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      Man Utd and Arsenal set to use different FA Cup ball to everyone else this weekend and it will leave Arteta seething

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      ARSENAL and Manchester United will use a DIFFERENT ball to their FA Cup rivals this weekend.Gunners boss Mikel Arteta kicked up a fuss about the ball used in his side’s Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle on Tuesday.Arsenal played with a different ball in their Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to NewcastleCredit: GETTYGunners boss Mikel Arteta seemingly blamed the ball for his troops’ failure to find the back of netCredit: REUTERRSThe North Londoners will play with this ball against UnitedCredit: MITREAnd the Spaniard could be irked by the ball his troops are set to use in their third round clash with United on Saturday afternoon.Competition ball supplier Mitre have announced the game will be played with special matchday balls to pay homage to the visitors, who are the current FA Cup holders.Their special FA Cup Ultimax Pro Winners ball will be in use at the Emirates.But the rest of the FA Cup third-round ties will be played with a DIFFERENT ball.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSArteta will no doubt be vocal about the special edition ball should it be at the centre of any controversy, of which there has been plenty with United over the years.Speaking after the North Londoners’ 2-0 midweek defeat to Newcastle, he said: “We also kicked a lot of balls over the bar.”And it’s tricky that these balls fly a lot so there’s details that we can do better.”But at the end that’s gone, there’s no way back it’s about the next game and that’s our world, the reality is our world.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”It’s just different. Very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies different.”When you touch it the grip is very different as well so you adapt to that.”Mikel Arteta reveals Bukayo Saka is set to miss months after surgery as he gives injury update on Arsenal starThe EFL reacted quickly to Arteta’s comments, with a spokesperson saying: ” As is required throughout the professional game, the PUMA ball used in this season’s Carabao Cup and in EFL competition since 2021/22 is tested in accordance with the FIFA Quality Programme for Footballs, and meets the FIFA Quality Pro standard.”In addition to the Carabao Cup, the same ball has been successfully used in other major European leagues, including both Serie A and LaLiga and our three divisions in the EFL.”All Clubs play with the same ball, and we have received no further comments of this nature following any of the previous 88 fixtures which have taken place in this season’s Carabao Cup.” More

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      ‘How is this real?’ – Former Chelsea star’s home destroyed in LA wildfires with player sharing chilling picture

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      FORMER Chelsea star Ali Riley’s home was destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires.The New Zealand captain, 37, played for the Blues’ women’s team six seasons ago.Ali Riley shared a heartbreaking post about the Hollywood wildfiresCredit: AFPRiley played for Chelsea six years agoCredit: GettyHer house was destroyed in the blaze as she chillingly revealed how she was there eating dinner just earlier this weekCredit: Instagram @rileythreeThankfully Riley and her family are safeDefender Ali made 16 appearances, scoring two goals, before leaving for Bayern Munich.She has played for LA side Angel City since 2022, becoming club captain.But her house was reduced to ashes earlier this week as uncontrollable blazes swept the upmarket Pacific Palisades suburb.She posted a chilling picture on social media of the fire-destroyed neighbourhood, with an arrow pointing out where her home used to be.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLos Angeles-born Ali wrote on X: “This was our home. How is this real.  It can’t be real.”The 163-cap international added on Instagram: “Our entire neighbourhood is gone. We are all safe.”Holding on to that with my whole heart while we figure out what to do next.”I keep looking at this to make myself understand that it is real.Most read in Football”I was there Monday night eating dinner. Hanging with Mom and Dad.”Watched the sunset. And now it’s gone forever.Devastating pics show LA celeb mansions burned to ground including John Goodman’s & Leighton Meester’s in wildfires”This rubble was our home.”Ali received an outpouring of sympathy and support from friends and team-mates on social media.Chelsea signed her in 2018 after she won nine trophies with Swedish club Rosengard.At least five people have died, and 137,000 evacuated from their homes, since the devastating LA fires broke out earlier this week.Ali’s club Angel City, founded in 2020, plays in America’s top-tier National Women’s Soccer League.Its ownership structure includes actress Natalie Portman as well as tennis icons Venus Williams and Billie Jean King.Gavin and Stacey star James Corden, a former US TV host, has also invested in the Californian club.She also represents New Zealand on the international stageCredit: Getty More

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      Newcastle vs Bromley: Get £40 in free bets and bonuses to spend with BetMGM

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      NEWCASTLE welcome League Two Bromley to St James’ Park on Sunday for a David vs Goliath FA Cup third round clash.Bookmakers BetMGM are offering brand new customers a cool £40 in free bets when you register an account and stake a tenner on the cup showdown.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..BetMGM £40 welcome bonusVisit the BetMGM website HERE*Select SPORTS OFFER on the websiteRegister a new account – No Promo Code necessaryOpt in for this promotion by depositing and placing at least £10 on football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free betsNewcastle vs Bromley: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here*Not got a BetMGM account? No problem!This offer is just for you, and it’s incredibly easy to claim!Simply register a new account, deposit and stake a minimum of £10 on football at odds of Evens (1/1) or greater. This must be done within seven days of opening your account with the bookmaker.Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free bets!Newcastle vs Bromley: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here**BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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      Meet the Wags of Premier League surprise package Nottingham Forest, from a hot fashion designer to a social media beauty

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      NOTTINGHAM Forest are this year’s surprise outfit in the Premier League.Tipped by many pundits to be relegation fodder, they have defied the odds and sit level on points with second-placed Arsenal.Glam Britney De Villiers has been cheering on Nottingham Forest this seasonCredit: InstagramBritney is one of Forest’s most popular Wags with a over 270,000 followersCredit: InstagramMorgan Gibbs-White has dated Britney since 2019Credit: InstagramThey have also recorded famous wins over Liverpool and Manchester United, away from the City Ground, as they (whisper it quietly, Nuno Espirito Santo) mount a title challenge.Of course, they would probably be delighted with finishing in the Champions League places – but they should also be allowed to dream.Helping keep the players grounded will be their supportive and gorgeous Wags.From a fashion designer to a social media influencer, let SunSport introduce you to the beauties.Read more in footballBritney De VilliersStunning Britney is the most popular of Forest’s Wags – with over 270,000 followers on Instagram.The blonde social media influencer is in a romance with Morgan Gibbs-White.They live a jet-set life lifestyle, and recently spent New Year’s Day on the slopes enjoying a glam ski trip.The loved-up pair, together since 2019, share a son together called Graysen.Most read in FootballChina NavanaJoining Gibbs-White and Britney on that expensive break was gorgeous China and her boyfriend, Anthony Elanga.The four posed for snaps together as they enjoyed some downtime, and seem close pals sharing a holiday in Portugal in the summer.China and Elanga appear to have met in Manchester, where he came through the ranks at Man Utd.She showed her support when he signed for Forest – joining him on his unveiling at the club for pictures.Why Nuno Espirito Santo was such a flop for Tottenham before leading Nottingham Forest on Leicester-like title chargeChina Navana is close pals with Gibbs-White’s girlfriend BritneyCredit: InstagramChina joined Britney on a glam ski trip to ring in the New YearCredit: InstagramChina dates flying winger Anthony ElangaCredit: InstagramEmma WoodEmma married Chris Wood in the summer of 2024.The pair tied the knot at a lavish ceremony on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.They shared the images on Instagram – with Forest’s instagram account wishing them: “Many congratulations”.Emma is a solicitor, and she is expecting the couple’s first baby.Emma Wood shows off her envious lifestyle as a WagCredit: InstagramSolicitor Emma and Wood are expecting their first child togetherCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresCarolina RubinoRubino is the wife of Forest’s Argentina midfielder, Nicolas Dominguez.She studied law and graduated in Buenos Aires, so like Emma Wood is a qualified lawyer.However, she appears to be have shunned her career for life as a Wag and mother.They have a daughter called Allegra.Carolina Rubino hails from Argentina like her footballing partnerCredit: InstagramCarolina Rubino is a qualified lawyer who graduated in Buenos AiresCredit: InstagramNicolas Dominguez and Carolina pose together on a sightseeing trip to LondonCredit: InstagramMabili SantiagoBrazilian beauty Mabili and her partner Murillo are also expecting their first child together in 2025.They made an amazing gender reveal at the City Ground before Christmas on social media.The occasion was supported by pyrotechnics, balloons, streamers and a whole stage for the happy couple to stand on during the moment it was announced.She is a digital creator who lives and breathes fashion.Mabili Santiago shows off her incredibly bikini bodyCredit: InstagramMabili Santiago is married to Forest defender MurilloCredit: InstagramMurillo and Mabili revealed they were expecting a baby girl at a gender reveal ceremony at the City GroundRita RibeiroRita is the resident fashion designer among Forest’s Wags.She got her qualifications by completing a course at the Lisbon School of DesignREAD MORE SUN STORIESShe now has her own label, Rita Ribeiro and creates her own designs – picking up the latest designer trends, from oversized blazers to faux leather skirts.Rita is in a relationship with Jack Grealish lookalike, Jota Silva.Rita Ribeiro is originally from Portugal – like her footballing other halfCredit: InstagramStunning Rita runs her own fashion label that is named after herCredit: InstagramRita poses for a loved up snap with Jota SilvaCredit: Instagram More

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      Supercomputer predicts Carabao Cup winner after first leg of semis with Newcastle tipped to end 70-year domestic drought

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      A SUPERCOMPUTER has predicted the winner of the Carabao Cup.The first legs of the tournament’s semi-finals conjured two shock results.Eddie Howe has been backed to end Newcastle’s 70-year trophy droughtCredit: RexMikel Arteta had complaints about the ball after the defeat to NewcastleCredit: EPANewcastle beat Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium, which led to Mikel Arteta blaming the BALL.While Tottenham Hotspur stunned Liverpool 1-0 thanks to an 86th-minute goal from Lucas Bergvall.The supercomputer at BonusCodeBets has now predicted the winner of the tournament.The odds have been worked out by taking the average from 10,000 simulations.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLNewcastle have been given a 39.8 per cent chance of ending their 70-year trophy drought.The Magpies are in a great position as they hold a two-goal advantage over the Gunners ahead of the second leg at St James’ Park.This has seen the supercomputer give the team a 77.8 per cent chance of reaching the final.As a result, Arsenal have been put down as the least likely to reach the final, let alone win the competition at just 15.2 per cent.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLiverpool are the second most likely team to lift the trophy in what would be Arne Slot’s first piece of silverware in England.They will need to overcome the one-goal deficit against Spurs at Anfield in order to reach the final.Mikel Arteta bizarrely appears to blame Carabao Cup BALL for Arsenal’s missed chances as trophy drought set to continueDespite being the second favourites to win the trophy if they make the final, Spurs are the favourites to make the last two.The North London side have been given a 52.1 per cent chance of reaching Wembley.However, Ange Postecoglou’s side only have a 13.2 per cent chance of winning their first major honour since 2008.The second legs of the semi-finals are scheduled for the first week of February.Arsenal travel north to take on Newcastle at St James’ Park on February 5 at 8pm.While Spurs kick off at the same time at Anfield against Liverpool the following day.Spurs will also be monitoring Rodrigo Bentancur after his worrying injury against Liverpool.READ MORE SUN STORIESLiverpool bemoaned Bergvall’s goal as he had already been yellow-carded when he fouled Kostas Tsimikas.Postecoglou defended the decision by referee Stuart Atwell not to send off the Swede as he cited a little-known rule.Lucas Bergvall gave Tottenham a slender lead against Liverpool ahead of the second legCredit: GettyArne Slot will have to mastermind a comeback to get Liverpool to WembleyCredit: Reuters More

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      Rob Edwards AXED by Luton with Hatters staring back-to-back relegations in the face amid dismal run of form

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      LUTON TOWN have axed manager Rob Edwards amid the threat of back-to-back relegations.Edwards, 42, led the Hatters to the Premier League during his first season in charge.Rob Edwards has been axed by Championship strugglers Luton TownCredit: GettyEdwards led Luton to the Premier League in 2023Credit: PAThey dropped back to the Championship this term despite a brave battle.But Luton have been unable to build on their recent success and are now at risk of ending up back in League One.Confirming the manager’s departure, a statement read: “Luton Town Football Club can confirm that Rob Edwards has left his role as manager by mutual agreement.”It continued: “We could have not wished for a better man to understand what it takes to be manager of Luton Town, one who acted as an ambassador for the club and community in the glare of the world’s media spotlight.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We enjoyed the highs of Goodison Park and that maiden Premier League win, the demolition of Brighton under the Kenilworth Road lights and the part the Town played in the 4-4 classic at Newcastle after also taking a point, and so very nearly all three, off Liverpool as the battle against relegation went right to the final day.”The current campaign back in the Championship has clearly not progressed as anticipated, and after holding amicable talks following Monday’s defeat at QPR, the board and Rob have agreed to part with immediate effect.”While the process to appoint a new manager is already underway, Paul Trollope and Richie Kyle, aided by Mick Harford, will take charge of the squad for Saturday’s FA Cup third round tie at Nottingham Forest.”Edwards has won just seven of his 26 matches in the current campaign, leaving the Hatters 20th in the table and just two points above the drop zone.Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLuton are now at risk of relegation from the ChampionshipCredit: PAMonday’s 2-1 defeat at QPR was their fourth loss on the bounce.And Luton have now parted ways with Edwards just 26 months after bringing him to Kenilworth Road.Sunderland fans in hysterics as captain Luke O’Nien ‘auditions for WWE’ in post-match brawl at Luton Speaking after Luton’s defeat to QPR this week, Edwards admitted he was feeling the pressure in the dugout.He said: “Every week on the road we seem to be getting hit and hit and hit.“Things have gone against us recently.“It just seems the footballing gods are against us.“But results are not good enough.“The players are giving everything but we are in a results business.”Reflecting on Edwards’ time at the club, Luton CEO Gary Sweet said: “As with all decisions to part company with a manager, this has been a tough decision to arrive at, together with Rob, who has conducted himself with great professionalism and dignity throughout his two years at the Club, and again this week as we have genuinely come to a mutual conclusion.”Rob has given us some of our greatest days to celebrate as Hatters. Those two barnstorming derby victories at Kenilworth Road, the play-off final at Wembley and our season in the Premier League will live with us forever and in doing so Rob has earned himself a legendary status.”Results this season, especially away from home, have clearly not been acceptable and while we have supported Rob and his team in every possible way, we all felt that action was required to rectify this with 20 league matches still to play.”It is typical of Rob’s humility that he also recognised this himself and leaves not just as a former manager, but as a trusted friend who has left his mark on every player and member of staff.”Rob and his family will always be welcome visitors to Kenilworth Road. The door is always open. On behalf of the board, I would like to give him our heartfelt thanks for two years of tireless work and so many memories, wishing him every success for his future career.”On his departure, Edwards himself said: “It’s been a privilege to manage Luton Town Football Club, but now is the right time for me to move on, for the club and me.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I would like to thank Gary Sweet and the board for giving me the opportunity and for their support. To all the amazing staff in the offices, at the stadium and at the training ground, thank you, you’ve been incredible and I will miss you.”Steve Cooper, Gary O’Neil, Russell Martin and ex-Hatters are among the bookies’ favourites for the job. More

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      Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get £50 in free bets, plus 80/1 Bet Builder tips with Betfred

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      MANCHESTER UNITED make the trip to the Emirates on Sunday for a tasty FA Cup third round tie.So our team of betting experts have selected a Bet Builder for the top-flight encounter, which is priced at a whopping 80/1!Not just that! New Betfred customers who register an account with Betfred and stake a tenner on football will receive £50 in sports free bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*Arsenal vs Manchester United tipsOur Bet Builder selections: Match to finish a draw, Martin Odegaard to score and Kobbie Mainoo to be carded.Back our 80/1 Bet BuilderHere’s why we’ve made those selections..Match the end a draw: Arsenal have only managed four goals in their last four home games, which is less impressive still when three of those came against Crystal Palace and other games included Everton and Ipswich. United were great in their last away game at Anfield and this could be another tight game.Martin Odegaard to score: The Arsenal skipper hasn’t scored since November and looks a bit lost without Bukayo Saka on the park – registering just two assists since then too. Gunners need their leader to step up and no better occasion to do so.Kobbie Mainoo to be carded: Faces a tough task in the middle of the pitch but will no doubt put himself about. Might spend a lot of the game without the ball and has 1.43 fouls per Premier League game this campaign.Back our 80/1 Bet BuilderRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. More

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      Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get up to £40 in free bets to spend on football with talkSPORT BET

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      ARSENAL and Manchester United meet in a blockbuster FA Cup third round clash this weekend.And brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim up to £40 in free bets when they register an account and stake at least £20 on the cup showdown.Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim talkSPORT BET offertalkSPORT BETVisit the talkSPORT website HERE*Create an account and Opt In to this promotion via the OFFERS tabMake a depositPlace your first bet up to £40, minimum £20, on any football market, at odds of Evens or greaterYou must do this within 7 days of registrationOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first betFor example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free betsIf you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free betstalkSPORT BET: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim Here*Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*What’s the offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of up to £40 when they register an account.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £20 or more on any football market at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.What happens next?Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first bet bet.For example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets. If you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free bets:On settlement of your qualifying bet, your account will be credited with the following:£10 free bet – Bet Builder (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Correct Score (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:£10 free bet – To Win and Both Team to Score – 90 mins (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Acca 4+ selection (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)You can read the full breakdown of free bets and more on how to claim talkSPORT BET’s welcome offer here**18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile device, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More