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      Ipswich 2-0 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Lacklustre Blues hand Tractor Boys first home Premier League win of season – reaction

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      IPSWICH have beaten Chelsea 2-0 to claim their first Premier League win of the season at Portman Road.The Tractor Boys took a shock lead through Liam Delap’s 12th-minute penalty.Right after half-time, former Chelsea youngster Omari Hutchinson fired Ipswich into a 2-0 lead.The hosts held firm, despite late pressure from the Blues, to claim a well-deserved three points.Match result: Ipswich 2-0 ChelseaIpswich team: Walton, Burns, O’Shea, Woolfenden, Greaves, Davis, Morsy, Cajuste, Hutchinson, Broadhead, DelapChelsea team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Joao Felix, NkunkuFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from Portman RoadAnd that’s all from the Premier League for 2024.It’s been a mixed year for Chelsea, and it’s ended on a sour note with defeat at a struggling but spirited Ipswich.But the Blues will be aiming to roar right back in 2025, and we’ll be there with them when they football restarts in January.Until, thanks for joining us and a happy new year!Copy linkCopiedExtra! Read all about it!Before we call it a night, it’s time to relive a memorable night at Portman Road by enjoying David Kidd’s match report of Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town.Here, Chelsea’s lavishly-assembled team were made to look foolish by an Ipswich side who hadn’t won at home all season. And Maresca was right about one thing – Chelsea were never in a title race. After taking just one point out of nine over the festive period, they are now ten points adrift of Liverpool having played a game more.David KiddThe SunCopy linkCopiedNext up for the BluesChelsea will hope to right their run of form when 2025 arrives, and first up for the Blues is a London derby at Selhurst Park.After an FA Cup tie with League Two Morecambe, Enzo Maresca’s side return to league action at Stamford Bridge against high-flying Bournemouth.Further home games with Wolves and West Ham await, sandwiching a trip to faltering champions Manchester City.Copy linkCopiedMaresca calls for improvementJust as he played down talk of a title challenge, Enzo Maresca was quick to quash the suggestion that Chelsea are going through a minor crisis.Instead, the Italian insists that a difficult period like the Blues are currently experiencing was inevitable, and shows just how much his squad still have to do in order to truly compete at the top.And while Maresca believes the club can be proud of where they’re at as they enter 2025, he has called for an improvement in performance when they head to Crystal Palace on January 4th.I expected this kind of moment in the season. It’s almost impossible to have a season when you don’t have a moment like this. No one expected us to be in this position where we are. It shows we are moving in the right direction, but we are also far from the best teams in England. We have to be satisfied with where we are but we also have to do many things better.Enzo MarescaBBC SportCopy linkCopiedMisfiring Blues blank againAfter bagging 16 goals in five successive wins, Chelsea’s forwards appear to have forgotten where the net is.The Blues have scored just once in their three games since. Their 20 shots against Ipswich this evening is the club’s most attempts without scoring in a Premier League away game since a 0-0 draw at Everton in December 2017 (25 shots).Copy linkCopiedDevastating Delap destroys Chelsea defenceIpswich Town striker Liam Delap put in a sensational match-winning performance this evening, one that will undoubtedly have had clubs all over Europe taking notice. The 21-year-old not only won and scored his first half penalty, but then brilliantly teed-up Omari Hutchinson’s goal after the break.Delap was a tireless runner and outlet for his team throughout, and his performance saw him score and assist in the same game for the second time this season.He is only the second ever Ipswich player to do so more than once in a single campaign, following in Finidi George’s footsteps from back in 2001-02.Copy linkCopiedPortman problems remain for BluesIpswich finally land their first home win since returning to the Premier League – but perhaps we should have seen it coming.After all, the Tractor Boys have never lost to Chelsea here since the top-flight was rebranded in 1992.In six Premier League meetings at Portman Road, four have been drawn with Ipswich’s last win before this evening coming in August 1993.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Portman RoadTwenty shots at goal, 722 passes and 76% possession, but still Chelsea couldn’t find a way through the Ipswich rearguard.It means the Blues have failed to score in consecutive Premier League away games in a single season for the first time since a run of three under Maurizio Sarri in February 2019.Copy linkCopiedGoing fourth into new yearPreparing themselves for a two-horse title race just a fortnight ago, Chelsea will begin 2025 in fourth place behind leaders Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Arsenal.And after results elsewhere, the Blues also have in-form Newcastle breathing down their necks.Aston Villa 2-2 BrightonIpswich 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 0-2 NewcastleCredit: premierleague.comCopy linkCopiedFull time – Ipswich 2-0 ChelseaPortman Road erupts as John Brooks blow his whistle, and Ipswich have their first Premier League home win for 22 years.Kieran McKenna’s Tractor Boys are full value for their victory too. They soaked up pressure superbly when necessary, and then bullied Chelsea on the counter-attack thanks in main to the immense Liam Delap.Delap won and scored a penalty in the first half, and then set up former Chelsea youngster Omari Hutchinson to score in the second.It means that Ipswich will begin 2025 with renewed hope in their battle against relegation, but for Chelsea, their title challenge may already be over before it began.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90+5. It’s going off again in the middle, and Chelsea are once again cementing their reputation for being bad losers.At their best this season, they have been a scintillating side of attacking flair.At their worst – like this evening – they have been a disgrace.On this occasion, Enzo Fernandez steps out of line and is the latest to receive a yellow card.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90+3. Another Chelsea shot goes awry, and now it’s time for Ipswich’s two goalscorers to receive a heroic reception as they take their leave.Omari Hutchinson is withdrawn for Jack Taylor, and then the magnificent Liam Delap makes way for Ali Al-Hamadi.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90. Cole Palmer takes a dive by the corner flag and gets nothing for his troubles other than some choice words from the Ipswich defence and barracking from the home support.The visitors have five more minutes of stoppage time to get through before they can draw a line under a shambolic evening.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea88. The Chelsea players are losing their heads here somewhat. Now Colwill picks up a booking for his reaction to not getting a free-kick after an aerial challenge with Delap. He didn’t deserve one, and if anything had a sly kick out at his opponent.And his reaction to being booked isn’t the best either with his mouth giving it plenty in the direction of both the Ipswich bench and the match officials. Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea87. It’s another flashpoint!Malo Gusto and Leif Davis are going at it after the Ipswich left-back refused to give the ball back after being pushed over by his opponent.I’m not sure why he had to, to be honest, it was certainly his free-kick. After some grappling, pushing and shoving, the referee issues yellow cards to both players.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea85. Chelsea are up to 678 passes for the evening. It’s their most in a Premier League game this season.Unfortunately, it has got them precisely nowhere.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea83. Cole Palmer drifts a hopeless cross behind for a goal-kick as ironic cheers ring out from the home fans.You know things are bad when ever Chelsea’s star performer is getting it wrong.Copy linkCopiedFrom Jordan Davies at Portman RoadSome Chelsea fans have already started heading for the exits and the train back to London. They have seen enough.It is probably the right call. Chelsea do not even look close to getting back into this one.(You have to stay though, Jordan).Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea80. There’s some more nonsense involving Cucurella, who has gone down off the ball after a coming together with Morsy.Meanwhile, Chelsea are complaining about a Phillips challenge on Neto.In truth, there is nothing in either incident, and all it serves is to break the game up much to the home side’s delight.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea78. Two changes apiece as the clock moves towards the 78-minute mark.Kieran McKenna brings on the fresh legs of Kalvin Phillips and Sammy Szmodics for Jens Cajuste and Nathan Broadhead, while Enzo Maresca sees if Pedro Neto or Malo Gusto can change his team’s fortunes.Noni Madueke and Axel Disasi make way.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea76. The flag stays down as Nicolas Jackson races through on goal!The Chelsea substitute sidefoots wide and the flag goes up!A whole evening summed up in one act for the Blues. Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea74. Liam Delap is at it again! When his team need it most, the Ipswich striker carries the ball upfield on his own, shrugging off challenge after challenge.But rather than just alleviating the danger for a short period, h then creates a chance of his own – breaking beyond two defenders and thumping a shot at goal that Jorgensen has to tip over.This has been a phenomenal performance from the 21-year-old.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea72. A dangerous inswinging corner from Enzo on the left draws an excellent defending header from Woolfenden.Chelsea’s Argentine gets another go, but once again the Ipswich backline stands firm to clean.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea70. There are claims for a handball from the Chelsea players as the ball ricochets around the Ipswich penalty area, but these are more in hope that expectation.Twenty minutes remain and the Londoners are getting desperate.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea68. Ipswich fancy their chances of increasing their lead on the counter!A Delap knock down ends with the ball falling nicely for Broadhead, who steers a half-volley into the hands of Jorgensen.Copy linkCopied More

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      Chris Wood has gone from Barnsley loan flop to outscoring Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins in feelgood story of 2024

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      LET’S just call him Saint Christopher, the patron saint of footballing travellers.A journeyman, targetman, everyman hero, who is living proof good things can come to those who have a loan spell at Barnsley terminated after seven matches and no goals.Chris Wood has excelled for Nottingham Forest this seasonCredit: ReutersWood, 33, was largely written off at NewcastleCredit: GettyThe Indian summer of Chris Wood’s career has been the feelgood story of 2024.Nottingham Forest are Wood’s FIFTEENTH club and, at the age of 33, the big Kiwi unit is on course to lead them into the Champions League.At a time when old-school centre-forwards are officially recognised as an endangered species by the World Wildlife Fund, Wood is leading the revival like an uncharacteristically randy panda.And despite decent spells at Leeds and Burnley, nobody saw this coming.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNewcastle’s Saudi owners were ridiculed for panic buying when they shelled out £25million on a 30-year-old Wood three years ago.And the Toon Army smirked when Forest spent £15m on his signing 18 months ago — right up until  Boxing Day last year when Wood turned up at  St James’ Park and netted a hat-trick, which included two deliciously cool finishes.On Sunday, Wood netted Forest’s opener in a 2-0 win at Everton with a rinky-dink chip which sent Nuno Espirito Santo’s side second in the table and belied his unfair caricature as a limited carthorse.Toffees boss Sean Dyche, who oversaw Wood’s previous best spell at Burnley, declared him the difference between the two sides.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWood has also played for West Brom, Brighton, Birmingham, Bristol City, Millwall, Leicester and Ipswich, as well as three clubs in his New  Zealand homeland.He was on the books of the Baggies for four years but in that time managed more loan spells — five — than goals for his parent club — two.Ruben Amorim explains why Marcus Rashford is still exiled at Man Utd despite ‘wanting to play’ That loan at Oakwell with the Tykes, an agreement ripped up by mutual consent, was an early setback from which Wood rebounded pretty well.Throughout the majority of his career he was seen as a decent Championship striker, winning promotion with Leicester and scoring 27 goals in a second-tier season with Leeds.But for Wood to have netted 21 times in the Premier League since Boxing Day 2023 —  more than Kai Havertz or Ollie Watkins, more than twice as many as Marcus Rashford — is extraordinary and heartening.Wood narrowly missed out on the Premier League’s greatest miracle when he was sold by Leicester to Leeds the summer before their 2015-16 title triumph.Back then, Jamie Vardy’s rise, from playing at Stocksbridge Park Steels with an offender’s tag on his ankle, was the Hollywood storyline.But if Nuno’s Forest make the Champions League — as looks increasingly possible after a fifth straight win — theirs would be English football’s unlikeliest story since the Foxes topped the pile.Marcus Rashford has struggled for goals in 2024Credit: GettyWood has even outscored Ollie WatkinsCredit: RexWandering gun-for-hire strikers are a great footballing breed.Peter Withe, one of that tribe’s finest, won Aston Villa the European Cup while playing for the tenth of his 13 clubs.Wood is far from being the most nomadic of all. Trevor Benjamin represented 29 clubs from the Premier League to the Northern League Division Two over a 16-year career.Meanwhile, the legendary non-league highwayman Jefferson Louis has changed clubs 51 TIMES and is still going strong for Southern League Thame United, aged 45.But Wood is now the standard-bearer for these merry travellers — and that’s without even mentioning the air miles clocked up in an 80-cap international career for New Zealand.He spends international breaks on the opposite side of the world, scoring shedloads of goals in routine, savage beatings of Pacific Islanders from Samoa, Tahiti and Vanuatu.At a time when old-school centre-forwards are officially recognised as an endangered species by the World Wildlife Fund, Wood is leading the revival like an uncharacteristically randy panda.Dave KiddHis is not the only heartwarming personal story at the City Ground — Nuno was seen as a busted flush after a miserable spell at Tottenham, yet Forest now sit 13 points above his former employers.Ryan Yates did the loan rounds from Barrow to Scunthorpe before playing a lead role in his hometown club’s journey to the brink of history.Callum Hudson-Odoi, Morgan Gibbs-White and Anthony Elanga were all struggling to fully emerge in the Premier League before they put down roots with the Tricky Trees.And Serbian hardnut Nikola Milenkovic is Nemanja Vidic reincarnate.Those who can remember Brian Clough leading Forest to back-to-back European Cups will relish his old club’s revival.Indeed, Nottingham boasts as many European Cups as London, Paris and Rome combined.This is a great club and, at the forefront, is a man on a most round-the-houses mission.Real ‘East’ End starIT WAS heartening to see the warm reception given by West Ham fans to Ludo Miklosko on Sunday, after their 63-year-old former keeper announced he has withdrawn from further cancer treatment.There were very few foreign footballers in the English game when Czech Miklosko signed for the Hammers  in 1990 — and even fewer from behind the old Iron Curtain.But during eight years as a player, and a further stint as a Hammers goalkeeping coach, big Ludo became the very definition of a cult hero.He also managed to inspire one of the most geographically challenged terrace chants of all time: “My name is Ludo Miklosko, I come from near Moscow.”Miklosko’s native town of Prostejov is closer to East London than to the Russian capital.Ludo Miklosko received a brilliant reception back at West HamCredit: RexSale awayTHE transfer window opens this week and the questions are endless.Will Manchester City sign a Rodri replacement? Will Arsenal get a proper centre-forward?Will anyone in their right minds join Southampton, on course for the worst season in Premier League history?But whatever happens don’t believe the old chestnut that there are no good long-term signings to be made mid-season.Liverpool bought Luis Suarez and Virgil van Dijk in the New Year sales, while Sir Alex Fer­guson signed Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra in the same January week.Man Utd have had January window joy in the pastCredit: GettyDart MaddFURY among Tottenham fans on social media that James Maddison went to the darts at Ally Pally after the 2-2 home draw with Wolves.How dare their leading Premier League goalscorer go out and have some fun?Because, as we all know, the best way to get over a frustrating day at the office is to sit alone in a darkened room and never, under any circumstances, go out  somewhere and enjoy yourself.James Maddison and Brennan Johnson headed to the darts on SundayCredit: RexGo ‘All inTHERE was a 20-man brawl in the tunnel at half-time during Newcastle’s 3-0 thumping of Aston Villa last week.And I don’t know about you but I was staggered to hear that Toon manager Eddie Howe’s No 2 Jason Tindall was red-carded for being at the centre of it all.READ MORE SUN STORIESGood luck finding character witnesses if there is an FA hearing.Jason Tindall is never one to sky away from the limelightCredit: ReutersA VERY Happy New Year to you all!Here’s to 2025, to triumphs Down Under in The Ashes and for the Lions, to Ryder Cup glory for Europe in the States, to England qualifying for the World Cup in style under Thomas Tuchel — and to a stunning collapse for Liverpool in the title race. More

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      Ruben Amorim hauls off Joshua Zirkzee after 33 minutes to huge cheers as Man Utd as Neville says ‘that is brutal’

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      RUBEN AMORIM hauled Joshua Zirkzee off after just 33 MINUTES against Newcastle.And the Dutch forward received sarcastic cheers from Manchester United fans as he was replaced – with commentator Gary Neville left feeling sorry for him.Ruben Amorim replaced Joshua Zirkzee with Kobbie Mainoo in the 33rd minuteCredit: AFPAmorim made the brutal call as Manchester United fans cheered the decisionCredit: ReutersZirkzee made little contribution before being taken offThe Red Devils flopped to 2-0 down inside 20 minutes at Old Trafford after goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton.Man Utd boss Amorim was playing Zirkzee as a second striker, behind Rasmus Hojlund.But he had seen enough before half-time as he made the decision to swap him for Kobbie Mainoo.Zirkzee stormed immediately down the tunnel, before he re-emerged to sit on the bench a couple of minutes later.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd Man Utd legend Gary Neville was sympathetic towards the £36.5million summer signing.He said: “I actually feel sorry for him, I really do.”I know that he’s earning a lot of money but there’s a human being in there that’s basically being cheered off by his home fans and that is brutal.”We’ve not seen that too many times at Old Trafford. 43 years I’ve been coming here.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Neville pulled no punches when assessing Man Utd’s first-half performance as a team.He said: “You are watching the worst pound-for-pound team in the country, bar none.”Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedZirkzee has made 26 appearances for Man Utd this season, scoring four goals and assisting two.But the ex-Bologna forward was criticised by Neville, along with Man Utd’s other summer signings, ahead of the clash with Newcastle.Neville said: “What am l surprised about is that when in the summer Manchester United signed those three or four players, I didn’t hear anyone say ‘Manchester United have had a terrible transfer market.”I am shocked about how poor those players have been in their early months.You are watching the worst pound-for-pound team in the country, bar none.Gary Neville”I have said it before that this club has been a graveyard for players who have come with decent reputations. And it is happening again.”I didn’t hear anyone say in the summer when Yoro, De Ligt, Ugarte, Zirkzee joined that United hadn’t signed half-decent players.”The problem is that when you have seen them out here in a red shirt that Manchester United look a worse team. That’s the odd thing.”Meanwhile, Amorim spoke about taking Zirkzee off in his post-match comments.He said: “You have to think about the team but also the player, but the player is suffering.”I thought the team was suffering and we needed another midfielder to have more ball. It was really tough for me to do that, but I’ve spoken to Josh as it was important to express the message. For the team, it was important for Josh to go out.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I know that Josh is a really good guy. When he went to the tunnel, I can understand that some guys can be in a bad way but he is a really good lad.”It is life, and we will support Josh and continue. Newcastle were better than Manchester United, they weren’t better than Josh.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      ‘Has Gary Neville been taken hostage?’ ask fans as they’re left baffled at Sky Sports coverage of Man Utd vs Newcastle

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      FOOTBALL fans joked Gary Neville had been “taken hostage” as he made a bizarre appearance on Sky Sports.The Manchester United legend, 49, was at Old Trafford on Monday night to watch Ruben Amorim’s men host Newcastle.Fans were baffled by Gary Neville’s background for Monday Night FootballCredit: Sky SportsNeville was speaking in front of a white wallCredit: Sky SportsAhead of the Premier League clash, Neville was a part of Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football broadcast as presenter Dave Jones and Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher posed questions to him.But viewers were left somewhat baffled by Neville’s background – which was simply a white wall.Reacting to the coverage, one fan said: “It looks like Neville’s giving a hostage speech giving the kidnapper’s terms for release with him against this blank wall 😭.”While another added: “Gary Neville looks like he’s reporting while being held hostage.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd a third responded: “Sky – Gary Neville dialling in on Zoom for Manchester United Vs Newcastle.”Meanwhile, Neville criticised Man Utd’s new signings Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the Newcastle clash.He said: “What am l surprised about is that when in the summer Manchester United signed those three or four players, I didn’t hear anyone say ‘Manchester United have had a terrible transfer market.”I am shocked about how poor those players have been in their early months.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMan Utd ratings vs Newcastle as Joshua Zirkzee is hooked after half an hour and Kobbie Mainoo the only bright sparkKOBBIE MAINOO’S performance was the only silver lining as Manchester United suffered a fourth consecutive defeat.Newcastle struck twice in the opening 19 minutes as they threatened to tally up a cricket score at Old Trafford.Joshua Zirkzee was ruthlessly subbed after half an hour after struggling in a No10 role – but there was no recovering for Ruben Amorim’s side.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the United display…Andre Onana – 5Little he could do about both goals and was barely tested other than that.Noussair Mazraouri – 4The first two goals came down his side as he failed to close down the crosses that were turned in by Isak and Joelinton.But he was positive in possession and put in a few dangerous crosses.Matthijs de Ligt – 5Did not do much wrong for Newcastle goals but can be criticised for his failure to organise his defensive team-mates.Harry Maguire – 4Lost Isak for the opener as he was caught ball watching.Almost made amends but his diving header cannoned back off the post.Lisandro Martinez – 3A complete mismatch as he attempted to battle Joelinton for a cross the Brazilian turned in.Also lost Isak for the opener and even faced the wrong way as the cross came in.Diogo Dalot – 5Offered some much needed stability on the left flank and produced a good cross for Maguire’s headed chance.Casemiro – 3Dismal throughout. So far off the pace and barely made a pass.Missed a guilt-edge chance to pull one back on the stroke of half-time.Christian Eriksen – 4Similarly inept in protecting his defence as Casemiro, as he was overran time and time again.He did at least put a few passes together and improved after Mainoo came on.Amad Diallo – 4A tricky evening up against the hardworking Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall so was largely ineffective.Joshua Zirkzee – 2Nothing went his way and the fans quickly got on his back. He was hauled off in the 33rd minute and his substitution was greeted with cheers by the Old Trafford faithful.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Fed off scraps but did not stop running and was a rare bright spark – came very close with a low shot that whistled past the post in the first half.SubsKobbie Mainoo (for Zirkzee) – 6Turned things around after his introduction and made things happen with his accurate passing.Set up Casemiro for a chance the Brazilian should have buried.Leny Yoro (for Martinez, 64mins) – 6Had a good chance from a corner but sent his free header wide.Alejandro Garnacho (for Casemiro, 64mins) – 4Struggled to make an impact as he failed to beat a man.Antony (for De Ligt, 83 mins) – 5Not enough time to influence the match.”I have said it before that this club has been a graveyard for players who have come with decent reputations.”And it is happening again.Ruben Amorim hauls off Joshua Zirkzee after 32 minutes to huge cheers as Man Utd are embarrassed in first half”I didn’t hear anyone say in the summer when Yoro, De Ligt, Ugarte, Zirkzee joined that United hadn’t signed half-decent players.”The problem is that when you have seen them out here in a red shirt that Manchester United look a worse team. That’s the odd thing.”Neville was back in the more familiar climes of the Old Trafford commentary box for the game.But he might have wished stayed by his whitewashed wall as Newcastle tore United apart in the first 20 minutes at Old Trafford.Alexander Isak and Joelinton netted for the Magpies who saw the game out comfortably to go fifth in the Premier League.It was United’s third consecutive loss and left them 14th, just seven points above the relegation zone.Ultimate sports presenters rich listTV sports presenters make a mint.The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.SunSport has taken a look at how those big names rank and compiled a list of the top 10 highest earning stars that grace our TV screens.With number one worth a whopping £29.4million more than number 10!Read the story and see the full list here. 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      Why is Bruno Fernandes NOT playing for Man Utd against Newcastle tonight?

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will be aiming to end a torrid 2024 with a win over high-flying Newcastle this evening.The Red Devils have picked up just three points from their last five Premier League games, with issues on the pitch continuing under Ruben Amorim.Bruno Fernandes will be unavailable for Man Utd’s clash with Newcastle this eveningCredit: ReutersSince Man Utd’s stunning comeback win over bitter rivals Manchester City, they have fallen to back-to-back top-flight defeats to Bournemouth and Wolves.And this evening’s clash against Newcastle will be another tough test, with the Magpies on a superb run of form.Amorim’s task to end the year on a high has been made even more difficult due to the unavailability of captain Bruno Fernandes.Why is Bruno Fernandes not playing for Man Utd against Newcastle?Bruno Fernandes will play no part in Man Utd’s final match of 2024 against Newcastle tonight.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis is because the Portuguese playmaker received two yellow cards during the Red Devils’ 2-0 defeat at Wolves on Boxing Day.Fernandes picked up his first booking in the goalless first half for a cynical trip on Wolves dangerman Matheus Cunha.And then, just 90 seconds after the break, the Man Utd captain flew into a late tackle on compatriot Nelson Semedo to earn a second yellow and his marching orders.The 30-year-old will tonight serve a one-match ban – meaning he will return for Man Utd’s blockbuster trip to rivals Liverpool on Sunday, January 5.Most read in FootballHow to watch Man Utd vs NewcastleMan Utd vs Newcastle will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event.You can live stream the match via the Sky Sports app/website.Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog. More

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      Death metal-loving, golf-hating Ivan Juric must follow footsteps of four maverick bosses to pull off Southampton miracle

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      GREAT ESCAPES demand the good, the ugly and the downright bizarre from top flight managers.Only four sides have ever achieved Premier League survival after being bottom at Christmas – West Brom in 2004-05, Sunderland in 2013-14, Leicester in 2014-15 and Wolves in 2022-23.Ivan Juric faces a huge task keeping Southampton upCredit: GettySaints have endured an awful first half of the campaignCredit: PAAnd it was the managers, all with unique and memorable styles, who led them there – Bryan Robson, Gus Poyet, Nigel Pearson and Julen Lopetegui.Doomed Southampton now find themselves needing a similar miracle, turning to Croatian coach Ivan Juric to join the pantheon of unlikely Prem heroes in their battle to beat the drop.But two games into his tenure – a 1-0 loss to West Ham and a 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace last weekend – and questions will already be asked as to whether he has what it takes.Because to pull this off does not necessarily require tactical masterclasses or brimming CVs.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLInstead, it takes guts, luck and an occasional bonkers moment or method, by hook or by crook, that convinces a fanbase that miracles really can happen.Juric, 49, appeared to have it on paper upon his arrival at the Saints on December 21 following Russell Martin’s sacking.A death metal-loving Croat who grew up hating golf and idolising bands like Metallica and Megadeath, imprinting that upbringing into a successful style of aggressive football.His first press conference was also promising, as he insisted he can pull off “something exceptional” and that he was “really optimistic”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIt is still early days for Southampton – 19 games left and ten points from safety. They have just six points, one win, 12 goals and 15 losses so far.But Juric is being judged against the likes of Robson, Poyet, Pearson and Lopetegui, and we are still waiting to see where the spark will come from. Ultimately, it starts with the manager.Russell Martin SACKED by Southampton after shambolic Tottenham battering leaves them bottom of Premier League tableHis post-match press conference at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon lasted just over four minutes, and he spent most of it moaning about referees and a lack of opportunity in the January market, all of which was portrayed in a glum, defeatist tone that will not exactly endear himself to the Saints fans.Some will call it calm, others will call it uninspiring. History tells us that supporters and players respond to the weird and wonderful from their men in charge.Pearson was no exception at the King Power Stadium in 2014-15. His Leicester were bottom from November to mid-April after just ten points from their opening 17 games.And yet, the Foxes finished six points off the drop in 14th having secured seven wins from their last nine games. In the middle of all that, Pearson was bonkers yet brilliant.In defence of his side after a defeat by Chelsea in late April, he went on an astonishing press conference rant where he called a journalist an “ostrich”.He also made headlines in February after appearing to strangle Palace midfielder James McArthur on the floor during another defeat, responding with the line: “I’m more than capable of looking after myself.”There was method to the madness, and his Leicester players took to that, as did the fans.Nigel Pearson infamously asked a reporter ‘are you an ostrich?’Credit: NicheThe former Leicester boss appeared to strange James McArthurCredit: Getty – ContributorPoyet was equally as barmy at Sunderland a season earlier, his frantic energy on the touchlines endearing him to the Black Cats faithful on a rollercoaster of a campaign.They were seven points from safety with six games left, albeit with two games in hand, and managed to secure a 14th placed finish with wins in four of their last five, including against Manchester United and Chelsea.Poyet’s infectious charisma and personality saw fans produce banners in the run-in that read: ‘Miracles Happen, Gus’.Gus Poyet was a charismatic figure on the Sunderland touchlineCredit: AFPThe Uruguayan got the Black Cats faithful onsideCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBoth Robson and Lopetegui were more reserved in their approach, but demanded respect and admiration with their stature and past successes.In the end, Lopetegui’s Wolves made light work of their comeback – a run of wins in February and April doing the trick to finish 13th under the guidance of the former Real Madrid and Spain boss.But Man Utd legend Robson – who ironically had Pearson as his assistant at West Brom – was prone to the odd magic, ballsy moment under pressure, including influential January signings Kevin Campbell and Kieran RichardsonHe had taken the job in early November with the Baggies eight points from safety and guided them to an iconic final day, leapfrogging Norwich, Southampton and Palace on Survival Sunday.READ MORE SUN STORIESBefore their final must-win game against Portsmouth – which they eventually won 2-0 – Robson played clips to the players of their best moments of the campaign, and even reportedly turned a blind eye to some nervous squad members taking shots of whisky ahead of kick-off.To make Prem history, touchline mavericks must shine bright. Juric needs to remember that.Bryan Robson famously pulled off the original great escape with West BromCredit: Getty Images – GettyJulen Lopetegui kept Wolves up with ease two seasons agoCredit: Getty More

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      Eagle-eyed fans spot moment Son’s international team-mate ‘did him dirty’ by helping keeper save penalty vs Tottenham

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      FANS have spotted the moment Son Heung-min’s South Korea team-mate Hwang Hee-chan told keeper Jose Sa which way to dive for his penalty.Wolves shot-stopper Sa, 31, saved Son’s spot kick in the 43rd minute of their 2-2 draw at Spurs on Sunday.Hwang Hee-chan was seen pointing to the way Son Heung-min was going to put the penaltyIt ended up paying off as Son went that way and Jose Sa saved the spot kickSon was denied by the Portuguese shot-stopperCredit: GettyWith the score level at 1-1 at the time of the penalty – which was awarded after Brennan Johnson was brought down – the Tottenham captain took his time before stepping up.And as he composed himself, fans could see Wolves striker Hwang, 28, pointing for Sa to dive to his right – as Spurs defender Radu Dragusin tried to get in front of him.But Portuguese keeper Sa took the advice and it paid off as he thwarted the South Korean, who plays with Hwang at international level.Reacting to Hwang’s gesture one fan said: “Hwang Hee-chan did Sonny DIRTY!”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile another added: “It was Hwang who told Jose Sa that Son would shoot in that direction 😂.”And a third replied: “Radu Dragusin tried his best to stop him.”Tottenham went in front just two minutes after the penalty miss through Johnson.But Jorgen Strand Larsen’s late equaliser piled more pressure on Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt takes Tottenham’s run to one win in seven Premier League games.They are languishing in 11th in the table, seven points adrift of Manchester City in fifth.Tottenham boss Postecoglou REFUSES to answer questions after his team ship another hatful of goals in Liverpool lossBut they are in the Carabao Cup semi-finals where they will play Liverpool – with the first leg taking place on January 8. More

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      Marcus Rashford in Man Utd squad for first time in five games as star returns from exile after saying he wanted to leave

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      MARCUS RASHFORD returned to the Manchester United squad to face Newcastle.The forward missed the last four matchday squads before being allowed to return by manager Ruben Amorim.Marcus Rashford is back in the Man Utd squadHe has missed Man Utd’s last four matchesCredit: X/ ManUtdHe was first axed for the short trip to Manchester City, with United winning 2-1 after staging a late comeback.Amorim explained his absence was due to tactical reasons, with Alejandro Garnacho also dropped for that match.Garnacho was back the next match, a 4-3 defeat by Tottenham in the Carabao Cup, but Rashford was still absent.The 27-year-old was then left out of back-to-back losses against Bournemouth and Wolves.READ MORE ON MAN UTDUnited struggled without Rashford and though they were beaten by Toon, Amorim decided not to use the Englishman off the bench.The Red Devils were without suspended captain Bruno Fernandes, with another attacking player Mason Mount an injury absentee yet again.Amorim explained it was his decision to exile Rashford as he warned his players about maintaining standards.He said: “We try to evaluate everything training performance, game performances, engagement with team-mates, push their team-mates up.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Everything is on the line when we analyse and try to choose the players. It is my selection. Simple.”I don’t want to send a message it is simply an evaluation and they know it. ‘Not just Marcus’ – Ruben Amorim has theory on who’s behind bombshell Rashford interview and will ‘forget it.. for now'”The players are really, really smart. Everybody understands my decision and I have to choose. It is simple selection.”If I don’t do that, I will lose myself and I will not lose myself. I know what I am doing.” More