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      Chelsea vs Liverpool is officially most boring top-flight fixture ever as shocking stat is revealed

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      CHELSEA vs Liverpool is officially the most BORING top-flight fixture ever.The Blues and the Reds played out yet another dull, drab goalless draw this evening.
      Chelsea and Liverpool fans have been hard done by with four straight 0-0 drawsCredit: PA
      Chelsea cane closer to scoring in tonight’s latest stalemateCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Incredibly that was the FOURTH time in a row neither side has managed to find the net since the thrilling 2-2 draw in January 2022.
      Both the League Cup and FA Cup finals were stalemates last season – with Liverpool winning on penalties at Wembley twice.
      And the reverse fixture Premier League fixture at Anfield in January did not produce a goal before the same outcome once again in West London.
      Opta confirmed this is the third time two top-flight clubs have drawn 0-0 in four consecutive meetings.
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      It also happened between Everton and Liverpool between 1974 and 1975 and then with Arsenal and QPR from 1992 to 1994.
      However, none of the other matches went to extra-time.
      Therefore Chelsea vs Liverpool’s four 0-0 matches totals 420 minutes rather than 360 minutes without a goal – making it the longest tally in the history of the top flight.
      And the quartet of games also covered three different Chelsea managers – Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Bruno Saltor.
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      The one before that, Frank Lampard, was in the crowd to watch the latest snooze fest.
      Chelsea’s failure to score in the first half against Jurgen Klopp’s side means they have gone eight Premier League home games without a goal – their joint-longest run since November 1992 to March 1993.
      Reece James thought he had given the Blues the lead but his goal was ruled out for offside.
      And Kai Havertz tried to convince everyone inside Stamford Bridge he had legally bundled in a rebound off Alisson.
      But he could not fool the video cameras and the VARs watching the replays at Stockley Park clearly saw the ball bounced in off his elbow and therefore was chalked off.
      Jurgen Klopp has faced different Chelsea managers in the last three matchesCredit: EPA
      Liverpool lifted the FA Cup in May 2022 after a goalless 120 minutesCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd LIVE: Red Devils LINKED with £43m Kim Min-jae move, former coach makes Rashford CLAIM, takeover LATEST updates

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been linked with a move for Napoli defender Kim Min-jae, according to reports.Liverpool and Tottenham are other Premier League clubs in the race for the South Korean centre-back.
      Meanwhile, a former United coach has claimed that Red Devils’ star Marcus Rashford wanted to play in a completely different position during his pervious confidence crisis.
      And we’ve got the very latest on United’s takeover talks.
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      Piers blasts Ten Hag after Ron’s latest masterclass
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s deadly double shows Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag made one of football’s worst blunders EVER, Piers Morgan claims.
      And as fans hailed Ronaldo’s display in Al-Nassr’s 5-0 rout of Al Adfalah, one reckoned his second goal proved he has the “the greatest weak foot in the history of this beautiful game”.
      United ousted the Portugal legend, 38, in November following his searing verdict in a TalkTV interview with Sun Columnist Morgan over how the club and Ten Hag had treated him.

      But now, after a mediocre World Cup and slow start to his career in Saudi Arabia, Ron’s in scorching form again.
      He bagged Al-Nassr’s penalty opener and a stunning third goal on Tuesday
      Picking up a pass from two-goal strike-partner Talisca, he accelerated into the box and lashed a left-footer inside the far corner.
      One enthusiast tweeted: “The greatest weak foot in the history of this beautiful game. 156th weak foot goal for the Greatest of all time.”
      And Morgan posted: “Two more goals for @Cristiano so far tonight, including this superb one which once again suggests Ten Hag’s decision to dump him for Wout Weghorst was one of the worst in football history.”
      Old Trafford chief Ten Hag has stuck with Weghorst in attack despite the loanee’s lack of goals.
      ‘Rashford wanted change’
      A former Manchester United coach has claimed that Marcus Rashford wanted to place as a holding midfielder after suffering a crisis in confidence.
      Neil Ryan, who worked with the youth team at United, revealed that Rashford, 25, wanted to play in the deeper role as he could not “burn past” players.

      However, the now England under 18s manager, 48, insisted that Rashford would always be a forward and that his pace would come once he grew more.
      He told FourFourTwo: “In the Under 12s and Under 13s he was fantastic and often up against older boys. 
      “You didn’t feel that it was effortless like it was with Ravel Morrison.
      “Marcus’ attitude and talent always stood out, but aged 14 he had a confidence crisis and wanted to be a holding midfielder. 
      “I recall talking to his mother and brothers.
      “He spoke about wanting to get on the ball more.
      “He didn’t have the pace then to burn past others because he was still growing, but we always thought he’d be a forward.”
      Red Devils to face Dortmund in Vegas
      United will play Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas in July as part of its summer tour of the US, bringing the most famous football club on the planet to the entertainment capital of the world, writes MARTIN BLACKBURN.
      The match at the Allegiant Stadium on Sunday July 30, is the second fixture of the Club’s Tour 23 to be announced, with more fixtures and locations to be revealed in the coming weeks.
      United have not met the Bundesliga side since a 2016 tour game in China and the pair have only played six competitive matches in their histories, – making this summer’s encounter a rare opportunity for US fans to see two of Europe’s leading football teams go head-to-head.
      Last week, United announced a game against Welsh side Wrexham at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, on 25th July. Tickets for this match have already sold out, with fans eager to see the Red Devils return to the US for the first time in five years.
      United Football Director, John Murtough said: “We have worked with the manager and his staff to provide a mix of competitive opponents to play during our tour of the US and we look forward to the match against Borussia Dortmund.
      “As well as gaining valuable playing time, the squad will also be participating in training camps within the best sporting facilities available, giving our players the opportunity to build fitness before the start of the new Premier League season.
      “The response we have received from fans since announcing we will be returning to the US has been incredible. We already have a full house for the match in San Diego and I am sure it will be the same for this fixture in Vegas.”
      Utd ‘in for Kim’
      United are reportedly interested in triggering the £43million release clause of Napoli star Kim Min-jae, but will have to fend off a lot of competition.
      The Mail Online has reported that the Red Devils are among three Premier League clubs who are keen on a move for the centre-back.
      The 26-year-old is rumoured to be interested in a move to the English top flight and will have plenty of options if his clause is triggered.
      United are said to be joined in the chase for the South Korea international by Liverpool and Tottenham.

      Kim has been a crucial part of Napoli’s impressive campaign this season.
      He has featured 36 times for the club already as they sit 16 points clear at the top of Serie A with a Champions League quarter-final tie with AC Milan to come.
      The former Fenerbahce defender joined the Italians in the summer for a modest £16million, but is understood to be valued significantly higher now.
      The release clause in his contract – thought to be be 50million euros – would see him leave for below his market value after only one season at the club.
      Napoli could try to remove the clause by offering Kim a fresh set of terms despite his recent arrival.
      Prem clubs on Hugo alert
      PSG are tipped to offload Newcastle target Hugo Ekitike after ONE season.
      The French striker, 20, has previously been linked with Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan.
      PSG landed the Under-20 international on loan from Reims last summer.

      But although that deal means the Ligue 1 leaders have to buy him at the end of the season, Le Parisien sayhe will then be transfer-listed.
      Ekitike has, unsurprisingly, struggled to displace Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar up front.
      And to many pundits his form has been a disappointment.
      Nev stirs up Spurs row
      United legend sparked a furious Twitter row with Jermaine Jenas and Jamie O’Hara with his cutting comments about former Tottenham players.
      The Sky Sports pundit, 48, took a swipe at his fellow footballers-turned-pundits criticising the club after they blew a lead to draw 1-1 at lowly ten-man Everton on Monday.
      Spurs still rose to fourth on goal difference but some ex-Spurs players hit out, especially when caretaker boss Cristian Stellini claimed his team “played a good game”.

      Jenas tweeted: “I can’t watch this team anymore ffs.”
      And O’Hara raged on talkSPORT before storming out of the studio: “I’m done. Someone save me. I’m done, I am done. Who is this imposter? Has Antonio Conte come back?”
      Neville tweeted: “Interesting seeing ex-Spurs players that never got near to Champions League places for years when they played for the club saying they can’t watch this current team now.
      “Spurs are in fourth place currently ahead of Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool. Perspective!”
      O’Hara said: “Massive fan of Gary Neville so won’t get into a slanging match. I did play for Spurs, grew up at Spurs and a huge fan who cares about the club and seeing the awful football week in week out is hard to watch.
      “Everyone is entitled to an opinion and we may be fourth but it’s diabolical.”
      Jenas shared a photo of himself playing for Tottenham in the Champions League and captioned it: “… maybe he wasn’t taking about me. Apologies if so @GNev2.”
      Victor fancies becoming a Red Devil
      Napoli star Victor Osimhen is interested in a move to Manchester United.
      According to TeamTalk, the Osimhen is ‘eyeing up’ a move to United in the summer.
      This season the striker has excelled in Serie A and has provided plenty of goals in the club’s title charge.
      The Nigeria international has registered a staggering total of 25 goals and five assists in 29 appearances.

      Red Devils and Barca ‘keen on Roque’
      United and Barcelona are regarded as two of the massive European clubs interested in 18-year-old Brazil striker Vitor Roque.
      The Athletico Paranaense starlet has notched 10 goals and three assists in 40 games for the Brazilian top-flight club.
      It’s claimed he’d prefer a move to Barca.
      And that would hardly be a surprise, given that fellow countrymen Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho have also swapped Brazil for the Nou Camp.
      Villa ‘in for Henderson’
      Aston Villa are the latest Premier League club to be linked with a move to sign Man United’s Dean Henderson.
      The goalkeeper is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, who will be in the hint for his signature should they beat the drop.
      But according to Football Insider, the Villans are also interested in signing the internationally capped stopper.
      Mitrovic 8-game ban for Utd bust-up
      Aleksandar Mitrovic has been banned for EIGHT matches for his Old Trafford meltdown.
      The Fulham striker shoved and reacted angrily to referee Chris Kavanagh when he awarded a penalty and sent off team-mate Willian.
      Kavanagh showed the red card, meaning an automatic three-game ban.

      Now the FA have slapped him with an extra five matches and a £75,000 fine.
      Manager Marco Silva, also red carded in the flashpoint, got a two-game touchline ban and £40,000 fine for his behaviour and comments.
      Mitrovic served the first of those eight in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth.
      He will now miss Fulham’s next seven matches before returning for May’s trip to Southampton.
      The Serb is also available for the London derby at home to Crystal Palace and the away day back to the scene of the crime, Old Trafford, for the final game of the season.
      Red Devils to face Dortmund in Vegas
      United will play Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas in July as part of its summer tour of the US, bringing the most famous football club on the planet to the entertainment capital of the world, writes MARTIN BLACKBURN.
      The match at the Allegiant Stadium on Sunday July 30, is the second fixture of the Club’s Tour 23 to be announced, with more fixtures and locations to be revealed in the coming weeks.
      United have not met the Bundesliga side since a 2016 tour game in China and the pair have only played six competitive matches in their histories, – making this summer’s encounter a rare opportunity for US fans to see two of Europe’s leading football teams go head-to-head.
      Last week, United announced a game against Welsh side Wrexham at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, on 25th July. Tickets for this match have already sold out, with fans eager to see the Red Devils return to the US for the first time in five years.
      United Football Director, John Murtough said: “We have worked with the manager and his staff to provide a mix of competitive opponents to play during our tour of the US and we look forward to the match against Borussia Dortmund.
      “As well as gaining valuable playing time, the squad will also be participating in training camps within the best sporting facilities available, giving our players the opportunity to build fitness before the start of the new Premier League season.
      “The response we have received from fans since announcing we will be returning to the US has been incredible. We already have a full house for the match in San Diego and I am sure it will be the same for this fixture in Vegas.”
      Luke staying 4 more years
      Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has signed a new deal with the club.
      Shaw put pen to paper on a four-year extension with United after some impressive performances under manager Erik ten Hag.
      The left-back had a contract with the Red Devils until 2024, which has now been extended until 2028.
      United are hoping to tie some more superstars to a new contract by June
      Sancho future unclear
      Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is growing increasingly impatient with Jadon Sancho.
      According to Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag is losing patience with Sancho.
      So much so that the Dutch tactician could decide to let the winger leave at the end of the season.
      The England international, who has made just five appearances in the last five months, could be sold as part of Ten Hag’s proposed clearout and rebuild.
      Ten Hag’s five guys
      Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is ready to put five players on the chopping block this summer – including a favourite of co-owner Joel Glazer.
      According to Manchester Evening News, Harry Maguire, Brandon Williams, Alex Telles, Anthony Martial and Eric Bailly will all be up for sale this summer.
      Martial is believed to be Glazer’s favourite and he has intervened to stop the forward being sold previously.
      But the 27-year-old, who was signed with high expectations in 2015, has failed to convince over a sustained period and has been increasingly hampered by injury problems.
      Osimhen keen on United
      Napoli star Victor Osimhen is interested in a move to Manchester United.
      According to TeamTalk, the Osimhen is ‘eyeing up’ a move to United in the summer.
      This season the striker has excelled in Serie A and has provided plenty of goals in the club’s title charge.
      The Nigeria international has registered a staggering total of 25 goals and five assists in 29 appearances.
      Credit: Rex
      Ten Hag on Shaw
      Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag described Luke Shaw’s new contract as a “good message”.
      Shaw has been essential for United this season as he has stood out at left-back and also successfully filled in at centre-back.
      Ten hag said: “I think it’s a good message, any international is doing really well this season, really happy with them.
      “He’s a modern left back but can also play centre-back, he matches the standards we want to have, it sends a very good message.”
      Eriksen injury boost
      Manchester United have received a major injury boost regarding Christian Eriksen.
      United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed Eriksen has returned to full training.
      Ten Hag said: “Not for tomorrow [vs Brentford] but he’s returning on the pitch.
      “He’s returning into team training today, so we have to see now how quickly he can make the progress.”
      Sheikh Jassim snag
      The Manchester United ownership saga took a huge twist as it emerged there is serious Government concern about Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, writes Sun Sport’s Martin Lipton.
      Nearly five months after United was put on the market, bidders remain in the dark over whether the Glazers really want to sell the club.
      But the news that the Bank of England has flagged up previous regulatory failings at the UK branch of the Qatari Investment Bank headed up by Sheikh Jassim could prove a major turning point.
      Sheikh Jassim is the most likely to meet the Glazer family’s £6bn valuation but that could all be changed by the revelation of the issues being raised by senior Government officials.
      Those reservations are understood to relate to a £1.4m fine handed out to QIB’s UK unit by the Bank of England in 2016 for violating capital financial rules that left the bank exposed to high levels of risk.
      Regulators said QIB had “failed to meet some of the most basic regulatory standards”.
      More on Shaw
      Manchester United’s Football Director John Murtough described Luke Shaw as “one of the best defenders in the world” after he signed his contract extension.
      Murtough said: “Luke is a massively important player to the squad and has grown into one of the best defenders in the world.
      “He has been at the club for nearly a decade and understands the expectations for success, and the hard work, commitment and high standards required to achieve it.
      “He has added leadership to his other outstanding abilities, and we all look forward to seeing him in a Manchester United shirt for years to come.”
      Credit: Getty
      Shaw speaks out
      Manchester United ace Luke Shaw revealed he signed a new contract because he believes in the “journey” manager Erik ten Hag has taken the club.
      Shaw said: “Nine years ago, I signed for this amazing club, and I’m thrilled to be extending my stay.
      “I’ve grown immensely since coming to Manchester all those years ago, both as a person and as a player; I know what is needed to succeed at a club like this.
      “We’re at the beginning of our journey under the manager and his coaching staff.
      “We’ve been successful already this season, but we want much more. There’s a great opportunity to create something special here, and I’m going to give everything to be part of that.”
      Shaw signs new deal
      Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has signed a new deal with the club.
      Shaw put pen to paper on a four-year extension with United after some impressive performances under manager Erik ten Hag.
      The left-back had a contract with the Red Devils until 2024, which has now been extended until 2028.
      United are hoping to tie some more superstars to a new contract by June
      Harry Kane price
      Manchester United may have to splash the cash to sign long-term target and Tottenham superstar Harry Kane.
      And reports suggest Kane will cost a whopping £90million to price away from Spurs.
      The striker’s future in North London appears uncertain after Antonio Conte’s dismissal from the dugout.
      The England captain’s contract runs out next year, which means Tottenham run the risk of losing him for free if he doesn’t leave this summer
      Harry Kane bid
      Manchester United are ready to go after Tottenham superstar Harry Kane in the summer.
      United do not want to involve themselves in a saga like with Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong last summer.
      Therefore, the Red Devils are keen to find out whether the transfer is feasible from the player and Spurs’ perspective.
      The star striker is manager Erik ten Hag’s preferred choice to spearhead his frontline.
      Credit: Rex
      Declan Rice bidding war
      Arsenal will battle Manchester United for West Ham star Declan Rice.
      Rice is targeted by United with Scott McTominay heading for the exit door at Old Trafford.
      The Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta wants to bolster his midfield and the England international is high on the North Londoners’ summer wishlist.
      The Hammers may demand £100million, but the price is set to be affected if they get relegated to the Championship.
      Osimhen ‘eyes’ United
      Man United transfer target Victor Osimhen is reportedly interested in a move to the club.
      According to TeamTalk, the Napoli star is ‘eyeing up’ a move to the Red Devils.
      This season the Nigerian striker he excelled in Serie A and has provided plenty of goals in the club’s title charge.
      Load more entries… More

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      Lucas Moura releases public apology to Michael Keane and reveals he spoke to him after Tottenham’s draw with Everton

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      LUCAS MOURA has publicly apologised to Michael Keane for his dangerous tackle on the defender.The Brazilian, 30, saw red for Spurs as he caught the Everton star’s shin with his studs in the 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.
      Lucas Moura committed a horrific challenge on Michael KeaneCredit: Sky Sports
      And was sent off for the tackleCredit: Getty
      Keane scored a brilliant equaliser later in the matchCredit: PA
      While Moura had to miss the rest of the match after being given his marching orders, Keane, 30, was fortunate enough to be able to carry on.
      And for Everton, it was lucky that he did as he fired in a superb equaliser to earn the club a crucial point in their battle against relegation.
      Moura has since apologised to Keane for his tackle and revealed that he spoke to the defender insisting that the challenge was not intended.
      He tweeted: “I would like to apologise to my opponent Michael Keane too, I spoke to him after the game yesterday, but just to make it public as well.
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      “Like I said, I didn’t mean that. We move on.”
      This apology followed the message to Tottenham fans in which he took responsibility for the result and his mistake.
      Moura wrote: “There are good days and bad days, today is a bad day for me.
      “No-one is more frustrated than me. I made a mistake and I accept that. I am not this kind of player and I didn’t mean to do that.
      Most read in Football
      “Sometimes for the sake of milliseconds, something totally different happens than what you planned. I want to apologise to my team-mates, the staff, the fans and the club.
      “I will keep working hard to help the team as much as I can until my last day at the club.”
      Moura was not the only player to be dismissed during the match.
      Toffees star Abdoulaye Doucoure was also sent off after appearing to dig his fingers into Harry Kane’s eyes.
      The England striker was criticised for his reaction of falling to the ground following the altercation.
      The draw for Spurs keeps them in fourth place, however, Man United are only behind on goal difference.
      The Red Devils also have two games in hand on Spurs.
      Abdoulaye Doucoure was also sent off in the matchCredit: Getty
      He appeared to dig his fingers into Harry Kane’s eyesCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal already have ‘the next Saka’ in their ranks as Wilshere reveals Arteta loves ‘unplayable’ youngster

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      JACK WILSHERE reckons Arsenal could already have ‘the next Bukayo Saka’ in their ranks.Club legend Wilshere, now the Gunners’ U18’s head coach, has seen academy talent Amario Cozier-Duberry up close.
      Arsenal kid Amario Cozier-Duberry is being tipped as the new Bukayo SakaCredit: Getty
      Jack Wilshere has been coaching Arsenal’s youth teams and is impressed by Cozier-DuberryCredit: Getty
      The winger, 17, is yet to make his professional debut for Arsenal.
      But Wilshere sees a very bright future, just like the Gunners’ current golden boy.
      The former midfielder told football.london: “Amario is very exciting and Mikel (Arteta) likes him.
      “He reminds me of Bukayo Saka, plays in the same position as him, needs to get better with his decision-making like Bukayo did, but he’s definitely exciting.
      READ MORE ON ARSENAL
      “In some moments he’s unplayable. You give him the ball and he can make things happen.
      “You can set up a team and have a game plan, but when you’ve got individuals like that you’ve got a chance.”
      Cozier-Duberry has featured on the bench five times for Arsenal this season, but hasn’t been able to get on the pitch.
      Despite not playing for the first team he has been impressive in the Premier League 2.
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      The London born Gunner has registered three assists and netted three times this season in the competition.
      He will have a long way to go to replicate what Saka has achieved this season with the England star on fine form this campaign.
      The 21-year-old has 22 goal contributions in just 29 Premier League appearances this season.
      He has been a crucial cog in Arteta’s machine as the side currently sit atop the league table eight points clear of second place Manchester City. More

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      ‘It’s actually over’ – Arsenal fans all fear the worst as referee for crunch Liverpool clash is announced

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      LIVERPOOL and Arsenal fans might BOTH reckon Paul Tierney is the worst possible choice as referee for Sunday’s huge Premier League clash.Many Gunners’ fans blame Tierney for controversial decisions as they have lost all their last FIVE games when he has been in charge.
      Gabriel Jesus and Granit Xhaka lead protests with referee Paul Tierney during Arsenal’s 3-1 loss at Old Trafford in SeptemberCredit: Reuters
      And after a heated match against Tottenham, Sky Sports cameras appeared to catch Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp saying: “I have no problems with any referees. Only you.”
      Tierney heads for Anfield this weekend with the Reds eighth following Tuesday’s 0-0 draw at Chelsea and Arsenal eight points clear at the top from Manchester City, who visit Southampton on Saturday.
      And Gunners’ supporters seem especially twitchy.
      One posted: “Lads, it actually over” and another added: “Here we go.”
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      A third wrote: “Not one for speaking out about or against refs, but if this is true surely it’s worrying?”
      And a fourth gloomily summed up recent history.
      He tweeted: “Arsenal’s record in the last five games he has refereed: 0 wins, 0 draws, 5 losses. Sent off Holding and penalised Cedric in last season’s NLD, also disallowed Martinelli’s goal vs United this season.”
      The Gunners’ first defeat this term, 3-1 at Manchester United in September, came after perhaps the most hotly-debated of Tierney’s decisions.
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      An early Gabriel Martinelli goal was ruled out for Martin Odegaard impeding Christian Eriksen in the build-up – after VAR asked the ref in the middle to look again.
      But Odegaard protested during and following the game.
      He said: “In my opinion it is never a foul. I think the referee sees it and he says play on. It’s a soft challenge and for VAR to come in it has to be clear and obvious.
      “For me it is very, very soft. You can always make it look worse on camera. But it’s never a foul and the referee said play on so it is frustrating.”
      Klopp’s problem with Tierney dates back to a fierce 2-2 draw at Spurs in December 2021. 
      Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson saw red for a dodgy challenge on Emerson Royal but Tottenham hero Harry Kane stayed on after a similar tackle.
      Asked by Sky if the England skipper should have been sent off, Klopp said: “Yes, definitely.
      “We can give Robbo a red card, it’s not the smartest challenge of his life, that’s how it is. But that’s [Kane on Robertson] definitely a red card, no doubt about that.” More

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      Marcus Rashford wanted to play in very different position after confidence crisis, reveals ex-Man Utd coach

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      A FORMER Manchester United coach has claimed that Marcus Rashford wanted to place as a holding midfielder after suffering a crisis in confidence.Neil Ryan, who worked with the youth team at United, revealed that Rashford, 25, wanted to play in the deeper role as he could not “burn past” players.
      Marcus Rashford wanted to be a holding midfielder in his youth careerCredit: Getty
      However, the now England under 18s manager, 48, insisted that Rashford would always be a forward and that his pace would come once he grew more.
      He told FourFourTwo: “In the Under 12s and Under 13s he was fantastic and often up against older boys. 
      “You didn’t feel that it was effortless like it was with Ravel Morrison.
      “Marcus’ attitude and talent always stood out, but aged 14 he had a confidence crisis and wanted to be a holding midfielder. 
      READ MORE ON MAN UTD
      “I recall talking to his mother and brothers.
      “He spoke about wanting to get on the ball more.
      “He didn’t have the pace then to burn past others because he was still growing, but we always thought he’d be a forward.”
      Ryan proved to be right as the attacker is now vital to the club’s success this season.
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      Rashford has enjoyed his best season to date under new manager Erik ten Hag.
      The Englishman has scored 27 goals in 45 games across all competitions this campaign.
      Rashford still has at least ten games left of the season to increase his goal tally too. More

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      Chelsea 0 Liverpool 0 LIVE RESULT: Blues disallowed opener TWICE as Premier League clash finishes goalless – reaction

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      KAI Havertz had a goal ruled out for handball in the second half, while Reece James’ screamer was also disallowed in the first half.Bruno Saltor’s first game in charge of Chelsea was not a Premier League great by any means, but there were signs of life throughout the 90 minutes.
      Wesley Fofana put his body on the line to deny Fabinho the opener at the end of the first half.

      Match Result: Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Chelsea XI: Arrizabalaga, James, Fofana, Koulibaly, Cucurella, Chilwell, Fernandez, Kante, Havertz, Kovacic, Felix.
      Liverpool XI: Alisson, Gomez, Konate, Matip, Tsimikas, Fabinho, Jones, Henderson, Nunez, Jota, Firmino.

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      Stay up to date with all the action from Stamford Bridge…
      That’s all from London
      Chelsea and Liverpool played out a drab goalless draw which dealt both teams’ top-four hopes a serious blow at Stamford Bridge.
      The Blues, who were playing their first match under caretaker boss Bruno Saltor, had two goals chalked off by VAR.
      The first one took place after 24 minutes when Reece James’ long-range cracker was overruled due to Enzo Fernandez being caught offside in the build-up.
      The second one was on 50 minutes when N’Golo Kante played Kai Havertz through to beat Alisson one on one.
      But Havertz’s goal didn’t stand because the ball deflected off his arm before it hit the back of the net.
      That’s all from us here at SunSport, have a great night!
      Credit: Reuters
      Jordan Henderson reacts
      Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson admits there was something lacking in the visitors’ performance but is glad his team-mates “showed a reaction” after the loss to Manchester City.
      Henderson told Sky Sports: “Tough game, both sides not at the highest level of confidence at the minute.
      “But we just wanted to come here and show a reaction to the last game, which I think we did. We made a fight of it. You could see the willingness to keep working.
      “We probably lacked a bit of quality, if I am honest, particularly in the final third.
      “We got into some good positions but the last pass, the last shot, was not quite there tonight. But we gave it everything, we take the point and we move on.”
      Credit: EPA
      Havertz speaks out
      Chelsea star Kai Havertz insists the Blues have to “stick together” after the last couple of turbulent days that saw former manager Graham Potter getting sacked.
      Havertz told Sky Sports: “Especially in the first half, we had loads of chances, me included. The second half was maybe a tie. But it is again 0-0 and that is it.
      “At the moment, especially after the loss at the weekend, we lost a bit of confidence. That does not make it easier in front of goal.
      “There are still nine games left in the league and Chelsea does not deserve to be 11th. It is not nice to be there.
      “We all have to stick together. We have to think also that we are in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and get as much confidence as possible in the upcoming game. We need the fans as well. We are all in the same boat.”
      Credit: AFP
      Fofana stands out
      Chelsea ace Wesley Fofana shone bright during his team’s goalless draw with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
      Fofana was rock solid in his defensive duties as part of a back three alongside Kalidou Koulibaly and Marc Cucurella.
      And as the heat map below shows, the Frenchman didn’t just carry out his centre-back duties as he also made his presence known when moving forward – especially down the right.
      More below:

      Updated Premier League table
      Liverpool remain eighth in the Premier League table with seven points separating them from fourth-placed Tottenham.
      Chelsea, on the other hand, are still 11th with a whopping 11 points keeping them away from the Champions League spots.
      Both teams are still facing a major uphill battle to return to Europe’s elite competition next season.
      More below:

      Chelsea vs Liverpool stats
      Liverpool dominated 51 per cent of possession against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
      The Reds registered a total of seven shots, four of which were on target.
      Chelsea, on the other hand, managed 12 shots, but only three of them were on target.
      More below:

      FT: Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Chelsea and Liverpool played out a goalless draw which dealt both teams’ top-four hopes a serious blow at Stamford Bridge.
      The Blues, who were playing their first match under interim manager Bruno Saltor, had two goals chalked off by VAR.
      The first one took place on 24 minutes when Reece James’ long-range cracker was overruled due to Enzo Fernandez being caught offside in the build-up.
      The second one was after 50 minutes when N’Golo Kante played Kai Havertz through to beat Alisson one on one.
      But Havertz’s goal didn’t count because the ball deflected off his arm before it hit the back of the net.
      Credit: Getty
      FT: Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Peep!
      That’s full-time in London!!!
      90+5 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      What a chance!
      Chelsea star Fernandez tries a long-range shot that just misses the crossbar!
      What an ending that would be…
      90+3 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Liverpool superstar Salah hasn’t really made his presence felt ever since coming on from the bench.
      Chelsea’s subs haven’t made an impact either.
      90 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Five more minutes of stoppage time to go.
      Enough time for both teams to break the deadlock, but tempo has seriously slowed down…
      88 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      It looks like both teams are happy with the clean sheet as they are playing it safe.
      There’s a better atmosphere in the stands than the pitch.
      85 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Substitution
      Chelsea boss Saltor makes another late switch as Sterling comes on for Felix.
      83 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Both sides are running out of breath as we approach full-time in London.
      Tempo has seriously slowed down…
      80 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      With that double change it looks like Klopp wants to maintain the clean sheet.
      The German tactician is strengthening his midfield as we approach full-time.
      79 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Substitution
      Liverpool boss Klopp responds with a double change as Milner and Gakpo replace Nunez and Jones.
      78 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Sustitution
      Another switch by Chelsea caretaker Saltor as Mudryk comes on for Chilwell.
      78 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      An intense moment between Liverpool captain Henderson and Alisson after a moment of miscommunication between the goalkeeper and Gomez.
      And it seems like it’s on the defender as the Brazilian ordered him to leave the ball for him and he didn’t.
      77 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Chance
      Chelsea star Felix tries another shot but sends it wide and it reaches the crowd.
      74 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Yellow card
      Another booking for Liverpool as Fabinho is cautioned, but the replay shows there wasn’t much in that challenge…
      73 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      The two teams are quite evenly matched, but both are struggling to get the final ball through.
      Chelsea already missing Kante’s influence.
      70 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Chelsea captain Kante received a standing ovation from the home crowd.
      The midfielder started his first match after his long injury lay-off.
      69 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Substitution
      Plot twist! Gallagher comes on for Kante!
      Kovacic can indeed continue and will wear the armband for the rest of the game!
      68 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      It looks like Kovacic got hurt and can’t continue…
      That is why the Blues’ interim manager Saltor is preparing Gallagher to come on.
      67 Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool
      Yellow card
      Chelsea pick up their first booking with Kovacic, but it seems like a strnage decision.
      The midfielder trips and falls on the ball with his hands but it seems like he might have twisted his knee before going down…
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea 0 Liverpool 0: James and Havertz goals ruled out but Saltor avoids defeat in first match since Potter sacking

      by

      THIS WEEK’S Chelsea manager got a quick introduction into the problems that have dogged all the previous ones.Bruno Saltor is the third man to be Stamford Bridge head coach this season – a job title being passed around like a spliff at a student house party.
      Kai Havertz was denied an opener when the ball bounced in off his elbowCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      And like predecessors Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel he quickly realised that the issues in his team are deep set and will be around long after he has gone from the dugout.
      So many missed opportunities from a team lacking a clinical touch in front of goal.
      Spaniard Saltor’s promotion from first-team coach is only temporary but there was hope that sacking the unpopular Graham Potter would provide a lift on the pitch.
      The silence surrounding Potter’s sacking was deafening, which says it all about the most recent manager’s impact upon demanding Chelsea fans who want trophies, expensive signings and kids coming through from the academy in return for their ticket money.
      READ MORE ON CHELSEA
      What they got tonight was a team swinging in the wind and just looking to get this miserable campaign over and done with.
      A slightly bewildered Saltor received a huge bear hug from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp as he emerged from the tunnel, on to the pitch and into a new chapter of his career in the world of management.
      Only one of Chelsea’s American Blues Brothers, co-controlling owner Behdad Ebghbali, was at the ground to watch the excitement of a new albeit temporary era unfold.
      Eghbali’s partner Todd Boehly was back in the US covering events remotely.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Saltor’s boldest move before a ball was even kicked was to start midfielder N’Golo Kante for the first time since August following lengthy hamstring problems.
      Any manager should feel blessed to have the dynamic Frenchman in their team. It was a surprise to see him honoured as captain though when fellow starters Mateo Kovacic and Reece James have previously worn the armband this season.
      In all Chelsea’s latest manager made only two changes from the XI which succumbed to Aston Villa last Saturday in what turned out to be Potter’s last stand as head coach.
      Winger Mykhailo Mudryk dropped to the bench and rightly so after his weak display at the weekend.
      Klopp made half a dozen changes for ‘fresh minds and legs’ in the brutal aftermath of a 4-1 pummeling at Man City in the last match.
      No coincidence that only one defender from the entire back four from the trip to the Etihad survived to start at Stamford Bridge.
      Mo Salah was rested, one would assume with his religious fasting in mind.
      But it brought to an end a 12-game run for the Egyptian striker. And in his absence, Liverpool’s struggling front line was even more toothless.

      They waited until well into first-half injury time before mounting any sustained threat on Chelsea’s goal with two decent chances.
      Kepa Arrizabalaga did well to push away a powerful, swerving effort from right back Joe Gomez. From the corner Fabinho’s rising shot cannoned off the head of Wesley Fofana.
      Apart from that, in the 18th minute Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson’s speculative pop at goal from 35 yards out spotting Kepa off his line was well covered by Kalidou Koulibaly long before it reached the goal line.
      And notably, not one of the three best chances came from one of the visiting forwards.
      Like most weeks, Chelsea had zip and energy but are struggling to find any way around scoring goals without a recognised centre forward. Despite the new man coming in, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang failed to make the matchday squad.
      Bruno Saltor had never picked a starting XI beforeCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Reece James’ goal was ruled out for offsideCredit: Sky Sports
      Kai Havertz yet again had to play like a square peg in a round hole up front with Joao Felix supporting him in a 3-5-2 formation adopted by Saltor to accommodate Kante at the heart of his formation.
      A bright start mainly inspired by Liverpool defensive mistakes led to Felix, Kovacic and Havertz all going close but falling down pursuing the final, decisive act of putting the ball over the line.
      It’s a problem that has dogged Chelsea pretty much all season apart from a brief spell of potency in October, early in Potter’s reign.
      They did get the ball in the net twice before an hour was played. Once in the first half, Fernandez was ruled offside in the build-up to Reece James drilling a shot into the bottom corner.
      And on 50 minutes, Havertz was put through by Kante, shot straight at keeper Alisson only for the ball to rebound, strike his elbow and bobble over the line.
      Both disallowed goals needed merely cursory VAR checks to see them scrubbed off.
      Saltor and Chelsea will claim it at least shows they are creating chances but that has never been the problem this season. It is tucking them away that’s proving the problem.
      Particularly against a Liverpool side suffering as many uncharacteristic failings as them.
      Read More on The Sun
      It felt weird to watch two teams that have locked horns at the highest level in recent years play out an eight versus 11th mid-table match in April when normally they would be battling for title-chasing points or even at the business end of the Champions League.
      Chelsea remain in the bottom half of the table and Liverpool show no signs of digging themselves out of their recent rut.
      South American rivals Fabinho and Enzo Fernandez battled it outCredit: Reuters
      Mateo Kovacic wasted a glorious chance as he blazed overCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Ex-Chelsea midfielder and manager Frank Lampard was in the standsCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun More