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      Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri, 17, excels amid injury crisis but Raheem Sterling a shadow of old self

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      MIKEL MERINO was Arsenal’s hero from the bench as he solved the striker crisis with two goals at Leicester.With Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both set to miss the rest of the season, Mikel Arteta started Leandro Trossard up front.Mikel Merino scored twice as Arsenal beat Leicester 2-0 at the King PowerCredit: ReutersMerino lost his marker to head in the opening goal on 81 minutesCredit: PABut the Gunners struggled to find the breakthrough against a resilient Foxes defence. That was until Merino came on and changed the game.He headed in the opener from Ethan Nwaneri’s delicate cross on 81 minutes then made it 2-0 with a tidy back-post finish six minutes later.Here’s how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett rated the Arsenal players…READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDAVID RAYA: 6Got his body behind an early Wilfred Ndidi effort but very little else to do until saving Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s rising shot in the 67th minute.JURRIEN TIMBER: 6Was caught out on a few occasions but he did try and get forward to help Nwaneri. WILLIAM SALIBA: 6 Had a battle with Jamie Vardy and made sure that Leicester’s talisman was kept pretty quiet. GABRIEL: 6Strong in the air and generally coped well although Leicester were poor in terms of quality when going forward. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWilliam Saliba came out on top in his battle with Jamie VardyCredit: GettyMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY: 7Big intervention to stop De Cordova-Reid with 17 minutes left to deflect Jordan Ayew’s cross for a corner. That was quality defending when under real pressure. THOMAS PARTEY:  6Sat deep and mopped up the rare moments of Leicester pressure but did tire which is why he was replaced. Worrying Kai Havertz footage emerges after Arsenal star ruled out for entire season with devastating torn hamstringMARTIN ODEGAARD: 7Showed quality in the final third but he is capable of much more. Two terrific passes in the first half to Trossard but he wasted them. DECLAN RICE: 6Improved after the break but failed to really stamp his authority on the game. You would have thought this game would have been perfect for the England midfielder. ETHAN NWANERI: 8Set up the first goal and Arsenal’s best player along with sub Merino. He had Arsenal’s best chances of the second half but he fired one shot wide and then hammered an effort against the post. His cross for Merino was perfect. Ethan Nwaneri ran the show for ArsenalCredit: ReutersTeenager came within a whisker of opening the scorer as he hit the woodworkCredit: AFPLEANDRO TROSSARD: 5If he is Arsenal’s answer to their problems up front then they have major issues. Played as a false nine until the arrival of Merino and did not look up to it. Had two first-half chances in good positions but failed to make the most of them but he set up the second goal. RAHEEM STERLING: 4Dreadful performance. Looks nothing like the player of a few years ago and it was hardly surprising he was Arsenal’s first player to be subbed. Had a shot deflected wide but delivered very few problems down the left.  Raheem Sterling had a tricky afternoonCredit: ReutersSUBSMIKEL MERINO: 8 (for Sterling 69 minutes) – Had never played up front before but answered Arteta’s SOS call emphatically with two late goals. JORGINHO: 6 (for Partey 75 mins) – Brought on to keep more control in midfield as Partey started to flag.READ MORE SUN STORIESRICCARDO CALAFIORI: 7 (for Myles-Skelly 76 mins) – Played key role in second goal with driving run through middle.KIERAN TIERNEY: 6 (for Trossard 89 mins) – Scot played on wing for closing minutes. Merino finished at the back post for the second goalCredit: Rex More

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      Leicester 0 Arsenal 2: Supersub Merino breathes life into Gunners’ title fight and eases striker crisis with late goals

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      MIKEL MERINO rescued toothless Arsenal’s title bid with two goals in the last 10 minutes that now pile the pressure on leaders Liverpool.The Spanish midfielder, sent on with 20 minutes to go as a makeshift centre forward, headed home Ethan Nwaneri’s cross and converted fellow sub Riccardo Calafiori’s centre to close the gap at the top to four points.Mikel Merino heads home Arsenal’s winnerCredit: RexThe Spaniard celebrates grabbing the Gunners’ openerCredit: PAUntil that crucial moment Mikel Arteta’s injury-hit side were heading for a draw that would have handed the initiative straight back to Arne Slot’s Reds after their disappointing result in the Merseyside derby.Although teenage sensation Nwaneri had hit the woodwork twice, once in either half, the Gunners had not forced the Foxes goalkeeper into a meaningful save.Arteta’s lack of attacking options after Kai Havertz joined the casualty list was shown when Arteta threw Merino on for the last quarter of the game.But the Spaniard, who was injured himself in his first training session with the Gunners last summer, came up trumps.Arsenal had the better possession early on but the first chance fell to Leicester’s Wilfried Ndidi.When a cross was half cleared, the midfielder sent a volley from the edge of the box straight into David Raya’s arms.The Gunners’ Ethan Nwaneri was looking lively, and sent in a tempting cross only for Declan Rice’s header to deflect off James Justin and go wide.That was about it until a Jordan Ayew error set Raheem Sterling off on a run that ended with a shot which went behind off Wout Faes.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSMerino nets Arsenal’s second of the afternoonCredit: ReutersArsenal’s makeshift forward knee slides after bagging his secondCredit: GettyThen Martin Odegaard’s scooped pass looked to be dropping nicely for makeshift centre forward Leandro Trossard, but the Belgian totally misjudged it and the chance was gone.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA poor first half was petering out when Ndidi had the chance to give the home side the lead.Kai Havertz ruled out for rest of SEASON with torn hamstring in devastating blow to Arsenal’s title dreamsLeft-back Victor Kristiansen’s cross was excellent but the Nigeria international could not even put his header on target.Arsenal started the second half with a bit more conviction. If Rice’s lay-off to Sterling had been better, the former Man City winger would have had a clear sight of goal.Then Sterling was stopped in his tracks by Leicester substitute Woyo Coulibaly, who had come on late in the first half for the injured Justin.Most read in FootballThe away team forced a number of corners without making any of them count, but they were getting closer. Most notably when Nwaneri grazed the bar with a shot from 20 yards on the hour.Bobby De Cordova-Reid made sure Raya was still awake with a shot on target but it was a rare forward threat from the home team.Arteta had seen enough of Sterling with 20 minutes to go, sending on midfielder Mikel Merino to play as a stop-gap centre forward and moving Trossard to the left.Then Leicester almost took the lead. Ayew broke and crossed to the far post where only Myles Lewis-Skelly’s touch stopped De Cordova-Reid from tapping the ball home.Arsenal went straight down the other end and almost scored themselves. Again it was Nwaneri and again he was denied by the woodwork, this time hitting Hermansen’s left-hand post.WIth less than a quarter of the game to go, Arteta had seen enough of Sterling toiling down the left and on came Merino.With less than 10 minutes to go, the substitute delivered.Leicester failed to clear. Nwaneri’s cross was gorgeous, Merino’s run was perfectly timed and his header was firm and well-directed.The away fans went ballistic. Leicester tried to come back but did not look like equalising before an attack broke down and Arsenal showed the ruthlessness they had lacked for so long.READ MORE SUN STORIESCalafiori ran down the left and sent in a perfect cross that Merino gave the finish it deserved.The title race is very much on. More

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      ‘Moves like he’s never kicked a ball in his life’ – Arsenal fans slam Leandro Trossard for horror miss in Leicester game

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      ARSENAL fans didn’t hold back in their assessment of their makeshift front three after Leandro Trossard missed a golden opportunity against Leicester.Trossard, alongside Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling, had the spotlight on him as Arsenal tried to create opportunities with a cobbled together attack given their injury crisis.Leandro Trossard missed a golden opportunity for Arsenal in the first halfCredit: ReutersThe Belgian got his feet mixed up and hit a tame effort at the goalkeeperCredit: XTrossard was blasted by his own fans for the missCredit: APBut that spotlight got even bigger when Trossard was handed the ball on a plate from a terrific lofted pass by Martin Odegaard, only to fluff the opportunity with a tame effort straight at Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen.The miss left Arsenal fans fuming online with the Gunners chasing perfection to maintain any kind of title race.One fan wrote: “Odegaard flicks a ball over the top and Trossard moves like he’s never kicked a ball in his life.”While another added: “When you watch that Trossard miss again, it’s actually shocking”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third fumed: “Trossard and Sterling not good enough for Arsenal. They are panicking!”And a fourth angrily posted: “If we don’t see Sterling or Trossard subbed off in the second half, it’s better not to watch the game”.Trossard was asked to operate as a centre-forward in the first 45 minutes with Sterling playing left-wing and 17-year-old Nwaneri on the right flank.Arsenal have been dealt injury blow after injury blow this season and things went from bad to worse this week.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAfter opting against adding attacking depth to the squad in the January transfer window, Mikel Arteta lost starting striker Kai Havertz for the rest of the season with a torn hamstring suffered during a warm weather training camp in Dubai earlier in the week.Havertz joins Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli in the treatment room with Arsenal’s fit attacking options limited.Arteta reveals Havertz tore hamstring during set-piece routine and admits Arsenal could sign free agentFortunately for Arteta there was some good news in terms of injuries this weekend.Right-back Ben White returned to the squad after being out since November following surgery on his knee.Arteta knew he wouldn’t have attacking options off the bench today, but yet still found the answers over the course of the 90 minutes.After his attacking line couldn’t come up with the goods he rolled the dice on playing midfielder Mikel Merino at centre-forward. A gamble that paid off after the Spaniard scored twice in six minutes to give the Gunners the edge in a 2-0 win at the King Power.Mikel Merino came off the bench to score twice for ArsenalCredit: Reuters17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri has become a regualar starter due to Arsenal’s injury crisisCredit: PAKai Havertz has been ruled out for the rest of the seasonCredit: PABukayo Saka has been out since mid-DecemberCredit: Getty More

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      ‘Was that an apology?’ – Martin Keown and Ruud van Nistelrooy in awkward exchange live on TNT Sports

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      MARTIN KEOWN finally apologised for his iconic scream in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s face live on TV.The former Arsenal defender famously celebrated wildly when the ex-Manchester United striker slammed his 2003 penalty against the crossbar. Martin Keown and Ruud van Nistelrooy were reunited at the King Power StadiumCredit: TNT SportsThey had a long, slightly tense handshakeCredit: TNT SportsThe pair were in a good mood and buried their old rivalryCredit: TNT SportsKeown famously celebrated Van Nistelrooy’s penalty miss at Old Trafford in 2003Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdKeown got right up to the dejected Dutchman following his miss in the final moments of the pulsating Premier League showdown between the Gunners and Red Devils at Old Trafford.The no-nonsense centre-half has constantly defended his behaviour for more than two decades.But as Keown and Van Nistelrooy were reunited at the King Power Stadium on Saturday, the ex-England defender did say sorry – although did not explicitly mention what for.As Leicester manager Van Nistelrooy spoke to TNT Sports before kick-off against Arsenal, the pair put their past clashes behind them.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe duo shook hands for a long while and Van Nistelrooy asked: “Martin how are you? Good to see you.”Keown replied: “Nice to see you after all these years.”Van Nistelrooy, 48, added: “It has been a while. I have seen you once, at Villa Park, remember?”Then Keown offered out his olive branch.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “Apologies for all the shenanigans that went on back in the day.”But Van Nistelrooy clearly holds no grudges.Arsenal legend Martin Keown suffers embarrassing blunder live on TV and Declan Rice has no idea what to sayHe responded: “Nah. What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch.”Joe Cole piped up: “He’s never apologised for kicking me, ever.”Keown, 58, then joked: “I thought you were going to stamp on me.”Van Nistelrooy then added: “I’m happy to have him in front of me, not in the back of me.”It was good. It was a good rivalry, wasn’t it?”Keown quipped: “Great days. I’m glad you’re standing there and not next to me because you used to love to stand on me.”Van Nistelrooy laughed: “I would like to block you – and then fall over.” The panel then briefly discussed Van Nistelrooy and TNT host Lynsey Hipgrave climbing mountains in Rio de Janeiro together – before moving on to the task at hand for the relegation-threatened Foxes.Once Van Nistelrooy headed off back to the home dressing room, Keown denied he had really said sorry by asking: “Was that an apology?”He then continued: “Since I’ve finished playing, the number of strikers I’ve had to apologise to… “It was never personal – I treated every striker exactly the same, maybe a bit of extra special spice for Ruud. “He was very clever, he would stamp on your feet, his movement off the shoulder, really clever.”Fans on social media enjoyed the interaction from the two old foes.One said: “Class act from both.”Another wrote: “Heartwarming banter. Love it.”A third added: “Actually quite nice to see a moment like this.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd a final user posted: “Glad he finally admitted to diving. Such a cheat when he was a player.”Others referenced the infamous “sorry” scene from The Inbetweeners, one labelled Keown “soft” and plenty tweeted the clip to Simon Jordan to add fuel to his rivalry with the former Arsenal man. Keown said sorry for the ‘shenanigans’ of yesteryearCredit: Getty More

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      Championship clash SUSPENDED for 30 minutes as players forced off pitch after medical emergency in the crowd

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      OXFORD’S clash with Portsmouth was delayed by around half an hour due to a medical emergency in the crowd.The match was halted in the 15th minute as the supporter received medical assistance after suffering a cardiac arrest.Oxford’s clash with Portsmouth was delayed after around 15 minutesCredit: RexPlayers were then taken off the pitch around six minutes later.The match was still goalless when both teams left the field of play.Having kicked off in the early 12:30pm slot, the Championship match was being broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports+.Twelve minutes after players were taken off the pitch, Portsmouth confirmed that the game would resume at 1:15pm.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA brief statement on social media confirmed: “Play is due to restart at 1.15pm at the Kassam Stadium.”We send our very best wishes.”Oxford then gave an encouraging update, posting: “Thank you for your patience.”We can confirm that the fan is breathing and receiving medical care, they will be transferred to hospital for further monitoring. Play will resume at 1:15PM.”Most read in ChampionshipAfter the game, which was won 2-0 by Pompey, Oxford posted a further update on the situation.It read: “Following a medical emergency which took place during today’s game, Oxford United can confirm a supporter suffered a cardiac arrest during the first half.’I’m the only one that knows’ – Benjani lifts lid on what happened when Harry Redknapp sold him on Deadline Day”We are pleased to report they are now in a stable condition and receiving further treatment in hospital.”Oxford went into the match 16th in the table, with Pompey five points behind in 18th.Pompey were left devastated last month when avid fan Alec Lumb, 63, died during their game with Middlesbrough at Fratton Park.His partner of 15 years Sharon said she noticed Alec was slumped in his seat when the players came out on to the pitch.She quickly performed CPR on him and alerted paramedics to the incident.Players stopped the game and signalled to the referee and medical staff who treated Alec in the stand.But despite everyone’s best efforts Alec tragically passed away soon after.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe left behind Sharon, his daughters Hannah and Rebecca, step-daughters Lauren and Shannon – and brother and sister, Ian and Sue.Sue said the family were incredibly touched by the support they’ve received, which has included a whopping £8,900 in donations. More

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      ‘One last dance’ – Cristiano Ronaldo sends Man Utd fans into a transfer frenzy after his jet lands at Manchester Airport

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have been sent into a frenzy after spotting Cristiano Ronaldo’s jet in Manchester.Ronaldo’s £61MILLION Bombardier Global Express 6500 jet landed at Manchester Airport this week, causing speculation that the Portuguese superstar could return to his former club once again.Manchester United fans have been sent into a frenzy about Cristiano Ronaldo returning for a third stint at the clubCredit: ReutersRonaldo’s private jet was spotted at Manchester airport, sparking the rumoursCredit: X @manairportRonaldo is always using his incredible plane to fly around the globeCredit: InstagramRonaldo’s wife Georgina Rodriguez is no stranger to jet-setting in the crazy planeCredit: Instagram @georginagioThe jet had a king size bed insideCredit: InstagramA video shared by Manchester Airport’s official X account showed the matte black jet adorned with a silhouette of Ronaldo and his nickname “CR7” on the side of the plane.With United enduring a torrid season that has seen them lose almost half of their Premier League games this season, some fans are hoping that Ronaldo’s jet is a hint that the 40-year-old could be returning to the club for a third time.Ronaldo first joined United in 2003, staying until 2009 when he made a huge switch to Real Madrid.He then returned to Old Trafford for a short stint between 2021 and 2022.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDesperate United fans think that a third spell could be on the cards and have taken to social media to plead with their club legend to bail them out of the bottom half of the table.One wrote: “Bring him back @ManUtd. I’ll drop my agenda”.While another added: “Glazers out, CR7 in.”A third commented: “He is coming for one last dance”.Most read in FootballRonaldo joined United for his first stint in 2003 and left in 2009Credit: GettyHe rejoined the club in 2021, but a sour ending saw his contract terminated in 2022Credit: PABEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd a fourth posted: “Welcome home”.It’s not actually clear if Ronaldo was in Manchester alongside his jet on Friday, but it seems unlikely given that he was playing in Saudi Arabia on the Thursday night during Al-Nassr’s 3-2 win over Al-Ahli.How Sir Alex Ferguson ‘refused to let Cristiano Ronaldo leave stadium until he signed for Man Utd’ While he is also expected to line up for Al-Nassr again on Monday against Iranian side Persepolis in the AFC Champions League.Ronaldo’s current contract with Al-Nassr is set to expire in the summer, however reports have suggested that he has agreed to a one-year extension with the Saudi club.Many United fans may breathe a sigh of relief that Ronaldo is unlikely to rejoin the club, especially given the sour ending to his last stint in Manchester.Ronaldo’s contract with the Red Devils was terminated after a public spat with then-manager Erik ten Hag and an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.Ronaldo’s rollercoaster return to Man UtdBy JOSHUA HALLCristiano Ronaldo returned to the Theatre of Dreams in 2021 after some 12 years away from the club where he first rose to fame.It looked like a fairytale return for one of the games’ greatest ever players, but things soon turned sour at the Manchester club.Ronaldo arrived for less than £20m and walked back into Premier League football like he had never left, netting 18 goals and registering three assists in his first league campaign back.That run saw him top United’s list of scorers for the season thanks to hat-tricks against Spurs and Norwich and a number of crucial last minute goals.But things took a turn in his second season as he fell out of favour after the arrival of new boss Erik ten Hag.Despite his impressive return in the previous season many fans and media outlets were claiming that his overall influence on the team was detrimental to results.Things got even worse when Ronaldo refused to come on against Spurs in October 2022, prompting Ten Hag to drop him from the squad for the following game against Chelsea.While it was also reported that Ronaldo had left Old Trafford early following the interaction with his boss.The final straw was an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which Ronaldo took aim at Ten Hag, Man Utd’s culture and hinted about a potential exit.That exit shortly followed as Ronaldo saw his contract with Man Utd terminated in November 2022.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner penned a mega money deal with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, bringing an end to a tumultuous second spell with Man Utd. More

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      ‘Must explore every option’ – Man Utd to hold emergency staff meeting as Sir Jim Ratcliffe refuses to deny job cut plans

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly hold an emergency staff meeting amid fears of 200 more redundancies. SunSport revealed on Tuesday that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is planning to cut another wave of jobs at Old Trafford.Sir Jim Ratcliffe is preparing to make up to 200 more redundancies at Manchester UnitedCredit: PAA ‘team briefing’ has been reportedly scheduled for February 24Credit: GettyThe British billionaire’s money-saving measures have seen many employees lose their jobs – including 250 last summer – while the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson have had their salaries axed, too.SunSport understands a further 100 to 200 staff members are at risk in the next round of cuts.A source exclusively told SunSport: “Ultimately, football is a business but there are hundreds of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes who contribute to any club’s success. “Morale is already on the floor after last year’s job losses. This will come as another big blow.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDOne of those who has reportedly been dismissed is popular head of team operations and “mum of everyone” Jackie Kay, who joined United in 1995. Now, though, The Guardian state the club have notified staff of an unexpected “team briefing” on February 24.It is claimed all employees received an email on Friday evening to confirm the scheduled meeting next Monday afternoon. And while the note did not confirm jobs would be lost, it heavily implied that could be the case as the “club must explore every option”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe email reportedly said: “We are aware of media reports this week speculating on a number of issues relating to the club. “We recognise this is unsettling for you all. In terms of what has been reported there is no further information that we can share with you at this point. Paul Scholes lays into Sir Jim Ratcliffe for ‘having the cheek’ to introduce ‘ridiculous’ Man Utd’s ticket prices “However, we will hold a team briefing on Monday 24 February at 2.30pm during which we’ll be able to talk to you further.”It will come as no surprise that the club must explore every option, including reducing costs and raising revenues. “There are no final decisions currently.”Ratcliffe is determined to restore the glory days back at Manchester United – with no Premier League title since 2013.The Red Devils have lost £300million over the past three years and need to turn things around financially. Ratcliffe even fears if he does not radically cut costs the historic football giants could go BUST.Ratcliffe’s unpopular measures in his first year in the director’s box include cancelling the staff Christmas party, replacing bonuses with £40 M&S vouchers, cutting donations to charities, increasing ticket prices and scrapping lunchboxes for matchday staff. READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is not just the staff feeling the disconnect with the club’s ownership – as fans plan a protest on March 9 when they host Arsenal at Old Trafford. And on the pitch, January transfer recruitment was limited to less than £30million, signing left-back Patrick Dorgu and teenager Ayden Heaven, while it is thought virtually the entire squad of players could be available for sale at the end of the season.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      ‘It was a tough time but I’m ready to move forward’, says England ace Chloe Kelly ahead of second Arsenal debut

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      CHLOE KELLY vows she has moved on from the “dark time” that led her to leaving Manchester City for a temporary Arsenal move. The Gunners loan star hopes the London club, where she began her senior playing career, can keep their “foot on the gas” in the chase for silverware. Chloe Kelly is in line to make her second debut for Arsenal following her January loan move to the clubCredit: GettyThe England forward joined the Gunners on loan from Manchester City and hopes to get more game time after making one top-flight start so far this seasonCredit: GettyKelly and her Arsenal team-mates are due to play Tottenham at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon with a crowd of more than 50,000 expected at the matchCredit: EPAIt was on January 30 this year, the  final day for player transfers between Women’s Super League clubs this winter, that Kelly learned Arsenal wanted to sign her. On that date the forward, 27,  whose team hosts Tottenham tomorrow, spent some time at a driving range with her husband Scott whom she married last August. Arsenal’s WSL rivals Brighton and Manchester United were also battling for her signature before the Gunners’ dramatic late bid.Kelly, who was practicing golf on transfer deadline day, hopes to help the club emerge as big hitters in the battle for trophies in the final stretch of this term. Read More Football Stories Her switch to the north London giants, from fourth-placed City, was revealed by the club three minutes before the 11pm deadline for WSL player moves. It was out of my hands of what was going to be accepted. But it was definitely exciting when Arsenal called.Chloe KellyAnd tomorrow, 17 days on from her sealing a return to the Gunners, the forward could be set to play when the third-placed side host Tottenham at the Emirates. Reflecting on the moment she learned of Arsenal’s interest, Kelly said: “He (my husband) was sat playing FIFA and he said, ‘let’s go and just get out the house’ “So we went to the driving range and Arsenal contacted (my agent) and there were great conversations. Most read in Football”I remember calling my family straight away to tell them.”My brother went upstairs, put his Arsenal shirt on. I felt my family were really excited for the move as well, which put a smile on my face.”Kelly’s move has seen her join some of her England pals who play for Arsenal. Her fellow national team stars at the club are Lioness skipper Leah Williams, defender Lotte Wubben-Moy, forward Beth Mead and striker Alessia Russo.  When asked if any of her Gunners and England pals had spoken to her once they heard of the late bid, Kelly added: “They were all messaging me”They had seen the news that I could be coming and they were like, ‘are you coming?’ “It was quite short one-word answers (in reply) to them like, ‘I don’t know, we’ll see’. “But as soon as I stepped into the changing room, I felt such warmth and the girls have been incredible.”It was out of my hands of what was going to be accepted etc; “But it was definitely excited when Arsenal did call. “That’s somewhere where I grew up playing and where I learned so much in my trade. “I’m really excited to give back to this club because they’ve given me an opportunity to put a smile on my face and also to play the game that we love.”Kelly’s return to the side where she made her breakthrough at a senior level at 17, was preceded by her releasing an explosive and candid public statement. In it the Lioness expressed her desire to “be happy again” and described concerns of her “dreams being crushed” after struggling for game time at City this term.The London-born forward hopes to regain a place in England’s squad ahead this year’s Euros. But the first five months of this term saw her opportunities to start for Gareth Taylor’s City side limited. So far this season, the scorer of England’s’ tournament-winning goal at the 2022 Euros has started in one WSL fixture. This in contrast to her 18 top-flight starts in 21 appearances in the previous campaign. A run that helped the Cityzens take the title race to the wire before they finished second on goal difference. This Sunday, against Tottenham, Kelly could potentially be named in a first XI line-up of a top tier fixture for the first time since October 6.Her last first team outing in the league was during a 2-0 Man City defeat of West Ham. It was a relief that I had spoken in how I needed to speak and whether my move got over the line or not. Chloe KellyOn how this season has at times felt for her due to the lack of match action, Kelly said: “It’s been tough mentally. It’s been draining at times. “But I’m a professional and I know I hold myself to a high level. “However I think as a human, it was a tough time for me and I’m ready to move forward now.”Kelly’s statement was issued with the forward entering the final months of her contract with Man City. Her current deal with her parent club is due to expire in June with the player becoming a free agent then.Of her mindset at certain points this term and how she felt about issuing a public statement, Kelly added: “It was still a dark time for me because I didn’t know how my future looked.”It was a relief that I had spoken in how I needed to speak and whether my move got over the line or not. “I was grateful to be able to share my words.”Despite the fallout that surrounded her loan move away from City, Kelly is grateful for the special moments shared with her team-mates there and the club’s supporters. Since joining the Cityzens in 2020 after four years at Everton, Kelly has lifted an FA Cup and Women’s League Cup. The 48-capped England ace said: “I’m very grateful for the memories I created at the club and the relationships I built with amazing players”I went there for success and won a couple of trophies as well so I’m very grateful for the opportunity to represent the badge.”Sometimes in life you can’t write the future, but you can always make sure that you’re the best person every day”I try to be the best professional and the best person every day for my team-mates and that was really important for me as a human being but as a team-mate too.”Kelly’s recovery from a knee ligament tear sustained in May 2021 was followed by the forward’s inclusion in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for the Euros a year later. The Lionesses’ historic triumph in the tournament’s final marked an international high point for Kelly. Chloe Kelly hopes to earn a place in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for this year’s Euros with the Lionesses targeting a second tournament triumphCredit: PAHer memorable close-range finish sealed a 2-1 Wembley victory over Germany in front of a record crowd of 87,192. Earlier this week Wiegman revealed Kelly had been dropped from the national squad ahead of their Women’s Nations League duels with Portugal and Spain this month. However the Lioness boss suggested the door was not closed on the forward potentially returning to the national side. And with another European Championship on the horizon, and England targeting back-to-back contest wins, she intends to give Wiegman a selection headache. The Arsenal ace added “It’s everyone’s dream to play for England but it’s not a given. “I need to work and get back on the pitch and show what I’m capable of before that. “Sarina has been incredible throughout the process. “I’m excited to hopefully be at my best here (Arsenal) to be able to put the shirt on that I enjoy doing so much.”Before her Arsenal return, Kelly’s last goal in a Gunners shirt was netted in June 2017 when she scored against Bristol City. Sunday could see her back in WSL action for the Gunners making her second debut for the club at the Emirates in the North London derby. Renee Slegers’ side are eager to try and gain ground on league leaders Chelsea who have a nine-point advantageKelly added:  “I’m ready for the fight again and to show what I’m capable of. Chloe Kelly’s last appearance for Arsenal against Tottenham was back in March 2017 when the team won an FA Cup fifth round duelCredit: Getty“I’m really looking forward to stepping out and hearing the noise from our fans. “I’ve been involved in being around the squad for the last three games, the last two games at home. READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s been amazing to hear the fans and they really get behind the girls.Arsenal’s game against Tottenham will be broadcast live on BBC Two at 12:30pm on February 16. 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