Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How Man United destroyed Trent Alexander-Arnold in spectacular Liverpool draw amid £100m Real Madrid transfer talks

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED finally showed some steel as they drew 2-2 at rivals Liverpool.The league leaders had to settle for a point despite going 2-1 up at Anfield.Man Utd put in their best performance so far under Ruben Amorim in the 2-2 draw at LiverpoolCredit: PAThe Red Devils were able to contain Trent Alexander-Arnold with some new tacticsCredit: GettyMo Salah’s penalty looked to have sealed victory and extend their lead at the top of the table.But Amad Diallo’s timely effort rescued a point for Ruben Amorim.There were brilliant battles all over the pitch, with some proving to be more decisive than others.Here, SunSport’s Dean Scoggins lifts the lid on Tactics Exposed…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTRENT A REAL TARGETOn that performance, a free transfer to Real Madrid is too expensive.Everybody’s talked about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defending for a long time, we know he’s not the greatest defensively, but he has so many other attributes. Full credit to Ruben Amorim because this wasn’t just about a poor performance, it was that Manchester United targeted that area.Fifty-four per cent of United’s attacks went down the left and that was not by chance. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEven Ugarte and Mainoo were down to that left, but it was Bruno who had a fabulous game.His tactical nous and plan with Diogo Dalot was brilliant.Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool United targeted the left side of the fieldAlexander-Arnold was dragged out of position at numerous timesThey blocked this inside left lane where Trent would normally go inverted. He thought ‘I can’t really go in there so I’ll hold my right-back position’, and Dalot hugged the left touchline really wide.Trent didn’t want to go all the way out to him, because that leaves an enormous gap inside for Fernandes.Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot worked in tandemIt allowed forward runs in the channelsHe ended up in no-man’s land and despite having the most touches of any Liverpool player did nothing with the ball.His mind was scrambled, the transfer may have come into it, but I don’t want to take away from what United did.As soon as Fernandes and Dalot suckered Trent out into right-back, Rasmus Hojlund ran into the space behind. United were all singing from the same sheet. Links with Real Madrid may have affected Trent’s gameHe saw plenty of the ball but did little wit itMAINOO & MANU MASTERCLASSMainoo and Ugarte’s legs are back.Ugarte is very good at that simple pass to give it to somebody else. while Mainoo is very good in tight spaces.In Amorim’s 3-4-3, the two midfielders have a lot of work to do. Mainoo was outstanding, he played Curtis Jones off the park.There’s a lot of ground to cover, not just up and down but across the field to stop Liverpool coming in.Kobbie Mainoo put in a top showHe combined well with midfielder partner Manuel UgarteOne midfielder was stopping Trent inverting, the other was on the other side where Alexis Mac Allister likes to drift inside.They stifled Liverpool in that area, they narrowed the line so there was no room for Mo Salah to play in between.There was no joy for Diaz either. Ugarte and Mainoo dropped onto the edge of the box and allowed Harry Maguire to be at the centre dictating play.They were, for the first time under Amorim, comfortable without the ball. It was a real big step forward.United’s defenders were quick to ‘jump’ outLisandro Martinez contained Mo Salah with his movementsJUMPING DEFENDERSJumping out of position for defenders means coming out of the back line.Playing with just the three, it’s dangerous. But we saw all three United centre-backs at the right time jump out of position to engage with a forward or midfielder.They won big tackles because they trusted the other two guys were behind.It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to win the ball but you’re closing the space in midfield. You know you’ve got others behind you.It sends a message, ‘You’re not getting any time to turn here’. What it meant was Liverpool passed the ball backwards the most of any game this season. Andre Onana loved a long ball at AnfieldOVER & ONANAWe are seeing more positive signs from Onana. They usually use a zigzag pattern with him to play out from the back.But in this game it was much more direct. It was 80 per cent long passes from Onana.This was not a hoof. This was a plan. They didn’t want to be playing around their own box. Liverpool are pressing machines.The 3-4-3 made the pitch smaller. It was a bit old school. They could try and win the second ball back. It enabled it to be a much more structured game than what Liverpool wanted it to be.But it was exactly what Amorim wanted it to be.Darwin Nunez was used as an effective Liverpool subSLOT’S DARWIN THEORYIt was a really brave substitution from Arne Slot to bring on Darwin Nunez at 1-1.We know what he brings — chaos. He makes those darting runs in behind and drags the defence.If you see him running you can’t hold your line and hope for offside.Slot pushed Nunez up front because he was fed up with Maguire dictating play. It was very clever from Slot, he knew United had his shape and number at that moment.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt changed the pattern, the last 20 minutes were chaotic and fair play to United for setting it up.It was a brilliant watch. It was good from a neutral perspective to see somebody give Liverpool a good game. More

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Wolves 0 Nottingham Forest 3: Nuno’s rampant Reds make it SIX Premier League wins in a row to draw level with Arsenal

      by

      MORGAN GIBBS-WHITE needed just seven minutes to throw Wolves fans’ taunts back in their faces.The Nottingham Forest skipper led the way as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side recorded a sixth Premier League win to move joint second in the table with Arsenal.Morgan Gibbs-White notched his fourth Prem goal of the season inside seven minutesCredit: PAThe England star put his fingers in ears as his former fans gave him stick at MolineuxCredit: RexForest keeper Matz Sels kept Wolves at bay with several great saves in the opening halfCredit: AFPChris Wood doubled the lead for the visitors in the 44th minuteCredit: RexLate substitute Taiwo Awoniyi made it 3-0 at the deathCredit: GettyEngland manager Thomas Tuchel looked on as Gibbs-White inspired Forest to victoryCredit: GettyChris Wood grabbed his 12th goal of the season to keep Wolves at bay before the break as the Nuno Espirito Santo bandwagon rolled on.Gibbs-White came through the ranks at Wolves before making a move – worth more than £25million – to Forest two and a half years ago.That did not go down well with the Molineux faithful – and they have let him know about it ever since.Supporters booed Gibbs-White from the start – before launching into an unsavoury chant about his girlfriend.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Forest attacker needed no second invitation to deliver the perfect response.He set off on a run from inside his own half and went unchallenged before feeding Anthony Elanga on the right.Elanga found Gibbs-White again and he converted for a goal of pure simplicity.Gibbs-White milked the moment as he brought out the standard celebration for Wolves fans – a finger in each ear.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere may have fond memories of Nuno’s successful four years at Molineux – but his welcome is surely starting to wear thin with supporters.This was the third time he had returned since leaving the club in 2021 – and a third win.Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis wants 50,000-seat City Ground He added to the two league and cup wins he recorded here with Tottenham to sink his former team.Nuno says nobody has yet asked him if Forest are title contenders. The likes of Chelsea and Arsenal are immediately seen as potential challengers to Liverpool when they move into second spot.But Forest are going under the radar – and that is the way Nuno likes it.This was the first time Forest had put together six top-flight wins in 58 years.And a return to Europe is there for them on this form.But the Portuguese coach is not entertaining that sort of talk about a club that spent the last two seasons avoiding relegation.Wolves were without the suspended Matheus Cunha – and boss Vitor Pereira made five changes after staying unbeaten in his first three games.But while this was his first defeat since taking over from Gary O’Neil, he will see positives in attack if not in defence.There is set to be one new face at the club this week with Wolves agreeing a £16.6m fee with Reims for Ivory Coast centre back Emmanuel Agbadou who is expected to fly in to complete the move to Molineux.Wolves responded well to Gibbs-White’s goal and went close twice in the space of a minute.Gibbs-White came through the ranks at Wolves before being sold to ForestCredit: PAMurillo cleared off the line from Jorgen Strand Larsen’s close-range effort – before Forest keeper Matz Sels superbly kept out Rodrigo Gomes’ fierce drive.Larsen was denied again after 29 minutes when Sels blocked his header from Gomes’ cross.At this stage, in-form Belgium keeper Sels was the man stopping Wolves from fighting their way back into the game.But Pereira’s men had a lucky escape when Rayan Ait-Nouri looked to have handled a cross from Ola Aina and given away a penalty.The decision went to VAR and was judged not worth pointing to the spot.But Forest extended their lead a minute before the break as Wood scored his second goal in consecutive games – and again, Wolves were exposed at the back.Jorgen Strand Larsen missed a trio of chances at 1-0Credit: GettyForest could’ve had a penalty at 1-0 after the ball appeared to struck Rayan Ait-Nouri’s armCredit: RexSels’ long clearance found Callum Hudson-Odoi on the left and he outpaced Wolves defender Matt Doherty before finding Wood who rolled the ball home.It carried on the Kiwi’s record of scoring for three different clubs – Burnley, Newcastle and Forest – against Wolves.Larsen still looked a threat and he produced another fine save from Sels.But Forest’s second half display was all about stifling any hopes Wolves had of making a comeback.Nuno’s men stayed in command after the break – even though it was not spectacular.READ MORE SUN STORIESWolves will rue the chances they had to level the scores – and maybe take it further. But they found Sels in top form – and Nuno was even waving to the travelling Forest fans before Awoniyi’s late goal.Awoniyi heaped more misery on Wolves in the fourth minute of added timeCredit: Reuters More

    • 263 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Ange Postecoglou faces HUGE make-or-break week for Tottenham… and a chance to shut the boo boys up once and for all

      by

      IT’S domestic cup week and therefore it’s a big one for Big Ange Postecoglou.Because if any team is capable of beating Liverpool in a semi-final and losing to Tamworth in the space of four days, then it’s Postecoglou’s gloriously unpredictable Tottenham.Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs could turn a corner this week… or they could resume normal businessCredit: ReutersThe Aussie was in a magnificently grumpy mood after Saturday’s league defeat by Newcastle but he has a pleasingly positive attitude towards knockout competitions.Indeed, he has pretty much staked his job on them by insisting “I ALWAYS win a trophy in my second season” at a club.This ought to be Chas & Dave Cup-final music to the ears of Spurs fans, after 17 years without a trophy.Indeed, the Carabao Cup might just provide us with a dream final, should  Tottenham and Newcastle win their two-legged semis, because no two clubs in the English game crave silverware to quite such an extent.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Geordies haven’t had a pot to pour champagne into since 1969 and they head to Arsenal tonight in rude health after a major festive resurgence.But it’s not just about Spurs and Newcastle quenching their thirst — because the domestic cups are in desperate need of any different winners.A cup final is properly special when it means the world to the winning club — and not just a consolation prize nor one leg of a Double, Treble or Quadruple.But remarkably, 21 of the last 22 major English domestic knockout competitions have been carved up between the ‘big five’ of Manchester City (eight), Manchester United and Arsenal (four apiece), Liverpool (three) and Chelsea, who have won two finals and lost seven in the last eight seasons.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLeicester’s 1-0 FA Cup final win over Chelsea in 2021 was the only exception — and even that trophy went to a club who had been champions five years previously.It is a far cry from the heyday of the 80s, when Coventry, Wimbledon, Luton, Oxford and Norwich all won their only major honours in the space of four years. Although all were denied European football by the Heysel ban.FA Cup third round draw in full as Arsenal host holders Man Utd and Man City get another dream draw This weekend brings an FA Cup third round and our annual chance to wail, ‘What can we do to save the Cup?’This year, third-round replays have been scrapped to  the widespread groans of traditionalists. But this switch makes Cup shocks more likely, not less — a one-off match with extra-time and penalties gives smaller clubs a better chance of an upset.Every year there is a call for the Cup to be revamped with seedings or with clubs from lower divisions automatically being given home advantage.Tamworth v Tottenham is the tie of the round not only because of Spurs’ intrinsic comedy value but because it is being staged at the National League club’s Lamb Ground, with a 4,000 capacity and the opportunity for everyone to assume the showers will be cold and Spurs won’t like it. Meanwhile, Manchester City v Salford, Liverpool v Accrington Stanley, Chelsea v Morecambe and Newcastle v Bromley would all look a lot juicier if lower-league clubs were at home.But this change is simply never going to happen because nobody inside  football actually wants it.Small clubs profit more from away days at Premier League grounds, while their players and even supporters relish those trips.The best chance for the Cup to rediscover its lustre is for top-flight managers to prioritise it — especially given that the majority have no realistic title ambitions nor relegation fears.Instead, most will use third-round weekend as an opportunity to give the  regular bench-dwellers in their sizeable squads — not very many of them even exciting home-grown  youngsters — some elusive ‘game time’.There remains a huge disconnect here between managers and fans, who would relish a Cup final far more than a few extra league wins.So, will any mid-table Premier League manager have the balls to pick their first team, then ‘rotate’ in the midweek round of league fixtures which follow?If anyone is likely to, it’s that old romantic Big Ange.Altogether now: “Spurs are on their way to  Wembley . . . ”Enzo Maresca needs some senior heads in his squad prontoCredit: AlamyWISE UP BLUESCHELSEA are out of the title race after taking just two points from 12 against Everton, Fulham, Ipswich and Crystal Palace.Yet the Blues might have won all four games with one or two experienced heads among their talented youngsters, who wilted when the going got tough defending 1-0 leads against Fulham and Palace.During those recent matches, I’ve witnessed £106million World Cup-winner Enzo Fernandez — still only 23 — kicking off at Ipswich’s former Chelsea kid Omari Hutchinson during their 2-0 defeat.And Pedro Neto, a relative veteran at 24, twice seemingly being shot by snipers in the stand, given his agonised response to no contact from an opponent.Chelsea’s owners are hooked on youth but a couple of wise heads could not knock some sense in.Liam Delap has forced his way into England contentionCredit: GettyLIAM IS IN TUCHNOW that Thomas Tuchel has finally turned up for work, with a clean slate, he will surely be casting an eye over Ipswich striker Liam Delap.He is an old-fashioned bully of a centre-forward who’s been hugely impressive during Town’s recent revival.Delap has Pulisball in his blood — his father Rory was a key member of that bruising Stoke side — and has been schooled by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Watch his game and you can see pleasing aspects of both influences.Delap will be Harry Kane’s long-term successor as England’s No 9 and it would be a surprise if Tuchel does not include him in his first squad in March.Refs are already forgetting about rules they enforced ruthlessly earlier this seasonCredit: ReutersREFER BACKI SPOKE to an experienced ref  and he confirmed what I’d long suspected — that pre-season edicts for officials are always forgotten within a month or two.Remember bookings for kicking the ball away and delaying the restart, such as the second yellow card given to Arsenal’s Declan Rice in August’s home draw against Brighton?Well, they’ve been forgotten by refs and their assessors, just like the supposed ‘high bar’ for VAR interventions.Not even an injury to Mo Salah would stop Liverpool’s title chargeCredit: AlamyBUK STOPS WITH KOPDON’T get too excited about an actual title race after Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United.Arsenal are their only credible challengers but will never win consistently enough without Bukayo Saka — just as Manchester City collapsed without Rodri.There is no single player in Liverpool’s side whose long-term absence would have a similar effect — not even Mo Salah. Aged just 39, Stephen Bunting’s best years are still ahead of himCredit: GettyGOLDEN AGEAS someone who is frequently told they must have had a ‘tough paper round’, it’s heartening to see someone who looks even worse for their age than I do.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe photo at the top of this page was taken eight years ago and I still look older in it than I am now.So thanks to world darts semi-finalist Stephen Bunting, improbably only 39, and to the new Southampton boss Ivan Juric, who is younger than me at 49 but looks pensionable. More

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham newbie Antonin Kinsky blew coaches away, is likened to Petr Cech and has famous ex-footballer father

      by

      ANTONIN KINSKY’S switch to Spurs happened so fast the young goalie had to make a late dash to pick up some boots and gloves.The ambidextrous Czech, 21, was so certain he was staying at Slavia Prague that he had arranged to receive some new mitts from his glove sponsor this past Sunday.Antonin Kinsky has signed for Spurs for £12m from Slavia PragueBut after turning his phone on on Friday evening after a relaxing sauna and massage, he discovered his Tottenham transfer was on – meaning he was in need of some fresh gear.Kinsky, whose qualities have been compared to the great Petr Cech, said: “I realised that if I was flying out on the Saturday morning, I’d need gloves and boots. I didn’t have either at home, so I started looking. “I drove to Plzen and then to (Prague district) Eden, where I would have gone anyway to say goodbye and take one last look at the stadium. “Now I’ve got everything I need, so I’ll pack up at home and head off.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSKinsky eventually sealed a move worth £12.5million plus add-ons, signing a six-and-a-half-year contract.But because he is still waiting on his work permit, which could take up to 48 hours to arrive, his chances of featuring against Liverpool are viewed as unlikely.That means Brandon Austin, who waited nearly 10 years for his first Spurs appearance against Newcastle on Saturday, is set to start the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on what will be his 26th birthday, provided Fraser Forster is still ill.But after that, Kinsky will step in and look to make himself Ange Postecoglou’s go-to guy between the sticks.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat is even when Guglielmo Vicario returns from a fractured foot in late February, with the Italian posting a video of himself out of his protective boot on Sunday.Because ambitious Kinsky, nicknamed ‘Toni’, has not just been brought in as a back-up to Vicario, but to challenge him.Chelsea fans beg Petr Cech to return to club after spotting what he did in Sky Sports studio during Crystal Palace clashHis move had been earmarked for the summer, when veteran Forster is out of contract, but got pushed forward following Vicario’s serious injury.Kinsky is likely to be the first of a few January signings for injury-hit Spurs, who are also keen on a defender and attacker.While Forster has struggled to play out from the back like Postecoglou wants, Kinsky’s footwork was a big attraction when he was identified by Spurs technical director Johan Lange.His passing success rate of 83.9 per cent is better than any other goalkeeper with five appearances or more in this season’s Europa League.Kinsky has been playing in that competition for Slavia, but due to a rule change, CAN also play in it for Spurs this term too.The blond-haired starlet, who has perfect English, constantly listens to Czech rap and idolises late basketball superstar Kobe Bryant, was an outfield player as a kid.But he moved in goal in a bid to follow in the footsteps of his dad, also called Antonin Kinsky who won five caps for the Czech national team and remains a huge influence on his son.Kinsky’s dad Antonin won five caps for the Czech national team as a keeperCredit: GettyKinsky Jnr’s 12 clean sheets in 19 league games has helped Slavia go seven points clear at the top of the Czech league.It was his first season as Slavia’s No1, but it was back-to-back loan spells to small-town club MFK Vyskov between 2021-23 which toughened him up for first-team football.Rostislav Horacek was Kinsky’s goalkeeping coach at Vyskov and remembers being blown away by the confident youngster’s potential after just “two or three training sessions”.The 57-year-old said: “The guys in the pub laughed at me when I said that I had an 18-year-old boy in the second league who would one day play for the national team.“But I was convinced of it. He has everything.“He always looked forward to tough matches like a little kid looking forward to ice cream.”Kinsky is comfortable with both feet and used to play outfield in his youthCredit: GettyChelsea legend Cech is the benchmark for Czech keepers, having won 124 caps for his country in a stellar career, but Horacek sees an obvious comparison.While he also gave an insight into the ability Kinsky – or ‘Tonda’ as he called him – has with both feet.Horacek told Flashscore: “I asked him in training which foot he prefers, but he said it doesn’t matter. He kicks with both equally.“At Slavia, he had a great defence in front of him. (It meant that) he often goes 40 minutes without a save and then has to quickly resolve a difficult situation. READ MORE SUN STORIES“That is exactly what Petr Cech used to do at Chelsea. He had a strong defence in front of him, led by John Terry, but then had to show off with one or two saves. Tonda is strong in this.”Petr Cech has been described as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all timeCredit: PA:Press AssociationTottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. More

    • 238 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Julen Lopetegui on brink of West Ham sack with Graham Potter leading contender to take over at London Stadium

      by

      JULEN LOPETEGUI’S job is hanging by a thread at West Ham with Graham Potter back in contention to take over.After another drubbing at the hands of Manchester City over the weekend, off the back of a 5-0 defeat to Liverpool, patience appears to have worn thin.Julen Lopetegui is on the brink of the sack from West HamCredit: AlamyGraham Potter is in contention to replace the struggling SpaniardCredit: GettyWest Ham hope that Potter, who was first approached last month despite some reservations within the club, would be prepared to step in if Lopetegui is axed.The Spaniard, appointed in the summer as David Moyes’ successor, was given a stay of execution last month.Meanwhile, technical director Tim Steidten – involved in seeking a replacement for Lopetegui – has been asked to stay away from the training ground.Lopetegui and Steidten’s already tense relationship has deteriorated with the club frustrated with both figures.READ MORE ON WEST HAMIt is not clear whether the Spanish boss will be in charge for the next Premier League game, at home to Fulham next Tuesday.West Ham face Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday night before returning to Premier League action.Furthermore, Steidten’s influence on the January market has been diluted as chairman David Sullivan takes a leading role in the transfer window.Steidten, 45, was part of the process when West Ham were considering replacements for Lopetegui last month.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLopetegui’s position remains under scrutiny and conceding nine goals in the last two games has not helped his standing.Steidten, appointed in 2023, has opted to steer clear of the Rush Green base to focus on the January window and allow Lopetegui the space to focus on the squad.Graham Potter admits he’s ‘looking at things’ as speculation intensifies that he’ll replace Julen Lopetegui at West HamHis role in sounding out replacements, as well as the club’s poor form, has led to a tense relationship between the pair.West Ham, under Steidten’s leadership, spent £127.5million, in the summer window but sit 14th in the Premier League with just six wins all season.The German, who previously worked at Bayer Leverkusen, also had a poor relationship with former manager David Moyes.Steidten was asked to stay away from the first-team dressing room at the London Stadium towards the end of last season.Asked about that decision at the time, Moyes said: “I’ve said before that Tim has his job to do but managers have their boundaries and I have my boundaries.”West Ham are keen to be active in the January window following the loss of Michail Antonio for the season and Jarrod Bowen for six weeks.The Hammers want to add a striker and central midfielder on loan.READ MORE SUN STORIESBrighton’s Evan Ferguson has been considered but the Seagulls will wait until the end of the window to make a decision on whether or not to loan him out.Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, who almost moved to the London Stadium in the summer, is on their radar once more.West Ham have suffered back-to-back hammerings by Liverpool and Man CityCredit: PA More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Five transfers for Jack Grealish to revive career as he struggles at Man City and Pep Guardiola questions his ‘shape’

      by

      JACK GREALISH could be set for a January transfer after struggling for form and fitness at Manchester City.The winger has not scored for City since December 2023 and has been overlooked by Pep Guardiola since returning from injury in November.Jack Grealish could move this month to revive his careerCredit: GettyPep Guardiola questioned Grealish’s ‘shape’Credit: GettyHe has started just six Premier League games this season with youngster Savinho often preferred over him.The Brazilian produced two assists in City’s win over West Ham at the weekend, with Guardiola questioning Grealish’s “shape” after the match.He said: “Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack and that’s why I played him.“Do I want the Jack that won the Treble? Yeah. I want it. But I try to be honest with myself for that.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRumours are circulating that a January move could be on the cards for Grealish, with a number of clubs linked.SunSport takes a look at five possible destinations for the England star.ArsenalMikel Arteta wants to “add more firepower” to his team this January with Bukayo Saka set to be sidelined with injury for a number of weeks.He has raided former club City on multiple occasions, with Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko joining along with another ex-Etihad star, Raheem Sterling.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSterling’s move has not worked out with just two Prem starts, so Arsenal could look to Grealish.However Arteta may be keen to bring in a right-sided player as he has Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli available as options on the left.Brilliant moment Jack Grealish joins Aston Villa fans in Bruges pub on FaceTime after being dropped from Man City squadTottenhamSpurs have been linked with a move for Grealish for several years, and are now said to be keeping tabs on the 29-year-old.With Son Heung-min looking past his peak this season and Timo Werner misfiring, Grealish could be a good fit in North London.Tottenham are reportedly interested in striking a loan deal that would see City cover a large chunk of his £300,000-a-week wages, which could prove a stumbling block in a potential permanent deal.Spurs are in need of a lift as they sit 12th in the Prem, although remain in the Carabao Cup and Europa League, so would benefit from the addition of Grealish.NewcastleNewcastle are on the march towards Europe and Grealish would be a marquee signing for the Magpies.There was friction in the summer as the club failed to land a major signing for Eddie Howe, who wanted to bring in a right winger and England star Marc Guehi.Newcastle are another club who are said to be monitoring Grealish’s situation and they could decide to strike if he is allowed to leave.But like Arsenal they could decide to prioritise a right winger with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes available on the left, particularly as they are still yet to replace the outgoing Miguel Almiron.Aston VillaA return to his boyhood club could be welcomed by Grealish but it would no doubt split the fanbase.The winger was heavily booed on his most recent return to Villa Park last month, leading his dad to hit out at the “disrespect” on show.Grealish reacted to the boo boys by holding up three fingers to remind supporters of how many Premier League titles he has won.However he could be tempted by a move with Villa playing in the Champions League and challenging for the top four.John McGinn has played out of position on the left in recent weeks so Villa are crying out for someone of Grealish’s ilk, although they could sign Borussia Dortmund’s Donyell Malen instead according to Fabrizio Romano.Jack Grealish made 213 appearances for Aston VillaCredit: PAMan UtdA move across Manchester would be a real turn up for the books but it could appeal to all parties.Grealish would not have to up sticks and move while City would likely be able to get a large chunk of his salary off the wage bill – if he left permanently or on loan.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe could also fit into Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system as a flexible winger/No10, a position Grealish has operated in throughout his entire career.Whether City would let him leave to a fierce rival is another question – the last direct transfer between the clubs was Carlos Tevez in 2009. More

    • 238 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Look at the reaction’ – MOTD2 presenters in hysterics after spotting Man Utd stars’ response to Harry Maguire miss

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED players fell to their knees in disbelief after Harry Maguire’s last-gasp miss against Liverpool.The Red Devils put in a strong performance in the 2-2 draw against the league leaders yesterday.Harry Maguire missed a last-gasp chance to win it for UnitedCredit: RexHis team-mates could not believe he blazed it overCredit: BBCAndre Onana rolled onto the floor and Ruben Amorim put his heads in his handsCredit: BBCThe reactions left Mark Chapman in hystericsCredit: BBCUnited had the chance to win the it with the last kick of the game as Joshua Zirkzee teed up Maguire to finish from point blank range.But the centre-back agonisingly blazed over the bar with the goal gaping.Gutted Maguire put his head in his hands as Liverpool breathed a huge sigh of relief.And incredible footage on Match of the Day 2 showed the reaction of his team-mates as he fired high.READ MORE ON MAN UTDDiogo Dalot waved his arms in disgust and appeared to scream, while Lisandro Martinez hit the deck and rolled on the floor.Leny Yoro turned away in disgust as Manuel Ugarte and Noussair Mazraoui collapsed to their knees.And as Ruben Amorim looked on stunned, MOTD2 trio Mark Chapman, Shay Given and Alan Shearer were left in hysterics by Andre Onana’s reaction behind him.The goalkeeper performed a bizarre flip onto the ground and slapped the pitch in frustration.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMaguire has scored just once this seasonCredit: AFPGiven said: “Look at the reaction from the Man Utd players and the manager, they know it is the last kick. This is to get three points.”Onana in the background as well, he just can’t believe it.”Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool Given did have sympathy for Maguire as the pundit felt “Zirkzee should have done a wee bit better with the pass” as it bounced across the turf to the England star.Sky Sports pundit Daniel Sturridge said similar, saying: “Just don’t bobble it into him. You’ve got all the time in the world to pull the ball back.”He’s a Premier League footballer playing for Manchester United, I’m not expecting a bobble into me if you’re in that position. It’s a three-yard pass.”But Amorim defended Zirkzee, saying: “For me, I think it was the perfect decision because he can shoot but he put the ball more in the centre.”The ball was really slow for Harry to score but sometimes you cannot do it. But Josh made a good decision in my opinion.”The moment also caused agony in the commentary box as Gary Neville let out a squeal and then slumped over the railings.Gary Neville was shocked by the missCredit: Sky Sports Shay Given felt Zirkzee’s pass should have been betterCredit: BBC More

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal fans admit ‘man crush’ over Riccardo Calafiori after slow-motion video of Gunners heartthrob giving interview

      by

      A STEAMY slow-motion video of Riccardo Calafiori giving an interview has sent Arsenal fans into meltdown. The Italian defender, who arrived in the summer, has been hailed as Gunners supporters’ new “man crush” after the video circulated on Tik Tok and Instagram. Riccardo Calafiori has got pulses racing since arriving in the Premier League in the summerCredit: GettyThe Arsenal faithful were able to take their minds off the drab 1-1 draw with Brighton by watching their Italian heartthrob in his post-match interview. In the video 22-year-old Calafiori was focused on Arsenal’s battle with Liverpool in the title-race. Not that Arsenal fans will have noticed, with Stevie Robinson writing on Tik Tok: “Man crush Monday has come a day early.”One said “Aura man” while AFTAYOUTH added: “Stop it right now.”Sarah said on Instagram “Dear lord” while Andre added: “Te amo mi amor”.Connor wasn’t convinced though, writing: “Shame he’s a woeful footballer.”Calafiori’s good looks even caught the attention of Arsenal’s arch-rivals Tottenham. One supporter wrote under the video “Don’t let these women get their hands on Lucas Bergvall” in reference to Spurs’ blonde-haired Swedish 18-year-old midfielder.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCalafiori’s girlfriend at the time Benedetta Boeme gatecrashed an interview with a reporter for DAZN when Bologna secured a Champions League spotThe pair embraced in a passionate kissBenedetta then hugged Calafiori and glared at the reporter as the clip went viralTo which one Arsenal fan hit back, saying: “Nobody cares about Tottenham, don’t worry.”Calafiori caught the eye while playing for Italy at Euro 2024 in Germany before switching to Arsenal in a deal worth £42million from Bologna.Ahead of his move to North London there was speculation swirling around his relationship status with his then girlfriend Benedetta Boeme. A post on social media said to have been shared by Boeme, who has 40,000 Instagram followers, claimed the move to Arsenal had been confirmed and also announced the pair had broken up.The original post said to have come from Boeme said: “Many of you have been asking what’s been going on in my life lately, so I decided to finally share it with you.”Riccardo and I are no longer together at the moment. I don’t know if we will get through, but I doubt it. “I needed some time to process everything that happened over the past 3-4 days. I still need time.”Thanks to everyone who showed me the video circulating on TikTok this week. Benedetta and Calafiori were regularly seen together on social mediaThey had been dating for at least a yearBoeme has over 40k followers on Instagram”I appreciate it, it was important for me to know the truth. I’ve watched it countless times, searching for a reason to forgive and forget, but I couldn’t.”We talked about it, but I am still uncertain of the answers to my questions.”It was a difficult decision, one we were considering for days. Neither of us wanted this, but what’s done is done and I can’t help it but want to run away from all this.”I will not tolerate any kind of hate towards me or him. I wish him all the best as he joins Arsenal. He has all my support.”And if any of my followers feel they don’t want to continue following me now that he’s not around, feel free to unfollow. Thank you for understanding.”But Boeme took to her Instagram account to to clarify the situation, saying the statement was from a fake account and not made by her.She wrote: “I am forced to write here that I have no TikTok profile!! Someone is pretending to be me and writing things that are not true!”This is my only social media account. I have never talked about anything and I never will. “I kindly ask whoever opened the TikTok profile pretending to be me and writing personal and delicate things, which then get reported as articles in the media, to immediately close the profile, otherwise I will take legal action.”Despite refuting the original post, all photos of the couple together have since been removed from Boeme’s Instagram account and the pair do not follow each other on the social media platform. Benedetta went viral last May when she gatecrashed one of Calafiori’s interviews after Bologna completed their surprise qualification to the upcoming season’s Champions League.READ MORE SUN STORIESCalafiori was speaking to a female reporter for DAZN Italia when Benedetta appeared from out of nowhere into the camera shot.She then embraced him in a passionate kiss before hugging him as the interview carried on, all the while glaring at the reporter. More