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    Arsenal fans admit ‘man crush’ over Riccardo Calafiori after slow-motion video of Gunners heartthrob giving interview

    A STEAMY slow-motion video of Riccardo Calafiori giving an interview has sent Arsenal fans into meltdown. The Italian defender, who arrived in the summer, has been hailed as Gunners supporters’ new “man crush” after the video circulated on Tik Tok and Instagram. Riccardo Calafiori has got pulses racing since arriving in the Premier League in the summerCredit: GettyThe Arsenal faithful were able to take their minds off the drab 1-1 draw with Brighton by watching their Italian heartthrob in his post-match interview. In the video 22-year-old Calafiori was focused on Arsenal’s battle with Liverpool in the title-race. Not that Arsenal fans will have noticed, with Stevie Robinson writing on Tik Tok: “Man crush Monday has come a day early.”One said “Aura man” while AFTAYOUTH added: “Stop it right now.”Sarah said on Instagram “Dear lord” while Andre added: “Te amo mi amor”.Connor wasn’t convinced though, writing: “Shame he’s a woeful footballer.”Calafiori’s good looks even caught the attention of Arsenal’s arch-rivals Tottenham. One supporter wrote under the video “Don’t let these women get their hands on Lucas Bergvall” in reference to Spurs’ blonde-haired Swedish 18-year-old midfielder.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCalafiori’s girlfriend at the time Benedetta Boeme gatecrashed an interview with a reporter for DAZN when Bologna secured a Champions League spotThe pair embraced in a passionate kissBenedetta then hugged Calafiori and glared at the reporter as the clip went viralTo which one Arsenal fan hit back, saying: “Nobody cares about Tottenham, don’t worry.”Calafiori caught the eye while playing for Italy at Euro 2024 in Germany before switching to Arsenal in a deal worth £42million from Bologna.Ahead of his move to North London there was speculation swirling around his relationship status with his then girlfriend Benedetta Boeme. A post on social media said to have been shared by Boeme, who has 40,000 Instagram followers, claimed the move to Arsenal had been confirmed and also announced the pair had broken up.The original post said to have come from Boeme said: “Many of you have been asking what’s been going on in my life lately, so I decided to finally share it with you.”Riccardo and I are no longer together at the moment. I don’t know if we will get through, but I doubt it. “I needed some time to process everything that happened over the past 3-4 days. I still need time.”Thanks to everyone who showed me the video circulating on TikTok this week. Benedetta and Calafiori were regularly seen together on social mediaThey had been dating for at least a yearBoeme has over 40k followers on Instagram”I appreciate it, it was important for me to know the truth. I’ve watched it countless times, searching for a reason to forgive and forget, but I couldn’t.”We talked about it, but I am still uncertain of the answers to my questions.”It was a difficult decision, one we were considering for days. Neither of us wanted this, but what’s done is done and I can’t help it but want to run away from all this.”I will not tolerate any kind of hate towards me or him. I wish him all the best as he joins Arsenal. He has all my support.”And if any of my followers feel they don’t want to continue following me now that he’s not around, feel free to unfollow. Thank you for understanding.”But Boeme took to her Instagram account to to clarify the situation, saying the statement was from a fake account and not made by her.She wrote: “I am forced to write here that I have no TikTok profile!! Someone is pretending to be me and writing things that are not true!”This is my only social media account. I have never talked about anything and I never will. “I kindly ask whoever opened the TikTok profile pretending to be me and writing personal and delicate things, which then get reported as articles in the media, to immediately close the profile, otherwise I will take legal action.”Despite refuting the original post, all photos of the couple together have since been removed from Boeme’s Instagram account and the pair do not follow each other on the social media platform. Benedetta went viral last May when she gatecrashed one of Calafiori’s interviews after Bologna completed their surprise qualification to the upcoming season’s Champions League.READ MORE SUN STORIESCalafiori was speaking to a female reporter for DAZN Italia when Benedetta appeared from out of nowhere into the camera shot.She then embraced him in a passionate kiss before hugging him as the interview carried on, all the while glaring at the reporter. More

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    ‘Tears in my eyes’ – Man Utd fans gush over Bruno Fernandes after Red Devils captain’s brutally honest admission

    BRUNO FERNANDES had Manchester United fans gushing after his open and honest post-match interview at Liverpool.The United skipper was a standout at Anfield as the thriller ended 2-2.Bruno Fernandes was brutally honest following Man Utd’s 2-2 draw at LiverpoolCredit: Sky SportsFernandes’ side took the lead through Lisandro Martínez before goals from Cody Gakpo and Mo Salah gave Liverpool the lead. But United – struggling in 13th without a win in five matches – refused to give up as Amad Diallo levelled on 80 minutes. And the visitor’s almost won the game as they pushed to the end – leaving Fernandes hailing their team spirit. He said: “I’m pretty upset. If we show this level at Liverpool, first in the league, why can’t we do this everywhere? It frustrates me. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Also, finally I did a proper performance. We said we need much more from ourselves to get more from this season.”Being 2-1 [down] then scoring it’s good to get a point but we need more. Now we have an FA Cup tie at Arsenal and it is going to be very tough but we want to get to the final again.”We know how tough it is to play against Liverpool. Today we put in a real effort to the game, playing with some passion and heart is what is going to give you something from the game. “You have to put in effort and that’s why we took something from today.Most read in FootballMan Utd player ratings vs Liverpool By Gary Stonehouse Andre Onana – 7Saved well from Alexis Mac Allister early on and looked strong on set-pieces – could do nothing about either goal and almost stopped Mo Salah’s penalty.Another two saves right at the death helped his men earn a point.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Strong performance to help frustrate Liverpool and produced important interceptions and tackles to clear danger.Matthijs de Ligt – 7The Dutchman was another impressive member of the back three and seemed on a mission not to leave Anfield without a share of the spoils.Harry Maguire – 7Marshalled the defence well and won several big tackles and clearances.Had his day spoiled by a yellow card for what looked to a be another great challenge and then blazed over right at the death.Lisandro Martinez – 7Excellent alongside the rest of the back three and finished his strike like a seasoned striker.Diogo Dalot – 7Played on the front foot and was an attacking threat throughout but landed himself a booking for a needless and blatant foul on Mo Salah.Kobbie Mainoo – 7Great defensive and compact display as he got the better of his England rival Curtis Jones in front of Thomas Tuchel.Was only taken off after United fell behind as his manager went more offensive. Manuel Ugarte – 6Just got caught out of position and was punished for Cody Gakpo’s goal, which marred an otherwise hard-fought and disciplined display.Amad Diallo – 7Turning into a man capable of producing big moments after another crucial strike. Had messed up twice in two earlier attacks but took his goal superbly.Bruno Fernandes – 8The skipper was on top form for the Red Devils both defensively and with the ball. Led his team well and fully deserved at least a point.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Came underfire for slack marking from Fernandes early doors then blew a big chance after beating the offside trap – a chance you NEED to take at Anfield.Struggled to make much of an impact with the ball.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It can’t stop here, We have to bring this frustration to the next game to understand this has to be the level. “If we can do it an Anfield, we have to do it everywhere.” ‘He’s going to Tranmere after this’ – Roy Keane rips into Trent Alexander-Arnold after ‘school boy’ defending vs Man UtdUnited fans rushed to social media to praise Fernandes, as one said: “Tears in my eyes, some RESPONSIBILITY.”Another added: “He was absolutely fantastic. And had the humility to say about this about his performances afterwards. Brilliant by Bruno.”One hailed: “Bruno’s post match interview is absolutely bang on. He understands.”Another said: “My captain – being honest. Could use more of this.”Fernandes was a standout at LiverpoolCredit: AP More

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    ‘Imagine being Cristiano Ronaldo…’ say fans as stunning Wag Georgina Rodriguez flaunts curves in thong bikini

    GEORGINA RODRIQUEZ left fans saying “imagine being Cristiano Ronaldo” after flaunting her curves on Instagram.The model shared snaps from a winter getaway in Dubai, posing in a bikini in the sea and spa.Georgina Rodriquez flaunted her curves on InstagramCredit: Instagram @georginagioThe model shared snaps from a winter getaway in DubaiCredit: Instagram @georginagioGeorgina was in Dubai as Cristiano Ronaldo was being honoured at the 2024 Globe Soccer AwardsCredit: Instagram @georginagioHer followers immediately rushed to the comment sectionCredit: Instagram @georginagioHer followers immediately rushed to the comment section as one said: “The most beautiful girl in the world.” Another added: “Georgina gets better and better every year!”One gushed: “Georgina, you are the definition of elegance and grace!”Georgina was in Dubai with Ronaldo while the footballing legend was honoured at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Al Nassr forward was named the Best Middle Eastern player and bagged another award for being the Top Goalscorer of All Time.And during his acceptance speech, Ronaldo dedicated the gong to Georgina – who stunned with her eye-catching outfit – and his 14-year-old son Cristiano Jr.Ronaldo then sparked rumours he had secretly married Georgina after referring to her as his “wife”. He said: “It’s a big pleasure to win this trophy. My oldest son is here, my wife [Georgina] is here.”Most read in FootballGeorgina and Ronaldo have been together since 2016 and have two children together – Alana Martina, 8, and Bella, 2.She is also a doting stepmother to his other three kids – twins Eva and Mateo, 7, and Cristiano Jr.Inside Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez’s Christmas trip to Lapland with snowmobiles and reindeerThe loved-up pair have never publicly declared they are married, with Ronaldo’s slip of the tongue sending the rumour mill into overdrive.Ronaldo has been playing his football in Saudi Arabia since leaving Manchester United in December 2022.But as his 40th birthday approaches in February, the Portuguese icon insisted he still has more to give. Ronaldo said: “[Georgina] is my lovely support all the time to carry on to play. In one month I’m gonna be 40 years old but I’m not finished yet. “I will continue because I want to win titles, I want to be a champion. I want to score more goals, I want to try to win for the national team.”Georgina and Ronaldo at the the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards in DubaiCredit: GettyRonaldo referred to Georgina as his ‘wife’Credit: APGeorgina and Ronaldo have been together since 2016Credit: instagram/@georginagioGeorgina often travels with RonaldoCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9r-X6SNFff/?hl=en-gb&img_index=1 More

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    Michail Antonio shares emotional post as he speaks out for 1st time since being discharged from hospital after car crash

    WEST Ham star Michail Antonio has posted an emotional message online for the first time since he was discharged from hospital following his horror car crash.The Hammers striker broke his leg in the smash involving his £260,000 Ferrari, which saw him airlifted to hospital earlier this month.Michail Antonio has posted an emotional message after being discharged from hospitalCredit: InstagramThe Hammers star broke his leg in a horror car crash earlier this monthCredit: STEVE BELLBut he promised fans he would be back on the pitch ‘soon’Credit: GettyHe was discharged earlier today and has now broken his silence on the ordeal.Taking to his Instagram, Antonio thanked emergency services and the football community – and promised to be back in action soon.He wrote: “Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. “But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive.READ MORE MICHAIL ANTONIO”I’ve spent so many years taking life for granted. I made plans for the next day, the next year, always assuming tomorrow was guaranteed.”What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. “Life is fragile, and every single moment matters. Michail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game.”I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here.”To the emergency services, the NHS, the Air Ambulance, everyone at the Royal London and Cromwell hospitals and everyone from top to bottom at West Ham United FC. “The medical team, the board, all of the staff, my teammates and the amazing West Ham fans… I honestly could not have got through this without you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. Most read in Football”To my loved ones who stood by my side throughout everything, I can’t express how much you mean to me.”Lastly, to the whole football community thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me. It has truly meant the world. “I love you all and I am endlessly grateful for every one of you.West Ham fans pay emotional tribute to Michail Antonio with ninth-minute applause”Happy New Year- and I’ll be back on that pitch soon.”Ongoing enquiriesThe striker was trapped in the wreckage of the supercar for more than an hour before ambulances arrived on the scene.Cops have since ruled out booze or drugs as the reason for the crash, with investigators also reportedly working on the assumption that no third party was involved.There hasn’t even been mention of excessive speeding, raising the possibility that it could have been a freak accident.A source said: “Drink and drugs have already been ruled out, and officers are not currently looking for anyone else.“There is no smoking gun as far as cops are concerned right now – but they have to investigate because the smash was so serious and caused such extensive injuries.“Just because cops are involved doesn’t mean a crime has been committed.”A classy touchIn response to the crash, West Ham has raised almost £60,000 for NHS and Air Ambulance charities to thank staff for their rapid response.For their first game in the wake of the smash, players all wore shirts bearing Antonio’s name.These were then signed and auctioned off for a collective £29,613, which was then matched by the club’s board.Hammers captain Jarrod Bowen said: “It’s been special to see the West Ham family and the wider football community come together in support of Mic over the last month.“We are all grateful for the care that both the NHS and Air Ambulances UK have given to Mic during a challenging time for him and his family.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And for what they continue to do every single day for people around the country.”Pulling together during difficult times is what being a part of West Ham United is all about and on behalf of the team I want to thank everyone for helping us to raise an incredible amount of money for two great causes.” More

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    England star Kieran Trippier locked in row with estranged wife over their three kids as he breaks major rule

    ENGLAND star Kieran Trippier is locked in a feud with his estranged wife Charlotte over their three kids.The 34-year-old footballer broke one of their key parenting rules following their split – leaving his former missus raging.Kieran Trippier with wife Charlotte and their three childrenCredit: Instagram/charlottehtrippierTrippier wished fans a Happy Christmas with this pic of his kids showing their facesCredit: Instagram/ktrippier2Charlotte on holiday in Greece this summerThe former couple of eight years have locked horns over a parenting ruleThe Newcastle player – who earns £130,000-a-week – was slapped down by his interior designer ex for sharing snaps of their three children’s faces on social media.Protective mum Charlotte, 34, only shares pictures of the children from behind or uses emojis to cover their faces when posting online – but Trippier has chosen not to follow suit in recent weeks.”They’ve had a massive argument about their kids’ privacy since she moved out,” friends told The Sun. “Charlotte’s always protected their identities and would blur the children’s faces in the pics, but now Kieran’s been posting their faces online.READ MORE ON ENGLAND STARS”It was a rule they both shared until recently and he broke it without asking her permission. “She’s upset, hurt and angry about it.”The pair married in Cyprus in 2016, but sparked split rumours over the summer when Charlotte was missing from the WAGs in Germany for the Euros.She cryptically posted in the group stages: “Sooner or later you get over the s*** you swore you’d never get over and it’s the best feeling in the world.”Most read in FootballThe Sun revealed Charlotte moved out of the £3.8million mansion they shared and relocated 200 miles away in September.It came after their marriage hit the rocks when Trippier was seen lifting up a blonde girl while partying with Newcastle teammates at a packed karaoke bar last year.Kieran Trippier goes viral during Newcastle’s clash at Bournemouth after painful moment is caught on Sky Sports camerasHe cuddled the woman before wrapping his arms around her and then picking her up by the bottom, while Charlotte was holidaying in Spain.Although the ex-couple have never confirmed their split, they have both ditched their wedding rings.Trippier won the Spanish title with Atletico Madrid before joining Newcastle in 2021 as one of its highest earners.The England full-back retired from international duty this summer after England lost 2-1 to Spain in the Euros final.He asked for a transfer at Newcastle after losing his place in the team.The club’s Saudi owners are looking to balance the books and he’s believed to be open to another move abroad with a transfer expected as soon as this week.Mum of three Charlotte is fiercely protective of her kidsCredit: Instagram/charlottehtrippierCharlotte uses emojis to keep the children’s identities safeCredit: Instagram/charlottehtrippierShe often posts snaps with them turning their back on the cameraCredit: Instagram/charlottehtrippier More

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    Chloe Kelly looks stunning in bikini as England Lionesses star enjoys Dubai holiday with new husband

    CHLOE KELLY went from the Wetihad to Sunsetihad – as the Manchester City star swapped wintry England for balmy Dubai.The Lionesses winger treated herself to a luxury holiday, and her fans to some sizzling photos, as she jetted away with new husband Scott Moore.Chloe Kelly’s admirers were thrilled by her yacht snapsCredit: Instagram @ChloekellyThe 48-cap England ace had fans in a spin with her picsCredit: Instagram @ChloekellyKelly’s smile was only beaten by that of hubbie Scott MooreCredit: Instagram @ChloekellyThe Etihad ace is making the most of a month-long break in the Women’s Super League.While her male counterparts at City are struggling for even a top-four finish in the Premier League, Kelly and Co will return to WSL action in second place with a tasty Manchester derby against United on January 19.But that looked the last thing on the 26-year-old’s mind as she relaxed in a bikini for yacht shots.Kelly wed long-time boyfriend Moore, who she met when he was a groundsman at her old club Everton, in the rolling countryside of Merrydale Manor, near Knutsford in Cheshire, in July.READ MORE ON CHLOE KELLYAnd she’s followed that special pre-season occasion with a mid-term jaunt that she also cherished.Kelly posted pics from beneath a golden sky in the UAE with the accompanying words: “SUNKISSED & SUNSETS.”England’s 2022 final matchwinner had already delighted her admirers in recent weeks with glamorous red carpet appearances – at GQ’s Men of the Year awards and an MTV bash.This time she posed in a black bikini underneath an open white blouse.Most read in FootballAdmirers reckon Chloe hit the right note with her MTV outfitCredit: GettyThis choice of fashion equally impressed her followersCredit: GettyAnd her hubbie wore an even bigger smile when they cuddled up in one photo, both in sunglasses.”Goddess,” “Hotness,” “Beautiful you” and “Gorgeous Chloe” were just some of the reactions from her 876,000 Instagram followers.Chloe Kelly shows off her toned abs in very bold outfit as England Lionesses star attends MTV Europe Music AwardsOne fan went with a slightly unsettling message: “Ha! I saw your boat from my bedroom window this morning. Enjoy!”But another enthusiast who also had a close Chloe encounter appeared to be crying with his replying, rather boasting with his posting.He wrote: “I was literally at the same beach as her… Genuine swimming distance” – adding a tearful emoji.Sun you win, sun you lose!Man City ace Kelly is on a break from the Women’s Super LeagueCredit: GettyKelly’s celebration after sinking Germany with an extra-time winner in the Euro 2022 final at Wembley quickly became iconicCredit: PA More

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    Former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka shows off dramatic new look as he and family go skiing during Christmas holiday

    GRANIT XHAKA has shown off a dramatic new look during a family skiing holiday.The former Arsenal star took to the slopes during the Bundesliga’s winter break.Granit Xhaka showed off a new look while on holidayCredit: Instagram / granitxhakaThe midfielder has gone for a buzzcutCredit: Instagram / granitxhakaXhaka, 32, left the Gunners in 2023 for Bayer Leverkusen and has become one of the side’s key players.He played a crucial role in the team winning the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal last term.This included a run of 51 matches unbeaten under manager Xabi Alonso.But unlike Arsenal, Xhaka gets the festive period off work due to the winter break in Germany.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe midfielder has taken the opportunity to go on holiday with their pregnant wife, Leonita, and their two daughters, Ayana and Laneya.They visited the Arosa Kulm Hotel and Alpin Spa in Switzerland and enjoyed some time trekking on the slopes.He shared snaps from the trip on Instagram with the caption: “Family Time is the Best Time.”However, Xhaka looked nearly unrecognisable with his new haircut, which can be seen in the pictures.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Swiss international has clipped most of his hair off as he has gone for a buzz cut.Fans have been left shocked by the bold new look as they reacted in the comment section.Chrissy Teigen in sweary rant at British ‘knbs and tts’ after backlash over mistaking major error after watching Arsenal playXhaka is currently starring for Bayer LeverkusenCredit: RexOne posted: “Xhaka buzz cut before GTA 6.”A second commented: “They aren’t ready for buzzed Xhaka.”A third wrote: “Just when he couldn’t be more intimidating in midfield.”A fourth said: “Looking good Granit.”Xhaka will return to action with Leverkusen on January 10 against Borussia Dortmund.It will have been five weeks since their previous game, which was a 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the DFB Pokal.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Bukayo Saka posts picture from hospital bed after Arsenal star undergoes surgery and faces months on sidelines

    BUKAYO SAKA has given fans a health update after undergoing surgery.Mikel Arteta confirmed the Arsenal star would be heading to hospital after he was hit with a hamstring injury during their 5-1 win at Crystal Palace before Christmas.Bukayo Saka has posted a health update following surgeryCredit: Instagram / bukayosaka87The Arsenal star was hit by a hamstring injury before ChristmasCredit: RexSaka was seen on crutches following the gameCredit: The SunSaka, 23, limped off the pitch at Selhurst Park with fears he could be out for a prolonged period of time.And those fears came true when Arteta confirmed his star man would need surgery and would be out until at least March.He said: “Yes Bukayo had a procedure and everything went well, but unfortunately he will be out for many, many weeks.”I said many weeks, so I think it will be more than two months. I don’t know exactly how much longer.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaka has now undergone his operation and provided anxious Gooners with an update on his health by releasing a picture on Instagram.The stricken winger shared a photo to his page showing him in a hospital bed with his right thumb up.He captioned the post: “The majority see obstacles, but few see the opportunities. “Recovery has begun and I’m coming back stronger! Thank you all for your messages #Godsplan.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIn a bid to alleviate the problem caused by Saka’s absence, Arsenal deployed Gabriel Martinelli on the right wing in their 1-0 win over Ipswich.On the game and the Brazilian’s new role, Arteta said: “[It was] Very different we will evolve that. Bukayo Saka is spotted on crutches after Arsenal’s win at Crystal Palace”In the second half I liked it more. It will take a bit of time.”Arsenal face back to back away trips to Brentford on New Year’s Day and Brighton the following Saturday.The Gunners then host Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg before taking on Manchester United at the Emirates in the FA Cup third round.Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining. More