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      Arsenal vs Newcastle live stream FREE: How to watch huge Carabao Cup semi-final first leg

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      ARSENAL and Newcastle are set to battle at the Emirates in the first leg of their thrilling Carabao Cup semi-final – and fans can watch it for FREE!The Gunners got off to the worst possible start in their quarter-final clash against Crystal Palace as they conceded inside the first four minutes.Gabriel Jesus’ hat-trick fired Arsenal into the semisCredit: APSandro Tonali bagged two against BrentfordCredit: GettyArsenal vs Newcastle LIVEHowever, Gabriel Jesus’ spectacular hat-trick fired Mikel Arteta’s men to a crucial comeback win, booking their spot in the last-4.As for Newcastle, their night was a lot more straight forward as Sandro Tonali’s double and Fabian Schar’s 69th minute strike helped the Toon brush Brentford aside.But Eddie Howe will expect a much tougher test in the first leg of this moutwatering Carabao Cup semi.Read more on ArsenalAnd SunSport can reveal how fans can watch the entire action for free below.How to watch Arsenal vs Newcastle for FREEArsenal’s thrilling Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle will be broadcast live for FREE on ITV 1 in the UK.Fans also have the option to stream the entire action for FREE on the ITV X app which is available to download via any compatible mobile device or tablet.Kick-off for the huge match is scheduled to get underway at 8pm GMT and the semi-final will take place on Tuesday, January 7.Who is playing in the other Carabao Cup semi-final?Tottenham are set to take on defending champions Liverpool in the other Carabao Cup semi-final.The first leg of this blockbuster tie is scheduled for Wednesday, January 8.Most read in FootballSpurs progressed to the semi-finals after beating Manchester United in a 4-3 thriller.While Liverpool escaped St Mary’s with a 2-1 victory.Carabao Cup full scheduleTuesday, January 7Arsenal vs Newcastle (1st leg)Wednesday, January 8Tottenham vs Liverpool (1st leg)Wednesday, February 5Newcastle vs Arsenal (2nd leg)READ MORE SUN STORIESThursday, February 6Liverpool vs Tottenham (2nd leg) More

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      Inside ‘insane’ £1.5bn Bernabeu renovation from hidden tunnels under stadium to setting FIRE to the old roof

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      THE “insane” £1.5billion Bernabeu renovation included a hidden network of underground tunnels and setting FIRE to the old roof.And the epic project even required a full year-long study of the sun to avoid blinding drivers.The new look Bernabeu is a thing of beautyCredit: Real MadridThe complex model is a first for football infrastructureCredit: Real MadridThe underground greenhouse features six levelsCredit: National GeographicThere was plenty of fire in the operation – from creating the steel facade to burning the old roofCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraTunnels underneath the stadium allowed machinery to drive aroundCredit: National GeographicThe finished article has fans and players alike in aweCredit: GettyReal Madrid spent a fortune updating their iconic stadium, finally completing the work in 2024.Much has been made of the brand-new features such as the 360-degree LED scoreboard screen, the sleek steel facade and the flagship VIP hospitality suite, the SkyBar.The pitch has also been split into six panels which are split up and stored in an underground greenhouse hypogeum, only coming out for matchday, in one of the most advanced pieces of architecture in world football. Now, though, the reality of the sheer logistical ingenuity and complexity of the Bernabeu facelift has been revealed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA National Geographic documentary – Megastructures: Real Madrid Super Stadium – followed the mammoth project, which was ironically massively helped by the Covid pandemic. That is because Real Madrid were insistent that they would keep on playing at the Bernabeu for their domestic matches throughout the construction work.As a result, the pitch was out of bounds to protect the playing surface while all the heavy machinery had to be stored away to meet safety regulations with 80,000 fans in attendance – although the cranes made for surreal aerial viewing spots for a lucky few. So part of the early stages of the work involved digging tunnels beneath the stadium to allow the diggers to be stored and get to different areas of the site easily. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the issue with needing to keep the pitch clear meant work on the roof was particularly tricky as the team had to avoid it at all costs – essentially operating like work on a bridge over water. One of the earliest stages of the renovation included dismantling the old partial roof to remove it and make way for the new state-of-the-art roof.Real Madrid release amazing time lapse footage of Bernabeu construction work as retractable roof is added And that involved setting sections ablaze in staggering scenes. Once the existing roof was completely removed, the delicate process of constructing a frame for the new roof took place.Incredibly, the modern retractable roof weighs the same as two Eiffel Towers.And there is even an inflatable pad within the machinery – carefully programmed alongside the rest of the aeronautical roof – which makes it fully waterproof. When the Covid pandemic worsened and Spain went into lockdown, the 2019-20 football season was put on pause.But for the workers, they got the green light to carry on – and carry on they did, with a non-stop day-and-night operation in full swing.The Bernabeu pitch is stored underground in six piecesCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe Covid pandemic allowed the old pitch to become a building siteCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe 360-degree LED screens are a wonderful additionCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe hypogeum is 23m deepCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe 13,200 slats were each manufactured uniquelyCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraSome academy players had a kick about on the jigsaw-style pitch at the training groundCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraAnd, crucially, no matches enabled them to rip up the luscious green pitch and convert it into a building site. That paved the way for work to begin on the revolutionary system, digging down a whopping 23 metres below the surface to create six levels in the ultimate game of underground football pitch Tetris. A replica pitch using the same technology had been designed at Los Blancos’ training ground using their custom agronomic laboratory to build the replicated ‘pieces’ structure, first tested out by several academy young stars.Real Madrid had two objectives: they wanted the very best turf in the world and they wanted to be able to store it away when not in use to make the Bernabeu into a money machine able to host events – such as Taylor Swift concerts – whenever there was no match.Simples. Or not. The finishing touches to the new version of the Bernabeu – ironically the first thing fans will notice arriving – came with the stunning exterior.A whopping 13,200 slats of uniquely-designed steel were all individually manufactured to create the striking appearance. But even the steel wraparound required detailed research lasting a full 365 days – aka a full orbit of the sun. Because the architects, designers and safety officers had to ensure it was safe.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe metallic exterior catches the sun and therefore they were required to make sure the positioning and intensity of the bright reflections would not get dangerously hot nor startle and blind drivers using the roads around the ground or get too hot.Make no mistake about it, the new Bernabeu is a piece of sheer design absurdity and creativity to utterly bonkers proportions – but would you expect anything less from Real Madrid Club de Futbol?The new roof structure weighs the same as two Eiffel TowersCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraBeing unable to work on the pitch initially meant workers used bridge-building techniquesCredit: National GeographicThe operation was captured by National Geographic’s camerasCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe entire project cost approximately £1.5billionCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe major work was completed in 2024Credit: National GeographicTwo 500-ton sections of the mega-trusses had to be perfectly alignedCredit: National GeographicThe greenhouse creates the perfect environment for the grassCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraSome workers were able to watch matches from cranes early onCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe pitch only comes out on matchdaysCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraWork continued through the night for several stagesCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe facade exterior features a striking steel wraparound designCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe cranes and machines had to be stored away while matches continuedCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraA year-long sun study was required to ensure drivers would not be blindedCredit: Real MadridThe retractable roof is fully waterproof thanks to an inflating padCredit: Real MadridGroundstaff work on the pitch undergroundCredit: National GeographicThe aeronautically roof is precisely programmedCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraA replica pitch was also created at the agronomy laboratory across townCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraReal Madrid were insistent they wanted the very best turf in the worldCredit: National Geographic/Josep SerraThe Bernabeu played host to Taylor Swift during her Eras tourCredit: National Geographic/Josep Serra More

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      ‘We could feel our oxygen running out’ – New Chelsea signing reveals terrifying lift ordeal left him fearing death

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      CHELSEA keeper Mike Penders has revealed he feared choking to death … after being trapped in a lift with five team-mates.The Blues paid KRC Genk £17million for the Belgium Under-19 captain last August.Chelsea goalie Mike Penders was trapped in a lift with teammatesCredit: GettyPenders rejoined the Pro League club on loan and is due to begin his Stamford Bridge career next summer after penning a deal until 2032.But the 19-year-old underwent a terrifying ordeal during Genk’s midwinter training camp in Spain.He recalled: “The camp was very positive.  We trained well, and there was a great atmosphere.”But we had quite an experience.  Six of us got into a lift that was supposed to hold up to eight people.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”But it behaved very strangely, and went just a foot before coming to a stop with a jolt.  At first we had a laugh about it.”But the banter dried up once it became clear that we could not get the doors to open.”It became warmer and warmer inside the lift, and we could feel our oxygen supplies running out.  It made us think about what could happen.”We were able to get Wifi reception off and on, so I quickly began surfing on my phone.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”It turned out that we could still survive for five more hours, so that there was no need for us to panic.”Meanwhile we managed to get hold of other team-mates and club staff members.Chelsea Player Ratings”In the end, after three quarters of an hour, someone from the hotel was able to use a special key to release us.”Penders also revealed Blues boss Enzo Maresca is keeping tabs on his progress.He added: “Chelsea are following my performances for Genk closely.”Their head goalkeeping coach often gets in contact with me, and we’ll discuss the videos he was watched of my games.” More

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      Former Chelsea star’s stunning daughter strips to racy lingerie in the snow and says ‘I wonder why I’m still sick’

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      JADE LEBOEUF turned into the Snow Queen to give her fans scarlet fever.Chelsea icon Frank’s daughter joked “And then I wonder why I’m still sick” as she posed in red lingerie amid white-floored Icelandic countryside. Jade Leboeuf greeted the snow in her own unique wayCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufPraise snowballed for Jade’s icy photoshootCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufAt least she made sure her warm-looking footwear was on properlyCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufBut it was only her icy offering that was contagious as admirers claimed the model put herself “at risk” with her chilly-frilly, photographic frolic.One fan claimed the reality TV star was “the cause of global warming” as, with a glow in the snow, she looked completely at ease despite the freeze.Jade’s only nod to the conditions was a pair of cosy, colourful footwear.And in one pic she was seen carefully putting on the chunky shoes, with crisp snow caking the rims.Most read in SportOne of her 271,000 Instagram followers posted: “What we won’t do for snaps… it’s true you are sublime Jade.”Another wrote: “You’re in a big risk, what a beauty.” A third added: “Beautiful and wonderful as always and who says perfect doesn’t exist.”Dad Frank was perhaps not thinking of Jade safeguarding herself from wintry weather when he suggested last year she had to “protect” herself.Most read in FootballJade might now be looking forward to more sunny shootsCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufHer followers love her contrasting range of fashion choicesCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufFrank Leboeuf appears to have mixed feelings on his daughter’s workCredit: GettyIn fact, the French World Cup winner said then: “She does a job which is not one I necessarily appreciate. She is an influencer.”I always tell her, ‘You’ve got to protect yourself, you have to know what you are doing, and why’.Chelsea legend’s daughter puts on busty display in low-cut top for stunning holiday snaps as fans call her ‘radiant'”If there are people who need advice and tips from my daughter, it’s all well and good if she reassures them.”She explains why and how she does what she does, and things are OK between us.”And if Jade had any doubts about her snow show in Iceland, one fan told her: “It was worth it these pictures are crazy.”A glimpse into the life of the influencer…Jade has built up a huge and loyal following onlineCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHer work as a model has helped her popularity growCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More

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      West Ham hold talks with two alternative bosses alongside Graham Potter with Lopetegui in limbo over his future

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      WEST HAM have held talks with Christophe Galtier and Paulo Fonseca as alternatives to Graham Potter.Potter, 49, is the first choice candidate to replace Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium.Julen Lopetegui’s job at West Ham is dangling by a threadCredit: RexGraham Potter is the first-choice option to replace Lopetegui at West HamCredit: GettyEx-PSG boss Christophe Galtier is one alternative to PotterCredit: GettyPaulo Fonseca, recently axed by AC Milan, is also on West Ham’s radarCredit: AFPThe Hammers board are ready to axe Lopetegui, but have left the Spaniard in limbo until a successor is ready.Former Brighton and Chelsea boss Potter met with the club on Monday and was offered the East London job.Talks are ongoing over a deal, with alternatives being explored in case an agreement is not reached.Fonseca was an outside candidate to replace David Moyes in the summer, while Galtier has been tracked by the club for some time.READ MORE SPORT STORIESThe former PSG manager is currently managing Al-Duhail in Qatar while Fonseca was sacked by AC Milan last month.Lopetegui took West Ham training on Tuesday morning despite it being public knowledge that his job had been offered to Potter.The former Wolves boss is currently due to hold a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Friday’s FA Cup tie with Aston Villa.Chairman David Sullivan is leading the search for a new manager, though technical director Tim Steidten has also been involved.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSteidten has been asked to stay away from the training ground by Lopetegui after their relationship deteriorated.It remains unclear who will take charge of the Cup tie against Villa on Friday night, with Lopetegui’s position feeling increasingly untenable.Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager West Ham will not have long after Friday night if they want a new man in charge for their next Premier League game.Fulham visit the London Stadium on Tuesday. More

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      Fans only just realising they can watch Arsenal vs Newcastle for FREE as they are hit with broadcasting dilemma

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      FOOTBALL fans will be able to watch the Carabao Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Newcastle for FREE tonight.Two channels will battle it out for ratings in a major broadcasting change.Tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final will be broadcast live on ITV and Sky SportsCredit: GettyArsenal host Newcastle at the Emirates StadiumCredit: GettyNewcastle will be missing some key playersCredit: GettyThe Carabao Cup is typically shown on Sky Sports – which costs at least £20 per-month.However, ITV has agreed to show two of the four semi-final games this season.The free-to-air network will show the first leg of Arsenal vs Newcastle and the second leg of Liverpool vs Tottenham – which takes place on February 6.Sky Sports will continue to broadcast all four matches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe final is also set to be shown live on ITV as well as Sky, making it free to view for British audiences.ITV’s agreement with the EFL and Sky also includes 10 Championship matches each full season.Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport said: “This deal brings viewers free to air coverage of top level knockout football over the coming years, as well as standout matches from the EFL, adding regular live matches to our highlights shows.”We’re looking forward to bringing fans some superb action and insight from this new, fuller EFL package across the next few seasons.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMark Pougatch is in line to front ITV’s coverage alongside Arsenal legend Ian Wright and former Newcastle star Les Ferdinand.Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon will be on commentary for the semi-final clash.Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri is perfect Bukayo Saka replacement but Gabriel Jesus goes missing against BrightonArsenal approach tonight’s match with a series of illness and injury doubts.Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, with his replacement, Ethan Nwaneri, also unavailable due to a muscle injury.Meanwhile, Kai Havertz could return after missing back-to-back games through illness.As for Newcastle, Fabian Schar and Bruno Guimaraes will not feature due to their respective suspensions.How Howe turned Toon around WITHOUT Saudi billionsBY GARY STONEHOUSEEDDIE HOWE has got “the richest club in the world” fighting for honours regularly again despite not being able to blow the big Saudi bucks.The 47-year-old achieved legendary status at Bournemouth by guiding the then-skint Cherries all the way from League Two into the Premier League promised land.Now he is potentially on the verge of writing his name into Newcastle’s history books if he can end their 70-year wait for a major trophy.Howe came mightily close two years ago when he and the Magpies suffered heartbreak in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.Qualifying for the Champions League with a fourth-placed finish softened that blow, and now he is eyeing more than just another Wembley outing as he takes Toon to Arsenal for the first-leg of the Carabao Cup semis.Of course, it has been nothing like those early days at Bournemouth for Howe since he took charge in November 2021 just weeks after their Saudi takeover.There was a big outlay that January transfer window in order to assure the club’s Premier League status, but despite reaching the Champions League, PSR rules have delayed their path straight to football’s top table.Though, despite the purse strings being tightened and even being forced to sell young starlets against his wishes, Howe still has Newcastle punching with the big boys for silverware.The question is though – how has he done it and how far can he go? More

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      Inside Morgan Gibbs-White’s glam life with influencer girlfriend Britney, from fancy ski breaks to raising a son

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      MORGAN Gibbs-White’s life off the pitch is just as incredible on it.The Nottingham Forest midfielder, 24, is enjoying his best season in the Premier League and was the star of the show against Wolves on Monday night.Glam Morgan Gibbs-White and Britney De Villiers enjoy an epic lifestyleCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGorgeous Britney and Gibbs-White rang in the New Year on the slopesCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney are proud parents to son GraysenCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersHe helped his side go level with Arsenal on points in second spot, as their unlikely top four charge continues.Gibbs-White has scored four goals and provided three assists in a breakout campaign for the England star.Most recently, he was spotted enjoying a well-earned break on New Year’s Eve with girlfriend Britney De Villiers on a glam ski trip.They were joined by Anthony Elanga and his girlfriend China Navana for the break away.Read more in football South African beauty Britney is a social media influencer who boasts over 270,000 followers on Instagram.She shares her amazing lifestyle with Gibbs-White on social media, with the pair clearly living their best life.SunSport looks inside Gibbs-White and Britney’s epic existence.Fancy holidaysLast week, we saw the loved-up couple wrap up warm for a holiday on ice.Most read in FootballBut it wasn’t a kids’ show they were intent on enjoying – but a fancy ski break.Influencer Britney posted a snap of her with other half Gibbs-White as they jetted off to plush French ski resort Courchevel in a private jet.Why Nuno Espirito Santo was such a flop for Tottenham before leading Nottingham Forest on Leicester-like title chargeBritney posted a series of snaps of herself and Gibbs-White onboard the plane to her Instagram on New Year’s Eve.Her accompanying caption read: “NYE trip.”The couple looked the picture of happiness, as did De Villiers as she showed off a chic-looking jacket in individual snaps.Before sharing the post, Britney posted a series of photos of the plush resort they were calling home.The pair hit the slops with Gibbs-White’s teammate Elanga and his missus, China.Usually, Gibbs-White and his partner prefer hotter climates, as Britney’s Instagram suggests.There are many trips to luxurious destinations featured on her social media accounts.This includes jaunts to Dubai, Italy AND Portugal this summer.On the Amalfi Coast the pair hired a boat and showed off their love – sharing a kiss on board.They enjoyed another boat day in Dubai, as beautiful Britney showed off her amazing bikini body.Luxury destinations, including ski resorts are the norm for Gibbs-White and BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney flew privately for their ski breakCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersIn the summer, Gibbs-White and Britney enjoyed a boat trip in the Amalfi CoastCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersSouth African beauty Britney showed off her amazing bikini body in DubaiCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney got together in 2019 and have been living the high-life sinceCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersread more sport featuresGibbs-White and Britney are seemingly very close to Elanga and his partner, China.They visited the Algarve as a group, sharing snaps together, before heading out for dinner.Britney juggles her travels with a busy life in the UK.She often appears in paid partnerships for a variety of beauty products.While she also modelled Gymshark wear in another clip.First time parentsGibbs-White and law graduate Britney began their romance in 2019.They reportedly met through a mutual friend, and he soon asked her out.They have since become inseparable – and welcomed baby Graysen into their lives in November 2023.On becoming a father, Gibbs-White told BBC Sport: “It’s the best feeling in the world. No feeling can describe it. It’s the hardest thing in the world as well.Gibbs White revealed how becoming a dad changed his life foreverCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBaby Graysen joins his parents on many of their glam tripsCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersThe happy couple celebrate their son Graysen’s first birthdayCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBritney and Graysen cheer on Gibbs-White on England dutyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers”It [life] has changed for the better, it’s calmed me down and chilled me out. It’s another purpose to do well in football and do well in life.”Ever since he’s been with us, everything I do is for him. Every decision I make now I think twice about. Now he’s getting to the age where he’s got personality and is starting to express himself. He has this belly laugh going, I’m loving it.”As seen on Instagram, Gibbs-White and Britney are devoted parents.They regularly share their adventures with Graysen, from celebrating his first birthday with balloons to walks in the park.Graysen also joined his mummy to cheer on daddy at the Aviva Stadium, when he played for England against Ireland.Britney shared the pic on social media, captioning it: “Memories to last a lifetime.”Defending her honourWhile she showed his support for him, Gibbs-White leapt to the defence of Britney when she came under fire at Molineux.The midfielder, a former Wolves player, was met with boos every time he touched the ball.Worse still, sections of the crowd were heard chanting: “Your girlfriend’s a s**g.”Gibbs-White was asked if the taunts fired him up, explaining why he put his fingers in his ears for his goal celebration.”I think it always has the same meaning,” Gibbs White told Optus Sport.Gibbs-White was on the receiving end of abuse from Wolves fans directed at BritneyAfter scoring, Gibbs-White put his fingers in his ears to drown out the noiseGibbs White is devoted to his stunning Wag BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers'”Just block out whatever they say.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But I don’t mind it. It sort of gives me that edge and more motivation to do better and succeed. But I love it. I think this is what is part of football.”The fans really enjoying it, giving stick, and then us performing on the pitch. I’m just more than happy that the boys got the three points tonight.” More

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      Trent Alexander-Arnold vs Conor Bradley: Liverpool stars compared with England ace linked with Real Madrid transfer

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD: it’s the name on the tip of every Liverpool fan’s tongue… and Real Madrid fans’ too.And that’s the problem for Arne Slot – one of many he must face in the second half of his debut season at Anfield.Arne Slot has a dilemma on his hands regarding Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: ReutersConor Bradley is showing Liverpool fans – and Slot – there may be life after TrentCredit: EPAFollowing fan-favourite Jurgen Klopp was always going to be a hell of an ask.But the Dutch chief has guided Liverpool to miles clear at the top of the Premier League at the halfway stage – with dreams of a quadruple, including the Champions League, still very much alive.However, as of January 1, foreign clubs have been able to negotiate pre-contract terms for three of the Reds’ biggest stars.Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. All Kop legends. All Premier League champions. All Champions League winners.READ MORE SPORT STORIESBut, of the three, speculation has been swirling around one more than others: the local lad, Trent.The right-back was met by groans and moans among the Anfield faithful during his disasterclass in the 2-2 draw against struggling Manchester United.His defensive frailties have long been documented, despite noticeable improvements in recent months.Despite that, Real Madrid are desperate to land the England international.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSo much so, in fact, they are believed to have bid around £20million to sign him this month rather than risk a potential dogfight with Europe’s elite in the free-for-all of pre-contract deals.There’s no doubt Alexander-Arnold fits the mold of ‘Galatico’. Big name player, big match player, passing ability of Toni Kroos, free-kick ability of David Beckham.’He’s going to Tranmere after this’ – Roy Keane rips into Trent Alexander-Arnold after ‘school boy’ defending vs Man UtdLiverpool fans are naturally devastated. To lose a player of that ability is tough to take – particularly when gunning for every major trophy available.To lose a player of that ability who’s also a local lad and entering the prime years of his career aged 26… heartbreaking.However, there’s a young lad from Northern Ireland who’s here to remind the Kop squad there’s no reason to be worried: Conor Bradley.Now this is no “oh, there’s this talented kid in the youth squad” situation… far from it.Bradley has been part of the Reds’ first-team squad since the start of the 2023-24 season following a sublime loan spell at Bolton Wanderers a year earlier.To go from League One to the Premier League, though, always meant putting faith in the unknown.And boy how Bradley, now 21, repaid Klopp’s faith and etched his name into the hearts of the passionate Liverpool fandom.Trent Alexander-Arnold is among an elite few Liverpool players to ever lift the Premier League titleCredit: AlamyTrent Alexander-Arnold played a huge role in Liverpool lifting the 2019 Champions League trophyCredit: ReutersThe 23-cap international has understandably played second fiddle, but has excelled in his 41 appearances for the club.No Liverpool fan will forget his charging run and rifled right-foot finish as the Reds ran riot over Chelsea in a 4-1 battering to move five points clear at the top of the table last term.The strike won Liverpool’s Goal of the Month competition.But despite that, he’s not quite a Trent 2.0.While Alexander-Arnold has the skills of a world-beating central midfielder – despite his struggles when playing the position itself – Bradley is more of a combative, all-action defender.The youngster is accomplished on the ball and more than happy to dart up the pitch in possession.Against Man Utd, in his brief cameo after replacing Trent, he was keen to get forward and almost scored after a wonderful bit of skill and cheeky shot which nearly beat Andre Onana at his near post from a tight angle.However, he’s not expected to drift inside and join the midfield and spray passes like Alexander-Arnold. So while his passing numbers aren’t anything like his team-mate’s, his defensive stats are arguably much better.Bradley completes fewer passes and crosses per 90 minutes – although the numbers are somewhat skewed by Trent’s set-piece responsibilities.But he’s miles ahead in duels won and tackles made.The Northern Irishman is not shy of a crunching tackle – remember his delicious sliding tackle on Kylian Mbappe – and certainly keen to dart forward.In fact, in the 2024 calendar year, Bradley had just one goal fewer than Alexander-Arnold and one more assist, with seven, while completing more dribbles and having nearly TWICE as many touches in the opponents’ box.Conor Bradley’s crunching tackle as Liverpool beat Real Madrid lives long in Reds fans’ memoriesCredit: APConor Bradley made all Liverpool fans sit up and take notice after his stunning goal vs Chelsea last seasonCredit: PASo how should we ‘define’ Conor Bradley?While Alexander-Arnold fits the mold of the modern ‘inverted full-back’, joining the midfield in the centre of the pitch in attack, Bradley is more of a throwback full-back – with a modern twist.Bradley won’t sit back quietly and focus on defending, given licence to bomb up the wing and get stuck in in attack.But he’s got the speed and, crucially, energy to get back and help out when Liverpool’s all-attack approach leaves them short of numbers on the counter.More than that, his defensive instincts – something you can’t really coach – seem to be far superior to Alexander-Arnold.Sure, Bradley lacks the experience of Trent and some of the creative spark.But he has the ability to become a Kop favourite – and that’s no easy feat.READ MORE SUN STORIESOf course, Liverpool would love to cling onto talisman and future captain Alexander-Arnold.However, Bradley proves there is life after Trent for Slot, for Liverpool and for the fans should the Merseyside man swap Anfield for the Bernabeu.How Man Utd destroyed TrentMANCHESTER UNITED finally showed some steel as they drew 2-2 at rivals Liverpool.The league leaders had to settle for a point despite going 2-1 up at Anfield.Amad Diallo’s timely effort meant the spoils were shared from a match where brilliant battles were fought all over the pitch.United targeted supposedly-Real Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold and SunSport’s Dean Scoggins has lifted the lid on why they were so effective in doing so.Watch his latest Tactics Exposed video to see exactly how United pulled off the most unlikely of draws. More