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      Mikel Arteta is in the doghouse with Arsenal fans and running out of time to show he has pedigree to end trophy drought

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      IT IS A WELL KNOWN fact that dogs learn through repetition.Especially their names. Call it over and over again and soon your clever pooch will be your loyal pal performing tricks for treats.Mikel Arteta is under pressure to win another trophy with ArsenalCredit: AFPArteta won the FA Cup with Arsenal just months after taking over but is yet to secure any other titlesCredit: APSo spare a thought for Arsenal’s poor pet chocolate labrador.Boss Mikel Arteta came up with the idea of having man’s best friend live at the club’s training ground to give the place a family feel. And she was named ‘Win’.That is not a word being heard quite as often as it should at London Colney today. At least not when it comes to getting over the line and winning a trophy.A crushing home defeat to Newcastle in last night’s Carabao Cup semi final first leg leaves Arteta licking his wounds after blowing a great chance of silverware.Read More in FootballWin will be licking other bodily parts as per usual.The concept of having a dog at a Premier League training ground is a positive one even if the choice of name is so North London and cringey.And there is no doubt that Arteta has re-energised Arsenal in the five years since he took over as manager in December 2019.But Tuesday’s inglorious stuffing feels like a barometer moment in the Spaniard’s time at the club. And the pressure is increasing.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArteta introduced a dog named Win to the training ground two years agoCredit: GettyAs if to ram the message home in terms that Win would understand – Arsenal have let the lead slip five times this season – twice against Brighton but more importantly against their main rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea. Boom boom.All of those games ended in draws, dropping vital points in the title race in the process.Arsenal player vs Newcastle in the Carabao Cup first leg tie at the Emirates (1)Arteta won the FA Cup at the end of his first half season in charge – breathing life into a flatlining football giant in December 2019 when taking over from the uninspiring Unai Emery.Victory in the 2020 FA Cup final over Chelsea should have been the trigger for more trophies to follow.But since then there has been nothing tangible to celebrate. No open top bus parade through the London Borough of Islington where skipper Martin Odegaard can show off a shiny cup.Since the FA Cup win four and a half years ago, even car-crash Manchester United have won something. And they are considered a laughing stock, now taking a punt on their third manager since Arteta took over the reins at the Emirates with a mission to make Arsenal great again.Ironically, Manchester United beat Newcastle in the 2023 Carabao Cup Final.The Geordies are renowned as serial chokers. Seven times losers in the FA Cup Final, twice in the League Cup, even throwing it away five times in the old Charity Shield. Without a major domestic trophy in 70 years.Succumbing to the Toon at home in such a feeble way does not mean Arteta’s time is up. Far from it, even if social media tells a different story with the notoriously fickle Gooners jumping on their keyboards over their chai lattes to ensure ‘Arteta Out’ has been trending.His 59.2 percent win rate is superior to that of his immediate predecessor Unai Emery and surprisingly better than that of Arsene Wenger – the man who laid the foundations for modern Arsenal.The French legend won 57.3% of his 1235 games. But Arteta has had only 262 so far which makes it slightly easier to maintain a higher ratio of victories.Wenger also had the Premier League in the bag in his second season – ripping the trophy from the best Manchester United team of all time led by the most successful British manager in history in Alex Ferguson.Arteta has enjoyed three full seasons of goodwill as he attempts a similar assault on football’s Mount Everest, overhauling Manchester City’s imperious four-in-a-row champions.The Gunners suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final on TuesdayCredit: EPAAlexander Isak was a thorn in Arsenal’s side againCredit: GettyThat’s a big ask and the club and the fans have been patient up to now. It’s still too early to panic but there is a growing fear Arsenal have reached a ceiling unless bold moves are made.Their arch-tormentor Alexander Isak, opening scorer against them last night, is a £150 million transfer target.Former players like Paul Merson are demanding swift action by the board to sign the Swede and provide Arteta with the dedicated number nine they appear to crave so badly.Kai Havertz is only three goals behind Isak this season but will never be the consistent out-and-out centre forward they so painfully lack. Neither is Gabriel Jesus.It’s curious that in more than five years Arteta has overseen a net spend of £483.79 million but he is yet to find a player like Isak to lead the forward line with such venom.Wenger got away without one too for donkey’s years but then he had Thierry Henry and few players compare favourably to the masterful Frenchman.It is no shame to have finished second in the Premier League twice in succession to imperious Man City.But the dominant force in English football suddenly looks fallible so there’s a big excuse for failure gone.Champions League quarter finals last season, the last 16 of the Europa League the year before that. Gallant defeats but defeats nonetheless.The title race looks beyond them this season. Third time in a row.Arteta is a bright, young, energetic coach with a lengthy managerial career ahead of him at only 42.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd if he takes Arsenal up to St.James’ Park next month and turns Newcastle over in a stunning second leg comeback to get to Wembley, ignore all of the above.But for now time is not on his side as the clock keeps ticking and Arsenal’s near-misses mount up.Arsenal ratings vs Newcastle as Havertz fluffs golden chance with academy statlet the only bright light for GunnersARSENAL have a mountain to climb to reach the Carabao Cup final after a shock 2-0 first-leg defeat to Newcastle.Here SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates every Arsenal player on a disappointing night at the Emirates…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8The academy product was very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Missed an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner.Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead.Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yards.SUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton. More

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      Julen Lopetegui finally SACKED by shambolic West Ham despite taking training with Graham Potter set to replace him

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      WEST HAM have finally SACKED manager Julen Lopetegui after just seven months in charge.Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is set to replace the Spaniard at the London Stadium.West Ham have parted ways with Julen LopeteguiFormer Chelsea boss Graham Potter is set to take overCredit: PAWest Ham confirmed the news in a statement that read: “The first half of the 2024/25 season has not aligned with the club’s ambitions and the club has therefore taken action in line with its objectives.”The club can confirm that assistant head coach Pablo Sanz, head of performance Oscar Caro, head analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, fitness coach Borja De Alba and technical coach Edu Rubio have also left with immediate effect.”The board would like to thank Julen and his staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success for the future.”The process of appointing a replacement is underway.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPotter’s first game in charge is set to be against Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday night.Lopetegui’s time at the helm comes to an end following a shambolic week that saw him continue to take training today while his successor pens his contract.The ex-Real Madrid and Spain boss, who replaced David Moyes in the summer, managed just six wins in 20 Premier League matches and leaves the club 14th in the table.Defending has been a problem for West Ham, with only Wolves (45), Leicester and Southampton (both on 44) conceding more than their 39 in the league this season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWest Ham were thrashed 5-0 at home to Liverpool and were then beaten 4-1 by City to end Lopetegui’s reignNine of those goals against have come in the last two games to Liverpool and Manchester City.Defeat in Lopetegui’s final game at the Etihad marked the ninth time this season they had conceded three or more goals.Graham Potter admits he’s ‘looking at things’ as speculation intensifies that he’ll replace Julen Lopetegui at West HamThings are also believed to have turned sour behind-the-scenes, with rumoured fall outs with key players and technical director Tim Steidten.Steidten, who also had a mixed relationship with Moyes, stepped away from the training ground after sounding out alternatives managers last month.Their already tense relationship had deteriorated and other club chiefs have been frustrated at both figures.There was supposedly a split in the boardroom over whether to axe Lopetegui earlier in the season.Steidten also now faces an uncertain future and his influence on the January transfer window has been diluted as owner David Sullivan takes a leading role.The Hammers spent £127.5million in the summer window but sit just seven points above the relegation zone.This time last year after 20 games West Ham were sixth in the league on 34 points.Potter joins West Ham, having been out of work since he left Chelsea in April 2023, following a successful three years at Brighton.He is looking to initially bring up to four of his own coaching staff with him, while long-term goalkeeping coach, Xavi Valero, has stayed.Lopetegui v Potter: The statsGraham PotterCareer win rate: 38.6 %Games managed: 440 gamesPremier League win rate: 28.3 %Honours: Swedish Cup Winner (2016/17)Clubs managed: Ostersund, Swansea, Brighton, ChelseaJulen LopeteguiCareer win rate: 54.9%Games managed: 419 gamesPremier League win rate: 34.4 per centHonours: Europa League (2019/20), U19 & U20 EurosClubs managed: Rayo Vallencano, Spain Youth, Porto, Spain, Real Madrid, Sevilla, Wolves, West HamLopetegui’s West Ham nightmareLopetegui, 58, was close to the sack before the game at Newcastle on November 25. But an impressive 2-0 victory bought him more time.Yet West Ham failed to push on, winning only TWO games since then – against relegation prospects Wolves and Southampton.Fans have turned on Lopetegui, chanting “you’re getting sacked in the morning” at their own boss during the 3-1 defeat to Leicester.His reign ended with him taking training today after axing a team bonding dinner last night.Julen Lopetegui’s disastrous reignBy Jack FiggJULEN LOPETEGUI replaced David Moyes in May 2024 ready to start a new reign at West Ham – now it’s over before it even got started.The former Spain manager arrived in London with the experience of working with big stars – but his reputation in England needed mending. He won the Europa League with Sevilla in 2020 – joining Wolves two years later. But Lopetegui left after one season having guided Wolves to 13th but walking out over their financial constraints. Following a year out of work, the ex-Real Madrid player agreed to take over from Moyes – who only 12 months earlier led them to the Europa Conference League trophy. But Lopetegui got off to a horror start to life in London, going winless in his first four matches.That is despite spending £123m on signings with the likes of Maximilian Kilman, Niclas Fullkrug and Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving in the summer.And Lopetegui’s tenure hit an all-time low following a 5-0 loss at home to Liverpool and 4-1 defeat at Man City. The Hammers board had seen enough and started to draw up potential replacements after deciding to sack Lopetegui.Lopetegui is furious with how his exit has week has played out.Away from on the pitch challenges, he has not had a trouble-free time off it.West Ham have had to battle through Michail Antonio’s horrific car crash that has ruled him out out for the foreseeable.Hammers youth goalkeeper Oscar Fairs also died aged 15 following a battle with cancer.Lopetegui’s father Jose also sadly passed away at the age of 94 last month after suffering from health problems.As well as falling out with Steidten, there were also reportedly half-time bust-ups with Jean-Clair Todibo and Mohammed Kudus.Lopetegui’s worst West Ham moments West Ham 1-3 Man City (Prem)West Ham 0-3 Chelsea (Prem)Liverpool 5-1 West Ham (Carabao Cup)Tottenham 4-1 West Ham (Prem)Nottingham Forest 3-0 West Ham (Prem)West Ham 2-5 Arsenal (Prem)Leicester 3-1 West Ham (Prem)West Ham 0- 5 Liverpool (Prem)Man City 4-1 West Ham (Prem)West Ham appointed Lopetegui due to his success at Sevilla, where he won the Europa League and got them regularly competing towards the top of LaLiga.He also had Premier League experience at Wolves in the 2022/23 season as he guided them to safety from relegation.But he quit after a disagreement with the Molineux club’s owners due to a lack of transfer activity and “differences of opinion”.Lopetegui replaced Moyes, who has legendary status in East London after ending their 43-year trophy drought with Europa Conference League glory.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also guided them to a Europa League semi and quarter-final, as well as a sixth and seventh place finish in the Prem.But he left when his contract was up last summer, with the club wanting to change the style of play.Graham Potter’s Premier League return Graham Potter is back in the Premier League nearly two years on from his Chelsea sack.Potter has replaced Julen Lopetegui at West Ham following the Spaniard’s horror start to the season.It ends Potter’s 20-month wait for a job, having also been linked with the Manchester United and England jobs.The former defender started his coaching career in 2011 in Sweden with Östersunds FK – winning league and cup competitions.He then took over at Swansea in 2018 for one season in the Championship – finishing in 10th.Potter left Wales after just a year to replace Chris Hughton at Brighton where he would make his name.His best finish with the Seagulls was ninth place in 2022 but he joined Chelsea just months later in the September.Potter had replaced Thomas Tuchel, just a season after the German won the Champions League at Stamford Bridge.But Potter was axed seven months into the job with Chelsea left sitting in 11th. More

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      Meet Randal Kolo Muani, the Tottenham and Man Utd target who’ll forever be haunted by the goal he DIDN’T score

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      EVEN Randal Kolo Muani admits that his World Cup final miss will haunt him forever.But a move to the Premier League could be a big step in burying that memory and reigniting his career after he was frozen out at Paris Saint-Germain.Randal Kolo Muani has been out of favour at PSGCredit: GettyKolo Muani was thwarted by Emi Martinez in the World Cup finalCredit: EPATottenham are leading the chase for the France international, 26, with Manchester United also in the hunt.And they hope RKM can reproduce the form that made him a star at Eintracht Frankfurt, rather than the moment that he is best remembered for outside Germany.It was 3-3 in stoppage time at the end of extra-time in the most incredible World Cup final of all time when Kolo Muani had the chance to win it for France.As he bore down on Argentina’s goal, he had captain Kylian Mbappe to his left, ready to become the first player to score four times in the biggest game in international football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Kolo Muani went for goal himself and Emi Martinez kept the ball out with the left leg, earning his team a penalty shootout which they won to clinch the trophy for the third time.RKM said: “I could have lobbed him, I could have given the ball to Kylian, but in the moment, I didn’t see him.“After when you see the video, you see that there were other options, but it’s too late, you cannot do anything. It still sticks it in my throat and it’ll be there for life.”To be fair to Kolo Muani, he didn’t seem to allow the disappointment to affect the rest of his breakout season for Eintracht.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHaving been signed on a free transfer from French club Nantes in the summer of 2022, he returned from Qatar and picked up where he had left off.Kolo Muani racked up 10 more goals and three more assists in the Bundesliga and fired Eintracht to the German cup final, ending the campaign with 23 goals and 17 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.Spain star Nacho smashes France ace Kolo Muani’s head to the ground in Euro 2024 semi-finalErik Peters, who covers Eintracht for leading German media outlet Bild, said: “Kolo Muani had an incredible season.“From his very first game, when he came on as a substitute and scored against Bayern Munich, he looked special.“He was so quick, with his long legs, and had great skills.”.One of Kolo Muani’s standout moments is a painful memory for one of the managers who could soon be in charge of him.Ruben Amorim was boss of Sporting Lisbon when Eintracht came to Portugal in December for a winner-takes-all clash in the final round of Champions League group games.And it was Kolo Muani who grabbed the winner as the German side came from behind to win 2-1, thus clinching a place in the last 16 and sending Sporting into the Europa League.You can make a good argument that Kolo Muani would be better suited to Amorim’s system of play at United than Ange Postecoglou’s set-up at Spurs.Kolo Muani previously starred for Eintracht FrankfurtCredit: GettyAt Eintracht, he was mainly used as the front man in a 3-4-2-1 formation.And if Postecoglou sees the Frenchman more as an option out wide, he will be making a mistake – according to Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner.The Palace head coach left Eintracht at the end of 2022-23.Shortly after Kolo Muani made his own move to PSG, Glasner still gave him a glowing reference – but warned he would be wasted if played on the wing.Glasner said: “For me, he isn’t a wide player.“I needed to see a Kolo Muani who scored goals, and out wide, he made lots of assists, but he scored very little.“So he needed to be in the middle.“Kolo Muani was also our No9, but he had a lot of freedom. I couldn’t ask for him to wait in the box for the ball to come. He needed to find spaces in the defence.”BITTER FAREWELLBut the happy memories that Eintracht fans have of Kolo Muani were overshadowed by the manner of his departure to PSG.To some, it was understandable that the Frenchman wanted to play for one of the biggest clubs in Europe in the city of birth – he, Arsenal’s William Saliba and Mbappe are all from the French capital’s north-east suburbs.But the way he forced the move left a bad taste in the mouth.After returning from the World Cup, Kolo Muani had changed his agent and teamed up with Moussa Sissoko, whose client roster included Ousmane Dembele.Back in 2017, Dembele went on strike at Borussia Dortmund before moving to Barcelona.Kolo Muani did the same when PSG, having already signed Dembele, stepped up their efforts to sign him as well.The transfer went right to the wire on deadline day in September 2023, but in the end Eintracht were able to squeeze 95m Euros (nearly £80m) out of PSG.It was an incredible fee but little compensation at the time for the Eintracht fans, who branded Kolo Muani greedy.’Cash doesn’t change character, it just makes it visible’At the first game after his rancorous exit, they displayed a banner that read: Kohle Muani (Kohle is German for money) – cash doesn’t change character, it just makes it visible.”Some still feel that Kolo Muani is a decent bloke who was just badly advised.But it’s fair to say that there is plenty of schadenfreude in Frankfurt that things have not worked out for him at PSG.Boss Luis Enrique repeatedly defended Kolo Muani as he struggled to gel with Mbappe and Dembele, despite them being established as France’s front three.But with RKM being shifted out wide at times and amid rumours of a row with Mbappe, the big-money signing’s form flatlined, with the last of his six Ligue 1 goals in 2023-24 coming on February 10.NOT A ONE-HIT WONDEREnrique seems to have given up on Kolo Muani this season, giving him just two starts in the league before leaving him out of the squad completely and making him available for transfer.Anyone who takes him will want to see the frontman who scored three times as France topped their Nations League A group – and who looked like one of the hottest talents in the world in 2022-23.Peters said: “In Frankfurt, they know that the price they got for Muani was inflated because PSG wanted him so badly.“But they don’t think he is a one-hit wonder.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The Premier League, with the pace of the game and the importance of transitions, could be the perfect place for him.”But even if Kolo Muani ends up scoring past Villa goalkeeper Martinez, it won’t make up for that World Cup final moment.Kolo Muani could bring his skills to the Premier League soonCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal dealt fresh blow as Carabao Cup ball slammed by Mikel Arteta to be used in Premier League next season

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      THE Carabao Cup ball slammed by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be used in the PREMIER LEAGUE next season.Gunners chief Arteta suggested the “tricky” Puma ball used by the EFL in its flagship competition had been a factor in his side’s shooting woes during the 2-0 semi-final first leg defeat by Newcastle.Mikel Arteta slammed the ball used in their semi-final defeat to NewcastleCredit: AFPThe boss claimed the ball ‘flies a lot’Credit: EPAArteta said the Puma balls “fly a lot”, admitting “there’s details that we can do better”.Pressed further, Arsenal’s boss added: “It’s just different. It’s very different to a Premier League ball.“You have to adapt to that because it flies different.“When you touch it, the grip is very different as well, so you adapt to that.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Arteta and his players will certainly have to adapt next term as Prem chiefs will switch to the SAME ball for the new season.The Prem has used Nike balls since 2000 but a contract dispute saw the decision to switch to Puma from the 2025-26 season in what was described as a “lucrative” deal.SunSport understands that an exact version of the Carabao Cup ball has already been developed and agreed as the new Prem model – despite the complaints by some managers about it this season.Moving to Puma may, though, help ease the delayed introduction of semi-automated offside technology.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe versions used by Fifa and Uefa have been developed in collaboration with Adidas, while Italy’s Serie A has brought in the technology with a Puma ball.PGMOL had hoped to introduce a semi-automated system developed by US-based Genius Sports in the autumn but it is now not expected to be unrolled until next term after issues in decision-making accuracy.Arsenal dubbed the ‘new STOKE CITY’ live on Amazon Prime by Man Utd legend after corner masterclassWorking with Puma specialists, who have already used a similar system, over the coming months should enable a fool-proof version to be ready for the big kick-off in August.On the ball, an EFL spokesman said: “As is required throughout the professional game, the Puma ball used in this season’s Carabao Cup and in EFL competition since 2021/22 is tested in accordance with the Fifa Quality Programme for Footballs, and meets the FIFA Quality Pro standard.“In addition to the Carabao Cup, the same ball has been successfully used in other major European leagues, including both Serie A and LaLiga and our three divisions in the EFL.“All Clubs play with the same ball, and we have received no further comments of this nature following any of the previous 88 fixtures which have taken place in this season’s Carabao Cup.”Arsenal ratings vs Newcastle as Havertz fluffs golden chance with academy statlet the only bright light for GunnersARSENAL have a mountain to climb to reach the Carabao Cup final after a shock 2-0 first-leg defeat to Newcastle.Here SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates every Arsenal player on a disappointing night at the Emirates…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Looked nervy with ball at feet at times but could do nothing to stop Alexander Isak’s brilliant close-range finish.Unlucky to see his palmed save tapped in by Anthony Gordon.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8The academy product was very impressive again. Turned out of danger well at both ends of the pitch. So calm under pressure.GABRIEL – 6Gave Isak far too much space to manoeuvre a shot in the box before the Toon’s second. Wasteful and ineffective from corners.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Had an early effort blocked near the line by Dan Burn. Was dealing with Isak well until losing a header to Sven Botman that saw the Toon striker score.JURRIEN TIMBER – 5Missed an absolute sitter from a yard out from a corner.Was then caught sleeping just after the break to allow Gordon to double Newcastle’s lead.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Linked defence and attack fairly well without ever really doing anything spectacular.DECLAN RICE – 6Plays Jacob Murphy onside from a flicked on free-kick that leads to Newcastle taking the lead.Took more responsibility in the second half on the ball.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Heavily man-marked by Joelinton but looked back to his very best after a spate of illness.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Much more direct in his running. Unlucky not to open the scoring with his driven shot hitting the post after a half-way line sprint.Continued to be positive in his play – just lacked the finishing touch.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Sneakily got away with dragging Isak down to stop the Swede joining a Newcastle counter in the first half and a good first-time pass to set Martinelli away. Those were his only highlights.KAI HAVERTZ – 5May just be back from a sickness bug, but the big German did very little, apart from somehow fluffing a header wide unmarked from six yards.SUBS:JORGINHO (PARTEY, 59) – 7Some nice passes into dangerous areas and sprayed the ball about with conviction.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD, 59) – 6Lively and sharp without every really testing Newcastle’s back four or goal.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (LEWIS-SKELLY, 77) – 5Booked within a minute of coming on for a rash challenge on Joelinton. More

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      ‘I can’t sleep alone, I’m scared’ – Aubameyang reveals kids’ heartbreaking plea following terrifying Barcelona ordeal

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      PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG has opened up on the terrifying night that he was burgled at gunpoint.On August 28, 2022, the striker was at his Barcelona home alongside wife Alysha, kids Curtys and Pierre, and his cousin and her boyfriend.Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was robbed at gunpoint during his time at BarcelonaCredit: GettyAubameyang’s young family were present at the time of the robberyCredit: Instagram @aubaDuring the evening, armed men burst into the house.Speaking to The Athletic, Aubameyang relived the awful ordeal.He said: “My eldest son came running and said to me, ‘Dad, some guys are in the house’. I said, ‘Just hide’.“They came in from outside, where my wife was smoking with my cousin and her boyfriend. They took him (the cousin’s boyfriend) and came into the house. My wife was screaming. They had a gun.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAubameyang then described telling his family to hide, before trying to confront the intruders.After attempting to reason with one of them, the striker was punched by a man wearing gloves with metal in them.When the intruders took his children and sister-in-law, Aubameyang co-operated and gave them what they wanted – including jewellery and watches.While he and his family came out physically unscathed, the robbery left a psychological effect.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJust days later Aubameyang left Barcelona for Chelsea, amid the Catalan side’s financial woes.During his Blues debut the following week, the forward wore a face mask due to the injuries he sustained during the robbery.Former Arsenal star Aubameyang breaks down in tears and is consoled after Marseille are KO’d from Europa LeagueAubameyang wore a face mask on his Chelsea debutCredit: APOn the lasting effects of that night, he continued: “If I was alone, no problem, I can handle it, as mentally I’ve been prepared for everything in life, thanks to my parents. But when you have a wife and kids, it’s different.”After that, the kids told me, ‘Papa, I don’t want to go to school, I’m scared something is going to happen there’. For a year my little one said, ‘I cannot sleep alone’. It was a big struggle. You have it always in the mind.”Aubameyang struggled to produce his best form at Stamford Bridge, and was largely frozen out under Graham Potter and Frank Lampard, amid the club’s bloated squad.Reflecting on that season, post-burglary, he said: “I was always thinking about this. I did so many nights like this: not sleeping at all, just thinking about that s***. You have some nightmares.’THEY ARE SCARED'”I’m a guy who, if I’m not sleeping well, I’m not going to give what you expect from me, I’m not going to be at my best… Every time the kids are alone, they are scared.”Aubameyang went on to express his regret at not speaking to anyone about his trauma from that night, calling it a “mistake”.He also revealed that he still owns his house in Barcelona, but has never gone back.Following his year at Chelsea, Aubameyang signed for Marseille, where he re-found his mojo.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfter netting 30 goals in all competitions, the Gabon star left European football behind to sign for newly-promoted Saudi side Al-Qadsiah, where he plays alongside former Real Madrid defender Nacho.Aubameyang cites “safety” as a key reason for moving to the Saudi Pro League – and has since inspired his team to third place with six goals in 12 games.Aubameyang now plays for Al-Qadsiah in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Getty More

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      I was in Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad’ with £169m worth of exiled stars, we were laughing every day… it was a mess

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      PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG recalls laughing with the rest of Chelsea’s exiled “bomb squad” stars. The forward had been frozen out of the picture by April 2023 and left to train away from the first team. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has opened up on his disastrous Chelsea spellCredit: AFPBut he was not alone. Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly and Romelu Lukaku all joined Aubameyang with £170million worth of talent on the sidelines. But Aubameyang told The Athletic: “They did a mess. It didn’t even look like a football dressing room, it was more like rugby. “Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly, Romelu Lukaku… It was good I wasn’t alone. We were laughing every day, so it was okay.”READ MORE IN fAubameyang had signed in September 2022 from Barcelona – where he spent just seven months – to reunite with manager Thomas Tuchel.The two had worked together at Borussia Dortmund – winning the German cup together in 2017. But disaster struck when Tuchel was sacked by Chelsea just a week after Aubameyang joined following 1-0 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb. The player revealed: “I remember that day because I didn’t recognise him. It was not the guy I knew a few years ago. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”We had a close relationship. He was the only guy who really understood me in Dortmund. “At Chelsea, it was like something was wrong. I felt he was not enjoying his time.The one player Chelsea must sign this season“We lost and he was p**sed off. Usually, he would go crazy but he came to the dressing room and then left. “I was like, ‘This is not the guy I know. Very strange’. The next day, he was sacked.”Aubameyang admitted he only left Barcelona after armed robbers broke into his home in August 2022. And he had joined Chelsea – as a former Arsenal captain – just to work under Tuchel again. But Graham Potter took over at Stamford Bridge and Aubameyang was limited to game time – even being omitted from the Champions League squad. Aubameyang revealed: “That is when I started to say, ‘OK, this is very disrespectful’. They tried to send me on loan to America. I said: ‘No chance’.“I felt p***ed off. From that point, I said, ‘The season is done for me already’. “I just went to training to maintain fitness; I knew I was not going to play.”Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly, Romelu Lukaku… It was good I wasn’t alone. We were laughing every day, so it was okayPierre-Emerick Aubameyang on being frozen out of Chelsea Potter was then sacked by April – following just seven months in charge at Chelsea – with Frank Lampard coming in as interim boss. And Aubameyang claimed Lampard initially wanted to recall the Gabon international – before being overruled by higher-ups. He said: “(Lampard) told me, ‘OK, I need you. I want to know how you feel, if you are ready to play again’. “I was like, ‘Yes. I’m waiting for this’.“Close to the end of the season, he spoke to me again and said, ‘What are your feelings? I’m sorry, Auba. I can’t really help you’. “I understood it’s not coming from him but upstairs.”Aubameyang later signed for Marseille after leaving Chelsea and scored 30 goals in 51 games last season – missing just one game. But in July the 35-year-old signed for Al-Qadsiah to become the latest high-profile name in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Qadsiah are on a six-game winning streak secured third spot in the SPL heading into its winter break. READ MORE SUN STORIESThey are below only Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad and Neymar’s Al Hilal, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr fourth. Aubameyang added: “They want to be the best and I can help them grow.”Aubameyang now plays his football in Saudi for Al-QadisiyahCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd legend Paul Scholes reveals ‘worry’ about Kobbie Mainoo after spotting trend under Ruben Amorim

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      PAUL SCHOLES has raised questions over Kobbie Mainoo’s fitness levels.The Manchester United starlet, 19, suffered a muscle injury earlier this season.Kobbie Mainoo was in action against Liverpool at the weekendCredit: APPaul Scholes has had his say on MainooCredit: GettyHe has played just two full 90 minutes since September and has regularly been taken off under Ruben Amorim.Noticing this trend, Old Trafford legend Scholes raised concerns while appearing on Premier League Productions.He said: “Mainoo with his legs has to be a worry. He doesn’t finish a lot of games.”Appearing alongside Scholes, Michael Owen agreed with his former United team-mate.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe added: “He looks heavy, but yeah, he tires a lot, doesn’t he?”And it’s one thing he’s an unbelievable player, but if there’s one thing about Mainoo, it’s getting around the pitch and his ability to last a full game at the high intensity that’s needed.”And then you look at the other alternatives. You’ve got [Christian] Eriksen that’s getting on in years. Casemiro that’s never been that mobile but getting on in years.”So, I guess you’re left with [Manuel] Ugarte and another. You’re left with Ugarte.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMichael Owen also discussed the Man Utd midfielderCredit: GettyShock reports yesterday emerged that the Red Devils would consider selling Mainoo – with every player up for grabs for the right price.The midfielder is contracted to Old Trafford until 2027, although United possess an option to extend the deal by 12 months.Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool Talks over an extension are said to have hit a dead end, with United limited to what they can offer.And with homegrown players worth 100 per cent profit, flogging Mainoo would give United a PSR boost.Should the Red Devils choose to sell their academy rising star, Chelsea could position themselves at the front of the queue.Mainoo is said to be worth around £70million. More

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      West Ham hope to have Graham Potter in charge for Friday’s FA Cup clash even though Lopetegui is STILL manager

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      WEST HAM hope Graham Potter will take charge of their FA Cup game at Aston Villa on Friday night.Potter has agreed to take over at the London Stadium but the club are still finalising the last details of his appointment.Graham Potter is expected to be West Ham’s next managerCredit: PAJulen Lopetegui is set to be sacked by West HamCredit: RexHowever, the Hammers are still yet to sack current boss Julen Lopetegui.Lopetegui was left once again to take charge of training on Wednesday, despite the club being close to appointing Potter, 49, as his successor.West Ham cancelled their press conference which was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, ahead of Friday night’s third round tie at Villa Park.Potter is keen to take training on Thursday and be in the dugout for the game, with the postponed press conference also needing to be held.READ MORE IN football Lopetegui is furious with how the week has played out.On Monday it emerged he had asked technical director Tim Steidten to stay away from the training ground after their relationship broke down.Chairman David Sullivan has led the search for a new manager, though Steidten was the one to initially approach Potter.After talks were re-opened this week, vice-chair Karren Brady has taken charge of direct negotiations.Most read in FootballJulen Lopetegui’s disastrous reignBy Jack FiggJULEN LOPETEGUI replaced David Moyes in May 2024 ready to start a new reign at West Ham – now it’s over before it even got started.The former Spain manager arrived in London with the experience of working with big stars – but his reputation in England needed mending. He won the Europa League with Sevilla in 2020 – joining Wolves two years later. But Lopetegui left after one season having guided Wolves to 13th but walking out over their financial constraints. Following a year out of work, the ex-Real Madrid player agreed to take over from Moyes – who only 12 months earlier led them to the Europa Conference League trophy. But Lopetegui got off to a horror start to life in London, going winless in his first four matches.That is despite spending £123m on signings with the likes of Maximilian Kilman, Niclas Fullkrug and Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving in the summer.And Lopetegui’s tenure hit an all-time low following a 5-0 loss at home to Liverpool and 4-1 defeat at Man City. The Hammers board had seen enough and started to draw up potential replacements after deciding to sack Lopetegui.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAs well as finalising Lopetegui’s exit, a new coaching staff must be appointed.The former Wolves manager brought five coaches with him to east London, all of whom are expected to leave.Potter is looking to initially bring up to four of his own coaching staff with him, while goalkeeping coach, Xavi Valero, is expected to stay.Valero was the one member of David Moyes’ staff to remain in the summer. More