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    ‘I’ll never say sorry,’ says Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang over Mikel Arteta bust-up that was final straw at Arsenal

    PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG has opened up about his infamous clash with Mikel Arteta that ultimately led to his Arsenal exit.Aubameyang left the Gunners in a shocking free transfer three years ago after being expelled from the first team squad.Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang clashed with Mikel Arteta before getting his Arsenal captaincy strippedCredit: RexThe striker has admitted he still loves Arsenal despite the way things endedCredit: PAHe was initially dropped by Arteta at the start of December 2021 but later had his captaincy stripped.It was revealed the striker had returned late from a trip to France whereby he visited his mum and flew her back to London.That turned out to be the main catalyst for his winter exit from the club.However, Aubamyang insists he will never apologise for making the journey to and from France despite the eventual outcome. Read More in FootballIn a recent interview with The Athletic, he said: “My mistake. I should have come back the night before, but I arrived in the morning. I didn’t tell them that I would miss the flight because I was preoccupied with my mum’s stuff (medical examinations).”I went directly to a team meeting. Everything was normal. After that, he (Arteta) said, ‘Come with me’. This is where he started shouting.”He said I could not do this because I was the captain and it was not acceptable.”He said I gave him a knife in his back; I don’t know why he said that. I was really p**sed off because it was not true and he knew why I flew.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAubameyang revealed he received a ‘great message’ from Arteta following his exitCredit: Getty”He knew the reason and what was happening, he knew I was struggling that year. I was expecting help from him, not killing me like this.”Aubameyang continued: “When I’m late, (and) it’s my fault — no problem. I always said sorry.Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri is perfect Bukayo Saka replacement but Gabriel Jesus goes missing against Brighton”But in this case, I’ll never say sorry. For taking my mum from Laval (his hometown in France) to London? No.”Even if I came a day late, I would never say sorry. You understand or you don’t. If not, don’t give a day off or tell people they cannot fly.”The striker had signed a three-year contract extension with Arsenal just one year prior to his fall-out with Arteta.However, before putting pen to paper, Aubameyang wanted to LEAVE north London for pastures new.He said: “I was talking on the bus with Alexandre Lacazette. Every fan was saying, ‘Sign da ting!’.”Laca asked me, ‘What are you going to do?’ I was like, ‘To tell you the truth, I really don’t know’.”If I’m being honest, at that time I wanted to go. For me, it was time to find a new challenge. I did my time. It was very nice, but I needed to change.”It had been four years, I did great and maybe it was time to leave it like this, proper and clean, so people remember me as a good Arsenal player. I felt I needed to go because if I stayed, something would go wrong.”Instead, he decided to extend his stay after being persuaded by Arteta.But 16 months later he found himself outcast.Despite his feud with Arteta, Aubameyang received a “great message” from the Arsenal boss when they parted ways.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe continued: “You cannot stay with that negativity,” before admitting he will “always love Arsenal” even though he spent a brief spell with rival club Chelsea during the 2022-23 season.The Gabon international now plays for Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League.Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri is perfect Bukayo Saka replacement but Gabriel Jesus goes missing against BrightonETHAN NWANERI was the brightest spark on the pitch as Arsenal lost further ground int he title race.SunSport’s Isabelle Barker has given her ratings for the Arsenal players…DAVID RAYA – 6The Spanish stopper didn’t have too much to deal with apart from Joao Pedro’s penalty which he went the wrong way for. He couldn’t have done too much about it though, it was a classy finish into the other corner.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Partey was ok to start with at right-back but the experiment still looked unconvincing in the second-half, with him struggling to handle Kaoru Mitoma when the Japanese international came on.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6The French centre-back was solid up until conceding the crucial penalty for dangerous play against Pedro in the box. If it had been a headbutt, Saliba would have been sent off, in fairness it looked as though he was going for the ball, and it was an unfortunate clash of heads.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Started off solidly at the back but faded out with little answers for Brighton’s pressure towards the end.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 7Calafiori was superb, particularly in the first half against Brighton, with the stats speaking for themselves. He won the most duels, completed the most take ons and most tackles. He also misplaced just one of his 22 passes.JORGINHO – 6The ex-Chelsea man struggled to receive the ball under pressure, nearly costing Arsenal a goal for the hosts. Generally looked too slow for the game this evening.MIKEL MERINO – 7The Spanish midfielder linked up beautifully with Rice for the opener, producing a lovely pass over the top for Nwaneri to latch onto. Merino faded out towards the end though, looking more sluggish and ponderous on the ball as the minutes went by.DECLAN RICE – 7The midfielder was the furthest forward, pressing the Brighton backline with Jesus and it worked at first.He took on the Odegaard role when Arsenal didn’t have possession. Was involved with first big chance with Jesus and then pulled the strings for Nwaneri’s opener.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6The Brighton faithful were booing Trossard from the get go but he didn’t show up to silence them. The Belgian winger offered very little going forward.ETHAN NWANERI – 8So good from Nwaneri for the opener. He was involved in the build up with Rice and Merino then put on the afterburners to produce a charging run before slotting the ball into the bottom corner.What a good replacement Nwaneri has been for Bukayo Saka. He fits the bill with pace, body shape, and a lovely left foot.GABRIEL JESUS – 5The striker lashed a shot at Verbruggen for an early warning, but he was offside anyway, wasting the delicious through ball from Jorginho. Was virtually anonymous by the end and Arsenal won’t be able to win the league with a striker like that.SubstitutesMARTIN ODEGAARD – 6GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6 More

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    Paul Scholes lays into Sir Jim Ratcliffe for ‘having the cheek’ to introduce ‘ridiculous’ Man Utd’s ticket prices

    PAUL SCHOLES ripped into Sir Jim Ratcliffe and slammed Manchester United’s ticket prices in a scathing attack.There has growing anger and protests from fans aimed at the new owners after they made the decision to scrap concessions and hike prices to a minimum of £66 per ticket for members.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been slammed by Paul ScholesCredit: AlamyPaul Scholes accused the new owners of ‘not caring’ about the fansCredit: YouTube/The OverlapFans have protested the price rises and scrapping of concession ticketsCredit: GettyRatcliffe’s controversial moves have come as he tries to fix the club’s balance sheets by cutting costs.The billionaire has made 250 people redundant, cancelled the staff Christmas party and made them pay for their own travel to last season’s FA Cup final among other money-saving hacks.And with United having a poor season on the pitch, Scholes slammed Ineos’ first 12 months at Old Trafford.On SkyBet’s The Overlap Fan Debate, he said: “They have been in charge for nearly a year now and everything is still negative. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”I can’t think of something positive that they’ve done for the football club. “Things are getting worse on the football pitch so couldn’t they have just said that they would do cheaper tickets – couldn’t they just give us something positive. “How can you ask Manchester United fans to pay more money with what is on the football pitch.”Scholes added: “£66 for a ticket is ridiculous. If you think of Manchester, there are so many deprived areas.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Sir Jim Ratcliffe himself is from Failsworth, which is a deprived area.”If you take one kid with you, that is £120, if you take a family, you are looking at £300-400 – it is just not right.Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to replace Old Trafford with a ‘Wembley of the North’“Where do these owners get the front to put ticket prices up? “For the value – we’re probably having our worst ever Premier League season and they’ve got the cheek to put the prices up.“There is nothing positive happening with that football club. The team look bang average. They are not doing anything for fans.“If we have got Sir Jim Ratcliffe, compared to all these American owners, who has been a United fan since growing up in an area in Manchester – he is still hiking prices up. “It just shows that they don’t care.”Banners reading “stop exploiting loyalty” have been seen at Old Trafford in recent games. There are also fears among United’s 55,000 season-ticket holders that a hefty price hike is likely for them next season.READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited already have the most expensive lowest price ticket to an match in the league at £66.Ratcliffe was dubbed “Scrooge” last month after a sensational month of cost-cutting saw Christmas bonuses halved and a donation to a charity that helps former players axed.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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    Mo Salah calls out Jamie Carragher after Liverpool legend urged him to ‘take a leaf out of Virgil van Dijk’s book’

    MO SALAH called out Jamie Carragher after the Liverpool legend urged him to “take a leaf out of Virgil van Dijk’s book.”The incident came amid Salah’s contract stand-off with his club.Mo Salah called out Jamie Carragher on social mediaCredit: GettyCarragher had his say on Salah’s latest contract hintCredit: AlamyThe Egyptian ace’s deal expires at the end of the season.And Liverpool are yet to reach an agreement over an extension amid links with Saudi Arabia.Salah himself has already declared he’s nearing the end of his Anfield stay.Yet he’s not the only Liverpool star facing a potential free transfer exit.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTrent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set to join Spanish giants Real Madrid.While Virgil van Dijk is also being lined up by several European sides.But Carragher believes the latter has shown a touch of class by refusing to talk about the situation.And he urged Salah to follow his captain’s example after the forward posted a fresh cryptic message which included a picture of himself with Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCarragher said on Sky Sports: “Ooh, I don’t know. You know what I would say. I would say Van Dijk has come out of this whole sort of situation this season as captain of the club in a higher esteem for me.“In the way he’s conducted himself, in the way of his performances on the pitch. In the way he’s led the team. How Man United destroyed Trent in spectacular Liverpool draw amid £100m Real Madrid transfer talks“The way he was yesterday as well and he hasn’t got involved in too much around this. It’s obvs a really important time for all three players.“But I think rather than speak about Trent Alexander-Arnold or Mo Salah I’d probably like to pay tribute to Virgil van Dijk. “I think he’s come across as a real statesman. I think the way he’s handled it. He’s been asked questions and he’s not been away, he’s here to win league and he’s doing his utmost for Liverpool. And fingers crossed he signs.“But I think the other two could maybe look at Virgil van Dijk and take a leaf out of his book.”Carragher’s comments sparked a response from Salah on social media.He said: “I’m starting to think you’re obsessed with me.”Carragher quickly replied: “I’ve always been obsessed with you. Hopefully that obsession will continue next season.”Fans reacted to the online exchange, with one saying: “No way Salah himself made this tweet.”Another declared: “Was NOT expecting that.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “Stay focused on the football.”Another added: “Thought this was fake but it’s real!” More

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    Eddie Howe ramps up mind games ahead of Arsenal showdown and doesn’t care what people think of Newcastle

    EDDIE HOWE does not care that nobody likes Newcastle as they prepare for another fiery clash with Arsenal.Gunners boss Mikel Arteta warned that the Emirates is ready for a “big one” against their rivals on Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.Eddie Howe does not care that nobody likes Newcastle ahead of the game with ArsenalCredit: PAArsenal boss Mikel Arteta has history with Newcastle’s Howe and assistant Jason TindallCredit: GettyBut Magpies chief Howe said: “We are not here to be popular and for other teams to like us. We are here to compete. We will do everything we can within the rules.“There is a line in terms of your behaviour that you don’t want to cross. But I don’t really care what happens outside of Newcastle.“The perception other teams have of us, it doesn’t really worry me. We are here to try and win and, ultimately, that’s all we are driven for.”The Prem sides have a fierce rivalry following a string of heated meetings.Read More on FootballArteta was dragged into a bust-up with Howe and his No 2 Jason Tindall in a 0-0 draw at the Emirates in January 2023.Then Tindall and Arteta had to be separated during Toon’s 1-0 Prem win at St James’ Park two months ago.Newcastle angered Aston Villa and Tottenham after beating both clubs during their current six-game winning run.Tindall — who is known as Mad Dog — infuriated Villa chief Unai Emery and was sent off for his part in a 20-man tunnel brawl at half-time of a 3-0 win on Boxing Day.Most read in FootballAnd Spurs were frustrated with the Magpies’ physicality in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat. As his side hunt a first major domestic trophy since 1955, Howe said: “We will give everything, I can guarantee that. You have to stand up for each other.’I wasn’t contacted about the England job,’ admits Eddie Howe as he gives verdict on Thomas Tuchel appointment “You don’t want to be reckless but we have to be strong and protect each other on the pitch.”Arteta is confident the Arsenal faithful will create a better atmosphere than Toon’s St James’ Park.He said: “I admire the Emirates, 100 per cent. The way we can fill it with our people is incredible.“I am positive we will create a big one against a really good opposition. We are in the semi- final of the cup and want to win. Let’s go for it.”Ethan Nwaneri, 17, has a muscular injury and joins Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu in the treatment room.Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard have been battling sickness, so Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus could all start, as Arteta has no other attacking options.He added: “We have to use players in positions they  haven’t  played  before.” More

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    Diogo Dalot reveals what motivated Man Utd flops to stand up and be counted in thrilling Anfield clash against Liverpool

    RUBEN AMORIM’S moaning about Manchester United being ‘starved of leaders’ spurred senior players to step up at Anfield.The new Red Devils head coach called on his experienced stars to stand up and be counted in their hour of need.Ruben Amorim found that Man Utd were ‘starved of leaders’Credit: GettyDiogo Dalot has revealed that Amorim’s harsh words spurred a reaction from the squadCredit: GettyAnd that sparked a response on Sunday as United earned a deserved 2-2 draw against the runaway Premier League leaders — and could have had more.Diogo Dalot was their stand-out performer on Merseyside and said Amorim’s words hit home.The Portugal star, 25, said: “It pinched me. I think that’s what he wanted for every player.“I’ve been here a while. I know I can step up more as well and I’m going to try to help my team-mates.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“On and off the pitch I’ll try to help them.“You saw that we were more of a team. That was the biggest difference.”Amorim felt his team’s slump — which saw them lose four games in a row either side of Christmas — was due to a lack of time on the training pitch.Having taken over in mid- November, he faced matches in all the midweeks so wanted to make the most of a six-day break before facing Liverpool.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDalot, who shone at left wing-back, believes that was crucial in  getting United’s squad  “on the same page” as their new boss.The defender, a £19million buy from Porto in 2018, added: “We  had  time to get to know  what the manager wants us to do.Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool “It’s time on the pitch, knowing what everybody wants to do.“It put everybody a bit more on the same page. We showed we can be a really good team.“It’s trusting ourselves that everybody will be in the right position in every aspect of the game, in every inch of the pitch. So I think that’s it. “When you have time to know what to do, it becomes more natural. And at Liverpool, you saw the structure was more compact.”United have another blank week to prepare for Sunday’s FA Cup third-round trip to Arsenal — and they will need to make the most of it.Midweek fixtures will come thick and fast again after that, starting against basement boys Southampton at Old Trafford next Thursday.Lisandro Martinez, who netted a stunning opener on Sunday, says United showed what they are capable of by winning 2-1 at Manchester City in mid- December and then earning this draw at Anfield.But the Argentine defender, 26,  warned his team-mates they must now build on it.He said: “We showed against City and Liverpool we have the right players but have to believe.READ MORE SUN STORIES“A few matches ago we were thinking too much and played with  restraint. Now we have to play with more personality.“I believe a lot in this team. If you see the Liverpool game,  compared to the last few games, it’s a completely different team.”Man 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. More

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    How Man United destroyed Trent Alexander-Arnold in spectacular Liverpool draw amid £100m Real Madrid transfer talks

    MANCHESTER UNITED finally showed some steel as they drew 2-2 at rivals Liverpool.The league leaders had to settle for a point despite going 2-1 up at Anfield.Man Utd put in their best performance so far under Ruben Amorim in the 2-2 draw at LiverpoolCredit: PAThe Red Devils were able to contain Trent Alexander-Arnold with some new tacticsCredit: GettyMo Salah’s penalty looked to have sealed victory and extend their lead at the top of the table.But Amad Diallo’s timely effort rescued a point for Ruben Amorim.There were brilliant battles all over the pitch, with some proving to be more decisive than others.Here, SunSport’s Dean Scoggins lifts the lid on Tactics Exposed…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTRENT A REAL TARGETOn that performance, a free transfer to Real Madrid is too expensive.Everybody’s talked about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defending for a long time, we know he’s not the greatest defensively, but he has so many other attributes. Full credit to Ruben Amorim because this wasn’t just about a poor performance, it was that Manchester United targeted that area.Fifty-four per cent of United’s attacks went down the left and that was not by chance. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEven Ugarte and Mainoo were down to that left, but it was Bruno who had a fabulous game.His tactical nous and plan with Diogo Dalot was brilliant.Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool United targeted the left side of the fieldAlexander-Arnold was dragged out of position at numerous timesThey blocked this inside left lane where Trent would normally go inverted. He thought ‘I can’t really go in there so I’ll hold my right-back position’, and Dalot hugged the left touchline really wide.Trent didn’t want to go all the way out to him, because that leaves an enormous gap inside for Fernandes.Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot worked in tandemIt allowed forward runs in the channelsHe ended up in no-man’s land and despite having the most touches of any Liverpool player did nothing with the ball.His mind was scrambled, the transfer may have come into it, but I don’t want to take away from what United did.As soon as Fernandes and Dalot suckered Trent out into right-back, Rasmus Hojlund ran into the space behind. United were all singing from the same sheet. Links with Real Madrid may have affected Trent’s gameHe saw plenty of the ball but did little wit itMAINOO & MANU MASTERCLASSMainoo and Ugarte’s legs are back.Ugarte is very good at that simple pass to give it to somebody else. while Mainoo is very good in tight spaces.In Amorim’s 3-4-3, the two midfielders have a lot of work to do. Mainoo was outstanding, he played Curtis Jones off the park.There’s a lot of ground to cover, not just up and down but across the field to stop Liverpool coming in.Kobbie Mainoo put in a top showHe combined well with midfielder partner Manuel UgarteOne midfielder was stopping Trent inverting, the other was on the other side where Alexis Mac Allister likes to drift inside.They stifled Liverpool in that area, they narrowed the line so there was no room for Mo Salah to play in between.There was no joy for Diaz either. Ugarte and Mainoo dropped onto the edge of the box and allowed Harry Maguire to be at the centre dictating play.They were, for the first time under Amorim, comfortable without the ball. It was a real big step forward.United’s defenders were quick to ‘jump’ outLisandro Martinez contained Mo Salah with his movementsJUMPING DEFENDERSJumping out of position for defenders means coming out of the back line.Playing with just the three, it’s dangerous. But we saw all three United centre-backs at the right time jump out of position to engage with a forward or midfielder.They won big tackles because they trusted the other two guys were behind.It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to win the ball but you’re closing the space in midfield. You know you’ve got others behind you.It sends a message, ‘You’re not getting any time to turn here’. What it meant was Liverpool passed the ball backwards the most of any game this season. Andre Onana loved a long ball at AnfieldOVER & ONANAWe are seeing more positive signs from Onana. They usually use a zigzag pattern with him to play out from the back.But in this game it was much more direct. It was 80 per cent long passes from Onana.This was not a hoof. This was a plan. They didn’t want to be playing around their own box. Liverpool are pressing machines.The 3-4-3 made the pitch smaller. It was a bit old school. They could try and win the second ball back. It enabled it to be a much more structured game than what Liverpool wanted it to be.But it was exactly what Amorim wanted it to be.Darwin Nunez was used as an effective Liverpool subSLOT’S DARWIN THEORYIt was a really brave substitution from Arne Slot to bring on Darwin Nunez at 1-1.We know what he brings — chaos. He makes those darting runs in behind and drags the defence.If you see him running you can’t hold your line and hope for offside.Slot pushed Nunez up front because he was fed up with Maguire dictating play. It was very clever from Slot, he knew United had his shape and number at that moment.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt changed the pattern, the last 20 minutes were chaotic and fair play to United for setting it up.It was a brilliant watch. It was good from a neutral perspective to see somebody give Liverpool a good game. More

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    Wolves 0 Nottingham Forest 3: Nuno’s rampant Reds make it SIX Premier League wins in a row to draw level with Arsenal

    MORGAN GIBBS-WHITE needed just seven minutes to throw Wolves fans’ taunts back in their faces.The Nottingham Forest skipper led the way as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side recorded a sixth Premier League win to move joint second in the table with Arsenal.Morgan Gibbs-White notched his fourth Prem goal of the season inside seven minutesCredit: PAThe England star put his fingers in ears as his former fans gave him stick at MolineuxCredit: RexForest keeper Matz Sels kept Wolves at bay with several great saves in the opening halfCredit: AFPChris Wood doubled the lead for the visitors in the 44th minuteCredit: RexLate substitute Taiwo Awoniyi made it 3-0 at the deathCredit: GettyEngland manager Thomas Tuchel looked on as Gibbs-White inspired Forest to victoryCredit: GettyChris Wood grabbed his 12th goal of the season to keep Wolves at bay before the break as the Nuno Espirito Santo bandwagon rolled on.Gibbs-White came through the ranks at Wolves before making a move – worth more than £25million – to Forest two and a half years ago.That did not go down well with the Molineux faithful – and they have let him know about it ever since.Supporters booed Gibbs-White from the start – before launching into an unsavoury chant about his girlfriend.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Forest attacker needed no second invitation to deliver the perfect response.He set off on a run from inside his own half and went unchallenged before feeding Anthony Elanga on the right.Elanga found Gibbs-White again and he converted for a goal of pure simplicity.Gibbs-White milked the moment as he brought out the standard celebration for Wolves fans – a finger in each ear.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere may have fond memories of Nuno’s successful four years at Molineux – but his welcome is surely starting to wear thin with supporters.This was the third time he had returned since leaving the club in 2021 – and a third win.Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis wants 50,000-seat City Ground He added to the two league and cup wins he recorded here with Tottenham to sink his former team.Nuno says nobody has yet asked him if Forest are title contenders. The likes of Chelsea and Arsenal are immediately seen as potential challengers to Liverpool when they move into second spot.But Forest are going under the radar – and that is the way Nuno likes it.This was the first time Forest had put together six top-flight wins in 58 years.And a return to Europe is there for them on this form.But the Portuguese coach is not entertaining that sort of talk about a club that spent the last two seasons avoiding relegation.Wolves were without the suspended Matheus Cunha – and boss Vitor Pereira made five changes after staying unbeaten in his first three games.But while this was his first defeat since taking over from Gary O’Neil, he will see positives in attack if not in defence.There is set to be one new face at the club this week with Wolves agreeing a £16.6m fee with Reims for Ivory Coast centre back Emmanuel Agbadou who is expected to fly in to complete the move to Molineux.Wolves responded well to Gibbs-White’s goal and went close twice in the space of a minute.Gibbs-White came through the ranks at Wolves before being sold to ForestCredit: PAMurillo cleared off the line from Jorgen Strand Larsen’s close-range effort – before Forest keeper Matz Sels superbly kept out Rodrigo Gomes’ fierce drive.Larsen was denied again after 29 minutes when Sels blocked his header from Gomes’ cross.At this stage, in-form Belgium keeper Sels was the man stopping Wolves from fighting their way back into the game.But Pereira’s men had a lucky escape when Rayan Ait-Nouri looked to have handled a cross from Ola Aina and given away a penalty.The decision went to VAR and was judged not worth pointing to the spot.But Forest extended their lead a minute before the break as Wood scored his second goal in consecutive games – and again, Wolves were exposed at the back.Jorgen Strand Larsen missed a trio of chances at 1-0Credit: GettyForest could’ve had a penalty at 1-0 after the ball appeared to struck Rayan Ait-Nouri’s armCredit: RexSels’ long clearance found Callum Hudson-Odoi on the left and he outpaced Wolves defender Matt Doherty before finding Wood who rolled the ball home.It carried on the Kiwi’s record of scoring for three different clubs – Burnley, Newcastle and Forest – against Wolves.Larsen still looked a threat and he produced another fine save from Sels.But Forest’s second half display was all about stifling any hopes Wolves had of making a comeback.Nuno’s men stayed in command after the break – even though it was not spectacular.READ MORE SUN STORIESWolves will rue the chances they had to level the scores – and maybe take it further. But they found Sels in top form – and Nuno was even waving to the travelling Forest fans before Awoniyi’s late goal.Awoniyi heaped more misery on Wolves in the fourth minute of added timeCredit: Reuters More

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    Ange Postecoglou faces HUGE make-or-break week for Tottenham… and a chance to shut the boo boys up once and for all

    IT’S domestic cup week and therefore it’s a big one for Big Ange Postecoglou.Because if any team is capable of beating Liverpool in a semi-final and losing to Tamworth in the space of four days, then it’s Postecoglou’s gloriously unpredictable Tottenham.Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs could turn a corner this week… or they could resume normal businessCredit: ReutersThe Aussie was in a magnificently grumpy mood after Saturday’s league defeat by Newcastle but he has a pleasingly positive attitude towards knockout competitions.Indeed, he has pretty much staked his job on them by insisting “I ALWAYS win a trophy in my second season” at a club.This ought to be Chas & Dave Cup-final music to the ears of Spurs fans, after 17 years without a trophy.Indeed, the Carabao Cup might just provide us with a dream final, should  Tottenham and Newcastle win their two-legged semis, because no two clubs in the English game crave silverware to quite such an extent.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Geordies haven’t had a pot to pour champagne into since 1969 and they head to Arsenal tonight in rude health after a major festive resurgence.But it’s not just about Spurs and Newcastle quenching their thirst — because the domestic cups are in desperate need of any different winners.A cup final is properly special when it means the world to the winning club — and not just a consolation prize nor one leg of a Double, Treble or Quadruple.But remarkably, 21 of the last 22 major English domestic knockout competitions have been carved up between the ‘big five’ of Manchester City (eight), Manchester United and Arsenal (four apiece), Liverpool (three) and Chelsea, who have won two finals and lost seven in the last eight seasons.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLeicester’s 1-0 FA Cup final win over Chelsea in 2021 was the only exception — and even that trophy went to a club who had been champions five years previously.It is a far cry from the heyday of the 80s, when Coventry, Wimbledon, Luton, Oxford and Norwich all won their only major honours in the space of four years. Although all were denied European football by the Heysel ban.FA Cup third round draw in full as Arsenal host holders Man Utd and Man City get another dream draw This weekend brings an FA Cup third round and our annual chance to wail, ‘What can we do to save the Cup?’This year, third-round replays have been scrapped to  the widespread groans of traditionalists. But this switch makes Cup shocks more likely, not less — a one-off match with extra-time and penalties gives smaller clubs a better chance of an upset.Every year there is a call for the Cup to be revamped with seedings or with clubs from lower divisions automatically being given home advantage.Tamworth v Tottenham is the tie of the round not only because of Spurs’ intrinsic comedy value but because it is being staged at the National League club’s Lamb Ground, with a 4,000 capacity and the opportunity for everyone to assume the showers will be cold and Spurs won’t like it. Meanwhile, Manchester City v Salford, Liverpool v Accrington Stanley, Chelsea v Morecambe and Newcastle v Bromley would all look a lot juicier if lower-league clubs were at home.But this change is simply never going to happen because nobody inside  football actually wants it.Small clubs profit more from away days at Premier League grounds, while their players and even supporters relish those trips.The best chance for the Cup to rediscover its lustre is for top-flight managers to prioritise it — especially given that the majority have no realistic title ambitions nor relegation fears.Instead, most will use third-round weekend as an opportunity to give the  regular bench-dwellers in their sizeable squads — not very many of them even exciting home-grown  youngsters — some elusive ‘game time’.There remains a huge disconnect here between managers and fans, who would relish a Cup final far more than a few extra league wins.So, will any mid-table Premier League manager have the balls to pick their first team, then ‘rotate’ in the midweek round of league fixtures which follow?If anyone is likely to, it’s that old romantic Big Ange.Altogether now: “Spurs are on their way to  Wembley . . . ”Enzo Maresca needs some senior heads in his squad prontoCredit: AlamyWISE UP BLUESCHELSEA are out of the title race after taking just two points from 12 against Everton, Fulham, Ipswich and Crystal Palace.Yet the Blues might have won all four games with one or two experienced heads among their talented youngsters, who wilted when the going got tough defending 1-0 leads against Fulham and Palace.During those recent matches, I’ve witnessed £106million World Cup-winner Enzo Fernandez — still only 23 — kicking off at Ipswich’s former Chelsea kid Omari Hutchinson during their 2-0 defeat.And Pedro Neto, a relative veteran at 24, twice seemingly being shot by snipers in the stand, given his agonised response to no contact from an opponent.Chelsea’s owners are hooked on youth but a couple of wise heads could not knock some sense in.Liam Delap has forced his way into England contentionCredit: GettyLIAM IS IN TUCHNOW that Thomas Tuchel has finally turned up for work, with a clean slate, he will surely be casting an eye over Ipswich striker Liam Delap.He is an old-fashioned bully of a centre-forward who’s been hugely impressive during Town’s recent revival.Delap has Pulisball in his blood — his father Rory was a key member of that bruising Stoke side — and has been schooled by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Watch his game and you can see pleasing aspects of both influences.Delap will be Harry Kane’s long-term successor as England’s No 9 and it would be a surprise if Tuchel does not include him in his first squad in March.Refs are already forgetting about rules they enforced ruthlessly earlier this seasonCredit: ReutersREFER BACKI SPOKE to an experienced ref  and he confirmed what I’d long suspected — that pre-season edicts for officials are always forgotten within a month or two.Remember bookings for kicking the ball away and delaying the restart, such as the second yellow card given to Arsenal’s Declan Rice in August’s home draw against Brighton?Well, they’ve been forgotten by refs and their assessors, just like the supposed ‘high bar’ for VAR interventions.Not even an injury to Mo Salah would stop Liverpool’s title chargeCredit: AlamyBUK STOPS WITH KOPDON’T get too excited about an actual title race after Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United.Arsenal are their only credible challengers but will never win consistently enough without Bukayo Saka — just as Manchester City collapsed without Rodri.There is no single player in Liverpool’s side whose long-term absence would have a similar effect — not even Mo Salah. Aged just 39, Stephen Bunting’s best years are still ahead of himCredit: GettyGOLDEN AGEAS someone who is frequently told they must have had a ‘tough paper round’, it’s heartening to see someone who looks even worse for their age than I do.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe photo at the top of this page was taken eight years ago and I still look older in it than I am now.So thanks to world darts semi-finalist Stephen Bunting, improbably only 39, and to the new Southampton boss Ivan Juric, who is younger than me at 49 but looks pensionable. 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