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      Premier League release statement as Chelsea star Marc Cucurella is sent off AFTER full-time of win over Brentford

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      CHELSEA ace Marc Cucurella was sent off after the Premier League clash with Brentford at Bridge.Cucurella, 26, helped the Blues beat the Bees 2-1 as he scored the opener before Nicolas Jackson’s winner, with the hosts getting a consolation in the dying minutes with Bryan Mbeumo.Chelsea ace Marc Cucurella was sent off after the Premier League clash with BrentfordCredit: ReutersCucurella was shown a second yellow card after full-time due to a scuffle with Kevin SchadeCredit: PABut the full-back was shown a second yellow card after the full-time whistle due to a scuffle with Kevin Schade as the Chelsea ace shoved his opponent.Schade was also booked for the post-match row by the match official.The Premier League addressed the incident and stated that both players were penalised for “adopting an aggressive attitude”.The statement read: “The referee issued a second yellow card to Cucurella for adopting an aggressive attitude. Schade was also booked for the same offence.”Read More on ChelseaThat means the Spain international is going to miss Sunday’s Prem clash with Everton at Goodison Park.Boss Enzo Maresca said the red card was a sign Chelsea can “do better”.Speaking after full-time, he said: “I didn’t see the second yellow card. The referee said the second yellow card was for bad attitude. There are things we can do better.”It marks the second league match in a row that Cucurella has stolen the headlines.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe defender went viral last week during the London derby at Tottenham.The ex-Brighton star was at fault for both of Spurs’ two opening goals as he tripped in the build-up.Marc Cucurella charges over to Chelsea bench and changes boots after being totally at fault for Tottenham’s second goalChelsea ratings vs Brentford as Caicedo runs the show in midfield but goalscorer Cucurella lets himself downCHELSEA closed the gap at the top of the league with a 2-1 West London derby win over Brentford.Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson netted for the Blues as they went two points behind Liverpool.Here is how SunSport’s Andy Dillon rated the Chelsea performances…Robert Sanchez – 7Capable of making huge mistakes but also of great saves and made several tonight. One of his better night’s work.Malo Gusto – 7A class act and is strong physically and mentally for this team. Chelsea do not even miss captain Reece James at the moment.Levi Colwill – 7Made a crucial block to deny Damsgaard in the style of Chelsea legend John Terry. A solid performance.Tosin Adaribioyo – 6Cracking strength to play having also played in minus 11 centigrade out in Kazakhstan on Thursday. Injuries to defenders Badiashile and Fofana put pressure on him and he did his best.Marc Cucurella – 4Great run and header for the first goal but then totally spoiled himself with awful gamesmanship.And then reckless to get two yellow cards in the space of a few minutes to be sent off.Moises Caicedo – 8So neat and tidy with his tackles and command of midfield. Chelsea dominated possession and in physical terms – largely due to this bloke.Enzo Fernandez – 7Looks settled and provided several neat through passes to link midfield and attack. Composed too.Noni Madueke – 6Great left foot cross to set up Cucurella’s goal. Dynamic on the run – but did get caught off guard a couple of times.Cole Palmer – 6A powerful shot saved in the first half but otherwise a quiet night for the star of this team.Jadon Sancho – 6Slowly regaining his position in the first-team after falling out of favour.Nifty footwork in the second half almost brought the goal that would have settled this game much earlier.Nicolas Jackson – 7Tasty finish for what was ultimately the winner but also messed up a chance in the first half.A decisive strike though that keeps Chelsea on the winning beat.Subs:Christoper Nkunku (for Jackson 83 mins) – 5Did not get much time to make an impact. Chelsea were on the back foot for the run in.That led Cucurella to run to his bench and change his boots, which proved to have worked as he helped the West Londoners turn the game around and pick up a dramatic 4-3 win.The Spaniard decided to laugh the situation off at full-time as he binned his dodgy Puma boots and took a photo that he shared on social media as an apology to the fans.The football boots were set to be released by the sportswear brand the following day.And they were even engraved with the following message: “This boot might be leaked. We’re used to it. Don’t worry. Stay tuned.”It looked to be a marketing own goal but Puma have brilliantly responded.In a new advert posted on social media, Cucurella is wearing the boots alongside a caution wet floor sign.READ MORE SUN STORIESPuma captioned the image: “It’s not how you slip, it’s how you bounce back.”The post also sees the wet floor sign placed in front of a goal, by the entrance of a Puma store, at a bus stop and on a West London street. More

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      Chelsea player ratings: Caicedo dominates against Brentford but Cucurella spoils his display with awful gamesmanship

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      CHELSEA closed the gap at the top of the league with a 2-1 West London derby win over Brentford.Marc Cucurella made amends for slipping over twice in the build-up to two Spurs goals last week by scoring the against the Bees.Marc Cucurella scored his first goal of the season and Nicolas Jackson wrapped up the three pointsCredit: GettyNicolas Jackson then added a second, with the three points taking the Blues just two points off Liverpool, who have a game in hand, at the top of the table.Here is how SunSport rated the Chelsea performances.Robert Sanchez – 7Capable of making huge mistakes but also of great saves and made several tonight. One of his better night’s work. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMalo Gusto – 7A class act and is strong physically and mentally for this team. Chelsea do not even miss captain Reece James at the moment. Levi Colwill – 7Made a crucial block to deny Damsgaard in the style of Chelsea legend John Terry. A solid performance. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTosin Adaribioyo – 6Cracking strength to play having also played in minus 11 centigrade out in Kazakhstan on Thursday. Injuries to defenders Badiashile and Fofana put pressure on him and he did his best. ‘I’m getting emotional’ – England manager Thomas Tuchel’s comments on Cole Palmer leave Chelsea fans close to tearsMarc Cucurella – 4Great run and header for the first goal but then totally spoiled himself with awful gamesmanship. And then reckless to get two yellow cards in the space of a few minutes to be sent off. Moises Caicedo – 8So neat and tidy with his tackles and command of midfield. Chelsea dominated possession and in physical terms – largely due to this bloke. Enzo Fernandez – 7Looks settled and provided several neat through passes to link midfield and attack. Composed too. Noni Madueke – 6Great left foot cross to set up Cucurella’s goal. Dynamic on the run – but did get caught off guard a couple of times. Cole Palmer – 6A powerful shot saved in the first half but otherwise a quiet night for the star of this team. Jadon Sancho – 6Slowly regaining his position in the first-team after falling out of favour. Nifty footwork in the second half almost brought the goal that would have settled this game much earlier. Nicolas Jackson – 7Tasty finish for what was ultimately the winner but also messed up a chance in the first half. A decisive strike though that keeps Chelsea on the winning beat. Subs:READ MORE SUN STORIESChristoper Nkunku (for Jackson 83 mins) – 5Did not get much time to make an impact. Chelsea were on the back foot for the run in. More

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      Southampton vs Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Spurs run RIOT with three goals in first 13 MINUTES against lowly Saints

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      SOUTHAMPTON fans called it a night early as Tottenham put FOUR past them inside of 30 minutes.Home fans could be seen streaming out of the ground after the fourth goal went in, having conceded three in the first 13 minutes.Ange Postecoglu’s side had won just one of their last eight in all competitions before the trip to the South Coast, with the game ending 5-0 to the visitors.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from St Mary’s with our live blog below… More

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      Chelsea vs Brentford LIVE RESULT: Jackson & Cucurella strike as Blues win FIFTH straight game to close gap on Liverpool

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      MARC CUCURELLA and Nicolas Jackson scored as Chelsea won a FIFTH straight game to close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.Cucurella – who slipped over twice last week to concede two goals against Tottenham – responded in the best way possible with a superb leaping header, before Jackson fired home a powerful effort after a lovely Enzo Fernandez pass.Bryan Mbuemo scored a late goal to give Brentford hope but Chelsea held on for a win that leaves the Blues two points off Liverpool, who have a game in hand.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from Stamford BridgeA Sunday that was more of a stretch than super ends with a victory for those in blue.And after Brighton were beaten by Crystal Palace, and Manchester City somehow slipped up against Manchester United, it was Chelsea’s turn to come out on top in a rivalry of their own against West London neighbours Brentford.With Liverpool and Arsenal dropping points yesterday. it’s Enzo Maresca’s team that are the big winners this weekend, and who now lie just two points behind the Premier League leaders.With Christmas around the corner, the heat is about to be turned up at the top, and the Blues will fancy their chances of silverware in 2025.On this form, who would write them off?Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedChelsea not ready for title tiltChelsea are just two points off leaders Liverpool following a fourth win in succession – but Enzo Maresca believes his side are not ready to challenge for the top prize.It’s not about how many games we win. It’s about being realistic. There are things we have to do better. That’s why I said for me we are not ready.Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMaresca: We controlled the gameEnzo Maresca was not concerned by the chaos of stoppage time in which his Chelsea side came under immense pressure.Instead, the Italian boss preferred to look at the bigger picture, and a game that his side dominated for large periods.We were in control of the game except for the last 10 minutes when we concede. It’s normal. We created chances and we could have scored more. We deserved to win the game.”Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMoises looks to Kante for inspirationMoises Caicedo put in another eye-catching shift in the heart of the Chelsea midfield – and then revealed afterwards that he hopes to idolise another Blues great.The Ecuadorian admitted life is good at Stamford Bridge right now, but he wants to keep working in the style of N’Golo Kante to ensure this current form persists.We are happy. This feeling is so good for us, but we’ll keep working to keep up and I’ll try to do my best. N’Golo Kante is my idol, he was a very big player.Moises CaicedoBBCCopy linkCopiedNew Blues taste the differenceThis season, Chelsea have earned 15 points more (34) than they did from the same corresponding 16 fixtures last term (19).It is the biggest such difference among Premier League side this campaign.Copy linkCopiedFrank: We deserved a drawBrentford boss Thomas Frank insisted his side deserved at least a point despite being dominated for large periods at Stamford Bridge.The Bees missed some good opportunities in the second half with the game at 1-0, especially when Robert Sanchez saved from Christian Norgaard and when Fabio Carvalho hit the crossbar.But the Danish coach also admitted that Chelsea are an impressive outfit that are very much in the Premier League title race.We played a very good game here and were unlucky not to get a draw. Some big chances we missed in the end. We managed for the 90 minutes to go toe-to-toe with Chelsea, especially in the second half. A draw would have been fair. They are right up there in the title race. They’re very good.Thomas FrankBBCCopy linkCopiedChelsea’s Jack in the boxThis evening’s encounter at the Bridge was Nicolas Jackson’s 50th Premier League appearance for Chelsea so what better way to mark it than with the winning goal.Jackson’s thumping strike to make it 2-0 made it 12 goal involvements in his last 14 games (nine goals and three assists).Copy linkCopiedFrom Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea got three points but Brentford got their revenge on artful Marc Cucurella.The Spanish left-back put Chelsea ahead but with his team clinging on at the death resorted to dreadful playacting to thwart Brentford.At the final whistle he was confronted by Bees’ sub Kevin Schade and in the ruck picked up his second yellow card of the match meaning he will now be banned for next Sunday’s trip to Everton.Just desserts.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Stamford BridgeSince the start of May, Chelsea have scored more goals (51), won more games (15) and earned more points (49) in the Premier League than any other side.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Chelsea 2-1 BrentfordThe final whistle goes and Enzo Maresca screams to the heavens in delight before shaking the hand of Thomas Frank.The nature is less good-willed on the pitch, however, and following a set-to with Kevin Schade, Marc Cucurella is shown a second yellow card and then a red by Peter Bankes.It’s a disappointing end to the evening for the Spaniard, who had earlier scored his first Premier League goal for the club with a terrific header.Nicolas Jackson doubled Chelsea’s lead in the second half, but the Blues were then made to sweat in a game they dominated by Bryan Mbeumo’s late strike.Maresca’s men held on, and are now just two points behind leaders Liverpool.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+6. Chelsea are keeping the ball upfield now. They’re almost there.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+4. Cucurella goes into the book for a lunge on Carvalho, and you get the impression the Spaniard is going through his little book of dark arts to see this one out.Seconds later, he’s involved in a clash with Collins that earns Chelsea a free-kick they scarcely deserve.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+2. The game has entered seven minutes of stoppage time, and the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge has changed markedly.It’s the travelling fans making all the noise, and the Bees have new hope – and a corner.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90. Brentford haven’t given up yet!In the final seconds of the 90, the Bees have a goal back, one beautifully tucked away by Bryan Mbeumo.Moises Caicedo is caught out high up the pitch, and the visitors quickly transition downfield.Kevin Schade’s pass through the middle is perfect, and the manner in which Mbeumo skips away from Marc Cucurella is sublime.Faced only by Robert Sanchez, the Cameroonian keeps his cool and buries beyond the goalkeeper before retrieving the ball to race back to halfway.They couldn’t, could they?Copy linkCopiedLate hope!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford87. Caicedo and Madueke are the latest to go close.In fact, with the former trying his luck, it’s now only Colwill from those that started the game not to register a shot for the Blues.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford85. Both sides are seeing the game out now, and would be happy for the final whistle.Tosin fancies this period as his chance to shine though, and steers a diving header wide of goal.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford82. Nicolas Jackson takes his leave after scoring the goal that sees off the Brentford fightback.Christopher Nkunku is on in the striker’s place for the final eight minutes.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford80. Nicolas Jackson makes it two and Chelsea have the points in the bag!This is more like it from the Blues too, who win it back deep in their own half thanks to Moises Caicedo. The former Brighton man moves it on to midfield partner Enzo Fernandez, who sends a raking pass upfield for Jackson to chase.Fronting up to Ethan Pinnock, there’s only one thing in the striker’s mind as he drops a shoulder and slams low beyond Mark Flekken.Copy linkCopiedSigned and sealed!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford77. Carvalho equalises! No, it’s off the woodwork!A flying move from the Bees down the right sees one sub in Ajer centre a low cross to another, Carvalho, to thump across the underside of the crossbar from five yards out.So, so close to an equaliser.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford75. With 15 minutes left on the clock, Nicolas Jackson nearly seals it for the hosts but his long range thumper travels agonisingly wide.Meanwhile, Fabio Carvalho, Kristoffer Ajer and Kevin Schade are on for Yoane Wissa, Mads Roerslev and Yehor Yarmoliuk.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford73. An incredible save from Sanchez to deny Norgaard!The corner from the right has Chelsea all in a panic, and after the ball had bounced messily around the 18-yard box, it fell invitingly at the right foot of the Brentford captain.The sidefooted volley looks destined for the back of the net until the home keeper soars through the air and tips over.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford71. Do Brentford believe? Lewis-Potter makes inroads on the left and wins a corner off Fernandez right in front of their travelling fans.The supporters roar encouragement, and the players are moving with an extra spring in their step.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford69. Into the final quarter of the match, and it’s around the time that – while it remains 1-0 – you begin to wonder if Chelsea will rue the opportunities they have passed up.And right on cue, Wissa goes through on goal, only to be denied by Sanchez – and then the offside flag.Copy linkCopied More

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      Southampton 0 Tottenham 5: Russell Martin SACKED as Spurs’ five-star display sees fans leave after 26 minutes

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      EVEN Russell Martin turned his back on his sorry Southampton team as the goals rained down on them.The now-former Saints gaffer – who was sacked straight after this 5-0 demolition – had already headed down the tunnel to prepare his half-time team-talk before James Maddison struck an ingenious fifth.Russell Martin in his final game as Southampton managerCredit: RexJames Maddison got a double against SouthamptonCredit: ReutersMaddison showed off his darts celebration twice on the night the World Champs got underwayCredit: RexMartin’s gaffe compounded a nightmare first half which saw Maddison net before and after strikes from Son Heung-min, Dejan Kulusevski and Pape Matar Sarr.The goal blitz from the visitors provided Tottenham chief Ange Postecoglou some welcome respite and a first win in six.But for Martin it was pure humiliation that, at the interval, looked in danger of matching the record-breaking 9-0 suffered by Ralph Hasenhuttl against Maddison’s Leicester in 2019.It did not reach that scale of torment but it was still seriously painful for the 38-year-old.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was subjected to taunts of “We want Martin out” and “Russell Martin, you’re football is s***” by the home fans – many of whom left early.And with just five points from the first 16 games taken – a position from which no Premier League side has ever survived – it spelled the end for Martin’s job.Fans were frustrated by his pursuit of sexy football which seemed ill-fitting with the quality of players at his disposal at this level.There was plenty of anger vented in the away end too – despite the scoreline – in the direction of watching chairman Daniel Levy.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSon Heung-min was back amongst the goalsCredit: RexIt was a much-needed goal for the skipperCredit: ReutersSupporters see the 62-year-old as the primary reason for their lack of success during his 24-year reign, and sang anti-Levy songs throughout.St Mary’s was the scene of Antonio Conte’s epic meltdown in March last year which saw the Italian verbally torch the club and the players for being second-rate.It came after his Spurs side had somehow gone from 3-1 up with ten minutes to go to drawing 3-3 – and it proved to be the Italian firebrand’s last game in charge.A blurring of the vision Conte and the club had for the future first appeared eight months earlier in pre-season and centered around Spence.Unprompted, Conte brought up the subject of the £12.5million signing from Middlesbrough and branded him a “club signing”.He never played him and, amazingly, Spence had to wait two and a half YEARS before making his first start for Tottenham last night.Most would never have expected it to come after he had a season-long loan spell to Leeds cut short last term due to his poor attitude.But the 24-year-old bucked up his ideas over the summer and was kept by Postecoglou, who finally gave him a chance from the off here with Pedro Porro tired and out of form.Dejan Kulusevski made it 3-0 inside 15 minutesCredit: RexKulusevski wrapped up the game earlyCredit: ReutersIt proved to be worth the eternal wait as Spence was excellent and beautifully crafted the 38-second opener, driving forward and threading the ball through for Maddison to stick between Alex McCarthy’s legs.After a dismal run of one win in eight games, it was the perfect start for Postecoglou’s injury-hit side – but it was about to get so much better.Still, the away fans ensured their point about Levy was not lost amid the celebrations and instantly after Maddison’s goal they were back to telling their chairman to go.One became two on 12 minutes and then three two minutes after that.First, a Maddison cross deflected off Jan Bednarek’s head and fell to the feet of Son, who gleefully fired home.The South Korean then turned provider as he squared for Dominic Solanke, who Bednarek did just about enough to stop him from scoring but not from Kulusevski turning in the rebound.Spurs’ support cheered that with a rendition of “I don’t care about Levy, he don’t care about me, all I care about is Kulusevski”.But at that point it was the home fans’ response that took centre stage as they turned on Martin with raucous chants.Pape Sarr danced through the Saints defence to scoreCredit: PAThe goals flowed for SpursCredit: PAHe opted to make a change with poor Kamaldeen Sulemana the fall guy for the flailing display and defender Nathan Wood sent on in his place.It did little to stem the tide though and on 25 minutes, Son squared for Sarr who danced round Saints’ backline and stuck it past the helpless McCarthy.Postecoglou had copped severe stick the last time he was on the South Coast with fans branding him “Poste-no-clue” after a limp 1-0 loss at Bournemouth ten days ago.They were singing his name here though after Sarr’s strike, giving the Aussie some light relief during the most testing time of his tenure.Some Saints’ supporters opted to leave at that point, no doubt fearing a Leicester-esque embarrassment.Ex-Fox Maddison had an inspired second just before half-time here as he blasted from the acutest angle.It called to mind Frank Lampard’s famous touchline strike against Barcelona for Chelsea all those years ago – but Martin was already down the tunnel as it rippled the net.Saints were booed off and then booed on again – you don’t see that too often – before ironic oles for consecutive passes and self-deprecating songs of how they were “coming for you,” Portsmouth in the Championship.Their side were actually better after the break but the devastating damage had already been done, pushing Martin’s post to breaking point.READ MORE SUN STORIESSome of the Saints’ fans who opted to stay until the end taunted Martin with chants of ‘You’re getting sacked in the morning’.While a banner lifted by fans read: “R.M GET OUT OF OUR CLUB.” Maddison got his second of the gameCredit: ReutersIt was 5-0 before half timeCredit: RexSaints fans called for the manager to leave More

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      Disgusted Southampton fans stream out of St Mary’s 26 mins into Tottenham clash – and even Russell Martin misses a goal

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      SOUTHAMPTON fans incredibly flooded out just 26 minutes into a first-half home battering as boos rang out against Tottenham.Spurs had just gone 4-0 up – and it got even more embarrassing as Saints boss Russell Martin then MISSED the visitors’ fifth goal.Fans were outside the ground minutes after Southampton went 4-0 downFaces on the touchline said it all as Southampton sufferedSome supporters couldn’t bare to watch any more – with an hour still to goJames Maddison smashed home his second goal of the evening – as Martin headed down the tunnel seconds before the interval.No doubt the under-fire manager needed extra time for a half-time team talk that was surely the footballing equivalent of Mission Impossible.Maddison had struck inside the first 60 seconds, before Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski made it by the 14th minute.But the final straw for many supporters of the bottom-placed home team was Pape Matar Sarr netting a fourth.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd within two minutes of that goal some fans were spotted already outside the stadium.If only Southampton’s defence had moved so smartly.Meanwhile, a host of supporters online reckon Martin should be on his way out – imminently.One posted: “He’s clueless…, Should learn from Brentford’s Thomas Frank, who adapted his possession style for the league while keeping his philosophy.”Most read in FootballSome fans weren’t impressed to witness a chilly horror showFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDefeat would leave the Saints with just five points from 16 games.That sparked a debate in some quarters as to where Southampton might stand in history at the unwanted end of the top-flight pecking order.Ruthless Postecoglou tells Werrner ‘I’m not worried about bruised egos’ after slamming ‘unacceptable’ Tottenham star One viewer called them “one of the worst Prem sides I’ve seen”.But another fan put the one-sided match into a wider sporting context.He posted: “I don’t care if it’s 4-0 after 25 minutes If you’re watching Spurs v Southampton over the darts you need to grow up in all honesty.”Look close enough and you’ll see a few Southampton supporters grinning and bearing it but most were grim-facedPape Matar Sarr put Spurs 4-0 in front after 25 minutes to spark amazing scenes in the stands at St Mary’sCredit: Rex More

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      Man Utd ace Marcus Rashford breaks silence after he’s DROPPED by Amorim for Manchester derby with post during City clash

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      MARCUS RASHFORD hailed Manchester United’s late comeback win at neighbours City with an Instagram burst of joy – despite his shock axing.The striker posted “Yesssssssss! Love it lads” as Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo clinched a 2-1 Prem victory in the last three minutes.Marcus Rashford went on Instagram amid a dramatic turnaroundCredit: GettyHere’s the pic with which Rashford welcomed Man Utd’s joyCredit: Instagram@marcusrashfordChamps City had led through Josko Gvardiol’s header but defeat left them nine points off leaders Liverpool, while United rose to 12th.Rashford’s enthusiastic words were accompanied by a home photo from TV coverage of the match – in a cosy room decked with a Christmas tree.The snap was of Lisandro Martinez and Diallo running back to the halfway line after the latter’s winner, albeit both with their backs to the camera.Fans loved Rashford’s intervention – which followed new speculation over his future, after boss Ruben Amorim axed him.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLOld Trafford legend Roy Keane reckoned the one-club man, 27, might now be better moving on amid question marks over his future.But United supporters on Instagram responded positively to Rashford’s upbeat message online.One said: “Love it Rashy! Now come back to training this week and fight to get your place back. We believe in you!”Another wrote: “Rashyyyy you were missed but we won.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSimilar replies included: “See you soon Rashy” and “See you soon Marcus”.Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho had been totally omitted from United’s squad.Roy Keane fumes at ’embarrassing’ Kyle Walker dive during Man City’s clash against Man UtdAmorim insisted he was NOT sending out a message with his selection, stressing: “We try to evaluate everything…”But ex-midfielder Keane told Sky Sports: “I feel probably a move for Marcus definitely would suit the player.”He’s been at the club a long time, a new challenge (would be good).””To leave them out of the squad is a big call but for those of us who have watched United recently it’s not that big a surprise because both players have been poor.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. More

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      Man City 1 Man Utd 2: Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes score two in three mins to win derby at death as City BOOED off

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      THE smallest man on the pitch won one of the worst Manchester derbies in living memory as Pep Guardiola’s fallen champions continued on their journey down the gurgler. With City leading after 88 minutes through Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header, Amad won a penalty which was converted by Bruno Fernandes, then netted a dramatic late winner. Amad Diallo inspired a stunning Man Utd comebackCredit: GettyHe scored a brilliant winner in the 90th minute to spark huge celebrationsCredit: GettyAmad took it round Ederson and finished calmly just minutes after winning a penaltyCredit: PABruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick to equaliseCredit: PAPep Guardiola was left scratching his head againCredit: GettyIt meant Guardiola’s side have won just once in their last 11 games and are now below Nottingham Forest, the only team they have beaten during this horror run, and out of the Champions League places. For United boss Ruben Amorim, this was a remarkable victory, after he had ditched Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from his matchday squad in a show of early ruthlessness. This was a Manchester derby which had been billed as the worst in decades and it pretty much was the worst in decades until Amad stole the show. Guardiola’s crumbling empire was pitted against the ancient ruins of Sir Alex Ferguson’s dynasty and you couldn’t see any world-class quality for dust. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTwo clubs which boast 21 titles of the 32 Premier League seasons contested are wallowing in mediocrity right now.And United can only hope that the fall-out from this Manchester derby is better than the last one – when they won the FA Cup Final only to make the disastrous decision to stick with Erik ten Hag.We had assembled to find out which Manchester club was in the worst state – the one which has been in crisis for ten games or the one which has been in crisis for the vast majority of the last 11 years. United’s teamsheet seemed to suggest the answer – no Rashford or Garnacho – with Amorim refusing to offer up any dodgy sicknotes. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSUnited had their young star to thank for three pointsWhat is it with United wingers? From Mason Greenwood to Antony to Jadon Sancho to these two. No wonder Amorim prefers to play without any. Hearts bled for the length of City’s injury list. Much more of this and Guardiola might have to start £100million Jack Grealish. Ruben Amorim on shock Rashford, Garnacho exclusionsEither way it had been at least 35 years since this fixture had felt so forlorn on both sides.On the pre-match trams there was nostalgia for the bad old days, the City faithful revelling in former failures – the old-timers telling their kids that ‘one win in ten was nothing, you should have been there in the Third Division’.After back-to-back league defeats, United had been buoyed slightly by a Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen, who most of us assumed was ranked No17 on the WTA Tour. For half an hour it just advertised – two poor teams – with United marginally the better of them.  Although it might have helped them if Amad had been onside at any point. Mason Mount, whose luck with injuries has been horrible, hobbled off after 15 minutes to be replaced by Kobbie Mainoo.  Phil Foden, the Footballer of the Year who hasn’t scored a Premier League goal all season, drilled one wide from 20 yards. City were ragged and passive until, suddenly, they were a goal ahead.De Bruyne took a short corner to Ilkay Gundogan and a return pass before his deep cross took a ricochet on its way to Gvardiol, who leapt behind Diogo Dalot to power home a header. After this brief burst of pride, City’s skipper Kyle Walker plunged his team back into shame. While rutting heads with Rasmus Hojlund, Walker went down like a sack of spuds, sparking a mass bout of handbags and the genuine ire from the full-back’s long-term England team-mate Harry Maguire. Josko Gvardiol headed home to make it 1-0Credit: GettyKyle Walker went down after a soft clash of heads with Rasmus HojlundCredit: ReutersYorkshiremen are not supposed to act like this, Maguire might have said. Although it was probably less polite than that. Foden, looking a little more like last season’s model, then wriggled past Manuel Ugarte and Lisandro Martinez before his shot was deflected wide off Maguire.But the first-half was best summed up by a schoolboy pass from Dalot across his own penalty area, which went straight to Foden, who couldn’t control it. After the break, if anything, the quality got even worse. City decided to allow a free header to the tiniest player on the pitch, Amad, and Ederson was forced into a full-stretch save to turn it around the post. Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.Mostly, though, it was an ongoing struggle for either side to string three passes together.  De Bruyne, pretty much our only hope for anything world-class, fizzed over a long-ranger and was then substituted in favour of Mateo Kovacic. Unexpectedly, United engineered a coherent move. Noussair Mazraoui went on a scampering run and fed Hojlund, whose excellent through-ball released Fernandes.The United skipper deftly chipped Ederson but his effort went wide of the far post. United deserved a point. It just ever felt entirely feasible that they would do enough good things in a row in order to score a goal. Until, suddenly, they scored twice in two minutes. Mason Mount came off injured after 14 minutesCredit: AFPUnited celebrated in City’s despairCredit: AFPThe first was a personal disaster from Matheus Nunes, whose back-pass was intercepted by Amad.The little fella rounded Ederson and as he turned, the recovering Nunes stood on his foot. Ref Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot and Fernandes thumped home. Next, Martinez delivered an expert pass from the deep, and Amad shot between City’s central defenders to meet it.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe lobbed Ederson, volleying home from an angle as Walker failed to cut it out. It was largely terrible but the finale was simply extraordinary.  More