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    How Cucurella trapped Saka AGAIN in Arsenal draw with simple trick but Chelsea have critical Palmer problem

    ARSENAL were dealt yet another blow in the Premier League title race on Sunday.Despite taking the lead at Stamford Bridge, the Gunners were pegged back and had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Chelsea.Enzo Maresca and Mikel Arteta cancelled each other out at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyPedro Neto fired in the equaliser on 70 minutesCredit: GettyGabriel Martinelli fired in from a tight angle to break the deadlock on the hour mark.But ten minutes later, Pedro Neto let fly and squeezed his shot into the bottom corner. Arsenal squandered big chances to nick all three points – but instead could not fully capitalise on Manchester City’s shock defeat at Brighton.And the draw left both Arsenal and Chelsea on 19 points – nine behind early pace-setters Liverpool.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut what did we learn about both sides and how did the managers cancel each other out?SunSport’s tactics guru Dean Scoggins revealed all on the latest episode of Tactics Exposed…1. HAS CUCURELLA GOT SAKA’S NUMBER?Marc Cucurella kept Bukayo Saka very quiet in the Euros final – and he did it again at Stamford Bridge on Sunday because he had a very good plan.First of all, it’s how he attacked him – he went in, he was very physical, he hit him very, very hard. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut he did it really quickly as Saka received the ball, not after he received it when he likes to touch the ball in field. Cucurella was already there and that meant Saka was taking the ball where he didn’t want to go.Mikel Arteta ‘disappointed’ by Chelsea draw as Arsenal lose ground in title race Also, the Spaniard’s starting position saw him occupy an inside lane, a narrow position which allowed Saka to have the space on the outside, effectively saying, ‘Let’s have a race.’Romeo Lavia, Neto and even Cole Palmer help out defensively to create traffic on the inside, where Saka wants to cut inside on to his left foot. So it was the early contact from Cucurella and not allowing Saka to spin inside higher up the pitch.But then when it was deeper, he decided not to engage and challenged Saka to beat him on the outside because he was not giving him the inside channel. Marc Cucurella played Bukayo Saka brilliantlyCredit: GettySaka was allowed to go down the line but could not get into the inside right channelIt was a similar tale in the Euro 2024 final2. COLE HAS GONE COLDCole Palmer started the season in red-hot form, scoring seven and assisting five in his first nine games.However, the last two games have told a very different story with no goal contributions and just one shot on target.And the explanation comes from Enzo Maresca’s box midfield. The Chelsea gaffer likes to bring Cucurella inside to create a four-man box in the middle – but the left-back was tied up keeping tabs on Saka.So instead, Maresca instructed Malo Gusto to come inside.However, the right-back bypassed the holding midfielders and effectively became the right No10, pushing Palmer across to the left No10 – the opposite flank from his devastating inside right position. Add in the very effective Arsenal defensive triangle of Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard and Saka stopping Palmer getting the ball and he had another anonymous afternoon. Cole Palmer has had two very quiet games in a rowCredit: GettyIt is a stark contrast from his start to the seasonMalo Gusto pushed on to become the right No10 as Palmer shifted left3. ODEGAARD THE CONDUCTOROdegaard is the captain and the conductor – and not just with his attacking intelligence.It’s his pressing, understanding of space and where everyone is around him.Honestly, he must come off with his arms as tired as his legs because he is constantly waving them, pointing and barking out instructions. Odegaard is so often the trigger, he is the one who sets the traps.Kai Havertz did an OK job in his absence. How did they cope without Odegaard?He is just a sensational player. And the goal comes from that inside right channel because Odegaard worked it out.He realised there were four players around him and Saka, so that meant somebody else was free in space and he barely looked before producing that beautiful ball in behind for Martinelli. If Arsenal are going to go close in the title race, it will be because of Odegaard. Matin Odegaard is Arsenal’s conductorCredit: ReutersHis inch-perfect cross set up Gabriel Martinelli’s goalCredit: SunSportArsenal ratings v ChelseaHere’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners:David Raya – 7Tipped a shot over the bar early on from Cole Palmer and claimed crosses well. Could do nothing about Neto’s crisp strike.Ben White – 5Poor when trying to stop a Neto cross that Malo Gusto should have then scored. Booked for a foul on the winger later on.William Saliba – 6Steady alongside Gabriel but was more in the covering role so had less to do. Struggled with his line-breaking passes today on the whole. Failed to engage Neto as he raced towards the area before narrowing a shot into the corner.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Made some vital blocks when the midfield was bypassed and was generally the busier of himself and Saliba.Jurrien Timber – 6Busy day for the defender in trying to keep Madueke quiet, a task he largely succeeded in. But he wasn’t able to heavily influence the game going forward since the ball never really got to him. Most entertaining part of the game before the goal probably came with the 57th-minute throw-in that slipped out of his hands and over his head.Thomas Partey – 6Struggled to contain Cole Palmer early on but grew into the game and got on the ball plenty, although he was somewhat wayward with his long-range passing. After a bad touch he managed to poke the ball back to Odegaard before he provided the assist.Declan Rice – 6Made some vital defensive contributions to block some Chelsea chances and displayed quick thinking at a free-kick to put Havertz through to score, but was marginally offside. Subbed off after 71 minutes.Martin Odegaard – 7Back in the starting XI for the first time since August. Has been a big miss for Arteta’s side but may take some time to get back to his best and was on the ball nowhere near enough at the Bridge. Won the ball back before providing the assist for Martinelli’s opener.Bukayo Saka – 5Showed superb defensive work rate to keep Marc Cucurella in check, though this inversely meant he was unable to contribute as much in attack. Subbed off after pulling up injured in the 79th minute.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Should have done better when given the chance to score past Sanchez in the penalty area after Saka won the ball back high. Kept at it and scored against the run of play in the second half with a nice finish to Sanchez’s near post. Hooked after 71 minutes.Kai Havertz – 6Appeared to have poked home the opening goal with a sharp bit of movement but was fractionally offside. Booked for not going off the pitch when bleeding on his head.4. CHELSEA’S SANCHEZ FORCEFIELDArsenal set pieces have been a major hallmark of their success in recent times but Chelsea defended them better than anyone else has so far this season.Firstly, they desperately didn’t want to give away corners and Robert Sanchez – who made a massive mistake for the goal – was coming out of his area to prevent them.On the rare free-kicks, the Blues defenders stepped right up to the edge of the box.But it was at corners where they were particularly impressive as they created a forcefield, a circle around Sanchez to stop the likes of Gabriel and William Saliba a free run at a close-range header.Nicolas Jackson was the front post as a big man to head clear, the two centre-backs were in front of Sanchez and everyone else was blocking. Neto even stood with his arms out to block Gabriel from causing more problems.It was committed defending and highly effective.Chelsea’s defenders protected Robert Sanchez at cornersCredit: GettyThe goalkeeper should have done more to protect his near post when Martinelli scoredCredit: AFPChelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though.5. THE ENZO FERNANDEZ INSTINCTEnzo Fernandez is a top quality footballer – and he has a massive impact on matches.Maresca likes the defensive pairing of Moises Caicedo and Lavia but Fernandez offers something different and that was evident from the moment he came on.His introduction was a clever substitution and the right substitution.He scanned, knew he couldn’t go one way and then turned back and the pass for Neto’s goal is underrated – the weight was like an invite to move into the area and it was a great goal from the Portuguese winger.Yes, there were mistakes from Arsenal – Saliba was out of position after going for a wander, Martinelli went to sleep and Neto was given a huge gap.But do not overlook the quality play from Fernandez.It gives Maresca a dilemma because Fernandez has such a big impact but doesn’t quite fit the system the manager wants to play.READ MORE SUN STORIESIs Palmer not producing as much because Fernandez is not playing? A nice problem to have with a £100million-plus player on the bench.Enzo Fernandez had an immediate impact when he came onCredit: AlamyHe threaded a gorgeous pass for Neto to let flyCredit: SunSportHe was determined to try and get the ball forwardsCredit: SunSport More

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    Ruben Amorim set to bring back forgotten Man Utd star with Portuguese managers’s arrival perfect timing for ace

    MASON Mount is set to play a key role under Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, SunSport has learned.The incoming Portuguese manager landed in Manchester on Monday and is set to begin his new adventure at Old Trafford.Mason Mount is set for an increased role under Ruben AmorimCredit: GettyAmorim’s system could get the best out of the midfielderCredit: GettyAnd sources close to the club say Amorim is planning on putting the ex-Chelsea man at the centre of his plans.He’s believed to have identified Mount as an important part of his roadmap for the future.Amorim is believed to admire his versatility and thinks he can fit in well with the new system he plans to introduce at Manchester United.The timing of Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford couldn’t be better for Mount. READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe’s just returned to full training and because he isn’t on England duty he will be able to work closely with the former Sporting manager and his coaching staff in coming weeks.Ten Hag brought Mount in from Chelsea with a view to playing him and Bruno Fernandes ahead of Casemiro.He’s never been more effective than he was when Chelsea played with three centre-backs under Thomas Tuchel and Mount played as one of two inverted wingers.It was with that system – almost identical to Amorim’s – that Chelsea won the Champions League in 2021, with Mount brilliant throughout that run, before he got 11 goals and ten assists the following season in the same role.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMount is now working hard to push for a place in the team that starts against Ipswich when Amorim makes his bow in the United dug out.But he will need to prove his fitness to the new manager ahead of that crunch opener which Amorim will be looking to win to kickstart a new era at United.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureOld Trafford could feel very different for fans as Ruud van Nistelrooy will not be in dugout following his interim stint in charge.The coach has been axed by Amorim, who is set to bring several coaches with him from Sporting. More

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    Favourites to host Match Of The Day after Gary Lineker’s exit revealed – as BBC plan HUGE shake-up to show

    GARY LINEKER is QUITTING Match of the Day at the end of the season – and the BBC are planning major changes as they look to replace him.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.Gary Lineker is stepping down as Match of the Day presenterCredit: BBCWho will fill the empty chair?But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.BBC chiefs are now looking to fill his considerable boots.And The Sun can exclusively reveal that one proposed option includes a series of presenters with Mark Chapman, currently host of MOTD2, one of the anchors likely to be rotated.Former Leicester, Everton, Tottenham and Barcelona hero Lineker will continue presenting the Premier League highlights show until the end of the season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHowever, his 18-month contract extension means he will anchor live FA Cup matches in 2025-26 and leave the BBC for good after presenting coverage at the 2026 World Cup.A BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.Most read in Football“It’s one of the industry’s worst-kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces and slashing wage bills.“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with. FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“BBC execs will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”And part of that will include finding the replacement – or replacements – for Lineker.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsJermaine Jenas was long seen as the successor but the former Prem star is now out of the running after being AXED by the Beeb for his sexting scandal.So with Lineker vacating the chair, several new names will collectively step into his giant boots.Who, though, could they be?MARK CHAPMANSunSport understands 51-year-old Chapman will likely be one of the presenters rotated in the new-look MOTD format.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the hosting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson, 67, feels Chapman is poised for the job because he’s the clear No1 candidate.He said: “In Chappers, there is a ready-made replacement if it goes that way. It will be up to Gary.”Though not a former player, Chappers has shown his quality as a presenter and would be an able replacement.Mark Chapman would be one of the obvious choices as he currently presents MOTD2Credit: GettyChapman has been on the sofa for the new BBC Champions League highlights showCredit: BBCALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.She is used to presenting the Saturday night show but is also perfectly adept at the live match coverage at football stadiums – as demonstrated at the Euros, FA Cup and WSL. The former right-back, 40, also ticks the box of being an ex-England international and has a long broadcasting career still ahead of her.Alex Scott has shown she has what it takes to present live in stadiums and studiosCredit: AlamyGABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan – who at 51 is the same age as Chapman – is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.A vastly-experienced broadcaster, presenter and host, Logan seems to have done it all to cover sport for BBC TV – doing everything from Sports Personality of the Year to the Olympics, including Paris 2024.She joined Lineker, Scott and Chapman as Euros presenters and is now on the BBC and Amazon Prime teams for the 2024-25 Champions League.Logan joined the BBC in 2007 and was the main face of Final Score from 2009 to 2013.Gabby Logan is a top broadcaster who has worked on the biggest sporting eventsCredit: AlamyMICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is 36-year-old former Man City defender and close pal Richards.The former England forward revealed his preferred candidate on their Stick to Football podcast last month.Lineker told the exuberant pundit: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”It prompted a hilarious one-liner from Alan Shearer, who said: “That is a f****** massive concern by the way.”The Newcastle icon joked, “I’m not signing my new contract if you’re a presenter,” as the trio were left in hysterics.Micah Richards is a pundit on Match of the Day and Sky SportsCredit: GettyJASON MOHAMMADGoing back to Final Score and Mohammad, also 51, could earn the “promotion” from the afternoon show to Match of the Day.The Welshman is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is clearly well thought of within the organisation after taking over from Logan in 2013.He is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the PM slot with Mohammad on the Match of the Day rota.Jason Mohammad could be ready to get the promotion from Final Score to Match of the DayCredit: BBCJEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he?While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Hartlepool supporter is hugely popular among football fans and would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise.However, Stelling would not be cheap, already hosts talkSPORT’s breakfast show and turns 70 later in the season so would not be a long-term appointment. Jeff Stelling left Soccer Saturday but would be a popular MOTD presenterCredit: Sky Sports More

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    ‘Something’s not right’ – Ex-Premier League referee shocked by David Coote video and fears his career is over

    MARK HALSEY fears David Coote could lose his job over his alleged comments about Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp.The Premier League referee has been suspended pending an investigation.Mark Halsey believes David Coote is at risk of losing his jobCredit: GettyThe Prem ref appeared to make derogatory comments about Liverpool and KloppCredit: XCoote, 42, accepted he was filmed calling Liverpool a “s*** club” and extraordinarily dropped the C-bomb to describe ex-Reds boss Klop but says he cannot recall the incident.Former Prem ref Halsey, who spoke to SunSport before Coote admitted it was him in the video, is concerned it could lead to Coote losing his career.Halsey told SunSport: “If it is authentic then he’s got questions to answer, hasn’t he? But when I saw that, I have to say to myself, is that really David Coote? Has he really said that? To be fair, I was shocked when that video circulated on social media.”Can he come back and referee from this? I have my doubts.READ MORE ON COOTE”And I’m shocked that whoever’s posted this video needs sorting big time, because if that was done privately between two of them, then something’s not right, is it? Something’s not right at all. “I’m hoping it’s not authentic for David’s sake. If it is, then he will need all the support from the PGMOL going forward regarding this matter.”Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”Coote refereed Liverpool’s most recent match against Aston Villa on Saturday.Halsey called for him to be given a second chance, with the Prem to decide Coote’s long-term future.Most read in FootballPremier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantHe continued: “I hope it’s not [authentic] because you don’t want to see anybody lose their career. Remember, it’s his full-time job. He’s got a family, he’s got a house, he’s got a mortgage.”It leaves him in a precarious position, doesn’t it? Because people will be saying, how can they trust him to go out and referee in the Premier League? “Everybody makes mistakes. Everybody deserves a second chance.” More

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    Prem ref David Coote facing sack as he admits vid of him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ is real – but claims he can’t recall it

    DAVID COOTE “cannot recall” abusing Jurgen Klopp in the video rant that seems certain to end his refereeing career.But the Nottinghamshire whistler is NOT denying the accuracy of the footage which has gone viral on social media.David Coote is facing the sack as a Premier League refereeCredit: ReutersHe admitted the viral video of him slamming Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool is of himCredit: XThe video, which appears to be at least two years old, in which Coote brands Klopp a “c***” and Liverpool as “s**t”, forced PGMOL chiefs into urgent action.Within a couple of hours of it first being circulated publicly, it was announced the 42-year-old Coote had been “suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation”.It was then claimed the official was “vehemently doubting” the legitimacy of the recording, with suggestions that it was potentially an AI-generated “deep fake”.But SunSport has been told that Coote has admitted to other officials that the video is of him.READ MORE ON PREMIER LEAGUEHe is now understood to not be denying the accuracy of the comments although he has admitted to refs’ chief Howard Webb that he cannot recall all the contents.In the video circulated online, Coote said: “Liverpool were s*** . Klopp is an absolute c***. “Aside from having a right pop at me when I was refereeing them against Burnley in lockdown, he accused me of lying and then had a right f***ing pop of me.”I have no interest in speaking to someone who is f***ing arrogant. So I do my best not to speak to him. James Milner is all right, I get on with him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You can see me there with a ‘mask’ on. But, my god, German c***, f*** me.”In a second video, the man added: “Just to be clear, that f***ing last video cannot go anywhere, seriously.”Ex-Prem ref fears for David Coote’s career after his x-rated Klopp video suspensionThe debacle seems almost certain to end with Coote being sacked as his comments about Liverpool and Klopp will be viewed as evidence that he had an axe to grind with the Anfield club.Coote, a Prem ref since 2018, has been involved in a number of controversies involving Liverpool and their title rivals as both a referee and VAR over recent seasons.That includes a Marcus Rashford goal way back in 2019 which saw Divock Origi seemingly fouled in the build-up – but VAR Coote did not intervene. He was also at Stockley Park when Jordan Pickford crunched Virgil van Dijk, rupturing the Liverpool defender’s ACL – but again Coote did not step in as the Reds did not even get a penalty.And he was once again the VAR when he denied Klopp’s side a penalty last season despite a clear handball from Martin Odegaard at Anfield. Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”His last game was ironically at Anfield on Saturday, when he angered both Liverpool and Aston Villa with his decisions as Arne Slot’s side won 2-0 to move five points clear at the top of the Prem.Coote appeared to wave play on and not acknowledge a blatant “last man” red card foul by Leon Bailey on Mo Salah, although with Darwin Nunes picking up the loose ball and scoring, there could be no VAR intervention.But Coote also left Villa boss Unai Emery seething as the visitors saw two spot-kick claims rejected.READ MORE SUN STORIESA PGMOL statement on Monday said: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation.”PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”Coote insists he does not remember making the comments about KloppCredit: ReutersCoote was the VAR when Martin Odegaard escaped a blatant handball at AnfieldCredit: BBCHe was also in the booth and ignored a trip on Divock Origi before a Marcus Rashford goal in 2019Credit: AFP or licensorsVAR Coote did not intervene as Jordan Pickford injured Virgil van DijkCredit: AFPThe PGMOL confirmed the high-profile whistler had been suspendedCredit: Getty More

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    David Moyes tipped for Premier League return with ‘four teams’ interested in former West Ham and Man Utd boss

    DAVID MOYES has been linked with a Premier League return with four teams potentially interested.Moyes, 61, has been a free agent ever since his departure from West Ham at the end of last season and his subsequent replacement by Julen Lopetegui.David Moyes has been linked with a Premier League return after leaving West HamCredit: PAEx-Man Utd boss Moyes has been linked with Southampton, Wolves, Leicester and Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyAccording to talkSPORT, however, the Scottish tactician is keen to return to a Premier League dugout this term.And the ex-Manchester United boss has been linked with four Prem strugglers – Wolves, Southampton, Leicester and Crystal Palace.The same source claims the aforementioned clubs could be possible destinations for the ex-Everton boss.Southampton and Leicester returned to the English top flight from the Championship but both have been struggling.Read More on FootballSaints are bottom of the table with four points out of 11 matches, of which they won one and lost nine.Manager Russell Martin still has credit in the bank as he led his team back to the Premier League, but will need to turn things around.When it comes to Leicester, the jury’s still out regarding new manager Steve Cooper who replaced Enzo Maresca at the helm after the Italian tactician led the team back to the top flight.Cooper has only managed 10 points in the first 11 matches, with two wins and five losses along the way.Most read in FootballThe Foxes are Moyes’ only suitors that are outside the Premier League relegation zone as they sit 15th in the table with three points separating them from the drop.Wolves are second to last in the table with six points out of their first 11 matches as they lost seven times and only won once.David Moyes lands new job days after West Ham exit is announcedManager Gary O’Neil has come under fire as he currently has the leakiest defence in the Prem that has conceded 27 times.Palace boss Oliver Glasner might be the safest after his heroics late last season, immediately after replacing Roy Hodgson in the hotseat in February.However, Glasner will have to replicate last term’s brilliance after a disappointing start that saw him picking up a mere seven points in the first 11 matches.The Austrian tactician has endured eight losses and only won once, which has seen the Eagles drop to the relegation zone. More

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    Ruud van Nistelrooy brutally axed by Ruben Amorim in new manager’s first decision on day one as Man Utd boss

    RUUD VAN NISTELROOY will NOT remain at Manchester United.The interim boss has been brutally AXED by new manager Ruben Amorim after he’d hoped to go back to his assistant role.Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to depart Man UtdCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim made the brutal call after meeting CEO Omar Barrada earlier on MondayCredit: GettyThe former United striker returned to Old Trafford in the summer to work under Erik ten Hag and was installed as interim gaffer following his compatriot’s sacking on October 28.Van Nistelrooy was keen to stay on in a role following Sunday’s 3-0 Premier League win against Leicester, which capped an unbeaten four-match stint in charge.But that proved to be his final game with United with Amorim deciding to let him go in his first decision as boss.The makeup of Amorim’s coaching staff is yet to be confirmed but Van Nistelrooy, 48, will not be part of it.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe former Sporting manager, who won his final game in Portugal just 24 hours ago, arrived in Manchester earlier today.The Portuguese coach said on Sunday he planned to hold talks with Van Nistelrooy regarding his United future on Monday.He said: “About a legend of the club. He did a great job. I have to talk with him tomorrow. Then I will explain everything. I am very clear and I will tell you like it is. Let’s wait until tomorrow.”Amorim’s flight, a private jet from Beja international airport, was the most tracked flight in the world on popular flight tracking site Flightradar24.Most read in FootballUnited chiefs welcomed Amorim when he landed at Manchester AirportCredit: INSTAGRAM @manchesterunitedFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 39-year-old is set to bring a number of coaches along with him to Old Trafford, but United will have to pay a fee.Amorim was given the last say on whether he wanted to incorporate the Dutchman into his backroom team and has ultimately decided against it.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureVan Nistelrooy was given a standing ovation as he enjoyed an emotional and teary-eyed farewell with the Stretford End on Sunday.The club statement read: “Manchester United can confirm that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club. “Ruud rejoined in the summer and has taken charge of the team for the past four matches as interim head coach.”Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.”We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.”Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel have also departed and we wish them all well for the future.”We will confirm the full men’s first team coaching composition in due course.”Van Nistelrooy was serenaded by the Stretford End after Sunday’s 3-0 win over LeicesterSporting have moved on quickly themselves, announcing a new boss at the club before Amorim even touched down in Manchester.The Portuguese giants confirmed B coach Joao Pereira, 40, as manager earlier today.READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited fans face a wait to see their new boss, whose first game will be the visit to Ipswich on November 24.Amorim signed a contract until June 2027 with a club option of an additional year.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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    Chelsea face £100m midfield conundrum as Enzo Fernandez is one of biggest creators but has to settle for place on bench

    COLE PALMER has had one shot on target in his past two Premier League matches for Chelsea.Enzo Fernandez has not started the last two Premier League matches for Chelsea.Cole Palmer struggled against Arsenal amid a recent injuryCredit: GettyEnzo Fernandez has failed to nail down his spot in Chelsea’s strongest line-upCredit: GettyWhen he came off the bench yesterday against Arsenal, within two minutes the Argentinian provided the assist for Pedro Neto to score the goal that lifted the Blues into third position in the table.Yet still the debate rages that the £106million midfielder can be a liability for the team and cannot play alongside £115m partner Moises Caicedo.Fernandez is finding it tough proving to boss Enzo Maresca that he deserves a regular place in the starting line-up.Proof that a gargantuan price tag counts for nothing in the eyes of the demanding Italian whatever the figures say. And some of them are pretty convincing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLChelsea’s highly-priced star might not be able to read the numbers very well on the speedometer of his Porsche when out driving in Wales, having been banned from driving for six months.But there is a surprisingly strong mathematical argument in the World Cup winner’s favour that he is a key component of the team. So far this season nobody has done better than Fernandez at playing the ball forwards to Chelsea’s formidable bunch of young, hungry forwards.In all competitions so far this season, he has delivered 20.3 passes per 90 minutes that finish in the final third of the pitch.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFor someone bought primarily as a holding midfielder that’s life in the fast lane as he would no doubt grasp.Portuguese winger Joao Felix, a featherweight, waspish forward, is next on 19.7.Need someone to set up a goal? He’s your man.Fernandez is second only to Jadon Sancho for assists this term on 0.49. Sancho is streets ahead on 0.88 but only six games into his Chelsea career, the average is bound to be higher.And going back to Palmer, only Wesley Fofana and Caicedo have picked out Chelsea’s talisman with a pass more often than Enzo.The tail end of last season was a microscope into the world of the anti-Fernandez brigade who dismiss him as overpriced.His last game of the season was April 23 – Black Tuesday when Arsenal smashed Chelsea 5-0 under previous boss Mauricio Pochettino.Fernandez checked out for a hernia operation the next day and did not play again until the summer.’Serious problems at PGMOL’ Ex-Prem ref blasts VAR after baffling decisions at Liverpool and WolvesThere were six games left of the Premier League campaign and Chelsea performed a better U-turn that Fernandez could even when being chased by the Old Bill in his flash motor on the way to two speeding convictions.From abject losers they won five of their last six games. So evidently, with Enzo out of the side, Chelsea can throw off the shackles and pour forwards.They scored 16 goals in those last six games – but they’d scored that in the previous six too.He missed the 6-0 thrashing of Everton eight days before the Arsenal debacle but was in the team when Chelsea smashed four past Manchester United 11 days prior to that on April 4.So whatever Chelsea’s problem at the time was, it wasn’t his, even if Fernandez was clearly struggling with abdominal issues.Now fit-again, Fernandez has created 1.9 chances per 90 minutes this season – fifth most in the squad. And that includes Sunday’s assist.The salient point is that Chelsea paid nine figures for Fernandez primarily to shield the defence.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is now six Premier League games since they kept a clean sheet. Chelsea are third in the table but could be even higher.Maybe it’s not the attacking part of Fernandez’s game that Maresca is upset about?Moises Caicedo is proving his worth but the jury is still out on Enzo FernandezCredit: GettyChelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though. More