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      Iconic ex-Premier League referee warns Arsenal that officials have cottoned on to their secret weapon in title blow

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      FORMER Premier League referee Peter Walton has warned Arsenal that officials are aware of their tactics.The Gunners currently sit four points behind leaders Liverpool and three off champions Manchester City in the race for the title.Arsenal’s clever set pieces earned them a huge win over SpursCredit: AlamyPeter Walton has warned the Gunners their set-piece goals might dry upCredit: ITVPrior to the Reds travelling to the Emirates on Sunday, Walton has claimed that refs are becoming increasingly aware of their corner-kick routines.Mikel Arteta’s side are well-drilled at set-pieces and are often instructed to block opponents to allow for the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes to attack Bukayo Saka’s delivery at the back post.But Walton, who was a Prem ref from 2003 to 2012, has suggested that set-piece coach Nicolas Jover might need to come up with a new plan as refs are cottoning on to their tricks.He wrote in The Times: “In my day, Chelsea were good at blocking opponents off the ball, but then referees and the media drew attention to their tactics and they were much more likely to be caught. READ MORE ON ARSENAL”I sense a similar process has happened recently with Arsenal’s set pieces.”But so far the tactic is still working for Arsenal and they have scored three goals from set pieces this season.Only Aston Villa, Brighton, Leicester and Everton have netted more.Last term, they were the highest scorers from them with 20 goals.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal already have an issue to resolve when it comes to referees as they have had a player sent off in three of their last six league games.The North Londoners have had 18 red cards since Arteta took over in December 2019 – SIX more than any other team.One more this season will be their 108th red of the Premier League era – a joint-record alongside Everton.Arsenal star Saka of three key men to miss training ahead of crunch Liverpool Premier League showdown Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      Jose Mourinho creates ‘football heritage’ with outrageously sarcastic interview about referee after Man Utd draw

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      JOSE MOURINHO gave a sarcastic interview after being sent off during Fenerbahce’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United last night.The Portuguese manager, 61, threw a touchline tantrum when his side were denied a penalty.Jose Mourinho was in a fiery mood after the gameMourinho, 61, received a red card for throwing a touchline tantrumCredit: EPAFenerbahce’s former QPR star Bright Osayi-Samuel went down in the box under a challenge from Manuel Ugarte.But neither referee Clement Turpin nor the VAR officials deemed it a spot kick.Mourinho was subsequently forced to watch the rest of the game from the stands after receiving a red card for a trademark touchline meltdown.After the game, the former Man Utd boss was asked about the penalty incident.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe shook his head as he told TNT Sports: “I don’t want to speak about it.”It was then put to Mourinho that he’d been to see the officials, before he added, dripping in sarcasm: “He (Turpin) told me something incredible.”He told that, at the same time, he could see the action in the box and my behaviour on the touchline.”I congratulate him because he’s absolutely incredible. His peripheral vision during the game, 100 miles per hour, he had one eye on the penalty situation, and he had one eye on the bench and on my behaviour.Most read in Europa LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”So that’s the explanation he gave me. That’s why he’s one of the best referees in the world.”Mourinho’s interview prompted plenty of discussion online.Manchester United vs Fenerbahce: Player Ratings (1)One fan wrote on X: “Football heritage.”While a second posted: “Man never changes.”A third added: “Another “if I speak I’m in trouble” moment. Classic Jose.”Still upset over the decision not going his way, Mourinho also bizarrely issued a come-and-get-me plea to teams at the BOTTOM of the Premier League.He said: “Best thing I can do is to go to a team who does not play in Uefa competition.”So a club at the bottom in England who needs a coach in two years, I am ready to go.”I don’t want to speak any more about it.”Man Utd ratings vs Fenerbahce: Onana saves the day for Red Devils as Lindelof has a stinker MANCHESTER UNITED were held to a 1-1 draw by Fenerbahce on a disappointing night in Turkey.Christian Eriksen broke the deadlock for Erik ten Hag’s side in the first half before En-Nesyri levelled soon after the break.Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho was sent to the stands in the second half after a touchline tantrum.But the Red Devils could find a much-needed winner for Erik ten Hag.SunSport’s Emillia Hawkins rates the performances…Andre Onana – 7Made an outstanding double save in the 37th minute to keep two attempts from Youssef En-Nesyri out.His defenders could’ve done much better to prevent Fenerbahce’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 5Failed to track back at times and had his blushes saved in the first half by Ugarte, who made a crucial tackle on Dusan Tadic to prevent a goal.Matthijs de Ligt – 6Made some good blocks during the first half to keep Fenerbahce at bay.Missed a few chances from set-pieces after the break.Victor Lindelof – 4Failed to follow En-Nesyri for Fenerbahce’s opening goal and made no attempt to win the ball.Hauled off in the 54th minute.Lisandro Martinez – 5Like Lindelof, he did not apply any pressure to En-Nesyri for the hosts’ first goal. Poor communication from both.Christian Eriksen – 7Broke the deadlock for United with a great strike into the top-left corner from the edge of the box.Manuel Ugarte – 6Won the ball in the build-up to the first goal and saved Man Utd from conceding with a fantastic last-ditch tackle in front of goal in the 22nd minute.Was lucky to avoid giving away a penalty after the break.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Didn’t look too out of place starting in the No10 position. Played a role in the build-up to the goal, passing the ball to Zirkzee who got the assist.Eventually moved into left-back, allowing Martinez to move central.Marcus Rashford – 5Played out of preferred position and started on the right as opposed to the left.Didn’t make too much of an impact on the game.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Played a key role in the build-up to Erikson’s goal by making a direct run into the box.Challenged Dominik Livakovic a few times and looked lively.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A poor overall performance from the striker despite providing the assist for Eriksen’s opener.Failed to make much of an impact and was hauled off in the 54th minute. More

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

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

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      Atletico Madrid suffer ‘worst VAR decision ever’ as fans fume at ‘robbery of the highest degree’ in Champions League

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      ATLETICO MADRID fans and boss Diego Simeone have been left fuming after they conceded a harsh-looking penalty during their Champions League clash with Lille.Madrid were looking to get back to winning ways in the competition after suffering a huge 4-0 defeat to Benfica last time out.Atletico Madrid fans and players were left fuming that Marco Guida had awarded a penaltyCredit: EPAJonathan David converted the penalty to make it 2-1 to LilleCredit: AFPDiego Simeone received a yellow card for his protestsCredit: GettyHowever, they ended up falling to a 3-1 defeat at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday night.They had taken the lead after eight minutes through Julian Alvarez.However, the French outfit managed to equalise with super-sub Edon Zhegrova in the 61st minute.With the balance of the game on a knife edge, referee Marco Guida then awarded a penalty to the visitors.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt was initially assumed that this was given for an alleged handball by Koke.But it was later revealed that the spot kick was awarded for a trip by the Atletico Madrid captain immediately afterwards.And replays showed that the ball never touched Koke’s arm but that of a Lille player.The footage also revealed that Koke made only minimal contact with his opponent during the incident immediately afterwards which saw the penalty awarded.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSVAR reviewed the incident and after several moments ruled that the on-field decision should stand, though Guida did not go to the monitor to check. Jonathan David stepped up to slot home the subsequent penalty in the 74th minute, before later adding Lille’s third goal of the night in the 89th minute.’Bruno Fernandes red card was huge VAR error’ in Man Utd loss to Spurs | Whistleblower, Mark HalseySimeone, 54, was furious at the decision and received a yellow card for his protests. Speaking after the game, he said: “It wasn’t a penalty.”We’ve been watching the replays, the referee must have made a mistake about what he saw, and those on the VAR weren’t able to help him.”Fans echoed the emotive Argentine’s sentiment on social media, with one saying: “VAR did NOT overturn Lille’s penalty???????????? This may be the worst VAR decision I have ever seen.”Lille’s had handball, not Atletico’s player. Madness. Maybe I’m blind, someone explain.”A second said: “Lille is robbing you at home. Zero respect for this team in this competition of the f***ing devil. “They have whistled for a penalty for Koke’s touch on the boot of a guy who was falling to the ground.”Another said: “Keep rewatching this Lille penalty, and there’s no explanation as to why this was given. “There was no foul. There’s a Lille handball in the box before the call. There’s no handball by anyone from Atleti. So what exactly is the decision for? A robbery of the highest degree.”And former Champions League final referee Mateu Lahoz said: “It is possible that the referee makes a mistake and sees Koke’s handball. But VAR is a tool that has to help. “The VAR referee had no experience, he was not given the opportunity, he was not invited to see it. It is impossible to explain what he called.”He added: “It’s a black night for refereeing. The VAR came in for plays like these.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result leaves the Spanish side down in 27th in the table, with their next game seeing them take a trip to Paris Saint-Germain.Meanwhile, Lille are 15th in the table and firmly in the play-off spots, with their next game seeing them host Juventus.New Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink. More

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      Arsenal benefit from more LENIENT referee decisions than rivals, stats show – despite three red cards this season

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      STATS show that Arsenal are actually treated LENIENTLY by referees, despite their red card woes.The Gunners have picked up THREE red cards in just eight Premier League games so far this season – dropping points on each occasion. Arsenal may actually be one of the most leniently refereed teams in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyWilliam Saliba was sent off on Sunday, marking the Gunners’ third red card of the campaignCredit: GettyWilliam Saliba’s sending off against Bournemouth on Saturday was the 18th red card Arsenal have been shown in the league since Mikel Arteta took over in 2019 – SIX more than any other side.Should they pick up another this term, it will be Arsenal’s 108th red card in the Prem era – a joint-record alongside Everton.But despite complaints from fans over whether they are being treated harshly by the officials, new research from talkSPORT BET has shown that Arsenal are in fact given much more leeway than their title rivals this season.No team in the traditional ‘big six’ is able to make more fouls than Arsenal before finding themselves in the book, according to the stats.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe Gunners are averaging 5.39 fouls per yellow card, a rate that sees them sit as the fourth most leniently refereed team in the league – as far as yellow cards go.By comparison, title rivals Man City are the most harshly punished side in the league – picking up a yellow card for every 2.83 fouls.Chelsea aren’t far behind with referees choosing to brandish a yellow card every 2.93 fouls for the Stamford Bridge outfit.While Spurs get away with 4.95 fouls and Liverpool manage 5.28 breaches before they find themselves punished.Most read in FootballMan City are treated the harshest in terms of yellow cards per foulCredit: AlamyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal have made 97 fouls this season, compared to Man City’s 51 with both teams picking up the same number of yellow cards (18).Of course, Man City’s possession-based football means they are more likely to commit cynical fouls to prevent counter-attacks against them and are, in turn, more likely to be booked despite committing less fouls. Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card?It’s worth noting that two of Arsenal’s red cards have come from cumulative yellows in the game too, with Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard suffering the same fate.And both players were issued with their second yellows for non-fouling incidents, with the pair both penalised for delaying the restart.Arsenal are also the only team in the ‘big six’ to receive any red cards this season – of which they have three.Bruno Fernandes was shown red for Manchester United against Spurs, but that decision has since been retrospectively overturned.Perhaps the underlying data shows that Arsenal aren’t being mistreated by officials – as so many fans would suggest – and are instead in a position where they need to just dial back their full-throttle defending.Leandro Trossard was sent off against Man City for a second yellow card for delaying the restartCredit: AlamyBut their disciplinary record could be a positive thing, at least it is if you’re Mikel Arteta.The Gunners boss has claimed that his team have been”galvanised” by Saliba’s red card at the weekend and are ready to use it in their favour.Speaking ahead of their Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk, Arteta said: “It’s absolutely galvanised the group. “They’ll show their teeth and fight against the situation. They say: ‘OK, this is what we have to play, how we have to do it. We’re going to do it’.“But playing with ten men, obviously there is an issue. We just cannot continue to do this.“We’ve also had two different periods where we had a lot of reds and then not any. Now we have had three in a row.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But we can’t continue to play with ten at this level. The task becomes almost impossible.“So, we must eradicate that. Let’s take that pain and use it tomorrow. It has to happen.”Mikel Arteta has said his side have been ‘galvanised’ by the red card decisions against themCredit: GettyArsenal player ratings vs BournemouthBy Alex CrookTEN-MAN Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season as brilliant Bournemouth dealt them a South Coast setback.The Gunners travelled to face Andoni Iraola’s men having won five and drawn three of their opening eight matches this term.But their task was made a tricky one when William Saliba was shown a red card on the half-hour.Ryan Christie brilliantly fired the hosts into a deserved lead following a well-worked set piece routine 20 minutes from time.Justin Kluivert then sealed his side’s incredible 2-0 victory from the penalty spot on 79 minutes.Here’s how SunSport rated each Gunners performer on the day.DAVID RAYA – 5Was lucky to get away with one poor pass out from the back early on. Made amends for another error by saving smartly with the legs to deny Marcus Tavernier after initially spilling a Semenyo cross-cum-shot before clumsily conceding the penalty.BEN WHITE – 4England outcast was back in the team after four games out, but did not look 100 per cent fit and found it tough going containing the lively Antoine Semenyo down the Bournemouth left in the first half and Dango Ouattara in the second.WILLIAM SALIBA – 3Usually calm and collected under pressure but paid the price for a rare moment of panic when he hauled down Bournemouth striker Evanilson to get himself sent off and will miss next weekend’s crunch clash at home to title rivals Liverpool as a result.GABRIEL – 5Given the captain’s armband in the absence of the stricken Bukayo Saka, but not at his commanding best, especially after losing centre-back partner Saliba. Did not really step up to the leadership plate.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Did a better job containing Semenyo when Bournemouth’s dangerman switched wings at half-time than White did in the first half, but unable to have his usual influence going forward.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Back in his traditional central midfield berth after being used as an emergency right back in the 3-1 win over Southampton. Was second best up against Bournemouth’s impressive Lewis Cook.DECLAN RICE – 5Another of Arsenal’s international contingent who looked sluggish after the break from domestic duty. Struggled to impose himself on the game in midfield and unable to get forward as much as he usually does. Did his bit dropping into the back-line after Saliba’s dismissal.RAHEEM STERLING – 4Former England man was deployed on the right wing in place of the injured Bukayo Saka and gave the ball away a few times when in promising positions before being sacrificed after the Saliba red card.MIKEL MERINO – 5Finally able to make his full Premier League debut after an injury-affected start to his Arsenal career and showed some nice touches. Also fired into the side-netting with the visitors’ best first half opening.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Started the game well but sold Saliba short with a poor back pass that led to the red card and disappeared from the action after that before being subbed shortly after the half-hour mark.KAI HAVERTZ – 5The German cut an isolated figure up front, especially after Arsenal were reduced to ten men, but worked tirelessly for the team without ever looking like adding to his run of scoring in the previous four games in all competitions.SUBSTITUTESJakub Kiwior (for Sterling, 37) – 4Gabriel Martinelli (for Trossard, 64) – 5Gabriel Jesus (for Kiwior, 81) – N/AEthan Nwaneri (for Merino, 81) – N/A More

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      Gary O’Neil at centre of FA probe after Wolves boss claimed refs have ‘subconscious’ bias towards big clubs

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      THE FA have launched a probe into Gary O’Neil’s claims that refs have a “subconscious” bias to the Prem’s big clubs.Wolves boss O’Neil has been contacted by football chiefs after his  post-match comments following John Stones’ controversial 95th-minute winner for Manchester City on Sunday.Gary O’Neil is facing a probe after his commentsCredit: ReutersBernardo Silva was judged to have not impeded Jose SaCredit: Sky SportsReferee Chris Kavanagh ruled out Stones’ header for offside against  Bernardo Silva — but changed his mind in a pitchside review after VAR intervened to hand City a 2-1 win.Now O’Neil will have to explain his remarks before the FA decide on any further action.O’Neil said: “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves.“But is there something in the subconscious around the decision-making, without even knowing it? Are you more likely to give it to Man City than Wolves?READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“My senses are heightened when we are facing Man City. Are the officials the same?“If I had to upset someone and there’s a big and a little guy, I’m upsetting the little guy.”City’s winner hinged on whether Silva, who was standing in an offside position, had unsighted Sa as he attempted to keep out Stones’ bullet header.Silva appeared to step away from the keeper just before Stones’ effort, with Kavanagh judging Sa was not prevented from being able to see the ball.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Premier League explained the decision in a statement that read: “Stones’ goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper’s line of vision. “The VAR deemed Bernardo Silva wasn’t in the line of vision and had no impact on the goalkeeper and recommended an on-field review.”The referee overturned his original decision and a goal was awarded.”Man City match-winner John Stones reflects after controversial win against Wolves More

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      Man City’s winner is another kick in the teeth for the Prem’s sole voice of reason – they’ve every right to be paranoid

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      JUST because you’re paranoid, it doesn’t mean they’re not after you.As Wolves boss Gary O’Neil continues to realise.Wolves were the club who raged against the machines and forced a vote among Premier League clubs on whether VAR should be scrapped — only to lose 19-1 because none of their rivals shared their originality of thought.Gary O’Neil was left frustrated following Wolves’ defeat to Man City on SundayCredit: GettyThe game was decided with a late VAR callCredit: GettyJohn Stones scored the winnerCredit: GettyBelieving that technology doesn’t always improve things is becoming one of society’s great taboos.And then the Ipswich v Everton kick-off gets delayed due to “IT issues at the turnstiles”.My own digital season ticket has vanished from my so-called smartphone. I never once lost an actual season ticket.Yet profess a hatred of apps and QPR codes, or whatever they’re called, and suddenly you’re Captain f***ing Caveman.Read More in FootballStill, rant over and back to Wolves. Of course, football being football, the Molineux club acted largely out of self-interest by  bringing that vote.Last season, Wolves were top of the VAR “hard-done-by league” with a staggering  seven overturns going against them.But they ended up a lone voice of common sense, speaking out against a system which beats the joyous spontaneity out of the game and leaves match-going fans frequently baffled.On Sunday, O’Neil’s rock-bottom side were kicked in the teeth again when VAR awarded Manchester City’s John Stones an injury-time winner, despite Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and  jostling with keeper Jose Sa.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe on-field ref Chris Kavanagh —  on the scene for a remarkably  large percentage of high-profile gaffes — deemed Silva to have  been interfering with play, yet VAR Stuart Attwell disagreed.Then came Kavanagh’s trip to the VAR monitor — an entirely  performative process to give the impression that the referee is still allowed a mind of his own and won’t just automatically do whatever Stockley Park recommends.Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card?Pretty much every great old-school manager from Bill Shankly to Brian Clough is credited with quoting the phrase, “If he’s not interfering with play, what’s he doing on the pitch?”While that view is too simplistic, we’ve gone too far in the opposite direction. A set-piece coach will tell you that pretty much every player in the box following a corner is interfering with play — or should be.This season began with refs’ chief Howard Webb promising a “light-touch” approach to VAR, claiming that only on-field decisions which were genuine clangers would be overturned.Even those of us firmly opposed to VAR recognised this as an improvement.This lasted a couple of weeks before being conveniently forgotten — as pre-season refereeing edicts always seem to be.Now VARs have again started re-refereeing the huge number of subjective decisions which football always throws up.Because VARs will always be keen to stick their oar in to justify their existence. The system has become a labour-intensive jobs-for-the-boys scheme for match officials. Next, though, to O’Neil’s suggestion of a subconscious bias towards bigger clubs.O’Neil suggested referees have a subconscious bias towards bigger clubsCredit: EPAThis is barely borne out by stats  — Fulham and those great “world’s-against-us” conspiracy theorists Nottingham Forest were actually the biggest beneficiaries from VAR overturns last season with five more decisions going for them rather than against them.O’Neil, though, is right to be paranoid. Just in the wrong way.VAR simply seems to have it in for Wolves rather than “smaller” clubs in general.At least this all seems to disprove the age-old idea that refs try to “even things up” if they know they have made a bad error.Webb has issued so many  apologies to Wolves that he must have racked up a serious number of loyalty points with Interflora.But if any official on VAR duty is acting with a conscious or subconscious knowledge that Wolves have been continually shafted then they do a pretty good job of ignoring this and carrying on regardless.O’Neil’s job is under threat because Wolves have one point from eight games.While their fixture list has been extremely tough — and a couple of poor VAR decisions have again gone against them — that’s clearly not good enough.Should O’Neil get the sack his next job will probably be in the EFL, where clubs admirably refuse to follow the Premier League into mechanised mayhem.Or perhaps his next gig should  be in Sweden — the only western European nation to keep VAR out of its top flight.Or in Norway, who may scrap it due to widespread fan opposition — with matches having been delayed by irate supporters throwing pastries, fishcakes and tennis balls on to pitches in protests against VAR.By common consent, the  Scandinavians are beautiful and enlightened people.As O’Neil would doubtless agree.VILL TO WINHOW would Aston Villa deal with the twin demands of the Premier League and Champions League, we all asked?By scoring impressive wins in their first two fixtures back in the European elite and achieving their best start to a top-flight campaign this century.And, with Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings returning from long-term injuries and skipper John McGinn back from a month on the sidelines, things promise to get better still.Unai Emery is, pound for pound, the best manager in the top flight.Aston Villa have enjoyed a fantastic startCredit: GettyHOWE ABOUT THATHAD Eddie Howe left Newcastle in the summer, he would almost certainly have been Gareth Southgate’s successor — ending debate about whether the England boss should be English.Now with the Toon in midtable  — and Chelsea and Arsenal next up —  might Howe become available before Thomas Tuchel even starts work?England outperformed Germany in four tournaments under Southgate.But when it comes to coaching and management, the Germans still hold sway. See, for example, Brighton’s child genius Fabian Hurzeler getting the better of Howe on Saturday.Eddie Howe was not contacted about the England jobCredit: GettySQUAD DEPTHHOW is the five-sub rule affecting Premier League football? It is leading to far more comeback wins and, as predicted, giving more advantage to bigger clubs with deeper squads.Last season provided an all-time high of 63 comeback wins in the top flight (16.5 per cent).This year we’re at more than 21 per cent.Of the weekend’s nine top-flight fixtures, five were won by the team conceding first,  including both Manchester clubs, Tottenham and Aston Villa.NO WAY, JOSEAS Erik ten Hag limps grimly on as Manchester United manager, a party of Mancunian old-boys lie in wait in Istanbul for Thursday’s Europa League visit to Fenerbahce.Not just boss Jose Mourinho but also ex-United players Sofyan Amrabat and Fred  as well as former City title-winning striker Edin Dzeko, 38.Lose to that little lot and it really will be “welcome to hell”.Man Utd will meet former manager Jose Mourinho this weekCredit: GettySTOP GUNSWILL Sir Keir Starmer’s beloved Arsenal miss out on the league title due to “indiscipline”, after already dropping seven points when reduced to ten men?We all know the best cure for indiscipline: mandatory National Service. As advocated by Rishi Sunak at the election. That would have taught ’em.READ MORE SUN STORIESBUNDLE OF JOYWHY are baby-related goal celebrations, like Liverpool’s Curtis Jones sucking his thumb and Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert sticking a ball up his shirt, so irritating?Because they remind us Premier League stars are the only men in the country who can afford to have kids in their 20s.Curtis Jones celebrated his goal against Chelsea by sucking his thumbCredit: Getty More

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      ‘We don’t want goals ruled out for those situations’ says ex-Premier League ref as he hints at major tactical change

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      A FORMER Premier League referee has hinted at clubs making a major tactical change following John Stones’ winner for Manchester City because “we don’t want goals ruled out for those situations”.Mark Halsey appeared on the latest episode of SunSport’s The Whisteblower to run the rule over the key refereeing decisions from the weekend.Manchester City’s late goal at Wolves was originally ruled out before VAR intervenedCredit: Sky SportsEx-Premier League referee Mark Halsey reckons the right decision was made in the endCredit: AFPAnd high on the agenda was Stones’ controversial goal at Wolves.The Manchester City defender powered home a thunderous header in injury time.However, after plenty of confusion, the goal was originally chalked off when the referees concluded there was an offside against Bernardo Silva.Silva tussled with Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa as the ball came in and was in an offside position when it flew into the back of the net. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut following a lengthy VAR review, the goal was allowed to stand – because Silva was adjudged to be out of Sa’s line of sight and not impacting his compatriot once Stones headed goalwards.So despite the complaints of Gary O’Neil, Halsey was pleased to see the goal given. He said: “I think the VAR was absolutely spot on to recommend a review for Chris Kavanagh to go and have a look because when you do see the replay, you know straight away that Silva hasn’t impacted on the goalkeeper with being in his line of vision.”He just moves out of the way straight away. So, for me, I think the correct decision was made and that’s what we want to see and that is what VAR is there for.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”When the ball comes in, he can quite rightly stand there. When John Stones headers that ball, is he interfering with an opponent? Does he impact on his line of vision? “You can clearly see, no, he doesn’t. And you can clearly see that the keeper sees the ball all the way.Man City match-winner John Stones reflects after controversial win against Wolves”It’s just a great header from John Stones and, in my opinion, the goal was correctly given. We do not want to see goals ruled out for those sorts of situations.”Players cannot be offside directly from the original kick and corners. So Silva getting away with his antics at Molineux could prompt more teams into trying similar tactics at corners to disrupt goalkeepers – before ducking out in time.So Silva getting away with his antics at Molineux could prompt more teams into trying similar tactics at corners to disrupt goalkeepers – before ducking out in time.Pressed on the issue, Halsey added: “Listen, there’s always a little bit of contact going on in the box and all the time you see goalkeepers pushing players, don’t you? “They push them out of the way just before the corner’s taken or while the corner comes across. “So, for me, that’s normal contact. And yes, if that’s the tactics they employ in other clubs, then so be it.”But we do not want to see goals ruled out of that nature.”Halsey also had his say on the William Saliba red card at Bournemouth.TV fixtures in DecemberHere are all the games that will be televised in December…Tuesday 3 December19:30 Ipswich v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Leicester v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)Wednesday 4 December19:30 Everton v Wolves (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Man City v Nott’m Forest (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Newcastle v Liverpool (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Southampton v Chelsea (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Aston Villa v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)Thursday 5 December19:30 Fulham v Brighton (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 AFC Bournemouth v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)Saturday 7 December12:30 Everton v Liverpool (TNT Sports)17:30 Man Utd v Nott’m Forest (Sky Sports)Sunday 8 December14:00 Fulham v Arsenal (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Chelsea (Sky Sports)Monday 9 December20:00 West Ham v Wolves (Sky Sports)Saturday 14 December17:30 Nott’m Forest v Aston Villa (Sky Sports)Sunday 15 December14:00 AFC Bournemouth v West Ham (Sky Sports)16:30 Man City v Man Utd (Sky Sports)19:00 Southampton v Spurs (TNT Sports)Monday 16 December20:00 Brighton v Crystal Palace (Sky Sports)Saturday 21 December12:30 Aston Villa v Man City (TNT Sports)17:30 Crystal Palace v Arsenal (Sky Sports)Sunday 22 December14:00 Fulham v Southampton (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Thursday 26 December12:30 Man City v Everton (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 AFC Bournemouth v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Chelsea v Fulham (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Newcastle v Aston Villa (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Nott’m Forest v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Southampton v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)17:30 Wolves v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:00 Liverpool v Leicester (Amazon Prime Video)Friday 27 December19:30 Brighton v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Ipswich (Amazon Prime Video)Sunday 29 December14:30 Leicester v Man City (Sky Sports)17:15 West Ham v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Monday 30 December20:00 Man Utd v Newcastle (Sky Sports)The Frenchman received his marching orders after half an hour after pulling back Evanilson just inside the Arsenal half – but was the last man and was deemed to be denying a goalscoring opportunity.But Halsey would have preferred the referee to stick with his original call of a yellow card. The ex-Prem official said: “Rob Jones straight away showed a yellow card. Exactly what I would have done in that situation. “Was it a clear and obvious error by Rob Jones? In my opinion, no. I thought he got it spot on.”For me, there’s doubt there to whether that was an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. “And we keep hearing about Howard Webb saying we don’t want VAR getting involved in subjective decisions. Well, for me, that was subjective.READ MORE SUN STORIES”VAR shouldn’t have got involved. It wasn’t a clear and obvious error, in my opinion, from Rob Jones.”We should have stuck with the on-field referee decision of a yellow card.”The referees were happy Bernardo Silva got out of the wayCredit: GettyStones celebrates the important winCredit: PAHalsey believes William Saliba should have been allowed to stay on the field at BournemouthCredit: PA More