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      Man Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd LIVE RESULT: Fernandes’ delightful double fires hosts to crucial win against battling Blades

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S return to Premier League action was anything but smooth – but they got the job done over Sheffield United.Jayden Bogle pounced on Andre Onana’s howler to give the Blades a shock lead before it was quickly wiped out by Harry Maguire’s delightful header.Bereton Diaz then helped the visitors restore their lead, only just to see Bruno Fernandes level the scoring once more from the penalty spot.Captain fantastic Fernandes stepped up yet again by smashing one in from long range to put the hosts in front for the first time.And then the Portuguese magician put it on a plate for Rasmus Hojlund to end his drought and seal all three points.
      RESULT: Man Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      Live stream/TV: Not televised in the UK
      Man Utd XI: Onana; Dalot, Maguire, Casemiro, Wan-Bissaka; Mainoo, Eriksen; Antony, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
      Sheff Utd XI:  Foderingham; Holgate, Ahmedhodzic, Trusty; Bogle, Hamer, Arblaster, Osborn, Brooks; Brereton Diaz, Archer
      BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERMatch report
      Bruno Fernandes spared Manchester United more embarrassment as they came from behind to beat rock bottom Sheffield United.
      Erik ten Hag’s men were behind twice but in the end a Fernandes penalty and long-range blast put them ahead.
      Then he was the supplier with a cross for Rasmus Hojlund to make it all safe.
      Having made more than hardwork of getting past Coventry City on Sunday this looked at one point that it could easily have gone against them too.
      But superior quality showed in the end.
      No doubt in Erik’s eyes this was more evidence of the resilience in his team as they fight it out for a place in the Europa Conference League.

      Copy linkCopiedHow we stand
      Newcastle’s defeat means United are now sixth in the Premier League.
      Here’s how the top half looks, with Liverpool now out the title race it would appear.

      Copy linkCopiedWhere the problems lie
      Bruno Fernandes hinted it when he spoke earlier.
      But this shows where the problem lies at United currently…
      50 – Manchester United have conceded 50+ goals in two of the last three Premier League seasons, having done so in just one of their first 29 in the competition. Susceptible. #MUNSHU pic.twitter.com/kVmRR2zb40— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 24, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag on Bruno
      He continued: “Bruno’s very consistent. At the moment he’s in very good form.
      “We are striving to progress the team. The number of goals we are scoring in this moment is a huge progress. If we have our back four back, then I’m sure we will be more consistent.”

      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag reacts
      Erik ten Hag praised the composure of his side after twice falling behind in front of their own fans.
      He told BBC’s Match of the Day: “Many positives today. The resilience to fight back after losing two times. But also there were negatives. We gave it away, it can’t happen, unacceptable, we have to learn from this.
      “But I’m happy with the win and we need to move on.
      “Have you seen some panic? No, not at all, we were very composed. We kept making chances throughout the game.”
      Copy linkCopied250 up
      Not only is it a memorable night for Ethan Wheatley making his first team debut, it represents a milestone for United.
      He becomes the 250th academy graduate to make an appearance in the first team!

      Copy linkCopied’Demands winning games’
      Bruno Fernandes says the main thing is winning games at Man Utd after his performance tonight.
      Per BBC, he said: “We talk about clean sheets all the time and we want to keep them. Credit to Sheffield United.
      “At the end we came back. We put ourselves in a position where it’s tough to win games. But also it shows a bit of character.
      “We also need to be aware that if we control the game like we did in the first half, we have to score our chances.
      “We’re scoring lots of goals. It’s just about that compactness we need to have as a team.
      “I’m really happy to score, but I want to win games more than score goals. It’s part of my role also, to score goals. But the main thing for me is winning games.
      “Lately we haven’t won as many as we should have. It’s part of the job. You can win eight or nine games in a row, and then as soon as you lose you know you will be criticised. Being a Manchester United player demands winning games.”
      Copy linkCopiedFine in the end
      It was a good win for Manchester United in the end but it didn’t start well for them.
      Andre Onana made a shocking blunder to give Sheffield United the lead at Old Trafford.
      Onana was trying to play out from the back when his misdirected pass landed right at Bogle’s feet.
      The defender made the most of the situation and neatly tucked the ball past the goalkeeper to put his relegation battling side ahead.
      Although Sheffield United’s lead didn’t last very long at all after Harry Maguire levelled the score just seven minutes later.
      However, that didn’t stop Man Utd fans from venting their frustrations online about Onana’s shortcomings since his summer arrival from Ajax.

      Copy linkCopiedMan of the match
      No real surprises there is there.
      The United captain picking up successive man of the match awards.

      Copy linkCopiedElsewhere
      It’s a pretty perfect night for Manchester United.
      Liverpool are out the title race now after defeat in the derby at Goodison.
      And closest challengers Newcastle have also been beaten 2-0 at Crystal Palace as they lose their grip on sixth.
      Copy linkCopiedFull time stats
      The numbers at the end of the game showing a dominant United display across the evening.
      Sheffield United more of an attacking threat in the second period but United just about doing enough to warrant the victory.
      Credit: LiveScore
      Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      Sheffield United certainly had a go tonight and played their part in a big way.
      They had the lead twice in the game and looked set to pile more misery on Erik ten Hag.
      But a Bruno Fernandes double and late Rasmus Hojlund goal turned the game on its head and it’s United and Ten Hag celebrating.
      Copy linkCopiedFULL TIME
      Three points for Manchester United as they come from behind for a priceless win to move sixth in the league!
      Reaction to follow.

      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      90+7. Fernandes then smashes a ball across goal with Garnacho in at the back post but it’s just overhit and away from danger.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      90+7. Garnacho sent through on the left and bodies to pick out inside the box.
      He smashes it at goal and Foderingham again keeps him out. Not been his night in front of goal at all.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      90+3. United almost in again.
      Fernandes’ attempted through ball for Wheatley is just cut out in the nick of time as the youngster looked set to be in on goal.

      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      90. A United double change.
      And a significant and special one at that as 18-year-old academy striker Ethan Wheatley comes on for his Manchester United debut.

      OFF: Hojlund & Mainoo
      ON: Wheatley & Amrabat

      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      90. United deal with that one.
      There will be NINE added minutes!
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      89. Hamer comes forward again down the right but his cross hits the head of Harry Maguire and goes behind for a corner.
      His cross is better than the shot a minute ago and a header on target is headed off the line!
      Hamer comes forward again and his shot from the edge of the box strikes Casemiro and goes behind for another corner!
      89 minutes with barely a touch and suddenly Hamer is the main man this last couple of minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      89. It’s not a great attempt from Hamer as it floats harmlessly wide.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      88. Casemiro penalised for a foul just outside his own box.
      He looks shocked as the referee points for a free kick, about five yards outside the box. It’s very central too and a chance for Sheffield United.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      87. McAtee hasn’t long been on but was hurt in a challenge a short time ago. He’s away off again.

      OFF: McAtee
      ON: Osula

      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Sheff Utd
      84. Manchester United are moving into fifth spot tonight.
      I don’t need to tell you who set this one up….
      Dalot with a peach of a ball over the top to find Fernandes who times his run expertly well. He’s running away from goal but on the turn sends a delightful pass across the six-yard box where Hojlund comes steaming in to slide and smash it into the net.
      That ends a six-game drought.
      Copy linkCopiedGOOOOAAAAALLLLLL!!!
      GAME OVER – RASMUS HOJLUND WRAPS UP THE POINTS FOR UNITED!
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-2 Sheff Utd
      81. I asked where United would be without Bruno Fernandes.
      Now I’ll answer it. They’d be ABSOLUTELY NOWHERE.
      He’s single handedly carrying this team on his back and that’s highlighted tonight once more.
      He picks up a pass from Mainoo about 25 yards from goal. Nobody goes to close him down and he works it onto his left foot and smashes a left-footed shot into the corner of the net.
      Foderingham dived but he was nowhere near it. Sensational strike and United turn it around!

      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Everton vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Toffees look to derail their rivals’ Premier League title hunt in huge clash – latest

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      LIVERPOOL hope to keep up the pressure on title-chasing rivals Arsenal and Manchester City with a win over local rivals Everton.The Reds fought hard to beat London outfit Fulham in their most recent outing.While goals from Idrissa Gueye and Dwight McNeil saw the Toffees pick up three controversial points against Nottingham Forest.
      Kick-off time: 8pm BST
      Live stream: NOW TV
      TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event / Premier League
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    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Ben White and Kai Havertz at the DOUBLE as Gunners extend lead at top of Premier League

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      ARSENAL have cruised to a 5-0 victory against London rivals Chelsea.The Gunners took the lead with four minutes on the clock after Leandro Trossard’s near-post strike.Arsenal doubled their advantage through Ben White’s close-range finish early in the second half before Kai Havertz made it 3-0 against his former employers.Just after the hour mark, the German doubled his tally against his ex-side with a superb strike for 4-0.Ben White also claimed a stunning double on the night to cap off a 5-0 win in the London Derby and extend the Gunners lead at the top of the Premier League table.
      Match result: Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      Live stream: discovery+
      Arsenal team: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Partey, Rice, Odegaard, Saka, Havertz, Trossard
      Chelsea team: Petrovic, Guilchrist, Disasi, Badiashille, Cucurella, Caicedo, Enzo Fernandes, Gallagher, Madueke, Jackson, Mudryk
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow all the action from the Emirates Stadium with our live blog below…Match report
      Arsenal wiped away the April blues with a centurion display to keep their title charge at full throttle.
      Leandro Trossard netted the Gunners’ 100th goal of the season, followed by a Ben White and Kai Havertz double in a rampant second-half blitz to get them back on track after a few bumps in the road this month.
      The league loss here to Aston Villa 10 days ago and a Champions League quarter-final exit to Bayern Munich have been forgotten. All roads now lead to an epic three-way title race.
      Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino was left feeling blue yet again – perhaps regretting suggesting in the build-up that his Chelsea side are NOT Cole Palmer FC.
      Without their clinical 20-goal Premier League superstar Palmer to produce moments of magic, the West Londoners were torn apart by an Arsenal outfit smelling blood at the Prem summit.
      Four points clear of Manchester City in third. Three points clear of Liverpool in second. A goal difference of +55 that is 11 better than City and 12 better than Liverpool.

      Copy linkCopiedPals to foes
      Zinchenko seemingly teasing Sterling towards the end of tonight’s game.
      The pair were former teammates at Manchester City.

      Copy linkCopied’Perfect night’
      Leandro Trossard got the scoring started early in this one.
      And he says his side are on track for a big end to the season but can only focus on their own job.
      He told TNT Sports: “I think the early goal helped us and after that we played so well. We had a lot of chances and we turned them into goals. It’s a great night.
      “They say clean sheets help you win games. We know if we score the goal we can win 1-0. But, obviously, we want to go for more. Today is the perfect night. I think everyone works so well and hard. I am really happy to be here.
      “We can only do our own job and that’s winning games. We are on track now and we will try and win the rest of the games and we will see what happens.”
      Copy linkCopied’Not nice’
      Mauricio Pochettino says his team weren’t clinical enough and admitted watching the performance was ‘not nice’.
      He told TNT Sports: “I think we started the game not so well. We concede the goal and then it was difficult for us to recover from this goal. I think in the first half we compete after 10, 15 minutes.
      “We could not approach the game like we started in the first half and we didn’t compete the way we needed to compete and then when they scored the third it was easy for Arsenal to control the game.
      “I think you need to be clinical. Like against Manchester City three days ago, we were not clinical and then today the same thing happened. D
      “Difficult performance because it is not nice to see your team play like this when you are mean to have full energy. After three days when you play a fantastic game against Manchester City, today we are disappointed with the performance.”
      LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 23: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino looks on during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on April 23, 2024 in London, England.(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
      Copy linkCopiedEnjoy tonight
      Mikel Arteta says his side will enjoy the win tonight but then it’s straight back to focus on a crunch North London derby at the weekend.
      He added: “It is a big London derby and we know what it means for the fans. We will enjoy it and rest and get ready for the next one.
      “What I would like is that the players can manage themselves in the dressing room. You have to leave them some space. They know what they are playing for. That’s what holds the team together. My role is to demand them and also in the right moments make them believe they can do it.
      “We have a lot of games coming up. Let’s enjoy tonight and let’s go back to work.”
      Copy linkCopiedArteta speaks
      Mikel Arteta admitted his side weren’t disciplined enough in their first half showing but a half time talk sorted that out.
      He was also full of praise for his captain Martin Odegaard.
      He told TNT Sports, per the BBC: “Very happy with the win, with the amount of chances and goals we scored. And with the clean sheet as well it shows the consistency.
      “We weren’t disciplined enough with some stuff we did in the first half and we needed to be more disciplined and we did that in the second half.
      “We agreed Odegaard was a player with huge talent and he could grow with us. We were convinced he could add something special to the team.
      “That’s always a question: How are you going to handle a different role? He has done it so naturally and he is loved by everyone. With the love that he has, it is enough for everyone to want to follow him.”
      Copy linkCopiedWhere they go next
      While we wait to hear what the managers say, here’s what’s to come for both sides in the league.
      Two tricky away days on the way next….

      Copy linkCopiedNow he’s honest….
      Ben White has come clean on his second goal.
      He told Match Of The Day: “The first goal I was just in the right place at the right time. The second one was a bad touch and it went in.”
      Copy linkCopiedFeeling all White
      Ben White says he’ll let everyone else decide whether or not he meant his second goal.
      He told TNT Sports: “We know we can score goals and today it was a quick game and it was important to put the ball away when we had the chance.”
      On his second goal and whether he meant it, he added: “I don’t know. I’ll let everyone else decide!
      “It’s not just the defence keeping the clean sheets, the wingers track back as well.”
      Copy linkCopiedBiggest win
      A damning stat against Chelsea tonight.
      That comes after Arsenal recorded the most shots in the first half against Chelsea in the league since 2003/04.
      5 – Arsenal recorded their biggest ever victory against Chelsea across all competitions (5-0), while this was the Blues’ heaviest defeat in a London derby since losing 6-0 to Queens Park Rangers in March 1986. Domination. pic.twitter.com/VONJBb6hCU— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 23, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedNew standings
      A look at the Premier League table now after that.
      Arsenal stay top and now pull clear of Liverpool and Manchester United….for now.
      They’re both in action in midweek though Arsenal’s goal difference looking a touch healthier than those two at the moment.
      Chelsea stay ninth.

      Copy linkCopiedBlue what?
      Nicolas Jackson avoided punishment for a dangerous challenge on Takehiro Tomiyasu.
      The forward collided with Tomiyasu just nine minutes into the match, catching his lower leg studs-up.
      Arsenal full-back Tomiyasu immediately went to ground after rolling his ankle as a result of the challenge.
      The Gunners were subsequently awarded a free-kick, but Jackson escaped a yellow card.
      Many fans believed he should have been sent off following the challenge.
      One person took to X to write: “How is this not a red card for Nicolas Jackson? Not even a yellow!!! Shocking from the officials again.”

      Copy linkCopiedNumbers at full time
      Chelsea with more of the ball and more passes.
      But doing absolutely nothing with it.
      Arsenal with 27 shots on goal in the end. Nearly one every three minutes!

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      It was actually a decent contest in the first half too.
      But that second half showing from Chelsea was absolutely embarrassing.
      Arsenal ran all over the top of them. Quicker, more powerful, stronger, pacier and just so much better.
      Chelsea’s midfield two costing a quarter of a billion pound? Give me a break.
      Arsenal brilliant, particularly after the break and will be gutted not to have scored more!
      Copy linkCopiedFULL TIME!
      Chelsea finally put out their misery.
      Five-star Arsenal extend their lead at the top!
      ARSENAL 5-0 CHELSEA

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      90+6. It should’ve been six.
      Martinelli is sent clean through, with no defenders in sight whatsoever.
      He opens his body looking for the far corner but gets his finish all wrong and strikes his straight at Petrovic.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      90+5. Sterling gets in behind on the left and has Jackson to pick out in the middle.
      His cross is straight at the defender who clears.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      90+2. Sterling turns well on halfway to skip away from White.
      But his pass through for Jackson is easily cut out.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      90+1. Sterling with an absolutely pathetic pass out from the back, right onto the head of Vieira.
      He nods it into the path of Martinelli on the edge of the area who takes a snap shot at goal which he drags wide of the left post.

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      89. Chelsea well short of leaders. Even now, only Thiago Silva on the pitch now you’d consider one. And it’s absolutely showing right now.
      SEVEN MINUTES ADDED ON.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      87. Almost six again for Arsenal!
      Odegaard and Vieira somehow create an opening against the back five of Chelsea. The Norwegian with the overlap creates confusion and Vieira’s smash at goal hits the sidenetting.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      85. Decent build-up play from Chelsea. But every pass being cheered by Arsenal fans!
      It’s worked out to the right but the hopeful cross into the box from Gallagher is straight at Raya who finally has something to do.

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      What a goal that would have been!
      82. Exceptional reverse pass from Gabriel Jesus to find Rice inside the box on the left.
      Rice opens his body up and curls an effort which cracks off the far post and back into play. Odegaard’s shot at goal is blocked before the offside flag goes up.
      That showed the qualities Gabriel Jesus does have, for all that he’s not a good goal scorer. That pass was magic.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      Another Arsenal change for the final 10 minutes.

      OFF: Saka
      ON: Vieira

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal 5-0 Chelsea
      78, Arsenal keeping the ball for fun as Gabriel is fine to come back on.
      Chelsea now in a back five, looking to contain Arsenal. Damage limitation.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Nottingham Forest updates — Premier League club demands VAR audio is released as points deduction appeal looms

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      NOTTINGHAM Forest have gone to war with the Premier League, FA and PGMOL.The Premier League club has issued a series of shocking reactions to their relegation six-pointer defeat to Everton.During the match, several decisions went against Forest, leading the club to demand VAR footage and audio be released to the public.The club went as far as to suggest VAR’s Stuart Attwell may have been biased against them.This comes as Forest’s appeal against their four-point punishment for breaching profit and sustainability rules (PSR) will be heard tomorrow, Wednesday, 24 April.Follow our live blog below for the latest news and updates…Premier league’s statement
      The Prem issued its own statement, saying it was “extremely disappointed” with Forest’s comments.
      They added: “It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules.”
      Forest could be charged under Prem Rules B.15 and B.16.
      Copy linkCopiedForest make demands
      Nottingham Forest have made their demand for the audio recordings of conversations between Attwell and ref Anthony Taylor to be played out on TV.
      A club spokesman said: “Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park. 
      “The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute).
      “We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.”
      Copy linkCopiedWebb insistent the claim that he was asked to take Attwell OFF the match is untrue
      Forest remain furious over the three penalty decisions that went against them in the relegation six-pointer while  Webb is insistent the central claim that he was asked to take Attwell OFF the match is simply untrue.
      Webb’s position is that, while he did receive a call from Clattenburg on Friday, it was to inform him that Forest thought Espirito Santo might be asked about Attwell’s appointment as VAR in his pre-match news conference.
      Managers and players have been warned that ANY pre-match comments about officials is an offence, although the question was then not asked.
      But Webb is adamant that Clattenburg categorically did not ask for the appointment to be changed and that Forest said they had no problem with it.
      Copy linkCopiedHow much are clubs allowed to lose under PSR?
      Clubs who are in the Prem for three seasons are limited to “allowable losses” – after calculations including the “amortisation” of transfer fees, stadium building and Covid-related expenditure are taken out – of £105m over three seasons.
      As Forest only had one top flight campaign, their limit was £61m.
      Forest, the Premier League argues, made losses greater than that number.
      Copy linkCopiedHow many points were Everton docked?
      Nottingham Forest aren’t the only Premier League side to be docked points this season.
      Everton were hit with a 10-point deduction earlier this season for breaching PSR.
      This was later reduced to six points.
      Copy linkCopiedCould Manchester City face a points deduction?
      Last February, Pep Guardiola’s team were hit with 115 allegations of breaching competition rules between 2009 and 2018 by the Premier League.
      The club denies all charges and has vowed to clear its name.
      These charges are far more complex than those levied at Everton and Forest.
      That means any punishment for the alleged rule breaches could take much longer to be announced.
      Copy linkCopiedAlan Shearer slams ’embarrassing’ Nottingham Forest statement in X-rated rant
      Alan Sheerer has taken aim at Nottingham Forest following their explosive Twitter statements.
      Slamming Forest’s complaints as “embarrassing”, Shearer told the Rest is Football podcast: “Honestly, before we go anywhere, let’s just say well done to Everton.
      “Very much like at the top of the table, at this stage of the season, it doesn’t matter how you play or what decisions you get, just get the three points, by hook or by crook. Everton got them and that’s all that matters.
      “But what the f*** are Forest doing putting that statement out? It’s an absolute embarrassment, isn’t it? ‘We told the PGMOL he was a Luton fan’. What on earth are they thinking about? It’s embarrassing.
      “I thought Anthony Taylor and Stuart Attwell had a terrible afternoon, but you can’t behave like that if you’re a top professional football club, one of the best, a team that has been amazing over the years, a European Cup and all of that.
      “Then behaving like that, there’s just no class to it. However angry you are, however upset you are, you cannot be putting statements out like that.”
      Credit: The Rest is Football
      Copy linkCopiedWhat has the Premier League said?
      The Premier League said it was “extremely disappointed” following Nottingham Forest’s explosive statements on Sunday and Monday.
      Writing on X, the league said: “The Premier League was extremely disappointed to read the comments made by Nottingham Forest on social media yesterday, following its match against Everton.
      “We note The FA has confirmed it will be investigating the club’s statement. It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules.”
      Copy linkCopiedWhat are Forest accused of?
      Nottingham Forest first admitted on December 31 when they filed their accounts for last season that they had breached the allowed Profitability and Sustainability limit.
      They finally admitted a breach of £34.536m.
      This breach has seen the side docked four points while in a crucial relegation battle.
      Copy linkCopiedGary Neville calls for Mark Clattenberg to resign
      Sky’s Gary Neville has demanded former Premier League ref Mark Clattenberg resign from his role as a consultant at Nottingham Forest.
      This comes after Forest shared a tweet slamming the Premier League for a series of decisions that went against them at Goodison Park this weekend.
      Neville said: “Mark Clattenberg must resign tonight.
      “If he saw those words go out in which question the integrity of a referee and claims someone is a cheat for supporting another club, then he’s supporting what is being said.
      “He would lose all credibility with referees in the game. He should stand down tonight and distance himself from that statement.
      “The statement is like a petulant child. It’s embarrassing.
      “Today has been a horrendous day for Nottingham Forest. Possibly horrendous because of the decisions that they’ve had, but horrendous for how they’ve reacted to the situation.
      “To mention the VAR official as being a Luton fan and inferring in some way that’s had an impact on the decision-making process and suggesting to me as a fan, thinking ‘has he cheated us’, you’re into really dangerous territory.”
      Copy linkCopiedPremier League demands explanation for Nuno’s comments
      The Premier League are demanding an explanation from Nottingham Forest regarding manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s comments after his team’s defeat to Everton.
      Espirito Santo’s interviews included him saying “it’s been clear what has been happening to us”  and suggesting “if we were in another country, we will start speaking about conspiracy.”
      In response, the FA said it had “formally requested observations” from Forest.
      Copy linkCopiedThe state of play
      Forest have four games to go and sit one point above the relegation zone.
      Here are the club’s remaining matches:

      Manchester City
      Sheffield United
      Chelsea
      Burnley

      Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest ‘consider SUING Sky’ after Gary Neville made ‘mafia gang’ claim
      Nottingham Forest are reportedly considering “suing” Sky after Gary Neville hit out at the club on live TV.
      In response to Forest’s recent statement, Neville said: “It’s like a mafia-gang statement. I mean, honestly, what the hell are they playing at? It’s like a petulant child, it’s embarrassing.
      “And some of those things they’re saying in there, the suggestion of some sort of inferring of cheating because there’s an official in VAR in Stockley Park who’s a Luton fan is a scandal, and they will pay for that.”
      Now, according to the Mail, Forest are considering legal action.

      Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest’s statement
      A club spokesman said: “Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park. 
      “The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute).
      “We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.”
      Copy linkCopiedPoints deduction appeal looms
      Looming in the background here is Nottingham Forest’s four-point deduction for alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules.
      The club’s appeal will be heard tomorrow, a moment that could make or break their season.
      Forest currently sit 17th, one point above the relegation zone.
      Copy linkCopiedThe claims from both sides…
      *Forest demands the public release of the conversations between ref Anthony Taylor and VAR Stuart Attwell
      *The FA announced they wanted urgent explanations from Nuno Espirito Santo, Neco William and ex-Prem whistler Mark Clattenburg
      *Forest then repeated allegations that refs’ chief Howard Webb was asked to take Luton fan Attwell off VAR duties for Sunday’s contentious Goodison clash before suggesting their “fears of a sideshow” had come true
      *Prem chiefs then signalling they will bring their OWN charges against Forest for the incendiary outing of Attwell as a Hatters supporter and implying he was biased against them.
      Copy linkCopiedWhat have Forest said?
      Following a series of decisions that went against Nottingham Forest in a relegation six-pointer vs Everton, the club released an astonishing statement.
      It read: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept. We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”
      Yesterday the club released a fresh statement which can be read below…
      Following yesterday’s match at Everton, NFFC issued a statement highlighting our concern at the perception of the PGMOL appointment of VAR for the game. This was an issue we raised with PGMOL prior to the fixture because of the fear of the side show that would ensue if anything…— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) April 22, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedForest go to war with the Premier League
      Nottingham Forest are locked in a feud with the Prem, the FA AND PGMOL.
      An astonishing day of claim and counter-claim over the fall-out from Sunday’s defeat at Everton saw the club demand VAR audio is released.
      This comes just hours before the league will hear the club’s appeal for alleged PSR breaches.
      Copy linkCopiedHow much are clubs allowed to lose under PSR?
      Clubs who are in the Prem for three seasons are limited to “allowable losses” – after calculations including the “amortisation” of transfer fees, stadium building and Covid-related expenditure are taken out – of £105m over three seasons.
      As Forest only had one top flight campaign, their limit was £61m.
      Forest, the Premier League argues, made losses greater than that number.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Coventry City 3-3 Man Utd LIVE RESULT: United sneak through to FA Cup final on penalties despite epic Sky Blues comeback

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have sneaked through to the FA Cup final on penalties after Coventry came back from 3-0 down to take the tie to spot kicks.The Red Devils took the lead through Scott McTominay’s 23rd-minute finish.Right on half-time, Harry Maguire doubled his side’s advantage with a bullet header from a corner.United captain Bruno Fernandes made it 3-0 just before the hour mark after pouncing on a Coventry defensive error before Ellis Simms netted for 3-1 to begin the Sky Blues’ epic comeback.Callum O’Hare’s deflected effort flew past Andre Onana to make it 3-2 – and Haji Wright’s 95th-minute penalty completed a stunning turnaround to take the FA Cup classic to extra time.Victor Torp thought he etched his name into FA Cup history in the 120th minute, only for his strike to be ruled out by VAR for an offside in the build-up.The tie was decided by penalties, which saw Rasmus Hojlund slam home the decisive spot kick to spare Man Utd’s blushes and secure their spot in the final.
      Match result: Coventry City 3-3 Man Utd (PENS 2-4)
      Coventry City team: Collins, Latibeaudiere, Thomas, Kitching, Bidwell, Eccles, Sheaf, O’Hare, Van Ewijk, Simms, Wright
      Man Utd team: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro, Mainoo, McTominay, Fernandes, Rashford, Garnacho, Hojlund
      BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERFollow ALL of the latest updates from Wembley below…Onto the next
      And United have a few winnable league games coming up in their pursuit of European football.
      Erik ten Hag will likely see out the season now, too.
      How many points will they claim from this next four?

      Copy linkCopiedReaction from Neil Custis
      Bruno Fernandes ended the FA Cup semi-final a man bemused as to what he had been a part of.
      No doubt knowing it would be he would have to try and explain it all again.
      Rarely have a team slunk away from this stadium with a feeling of embarrassment having just reach an FA Cup Final.
      The next time Fernandes turns up at the home of football he wants to be heading up those metal steps and picking up silverware.
      Nothing less will do for the captain of Manchester United.
      But he knows they have not got a hope of gaining revenge on this cross town rivals Manchester City if this is what they are going to deliver.

      Copy linkCopiedOh no, Onana
      Andre Onana admits getting through today was a ‘mixed feeling’.
      And he says he and his teammates will return to Wembley next month and WIN the trophy.
      He was booked in the shootout – after being booked in normal time. But he WON’T be suspended for the showpiece final.
      He told BBC: “It’s a mixed feeling. We went through, that’s why we came here.
      “It was a tough game at the end. We were in control. After so many individual mistakes we conceded three goals. The most important thing is to win. We have to look forward to the coming games.
      “Somehow we lost control of the game.
      “We are Man Utd. We must win. We feel good, we feel happy to be in a final. We’ll come back here to win.
      “The most important thing is the victory. We’re in the final, that’s what matters.”
      Copy linkCopiedLastly from Robins
      On losing out on penalties and the historic afternoon, Robins concluded: “There’s always a bit of gamesmanship [in penalties]. We needed to score the five goals. We scored the five in the summer and missed the sixth and Luton went up. It feels like a kick in the teeth.
      “I’m really proud of them.
      “We’ve just said to them they’ve put themselves right up there in the history of the football club. People will talk about this game for a long time.”
      Copy linkCopiedFinally from ETH
      He says his side have a great chance to win the final against Manchester City, despite playing the best football team in the world.
      He finished: “I want to win it. I’m sure we have a good chance to win this final, although we play the best team in the world.
      “We do have a chance though. We showed that this season.
      “This season has had many ups but also many downs. Winning the FA Cup doesn’t make it successful, we want to win more.
      “We have been in three finals in two years, which is good, but we had a lot of setbacks this season.
      “We’ve had a lot of injuries and hopefully those players can be back for the final. If we go with a squad who believe then we have a chance to win a trophy.”

      Copy linkCopiedRight mentality
      Ten Hag would also praise his side’s mentality and said they have character which they showed…
      He continued: “We can’t say this group doesn’t have the right mentality because they showed character today, but in the final part there was a lack of discipline.
      “We have to keep the ball, keep making passes, go for goal and then also be strong in defence. It’s about communication and we have to improve on this.
      “It was about mentality in that moment. You have a plan and have full confidence so I told them to stick to the plan.
      “I had confidence we would win the shootout. Normally Casemiro scores, we train them very well.”
      Copy linkCopied’Resilience’
      Erik ten Hag claims his side showed RESILIENCE to win the penalty shoot out.
      And he called it a ‘strange game’ having thrown away a three-goal lead.
      He told ITV: “It was an incredible game, a strange game too. We had total control for so long and then gave it away in the last part of the game. We did show resilience to win the penalty shootout.
      “We had control for 75 minutes and have to give Coventry a compliment for what they did in the last 15 minutes.
      “We have to improve. We talk a lot about this. First you have to put yourself in a winning position but then you have to take it over the line. In these moments we are making mistakes and not keeping our responsibilities.”
      Copy linkCopiedMore from Robins
      The Coventry boss was gutted that VAR ruled out the club’s huge moment, adding: “You get to penalties and it’s a lottery. You don’t hold anything against anyone if they show the courage to take one in a cauldron.
      “It’s a toe nail. Those lines are the bane of our life. You don’t get a chance often to go to an FA Cup final and we were really really close.
      “We have to pick ourselves up because there’s a game on Wednesday.”

      Copy linkCopiedMark Robins reacts
      The Coventry boss hailed his ‘incredible’ team for their comeback and admitted he ‘couldn’t be prouder’.
      He said: “We conceded too many poor goals. We knew we had to make changes which we did at half-time. We spoke about not having regrets. We started to look more of a threat.
      “To come back from 3-0 down is incredible. Some good quality football. We were really disappointed at the end.
      “We hit the bar and had a goal disallowed. It was a really difficult game. We lose Tavares to injury and had to make another change.
      “If you can attack them you can really hurt them. I can’t be prouder of them. They did fantastically well. I think we’ve made Coventry proud.
      Copy linkCopiedProud
      Coventry’s admin reacts to the penalty shoot out defeat.
      We fought like hell to turn that around, and we nearly did it. Your noise took us all the way and together we found ourselves on the brink of something incredible. Our boys did us proud. 🩵 pic.twitter.com/2qNuQZFQRZ— Coventry City (@Coventry_City) April 21, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedLooking ahead
      And United go into the final as underdogs, clearly.
      A performance like that next month could be quite something! Betfair odds:

      Man City 9/31
      Man United 12/5

      Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings
      Bruno Fernandes was awarded player of the match, as we said.
      But how did SunSport view United’s players in the performance this afternoon.
      Well, you can find out now!

      Copy linkCopiedBruno POTM
      Bruno Fernandes was given player of the match this afternoon and admitted he thought Coventry’s ‘goal’ in extra time was offside when it happened.
      And also said winning just the FA Cup doesn’t mean it’s been a successful season.
      He told ITV: “When they scored a goal we thought it might be offside, we couldn’t tell from the front.
      “We put ourselves in a difficult position and should have killed it earlier but we didn’t. We have to do so much better.”
      “We’ll never be successful if just winning FA Cup.
      “The standard of this club is much higher than what we have been doing. We have to do better in the league, the League Cup and in Europe.”
      Copy linkCopiedMatch report
      Probably only Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United could manage to book a place in an FA Cup Final while hanging their heads in shame. 
      But while United eventually confirmed a second consecutive all-Manchester final in this competition, the way they chucked away a three-goal lead against Championship Coventry was extraordinary even by their standards of low farce.
      And when Coventry’s Victor Torp netted in the 120th minute it looked like the most ridiculous comeback in Wembley history until VAR Thomas Bramall ruled it out for a marginal offside in the build-up. 
      Yet United came from behind in a nerve-shredding penalty shoot-out as Coventry skipper Ben Sheaf blazed his effort horribly off-target to send United through.
      Mark Robins, who once saved Sir Alex Ferguson’s skin with a famous FA Cup goal, watched his Sky Blues roar back with three goals in the final 20 minutes – an Ellis Simms strike, a deflected Callum O’Hare effort and a controversial penalty converted by Haji Wright. 
      United were roundly booed by their own supporters at the end of normal time, as Coventry’s delirious supporters partied like it was 1987, when their club won the Cup in a classic final against Tottenham.

      Copy linkCopiedFull time stats
      A total swing in the game after half time. They were cruising at the interval.
      The stats showing there was really very little between the sides in the end.

      Copy linkCopiedMore from Maguire
      He told ITV (per BBC): “We found a way. We started the game really well and then conceded a sloppy goal. We were unfortunate to concede the second goal.
      “I think the penalty was so hard but all credit to Coventry. They made it tough for us in the second half of extra time.
      “It sums up our season, we had great control and played well for 60 minutes but then we conceded out of nothing.
      “Then I don’t know, it seems like the world wanted Coventry to go on and do it. We showed great character to stick with it and it was important to win the shootout.”
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag to go?
      Erik ten Hag is now the favourite to be the next manager to leave his post after that showing.
      4/1 with Betfair this morning, he’s now the market leader at 3/1.

      No Manager To Leave 17/20
      Erik ten Hag 3/1
      Vincent Kompany 15/2
      Chris Wilder 9/1
      David Moyes 12/1

      Copy linkCopiedFinal once more
      Plenty of reaction to come after that one.
      But it will be a Manchester derby in the FA Cup final for the second successive year.
      Copy linkCopiedImmediate reaction
      Harry Maguire tells ITV: “We found a way. It sums up our season.”
      Copy linkCopiedContrast in the fans
      The United end is half empty! Some had left when it looked like Coventry won it at the death.
      Half empty is maybe giving them credit too!
      Coventry’s fans all raise their sky blue flags in appreciation of their players who now go to take a standing ovation.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 3-3 Man Utd (United win on penalties)
      Heartbreak for Coventry City. A cruel way to lose.
      As Onana and Hojlund celebrate in front of the fans, not one United player makes the run to celebrate with them from the halfway line.
      They know fine well they’ve got away with one here. Big time.
      Tears in the Coventry end and in the players who missed too.
      Copy linkCopiedPenalties
      HOJLUND SCORES! UNITED WIN THE SHOOTOUT!
      Man Utd: ❌✔️✔️✔️✔️
      Coventry: ✔️✔️❌❌
      Copy linkCopiedPenalties
      Sheaf SKIES his penalty! Onana with the mind games to put him off and was booked for doing so.
      Man Utd: ❌✔️✔️✔️
      Coventry: ✔️✔️❌❌
      Copy linkCopiedPenalties
      Fernandes strokes it home to hand United lead!
      Man Utd: ❌✔️✔️✔️
      Coventry: ✔️✔️❌
      Copy linkCopiedPenalties
      Onana saves from O’Hare! Poor penalty!
      Man Utd: ❌✔️✔️
      Coventry: ✔️✔️❌
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Coventry City 1-3 Man Utd – LIVE SCORE: FA Cup semi-final ON NOW as Simms pulls one back for Sky Blues – latest updates

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are taking on Coventry City in a huge FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium RIGHT NOW!And the Red Devils took the lead through Scott McTominay’s 23rd-minute finish.Right on half-time Harry Maguire doubled his side’s lead with a bullet header from a corner.United captain Bruno Fernandes made it 3-0 just before the hour mark after pouncing on a Coventry defensive error before Ellis Simms netted for 3-1 to set up a dramatic finish.Manchester City await the winner of this afternoon’s clash in the big final after their 1-0 win over Chelsea yesterday.
      TV channel/ live stream: ITV1/ ITVX
      Coventry City team: Collins, Latibeaudiere, Thomas, Kitching, Bidwell, Eccles, Sheaf, O’Hare, Van Ewijk, Simms, Wright
      Man Utd team: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro, Mainoo, McTominay, Fernandes, Rashford, Garnacho, Hojlund
      BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERFollow ALL of the latest updates from Wembley below…GOOOOOAAAAALLLLLL!!!
      GAME ON AT WEMBLEY – O’HARE SCORES WITH 12 MINUTES TO GO!
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 1-3 Man Utd
      75. United keeping the ball to take the sting out of things at the moment.
      Dalot and Antony combine before the latter tries to find Eriksen with a ball in behind but it’s overhit and scooped up by Collins.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 1-3 Man Utd
      73. United change:

      OFF: Mainoo
      ON: Eriksen

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 1-3 Man Utd
      71. Well then…
      It’s a good move down the right. O’Hare picks out Tavares on the Coventry right.
      He looks up and picks out Simms in the middle with a cross. He’s virtually all alone, eight yards out. The ball is just behind him but he swings his right foot at it and powers it into the bottom corner.
      It’s actually off his SHIN. But he won’t mind. Neither the 36,000 behind the goal who go berserk.
      Copy linkCopiedGOOOOOAAAALLLLL!!!!
      COVENTRY HAVE ONE BACK – IT’S ELLIS SIMMS!
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      70. One of those funny moments (except when it happens to you).
      O’Hare collects the ball inside the box and after taking a touch, Maguire steps across and uses strength to push him off the ball for a United goal kick.
      Rob Jones points for a goal kick and the fans behind the goal cheer hugely, thinking a penalty has been awarded.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      68. A rare effort at goal for Coventry.
      A cross from the right picks out O’Hare in the box ahead of the near post. He throws himself at it in a flying motion but misses the target by quite some way.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      65. United change:

      OFF: Garnacho
      ON: Antony

      He’s not happy about it again, Garnacho. Someone hide his phone, quickly!

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      64. Another Coventry corner as a cross from the right takes a wicked deflection into the side of the net.
      Again, it’s curled onto the head of Maguire who heads away with ease.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      63. Mark Robins makes a triple substitution:

      OFF: Kitching, Eccles & Latibeaudiere
      ON: Tavares, Binks & Torp

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      63. Maguire should have two to his name!
      The deep free kick finds Casemiro all alone who heads back into the danger area.
      The break of the ball lands to Maguire 10 yards out and he stabs an effort at goal but sends it over the bar!
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      62. Free kick United. Midway inside the Coventry half as the big men push forward.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      60. Coventry win a corner from the restart.
      Again, United deal with it well.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-3 Man Utd
      59. A contrast in quality and it was shown there.
      Coventry with a chance to get one back when a deep cross finds Wright. He takes his time, dithers on it and allows United to get back into a shape.
      The move eventually breaks down after some slow play and it’s cleared to Garnacho who springs the counter.
      Fernandes and Rashford involved before the former picks the ball up inside the box and on his left foot, he works some room and smashes low and hard at goal, sneaking in at the front post.
      A Manchester derby final it is – again!
      Copy linkCopiedGOOOOAAAALLLL!!!
      3-0 – BRUNO FERNANDES WRAPS UP THIS SEMI FINAL!
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      56. The marathon man has made it for the second half – just as he’d hoped!
      A respectable four hours, 30 minutes and 52 seconds it took Sir Jim Ratcliffe to complete the race this morning.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      56. Defended easily.
      United almost spring a counter but Fernandes’ ball forward is poor and easily cut out.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      55. Great defending from Wan-Bissaka to stop van Ewijk getting onto the end of a cross.
      He touches it behind for a corner to Coventry in front of their own fans.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      54. Coventry just snapping into the tackle a bit more now.
      Fernandes and Garnacho both sent flying in the same move as the Sky Blues fans behind the goal start to get excited.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      52. United lose the ball cheaply on the edge of their own box and Coventry are pressing higher here.
      The ball ricochets to Sheaf who snatches at a shot 25 yards from goal which rolls harmlessly wide.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      50. Fernandes lays it off to Rashford to strike from 25 yards out at a better angle but it’s blocked and Coventry clear.
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      49. United launch a counter attack through Rashford, who drives 45 yards up the pitch.
      He cuts in from the left when approaching the box and is brought down.
      22 yards from goal but wide on the left. Probably too far left for a shot at goal.

      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      47. So very nearly three!
      Fernandes picks the ball up on the left corner of the 18-yard box and works the ball onto his right foot.
      He sends a dipping, curling attempt towards the far post and it misses the post by a matter of centimetres. It had Collins scrambling anyway!
      Copy linkCopiedCoventry 0-2 Man Utd
      46. It does look like a change of shape for the Championship side, going to a back four.
      Copy linkCopiedSECOND HALF
      Coventry City get the second half up and running!
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace vs West Ham LIVE SCORE: Latest Premier League updates as Eagles host Hammers in huge clash

      by

      CRYSTAL PALACE host West Ham in a huge Premier League clash on Sunday afternoon.The Eagles are looking to steer well clear of the drop zone while the Hammers are still in the hunt for a place in Europe next season.
      Kick off time: 3pm BST
      TV/Stream: Not available to watch in the UK.
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow our live blog below… More