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      How Arsenal could line up against bitter rivals Tottenham with ex-England man making only third Prem start of season

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      ARSENAL host fierce rivals Tottenham this evening with boss Mikel Arteta having plenty of key decisions to ponder.The Gunners go into the match with the right side of their attack having been decimated by injury.Mikel Arteta has plenty of selection dilemmas to ponderCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus was taken off on a stretcher against Man UtdCredit: GettyBukayo Saka remains a long-term absentee with a hamstring injury, while Ethan Nwaneri also has a muscular injury.Gabriel Jesus became their latest attacker to be struck by the injury bug on Sunday, when he was taken off on a stretcher with an ACL issue.Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou will have little sympathy for Arteta, with the Lilywhites having plenty of injury issues of their own.Nevertheless, the Spaniard will have his work cut out in selecting the correct combination up front.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGabriel Martinelli would seem a shoo-in to start on the left flank, with Kai Havertz likely to continue down the middle.The right wing is harder to predict, given Arsenal’s injury issues.Raheem Sterling replaced Jesus on Sunday, and could come in to make just his third Premier League start for the Gunners.Arteta could alternatively turn to Leandro Trossard.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYArsenal’s goalkeeper and centre-backs pick themselves, with David Raya, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes to start.Jurrien Timber is likely to begin at right-back, although Arteta could go for Thomas Partey.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gives update on Gabriel Jesus injury Myles Lewis-Skelly may get the nod over Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back.Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard are certainties to start in Arsenal’s midfield three – and could be partnered by any of Partey, Mikel Merino or even Kai Havertz.Should Havertz play in midfield, Sterling could be an option to fill in up front.In addition to Saka, Nwaneri and Jesus, Arsenal also have defensive injuries to deal with.Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Riccardo Calafiori are all out with knee injuries.Tottenham, meanwhile, have several absentees of their own.Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is out, as well as defenders Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie.Ben Davies has returned to training, but is unlikely to feature.READ MORE SUN STORIESRodrigo Bentancur remains sidelined with concussion protocols, while Wilson Odobert and Timo Werner will miss out with muscular issues.Richarlison could make his return following three months out with a hamstring injury.Richarlison is back in training for SpursCredit: Rex More

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      Chelsea activate Trevoh Chalobah recall clause just hours before he was due to play for Crystal Palace against Leicester

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      CHELSEA have recalled Trevoh Chalobah from his Crystal Palace loan just hours before the Eagles’ match against Leicester.The centre-back was shipped off on loan to Selhurst Park last summer after being deemed surplus to requirements by Enzo Maresca.Chelsea have recalled Trevoh Chalobah from his loan at Crystal PalaceCredit: PABut the Athletic claims Chalobah is now set to play an “important role” after being brought back to Stamford Bridge.The versatile centre-back had become a big player for Palace after returning from injury.He was in line to start tonight’s league clash against Leicester, having already played 14 times under Oliver Glasner while scoring three goals in the process.But it’s claimed that Palace did not stand in the way of Chelsea’s decision to recall the 25-year-old.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the Stamford Bridge hierarchy are said to “appreciate” Palace’s handling of the situation.As for Chalobah, could now slot straight into Chelsea’s XI alongside Levi Colwill following injuries to several Blues stars.Wesley Fofana could be out for the rest of the season with a fresh hamstring blow.While Benoit Badiashile is also sidelined for the foreseeable with a thigh problem.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAxel Disasi is also thought to be in talks over a transfer exit and was left out of last night’s squad for the 2-2 draw against Bournemouth.It meant Chelsea only had Tosin Adarabioyo and youngster Josh Acheampong available to partner Colwill.Chelsea vs Bournemouth: Player Ratings articleBut Chalobah’s return shores things up for the Blues at the back.And it likely rules out the need for a new centre-back purchase, with Chelsea having been linked with Palace captain Marc Guehi.It marks an incredible U-turn for Chalobah, who was axed to Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad’ over the summer.Training alongside other misfits like Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell, Chalobah was left out of the Blues’ pre-season tour to the US.Now, he could be the man who helps saves Chelsea’s season after a five-game winless run.Maresca’s men have picked up just three points from the last possible 15, throwing their title credentials into disarray and now leaving them in a dogfight for a top four finish which appeared a certainty a month ago. More

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      Arsenal vs Tottenham: All you need to know ahead of North London derby and where huge clash will be won and lost

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      ARSENAL host Tottenham this evening in what is set to be a mouthwatering North London derby.The Gunners will be desperate to resurrect their spluttering title chase, following devastating cup defeats to Newcastle and Manchester United.Arsenal crashed out of the FA Cup on SundayCredit: AlamyTottenham will look to put a dent in the Gunners’ title bidCredit: GettyTottenham, meanwhile, hope to shake off their FA Cup scare at Tamworth to derail their fierce rivals’ campaign.Arsenal will have to cope without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Ethan Nwaneri in their front-line, with the trio all crocked.While Spurs’ defence remains decimated, as Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie miss out.Here, SunSport runs through the tantalising clash that could make or break both clubs’ seasons.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHow much pressure is on the manager going into NLD?Arsenal: This is the most pressure Mikel Arteta has been under in years, but is he close to the sack? No chance.Yet there is now an expectation and understanding around the club and the fan base that going a few games without a win is unacceptable.Lose to their most bitter rivals at home and that will be ramped up another notch with major questions being asked of Arteta, as well as putting another dent in their withering title charge.Tottenham: Some, but not as much as you may think given Spurs have lost half their 20 Premier League games this season.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYAnge Postecoglou remains backed by the hierarchy who are understanding of his injury crisis, while the Aussie still has the team in all cup competitions.The “very poor” form in the league, as Postecoglou put it, must improve though and you would fear for him if the losing ratio does not improve.Arsenal dubbed the ‘new STOKE CITY’ live on Amazon Prime by Man Utd legend after corner masterclassSupporters, at least the ones that attend games, are still generally on Postecoglou’s side too.Unlike his predecessors, the 59-year-old has not aimed any thinly-veiled digs towards Daniel Levy and the board over backing and says the responsibility lies squarely with him.That will not be enough to save the ex-Celtic boss if there is not an upturn eventually, but cannot hurt when Levy is mulling over his latest manager’s fate.Some questions have been asked of Arsenal boss Mikel ArtetaCredit: GettyPostecoglou, 59, has had to deal with several key injuriesCredit: GettyWhere has it gone wrong this winter?Arsenal: To put it simply: injuries, illness and key players out of form. Losing Bukayo Saka was a huge blow, and without him the squad look bereft of ideas, inspiration or belief.Kai Havertz and skipper Martin Odegaard suffered the most from the Christmas sickness bug that hit the players, and their performances have slumped as a result.The likes of Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus are also either injured or preparing to come back from injury.It has been a brutal winter for Arsenal, one they need to shake off fast.Tottenham: Injuries mainly, and also, in part, Postecoglou’s refusal to adapt in spite of them.Spurs have been decimated, particularly in defence.Starting centre-backs Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven – as well as back-up Ben Davies – have all been out for a while and continue to be absent.The same can be said for left-back Destiny Udogie, while Guglielmo Vicario’s fractured ankle was so key that the club pushed forward plans to buy another goalkeeper and brought in Antonin Kinsky last week.Yet Postecoglou continued to persevere to play out from the back in Vicario’s absence, even when Fraser Forster, the man who came for the Italian, was ill-suited to it.But being down the to the bare bones, as Harry Redknapp would put it, was the key.Richarlison is back for the North London derby but has been injured for nigh-on the whole season.Gabriel Jesus was stretchered off against Man UtdCredit: PARicharlison has returned to Tottenham trainingCredit: RexDo they need to buy in January?Arsenal: Yes, badly. An attacking threat is required with Saka, Jesus and Nwaneri currently out as well as Havertz missing his shooting boots the last few weeks.Arsenal are actively on the lookout for recruits, but they have their limitations when it comes to finances, and could even eye a makeshift loan move.That is how desperate they are.Tottenham: Yes, and they already have.Kinsky, 21, has been recruited from Slavia Prague for £12.5million plus add-ons.He has made an electric start and became the first Spurs keeper for a hundred years to keep a clean sheet in his first two games after Sunday’s shut-out against Tamworth.But more is needed with the club identifying centre-back, central midfield and a versatile attacker before the window opened.A midfielder is looking less likely at the moment but up top is definitely an area they want to have bolstered by February.Arteta is keen for new recruitsCredit: GettyAntonin Kinsky has hit the ground running at SpursCredit: RexWhat is an acceptable finish to the season?Arsenal: While top spot is what Arteta, the players and the fans dream of, there must be a realisation that given how this season has gone and the gap between themselves and Liverpool, a top four finish – preferably in second place – would just about be acceptable.However, supporters will not be happy if the Gunners end up battling for fourth spot with the likes of Manchester City, Newcastle and Chelsea.Tottenham: The cups and Europe have become hugely significant.For fans, the league is gone. Spurs are nearer to the drop zone than fourth spot, so hopes have dwindled of reaching the Champions League.Postecoglou still feels his side can go on a run when they get their players back but winning the Europa League looks their best route to qualifying for Europe’s elite club competition.Levy and the board will not like to see regression after last season’s fifth-placed finish and generally have not seemed to put too much stock in the cups.Indeed, Levy even hinted that the League Cup should be done away with when speaking at a fans’ forum earlier this season.Ironically though, if Postecoglou can win that competition, then it could go a long way to quelling the fan disharmony towards Levy, given the lack of trophies is the stick they beat him with during his 25-year tenure.Arsenal could be dragged into a top four battleCredit: ReutersPostecoglou is chasing a trophy with TottenhamCredit: GettyDescribe the mood of the manager in three words…Arsenal: Edgy, impatient, determined.Tottenham: Jekyll-and-Hyde (IF THAT’S ONE WORD), spiky (then) charming.Where will the derby be won and lost?Arsenal: The wide players.Arteta has a choice of whether to throw Raheem Sterling on the right, or use one of either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli as a makeshift right winger to link up with playmaker Odegaard.Get that right, and Havertz could finally get the service he needs to end his mini-rut.Tottenham: Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal, especially without stricken striker Gabriel Jesus, is an obvious boost to Spurs.But for all the talk of Postecoglou’s side being wide open at the back, Spurs’ nine goals conceded on the road in the league is actually the lowest in the division.Tottenham looked more pragmatic in their 1-0 win over Liverpool and Postecoglou could try to replicate it here.Too often his midfield has been too easy to play through but one of Pape Sarr, Yves Bissouma and wonderkid Lucas Bergvall could be more resilient.That of course would mean benching James Maddison, but that Postecoglou has done that quite frequently this season and will not be afraid to again.Arsenal’s 1-0 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium earlier this season was a tight affair and a similar game would not be a surprise.READ MORE SUN STORIESPredictionsJordan Davies: 2-1 ArsenalTom Barclay: 1-1Leandro Trossard could be deployed on the right flankCredit: GettyIt will be interesting to see if James Maddison starts for SpursCredit: Rex More

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      Arsenal vs Tottenham LIVE: Premier League updates as Gunners host bitter rivals in blockbuster North London derby

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      ARSENAL are taking on fierce rivals Tottenham in a huge Premier League clash TONIGHT.The Gunners will be looking to bounce back after they crashed out of the FA Cup to Manchester United last weekend.Mikel Arteta’s men still have hope of winning the Premier League title, but they will need a near-perfect second half of the season and a drastic drop-off from Liverpool to do so.Elsewhere, Tottenham have slipped into the bottom half of the table after claiming just one point from their last four games in the top flight.Ange Postecoglu will be hoping for a huge win at the home of their North London rivals to raise his stock amongst the Spurs fan base.Kick off time: 8pm GMTTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: discovery+Arsenal team: To follow…Tottenham team: To follow…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Early team newsArsenal will have to cope without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Ethan Nwaneri in their front line tonight, with the trio all crocked.Ben White is also out alongside long-term absentee Takehiro Tomiyasu.Spurs’ defence remains decimated, as Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie are set to miss out.Rodrigo Bentancur remains in the concussion protocol after his scary collapse on the field against Liverpool earlier this month, while Richarlison looks set to feature for the first time since early November.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHead to headTonight represents the 211th instalment of the North London derby, one of English football’s fiercest.Tottenham are winless in the last five meetings between the two teams, going back to 3-0 victory over the Gunners in May 2022. And you have to go way back to 2010 for the last time they won a Premier League clash at the Emirates.Tottenham 0-1 Arsenal (September 2024)Tottenham 2-3 Arsenal (April 2024)Arsenal 2-2 Tottenham (September 2023)Tottenham 0-2 Arsenal (January 2023)Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham (October 2022) Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedPostecoglou discusses big Kinsky challengeAnge Postecoglou admits one part of Antonin Kinsky’s game will be severely tested in his first North London Derby this evening and explains why the Tottenham goalkeeper has a big role to play in the high-pressure encounter.He said: “It’s a different challenge but it’s more to do with mindset in that he’s prepared to embrace that challenge, and the challenge we found in the last game when we found out just how strong they are on offensive set pieces and the players they’ve got in terms of both delivery and execution.“You need to be well organised, but you also need your goalkeeper to play a pivotal role. So far what I’ve seen of him he’s embraced those challenges.“It’s not easy going to a place like Tamworth and they’re throwing balls literally under the crossbar and you’ve got about 20 bodies around you, and as much as it’s about technical ability it’s more about mindset and tackling that and he didn’t shy away from it.“That really helped us because it gives confidence to the players around him because they know if it’s in his area, he’s going to come for it and they can focus on their job.”Copy linkCopiedArteta recalls Wilshere’s viral momentMikel Arteta has recalled Jack Wilshere’s passion for the NLD after witnessing the former midfielder’s viral moment when he was a player.Arteta told TNT Sports: “I remember having a few conversations with Jack about it.”Because Jack was very passionate about the rivalry, as we all know about.”He made it public a few times, which was at the time very viral. So that’s probably something that’s stuck in my head from a player’s perspective.”Copy linkCopiedPostecoglou hits out at ‘narrative’Ange Postecoglou has taken issue with being perceived as someone who does not care about the defensive side of the game, explaining why he feels that his Tottenham side have done well at the back this season.He said: “You don’t want to hear my explanation, you’d rather hear that I don’t like defending, we’re open, that we have this ridiculously high line, that we get torn apart in every game. “That’s the narrative.”Copy linkCopiedKeown makes controversial team pickFormer Arsenal star believes only one Tottenham player would get into the Gunners team.Keown picked his combined XI as he spoke to TNT Sports.“Merino or Kulusevski?” Keown was asked.“Oh, Kulusevski is probably the only player who deserves to be in the Arsenal XI.Copy linkCopiedSol Campbell stars in hilarious advertGoogle have added to the NLD build-up by selecting Sol Campbell to star in a humuours advert encouraging buyers to switch to their Google Pixel phone.Copy linkCopiedTottenham receive injury boostTottenham Hotspur have received a significant injury boost ahead of tonight’s clash against Arsenal as Richarlison returns to the squad after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The Brazilian forward, who is considered one of Spurs’ most important players, has been out for several weeks due to fitness issues but is now ready to make his comeback.Postecoglou said: “It’s just good to get Richy back, he’s had an unfortunate season for us, but last season when he played, and even the little bit he played this season when he injured his hamstring, he fights and scraps for everything, and he’s got quality as well.“Just having an extra attacking player, with him and Mikey (Moore) available now makes such a difference in what we can do during games, between games, in terms of the way we play.”Copy linkCopiedPostecoglou on the NLD derbyTottenham boss Postecoglou knows this is not just a normal game and has talked about the added spice of this fixture.Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the match, Postecoglou said: “If there’s territory involved that usually gives it an extra bit of spice. There’s definitely territory involved because there’s a piece of turf that people want to own.”What I’ve never done is dismiss it as, ‘it’s just another game’, because it’s not, that’s the reality of it.”We’re all sort of people who are still very much in our own communities and when you’re walking that’s the first thing people say to you so you know the significance of the game.”There’s no point me going in there and saying, ‘boys just treat this like any other game’, because it’s not.”There is a little bit more of an emotional presence in terms of you want the players to understand the ramifications of both the good and the bad, but also prepare themselves for the intensity, the tempo, the passion that exists for this fixture.”Copy linkCopiedWelcome to Arsenal vs Tottenham!North London derby day is here as Arsenal take on Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium.The Gunners will be looking to bounce back after their painful FA Cup penalty defeat by Manchester United and keep alive their Premier League title hopes.Mikel Arteta’s side can go within four points of leaders Liverpool with victory, although the Reds will have one game in hand.While Spurs head into the match on a run of two successive wins in cup competitions including the 1-0 win over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup last week.Tottenham, however, have failed to win in their last four Prem matches but victory tonight will have this as a minor memory.Stick with us here on SunSport as we bring you ALL of the latest build-up to the big one at the Emirates.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Former Premier League star, 34, looks unrecognisable topless in freezing conditions as he takes on Iceman challenge

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      FORMER Chelsea and Fulham star Andre Schurrle looked unrecognisable as he went topless in freezing conditions while taking on the Iceman challenge.Schurrle, 34, spent 18 months at Chelsea between 2013 and 2015 before returning to England in the 2018/19 season with west London rivals Fulham.Andre Schurrle went topless as he completed the Iceman challengeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/The former Chelsea and Fulham star braved cold conditions without a shirtCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/Pals joined him on the bonkers tripCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/Having retired in 2020 aged just 29, the German World Cup winner now enjoys hikes on mountains across Europe.And his latest endeavour saw him complete the Iceman challenge — AGAIN.Inspired by Dutch celeb Wim Hof, it saw Schurrle and pals take on an extremely gruelling hike before stripping down to just their shorts.The group then climbed a mountain in snow-covered conditions to prove their mental strength.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSchurrle and friends were all smiles as they posed for a photo at the top.And it turned out to be the THIRD straight year the group had completed the challenge.Schurrle said: “Look at us! What a day! Pushed through the absolute limit! With my brothers!“The coldest I have ever been! Discomfort! Pain! Suffer! Growth!”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSSchurrle’s hiking ventures certainly mark a drastic change in his career.The ace was one regarded as one of Europe’s top wingers, having first starred at Bundesliga clubs Mainz and Bayer Leverkusen.Chelsea vs Bournemouth: Player Ratings articleSchurrle loves climbing mountains after retirementCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/He and pals have done the Iceman challenge three years in a rowCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/Schurrle retired from football aged just 29Credit: https://www.instagram.com/andreschuerrle/Chelsea then signed Schurrle for £18million in 2013.And he went on to score 14 times in 65 games while winning the Premier League and Carabao Cup under Jose Mourinho.Schurrle then spent 18 months at Wolfsburg where he won the German Cup and German SuperCup.A further two-year spell at Borussia Dortmund resulted in another German Cup.Schurrle won a Premier League title at ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe enjoyed a loan spell at London rivals FulhamCredit: ReutersSchurrle bagged the assist that won the 2014 World Cup for GermanyCredit: Getty – ContributorAnd Schurrle then returned to England with Fulham in 2018, scoring six times in 25 outings for the Cottagers.The following season saw him loaned out to Russian side Spartak Moscow.But despite being shy of 30, Schurrle decided it was time to hang up his boots.He retired with 57 Germany caps to his name, scoring an impressive 22 times in the process.READ MORE SUN STORIESSchurrle bagged the assist for Mario Gotze’s extra-time winner in the 2014 World Cup final against Argentina.And his last cap for Germany came in 2017. More

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      Premier League referee makes history as he refuses to send off Bournemouth star who ‘clotheslined Cucurella’

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      PREMIER LEAGUE referee Robert Jones made history when he refused to send off David Brooks for a “clothesline” challenge on Marc Cucurella.The incident occurred during last night’s clash between Chelsea and Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.Robert Jones made history during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with BournemouthCredit: ReutersVAR recommended a red card review for David Brooks’ ‘clothesline’ on Marc CucurellaThe Blues took the lead through Cole Palmer before the visitors turned the game on its head for 2-1.And it took a last-gasp Reece James free-kick to rescue a point for Enzo Maresca’s side, who have now gone five games without a win.However, Chelsea felt they were hard done by when Cucurella was smashed by Brooks while making a forward run.Bournemouth’s Welshman appeared to “clothesline” the Spaniard, according to fans online.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it saw VAR recommend a red card review for violent conduct at the pitchside monitor.However, referee Jones did not see things the same way.After watching a replay of the incident, he went against VAR’s recommendation and instead gave Brooks a yellow card.It marked the first time in Premier League history that a referee has rejected a red-card review at the monitor.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt was also the first VAR monitor rejection this season.And the Premier League’s Match Centre explained Jones’ thinking in a social media post.The one player Chelsea must sign this seasonJones rejected the red card recommendation, the first one in Premier League historyCredit: ReutersFans were left baffled by the decisionCredit: GettyIt read: “VAR recommended an on-field review for a possible red card to Brooks for violent conduct.“Upon review, the referee deemed that the challenge on Cucurella was a reckless action and not violent conduct — and issue a yellow card to Brooks.”Fans certainly felt the decision should have been a red card.One said: “Blatant and deliberate. Red card all day.”Another declared: “Pure embarrassment.”One noted: “Blatant red, that’s a wrestling move.”Another added: “Clotheslines now allowed in football.”Chelsea player ratings vs BournemouthCHELSEA failed to win for their fourth Prem outing in a row as they drew 2-2 with Bournemouth.Having taken the lead through Cole Palmer, things went very wrong in the second half.Justin Kluivert scored from the spot after a poor challenge from Moise Caicedo led to the penalty. Antoine Semenyo then put the Cherries in front.But up stepped Reece James to fire in a brilliant 95th minute penalty and salvage a point.Here’s how the players rated…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion. Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo – 3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. However, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo. Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead. Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward.Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth. Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft. Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle. Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c) – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him. Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half.Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal. Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off. This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal. He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba. But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBSReece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner. Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight. Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on. A tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers. More

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      Pep Guardiola loses it with his OWN PLAYER and boots stand as difficult week gets worse following news of marriage split

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      FURIOUS Pep Guardiola let rip at his own player before then violently hugging him following his side’s 2-2 draw with Brentford.His Man City side threw away a two-goal lead with the immensely animated Spanish coach also kicking an advertising hoarding.Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola had an intense confrontation with Stefan OrtegaCredit: RexHe then roughly hugged his playerCredit: ReutersCity manager Guardiola was so livid he kicked a barricade at the standsCredit: RexThe match came hours after reports emerged that he had split with his wife and teenage sweetheart Cristina Serra.Still sporting his wedding ring, Guardiola would have loved to see his stuttering team register three points.But City wasted a two-goal lead at Brentford as Yoane Wissa and Christian Norgaard cancelled out Phil Foden’s brace late into the second half.Foden thought he won it for the reigning Premier League champions by the 78th minute and temporarily sent his team back up to the top four.Read More on FootballHowever, Wissa put the Bees back in the game just four minutes after the England international completed his double.And City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega was beaten again in the second minute of stoppage time by a Norgaard header.Guardiola, 53, was absolutely livid on the touchline as the camera caught him kicking a Gtech advertisement near the stands of the Gtech Community Stadium.And after the final whistle, the Catalan giant entered the pitch and confronted Ortega, 32.Most read in FootballGuardiola had some strong words for Ortega at full timeHe physically embraced his player as well as shouting in his faceThe ex-Barcelona boss had a very intense conversation with the German shot stopper, shouting just inches from his own player’s face.Guardiola was seen verbally lashing out at the City keeper in what appeared to be some tough love as he also roughly hugged him at the same time.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainThe ex-Bayern Munich boss has been enduring a turbulent campaign that has seen the Citizens dropping down to sixth place in the Premier League table.At one point the Manchester giants went on to lose nine out of 13 matches – of which they won only one – across all competitions.Things got even worse for Guardiola when it was reported that he split from his wife of 30 years.The City boss and wife Cristina have three children together and decided to end their relationship in December while both in Spain.Guardiola’s troubles continued after he split from his wife of 30 yearsCredit: Getty More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo ‘rolled his eyes’ whenever Man Utd team-mate spoke in the dressing room

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly rolled his eyes in the dressing room when one specific star team-mate spoke.Ronaldo, 39, made an emotional return to United in 2021, 12 years after the end of a first stint that saw him winning three Premier League titles, the 2008 Champions League and the 2004 FA Cup.Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo used to roll his eyes when Harry Maguire spokeCredit: GettyRonaldo wasn’t shy in expressing his displeasure with the state he found Man Utd upon his returnCredit: ReutersHowever, CR7’s second spell at Old Trafford didn’t live up to expectation and came to a dramatic end in 2022 after a bombshell interview in which he lambasted the club from top to bottom.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s scintillating 19-year career in Europe then came to an end as he moved to Saudi Arabia where he joined Al-Nassr, while the Red Devils’ struggles have since persisted.According to The Telegraph, the star forward wasn’t shy in expressing his displeasure with the state in which he found the club upon his return.And the Portugal captain didn’t seem too excited to have Harry Maguire as his captain.Read More on Man UtdThat is why Ronaldo apparently rolled his eyes when Maguire, 31, gave a team talk.The England international ended up losing the armband during former United manager Erik ten Hag’s tenure following a series of dismal performances.However, the centre-back has turned things around under new boss Ruben Amorim.Maguire has started the last five Premier League games and convinced the Manchester giants to trigger a one-year extension in his contract.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThe defender was also a focal point in United’s impressive performance against rivals Liverpool two weeks ago.In fact, Maguire almost scored the winner that would have seen his team beating the Prem leaders 3-2 at Anfield. ‘Who do you think you are’: Sir Alex Ferguson reduced Cristiano Ronaldo to tears after ‘ripping in’ to Man Utd iconThe same source claims that the ex-Leicester star’s comeback has been so impressive that now “no one is rolling their eyes in that dressing room” when he speaks as Ronaldo “was known to do”.Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as Maguire and Co dig deep to win after Dalot’s moment of madnessMANCHESTER UNITED produced a heroic effort to squeeze past Arsenal and into the FA Cup’s fourth round on penalties.The Red Devils were forced to dig deep at the Emirates following Diogo Dalot’s 61st minute red card.On a freezing cold afternoon in North London, SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rates and slates each United performer…ALTAY BAYINDIR – 8Poor punch up in the air which allowed the ball to fall nicely for Gabriel to finish.Redeemed himself with a brilliant penalty save to keep the score level, before superbly denying Declan Rice twice.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7Was assured on and off the ball if unspectacular. Got his body on the line as the Gunners pushed for a winner.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 8Solid in defence and kept the backline well organised. Produced the best tackle of the match on the goalline to deny Leandro Trossard a certain goal.HARRY MAGUIRE – 8Commanding in the air and made several key blocks but gave away the penalty which Arsenal missed to go in front.Got away with an earlier error as he failed to clear – the ball landed at Kai Havertz’s feet but he somehow skewed wide with his effort.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Had to be on high alert to deal with the movement of Arsenal forwards but it was a task he managed well.DIOGO DALOT – 3Booked for a mistimed lunge on Lewis-Skelly. He followed that up with another silly, late foul on Merino with the ball about to go out of play for his second yellow. Stupid red card.MANUEL UGARTE – 7A firefighter all across the pitch for his side, although spent most of the match in his own half given Arsenal’s dominance.Was booked for one foul too many just before the hour mark and was lucky to escape a red card as he went head-to-head with Havertz after the penalty incident.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Lively in the middle and kept a close eye on Jorginho. Looked sharp on the ball and showed some clever touches.Should have done better to head clear before Gabriel’s equaliser.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Always an outlet on the counter which was much needed for the Red Devils.Made the most of a Gabriel error to burst in on goal and pass across to Fernandes to score.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Was booked for throwing a trademark tantrum after claiming he was fouled on the edge of the box when lining up a shot.Showed his class with a brilliant first-time finish which he bent around a defender into the far corner.RASMUS HOJLUND – 3Failed to provide the focal point that United badly needed, which meant almost every pass forward was dealt with by the Arsenal centre-halves. Was fortunate there was no VAR to take a look at his apparent elbow on William Saliba, which left the Arsenal star bloodied.SUBSTITUTESAmad (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Lively on the counter too but just lacking a bit of quality – though was outnumbered every time he got the ball.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 80mins) – 6Some very clever touches when he came on and provided a presence up front at a time United badly needed it.Toby Collyer (for Mainoo, 80mins) – 5Showed plenty of energy but was missing quality in some areas.Tyrell Malacia (for Ugarte, extra-time) – 6Stuck to his task well.Leno Yoro (for Maguire, 104) – 6Did his job well during the closing stages of the match. Converted his penalty in the shoot-out with aplomb. More