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      PSV vs Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Gunners hit SEVEN in Dutch ROUT plus Madrid derby in Champions League last-16 first leg

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      ARSENAL have all but sealed their spot in the quarter-finals as they became the first team in history to score seven away from home in a Champions League knockout game. On his return to his homeland, Jurrien Timber headed Arsenal into an early after the Dutch defender turned in Declan Rice’s cross to the back-post on the 18th minute. Three minutes later, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly combined to double the Gunners lead as the former met the latter’s low cross to fire in from close range. Mikel Arteta’s side would further extend their lead, following a lengthy VAR check, after Mikel Merino stroked the ball past the goalkeeper in the midst of a six-yard melee. PSV would pull themselves back into the game as Thomas Partey forceful challenge on Luuk de Jong handed Noa Lang the chance to convert from the spot, which he did with aplomb into the top corner. The North London club came out with the same impetus they started with, as quick-fire double from Martin Ødegaard and Leandro Trossard restored their comfort in score straight after the interval. Ødegaard would grab his second and Arsenal’ sixth before substitute Riccardo Calafiori – who came on the 35th minute for the booked-and-nearly sent off Myles Lewis-Skelly – compounded the Dutch side’s with a galloping run and finish to round off a unrelenting night. Full-time result: PSV 1 Arsenal 7PSV XI: Benitez; Ledezma, Flamingo, Malacia; Saibari, Schouten, Til; Perisic, De Jong, Lang.Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Odegaard; Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard.Follow this live blog for updates… Thanks for tuning inJust had a missed call on my phone, it could be Mikel saying I can play up front next week.Even a man down, they’ll still progress with ease.The big question next Wednesday night is who will they be playing? It’ll be a belter either way!Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedMatch reportMikel Arteta’s goal-crazy Arsenal can smell the quarter finals with a stunning result that eclipsed one of the greatest European nights in their history.Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles battered Inter Milan 5-1 at the San Siro back in November 2003 – Thierry Henry running rings around Javier Zanetti and co.Twenty two years on and a woeful PSV outfit could have done with Zanetti – even at his current age of 51 – at the back as the Gunners went two better with a seven-goal Euro humbling.In fact, they were the first team EVER to score seven in an away knockout tie.Copy linkCopiedMore from MikelHe was also asked about the teenagers tonight, adding: “It’s a massive result away from home in a competition that we love, that we miss for so many years. Today is a really special night for us.””To be doing what they are doing at 17 and 18 years old, shows incredible maturity. They are doing that because of how the other players support them and make them better. “They have a lot of courage. Myles makes an assist, that’s the team that I want to see, they take initiative and they want to make things happen.”Copy linkCopiedMikel reactsMikel Arteta told Prime Sport: “I’m just so happy for the boys because in the last two games, we haven’t scored a goal and we know the noise around that.”Momentum can shift and this is a team [PSV] that is very used to winning. They have the capacity to generate chances in a lot of moments. “You don’t want to put yourself in the position where they score a second one and it is game on.”This is the beauty of football. Focus on what you are doing and do your best. Anything can happen.”Copy linkCopiedPoor PeterPeter Bosz was already under pressure heading into this game, before leading them to their joint-record defeat in HISTORY.I’ll admit, he’s got to be very lucky to lead the team at the Emirates next week as they were absolutely mince.Looking embarrassed and burst, he told Prime Sport: “Terrible night for us. No chances, maybe two moments in the game?“We hit the bar and then maybe the second yellow card.“Football-wise we had no chance. They played well and we had no chance.“Absolutely poor from our side and not how we play normally and Arsenal did very well.“We had a plan, analysed them and thought we could hurt them somewhere. But if you look at how we defended, you can’t be successful if you play this way.”Copy linkCopiedMore from MartinThe Arsenal skipper was also pressed on the chance he could be heading back to Real Madrid with Arsenal in the next round.He told Prime: “Of course, it would be special to go back there. “Whoever we get we will be ready. “We have to finish our job at home first and then see who we get.”Copy linkCopiedLead from the frontMartin Odegaard told Amazon Prime Sport: “After last few games we needed this performance. It was brilliant from start to end. “Really good going forward, creating chances, scoring goals. Unfortunately conceded one goal but top performance.”Every player in my position want to influence the game with goals and assists and it’s something I haven’t been good enough at this season but two goals and one assist tonight is a good step.”Copy linkCopiedBig games to comeA result that will give the Gunners huge confidence moving forward.Some big games on the horizon in the Premier League especially – then a trip to Madrid to come too! Copy linkCopiedDec reactsDeclan Rice spoke to Prime Sport after the game and said: “We were fluid, enthusiastic, the drive and hunger in the knock out phase of the Champions League. “But we’ve been playing like this all season. We feel we’ve been playing well as a team sometimes we score five sometimes two sometimes we don’t score but tonight we did well. “We had the opportunity to score more second half especially.”Nothing is done yet, so we’ll see”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsPSV had more possession in the game, they have that to celebrate at least….Arsenal had 15 shots on goal to PSV’s 12 – but eight on target to the home side’s two.Seven goals from eight shots on target doesn’t reflect too great on the keeper, admittedly.Copy linkCopiedRecord-breakingNo surprise, tonight was Arsenal’s biggest result away from home in the Champions League.And they’re the first team in history to score 7+ goals away from home in a Champions League knockout stage game.Copy linkCopiedChampions League resultsFour results tonight with goals for all eight sides.Club Brugge 1-3 Aston VillaDortmund 1-1 LillePSV 1-7 ArsenalReal Madrid 2-1 Atletico MadridCopy linkCopiedQuarters awaitsArsenal can already begin preparations for Madrid as the job is done and dusted in the first leg.No striker? No problems this time as they put SEVEN beyond a dire PSV side.The only blemish was the one they conceded from the spot.Otherwise, it’s a near-perfect night with six different scorers – including two full backs – and it probably could’ve been more.Copy linkCopiedFULL TIMEAn extraordinary night in the Netherlands.PSV 1-7 ArsenalCopy linkCopied90 – PSV 1-7 ArsenalAll those goals and substitutions and we’re only getting two minutes added on.Even the referee feels for the home side.Copy linkCopied89 – PSV 1-7 ArsenalMalacia must’ve thought his embarrassing results were behind him when leaving Man Utd for PSV on loan.Alas not. He’s now been booked for a late challenge on Ben White.Pure frustration.Copy linkCopied88 – PSV 1-7 ArsenalPrime Sport saying this matches the worst ever defeat in PSV’s history in all competitions.Shocker.Copy linkCopied85 – GOAL DETAIL – PSV 1-7 ArsenalSeven goals and counting for Arsenal who have time for more.Speaking of time, Odegaard is given plenty of it 22 yards from goal when he stands in possession.He prods a pass with the outside of his foot into the box on the right where CALAFIORI of all people makes the darting run down the right wing and he finishes like a centre forward, with his weaker right foot across the keeper and into the bottom corner.Excellent finish. Seven goals away from home.Copy linkCopied85 – GOAL!! PSV 1-7 ARSENALIt IS seven and a left-back has scored.But it’s RICCARDO CALAFIORI!Copy linkCopied83 – PSV 1-6 ArsenalZinchenko determined to get on the scoresheet!Rice wins a corner and takes it himself from the left which is deep and Zinchenko is all alone at an angle.His controlled shot is blocked behind and PSV deal with that resulting corner.Copy linkCopied81 – PSV 1-6 ArsenalIt’s nearly seven.Tierney plays in Zinchenko down the left and his shot across goal is watched all the way by Benitez who saves this one.Copy linkCopied78 – PSV 1-6 ArsenalAnother double change for the Arsenal.OFF: Merino & TimberON: White and TierneyCopy linkCopied74 – GOAL DETAIL – PSV 1-6 ArsenalHow on earth have this Dutch side made the round-of-16 of this competition?The room given to Martin Odegaard 30 yards from goal is outrageous.He’s allowed to drive and drive and get to the edge of the box before striking well but straight down the keeper’s throat.He dives out the way of it, sticks a hand out and diverts it into the bottom corner.The home fans are piling out the exits and rightly so.Terrific from Arsenal.Copy linkCopied74 – GOAL! PSV 1-6 ARSENALRuthless from the Gunners against an absolute shambles of a side.MARTIN ODEGAARD makes it SIX!Copy linkCopied71 – PSV 1-5 ArsenalDouble change for Mikel Arteta:OFF: Partey and NwaneriON: Sterling & ZinchenkoCopy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      £51m incoming Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi is modern day Claude Makelele with a sprinkling of Sergio Busquets

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      LAST summer, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi was seriously tempted by a move to the Premier League.Liverpool were keen to give new manager Arne Slot the midfielder he craved – an impressive ball-playing, tackle-crunching Spaniard who has been tipped to be the next Rodri.Martin Zubimendi is a top summer target for ArsenalCredit: GettyHe has been likened to a modern-day Claude MakeleleCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdZubimendi also has similar traits to Barcelona legend Sergio BusquetsCredit: EPAUltimately however, Slot and Liverpool were turned down, with Zubimendi persuaded to remain at his beloved Sociedad by his coach Imanol Alguacil and sporting director Roberto Olabe.They reportedly did so by preparing a presentation on the pros and cons of a Prem switch, pulling on the 26-year-old’s San Sebastian heartstrings with pictures of his favourite local tapas restaurants and mountain hikes he enjoys in the Basque Country.Zubimendi claimed recently: “It is where I feel most comfortable”.It worked, but what Alguacil and Olabe did not anticipate was a similar approach by Arsenal and boss Mikel Arteta – a Basque boy convincing another Basque boy to make London his new home next season for £51m. The Gunners appear to have got their man.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSArteta and Arsenal’s presentations for potential new signings are nothing new, leaving most players and agents who experience it astounded by the level of detail and care put into them, led previously by ex-sporting director Edu and his assistant Jason Ayto – now the interim.Zubimendi was no different, sold on the project and vision at the Emirates almost instantly, as well as wanting to follow in Arteta’s inspiring footsteps, having also left his birthplace of San Sebastian for the bright lights of Barcelona in 1997 aged 15.Arsenal and Sociedad also have a great relationship and respect at board level, having recently negotiated Mikel Merino’s North London arrival for around £32m last summer.It has left Liverpool and Slot gutted, and they’re not the only ones. Real Madrid, Manchester City and Manchester United are all huge fans of the player.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd ironically, United now get to watch him up close on Thursday night in their Europa League last 16 first leg clash away at Real Sociedad.For all the noise around him over the past few years, Zubimendi is not a loud character. He is down-to-earth, humble, at times even shy and anxious.Mikel Arteta urges Arsenal to ‘step up’ as focus switches to Champions League It is said that while making the decision over whether to sign for Liverpool, he isolated himself at home, refusing to use his phone to fully lock in on a big decision that he also consulted his family over.However, he is a different beast when he steps on the pitch. In the last summer window, Arsenal bought Merino because he was a “dual monster”.Zubimendi is not too far behind in that respect.He is aggressive, assertive. A snarling, hungry athlete of a man who covers every blade of grass competing for space, the ball or a well-timed tackle.A modern-day Claude Makelele with a sprinkling of Sergio Busquets. Put simply, Zubimendi is the cog between the defence and the midfieldAnd right now in Europe, he is the closest thing to City’s Rodri.In the Euro 2024 final against England back in July, Spain were rocked by Rodri’s injury that forced him off at half-time. And yet, his absence was barely felt with Zubimendi on to replace him.He is used to pressure. Even with the eyes of the world on him days after performing his Liverpool U-turn, he did not miss a single training session, even taking part in a team photo shoot.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has also had to overcome the odds to even reach this position. In his early years at Sociedad, the coaches were initially not keen on him, favouring other players and only signing him up at the last minute – a decision that proved wise.Over a decade on and he is positioned to light up another big occasion, showing United – and the rest of England – what they can expect should he grace the Prem next season.Zubimendi is a full Spain internationalCredit: GettyHe was a part of the squad that won Euro 2024Credit: Getty More

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      Real Madrid to expand Bernabeu just a year after £1.5BILLION redevelopment as it’s too SMALL to host huge sporting event

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      REAL MADRID are looking to further expand the Bernabeu in order to host the 2030 Fifa World Cup final.Madrid only returned to their iconic stadium last month – after spending £1.5billion renovating it.Real Madrid are eyeing further changes to the BernabeuCredit: GettyMadrid only returned to the Bernabeu pitch last month after a long redevelopment projectCredit: GettyThe European giants spent a fortune on giving the Bernabeu a face-lift, with work beginning in 2019 and finally ending in late 2024.The changes have included a retractable roof, a 360-degree LED scoreboard and a new metal facade with 7,500 stainless steel slats.However, all the renovations actually slightly REDUCED the capacity of the stadium.But, Fifa’s December announcement of Spain co-hosting the 2030 World Cup with Portugal and Morocco, has thrown a spanner in the works.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd Madrid are now planning to do MORE work on the ground, to this time raise the number of seats.Plans would see the Bernabeu’s capacity is set to increase from around 79,000 to 85,000 seats, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.Fifa rules state that the World Cup final stadium must have a capacity of at least 80,000.The club is said to prefer a permanent solution over temporary seating so it can reap the long-term benefits after the World Cup.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThere is some uncertainty over the exact capacity of the Bernabeu following the redevelopment project.So far this season, Madrid’s attendance has only surpassed 78,000 on two occasions, against rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.Real Madrid being sued for millions over VIP Bernabeu SkyBar that costs fans £2,500 a game Barcelona’s revamped Spotify Camp Nou is another top contender to host the World Cup final.The Nou Camp is in the midst of a major revamp, with its capacity to stand at 105,000 once the project is completed. Barca are hoping to return home before the end of the season, but it would be operating at a reduced capacity while work continues.Meanwhile, the Grand Stade Hassan II, a huge new stadium set to open in the Moroccan city of Casablanca, is also a candidate.The African arena is set to have a capacity of 115,000, which would make it the largest football stadium in the world once completed.It’s the first time that three countries across two continents will officially stage the tournament. More

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      Jermaine Jenas & wife of 16 years SPLIT – months after he was sacked by BBC for ‘inappropriate texts’

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      JERMAINE Jenas and his wife Ellie Penfold have split up after 16 years together – only months after he was sacked by the BBC.The former footie star was fired as a Match of the Day pundit and One Show host over “inappropriate texts” sent to female colleagues.Jermaine Jenas and wife Ellie have separatedCredit: InstagramEllie shared the separation statement on InstagramCredit: InstagramFormer Match Of The Day presenter Jermaine issued a public apology to Ellie, the mother of three of his children in The SunCredit: Andrew StyczynskiHeartbroken ex-model Ellie announced the couple were separating in an Instagram post earlier today. It read: “I never imagined I would have to share something so personal with the public, but given the situation, I feel it’s necessary.”After 16 years together and 4 wonderful children, Jermaine and I have decided to part ways. “We will remain friends and continue to co-parent. We kindly ask that you respect our children’s privacy during this challenging time. read more in Sport”Thank you, Ellie.”The pair have been married for 14 years since they tied the knot in 2011.They also share two daughters, Geneva and Olivia, and boy, Jacob, together.Jenas, 42, also has an older daughter, Sancha, from a previous relationship who lives in the United States with her mother.Most read in FootballThe ex-England midfielder had spent the last few months apologising to his family and the public since the texts came to light.Jenas’ dad Dennis openly admitted last year that Ellie had kicked him out of the main bedroom the couple shared at their £1million home in Hertfordshire.Jermaine Jenas says he regrets ‘cheating’ & is unsure if wife will forgive himSpeaking to the Sun at the time of his sacking from the BBC, Jenas apologised to his wife but denied being a sex pest.He insisted he had done nothing illegal but said he was sorry if he made the women involved uncomfortable.Speaking less than 24 hours after The Sun revealed he had been fired from Match of the Day and The One Show following the complaints, Jenas said: “I am ashamed, and I am deeply sorry.He was sacked in an excruciating online meeting with HR and senior corporation execs, including being shown a string of X-rated messages he’d sent.He told the Sun: “I am ashamed, and I am deeply sorry.”In the same interview, he confessed to lying to wife Ellie during a family holiday and sneaking off to take a Zoom call with BBC bosses over his X-rated messages.He told The Sun in August: “We’ve not really spoken properly since. She’s absolutely raging.”In 2023, Jenas and Ellie clashed as he started spending more time socialising with his One Show work colleagues.The pair had explosive rows but, Jenas admitted, they quietly worked through their issues with the help of couples therapy.Jenas only returned back to work last month as he appeared on talkSPORT after a six-month break.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe made it clear he was “coming back as a better person” and has spent the time off “looking inwards, making some improvements”. The pundit made an initial return to broadcasting in October – at the Emirates stadium covering Arsenal v Liverpool for an overseas network but it wasn’t shown on British airwaves.Jermaine Jenas Scandal TimelineJERMAINE Jenas was dismissed in August for sending inappropriate messages to the women he worked with.Here’s what happened:August 22The BBC receives complaints about Jenas workplace behaviour, in regard to text messages.August 22 – Jenas is sacked by the BBC amid allegations he sent inappropriate messages to a female colleague.The presenter is taken off air from both Match of the Day and The One Show.Other colleagues begin to come forward.Jenas responds to BBC sacking: “Right now I can’t talk about it. I can tell you I’m not happy – there are two sides to every story – and I’m going to be speaking with my lawyers on the issue.”The BBC responds to Jenas’ sacking: “We can confirm Jermaine Jenas is no longer part of the presenting line-up.”In an exclusive interview with the Sun on Sunday, Jenas revealed he wanted to say sorry to girls he texted but the BBC blocked him.September 7November 24The couple share four children togetherCredit: InstagramJenas leaves News UK in August after his last appearance on talkSPORTCredit: Peter JordanJenas was a promising footballer with England and made more than 300 Premier League appearancesCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Boxing

      KSI sparks carnage on press conference stage after slapping Dillon Danis with a PANCAKE ahead of boxing grudge fight

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      KSI slapped Dillon Danis with a PANCAKE to spark carnage at their pre-fight press conference. The two were originally set to meet in January 2023 but Danis pulled out – with the bad blood brewing ever since. KSI slapped Dillon Danis with a pancakeCredit: PAIt sparked carnage on stageCredit: PAAnd now they get to settle the score once and for all on March 29 in Manchester – but KSI threatened to start the fight early. As the two went face-to-face, the YouTube sensation wrapped a pancake – on Shrove Tuesday – around Danis’ chops. The MMA star furiously went after KSI as security desperately tried to keep the pair apart. Danis and KSI were both eventually escorted out separately after the melee. READ MORE IN BOXINGKSI, 31, has not fought since October 2023 when he suffered his first defeat in the ring, losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 25. He was due to fight YouTuber Slim Albaher, 30, and former MMA fighter Anthony Taylor, 35, in a wild two-one-one bout last August. But KSI was forced out with a hand injury – which he has since recovered from. Danis meanwhile made his boxing debut on the undercard of KSI’s loss to Fury against Logan Paul. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd Paul, 29, won after Danis, 31, was disqualified after attempting an MMA submission. KSI admits the American was his FIFTH choice to fight but gave Danis the opportunity after failing to find another opponent. Jack Whitehall shocks BRITs crowd with huge swipe at Simon Cowell and makes cruel joke about KSI and Stephen HawkingAnd he predicted: “Knockout. I’d like to do it in round four. “I feel like round one he’ll probably try it see he can’t do anything to me and then he’ll close up and become a punching bag. “Then it’s me just beating him down for a few more rounds and then round four, I just let him know what time it is.” Danis faces penalties if he tries an MMA move like he did against Paul.He Danis plans to: “Choke him unconscious and stomp on his head as he’s f***ing dead.”Danis was left raging after the slapCredit: PA More

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      in Soccer

      Marcus Rashford’s delighted brother Dane joins noisy Aston Villa fans in Bruges pub before huge Champions League tie

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      MARCUS RASHFORD’S brother Dane was welcomed into the Aston Villa family in a Bruges pub.Footage shared by ITV showed fans serenading about the on-loan Manchester United forward with brother Dane in joining them in Belgium.Dane Rashford, smiling in the middle, was greeted by Aston Villa fans at a pub in BrugesDane, the older brother of Marcus Rashford, was greeted by former Villa star Ian TaylorFans were singing Rashford’s name in the pubRashford was named in Aston Villa’s starting XI for the Champions League clashCredit: AFPDane, the older brother of Rashford, was all smiles as he joined Rashford’s new fans ahead of Villa’s Champions League tie against Club Brugges in the Champions League last 16.Former Aston Villa star Ian Taylor, 56, was there to greet Dane.The ex-midfielder, who played for Villa for nine years between 1994 and 2003, was also seen standing on a table leading the chants.Rashford was named in the starting XI for the clash by Unai Emery.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 27-year-old is yet to open his goalscoring account for Villa, but has already racked up three assists in wearing the club’s claret and blue.He climbed off the bench against Chelsea in the Premier League to set up Marco Asensio twice to seal a 2-1 comeback win.Last weekend he then provided another assist for Asensio’s opener against Cardiff as Villa secured a 2-0 win to move into the FA Cup quarter-finals – where they drew Championship side Preston.Rashford’s more creative side really came to the fore in his last game, creating six chances for team-mates, equalling his highest tally in 426 matches for his boyhood club.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAfter falling out of favour at Man Utd under Ruben Amorim, Rashford was sent on loan to Villa.The deal features a £40million option for the Villa Park outfit to make the deal permanent at the end of the season, while Villa are currently paying 75 per cent of his wages.Why Marcus Rashford could be perfect fit for Aston Villa after Man Utd transferAs well as Dane, Rashford also has a brother named Dwaine Maynard, two sisters, and one half-sister.Dane is a director of DN May Sports Management – a sports management agency ”with the goal of elevating athletes to achieve their full potential and thrive in their sports and in their wider life” – alongside Dwaine. More

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      Club Brugge vs Villa LIVE RESULT: Villans come out on top in Champions League first leg last-16 with two late goals

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      ASTON VILLA start their historic knockout campaign with a comfortable advantage going into the second leg at Villa Park. The Villans started off well as winger Leon Bailey fired them ahead from close range inside the the first three minutes. Though, the tricky Club Brugge would level the contest no more than ten minutes later through Maxim De Cuyper who galloped onto a rolled back pass inside the box and planted his finish into the bottom corner. The back-and-forth contest would peak as Morgan Rogers’ cross from the right wing was turned in by Brandon Mechele on the 82nd minute. Substitute Marco Asensio would extend the lead as the Spaniard converted his penalty kick following Christos Tzolis late foul on Matty Cash. Full-time result: Club Brugge 1 Villa 3Club Brugge: Mignolet, Seys, Ordonez, Mechele, De Cuyper, Onyedika, Jashari,Talbi, Vanaken, Tzolis, Jutgla.Aston Villa XI: Martinez, Garcia, Disasi, Konsa, Digne, McGinn, Tielemans, Rogers, Asensio, Rashford, WatkinsFollow our live blog below… Full-time: Club Brugge 1-3 Aston VillaThat’s all from today’s game. Thanks for tuning in. Stay on SunSport for coverage of every Champions League match tonight.There will be live updates on PSV vs Arsenal.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-3 Aston VillaThe return leg takes place next Wednesday and Club Brugge have it all to do.Villa have one foot in the quarter-final thanks to goals from Leon Bailey and Marco Asensio, with Mechele scoring a crucial own goal.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-3 Aston VillaFT. Two late goals have put Aston Villa in a commanding position ahead of the return leg at Villa Park.It is job done for Emery whose substitutions made the difference.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-3 Aston Villa90. Late chance for Club Brugge but Vetlesen skies over from De Cuyper’s cutback.Another chance goes begging for the hosts which sums up the match.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-3 Aston Villa90. Watkins is replaced by Bogarde as the fourth official signals four additional minutes.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-3 Aston Villa87. Tielemans initially looked to put the ball down but he hands it to Asensio who fires low into the bottom left corner.Copy linkCopiedGoal! Club Brugge 1-3 Aston Villa87. Asensio makes no mistake from the spot!Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-2 Aston Villa86. Cash wins the ball in the box and is brought down by Tzolis.There was minimal contact and VAR checked to see if the ball went out of play before it reached Cash.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-2 Aston Villa86. Penalty Villa!Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-2 Aston Villa82. Rogers is played in down the right and he fizzes across a low ball that looks destined to reach Watkins.But before the striker can tap in Mechele stretches for the ball and can only divert it past his own goalkeeper. Disaster.Copy linkCopiedGoal! Club Brugge 1-2 Aston Villa82. Own goal from Mechele!Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa78. It is a back and forth match now with the intensity ramped up since Villa’s changes.But it is the hosts who look most like scoring.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa74. Big big miss.Tzolis is slipped through and only had the keeper to beat but he somehow smashes over the bar from eight yards.Huge let off for Villa.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa73. Villa look more up for this now and are seeing a lot more of the ball.Emery may take a draw but a win could be huge.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa69. How has that not gone in!A superb delivery is met by Brugge captain Vanaken who heads back across goal, but can only watch as the ball agonisingly bounces past the post.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa68. So close from Villa!Watkins goes close but Mignolet produces a brilliant save to keep the ball out.It falls to Cash who can only blaze over the bar from close range.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa67. Brugge still on top here without creating much.Emery will be hoping the subs re-energise his team, who have looked off it today.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa63. First change and it’s a big one. Rashford, Bailey, McGinn and Disasi all go off.Cash, Asensio, Kamara and Ramsey come on to replace them.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa59. Another Brugge move comes to nothing thanks to Mings.He gets a foot in to deny Jashari just as he was about to shoot.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa57. Emery does not look too pleased on the touchline as his side struggle to get a foothold in the game.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa54. Onyedika unleashes a shot from distance but it is easy for Martinez to deal with.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa52. Club Brugge go up the other end and Mings has to stretch to put the ball out for a corner from a low cross.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa51. Villa break as Rogers turns on the halfway line and runs at the defence.He feeds Watkins but the ball is pinched off his toe.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa49. A steady start to the second period with Club Brugge dominating the ball so far.Copy linkCopiedClub Brugge 1-1 Aston Villa46. The second half is underway with no changes for either side at the break.Copy linkCopied More

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      Newcastle issue fierce warning over Isak and Guimaraes transfers with club ready to ‘spend to the max’ after FFP U-turn

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      NEWCASTLE UNITED delivered a fierce hands-off warning to Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City over stars Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes.In a remarkable change of tune from 12 months ago, when the club warned fans it might have to sell one of its star assets to meet Prem PSR rules, chief executive Darren Eales said there was NO way any of Eddie Howe’s main men would have to go this summer.Newcastle want to keep Alexander Isak at St James ParkCredit: GettyThe club have issued a hands-off warning to clubs interested in their starsCredit: GettyEddie Howe’s men are chasing another top four finish this seasonCredit: GettyAnd he also insisted Saudi owners PIF are ready to “spend to the max” to try and make the Magpies champions.Eales on Tuesday unveiled the club’s accounts for last term showing a loss of £11.1m – despite revenues enjoying a 28 per cent increase to a record £320.3m – a figure way down from the previous year’s £73.4m.That means they are not at risk of breaching Prem FFP rules and there is no compulsion to sell.Eales said: “We’re in a position now where because of the fact we were able to move a couple of players in January (2024) that weren’t really impacting on minutes on the pitch. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”We’ve got that wish and desire to keep our key players, they’re all under long-term contracts. “So from that perspective we have no intention at all of those players being moved on, and we’re not under the gun or anything like that.”We’ve got an ownership that is ambitious, wants the best for the club. So from that perspective, it’d be crazy for us to consider it.”On the constant links with Toon’s top stars being chased by Prem rivals, especially 22-goal top scorer Isak, Eales said: “It is part of football. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”You would rather have people talking about players than not in the sense we know he is a world class player and he is somebody, obviously, other clubs would covet because he is an incredible player.“It is part and parcel of the world we live in, but it is frustrating. It is part of what football is, everybody wants to have a story and talk about it.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak talks to Alan Shearer about Champions League desires “But when you think about the growth of Newcastle we have the ambition to be a top club.“There is a sense of annoyance as we are almost seen as the next category down and it is fair game to talk about our players but we are striving as a club to be at the top table.”We want our best players here and to be honest it shows the value Isak has that they talk about him all the time.”He continued: “The reality is that all of our players are under long-term deals. “They’re committed to the club. So, from that perspective, we’re not looking to move any player on.”And Eales even confirmed our reports that they will be looking to tie down the £150m-rated Swedish hotshot to a new deal.The chief said: “We’re going to be clear – he has multiple years left so all of these things, we will have the discussions in terms of a new deal just like we did with, whether it’s Joelinton, Bruno or Anthony Gordon.”That’s something that we will approach in the summer.”Frustrated fans, and boss Eddie Howe, have had to endure three difficult transfer windows in which no major additions were made to bolster the starting XI.However, after cutting cloth accordingly to avoid breaching PSR rules and a new spending cycle set to begin, plus upcoming updates on stadium and training ground plans, Eales assured supporters that their Saudi owners were still as keen as ever to take them to the very top.Though he was reluctant to go all-out and promise a transfer war chest for Howe this summer in order to avoid prices being hiked up for potential targets.My View – ‘Toon are daring to dream’ By Gary Stonehouse THE TOON ARMY are daring to dream again after Darren Eales revealed the latest club accounts.And finally excitement can start building again over Newcastle’s rise under the Saudis after the growing pains of recent times.Key mega-money decisions over the stadium and a new training ground are due to be confirmed over the coming months.But it is the players on the pitch that fans are most interested in rather than generational moves regarding a redevelopment or building of a brand-spanking home from scratch.Despite being the richest club on the planet, frustrations have mounted for the past 18 months over a lack of investment in the playing squad.And the PSR issues hindering their route to the top, coupled with continual interest in the likes of star man Alexander Isak, has led to tensions mounting amongst supporters.But in a clear message, after three tedious and problematic transfer windows, it looks like boss Eddie Howe will finally feel the benefit of the Saudi dollar once more.Unlike last year when the club conceded they could have to sell a major star in order to avoid spending sanctions, the message from the CEO this time is loud and clear that their top talents are going nowhere.After the penny-pinching and player exits that has left Howe with a threadbare squad, Newcastle are also ready to bolster his playing staff again.The amount of his transfer kitty will depend on whether he can lead them into the Champions League for the second time in three seasons.And, naturally, Eales played it coy on a potential war chest being opened as they look to avoid the inevitable ‘Newcastle Tax’ being increased by selling clubs.But his declaration that Saudis remain as ambitious as ever and will “spend to the max” to achieve their dream of Newcastle eventually becoming champions is exactly what every Magpie wanted to hear.The pesky PSR hurdle might still make that dream a while off, Howe is just days away from potentially ending the 70-year wait for major silverware with next week’s Carabao Cup Final looming.And that prospect, along with the soon-to-be announced details regarding the stadium and training ground, means 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet in the famous old club’s distinguished history.He declared: “We have been clear on this, ownership has committed to spending to the maximum amount we can within the rules.“If the rules weren’t there we’d spend more. Because they are an ambitious ownership group that is looking to drive Newcastle to be sustainable and competing for trophies. “Ultimately we want to be winning the Premier League – but we have to do it within the constraints of what we have.”Eales added: “From my perspective, and I deal with them day to day, they are 100 per cent committed to Newcastle. “That’s the exciting part, there is no change in terms of where we want to get to.”The one thing we’d say is that we have to do that within the regulatory regime that is there. How Howe turned Toon around WITHOUT Saudi billionsBY GARY STONEHOUSEEDDIE HOWE has got “the richest club in the world” fighting for honours regularly again despite not being able to blow the big Saudi bucks.The 47-year-old achieved legendary status at Bournemouth by guiding the then-skint Cherries all the way from League Two into the Premier League promised land.Now he is potentially on the verge of writing his name into Newcastle’s history books if he can end their 70-year wait for a major trophy.Howe came mightily close two years ago when he and the Magpies suffered heartbreak in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.Qualifying for the Champions League with a fourth-placed finish softened that blow, and now he is eyeing more than just another Wembley outing as he takes Toon to Arsenal for the first-leg of the Carabao Cup semis.Of course, it has been nothing like those early days at Bournemouth for Howe since he took charge in November 2021 just weeks after their Saudi takeover.There was a big outlay that January transfer window in order to assure the club’s Premier League status, but despite reaching the Champions League, PSR rules have delayed their path straight to football’s top table.Though, despite the purse strings being tightened and even being forced to sell young starlets against his wishes, Howe still has Newcastle punching with the big boys for silverware.The question is though – how has he done it and how far can he go?”At the moment, the way we approach from ownership down – and everyone is aligned – is that we maximise our revenues and with that we spend to the max we’re allowed to, so we incur those losses of £105m over three years to give Eddie and the team the best possible players on the pitch that he wants. “We’re in alignment in terms of how we build that squad.“It’s frustrating because we want to go from A to B in three years, but we can’t do what was done in the past. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The days of an Abramovich or Man City in the early days, you just can’t do that anymore. You can front load the spend, but you have to pay the piper.”We have to be strategic and say the way we’ve approached it is that yes, we got to the Champions League quicker than what anyone thought, but the most important thing after that was keeping our key players and that was the approach that we took.” More