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      Bukayo Saka update as Arsenal star spotted at Emirates without crutches… but Gunners suffer fresh injury blow

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      BUKAYO SAKA was spotted without crutches at the Emirates – but Arsenal were still dealt with another injury blow.The Gunners star has been out since late December and has missed the last five league matches. Bukayo Saka was spotted without crutches at the EmiratesCredit: XHe has been out since DecemberCredit: GettyMikel Arteta told Saka to go on holidayCredit: GettyBut there were positive signs before the Aston Villa clash as Saka was seen walking around before the game without crutches. The England international is set to be out till at least March – and manager Mikel Arteta urged him to go on HOLIDAY. Arteta said: “He needs to. He is obligated to go! With his girlfriend or his family, he can choose. Or on his own.”But he needs to get away for a few days and refresh. He can still do a lot of things with his rehab because it is the perfect stage. READ MORE ON ARSENAL”I think it will make him really better. He has been [around the squad] every single day. “There is a moment, especially when we are going to be away for a few days, that he needs to do that. “That is very important for him as well. We need to look after our players.”Arteta is also without centre-back William Saliba after he was seen holding his hamstring in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Tottenham in the week. Most read in FootballWilliam Saliba suffered a knock against SpursCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Gunners posted on social media: “William Saliba misses out with a minor issue.”Jurrien Timber replaced Saliba to partner alongside Gabriel in defence. Arsenal went into the game seven points adrift league leaders Liverpool – who beat Brentford late. Mikel Arteta reveals Bukayo Saka is set to miss months after surgery as he gives injury update on Arsenal star More

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      Leicester 0 Fulham 2: Ruud van Nistelrooy suffers SEVENTH straight league loss as visitors leave Foxes in deep trouble

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      LEICESTER City fans turned on Ruud van Nistelrooy with chants of ‘You don’t know what you’re doing’.The Dutchman saw his Foxes slump to a SEVENTH straight Premier League defeat – as second-half goals from Emile Smith-Rowe and Adama Traore earned Fulham victory.Fulham condemened Leicester to another league defeatCredit: ReutersFans fans turned on Ruud van Nistelrooy for the first time since he took over as managerCredit: ReutersBut furious Leicester fans did not hold back as they let van Nistelrooy that his King Power Stadium honeymoon was definitely over.The home crowd erupted when the Foxes boss decided to sub Bilal El Khanouss just after the hour mark.Loud boos rang around the stadium with chants of ‘You don’t know what you’re doing’.It was the first time Leicester fans had targeted van Nistelrooy specifically – and his cause was not helped when Traore added Fulham’s second soon after.READ MORE IN footballFans also turned their anger towards Leicester’s director of football Jon Rudkin – followed by singing ‘sack the board’.Some fans even walked out as Fulham went two up after 68 minutes.And there were ironic cheers when Foxes forward Jordan Ayew was taken off later.The game followed the same pattern as the Foxes’ midweek defeat by Crystal Palace.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA goal-less first half – then the opposition pouncing on Leicester’s almost inevitable lapses at the back.Quite where Leicester go from here is anyone’s guess.Wayne Rooney Eyes Pundit Spot on BBC’s Match of the DayBut right now, relegation looks certain and it will take a heck of a turnaround to save their season.Leicester could not play new signing Woyo Coulibaly as delayed paperwork meant he did not have time to prepare for the game.What difference he would have made is debatable – but van Nistelrooy needs a major injection of new faces this month if they are to improve.Fans never took to ex-Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper who was gone less than four months into the season.Van Nistelrooy was welcomed when he took over last month and took four points from his first two games in charge.But was not so much the new manager effect – more like a dead cat bounce.The last seven games have been agony for Leicester fans – yet a win here would have taken them out of the bottom three.Twenty minutes later, sub Traore converted as Wilson was the architect again.Emile Smith Rowe opened the scoringCredit: RexThe former Arsenal star celebrates his goalCredit: GettyIt was almost as though Fulham could have predicted which way the game was going to go – and they bided their time before picking the Foxes off.Leicester started brightly enough – and a little more ruthlessness in attack could seen them take the lead.Jamie Vardy caused some early problems for Fulham. The 38-year-old showed he still has a devastating turn of pace and his cross into the box almost forced former Foxes defender Timothy Catagne to put through his own goal – only a Bernd Leno save spared his blushes.Fulham looked a threat going forward and Harry Wilson set up Smith-Rowe who curled his shot just wide.Foxes defender Victor Kristiansen carved out space for himself on the edge of the area but sliced his shot wide when he had a sight of goal.But Fulham finished the half strongly with Alex Iwobi’s cross cum shot drifting just over the bar.Calvin Bassey drove wide of the far post moments later as Marco Silva’s side gave an indication of what was to come.It was the same old story for Leicester – as they went behind three minutes after half-time.Raul Jimenez’s deep cross found Wilson who cross for Sasa Lukic – but he failed to make a connection and Smith-Rowe stooped to head home his fourth goal of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIESAdama Traore came off the bench to wrap up the winCredit: GettyFulham travel back to London with all three pointsCredit: Getty More

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      Brentford 0 Liverpool 2: Darwin Nunez steps off bench to score twice in injury time as Reds get huge win in title race

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      DARWIN NUNEZ rammed the Brentford fans’ taunts down their throats with the stoppage-time goals that rescued Liverpool from another damaging draw.“You’re just a s**t Andy Carroll” sang the home faithful when Kop boss Arne Slot sent on his unconvincing Uruguayan to try to find the breakthrough.Darwin Nunez was the hero with two goals after coming onCredit: PABoth his goals were scored in stoppage timeCredit: GettyLiverpool were frustrated for large spells and missed with their first 35 shotsCredit: GettyBut in the first minute of added time, Nunez tucked home Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross to turn his team’s dominance at last into a goal.The away fans responded by turning the Bees’ chant back on them.But when Nunez struck again to end all doubt, the travelling supporters opted for “Liverpool, Liverpool, top of the league” and “We shall not be moved”.These are the days that titles are won and lost.If the Reds had come away with only a point despite having more than 40 shots, it would have been six points dropped out of nine.Instead Nunez threw down the gauntlet to Arsenal ahead of their teatime kick-off with two of the most important goals of his Liverpool career.Brentford could have no complaints but threatened themselves in a harum-scarum second half.But Liverpool were not to be denied after a slow start.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBrentford should have scored inside five minutes.Right-back Mads Roerslev crossed from near the byline but a slight deflection deceived Mikkel Damsgaard and he was unable to adjust himself, failing to get even a touch on the ball as he lurked at the back post.Never-before-seen moment in English football as referee speaks to crowd to confirm why Spurs goal ruled out vs LiverpoolKostas Tsimikas started the game after his immediate impact as a substitute against Nottingham Forest but soon gave Slot cause to wonder if it was the right decision.Inside eight minutes the Greek was booked for tugging back Bryan Mbeumo on the halfway line and a long afternoon beckoned against Brentford’s main man.Mbeumo had a couple of shots easily saved by Alisson and in between Liverpool started to look a bit more threatening, with one particularly good chance.Centre back Ibrahima Konate chipped in a pass but Luis Diaz got his attempted header all wrong, so much so that the ball came off his back and went behind.Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken kept out a Ryan Gravenberch shot without too much trouble and Liverpool’s attacking play lacked authority in the final third.Home skipper Christian Norgaard sent a header over from Mbeumo’s free kick. Dominik Szboszlai’s effort at the other end was deflected behind for one of a number of corners for the away team, none of which they could make count.The Hungarian was coming into the game and after ending a good run with a tame shot, his next effort, this time from distance, clipped the crossbar.Moments later Szoboszlai was involved again in a lovely move started by Gakpo.The Dutchman should have finished it, too, but his shot from Mo Salah’s cross would not have been hard enough even if it had been on target.The Reds ended the half with 18 shots and nine corners yet no goals.Within seconds of the restart, Szoboszlai’s cross-shot drifted wide.Then one brilliant break ended with Salah’s shot being half blocked and headed behind for another corner, and another with a Diaz effort being cut out by Sepp van den Berg.Brentford looked dangerous at times, too. Alexander-Arnold sprinted back to tidy up after one pass sent Mbeumo bearing down on goal.Liverpool, through Diaz, finally forced another save out of Flekken but the Colombian was guilty of taking a dive as he followed up.Slot soon sent on Darwin Nunez for Diaz, and the Uruguayan was greeted by the home fans with a chorus of “You’re just a s**t Andy Carroll.”Nunez hardly made them eat their words when he failed to make the most of his first chance and headed off target.And the Liverpool fans’ cheers stuck in their throats when they realised Alexis Mac Allister’s header had gone the wrong side of the post.There were jitters at the other end when an Mbeumo free kick made it all the way through to Allison, who pushed it away in a panic and moments later saved from the same player.Alexander-Arnold was furious when Nunez wasted a promising position with a brainless shot well over the bar.The only previous occasion on which Liverpool had failed to score in the league was in their only defeat, at home against Forest in September.Slot sent on Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones in search of the breakthrough.Instead Yoane Wissa tested Alisson with a shot, before Alexander-Arnold fired wide and then Van Dijk cleared a dangerous Kevin Schade cross.READ MORE SUN STORIESSlot’s last throw of the dice was to send on Federico Chiesa in the dying minutes.But it was Nunez who came up trumps. More

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      Premier League LIVE SCORES: Brentford vs Liverpool on NOW plus latest from West Ham vs Crystal Palace – updates

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      BOURNEMOUTH smashed Newcastle with Justin Kluivert scoring a brilliant hat-trick in the first game of the day.The standout 3pm match sees Premier League leaders Liverpool head to the capital to take on Brentford.There are two other games with West Ham facing Crystal Palace and Leicester hosting Fulham.Later, Arsenal go head-to-head with Aston Villa in this weekend’s blockbuster clash.Kick off times: 12.30pm/3pm/5.30pm GMT48 – GOAL!! Leicester 0-1 FULHAMEMILE SMITH ROWE opens the scoring after a couple of minutes of the second half!Copy linkCopied48 – GOAL!! West Ham 0-1 CRYSTAL PALACEThe first goal in the 3pm games and it’s JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA!Copy linkCopiedSecond half!Back under way then for the second 45 minutes.These six teams have left us waiting for some goal action but there’s going to be PLENTY coming in this second half.My prediction: 7 goals will arrive across the three games.Copy linkCopiedJust nothingDean Henderson would be as well sitting watching this beside me.The Fabianski save from Mateta was a fantastic one but in truth not much else outwith that, particularly the Hammers not forcing a save yet.It has to be better after the break, right?Copy linkCopiedGraham Hill at the King PowerRuud van Nistelrooy will be pleased to go into the break on level terms. Leicester have threatened on occasions, but it will only need one lapse at the back and Fulham will be in control.Victor Kristiansen should have done better after carving out space but slicing his shot wide.Fulham went close through Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey before the break. But if Leicester want to stop the rot, they need to find the net – something they have struggled with recently.Copy linkCopiedDan King at the Gtech Community StadiumIt’s nervy one, this, now. The home fans are getting restless because of the number of chances their team is giving up and the sense that Liverpool will surely score at some point. But the longer the visitors dominate without breaking the deadlock, the more their own fears, and those of their supporters will grow, that it is going to be another one of those days. The Reds had nine corners in the half but have not made any of them count like they did at Forest last Tuesday night. Copy linkCopiedHalf time scoresThe three Premier League scores at half time:Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolLeicester 0-0 FulhamWest Ham vs Crystal PalaceCopy linkCopiedHALF TIME! Leicester 0-0 FulhamAnd it’s a copy and paste job. Fulham dominant at the break but chances at either end. No goals.Copy linkCopiedHALF TIME! Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolLiverpool knocking at the door but as of yet unable to break it down.Goalless at the Gtech.Copy linkCopiedHALF TIME! West Ham 0-0 Crystal PalaceNot too much to discuss there.Copy linkCopiedChances amissChris Sutton tells BBC Radio 5 Live: “Liverpool cannot keep passing up opportunities like they are. Brilliant work, devastating on the counter.”Mark Flekken does brilliant to narrow the angle but Cody Gakpo’s effort is tame and weak.”How many chances are Liverpool going to waste?”Copy linkCopied39 – Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolGakpo is picked out excellently by Salah as Liverpool counter.Flekken rushes off his line and Gakpo manages to get it past him – using his heel it looks like – but it just rolls harmlessly wide.Let-off for the Bees.Copy linkCopiedOn top?How is this game still goalless?Liverpool with eight corners and 12 shots on goal after just less than 40 minutes on the clock. Just the three of those on target, though.They’ve had the bulk of the possession too but Brentford look really dangerous going forward.Copy linkCopied35 – Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolSZOBOSZLAI HITS THE BAR!What a hit and what a stunning goal this would’ve been.Szoboszlai allowed to take his time to line it up, take a couple of touches to set himself 25 yards from goal, on the right of centre and he smashes a shot which beats Flekken but flicks the crossbar on the way by and away over to safety.So close to a bit of magicCopy linkCopiedJack Rosser at the London StadiumIt is freezing at the London Stadium and the football has done nothing to distract anyone from that fact.The play and atmosphere are both flat as anything. West Ham again are moving the ball with a bit more pace than they did under Julen Lopetegui.But with just Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta as they’re attacking options chances are hard to come by.Copy linkCopiedDan King at the Gtech Community StadiumA strangely subdued atmosphere at the Gtech. It’s been a decent game, though. The duel between Bryan Mbeumo and Kostas Tsimikas is going to be crucial. The Greek picked up an early booking for tugging back Brentford’s main man and now the home side are trying to isolate him against Mbeumo as often as possible. Liverpool are lacking authority at both ends of the pitch with Luis Diaz fluffing a chance. The first goal is very important in this one.Copy linkCopiedGraham Hill at the King PowerIt’s looking even between the sides at the moment, but you can sense Fulham know Leicester have a fragile defence and can always concede.Jamie Vardy caused some early problems for Fulham. The 38-year-old showed he still has a devastating turn of pace and his cross into the box almost forced former Foxes defender Timothy Castagne to put through his own goal – only a Bernd Leno save spared his blushes.Fulham look a threat going forward and Harry Wilson set up Emile Smith-Rowe who curled his shot just wide.Copy linkCopied26 – West Ham 0-0 Crystal PalaceMichael Dawson told Soccer Saturday: “Yeah pretty dull, nil-nil.”That’s him being kind…Copy linkCopied22 – West Ham 0-0 Crystal PalaceJust a couple of shots at goal from either side as they’ve cancelled each other out at present.Mateta gets in down the right and forces a very good save from Fabianski who pushes it away at full stretch.Edson Alvarez then tries his luck from distance but can’t beat a cluster of players in front of him.Copy linkCopiedThat Damsgaard miss…A picture never really does the game justice, admittedly.But the video footage is even worse than this miss looks still. Not entirely sure how they’re not in front, Brentford.Copy linkCopiedPremier League latest scoresAround 18 minutes in across the top flight…Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolLeicester 0-0 FulhamWest Ham vs Crystal PalaceCopy linkCopied4 – Brentford 0-0 LiverpoolWHAT A CHANCE for Damsgaard!Liverpool started strongly and had a corner inside 90 seconds which came to nothing – but they should be behind.Roerslev slides a terrific ball across goal and Damsgaard looks to have a tap-in, into an empty net, but just misses it altogether!Copy linkCopiedThe view at the King Power Stadium of Graham HillIt’s a huge game for Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy as he looks to avoid a SEVENTH straight league defeat.Ironically, a Foxes win would take them out of the bottom three due to their rivals’ recent struggles.Leicester fans have been taking out their frustrations on director of football Jon Rudkin, so it’ll be interesting to see which direction that heads.There is no place for new signing Woyo Coulibaly who signed from Parma in midweek – but the paperwork to allow the French full-back to play here was not completed in time for him to have enough training sessions.Fulham will look to bounce back after their 3-2 defeat at West Ham.Copy linkCopiedThe view of SunSport’s Jack Rosser watching West Ham vs Crystal Palace at the London StadiumGraham Potter made a fantastic start to life at the London Stadium with a thrilling win over Fulham in his first home game in charge on Tuesday night.The new Hammers boss would certainly like things to be a little easier than that 3-2 win, and has moved to a back three to try and match up Crystal Palace.Given how thin they are up top, Lucas Paqueta’s form will be key. He was impressive in midweek but has struggled for consistency for far too long now.Copy linkCopiedKICK-OFF!No better time in the week than 3pm on a Saturday!And the three Premier League games are all under way. All the talking points to come….Copy linkCopied More

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      Angry Premier League flop says ‘I’ll probably get biggest fine in Bundesliga history’ as he swears in live TV interview

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      HOFFENHEIM star Andrej Kramaric lashed out on live TV as he delivered a furious expletive-laden tirade following a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich.Bayern won 5-0 in the Bundesliga on Wednesday at the Allianz Arena after a brace by Leroy Sane and goals by Raphael Guerreiro, Serge Gnbabry and England captain Harry Kane.Hoffenheim star Andrej Kramaric delivered a furious rant on live TVCredit: ESPNThat was after Hoffenheim’s humiliating 5-0 loss to Bayern MunichCredit: ESPNKramaric, 33, was enraged after the final whistle and didn’t hold back during his post-match interview.And the ex-Leicester striker used X-rated language during a sensational rant in which he targeted club chiefs.The Croatia international also claimed he was actually being polite because if he said what he truly thought he would be slapped with “biggest punishment in the history of the Bundesliga”.This comes amid Hoffenheim’s tremendous woes that have seen them dropping to 16th place and fighting for survival in the Bundesliga.Read More on FootballKramaric told ESPN: “I don’t even want to talk about the game because for me it was clear that this was going to happen. “This is the picture of the whole season, this is one big s**t season, I’m going to be honest. “And I’m still soft because if I want to say the truth and some things which are on my mind about the club and the situation, probably I will get the biggest punishment in the history of the Bundesliga. “We invest so much money for nothing, and there’s no point to even talk about today’s game. Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives”I just want to talk about the current situation because it’s dangerous that we could be relegated with good players but obviously nothing is working since something has changed in the club. “First of all, thanks to the fans, who supported us from the beginning of the season. They understand everything that is happening and that we are going through a really hard phase. Erling Haaland’s salary is only ninth biggest in football with Chelsea flop Koulibaly earning more than Man City star”It’s the first time in my life, in my football career, that I feel like this because I feel a big s**t in the club. If nobody’s going to change this I will try to change this. “Today I may be soft but when the time comes I am going to be a little harder because we could be relegated.”When I start to talk everybody’s going to listen. You can feel my voice. The people from Zuzenhausen, Sinsheim and all around Germany who are supporting Hoffenheim… “I think the fans understand what is happening, it’s not an unlucky moment.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Newcastle 1 Bournemouth 4: Kluivert scores hat-trick at dad’s old home as brilliant Cherries move a point off the top 4

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      JUSTIN KLUIVERT produced a sensational display to TREBLE his legendary father Patrick’s St James’ Park goal tally.And his hat-trick heroics for Bournemouth sent Newcastle crashing down to earth.  Bournemouth hammered Newcastle at St James ParkCredit: ReutersAlexander Isak looks on in frustrationCredit: GettyAll the talk beforehand was about Toon chasing a club-record tenth win and Alexander Isak extending his eight-game scoring run.But it was Andoni Iraola’s brilliant Bournemouth celebrating as man of the match Kluivert’s that-trick extended their record unbeaten run to 11.The 25-year-old’s father signed for Newcastle in 2004 and scored just once at home in the top-flight during his lone season.His boy wonder DOUBLED that tally before half time and then secured the matchball with a sensational strike at the death to move his team to within a point of the Magpies.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd despite their past romance, Bournemouth felt like nothing more than an annoying ex to Eddie Howe as the Cherries burst Toon’s ten fantasy to leave him still chasing a first league win over his old flame.The visitors flew out of the traps and pinned the hosts in their own half from the off and should have taken the lead on four minutes.David Brooks curled an inswing cross from the right which forced Martin Dubravka to parry away a Dango Ouattara header.The ball fell perfectly for the onrushing Antoine Semenyo near the penalty spot, only the Ghanaian forward was left with his head in his hands as he blazed over.Most read in FootballKluivert put the Cherries aheadCredit: AFPIt was a dream day for the forwardCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNewcastle resembled a deer in the headlights as they struggled to get a touch and they failed to heed the warning signs.And by the sixth minute they were duly punished as Semenyo made amends.Wayne Rooney Eyes Pundit Spot on BBC’s Match of the DayHe travelled down the left and passed straight into the path of Justin Kluivert to hit a curling strike into the far corner.The star’s legendary father, Patrick, of course signed for Newcastle in 2004 and scored 13 times for the Magpies.This was the first time in 20 years and 155 days since a Kluivert had scored in the Premier League at St James’.The omens were not looking good for the hosts, this being the third time that Howe’s side had conceded at first at home, and they had yet to come back and secure a win.Buoyed on by their disgruntled crowd, Newcastle did start to see more of the ball but Bournemouth’s aggressive start showed no signs of slowing down.They were happy to let the Toon have it, but when they won it back, they were causing all sorts of concerns on the counter, especially down the right as they targeted Lewis Hall and Dan Burn.Bruno Guimaraes got Newcastle back levelCredit: GettyThe game was back onCredit: PATino Livramento managed to cut out one attack as the away team looked a threat every time they attacked, while a strike high and wide from Joelinton was all Newcastle could muster. Then, midway through the half, it was all level out of nowhere due to some slack marking at a set-piece.Anthony Gordon’s outswinging corner was cleared out for another, leading to a change of tactics as Hall took responsibility.The full-back’s inswinger found the unmarked Bruno Guimaraes to head past Kepa, who only managed to get a hand to it, for his second of the season.The place was rocking now but Newcastle were still struggling to find a way through, while Bournemouth still looked threatening every time they went forward.Ouattara headed over from Lewis Cook’s cross before they were rewarded for their bravery in an explosive final few seconds of the half.Guimaraes was at fault this time as he was caught on the ball 30 yards out after a pass from Burn.Kluivert put the visitor’s back in frontCredit: GettyHis scoring form continuedCredit: RexOuattara stole it and drove forward and instead of shooting he slid in Kluivert to drill home across Dubravka.There was still time for one last chance as a Hall free-kick was only cleared as far as Sandro Tonali, but the Italian’s vicious shot was excellently pushed away by Kepa.Howe replaced defender Sven Botman with Fabian Schar at the break but the sub’s sloppy passing gifted David Brooks a long-ranger but Dubravka spared his blushes.The Toon Army’s anger was mounting when Kluivert tripped Guimaraes and that turned to pure fury Outtara stabbed home – but VAR rescued Newcastle as it spotted the ball had gone out of play in the build-up.Still, Bournemouth were proving too quick and strong as Dubravka scrambled to prevent Brooks’ backheel from creeping in. It took until the 71st minute for Newcastle to register an effort on target in the second half as Burn headed straight at Kepa.In the closing stages Isak finally had his opportunity – but his 25-yard free-kick straight into the wall summed up Newcastle’s afternoon.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis day belonged to Bournemouth – in particular Kluivert – and he saved the best until last as he curled home from 25 yards for his second hat-trick of the season.And things got even better when Kieran Trippier stood off Milos Kerkez and allowed the full-back to drill home a fourth.Kluivert completes his hat-trickCredit: ReutersKluivert celebrates his hat-trickCredit: RexMilos Kerkez sealed a 4-1 thumpingCredit: PABut Kluivert was the man of the momentCredit: Reuters More

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      Man Utd release major new stadium update with club to make final decision on 100,000-seater plan in summer

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have taken a major step forward in their discussions surrounding the future of Old Trafford.A Task Force, set up by minority owner Jim Ratcliffe last March, announced that they have “completed their initial feasibility work into options for a new or redeveloped stadium.”Manchester United have issued a fresh update about their upcoming stadium plansA new Old Trafford could cost £2billion to buildUnited’s current capacity at Old Trafford is just over 74,000Credit: PA:Press AssociationMan Utd could build a state-of-the-art 100,000-seater stadiumMan Utd could draw on inspiration from the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumThe group, which includes Gary Neville, Andy Burnham and Lord Sebastian Coe, were charged with examining whether United should refurbish Old Trafford or build a new state-of-the-art replacement on adjoining land. The Task Force determined that a redeveloped Old Trafford could increase the capacity of the existing ground, which has stood in place since 1910, from 74,000 to 87,000,But a new-build stadium, which would cost around £2billion, would allow capacity to reach 100,000. Both options remain under consideration, with the Red Devils hierarchy set to decide on the preferred approach ahead of the summer.READ MORE ON MAN UTDA club statement read: “An Options Report has been submitted by the Task Force to executive bodies at Manchester United, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Trafford Borough Council.”It sets out a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the historic industrial engine room of Greater Manchester into a vibrant new driver of growth and innovation in sports, entertainment, business, and education.”The vision is for Manchester United to develop a world-class stadium, acting as a catalyst for wider regeneration of a re-energised Trafford Park.”The consensus is that United are leaning towards a new build as the “Wembley of the North” centre-piece of a wider regeneration project.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe planned project could generate £7.3 billion annually for the UK economy and create around 90,000 jobs nationally.A farewell to Old Trafford – and a significant moment in British sporting history – now looks increasingly likely, according to The Mail.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim challenges Amad Diallo to continue to raise his game Man Utd have played at Old Trafford for 114 yearsThe regeneration Task Force is chaired by former Olympian Lord Sebastian CoeCredit: AFPIt is estimated that it would take around seven years for United to have an operational new stadium, which would be the largest in Britain, according to The Telegraph.Sources stress that no final decision has been made and that there is a lot still to work through, including how any project will be funded.But the task force has challenged United to be as ambitious as possible.Lord Coe, who is chairing the Task Force, said the plans would act as a catalyst for “one of the biggest regeneration projects ever undertaken in the UK”.There is the potential for considerable hidden costs and a longer build time trying to redevelop a 115-year-old stadium.United have been cited £50million for associated ground works and will need to build a platform over the railway line next to Old Trafford to facilitate construction.Additionally, there is the threat of severely reduced income streams while United played at a reduced capacity Old Trafford for multiple seasons.As part of the feasibility work, more than 50,000 United fans were surveyed.The survey showed that more than 90 per cent of supporters are positive about the ambition to deliver a world-class stadium at the heart of a regenerated stadium district.The data also showed that a new-build stadium at Old Trafford is the preference for the majority of fans who responded.In fact, 52 per cent declared support for that option.Redevelopment of the existing stadium was preferred by 31 per cent, with a further 17 per cent unsure.Focus groups were also established and open days held at Old Trafford to inform the work of the Task Force. The Mayor of Greater Manchester Burnham said he plans to set up a new body to help drive forward the project before the stadium decision.Burnham told BBC Radio Manchester this would ensure space around Old Trafford could be cleared to “maximise the club’s options”.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s all about removing the freight terminals, and the freight that comes through Manchester city centre right behind Old Trafford.”It’s not going to be just United supporters, every rail passengers in the north west will benefit from removal of that freight from our city centre.”The new arena could seat 100,000 fansIneos envision a ‘Wembley of the North’A leaky roof has epitomised the problems with the ground and the club More

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      Inside Liam Delap’s stunning rise from learning gymnastics as a kid to being BANNED from copying dad’s famous throw-ins

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      LIAM Delap’s size and skill marked him out for greatness by the time he was nine.But his phenomenal competitiveness was the key to turning him into one of European football’s most exciting strikers.Delap has enjoyed a breakthrough debut season in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyDelap joined Ipswich from Manchester City last summerDelap’s hold-up game and brute physicality has shone through this termCredit: RexDelap left City in search for first team opportunitiesCredit: GettyOn Sunday he faces Manchester City – the club that decided to sell him to Ipswich for £20million last summer.Despite Thursday’s 2-0 home defeat by Brighton, the Tractor Boys are hoping Delap’s goals can fire them to Prem safety.The Winchester-born star joined Derby County’s academy in 2009 – the same time Darren Wassall took charge of the youth set up there.And by the time the youngster could register formally as an under-nine, the Rams knew they had something special.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSWassall told SunSport: “We had American owners and we had to do a presentation in 2011 or 2012 to say, in each age group, who were the top three players we thought could get through to scholarship.“We’ve still got the slides of when Liam was an under-nine or under-10 and he was one of the three.”All-rounder Delap tried his hands at plenty of sports while at school.Sprinting built his speed. Gymnastics helped make his large frame strong and agile.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd doing a bit of javelin fed into his ability to do impressive long throws like his dad – former Stoke, Southampton and Derby midfielder Rory – until parents of other children complained that his bombs were spoiling games and he stopped doing them.In any case, Delap’s attributes were more valuable in the penalty area than from the sideline.BBC pundit names England’s long-term successor to Harry Kane after Premier League star’s ‘bullying’ performance Liam (second left) appeared on Soccer AM with his family, including dad Rory, in 2014Gymnastics helped make Delap’s large frame strong and agileCredit: ReutersDad Rory is a Premier League cult heroCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe former Stoke player is remembered for his famous long throwCredit: AFPWassall said: “He was always among the biggest and most powerful players in his age group, and probably the age group above.“He could bustle his way through and had a really good strike with his laces. He could put one in from 20 yards, or 30 yards as he grew older.“But what really set him apart was his desire to compete.”Sometimes Delap’s will to win went too far.Wassall said: “Off the pitch he was likeable, so modest and humble and quiet.“The pitch was his stage, it was like a switch being flicked.“He was fearless. He didn’t mind getting hurt. He would go into the six-yard box with goalkeepers and defenders, where the boots were flying.“But his competitiveness was also a challenge for us.“He was so on the edge at times because he was so desperate to win, do well and score goals, that it boiled over.“Mainly he would challenge decisions, mostly in a good way, but there were times when we had to step in and bring him off for his own sake.“We had to show him that you can’t boil over because if you’re playing for the first team and do that, you will get sent off, miss three games and be no good to anybody.”Derby also made sure that Delap did not rely too much on his physical attributes.He would play in higher age groups and worked hard on his technique.Wassall said: “I remember watching him as an under-14 or under-15, playing for the under-16s, and he scored five goals against Sunderland, I think it was.“Every finish was different.”Delap’s former coach Wassall admitted that Delap’s ‘competitiveness was a challenge’Credit: GettyThe Winchester-born star joined England’s under-16s in 20185Delap spent 10 years in Derby County’s academyHe was loaned out to Hull City in 2022-23Credit: RexIn 14 years at Derby, Wassall oversaw the development of more than 40 players who went on to clock up more than 1,200 first-team appearances for the Rams between themBut Delap did not follow the same path as Willl Hughes, Jeff Hendrick and others.He was attracting the attention of clubs across Europe, including Bayern Munich,And one day Wassall had to call dad Rory, by now a coach in the Derby Academy himself, to tell him that Manchester City were in for his son.Wassall, now head of youth development at the EFL, said: “It was bittersweet because we wanted him to go on to the first team.“He was part of the Derby family. His younger brother Finn was there too and Rory was working there.“But it was a no-brainer for him to go.”Delap’s move to City in 2019 was a big step in his football education.Delap signed a contract extension with City in 2021Credit: GettyKevin Betsy, the former Fulham, Barnsley and Wycombe striker, was the teenager’s head coach for four years at international level.And Betsy saw Delap develop in confidence and all-round performance after initially being called up to England’s under-15s .Betsy told Sun Sport: “There were a lot of players in the squad from high-level clubs, your Liverpool’s, Man United’s and Chelsea’s.“Derby is a fantastic academy but they were in the EFL. That can come with a feeling of, ‘Am I good enough to be with this level of player?’“In the initial under-15 camps he probably didn’t show his true level.”But in his final year at Derby and his first with CIty, Delap was part of a stellar England under-16 side featuring Jude Bellingham, Jamal Musiala, Harvey Elliott and Levi Colwill.One of many highlights was scoring in a 4-0 win over Brazil that infuriated the South Americans so much that they had two players sent off.Delap was part of a stellar England under-16 side featuring Jude Bellingham, Jamal Musiala, Harvey Elliott and Levi ColwillCredit: AlamyDelap documented his England youth days on InstagramCredit: Instagram / @liamdelap7Betsy said: “The move to City bumped him up to a different level technically and tactically because of the way they played in their academy.“City would often use the No 9 as a focal point in the build-up. Liam was receiving a lot of balls to feet with his back to goal and dropping deeper than a natural No 9, in order to link up the game.“His hold-up play improved a lot and that was fantastic when he came in to the national team.”But not so fantastic when Betsy moved on to work with Arsenal’s under-23 side and found himself coaching against Delap.Betsy added: “I remember a 3-3 draw against City at the Emirates.“You could tell your players what to expect from the opponents.“But he scored two goals, one of them out of nothing, and set up the other. He was getting too good for PL2.”City thought so, too. Delap scored on his senior CIty debut in the Carabao Cup in 2020 when he was 17 but was sent out  on loan to Stoke and Preston in 2022/3, and to Hull last season.City then shipped him out on loan to Preston North EndCredit: PABetsy said: “A couple of the loans probably didn’t go as well as he would have liked.“But he would have grown stronger from those moments.“He would have understood what it takes to be a first-team player in league football, what that feels like.“Having a chance in front of a huge crowd is a different pressure.“If you see some of the goals, there were flashes of the Liam Delap of the future.”Ipswich saw enough to splash out an initial £15m to sign Delap last summer.But City inserted a buyback clause and Betsy would not be surprised if the 21 year old found his way back to the club that Ipswich face on Sunday.Betsy, now a first-team coach at QPR focusing on individual development, said: “There’s no ceiling to what Liam can achieve.“Liam will be a player for England, a centre-forward, and, if he doesn’t achieve it at Ipswich, at a high-level team in the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIES“For me, he’s good enough for Man City.“As a back-up to  Erling Haaland at the moment, but if he moved on, Liam would be next.”Betsy would not be surprised if the 21 year old found his way back to CityCredit: GettyDelap has scored eight goals in the Prem this seaosnCredit: Getty More