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    Liverpool vs Arsenal LIVE SCORE: Diaz doubles Reds’ lead after Gakpo’s opener in huge Prem clash

    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLIVERPOOL welcome Arsenal to Anfield to cap off a thrilling Super Sunday – and the Reds are two goals up!The Gunners crashed out of the Champions League on Wednesday night after losing 3-1 to PSG over two legs.And Arsenal’s week is going from bad to worse as Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz’s quickfire double sees them trail at Anfield.TV channel: Sky Sports Main EventLive stream: Sky Sports app/NOWLiverpool starting team: Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Jones; Salah, Diaz, GakpoArsenal starting team: Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Merino, Odegaard; Saka, Trossard, MartinelliCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL the action from Anfield with our live blog below…Liverpool 2-0 Arsenal35. Arteta will be hoping they can keep the hosts out until the break.Then he can try and rally the troops to find a way back into this game.They seem to be lacking that killer-pass in the final third.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal33. Arsenal are passing it around with no penetration at all.As Liverpool win it back, Merino lunges in on Bradley.The Spaniard is shown the first yellow card of the game as a result.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal31. The Gunners are trying to press high up the pitch.They are getting some joy from it but not working Alisson at all.That is a mixture of resolute defending and woeful shooting.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal29. Arsenal are trying to get forward more.Saka cuts onto his left foot and has a sight of goal but sends his effort high into the stands.They need to be taking chances like that.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal27. Partey is penalised for a foul in a dangerous position.Robertson is stood over it, looking to get a delivery into the box.Trossard does well to clear the ball into the path of Martinelli.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal25. Jones is the latest player to have a shot and Raya makes a superb fingertip save to deny the scouser.Liverpool are looking rampant and like they are going to score every time they come forward.Arsenal need to try and contain them until the break.The Gunners are getting mauled here currently.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-0 Arsenal23. They are like buses, you wait for one and then two come at once.Great unselfish play from Szoboszlai as he gets in behind the defence and squares it for Diaz.The Columbian had the simple task of tapping into an empty goal to score.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Luis Diaz (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 1-0 Arsenal21. After wasting an opportunity moments earlier, Gakpo makes amends by breaking the deadlock.A quick throw-in results in Robertson crossing for Gakpo to head home.The roof almost comes off Anfield.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal17. You feel the first goal in this game will be crucial.Heads may drop if Liverpool get it after Arsenal made such a bright start to the game,Salah and Diaz are certainly looking lively in the opening exchanges.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal15. Odegaard barely has a shirt left on his back currently.It looks like it has been torn in a physical exchange.Big chance for The Gunners to score on the high press but nobody seems to want to pull the trigger and The Reds crowd them out.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal13. Saka is being doubled up on when he receives the ball.Both Robertson and Gravenberch are cutting out his options.More often than not, he is forced to go backwards.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal11. Arsenal are seeing a fair share of possession here.It is key for them to prevent any potential Liverpool onslaughts.However, you are most at risk of conceding when you are attacking this Reds side.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal9. Massive chance for The Reds to take the lead.Jones plays a brilliant ball in behind the defence for Salah.He holds it up well before laying it off into the path of the advancing Diaz.He drills a shot at goal but Raya makes a good save to keep it out.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal7. Liverpool are looking to patiently build their attacks.This has been a change we have noticed since Slot came in.He sets his team up to play different tactics during phases of the game.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal5. A hopeful ball forward sees Diaz rob Saliba of the ball.As he looks to cut back inside, Merino bundles into the Columbian.A throw-in is the decision from the referee.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal3. Odegaard whips in a free-kick from out wide.Liverpool step out and Saka makes a very late run into the box.He scuffs his shot well wide of the far post.Big chance missed.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Arsenal 1. It is an electric atmosphere at Anfield.This will be a tough test for The Gunners without Rice.Liverpool are looking to press high up the pitch.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Liverpool vs ArsenalWe are underway at Anfield.Guard of honour done, now to the football.Arsenal get the match started.Copy linkCopiedArsenal starting XI:Both Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber are left out of the matchday squad for this massive test.22. Raya, 4. White, 2. Saliba, 15. Kiwior, 49. Lewis-Skelly, 8. Odegaard, 5. Partey, 23. Merino, 7. Saka, 19. Trossard, 11. MartinelliCopy linkCopiedLiverpool starting XI:Luis Diaz comes back into the side to make it a mouth-watering front four against The Gunners.1. Alisson, 84. Bradley, 5. Konate, 4. van Dijk, 26. Robertson, 38. Gravenberch, 17. Jones, 11. Salah, 8. Szoboszlai, 18. Gakpo, 7. DiazCopy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 0-2 Crystal PalaceThe Eagles continue their impressive season in North London.Two goals from Eberechi Eze was the difference between the sides.That said, Oliver Glasner’s side dominated this match.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at Old TraffordA 17TH defeat of the Prem campaign for United – last time they lost this many in a top flight season, they were relegated 51 years ago.Goals from Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen saw the Hammers leapfrog Ruben Amorim’s men in the table and the Hammers had Alphonse Areola to thank for keeping a clean sheet.Yet the Hammers were good value for their win which sees them jump a couple of places in the table.The domestic season cannot end quickly enough for the Red Devils – who drop to 16th – one place and one point above Tottenham, their opponents in Bilbao.Copy linkCopiedFT: Nott’m Forest 2-2 LeicesterNot the result the City Ground was hoping for.The point does move them into fifth place in the table, but they are trying to do this the hard way.A late Buonanotte goal denies Nuno Espirito Santo’s side the win today.Copy linkCopied More

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    ‘Scandalous’ – Gary Neville tells Nuno to QUIT Forest tonight after furious owner Marinakis storms onto pitch

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST owner Evangelos Marinakis charged on to the pitch to confront his manager Nuno Espirito Santo at the final whistle against Leicester.Forest conceded in the last ten minutes to draw 2-2 with the Foxes – denting their Champions League aspirations.Owner Evangelos Marinakis entered the pitch at full-timeCredit: AFPHe appeared to be arguing with Nuno Espirito SantoCredit: AFPThe owner seemd frustrated following the 2-2 draw with LeicesterCredit: AFPGary Neville was critical of Marinakis’ actionsCredit: GettyThat led Marinakis to enter the field of play as players, coaches and officials went through their post-match handshakes.The Greek appeared as if he would walk past Nuno initially, but he turned around and spoke to the Forest boss after he had finished his interaction with Oliver Skipp, whom he worked with at Tottenham.Marinakis began gesticulating and appeared frustrated as he spoke to Nuno in what seemed a forceful manner.Nuno looked a bit resigned to what he was being told, and stretched out his arms in an almost shrug.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said a few words back to boss Marinakis, who threw his arms in the air before walking away from the Portuguese.Gary Neville was dismayed by the behaviour, and hit out at Marinakis.He tweeted: “Scandalous from that Forest owner.”Nuno should go and negotiate his exit tonight with him! The Forest fans, players and manager do not deserve that.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSNeville later emphasised his view again on Sky Sports, saying: “I feel compelled just to mention what the Forest owner has just done on the pitch over at the City Ground is absolutely scandalous.”If I was Nuno I’d be going and having a strong word with him because that is an absolute scandal.Nottingham Forest star Harry Toffolo reveals ‘I might go throw up’ after downing six pickle juices during Tottenham clash”He’s just qualified for European competition and where that club’s been, and to be remonstrated with on the pitch in front of their own fans is an absolute joke.”However it is not the first time Marinakis has stormed the pitch following the final whistle.In March last year he entered the pitch to speak to officials after Darwin Nunez snatched a last-gasp winner for Liverpool at the City Ground.He was left fuming after the Reds took advantage of nine minutes stoppage time to score.Referee Paul Tierney also stopped a Forest attack after Ibrahima Kontate went down with an apparent head injury.Marinakis was allegedly removed by security after chasing Tierney down the tunnel. More

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    Nottingham Forest 2 Leicester 2: Nuno’s side fail to capitalise on Chelsea slip-up and lose ground in top five race

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST booked their place in Europe for the first time in 30 years. But Leicester sub Facundo Buonanotte struck a late leveller to earn the Foxes a crucial point.Chris Wood looked to have won the game for Nottingham ForestCredit: GettyBut Facundo Buonanotte weaved through the Forest defence to put a huge dent in their Champions League hopesCredit: PANottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo was seen arguing with club co-owner Evangelos Marinakis at the end of the gameCredit: AFPAnd Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis stormed onto the pitch at full-time to blast manager Nuno Espirito Santo!Conor Coady gave Leicester the lead before the home side hit back with goals from Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood.However, Forest’s hopes of booking their place in the Champions League were dashed when Buonanotte struck a late equaliser to leave Nuno’s team seventh in the table.And Marinakis singled out his gaffer for criticism as his side stumbled to just one victory from their last six Premier League games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis was very much a must-win game for Forest against their already-relegated East Midlands rivals.Roared on by an expectant full-house, they made a fast start and Wood might have had two goals inside the opening five minutes.But the Kiwi striker fired an Anthony Elanga cross over on the half-turn. Then, from another Elanga delivery, he sent a back-post header over after James Justin misjudged the flight of the ball.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd how Leicester made them pay for those missed opportunities as they stunned the City Ground by taking a shock lead after 16 minutes.To make matters worse for Nuno, it was scored by his former skipper at Wolves as Conor Coady popped up with a rare goal.’No offence lads’ – Gary Lineker gives no-nonsense Match of the Day verdict in savage goodnight messageThe big central defender’s last goal came for Everton against Southampton way back in October 2022.But you wouldn’t have guessed it as he showed a real poacher’s instinct to pounce inside the six-yard box.Luke Thomas’s long-throw was headed out by Neco Williams but only reached Kasey McAteer who nodded it into Bilal El Khannouss’s path.The Moroccan powered in a shot from 18 yards which Matz Sels could only desperately beat out.And Coady cashed in to head the loose ball over the stricken goalie to give the Foxes an unexpected lead.Suddenly, the mood inside the City Ground changed as the home fans fell silent and began to chew on their fingernails.But unlike their last home defeat by Brentford, Forest’s players refused to be rattled and they hit back within 10 minutes.Leicester were aggrieved at the award of a foul against Thomas, who played the ball but then held Elanga down.And Elanga dusted himself down to deliver a peach of a free kick as he whipped in a cross which just cleared Jamie Vardy at the near post.Morgan Gibbs-White was steaming in and rose unchallenged to power his header beyond Stolarczyk from six yards.It was the Forest skipper’s sixth Premier League goal of the season and it steadied frayed Forest nerves.James Justin was booked for flattening Elliot Anderson before Stolarczyk beat out a Dominguez shot and Wood failed to steer his header from the rebound on target.And a busy first half ended with Vardy sending a flashing header over from Jordan Ayew’s corner.Forest piled on the pressure after the break and Nicolas Dominguez missed a couple of snips.First, the Argentine midfielder failed to anticipate Ibrahim Sangare’s delicious cross as he was caught on his heels.Then he sent a diving header into Stolarczyk’s waiting arms when he should have scored after Elanga’s cross came off Wout Faes’s back.But Forest took the lead just before the hour with a stunning goal from Wood just before the hour.Huge credit must go to Gibbs-White, who caught Leicester out with an absolute peach of a cross.His deep delivery flew over Coady and Justin and Wood dived in to beat Stolarczyk with a diving header from 10 yards.It was the striker’s 20th Premier goal of the season – his best ever total for a season.But Leicester refused to accept defeat and they stunned the home crowd by drawing level nine minutes from the end.Jamie Vardy played the ball off to Facundo Buonanotte who burst inside Morato and fired a low shot beyond Sels into the far corner.Read More on The SunForest tried to hit back and sub Taiwo Awoniyi crashed against the far post as he tried to get on the end of Elanga’s cutback.But Forest were living dangerously and it took a brilliant save from Sels to deny Jeremy Monga a last-gasp winner. More

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    Man Utd 0 West Ham 2: Ruben Amorim suffers more injury woes as Red Devils slip further down Premier League table

    RUBEN AMORIM told his players they cannot forget about the Prem as their D-day in Bilbao looms.Yet that’s all anyone connected with Manchester United wants to do now – as their domestic campaign goes from bad to worse.Tomas Soucek tapped home from close range for West Ham’s firstCredit: GettyJarrod Bowen was amongst the goals again to double their leadCredit: Shutterstock EditorialLeny Yoro was close to tears as he trudged off injuredCredit: GettyRuben Amorim had his head in his hands when Yoro went down injuredHere they slumped to a ninth home defeat of the season – and a 17th in total.Last time they lost this many was the year they were relegated from the top flight – 51 years ago.At least that won’t happen this season but they can count themselves lucky the bottom three have been so far off it.Otherwise it would have been a very uncomfortable end to the season for Ruben Amorim’s men who have yet to reach the 40 point mark.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith games against Champions chasing Chelsea and Aston Villa still to come, it could easily get worse too.The prospect of finishing 17th – just one place above the drop zone – is now very real.And to think they could still end up in the Champions League themselves if they can beat fellow strugglers Tottenham in Spain on May 21.Goals from Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen saw Graham Potter’s men secure a rare away day triumph – and leap-frog their opponents in the table.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThis was a painfully familiar story for United fans – they have seen this movie so many times in the Prem this season.Amorim made six changes and kept his fingers crossed there would be no injuries – although that didn’t work either as key defender Leny Yoro hobbled off early in the second half.By then United were already behind. They had begun brightly enough with skipper Bruno Fernandes firing a couple of shots over the bar.On his return to the starting line-up, Amad was looking lively enough and plucked ball out of the sky, cut in and saw his shot saved by Alphonse Areola.However the visitors went ahead as former United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka slipped a pass through to Mohammed Kudus who got a low cross in from the left hand side.Soucek cleverly backheeled the ball home and although it took a deflection off young defender Harry Amass as it made its way in, he will definitely be claiming it.It means United have now conceded the first goal in 22 of their 36 Prem matches this season – they really are making life hard for themselves.They could have been level before the break as Manuel Ugarte chipped a clever ball forward but Rasmus Hojlund could not control it and the chance was gone.After the break, some comical defending from United saw Kudus escape down the left again.West Ham have become the sixth team to do the double over United this seasonCredit: PAAaron Wan-Bissaka impressed on his return to Old TraffordCredit: EPAUnited have slipped to 16th in the tableCredit: GettyThis time his cross found James Ward-Prowse whose shot was straight at deputy keeper Altay Bayindir.Amorim had warned before the match of the importance of keeping his players fit with just 10 days to go before the final.So the sight of Leny Yoro – who has been a key part of their Europa League campaign – holding his foot in obvious pain was the last thing he wanted to see.The French defender, 19, went off shaking his head and with his shirt pulled over his head – and that will be a big worry for the Red Devils.He did not make his debut until December after suffering a foot injury in pre-season but has won the fans over in recent months.With Luke Shaw also going off, United had to re-organise at the back and they were wide open as the visitors doubled their lead just before the hour. Ugarte was robbed near the halfway line but then unforgivably made no effort to win it back as Kudus saw his shot blocked but it fell into the path of Wan-Bissaka.Man Utd ratings vs West Ham as Ugarte awful and Mainoo invisible in latest horror showMANCHESTER UNITED dropped to 16th in the Premier League after suffering an embarrassing 2-0 defeat to West Ham at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim named a strong team for United’s return to domestic duty, but not even Amad Diallo could save the day.United gave fans a lively start, but reverted back to factory settings after the visitors took the lead inside 27 minutes.West Ham picked off United against the run of play, before former Man Utd star Aaron Wan-Bissaka came back to haunt his old club.The full-back fed a clever ball through to Mohammed Kudus, who thrashed a low cross into the six yard box for Tomas Soucek to tap home.United got caught cold again and were the masters of their own undoing, after Kudus pounced on Manuel Ugarte’s mess up to set up Jarrod Bowen, who doubled West Ham’s lead in the 58th minute.Apart from some bright moments from Amad, this was another awful performance from the home side, as West Ham became the SIXTH team to the double over United this season.The Red Devils haven’t haven’t won a Prem game since their 3-0 win at Leicester on March 16, which incidentally was the last team West Ham beat in February.Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated every Man Utd star’s performance at Old Trafford…The ex-United man squared it for Bowen to score a simple tap in and surely put the game beyond the home side.A breakaway saw Amad roll a pass to Hojlund but Areola got out quickly to close him down.And from the resulting corner, sub Harry Maguire planted a free header wide of the post before seeing another one saved by Areola.  Hojlund was denied by the visitors again when a Fernandes free-kick dropped kindly for him in the area but it was clearly not going to be their day.Read More on The SunBut how often have we said that this season? Far too often.The win for West Ham saw them become the sixth team to do the double over United this season, alongside Wolves, Forest, Spurs, Brighton and Newcastle. More

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    Man Utd ratings: Ugarte awful and Mainoo invisible with Amad the only bright spark vs West Ham

    MANCHESTER UNITED dropped to 16th in the Premier League after suffering an embarrassing 2-0 defeat to West Ham at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim named a strong team for United’s return to domestic duty, but not even Amad Diallo could save the day.Manchester United slipped to 16th in the Premier League after losing 2-0 to West HamCredit: GettyTomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen scored the goals for Graham Potter’s sideCredit: GettyUnited gave the fans a lively start, but reverted back to factory settings after the visitors took the lead inside 27 minutes.West Ham picked off United against the run of play, before former Man Utd star Aaron Wan-Bissaka came back to haunt his old club.The full-back fed a clever ball through to Mohammed Kudus, who thrashed a low cross into the six yard box for Tomas Soucek to tap home.United got caught cold again and were the masters of their own undoing, after Kudus pounced on Manuel Ugarte’s mess up to set up Jarrod Bowen, who doubled West Ham’s lead in the 58th minute.READ MORE ON MAN UTDApart from some bright moments from Amad, this was another awful performance from the home side, as West Ham became the SIXTH team to the double over United this season. The Red Devils haven’t haven’t won a Prem game since their 3-0 win at Leicester on March 16, who incidentally was the last team West Ham beat in February.Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated every Man Utd star’s performance at Old Trafford…Atlay Bayindir – 4Does Bayindir even know his back-line? There was absolutely zero communication between him and his supposed defensive shield.Most read in FootballWith error prone Andre Onana completely rested for Europe, Bayindir was an unconvincing watch,The No.2 has now conceded 10 goals in the last three Prem games.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordNoussair Mazraoui – 4Cut a frustrated figure after Kudus was left alone in the box to assist the opener.The Morocco international was drawn out to stop Wan-Bissaka, leaving Kudus unmarked behind him.One of the more surprising selections given Amorim has repeatedly said he is ‘at the limit’ and is a bigger injury risk than most. Leny Yoro – 5Started in the middle of the back three and was caught sleeping at times. Especially when West Ham won a corner on the brink of half-time.The 19-year-old has sparked huge concern after fighting back tears while going off injured with a foot issue in the 50th minute. He will be needed for the Europa League final against Spurs on May 21.Leny Yoro limped off injured five minutes into the second halfCredit: GettyLuke Shaw – 4Was caught off guard by West Ham at times given his obvious match fitness problems. But grew into the game better in his battle with Bowen. Came off at the same time as Yoro, seemingly to protect him if he is a contender to start the Europa League final at Yoro’s expense.Amad Diallo – 6Amad was handed his first start since returning from a lengthy injury, after coming off the bench for the last few games. And how happy Amorim must be to have him back. The 22-year-old immediately showed what United were missing – a proper winger who can beat his man.The pace of the game lifted every time Amad was on the ball. He cut in off the right and fed Bruno Fernandes for a shot inside four minutes, before having his own effort clawed away by Alphonse Areola.Kudus left Amad on the deck before assisting the opener. Anything positive for the home side came through his tricky runs and brilliant crosses.Amad Diallo was handed his first start since the start of FebruaryCredit: ReutersHarry Amass – 3Still very young and has plenty of time to mature, but this was a tough day’s work for the 18-year-old, who was beaten to the ball by Soucek’s back-post opener.Was caught on the ball inside 30 seconds of the second half, which West Ham pounced on and set up a chance for James Ward-Prowse.Harry Amass was beaten to the ball by Soucek’s back-post openerCredit: GettyManuel Ugarte – 1Was completely invisible in the middle of the park. Not sure why Amorim prefers him as the holding midfielder over Mainoo.The Uruguayan was at fault for Bowen’s goal after losing the ball to Kudus in his own half, while going down injured.The 24-year-old immediately limped off and was replaced after 2-0. It’s becoming clearer why Paris Saint-Germain sold him.Bruno Fernandes – 5Tactical tweak saw the Portuguese magnifico play in a deeper role, with Mainoo moving up to play with the central attacking trio.But Bruno was part of a wide open midfield, which was controlled by Soucek and Kudus, and failed to get on the ball enough to make an impact.Woke up a bit after half-time to find Amad and Mount on several occasions, but it wasn’t enough. Kobbie Mainoo – 4Completely missing. Mainoo needs play in his normal holding midfield role. This was another invisible performance as one of the two No.10s.Graham Potter clearly spotted United’s weakness in midfield, with Kudus running the show in a free role.The England star could leave in the summer if this positional problem keeps up.Mason Mount – 5A sensational switch of play by Mount gave Amad a chance to run and shoot early on.And the ex-Chelsea star matched that again with a delicious ball over the top to Hojlund after West Ham took the lead.But Mount was hauled off before the hour mark after scoring a brace here against Athletic Bilabo on Thursday.Mason Mount endured another disappointing afternoon in a United shirtCredit: GettyRasmus Hojlund – 3The Dane made good runs but lacked quality and end product in the final third. Couldn’t hold up the ball and missed multiple promising chances across both halves.Had more touches with Amad on the pitch, but lashed a shot into Row Z, before rushing a finish to bobble Mount’s brilliant ball wide.But he worried Amorim when he went down holding his shoulder, as United have no other strikers available for the Europa League final.SUBSHarry Maguire (for Yoro ’50) – 4Amorim was clearly resting the England international for Europe, but he was forced to replace Yoro, who went off injured.Maguire was easily beaten by Kudus, before the midfielder set up Bowen’s goal.Victor Lindelof (for Shaw ’50) – 3Was equally all over the place for 2-0. The Swede was backing off and jockeying Kudus with his back to goal.United are the only team in the Prem to consistently change their centre-backs during games. Bizarre.Patrick Dorgu (for Mount ’58)Didn’t really have an impact on the game on his weaker right side.Read More on The SunAlejandro Garnacho (for Ugarte ’58) – 6Garnacho showed glimmers of his old self, when he used to cause havoc after coming off the bench under Erik ten Hag.The 20-year-old some caused problems for West Ham and provided the much needed impetus to no avail.Christian Eriksen (for Amad ’73) – 5 More

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    Tottenham 0 Crystal Palace 2: Spurs drop to 17th in Premier League table and suffer yet more injury woes

    ANGE POSTECOGLOU’S Tottenham revved up for the Europa League Final in record-breaking fashion – as they crashed to an all-time-low 20th Premier League defeat of the season.In the process, they showed exactly why – whatever happens in that final against Manchester United in Bilbao on May 21 – they will surely not be Postecoglou’s Tottenham next season.Crystal Palace were dominant as they beat London rivals Tottenham 2-0Credit: EPAAnge Postecoglou’s side were dismal and now sit in 17th in the leagueCredit: GettyDejan Kulusevski was taken off injured in the first half, handing a huge blow to Spurs’ Europa League hopes tooCredit: AlamyThis was a truly pitiful performance from Spurs – not so much a case of poor defending but of vast institutional negligence, as Palace ran riot, the scoreline never reflecting their dominance.And an early knee injury to Dejan Kulusevski – one of only three players retained from Thursday’s semi-final victory at Bodo/Glimt – was further cause for misery.An Eberechi Eze double either side of half-time gave Oliver Glasner’s side the perfect pep-up before Saturday’s FA Cup Final against Manchester CityPalace also had two first-half goals ruled out and twice struck the crossbar as they outclassed their hosts, who now sit just one place above the relegation places before they contest what – in terms of league positions – is the worst Europa League Final of all time.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpurs may yet lift their first trophy in 17 years in the Basque country next week – after all, they have defeated United three times this season – but this dog’s breakfast of a league campaign must surely spell the end of their Australian manager’s reign.With those Cup finals on the horizon, it threatened to be a case of players spending 90 minutes trying to avoid injury.Yet Palace were at full pelt in their final run-out before next weekend’s Wembley final.After returning from the semi-final trip to northern Norway at 4.30am on Friday, Postecoglou made eight changes to his starting line-up but this was still a team of experienced pros and the display they bordered on disgraceful.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEbere Eze scored both of Palace’s goalsCredit: GettyThe England star was dominant throughout the clashCredit: GettyDjed Spence – at left-back, according to the teamsheet – gave one of the worst individual performances of the season.Glasner selected his first team, minus the injured Adam Wharton, the Eagles still eyeing a top-half finish.’I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him’ – Ange Postecoglou’s rallying speech reduces Tottenham fans to tearsAnd within nine minutes, Palace thought they had the lead after a sweeping crossfield move – Eze to Jean-Philipe Mateta to a marauding Daniel Munoz on the right.When the full-back centred low to the back stick, Ismaila Sarr darted to the back post for a tap-in.Yet Mateta had been marginally offside in the build-up because his shoulder was leaning across the halfway line – another triumph for VAR.Soon, Tottenham’s back-up keeper Antonin Kinsky almost chucked a weakly-struck Munoz volley into his own net.And then came the moment Postecoglou had been dreading even more than a Palace goal, as Marc Guehi’s challenge sent Kulusevski up into the air, the Swede hurting his right knee as he fell.Kulusevski, who had briefly been acting as a false nine, was replaced by Mikey Moore.And then came one of those familiar passages in a match during which Tottenham simply stopped trying to defend.Kinsky made a point-blank save from Mateta, whose angled pass soon found Munoz for a shot which was drilled against the crossbar.Spurs seemed to have decided that, under no circumstances, would they mark Munoz, who was soon given acres of space for a shot on goal, yet mishit a pass to Mateta instead.Soon after, from a corner, a Chris Richards header was pushed against the bar by Kinsky.Tottenham have now lost 20 Premier League games this seasonCredit: ReutersSpurs chief Daniel Levy must be contemplating Postecoglou’s futureCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe atmosphere was funereal and the defending comedic – but somehow Palace were not in front.Next, Eze had a long-range shot deflected narrowly wide and from the resulting corner, there was another disallowed goal – Maxence Lacroix’s header cannoning in off the out-stretched arm of Guehi.Then, after a lengthy VAR check, an actual goal.Munoz, who must have been feeling as though he was part of a one-man Covid lockdown, careered down the right in blissful isolation once more and centred for Eze to tap home.Yves Bissouma arrived as a half-time sub and was booked within 90 seconds for kicking Will Hughes in the head.And then it was 2-0, Eze locating Sarr who sprinted down the right and cut back a return ball for Eze – unmarked, as you may have guessed – to drill past Kinsky.Mateta then ploughed forward and had a shot saved and from a long throw-in, Kevin Danso almost headed into his own net, Kinsky pushing wide.Then, in a shock twist to a rather repetitive plot, Spurs almost scored – Pedro Porro’s cross to the back post met by a flying header from Pape Matar Sarr, which fell wide.Glasner made a triple substitution, showing mercy to his hosts, who eased up a little while continuing to dominate.Read More on The SunThroughout it all, Postecoglou stood by the edge of his technical area, largely motionless. He will be moving soon enough.Postecoglou could lose his job this summer even if he wins the Europa LeagueCredit: ReutersMORE TO FOLLOW…THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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    Barcelona vs Real Madrid LIVE SCORE: Mbappe’s bags a hat-trick as Los Blancos chase equaliser – updates

    BARCELONA host bitter rivals Real Madrid for another edition of the mouthwatering El Clasico – and there has been SIX goals in the opening 35 minutes!Kylian Mbappe converted from the penalty spot before scoring a second to put Los Blancos two up.Ryan Garcia then scored a well-timed header to pull one back for the hosts.And then Lamine Yamal and Raphinha’s quickfire double, has now flipped this match completely on its head.Live stream/TV: Premier Sports 1Barcelona starting XI: Szczesny, Cubarsi, Martinez, Eric, Gerard Martin, De Jong, Pedri, Olmo, Ferran, Yamal, Raphinha.Real Madrid starting XI: Courtois, Lucas, Tchouameni, Asencio, Fran Garcia, Ceballos, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from the El Clasico with our live blog below…Barcelona 4-3 Real Madrid86 – For those wondering, the referee is Alejandro José Hernández Hernández. Only 24 games ever officiated for the 43-year-old – none for Barcelona – and he has handled this game expertly so far.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid83 – A goal-chasing move from The Whites. Young attacker Endrick enters the fray for right-back Lucas Vasquez. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid82 – Penalty denied! A crucial decision in a vert tense situation as the referee maintains his initial decision. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid81 – The referee will head to the video not without contest from each side on and off the pitch. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid79 – CHANCE! Yamal weaves his way past Fran and sparks a shot off Courtois. His ricochet comes towards the path of Ferran, whose shot clips of Tchouameni’s arm resulting in shouts of a potential handball. VAR will check. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid77 – Two changes from the hosts. Olmo, who has struggle to maintain the tempo set by the other forwards, comes off for Fermin. And Garcia makes way for Fort. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid75 – Madrid have their chance at some pressure-induced attacking. The Whites get into the final third with purpose but are unable to craft out a real opportunity of note from Fran’s cross as Barcelona scrap their way out of danger. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid72 – SHOT! Yamal cracks an effort from a good 20 yards out and is denied by the lanky frame of Courtois. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-3 Real Madrid69 – Three of the best, he’s made em pay as the famous line goes. Mbappé, has had a love-hate relationship with the Barcelona high-line, profits from it for the third time today. Assisted by running mate Vinicius, the forward taps in the squared ball from inches out. This game is not done yet! Copy linkCopiedGOAL – Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid68 – Ferran had seemingly beaten the Madrid line with a big chance on the way. But slipped in the process. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid67 – Ferran, who is deputising for the benched Lewandowski, has operated adeptly as a makeshift No.9. The Spaniard has roamed about with significant interest complementing the dual threats of Yamal and Raphinha. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid64 – Yamal and Olmo combine a quick 1-2 in the right half-space as Barca continue to push Madrid back. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid61 – Balde continues the thrust that Martin provided down the left hand side to the disadvantage of those defending as Vinicius capitalises on the free space.However is unable to get his cross into an open Mbappe as Christensen recovers to block. Chants of “Pedri” ring around the Olympic stadium. He’s been that good and more this season.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid58 – Modric works a ball over the top to Mbappe, who dances his way past the Barca defenders but the move fizzes out. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid56 – Cubarsi goes down with discomfort and is replaced by Christensen. Whilst, Martin is taken off for the returning Balde. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid55 – It teases that Barca defensive line and prompts any attacker to believe they have a chance. Mbappe gets beyond it again and sees his shot crack wide of the far post. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid52 – OFFSIDE! Ferran clips a ball around the corner for Raphinha to latch onto and he does as he glides into the box and plays across for Yamal to tap home but Raphinha’s initial run was too early. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid49 – The first signs of humiliation have come out for Madrid. Asencio, who has been victim to the fluidity of Barca’s attack, comes charging in with one intention on Ferran and nails him to the ground. Moment of nativity and frustration rewarded a yellow. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid48 – A miscommunication from two of Madrid’s attackers. Mbappe and Vinicius get beyond the defensive line and in the way of each other for a ball intended for one.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid46 – Another Madrid offside. As Barcelona’s high-line catches a trailing Valverde. Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real MadridAnd we’re back underway. Two substitutions from Madrid as Brahim comes on for Arda Guler and Modric on for Ceballos. Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedThe Madrid hunterSurely a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or? Copy linkCopiedHalf-time reading Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 4-2 Real Madrid – HALFTIME Simply enthralling stuff from the grandest fixture of them all. Madrid via Mbappe raced into a two-goal led but their fragilities that sees them trail this tight title race were laid bare by Garcia, Yamal Raphinha and Raphinha again.In his final Classico, Ancelotti has got to pull something out of the bag before this gets truly ugly.Copy linkCopied More

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    Man City ace Phil Foden in shock after brave cousin forced to rescue her three kids from horror house fire

    MANCHESTER City ace Phil Foden has been left shocked after his “sister” and her three young children narrowly escaped a house fire.The England attacking midfielder, 24, was left distraught after his cousin’s house set on fire in the middle of the night.Phil Foden’s cousin narrowly escaped a house fireCredit: GettyCodie Owen is said to be like a ‘sister’ to PhilCredit: FacebookCodie Owen, who Phil classes as his sister after they grew up together, bravely managed to get two of her young children outside the property in Stockport, Gtr Manchester.She then returned into the house to rescue her third child.The fire brigade attended the blaze at the property near Stockport County’s stadium and spent more than two hours putting it out.Codie and her children were all taken to Stepping Hill hospital to be checked for smoke inhalation.Read More in FootballThe fire is believed to have been started by a faulty extractor fan in the upstairs bathroom.A source said: “Phil was really upset when he heard what had happened. “He is really really close to Codie.“They are best pals and spent loads of time together as children. He regards her as a sister and dotes on her children.Most read in Football“He’s now helping her find alternative accommodation as she can’t return to the house for a while due to the smoke damage.”In 2021 Codie posted a touching tribute to Phil on her Facebook page, adding: “We are so proud of you”.How to cure England’s Bellingham, Foden and Palmer headacheAnd in 2018 she posted another Selfie of Phil with her and her son, adding: “Big happy 18th birthday to my rondog.”A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At 1.20am on Friday 2 May, three fire engines attended a house fire in Edgeley, Stockport.”The fire was on the first floor, and crews used two breathing apparatus, one hose reel and a positive pressure ventilation fan to tackle it.“One adult and three children were taken to hospital for precautionary checks.”Crews were in attendance for two hours.”Foden’s agent was approached for comment.Earlier this month, the Prem star was pictured getting kitted out in full Burberry.Foden promoted the designer brand with snaps of himself in jacket, shorts and trainers at one the label’s upmarket shops.Read More on The SunLast month, The Sun revealed Foden went to take his mind off football by going on a fishing trip.The ace held up a beauty caught on a trip with the team from Manchester-based Carp Fever. More