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      Arsenal boost as Newcastle NOT in contract talks with star striker Alexander Isak amid fears he could quit

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      ALEXANDER ISAK is not in talks with Newcastle over an extended contract as Arsenal continue to lurk and potentially pounce.The Swede, 25, became the first Toon star since Alan Shearer two decades ago to hit 20 Premier League goals.Alexander Isak has scored one goal this seasonCredit: GettyHe has now scored 32 in his 58 top-flight appearances since arriving in a club-record £63m deal from Real Sociedad in 2022.That form caught the eye of some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Arsenal believed to be keen.Isak remains under contract until 2028 and preliminary discussions between the Magpies and the star over a new package were held before the summer.SunSport understands that more talks are NOT currently taking place and there are none pencilled in due to him still having three years left.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNeither party believes that a new contract is a top priority currently, while it is also understood the forward’s camp want to see how this season pans out.Isak, who has only scored once for Newcastle so far this term, has ambitions to keep playing in the Champions League after having a taste at Toon a year ago.But if Eddie Howe’s side miss out on a top four finish then he could potentially look to leave, with a lack of an extended deal increasing that possibility.And despite his poor form in front of goal, Arsenal remain keen and Toon would still easily be able to demand £100m plus for the hitman.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNewcastle are set to be in action this Sunday in the Premier League.Isak and Co travel south to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.Arsenal fans in meltdown as transfer target Alexander Isak ‘spotted in London with ex-Man Utd star Adnan Januzaj’ TV fixtures in DecemberHere are all the games that will be televised in December…Tuesday 3 December19:30 Ipswich v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Leicester v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)Wednesday 4 December19:30 Everton v Wolves (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Man City v Nott’m Forest (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Newcastle v Liverpool (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Southampton v Chelsea (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Aston Villa v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)Thursday 5 December19:30 Fulham v Brighton (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 AFC Bournemouth v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)Saturday 7 December12:30 Everton v Liverpool (TNT Sports)17:30 Man Utd v Nott’m Forest (Sky Sports)Sunday 8 December14:00 Fulham v Arsenal (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Chelsea (Sky Sports)Monday 9 December20:00 West Ham v Wolves (Sky Sports)Saturday 14 December17:30 Nott’m Forest v Aston Villa (Sky Sports)Sunday 15 December14:00 AFC Bournemouth v West Ham (Sky Sports)16:30 Man City v Man Utd (Sky Sports)19:00 Southampton v Spurs (TNT Sports)Monday 16 December20:00 Brighton v Crystal Palace (Sky Sports)Saturday 21 December12:30 Aston Villa v Man City (TNT Sports)17:30 Crystal Palace v Arsenal (Sky Sports)Sunday 22 December14:00 Fulham v Southampton (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Thursday 26 December12:30 Man City v Everton (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 AFC Bournemouth v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Chelsea v Fulham (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Newcastle v Aston Villa (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Nott’m Forest v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Southampton v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)17:30 Wolves v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:00 Liverpool v Leicester (Amazon Prime Video)Friday 27 December19:30 Brighton v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Ipswich (Amazon Prime Video)Sunday 29 December14:30 Leicester v Man City (Sky Sports)17:15 West Ham v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Monday 30 December20:00 Man Utd v Newcastle (Sky Sports) More

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      Arsenal can fool Liverpool in Super Sunday showdown with ‘musical chairs’ trap Trent Alexander-Arnold must beware of

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      ARSENAL could put their ‘musical chairs’ tactic to good use when they face Liverpool in a huge Premier League clash this weekend.The Gunners will be determined to bounce back from last weekend’s shock defeat to Bournemouth.Mikel Arteta will be busy on the training pitch this weekCredit: AlamyThe Gunners could replicate their ‘musical chairs’ tactic – and Declan Rice will play a pivotal roleCredit: GettyHowever, it will not be an easy task – especially given Mikel Arteta’s growing injury list.Despite being at risk of missing some key players – including Martin Odegaard and potentially Bukayo Saka – Arsenal can go into the match with some confidence thanks to the Spaniard’s tactical prowess.Arteta insisted his team will be “flying” at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.And he could utilise an effective ‘musical chairs’ trick to get the better of Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right side of Liverpool’s defence.Read More in FootballArteta’s ‘musical chairs’ tacticThe Gunners have been using a new system which uses an inverted left-back.New boy Riccardo Calafiori has taken up that role in recent weeks, but he could be replaced with Jurrien Timber or Oleksandr Zinchenko at the weekend due to injury.Arsenal left-back Riccardo Calafiori has been playing an inverted roleGabriel Martinelli has enjoyed a boost in confidence over the last few weeksDeclan Rice plays inside the left channel as a central midfielder, with left winger Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz completing a diamond.Those four players then rotate throughout the match and change positions, moving into the areas where space has been left.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIf Calafiori moves inside, Rice will shift out to the left and make the side of the diamond.The Italian then moves to the base, leaving plenty of space for Martinelli in attack.’If Arsenal lose to Liverpool, they are out of the Premier League title race… the gulf is massive’That would then give Alexander-Arnold a headache in terms of who he should mark.Liverpool will have to find a solution to keep tabs on the four moving players.And the Reds have got to be aware of who’s running and  who’s  staying in their position – which could also confuse midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.Whoever lines up at left-back could cause Liverpool troubleWho marks Salah?From a defensive point of view, Arsenal have to figure out who will be responsible for covering Liverpool’s star man, Mohamed Salah.With Calafiori likely to miss Sunday’s match due to a knee injury, Zinchenko may be in line to start.The Ukrainian has struggled up against Salah in the past which could be a cause for concern.It will be a game of stick or twist for Arsenal, with Gabriel Magalhaes potentially forced to step out onto the left – adding to the diamond.But £105million man Rice will likely cover the position.The midfielder is pivotal when it comes to Arsenal’s in-game formation switch from attack to defence.Arteta usually encourages his team to be brave by attacking with five.But with Salah and Luis Diaz going the other way, they can’t afford to be naive.Mohamed Salah will pose a huge threat to the Arsenal defenceCredit: APLONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal reacts as he encourages the fans prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at Emirates Stadium on August 17, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Burstow/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Credit: GettyDirect David RayaOne of David Raya’s key strengths is his ability to play direct and diagonal passes from the back.Some opposition teams have attempted to catch him out in the pass by pressing high.But the Gunners have been able to play over that press thanks to Raya’s distribution.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat gives the wingers plenty of space to make a run in behind the opposition defence.It also gives Havertz, who is 6ft 4in tall, the chance to act as a target man, causing problems for the centre-backs.David Raya has the ability to skip the press and play direct to the attack More

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      Antony leaves Fenerbahce stadium on crutches after Man Utd star carried off on stretcher in Europa League clash

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      ANTONY left Fenerbahce’s stadium on crutches following Manchester United’s Europa League draw.The Brazilian initially came off the bench on 73 minutes with the game level at 1-1. Antony left Fenerbahce’s stadium on crutchesAntony was stretchered off the pitchCredit: GettyBut Antony was forced off himself just before the final whistle after going down with what looked to be a calf injury. The winger was stretchered off by the physio team and was later pictured leaving the ground on crutches. Antony has struggled for form this season with just five appearances and one goal to his name. Christian Eriksen opened the scoring in Turkey before Youssef En-Nesyri levelled five minutes after the break.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt means United have drawn all three of their Europa League matches. And under-fire manager Erik ten Hag spoke out following Antony’s unfortunate injury. He said: “It’s really unlucky for him. I feel real compassion for him, when he worked so hard in training.”His training performances are that good that he deserved to come on. When you have to come off so quickly, that is really sad to see.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Hopefully, it’s not too bad, we have to wait 24 hours for what the assessment is.”The forward is now set for medical checks ahead of United’s trip to West Ham on Sunday.Furious Jose Mourinho’s CUTTING dig at referee Clement Turpin after red card vs Man UtdJOSE MOURINHO launched a sarcastic blast at ref Clement Turpin after he was red-carded in his clash with former club Manchester United. The Fenerbahce boss saw his side fight back to earn a point as United tossed away the lead for a third successive drawn Europa League match.Mourinho was sent to the stands after raging against Turpin’s failure to award a penalty against Manuel Ugarte for a challenge on Bright Osayi-Samuel.And Mourinho scowled: “The referee told me something incredible. He said at the same time he could see the action in the box and my behaviour on the touchline.“I congratulate him because he is absolutely incredible. During the game, 100 miles per hour, he had one eye on the penalty situation and one eye on my behaviour on the bench. That’s the explanation he gave me.”That is why he is one of the best referees in the world!”Moment Man United fans attacked hours before match in IstanbulThe match would finish 1-1 in Turkey as the Red Devils slumped to 21st in the Europa League table.It also meant they haven’t tasted a European win for TWELVE MONTHS.Man Utd ratings vs Fenerbahce: Onana saves the day for Red Devils as Lindelof has a stinker MANCHESTER UNITED were held to a 1-1 draw by Fenerbahce on a disappointing night in Turkey.Christian Eriksen broke the deadlock for Erik ten Hag’s side in the first half before En-Nesyri levelled soon after the break.Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho was sent to the stands in the second half after a touchline tantrum.But the Red Devils could find a much-needed winner for Erik ten Hag.SunSport’s Emillia Hawkins rates the performances…Andre Onana – 7Made an outstanding double save in the 37th minute to keep two attempts from Youssef En-Nesyri out.His defenders could’ve done much better to prevent Fenerbahce’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 5Failed to track back at times and had his blushes saved in the first half by Ugarte, who made a crucial tackle on Dusan Tadic to prevent a goal.Matthijs de Ligt – 6Made some good blocks during the first half to keep Fenerbahce at bay.Missed a few chances from set-pieces after the break.Victor Lindelof – 4Failed to follow En-Nesyri for Fenerbahce’s opening goal and made no attempt to win the ball.Hauled off in the 54th minute.Lisandro Martinez – 5Like Lindelof, he did not apply any pressure to En-Nesyri for the hosts’ first goal. Poor communication from both.Christian Eriksen – 7Broke the deadlock for United with a great strike into the top-left corner from the edge of the box.Manuel Ugarte – 6Won the ball in the build-up to the first goal and saved Man Utd from conceding with a fantastic last-ditch tackle in front of goal in the 22nd minute.Was lucky to avoid giving away a penalty after the break.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Didn’t look too out of place starting in the No10 position. Played a role in the build-up to the goal, passing the ball to Zirkzee who got the assist.Eventually moved into left-back, allowing Martinez to move central.Marcus Rashford – 5Played out of preferred position and started on the right as opposed to the left.Didn’t make too much of an impact on the game.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Played a key role in the build-up to Erikson’s goal by making a direct run into the box.Challenged Dominik Livakovic a few times and looked lively.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A poor overall performance from the striker despite providing the assist for Eriksen’s opener.Failed to make much of an impact and was hauled off in the 54th minute. More

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      Tottenham player ratings: Lucas Bergvall looks a star in the making but Radu Dragusin endures another mixed display

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      TOTTENHAM made it a hat-trick of Europa League wins thanks to Richarlison’s penalty against ten-man AZ Alkmaar. The Brazilian converted from the spot on 53 minutes in an opening goal that eventually separated the sides. Richarlison won the game for TottenhamCredit: PAAnd the visitor’s night got even worse with five minutes to go when David Moller Wolfe was shown a second yellow. Here is how Dan King rated Spurs’ players from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Fraser Forster – 7Brilliant save and good rush from line in first half to stop Spurs falling behind. A spectator for most of the second half but made smart stop in last 20 minutes.Archie Gray – 5Unable to team up with fellow teenager Moore in first half to match threat from Tottenham’s other flank and struggled with pace of Ernest Poku.READ MORE IN football Radu Dragusin – 5Another mixed display. Good on the ball one moment, not so much the next. Sometimes looked strong, but then vulnerable, especially when Alkmaar ran at him.Radu Dragusin had another mixed displayCredit: GettyBen Davies – 7Tottenham’s Mr Dependable was their most convincing defender, thanks mainly to good positioning and calmness. Although even he showed signs of tension late on.Destiny Udogie – 6Did a bit of everything in the opening 45 minutes, although as usual his work in opposition half tended to be better. Less adventurous in the second half.Rodrigo Bentancur – 6After a commanding start, was unable to stop Alkmaar from gaining a first-half foothold. Apart from occasional lapses, maintained his authority better after the break.Most read in FootballMikey Moore enjoyed success on the leftCredit: AlamyMikey Moore – 7Missed golden early chance and looked uncomfortable on right. Immediate, massive improvement when switched to left, running at defence and creating chances..Lucas Bergvall – 8Impressive display with everything but a goal. Full of running, composed, and found killer passes that should have become assists. But had to go off injured.James Maddison – 7Skipper for the night had some lovely moments without finding a decisive contribution – until he let Richarlison have the penalty.Timo Werner was hooked at half timeCredit: RexTimo Werner – 5Superb cross for Moore chance but woeful finish when played through by Bergvall told you everything about his confidence levels. Hooked at half time. Richarlison – 6Busy and committed in first half, but ball wasn’t sticking much. Really wanted to take the penalty and converting it should be a morale boost. Lasted just over an hour.SUBSBrennan Johnson (for Werner, half time) – 5Failed to make most of a Bergvall pass. Quieter than usual.Dominic Solanke (for Richarlison, 65) – 6Worked hard without having a sight of goal. Dejan Kulusevski (for Bergvall, 73) – 6Gave the Spurs midfield the legs it needed to see out game.Pape Sarr (for Maddison, 73)  – 6Also brought an injection of energy to dampen Alkmaar hopes of a comeback.READ MORE SUN STORIESWilson Odobert (for Moore, 87) – 6Had two sights of goal but steered second wide from close range.Watch Jose Mourinho’s hilarious reaction after Man Utd keeper Andre Onana’s ‘double worldy’ save More

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      Panathinaikos 1 Chelsea 4: Joao Felix gives Enzo Maresca selection headache with double as Blues go top of table

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      ON this evidence Enzo Maresca should win his first Chelsea trophy at a canter this season.His Blues strolled past Panathinaikos without much need to engage their brains, let alone work up a sweat.Chelsea run riot in AthensCredit: RexThe biggest resistance offered in Athens was a crafty supporter armed with a green laser pen – trying but failing to put off the Chelsea players.Given how much of a stroll some of these games should be, they offer a chance for those in need of a confidence boost.Two of those did just that, Joao Felix scoring twice having struggled for minutes since his before and Mykhailo Mudryk netting one and setting up two.Mudryk, desperately needing a statement performance, skied an early chance and looked to be heading for another frustrating night.READ MORE IN footballBut soon he started to make things happen.The Ukrainian, whose potential is undoubted but rarely looks like being fulfilled, was causing constant trouble down the left and teed up the opener.After Felix flicked on a header into his path, Mudryk raced forward and picked his moment to slide the ball back to his Portuguese teammate, allowing him a first time finish past Bartlomiej Drągowski.He could have had another assist minutes later too, squaring well for Enzo Fernandez to strike – though it was just tipped over.Most read in FootballJoao Felix opened the scoringCredit: ReutersFelix started the rout in GreeceCredit: GettyMykhailo Mudryk got himself a much needed goalCredit: APMudryk has another positive performance in EuropeCredit: APCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAfter a couple of early scares – including Filip Jorgensen needing to save from Tin Jedvaj’s second minute header – Chelsea were in full control.They may have had a rough couple of years but they are clearly too good for Europe’s third tier competition.Roberto Mancini brutally sacked from job as highest-paid manager in the world just days after clashing with fansThat was made more than clear inside ten second half minutes as Chelsea bagged another three.First Mudryk added to his first assist with a maiden goal of the season, heading in at the far post from Pedro Neto’s cross.He then set Felix up for his second of the night, taking advantage of the hosts’ failure to clear a Neto cross, laying the ball back before the shot deflected in off Serbian Nemanja Maksimovic.Within moments of putting the game beyond doubt, Felix won a penalty – his cross striking the hand of Daniel Mancini. Chelsea ratings vs Panathinaikos: Mudryk gives rare glimpse of his talent but one defender strugglesCHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos.Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…Filip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start.Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet.Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts.Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick.Benoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede.Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central.Renato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post.Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession.Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance.Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal.Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband.Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure.Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner.Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix.Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all.Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again.Joao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home.Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on.Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.Cesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday.Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then.The winger was denied the chance to wrap up his hat-trick as Christopher Nkunku converted from the spot, despite having to deal with a laser pen constantly in his eye.From there Chelsea slowed, a number of changes and chances for youngsters: Tyrique George, Marc Guiu and Cesare Casadei.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith Chelsea’s guard down a touch, the hosts grabbed a consolation.Sub Georgios Vagiannidis found space down the right and crossed for former Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri to tap in at the far post.Christopher Nkunku scored from the spotCredit: GettyHe pulled off his trademark celebrationCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd fans shocked with manager Erik ten Hag set to play Noussair Mazraoui in bizarre new position

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      ERIK TEN HAG left Manchester United fans shocked with Noussair Mazraoui to play in a new role.United travel to Turkey to face ex-manager Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce side.Follow all the action from Man Utd vs Fenerbahce hereErik ten Hag fans shocked with Noussair Mazraoui to play in a new roleCredit: GettyMazraoui was handed a new roleCredit: GettyAnd they did so with a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation – but with a twist. As full-back Mazraoui did not start on the right side of defence, with Diogo Dalot instead preferred. Instead, eyebrows were raised with the defender in line to play in an attacking midfield role despite Amad Diallo sitting on the bench.READ MORE ON MAN UTDOne said: “Ten hag has fully lost the plot.” Another added: If the rumours are true and Ten Hag is playing Mazraoui as a 10 instead of Amad, I’m actually going to lose it. “Best attacker this season hasn’t seen the pitch in hours but the fullback gets the 10 spot. I’m speechless.” One fumed: “He’d rather play Mazraoui #10 than the other attacking players we have, this guy is a sicko.”Most read in FootballBut another argued: “Mazraoui playing as a number 10 is wild! Didn’t see that coming. Let’s see how this experiment works out!” CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTen Hag confirmed Mazraoui’s advanced role – something they tried out while both at Ajax. He said: “Mazraoui will play in the 10 position tonight. I know him from before at Ajax I played him there.”Also as a full back he plays in the half spaces. So he’s capable to do this job.”The game ended 1-1 with Christian Eriksen opening the score for United but Youssef En-Nesyri levelled five minutes after the break. More

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      Arsenal legend drops huge hint Bukayo Saka WILL be fit to face Liverpool after visiting Gunners’ training ground

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      ARSENAL icon David Seaman has suggested Bukayo Saka WILL be available to face Liverpool on Sunday despite injury concerns.Saka has not played since he was forced off with a knock during England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece earlier this month.Bukayo Saka could make a return from injury this weekendCredit: ReutersFormer Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman suggests he will be availableCredit: GettyHaving already missed two games for Arsenal, he is now a doubt for this weekend’s huge Premier League match against Liverpool.Following Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta admitted: “Saka is not training yet so he won’t be available.”However, ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Seaman this week revealed that he saw the 23-year-old in training.Speaking on his Seaman Says podcast, the former England international explained: “I’m a little bit nervy, if I’m honest, because we’re not going to be at our strongest, depending on Saka.Read More on Arsenal”Although when I was in last Thursday at Arsenal, coaching with the young goalies, I saw Bukayo with his boots on and I was like, ‘ah, good sign’.”Not trainers or anything like that. He was going off to do some one-to-one rehab, so that was a good sign. Hopefully it’s not too bad.”Arsenal will be without several key players for the huge match.William Saliba will serve a suspension after being sent off against Bournemouth last week.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/AClub captain Martin Odegaard remains on the road to recovery from an ankle injury.Jurrien Timber is experiencing some fitness issues.Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal suffered with tiredness against Shakhtar Donetsk And new signing Riccardo Calafiori is set to miss Sunday’s match due to a knee injury he picked up against Shakhtar.Seaman added: “The only indication they’ve got that’s definite is that Saliba’s out with his suspension.”It’s going to be tough, but these are the games you want. These tell you how good you are, or how good you’re going to be in the season.” More

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      Premier League table without VAR revealed with Man City two points worse off and Bournemouth in fifth

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      THE Premier League table would look very different if VAR wasn’t in use.Several fans, players and managers have criticised the use of the technology since it was introduced to England’s top division five years ago.Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has criticised VARCredit: GettyMan City’s John Stones scored a controversial late goal against Wolves at the weekend that was reviewed and given by VARCredit: GettyWolves boss Gary O’Neil claimed officials have a “subconscious” bias towards the Prem’s top clubs after his team conceded a controversial late goal against Manchester City on Sunday.He said: “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves.”But is there something in the subconscious around the decision-making, without even knowing it? Are you more likely to give it to Man City than Wolves?”My senses are heightened when we are facing Man City. Are the officials the same?Read More in Football”If I had to upset someone and there’s a big and a little guy, I’m upsetting the little guy.”Wolves could have been one point better off in the league table had John Stones’ dramatic late winner not been given.Birmingham World recently investigated how the standings would look if VAR wasn’t used in the Prem.At the bottom of the table, Wolves and Southampton would be one point better off without the technology.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHow the Prem table would look without VARBournemouth would be four points better off without VARCredit: ReutersHowever, they would both still remain in the relegation zone.Crystal Palace would also be on two points – one less than they are currently on.How Liverpool outsmarted Chelsea with Slot’s genius ‘traffic jam’ trick and Curtis Jones masterclassThe use of VAR has not majorly affected the likes of Ipswich, West Ham, Leicester and Brentford.But the findings suggest Everton would have benefited if VAR wasn’t in use.In arguably the biggest surprise, Bournemouth would be fifth with 15 points without VAR.The Cherries would be four points better off without the technology.Liverpool would remain at the top of the table with 21 points – the same total they currently have.Manchester City would stay in second – but with two points less.The absence of VAR would not affect the current standings of Arsenal and Aston Villa in third and fourth.Man City would have two less pointsCredit: EPA More