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      ‘This is the attitude’ – Arsenal fans love Josh Kroenke’s transfer message to them ahead of huge window

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      ARSENAL director Josh Kroenke confirmed the club will invest on transfers this summer to “get behind winning” the Premier League.The Gunners are facing a potential second-place finish for the third year in a row under manager Mikel Arteta with a section of supporters questioning the decision not to sign a striker since 2022.Arsenal director Josh Kroenke confirmed the club will invest on transfers this summerArsenal are prioritising a striker this summer, with Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres a favouriteReal Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is set to become Arsenal’s first summer signingJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesHowever, Josh, 45, wrote in Sunday’s match-day programme before the clash with Newcastle at the Emirates that the necessary investment will take place with new sporting director Andrea Berta on board.The son of the Gunners’ majority shareholder Stan Kroenke added that the board are “crystal clear” on the transfer they want to make.Josh wrote: “We’re still pursuing second place in the Premier League for the third year running, but we all want to win it. “We plan to invest to get behind winning and doing better next season.Read More on Arsenal“Our sporting director, Andrea, will play an important role in this. We are crystal clear on exactly what we need to do and the way in which we want to do it”.A number of Arsenal fans loved Josh’s confidence and the presence of a plan by the board.One supporter tweeted: “That is the attitude.”Another commented: “Hope they back it up this summer. No excuses.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third wrote: “Get that cheque book out.”This fan said: “Good to hear, Josh.”And that one stated: “Thankful to be an Arsenal fan.”Arsenal look set for a busy summer as they are ready to land Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi for a whopping £50million.The North Londoners are also looking for an elite striker, with many claiming that is the last piece of the jigsaw required to finally win their first Premier League title since 2004.Arteta’s side are very keen on Newcastle superstar Alexander Isak but he will prove a very tough man to sign.Therefore, Arsenal are also keeping tabs on the likes of Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.Gyokeres seems the likeliest candidate to move to the Emirates this summer.Read More on The SunThe Gunners could land the Sweden international for just £60m and make him one of their highest earners with his proposed contract costing the Gunners over £7m a year.Sesko had been a massive target since last summer before signing a new deal with Leipzig.Newcastle star Alexander Isak poses as Arsenal’s biggest targetRB Leipzig star Benjamin Seiko has been a big target since last summer More

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      Why is Alexander Isak not playing for Newcastle against Arsenal?

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      NEWCASTLE take on Arsenal as Eddie Howe’s side continue a push towards Champions League football.The Magpies are currently third in the Premier League table, and could jump above Arsenal in the table to second with a win.Alexander Isak will miss the clash between Arsenal and NewcastleCredit: Every Second Media/Alamy Live NewsNewcastle confirmed Isak suffered a groin injuryCredit: GettyHowe and Co have already enjoyed a highly successful season, having won the Carabao Cup earlier this year, against Liverpool.Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are stumbling towards a Champions League finish, with one win in six meaning they are now looking over their shoulders.If they fail to beat Newcastle, they could finish as low as seventh, but with Southampton on the final day, you would back them to make it.Read more FootballSunSport can reveal why Alexander Isak will miss the crunch clash at The Emirates. Why is Alexander Isak not playing for Newcastle against Arsenal?Newcastle confirmed that Alexander Isak would miss the game with a minor groin injury.The club are yet to confirm when Isak will return.He will miss at least Newcastle’s trip to the capital, and could miss their clash on the final day against Everton.Most read in FootballHow to watch Arsenal vs Newcastle and is there a live streamThe Gunners will clash the Magpies at 4:30pm BST at The Emirates.The game will be shown LIVE on Sky Sports Main Event.Action will also be available to stream on NOW TV, Sky Go and the Sky Sports app.Alternatively, follow along with SunSport’s comprehensive coverage of the action. More

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      Taiwo Awoniyi breaks silence after horror injury as he posts health update after waking up from induced coma

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      TAIWO AWONIYI has posted on social media for the first time since coming out of his induced coma.The Nottingham Forest striker, 27, was forced to undergo an operation after suffering a worrying abdominal injury against Leicester last weekend.Taiwo Awoniyi has posted on social mediaCredit: AlamyAfter colliding with the post, Awoniyi was astonishingly allowed to continue before finally being taken off.The Nigerian went under the knife on Monday and was subsequently placed into an induced coma in order to regulate his heart rate and movement.Following successful surgery, Awoniyi is now out of his coma and recovering.Ahead of Forest’s clash with West Ham today, the popular striker posted on social media.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe wrote: “This season has been one of the most difficult of my career but through it all, I have felt the love.”With the grace of God, I am grateful to still be here, to still be fighting, to still be smiling, and to be in good spirits.”To my team-mates, coaches, staff and the entire Forest family, thank you for your well wishes, seeing you all on your visit to the hospital lifted my spirits more than words can say.”Wishing the boys the very best in these last two games, keep believing and keep pushing. I’m with you all the way and I can’t wait to be back out there with the boys doing what I love.Most read in Football”To my family, friends and football fans, thank you for the support, and to everyone back home in Nigeria who has checked in on me, prayed for me and left kind words, thank you. I see them. I feel them. And I carry them with me every day as I recover. Come on you Reds.”Awoniyi’s Instagram post received plenty of supportive comments.Taiwo Awoniyi health update with Nottingham Forest star recovering in hospital after emergency abdominal surgeryAmong them, Ademola Lookman wrote: “Speedy recovery bro.”Wilfred Ndidi, Neco Williams and Callum Hudson-Odoi all left heart emojis.Morgan Gibbs-White gave Forest a first-half lead at West Ham this afternoon.After doing so, the England midfielder rose an Awoniyi Forest shirt in solidarity with his injured team-mate.Morgan Gibbs-White raises an Awoniyi shirt after scoringCredit: PA More

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      Arsenal vs Newcastle LIVE SCORE: Action on NOW as Isak OUT in huge blow to Toon while Havertz returns to Gunners squad

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      THE race for a Champions League spot is edging towards boiling point and second-place Arsenal host third-place Newcastle at the Emirates THIS AFTERNOON!And the headline team news from North London is that Alexander Isak misses out with a minor groin injury.Kai Havertz returns to the Gunners squad but is only fit enough for the bench.Kick-off time: 4:30pm BSTLive stream: NOW TVTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Premier LeagueArsenal starting XI: To followNewcastle starting XI: To followBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Arsenal 0-0 Newcastle35. The Gunners are growing into the game more.Passing it around and looking to find pockets of space.The Magpies are holding firm and making themselves difficult to break down.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle33. Saka stands over another corner for Arsenal.They play it short and Partey tries to lift it into the back post.It has too much on it and Lewis-Skelly cannot keep it in play.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle31. Martinelli looks to use his pace to get in behind the visitors.He gets an important touch to take the ball past Schar.Pope is quick out of his area to react and kick it into touch.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle29. Eddie Howe’s side are dominating this game.They really seem to be The Gunners’ kryptonite this season.However, if they do not find the net before the interval, it will all be for nothing.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle27. Another quick Newcastle break catches out Arsenal.As the ball is played into the middle, no one is attacking the area.Barnes knows that was where he should have been.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle25. White dribbles the ball into the box tries to work an angle to get a shot away.The Magpies close him down well and get some good sliding challenges in.As a result, they are able to clear their lines and protect Pope’s goal.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle23. As another corner comes into the box, Burn has another free header in the middle.He sends his effort sailing over the bar but the referee awards a free kick to the hosts.Guimaraes pushed Trossard over at the near post, silly foul, the Belgian was never going to win the ball.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle21. This has been a great start to the game.Arsenal are used to having things their own way at home and dominating possession.Newcastle are really taking the game to them and asking some serious questions of their back four and keeper.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle19. How Newcastle are not ahead in this game is just baffling.Burn gets up to head a cross goalwards but Raya makes a great reaction save.Barnes gets the loose ball and pokes it towards goal but the Spaniard clears with his feet.Wild stuff.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle17. Barnes tries his luck from outside the box.The low drive deflects off Partey and is heading into the far corner but Raya gets down well to tip it around the post.He may not be able to kick a ball well but he certainly can make some saves.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield at The EmiratesThere is a nervous energy ringing around the Emirates here, as Newcastle have shown some early signs of posing a real threat to the Gunners. In the opening few minutes, David Raya was forced into a double save by Bruno Guimaraes, and the home side’s passes just don’t seem to be coming off with the fluidity that they were earlier this season. Arsenal need to settle and start doing the simple things well. Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle15. The Gunners are sporting next season’s kit today.They win a corner after a glancing header from Partey is turned behind by Pope.It is played short and worked to Odegaard on the edge of the box, his first-time shot heads into orbit.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle13. Gordon is down on the far side of the pitch.It seems to be something he has added to his game this season, going down at the slightest touch from an opponent.He has spent more time on the grass than Snoop Dogg this campaign.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle11. The Magpies have started this game well.Livramento has a sight of goal but his shot is straight at Raya.They are playing through the hosts with their crisp passing.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle9. Newcastle know they cannot afford to miss chances like that.They be few and far between in North London and need to show more of a clinical edge.Early warning for The Gunners that Howe’s side have come here to take three points home with them.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle7. Massive chance for the visitors to take the lead.Raya makes up for his initial error as he saves Wilson’s shot and then gets back to his feet to claw Guimaraes’ follow up away.He made up for his blunder there, a dreadful kick straight to a Newcastle player.To think Arteta signed him for his ability wiith the ball at his feet.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle5. It is a full-house for the last Premier League game of the season in North London for Arsenal.They will be hoping to see an emphatic victory for their team.White goes to ground in the area but the tackle from Burn was fair.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle3. A win for The Magpies today see them leapfrog Arsenal in the table.That in itself should be enough motivation for Mikel Arteta’s side.It would be seen a terrible end to the season to drop to third in the table coupled with another trophyless campaign.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-0 Newcastle1. The Forest win this afternoon will concern Newcastle.They can still catch The Magpies in the race for the top five.The Gunners meanwhile are just looking to secure second spot.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Arsenal vs NewcastleWe are underway at The Emirates.The Magpies really need to get something from North London.Newcastle get the game started.Copy linkCopiedA nervy end in London…West Ham were beaten by Nottingham Forest, but it was a close one at the London Stadium.Forest keep themselves in the hunt, and now both these sides will need the points even more.Copy linkCopiedToon eyeing historyNewcastle have got the better of Arsenal on all three times the two sides have met this season.The North East outfit won the return fixture at St James’ Park 1-0 and won both legs of the Carabao Cup semi-final.Should the Magpies win at the Emirates this afternoon, the Toon will become the first side ever to beat the Gunners four times in a single season.And they would leapfrog them in the Prem table.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedToday’s officialsReferee: Simon HooperAssistants: Adrian Holmes, Simon LongFourth official: Andy MadleyVAR: Michael SalisburyAssistant VAR: Marc PerryCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSaliba joins 100 clubWilliam Saliba has been one of the standout defenders in world football in recent years.His partnership with Gabriel has been dubbed by many as the greatest defensive pairing.The Frenchman today makes his 100th appearance for Arsenal as he starts beside Jakub Kiwior.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedView of SunSport’s Tom Barclay from the EmiratesThere is no Alexander Isak today for Newcastle due to a minor groin injury.Instead, Callum Wilson leads the line as Eddie Howe continues with his 3-4-2-1 formation that saw the Magpies beat Chelsea 2-0 last week.Meanwhile, Kai Havertz returns to the Arsenal matchday squad for the first time since playing the Toon in the Carabao Cup semi-final on February 5.The Germany star has been out in the intervening three months after damaging his hamstring during a mid-season warm-weather trip to Dubai.Copy linkCopied More

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      Ex-Man Utd star Tom Cleverley in talks with Premier League club over manager job just days after Watford sacking

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      TOM CLEVERLEY is in talks with a Premier League club just days after being sacked by Watford, according to reports.The former Manchester United star was axed by the Hornets earlier this month after missing out on the Championship playoffs.Tom Cleverley has been linked with the Southampton jobCredit: AlamyCleverley, 35, took over at Vicarage Road in March 2024 as he replaced Valerien Ismael.But he could be set for a quick return to the dugout with Southampton interested.The Guardian have claimed that he is one of the leading candidates to take over at St Mary’s next season.It is suggested that he has a “strong chance” of being appointed as the new Saints boss.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCleverley has taken charge of 59 first-team games, winning 20, drawing 14 and losing 25.The Southampton team is currently playing under caretaker Simon Rusk, who took charge after the sacking of Ivan Juric.They are a top-flight club for two more games, which come against Everton and Southampton.Juric was only in charge for 14 Premier League games after replacing Russell Martin.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSCleverley does face competition for the job from fellow Englishman Will Still.Still has left Ligue 1 outfit RC Lens following the end of the season in order to move back to England.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeWill Still is in the running for the St Mary’s roleCredit: GettyStill’s parting message to RC LensHere is what Will Still told RC Lens fans about his decision to leave…He said: “I won’t be the coach of RC Lens next season.”It was the last season at Bollaert, for multiple reasons.”The main reason that pushed me to make this decision is the fact that I need to go home.”Everyone is well aware of what happened in my life. That’s why.”I had a lot of fun, I think we achieved great things despite everything. I’ve been in France for four years, four years that I’ve experienced intense moments.”The logical choice is that I get closer to my wife for her well-being too.”The manager wants to spend more time with his Sky Sports presenter partner Emma Saunders.His exit came just one season into a three-year deal.Reports have claimed that Still is in “advanced talks” with Southampton over the vacant manager role.In his final game, Lens beat AS Monaco 4-0 at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.Neil El Aynaoui netted twice while Adrien Thomasson and Anass Zaroury wrapped up the scoring.The victory sealed an 8th-placed finish in the Ligue 1 table.Still has also had interest from Hull City and has previously turned down Rangers.Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Rohl is also believed to be in the running for the job.Read More on The SunMeanwhile, Watford have already replaced Cleverley with former Real Valladolid boss Paulo Pezzolano.The Uruguayan becomes the 22nd manager to take charge of the Hornets since Gino Pozzo’s takeover in 2012. More

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      Former Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette’s home burgled while playing final game for Lyon with cash and jewellery stolen

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      ALEXANDRE LACAZETTE’S home was burgled while he was in action for Lyon last night, according to reports.The former Arsenal star, 33, was playing his 391st and final match for his boyhood club when the robbery is said to have taken place.Alexandre Lacazette played his final match for boyhood club LyonCredit: AFPLacazette, 33, scored twice against Angers last nightCredit: AFPLyon’s clash with Angers kicked off at 9pm local time, with the break-in said to have taken place around half an hour later.According to French paper Le Progres, Lacazette’s home, located in Lyon’s fifth district, was broken into by two burglars.Once inside, the pair are reported to have accessed a safe.Items stolen are said to include jewellery, luxury leather goods and cash, with the total stolen haul claimed to be tens of thousands of pounds.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe burglary was reported at 1.30am this morning, with the two crooks seen in security footage.Cops have subsequently launched an investigation.Lacazette came through the ranks with his hometown club before joining Arsenal in 2017.Following five years in London, the forward returned to Lyon in 2022.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesLacazette sat in the middle of the centre circle after Saturday night’s gameEarlier this week, boss Paulo Fonseca confirmed that Lacazette will be leaving Lyon upon the expiry of his contract this summer.With the 16-cap striker one of their highest earners, and Lyon mired in financial trouble, Lacazette will move on despite remaining one of the Ligue 1 club’s most important players.Arsenal reveal new home kit for 2025/26 season with major change to badge and eye-watering priceThe hometown hero was honoured with a huge tifo ahead of last night’s game.Lacazette responded in fitting fashion by scoring both goals in Lyon’s 2-0 win over Angers, securing a sixth place finish in the process.The goals were Lacazette’s 200th and 201st for the club.Several Lyon players have been victims of burglaries in recent years.Forward Georges Mikautadze was robbed at gunpoint last December.Dejan Lovren was the victim of an attempted robbery in October 2023.Lacazette was honoured by a huge tifo at Saturday night’s gameCredit: AFP More

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      Premier League LIVE SCORES: Forest BEAT West Ham, Fulham and Leicester also win, Everton end Goodison era on high

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      PREMIER LEAGUE action returns with another Sunday funday – and the race for Europe is reaching boiling point!Nottingham Forest will be hoping to end a woeful winless run against a West Ham side that recently beat Europa League finalists Manchester United.While Arsenal welcome Newcastle to the Emirates who currently sit just two points behind them in third.There’s also a London derby taking place today between Brentford and Fulham, plus relegated sides Leicester and Ipswich face off at the King Power.The afternoon kicked off with Everton ending the Goodison Park era in style after Iliman Ndiaye’s double secured a 2-0 win for the Toffees.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action with our live blog below…Brentford 2-3 FulhamA big win for Fulham.They move to within a point of Brentford, but now still remain two places below them in 10th place. Europe will now be off the table for the pair of them, with Crystal Palace winning the FA Cup, but Fulham will be desperate to finish above Brentford. Copy linkCopiedMatch result – Brentford 2-3 FulhamCopy linkCopiedBrentford 2-3 Fulham95. Brentford are really pushing for a leveller.The visitors have barely left their half in the last 10 minutes, and the hosts don’t want to end their season at the Gtech Community Stadium empty handed. However, Fulham are putting up a fight, and Brentford have barely had a proper chance of any substance as of yet. Copy linkCopiedLeicester 2-0 IpswichJob done for Jamie Vardy at Leicester. An FA Cup, a Premier League, 200 goals and countless memories will remain for the Foxes faithful for years and decades to come.For Leicester, the win all but guarantees they will finish in 18th, above Ipswich – a nice bit of bragging rights before both sides aim to come back up from the Championship next season. Copy linkCopiedMatch result – Leicester 2-0 IpswichCopy linkCopiedLeicester 2-0 Ipswich90. Ipswich think they have scored, but the flag goes up.Leif Davis snuck in at the back post, and a tidy finish ended up in the back of the net.But, he snuck in illegally, a VAR check then confirmed the on field decision. Copy linkCopiedLatest scoresBrentford 2-3 Fulham – 83.Leicester 2-0 Ipswich – 87.Into the final 10 in London and Leicester, with the Foxes looking good for three points, and Fulham aiming to upset their rivals Brentford. Copy linkCopiedVardy goes off80. A standing ovation for the Leicester captain Jamie Vardy.He got his perfect ending today, scoring his 200th Leicester goal on his 500th appearance. Copy linkCopiedBrentford 2-3 Fulham70. A sensational turnaround at the Gtech Community Stadium.Fulham were trailing five minutes ago, now they lead their London rivals.Tom Cairney headed home the first, and Harry Wilson scored a curling effort from range to put Fulham AHEAD in London. Copy linkCopiedGoal – Harry Wilson (Fulham)Copy linkCopiedGoal – Tom Cairney (Fulham)Copy linkCopiedFT: West Ham 1-2 Nott’m ForestAfter a crazy 18 minutes of added time, Forest hold on for the win.Their top five hopes live on for the final day.Massive win for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.Copy linkCopiedLeicester 2-0 Ipswich69. The Foxes have doubled their lead at the King Power.McAteer strikes from a tight angle as the stadium erupts.This is just how Leicester wanted to sign off in the Premier League in front of their own fans.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Kansey McAteer (Leicester)Copy linkCopiedLeicester 1-0 Ipswich68. The visitors have had 16 shots in this game so far.However, only two of them have been on target.The Foxes would happily take this scoreline right now.Copy linkCopiedWest Ham 1-2 Nott’m Forest90+8. With eleven minutes of added time, West Ham need to try and create one more big chance.Forest are not sitting back and seem keen to get another goal to kill the game off.Paqueta is linking up with Bowen well but they just cannot find that killer-pass.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedBrentford 2-1 Fulham51. This could be a cracking second-half with both sides going for it.The second-half was delayed due to a drone over the stadium.Fulham are throwing players forward, knowing they need at least two goals to keep their feint hopes of European football alive.Copy linkCopiedWest Ham 1-2 Nott’m Forest86. Jarrod Bowen, take a bow.As Forest try to head clear he shows some sublime control before volleying into the top corner.Different level.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Jarrod Bowen (West Ham)Copy linkCopiedWest Ham 0-2 Nott’m Forest84. Forest are looking in total control at the moment.If West Ham can get a goal it will make this a nervy end to the game.There is going to be a mammoth amount of extra-time thanks to VAR.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Rob Maul in the capitalOkay, so Nikola Milenkovic scored a second goal for Nottingham Forest. Off he went to celebrate. Forest fans were ecstatic. And yet it was subjected to a VAR check for offside. It appears the semi-automated offside technology was not working properly at the London Stadium and after SIX MINUTES, the referee had the signal to award the goal. Morgan Gibbs-White’s foot looked to have been offside but given he did not touch the ball, the East Midlanders survived.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Graeme Bryce at the King PowerFoxes fans are guaranteed to go home happy now – regardless of the final outcome here.They have already got what they came for after Jamie Vardy brought the house down with his 200th goal in his 500th appearance.Vardy celebrated by taking out the corner flag and raising it aloft high above his head – like a conquering warrior.It’s the only sign the 38-year-old has shown of flagging!Copy linkCopiedWest Ham 0-2 Nott’m Forest73. West Ham have huffed and puffed here in an attacking sense today but are unable to blow this Forest defence down.It is all about game management for the visitors now.Nothing but three points keep them in the race for a top five spot.Copy linkCopiedHT: Brentford 2-1 FulhamIt has been an entertaining first-half in West London.Three goals and a missed penalty so far.Both sides have created plenty of chances in this open game.Copy linkCopiedHT: Leicester 1-0 IpswichVardy’s goal is the difference between the two sides at the break.There have been few shots on goal but The Foxes have taken their one chance.How fitting it would be if the veteran striker’s goal were to win this game.Copy linkCopied More

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      Everton 2 Southampton 0: Toffees win last ever game at Goodison Park as they say goodbye to 133-year-old home in style

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      THEY CAME in their blue-clad hordes. A full house inside, over 10,000 outside, just to be there to bid the fondest of farewells to Goodison Park.The streets around the Grand Old Lady had been crammed for hours before the noon kick-off.Iliman Ndiaye fires Everton into the leadCredit: ReutersThe in-form Ndiaye doubles the Toffees’ advantageCredit: PAEverywhere there were flares. And tears, of course.There were bound to be tears – and not brought on by the blue smoke that drifted around – as all the memories of dads, grandads, sons, daughters and grandmas flooded the atmosphere.Even the Toffee Lady was there, a pretty young fan complete with pure white head dress, a modern reincarnation of Mary Bushell, who handed the sweets out to supporters on match day, She was the daughter of Old Ma Bushell who in the 1890s ran the nearby Ye Ancient Everton Toffee house and why the club is called The Toffees to this day even if the tradition is no more.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFor this bittersweet goodbye there was Wayne Rooney, born and brought up a Blue and one of the greatest ever to be spawned at Goodison, smiling in the main stand, blue scarf around his neck, joined by other legends, like iconic ex-player and manager Joe Royle, Phil Jagielka, Andy Gray…Another, Peter Reid, a member of the last title-winning Everton side of 1987 two years after the same triumph, stressed: “Listen, this is the best place in the world with the best people in the world.“You can’t beat it. Very emotional to be honest, mind you I have had a shandy!”Present, naturally, was also the manager who named Everton “The People’s Club” in his first spell, David Moyes standing on the touchline still blown by the farewell that began building at 8am in the terraced streets that surround the stadium.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEverton fans said farewell to their historic homeCredit: GettyGoodison Park will no longer host men’s team matches next seasonCredit: AFPThis was the 2,971st game at Goodison before the move to Bramley-Moore Dock, the £800million new home now branded the Hill Dickinson stadium as part of a £10m year naming rights deal.Just a few months ago there were fears that the last-ever game might be more like a wake – for he replaced Sean Dyche with the side a point above the drop zone and locked in a third successive relegation battle.David Moyes post match press conference, Chelsea vs EvertonA battle that many of the supporters who cried and laughed and cheered as Iliman Ndiaye produced a first-half double against Southampton, guests who remained very much in the kitchen at this giant party, believed could this time not be won.Moyes, himself in his second life as boss having first left for Manchester United after 11 years in charge to take over from Sir Alex Ferguson, was as emotional as anybody, his rescue mission completed weeks before.The 62-year-old declared: “The welcome was amazing, the streets all blue, really really special even if, yes, it’s a sad day leaving this place too.”He produced a fine gesture to mark the occasion, allowing veteran Seamus Coleman to lead the team out as club captain in the absence of hamstrung team skipper James Tarkowski.Sadly for the Irishman, granted a new contract at the age of 36, he lasted only 18 minutes, forced off with an ankle injury to be replaced by a full-back three years older than him in Ashley Young who was playing his last game at Goodison.Moyes was able to afford Coleman that special moment because of passionate performances like the one that marked a 29th defeat of what, for Saints, has been a funeral procession of a season.He stressed: “If you’d come to me when I got here and said that we would be hosting Southampton and already be safe I would have taken it.“I’m just so happy that we are in this situation now, for these fans, for this club. Everton fans are different, this club is different – you can only know what it’s really like when you are inside it.”Ndiaye celebrates in front of a jubilant Goodison crowdCredit: PAThe Toffees easily beat already relegated SouthamptonCredit: PAThe last capacity crowd of 39,201 at Goodison forgot those years around kick-off time and erupted with joy inside six minutes as Ndiaye waltzed through the Saints defence to plant a hit shot into Aaron Ramsdale’s right hand corner.Sixty seconds into time added on he did so again, the winger granted the freedom of Goodison by visitors who were always only going to be making up the numbers.The old ground isn’t being demolished now, the Toffees women’s side moving in, 133 years of history continuing at what Moyes says is an “iconic” landmark on the Merseyside skyline and relieved that it will remain standing.Yet most of those who streamed out at the end, more tears streaming down many of their faces, won’t be back, that shiny new 52,888-seater waiting to welcome them next season.But as goodbyes go, this was the grandest of goodbyes to the Grand Old Lady.Read More on The SunSome of the football from the bye-bye Blues who did their club proud after Moyes’ return wasn’t bad either.But it was the day, the last lingering looks, the last memories, the last win, some of the emotion too much for some at the end of it, that those fans took away with them as forever Evertonians. 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