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      Newcastle 2 Chelsea 0: Blues dumped out of Carabao Cup in shocking display as Toon march on to quarter-finals

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      NEWCASTLE took a trip down memory lane to ignite their season and dump last season’s beaten finalists Chelsea out of the Carabao Cup.Having been out of sorts for much of the campaign so far, the Toon players rediscovered the energy, flair and goalscoring threat of recent years to lift spirits among a fanbase which was starting to doubt them.Chelsea were played off the park as they lost 2-0 at NewcastleCredit: GettyAlexander Isak was on target as Toon booked their place in the next round of the Carabao CupCredit: AFPThis was the Newcastle who destroyed Chelsea 12 months ago and the previous season too, the red-hot hosts who had previously turned St James’ Park into a foreboding fortress, not the anaemic, goal-shy side of late.Chelsea have been more pedigree than pantomime in recent weeks but this was a night they resorted to southern softies mode against opponents with the bit between their teeth.To be fair to the visitors, they had carried the greater attacking threat in the opening 20 minutes but once they gifted Newcastle the lead, there was an inevitability about the outcome.The two goals which separated the sides, scored in the 23rd and 26th minutes, were both messy, not that the celebrating Toon Army cared a hoot about that.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRenato Veiga was tackled by Joelinton just outside his own area, the ball was worked to Alexander Isak who swept home for his second goal of the week.Three minutes later, the Swede turned provider, his cross glancing off the head of Joe Willock before Axel Disasi sliced into his own net.Sandro Tonali went close as Chelsea looked like buckling before regaining their composure in the minutes leading up to half-time.Christopher Nkunku would have cut the deficit on 50 minutes only for Lloyd Kelly to throw himself at the striker’s feet as he shaped to shoot. As courageous as it was vital.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe pace rarely let up and Enzo Maresca’s decision to throw on in-form Noni Madueke before the hour mark showed Chelsea had not given up.He had a penalty appeal turned down and Nkunku miskicked in front of goal.I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’But with Newcastle’s players defending as if their lives depended on it, a Blues’ comeback, for all their territory, never really looked on.Incredibly, both sides had missed gilt-edged chances to break the deadlock inside two minutes.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was the first culprit, shooting tamely straight at Nick Pope after being set up by Nkunku.Isak put Newcastle ahead midway through the first halfCredit: PAAxel Disasi scored an own-goal to double Toon’s lead moments laterCredit: PAJoelinton’s miss was even worse, hitting the outside of the upright from just six yards out after Isak had found him unmarked at the far post.Eddie Howe admitted this week he still carried the mental scars from last season’s League Cup KO defeat at Stamford Bridge .The visitors were moments away from booking a semi-final place only for Mykhailo Mudryk to equalise and Chelsea win the subsequent penalty shoot-out.A bland game saw a scrap break out late onCredit: GettyJoelinton and Benoit Badiashile squared upCredit: ReutersPenalties looked a long-shot once the Toon had established their ascendancyChelsea did continue to test the Magpies with Renato Veiga’s goalbound shot cannoning off Sandro Tonali for a corner.Then Joao Felix displayed deft footwork to create a shooting chance for himself, firing just over the bar from the edge of the area.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut it was Newcastle who had the killer instinct leaving Chelsea with an uphill task at the break.Sean Longstaff had a 74th minute goal ruled out for offside but while they would have loved a third, Newcastle rarely looked like needing it.It was a bad night up north for ChelseaCredit: GettyThey failed to do back-to-back wins after beating Toon in the league on SundayCredit: Reuters More

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      Man Utd 5-2 Leicester LIVE RESULT: Van Nistelrooy’s reign gets off to superb start as United secure quarter-final spot

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have thrashed Leicester 5-2 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s interim reign got off to a superb start with goals from Casemiro and Alejandro Garnacho early in the first half.Bilal El Khannouss pulled one back for Leicester, but Bruno Fernandes’ deflected free-kick on 36 minutes re-established United’s two-goal lead.Minutes later, Casemiro slammed home his second of the night to make it 4-1 before Conor Coady’s close-range finish made it 4-2 going in at the interval.In the second half, Fernandes pounced on a dreadful defensive error from the Foxes to wrap up a 5-2 win for United.Match result: Man Utd 5-2 LeicesterMan Utd team: Bayindir, Dalot, De Ligt, Lindelof, Martinez, Casemiro, Ugarte, Rashford, Garnacho, Fernandes, ZirkzeeLeicester team: Ward, Justin, Coady, Okoli, Thomas; El Khannouss, Skipp, Soumare, McAteer, De Cordova-Reid, AyewCarabao Cup quarter-final draw LIVEFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all, folks!United are into the quarter-finals are beating Leicester 5-2 in their first game of the post-Erik ten Hag era.The club are willing to trigger Ruben Amorim’s £8.3m release clause, so we could see him at Old Trafford sooner rather than later.Reports suggest that the Sporting boss could be announced as manager tomorrow, but will enter a 30-day notice period.But tonight is Ruud van Nistelrooy’s night after the former United striker led the club to victory in his first game as interim boss.Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup quarter-final drawArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolTottenham vs Man UtdCopy linkCopiedCooper banned from dugout for Leicester’s next game after yellowLeicester manager Steve Cooper on his yellow card, meaning he’s banned from the dugout for Saturday’s game with Ipswich:”Maybe there’s a bit of sympathy for the linesman, he’s a Premier League linesman and he’s used to the protection of VAR – still, you can’t make a mistake like that.”It was a big moment in the game because we scored soon after so it should have been 1-all, but it’s 2-1, and the referee I think enjoyed giving me a yellow card as well. “I don’t think any team’s reliant on a manager stood on the touchline. We’ll take that as it comes at the weekend.”Copy linkCopiedRuud van Nistelrooy after United’s 5-2 winMan Utd interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy asked if he will stay on as interim until the club announce a permanent manager: He told Sky Sports: “Of course – I came here as an assistant to help the club. Now in this role, I’m helping as long as needed. “In the future in any capacity, I’m here to help the club further to build towards the future that’s what I’m here for.”On if he wants to be part of the new coaching set up:”I’m here to help and serve and give my everything for the club in any capacity with so many people here around me that want the best for the club and that will never change.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterUnited travel to face Tottenham in the quarter-final.Spurs beat Man City 2-1 tonight.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester92. Full-time!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester90. Two minutes have been added to the clock.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester87. Bruno Fernandes again works to get his hat-trick. Leicester goal-kick.Sir Alex Ferguson in the stands at Old TraffordCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester85. More changes!Ethan Wheatley on for Joshua Zirkzee who has had a quiet evening, it didn’t quite fall for him tonight.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester82. United tries to bag himself a volley from Casemiro’s delicious pass.The home captain cries out in desperation after his shot flies over. United want more.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester79. United knocking the ball around nicely. Can they seek out a sixth goal as we approach the final 10 minutes?Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester75. Leicester subs!Mavididi, Buonanotte and Alves replace El Khannouss, De Cordova-Reid and Ayew.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterFrom SunSport’s Neil Custis at Old Trafford:With the fifth goal, United fans for once could sit back believing even their team could not blow this. The atmosphere is buoyant, the football was good and the chants for Ruud van Nistelrooy ring out.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester71. Subs! Jonny Evans comes on for De Ligt and Rasmus Hojlund comes on for Garnacho.The Argentine deserves a break. Zirkzee stays on despite not really being involved.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester69. Shot!A desperate Amad tries to score from an acute angle. But it hits the side netting.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester67. Chance! It’s all United now after some clever football and string of passes.Fernandes’ outside of the foot shot hits Zirkzee.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester66: Up the other end! Casemiro prevents a Leicester corner.Great save from Bayindir who then pushes the preceding shot off the bar.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester65: So close! Diallo Amad almost scores an overhead kick with his first touch of the evening.That wasn’t far past the post.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester64. Block! United sweep up the pitch and Garnacho is played in on the left. He cuts in and shoots but Okoli gets across to block his effort.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester62. Double change for United! Mazraoui and a happy Amad are introduced as Martinez and Rashford make way. Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester60. Nearly went from bad to worse for Leicester.Garnacho just gets his final ball all wrong.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 5-2 Leicester59: GOAL! Bruno Fernandes scores his second of the evening.The United captain rolls it under Ward and smashes home from two yards.United clear?Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Leicester58: SHOT for United!Zirkzee hits it straight at Ward. Should have done better.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-2 Leicester57: United clear. Zirkzee chases down Ward.United haven’t looked the same yet. Soaking up pressure here at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopied More

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      Newcastle 2-0 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Magpies get revenge on Blues as they secure spot in Carabao Cup quarter-final

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      NEWCASTLE have beaten Chelsea 2-0 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.The Toon took the lead after Alexander Isak pounced on a defensive error from the Blues.And things went from bad to worse for the Chelsea back four after Axel Disasi put the ball in his own net for 2-0 minutes later.Newcastle got revenge on Tyneside after the Blues beat the Magpies 2-1 in the Premier League just three days ago.Match result: Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaNewcastle team: Pope, Schar, Kelly, Hall, Krafth, Longstaff, Willock, Tonali, Gordon, Joelinton, IsakChelsea team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Badiashile, Tosin, Veiga, Cucurella, Enzo, Dewsbury-Hall, Mudryk, Nkunku, Joao FelixCarabao Cup quarter-final draw LIVEFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…From Ian Murtagh at St James’ ParkEddie Howe was thrilled his Newcastle side showed their intent early to take the game away from Chelsea.He said: “We feel a lot better about ourselves after that.“We needed a performance and a result and we got both, especially in the first half when we were on  the front foot and at our best.“Games change in a heartbeat and so can momentum. When you are in a difficult moment, the only thing that can spark you into life is yourselves.“Straight from kick off we showed our intent. Despite all their changes, we beat a very good team, have no illusions about that.”Copy linkCopiedFavourites outInteresting.Manchester City are OUT before the quarter final stage.It’s wide open now…Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratingsChelsea made 11 changes once again and this time it cost them with Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi off the pace.Only Mykhailo Mudryk can come out of the match with any credit as Chelsea were dumped out of the Carabao Cup by a resurgent Newcastle.Here’s how I rated them:Copy linkCopiedOther teams throughExcitement for Newcastle supporters then to still be in the hat come the quarter final stage.Here’s who they could face:SouthamptonBrentfordLiverpoolCrystal PalaceMan UtdNewcastleArsenalTottenham 2-1 Man City, 85 minsCopy linkCopiedFull time statsPlenty of the ball for the visitors but virtually nothing done with it.They’ve actually dominated virtually every stat measured.Except the score-line…Copy linkCopiedFrom Ian Murtagh at St James’ ParkSo it’s revenge for Newcastle following Sunday’s Premier League defeat at Stamford Bridge.And Eddie Howe’s side have also avenged last season’s Carabao Cup KO at the hands of Chelsea.They’re through to the last eight and a kind draw will evoke memories of two seasons ago when they reached the Wembley final only to lose 2-0 to Manchester United.Chelsea huffed and puffed in the second half but never looked like overturning the Toon’s 2-0 interval lead.Copy linkCopiedFT! Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaNewcastle move into the last-eight of the Carabao Cup!Copy linkCopied90 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaThree minutes added on.Copy linkCopied89 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaVeiga has an attempt from 25 yards which is well struck but Pope gets down well to push it away.Copy linkCopied85 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaJoao Felix is adjudged to have fouled Bruno Guimaraes on the edge of the Newcastle boss.He disagrees with that decision and his reaction earns him a yellow card.Copy linkCopied83 – OFF THE POST! Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaWhat a goal this would’ve been for Newcastle.Krafth nips in ahead of Mudryk to win possession back before driving 40 yards, sitting Veiga on his backside with a clever turn.He finds Osula with his own clever turn on the right edge of the area, onto his left foot before firing low and hard at the near post.It smashes the base of the post and away to safety.Copy linkCopied80 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaInto final 10 minutes and Cole Palmer remains sat in his seat, looks like we won’t be seeing him tonight.Newcastle sitting deeper now and Chelsea finding it difficult to break them down.Enzo Fernandez goes down after trying to tackle Bruno G, holding his face after a brushing of Bruno’s hand. Dearie me.Copy linkCopiedHUGE CHANCE! 75 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaTremendous, defence-splitting pass from Badiashile gets Felix clean through.He’s in a race with Pope to get there and he beats the Newcastle keeper, flicking it over him and towards goal but a couple of inches wide. Huge chance.Copy linkCopied74 – GOOOAAAAA – NO!! Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaLooked like being 3-0 and game over but the flag comes to Chelsea’s rescue.A deep ball in from a set piece found Schar all alone and he nodded across the face of goal for Longstaff – also all alone – to nod home.Schar was offside in the initial delivery though.Copy linkCopied72 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaDouble change for Newcastle who are looking to see the game out now.OFF: Hall & GordonON: Burn & LivramentoCopy linkCopied68 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaMidway inside the second half and Chelsea are ramping up possession and efforts at goal.Still zilch to show for it, mind you.Copy linkCopied67 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaGood work from Bruno G to win possession back midway inside the Newcastle half.He tries to get Osula away on the counter but good defending from Chelsea that time.Copy linkCopiedFrom Ian Murtagh at St James’ ParkFast, furious and relentless, both sides are hammering away at each other. Chelsea have thrown on Madueke but so far Newcastle have held firm.None more so than Lloyd Kelly who threw himself at the feet of Nkunku when the striker looked a certain scorer.Copy linkCopied66 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaOne-way traffic at the minute as Chelsea win back-to-back corners.They again swarm round Nick Pope but the keeper does tremendously well to come off his line to claim.Copy linkCopied64 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaGood play again from Mudryk down the left and he’s tripped by Joelinton.He stays down as Chelsea take the free kick quick but nothing comes of it.Copy linkCopied62 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaDouble change for the hosts:OFF: Willock & IsakON: Bruno G & OsulaCopy linkCopied62 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaHuge chance for Nkunku once again! Mudryk’s pace gets him clear once again down the left.He picks out Nkunku in plenty of room 12 yards from goal but the striker’s attempt goes BACKWARDS and Newcastle scramble it clear.Copy linkCopiedPENALTY SHOUT! 61 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaChelsea looking for a penalty here.Madueke with a drop of the shoulder and he skips round Gordon out wide.The Newcastle man gets back and puts his arms on Madueke who looks quite happy to throw himself to ground.Nothing given.Copy linkCopied60 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaOutstanding defending from Schar, who has Nkunku nipping away from him inside the box.Schar times his tackle to perfection, getting the ball behind for a corner. Copy linkCopied56 – Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaEnzo Maresca doesn’t wait too much longer before going to his bench, with Dewsbury-Hall hooked before the hour.OFF: Dewsbury-HallON: MaduekeCopy linkCopied More

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      Brighton 2 Liverpool 3: Cody Gakpo nets pair of rockets as much-changed Reds cling on for Carabao Cup quarter-final spot

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      CODY GAKPO continued his Carabao Cup love affair with a brilliant brace at Brighton.The Dutchman’s double set Liverpool up to cruise into the quarters.Cody Gakpo scored twice as Liverpool beat Brighton 3-2Credit: GettyThe result saw the Reds book their place in the next round of the Carabao CupCredit: GettyBut a late flurry of goals, with Simon Adingra and Tariq Lamptey scoring either side of Luis Diaz, left Arne Slot looking flustered.Whether 2-0 up or down Brighton can always produce a comeback or collapse, but Slot’s lot should have been far more comfortable having been put clear.Gakpo bagged four goals on the way to last season’s final and already has four in two appearances this term.Slot needed another forward to step up after injuries and some rotation – eight changes a piece made here.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has so little faith in blooper-reel regular Darwin Nunez that he opted to start two central midfielders, Dominik Szboszlai and Curtis Jones, as false nines.It left the Reds with an effective front four at most times, though they struggled for clear cut chances.However the hosts should have taken the lead thanks to a clever clip over the Liverpool back line by Jan Paul van HeckeLamptey found himself alone against impressive keeper Vitezslav Jaros but fired straight at the Czech.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe chance gave Brighton a shot of spirit but Slot’s side largely retained control and started to force chances.Their lack of focal point, with Jota injured, meant openings were harder to come by.Liverpool have put Jurgen Klopp’s sprawling £4million home for sale – after Anfield successor Arne Slot turned it down.It took a smart one-two between Szboszlai and Andy Robertson to find some space, though the midfielder shot straight at Steele before Luis Diaz headed the rebound wide.Gakpo then fed Robertson for a chance of his own, though Steele stopped it with ease at the near post.Having gone for the tappy and technical approach to breaking Brighton down in the first half, Gakpo went for the jugular within 40 seconds of the restart – cracking a thunderbolt from the corner of the box past Steele.His strike here did put Liverpool ahead but it also put a rocket up the hosts.Gakpo got his first early in the second halfCredit: ReutersHe doubled Liverpool’s lead soon afterCredit: GettyWithin moments of the resumption, third-choice keeper Jaros made a stunning fingertip save to turn Adingra’s header on to the post before parrying an effort from Evan Ferguson and pushing Jakub Moder’s long range striker over the bar.Hurzeler’s men were in complete control, but another Lamptey handed Liverpool the initiative once again.The former Chelsea man was robbed of the ball in his own half by Gakpo, who raced away as part of three red shirts against one blue and white.Gakpo opted to square for Szboszlai who got his feet stuck and allowed Steele to get a hand to his poor effort.Simon Adingra gave the Reds a late frightCredit: PALuis Diaz managed to restore the Reds’ two-goal leadCredit: AFPTwo minutes after the first warning, Gakpo snatched the ball from the full-back once more and this time took no risks in squaring to a team-mate. A thumping near-post finish flashed past Steele.Kaoru Mitoma was sent on and tormented down the left but it was Adingra, Brighton’s standout man, who gave them hope of a comeback.Just as Lamptey had slipped up, Jarell Quansah was pickpocketed in his own half. The ball moved to Ferguson whose powerful strike was spilt, allowing the winger to prod home.It had Liverpool frightened once more, but Diaz hit back with an impressive reverse finish into the near post.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat should have been that but Lamptey, what a night he could have had without the silly mistakes, fired in a deflected second for the hosts.Five excruciating added minutes later, Slot could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Though he must face the Brighton barrage again on Saturday.Tariq Lamptey pulled back a late effort for the hostsCredit: AFPLiverpool continued their fine start under Arne SlotCredit: Getty More

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      Marcus Rashford hailed for ‘powering through like a champ’ after Man Utd ace hit with eye-watering tackle in Carabao Cup

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      MARCUS RASHFORD has been hailed by Manchester United fans for ‘powering through like a champ’ after an eye-watering incident at Old Trafford.The 26-year-old started the Carabao Cup clash against Leicester to mark the first game of the post Erik ten Hag era.Marcus Rashford was left holding his groin after a stray bootRuud van Nistelrooy had plenty to celebrate in his first game in chargeCredit: PAThe Dutchman was sacked on Monday with club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy taking interim charge.But Rashford endured his own pain on the pitch after being caught by an opponent’s boot in the groin.The England man crumpled to the turf, and eventually after rising to his feet, held the sore area with his hand.But he was soon back running for his new gaffer – which led to United fans hailing his resilience.Read more FootballOne United fan wrote on X: “Holding on and powering through like a champ!”Another added: “We’ve all been there”, while some posted amusing yet wincing GIFs of people being kicked in the groin area.And one decided to point out the obvious, writing: “Must be hurt.”That moment in the 48th minute proved to be the last bit of action on a pulsating first half of football with Van Nistelrooy at the helm.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSUnited went into the break 4-2 up thanks to an unlikely brace from the much-maligned Casemiro, and strikes from Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes.But Leicester netted through El Khannouss and Coady to keep things interesting.Ruben Amorim responds to questions about Man Utd job after Sporting match Rashford only lasted until the 62nd minute when he was replaced by Amad Diallo.And he was given a standing ovation by the fans as he made his exit.But by that time United had banged another past the helpless Leicester keeper, through Fernandes again, to make it 5-2.United are still negotiating with Sporting CP to make Ruben Amorim their new manager.Amorim, 39, was made the number one target for Man Utd earlier this week and now it seems as though he wants the deal just as much.According to Sky Sports, Amorim has told his current employers that he wants to leave and take up the job with the Red Devils.READ MORE SUN STORIESSporting are also said to believe that Amorim has agreed terms with Man Utd.United have already agreed to pay the £8.5m release clause to get their man.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Chelsea star Cole Palmer arrives at training in Royal Mail van after getting lift from local postie

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      CHELSEA goal ace Cole Palmer is delivering the goods on and off the pitch — after arriving at training in a Royal Mail van.The £40million star shocked team-mates by getting a lift from his local postie.Chelsea star Cole Palmer shocked his team-mates when he arrived at training in a Royal Mail vanCredit: GettyPalmer, 22, had left his car at Chelsea’s training base in Cobham, Surrey, the previous day when he was driven home by a team-mate earlier this month.Struggling to get back in, he was offered a lift in the mail van after chatting with the driver.A source close to Palmer told The Sun: “Cole is the most normal, down-to-earth guy you could meet, and this is typical of him. “He’s a very friendly lad and is on good terms with all of his neighbours, including the postman.READ MORE IN SPORTS“He didn’t think twice when he was offered a lift to the training ground, although his arrival certainly caused quite a stir.“Not many multi-millionaire stars come to training with a postman.”A Chelsea source added: “Cole is so laid-back he didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.“The other players were hysterical about it. Most read in Football“They found it so funny, and gave him the stamp of approval for his stunt.“He’s a complete one-off, on and off the pitch. “Nothing surprises us with him.”How Cole Palmer might look like as Postman PatPep Guardiola reveals why he sold Cole Palmer with Chelsea star topping Premier League scoring charts amid amazing year More

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      ‘I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’

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      STEVE SIDWELL says he’d rather play with Steven Gerrard than ex-Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard.The former Blues midfielder spent one season at Stamford Bridge during the 2007/08 campaign, playing 25 times under Jose Mourinho and Avram Grant.Steve Sidwell says he’d rather play alongside Steven Gerrard than Frank LampardCredit: PA:Press AssociationSidwell was unbeaten in his 12 Chelsea appearances alongside Super FrankCredit: RexSidwell did not land a trophy during his brief time at Chelsea, with the club losing the Champions League final to Manchester United on penalties.But the former Reading star did get the chance to line up alongside fan favourite Lampard no less than 12 times.Incredibly, Chelsea did not lose a single game in regulation time with the pair together in midfield.Yet Sidwell chose to ignore his pal and instead plump for Liverpool rival Gerrard in a dream team.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAppearing on Peter Crouch’s podcast, Sidwell was asked who he would prefer to play alongside.The retired ace, who also played for Aston Villa, Fulham, Stoke and Brighton, pondered the question for a moment.But he quickly decided it was Gerrard who took the nod due to his all-action style.Sidwell said: “If it’s me and one other, no doubt, Stevie is unbelievable. He can do absolutely everything.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“Frank was the deadliest scoring midfielder I’ve ever played with.“If I have to pick in terms of who I would partner best, I’m a holding midfielder that gives license to Frank to go and score goals.Watch Chelsea icon Frank Lampard leave Amazon Prime Video pundits stunned with brutal put down of Arsenal pair“He did it in his career, he didn’t have to defend. If I did it with Stevie I think he’d still get back and defend as well.“It would give him more goals too. I think I’d have to go with Stevie on that one.“I played with Frank and his timings off the ball and runs into the box, he just sort of ghosted and scored goals.“But Stevie would be a perfect match because if the other team was on top he’d come inside and batten down the hatches with me.”Chelsea ratings vs NewcastleCHELSEA were dumped out the Carabao Cup by Newcastle.The 2-0 loss came after the Blues made 11 changes to their starting line-up.SunSport’s Craig Mahood reveals which players might have done enough to keep their place next time.Filip Jorgensen – 6Nervy start when flapping at an early cross and a couple of wayward kicks going out.Struggled in parts with the ball at his feet including a pass straight to Tonali in the first half. Not much to do in the second half.Axel Disasi – 6Looked uncomfortable for large spells at right-back in duels with Joelinton in the first half and couldn’t sort his feet out when scoring an own goal.Didn’t have much defending to do after the break but offered little in attack.Tosin Adarabioyo – 6Best of the back line but not a difficult task. Looks like a player is there if he can get more minutes as marshalled Isak well for much of the contest.Benoit Badiashile – 5Shocker of a pass to Veiga for Newcastle’s opener before being booked for a foul on Krafth.Terrible touch right on half time let Gordon clear and fortunate Willock missed from close range.Marc Cucurella – 6Huffed and puffed down the left-hand side and defended reasonably well against Gordon for most of the night.Tried to link with Mudryk but a frustrating night meant he didn’t get as involved.Enzo Fernandez – 6Chelsea skipper saw plenty of the ball but didn’t create much of note on it.Looked to be missing the creative spark that would normally play alongside him in there.Renato Veiga – 6Largely anonymous in the middle as kept possession moving but was caught on it for the opening Newcastle goal, though not really his fault.Stung the palms of Pope late on but didn’t create much in that position.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 5Should’ve scored in opening 90 seconds with glorious chance.On the fringes of the game throughout and struggled to get involved. Hooked before the hour.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Quiet first half hour before bursting clear of Krafth later in half. Appeared to gainconfidence in the second half and was a threat when he did get the ball on the left.His final ball missing a few times but would’ve had an assist or two on another evening. Chelsea will be hoping this isn’t a flash in the pan.Joao Felix – 5Another one that showed very, very brief flashes. Should’ve scored when clean through with 15 minutes to go which might’ve changed the game.Frustrations of a difficult night shown when booked for dissent in closing stages.SubsNoni Madueke – 6Replaced ineffective Dewsbury-Hall for the final half hour.Claimed for a penalty when pushed over by Gordon. Was a threat when in possession but struggled against Newcastle’s low block.Replaced ineffective Dewsbury-Hall for the final half hour.Claimed for a penalty when pushed over by Gordon. Was a threat when in possession but struggled against Newcastle’s low block. More

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      Sky Sports slammed as ‘complete joke’ as technical error leaves fans unable to watch bumper night of cup football

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      FOOTBALL fans were left furious after Sky Sports Plus appeared to crash during Manchester United’s Carabao Cup clash with Leicester City.The streaming service stopped working for some viewers in the early stages of the match.Some fans were unable to watch Man Utd vs LeicesterCasemiro scored an excellent goal – but many United fans were unable to see it liveCredit: PAA number of fans quickly took to social media to vent their frustration, with one person writing: “Would be nice if I could watch it live instead of on here (X). Absolute joke.”Another commented: “Would be great if your app/red button actually worked so we could watch it!”A third fumed: “SORT THE RED BUTTON MATCHES OUT!”A fourth said: “Shame I’ve been staring at an error message for 20 years.”Read More in FootballWhile another wrote: “Shame I can’t watch as your service is horrific. Waste of my money.”Sky Sports has been approached for comment.Man Utd took the lead through a Casemiro screamer in the 15th minute.Alejandro Garnacho made it two at the half-hour mark before Bilal El Khannouss pulled one back for Leicester.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCasemiro scored again and Bruno Fernandes followed with a goal before Conor Coady scored Leicester’s second.The score at Old Trafford was 4-2 at half-time, before Fernandes added his second and United’s fifth to complete the rout.’Ruben Amorim feels like Erik ten Hag all over again – Man Utd missed out on the perfect coach who’s done it already’ says Paul Scholes Ruud van Nistelrooy managed the Red Devils for the first time tonight following the departure of Erik ten Hag.Ten Hag was sacked by United on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham.Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is now expected to take over the job permanently.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More