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      Man Utd forced to make change to ticket sales that is ‘unheard of’ as hated price hike ‘backfires massively’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have prompted further backlash after tickets for Saturday’s clash with Nottingham Forest were spotted on OPEN SALE.The move comes amid growing resentment among fans after the Red Devils raised the price of tickets for members to £66.Tickets for United’s match against Forest at Old Trafford were put up on open saleIt followed fans protests against the decision to increase ticket prices to £66Supporters held up banners with the phrase: ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’But perhaps United’s plan to scrap concessions for children and pensioners has been hit with the most controversy.Tickets returned by season-ticket holders are typically sold to members via the club’s website.But the site had availability for the general public on all four sides of Old Trafford on Wednesday.United have since confirmed that the Forest match has been sold out.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut the fact that they had to resort to an open sale is seen as significant.A spokesman for the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust told The Mail: “Tickets for league home games have been gold dust for decades.”But fans have a limit and the fact Forest tickets are on open sale should make the club see that £66 tickets are a step too far. “It’s time to reverse the decision and make sure Old Trafford remains as full as ever.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans vented their anger at the Glazer family and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe during Sunday’s 4-0 win against Everton.There are now fears among United’s 55,000 season-ticket holders that a hefty price hike is likely for them next season too.Ruben Amorim reveals four Man Utd stars who have a ‘time limit’ as he discusses squad issues There were even protests before the Everton game, with a banner raised reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”.And a survey of 4,000 supporters by MUST revealed that 68 per cent will attend fewer games.A spokesman for protest group The 1958 said: “It’s unheard of for a Premier League game to go on open sale through the club.”It just doesn’t happen – this has backfired massively.”SunSport have contact United for comment.Despite the backlash, United chiefs have defended their decision in a statement, despite already saving fortunes by making a host of staff redundant. It read: “As a club, we have been focused on cost saving to put us on a stronger financial footing.What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. “This means having to make very hard decisions, including a significant reduction in our staff numbers. “It also means looking for opportunities to increase our revenues so we can continue to invest in football and infrastructure. “We have now sold over 97 per cent of tickets this season, many of which were at a discounted rate. “We are implementing some policy changes for matches that have already sold out, where only small numbers of tickets will be released.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFans affected have been emailed by club chiefs, with several expressing their dissatisfaction on social media.One post read: “Absolute waffle from United in that email about the ticket price rises, they can butter it up anyway they want, but there is and never will be any excuse for charging children £66 to watch a football game at Old Trafford.”Man Utd ratings vs ArsenalRUBEN AMORIM lost his first game since taking charge of Man Utd after a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates.See how the players rated…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag.Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece.DIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward.Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock.Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing.Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz.Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful.Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so.Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.MASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight.He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford.Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances.Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score.SUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today.The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever.ANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya. 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      Man Utd send scouts to watch Tyler Dibling as two Premier League giants consider transfer swoop for Southampton star

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      SOUTHAMPTON’S Tyler Dibling is being watched by TWO Premier League giants, SunSport can reveal.The midfielder has been one of the only bright sparks in a season which has seen the Saints left rooted to the bottom of the table.Tyler Dibling has impressed since breaking into the Southampton teamCredit: GettyManager Russell Martin has given Dibling a huge amount of game time and he’s responded by putting in a string of eye-catching performances.He particularly impressed during the Saints’ fiery 1-1 draw with Brighton, a performance which drew praise from a number of pundits.DIbling, 18, has now caught the eye of two Prem giants.Manchester United and Aston Villa have both sent scouts to watch his last three games and he’s believed to be on the radar of clubs in Germany and Italy as well.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt’s likely any deal for the player would be in the summer as Southampton are not ready to sell with relegation a looming threat.But if the Saints do finish in the bottom three they could struggle to keep hold of the player.Dibling has scored one goal this season and has won praise from Danny Murphy, who labelled him “instrumental” to Southampton.He said on Match of the Day: “It is the quality he has got – the belief in himself and the physical power. He just goes past people with ease. He has got a lovely left foot. He is very brave on the ball and his decision-making is good.Most read in Football”It is difficult to get too over the top with these young players, because he has just come on to the scene, but he is going to be something special.”It is great for him getting all these minutes at Southampton. They are giving him the freedom to play and giving him time to learn the game.Ruben Amorim reveals four Man Utd stars who have a ‘time limit’ as he discusses squad issues “He is just enjoying himself and he is playing with a real belief in himself. He is just instrumental in this team.” More

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      Van Nistelrooy set to raid Man Utd for wonderkid with ‘freakish’ training stats as he targets Leicester loan transfer

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      RUUD VAN NISTELROOY is set to raid his former club Manchester United to improve his Leicester City squad.The Dutchman made a dream start to life at the King Power by leading the Foxes to a 3-1 win over West Ham on Tuesday night.Toby Collyer is on Leicester’s radarCredit: AlamyRuud van Nistelrooy is a huge fan of the youngsterCredit: GettyAfter a whirlwind first few days at the relegation-threatened club, Van Nistelrooy is identifying areas of the team he wants to improve in the January transfer window.SunSport has learned the ex-Man Utd interim is planning to use his contacts at Old Trafford to sign starlet Toby Collyer.Van Nistelrooy is set to make a loan bid for the 20-year-old midfielder.The new Leicester boss believes he could be a key asset in their battle to avoid the drop.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe worked closely with Collyer during his time as assistant to Erik ten Hag.The highly-rated youngster has produced “freakish” running stats in training that can only be bettered by Bruno Fernandes. United have no interest in selling Collyer, who joined the club’s academy two years ago from Brighton.But they could be open-minded to a loan move, especially to a manager who they know will give him opportunities in the first-team.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCollyer made his senior debut in the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City in August.He has since featured twice, including as half-time sub for Casemiro as United were beaten 3-0 by Liverpool in the Premier League.Pundit Steve Sidwell has tipped Collyer to be a “shining star just like Kobbie Mainoo”.Gary Neville throws DRINK over Carragher after Liverpool blow Newcastle lead as fans say ‘he was gonna go for him there’ More

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      Fans spot Man Utd’s pre-match tactic that massively backfired against Arsenal

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      MANCHESTER UNITED practised defending corners in their warm-up before facing Arsenal… and still went on to concede from them TWICE.Mikel Arteta’s men went into the game with a reputation for being dangerous from corner kicks.Manchester United practised defending corners before the gameCredit: RexThey were seen heading away corners during the warm-up at the EmiratesCredit: RexAnd they lived up to that billing as Jurrien Timber and William Saliba both nodded home from the set-pieces to hand Arsenal a 2-0 win at the Emirates.Ruben Amorim’s side could not deal with the deliveries all evening as Thomas Partey and Mikel Merino also went close from corners.So it will come as a major surprise to most Man Utd fans that the Red Devils were preparing for Arsenal’s corner-kick assault just moments before the match.A video posted by Manchester Evening News shows corners being whipped in as Man Utd’s defenders – who were in bibs – head them away while under pressure from some of their team-mates.READ MORE ON MAN UTDYet it clearly did not work as they then looked all at sea for the corners taken by Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.And fans on social media saw the irony in the training drill.One said: “You can’t stop the inevitable 😂.”Another added: “They should’ve had Declan or Bukayo take the corners for them in the warm-up.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSArsenal went on to terrorise Man Utd in the gameCredit: RexWilliam Saliba, left, and Jurrien Timber, right, both headed home from cornersCredit: GettyA third replied: “Not once did they start from outside the goal and run in once… they did it all wrong 😂🤣🤣.”While a fourth jokingly responded: “They defended the corners so well in training tbf🤣😀.”Ruben Amorim reveals four Man Utd stars who have a ‘time limit’ as he discusses squad issues Arsenal have now scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season – seven more than Manchester City and eight more than Premier League leaders Liverpool.Next up for Arsenal is a trip to Fulham on Sunday, before they host Monaco in the Champions League.Ruben Amorim suffered his first defeat as Man Utd manager on Wednesday nightCredit: GettyHow 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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      ‘Sit down.. childish,’ Roy Keane fumes at Ian Wright and slams ‘f***ing rubbish’ Man Utd star in Arsenal game watchalong

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      ROY KEANE snapped at Ian Wright for his reaction to Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester United during The Overlap’s live watchalong last night.Keane couldn’t bite his tongue as Wright revelled in the Gunners’ victory at the Emirates, telling his “childish” co-podcaster to “sit down”.Roy Keane lashed out at Ian Wright for ‘childishly’ celebrating Arsenal’s winKeane later hit out at one United star in particularArsenal’s potency from set-pieces prevailed after half-time as two corners created Jurrien Timber and William Saliba’s decisive goals.Wright, who was in top form, leapt in utter euphoria when Saliba’s punt doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 73rd minute.And as stoppage time played out, Wright began the wind-up mission.He cheekily praised Arsenal for how they dealt with a lowly team as he struggled to keep a straight face.READ MORE ON ARSENALWright, 61, said: “I think what we’ve done is we’ve been very patient with a mid-table team that’s come and been very frustrating.”They’ve really frustrated us, and we just had to get it done with the set pieces. I know it must be…”Keane failed to restrain himself, interrupting: “Can I ask you, what age are you? You’re a grandfather.”Wright hit back: “I’m a football fan. What’s that got to do with anything?”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKeane, 53, continued, talking over the Arsenal icon: “Sitting there going ‘oh mid-table’, being childish, show some class, show some class, show some class.”Wright added: “No, I’m watching my team win. What do you mean show some class? It’s got nothing to do with class.”Arsenal dubbed the ‘new STOKE CITY’ live on Amazon Prime by Man Utd legend after corner masterclassKeane responded: “It is. Saying a mid-table team that come and defend.”The United legend also slammed Marcus Rashford’s performance later in the show. He said: “I tell you what, Rashford has come on, his general play as a footballer is shocking. Watch his header there.”You know what that is, rubbish! That is f***ing rubbish… kicks it out of play.”Rashford came under scrutiny when he conceded a corner that led to Arsenal’s second goal.Rashford had 22 touches during his cameo but he failed to produce any shots or key passesNeville added: “That can’t happen. It’s a looped corner. You do scratch your head, you’re there as a coach and spend hours going through these corners.”Rashford had 22 touches during his cameo but he failed to produce any shots or key passes.Jamie Carragher had entertained with animated celebrations to tease Neville throughout the stream.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the former United right-back got his sweet revenge when Newcastle grabbed a last minute equaliser to hold Liverpool to a 3-3 draw.Neville threw his drink over Carragher as he celebrated Fabian Schar’s hit at the back post to convert Bruno Guimaraes’ free-kick.Man Utd ratings vs ArsenalRUBEN AMORIM lost his first game since taking charge of Man Utd after a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates.See how the players rated…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag.Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece.DIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward.Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock.Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing.Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz.Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful.Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so.Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.MASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight.He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford.Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances.Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score.SUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today.The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever.ANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya. 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      Bukayo Saka’s Wag Tolami Benson stuns in hotpants and revealing Arsenal shirt as she watches Gunners beat Man Utd

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      BUKAYO SAKA’S girlfriend Tolami Benson stunned once again as she watched Arsenal beat Manchester United in a very revealing Gunners shirt.Saka’s side beat United 2-0 on Wednesday with goals by Jurrien Timber and William Saliba to hand Ruben Amorim his first defeat as the Red Devils’ new boss.Bukayo Saka’s girlfriend Tolami Benson watched Arsenal beat Manchester UnitedCredit: InstagramTolami looked incredible in leather hotpants and a revealing Arsenal shirtCredit: InstagramTolami showed off her outfit with a selfie from the toiletsCredit: InstagramSaka helped Arsenal defeat Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyTolami, 24, was in the VIP section enjoying the victory with a cup of coffee.The social media personality posed in an Arsenal shirt that had been cropped extremely high up and leather hotpants for her 196,000 followers on Instagram.She then went to the stadium’s bathroom to take a selfie.That led to a raft of comments from her fans who left over 36,000 likes.Read More on ArsenalOne follower posted: “3 points.”Another commented: “Star girl.”A third wrote: “Our queen.”And her followers were blown away by what the fashionista had done with the Gunners shirt.Most read in FootballOne wrote: “This cropped shirt is everything. Love to see you always changing it up.”Another, who is clearly an Arsenal fan too, joked: “This is vandalism, but for our queen, we will allow it.” Arsenal dubbed the ‘new STOKE CITY’ live on Amazon Prime by Man Utd legend after corner masterclass”A third added: “From how you’ve rocked the kit to the nails to the subtle view of the win at the back…” This comes after Tolami stole the headlines on the star-studded red carpet at The Fashion Awards in London this week.She has been dating Saka since 2020 and is often seen at the stands supporting him for club and country.Tolami often supports Saka from the standsCredit: InstagramTolami is social media personalityCredit: PATolami often shares glam picsCredit: Instagram/@tolami_bensonTolami was on the red carpet for the Fashion AwardsCredit: GettyTolami also attends Saka’s England matchesCredit: GettySaka and Tolami have been dating since 2020Credit: PA More

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      Arsenal dubbed the ‘new STOKE CITY’ live on Amazon Prime by Man Utd legend as incredible heat maps revealed

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      DIMITAR Berbatov has christened Arsenal “the new Stoke City” after their corner masterclass against Manchester United.The Gunners, who sit third in the Prem, eased to a 2-0 win over United thanks to two goals from corners last night.Jurrien Timber broke the deadlock in the 54th minute with a deft headerWilliam Saliba unknowingly scored the Gunners’ secondArsenal dropped to third in the Prem, below Chelsea on goal differenceDimitar Berbatov watched on as Arsenal scored two goals from corners against UnitedInternet jokers mocked Mikel Arteta up as Tony PulisJurrien Timber broke the deadlock when he glanced Declan Rice’s corner beyond Andre Onana in the 54th minute.Arsenal then doubled their lead in similar fashion, this time from the opposite side when Bukayo Saka’s back-post delivery was headed back across by Thomas Partey, with William Saliba providing the finishing touch.Arsenal have scored 22 goals from set-pieces since the start of last season – more than any other team in Europe.And Mikel Arteta’s side are showing no signs of slowing down.READ MORE ON ARSENALBut that has led to some stark comparisons from Berbatov, who suggested Arsenal are the modern day version of Tony Pulis’ finest.Former United star Berbatov said on Amazon Prime: “Probably the Premier League is the only league in the world where you have so many players around the goalkeeper, pushing, shoving, making chaos.”Normally it is going to be a foul. Not here. You need to be strong.”And that’s probably why Ruben Amorim was watching from the side, he was like, ‘What is going on with my keeper?’Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You need to work on that. As we joke, Arsenal are the new Stoke City, right? Depending on set-pieces, which can give you the win, as it was today.”Gabriel has already scored three Prem goals from set-pieces this season, but his absence wasn’t missed as he sat out with a minor knock.Gary Neville fumes at Arsenal’s ‘most annoying man in football’ – but Jamie Carragher says he’s worth £25,000-a-weekDeclan Rice’s map shows red at the corner flagArsenal’s first goal came from a Declan Rice corner, met by Jurrien TimberArsenal closed the gap to seven points on Prem leaders Liverpool after the Reds drew 3-3 away at Newcastle on the same night.Arteta has built a huge side capable of mixing it physically with any rival – including 6ft 4in duo William Saliba and Kai Havertz, along with fellow giants Mikel Merino, David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel, Ben White, Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.Summer signing Merino, who is 6ft 2in, said: “It is crazy. I am in the corridors of the training ground just walking, and back at my old club I used to be one of the tallest, so everyone was smaller than me.“Now, I look around and everyone is taller than me. We look like a basketball team.”Stoke, meanwhile, prided themselves on their physicality under Pulis during his reign from 2006 to 2013.Rory Delap’s long throw was often their main ammunition when it came to creating chances.Stoke’s Prem set-piece goal ratio under former manager Pulis was 43.1 per cent – 81 from a total of 188 goals.While Arsenal’s ratio accounts for 25.2 per cent of their 119 league goals.Stoke were famed for their physical approach to Prem matches under Tony PulisRice and Saka have the most assists from set plays since the start of last season (seven).Some believed Arsenal’s opener – again from a corner – against West Ham on Saturday should’ve been ruled out.Timber appeared to have fouled Lucas Paqueta, who covered the near post and could have easily headed the cross away.Former Prem ref Mark Halsey told SunSport: “Regarding decisions when a goal is scored. Was it a foul? Was it not a foul?”For me, I think it was a clear free-kick. And I’m surprised that VAR didn’t recommend a review.”Arsenal have scored 41 corner goals in the top-flight since the summer of 2021, seven more than anyone else.It was the first time in 10 years that United conceded two goals from corners in a Prem match.The last time was when Samuel Eto’o scored twice in Chelsea’s 3-1 win in January 2014.Arsenal often line up at the back post and then flood goal line for their corner routinesThe Gunners are set piece specialistsCredit: GettyBukayo Saka’s heat map shows significant movement at the corner spot on the right hand sideAmoirm, meanwhile, said: “The set pieces changed the game. We could’ve been more aggressive towards the Arsenal box. “Until the set pieces the game didn’t have too many opportunities for both sides, the set pieces killed the game.”They can put a lot of players near the goalkeeper and it’s almost impossible to fight for the ball but we have to manage to defend them and we already know we have to be better.”We were committed and we lost to the set pieces.”There were just five shots in the opening 45 minutes — three for Arsenal and two for United. It marked the fewest shots in the first half of any top-flight fixture so far this season.Meanwhile, former Everton gaffer and current Portugal boss Roberto Martinez backed Berbatov’s comments.He said on Amazon Prime: “We all suffered Stoke. I think it is a great credit to remember Tony Pulis.”READ MORE SUN STORIESChelsea climbed above Arsenal on goal difference, as a result of their 5-1 win at Southampton.And the Red Devils dropped to 11th with Nottingham Forest travelling to Old Trafford on Saturday.Rory Delap’s long throw was often utilised by Stoke during their time under PulisRuben Amorim suffered his first defeat as Man Utd managerArsenal ratings vs Manchester UnitedARSENAL were comfortable 2-0 winners over Manchester United at the Emirates thanks to two goals from set-pieces.Check out how the players rated…DAVID RAYA – 7/10One of his poorer games with ball at feet, scuffing clearances when he is usually so pin-point.All that can be forgotten after a stunning fingertip stop to keep out De Ligt’s looping header.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO – 7A reminder of why he is such a valuable squad player these days. Came in from out of the cold with a solid and resolute performance at the back.The only blip was a lapse in concentration meaning he was forced to foul Amad and pick up a needless yellow card.WILLIAM SALIBA – 9Missed his defensive partner but you wouldn’t know it. Cool and calm under pressure with some nice turns and drives up the pitch.So he deserved his luck for his goal to make it 2-0 – Partey’s header from a corner deflecting off his backside.JAKUB KIWIOR – 8Struggled physically against Hojlund from United goal kicks and long balls, often letting the ball bounce instead of attacking it aerially like Gabriel does.Saying that, he grew into his role and really put in a shift under pressure, even getting high fives from Saliba at one point.JURRIEN TIMBER – 8Link-up with Saka down the right flank was not as fluid as in recent weeks, yet he was brave to win the flick on to open the scoring in the second half.Switched to left-back late on, showing off further his versatility and usefulness to Arteta and ArsenalTHOMAS PARTEY – 7Missed a sitter from a near-post corner that he shouldered wide early on and continued to have one of those games in midfield, giving up possession time after time with sloppy passes.Moved to right back with 20 minutes left only to help double their lead with his header for Saliba.DECLAN RICE – 7Struggled to assert his authority in the first half but fixed that after the break, providing the whipped corner assist for Timber.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Leads by example, even if he cannot sprinkle a big of magic into proceedings. His pressing and all-round work rate was more important in this one.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Shinned a decent chance from six yards after United failed to clear a corner. Was committed in defence in the second half to help out Zinchenko against Amad.BUKAYO SAKA – 7Pushed Malacia back and Arsenal up the pitch with his great runs in behind, a constant threat.His corner abilities – teeing up Saliba’s gaol – is just another string to his bow.KAI HAVERTZ – 6A real quiet one from the German, not that he had much service to feed off. Wore out his boots with plenty of running and battled with De Ligt and Maguire well.Missed a glorious chance to wrap up the game in a one-on-one with Onana.SUBS:MIKEL MERINO (ZINCHENKO, 70) – 7Leaped brilliantly from yet another corner unmarked and no clue how he didn’t find the bottom corner.LEANDRO TROSSARD (MARTINELLI, 70) – 6A couple of breakaways almost created openings. The added energy down the left was well received.JORGINHO (ODEGAARD, 90) – N/A More

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      Man Utd player ratings: Harry Maguire impresses in first half but Amorim’s Mason Mount experiment hugely backfires

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      ARSENAL’S set-piece coach inflicted a first Man Utd defeat on Ruben Amorim.Two expertly-worked corner routines saw Jurrien Timber and William Saliba convert on what turned out to be a comfortable evening for Mikel Arteta’s side.Manchester United left Arsenal as 2-0 losersCredit: EPAUnited, meanwhile, drop back into the bottom half of the table – but just three points behind Nottingham Forest in the final European spot.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Manchester United players…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag. Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece. READ MORE ON MAN UTDDIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward. Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards. MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock. Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.Most read in FootballHarry Maguire was Utd’s standoutCredit: APHARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing. Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz. Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad. Tyrell Malacia was hooked at half timeCredit: APMANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful. Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so. Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.Mason Mount struggled at the EmiratesCredit: ReutersMASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight. He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford. Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances. Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score. Rasmus Hojlund cut a frustrated figure for most of the matchCredit: GettySUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank. However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today. The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever. READ MORE SUN STORIESANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya.’No wonder management didn’t work for you’ says Jamie Carragher as he calls out Gary Neville’s controversial opinion More