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      Chelsea wonderkid Cesare Casadei ‘AGREES to permanent transfer exit as Torino launch bargain £10m bid’

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      CHELSEA look set to offload wonderkid Cesare Casadei after he AGREED a permanent transfer away. The 21-year-old midfielder was signed in 2022 from Inter Milan in a deal worth £12.6m after he was touted for big things. Cesare Casadei could be on his way out of ChelseaCredit: GettyCasadei was named player of the tournament at the Under-20 World Cup for Italy and looked to be a star of the future. He spent time on loan at Reading and Leicester before being recalled to the Blues squad in January 2024. Incoming manager Enzo Maresca decided to keep Casadei in his side after taking over in the summer. But the player has been limited to just six appearances all season – five in the Europa Conference League and one in the Carabao Cup.READ MORE IN football Casadei has only made Chelsea’s Premier League bench four times – failing to make an appearance. It has led to speculation over his future and now Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Casadei has agreed to join Torino back home in Italy. A deal between the two clubs is now being thrashed out – believed to be in the region of £10m. Chelsea’s terms with Torino is also set to include a buy-back option.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCasadei is said to have attracted attention from Napoli, Lazio and Monza as well with the player keen on a return home. Maresca did not sign Casadei at Chelsea but the two worked together at Leicester – where the midfielder was played in a more advanced role. Moment Luke Littler copies Chelsea legend’s celebration during World Darts Championship clash with Nathan Aspinall The Stamford Bridge boss praised Casadei in October following a run of Conference League performances. Maresca said: “I am very happy with the way he is playing. “I had Cesare last year and he was playing a little bit in different position. This year, we are using him like a holding midfielder. “The reason why is because I think we go in the direction where the middle you need physical players. Cesare is very big, physically strong and helps us when we want to press. “On the ball, he is improving a lot. Tonight he played one touch, so we are very happy. “For him, it’s the same as the rest; many things he can do better but he is in the right direction.”Enzo Maresca has worked with Casadei at Chelsea and LeicesterCredit: Getty More

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      Fulham vs Ipswich Town LIVE SCORE: Latest updates as hosts look to get back to winning ways against buoyant Ipswich

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      FULHAM are hosting Ipswich Town today aiming to get back to winning ways in the Premier League.While the Tractor Boys head into the clash at Craven Cottage buoyant from their 2-0 victory over Chelsea last time out.The match kicks off the Prem coverage for the day, with Liverpool vs Man Utd confirmed to be ON after an emergency meeting today following the extreme weather in the North West.Kick off time: 2pm GMTTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Premier LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below… More

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      Liverpool vs Man Utd LIVE: Postponement decision finalised as three EFL clashes called off due to extreme weather

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      LIVERPOOL will host rivals Manchester United this afternoon after an emergency meeting took place today over the safety of supporters.Severe snow hit the region, with airports closing, causing travel chaos – John Lennon Airport’s runway was closed this morning but is now back open.It has now been confirmed that the match will be going AHEAD – but three EFL clashes have been called off today at Chesterfield, Fleetwood and Newport.The headline team news from Anfield is that Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes returns from a one-match ban, while Ibrahima Konate is back in the Liverpool starting eleven.Kick off time: 4.30pm GMTTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Premier LeagueLive stream: NOW/Sky Sports appLiverpool team: Alisson, Van Dijk, Konate, Robertson, Alexander-Arnold, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Jones, Gakpo, Salah, DiazMan Utd team: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot, Amad, Fernandes, HojlundFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Mo still the main manMo Salah just loves playing against Manchester United.In fact, no player in Premier League history has a record against the Red Devils quite like the Egyptian.The Egyptian king has both scored more goals (12) and provided more assists (6) against United than anyone else since the competition’s rebrand in 1992.He’s having some season too.Salah has been involved in 30 Premier League goals this season (17 goals and 13 assists), scoring and assisting in eight different games. It is already the most occasions that a player has done both in a single campaign ever.It is also the fifth time that the forward has registered 30+ goal involvements in a season (also 2017-18, 2018-19, 2021-22 and 2022-23), the joint most of any player in Premier League history along with Alan Shearer.Copy linkCopiedFT: Fulham 2-2 Ipswich Well, what a game that was! Three penalties across 90 minutes and the spoils are shared at Craven Cottage.It was a late spot kick from Raul Jimenez that clawed Fulham back level.Manchester United will be relieved that one of their relegation rivals have dropped points…Credit: PACopy linkCopied’They’re so bad’, slams KeaneRoy Keane has delivered a no-nonsense attack on Manchester United’s lack of improvement under Ruben Amorim.Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “If you look at the stats, my goodness, they are so bad.”Obviously, the new manager has come in and there has been no response from the players which is a big concern.”They don’t look like a great group. They’ve got no world-class players.”They haven’t got a striker that can get them out of jail. The goalkeeper is not great. The players have to be held accountable.”I just want a bit of passion in their performance. It’s disgraceful what they’re doing week in, week out.”You look at the evidence over the last month or two and even previously, and you ask yourself, ‘How can Manchester United even come here to Anfield and get a result?'”Copy linkCopiedOn the benchesAs suspected, Marcus Rashford misses out through illness. Here’s the options on the sidelines for both teams…Liverpool bench Kelleher (GK), Bradley, Chiesa, Jota, Elliott, Endo, Nunez, Quansah, TsimikasMan Utd benchBayindir (GK), Antony, Casemiro, Collyer, Eriksen, Garnacho, Malacia, Yoro, ZirkzeeCopy linkCopiedHow they line upSo we know who is starting, but here’s how that should look as a formation for both sides…Copy linkCopiedTeam newsHere we go, here’s a look at who is lining up for both sides at Anfield…LiverpoolAlisson, Van Dijk (c), Konate, Diaz, Mac Allister, Salah, Jones, Gakpo, Robertson, Gravenberch, Alexander-ArnoldMan UtdOnana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez, Fernandes (c), Hojlund, Amad, Dalot, Ugarte, MainooCopy linkCopiedGoalscoring woesManchester United have failed to score in any of their last three games in all competitions.Meanwhile Liverpool have scored in every single game they’ve played in since September 17.Ruben Amorim has to find someone who can step up and score when it matters the most.At the moment, The Red Devils don’t have a goalscorer.Copy linkCopiedIpswich creeping upThat Sammie Szmodics goal means that, as things stand, Kieran McKenna’s side are just FOUR POINTS behind Man Utd in the table.It also pulls them just out of the relegation zone.We’ve all joked about it, but are United really in a relegation battle?Copy linkCopiedHT: Fulham 0-1 IpswichIt’s half-time in today’s early Premier League kick off and Ipswich have the lead.The Tractor Boys are ahead through a Sammie Szmodics goal and are now 45 minutes away from back-to-back victories.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEarly team newsWe still have about 45 minutes until we find out what XIs both managers have chosen, but here’s he we know won’t be playing.Liverpool will still be without Joe Gomez while both Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley have undergone late fitness tests.For United, Mason Mount, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw all remain injured.Exiled Marcus Rashford has been ill and is expected to miss today’s match too.Copy linkCopiedNeville and Carragher get stuck inGary Neville and Jamie Carragher were shovelling the snow at Anfield earlier today.Although, it seemed as though Neville was keen to throw the snow back on the pitch and get the match postponed.While Carragher wanted to make sure Liverpool could take on a Man Utd side on a torrid run of form.Copy linkCopiedThe view from Martin Lipton at Craven CottageFulham vs Ipswich TownGrey, gloomy, wet, miserable. And that’s just Omari Hutchinson, ruled out for Ipswich with a groin injury.The loss of the in-form midfielder in a blow for the Tractor Boys, although Liam Delap has been ploughing it up all season to give them a chance of survival.Fulham, unbeaten in seven since they were thumped at the Cottage by Wolves, leave out Andreas Pereira, linked with an £18m move back to Brazil with Palmeiras. Tom Cairney comes in with Marco Silva insisting it is about ensuring more “control” in the middle. MmmmCopy linkCopiedStark differencesHere’s a look at the comparison between Liverpool’s top scorer this season, Mohamed Salah, and Man Utd’s number one bagsman, Bruno Fernandes. The damning stats show the difference at both clubs this term.Copy linkCopiedPitch preparedThe Anfield pitch has been cleared and is ready to welcome both sides later this afternoon.Credit: ReutersCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopied’Surface is perfect’Gary Neville has told Sky Sports that the Anfield pitch is “perfect” ahead of the derby bout later this afternoon.The Man Utd icon added: “It won’t affect the quality of play”.Copy linkCopiedFulham vs Ipswich lineupsWell we know that Fulham vs Ipswich is definitely going ahead given the lack of snow in London.So here’s a look at how both sides line up for the Premier League’s 2pm KO.Copy linkCopiedState of playSo here’s a look at that games are going ahead and what games have been postponed across the Prem and EFL today.Premier LeagueFulham vs Ipswich – 2pm (on)Liverpool vs Man Utd – 4:30pm (on)ChampionshipSunderland vs Portsmouth – 3pm (on)League TwoCrewe vs Bromley – 3pm (on)Chesterfield vs Gillingham – POSTPONEDFleetwood vs AFC Wimbledon – POSTPONEDNewport vs Morecambe – POSTPONEDCopy linkCopiedNewport game OFFNewport County vs Morecambe has been called off due to the weather.The postponement means that three of the four League Two clashes due to be played this afternoon have been called off. Crewe vs Bromley will be the only League Two match played.Copy linkCopiedBoost to Liverpool title hopesThe fixture going ahead will be a huge boost to Liverpool’s title hopes.The Reds now get to play an out-of-form Man Utd side for the chance to widen their lead at the top of the table.After Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton yesterday, Liverpool can go EIGHT points clear with a game in hand if they win this afternoon.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedM62 clear The M62 is currently clear of snow and running in normal order.The road will be the main route that most Man Utd fans will take to get to Anfield this afternoon.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd statementManchester United have doubled down on the decision for the game to go ahead with a statement of their own.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool confirm game onLiverpool have released a statement on X confirming that this afternoon’s match is taking place.Copy linkCopiedCarra confirmsJamie Carragher appears to confirm that his former side Liverpool will take on Man Utd today. We’re still awaiting official statements from either club.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING – MATCH ONEarly reports are indicating that the game WILL go ahead.After another inspection on the playing surface it has been decided the match will be played between Liverpool and Man Utd.Copy linkCopiedGround staff at workThe ground staff at Anfield are out on the pitch doing their best to get the surface ready.An army of employees are scraping the snow off the surface.Just under 15 minutes until we should have an update on if the game will go ahead.Copy linkCopied More

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      Painful moment Southampton star Adam Armstrong has to give fan prize for predicting they’d get battered 5-0

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      A SOUTHAMPTON star had to reward a ‘fan’ for successfully predicting their 5-0 defeat to Brentford in cringeworthy scenes.Saints were stuffed at home as the Bees ran riot at St Mary’s.This woman in the St Mary’s hospitality lounge correctly predicted the 5-0 defeat to BrentfordCredit: X/ HugoScheckterShe was presented with a shirt from Adam ArmstrongCredit: X/ HugoScheckterThe 5-0 hammering leaves the south-coast club ten points from safety in the Premier League and still bottom, stuck on just six points with one win in 20 matches. But despite the result and the fact he only came on in the second half, the misery continued for Adam Armstrong as he was tasked with appearing in the hospitality lounge after full-time, a custom for players at home Saints matches.Following a post-match Q&A, he presented a Southampton shirt to one guest who correctly tipped them to lose 5-0 – just as they did at home to Tottenham in December.And it went to a woman who “knows nothing about football”.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHugo Scheckter, who founded the Player Care Group, posted a brilliant video on Twitter showing his mum Clare’s name being read out.That prompted her to squeal in delight, wave her arms and red-and-white scarf in the air and walk up to receive the gift from the striker. Clare was hilariously mocked and some even jokingly booed her for tipping the awful result.And Armstrong looked totally awkward and unimpressed as he handed over the Southampton jersey – although he did appear to manage a small polite smile.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSClare then walked past towards her seat shaking the shirt towards the camera and punching the air in delight. Her son captioned the post: “Went to the St Mary’s for first time in a while. Disgusted Southampton fans stream out of St Mary’s 27 minutes into Tottenham clash after going 4-0 down”My mum, who knows nothing about football, predicted the 0-5 loss then got booed when collecting her prize from Adam Armstrong in the Saints hospitality.”Hugo also shared the clip on his Instagram story which was then reshared by Clare.The video quickly went viral with more than five million views within 12 hours of being posted.And it prompted a wave of hilarious replies as one labelled it “elite-level trolling”.One said: “Sensational.”Another wrote: “This is one of the best things I’ve ever seen.”A third commented: “How have the club made Adam Armstrong present the prize in those circumstances? That’s poor.”A fourth added: “That is absolutely amazing.”A fifth responded: “Mum’s gone from 0 to football oracle in one match, Got the prediction spot on and got the booing from the crowd as a bonus.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd a final user typed: “Hilarious and humiliating.”Southampton fans will no doubt be hoping Clare can put her prediction skills to good use by tipping wins against Swansea in the FA Cup before facing Manchester United, Nottingham Forest and Newcastle in the Premier League before the end of January. Clare Scheckter was booed as she went up to collect her giftCredit: X/ HugoScheckterHer son said she ‘knows nothing about football’ but she was delighted with the prizeCredit: X/ HugoScheckterThe goals rained in past Aaron Ramsdale and relegation looms for SouthamptonCredit: Rex More

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      Amorim using Luke Littler’s incredible history-making triumph as motivation for his under-performing Man Utd flops

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      RUBEN AMORIM urged his Manchester United flops to use Luke Littler’s world darts triumph to hit the bullseye against Liverpool.United travel to the Prem leaders on the back of four successive defeats — and without a goal in their last three.Luke Littler is at the top of his game – sadly Man Utd are miles off theirsCredit: GettyRuben Amorim wants his United stars to take inspiration from the teenCredit: ReutersHarry Maguire congratulated Littler on his victoryCredit: GettyBut Amorim, who has made the worst start of any United boss in 93 years, gave his team a rousing Luke The Nuke-inspired team talk at training yesterday.An Old Trafford insider revealed: “Ruben is well aware of the Herculean task in front of him and his players — not just today.“He wants the team to start channelling the same self-belief Luke showed in Friday’s world final.“Luke was unstoppable because he was determined to win.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“The players need to show the same courage against Liverpool.“They’re all pretty close to Luke and know victory against Liverpool would cap the most memorable weekend for their most famous fan.”United stars exchanged messages after watching Littler’s crushing 7-3 victory over three-times world champion Michael van Gerwen on Friday.Defender Harry Maguire, 31, congratulated Littler on his sensational win.Most read in FootballMan Utd fan Luke Littler triumphed in the World Darts Championship final on FridayCredit: RexCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLuke Littler prize money breakdownHere is all the prize money Luke Littler has won so far after being crowned 2025 PDC World Darts Championship winner:World Championship 2025 – £500,000World Championship 2024 – £200,000Grand Slam of Darts 2024 – £150,000European Tour – £91,000Player Championships events – £71,500Players Championship final runner-up – £60,000UK Open 2023 + 2024 – £17,500World Matchplay – £10,000World Grand Prix – £7,500European Championship – £7,500(Unranked) Premier League Darts – £315,000TOTAL: £1.43 millionHe posted a picture of the teenager with his trophy and wrote: “Ridiculous. Congratulations Luke the Nuke.”Littler became the youngest ever world darts champ with his phenomenal Ally Pally triumph.‘Don’t come here no more’ – Luke Littler’s darts coach reveals why they had to ‘get rid of him’ from the academy at 13The 17-year-old now wants to parade the Sid Waddell Trophy at Old Trafford. He said: “If they allow me to, then I’ll go.”Meanwhile, Amorim has promised he WILL get it right at United.He said: “I’m giving everything to help the club and we are going to succeed.“That is hard to understand in this moment but we ARE going to succeed.”And Amorim loved the way United fans stuck with his side during the 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle on December 30.The Portuguese manager said: “What happened in the second half was unbelievable.“To be really honest I think Newcastle turned off a little bit, but the supporters were amazing.“I cannot ask anything from the support, other than maybe a little bit more patience.“They’ve had a lot during these last few years.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I can’t say anything to the supporters. I know they are tired of this moment.“We need to do our job to help the supporters – and I will do my best.” More

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      ‘This is RIDICULOUS’ – Ian Wright in meltdown over ‘worst officials in Europe’ after Arsenal’s draw with Brighton

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      IAN WRIGHT fumed that Prem refs are the “worst in Europe” after Brighton were awarded a controversial penalty against Arsenal.William Saliba was judged to have fouled Joao Pedro after he mistimed a header and caught the Seagulls striker.Ian Wright slammed the penalty decisionCredit: ReutersWilliam Saliba was judged to have fouled Joao PedroThe Arsenal defender avoided a red card with VAR sticking by referee Anthony Taylor’s decision.But Wright disagreed with the decision to award a penalty and fumed that it was given.He said on Optus Sport: “I don’t know what to believe anymore. This is ridiculous. We have the worst officials in Europe.”Mikel Arteta was equally as bemused as he made his feelings clear post-match.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe told Sky Sports: “I have never seen something like this in my life.”I am really disappointed. He touches the ball as well!”Fans argued over whether the correct decision was made as the Premier League released a statement on the incident.It read: “The referee’s call of penalty for a foul by Saliba on Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was sufficient contact for a penalty.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe decision proved crucial as Pedro converted the penalty to equalise, with the match ending 1-1.The Gunners dropped yet more points in the title race and are now five points behind Liverpool having played two games more.Arsenal Invincible and cult hero reveals we’ve all been saying his name wrong for nearly 45 years More

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      Brighton vs Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Gunners and Seagulls share point as Joao Pedro levels after early Nwaneri goal

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      ARSENAL were held to a draw at Brighton as they failed to close the gap on Liverpool.Teenager Ethan Nwaneri, 17, scored an early goal for the Gunners but Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to create chances.Brighton picked up yet another point – this was their sixth draw in eight matches – after Joao Pedro slotted home a penalty after a bizarre head collision with Gabriel.Earlier, Chelsea suffered yet another slip up at Crystal Palace, while out-of-form Tottenham were beaten 2-1 by Newcastle, Manchester City thrashed West Ham and Brentford piled more misery on Southampton.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Mikel bitter with penalty decisionMikel Arteta immediately went over to confront the officials at the full-time whistle.No doubt he will be telling them that it was never a penalty that was awarded to the hosts.If this was the case, he may need his medication altered as Saliba headbutted Joao Pedro, whichever way you look at it.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedGunners have it all to doArsenal are now five points behind leaders Liverpool.They have some tough games coming up and cannot afford to drop points if they want to stay in touch.Mikel Arteta will see this as two points dropped today.Copy linkCopiedPremier League full-time scoresTottenham 1-2 NewcastleBournemouth 0-0 EvertonAston Villa 2-1 LeicesterCrystal Palace 1-1 ChelseaMan City 4-1 West HamSouthampton 0-5 BrentfordBrighton 1-1 ArsenalCopy linkCopiedFT: Brighton 1-1 ArsenalIgor Julio put in a stellar performance for his team today.He managed to dominate the Arsenal centre midfield and link play for The Seagulls.His evening was ended by injury but by that time, his work was done.Copy linkCopiedFT: Brighton 1-1 ArsenalThe Seagulls probably edged this game over the course of the match.Fabian Hurzeler’s side had a big chance to win it when Minteh wasted the opportunity.Mitoma was completely unmarked on the back post wating to convert.Copy linkCopiedFT: Brighton 1-1 ArsenalThe referee brings the game to a close.Two points dropped for The Gunners.Arsenal just did not have enough creativity tonight.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal90+4. Ayari is booked for a clumsy foul.Rice stands over the free-kick.This may be a last chance for The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal90+2. Trossard tries to shoot from distance.It sails over the crossbar.Time is running out for Mikel Arteta’s side.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal90. Martinelli is blocked from advancing.As you can imagine, he hits the floor and stays down like his career is over.Once he realises there is not going to be a free-kick he makes a miraculous recovery.We are going to have six added minutes.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal88. Rice lifts a ball into the Brighton box.Partey has a free-header but sends it sailing over the bar.Calafiori is finally shown a yellow card after about ten fouls committed.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal86. Brighton have The Gunnners pinned back in their own half.The problem for The Seagulls is still that final pass.If they had an Odegaard-type player they would be leading comfortably by now.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal84. Merino is penalised for a foul on Georginio.It was a blatant foul as the player was away from him.Chance for Brighton to ask some questions of Raya.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal82.Minteh is shown a yellow card by Taylor.It was more for his reacted than a challenge at all.He was not happy that he was not awarded a free kick for the pressure being put on him by Gabriel.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal80. Brighton are wasting key moments far too much.At times they seem like their players are not even on the same wavelength.Minteh played a cross come shot heavily across the box earlier when it seemed a goal was certain.he had teammates queuing up to put it in at the time.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal78. Jesus looks to run at the Brighton defence.Fortunately for the hosts, the defender reads it well and robs him of the ball.Rice tries his luck from distance but it is an easy save for Verbruggen.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal76. A loose pass gifts the ball to Pedro.He holds it up until Estupinan comes on the overlap.He looks to lift a ball into the box but it is easily held by Raya.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal74. Calafiori is penalised for yet another foul.That is about four or five during the game now, yet the referee still does not produce a card.Maybe Anthony Taylor is too in awe of his long flowing locks.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal72. Rice takes another corner with a visible tactic in mind.They keep holding a deep one up to the back post.Verbruggen and comes to collect with ease.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal70. We are into the final quarter of the game now.Arsenal seem to have a bit more urgency about their attacking.Pedro plays it to Mitoma and is fouled late by Partey but the referee does not produce a card.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal68. Brighton’s best form of defending their goal right now seems to be putting Arsenal under some pressure.VAR continues to be not fit for purpose.As the penalty was being taken, Jorginho lashed out an opponent with a kick.It was reviewed and cleared as he missed the player and did not make contact.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal66. Igor limps off to be replaced Webster.It seems the defender has pulled a hamstring.Raya sends the ball downfield with a long punt.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal64. Veltman is booked for a heavy challenge on Jesus.Odegaard comes on for Jorginho.The Gunners can ill-afford to drop any points here.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Arsenal62. Brighton bring on Mitoma for Adingra.Arteta seems to be breaking the emergency glass on the box he keeps Odegaard in.This should pick up the intensity of the game now.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Joao Pedro (Brighton)Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-1 Arsenal60. The penalty is upheld by a VAR review.To be fair it was never in doubt, Saliba headbutted Pedro.Chance for the hosts to draw level.Copy linkCopied More

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      Premier League release statement on Brighton’s penalty against Arsenal after VAR check on William Saliba challenge

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      THE PREMIER LEAGUE have released a statement on the decision to award Brighton a penalty after William Saliba headbutted Joao Pedro.Saliba made contact on the Brighton striker using his head but avoided a red card.William Saliba was judged to have fouled Joao PedroVAR confirmed referee Anthony Taylor’s callCredit: ReutersReferee Anthony Taylor did deem the challenge to be a foul however so awarded the Seagulls a penalty, which Pedro converted.VAR reviewed the incident and confirmed the ref’s decision to award a spot kick.The Premier League match centre have since clarified the incident, confirming the decision made by the ref and VAR.It wrote on X: “The referee’s call of penalty for a foul by Saliba on Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was sufficient contact for a penalty.”READ MORE ON ARSENALFans were split on the incident with one Arsenal fan arguing it should have not been a penalty.They wrote: “In what world is this a penalty against Saliba????”A fan hit back, saying: “100 per cent pen. If you go to kick the ball and catch the player late it’s a foul, no different with head! It’s a late foul!”Another added: “Clear penalty!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd a third wrote: “It’s a clear penalty. You can see clearly the tackle stopped Pedro from advancing forward.”Ethan Nwaneri had put Arsenal in front in the first half but they were unable to find another after Pedro’s equaliser, with the match finishing 1-1.Amazon Prime Video presenter and John Legend give fans ‘second hand embarrassment’ after Arsenal’s win over IpswichArsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri is perfect Bukayo Saka replacement but Gabriel Jesus goes missing against BrightonETHAN NWANERI was the brightest spark on the pitch as Arsenal lost further ground int he title race.SunSport’s Isabelle Barker has given her ratings for the Arsenal players…DAVID RAYA – 6The Spanish stopper didn’t have too much to deal with apart from Joao Pedro’s penalty which he went the wrong way for. He couldn’t have done too much about it though, it was a classy finish into the other corner.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Partey was ok to start with at right-back but the experiment still looked unconvincing in the second-half, with him struggling to handle Kaoru Mitoma when the Japanese international came on.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6The French centre-back was solid up until conceding the crucial penalty for dangerous play against Pedro in the box. If it had been a headbutt, Saliba would have been sent off, in fairness it looked as though he was going for the ball, and it was an unfortunate clash of heads.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Started off solidly at the back but faded out with little answers for Brighton’s pressure towards the end.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 7Calafiori was superb, particularly in the first half against Brighton, with the stats speaking for themselves. He won the most duels, completed the most take ons and most tackles. He also misplaced just one of his 22 passes.JORGINHO – 6The ex-Chelsea man struggled to receive the ball under pressure, nearly costing Arsenal a goal for the hosts. Generally looked too slow for the game this evening.MIKEL MERINO – 7The Spanish midfielder linked up beautifully with Rice for the opener, producing a lovely pass over the top for Nwaneri to latch onto. Merino faded out towards the end though, looking more sluggish and ponderous on the ball as the minutes went by.DECLAN RICE – 7The midfielder was the furthest forward, pressing the Brighton backline with Jesus and it worked at first.He took on the Odegaard role when Arsenal didn’t have possession. Was involved with first big chance with Jesus and then pulled the strings for Nwaneri’s opener.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6The Brighton faithful were booing Trossard from the get go but he didn’t show up to silence them. The Belgian winger offered very little going forward.ETHAN NWANERI – 8So good from Nwaneri for the opener. He was involved in the build up with Rice and Merino then put on the afterburners to produce a charging run before slotting the ball into the bottom corner.What a good replacement Nwaneri has been for Bukayo Saka. He fits the bill with pace, body shape, and a lovely left foot.GABRIEL JESUS – 5The striker lashed a shot at Verbruggen for an early warning, but he was offside anyway, wasting the delicious through ball from Jorginho. Was virtually anonymous by the end and Arsenal won’t be able to win the league with a striker like that.SubstitutesMARTIN ODEGAARD – 6GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6 More