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      Newcastle chief reveals plans for second biggest stadium in Premier League and refuses to rule out brand new ground

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      NEWCASTLE will consider building a new stadium to satisfy the skyrocketing demand for tickets.Toon have tasked an agency to dream up ideas of how to increase St James’ Park capacity from 52,000.
      Newcastle have not ruled out a brand new ground as they explore expanding their capacityCredit: Getty
      And while moving away from their city centre location is not an option, creating a brand new ‘Cathedral on the Hill’ is.
      With hordes of fans now unable to get a ticket since the Saudi takeover, Newcastle chiefs want a 65,000-seater ground and have hired an agency to come up with ideas.
      CEO Darren Eales said: “They will ask, for example: ‘Imagine if there was a brand new stadium built on this site, what would you think?
      “That doesn’t mean we are doing that, it is about building that construct and getting that information from fans on what we do going forward.
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      “The whole concept is to look at the art of the possible. What we want to know is what is truly possible?
      “We know we have this fantastic location here, the cathedral on the hill, but we know we have boundary issues and it’s not as simple as if we had a lot of space. So what can we do?”
      The obvious areas for expansion are the Gallowgate and East stand, but the former has underground tunnels nearby while the latter is closed in by listed buildings.
      Speaking at a fan forum, Eales added: “We need to understand demand. I am really excited about it, there has been a lot of talk for the last 30 years. So this is our way to have a look.
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      “There is more consultation but the first thing is to see what is possible.
      “I learned quickly that everybody has a view on what could be done and everyone is an amateur architect. Whoever you talk to will tell you what you can do with the Gallowgate End or various parts of St James’ Park.
      “What we want to do is get a world-renowned leading agency that deals with this and to have a blank sheet of paper and see what is feasible and what can be done.” More

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      Premier League referees being helped by British Airways PILOTS to improve VAR chaos

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      PREMIER LEAGUE referees are being helped by British Airways pilots to improve VAR.This season has already seen a number of controversial incidents involving VAR reviews.
      Premier League referees have received help from pilotsCredit: Reuters
      British Airways pilots have been working with officials to improve the VAR chaosCredit: Getty
      As a result, officials have come under mounting pressure from fans, players and managers.
      The Times now report that the referees have received support from British Airways pilots to help improve their communication under pressure.
      A presentation was given to top-flight officials as part of a new drive to improve the precision of language used during VAR reviews.
      It comes after a host of high-profile errors had caused concerns over communication between officials.
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      During the presentation, pilots Chris Heaven and Pete Nataraj explained the need for clarity and accuracy to officials.
      They also highlighted the importance of using as few syllables as possible, as well as avoiding padding and informality.
      A key complaint from fans has been the use of phrases such as “good process” and “cheers, mate” during reviews after conversations were released to the public.
      The presentation was the brainchild of referees chief and former official Howard Webb.
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      His idea took off following the chaotic conversations around Luis Diaz’s disallowed goal in Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat at Tottenham on September 30.
      Ref Simon Hooper wrongly ruled out the goal for offside after his video wingmen Darren England and Dan Cook incorrectly believed the original decision was to award it.
      The cock-up left Reds boss Jurgen Klopp calling to replay the Prem fixture.
      Webb has tried to step up and improve dialogue by explaining decisions on TV show Match Officials Mic’d Up.
      SunSport ref expert Mark Halsey, a former Prem official, has previously said there is “too much chit-chat” between officials and said “conversations must be more precise, to the point and clinical”.
      Referees chief Howard Webb is keen to cut out VAR controversiesCredit: Rex
      It is the latest desperate move, after we revealed the PGMOL had placed an advert to hire VARs with little or no experience.
      Prem fans are strapped in for more VAR carnage when top-flight football returns this weekend.
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been charged with “misconduct” for slamming VAR as a “disgrace” after Newcastle scored a controversial winner against his team.
      England boss Gareth Southgate and Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou have both admitted they would scrap video refs. More

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      Dominic Calvert-Lewin becomes first Everton star to respond to points deduction as fans plot furious protest

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      DOMINIC CALVERT-LEWIN vows that while ten points may have been taken away from Everton nobody can break the team’s spirit.He insists the Prem penalty imposed for breaching profit and sustainability regulations has only made the Toffees stronger for Sunday’s visit of Manchester United.
      Everton were hit with a ten-point deduction last weekCredit: PA
      Dominic Calvert-Lewin insists that the players are still in high spiritsCredit: Getty
      And that the shock sentence now under appeal by the Goodison hierarchy has further galvanised a set of players who fought through last season’s battle against the drop.
      Boss Sean Dyche’s side have dropped from 14th position to second-bottom but DCL insists : “Given the circumstances I’ve sensed a lot of unity and togetherness. 
      “We were off on the international break when the news broke, but coming back in this week I don’t feel like it’s fazed us players.
      “We know, as a group, we can’t affect that. All we can affect is what’s in front of us, and that’s the game on Sunday, so we’re looking forward to that.” 
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      The striker is certain that the famously hostile reception to visitors within Goodison will be ramped up even more as a far more desperate survival campaign kicks off – especially as some fans are expected to protest the points deduction with an X-rated chant.
      England front man Calvert-Lewin stresses : “I’ve played in a lot of games against United at Goodison, and the atmosphere is always incredible.
      “I expect the weekend to be no different – if not, more electric. I’m sure the fans will be ready. Us as players, we’ll prepare the same as normal and make sure we’re ready to put in a performance and collect the three points.” 
      Dyche’s men have been on an unbeaten run since Calvert-Lewin scored in a 1-0 win at West Ham last month.
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      That victory began a run of seven points from three league while they also reached the Carabao Cup last eight by beating Prem rivals Burnley.
      The 26-year-old added: “Confidence is as high as it can be, and as high as it should be.
      “We’re taking the momentum into this weekend, and not letting the external things that we can’t really affect have an impact on us in the camp.
      “We have to focus on how we have been winning games and how we have been playing well.
      “The United game should be no different.” More

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      Jurgen Klopp pulls Sky Sports reporter into headlock as host jokes ‘that’s a potential red card’

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      JURGEN KLOPP playfully took out his fixture frustrations by grabbing a reporter in a HEADLOCK.The German’s Liverpool side are preparing to face Manchester City on Saturday in a game that could have a huge say in the title race.
      Jurgen Klopp is fuming over the 12:30 kick-off for Liverpool’s trip to Man CityCredit: AFP
      He jokingly took out his fury on a Sky Sports reporter todayCredit: X @SkySportsPL
      However, Klopp was fuming after the Premier League showdown was picked for the 12:30pm TV slot.
      This will be the third-straight time Liverpool are in the early kick-off straight after an international break.
      Both the Reds and City had South American internationals involved in World Cup qualifiers for the likes of Brazil and Argentina just over 72 hours before the game gets underway.
      Klopp did not hold back as he blasted TV companies and Premier League chiefs over the scheduling of the bumper clash – despite recent fan troubles during previous fixtures between the pair being cited for the early start.
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      And the former Borussia Dortmund coach decided to jokingly take matters into his own hands when he spotted Sky Sports’ Vinny O’Connor at their training ground during this morning’s session.
      Klopp grabbed the reporter in a playful headlock before delivering a soft jab to his gut and said: “Thank you for the 12.30!”
      The clip was then shared by the broadcaster later in the day as O’Connor joked that Klopp was in a “playful mood” before adding: “There was one little moment that was a potential red card, I would argue!” 
      Sky Sports requested that the game kick-off at 5:30pm, only for that to be rejected by police.
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      That led to them and TNT Sports, who are screening Brentford versus Arsenal, swapping slots with their chosen game now taking the tea time slot after the TV companies swapped.
      Manchester City go into the Liverpool game sitting top of the table on 28 points, a point ahead of the second-placed Merseysiders.
      But Klopp’s men will overtake them with victory, although Arsenal could end the day top should they win and City and Liverpool draw. More

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      How Man Utd could line up after January transfer window with four players at AFCON and two huge stars sold

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S line-up could look very different after the January transfer window.The Red Devils are set to lose four players to international duty during the Africa Cup of Nations.
      Erik ten Hag could be forced to name a fresh side after the January transfer windowCredit: Rex
      Manchester United have been linked with a move for Jean-Clair TodiboCredit: Getty
      Meanwhile, a New Year clear-out could also see both Casemiro and Raphael Varane leave the club.
      As a result, Erik ten Hag may be forced into naming a new look side come the start of February.
      A quartet of United stars are set to be called up for AFCON, which is being held in the Ivory Coast between January 13 and February 11.
      Sofyan Amrabat and Hannibal Mejbri are expected to appear for Morocco and Tunisia, respectively.
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      Andre Onana will also be involved for Cameroon after returning to the international fold in recent weeks.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s potential inclusion in DR Congo’s squad may cause the most headaches, though.
      The full-back has reportedly been approached to switch his international allegiance from England after previously representing the Leopards at under-17 level in 2015.
      His absence during the tournament would leave Diogo Dalot as United’s only senior right-back.
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      Andre Onana is one of four United players who could be called up for AFCONCredit: AP
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been approached by DR Congo ahead of the tournamentCredit: Getty
      As for potential departures, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s imminent arrival to lead football operations could prompt a clear-out of the squad.
      Both Casemiro and Varane have been highlighted as players the club may look to move on when the window re-opens.
      Ten Hag is even understood to have gone as far as identifying Jean-Clair Todibo as a replacement for his fellow Frenchman.
      The defender currently plays for Nice, who are owned by Ratcliffe’s Ineos group, and has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford.

      Both Raphael Varane and Casemiro are expected to leave United sooner rather than laterCredit: PA
      He would likely partner Lisandro Martinez in the centre of defence, with the World Cup winner set to return from a foot injury in the new year.
      Further forward, Casemiro’s exit, paired with the absences of Amrabat and Mejbri, could cause issues in midfield.
      Ten Hag would likely call upon Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay in front of the defence during AFCON.
      United’s front four of Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund is set to remain intact.
      Fellow attackers Jadon Sancho, Anthony Martial and Antony are said to be facing the exit too as part of Sir Jim’s cull. More

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      Mikel Arteta to defend himself in FA hearing after Newcastle rant as Gunners feel they are being ‘singled out’

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      ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta is set to contest the FA’s decision to charge him over his comments about officiating and VAR in the Premier League.The Spaniard found himself in hot water following Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle earlier this month.
      Mikel Arteta was left furious after Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle earlier this monthCredit: Alamy
      The Spaniard has been charged by the FA for his commentsCredit: EPA
      He lambasted Stuart Attwell and Andy Madley’s decision to award Anthony Gordon’s decisive goal, branding it “embarrassing” and a “disgrace”.
      Arsenal subsequently issued a statement in support of Arteta before presenting a list of controversial decisions that they believed justified his stance.
      The manager then doubled down on his comments just a few days later ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Sevilla.
      And last week the FA stepped in to punish his behaviour, charging him for breaching Rule E3.1.
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      An official statement read: “Mikel Arteta has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.1 following comments that he made in media interviews after Arsenal’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Saturday 4 November.
      “It’s alleged that his comments constitute misconduct as they are insulting towards match officials and/or detrimental to the game and/or bring the game into disrepute.”
      Arteta has until Friday to respond to the charges.
      And the Mirror claim that he is prepared to defend himself.
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      Within the following ten days he could be hit with a touchline ban or heavy punishment.
      Arsenal return to Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to face Brentford.
      If Arteta does not receive a punishment beforehand he will be in the dugout during the match. More

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      Man Utd ‘ready to let Casemiro leave in £50million January transfer’ just 18 months after signing Brazilian

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are prepared to let Casemiro leave in January, according to reports.Casemiro, 31, joined the Red Devils in a huge £70million transfer from Real Madrid last summer.
      Man Utd are open to selling Casemiro for £50mCredit: Rex
      The midfielder was one of Erik ten Hag’s top performers during his debut campaign at Old Trafford.
      However, he has experienced a significant dip in form this season.
      And TEAMtalk claim that he could leave the club as soon as January.
      Man Utd are demanding £50m for Casemiro, with Ten Hag and his team already scouting potential replacements.
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      The Brazilian is understood to be open to all opportunities, with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr among the clubs that are interested in a transfer.
      Casemiro is one of 15 first team players that could leave Man Utd within the next year.
      His former Real Madrid team-mate Raphael Varane is also expected to move away in January after falling out of favour with Ten Hag.
      Jadon Sancho, who has been exiled from the squad following a public feud with the Dutchman, is another star who is up for sale, while Antony is said to be on his way out too.
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      Victor Lindelof, Anthony Martial, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Hannibal Mejbri, Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton will all depart next summer if they do not sign new extensions.
      And despite their resurgence in form, Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay could also be shipped out. More

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      Ex-Everton star completes free transfer to join Newcastle icon at non-league side as fans say ‘as if.. remember him?’

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      FORMER Everton ace Oumar Niasse has joined non-league side Macclesfield on a short-term deal.Niasse has had several spells across English football throughout his 15-year career and will now be playing in the Northern Premier League.
      Ex-Everton ace Oumar Niasse has joined Macclesfield on a free transferCredit: Macclesfield Town FC
      Niasse will be joining Newcastle icon Papiss Cisse, who is training with MacclesfieldCredit: Getty
      The Silkmen confirmed the striker’s arrival at the Leasing.com Stadium by announcing he has signed a short deal subject to league approval.
      The ex-Senegal international’s free transfer has been met by mixed reaction with some fans shocked by how the former Premier League player ended up in the seventh tier.
      One fan tweeted: “As if! Remember him.”
      Another commented: “The saviour has returned.”
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      A third wrote: “Keeps dropping down.”
      But there were also other fans with fond memories of Niasse and wished him the best of luck.
      One commented: “Good luck Oumar.”
      Another tweeted: “Good luck lad top scorer incoming.”
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      A third posted: “Good luck Oumar, smash it lad.”
      Niasse will be joining Newcastle hero and former Senegal team-mate Papiss Cisse at Macclesfield.
      Cisse started training with Alex Bruce’s side earlier this month after leaving Amiens last year.
      Niasse moved to England initially in 2016 to join Everton but failed to stand out and was sent out on loan to Hull as well as Cardiff.
      The 33-year-old left the Toffees four years later and went on to compete for the likes of Huddersfield, Burton and Morecambe. More