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    Emiliano Martinez slapped with two-match ban for ‘offensive behaviour and violation of principles of fair play’

    ASTON VILLA star Emiliano Martinez has been suspended from Argentina’s next two matches because of “offensive behaviour”.Martinez, 32, has been banned over some controversial incidents in the Albiceleste’s last two matches against Chile and Colombia earlier this month.Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez has been suspended from Argentina’s next two matchesCredit: GettyMartinez repeated his controversial 2022 World Cup celebration against Chile this monthCredit: GettyMartinez was also penalised for slapping a camera against ColombiaCredit: XThe Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed the goalkeeper will miss the national team’s next 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia in October.The ex-Arsenal ace was initially penalised for celebrating the Copa America by making a lewd gesture with the cup, which was presented in Argentina for the first time after Lionel Scaloni’s men won it in the US.That incident took place three weeks ago after a 3-0 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier at the Monumental.The Argentine was also punished for slapping a local television camera after a 2-1 loss at Colombia in another World Cup qualifier two weeks ago.Read More on FootballThe AFA released the following statement: “Damian Emiliano Martinez is being held responsible for his offensive behaviour and violation of the principles of fair play.”Argentina chiefs added that they disagreed with the Fifa Disciplinary Committee’s decision.Martinez’s X-rated celebration after the Chile game was similar to the gesture he made after the 2022 World Cup final that saw Argentina beating France on penalties following an exciting 3-3 draw.On both occasions “Dibu” celebrated by placing the trophy on his groin while gesturing to the fans.Most read in FootballThe keeper claimed after the tournament in Qatar that his gesture was “stupid” before repeating it in Argentina.Martinez previously said: “It was a stupid thing, it’s the only thing I’m not proud of.”Watch moment Argentina keeper Emi Martinez lashes out at and SLAPS camera after fiery defeat to ColombiaThe Villa star added last month: “I never try to upset the fans, never.”I just try to slow things down when the game is not going well for us, I try to kick the ball as hard as I can to the other side.”I don’t swear, I don’t insult anyone. I don’t cross any lines, I never do.” More

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    Eagle-eyed fans spot awkward error in new pictures of Man City’s stunning plans to expand Etihad Stadium

    FANS spotted a hilarious error in Manchester City’s plans to expand the Etihad.Man City have shared pictures of a seating configuration as they are planning to expand the North Stand, with the project set to increase capacity from 53,400 to more than 60,000.Fans spotted a hilarious error in Manchester City’s plans to expand the EtihadCredit: Manchester CityMan City shared pics of a seating configuration as they are planning to expand the North StandCredit: Manchester CityFans noticed supporters in the stand wore Nike kits rather than Puma shirtsCredit: Manchester CityThe stand will open next season and will feature a range of seating options, such as a large rail-seating area, family areas, ring fenced tickets for young supporters and a redeveloped concourse.City shared their general idea to the public, but were caught out by some eagle-eyed fans.Many noticed the supporters in the stand are pictured wearing Nike kits rather than Puma shirts, which is the Citizens’ sponsor this season.One fan tweeted: “Interesting spot on the North Stand stadium expansion pictures City have posted… Why are the kits Nike?”Read More on FootballAnother commented: “Two words – Artificial Intelligence.”A third said: “Possibly AI. But Awkward nonetheless. Puma won’t be pleased.”This fan wrote: “[It will] Be from back when the original concept was formed but a bit of a slip up from the marketing dept!!”And that one posted: “Almost definitely AI.”Most read in FootballThe Etihad will will also include a roof walk experience and a brand new City Square fan zone with a capacity for 3,000 people.In addition, there will be food and drink outlet, a club shop, a museum, commercial office space and a 400-bed hotel.Rodri officially out for season after undergoing surgery in devastating blow for Man City star The Premier League champions are looking to turn the Etihad into an entertainment destination. More

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    Enzo Maresca demands ALL Chelsea players attend Stamford Bridge even if not selected in bid to ‘create something’

    ENZO MARESCA wants all of his troops in Chelsea’s cheerleading squad — whether they are playing or not.It follows a conspicuous display of unity on Tuesday night, when a group of players not involved against minnows Barrow in the Carabao Cup turned up in support of their team-mates and sat behind the home dugout.Enzo Maresca is making members of Chelsea’s bloated squad come to every gameCredit: AlamyCaptain Reece James, Cole Palmer, Jadon Sancho, Noni Madueke, keeper Robert Sanchez, Nicolas Jackson and Moises Caicedo were among those who later went on the pitch to celebrate a 5-0 victory.Boss Maresca insists it is a key part of the team effort for everyone to turn up, whether it be in boots or not.The Italian believes attention to small details plays a big part in performances.He said: “The ones in the squad have to be there and the ones not in the squad have to be there too.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“In a normal team you have to behave like a team and if there is a game they have to be there.“For sure, it will happen tomorrow. If there is a problem and some of them cannot come, then that is not a problem.“I don’t know whether we say that it is a rule but when there is a game the players have to be there.“In terms of culture, it is quite normal that if my team-mate is playing a game, I am there before the game to support him and I am there after the game to support him in case he wins, loses, does well or does badly.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“It is normal for them to be there whether it is Premier League or Carabao Cup, whatever competition. “If we want to create something then these small things are  important. I just said that I want all of them there.”Chelsea player ratings from 5-0 win over BarrowChelsea’s dressed-down players turned up in snazzy hoodies and trendy street clothing to back their pals.One cheeky member of the non-playing squad even dashed into the press room at half-time to nab a sausage roll earmarked for journalists.Maresca joked: “Some of them were in bad clothes? OK, I can manage inside the pitch but the way they dress is not my job.”Players not in the squad have turned up to games before but team-minded Maresca is making a bigger deal of it to breed unity in a dressing room which has undergone huge changes in recent months.It may play a part in the upturn in form with Chelsea seeking a fourth straight victory against Brighton and sitting three points from the top of the Premier League in fifth place.There is recent history between the two clubs which could make things a little trickier for the Blues at Stamford Bridge — but with only skipper James on the injured list, the Italian at least has a virtually full strength squad to choose from.Maresca was full of praise for Marc CucurellaCredit: GettyAmong them are rejuvenated defender Marc Cucurella and midfielder Caicedo. Both acquired from Brighton for a combined fee of £177m.The pressure that goes with that means it has taken time for the pair to settle in fully – but Maresca believes we are starting to see the best from the former Seagulls.He said: “Marc is a very intelligent player. He is very clever.“Against Bournemouth he played like an attacking midfielder, against West Ham he played like a holding midfielder.“From day one, I have said I don’t want them doing things without understanding why they are doing it.“I am not asking just to run or do this. It is nice to help the players understand why they do things.“Marc is one of those guys that when we ask him to do something, we explain why. You can see in some players that even when you explain why they struggle a little bit to understand.“Marc is one of those guys who immediately understands. He is a versatile player and gives us different options.“I don’t think the price should be a problem. Sometimes it can put them under pressure.“I know Moises from Brighton. I watched a lot of games from Moises in that season.“At the moment for us, he’s a very important player. He’s doing well, especially off the ball.“But he can do much, much, much better on the ball and be more brave, breaking lines. He is doing very well but he can be even better on the ball.”Chelsea also nabbed Sanchez as part of a major raid on their South Coast opponents, who are still unbeaten in the Premier League so far this campaign.Maresca said: “The Brighton fans may not be happy but the Brighton owner would be very happy.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It is a matter of balance. They are former players but the reason  they are at Chelsea — and the reason why Chelsea paid money for them — was because, when they were at Brighton, their fans were happy at that moment.“This is because Moises, Cucurella, Robert and Levi Colwill, who was there on loan, are fantastic players. I am very happy to have them.”Chelsea player ratings vs BarrowJOAO FELIX and Christopher Nkunku stole the show as Chelsea thrashed Barrow in the Carabao Cup.A hat-trick from Nkunku along with goals from Felix and Pedro Neto secured a 5-0 third round win at Stamford Bridge.Here’s how the starting XI rated…Filip Jorgensen – 6Looked shaky as Barrow launched a string of early throw-ins into the box. Forced into a smart stop down to his right at the start of the second half but otherwise untroubled.Malo Gusto – 7Lack of threat from visitors allowed him freedom of the right flank and the full-back regularly posed a threat as he linked up with Neto.Axel Disasi – 6Unconvincing in possession despite little pressure but performed defensive duties throughout in solid partnership with Benoit Badiashile.Benoit Badiashile – 6Barely troubled by Barrow forward Emile Acquah. Assured in possession and showed his passing range by switching play to his wingers when available.Renato Veiga – 6Looked a class above when stepping into midfield when Chelsea were in possession but far from convincing in defence. Gave away several needless free-kicks in dangerous areas.Cesare Casadei – 7Shaky at first on his maiden Chelsea touch before growing into the game in the centre of the park.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Afforded plenty of time and space on the ball for much of the game and even came close to a goal of his own.Pedro Neto – 7Link-up play with Malo Gusto was a constant threat down the right. Finished off a flowing team move for his first Chelsea goal.Joao Felix – 8Unlocked the Barrow defence with a beautiful scooped pass to set up Nkunku’s opener. Followed it up with a perfectly placed free-kick off the post to put his side 3-0 up before half-time.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Gave Chelsea an outlet with his pace down the left, showed to perfection as he raced away before squaring for Neto to score moments into the second half.Christopher Nkunku – 9Showed his clinical edge in front of goal by grabbing a hat-trick with three well-taken strikes inside the penalty area, including an exquisite back-heeled flick into the corner.SubsBen Chilwell (45’ for Gusto) – 6Given a rapturous reception on his return from the Chelsea ‘bomb squad’. Tightened up the left-hand side for the Blues, with Veiga moving to central defence.Tyrique George (63’ for Neto) – 6Dragged a brilliant chance to score his first Chelsea goal wide of the post. Later denied by Farman as he showed promise down the right.Josh Acheampong (63’ for Disasi) – 6Slotted into the back four with ease and executed his defensive duties on his second senior appearance.Marc Guiu (76′ for Nkunku) – 6Continued to provide a threat to the tiring Barrow defence late on.Carney Chukwuemeka (76′ for Felix) – 6Quickly imposed himself on the action with several powerful runs through midfield to drive the hosts forward.Click here to read more on Chelsea. More

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    Premier League star forced to put Brazilian jiu-jitsu career on hold after £15million transfer to avoid getting injured

    JOAO GOMES simply cannot wait to grapple with Liverpool stars at Molineux tomorrow.Because the Wolves midfielder reckons his game has been transformed since he became a blue belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.Joao Gomes has a passion for Brazilian jiu-jitsuCredit: INSTAGRAMThe midfielder is a blue belt in the martial artCredit: INSTAGRAMGomes reckons jiu-jitsu has helped him improve on the pitchCredit: INSTAGRAMHe will look to get the grips with Liverpool tomorrow nightCredit: GettyThe Samba ace will get to grips with Arne Slot’s Reds and try to floor Mo Salah and Co as his side hope to grab their first Premier League  win of the season.Gomes said: “Learning Brazilian jiu-jitsu has improved my football.“It’s helped a lot with my mobility — and flexibility. Before I tried jiu-jitsu, I don’t think I had a lot of that. I used to have a lot of pain.“It has given me a lot of resistance to that pain. It’s helped with my conditioning.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“So doing it has given me a lot of benefits with regards to football.”Part of its appeal to Gomes is the core concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a much bigger, stronger opponent by using leverage and weight distribution.He said: “A lot of people see Brazilian jiu-jitsu as just a martial art — to do with violence.“However, there are many other factors that I think are important. It’s the ability to use the strength of your adversary against themselves that appealed to me. It’s a martial art, it’s more about using your brain than your physical strength.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“So there are some similarities with top-level football because a lot of it is played in the brain.“It’s more mental than physical and in that respect, they are similar.Wolves star Joao Gomes reveals how he has overcome ‘sadness’ of his stammer in inspirational video“In my opinion, you also learn respect and control and it also teaches you about the importance of a hierarchy within the sport.”Unfortunately, Gomes, 23, has had to put his Brazilian jiu-jitsu career on hold since his £15million move from Brazilian giants Flamengo in January 2023.He said: “I haven’t joined a club here because I haven’t found anywhere yet that has a group of people I can trust. In order for me to practice it here, I need to be able to trust them.“They need to be much better than me, for me to be sure that they know what they are doing.”I can’t have them hurting me — because of my football career. I need to feel safe, to know I’m going to come off the floor in one piece.”So does Gomes believe bottom-side Wolves can pull off a jiu-jitsu-style turnaround and floor high-flying Liverpool amid an illness in camp?He said: “They’re one of the best teams in the world. They’re one of the favourites to win the Premier League.“But we can’t be afraid to lose. You cannot focus on your fear of losing.“If you do that, you stop doing the good things that you are doing.“Our mentality matters a lot. We need to focus on what we can do to come out on top.“I know it will be difficult because of their players and their team.“They’re likely to have most of the possession, but I’m confident if we work like we can, we can get a good result.”READ MORE SUN STORIESGomes’ only regret of his Prem move is his football-crazy grandad Valdomiro Gomes did not live to see him play in the world’s best league.The Wolves ace added: “He was one of my biggest supporters throughout my career. He always came to watch me.” More

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    Who is Georgia Steel’s boyfriend Harry Clarke? Meet the Ipswich Town defender who’s dating loyal Love Island contestant

    FOLLOWING her split from non-league footballer Toby Aromoloran, Georgia Steel has moved up in the world and is now dating a Premier League player.On September 24, 2024, she was spotted getting steamy with Ipswich Town’s Harry Clarke — here’s everything we know about him and their fledgling relationship.Harry Clarke is dating Love Island’s Georgia SteelCredit: InstagramGeorgia and Harry were spotted getting ‘seriously flirty’ together in a saunaCredit: InstagramWho is Harry Clarke?Harrison Thomas Clarke was born in Ipswich, England on March 2, 2001.He’s a footballer who plays in defence, as well as the girlfriend of Love Island’s Georgia Steel, who appeared on the show’s fourth season in 2018.The wannabe WAG also featured in the first series of Love Island All-Stars in 2024. Early career Harry originally joined the Ipswich Town Academy set-up after he was scouted playing for Brantham Athletic.read more on georgia steelHe later made the switch to Premier League outfit Arsenal in 2015.Harry signed a professional contract with The Gunners in 2018, before beginning a series of loan spells away from the Emirates.Loan spellsFrom October 2020 to June 2021, he played 33 matches and scored two goals in all competitions for Oldham Athletic in League two.Between August 2021 and January 2022, he made 15 appearances for Scottish Premiership outfit Ross County, putting away three goals.Most read in FootballStaying in the country’s top league, he then moved to Hibernian, playing seven times and scoring once.During the first half of the 2022/23 season, Harry then gained valuable experience in the Championship with Stoke City. ‘Have some respect!’ rant Love Island fans as All Stars’ Georgia Steel is slammed for holiday outfitComing homeIpswich Town signed Harry from Arsenal for an undisclosed fee in January 2023.The defender, who can play as a centre-half or right-back, signed a three and a half year deal at Portman Road, marking a return to his hometown club.Harry quickly became an important member of the starting 11, helping the Blues win promotion from League One the same year.Clarke made 39 appearances throughout the 2023-24 season, with Ipswich securing a second consecutive promotion 12 months later as the club returned to the Premier League after a 22 year absence.He put away his first goal for the side in September 2023, thumping in Town’s opener in a 4-3 victory over Blackburn Rovers.How long have Harry and Georgia been dating?Georgia split from Hashtag United striker Toby Aromolaran in April 2024 — just weeks after they finished fourth on Love Island All Stars.She later said: “It wasn’t a horrendous breakup or anything like that.“It was just, obviously, I was a bit shocked.Georgia and Hashtag United striker Toby Aromolaran broke up weeks after finishing fourth on Love Island All Stars.Credit: Getty“It was so soon, like we never really had the opportunity to grow or anything.”But she didn’t take too long to move on — and up, in terms of the league of her new footballer beau.Onlookers claimed Georgia and Harry were getting “seriously flirty” inside the mixed sauna at a swanky David Lloyd gym in Ipswich on the evening of Tuesday on September 24, 2024,They said: “They were practically glued to each other, chatting about his upcoming match and saying she would be cheering him on from the stands.“It was all laughs and a lot of hand-touching.“They were getting seriously flirty.”This sizzling sauna session came just a month after the duo were seen together at a trendy coffee shop in Suffolk city.READ MORE SUN STORIESStaff at Deluxe Coffee bar in Ipswich later said: “Georgia was really lovely as well and just seemed like a really easy-going person.“They both seemed to really enjoy their drinks and we had a lovely little chat.” More

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    Arsenal’s tactics weren’t dirty, the real masters of ‘dark arts’ were ‘nasty’ Diego Costa and ‘b******’ Cesc Fabregas

    ARSENAL are the masters of the “dark arts”? Give me a break.I’ve been around and seen teams act way worse in the Prem. None of this is new.Arsenal were reduced to ten men at the Etihad last weekendCredit: GettyThe Gunners were accused of time wasting by Man City starsCredit: ReutersAlan Pardew’s Newcastle were great at it. Cesc Fabregas was a horrible b*****d. John Obi Mikel used to foul you, help you up and step on your calf as he did it.At Watford we had meetings about Chelsea’s Diego Costa who was so nasty we tried to be really nice to him on the pitch to try and get him on side.And I will never forget wiping out Martin Skrtel early doors in 2015 and hearing the noise he made when I hit him. I thought: ‘I’ve got you’. We ended up beating Liverpool 3-0.It is not “dark arts”. It is just trying to wind people up to gain an advantage.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAll Arsenal did against Manchester City was manage the clock, trying to give their players a break and they did it really well. It was basically a pre-season drill.When you go to Old Trafford, when you go to Anfield, anywhere you go, you would try to dampen the crowd, wouldn’t you?Yes they shut up shop, but don’t most teams at the Etihad? Does that make them all dirty and masters of the “dark arts”?Just because Man City want you to come out and play, does that mean everyone needs to fall in line? They want everyone to play their game and the refs to call it their way.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTroy Deeney got involved in plenty of tussles during his Prem careerCredit: GettyYou can’t have it all your own way. You’ve got the best players, the best manager and the best facilities. Every now and again teams will come and try beat you up.Don’t get me wrong, Arsenal took it a step too far at times with their time wasting basically from the start of the second half, but it is something they had to do. They had ten men.Man Utd legend Roy Keane blasts Arsenal as ‘small team with small mentality’ in furious rant at Ian WrightBut the reason Arsenal and Mikel Arteta are getting so much heat for this so-called “dark arts” is because the likes of Pep Guardiola, John Stones and Bernardo Silva spoke about it.Silva was squealing like you wouldn’t believe post-match – I could hardly make out what he was saying. And are you telling me Stones didn’t get involved in that sort of stuff at Everton?But people turn into sheep and latch on to it because a great manager and great group of players start talking about it these ‘dark arts’ and it being a dirty Arsenal performance.Were there actually any properly dirty tackles in that game? Not one. It was a football match, and a great one at that.’STRANGE’Erling Haaland chucked the ball at Gabriel’s head and people are calling for a review? Come on, what are we doing? He didn’t get hurt – it’s a football.I like Haaland, he is a nasty winner. I have got to say though, the “stay humble” line to Arteta was strange. If he had said that to me, there would have been a bit of action in the tunnel.Football has just become a bit sterile and boring. Everyone’s nice and lovely. Is it not about winning?Arteta is tired of coming second and wants to get over the line however he can. He has got it into his players that they need more fight and resilience and they have listened.’RUNNING OUT OF IDEAS’City are just using this as a distraction tactic because, dare I say it, they looked like they were running out of ideas and didn’t have a Plan B before they got lucky with the equaliser.And nobody is talking about it but that red card for Leandro Trossard massively helped City, because for me, without it Arsenal would have gone on to win that game.When Rodri went off, it was a massive psychological blow and Arsenal smelled blood. Are you telling me they wouldn’t have scored from another set-piece with 11 men on the pitch?Arsenal are showing they can do things in a different way and it is great for football.Yes, they can play nice stuff, but they can also bully you now. You haven’t been able to say that for a long, long time.If I was an Arsenal player, I would be putting two fingers up at the whole world. They’re proving they’re no longer soft. I quite like it.They’re a really good outfit, they just need to cut out some of the nonsense and stop celebrating every little thing they do and focus on the bigger picture.It is getting spicy between Arsenal and City, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it impacted the friendship between Arteta and Pep sooner rather than later.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere would have been no glass of wine shared after last weekend.You can’t keep competing against someone and the other one wins all the time. There’s going to be some resentment that builds up.Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta’s friendship could be pushed to the limitCredit: Rex More

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    Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson personally pays for truckloads of food to be sent to his hometown in Gambia

    NICOLAS JACKSON has been delivering the goods on the pitch for Chelsea and is now doing the same off it for his old neighbours back in Africa.The big-hearted striker paid for several truckloads of food to be sent to his hometown of Ziguinchor in Senegal and Banjul in Gambia where he was born and still has family.Nicolas Jackson sent food to people in his hometownCredit: Instagram @n_jackson_charity_foundation_Jackson sent a lorry full of onions, potatoes and riceCredit: Instagram @n_jackson_charity_foundation_Jackson is keen to give back to the people that raised himCredit: Instagram @n_jackson_charity_foundation_He has been delivering the goods on and off the pitchCredit: AlamyIt included rice, onions, potatoes and sugar – plus pens and books for local kids.Jackson’s heartwarming gesture took place during the summer and it is not the only thing he does to help out the folks back home.At previous club Villarreal in Spain, he pestered team-mates to give him old boots and kit.He then paid for it all to be flown back to Senegal and distributed among children to help promote sport.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA Blues source told SunSport: “Nico feels a really strong connection with his roots and he wants to give back as much as possible to support people in the places where he was born and raised.”Jackson recently signed a two-year extension to his contract at Chelsea which now ties him to the club until 2033 – the longest deal in Premier League history.He also has four goals this season – two of them coming last weekend in a 3-0 win at London rivals West Ham.After bagging his double, Jackson then set up Cole Palmer as the duo continued their unstoppable partnership.Most read in FootballSince the start of the 2023/24 season, they have combined for ten Premier League goals.It makes them the most deadly pair in the division, two ahead of Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailley in second place.Watch incredible moment ex-Chelsea star Diego Costa starts BRAWL during U20s game as fans ask ‘what did they expect-‘Chelsea player ratings vs BarrowJOAO FELIX and Christopher Nkunku stole the show as Chelsea thrashed Barrow in the Carabao Cup.A hat-trick from Nkunku along with goals from Felix and Pedro Neto secured a 5-0 third round win at Stamford Bridge.Here’s how the starting XI rated…Filip Jorgensen – 6Looked shaky as Barrow launched a string of early throw-ins into the box. Forced into a smart stop down to his right at the start of the second half but otherwise untroubled.Malo Gusto – 7Lack of threat from visitors allowed him freedom of the right flank and the full-back regularly posed a threat as he linked up with Neto.Axel Disasi – 6Unconvincing in possession despite little pressure but performed defensive duties throughout in solid partnership with Benoit Badiashile.Benoit Badiashile – 6Barely troubled by Barrow forward Emile Acquah. Assured in possession and showed his passing range by switching play to his wingers when available.Renato Veiga – 6Looked a class above when stepping into midfield when Chelsea were in possession but far from convincing in defence. Gave away several needless free-kicks in dangerous areas.Cesare Casadei – 7Shaky at first on his maiden Chelsea touch before growing into the game in the centre of the park.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Afforded plenty of time and space on the ball for much of the game and even came close to a goal of his own.Pedro Neto – 7Link-up play with Malo Gusto was a constant threat down the right. Finished off a flowing team move for his first Chelsea goal.Joao Felix – 8Unlocked the Barrow defence with a beautiful scooped pass to set up Nkunku’s opener. Followed it up with a perfectly placed free-kick off the post to put his side 3-0 up before half-time.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Gave Chelsea an outlet with his pace down the left, showed to perfection as he raced away before squaring for Neto to score moments into the second half.Christopher Nkunku – 9Showed his clinical edge in front of goal by grabbing a hat-trick with three well-taken strikes inside the penalty area, including an exquisite back-heeled flick into the corner.SubsBen Chilwell (45’ for Gusto) – 6Given a rapturous reception on his return from the Chelsea ‘bomb squad’. Tightened up the left-hand side for the Blues, with Veiga moving to central defence.Tyrique George (63’ for Neto) – 6Dragged a brilliant chance to score his first Chelsea goal wide of the post. Later denied by Farman as he showed promise down the right.Josh Acheampong (63’ for Disasi) – 6Slotted into the back four with ease and executed his defensive duties on his second senior appearance.Marc Guiu (76′ for Nkunku) – 6Continued to provide a threat to the tiring Barrow defence late on.Carney Chukwuemeka (76’ for Felix) – 6Quickly imposed himself on the action with several powerful runs through midfield to drive the hosts forward.Click here to read more on Chelsea. More

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    Wolves crisis ahead of crunch Liverpool clash as Gary O’Neil reveals illness ripping through squad

    GARY O’NEIL has revealed that several members of his Wolves side have been suffering with a virus.The Premier League strugglers are set to host Liverpool at Molineux on Saturday evening.Gary O’Neil spoke ahead of his side’s clash with LiverpoolCredit: GettySeveral Wolves stars missed training on FridayCredit: GettyO’Neil’s men are yet to win this season, and have picked up just one point from their opening five matches.The former Bournemouth boss will be desperate to grab three points on Saturday, although an already daunting task in facing Liverpool has been made even trickier by far from ideal preparations.Speaking on the eve of the match, O’Neil, 41, revealed: “There’s quite a bit of illness actually.”A few will need a check tomorrow on how they’re feeling – we just had a little bit of a virus going around.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Quite a few missed training today so we’ll see how we are tomorrow.”We have a few issues but looking forward to getting out there and make it as difficult as possible for Liverpool.”Some lads will struggle for tomorrow but that’s not a definite, sometimes these things can clear up in 24 hours.”We are hopeful that the guys with the virus will be fine and 100 per cent available for tomorrow. But as the doctor told me, it’s hard to give a definitive answer.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWolves were dealt a huge blow earlier this week, when it was confirmed that Yerson Mosquera will be missing for the rest of the season due to a knee injury.The defender, 23, sustained the issue late on against Aston Villa last week.Wolves boss Gary O’Neil issues summer transfer warning to fans and says -certain managers would not want to work under these circumstancesSpeaking about Mosquera’s injury, O’Neil said: “He’s a great kid, so I’m absolutely devastated for him because of his energy and his life.”No matter how things go each week, he gives absolutely everything, and he always attacks things and does things in the right way.”A big loss to us from that point of view. He was showing signs that he was capable of playing at the level we were hoping.”So, from a team and a squad point of view, a big blow to us, obviously, but with that brings opportunity for others.”Alfie Pond, for instance, gets a step closer. A boy that was obviously out on loan last year at Stockport, played for us in the cup at Brighton, and is extremely excited this week that he’s around it and there’s a chance of featuring in Premier League games.”I am absolutely gutted for Yerson, and it’s a blow to the group and where we are, but we have a real good mentality inside the place that we don’t let things like that stop what we’re trying to do.”We’re always going to suffer setbacks, this is a big one, especially for Yerson personally, but we will find a way to make sure that we’re still capable of fighting and picking up points.”Yerson Mosquera has been ruled out for the remainder of the seasonCredit: Getty More