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      Chelsea star who cost £112m eyed for shock transfer to Premier League rivals

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      ASTON VILLA could move for Chelsea’s Joao Felix as Emi Buendia looks to be leaving the club.Villa winger Buendia is close to agreeing a loan to Bayer Leverkusen, which includes an option to make the deal permanent for £17million.Aston Villa could move for Chelsea’s Joao FelixCredit: RexBuendia, 28, signed a one-year contract extension until 2027 on Sunday.But his future appears to be away from Villa Park with boss Unai Emery looking for his replacement.And the Spaniard could move for 25-year-old Blues forward Joao Felix.Felix was Emery’s top summer target before the Portugal star’s £38.4m move from Atletico Madrid to Stamford Bridge.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd, with Felix starting just three times in the Premier League so far this season, Villa could reignite their interest before the January transfer window closes.Whether a move would be permanent or on loan may depend on another piece of business.Villa are also keen on Chelsea defender Axel Disasi and are battling with Wolves to seal a temporary switch.Emery wants defensive reinforcements after selling Diego Carlos to Fenerbahce and seeing Tyrone Mings hit by a fresh injury during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against West Ham.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Prem rules ban clubs from taking more than one player on loan from any club, meaning a deal for Felix – who cost Atletico Madrid £112m in 2019 – would have to be permanent if Disasi also heads to Villa.Villa and Wolves meet at Molineux on Saturday with both in desperate need of central defensive reinforcements.Antony leaves Man Utd with more yellow cards than goals as £86m Ten Hag flop goes down as one of worst transfers everMings, who returned in October after 445 days out injured, fell to the turf in tears after injuring a knee again at the weekend.But Mings eased fears of another long lay-off by posting on Instagram: “I’ve had some serious knee injuries, this isn’t one of them.”Emery has also moved for Villarreal’s Juan Foyth, 27, who he worked with previously as boss of the Spanish club. Argentine Foyth plays centre-back and right-back which appeals to Emery.Villa could push to land Foyth AND 26-year-old Disasi given that Ezri Konsa is the club’s only available senior centre-back — with Pau Torres facing another month out with a broken foot.France international Disasi has started just three Premier League games all season.Even with fellow centre-backs Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile sidelined by injuries, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has largely restricted the £39m signing from Monaco to Conference League and cup games. More

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      Why Ange Postecoglou hasn’t been sacked by Tottenham – from player power to trophy boast and Daniel Levy relationship

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      WHEN the anti-Daniel Levy noise cranks up, it usually leads to change at Tottenham.The change that fans are demanding right now is in the boardroom — but usually that ends up coming in the dugout.Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou with boss Daniel LevyCredit: GettySpurs fans have voiced their angerCredit: RexAnd, yet, the chairman with one of the itchiest trigger-fingers in football appears to be bucking the trend of a lifetime by sticking by manager Ange Postecoglou.That is despite Spurs slumping to 15th and being in danger of getting sucked into a relegation battle.Although the Aussie reacted snappily to a fan accusing him of just that as he walked down the tunnel after Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Leicester.And this despite the ‘Levy Out’ chants during, and after, that miserable home defeat to the Foxes — who had lost their previous seven on the spin — reaching new decibel levels.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAs well as the chants, banners were unfurled in the stands which included one saying: “24 years, 16 managers, 1 trophy . . . TIME FOR CHANGE.”The question is, why is Levy sticking by Postecoglou right now?It is baffling the football world and is multi-faceted in its answer.First of all, the dismissals Levy has presided over — and there have been 12 permanent ones during his near-quarter of a century at the helm — have normally been preceded by a relationship breakdown between himself and the manager.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat was the case with Harry Redknapp and later with Mauricio Pochettino, whose comments to the media towards the end of his reign irked Levy.­But that fracturing does not appear to have happened with Postecoglou, who has resisted every opportunity to criticise the Spurs higher-ups publicly.Ange Postecoglou gives Tottenham fan death stare in tense tunnel confrontation after Leicester defeatIn this painfully quiet transfer window, staggeringly, Spurs have recruited no outfield players despite their injury crisis.Yet the nearest that Postecoglou has come to a pointed comment has been to say the club would be “playing with fire” by not signing anyone.Player power has had an influence, too. Nuno Espirito Santo — now flying high with Nottingham Forest — was sacked after just ten Prem games in part after losing the dressing room.Italian firecracker Antonio Conte castigated his players to the point of no return in that amazing press-conference meltdown at Southampton in March 2023… and was gone soon after.The chairman with one of the itchiest trigger-fingers in football appears to be bucking the trend of a lifetime by sticking by manager Ange Postecoglou.Yet Postecoglou’s crocked squad, by all accounts, are just about still behind him.Then there is the fact Levy has tried chopping and changing managers before — the average tenure of a boss during his reign has been 23 months — to little effect.And Pochettino’s five-plus years in charge heavily skews that figure.So the supremo, who celebrates his 63rd birthday next month, has tried a different tack in recent years.Mauricio Pochettino left with no silverware won at SpursCredit: AFP or licensorsAntonio Conte castigated his players to the point of no returnCredit: RexNuno Espirito Santo was sacked after just ten Prem gamesCredit: PAIt used to be that he was involved in just about everything.Harry Kane would go on to become the greatest player in the club’s history but back when he was a teenager, you would not expect the chairman to be as heavily involved in an academy player’s contract negotiations as Levy was back then.Yet that has eased off of late, to a certain extent, with the likes of Rebecca Caplehorn — director of football administration and governance — technical director Johan Lange and Scott Munn, chief football officer and de facto No 2 to Levy, taking more prominent responsibilities.These are among the individuals Levy is understood to consult when weighing up big calls.Along with external individuals like Leon Angel, head of leading sports agency CAA Base, former managing director of football Fabio Paratici and, in years gone by, David Pleat.The new approach does not mean patience with Postecoglou will last forever at Spurs.But there is considerable sympathy for his crock crisis, with ten senior players out injured against Leicester.While there is also cause for hope from the cup competitions and Europe.Postecoglou has been hit with injury problemsCredit: AlamyVictory over Elfsborg on Thursday night will secure a last-16 spot in the Europa League.And winning the competition outright would not only end the club’s 17-year trophy drought but also get them back into the Champions League.Spurs are joint-favourites to win that competition and should have some senior players back for the knockout stages.And how easy would it be to hire a replacement for Postecoglou right now anyway?Consider the months-long pursuits of successors to Jose Mourinho and Conte, when Kane was still at the club and Tottenham’s position in the league was relatively strong (seventh and fourth respectively).Even if they managed to prise someone like Andoni Iraola away from high-flying Bournemouth, he would still have the same injury problems and the same inexperienced squad.But the other factor is, this time, changing the manager would not quell the anger from supporters towards Levy. If anything, it would increase it.It is questionable whether that deflection strategy even worked in the past but were Levy to do it now, all the heat would be on him and him alone.’The trust looks to have gone’That may be the case already, and certainly seemed to be on Sunday as enraged supporters called for his head.The trust looks to have gone with a number of fed-up fans, whose gripes include controversial change to season-ticket concessions and a reduction in wage-bill spending.Former Tottenham goalkeeper Michel Vorm, 41, reckons there could be a way to start fixing this seemingly-broken relationship between Levy and the fanbase.The Dutchman told SunSport: “He’s quite open. His office is always open to have a chat.“I know that his love for Tottenham is massive. He won’t approach players that quick — but he is far more approachable than people know.“Maybe if he would be a bit more open in public, people would then understand more what’s going on behind the scenes at the club.”A protest against Levy and the ownership is planned ahead of next month’s home game against Manchester United by activists Change for Tottenham.These calls-to-arms have not had the desired effect in the past.Michel Vorm reckons there could be a way to start fixing this seemingly-broken relationship between Levy and the fanbaseCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe ENIC Group even marginally increased their majority shareholding to 86.91 per cent in December, which does not hint at an imminent exit.Yet Jamie Coughlan, of Change for Tottenham, said: “The pressure the fans are cranking up will have an effect.“Whilst ultimately he is the chairman, the club is still owned by ENIC.“The bad press that we are creating may affect future sponsorship deals or partnerships, which could lead to the real ownership looking to sell.“What I think has changed is the fact it won’t be long before he has severe pressure placed on him elsewhere.”Those who have worked with Levy talk about his extraordinarily thick skin.But that last point could have some validity. Levy is on record as saying the club are looking for fresh investment.Should potential investors be put off by a toxic atmosphere in the ground, maybe that could affect Levy’s thought process. READ MORE SUN STORIESLikely it would far more than how he is perceived by supporters.But Levy does not appear to be going anywhere and, for now at least, the same can be said for his manager.Levy could stick with manager PostecoglouCredit: PA More

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      Michael Oliver to make immediate return in huge clash despite sick death threats after controversial Arsenal red card

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      MICHAEL OLIVER will make an immediate return to action despite receiving death threats following his decision to send off Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly.The 39-year-old official has been appointed to referee Barcelona’s Champions League group game against Atalanta on Wednesday, and is expected to resume Premier League duty this weekend. Michael Oliver will make an immediate return to action despite receiving death threatsCredit: GettyOliver’s family have been targets of sick abuse that are being investigated by the police, which led former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett to suggest he should be taken out of the firing line.Oliver has told Uefa and PGMOL bosses that he wants to carry on however, with both backing his judgement.PGMOL will announce the refereeing appointments for this weekend’s Premier League matches on Tuesday.Oliver held talks with current PGMOL boss Howard Webb on Monday, with the refs’ chief reaffirming their support.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe police investigation into the death threats made against Oliver was stepped up yesterday with the case handed to specialist officers at the UK Football Policing Unit.UKFPU officers are working with social media companies to track down the individuals who sent vile abuse, with the police determined to prosecute.“If people think they can hide behind their keyboards, they are mistaken,” said UKFPU chief, Mark Roberts. “And we will pursue offenders abroad too, with the assistance of overseas forces.”Oliver was targeted after his decision to send off Lewis-Skelly in the first half of Arsenal’s 1-0 win at Wolves on Saturday.Most read in Football“Officers from the UKFPU have launched an investigation after a number of abusive messages were directed toward a referee following a Premier League match,” UKFPU said in a statement yesterday.“On Sunday January 26 police were contacted by the UK Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in relation to social media messages directed towards referee Michael Oliver.“Enquiries are in the early stages and officers are working closely with social media providers, including Facebook and X, to identify those responsible for the messages.”Fans spot Arsenal star Leandro Trossard’s 6-word comment about Michael Oliver to Wolves ace More

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      Pep Guardiola ditches tiki-taka for LONG BALLS as new signing Omar Marmoush sees Man City boss make THREE huge changes

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      OMAR MARMOUSH’S dazzling debut got Manchester City fans off their seats again.The £59million buy from Frankfurt ran Chelsea ragged for 74 minutes in their 3-1 win on Saturday — and was unlucky not to score.Pep Guardiola changed his tactics to accommodate new signing Omar MarmoushCredit: GettyMarmoush looked sharp on his Man City debutCredit: The SunAnd in SunSport’s Tactics Exposed show, DEAN SCOGGINS looks at how Marmoush is central to Pep Guardiola’s new ‘direct’ tactical plan as he tries to reignite their push for trophies this season.Here are three tactical nuggets from City’s Etihad triumph…1)  NOT TIKI-TAKA, BUT QUICK ATTACKERMarmoush was electric, playing off the left as more of an ‘inside forward’ rather than a winger or No 10.It was noticeable how direct City were — it was not the short, quick passes between the lines we are so used to from Guardiola teams.Read more football newsBut, instead, there were balls over the top and around Chelsea to the likes of Marmoush, Josko Gvardiol and Matheus Nunes bursting through the defence.Marmoush set the tone — pointing to where he wanted the ball played, coming short, off striker Erling Haaland, before spinning and darting into spaces behind Chelsea’s high line.Norwegian striker Haaland had cut a lonely and isolated figure during City’s horror run in November and December but he was back smiling again on Saturday.Marmoush was a constant threat, telling his new team-mates where he wanted the ball and running in behindCredit: Sun SportMan City played 53 long passes in the game as Guardiola evolved his tiki taka styleCredit: Sun SportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe scored a wonderful goal and had some mates to play with. Marmoush complemented Phil Foden on the other side in playing off and around the frontman.Most read in FootballCity keeper Ederson was direct and played it straight up to Haaland when he was left one-v-one against a defender.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainMarmoush and Phil Foden gave Chelsea’s defenders nightmares by running beyond Erling HaalandCredit: Sun SportBut it wasn’t just ‘hoof it’, this was a tactical plan with Marmoush and Foden completing a triangle of attackers that gave Chelsea’s backline nightmares.As Haaland pinned the defenders, Foden and Marmoush supported him. And when Haaland came short, his partners in attack burst into the space behind.It gave City a new dimension and, as Pep admitted last week, was more akin to the ‘modern’ style of Liverpool, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Brighton.2) NEW SHAPE, NEW CITYSpaniard Guardiola’s switch-up was not just in their direct style, it was also the shape he got his players to take up.Lots of Premier League teams move into a 3-2-5 attacking shape from whatever their ‘on-paper’ line up is.City would usually do this from a 4-3-3 set-up by inverting a full-back into midfield, leaving three defenders, a holding midfielder alongside that full-back in midfield and five attackers to roam ahead.Guardiola traditionally inverts a full-back into midfield while in possession allowing two attacking midfielders to join the attack in a 3-2-5 formationCredit: Sun SportHowever against Chelsea that all changed as his full-backs bombed on to leave just two defenders backCredit: Sun SportBut against Chelsea, Pep’s new shape saw it become a 2-3-5 in attack with Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan playing as the three in front of the centre-backs and full-backs Gvardiol and Nunes pushing right up into the attacking line.It was bold — Chelsea almost punished City losing possession early on but Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer wasted chances — though City grew into the game and were a constant threat to Chelsea.Enzo Maresca’s side pack midfield, so City went around and over it.3) FULL-BACKS A THROWBACKGvardiol is now the top-scoring defender in the Prem, so it’s no surprise to see him bursting forward into the box.It was more of a shock to see Nunes play at right-back in previous games — but in this shape, he wasn’t really a defender for most of the match.Matheus Nunes was a right-back only in name in this formationCredit: Sun SportPep got his full-backs to play like Nineties and Noughties attacking full-backsCredit: Sun SportPep got his full-backs to play like Nineties and Noughties attacking full-backs, overlapping, hugging the line and pushing their opposition wingers back.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir heat maps show they barely ventured infield and Gvardiol’s goal came from Nunes’ shot and run being parried by Robert Sanchez as BOTH made runs beyond Haaland and in behind Chelsea.Gvardiol pinning back Noni Madueke also saw the Blues winger play Nunes onside for City’s opening goal. More

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      The Sun’s new betting show Weekend Wager hits the target thanks to Fulham star who delivered against Man Utd

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      SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager got off to a flying start – with a 17/2 tip that came in after just 18 minutes.In the first of our weekly shows digging out the best value bets from the sporting world, our betting experts racked their brains to preview the sporting weekend.Alex Iwobi delivered a 17/2 tip from SunSport’s Weekend WagerCredit: GettyOur new weekly betting show provides the perfect preview to the weekend’s sporting actionCredit: SunSportAnd that included a superb tip from Betfair’s guru James Mackie.Mackie’s suggestion for Fulham’s home clash with Manchester United on Sunday night was all about Alex Iwobi.On the show, he said: “I’ve just gone for a single selection here. And I think it’s actually a bit of hidden value here. It’s 17/2 for Alex Iwobi to have two shots on target.“If you look at some of the stats around Iwobi, he’s had two first shots in each of his last five matches. Including three shots on target in his last three.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“He has been absolutely superb under Silva. That front four have been absolutely brilliant and Iwobi’s been a big part of that.“If you look on the side, he’s going to play against Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui.“They give up opportunities, left, right and centre. I think it’s a cracking bet.”And so it proved.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesBecause after just 18 MINUTES at Craven Cottage, Iwobi had already registered two shots on target and the 17/2 tip had come in.That was not the only success Mackie enjoyed this weekend, either.Man Utd’s Player Ratings vs FulhamHe also had East India Dock to win the 1.15 at Cheltenham on Saturday.He caught the value as he tipped James Owen’s hurdler at evens – with the 4-year-old winning by a massive TEN LENGTHS after being backed in to 1/2.Mackie added: “The last Cheltenham meeting before the Cheltenham Festival in March. Seven unbelievable trials for that four days in March.“I’ve gone for at Cheltenham, look, it’s not going to blow anyone away. It’s even money.“It’s one to start you off for your day before the football begins at three o’clock. It’s the East India Dock to win the 1.15 at Cheltenham.“This horse, he won last time out at Cheltenham in a Grade 2 Triumph Trial in November and I personally think this should be shorter. He’s only run twice over hurdles. He’s improved from run to run.“He was a brilliant flat horse and I think he’s going places for trainer James Owen this season.”“The angle to take with him, though, if you don’t want to take the short price of even money, he’s 6/1 for the Triumph Hurdle at the Festival. I think he’ll be about three or two to one after winning.“So maybe the angle is to play the anti-post market at a bigger price and watch and have a really nice ticket when it comes to the Cheltenham Festival.”READ MORE SUN STORIESEast India Dock is indeed now 11/4 for the Triumph Hurdle, the first race on the final day of the festival.Our next episode of Weekend Wager will drop on Friday – giving you plenty of time to place your bets before another blockbuster set of sporting fixtures.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.ukEast India Dock won the 1.15 at Cheltenham – as tipped on Weekend WagerCredit: PA More

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      I’m Patrick Dorgu’s former manager, he’s an exciting player but he should NOT join Man Utd

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      PATRICK DORGU’S former manager has urged him to reject Manchester United.The 20-year-old star is a target for Ruben Amorim and talks have reportedly begun over a potential deal.Patrick Dorgu has been urged to not sign for Man UtdCredit: GettySerie A side Lecce are thought to be holding out for a fee of £33.7million for their versatile youngster.United could make a bid for him should they sell Alejandro Garnacho to Napoli for £60m in the final days of the January transfer window.Jens Fonnskov Olsen managed Dorgu when he was part of Denmark’s Under-19s setup.And the player’s old boss has shockingly encouraged him not to join United. READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHe told Tipsbladet: “If I have to be a little cheeky, I hope he chooses something other than Manchester United right now. “I don’t know if it’s a bad fit, but they’re just in a period where… I don’t know if you can afford to say no to United, but maybe somewhere where there’s a little more structure and where things fit in with his pace.”Sometimes things have to go in the right order, if you can say it like that.”The thing is that there are many paths to the goal.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDorgu has featured at full-back and on the wing for Lecce, with Amorim believing he will suit his 3-4-3 system.Explaining what type of player he is, Olsen said: “Patrick left and went to a slightly smaller side in Italy and took the chance there.Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager'”He has been really well-educated, especially in the defensive part of the game, where he may have lacked something.”I was really happy with him. I think he had some exciting skills. “Patrick is fast, he is forward-thinking, he can head both offensively and defensively, and he has a very, very good left foot.””He is a creative player. I am incredibly happy that I brought him in and just believed in him. “I am really happy for him, in terms of how his career has developed.”MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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      Premier League trolled over ‘absolute shambles’ picture on website as fans say ‘I thought this was fake’

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      FANS have slammed the Premier League as an “absolute shambles” over a bizarre photo choice on their website.Refereeing decisions once again caused huge controversy over the weekend as Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off for a challenge on Wolves defender Matt Doherty.The Premier League used a controversial snap on their page about high foot challengesJeremy Doku’s challenge on Alexis Mac Allister was not given as a penaltyCredit: AFPFans have been looking into the laws of the game after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red cardCredit: RexThe 18-year-old was red carded for serious foul play and will now serve a three-match ban.It led to supporters swatting up on the rules of the game, with fans left baffled by a picture on the Prem’s website.One fan investigating the laws on high foot challenges noticed that a snap of Jeremy Doku kicking Alexis Mac Allister was used as the main image on the page.The challenge occurred during Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in March last season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt proved to be one of the most controversial refereeing moments in the title race as Doku’s last-gasp high foot went unpunished.PGMOL chief Howard Webb later came out and BACKED the decision, saying VAR was correct to not give Liverpool a penalty.So fans were left utterly baffled by the photo being used to illustrate a high foot, with one saying: “Premier league website using this Doku challenge on Mac Allister as an example of a high foot when it wasn’t even given as a foul in the game. Absolute shambles.”Another added: “They’re the biggest wind-up merchants going.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA third wrote: “I thought this was fake.”The point City picked up proved crucial as they ended up finishing just two ahead of Arsenal to win the title.Jurgen Klopp confronts referee after 98th minute season-defining VAR call saves Man City at AnfieldOfficial Michael Oliver was the referee that day and he was again the man with the whistle for Lewis-Skelly’s red card.Former head of the PGMOL Keith Hackett claims Oliver and Darren England on the VAR made a “major error” by sending off the Arsenal wonderkid.He even suggested that the under-fire official “needs a rest for a couple of weeks” to recover from the mistake and that VAR needs reforming. MARK HALSEY: Questions have to be asked of VAR after Lewis-Skelly sending off… here’s what SHOULD have happenedBy Mark HalseyVAR Darren England should have recommended a review as soon as referee Michael Oliver showed Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card for his challenge on Wolves’ Matt Doherty.An official has to decide whether the challenge was careless or reckless — careless is a free-kick only, reckless is a yellow card — or worthy of a red card.When a player lunges at an opponent with one or two feet from the front, the side or from the back which endangers the player’s safety with excess force or/and brutality, it must be sanctioned with a red.I saw it as a reckless challenge worthy of a yellow, not a red.So why did Darren not recommend a review? Once the red card was shown, the VAR should have intervened.If Michael had the opportunity to view the challenge again, I’m sure he would have changed his mind, cancelled the red card and issued a yellow.As for Arsenal fans’ views that Michael is biased against them, I’m not buying into that. You can never question the integrity of a match official and Michael is one of our best referees.Officials cannot get everything right and that is why we have VAR to help. So questions have to be asked of Darren.With the second yellow for Joao Gomes after catching Jurrien Timber on the ankle, you could argue that was a worse challenge than the Lewis-Skelly one. More

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      Man Utd Supporters Trust release public warning to Sir Jim Ratcliffe about ticket price hikes at ‘worst possible time’

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      THE MANCHESTER UNITED SUPPORTERS’ TRUST (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe following the controversial rise in ticket prices.Britain’s richest man Ratcliffe, 72, angered United fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66.The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: GettyRatcliffe angered Man Utd fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66Credit: GettySir Jim insisted Man Utd should not charge less than Premier League opponents, such as Fulham.That led to an X-rated chant against him and the unpopular Glazers regime by the Red Devils faithful when he was spotted at Craven Cottage watching Sunday’s scrappy 1-0 victory over the Cottagers.United fans were heard chanting: “Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t. Just like the Glazers, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t.”MUST then shared an open letter calling on Ratcliffe to freeze ticket prices and end “the war on season ticket holders”.Read More on Man UtdThe Trust insists this was the “worst possible time” to raise ticket prices.They cite the impact on fan sentiment, the negative affect on “atmosphere and team performance” and how wrong policies which do not engage properly with supporters can “trigger huge reactions”.United fans were initially desperate for Sir Jim and his Ineos company to take over sporting operations from the Glazers, which they finally did in 2023.But recent cut-backs have helped send relations between Ratcliffe and supporters plummeting.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis comes after some other brutal cuts as 250 staff members were made redundant.In addition, club legends and ambassadors saw their wages getting reduced, while Sir Alex Ferguson was axed.Paul Scholes lays into Sir Jim Ratcliffe for ‘having the cheek’ to introduce ‘ridiculous’ Man Utd’s ticket prices SunSport also exclusively revealed the club slashed funding for a charity helping former players.United chiefs say the changes will put the club “on a stronger financial footing” after making a total loss of more than £300million over the past three years.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet.Man Utd fans’ open letter to Sir Jim RatcliffeThe Manchester United Supporters Trust issued the following open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding the rise of ticket prices:We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too.Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.WHY THIS IS THE WRONG TIMEFan Sentiment:A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans’ discretionary spend too.And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.THE VALUE OF SUPPORTIVE FANSHow much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?)The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.A BETTER WAY FORWARDInstead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach – work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.Hold Fire for This Season:Be bold – freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.Rally the Fans and Club Together:Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.Consider Alternative Funding Options:If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.Preserve the Club’s Legacy:Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.THE BUSINESS CASE FOR A BOLD APPROACHThis is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.Yours sincerely,The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) More