the home side, who had offered nothing, were the better team.But it is Man Utd who have more right to feel aggrieved about taking just a share of the spoils back to Old Trafford.SunSport’s Katherine Walsh runs the rule over how each Manchester United star performed in the Basque Country.Yet they had the best chances of a largely forgettable first half with the first one falling to Garnacho who cut in but thumped his shot straight at home keeper Alex Remiro.Rasmus Hojlund was then furious with Diogo Dalot for passing up the chance to put him in on goal – choosing instead to go back to Garnacho.The Danish forward has not scored since mid December – and no wonder with that kind of service from the wings.Like United, Sociedad did not look to have much confidence or energy early on.They have saved their best form for the cup competitions this season and currently languish in mid-table in their domestic league.But star man Martin Zubimendi – who has been a target for Arsenal and Liverpool in the last 12 months – was pulled out due to illness.He is likely to be back for the return next week so that only added to the feeling this was United’s chance to take the tie by the scruff of the neck.They had opportunities to do so as well – most notably when Dalot chose the right option – cutting it back for skipper Bruno Fernandes.His effort was blocked by Aritz Elustondo and the rebound fell for Joshua Zirkzee who was denied by Remiro before poking the loose ball wide.Fernandes returned the compliment to his fellow Portuguese as his searching chip forward was met by the head of Dalot but his effort lacked the power’They’re anxious to score and win games’ – Amorim rues missed chancesBy Martin BlackburnRUBEN AMORIM admits the pressure is on next Thursday after Manchester United suffered more penalty woe.The Portuguese refused to comment on the controversial spot-kick which gifted Real Sociedad a draw in this Europa League last-16 first-leg clash.VAR Pol van Boekel spotted a handball by skipper Bruno Fernandes — despite nobody appealing.And after going over to his monitor, Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak agreed.The decision came just four days after the Red Devils were dumped out of the FA Cup following a 4-3 shootout defeat to Fulham.Asked about the  penalty, boss Amorim said: “I don’t want to talk about that — let’s just try to win the second game.”But he did acknowledge the heat will be on at Old Trafford after his ‘tired’ stars failed to build on the lead given to them by Joshua Zirkzee.Amorim said: “The pressure is going to be on us in that stadium. We have to be ready and fresh. It was clearly fatigue in that last half hour.”Alejandro Garnacho, Fernandes and Zirkzee were all guilty of missing good opportunities.Asked if United need to be more clinical, Amorim added: “That is clear, we are creating chances but sometimes you don’t see it because we manage not to shoot.“One thing I am sure of — they’re anxious to score and win games.”Amorim played down a row between Diogo Dalot and goal-shy forward Rasmus Hojlund.The Dane — who has not scored since December — was furious when Dalot failed to play him in.And Amorim said: “The decision from Diogo was not the best but the important thing is to move on and not be fighting.”Winning the Europa League is United’s last chance for silverware this season — and to clinch a Champions League spot.Rene Meulensteen — Sir Alex Ferguson’s former No 2 — feels they need Europa glory to lift some of the gloom over the club.He said: “It is so important as that’s the way back into the Champions League. If that happens you win a trophy.“Does it paint over cracks? Yes. I that falls away it is a totally disastrous season.“Manchester United has not been Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson left.“It has been a constant decline. It is a club in unrest — on and off the pitch.”The big plus was that Sociedad had posed almost no threat to United at all in the first half – although they did have a chance soon after the break.Takefusa Kubo’s cross was flicked on by Oyarzabal but Leny Yoro got across to make the block.However the best openings were still coming at the other end as Fernandes curled a free-kick from 20 yards narrowly wide.Then Patrick Dorgu’s cross found Garnacho at the back post but he directed his shot into the side-netting.It felt like things were starting to happen for United and just before the hour mark the breakthrough came.Garnacho rolled a pass to Zirkzee on the edge of the box and his low effort went through the legs of a defender which may have unsighted Remiro as it zipped past him.Nobody could deny the Dutch forward deserved his moment after what he went through on Sunday.It was what United deserved but as we know – nothing is ever straightforward for the Red Devils these days.The VAR spotted a handball by Fernandes as a corner was headed down and when the Slovakian ref went to check the monitor he agreed.READ MORE SUN STORIESOyarzabal never looked like missing and the tie was back in the balance.Sociedad could even have nicked it late on as Sheraldo Becker’s cross was right into the path of Orri Oskarsson but he somehow planted it the wrong side of the post. 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      AZ Alkmaar 1 Tottenham 0: Lucas Bergvall scores comical own goal to leave Spurs with it all to do in the second leg

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      LUCAS BERGVALL’S unlucky slice left Tottenham in a pickle at the home of the Cheese Farmers.But Ange Postecoglou’s side can count themselves lucky they are still in this Europa League tie because, in truth, they stunk the place out.Tottenham suffered a dismal Europa League defeat to AZ AlkmaarCredit: GettyTottenham ace Lucas Bergvall scored an own goalCredit: PAThe Dutch side have the advantage ahead of the return fixtureCredit: RexAnge Postecoglou claimed he always wins a trophy in his second season at clubsCredit: AlamyAZ Alkmaar are known as the Cheese Farmers, or Cheese Heads, on account of the city they represent having a strong association with the beloved dairy product.They even have a cheese museum in the town centre.Maarten Martens’ team certainly put on a tasty display too with ex-Spurs striker Troy Parrott giving his old side a difficult night throughout.It was Parrott’s knockdown which Bergvall managed to hook into his own net on 18 minutes.Read More on FootballSpurs must now battle to turn this tie around in the second leg at home on Thursday or risk another season without any silverware.That scenario would pile pressure on boss Postecoglou given his injury-hit side have plunged to 13th in the Premier League table.To make matters worse, returning England striker Dominic Solanke came off crocked late on – despite being introduced as a sub just 19 minutes earlier.Anyone expecting AZ to be a pushover clearly had not seen how they put Galatasaray to the sword 4-1 at home in last month’s play-offs.Most read in FootballRoy Keane gives savage response to James Maddison’s dig as Ian Wright tells Tottenham star ‘you can’t f***ing win’But even so, considering how much this game meant in the context of Tottenham’s season, Postecoglou’s side were surprisingly woeful.In fact, they were lucky not to be out of the tie completely by half-time.The Aussie had opted to leave his returning big-hitters Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero and Solanke on the bench and they were all missed.Spurs looked open at the back and toothless up top with poor Mathys Tel feeding off scraps and struggling badly to make an impact.Parrott, in contrast, looked a right handful against the side that sold him to AZ in the summer for £6.7million.It was from the Irishman’s knockdown from a Peer Koopmeiners corner that the hosts’ flukey opener came about.Troy Parrott shinesParrott controlled it back towards goal at the far post but when Bergvall went to clear it, the young Swede sliced it backwards, over Djed Spence on the line and into his own net.On the half hour, AZ had a brilliant chance to double their lead when Parrott was suddenly sent racing clear.But the 23-year-old was denied an 18th of the season by a crucial stop from alert Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario with his left foot.Then just before half-time there was a mad scramble near Spurs’ goal where they somehow did just enough to prevent the ball from crossing the line before Bergvall hacked it away.Dire first halfAfter such a dire 45, it was no surprise to see Postecoglou make a change during the interval as the ineffectual Tel was hooked for Wilson Odobert.Yet the hosts’ dominance just continued into the second period – save for an early Bergvall strike which went narrowly wide.Once again Vicario came to the rescue when he palmed away Ernest Poku’s low drive at his near post.Solanke was finally thrown into action with 19 minutes to go – coming on for the anonymous Son Heung-min – but then had to come off again after taking a whack.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt capped an awful night for Postecoglou whose only saving grace is that they are not out of the tie altogether.But if they fail to turn this around next Thursday, well… that’s just hard cheese. More

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      Copenhagen 1 Chelsea 2: Blues take slender lead back to Stamford Bridge but left ruing late goal to give Danes hope

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      REECE JAMES came to Chelsea’s rescue again with a goal worthy of a bigger stage.Captain James broke the deadlock with a cracking 25-yarder that dragged his team out of the doldrums as they struggled to get into gear in the C-List Conference League.Reece James broke the deadlock with a great strikeCredit: GettyEnzo Fernandez netted Chelsea’s second of the nightCredit: ReutersGabriel Pereira headed one in for CopenhagenCredit: ReutersChelsea’s longest serving player was drafted into midfield as a tactical experiment by boss Enzo Maresca and popped up a minute into the second half with only his second goal of the season.In January, he salvaged a point for The Blues with the last kick of the game at home to Bournemouth and showed his value again just when Maresca needed it.The head coach was forced to make a triple substitution at half time to ignite his team and gain a narrow advantage to make next week’s last 16 second leg in London a bit more comfortableBy the end of the game, a reshuffled Chelsea line up had a more familiar look with Marc Cucurella, Levi Colwill, Jadon Sancho and Enzo Fernandez on the pitch.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd vice-captain Fernandez doubled their lead with 25 minutes left with a well-placed shot across goal from inside the box.Maresca’s side should have cruised it from there but suffered a nervy final ten minutes when the Danish league leaders pulled one back from a set-piece with a header by Gabriel Pereira cashing in on slack marking at the back post.James has to be carefully managed these days after a string of hamstring injuries which have plagued his recent career.Good job the renowned full back was on the ball despite being out of position in the heart of the team as Maresca tinkered with his line up.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCredit must also go to Cucurella, forced to come on earlier than expected when Malo Gusto came off injured after only 24 minutes.The Spaniard was an attacking force down the left and claimed the assist for James’ opener and the key pass to Tyrique George which ultimately allowed Fernandez to claim the winner.Cole Palmer branded ‘gift that keeps on giving’ after Chelsea star reveals his meal deal sandwich Malo Gusto suffered an injury in the first halfCredit: EPAHe was subbed off as a resultCredit: GettyCurly-tops Cucu provided a neat cut-back for James to unleash a screamer into the back of the net from outside the box not long into the second half.And from there a much more confident Chelsea pressed the advantage and rookie winger George played a short pass from the byline for Fernandez to pick his spot from inside the six yard box.With his eyes on Sunday’s Premier League clash at home to his former club Leicester, Maresca rejigged his line-up and also took off Cole Palmer early to rest legs for the weekend game.Greenhorn striker Shumaira Mheuka became the youngest starter for Chelsea in a major European tournament at the age of 17 years and 137 days but was taken off at half time.Enzo Maresca will be frustrated by the late goalCredit: GettyChelsea ratings vs CopenhagenREECE JAMES ensured Chelsea will have a lead to defend at Stamford Bridge next week despite not being at the races.Enzo Maresca would have been scratching his head at half-time after the Blues put in one of their worst first half performances of the season.The Chelsea boss wrung the changes at the break and they paid off instantly as James opened the scoring from 30 yards.It was a stroke of genius from Maresca to play James in the midfield – and he would not have been in a position to score otherwise.The skipper battled brilliantly in the middle of the park and his ability to pick out a pass meant his display was one of few positives to take from this clash.Cole Palmer again looked lethargic while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall looked out of his depth – as did Shim Mheuka making his full debut.Fellow youngster Tyrique George looked bright while Christopher Nkunku and Marc Cucurella made impacts from the bench.But in truth Chelsea were lucky to escape Parken with a win.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Blues’ players. More