Football

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares74 Views

      in Soccer

      FA Cup 5th round LIVE: Jean-Philippe Mateta rushed to hospital with ear injury, Oliver Galsner confirms

      by

      THE FA Cup fifth round is here – and some huge upsets could be on the cards.Today’s action kicked off with two thrilling derbies as Crystal Palace beat London rivals Millwall 3-1, and Preston shocked Burnley with a 3-0 win in the Lancashire derby.Jean-Philippe Mateta was taken off on a stretcher early on at Selhurst Park after the Palace striker was on the receiving end of a kung-fu-like kick from Liam Roberts, which saw the Lions keeper see red.Oliver Glasner has confirmed he picked up an ear injury, and will miss Palace’s clash against Ipswich.Later, Bournemouth and Wolves go head-to-head in an all-Premier League clash.To finish today’s action, Manchester City take on fourth round giant killers Plymouth.Kick off times: 12.15pm/3pm/5.45pmFollow our live blog below…HT: Bournemouth 1-0 WolvesThere is no doubt that The Cherries should be out of sight in this game.They have had the ball in the back of the net three times but VAR reviews have denied them.From a Wolves perspective, they should be able to play with a care-free attitude in the second-half, knowing that their FA Cup journey should already be over.Copy linkCopiedBoss gives update on MatetaOliver Glasner has given some clarity on his striker:”He’s at hospital now, it is a serious ear injury, but fingers are crossed it is not too serious.”He will miss the Ipswich game, but I hope he is available for the quarter-final of the FA Cup at the end of March.”Of course we all wish him the best.”Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumAsk, and you shall receive. But the Bournemouth fans are only happy with one of the two big incidents. Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone will not want to see Evanilson’s goal again after being caught well out of position and only being able to parry Antoine Semenyo’s shot. Johnstone seemed to have been embarrassed again moments later when a David Brooks corner was forced in by a combination of Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez at the back post. But after a massive VAR delay, in which referee Sam Barrott held a touchline gathering with the captains, backroom staff and anyone else who fancied it, the man in electric blue announced to the crowd that it had been disallowed for offside against Kerkez. And then, during the seven minutes of stoppage time, Evanilson played in Kerkez, whose cross needed only to be tapped home by Brooks. But the ball was slightly behind him and he hit it on to his own hand before watching it dribble into the net despite Nasser Djiga’s best efforts. Brooks didn’t celebrate and the goal was disallowed much more quickly.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves45+4. Almost a second goal for the hosts.Kerkez rolls the ball across the box and Brooks is running onto it, three yards out.He miskicks the ball, it bobbles up and strikes his hand before going into the goal.Quite rightly, it is ruled out as a result but what a miss by the Bournemouth man.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumDavid Brooks’ corner went all the way to the back post where it was forced over the line by a combination of Huijsen and Kerkez, with the suggestion of one or both using their arms.The home fans quite rightly sang, “It’s not football anymore,’ and “This is embarrassing,’ as the delay went on and on.At one point referee Sam Barrott led captains Nelson Semedo and Lewis Cook to the touchline for a conference with the managers, backroom staff and anyone else with an opinion to offer.But finally Barrott turned on his microphone and announced that Kerkez had been ruled offside.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves44. Relief for the visitors, finally.The Cherries’ goal is ruled out for offside.It took around seven minutes to come to that decision, semi-automated offside cannot come quickly enough.Copy linkCopiedGoal disallowed by VARCopy linkCopiedBournemouth 2-0 Wolves41. It has been six minutes already with this VAR check.The officials are making a mockery of this technology.It really seems like the lunatics are running the asylum.Copy linkCopiedVAR check in progressCopy linkCopiedGoal – Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth)Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 1-0 Wolves30. The deadlock has been broken on the south coast.Johnstone makes a save but does not get the ball clear of the goal.Evanilson rolls it into an empty net to score on his FA Cup debut.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Evanilson (Bournemouth)Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves28. This game promised so much but, so far, has given so little.Both teams are looking full of promise with their attacking play but the shooting has been dreadful.The safest place to be if you do not want to be hit with the ball is in the middle of the goal currently.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumNot going to lie, this is hardly thrill-a-minute stuff. Bournemouth are having the better of the game but have yet to force Sam Johnstone into a save. Wolves have been time-wasting from the start yet had the best chance when a Mateus Cunha cross reached Jorgen Strand Larsen. The vocal fans of both teams deserve better than this. Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves20. The game is still finely poised at the Vitality Stadium.While both sides are creating half-chances, they are not really asking much of the keepers.It feels like one of those matches that could do with a goal to spark it into life.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves15. Wolves show they are not just here for the ride.Cunha lays the ball off to Bellegarde but his shot is blocked.The Brazilian is immediately involved again, laying it into the path of Ait-Nouri, who sees his left-footed shot saved by Kepa.Copy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves10. This is one-way traffic currently.Bournemouth are piling on the pressure and the visitors are struggling to keep them out.It feels like it is just a matter of time before The Cherries break the deadlock in this one.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedBournemouth 0-0 Wolves3. It is a feisty start at the Vitality Stadium.Cunha is looking to get involved for the visitors as he wins a free kick for Wolves.It all breaks down and The Cherries are immediately on the front foot.Tavernier has the first shooting chance, but drags his shot wide of the target.Copy linkCopiedBoss looking to top season offBournemouth have been one of the surprise packages in the Premier League this campaign.While they are pushing to qualify for Europe, Andoni Iraola knows what it would mean to their fans to win a trophy.Having seen some big teams exit the competition already, it seems a superb chance for The Cherries to make a rare Wembley appearance.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King at the Vitality StadiumLet’s face it, these two sides are unlikely to have a better shout of winning the FA Cup any time soon than they do now. Liverpool, the only “big” club showing any consistency, are already out because they didn’t take the competition seriously enough in the last round. Bournemouth and Wolves have both made changes, but not so many that you think they fail to appreciate the opportunity they have. Evanilson makes his first start up top for the Cherries since breaking a David Beckham bone in his foot a couple of months ago. Copy linkCopiedVitality Stadium with pick of matchesBoth Bournemouth and Wolves have picked strong sides for this afternoon’s fifth round FA Cup tie.The Cherries will be boosted by the return of their Brazilian striker as they look to book a place in the quarter-finals.While Wolves are primarily focussed on Premier League survival, a cup run can be a catalyst for a change in fortunes and inspire a run of form.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedWolves starting XI:Vitor Pereira picks a strong side as they look to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.31. Johnstone, 34. Djiga, 4. Bueno, 24. Toti Gomes, 22. Semedo, 8. Joao Gomes, 27. Bellegarde, 3. Ait-Nouri, 21. Sarabia, 10. Cunha, 9. Strand LarsenCredit: @WolvesCopy linkCopiedBournemouth starting XI:The big news for The Cherries is the return of striker Evanilson from injury to start this match.13. Kepa, 4. Cook, 23. Hill, 2. Huijsen, 3. Kerkez, 8. Scott, 12. Adams, 7. Brooks, 16. Tavernier, 24. Semenyo, 9. EvanilsonCredit: @afcbournemouthCopy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 3-1 MillwallThe Eagles book their place in the quarter-finals.It was a game they really controlled from start to finish but the visitors did well to stay competitive after going down to ten men.However, this afternoon will leave a sour taste in the mouths of all at Selhurst Park after seeing Mateta stretchered off and taken to hospital.Copy linkCopiedCherries fancied for cup clashDespite their dip in form lately, Andoni Iraola’s side are the bookies’ favourite to progress this afternoon:Bournemouth – 7/10Draw – 3/1Wolves – 16/5All match odds brought to you by Betway.Copy linkCopied More

    • 225 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      Burnley stars SNUB handshake with Preston player accused of racially abusing team-mate before he taunts fans after goal

      by

      BURNLEY players refused to shake hands with Preston’s Milutin Osmajic’s amid a racism row before their 3-0 FA Cup defeat. The two Championship clubs drew 0-0 in February in the league. Burnley players refused to shake hands with Preston’s Milutin Osmajic’s amid a racism rowOsmajic laughed off the snubCredit: X @BBCMOTDBut the match was marred in controversy after Osmajic was accused of making a racist remark to Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri.The FA are still investigating the incident meanwhile the teams drew each other in the fifth round of the cup. During the pre-match handshakes, Burnley players snubbed Osmajic.But the drama did not stop there as the Preston forward scored before half-time to double the host’s lead after Robbie Brady’s opener. READ MORE IN football And Osmajic caused more controversy after putting his hands to his ears to goad the travelling Burnley fans. And ex-Manchester United forward Will Keane made it 3-0 to wrap the game up. Burnley manager Scott Parker confirmed Hannibal was fit but he left out the Tunisia midfielder to protect him from the spotlight.Parker told BBC iPlayer before kick-off: “As I said earlier in the week in the press conference, fundamentally I need to protect Hannibal and making sure of the right decision.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It has been a tough decision and we come here a bit weakened today because Hannibal is a vitally important member of this squad, and I felt it was the best decision for Hannibal.”I wouldn’t want to put him in a situation here, so we have made the decision for the best for Hannibal. How Man Utd could clinch a win in Fulham FA Cup clash – Expert’s best bets | Weekend Wager”That is why he is not in the matchday squad.”Asked whether he spoke with Hannibal, Parker said: “It was mainly my decision. “Hannibal was selectable today but he is a young boy that experienced something here only a few weeks ago and I just made that decision to keep him out of here and we have another game on Tuesday.”If found guilty, Osmajic faces a minimum six-match ban as the FA continue their probe. Preston manager Paul Heckingbottom admitted he had not considered the idea of leaving Osmajic out. Asked whether he was taking an approach of “innocent until proven guilty” – Heckingbottom replied: “Yes, exactly – 100 per cent.” In October, Osmajic was hit with an eight-match ban after biting Blackburn’s Owen Beck.The incident took place during Preston’s 0-0 draw with Rovers in September.Osmajic last year bit Blackburn’s Owen BeckCredit: GettyOsmajic was accused of making a racist remark to Burnley’s Hannibal MejbriCredit: RexOsmajic was only shown a yellow during the game and was able to play in Preston’s next two games.But the FA launched an investigation and subsequently charged him.Osmajic missed Preston’s next eight matches and was also fined £15,000.Parker backed his squad after their handshake snub, as he said: “The players made that decision as a group.”The players decided that that was a stance they were going to take. I was fully supportive of that when I found out.”If that’s the decision this group wanted to take out of support and an understanding of more clarity and more of an understanding of the situation, that’s the decision they made.”I was fully supportive of that.”Parker held talks with Hannibal this week and despite the ex-United man being in a good frame of mind decided to leave him out.He said: “Hannibal is in a good frame. There was an opportunity to play him and I made the conscious decision.The players decided that that was a stance they were going to take. I was fully supportive of that when I found out.Scott Parker “I made the decision to take him out of that situation. There’s a live investigation going on now and there’s no conclusion to it.”I didn’t want to put Hannibal in a situation today which is still up in the air. Because that’s what it is.”He’s coming to an away stadium. Maybe against a player that the allegations are against. And a fan base which people are making up their minds about whether it was or whether it wasn’t.”My decision which took me a long time and a lot of thinking about was one that I just wanted to protect Hannibal.”Osmajic scored the second of Preston’s three goals as they reached the quarter-finals for the first time since 1966.Preston fans responded late on by chanting “Are you watching Hannibal?”.Parker added: “It’s made me sad really.”I’m sure he would have been fine today. But I’ve been around football a long time. I understand fanbases.”I didn’t want to put him in this situation.”North End boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s about could he be professional enough to give a performance for us? READ MORE SUN STORIES”That was it. That’s what the conversations were about. If I felt or he felt that he couldn’t be professional enough then we wouldn’t have been involved.”Osmajic scored and taunted Burnley fansCredit: GettyHe cupped his ears to goad fansCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall star

      by

      STEVE PARISH has claimed Liam Roberts ENDANGERED Jean-Philippe Mateta’s life with his horror challenge.In-form Crystal Palace hitman Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being on the receiving end of a wild tackle from the Millwall keeper in the first half of the tasty FA Cup fifth-round tie.Liam Roberts crashed into Jean-Philippe Mateta in Millwall’s FA Cup clash with Crystal PalaceCredit: REXThe Millwall stopper got the ball, but his left boot followed through and felled MatetaCredit: GETTYThe tackle drew blood and resulted in Mateta being transported to the hospitalCredit: GettyPalace owner Steve Parish went on an extraordinary mid-match rant about the challengeCredit: BBCRoberts booted the striker in the head as he recklessly cleared the ball with a kung-fu kick of a challenge, which eventually earned him a red card.Parish couldn’t quite believe his eyes and voiced his frustrations during a mid-match interview with the BBC.He said: “So far what we know is he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury. He’s at the hospital so we hope for the best.”There’s a lot of emotion in football but we need to talk about that challenge. READ MORE ON MATETA”In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve never seen a challenge like it.”I looked to see how old the keeper is, he’s 30 years old.”That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen.”And he needs to have a long, hard look at himself that lad.Most read in FootballSteve Parish mimicked Liam Roberts’ tackle in the standsCredit: BBC”Because he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that.”Parish couldn’t quite believe that referee Michael Oliver needed to review the incident before giving Roberts his marching orders.Crystal Palace star Mateta stretchered off with horror injury after shock kung-fu kick from Milwall keeper who sees redHe continued: “It’s very difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game because we’re worried about JP in hospital. It’s just a terrible, terrible challenge.”That goalkeeper hasn’t shown a duty of care to another professional.”Someone mentioned there was one in the 1982 World Cup like it.”But it’s a dreadful challenge and why the referee needs to go the screen, I’ve no idea.”Forget about him being a football player, he is a human being. That is not a normal challenge. Jean-Philippe Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being treated on the pitchCredit: REX”If you’re kicking someone in the head with the full force, God knows what damage has been done to him.”Palace boss Oliver Glasner was left sickened by the injury, saying: “I didn’t want to see it after the game. “I didn’t want to watch the injury. I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. “It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. I don’t want to watch it again. “Imagine it could have ended his career. He didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong.Oliver Glasner was sickened by the injury to Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: GETTY”I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.Sections of the travelling Millwall support shockingly mocked the injury to Mateta by chanting, “Let him die.”Palace raced into a 2-0 lead in seven first-half minutes thanks to an own goal from Japhet Tanganga and a strike from Daniel Munoz. READ MORE SUN STORIESTen-man Millwall, however, reduced the arrears in first-half stoppage time through Wes Harding.The Lions battled valiantly but had their hopes of a quarter-final hopes dashed by a sumptuous header from substitute Eddie Nketiah. More

    • 200 Shares64 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘How do these transfers happen?’ – Premier League cult hero Saido Berahino, 31, completes ‘random’ move

      by

      FOOTIE fans have been left baffled by Saido Berahino’s latest transfer.The 31-year-old was once one of the most sought-after strikers in the Premier League, with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham chasing his signature.Saido Berahino was once one of the most sought after strikers in the Premier LeagueCredit: GETTYThe 31-year-old has bounced around from club to club over the last few yearsCredit: GETTYBerahino has completed a shock move to Slovenian second-division side Tabor SezanaCredit: INSTAGRAM@NKTABORSEZANABut a big-money move never materialised for the former England Under-21 international, who has bounced around from club to club over the last few years.Berahino became a free agent last November after leaving Indian second-division side Rajasthan United.And he’ll now ply his trade in the Slovenian second division with Tabor Sezana.The announcement of his latest move stunned footie fans, one of whom wrote on X: “How do these random transfers happen.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother said: “What waste of talent.”And another said: “Prime example of a player thinking he is better than he actually is and subsequently ruining his career.”One remarked: “Went from being ahead of Harry Kane in the England set up to a compete journey man. What a wasted talent.”Berahino’s shock move to Slovenia is his SIXTH transfer in as many years.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSSaido Berahino was at one point in time ahead of Harry Kane in the England Under-21 pecking orderCredit: GettyAnd he’s chomping at the bit to fire his new club back to the Slovenian top-flight.He said: “I’m looking forward to being part of a team that is fighting for promotion!Stoke City ace Saido Berahino swears outside court in March as he denies 3am ‘drink-drive’ rap before tearing off in his £150k Mercedes”We have a lot of young and talented players who have done a great job so far.”But now it’s time for us to come together as a team and pursue one goal – PROGRESSION!” More

    • 200 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      BBC commentator condemns Millwall fans’ vile chants as stricken Mateta is stretchered off and given oxygen

      by

      BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce condemned Milwall fans’ vile chant aimed at Jean-Philippe Mateta. Mateta was stretchered off the pitch needing oxygen after colliding with keeper Liam Roberts – who was sent off. Jean-Philippe Mateta was stretchered off after a collision with keeper Liam RobertsCredit: ReutersRoberts’ boot caught MatetaCredit: GettyThe keeper was sent off as a resultCredit: ReutersTravelling fans at Selhurt Park could be heard singing “Let Him Die” -which Pearce condemned on air. He said: “Millwall fans are not endearing themselves to anyone with their chant about Mateta. The club could be revisited about that.”According to the Daily Mail, the FA are to investigate “Chelsea rent boys” chants aimed at Ben Chilwell – on loan to Palace from the Blues. But “let him die” aimed at Mateta will not as “does not breach regulations.” READ MORE IN football Just six minutes were on the clock in the FA Cup fifth-round clash when the Palace’s Will Hughes played a superb long pass up the field.Mateta and Millwall centre-back Jake Cooper tussled for the bouncing ball – but Lions stopper Roberts came rushing out of his box.The 30-year-old did appear to win a part of the ball but he then clattered into Mateta’s head with his stray boot.Referee Michael Oliver initially allowed play to continue with Palace still on the attack but once the shot was headed away, he stopped the game.Most read in FootballAnd after initially allowing Roberts to stay on the field, Oliver was sent to the pitchside VAR monitor to watch a replay.He decided to overturn his decision and announced the sending off over the in-stadium tannoy before brandishing the red card.How Man Utd could clinch a win in Fulham FA Cup clash – Expert’s best bets | Weekend WagerMateta stayed down for several minutes as he was treated by the medics on the pitch.After nearly ten minutes on the ground, he was carried off on a stretcher to the corner of the ground where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital.The French striker received oxygen as he was taken away.Eddie Nketiah came on in his place in a concussion substitute – meaning Palace still had their five remaining subs.Millwall also were forced into a tactical change as Lions No1 Lukas Jensen came on between the sticks – with Luke Cundle sacrificed by Alex Neil.A Japhet Tanganga own goal and Daniel Munoz strike gave Palace the lead before Wes Harding pulled one back in the 14TH MINUTE of added time.Eddie Nketiah made it 3-1 meanwhile Eagles owner Steve Parish slammed Milwall keeper Roberts for “endangering” Mateta’s life. Palace manager Oliver Glasner was asked about Mateta’s sickening injury after the game. Honestly, I didn’t want to see it, I just watched it and it is terrible. I’m sure the goalkeeper didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, no player wants this. Oliver Glasner Glasner said: “He is conscious and he is in hospital. His ear looks terrible. It’s a very serious injury so we hope all the best for him. “We are not really happy, we can’t be really happy. Of course, it’s a great win and into the quarter-finals but when you lose a player, especially with a foul like this, you have two different feelings in your stomach.”Honestly, I didn’t want to see it, I just watched it and it is terrible. I’m sure the goalkeeper didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, no player wants this. “But f you got to the ball with this with this intensity, with the foot at that height, you can’t do it because it’s so dangerous and we all have responsibilities for our health. I don’t want to blame him but it is a terrible foul.””I didn’t see it like it was in the game, it was so quick, I could see the keeper had a lot of intensity, but he touched the ball first. But I could see it now in slow motion and it’s worse.”Millwall boss Alex Neil said: “I think the ball went in behind, Liam Roberts has come out which he has done in many games he’s played. “He’s misjudged it and caught the lad. He has mistimed it, he got sent off which at that stage made the game doubly difficult for us.”I don’t think it is meant. I don’t think there is any intent, why would there be intent? We don’t want the lad to be injured. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We wish him well and hope he is back on the pitch soon. It was a mistiming, he was sent off, he is disappointed and will hope Mateta is fine, which we all do.”You are playing Premier League opposition on their own ground so it is a difficult task with 11 men. The nature of the goals probably disappoint me the most.” More

    • 263 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      Forget the sob stories, five years without an Arsenal trophy means Mikel Arteta risks facing same fate as Poch at Spurs

      by

      WHEN was the last time the manager of a Big Six club was allowed to go five years without winning a trophy and stay in his job?The answer is Mauricio Pochettino, sacked by Tottenham early in his sixth season.Arsenal have once again failed to keep pace in a title raceCredit: GettyMikel Arteta is facing a fifth season without a trophy at the EmiratesCredit: RexBefore him, it was Arsene Wenger, who already had three Premier League titles – including two Doubles – to boast about before his long eight-season trophy drought.So unless Arsenal are going to be crowned champions of Europe this year for the first time in their history – and without a striker – Mikel Arteta is going to be entering into some pretty exclusive company.Arteta is under no immediate threat at the Emirates.Arsenal remain likely to finish as Premier League runners-up for a third straight season and if they defeat PSV Eindhoven, they will reach a second successive Champions League quarter-final.READ MORE ON ARSENALBut there comes a time when questions must be asked.And five seasons without a trophy is that sort of time.Sure, Arteta has improved Arsenal substantially but is he the man to take them over the line and win a Premier League or Champions League?Arteta did win the FA Cup just months after succeeding Unai Emery – with the team he inherited and then comprehensively dismantled.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored both goals in that behind-closed-doors 2-1 victory over Chelsea but was stripped of the captaincy the following year and bundled out of the door along with Mesut Ozil.When Kieran Tierney leaves this summer, Bukayo Saka and out-on-loan Reiss Nelson will be the only remaining Arsenal players to have won a trophy at the club – although they were both unused subs in that 2020 triumph over their London neighbours.‘Second again, ole ole’ – Brutal West Ham fans taunt Arsenal with three cheeky chants after stunning the EmiratesThe team Arteta subsequently built appeared young, vibrant and hungry during the previous two seasons, when they ran Manchester City close for the Premier League crown on both occasions.This year, there has been no title race, despite City’s extraordinary implosion. Liverpool have been allowed to run away with it.Arsenal failed to score for the third time in four matches in a God-awful goalless draw at Nottingham Forest on Wednesday.That was a clash between the second and third teams in the table, which showcased exactly how far Arne Slot’s Reds are ahead of everybody else.Unless Arsenal are going to be crowned champions of Europe this year for the first time in their history – and without a striker – Mikel Arteta is going to be entering into some pretty exclusive company.Now 13 points ahead, the Merseysiders might well surpass Manchester City’s record 19-point winning margin of 2018.Any current conversation about the Gunners has to revolve around the absence of a fit striker.Season-ending injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, as well as a long-term lay-off for Saka, represent extremely bad luck. But then neither the German nor the Brazilian are authentic centre-forwards.Arsenal’s need for a striker predates those injuries.The debate was raging during the previous two seasons.Arsenal ratings vs Forest as NOBODY looks like scoring for Gunners but Saliba’s a Rolls Royce againMIKEL ARTETA may not have anyone to put the ball in the back of the net but in William Saliba he has one of the best defenders in the Prem.The Arsenal boss watched his side’s faint title hopes go well and truly up in smoke in the goalless draw with Nottingham Forest.But his brilliant backline emerged, once again, with credit from this tricky clash at the City Ground.Together with Gabriel, Saliba kept a tight lid on Forest dangerman Chris Wood, who scored a hat-trick in his last appearance on this ground.But the fact the Gunners’ biggest threat at the other end of the pitch came from left-back Riccardo Calafiori – who was subbed off at half-time – says it all about the dire situation Arsenal somehow find themselves in.Here is how SunSport’s Graeme Bryce rated the Gunners stars’ displays…And if Arteta had prioritised a striker, the club would have signed one last summer, rather than having to leave it until late in January to make a failed bid for Aston Villa’s England international Ollie Watkins.Havertz, who was most effective as a No 10 in his Chelsea days, has the height and ability to link up play but he is not a top-class finisher.When Jesus was at City, Pep Guardiola preferred him as a winger and often played with false nines rather than employing the Brazilian through the middle.Talk of former Brentford hitman Ivan Toney, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres came and went and RB Leipzig’s raw 21-year-old Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko looks the most likely summer recruit. But Arsenal’s failure to bolster their forward line has been negligent.Still, even when Havertz and Jesus were fit, Arsenal’s playing style had clearly regressed this season.They have become Set Piece FC, an upper-class version of Tony Pulis’ Stoke City and a difficult watch.Mikel Arteta bizarrely hints Arsenal should be mid-table but still won’t give up on title An image of Arsenal’s set-piece coach Nicolas Jover has been painted on to a mural near the Emirates.The days of Wenger’s Arsenal playing eye-candy football and being obsessed with scoring the perfect goal are long gone.Five red cards in the Premier League have cost the Gunners up to ten points.Dark conspiracy theories among Arsenal fans cannot mask a basic lack of discipline and game-management.Forget the sob stories, half a decade without silverware simply isn’t good enough.Arteta has done much to foster a bond between players and supporters after years of the ‘Wenger Out, Wenger In’ civil war and the short reign of Emery.The atmosphere at the Emirates has improved greatly — sometimes vast swathes of the crowd do not leave early to catch their trains.But this term there have been rumblings of discontent.Arsenal have gone backwards and most supporters recognise it.Opposition to the ownership of ‘Silent’ Stan Kroenke has been silenced but if it kicks off again, the manager will be in danger.Pochettino improved Spurs immeasurably, reaching a Champions League final after two successive near-misses in title races.But even at Arsenal’s bitter rivals, five years without a trophy was enough to see the Argentinian gone.READ MORE SUN STORIESUnless Arteta oversees a miracle in Europe – and Arsenal would probably have to beat Real Madrid in a quarter-final and Liverpool in a semi to do so – then the Spaniard will be on trial at the beginning of next term.Forget the sob stories, half a decade without silverware simply isn’t good enough. More

    • 225 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace star Mateta rushed to hospital and given oxygen in worrying scenes after horror kung-fu kick challenge

      by

      JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA is in hospital with a “serious” gash behind his ear after a shocking kung-fu kick from Millwall’s goalkeeper who saw red.Just six minutes were on the clock in the South London derby FA Cup fifth-round clash when Crystal Palace’s Will Hughes played a superb long pass up the field. Liam Roberts was sent off for his awful challenge on Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: ReutersThe goalkeeper came flying out of his penalty area to clear the ballCredit: BBCHis left boot caught Mateta in the headCredit: ReutersPlay was delayed by approximately ten minutesCredit: BBCMateta and Millwall centre-back Jake Cooper tussled for the bouncing ball.But Lions goalkeeper Roberts came rushing out of his box.The 30-year-old did appear to win a part of the ball.But he then clattered into Mateta with his stray left boot, catching him in the head with his studs and opening a nasty gash behind the ear of the striker.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRef Michael Oliver initially allowed play to continue with Palace still on the attack but once the shot was headed away, he stopped the game.To start with, Roberts escaped without a red card and was permitted to stay on the field but then Oliver was sent to the pitchside VAR monitor to watch a replay.He decided to overturn his original decision and announced the sending off over the in-stadium tannoy before brandishing the red card.Mateta stayed down for several minutes as he was treated by the medics on the Selhurst Park pitch while distressed team-mates watched on.Most read in FA CupAfter nearly ten minutes on the ground, he was carried off on a stretcher to the corner of the stadium where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital. The French striker received oxygen as he was taken away.Taiwo Awoniyi left with blood pouring from his face after horror clash with Exeter ace in Forest’s FA Cup frustrationFurious Palace co-owner Steve Parish at half-time revealed Mateta had suffered a “bad gash behind his ear”.Manager Oliver Glasner later said: “He’s at hospital now and he has a serious ear injury but the fingers are crossed that it’s not too serious.”He will definitely miss the Ipswich game but I still hope that he is available for the quarter-finals of the FA Cup at the end of March.Eddie Nketiah came on in Mateta’s place in a concussion substitute – meaning Palace still had their allocated five subs.Millwall were also forced into a tactical change as Lions No1 Lukas Jensen came on between the sticks – with Luke Cundle sacrificed by Alex Neil. Messages of support flooded in for Mateta as the seriousness of the situation unfolded.One said: “So horrible to see. Get well soon Big Man.”Another wrote: “Wishing Jean-Philippe Mateta a quick recovery after the injury.”A third added: “Prayers for Mateta.”And a fourth typed: “Absolutely disgusting challenge. I hope Mateta is ok.”‘HORRIFIC CHALLENGE… TERRIBLE’Palace chairman Parish was shown on the TV cameras looking distressed and shaking his head in concern.The BBC commentator also condemned the visiting Millwall fans who sickeningly chanted “let him die” as Mateta received treatment.He said: “Millwall fans are not endearing themselves to anyone with their chants about Mateta. The club could be revisited about that.”However, it is understood the Den club will escape punishment for the tasteless chanting because it did not breach FA regulations. Nketiah thought he had given Palace the lead soon after the match restarted but it was chalked out for handball.Japhet Tanganga headed into his own net on 33 minutes and it was 2-0 seven minutes later when Daniel Munoz pounced.The goal was initially ruled out for offside but then it became clear the ball came off Tanganga and fell to Munoz. A whopping 13 minutes of injury time were added at the end of the first half following the lengthy stoppage – with Millwall pulling one back as the clock hit the 58-minute mark before the break.Nketiah rounded off the 3-1 victory to book Palace’s place in the quarter-finals – but all of the talk was about his stricken team-mate.At half-time, an emotional Parish lambasted the “terrible, terrible” foul and gave an update on Mateta’s injury.He told the BBC: “So far what we know is he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury. He’s at the hospital so we hope for the best.”There’s a lot of emotion in football but we need to talk about that challenge. That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I’ve ever seen… he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that. Steve Parish”In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve never seen a challenge like it.”I looked to see how old the keeper is, he’s 30 years old. That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen and he needs to have a long, hard look at himself that lad because he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that. “That goalkeeper hasn’t shown a duty of care to another professional. “Someone mentioned there was one in the 1982 World Cup like it but it’s a dreadful challenge and why the referee needs to go the screen, I’ve no idea. “Forget about him being a football player, he is a human being. That is not a normal challenge. “If you’re kicking someone in the head with the full force, God knows what damage has been done to him. “It’s very difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game because we’re worried about JP in hospital. It’s just a terrible, terrible challenge.”Pundits Troy Deeney and Glenn Murray also weighed in with their thoughts from the Selhurst Park studio.Deeney said: “It’s a horrific challenge, terrible. The occasion got to him, he was keen to make a good start, unfortunately he got that one really wrong.”I just think the state of referring now, they are falling back on VAR. It doesn’t matter if they make the decision because VAR will pull it back. “Michael Oliver is probably the best ref we’ve got, I would prefer he made a decision then VAR say, ‘You got that one wrong,’ as opposed to now they don’t make decisions and just wait for VAR to help out.Michael Oliver overturned his decision to give a red cardCredit: BBCThe referee announced his decision over the tannoyCredit: GettySteve Parish was emotional as he gave an update at half-timeCredit: BBC”The thing is he didn’t stop it. Normally for a head injury, you would blow the whistle straight away to get him checked. “He played on, didn’t stop it and from Michael Oliver’s point of view, it’s like he thinks he clears it and it’s just a coming together.”Murray added: “This is not a nice challenge. The way Liam Rovert comes out, yes he gets first contact but he’s very much protecting himself and you can see the impact on Mateta.”I think he catches his temple with his studs. It’s a really nasty one and a massive worry for Crystal Palace going forward.”Palace manager Oliver Glasner struggled to enjoy the victory amid the uncertainty over his star man.The Austrian said: “He is in hospital. Has a serious ear injury. “I couldn’t see it live. I didn’t want to see it after the game. I don’t want to catch the injury. I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. “It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. I don’t want to watch it again. “Imagine it could have ended his career. The goalkeeper didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong. “I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.”Millwall boss Alex Neil defended his player’s actions – despite not watching the incident back.He said: “He’s misjudged it and caught the lad. He has mistimed it. “”I don’t think it is meant. I don’t think there is any intent, why would there be intent? “We don’t want the lad to be injured. We wish him well and hope he is back on the pitch soon. “It was a mistiming, he was sent off, he is disappointed and will hope Mateta is fine, which we all do.”Medics carried Mateta off the Selhurst Park pitchCredit: PAThe ambulance was waiting at the corner of the groundCredit: BBCParish’s fury was clear to see as he reenacted the shocking foul in the standsCredit: BBCPalace boss Oliver Glasner was left horrified by the injury, saying: “I didn’t want to watch the injury. “I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. “I don’t want to watch it again. Imagine it could have ended his career. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong. “I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.” More

    • 225 Shares83 Views

      in Soccer

      Nico Hidalgo dead at 32: Former Juventus star dies after battle with lung cancer as tributes pour in

      by

      FORMER Spanish footie star Nico Hidalgo has tragically passed away aged 32. The former Juventus midfielder has sadly lost his lengthy battle with lung cancer.Nico Hidalgo has tragically passed away aged 32Credit: GettyThe former Racing Santandar and Juventus star had been battling lung cancer since 2021Credit: GettyTributes have poured in for the late Hidalgo, including from former club Cadiz. The Segunda Division side’s ode read: “Nico Hidalgo has left us.”We will never forget your smile and your joy. Your struggle is our example. Rest in peace.”Extremadura, which no longer exists, also paid tribute to their late player.”This morning we woke up to the sad news of the death of Nico Hidalgo, former Extremadura UD footballer, at the age of 32 due to lung cancer which he had been fighting since 2021,” a club statement read.”From [everyone at] CD Extremadura, we would like to express our deepest condolences to his family and friends. “We send them all our love and strength in these difficult times.”Racing Santandar also paid tribute to the midfielder, whom they’ll honour with a minute’s silence ahead of their La Liga clash with Elche on Sunday.Most read in FootballThe late Nico Hidalgo retired from football in 2022Credit: GETTYA snippet of a club statement read: “Real Racing Club regrets the death of its former footballer Nico Hidalgo, who played 73 official matches with the green and white shirt between 2018 and 2020. “The Cantabrian club joins in the pain of his family and friends for this irreparable loss.”While sending its most sincere condolences and announcing that it will observe a minute of silence in his memory before the LaLiga Hypermotion match that its first team will play against Elche CF at the Campos de Sport tomorrow Sunday, March 2, at 9:00 p.m.”Hidalgo began his career with his local team Motril CF, whom he made 40 appearances before joining Granada in 2012. He moved to Italian giants Juve in 2014 but didn’t make a single appearance for the Old Lady in his three years in Turuin. He returned to Spain permanently in the summer of 2017 following loan spells with Granada and Cadiz. He closed out his career with stints with Racing Santander and Extremadura, retiring after learning of his diagnosis. More