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      Liverpool copy Arsenal’s corner routine against Leicester as Gooners claim ‘eyes firmly in the mirror’

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      FANS have accused Liverpool of copying Arsenal’s winning corner routine in their 3-1 comeback win over Leicester on Boxing Day.Although the Reds didn’t score from the set-piece mimic, goals from Cody Gakpo, Curtis Jones and Mohamed Salah sent them seven points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool have been accused of copying Arsenal’s back post corner routineArsenal have been hailed for their potent corners from lining up a train of players towards the back of the areaOver the past 18 months, Arsenal have been the set-piece kings in the Prem and have used the tactic to devastating effect under Mikel Arteta.The Gunners have scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season and usually have a specifically potent formula.Arsenal’s routine sees them set-up a train of players lined up at the back post, who hold their position before scattering into the box.The players beyond the back post make their moves to the front post — and they mix it up to confuse defenders.READ MORE ON ARSENALAfter falling behind to Jordan Ayew’s opener, Liverpool were then awarded a corner, which Trent Alexander-Arnold took.Arne Slot’s side lined up with a huddle around the back post and the idea was for them to make chaotic runs into the area to confuse Leicester.Five players including, Andy Robertson, Darwin Nunez, Joe Gomez, Salah and Gakpo attempted to disperse off in multiple directions. But Alexander-Arnold eventually failed to find a single teammate inside a crowded penalty area.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal, who have faced criticism for their reliance on corners for goals, often change the trajectory of the ball. Declan Rice favours it flatter to the front post, whereas Bukayo Saka hits it higher and more to the back and middle.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly And fans were quick to point out the identical set-up.One wrote: “Liverpool copying our set pieces whilst nine points clear? It’s not looking good for them I’m afraid. Eyes firmly in the mirror.”Another said: “Liverpool copying Arsenal’s corner kick routine 😂😂.”A third added: “If you can’t beat them, you join them.”But many were quick to jump to Liverpool’s defence.One wrote: “Liverpool were doing that in pre-season pretty much every game so I think it’s the other way around.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA second said: “Arne Slot already did this style with Feyenoord.”Pictures appeared online of Liverpool using the same corner routine in their 2-1 win over Arsenal in the United States in August.How to stop Arsenal at cornersArsenal have turned into a prolific team when it comes to scoring from corners.The Gunners have now scored 22 goals from them since the start of last season – seven more than their nearest rival Manchester City and eight more than Premier League leaders Liverpool.Two of them came against Manchester United – Jurrien Timber and William Saliba netting in the second half to earn Mikel Arteta’s men a vital win as they chase down Arne Slot’s Reds.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were the architects with their deliveries, and each now have seven set-piece assists since the start of the 2023/24 campaign – more than any other player.United legend Dimitar Berbatov joked Arsenal are the new Stoke City of the top flight – a side under Tony Pulis who terrorised the so-called “bigger clubs” with set-piece mastery.Here are four ways to stop Arteta’s side at corners More

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      Gary Lineker ‘turns into Barry White’ as BBC viewers left stunned by sound of MOTD host’s voice

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      FANS were left stunned by Gary Lineker’s throaty voice as he presented Match of the Day last night.The veteran host, 64, fronted a bumper Boxing Day MOTD for the final time ahead of his exit at the end of the season.Gary Lineker presented his final Boxing Day MOTD last nightAlan Shearer and Joe Hart laughed at Lineker’s quipCredit: BBCAs he introduced the show, Lineker sounded more like Sean Dyche than his usual self.In gruff tones, he grunted: “Ready for some football? Eight games underway.”Introducing pundits Alan Shearer and Joe Hart, he continued: “Look who we’ve got for Christmas, one of them’s a keeper and the other one’s getting returned.”Despite Lineker’s quip, several viewers at home could only focus on his voice.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne wrote on social media: “Lineker talking like his mom’s upstairs and told him and his mates to keep the noise down, or they’ll have to go home!”While a second claimed: “Blimey, Gary Lineker sounds rough.”A third pointed out: “Gary Lineker voice shot to bits.”And a fourth joked: “Lineker turned into Barry White.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother added: “Gary Lineker sounds awful on #MOTD are they so desperate for him to present it even when he’s clearly ill?”At the end of the programme, Lineker referenced his unusual-sounding voice.Alan Shearer in the dark on Gary Lineker’s MOTD replacement, but reveals why he doesn’t want to know who’s coming inHe closed the show by saying: “So Liverpool came from behind to beat Leicester, and it’s beginning to look a Slot like Christmas is over… and I’ve got a cold. Goodbye.”Lineker is set to leave Match of the Day after 26 years at the end of the season.He is reportedly set to be replaced by a rotating cast of Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates.Lineker will continue to present the BBC’s live FA Cup coverage during the 2025-26 campaign.He will then bring the curtain down on his illustrious Beeb career at the 2026 World Cup. More

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      When does the 2025 January transfer window open?

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      CLUBS will get the chance to strengthen their squads once again as the 2025 January transfer window opens SOON – and it is expected to be a busy one.Manchester United star Marcus Rashford could be on his way out of Old Trafford as he revealed that he is “ready for a new challenge” after being left out of Ruben Amorim’s side on several occasions.Marcus Rashford is likely to leave Manchester United this JanuaryCredit: GettySporting’s goalscoring machine Viktor Gyokeres will also be a top target for clubs having scored a staggering 61 goals in 60 matches this calendar year.And Arsenal are expected to be in the market for a right-winger with their talisman Bukayo Saka set to be sidelined for a minimum of FIFTEEN matches.But fans want to know exactly when the 2025 January transfer window opens.SunSport can provide details on the January transfer window for several of the top leagues.Read more on transfer newsPremier League The Premier League transfer window is scheduled to open on Wednesday, January 1 and it will shut on Monday, February 3 at 11pm GMT.Even though January 31 is a Friday, the top European leagues have all agreed to extend the deadline until after the weekend.La LigaThe Serie A market will open on Thursday, January 2 and will close on Monday, February 3 at 11pm GMT.Serie AThe Serie A market will open on Thursday, January 2 and will close on Monday, February 3 at 7pm GMT.Most read in FootballBundesliga The Bundesliga window is open on Wednesday, January 1 and will close at 5pm GMT on Monday, February 3.Ligue 1Ligue 1 opens its transfer window on Wednesday, January 1 and will close it on Monday, February 3 at 10pm GMT.Saudi Pro LeagueThe Saudi Pro League window opens on Wednesday, January 1 and closes on Friday, January 31.Who is the most expensive January signing?Philippe Coutinho’s switch from Liverpool to Barcelona in the 2018 January transfer window is currently the most expensive winter deal.Barcelona signed the midfield maestro for a staggering £140million.The deal never quite worked out for the Spanish giants as Coutinho up going on a season-long loan to Bayern just over a year later. More

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      ‘I take a hint’ – ‘New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly

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      GABBY LOGAN took the “hint” as she rapidly wound her up her interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot last night.The popular host, who is set to be one of three new Match of the Day presenters next season, was on Boxing Day Amazon Prime Video duty.Gabby Logan caught up with Arne Slot after last night’s gameCredit: Amazon PrimeSlot and Ruud van Nistelrooy know each other from their time in HollandCredit: EPALogan, 51, presented the streaming service’s coverage of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Leicester.She and pundits Roberto Martinez, Emile Heskey and John Arne Riise were joined by Slot after the match at Anfield.During their interview, they discussed whether he will catch up with fellow Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy after the game.Talking about seeing the Leicester manager, Slot revealed Van Nistelrooy and his family were waiting to meet up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then jokingly cut Logan off as he said: “If we don’t need to go to the media that long, we can have some time together…”Ever the pro, Logan took Slot’s quip with good grace.As Martinez, Heskey and Riise laughed, she said: “Well, I take a hint! Thank you very much, good to see you again.”The pair then shook hands as Slot said: “You’re welcome.”Most read in FootballLiverpool had just come from behind to beat Leicester 3-1, going seven points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Reds went 1-0 down on just six minutes via Jordan Ayew, but Cody Gakpo levelled on the stroke of half time.Curtis Jones completed the turnaround four minutes into the second half, with Mo Salah netting a third late on.Gary Lineker ‘turns into Barry White’ as BBC viewers left stunned by sound of MOTD host’s voiceLogan, meanwhile, is set to be one of three presenters replacing Gary Lineker on Match of the Day next season.She is reportedly set to rotate with Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates between the Saturday show and Sunday’s Match of the Day 2.Logan, 51, was on Amazon Prime Video dutyCredit: Reuters More

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      Ryan Reynolds sends four-word reaction after Wrexham star Paul Mullin scores sublime solo goal

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      DEADPOOL star Ryan Reynolds sent Wrexham star Paul Mullin a message on Insta after the striker scored a sublime solo goal.The stunner came in the Welsh side’s 2-1 win over League One rivals Blackpool on Boxing Day.Paul Mullin scored an outrageous goal in Wrexham’s 2-1 win over BlackpoolCredit: PARob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds could have an eventual Puskas winner on their booksCredit: AlamyPaul Mullin as Welshpool, alongside Deadpool star Ryan ReynoldsCredit: Instagram @vancityreynoldsAshley Fletcher had given Steve Bruce’s men an early lead with a third-minute opener.But Mullin – who was given a cameo by Reynolds in the hit movie Deadpool & Wolverine – ensured Wrexham fired back in style with a mouth-watering finish that must be a candidate for Fifa’s prestigious Puskas award.Despite the Racecourse Ground being shrouded in mist, Mullin, 30, managed to pluck the ball from the air while being outside Blackpool’s box.Mullin used one touch of his thigh to control the football while driving into the edge of the penalty area.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd despite his body being side-on to the goal, Mullin did not let the ball bounce even once as he unleashed a screamer of a shot.The football flashed diagonally across the box into the top corner of Blackpool’s goal.And the strike sparked wild celebrations among the Wrexham faithful, who saw their side go on to clinch victory through Steven Fletcher’s 88th minute penalty.Deadpool star Reynolds shared a video of Mullin’s spectacular goal and wrote: “This one. So pretty…”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMullin responded to the American with a message of his own, writing: “Merry Christmas with love”.The pair have struck up an unlikely friendship since Reynolds bought Wrexham along with Hollywood pal Rob McElhenney in 2020.Mullin even had a brief cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine, as a variant of Reynold’s character called Welshpool.They also text each other after every game, and Mullin has been out to Vegas to hang out with Reynolds.Paul Mullin replied after Ryan Reynolds posted ‘This one. So pretty’Watch the stunning overhead kick goal from amputee striker that won Puskas award at Fifa’s BestMan Utd star Alejandro Garnacho won this year’s award for his bicycle kick against EvertonCredit: APFans decided Mullin’s banger against Blackpool should be voted best goal of the year.One fan said: “Do they do Puskas awards for League One?”Another declared: “F*****g Welshpool.”One noted: “Goal of the season… absolute tekkers.”Another added: “Scores goals of top quality over and over.”Wrexham owners Reynolds and McElhenney would be thrilled if Mullin’s effort is eventually recognised for the coveted Puskas award.The global trophy is handed out once a year by Fifa to the best goal from various levels of football.It is named after legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas.Three years ago, Erik Lamela won it for an outrageous ‘rabona’ finish while starring for Tottenham against Arsenal.In 2022, Warta Poznan star Marcin Oleksy became the first-ever amputee footballer to be nominated for the award before going on to win.READ MORE SUN STORIESA year later, Botafogo’s Guilherme Madruga saw off competition from Sporting Lisbon’s Pedro Goncalves, who netted from the half-way line against Arsenal.While the 2024 recipient was none other than Alejandro Garnacho, who netted an amazing bicycle for Manchester United against Everton.Erik Lamela won the 2021 award after a ‘rabona’ goal against ArsenalCredit: PA More

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      Ruben Amorim on mission to steer Man Utd away from RELEGATION as he emphatically rules out European finish

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      RUBEN AMORIM is on a mission to steer crisis-hit Manchester United away from relegation as he ruled out a European finish.The Red Devils conceded directly from a corner AGAIN for Matheus Cunha’s opener — with keeper Andre Onana at fault.Ruben Amorim gave a shock reply when asked about making EuropeCredit: GettyMatheus Cunha embarrassed Andre Onana by scoring with a cornerCredit: AFPBruno Fernandes saw red just 90 seconds into the second periodCredit: ReutersThen sub Hee Chan Hwang struck in injury- time at a foggy Molineux.Bruno Fernandes was sent off at 0-0 — the United’s skipper’s third dismissal of the season — for two yellow cards.Defeat leaves United 14th — eight points above the bottom three. Asked about the prospect of relegation, Amorim said: “We just have to survive and to win sometimes, to work on the team.“We have tough games and it’s a long journey. Like I said on the first day, we have to continue and we have to fight the bad moments because this is part of football. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”When you don’t have the results, it is even harder for them to believe.”Asked about European qualification, Amorim said: “No, no, no, no.“We have to work on a lot of things in our club inside the pitch, outside the pitch.“Let’s focus on each game and use every minute of training to improve the team.”Most read in FootballWolves had more of the ball and completed far more passesFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOnana was unable to keep out Cunha’s corner just seven days after stand-in stopper Altay Bayindir was embarrassed by Son Heung-min in Tottenham’s 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final win.Amorim added: “The first half was controlled by us but we lacked aggression in the last third.Harry Maguire reveals Man Utd weakness that rivals are ‘targeting’ after defeat to Wolves“At half-time, we talked in the dressing room, tried something different and then the sending off changed the game.”Fernandes received a second yellow card for a tackle on Nelson Semedo.Amorim said: “I am always frustrated with a red card.“He wants to go to the ball — it’s not like he wants to stop a player with a yellow.“The other guy touches the ball first, there is contact and that thing is tough on him also.”Marcus Rashford was left out of the squad for a fourth game in a row and Amorim said: “It’s always the same reason.“We have to be the same professionals, winning or losing.“Losing, I have to be stronger. I’ll continue with my idea until the end.”New Wolves boss Vitor Pereira, who has won his first two games, said: “It is a fantastic feeling, especially because of the spirit of the team.“We can see the players are ready to suffer, run and fight for each ball.”Wolves scorer Cunha was playing because the FA are yet to decide on a punishment for elbowing an Ipswich staff member earlier this month.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Arsenal target said: “Vitor came with a lot of energy and we feel this.“It means a lot — in the stadium you can see how happy they are.”Amorim reckons the Red Devils did well before the break More

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      Fans convinced Jude Bellingham sang X-rated chant about Alan Shearer while watching brother Jobe for Sunderland

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      FANS reckon Jude Bellingham joined in a rude chant about Alan Shearer as he cheered on brother Jobe.The Real Madrid midfielder certainly showed plenty of Christmas spirit as he backed Jobe’s Sunderland at Shearer’s old club Blackburn in a Championship promotion battle.Jude Bellingham spent his time off from Real Madrid watching younger brother Jobe take on promotion rivals Blackburn for SunderlandCredit: GettyBellingham was smartly dressed as he took his seat at Ewood ParkCredit: GettySome fans were amused by the Real midfielder’s reaction when an Alan Shearer chant broke out at the former striker’s old hunting groundCredit: GettyBBC pundit Shearer is an England, Blackburn and Newcastle legend – but he’s not popular with Sunderland fansCredit: GettyAnd many supporters were convinced the smiling England hero jokingly sung along when visiting fans taunted the Toon legend and BBC pundit, who remains the Premier League’s all-time top goalscorer.Bellingham, 21, was captured appearing to playfully mutter some of a chant that normally includes the wholesome words “he wears a magic hat”.The new variant – adapted unseasonally by Sunderland supporters – included: “Shearer is a w****r”.Bellingham’s head was seen swaying in time to the song as he looked to be having fun on his Christmas break – with Real out of action until January 6.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Sunderland fans seemed delighted by his support for Jobe – in whatever way it came.One replied to a clip of the incident by revealing it was “not something that was on my list of things I’d expect to see this Christmas. But here we are. Legend!”Other approving messages included “Can’t love the guy any more if I tried” and “Oh I love you Jude”.Jobe Bellingham was at the front of the celebrations when the Black Cats went 2-1 up, only for Blackburn to grab a late point-saverCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBellingham Senior’s 19-year-old brother Jobe is expected to follow him to the very top.Most read in ChampionshipAnd although for many the Bellingham Boxing Day talking point concerned the chant, the younger brother will be more worried about the dramatic finale on the pitch.Moment Jude Bellingham gives Arsenal transfer hope after fan asks him to join GunnersYuki Ohashi’s deserved opener for Blackburn had been overhauled by a quickfire double after the break, via a Chris Rigg strike and a Wilson Isidor backheel.But Rovers’ late sub Harry Leonard grabbed a 90th-minute point-saver.Sunderland remain fourth – one place but six points ahead of Blackburn.The elder Bellingham brother is enjoying an Xmas break unlike British-based playersCredit: Rex More

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      Harry Maguire reveals Man Utd weakness that rivals are ‘targeting’ after dreadful 2-0 defeat to Wolves

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      HARRY MAGUIRE fears club are “targeting” Manchester United at set-pieces after a dreadful 2-0 defeat to Wolves. United left Molineux with ten men and three points dropped after goals from Matheus Cunha and Hwang Hee-chan.Harry Maguire fears club are ‘targeting’ Manchester United at set-piecesCunha’s 58 minute opener came direct from a corner – the second time United have conceded such a goal in eight days – and defender Maguire reckons it is becoming a weakness for his side.He said: “To concede again, especially the first goal of the game, set-plays are so important in football matches.”They decide games, a lot of the games when they’re tight and they’re 50/50. “The first goal has been a set-play far too many times against us and it’s disappointing.” READ MORE ON MAN UTDUnited conceded two goals from set-pieces against Arsenal and Tottenham’s Son Heung-min even scored direct from a corner. United have conceded ten goals from set-pieces this season – excluding penalties. Asked how they fix their set-piece problems, Maguire said: “Work, work, work more on the training pitch. “I think teams now are maybe targeting our areas of set-plays. The strange thing is, I don’t feel like we’re conceding many chances from them. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”They’ve had a few set-plays tonight and we’ve dealt with them really well and they’ve gone and scored from one. “I think it’s hard work, keep the belief, things will change. I know that. We have players who can defend the box well. Manchester United Player Ratings vs Wolves”They will change, we’ve just got to stick together.” United now host Newcastle next but do so without Bruno Fernandes following his sending off at Wolves as well as Manuel Ugarte, who is suspended after another yellow card.And manager Ruben Amorim said: “Of course, when you lose, when we don’t win, it’s a step back. “It was really hard with the sending off. The goal was similar against Tottenham. Then, we tried. “Even with one less guy we tried to and I think we were near something but then Wolves scored the second one. “Then, in the end, we tried everything and the transition was 2-0. For us, let’s continue. “Man Utd ratings vs WolvesBy Ken LawrenceWOLVES landed a shock Boxing Day knockout as Manchester United’s struggles continued.The 2-0 defeat means Ruben Amorim has won just two of the seven Premier League games he has taken charge of.United find themselves 14th in the table and today were not helped by Bruno Fernandes’ red card and Andre Onana letting one in direct from a corner.Here is how SunSport rated the performances…ANDRE ONANA: 4He needed to make an agile save from Jorgen Strand Larsen in the first half, but badly misjudged the flight of Cunha’s corner for the opening goal – his claim that he was obstructed by Matt Doherty was rejected.LENY YORO: 5Recalled but booked after only four minutes for a foul on Cunha, so he was walking on eggshells and was tested by Wolves throughout. Subbed just after the hour mark.HARRY MAGUIRE: 6The England defender did his best to keep United in the game when they were under pressure for long periods – at least he helped to stem the tide until the dying seconds and had a header on target in stoppage time.LISANDRO MARTINEZ: 6Teamed up well with Maguire to stop Wolves from winning this more easily, he stood his ground and produced some important challenges in the latter stages before Wolves caught him on the break with the last action of the game.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI: 5Tenacious and determined, but was one of several players given a torrid time by the best player on the pitch – Cunha.MANUEL UGARTE: 5Dispossesed too easily at times, struggled against a lively Wolves attack and was eventually taken off as one of Amorim’s subs following Fernandes’ red card.KOBBIE MAINOO: 5Looked a threat early on, created some good openings, but he was booked after the break as United looked short on ideas. Faded and was subbed.DIOGO DALOT: 6Brought a tremendous save from Jose Sa in the first half in what was a rare bright spot for United – but he had no major influence on a poor team display.AMAD DIALLO: 5Lacked awareness of his team-mates sometimes and looked a shadow of the player who turned the Manchester derby around less than two weeks ago.BRUNO FERNANDES: 3Sent off early in the second half for a second yellow after a challenge on Nelson Semedo, but the captain had cut a frustrated figure before that.RASMUS HOJLUND: 5Became visibly annoyed at times at a lack of service from his team-mates, he had no joy up front and was subbed with 10 minutes left.SUBSCasemiro (for Mainoo, 63 mins): 6Christian Eriksen (for Ugate, 63 mins): 6Antony (for Yoro, 63 mins): 6Alejandro Garnacho (for Amad, 79 mins): 5Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 79 mins): 5Bruno Fernandes got sent off at WolvesCredit: Reuters More