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    Chelsea 1 Villarreal 1 (6-5 pens) LIVE REACTION: Kepa the Blues hero as Tuchel’s men win Super Cup after shootout

    CHELSEA are the Super Cup champions after a tense penalty shootout win over Villarreal.Kepa was the Blues hero, with the stopper coming off the bench to deny Aissa Mandi and Raul Albiol from 12 yards.
    Earlier in the game, Hakim Ziyech had fired Chelsea ahead before going off with a nasty shoulder injury.
    Gerard Moreno sent the game to extra-time, before Kepa emerged from the dugout to hand Chelsea victory in the shootout.

    Final score: Chelsea 1-1 Villarreal (6-5 pens)

    Follow ALL the reaction with our live blog below…

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    GOODBYE
    The season has begun just as the last one ended: with Chelsea celebrating European silverware.
    It was a tough 120 minutes for many of Thomas Tuchel’s players but the Blues pulled through to triumph on penalties with substitute goalkeeper the hero, saving two Villarreal spotkicks.
    The Londoners must now rest, refocus and prepare for their Premier League opener with Crystal Palace on Saturday. There’s a long campaign ahead, and we simply cannot wait.
    From Windsor Park in Belfast, thank you for joining us and goodnight.
    CHELSEA’S CHAMPIONS
    The Italian pair of Jorginho and Emerson just keep on winning.
    Jorginho is a 10/1 shot for the Ballon D’or.
    Jorginho and Emerson are the first players in football history to win the UEFA Champions League, European Championship and Super Cup in the same year.Jorginho is the only one that has played in every final. 🤫 pic.twitter.com/9xF6Oghsqx— Squawka Football (@Squawka) August 11, 2021

    DROG DELIGHT
    One of Chelsea’s former European heroes has wasted no time in taking to Twitter to express his joy at his former club claiming more silverware.
    Didier Drogba now hopes that Chelsea can add the one trophy that eludes them, the Club World Cup that takes place in Japan in December.

    KEPA ALWAYS THE PLAN
    Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed that Kepa Arrizabalaga has always been his go-to for penalty shootouts since he first arrived at the club. The German coach has been speaking as his players celebrate on the Windsor Park pitch.
    It was not spontaneous. We talked about it with the goalkeepers when we came and had our first cup game against Barnsley. We had some statistics that Kepa has the best percentage when it comes to saving penalties. The analysing guys and goalkeeper coaches introduced me to the data, and then we spoke to the players and told them that this could happen when we play in knockout games. It’s fantastic how Edou[ard Mendy] accepts it. We needed to do what was good for the team. There is proof that Kepa is better at this discipline. These guys are true team players. I am happy for Kepa and happy for Edou.Thomas TuchelBT Sport

    UP FOR THE CUP
    After applauding the Villarreal players as they collected their runners-up medals, it’s now the turn of the Chelsea squad to step up on to the podium.
    One by one, the Blues players – including the injured Hakim Ziyech – receive their winners’ medals, some touching the trophy as they pass.
    Cesar Azpilicueta is last up, and receives the Super Cup trophy, which he excitedly takes over to his gathered teammates – and then up it goes!
    Chelsea are Super Cup champions.

    SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
    Having previously lost the Super Cup final on penalties to Bayern Munich and Liverpool, the Chelsea class of 2021 having finally got it right.
    3/47 – Just three of the 47 Super Cup finals have gone to penalties, with Chelsea being involved in all three – winning tonight, and losing against Bayern Munich in 2013 and Liverpool in 2019. Awaited. pic.twitter.com/KdyHeFaU87— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 11, 2021

    STAMFORD BRIDGE SUPER STARS
    Chelsea are about to get their hands on another European trophy.

    KEPA LOAD OF THIS
    Much maligned during his Chelsea career, Kepa Arrizabalaga has come up trumps in the final of the Super Cup to help his side prevail on penalties.

    After everything Kepa has been through, he comes on in a cup final for a penalty shootout and wins it for Chelsea. Mentality monster.— Conn (@ConnCFC) August 11, 2021

    RAUL ALBIOL NOWSAVED!CHELSEA WIN THE SUPER CUP!
    A weak penalty, saved low to his right by Kepa Arrizabalaga!
    Chelsea 6-5
    The Chelsea goalkeeper is mobbed after his two saves in the shootout with first choice stopper Edouard Mendy the first to celebrate with his teammate.

    ANTONIO RUDIGERGOAL!
    A straight run from the defender, who powers his effort beyond Asenjo.
    Chelsea 6-5 Villarreal
    JUAN FOYTH FOR VILLARREAL!SCORES!
    Tottenham fans celebrate their former player.
    Chelsea 5-5 Villarreal
    CHRISTIAN PULISICSCORES!
    Nicely done from the American.
    Chelsea 5-4 Villarreal
    DANIEL RABA MUST SCOREAND DOES SCORE!
    Expertly so too, sending Kepa the wrong way as he sweeps right.
    Now it’s sudden death.
    Chelsea 4-4 Villarreal
    JORGINHOA HOP, SKIP AND SCORES!
    He rolls it down the middle.
    Villarreal must score the final kick.
    Chelsea 4-3 Villarreal

    MOI GOMEZ NOWBOTTOM CORNER!
    The referee makes him respot the ball, but it has no effect as Gomez powers a right footer into the bottom corner.
    Chelsea 3-3 Villarreal
    MASON MOUNT STEPS UP AND…SCORES!
    If only he’d still been on for England.
    Chelsea 3-2 Villarreal
    IT’S PERVIS ESTUPINANCOOLY DONE!
    The Villarreal defender waits for Kepa to move, and then sends the ball the other way.
    Chelsea 2-2 Villarreal
    OVER TO MARCOS ALONSOIN IT GOES!
    The Chelsea man slips as he converts but sends Sergio Asenjo the wrong way.
    Chelsea 2-1 Villarreal
    IT’S MANDI FOR VILLARREAL!SAVED!
    It’s a weak penalty, pushed out by Kepa low to his right.
    Chelsea 1-1 Villarreal
    CESAR AZPILICUETA STEPS UPPERFECT!
    The Chelsea captain places right in the corner.
    Chelsea 1-1 Villarreal
    HERE’S GERARD MORENOSCORES!
    He sends Kepa the wrong way, and converts off the inside of the post.
    Chelsea 0-1 Villarreal
    KAI HAVERTZ STEPS UP…SAVED BY SERGIO ASENJO!
    Chelsea 0-0 Villarreal
    HERE WE GO!
    The penalties will be taken at the Villarreal end of Windsor Park.
    Chelsea will kick first.
    AET: CHELSEA 1-1 VILLARREAL
    One-all at 90 minutes, and 1-1 at the end of 120 minutes, the 2021 Super Cup final will be settled by a penalty shootout. The most notable moment of extra-time was Chelsea replacing their first choice goalkeeper Edouard Mendy with Kepa Arrizabalaga in the final minute, primarily for spotkicks.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE SUPER CUP WILL BE SETTLED BY PENALTIES!
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    Lionel Messi received shock Tottenham offer, Lukaku having Chelsea medical, Kane to hold Nuno talks – transfer news

    LIONEL MESSI has held a press conference at the Nou Camp to explain his Barcelona exit – and has confirmed talks with PSG.The French giants are closing in on the signature of the Argentine ace in a blockbuster free transfer this summer.
    But Tottenham were reportedly in for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner when it was revealed Messi would be a free agent, while Man Utd have still not given up hope of landing him.
    And Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed he will hold “socially distanced” talks with Harry Kane today.
    Elsewhere, Romelu Lukaku is nearing a return to Chelsea with the Blues closing in on a £100m-plus agreement with Inter Milan.
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    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    HOUSE OF FRASER
    Ryan Fraser reckons he will be like a new signing for Newcastle – as the Magpies close in on Joe Willock from Arsenal.
    The misfit winger has been attending summer school to try and force his way into boss Steve Bruce’s plans.
    Bruce is set to start the season with a 5-3-2 formation, leaving Fraser asking the Newcastle coaches to teach him a new midfield position.
    He said: “In a way, I do feel like a new signing. The fans will probably think I am!
    “I’ve never really played in midfield, but I’m trying to learn how to play (as a number) eight to try and get myself in the team, because obviously I’m a winger.
    “It’s just trying to fit into the team as much as I can, going in and asking the coaches, ‘look, if you see me playing as an eight in midfield, I need to be taught it’, so they’re trying to teach me at the minute.
    “I don’t really fit in the formation…so that’s why we kind of said to each other – ‘right, you see me playing here’, ‘right, let’s learn it’.
    “I might not start in the team but I want to be first choice.
    “If they want to play me ten, I’ve played ten before, but not a lot, and Allan Saint-Maximin’s going to play there.”

    ON THE BOX
    Football fans in the UK will be able to watch both Serie A and the Bundesliga live on TV next season.
    After Sky Sports won the rights to show the German top division last week, BT Sport have now announced that they will be showing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic live on air in the UK and Ireland next season.
    The channel has won exclusive rights to show Serie A fixtures in the UK for the next three years, with the deal finishing at the end of the 2023/24 season.
    Over 200 live games will be show on BT Sport every season, with at least five games to be shown shown live on each of the 38 match days, starting on August 21 as champions Inter Milan take on Genoa.
    Speaking on the announcement BT Sport’s Sports Rights Director Rachael Knight said: “We want to provide our customers with the best sport from across the world and the addition of Serie A means viewers will get to follow some of the biggest stars, managers and clubs in world football.
    “European football has always been an important part of our line-up, with Serie A now joining our exclusive coverage of the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League, alongside France’s Ligue 1.”

    FO NO
    Phil Foden is facing a month on the sidelines with a foot injury, according to reports.
    The Manchester City and England ace over flexed a foot during one of England’s final training sessions ahead of the Euro 2020 final against Italy on July 11.
    According to the Telegraph, the damage caused is unusual with City’s medical staff treating it cautiously.
    And the last thing Man City want to do is aggravate the foot injury.
    The month-long injury will keep Foden out of action until the next international break next month, meaning he will miss City’s first three Premier League matches.
    City take on Tottenham on Sunday in their league opener, followed by Norwich and then Arsenal.
    British transfer record holder Jack Grealish could be handed a start in Foden’s absence, giving the £100million man time to shine.

    BACK IN A HARRY
    Harry Kane is expected to be available for Tottenham’s opening Premier League game of the season against Manchester City on Sunday, despite speculation surrounding his future.
    Kane, 28, has made it clear his desire to leave Spurs this summer and Man City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed his club’s interest in signing the England captain.
    But they have not been able to agree a price for the striker, which has led to no deal being done.
    Kane only returned to Tottenham on Saturday and is now quarantining for five days.
    But new Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo – who is due to hold crunch talks with Kane today – insists he is still in contention to play the game.
    He told Sky Sports: “All the players in the squad are available. It is up to us to consider who is the best options.”
    When pressed on whether that includes Kane, he added: “All the players in the squad that work here on a daily basis will be options for us. It is up to us to decide.”

    HARRY UP
    Manchester City are confident about their chances of signing Tottenham star Harry Kane, according to reports.
    Kane, 28, has signalled his intention to leave in order to win silverware but Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is determined to keep him.
    Levy is demanding £150million for his star man but City are confident of striking a deal, according to the Evening Standard.
    The Premier League champions’ hopes of landing the striker would have been boosted last week after Kane failed to show up for training.
    Kane may also have been buoyed by Pep Guardiola’s admission that he is keen to sign the England captain.
    And he reportedly remains City’s number one target, with a move for free agent Lionel Messi believed to be unlikely.

    LIN OF DUTY
    Leicester City are lining up Jesse Lingard as a potential replacement for James Maddison should the Englishman leave for Arsenal.
    Lingard is seen as an ideal replacement for Foxes ace Maddison, according to reports.
    Football London are reporting that Arsenal still remain way off Leicester’s £60million valuation of Maddison.
    But with Joe Willock set to join Newcastle United for £25m, more funds could be available to try and tempt the Foxes to part ways with the 24-year-old.
    And should Arsenal stump up the cash for creative midfielder Maddison, Man Utd’s Jesse Lingard is a potential replacement.

    BLUE LOOK
    Romelu Lukaku could start for Chelsea in the Uefa Super Cup on Wednesday – if he is registered by 11pm tomorrow.
    The Blues have named their 26-man squad for the clash against Villarreal.
    But they have until 11pm on Tuesday to make any amendments – meaning Lukaku could make his debut at Windsor Park in Belfast this week.
    Chelsea are closing in on a club-record £97.5million transfer to bring the Belgian forward back to Stamford Bridge.
    And despite a lack of training with his new team-mates, he could be thrown straight into the starting XI against the Europa League winners.

    STRONG CHANCE
    Southampton are set to sign Blackburn striker Adam Armstrong in a deal that could rise to £20m.
    Armstrong, 24, is due to have a medical with the Saints on Tuesday after a bid of £15m excluding add-ons was accepted.
    The Rovers forward scored 29 goals in all competitions last season, and will replace Danny Ings after his £25m switch to Aston Villa last week.
    Armstrong had 12 months left on his contract at Ewood Park, and attracted interest from other Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Norwich as well.
    But Southampton – who had an initial bid rejected recently – have stolen the march having all but agreed personal terms.
    He has big boots to fill, with Ings scoring 41 goals in 91 games across three years at St Mary’s, as well as being the top scorer in each season.

    HERE WE GO!
    Southampton have signed Chelsea star Armando Broja on loan, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
    Happy with that, Saints fans?
    Done deal. Armando Broja joins Southampton on loan from Chelsea, medical completed today – total agreement reached after contract extension signed days ago. 🔵🤝 #SaintsFC #CFCSouthampton overtake Udinese in the race, as @mcgrathmike reported. Now the deal is done. 🔴— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 9, 2021

    OOH LA LA!
    Lionel Messi is set to sign for Paris Saint-Germain after officially leaving Barcelona over the weekend – but he isn’t going to come cheap.
    The Argentine has declined Neymar’s offer to take his No10 shirt at Parc des Princes, although he will take the Brazilian’s spot as PSG’s top earner.
    According to AS, the 34-year-old is set to sign a two-year deal on £650,000-a-week to join the French giants.
    This figure is significantly bigger than the £490k-a-week deal that Neymar penned earlier this year.
    And it positively dwarfs the £310k-a-week that Kylian Mbappe joined on back in 2017.

    MISSED MESSI
    Paris Saint-Germain fans crowded an airport on Sunday night – after fake reports Lionel Messi was due to land in the French capital.
    Hundreds of supporters gathered at the gates of the Le Bourget airport hoping to catch a glimpse of their new hero.
    Footage from Marca also showed the large group bustling along the street chanting ‘Messi’.
    But they were left waiting – because Messi was still in Barcelona.
    PSG fans crowd airport after fake report of Lionel Messi arriving in Paris to complete transfer on Sunday night
    SPENDING SPREE
    Chelsea are close to completing the signing of Romelu Lukaku and the striker’s arrival could spark a spending spree at Stamford Bridge.
    Long-term target Declan Rice, 22, remains of interest to the Blues, with Thomas Tuchel also looking to strengthen the defence.
    The German has his eye on Sevilla and France defender Jules Kounde, but Chelsea are yet to meet the player’s asking price.
    According to the Express, Chelsea will look to pursue those two targets along with Villareal’s Alfonso Pedraza once Lukaku is tied up.

    PEDRI-DICULOUS
    Pedri will return to Barcelona this week after playing for Spain during the Tokyo Olympics.
    The 18-year-old helped his team to a silver medal, with Brazil winning the final 2-1 after extra time on Saturday.
    Pedri featured regularly in the tightly congested Olympic schedule, yet is ready to come back to his club on Thursday, report AS.
    The midfielder also played a key role for Spain in Euro 2020, helping them reach the semi-final.
    That means he has not enjoyed a break from football since the start of last season – and that was limited due to the 2019-20 season ending late.
    DOUBLE DEAL
    Leicester City are plotting a double swoop for Inter Milan duo Marcelo Brozovic and Stefan de Vrij, according to reports.
    The cash-strapped Serie A champions are in a financial hole and are trying to cut costs.
    Title-winning manager Antonio Conte and prized wing-back Achraf Hakimi have already gone out the door at the San Siro this summer.
    And new boss Simone Inzaghi is in a tight spot with owner Steven Zhang willing to consider offers for any player.
    The likes of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez could be sold this summer to cover the cost of Inter’s financial woes.
    According to Inter Live, midfield enforcer Brozovic, 28, and De Vrij, 29, are on the Foxes’ radar.

    AS LUK WOULD HAVE IT
    Romelu Lukaku is undergoing his Chelsea medical today, according to reports.
    The Blues are believed to have struck a deal to sign the Belgian from Inter Milan for around £97.5million.
    And with Lukaku himself excited to go back to Stamford Bridge, personal terms shouldn’t be an issue.
    According to Calcio Mercato, Lukaku has begun undergoing his Chelsea medical in Italy today.
    They claim that tests are taking place at the Columbus Clinic in Milan.
    Should everything proceed as planned, Lukaku will fly to London later this week to finalise the move.

    MADD ON HIM
    Arsenal are yet to meet Leicester’s valuation of James Maddison, according to Football London.
    The Gunners are thought to be keen on the England midfielder but the Foxes reportedly want in excess of £60million for him.
    And Leicester are not believed to be interested in a player-plus-cash deal.
    Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Reiss Nelson and Eddie Nketiah are rumoured to be on Arsenal’s transfer list, with Joe Willock close to joining Newcastle.
    If the Gunners do agree a fee for Maddison, Leicester will reportedly pursue Manchester United winger Jesse Lingard as his replacement.

    UM-BELIEVABLE
    Barcelona star Samuel Umtiti skipped his side’s Joan Gamper trophy celebrations after being booed by his own fans.
    The Catalans are in crisis with six-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi having left the club.
    And Barca’s fans are fuming that some of the other high-earners couldn’t be shipped out so that Messi would stay.
    Umtiti, who’s been linked with a move to Manchester United, is among those players that have remained at the club.
    And as he entered the game against Juventus, Umtiti was booed by some of his own fans.

    SISTER ACT
    Neymar’s sister has dropped the latest huge hint that Lionel Messi will be playing for Paris Saint-Germain this season.
    The Argentine star conducted a tearful Barcelona exit press conference yesterday.
    It is now expected that he will join PSG imminently, with ESPN reporter Julien Laurens claiming that a deal is already done.
    And Rafaella Santos, sister of Messi’s pal Neymar, has all but confirmed it.
    Messi’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo posted an emotional goodbye message to Barcelona, alongside a picture of herself with her husband and three children.
    Rafaella commented in Portuguese: “Welcome beautiful!!!!”
    TIM VICKERY
    Lionel Messi’s forced exit from Barcelona seems straight out of negotiations in the bizarro world.
    He was overwhelmingly the most valuable asset in the Spanish league. They already had him, and could pay him half of what he had been receiving.
    But they have to let him go – in order to keep financing all the bad purchases they have made.
    However much Messi was being paid, he guarantees a return – on the field and in terms of sponsorship and global interest in a league which has already suffered the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo.
    But it seems that Messi has to go so that Barcelona can keep paying Philippe Coutinho.
    Click here to read Tim Vickery’s take on the Messi saga

    JUR IT
    Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has refused to rule out any new signings before the transfer window slams shut.
    And Klopp reportedly has a handful of players on his transfer shortlist, including Leicester City ace Harvey Barnes and Wolves’ Pedro Neto.
    Click here to read Liverpool’s transfer shortlist

    TIME TO STRIKE
    Harry Kane is more likely to join Manchester City than remain at Tottenham.
    That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve priced the centre-forward at 8/11 to join the Premier League champions before September 3.
    Click here to check out the latest odds

    RED RAID
    Manchester United are interested in making a shock free transfer swoop for Lionel Messi, according to reports.
    The Barcelona great, 34, made an emotional exit from the Nou Camp on Sunday.
    Despite agreeing a new contract at his boyhood club, LaLiga rules prevented the terms being signed.
    It means the six-time Ballon d’Or winner is now a free agent and open to offers.
    And according to Duncan Castles, United may put a contract on the table for Messi and his family to consider.
    It is thought the Red Devils are crunching the numbers to work out if they can afford a deal.

    TAM’S UP
    Tammy Abraham is set to leave Chelsea with the club closing in on a deal for Romelu Lukaku.
    The Blues made Abraham available for transfer earlier this summer but so far no club has met their £40million asking price.
    Arsenal have been linked with a move for the striker, 23, and he was believed to be keen on joining the Gunners.
    Mikel Arteta’s side have maintained their interest in Abraham, as have West Ham, according to the Daily Mail.
    And they are reportedly joined by Southampton and Atalanta, which means Abraham could have a number of offers to choose from.
    Chelsea only want to let Abraham leave on a permanent basis.

    DOUBLE WHAMMY
    Barcelona will be without summer signing Sergio Aguero until November with a calf injury, according to reports.
    The Manchester City legend joined Barca on a free transfer earlier this summer.
    According Gerard Romero of Catalan radio station RAC 1, Aguero will be out for the next three months.
    IN FOR THE KYL
    Toni Kroos ‘wouldn’t be surprised’ if Real Madrid sign Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
    The Frenchman has long been linked with a move to Santiago Bernabeu.
    Kroos told Bild: “I prefer to talk about signings that have already been completed.
    “But since Real always want the best, I would not be surprised.”

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    Barcelona 3 Juventus 0 LIVE REACTION: Depay and Braithwaite net as Barca win Joan Gamper Trophy with Ronaldo hauled off

    BARCELONA saw off a strong Juventus side in their final friendly before the La Liga season begins.With the Lionel Messi affair still fresh in supporter’s minds, they were given something to cheer about as Memphis Depay and Martin Braithwaite netted either side of half-time.
    And to cap off the result, Riqui Puig curled in a sensational late goal from the edge of the box.

    Final score: Barcelona 3-0 Juventus

    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

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    THAT’S ALL FROM CATALONIA
    Barcelona won the Joan Gamper trophy thanks to a dominant 3-0 win over Juventus at the Johan Cruyff Stadium in their first match of the post-Lionel Messi era.
    It was a difficult evening for Barca, who bid farewell to the legendary Messi, but the players gave the fans something to smile about.
    The home crowd chanted Messi’s name throughout the encounter but seemed satisfied with what they saw on the pitch against a rather toothless Juventus and Cristiano Ronaldo, who was substituted at half-time.
    The Blaugrana opened the scoring after just three minutes during a counter-attack when Yusuf Demir set Memphis Depay up in front of Wojciech Szczesny, whom the Netherlands international beat with ease.
    Barcelona doubled their lead on 57 minutes when Memphis’ crisp corner found Martin Braithwaite unmarked inside the box and the Denmark international beat Mattia Perin with a clinical header.
    The Catalan giants made it three during the second minute of stoppage time when 21-year-old Riqui Puig channeled his inner Messi and fired a wonderful curling shot from the edge of the box that gave Perin no chance.
    Thank you for following the action with us, have a lovely night!
    GETTY IMAGES
    KOEMAN REACTS
    Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman is pleased with his team’s performance but insists there’s still a lot of work to do.
    Koeman said: “We played a great game.
    “It is always important to have the best but we will not change our ideas.
    “We have to keep working”

    PIQUE REACTS
    Barcelona star Gerard Pique admitted this has been a “difficult day” for the club.
    Pique also appears to have taken a swipe at Barca’s past regimes claiming they had “not been the best”.
    The defender said: “It has been a difficult day but we start with a lot of excitement.
    “The management of recent years has not been the best and has penalised us”

    GAMPE-ONES
    Barcelona have won their 44th Joan Gamper Trophy following their 3-0 victory over Juventus.
    Barca captain Sergio Busquets was handed the trophy in front of a lively home crowd at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
    This marks the Blaugrana’s first trophy in the post-Lionel Messi era!
    Not a bad way to end a gloomy day…

    HOW WERE BARCA WITHOUT MESSI?
    Barcelona were obviously missing Lionel Messi’s influence, creativity, movement and talent tonight against Juventus.
    But Barca held their own very well despite missing Messi as well as other key players, such as Sergio Aguero, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Eric Garcia, Ansu Fati, Ousmane Dembele, Clement Lenglet, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Oscar Mingueza.
    The Blaugrana beat a strong Juventus side decisively with some beautiful passing football, impressive positioning and high pressing.
    However, the Catalans had always a star player to rely on throughout the ages, such as Johan Cruyff, Hagi, Hristo Stoichkov, Romario, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Messi.
    A power vacuum has been created and someone needs to step up; and there are some serious contenders, like Antoine Griezmann, Memphis Depay and Frenkie de Jong
    GETTY IMAGES
    MESSI-ESQUE FINISH
    Barcelona ace Riqui Puig rolled back the years in front of a very nostalgic home crowd at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
    Puig got a pass from Nico Gonzalez on the edge of the box and turned around wonderfully before firing a beautiful curling shot.
    The ball ended up in the bottom left corner of Mattia Perin, who was completely unable to react.
    Could the 21-year-old be on his way to greatness…?
    Check it out:

    STATS
    Barcelona dominated 69 per cent of possession throughout the match against Juventus.
    Barca registered a total of 13 shots, six of which were on target.
    Juve recorded the exact same return but didn’t give much for Neto to worry about.
    Bianconeri manager Massimiliano Allegri has a lot to ponder on ahead of the new season
    FT: BARCELONA 3-0 JUVENTUS
    Barcelona won the Joan Gamper trophy following a dominant win over Juventus at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
    It has been a difficult day for Barca, who bid farewell to the legendary Lionel Messi, but the players gave the fans something to smile about.
    The home crowd chanted Messi’s name throughout the encounter but seemed pleased with what they saw on the pitch against a rather toothless Juventus and Cristiano Ronaldo, who was substituted at half-time.
    The Blaugrana opened the scoring after only three minutes during a counter-attack when Yusuf Demir set Memphis Depay up in front of Wojciech Szczesny, whom the Netherlands international beat with ease.
    Barcelona doubled their lead on 57 minutes when Memphis’ crisp corner found Martin Braithwaite unmarked inside the area and the Denmark international beat Mattia Perin with a clinical header.
    The Catalans made it three during the second minute of stoppage time when 21-year-old Riqui Puig channeled his inner Messi and fired a wonderful curling shot from the edge of the box that gave Perin no chance
    GETTY IMAGES
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
    THAT’S FULL-TIME IN CATALONIA!!!!!!
    BARCELONA 3-0 JUVENTUS
    90+2 What a goal by Barcelona youngster Puig!
    The 21-year-old gets the ball on the edge of the box, turns around and delivers a wonderful left-footed shot that ends up in Juventus’ bottom right corner and gives Perin no chance to react.
    Almost Messi-esque!

    GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!
    BARCELONA MAKE IT THREE WITH PUIG!!!!!!!
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    90 We’re into stoppage time now and Barcelona are pushing for a third goal.
    Barca’s youngsters want to prove themselves to Koeman ahead of the new season.
    Two more minutes to go…
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    88 Barcelona continue to dominate possession and pace with their youngsters on the pitch.
    Juventus boss Allegri has a lot of work to do this season…
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    86 SUBSTITUTION
    Barcelona boss Koeman continues to ignore Coutinho and Pjanic.
    And thus, Collano replaces Griezmann
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    85 Juventus have been very toothless throughout the match.
    This has been an easy game for Barcelona’s backline and Neto
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    82 YELLOW CARD
    Barcelona ace Emerson gets booked for a rough challenge
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    80 Barcelona boss Koeman is giving minutes to his young players and ignores experienced stars like Coutinho and Pjanic.
    The Barca manager is showing his intentions ahead of the rest of the summer transfer window.
    Remember, the Blaugrana still need to balance the books, even after Messi’s departure
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    79 SUBSTITUTION
    Juventus boss Allegri gives a few minutes to De Winter, who takes De Sciglio’s place
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    79 CHANCE!
    Memphis breaks inside the area and gets a deflection, which he claims is a handball.
    The Balde, I believe, fires a shot from close range and forces an impressive save from Perin
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    78 SUBSTITUTION
    Barcelona boss Koeman brings Manaj on for Braithwaite during the last few minutes of the match
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    75 Here’s how Barcelona doubled their lead.
    Memphis found Braithwaite with a wonderful corner-kick and the Denmark international beat Perin with ease

    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    73 This has been a difficult day for Barcelona, who lost Messi.
    But the team has been giving the fans something to smile about, that’s hwo crucial Braithwaite’s goal is
    GETTY IMAGES
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    71 SUBSTITUTION
    Barcelona boss Koeman introduced Puig and Balde, who replace Roberto and Alba respectively
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    70 Juventus have significantly slowed down after their earlier surge and Braithwaite’s goal.
    Barcelona are totally comfortable on the pitch
    BARCELONA 2-0 JUVENTUS
    68 CHANCE
    Griezmann fires a free-kick from the edge of the box but hits Bonucci’s face.
    Emerson tries a shot on the rebound but completely misses the target.
    Bonucci is down on the ground after the impact but nothing worrying
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    Lukaku to Chelsea UPDATES, PSG closing in on Lionel Messi as talks continue, Kane to Man City STATEMENT – transfer news

    ROMELU LUKAKU is nearing a return to Chelsea with the Blues closing in on a £100m-plus agreement with Inter Milan.Elsewhere, Harry Kane has broken his silence just hours after Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola declared a public interest in signing the Spurs star.
    Kane has taken to his social media and claims he would ‘never refuse to train’, with the England forward saying he will ‘return to training’ with Tottenham on Saturday.
    Meanwhile, Chelsea and PSG are reportedly eyeing a swoop for free agent Lionel Messi.
    The Argentine superstar left Barcelona after contract talks with the Catalan giants broken down over La Liga Fair Play rules – and the French giants are reportedly in the driving seat.
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    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    GUNNERS LINKED TO UTD TARGET TRIPPIER
    Arsenal have made a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier.
    Manchester United had been linked with the former Tottenham and Burnley man all summer.
    But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were unable to agree a fee with the LaLiga club for the England right-back after negotiations which started before Euro 2020.
    Now Arsenal have sounded out the Spanish champions, who have financial fair play issues and are demanding £34million for Trippier, 31, who has two years of his contract to run.
    United have been only willing to offer about £20m, the fee which saw Trippier leave Spurs two years ago.
    Arsenal want to sign a new right-back with Hector Bellerin set to leave and Trippier is now top of boss Mikel Arteta’s list.
    The North London club, who signed Ben White for £50m from Brighton, do have money to spend and are certain to also strengthen in other areas before the transfer window closes.
    Arsenal have yet to make an official bid for Trippier but any offer will have to be well in excess of £20m.
    LUKAKU ‘CHELSEA MEDICAL TOMORROW’
    Romelu Lukaku will reportedly undergo his Chelsea medical in Belgium tomorrow.
    The Athletic claims the Inter Milan and ex-Manchester United striker will then travel to London tomorrow night to finalise his £97.5million return to Stamford Bridge.
    The report adds that the Belgian star, 28, didn’t plan to leave Inter just months after helping the club win their first Serie A crown since 2010.
    🚨 EXCL: Romelu Lukaku to do Chelsea medical in Belgium on Sun & travel to London that night or Mon AM to seal €115m move from Inter Milan. 28yo didn’t plan to exit #Inter but financial crisis made it necessary + unfinished business at #CFC @TheAthleticUK https://t.co/4zS9tvKW0X— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 7, 2021

    SunSport exclusively revealed Lukaku feels he has unfinished business at Chelsea after struggling to break into the Blues team as a youngster between 2011 and 2014.
    His agent Fede Pastorello told fans this week the inner workings of the deal taking him to the west Londoners will be revealed soon.
    KANE BACK… INTO QUARANTINE
    Harry Kane finally arrived back at Spurs from his extended holiday – straight into quarantine at the training ground.
    But Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo wants Kane’s bitter £160million transfer saga with Manchester City brought to a swift conclusion.
    Nuno is set to hold talks with talisman Kane for the first time this week.

    And SunSport understands Nuno will push for his exit – if the striker makes it clear that he has no future at the club.
    Kane, 28, started a five-day self-isolation period at Spurs Lodge after his return from the Bahamas via Florida.
    But the England skipper will train on his own up to and including Thursday, meaning he will almost certainly miss the Premier League opener, ironically against City at home next Sunday.
    Kane will only start training with the full squad on Friday once he passes a Covid test.
    Despite Kane’s return, Portuguese Nuno is losing patience after seeing preparations for his debut season overshadowed by their star man reporting back late for pre-season.
    BURNLEY EYE CORNET AS LOOKMAN DEAL STALLS
    Burnley are struggling to close a deal for RB Leipzig winger Ademola Lookman as boss Sean Dyche tries to bring in new faces.
    The Clarets will pay a loan fee and wages to sign Lookman, 23, who was on loan at Fulham last season.
    But the player is unsure about the move and weighing up his options.
    Last week, SunSport revealed that Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on Lookman as they look to secure a season-long loan deal.
    New Palace boss Patrick Vieira has been given funds to spend this summer following Roy Hodgson’s departure.
    The former Arsenal and France icon has looked to upgrade his defence with the additions of Marc Guehi and Joachim Anderson – with the latter playing alongside Lookman at Fulham last term.
    As a result, Dyche may now try to meet Lyon’s £15million valuation of Maxwel Cornet instead.
    GUNNERS FIGHT PREM RIVALS FOR DIENG
    Arsenal, Leeds and Crystal Palace are tracking highly-rated Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Seny Dieng.
    Dieng, 26, has caught they eye with a series of impressive displays for Mark Warburton’s side this season.

    The Swiss ace has established himself as clear QPR No1 this term.
    The Premier League trio are all looking at their options in goal.
    All three are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping options to provide competition to their current No1s.
    The top-flight clubs ALL brought in a new goalkeeper in the summer.
    Arsenal signed Runar Alex Runarsson, while Palace added ex-Stoke and England star Jack Butland to their ranks.
    KEANE: UTD NEED TWO MORE
    Roy Keane reckons Manchester United still need “one or two” more big signings to challenge Premier League title-holding neighbours City.
    Major buys Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho should start training with United this coming week.
    And Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men were clinical up front today in beating Everton 4-0 in a friendly – while City lost 1-0 to Leicester in the Community Shield.
    Old Trafford legend Keane told ITV Sport: “Two very good signings, particularly Varane with his experience with the problem at the back. 
    “Sancho, a young talented player who did well in Germany. 
    “I still think what City have done and Chelsea with Lukaku, United still need one or two into the group to really challenge.”
    WEST HAM 2 ATALANTA 0
    Michail Antonio and Pablo Fornals both scored as West Ham eased to victory over Atalanta to continue their preparations for the new campaign
    The Hammers were left down to just two first-choice players in the middle of their back line for the friendly victory over the Serie A side.

    Declan Rice played his first 60 minutes of pre-season and came through unscathed, meaning David Moyes will now have no concerns about starting him against Newcastle.
    And Said Benrahma looks to have done enough to be handed the playmaker role against Steve Bruce’s side as he looked the most likely to create anything from West Ham.
    Benrahma’s lovely control and volleyed pass through to Antonio was the difference which allowed the striker to drive home the goal late in the first half.
    And it was the Algerian’s diving header which was turned in by Pablo Fornals two minutes from time.
    GREALISH WATCH: VERDICT ON MAN CITY DEBUT
    Manchester City’s new £100million wideman Jack Grealish made a 25-minute debut from the bench in the last-gasp 1-0 Community Shield loss to Leicester.
    Here’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the England star ahead of his tough battle to earn a regular starting place for the Premier League champions.
    Credit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
    GOAL THREAT – One chance to equalise from Bernardo’s pass but ran into traffic. Created a half chance for sub Knight though it may not have stood.
    INFLUENCE – Played out on the left, cutting in onto his right foot and saw plenty of the ball, making some lovely touches. His team improved as the game wore on and that was partly down to him.
    TEAM WORK – Linked up nicely with Mendy and then Bernardo when he came on. Gaps were starting to appear down his flank when the Foxes took the lead.
    VERDICT – It will take something special to live upto the enormous fee and not the start he wanted – but there were some promising signs. He will give Guardiola’s team another dimension.
    GILLS FAN ACCUSED OF RACIALLY ABUSING IMPS ACE
    Lincoln midfielder Cohen Bramall suffered alleged racial abuse in today’s 1-1 League One draw at Gillingham – sparking a four-minute delay.
    Home manager Steve Evans wants the fan banned from Priestfield for life if found guilty.
    Lincoln star Cohen Bramall complained of racial abuse, with Gillingham chief Steve Evans saying the fan will be banned if racism is proved
    The Imps were celebrating Tayo Edun’s fourth-minute opener when some Gills supporters stormed onto the grass, leading to pushing and shoving with players.
    And ex-Arsenal youngster Bramall, 25, claims he was subjected to racial abuse in the flare-up.
    Incredibly, he later went to stewards with skipper Liam Bridcutt and pointed out the alleged offender.
    Lincoln boss Michael Appleton said: “Something racial was said. You think you’re past it and close to eradicating it but we’re not.
    “Cohen was emotional and I had to speak to him to get him to focus again.”
    Evans said: “I’ve got absolutely no time for anyone who says anything like that, if it’s proved to be the case. And the person will be banned from Priestfield for llfe.”
    Gills battled back to earn a point through a 44th-minute equaliser from debutant Danny Lloyd.

    LEICESTER 1 MAN CITY 0
    Kelechi Iheanacho came back to haunt former club Manchester City by scoring Leicester’s last-gasp winner in the Community Shield final.
    The former Etihad striker converted a last-gasp penalty after he was hauled down by a clumsy Nathan Ake challenge.
    The goal ensured British record buy Jack Grealish tasted defeat in his first-ever game for the club, having earlier come off the bench.

    WAG HAD 14 HOURS TO ‘PACK EVERYTHING’
    A FOOTIE WAG has revealed she only had 14 hours to “pack up everything” before a move to Scotland.
    Caitlin Philpott’s partner Zack Hemming has joined Kilmarnock on a season-long loan from Middlesbrough.
    New Kilmarnock GK Zach Hemming’s WAG given ’14 hours to pack up everything’ before move to Scotland
    And the keeper has made his way up to Ayrshire for the new season.
    Glam Caitlin shared a video on her TikTok account showing the other side of footie transfers.
    She said that the pair had to pack up their lives before hitting the road for Ayrshire.
    Caitlin said: “Dating a footballer be like – you have 14 hours to pack up everything you own we have to move to Scotland for a season.”
    The video proved popular with her followers, racking up thousands of likes and views.
    Zach, who has already had loan spells with Blyth Spartans, Darlington and Hartlepool United, signed a new deal with Boro until 2023 before heading to Scotland.
    GUNNER BE MADD IF YOU MOVE
    Manchester United legend Roy Keane has warned Leicester midfielder James Maddison against a possible move to Arsenal this summer.
    The England playmaker, 24, has been linked with the Emirates Stadium as Mikel Arteta looks to improve on the Gunners’ disappointing eight place finish in the Premier League last season.

    FIRST DAN
    Dani Alves broke down with emotion after clinching a remarkable 43RD trophy of his career.
    The former Barcelona and Juventus full-back, 38, helped Brazil to a 2-1 victory over Spain, retaining their Olympic crown.

    Alves’ medaul haul includes six La Liga titles, five Copa del Reys and five Super Cups during his time in Spain with Sevilla and Barcelona.
    He also lifted the Champions League three times with Barca in 2009, 2011 and 2015.
    Alves then ended his eight-year spell with the Catalan club in 2016, leaving to join Juventus.
    The Brazilian right-back enjoyed just one season with the Italian side but still managed to win Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
    Paris Saint-Germain was his next destination as he claimed two Ligue 1 titles and seven trophies in total during his time in the French capital.
    And then in 2019 Alves returned to his home country of Brazil to play for Sao Paulo, where he has gone on to win the Campeonato Paulista league title.
    JADON STARTS TRAINING MONDAY
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Jadon Sancho will finally start training for Manchester United on Monday as he pushes for a start against Leeds in next Saturday’s Premier League opener.

    The £73million signing from Borussia Dortmund has been given extra time off despite United’s other Euros finalists Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw returning a week ago.
    Boss Solskjaer said: “Jadon is in for Monday and hopefully he’ll be in decent nick and can be involved.”
    FANS IN RAIL SEATS SEE UTD GET ON TRACK
    Manchester United fans were able to watch their win over Everton from the new ‘rail seats’ which are being trialled at Old Trafford.
    The Red Devils began constructing the 1800 seats designed for ‘safe-standing’ back in June.

    And supporters enjoyed the new look seats on Saturday afternoon as Man Utd blew away Everton in a 4-0 friendly victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
    The trial is being carried out because persistent standing in seats at either end of the ground is proving more dangerous than actually allowing people to stand with a barrier in front of them.
    The concept involves seats with a barrier at their back so people behind can stand and lean against them.
    It allows fans the choice of sitting or standing.
    United are not the only side trialling the safe-standing seats, with Chelsea and Liverpool also moving ahead with plans.
    Anfield will see 1,800 new seats installed at the back of the Kop and 6,000 in the Anfield Road Stand lower tier.
    And Chelsea are preparing for safe-standing as well by upgrading the Matthew Harding and Shed ends.
    NEWCASTLE 3 NORWICH 0
    Matt Ritchie and Dwight Gayle brightened up the Toon Army’s miserable summer with a morale-boosting win against Norwich. 
    With the Saudi takeover now looking dead and buried, and boss Steve Bruce still waiting for a first signing, it has been the gloomiest of off-seasons on Tyneside.

    But a brilliant second half in front of 20,139 fans inside St James’ Park over the newly-promoted Canaries gives at least an ounce of optimism heading into next Sunday’s opener against West Ham. 
    Ritchie bagged the first before sub Gayle scored a quickfire brace to stake his claim for more game time than he has had so far under Bruce. 
    Norwich were missing Todd Cantwell and £9.4million new signing Milot Rashica yes bossed the Magpies fbefore the break.
    ROO’S RAV RAM RAID
    Derby have snapped up ex-Manchester United whizkid Ravel Morrison on a free transfer, subject to international clearance.
    The 28-year-old has signed a one-year deal keeping him at the club until June 2022.

    Morrison, alongside free agents Curtis Davies, Richard Stearman and Ryan Allsop have all signed one-year deals after training with Wayne Rooney’s squad since the early stages of pre-season in July.
    The once dubbed wonderkid impressed former team-mate now boss Rooney during pre-season friendlies against United, Salford City and Real Betis.
    Morrison came through the ranks of his hometown club Manchester United and had “the world at his feet”, according to Rio Ferdinand.
    RETURN OF SOCC ‘N ROLL
    Football fans are celebrating the return of Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday as the new season gets underway in England.
    A fresh-looking panel of pundits graced the Sky studio on Saturday afternoon to sit alongside long-standing presenter Jeff Stelling.

    Sue Smith, Michael Dawson, Lee Hendrie, Clinton Morrison and Paul Merson were among those in the Sky centre keeping fans up to date with a host of EFL matches.
    And football supporters across the country were chuffed to see the famous Stelling-led show return to their screens for the first time in several months.

    One ecstatic viewer said: “Oh @JeffStelling and the team how I’ve missed you!!! Football is back.”
    Another added: “Soccer Saturday with Jeff Stelling again. I love this game!”
    And a third said: “Soccer Saturday is back! My life is complete again.”
    CHELSEA AGREE £97.5M LUKAKU DEAL
    Chelsea have agreed a £97.5million deal to re-sign Romelu Lukaku – after they refused Inter Milan’s demands to break the British transfer record for the ex-Manchester United striker.
    The Blues finally settled on the cash-only price after refusing to cough up a further five million Euros – around £4.2m.
    Credit: Getty
    That would have taken the fee o £101.7m, surpassing the record £100m Manchester City splashed out on Jack Grealish last week.
    But the two clubs eventually reached an agreement after a week of haggling.
    Chelsea are hopeful of announcing the return of the Belgian on Monday.
    Lukaku has agreed a £200,000-a-week contract to make the switch back to Stamford Bridge for the second time in his career.
    The Belgian had previously been on the books of the Blues between 2011 and 2014, between the ages of 18 and 21.
    There is a slim hope the deal will be done and Lukaku in England in enough time for the opening day Premier League clash with Crystal Palace.
    NEW BOY VARANE WATCHES UTD ON TV
    Manchester United’s new £41million centre-back Raphael Varane watched their 4-0 friendly win over Everton on MUTV.
    The France and ex-Real Madrid star, 28, should complete his move in the next 48 hours.
    Credit: Getty
    United revealed the 28-year-old saw their impressive warm-up victory on the club’s TV station.
    And afterwards boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said:  “Of course the medical with Raphael has to be done.” 
    NO NEED FOR GOODBYE BISS
    Brighton star Yves Bissouma has been urged by former Seagulls ace Brian Horton to snub Arsenal and stay for at least another year.
    Horton said: “I think it will do him [Bissouma] good to stay at Brighton and help him progress for another season.
    “If he is good enough, will the big boys come knocking again?
    “Eventually people have to sell. It is like Jadon Sancho going for £73million to Manchester United.
    “Did Borussia Dortmund want to sell him? They made a massive profit, can you stand in his way and refuse that kind of money?”
    EDOUARDO TALKS DOUBT
    Manchester United have yet to hold talks with Rennes about Edouardo Camavinga.
    That is according to Sport Witness, who claim that there has been no contact between the two clubs about Camavinga.
    The France international is out-of-contract next summer and has been linked with a move to United.
    The Red Devils may need to sign a midfielder if Paul Pogba decides to leave.
    DEAL CLOSE
    Chelsea are close to agreeing a £97.5million deal with Inter Milan for star striker Romelu Lukaku.
    According to Sky Sports, the Blues are making immense progress in their bid to re-sign Lukaku.
    The Belgium international is keen to return to Stamford Bridge this summer.
    The former Manchester United star told Inter to accept any sufficient offers from the west Londoners
    MORE ON PEP
    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is very happy with Jack Grealish’s arrival.
    Guardiola said: “When we could spend this amount of money it is because we sell for almost £60million.
    “We were not able in the last year or so but we sell young players from the academy and loan players for £60m. When you sell that, you can afford £100m.
    “Otherwise, it would not have been possible. That’s why for the difference we spend on him because he’s 26 years old, he can play the next five, six, seven, eight years here and we believe we have an incredibly huge talent in terms of not just skills but mentality.
    “When a team in the last years won a lot – which we cannot deny we have – we need new players. Not much but a few players that can rise to the level of players already here.
    “The new players can fight with the players who stay here for a long time, otherwise after a lot of titles it is difficult to maintain a step forward. Every player needs to have the pressure that maybe they are not going to play.
    “I say thank you so much to the club – especially Ferran [Soriano], Khaldoon [Al Mubarak] and Txiki [Begiristain] – and thank you to Aston Villa and Jack who chose to come here because I’m pretty sure he could decide whatever he wants.
    “He said he wanted to play for Man City and that’s why it is an honour to have him and hopefully he can settle as quick as possible”
    NO DIRTY HARRY
    Tottenham star Harry Kane has denied refusing to train and declared he will not go on strike to force a move away from Spurs.
    Kane released the following statement after missing training: “It’s almost ten years since I made my Spurs debut. For every one of those years, you – the fans – have shown me total support and love.
    “That’s why it hurts to read some of the comments that have been made this week, questioning my professionalism.
    “While I won’t go into the specifics of the situation, I want to clarify that I would never, and have never, refused to train. I will be returning to the club tomorrow [Saturday], as planned.
    “I wouldn’t do anything to jeopardise the relationship I have with the fans who have given me such unwavering support during my time with the club.
    “This has always been the case as it is today”

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    Leicester vs Man City LIVE SCORE: Iheanacho spoils Grealish debut as he scores late penalty – live stream and TV channel

    KELECHI IHEANACHO’S late penalty fired Leicester to a Community Shield win over Premier League winners Manchester City.Jack Grealish came off the bench for Pep Guardiola’s side but he could not help get them over the line at Wembley.
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    Stay up to date with all the action from the Community Shield in our live blog…
    GOODNIGHT
    That brings an end to our coverage from Wembley where Leicester have done it again – and while it’s the royal blue shirts of the Foxes celebrating this evening, we can all be grateful that supporters are back. We can all be grateful that football is back.
    Today’s thrilling teaser has left us excited for the return of the Premier League in six days time, and we’ll be right here to bring you every single kick. Until then, thank you and goodbye.
    RELIVE THE DRAMA
    Hot off the press, here’s Graeme Bryce’s match report from Wembley as Leicester bagged a late winner against Manchester City.
    THE Community Shield was settled by a Manchester City golden boy – it just wasn’t the one the current generation of Citizens fans had hoped for. Kelechi Iheanacho – once the darling of the Etihad – stole Jack Grealish’s thunder as Britain’s first £100million signing ended up on the losing side at Wembley on his debut.

    FINAL FRUSTRATIONS
    Having been so dominant in finals for so long, is Pep Guardiola losing his magic touch when it comes to the showpiece occasion?
    Pep Guardiola has lost back-to-back finals, including Super Cups, for the first time in his professional managerial career.There’s a first time for everything. 😳 pic.twitter.com/8AEzasIGGt— Squawka Football (@Squawka) August 7, 2021

    SHIELD CELEBRATIONS
    At Wembley with a trophy, it’s almost as if Leicester City had never been away.
    Here in May when they defeated Chelsea by a single goal in the FA Cup final, they repeated the trick this evening by beating Manchester City 1-0 thanks to an 89th minute penalty from substitute Kelechi Iheanacho.
    Captain Kasper Schmeichel has just been presented with the Community Shield, and he, his teammates, and the thousands of Leicester fans present are loving every moment.

    FT: LEICESTER 1-0 MAN CITY
    Leicester triumph in the Community Shield courtesy of Kelechi Iheanacho’s late penalty, after the goalscorer had himself been fouled by Nathan Ake. It’s a marvellous morale-booster for Brendan Rodgers’ squad ahead of the new season. Jack Grealish made his debut for Man City as a second half substitute although he had few chances to impress alongside several of Pep Guardiola’s fringe players.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!IT’S ALL OVER!LEICESTER CITY WIN THE COMMUNITY SHIELD!

    LEICESTER 1-0 MAN CITY
    90+2. Pep Guardiola does not look happy.
    Whether it’s Chelsea in the Champions League final, or Leicester in the Community Shield, the Manchester City boss does not like losing.
    LEICESTER 1-0 MAN CITY
    90. Four minutes of additional time are signalled by the fourth official.
    LEICESTER 1-0 MAN CITY
    89. With one minute remaining, Leicester City take the lead!
    Against his former club, Kelechi Iheanacho picks himself up, dusts himself down, and buries a left-footed penalty into the top right corner beyond Zack Steffen.
    It surely means another Wembley scalp for Brendan Rodgers’ men. It surely means more silverware on its way to the King Power Stadium.

    GOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLL!!KELECHI IHEANACHO THUMPS HIS SPOTKICK HOME!!
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    87. So assured in the first half, this is a real blunder from Nathan Ake.
    A lapse in concentration from the Dutch defender sees him caught in possession by Kelechi Iheanacho, who is then brought to ground inside the box by Ake’s clumsy challenge.
    Paul Tierney bides his time as he arrives on the scene, and then points to the spot, prompting huge roars from the Leicester fans behind that goal.
    The City players rush to demonstrate, and both Ruben Dias and Fernandinho are booked for their complaints.

    AKE CATCHES IHEANACHO!PENALTY TO LEICESTER!
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    84. Now Leicester’s other new signing shows off his main asset, namely electric pace.
    Daka’s speed nearly sees him on the end of a teasing through ball, but Steffen is off of his line quickly to deny him not once, but twice.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    82. Impressive play from Soumare, who demonstrates strength and skill to hold off a number of challenges. He could be a fun watch in his first Premier League season.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    80. Into the final ten minutes at Wembley which means – as things stand – we’re heading for an immediate penalty shootout.
    It’s a prospect that my therapist tells me I’m not yet ready to deal with.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    78. Leicester make their final two changes with Luke Thomas and former Manchester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho on for debutant Ryan Bertrand and Harvey Barnes.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    77. Two examples of exemplary close control from Grealish that both end in frustration. First, when a pass back to Rodri is misplaced, and then when he tumbles under pressure from an opponents and gets nothing other than a wave of the arm up from referee Paul Tierney.

    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    75. More changes for Manchester City as wantaway Bernardo Silva and teenager Ben Knight replace Cole Palmer and Ferran Torres.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    73. A ball over the top puts Torres through on goal, but he’s unable to get the better of Schmeichel – and, as it turns out, the offside rule.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    71. It’s the lesser-seen quadruple substitution from Brendan Rodgers.
    On comes Marc Albrighton, Patson Daka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Boubakary Soumare. Off go Ayoze Perez, Jamie Vardy, James Maddison and Youri Tielemans.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    70. Grealish sends Palmer down the wing with a pass using the outside of his foot.
    He’s already beginning to pay back the huge transfer fee.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    68. The rain is pouring down at Wembley now, but Grealish is attempting to shine.
    He picks up the ball on the left, and tries to tribble past Amartey, only to come unstuck against the Leicester man.
    Rubbish.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    66. Grealish’s introduction is almost immediately spoiled as a curling cross from the Leicester left comes close to dropping into the far corner, but – in the end – Steffen had is well covered.
    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    65. Here he comes! Manchester City’s new £100m man is on after perusing a stack of notes and diagrams. He replaces Ilkay Gundogan.
    To less fanfare, Rodri replaces Sam Edozie.

    LEICESTER 0-0 MAN CITY
    63. Edozie requires some treatment, and so the players on both sides take the opportunity for an impromptu drinks break.
    And it also signals time for Jack Grealish to make his entrance. The former Aston Villa man looks to be one of two changes for City with Rodri also being prepared.
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    Leicester vs Man City LIVE: Stream FREE, TV channel, kick-off time and team news for Community Shield TODAY

    FA CUP winners Leicester will be looking to cause a major upset against Premier League champions Man City in the Community Shield THIS AFTERNOON.The Foxes famously beat Chelsea at Wembley through a wonderstrike from Youri Tielemans and will now hope to catch Pep Guardiola’s men cold at the National Stadium.
    Leicester were 1-0 winners over Chelsea at WembleyCredit: Reuters
    Man City have been busy in the transfer market this summer but £100m man Jack Grealish is likely to be watching from the stands ahead of the Premier League kick-off.
    What time does Leicester vs Man City kick off?

    What TV channel is Leicester vs Man City on and can I live stream it?

    Leicester vs Man City is live on ITV1.
    To stream the game live, head to the ITV Hub.
    Coverage commences at 4.30pm – 45 minutes before kick-off.

    Team news
    Timothy Castagne, James Justin, Jonny Evans and Wesley Fofana will all miss out on this one through injury.
    That means Wilfred Ndidi may have to move into centre-back alongside Caglar Soyuncu.
    New signing Ryan Bertrand could line up at left-back, alongside Ricardo Pereira on the opposite flank.
    Jamie Vardy is likely to start alongside Kelechi Iheanacho in a front two, with Patson Daka warming the bench after signing from Red Bull Salzburg.
    Ederson, John Stones, Kevin de Bruyne and Raheem Sterling are all unavailable for this one, limiting Pep Guardiola’s options.
    And it’s a new era for Man City as Sergio Aguero has joined Barcelona.
    Academy prospects Cole Palmer and Sam Edozie could start after impressive pre-seasons.
    Latest odds
    Leicester 11/4
    Draw 11/4
    Man City 9/10
    *Odds from Paddy Power correct as of Saturday, August 7
    Stay up to date with all the action from the Community Shield in our live blog…
    SOUND OF SILVER
    Those fans taking their seats inside Wembley have been treated to the sight of the two trophies that ensured Leicester and Man City’s participation in today’s Community Shield.

    WISHING WES WELL
    The Leicester City players have paid tribute to their injured teammate Wesley Forfana, who broke his leg in Wednesday’s friendly with Villarreal.

    RODGERS READY TO GO
    Leicester City is delighted to be back at Wembley as he prepares for the new season, but admits that the broken leg suffered by Wesley Forfana has been a huge blow to his squad’s preparations.
    “It’s brilliant to be here, and obviously you’ve got to earn it. We had a history-making day the last time we were here, and it’s nice to come back for our last game before the season starts for real. We’re playing a fantastic team and hopefully in front of a full house.
    It was a horrendous incident for us in midweek with Wesley [Forfana’s injury]. He’s such a brilliant young player who has been outstanding since he came in.Brendan Rodgers
    “Daniel Amartey will play in there today. He’s played in a number of positions for me, and wherever he plays, he always does his very best. We’ve got Jonny [Evans] out as well so it’s not been ideal.
    “Jack [Grealish] is a marvellous player. He really has matured into one of the world’s best players for me. I’m sure he’ll do very well for Man City, and he was a great servant for Aston Villa.”
    VARDY PLAYS THE NAME GAME
    Jamie Vardy arrived at Wembley in good spirits, still finding teammate Marc Albrighton’s middle name as hilarious as ever.

    MANCHESTER CITY SUBSTITUTES
    33 Carson, 10 Grealish, 16 Rodri, 20 Bernardo Silva, 34 Sandler, 39 Couto, 69 Doyle, 81 Gomes, 96 Knight.
    MANCHESTER CITY XI
    Pep Guardiola names a youthful side for the Community Shield which includes teenagers Cole Palmer and Samuel Edozie while Zack Steffen wears the gloves in goal. Thirty-six-year-old Fernandinho captains the side, Jack Grealish – as expected – begins on the bench.
    13 Steffan; 27 Cancelo, 3 Dias, 6 Ake, 22 Mendy; 8 Gundogan, 25 Fernandinho, 80 Palmer; 26 Mahrez, 21 Torres, 53 Edozie
    Your City side to secure the Shield! 🛡XI | Steffen, Cancelo, Dias, Ake, Mendy, Fernandinho (C), Gundogan, Palmer, Mahrez, Edozie, TorresSUBS | Carson, Grealish, Rodrigo, Bernardo, Sandler, Couto, Doyle, Gomes, Knight⚽️ @HaysWorldwide 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/c0ypRMB5Bw— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 7, 2021

    LEICESTER CITY SUBSTITUTES
    12 Ward, 11 Albrighton, 14 Iheanacho, 20 Choudhury, 22 Dewsbury-Hall, 29 Daka, 33 Thomas, 34 Benkovic, 42 Soumare.
    LEICESTER CITY XI
    With a multitude of defensive injuries, Brendan Rodgers names Daniel Amartey as a makeshift centre-back. There’s a Leicester debut for Ryan Bertrand on the left, while James Maddison is selected in midfield despite continued talk of a move away to Arsenal. At 34 years of age, Jamie Vardy leads the line.
    1 Schmeichel; 25 Ndidi, 18 Amartey, 4 Soyuncu; 21 Ricardo, 10 Maddison, 8 Tielemans, 5 Bertrand; 7 Barnes; 17 Perez, 9 Vardy

    THE TEAMSHEETS ARE IN!
    JACK’S IN THE HOUSE
    The Premier League’s most expensive footballer is out on the Wembley pitch, and taking the time to acknowledge his new adoring fans.
    Aston Villa supporters, look away now.

    FANTASTIC FOXES
    Leicester City return to Wembley this afternoon as FA Cup holders, having finally won the trophy they craved in May after four previous final failures.
    The Foxes were FA Cup runners-up in 1949, 1961, 1963 and 1969 before the class of 2021 finally got it right.

    GOOD AFTERNOON FROM WEMBLEY
    Welcome to SunSport’s live coverage of this year’s Community Shield between Leicester City and Manchester City.
    Never mind the fixture frenzy, the transfer talk and the managerial moves, the traditional curtain raiser between the reigning Premier League champions and the FA Cup holders is the real reminder that domestic football is back with a bang.
    Sergio Aguero is no more, but City will again be the club to catch this coming campaign with Pep Guardiola at the helm.
    And the Etihad Club have added £100m man Jack Grealish to their ranks in summer’s most sensational swoop; the former Aston Villa man could make his first appearance in City colours today.
    The Citizens will expect to begin their season as they mean to go on – by winning silverware – but standing in their Wembley way are a Leicester side that have made a habit of upsetting the big boys.
    The Foxes won their first ever FA Cup by defeating Chelsea in May, and will hope to follow that up today with another morale-boosting performance at the national stadium.
    Brendan Rodgers has recruited well for the latest attempt at cracking the top four, but he has already been dealt another defensive blow ahead of next weekend’s Premier League kick-off.
    The impressive Wesley Forfana broke his leg in a friendly on Wednesday to join other casualties Timothy Castagne, James Justin and Jonny Evans on the treatment table.
    Today’s game gets underway at 5.15pm and we’ll bring you all the build-up ahead of the start time.

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    Brazil vs Spain LIVE: Malcom extra-time strike seals win for Brazil in Olympic football gold medal final – latest

    BRAZIL are defending their Olympic football gold medal against Spain as the two strongest squads in the competition face off.The Brazilians, captained by Dani Alves, needed penalties to get past a Mexico B team after a goalless draw and will hope to see a bit more from their strikeforce in the final.

    Kick-off: 12:30pm BST
    TV/ live stream: Eurosport Player/ discovery+
    Brazil XI: Santos, Nino, Carlos, Alves, Guimaraes, Luiz, Arana, Antony, Claudinho, Cunha, Richarlison
    Spain XI: Simon, O. Gil, Garcia, Torres, Cucurella, Merino, Zubimendi, Pedri, Olmo, Asensio, Oyarzabal

    Follow ALL of the latest updates below…

    THANKS FOR JOINING US
    That’s all from us this afternoon as Malcolm’s extra time strike helped Brazil to the gold medal in the Men’s football at Tokyo 2020.
    Matheus Cunha had put the defending champions ahead at the break, before Spain responded in the second half through Mikel Oyarzabal.
    The sides couldn’t be separated after 90 minutes, but substitute Malcolm popped up to score the winner with just over ten minutes to go.
    It’s a third Olympic medal in three consecutive Olympic Games for Brazil, and two golds in a row.
    Thanks very much for joining us for it.
    It’s been a pleasure.
    OLYMPIC SPECIALISTS
    That’s three Olympic medals in a row for Brazil’s Men’s team, and three consecutive Olympic finals.

    London 2012 – Silver
    Rio 2016 – Gold
    Tokyo 2020 – Gold

    An excellent record for a proud footballing nation.
    JOY AND DESPAIR
    That’s the difference between victory and defeat.

    MATCH REPORT
    For a full report from the Men’s Football gold medal match at Tokyo 2020, click here.
    FULL TIME SCENES
    That’s what it means to Brazilian skipper Dani Alves.
    The 38-year-old adds another medal to his haul of 43 trophies, and he is still the most decorated player in the history of football .

    MATCH WINNER
    Brazil substitute Malcolm is the difference maker in Yokohama.
    His extra time strike after a swift counter-attack from a Spain corner is the deciding goal and earns Brazil a third medal in three consecutive Olympic Games.
    For Spain it was a third knockout game that went to extra time and the fatigue showed.
    They just didn’t have anything left in the tank after Malcolm’s goal and looked like they had accepted defeat.
    FT: BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    It’s Brazil who win the gold medal and retain the Olympic title they won in Rio five years ago!
    All of the players in yellow are on the ground, some in years.
    The Spanish players have also collapsed to the ground, they can’t have given anymore.
    They have to settle for silver though, and it’s Brazil who win gold!
    PEEEEEEEEEP!
    THAT’S FULL TIME!
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN!
    BRAZIL WIN THE GOLD MEDAL!
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    121. Pedri tries a cross into the box that Santos doesn’t know whether to claim or leave.
    He ends up leaving it and the ball drifts out of play, ticking more seconds off the clock.
    Pedri has his hands on his knees, he’s on his last legs.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    120. The referee’s assistant signals TWO minutes of added time.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    119. Gil cuts inside onto his left foot on the right wing and whips a cross towards the back post.
    It’s too close to the goalkeeper though and Santos gathers easily and falls to the ground.
    Sixty seconds to go!
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    117. Brazil are seeing out this game very professionally.
    Diego Carlos heads a cross away from danger that is met by cheers from his Brazil teammates.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    115. Pedri tries to slide a pass in towards Bryan Gil in the Brazil box, but Santos is off his line to collect the ball.
    Spain are running out of time here.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    113. PENALTY APPEAL!
    Dani Olmo sends an effort goalwards that comes off a yellow shirt, but where has it hit him?
    The Spanish players think it’s off a Brazil hand, but the referee is having none of it.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    112. Substitutions.
    Moncayola is on for Zubimendi for Spain.
    And for Brazil Antony is replaced by Menino
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    111. Spain have less than ten minutes to force an equaliser here.
    They’ve done in once this game already, but can they do it again?
    As it stands they will have to settle for a silver medal.
    BRAZIL 2-1 SPAIN
    107. Carlos Soler’s corner is cleared away at the front post and Brazil break.
    The ball is played from right to left and into the path of Malcolm who is in space on the left hand side.
    He beats his man and lets fly with his left foot from a tight angle.
    Unai Simon gets a foot to it but the ball loops up and hits the back of the net!
    Is that the winner?
    GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAALLLLL!
    BRAZIL TAKE THE LEAD IN EXTRA TIME!
    MALCOLM MAKES IT 2-1!
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN
    107. Spain corner.
    Dani Alves diverts a cross behind for a Spanish corner.
    Nobody is rushing to take this, both sides are feeling the effects of 106 minutes of football.
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN
    106. Will there be a winner in the final 15 minutes?
    Or is this one destined for a penalty shootout?
    PEEEEEEEEP!
    THE SECOND HALF OF EXTRA TIME IS UNDERWAY!
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN
    A change to report at the break in extra time.
    Claudinho makes way for Brazil, with Reinier on to replace him.
    PEEEEEEEP!
    THAT’S HALF TIME IN EXTRA TIME!
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN!
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN
    104. Spain’s goalscorer Mikel Oyarzabal is being replaced.
    Rafa Mir is the man to replace him.
    BRAZIL 1-1 SPAIN
    103. It’s been all Brazil in the last five minutes.
    Spain have looked shaky and they will be desperate for the half time whistle to blow.
    There’s 90 seconds left for them to hold out.
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    Man Utd vs Everton LIVE REACTION: Bruno Fernandes lashes in free-kick as Utd run riot after Pickford nightmare

    MANCHESTER UNITED continue their pre-season with a home game against Everton TODAY.The Red Devils will have their Euro 2020 stars back for the first time as they take on Rafa Benitez’s side.

    Kick-off: 12.45pm BST
    TV/ live stream: MUTV
    Man Utd XI: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw; Matic, Van De Beek, Fernandes; James, Martial, Greenwood
    Everton XI: Pickford; Coleman, Keane, Godfrey, Digne; Allan, Doucoure; Iwobi, Gray, Townsend; Rodriguez.

    DREAM TEAM IS BACK! SIGN UP NOW FOR THE 21/22 SEASON WITH £100,000 PRIZE POT UP FOR GRABS
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
    THAT’S ALL FOR TODAY!
    Manchester United will be in buoyant mood after ending their pre-season campaign with a routing of Everton.
    Of course, the real stuff starts next weekend. United are at home to Leeds, while Everton host Southampton.
    See you then.
    NINTCHDBPICT000671685266Credit: Getty
    OLE REACTION
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was – unsurprisingly – pleased as his side signed off pre-season with a comprehensive 4-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford.
    He said: “We scored some good goals, that’s a positive.
    “We looked okay fitness-wise, but Leeds is a different kettle of fish. Every team in the league throws you a different challenge.
    “Today was about intensity but going home with four goals gives us confidence.
    “No one is 100 per cent at their maximum level. We’ll have a good training week, and we’ll be ready for Saturday.
    “The mood is good.”
    .Credit: Getty
    MANCHESTER UNITED 4-0 EVERTON
    It’s a comfortable win for Manchester United.
    An error by Jordan Pickford allowed Mason Greenwood to tap United into an early lead, before Harry Maguire thundered home a header for their second.
    It was 3-0 before half-time when Bruno Fernandes sent a wonderful free-kick over the wall and beyond Pickford.
    A plethora of substitutions in the second period took the flow out of the game but Diogo Dalot had the final say when his header looped over Asmir Begovic with virtually the final touch of the game.
    A good afternoon’s work for the Red Devils ahead of next weekend’s seasonal opener against Leeds, but Everton will be worried by their display, particularly in the first 45 minutes.
    The appointment of former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez wasn’t well received by some sections of the Everton faithful and the Spaniard will need to get off to a good start to win them over.
    The Toffees host Southampton on Saturday.

    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
    MANCHESTER UNITED 4-0 EVERTON
    90+2. Fred’s cross finds Dalot who sends a looping header over Begovic. Questionable goalkeeping from the Everton man.

    GGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOOOOALLLLLLLLL MANCHESTER UNITED!

    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    90. We’ll have two minutes of added time.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    88. Iwobi is down and needs attention after a challenge from Williams. He’s slowly getting back to his feet.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    86. Greenwood cuts onto his left foot but his shot is blocked by Mina. Pereira was free but Greenwood went for glory.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    85. Tom Davies goes down in the area under a challenge from Tuanzebe. Play is waved on.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    80. All these substitutions have taken the flow right out of the game.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    78. Three changes for Everton. Godfrey, Keane, and Gray are replaced by Mina, Holgate and Dobbin. Meanwhile, there’s an interested spectator watching the game from home.

    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    75. Pogba’s effort flies well over the bar.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    73. Pereira wins a free-kick 35 yards out. Pogba fancies it…
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    69. Brilliant play by Mata to leave Iwobi on his backside. He picks out Greenwood with a lovely pass but the United man is shut out by the Everton defence.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    69. More changes. McTominay and Garner are on for United in place of James. and Maguire. Broadhead replaces Townsend for Everton.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    66. Greenwood picks up the ball on the halfway line and runs at the Everton defence before letting fly. His shot is fairly comfortable for Begovic.
    63. Great work by Iwobi down the right. He whips in a cross but Gray can’t quite stretch enough to meet it.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    61. Changes for both sides. Fernandes, Shaw, Lindelof and Wan-Bissaka make way for United with Dalot, Williams, Tuanzebe and Pereira entering the fray. Coleman and Allan are replaced by Kenny and Davies for the Toffees.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    58. Off the bar! Digne’s cross eventually finds Townsend who smashes it off the underside of the bar and onto the line. The woodwork is still shaking.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    56. Coleman, who’s already on a booking, brings down James again. In a league game, that could have been the end of Coleman’s afternoon.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    53. Townsend wins the ball just outside the box, but his shot is straight at De Gea. Either side of the keeper and that would have been in.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    50. Shaw floats it in. Digne tries to clear but gives the ball straight to Fernandes. His shot flashes a couple of yards wide.
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    49. Seamus Coleman is shown a yellow card for a high challenge on James. It’s a free-kick to United on the left-hand side.
    .Credit: AFP
    MANCHESTER UNITED 3-0 EVERTON
    46. Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Fred are all on for the start of the second half with Matic, Martial and Van de Beek making way. For Everton, Asmir Begovic, Fabian Delph and Anthony Gordon have been introduced for Pickford, Doucoure and Rodriguez.
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