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      Wolves 1 Man City 2: Match ends in major controversy as John Stones’ last-gasp winner STANDS after VAR review

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      JOHN STONES was Manchester City’s saviour as he powered home a last-gasp winner to spark bedlam at Molineux.Stones’ wild celebrations were initially cut short as his goal was seemingly chalked off for an offside decision against Bernardo Silva, who was lurking a couple of yards from goal.Manchester City beat Wolves with another last-gasp goal by John StonesCredit: ReutersWolves ace Jorgen Strand Larsen opened the scoring after just seven minutesCredit: GettyMan City equalised with a stunning finish by Josko GvardiolCredit: GettyBut after VAR Stuart Attwell ordered ref Chris Kavanagh to take a look at his pitchside monitor the official decided Silva hadn’t obscured Wolves keeper Jose Sa’s view.He sent City wild and Wolves even wilder as he awarded the late winner which saw the visitors set a club record of 31 league games without defeat.But they didn’t half ride their luck as rock-bottom Wolves pushed them all the way and, in truth, thoroughly deserved the point they thought they had earned.Unfortunately this game will not be remembered for a masterclass in defending but for that contentious moment when Silva appeared to tangle with Sa – only to be cleared of any wrong-doing.Read More on FootballWhen a giant Norwegian opened the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes it wouldn’t have come as the greatest surprise to those not actually in attendance at Molineux.But their jaws would have dropped when news filtered through that it was Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen who had broken the deadlock – NOT his international teammate Erling Haaland!Perhaps City have grown bored after lifting four successive titles.But if we didn’t know better we might start to ask if Pep Guardiola’s men were indulging in a spot of “football chicken,” this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBecause this was the FIFTH time in their last seven top-flight games that City have given their opponents a goal of a start.However from a Wolves’ point of view it was a thing of great beauty.Inside hidden meaning behind Man City star John Stones’ incredible leg tattoo that he says shows his ‘dreams come true’Santiago Bueno swept a long pass wide to Nelson Semedo who was surging down the right flank.The former Barcelona man broke City’s backline before firing in an exquisite low centre which had “finish me” written all over it.Ruben Dias, Stones and Rico Lewis all failed to cut out the danger, leaving Strand Larsen to gleefully steer the ball home from eight yards at the far post.City had been successfully filleted with just seven minutes on the clock.Worryingly for Guardiola, his defence hasn’t managed to keep a clean sheet in any of their seven league games since they kicked off their season with a 2-0 win at Chelsea.Typically, the champs refused to panic and set about painstakingly trying to break down a Wolves side which now had a lead to defend.Wolves’ defensive masterclassAnd boy how they defended it!Wolves Manager Gary O’Neil has had two weeks to plan how to survive the expected City siege and he clearly used his time wisely.His team produced a masterclass in defending as this game turned into almost a training ground exercise in attackers vs defence.And behind the two banks of defence was an inspired goalkeeper who wasn’t deemed good enough at the start of the season and was unceremoniously dumped to make way for new signing Sam Johnstone.Johnstone failed to recover from a slight adductor strain which ruled him out and forgotten Portuguese stopper Sa grabbed his chance with both gloves.He was simply outstanding as he stepped up to the plate and produced heroics.Jose Sa stands outTwo minutes after Larsen’s opener he hurled himself to his right to brilliantly push Ilkay Gundogan’s low shot away for a corner.It was a feat he repeated twice to defy Savinho and Dias, either side of the break as he reminded Wolves fans what he was capable of.On each occasion the keeper saw the ball late as it flew through a sea of legs and displayed incredible reflexes to thwart City’s disbelieving hitmen.As City puzzled how to break down a Wolves side camped around Sa’s goal, the hosts almost suckered them again.Matheus Cunha sent Semedo surging through on goal as he burst beyond Stones and Dias, leaving Josko Gvardiol frantically giving chase.Fortunately the Croatian did just enough to force the full-back into a heavy final touch and Ederson sprinted from his goal line to bravely block Semedo to deny Wolves a certain second.Gvardiol’s piece of brillianceBut Gvardiol managed to surpass that piece of defensive work with a piece of brilliance at the other end of the park as he drew City level just beyond the half hour.The big defender exchanged passes with Jeremy Doku at the edge of the Wolves penalty area.Then he took a sure touch out from his feet and unleashed an unstoppable right footer which was heading straight for the top bin.Sa somehow managed to get his fingertips to the ball but couldn’t prevent it ripping into the top corner of his net.It was the latest away-day special from Gvardiol who has now scored five of his six City goals away from the EtihadBut the expected City recovery never came.Stones’ late winnerSavinho fired well over from 22 yards, then cursed his luck as Sa defied him one-handed on the stroke of half-time.Incredibly City completed 218 successful passes in the final third to Wolves’ FIVE.The pattern after the break stayed the same with City pummelling Wolves without ever looking as if they could beat Sa again.At one point after Doku blazed wastefully over, Pep slumped in his seat, head in his hands.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe needed a miracle and it came five minutes into five minutes of stoppage time – in the most controversial way possible.Wolves battled heroically. But City proved they have enormous Stones!Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa stood out in his return between the sticksCredit: PAMan City scored a controversial late equaliser that was reviewed by VARMan City dominated most of the match against Wolves More

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      Premier League LIVE SCORES: Salah bags opener against Chelsea, Stones scores late controversial winner – latest updates

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      THE PREMIER League has rolled into what stands to be a thrilling day of action today.Manchester City left it until the 95th minute of the game as they beat Wolves 2-1 thanks to a controversial John Stones goal. Up next, Liverpool host Chelsea in huge conclusion to the day with all eyes on the top spots.Kick-off times: 2pm/ 4.30pmTV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports Main EventFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKEEP up with all the scores and results from the Premier League with our live blog below…Liverpool 1-0 Chelsea31. Salah bags against his old club once again.Just before the spot kick was taken, Jackson was booked for trying to put off the Egyptian King.Anfield is rocking now and Liverpool are on the front foot.Copy linkCopied28. GOAL – LIVERPOOL 1-0 ChelseaMohamed Salah slots the penalty away to give The Reds the lead.Copy linkCopiedVAR review in progressCopy linkCopiedPenalty to LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Chelsea22. Chelsea are having a bright period at the moment.They are asking some questions of the hosts and putting them under pressure where they are struggling to get out of their own half.The Blues had an appeal for a penalty but it was cleared by a VAR check and the replay showed it was an unintentional coming together between Alexander-Arnold and Sancho.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Chelsea17. The hosts are struggling to find their groove at the moment.Chelsea are playing deep and not giving The Reds the option to play through them at high-tempo.Already it is seeming like this game could do with a goal to spice it up a little.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Chelsea12. Chelsea seem content allowing the Liverpool defence to have the ball at their feet.There is no press from the visitors, giving The Reds time to try and pick the perfect pass.Maresca’s side seem content of slowing the pace of the game in possession.A direct ball forward picks out Sancho in the box, who lays it off to Gusto but he sends it sailing high into the stands.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Chelsea7. It is a cagey start to the match at Anfield.Jones has made a good start and has made a couple of runs from the heart of midfield. Caicedo seemed to jar his knee and goes to ground seeming to struggle but manages to continue.Tosin is shown a yellow card for taking Jota out, luckily for him, Colwill was close by otherwise it could have been a different colour card he was shown.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedLiverpool vs ChelseaThey are underway at Anfield in this mammoth match-up.Chelsea could go third in the table with victory today.For The Reds, it is all about getting themselves back to the top of the table, something only three points will do.Copy linkCopiedAnfield atmosphere building to fever-pitchAs we edge closer to kick-off, it looks like it is going to be an intimidating cauldron of noise for this one.What else would we expect from Anfield of course.The first goal could really dictate how this one goes, while Liverpool will be looking to attack from the off, should the visitors score it would be the perfect way to silence this crowd.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Graeme Bryce at MolineuxWow! Just as Wolves seemed sure to hang on for a crucial point – City showed they have enormous Stones five minutes into stoppage time.City saviour John Stones leaped to power home Phil Foden’s corner – only for it to be flagged for offside against Bernardo Silva.But VAR Stuart Attwell called on ref Chris Kavanagh to take a squint at the pitchside monitor and – in one of the most controversial calls of the season – he decided Silva hadn’t obscured Sa’s view and awarded the goal.City will never leave it later!Copy linkCopiedShow us what you’re made ofWhile many pundits have spoken about Maresca transforming this Chelsea side, the only real test they have faced this season was Man City at Stamford Bridge.On that occasion they were played off the park and struggled to land more than a punch on the defending champions.This afternoon’s match will really test whether the West London outfit are ready to be challenging at the top of the table once again.Copy linkCopiedPressure back on Slot’s RedsAfter their late win against Wolves, Man City move back to the top of the Premier League table.They sit two points clear of Liverpool in second.Arne Slot’s side know what is required of them now, nothing but victory will see them return to top spot.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Wolves 1-2 Man CityMore questions will be raised about the standard of Premier League officials.By the letter of the law, Bernardo Silva was affecting the actions of Jose Sa where he was stood but even after going to the monitor, the referee allowed the goal.Wolves can feel hard done by, once again we so no consistency from the referees at this level.Copy linkCopiedWolves 1-2 Man City90+5. VAR reviewed the goal and sent the referee to the monitor.Bernardo Silva was stood in front of the keeper in an offside position.Stuart Atwell decides he was not interferring and allows the goal.Heartbreak for Wolves and their fans so late in the game.Copy linkCopiedVAR review in progressCopy linkCopied90+4. GOAL – Wolves 1-2 MAN CITYJohn Stones jumps to meet a corner to head home a late winner.Copy linkCopiedBoss talks about Chelsea challengeThe Liverpool manager spoke about the task at hand at Anfield this afternoon: If you want to achieve something we need to be stable defensively, we have done that so far. Now we face even better players. Chelsea, like United, have a lot of great players and we have to control that as a team but we also have to create our own chances too. Good thing is we have players who can score. An interesting game.Arne SlotLiverpoolCopy linkCopiedEgyptian King with point to proveFacing his former employers is always a big game for Mohamed Salah.Having failed to impress at Stamford Bridge, the Egyptian winger is always focussed on showing The Blues what they let slip through their fingers.It will be a big task for Chelsea to keep him quiet this afternoon and could be pivotal in whether they come away from Anfield with any points.Copy linkCopiedCity struggling with Portuguese wallWith only twenty minutes remaining at Molineux, the visitors have been dominating since their equaliser.However, Pep Guardiola’s side are struggling to find a way past Jose Sa in the Wolves goal.There is still plenty of time for either team to find a winner but the game is finely poised at 1-1.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Graeme Bryce from MolineuxWolves replaced Andre with ex-City midfielder Tommy Doyle at the break, while Pep made Savinho and Doku switch wings.But City continued to bang their heads against an Old Gold brick wall as Jose Sa and Co. stood firm before Pep played his ‘Joker,’ sending on Phil Foden for Doku.Copy linkCopiedChelsea starting XI:Reece James makes a comeback for The Blues after injury and will be tasked with shutting down Mohamed Salah.Tosin comes into the back four and both Caicedo and Lavia feature in the midfield, having both turned down Liverpool’s advances in the transfer market.Credit: @ChelseaFCCopy linkCopiedLiverpool starting XI:The big news is that both Mac Allister and Diaz only make the bench after jetting all around the world for international duty.Jones and Gakpo replace them while Kelleher stands in for the injured Alisson in goal.Credit: @LFCCopy linkCopiedBig chance for visitors to capitaliseLiverpool will miss keeper Alisson greatly for the visit of Enzo Maresca’s side.It offers a real chance for the West London outfit to make a statement today in their pursuit of Champions League qualification.The visitors will need to take the game to Slot’s side, with the best form of defence being attack.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedChelsea team newsChelsea are without Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella after they both picked up their fifth yellow cards of the season in their last outing against Nottingham Forest.Cucurella’s absence could open the door for Renato Veiga to take on the unenviable task of keeping Salah quiet at Anfield this afternoon, while Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo will scrap it out to replace Fofana in the backline.More positive news for The Blues is Reece James having returned to training after damaging his hamstring in pre-season and Danish keeper Filip Jorgensen has recovered from a slight niggle picked up on the international break.Credit: EPACopy linkCopied More

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      Gary Neville starts new job with Man Utd just days after club legend Sir Alex Ferguson was axed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe

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      GARY NEVILLE is back working for Manchester United in India.The ex-Red Devils captain has returned to the fold as a freelance ambassador after attending an event at the Minerva academy in Mohali.Gary Neville works in his new Manchester United role in IndiaCredit: XIt comes in the same week Sir Alex Ferguson was axed by Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: GettyNeville’s return came in the same week as Sir Jim Ratcliffe dropped Sir Alex Ferguson.Fergie, United’s greatest ever manager, had been a club ambassador at a £2m a year deal since his retirement as boss in 2013.But the Scot will leave the role as part of the latest cost-cutting by Ratcliffe’s Ineos part-ownership at Old Trafford.Neville posted on his Instagram stories of his visit to Asia where he attended the Apollo Tyres flagship grassroots football programme.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe 49-year-old is also on United’s stadium taskforce alongside Ratcliffe where they will decide over whether to revamp Old Trafford or build a new 100,000-capacity stadium on the same site.The Class of 92 graduate, who went on to win eight Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies, interacted with young footballers.Neville also won 85 England caps and was an assistant coach under ex-Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson.He later had a three-month stint in charge of Valencia during the 2015/16 season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, Neville now balances his punditry work with co-owning League Two side Salford City with the Class of 92.Meanwhile, Ferguson snubbed United’s win over Brentford on Saturday after being axed by Ratcliffe.Sir Alex Ferguson steps away from ambassador duties at Manchester UnitedMan Utd player ratings vs BrentfordBy Neil CustisMANCHESTER UNITED produced a rousing comeback to beat Brentford at Old Trafford.Goals by Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund cancelled out Ethan Pinnock’s first-half opener.The Red Devils’ win will ease pressure on beleaguered boss Erik ten Hag, who this week defiantly blasted reports that he is on the verge of the sack.On a crucial afternoon for Ten Hag and Co, here’s how SunSport rated each United performer.ANDRE ONANA – 6Did not have much to do for a lot of the game but pulled out a good first-half save to deny Christian Norgaard.DIOGO DALOT – 6Good display from right-back and almost capped it with a goal when he stormed forward only to have his effort beaten away by Mark Flekken.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6At the centre of the controversy in first-half injury time as he had to leave the field with a bleeding head wound when Brentford scored from a corner. He was already looking suspect, as was the bandage that was put on his head early in the game in the first place.JONNY EVANS – 7Continuing an amazing end to his career at Old Trafford. Man of the Match last time out in the goalless draw at Aston Villa and looked solid again. Great ovation when he came off towards the end.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Shifted to an unaccustomed left-back spot but without problems and was particularly good getting forward down the flank.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Chosen alongside Casemiro instead of new buy Manuel Ugarte who was on the bench again, but struggled to get into this game although he was involved for Hojlund’s goal. Thankful for the referee’s whistle in the first period calling play back for a foul after missing a sitter.CASEMIRO – 5Looked like he was off in the summer but back in the team although looking to be missing a yard and often beaten to the ball.MARCUS RASHFORD – 7Does not operate as well on the right but Garnacho was so good down the left. Highlight of his first half was an incredible crossfield ball from right to left to set up Garnacho. Then in the second he provided the assist for Garnacho’s leveller.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tried to orchestrate something from midfield but looked a frustrated figure in the first period. Then he showed his class after the break with that great little flick to set up Hojlund for his goal.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 8Had an all action first half after switching from the right to the left but wasted too many chances. Made up for it in the second with a fine finish from Rashford’s cross in a Man of the Match performance.RASMUS HOJLUND – 7After getting one in Porto to open his season’s account he is now off and running with his first league goal of the campaign. A cool, clever chipped little finish it was too. The hope will be that starts a much needed run of goals but he needs to see more of the ball.SUBSTITUTESJoshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 74) – 5Strange change to make after Hojlund had just scored. His replacement fluffed the one half chance he had.Victor Lindelof (for Evans, 89) – 6A change that largely gave the fans a chance to acclaim Evans’ performance.Manuel Ugarte (for Casemiro, 88) – 6A change that probably should have come earlier.The Red Devils came from behind to beat the Bees 2-1 at Old Trafford and move up to 11th in the Premier League.Their legendary former boss was in Glasgow instead, though, where he was spotted in the stands at Celtic vs Aberdeen.Ferguson was treated to a thriller at Celtic Park, as his former club Aberdeen recovered from 2-0 to draw 2-2 with the Scottish champions.Gary Neville has started a new job with Manchester UnitedCredit: PA More

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      ‘I have MAJOR doubts over Arsenal star William Saliba’s red card for three key reasons’, says ex-Premier League referee

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      I HAD major doubts over William Saliba’s red card and would have stayed with referee Rob Jones’ on-field decision of a caution.The Arsenal defender fouled Bournemouth striker Evanilson but was it a clear and obvious error for VAR to intervene?William Saliba was sent off against Bournemouth following a VAR reviewCredit: RexEx-Premier League referee Mark Halsey has major doubt over the decisionCredit: AFPIt’s a subjective decision, so I didn’t think VAR Jarred Gillett needed to get involved. For the denial of a goalscoring opportunity, we look at four key criteria.And I had doubts over three of those.The distance between the offence and the goal was lengthy, the general direction of play saw the ball coming across Evanilson and not in front of him and also the location and number of defenders was questionable.The likelihood of him keeping or gaining control of the ball would have probably been in the favour of the Cherries forward because  David Raya was back-pedalling towards his own goal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPGMOL chiefs Howard Webb was spotted on TV listening into the VAR comms and that is  normal for him to have access — just like the media broadcasters.There is no way he would have had any input or communication into the Saliba red card.The Frenchman’s dismissal means he is now set to miss a crucial match in the title race for the Gunners.Saliba will serve a one -match ban in the Premier League, ruling him out of next Sunday’s clash with Liverpool.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe will then be free to return to league action away to Newcastle on November 2.Fortunately for Mikel Arteta, he remains available for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.Arteta is open to allowing Arsenal academy players to take part in first team trainingThe 23-year-old is also free to face Preston in the Carabao Cup later this month ahead of the trip to St. James’ Park.Saliba’s red card against Bournemouth is only the second of his career and his first for almost four years.He was previously dismissed whilst playing for Arsenal’s under-21s in the EFL Trophy back in 2020.Robert Jones upgraded Saliba’s yellow to a red card after an on-field review of the incidentCredit: APSaliba will miss Arsenal’s home match against Liverpool next weekend through suspensionCredit: Getty More

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      Mason Greenwood refusing to give up on England dreams and wants to speak to new boss Tuchel as Jamaica wait in wings

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      MASON GREENWOOD wants Thomas Tuchel to tell him if he stands a chance of being part of his England revolution.Tuchel has been named as Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions successor on an 18-month deal.Mason Greenwood wants to know if he could play for England under new boss Thomas TuchelCredit: ReutersGreenwood is enjoying success at Marseille after leaving Manchester UnitedCredit: AFPTuchel was named as Gareth Southgate’s successor at EnglandCredit: GettyThe German will not take over as boss until January 1 — but Marseille star Greenwood hopes a change of regime could see him add to his one senior cap.If not, the former Manchester United forward will accept Steve McClaren’s invitation to switch allegiance and play for Jamaica.Greenwood’s international future has been in limbo since he spent 18 months out of the game after being charged with attempted rape, assault and coercive behaviour in January 2022. The charges were later dropped.A source told SunSport: “Mason knows his chances of playing for England again are very slim. But he wants to check with the FA and Tuchel now he has been appointed, to see what they think.Read More on England“He is determined to play at the highest level and that means the World Cup.“So if England don’t want him, he’ll switch to Jamaica and try and get to the 2026 World Cup that way.”Greenwood knew he would not play for England — where he won his only cap against Iceland in 2020 — again under Southgate.He left United following a club investigation and spent last season on loan at Spanish side Getafe before moving to Marseille for £26.6million this summer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobGreenwood, expecting his second child, has scored five times this season. Despite winning a cap with England, Fifa allow players to switch if they have played fewer than four competitive appearances before the age of 21.Therefore, Greenwood can play for Jamaica — who he qualifies for through his dad.Thomas Tuchel England Press ConferenceReggae Boyz boss McClaren plans to try and recruit foreign-born stars in the Prem to play for his team.After being appointed in the summer, he said: “I had a little chat with Mason.“I will be making sure that we have a conversation with all the players. We have a list.”Jamaica last qualified for the World Cup in 1998.Inside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel. More

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      Kyle Walker eyed by Saudi moneybags and could line up alongside FOUR ex-Premier League stars

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      KYLE WALKER is the latest high-profile name on the Saudi wish list — and may line up alongside Ivan Toney next season.Al-Ahli have made the Manchester City skipper their leading target, after bagging Toney with a £40million deal in August.Manchester City star Kyle Walker is attracting interest from Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyAl-Ahli are keeping tabs on Walker after signing England team-mate Ivan ToneyCredit: GettyWalker would also link up with ex-Man City team-mate Riyad MahrezCredit: GettyWalker could play with four other Premier League heroes, such as Roberto FirminoCredit: GettyFormer Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was also signed by Al-AhliCredit: GettyEngland striker Toney had only a year to go on his Bees contract and City would demand around £20m, although Walker’s deal has two years to run.But that will not deter the Saudi big-spenders, who already have one ex-Etihad star on the books in Riyad Mahrez.Al-Ahli also have ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino in their squad.And the emergence of Rico Lewis at City means the Prem champions are likely to play ball should Walker, 34, decide he wants a new challenge.Read More on FootballEngland defender Walker joined City from Tottenham in the summer of 2017 and has been a key player in Pep Guardiola’s glittering Etihad reign.He has won six Premier League titles, the Champions League as part of the Treble in 2023, two FA Cups and four EFL Cups.Walker has 91 England caps but a move to Saudi would cast a doubt over his international future.Toney has not played for the Three Lions since his switch to the Middle East.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile, crocked striker Oscar Bobb is on course to return ahead of schedule.Bobb, 21, broke a bone in a leg in a freak pre-season clash and was initially ruled out until the turn of the year.Eight bizarre football rules you may not knowBut the Norwegian hopes to start light training in early December. More

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      Arsenal ratings: Saliba pays price for rare moment of panic vs Bournemouth but Calafiori contains Semenyo

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      TEN-MAN Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season as brilliant Bournemouth dealt them a South Coast setback.The Gunners travelled to face Andoni Iraola’s men having won five and drawn three of their opening eight matches this term.Arsenal suffered a South Coast setback against the CherriesCredit: ReutersBut their task was made a tricky one when William Saliba was shown a red card on the half-hour.Ryan Christie brilliantly fired the hosts into a deserved lead following a well-worked set piece routine 20 minutes from time.Justin Kluivert then sealed his side’s incredible 2-0 victory from the penalty spot on 79 minutes.Here’s how SunSport rated each Gunners performer on the day.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDAVID RAYA – 5Was lucky to get away with one poor pass out from the back early on. Made amends for another error by saving smartly with the legs to deny Marcus Tavernier after initially spilling a Semenyo cross-cum-shot before clumsily conceding the penalty.BEN WHITE – 4England outcast was back in the team after four games out, but did not look 100 per cent fit and found it tough going containing the lively Antoine Semenyo down the Bournemouth left in the first half and Dango Ouattara in the second.WILLIAM SALIBA – 3Usually calm and collected under pressure but paid the price for a rare moment of panic when he hauled down Bournemouth striker Evanilson to get himself sent off and will miss next weekend’s crunch clash at home to title rivals Liverpool as a result.William Saliba was sent off on the half hour markCredit: RexGABRIEL – 5Given the captain’s armband in the absence of the stricken Bukayo Saka, but not at his commanding best, especially after losing centre-back partner Saliba. Did not really step up to the leadership plate.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Did a better job containing Semenyo when Bournemouth’s dangerman switched wings at half-time than White did in the first half, but unable to have his usual influence going forward.Riccardo Calafiori tussles with Dango OuattaraCredit: ReutersTHOMAS PARTEY – 5Back in his traditional central midfield berth after being used as an emergency right back in the 3-1 win over Southampton. Was second best up against Bournemouth’s impressive Lewis Cook.Arsene Wenger was ‘lucky’ at Arsenal and ‘not a football man’ says Souness in extraordinary blast at ex-Arsenal boss DECLAN RICE – 5Another of Arsenal’s international contingent who looked sluggish after the break from domestic duty. Struggled to impose himself on the game in midfield and unable to get forward as much as he usually does. Did his bit dropping into the back-line after Saliba’s dismissal.RAHEEM STERLING – 4Former England man was deployed on the right wing in place of the injured Bukayo Saka and gave the ball away a few times when in promising positions before being sacrificed after the Saliba red card.Raheem Sterling had to make way shortly after Saliba’s red cardCredit: GettyMIKEL MERINO – 5Finally able to make his full Premier League debut after an injury-affected start to his Arsenal career and showed some nice touches. Also fired into the side-netting with the visitors’ best first half opening.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Started the game well but sold Saliba short with a poor back pass that led to the red card and disappeared from the action after that before being subbed shortly after the half-hour mark.KAI HAVERTZ – 5The German cut an isolated figure up front, especially after Arsenal were reduced to ten men, but worked tirelessly for the team without ever looking like adding to his run of scoring in the previous four games in all competitions.Kai Havertz led the line for the GunnersCredit: RexSUBSTITUTES Jakub Kiwior (for Sterling, 37) – 4Gabriel Martinelli (for Trossard, 64) – 5READ MORE SUN STORIESGabriel Jesus (for Kiwior, 81) – N/AEthan Nwaneri (for Merino, 81) – N/A More

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      Bournemouth 2 Arsenal 0: Ten-man Gunners STUNNED as they drop points in title race after defeat to brilliant Cherries

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      IF Arsenal continue to shoot themselves in the foot, they will not have a leg to stand on in this Premier League title race.And the question now stands: do they have the discipline to topple Manchester City?Ryan Christie celebrates his crucial breakthrough goalCredit: ReutersJustin Kluivert tucked home the Cherries’ second goal from the spotCredit: ReutersWilliam Saliba saw red for a professional foul on EvanilsonCredit: PAChristie wheels away after slotting Bournemouth in frontCredit: AFPFor the third time in eight Prem games this season, the Gunners were forced to play the majority of a 90-minute match down to 10 men after a needless red card.It is also the second time this has happened inside a first half. Talk about making things unnecessarily hard for yourselves.On the previous two occasions, Mikel Arteta’s men have salvaged a point – and probably should have earned more – after controversial dismissals for delaying the restart against Brighton and Man City.But this could not be said on the south coast against Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth.READ MORE TOP STORIESWilliam Saliba’s 30th-minute sending off – confirmed by VAR after ref Robert Jones was asked to view the monitor having originally given a yellow – was fair, and also comical, as he boldly and foolishly dragged down Evanilson just inside his own half as the last man.Often so good on the road – unbeaten in their previous 12 in 2024 – the visitors were unable to muster a response as they huffed and puffed to a deserved first defeat of the term.Ryan Christie finally broke the deadlock in the 70th minute, and nine minutes later another uncharacteristic mistake – this time from David Raya – gave Justin Kluivert a 12-yarder to end the contest.Arteta’s boys are City’s biggest threat to a fifth title on the spin, yet right now seem more intent on throwing it away than ending that run with a first Prem trophy for 20 years.Most read in FootballWilliam Saliba picked up a controversial first-ever red cardCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe big blow before kick-off was Bukayo Saka’s absence – clearly still not over a slight hamstring strain picked up for England on international duty last week.It was just the fourth time the Three Lions star had missed a Prem game since the start of the 2021/22 campaign – and only the third game in all comps since December 17.But there was good news elsewhere. Doubts over Gabriel Martinelli, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Thomas Partey and Ben White were put to one side with their inclusions in the squad.For Arteta, this was a return to a stadium where he took charge of his first game for the club back on Boxing Day 2019 – an ugly 1-1 draw to kick off his tenure in uninspiring style?Five years on, and a bit of déjà vu? Arteta would have hoped that days like this were behind him and his squad, one consistently now challenging for major honours.But when you always have an early red card in you, these sorts of miserable contests are always around the corner.Arteta unleashed a team that boasted nine of the 11 standing six feet tall and over, including a gigantic midfield of Partey, Declan Rice and Mikel Merino on his first Prem start.On paper, that trio should steamroller the opposition, but this never materialised in the opening 20 minutes. Arsenal were clunky, loose in possession and lacking an attacking intent to unlock a well-coached Iraola outfit.Sloppiness was creeping in. Raya’s pass out was short and Alex Scott teed up Antoine Semenyo to blaze into the stands.Speaking of sloppy, Leandro Trossard’s 27th minute shanked, deflected back pass had Saliba scrambling and Evanilson pounced, only to have his arm dragged and twisted before hitting the deck.The French defender, the smoothest of players, had a rare brain-dead moment, with the guilt instantly written all over his face.Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta saw his side’s title hopes take a huge dentCredit: RexJustin Kluivert bigs himself up after his spot-kick clincherCredit: GettyAnd even when Jones issued a yellow, that look of a naughty schoolboy remained, surely knowing that VAR would step in to turn his nightmare into an early shower.Yes, it was a foul around 45 yards from goal, but a clear denial of a goal scoring opportunity nonetheless, one that would never have been recovered by Saliba’s fellow defenders.The image of PGMOL chief Howard Webb sat on his phone in the stands, listening in on the Stockley Park dialogue, did little to appease the away end.Instead, they chanted: “F**k Howard Webb” before serenading Saliba with their chant to the tune of Latin pop hit ‘Tequila’.Arteta would not have been blamed had he decided to down a bottle of the stuff there and then in the dug-out. Instead, sensibly, he hauled off Raheem Sterling for Jakub Kiwior.Arsenal player ratings vs BournemouthBy Alex CrookTEN-MAN Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season as brilliant Bournemouth dealt them a South Coast setback.The Gunners travelled to face Andoni Iraola’s men having won five and drawn three of their opening eight matches this term.But their task was made a tricky one when William Saliba was shown a red card on the half-hour.Ryan Christie brilliantly fired the hosts into a deserved lead following a well-worked set piece routine 20 minutes from time.Justin Kluivert then sealed his side’s incredible 2-0 victory from the penalty spot on 79 minutes.Here’s how SunSport rated each Gunners performer on the day.DAVID RAYA – 5Was lucky to get away with one poor pass out from the back early on. Made amends for another error by saving smartly with the legs to deny Marcus Tavernier after initially spilling a Semenyo cross-cum-shot before clumsily conceding the penalty.BEN WHITE – 4England outcast was back in the team after four games out, but did not look 100 per cent fit and found it tough going containing the lively Antoine Semenyo down the Bournemouth left in the first half and Dango Ouattara in the second.WILLIAM SALIBA – 3Usually calm and collected under pressure but paid the price for a rare moment of panic when he hauled down Bournemouth striker Evanilson to get himself sent off and will miss next weekend’s crunch clash at home to title rivals Liverpool as a result.GABRIEL – 5Given the captain’s armband in the absence of the stricken Bukayo Saka, but not at his commanding best, especially after losing centre-back partner Saliba. Did not really step up to the leadership plate.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Did a better job containing Semenyo when Bournemouth’s dangerman switched wings at half-time than White did in the first half, but unable to have his usual influence going forward.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Back in his traditional central midfield berth after being used as an emergency right back in the 3-1 win over Southampton. Was second best up against Bournemouth’s impressive Lewis Cook.DECLAN RICE – 5Another of Arsenal’s international contingent who looked sluggish after the break from domestic duty. Struggled to impose himself on the game in midfield and unable to get forward as much as he usually does. Did his bit dropping into the back-line after Saliba’s dismissal.RAHEEM STERLING – 4Former England man was deployed on the right wing in place of the injured Bukayo Saka and gave the ball away a few times when in promising positions before being sacrificed after the Saliba red card.MIKEL MERINO – 5Finally able to make his full Premier League debut after an injury-affected start to his Arsenal career and showed some nice touches. Also fired into the side-netting with the visitors’ best first half opening.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Started the game well but sold Saliba short with a poor back pass that led to the red card and disappeared from the action after that before being subbed shortly after the half-hour mark.KAI HAVERTZ – 5The German cut an isolated figure up front, especially after Arsenal were reduced to ten men, but worked tirelessly for the team without ever looking like adding to his run of scoring in the previous four games in all competitions.SUBSTITUTESJakub Kiwior (for Sterling, 37) – 4Gabriel Martinelli (for Trossard, 64) – 5Gabriel Jesus (for Kiwior, 81) – N/AEthan Nwaneri (for Merino, 81) – N/AUnlike the opening stages of the first half, chances cropped up before the break.Semenyo and Marcus Tavernier wasted good openings after Raya’s fumble, while Merino dragged an effort wide from 10 yards out.Arsenal were unchanged at the break, their away form giving them a belief they could see this one out.That confidence drained away almost instantly as Semenyo missed a sitter from six yards from a teasing Dango Ouattara delivery.These title races are often defined by moments.Saliba’s red card will likely be one, as will Gabriel Martinelli fluffing his lines with a one-on-one, failing to convert the gift provided by Kepa’s misplaced pass.READ MORE SUN STORIESTwo minutes later, Bournemouth punished them – Christie smashing in from range from a clever short corner routine, really rubbing it in to their set-piece loving opponents.By the time Raya clobbered Evanilson in the box from a shocking Kiwior back pass, no one was surprised. Arsenal’s heads were gone, and their unbeaten start shattered. More