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      Fans waste no time mercilessly mocking Erik ten Hag with hilarious memes as Man Utd score FIVE in first game after axe

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      ERIK TEN HAG was poked fun at online after Manchester United ran riot in their first match since the Dutchman’s sacking.The former Ajax boss, 54, was given the boot by United chiefs on Monday following an awful start to the season.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side scored five against Leicester at Old TraffordCredit: GettyErik ten Hag was sacked by Man Utd on MondayCredit: RexWith the Red Devils sitting 14th having collected just 11 points from nine games, club bosses turned to their former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.Ten Hag’s Dutch compatriot joined his staff in the summer, having previously managed PSV Eindhoven.With Van Nistelrooy in the dugout as caretaker boss, United looked a side rejuvenated against Leicester in last night’s Carabao Cup clash.Casemiro gave the Red Devils a 15th minute lead with a wonder strike from range.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAlejandro Garnacho then doubled his side’s lead on 28 minutes, before Bilal El Khannouss pulled one back for the Foxes just after the half-hour mark.Steve Cooper’s men weren’t back in the contest for long, with Bruno Fernandes’ heavily deflected free-kick making it 3-1 on 36 minutes, and Casemiro smashing in another before half-time.Conor Coady pulled a second back for Leicester, but Fernandes had the final say in United’s comfortable 5-2 win.As the game went on, fans posted several memes online depicting how Ten Hag must feel finally seeing United run riot on a team.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFans wasted no time in poking fun at Ten HagThe Dutchman will have been frustrated by his side’s recent performancesMan Utd scored four times in the first 39 minutes under Van NistelrooyThe memes included several angry figures losing the plot, including controversial American far-right commentator Alex Jones.Writing in his programme notes, Van Nistelrooy admitted to feeling a “huge mix of emotions” after being promoted to caretaker boss.’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 He began his programme notes: “As I am sure everyone can imagine, I am writing these notes with a huge amount of mixed emotions.”Erik ten Hag brought me back to Manchester United in the summer and, while I have only been part of the coaching staff here for a few months, I will always be grateful to him for giving me the opportunity, and I am saddened to see him leave.“Even on an interim basis, it is a great honour to manage the club I love for however long I am asked to do so.”I can promise that I will continue to give my all, in whatever capacity, to try to turn around our fortunes.”Man Utd have identified Sporting boss Ruben Amorim as their No1 choice to replace Ten Hag full time.His current club Sporting announced on Tuesday that the Red Devils had made contact and were ready to trigger his £8.3million release clause.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Portuguese, 39, is expected to fly to Manchester to finalise a deal, with talks already well underway.Although Van Nistelrooy could still be at the caretaker helm as United host Chelsea this Sunday.Man Utd ratings vs LeicesterMAN UNITED started life after Erik ten Hag with a comfortable win over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.But who shone in the 5-2 victory, and who will be hoping incoming boss Ruben Amorim wasn’t watching?SunSport’s Katherine Walsh gives her ratings…Altay Bayindir – 6Although United dominated, Bayindir looked shaky when Leicester’s chances came.He flapped with a dodgy punch which led to the away side’s 33rd minute goal. And he looked to repeat it with McAteer’s shot just before half-time.But one excellent second half save, pushed on to the crossbar, when Steve Cooper’s side were pressing, boosts his mark up a bit.Victor Lindelof – 6Hasn’t got the partnership with De Ligt established yet as they both failed to deal with crosses too often from centre-back.But wasn’t really troubled consistently in the absence of Jamie Vardy in what was his second start of the season.Matthijs De Ligt – 7A more physical presence at the back than in previous performances but a more potent attack could have caused much more trouble.Kasey McAteer got the better of him a few times and he was subbed in the 71st minute for Jonny Evans.Lisandro Martinez – 6Looked vulnerable at left-back in moments, with Lindelof filling in at centre-back.James Justin often had acres of space in the second half before United made it 5-2.Diogo DalotBack in his beloved right-hand side and told to push into midfield but often left his defensive channel wide open.Passed back all too often and kept Justin onside in the first half. He assisted Garnacho’s opener though after collecting Casemiro’s stunning lofted pass.Played a part in Leicester’s second after the ball bounced off him to drop for Coady in another silly goal to concede for the home side.Casemiro – 9The star of the show. A stunning first-half showing saw Casemiro score a brace after bagging a 30-yard screamer for United’s opening goal inside 15 minutes.He was involved in Garnacho’s goal too. Came up with a number of key defensive headers in the second-half to show class is permanent, although form might be temporary at 32 years old.Manuel Ugarte – 6Conceded early fouls but worked hard. Slowly but surely starting to get to grips with his United team-mates after a shaky start.Bruno Fernandes – 8Restored United’s 3-1 lead with his first finish of the season. Played with a smile on his face, which we often haven’t seen this season.Dummied the ball for Casemiro’s worldie and scored his second of the evening in the 57th minute after rolling it under Danny Ward before tapping it into an empty net.Will be leaned on heavily by Van Nistelrooy to produce the goods following Ten Hag’s departure.Marcus Rashford – 6A quiet evening for Rashford, who needs to kick on after Ten Hag’s exit.The winger lost the ball a lot in the first 30 minutes. Flicks didn’t come off and hauled off again in the 60th minute.Rashford’s only played a full 90 minutes THREE times this season.Alejandro Garnacho – 7A goal and assist for Garnacho, who attended the Ballon d’Or on Monday.The 20-year-old doubled United’s lead inside 27 minutes after a well worked team move and set up Casemiro’s brilliant opener.Looked a constant threat throughout and was taken off 20 minutes from time to be saved for Sunday’s clash against Chelsea.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Worked hard but never looked confident on the ball and struggled to get involved in the seven-goal thriller. Never seemed to be on his toes either.But the only consolation is that he was involved in Casemiro’s second (United’s fourth).Trudged off after 85 minutes looking disgruntled with his tail between his legs.SubsAmad (60′ for Rashford) – 7Instant impact from the bench. The youngster almost scored an overhead kick with his first touch of the evening.Mazraoui (60′ for Martinez) – 6Hojlund (71′ for Garnacho) – 6Jonny Evans (71′ for De Ligt) – 6Ethan Wheatley (85′ for Zirkzee) – N/A More

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      Fans can’t believe who Sir Alex Ferguson sat next to for Man Utd’s cup win after England legend from other sport spotted

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON was spotted in the stands for Manchester United’s 5-2 Carabao Cup win over Leicester on Wednesday night.The legendary Red Devils manager, 82, was recently relieved of his £2million-a-year ambassadorial role at the club.Sir Alex Ferguson was in the stands at Old Trafford alongside a familiar faceCredit: RexBut he remains welcome at matches and was on hand to watch the first game since Erik ten Hag was sacked.Fergie will have been proud to see one of his former players, Ruud van Nistelrooy, taking charge of the team on an interim basis.But it was not the Scot’s presence at the match that surprised fans.Instead, it was the company he was keeping as he chatted to an England cricketing legend.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMichael Vaughan was pictured talking to Fergie during Man Utd’s comfortable victory.The skipper for England’s iconic 2005 Ashes triumph was a name many would not have expected to see with Ferguson – especially as he is a proud Sheffield Wednesday fan.And people reacted in their droves on social media.One fan said: “Why is Michael Vaughan sitting next to SAF 😭😭.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSVaughan, centre, kisses the Ashes after England triumphed in the iconic 2005 seriesCredit: AFPAnother added: “Is that Michael Vaughan I see at Old Trafford. 😭”A third replied: “Poor Sir Alex having to watch the game with Michael Vaughan in his ear.”Sir Alex Ferguson phoned and tried to convince me to join Man Utd – but their transfer plan made me say noWhile a fourth responded: “What is Michael Vaughan doing next to Sir Alex?”United’s win came as they closed in on bringing Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim to Old Trafford to replace Ten Hag.Man Utd ratings vs LeicesterMAN UNITED started life after Erik ten Hag with a comfortable win over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.But who shone in the 5-2 victory, and who will be hoping incoming boss Ruben Amorim wasn’t watching?SunSport’s Katherine Walsh gives her ratings…Altay Bayindir – 6Although United dominated, Bayindir looked shaky when Leicester’s chances came.He flapped with a dodgy punch which led to the away side’s 33rd minute goal. And he looked to repeat it with McAteer’s shot just before half-time.But one excellent second half save, pushed on to the crossbar, when Steve Cooper’s side were pressing, boosts his mark up a bit.Victor Lindelof – 6Hasn’t got the partnership with De Ligt established yet as they both failed to deal with crosses too often from centre-back.But wasn’t really troubled consistently in the absence of Jamie Vardy in what was his second start of the season.Matthijs De Ligt – 7A more physical presence at the back than in previous performances but a more potent attack could have caused much more trouble.Kasey McAteer got the better of him a few times and he was subbed in the 71st minute for Jonny Evans.Lisandro Martinez – 6Looked vulnerable at left-back in moments, with Lindelof filling in at centre-back.James Justin often had acres of space in the second half before United made it 5-2.Diogo DalotBack in his beloved right-hand side and told to push into midfield but often left his defensive channel wide open.Passed back all too often and kept Justin onside in the first half. He assisted Garnacho’s opener though after collecting Casemiro’s stunning lofted pass.Played a part in Leicester’s second after the ball bounced off him to drop for Coady in another silly goal to concede for the home side.Casemiro – 9The star of the show. A stunning first-half showing saw Casemiro score a brace after bagging a 30-yard screamer for United’s opening goal inside 15 minutes.He was involved in Garnacho’s goal too. Came up with a number of key defensive headers in the second-half to show class is permanent, although form might be temporary at 32 years old.Manuel Ugarte – 6Conceded early fouls but worked hard. Slowly but surely starting to get to grips with his United team-mates after a shaky start.Bruno Fernandes – 8Restored United’s 3-1 lead with his first finish of the season. Played with a smile on his face, which we often haven’t seen this season.Dummied the ball for Casemiro’s worldie and scored his second of the evening in the 57th minute after rolling it under Danny Ward before tapping it into an empty net.Will be leaned on heavily by Van Nistelrooy to produce the goods following Ten Hag’s departure.Marcus Rashford – 6A quiet evening for Rashford, who needs to kick on after Ten Hag’s exit.The winger lost the ball a lot in the first 30 minutes. Flicks didn’t come off and hauled off again in the 60th minute.Rashford’s only played a full 90 minutes THREE times this season.Alejandro Garnacho – 7A goal and assist for Garnacho, who attended the Ballon d’Or on Monday.The 20-year-old doubled United’s lead inside 27 minutes after a well worked team move and set up Casemiro’s brilliant opener.Looked a constant threat throughout and was taken off 20 minutes from time to be saved for Sunday’s clash against Chelsea.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Worked hard but never looked confident on the ball and struggled to get involved in the seven-goal thriller. Never seemed to be on his toes either.But the only consolation is that he was involved in Casemiro’s second (United’s fourth).Trudged off after 85 minutes looking disgruntled with his tail between his legs.SubsAmad (60′ for Rashford) – 7Instant impact from the bench. The youngster almost scored an overhead kick with his first touch of the evening.Mazraoui (60′ for Martinez) – 6Hojlund (71′ for Garnacho) – 6Jonny Evans (71′ for De Ligt) – 6Ethan Wheatley (85′ for Zirkzee) – N/A More

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      Carabao Cup draw LIVE: Tottenham facing Man Utd in huge clash, Arsenal meeting Crystal Palace in quarter-final – updates

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      THE draw for the Carabao Cup quarter-finals has concluded – and there has been some cracking ties.Tottenham will face Man Utd at home in the pick of the draw, while Arsenal face Crystal Palace at the Emirates.Newcastle take on Brentford and Southampton host Liverpool with the all-Premier League draw complete.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow all the action with our live blog below…Special NwanArsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri lit up the Carabao Cup yet again last night with a wondergoal at Preston.Cutting inside from the left and then curling into the top corner, Nwaneri added to his two strikes against Bolton in the previous round.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedQuarter-final draw in fullTottenham will be taking on Man Utd at home in the pick of the draw.While Arsenal are hosting Crystal Palace in a huge London derby at the Emirates.Tottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedReminder of the fourth-round resultsSome huge shocks in the fourth round saw Premier League champions Man City crash out to Tottenham after Spurs beat the Cityzens 2-1.Crystal Palace also beat Aston Villa away 2-1 from home in a huge result for Oliver Glasner.Here are the fourth-round results in full:Southampton 3-2 StokeBrentford 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday (5-4 pens)Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedWhen will Carabao Cup quarter-final matches be played?Carabao Cup quarter-final ties will be played in the week commencing Monday, December 16.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.Credit: Rex FeaturesCopy linkCopiedTottenham host Manchester United in the quarter-finalsSpurs overcame the Blue side of Manchester in the fourth-round and they will face the Red side in the last-8.Tottenham vs Manchester United is certainly the standout tie from tonight’s draw.Another highlight is Arsenal taking on London rivals Crystal Palace in a blockbuster clash at the Emirates.Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup quarter-final ties in FULLTottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedSouthampton vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedNewcastle vs BrentfordCopy linkCopiedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceCopy linkCopiedTottenham vs Manchester UnitedCopy linkCopiedHere we go!The draw for the Carabao Cup quarter-final is underway!Copy linkCopiedDraw detailsSky Sports host Mark Chapman will present tonight’s quarter-final draw.Former England and Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp will pick out the all-important balls alongside ex-England and Manchester City forward Izzy Christiansen.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAll eyes on the drawTonight’s Carabao Cup quarter-final draw is expected to begin at approximately 10.40pm GMT.SunSport will bring you all the ties in full as they come in.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedRecap of fourth-round resultsSome standout results from the fourth round include Tottenham’s 2-1 win over Man City and Newcastle dumping out Chelsea with a 2-0 triumph.Crystal Palace stunned Aston Villa in the Midlands, with the Eagles running out 2-1 winners.Here are the fourth-round results in full:Southampton 3-2 StokeBrentford 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday (5-4 pens)Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 Arsenal Aston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man CityCredit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBall numbers CONFIRMEDTottenham are the final side to secure their spot in the hat for tonight’s Carabao Cup quarter-final draw.Spurs claimed a mammoth 2-1 win over Manchester City in the capital.The draw is set to begin at around 10.40pm GMT.1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Crystal Palace4 Liverpool5 Manchester United6 Newcastle United7 Arsenal8 Tottenham HotspurCopy linkCopiedSpurs edging closer to quarter-final spotTottenham are less than 10 minutes away from massive win over Premier League champions Manchester City.Spurs lead Pep Guardiola’s men 2-1 after goals from Timo Werner and Pape Sarr.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBall numbers reminderHere is a reminder of those all-important ball numbers following the conclusion of fourth-round ties:1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Crystal Palace4 Liverpool5 Manchester United6 Newcastle United7 Arsenal8 Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester CityCopy linkCopiedToon get revengeNewcastle have secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Chelsea.The Blues beat the Magpies 2-1 in the Premier League just three days ago, but tonight the Geordies got revenge.Elsewhere, Man Utd cruised through with a 5-2 win over Leicester, while Crystal Palace stunned Aston Villa.Brighton 2-3 Liverpool (FT)Newcastle 2-0 Chelsea (FT)Man Utd 5-2 Leicester (FT)Preston 0-3 Arsenal (FT)Aston Villa 1-2 Crystal Palace (FT)Tottenham 2-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedArsenal in the hatArsenal have beaten Preston 3-0 in a dominant night’s work at Deepdale.Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring with his first goal since January.Before a wondergoal from Ethan Nwaneri and a stunning header from substitute Kai Havertz.Number 7 in the draw confirmed!Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFestive quarter-final datesThe Carabao Cup quarter-final ties will be played in the week commencing Monday, December 16.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReds into the hatLiverpool are the first side from tonight’s fourth-round matches to secure their spot in the draw.The defending champions beat Brighton 3-2 in a thrilling clash on the Seaside.Liverpool will be ball number 8 in the draw later.Here are the latest scores from around the grounds:Brighton 2-3 Liverpool (FT)Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man City Copy linkCopiedLiverpool closing in on quarter-finalsLiverpool are minutes away from the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.The current champions will be hoping to avoid any late drama as they lead Brighton 3-2 on the South Coast.Manchester United and Arsenal both look to be heading for the last-8 too, while Chelsea are on the verge of being knocked out in Newcastle.Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 5-2 LeicesterPreston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceTottenham 2-1 Man City (HT)Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup draw ball numbersAnother reminder of those all-important ball numbers for the Carabao Cup quarter-final draw tonight.The big draw is expected at approx 10.20pm tonight following Spurs vs Man City.1 Brentford2 Southampton3 Aston Villa or Crystal Palace4 Brighton & Hove Albion or Liverpool5 Manchester United or Leicester City6 Newcastle United or Chelsea7 Preston North End or Arsenal8 Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester CityCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBru the dayBruno Fernandes has bagged his second of the night to make it Man Utd 5-2 Leicester.The Red Devils are cruising towards the quarter-finals after a superb showing from Ruud van Nistelrooy’s men.Here are the latest scores from around the grounds:Brighton 1-2 LiverpoolNewcastle 2-0 Chelsea Man Utd 5-2 Leicester Preston 0-3 ArsenalAston Villa 1-2 Crystal Palace Tottenham 2-1 Man City (HT)Copy linkCopiedHav some more of thatAnd Kai Havertz has scored Arsenal’s third with a stunning header at Preston!The Gunners are closing in on a spot in the quarter-final draw tonight.Lovely ball from Jakub Kiwior and the game now appears out of Preston’s reach.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Carabao Cup quarter-final draw sees Man Utd handed horror tie at City conquerors Tottenham as Arsenal get Palace

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been handed a horror Carabao Cup quarter-final tie at Tottenham.The Red Devils will travel to North London after cruising past Leicester in the last 16.The draw for the Carabao Cup quarters has been madeCredit: PASpurs beat United’s rivals Man City 2-1 at home this evening.And they will be hoping to inflict more misery on Manchester when United pay a visit.Elsewhere, Arsenal will host Crystal Palace after easing past Preston.Palace defeated Aston Villa in the Midlands but face another tough trip away from home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the third tie, Newcastle have been rewarded for beating Chelsea with a home clash against Brentford.The Bees sealed their place in the last eight with a penalty win over Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday.Finally, Southampton will take on Liverpool after beating Stoke 3-2 yesterday.But Arne Slot’s Reds continue to look strong and slipped past Brighton 3-2 this evening.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe draw was made on Wednesday night following a six-game epic on Sky Sports, with Jamie Redknapp and Izzy Christiansen drawing the balls alongside host Mark Chapman.But there will be a lengthy wait until the quarters are played.Incredible before and after video shows AFC Wimbledon’s progress fixing huge sinkhole after Carabao Cup clash postponedThe full draw for the Carabao Cup quartersTies to be played week commencing Monday December 16:Tottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolThe matches will not take place until the week commencing Monday December 16.The winners of the quarters will then progress to the semis, with the first of two legs to be played on the week commencing Monday January 6.And as for the holy grail, the final will take place at Wembley on March 16 — nearly a month later than last season’s match between Liverpool and Chelsea. More

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      Tottenham 2-1 Man City LIVE RESULT: Spurs STUN Pep’s City in Carabao Cup, Liverpool beat Brighton, Palace shock Villa

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      TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR have stunned Manchester City to win 2-1 in the Carabao Cup fourth-round.Spurs now march on into the quarter-final draw tonight.Elsewhere, Liverpool overcame Brighton 3-2 and Crystal Palace shocked Aston Villa 2-1.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action with our live blog below…Carabao Cup quarter-final drawArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolTottenham vs Man UtdCopy linkCopiedTottenham trophy predictionTottenham legend Gus Poyet told SunSport last month that Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou can win the Carabao Cup and end the club’s miserable trophyless run since 2008.Yes, I think it is the first time in many, many years that we’ve seen a coach saying, ‘I’m gonna win something’. Before that it was always qualifying for the Champions League. So why not?I mean, about the performances or about how the team plays, it’s difficult to make an opinion. You know, the coaches, we’re looking for a different thing but at the end of the day you have to win football games.Your identity is very important because that way you have consistency. But in cup games, you need to win. I mean, I don’t remember anyone saying, ‘Yeah, we won the cup but we really played bad’.So nobody will remember how they played at Coventry if they win the Carabao Cup. So it’s a matter of getting through and winning the final. I don’t remember anyone complaining about winning in a final playing badly.Gus PoyetTottenham legend Gus Poyet explains why Ange Postecoglou can end trophy hoodoo and win Carabao Cup despite Coventry horror showCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup drawThe Carabao Cup draw for the quarter-finals takes place at approximately 10.40pm GMT.SunSport will bring you all the ties in full as they come in the link below:Copy linkCopiedPost-match thoughtsSo a big win for Spurs… but at what cost, for both teams, in this battle of the walking wounded?Ange Postecoglou’s victors lost both Timo Werner and Micky van de Ven to suspected hamstring injuries.While Pep Guardiola saw Savinho come off on a stretcher and had Manuel Akanji pull out in the warm-up.It left him with just ELEVEN fit outfit first-team players. No wonder Erling Haaland was left on the bench.Guardiola said he did not want to waste energy on this competition, now he does not have to after going out of it early on again, three years on from winning it four times in a row.Spurs’ dream of a first trophy since 2008 is still alive.Copy linkCopiedView from TottenhamPep Guardiola really is down to the bare bones, as Harry Redknapp would put it, after suffering more blows in this lost battle of the walking wounded.Savinho became the latest casualty as the Brazilian was forced off on a stretcher, leaving Guardiola with just ELEVEN fit outfield first-team players.Manuel Akanji also picked up a problem in the warm-up, joining Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker, Jeremy Doku, Oscar Bobb and Ballon D’Or winner Rodri on the treatment table.No wonder Guardiola, who had asked for a “good performance, but no more injuries please” ahead of the game, did not want to waste energy on this competition.Now he will not have to as Tottenham earned a statement win thanks to Timo Werner ending his 12-game goal drought this term and a Pape Matar Sarr stunner.But it came at a cost for Ange Postecoglou’s men as they lost both Werner and Micky van de Ven to hamstring injuries, either side of a Matheus Nunes strike.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 2-1 Man CityPeep!Tottenham have eliminated Man City from the Carabao Cup!!!Copy linkCopiedView from 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 linkCopiedView from St James’ ParkNewcastle 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.This 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 pantomine 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.Copy linkCopiedView from ManchesterIf Erik ten Hag was watching in Amsterdam he must have been wondering if this was indeed the same Manchester United team. Why does this always happen?The old boss goes, his assistant takes over and the team transforms overnight. It makes you wonder what Ruud van Nistelrooy was doing on the training ground in the first place.Much of this victory that put the Red Devils into the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup was down to the strength of the opposition. Leicester City fielded a team with nine changes and was similar in strength to that which drew 0-0 with Walsall in the last round before winning on penalties.United by contrast were strong, Van Nistelrooy wasn’t going to pass this chance up to be a winner from the Old Traford dug out. Mind you to be fair to him whoever pulls on a United shirt nowadays nothing can be guaranteed.So credit Van Nistelrooy for getting a tune out of this lot just two days after Ten Hag was dismissed. The regular boos heard here became cheers and smiles replaced frowns and shaking heads.It was reminiscent of..well when they played Barnsley in the last round and won 7-0 but not much else in recent memory.Copy linkCopiedView from Villa ParkThis playing out from the back is all very impressive when it comes off…but how many times does it land teams in the you-know-what.It did just that for Aston Villa, when Diego Carlos slid the ball to Daichi Kamada and the Palace substitute drilled in the winner. The old down-towner might not be so pleasant on the eye, but you don’t concede from it!Copy linkCopiedView from TottenhamPep Guardiola’s injury problems continue to pile up as Savinho has been forced off on a stretcher with what looks like a right ankle issue.The Brazilian, who was impressing, appeared to suffer it in an innocuous challenge with Destiny Udogie by the touchline.But he ended up going down and had to be carried off, looking in considerable pain, being replaced by rookie Jacob Wright.Guardiola is already without Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, Kyle Walker and Rodri due to injury.Credit: Action Images via Reuters/Matthew ChildsCredit: Michael Zemanek/REX/ShutterstockCredit: REUTERS/Dylan MartinezCredit: Action Images via Reuters/Matthew ChildsCopy linkCopiedView from Preston Gabriel Jesus scored his first goal in 274 days to put Arsenal on course for the quarter-finals. But the Brazilian was upstaged by teen sensation Ethan Nwaneri who is becoming the stand out star of the Carabao Cup for the Gunners.After grabbing two against Bolton in round three, the 17-year-old underlined his potential AGAIN here by curling home a first-half beauty.He came agonisingly close to adding a couple more too before leaving the pitch to a standing ovation from the visiting fans just before the end.While this competition may not be the priority for Mikel Arteta, fans will be hoping they can go all the way so they can see more of Nwaneri.The only downside to a highly-satisfactory night for the Emirates chief was that his team did not score more.Preston had won just three of their last 12 matches but they have been hard to beat since Paul Heckingbottom took over early in the season.They have also done well in this competition – knocking out Championship high-fliers Sunderland and then claiming a Prem scalp by sending Fulham out in an epic penalty shoot-out.But they were no match for Arteta’s side which showed eight changes from the team which drew with Liverpool on Sunday.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 5-2 LeicesterPeep!Man Utd make it to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals in the post-Erik ten Hag era!Copy linkCopiedFT: Aston Vila 1-2 Crystal PalacePeep!Crystal Palace pick up a massive win and knock Aston Villa out!Copy linkCopiedFT: Newcastle 2-0 ChelseaPeep!Newcastle have eliminated Chelsea from the Carabao Cup!Copy linkCopiedFT: Preston 0-3 ArsenalPeep!Arsenal are in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup!Copy linkCopiedView from the AmexOne of the best things about coming to Brighton is that they never know when a game is over.If it weren’t for Tariq Lamptey’s mistakes in fluffing his first chance and losing the ball for Liverpool’s second it could have ended up being quite the night for him and Brighton.As it is we can all look forwards to another feisty encounter at Anfield on Sunday while the Seagulls must wait at least another year to try and reach the quarter-finals.Copy linkCopiedView from TottenhamLightning came oh so near to striking twice as Timo Werner was inches away from scoring again.The German, who belted home a super finish in the first half for his first goal of the season, was sent haring down away by Dominic Solanke into the Manchester City half.His pace meant he was never going to be caught and he did everything right, but his left-footed effort just shaded the wrong side of the post.Ange Postecoglou has decided to protect Cristian Romero ahead of the weekend by taking him off, given he is likely to be without his other first-choice centre-back Micky van de Ven who came off with a hamstring injury in the first half.Copy linkCopiedView from BrightonCody 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.But 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.He 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.Copy linkCopiedFT: Brighton 2-3 LiverpoolPeep!Liverpool are through to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals!Copy linkCopiedView from TottenhamHalf-time at Spurs and there is a sense of nervousness around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as fans know how precarious their 2-1 lead is.They were so desperate to make it to the break two goals to the good after fantastic finishes from Timo Werner (of all people) and Pape Matar Sarr.But Manchester City’s pressure told and deep into injury-time, livewire Savinho teed up the equally-impressive Matheus Nunes to reduce the deficit.Ange Postecoglou was left shaking his head but his side had been asking for it by dropping deeper and deeper throughout the half.And without the injured Micky van de Ven, his side are in for a huge 45 minutes as they look to pull off a statement win and dump Pep Guardiola’s men out the cup.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 2-3 LiverpoolGoal!Brighton score with Tariq Lamptey on 90 minutes!Now on stoppage time!Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-3 LiverpoolGoal!Liverpool may have clinched it with Luis Diaz’s strike five minutes before full-time!Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Crystal PalaceGoal!Crystal Palace regain the lead with Daichi Kamada on 64 minutes!Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 LiverpoolGoal!Brighton hit back with Simon Adingra just nine minutes before full-time!Will we have another stunning comeback from the Seagulls?Copy linkCopied More

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      Tottenham 2 Man City 1: Spurs miss chances but cling on to reach Cup quarters as they target first trophy in 17 years

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      WHAT’S Catalan for ‘down to the bare bones’?The old adage of former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp seems very fitting for Pep Guardiola now after his Manchester City side suffered more blows in this lost battle of the walking wounded.CARABAO CUP QUARTER-FINAL DRAW LIVETimo Werner broke the deadlock for Ange Postecoglou’s menCredit: RexIt is Werner’s first goal of the season after a number of missed chancesCredit: RexPape Matar Sarr made it two for the hosts with an accurate long-range strikeCredit: RexSarr superbly curled his shot into the bottom cornerCredit: RexSarr was impressive as Spurs ground out the win over Manchester CitySpurs had to absorb a lot of pressure particularly in the second halfDejan Kulusevski received the Player of the Match awardSavinho became the latest casualty as the Brazilian was forced off on a stretcher, leaving Guardiola with just ELEVEN fit outfield first-team players.Manuel Akanji also picked up a problem in the warm-up, joining Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker, Jeremy Doku, Oscar Bobb and Ballon D’Or winner Rodri on the treatment table.No wonder Guardiola, who had asked for a “good performance, but no more injuries please” ahead of the game, did not want to waste energy on this competition.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow he will not have to as Tottenham earned a statement win thanks to Timo Werner ending his 12-game goal drought this term and a Pape Sarr stunner.But it came at a cost for Ange Postecoglou’s men as they lost both Werner and Micky van de Ven to hamstring injuries, either side of a Matheus Nunes strike.At least the hope of a first trophy in 16 years was kept alive for Spurs – as was Postecoglou’s promise of always winning silverware in his second season.City dominated the ball in the opening exchanges but it was Spurs who took an early lead thanks to Werner’s uncharacteristically clinical finish.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMatheus Nunes pulled one back for Manchester City before half-timeCredit: ReutersAnge Postecoglou’s pledge of a trophy in his second season received a big shot in the armCredit: PAA clever flick from Brennan Johnson had set Dejan Kulusevski away down the right and when the Swede fired a ball across the box, Werner struck it first time past a helpless Stefan Ortega. The smile on his face, and those of his team-mates, showed the relief after such a long stint without scoring.Man City star Savinho talks about his rise to football stardom In contrast Van de Ven looked to be in tears as he was subbed off soon after after damaging his hamstring in a sliding challenge on Savinho.Spurs shook off the blow and managed to double their lead midway through the half thanks to Sarr’s fantastic finish.It came from a smart short corner when Kulusevski exchanged passes with Werner and laid it back to Sarr who curled it home from the edge of the area.The Malian was nicknamed Roberto Carlos as a kid on account of his long-range strikes.This was more placement than power – but an effort Brazilian legend Carlos would have been proud of.Guardiola had made six changes to his side, and though it still possessed plenty of quality, it was struggling to conjure up its usual creativity.The only negative for Spurs was Micky van de Ven went off injuredCredit: AlamyErling Haaland had been left on the bench with Phil Foden reprising his false nine role from the seasons prior to the Norwegian goal machine’s arrival.As the first half wore on, England man Foden became more involved.He was inches away from tapping home Nunes’ ball across the box and then hooked a difficult, but manageable, for him anyway, volley over the bar.Spurs were dropping deeper and ceding more and more possession, just hoping to get to the break with their two-goal lead intact.Yet they could not hold out as in the fourth minute of stoppage time, livewire Savinho crossed for the equally-impressive Nunes to fire in at the far post. Game on.Postecoglou was left shaking his head but it was fair cop, as the Aussie might say, given how his side had gone into their shells. The Spurs chief responded by taking off Sarr for Yves Bissouma at the break, while Mateo Kovacic was sent on for the disappointing Gundogan.Postecoglou’s side had a flurry of chances to restore their two-goal cushion early after the break.Pep Guardiola’s men were dumped out of the Carabao CupCredit: GettyFirst, lightning almost struck twice as Werner came so close to netting again when sent racing through by Dominic Solanke, but his left-footed strike shaded the wrong side of the post.It was then Kulusevski’s turn to be sent haring into the box but his effort was turned away by Ortega, who had earlier denied Johnson too, before Werner then blasted over.Foden’s night was done before the hour but instead of Haaland, it was Bernardo Silva sent into action.Seconds after the sub had been made, Savinho went down with what looked like a right ankle issue, seemingly after an innocuous challenge with Destiny Udogie.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was so bad that the Brazilian had to come off on a stretcher, being replaced by rookie Jacob Wright.Spurs were then hit by more injury woe as Werner pulled up with a hamstring issue but managed to hold out for the victory – helped massively by Bissouma’s goal-line clearance from Nico O’Reilly late on. 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      Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri sparkles in dominant Carabao Cup win as debutant Tommy Setford barely gets a sniff

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      ARSENAL progressed comfortably into the next round as Ethan Nwaneri starred once again.He impressed in the previous round against Bolton, scoring twice, and showed why he is so highly rated with a brilliant curled finish from outside the box.Ethan Nwaneri broke a record with his superb goalCredit: GettyThe youngest let fly with a pearler from distanceCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus also pulled off a clever finishCredit: GettyJakub Kiwior and Kai Havertz combined for Arsenal’s thirdCredit: AFPIn doing so he became the youngest Arsenal player ever to score in his first two starts.Nwaneri’s pearler put the Gunners in control after a rare goal from Gabriel Jesus, who finished well from a Jakub Kiwior nod down following a free-kick.Kiwior came up with another assist after the break and this one had a touch of class as he whipped the ball perfectly for Kai Havertz to head beyond the keeper.There were no negative displays from Mikel Arteta’s troops as 18-year-old Tommy Setford enjoyed a very quiet debut between the sticks.READ MORE ON ARSENALHere is how SunSport’s Sam Dymond rated the Gunners display.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Ethan Nwaneri’s rise at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta’s guiseOleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere. The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESMyles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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      Preston 0-3 Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Gunners cruise into Carabao Cup quarter-final as Ethan Nwaneri scores wondergoal

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      Arsenal have beaten Preston 3-0 after a dominant night’s work at Deepdale.Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring against the Championship side with his first goal since January.Before a wondergoal from Ethan Nwaneri and a stunning header from substitute Kai Havertz.The Gunners now march on into the all-important quarter-final draw tonight.Preston XI: Woodman, Kesler-Hayden, Whatmough, Lindsay, Hughes, Ledson, Thordarson, Bowler, Holmes, Okkels, GreenwoodArsenal XI: Setford, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Zinchenko, Jorginho, Nwaneri, Merino, Sterling, Jesus, MartinelliFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the reaction from Deepdale with our live blog below…That’s all from DeepdaleIt’s been a good night for Arsenal – and not a refereeing controversy in sight.Whether normal service will be resumed on that front when the Gunners go to Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday lunchtime remains to be seen, but for now the North Londoners can savour a professional performance at Preston and a place in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.Thanks for joining us, and goodnight.Copy linkCopiedEagles await in quarter-finalsThe draw for the Carabao Cup quarter-finals has just taken place, and the Gunners have been handed a home tie against Crystal Palace by Jamie Redknapp and Izzy Christiansen.The London derby will take place at the Emirates during the week commencing December 16th.Tottenham v Man UtdArsenal v Crystal PalaceNewcastle v BrentfordSouthampton v LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedArteta praises teenage star NwaneriMikel Arteta admitted that Arsenal have a big talent on their hands in Ethan Nwaneri, but reiterated that his development needs to be managed correctly for him to reach his potential.The 17-year-old capped a wonderful performance at Preston with a brilliant goal, but the Gunners boss revealed that it was no surprise to those that watch him day in and day out.He did it yesterday in training so we’re getting used to it! He’s a big talent and he’s got the right attitude. He’s got the right players around him. We need to make sure that we develop him – brick by brick – with the right tempo in the right order – but we have some player there.Mikel Arteta on Ethan NwaneriCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from DeepdaleThe Gunners dominated the game, and that’s borne out by the numbers.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn at DeepdaleVery straightforward for the Gunners – who won comfortably and should really have scored more.Gabriel Jesus will be delighted to end his 274 day goal drought – but he was upstaged by teen starlet Ethan Nwaneri. He scored a beauty and could have had more – what a talent he looks.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Preston 0-3 ArsenalJob done for the Gunners.A first goal in ten months for Gabriel Jesus, a wonder goal by wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri, and a clean sheet on debut for 18-year-old goalkeeper Tommy Setford.What more could Mikel Arteta ask for? A home draw in the quarter-final, perhaps. It won’t be long until he finds out if that request is answer…Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal90+3. That’s even better defending from Potts to deny Sterling!Somehow the Preston sub gets back to turn over a shot from right underneath the crossbar with an incredible sliding lunge.That deserves so much more, but it is going to be the last act of a 3-0 defeat.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal90. A Sterling run and shot is expertly defended by Potts, and that’s the cue for the fourth official to indicate three minutes of stoppage time.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal88. Havertz steers in a fourth after great work from Jesus but once again the officials cut the celebrations short.Jesus is the one penalised, adjudged to have run the ball out of the play as he burst to the byline before cutting back for the German.Oh no. This is going to mean three days of freeze frame images and tweets about Gary Neville.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal85. Emil Riis almost gives the home fans something to cheer before the journey home.The substitute gets on the end of a delivery into the box, but is unable to direct it goalwards.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal83. The fourth North End player booked this evening is Mads Frokjaer-Jensen.It’s difficult to know whether he has been cautioned for the unnecessary trip, or for screaming in referee Peter Bankes’ face after the decision.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal80. Nwaneri is withdrawn with ten minutes remaining, and goes off to a fabulous reception from the travelling fans.On for his senior debut is Ayden Heaven.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal77. Nwaneri’s stylish left foot fires another shot on to the top of the crossbar.The 17-year-old has been the standout performer at Deepdale tonight.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal75. Preston are pushing for a consolation with quarter of an hour remaining.Suddenly, Tommy Setford is having to work hard for a clean sheet on debut.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal73. Stefan Thordarson is shown a yellow card for a cynical slide on Kai Havertz as the German brought play out of the Arsenal defensive third. Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal71. The game appears to be opening up as it enters the final 20 minutes.That can’t be good news for the Championship club, unless they feel it’s better to lose 5-1 than 3-0.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal69. Nwaneri has the ball in the back of the net, but the whistle had long gone beforehand to rule the goal out.Let’s hope this disallowed goal doesn’t prompt a week of conspiracy theories on social media.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal67. Arsenal want more.Havertz almost nabs his second header of the night, but this time it’s kept out by fine reactions from Woodman.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal65. How has that stayed out? Sterling does brilliantly to break the lines and slip in Jesus on the left.The striker comes back on to his right foot and strikes at goal, a shot that is palmed out by Woodman.Following it back in is Sterling, whose effort on the rebound is also stopped by the keeper, who then combines with a grounded defender to stop it being bundled in. Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal63. This is the last thing you want to see if you’re a Preston player: Bukayo Saka stripped and ready to enter the action.The forward eventually replaces Gabriel Martinelli with Myles Lewis-Skelly also on for Oleksandr Zinchenko.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal61. Frokjaer-Jensen has the opportunity to make an immediate impact, but drags a shot wide after being sent through on goal.In any case, the Dane is flagged offside before he can contemplate a terrible miss any further.Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-3 Arsenal59. Paul Heckingbottom responds to that third goal by making a triple change.The Preston boss sends on Danish pair Mads Frokjaer-Jensen and Emil Riis, as well as Brad Potts.Off go Sam Greenwood, Josh Bowler and Kaine Kesler-Hayden.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! – Preston 0-3 Arsenal57. Kai Havertz makes it three!The half-time substitute adds himself to the scoresheet with a textbook header, planting Jakub Kiwior’s left-wing cross into the top corner of Freddie Woodman’s goal.Arsenal are heading for the quarter-finals – and who would bet against them?Copy linkCopiedHavertz header!Copy linkCopiedPreston 0-2 Arsenal57. Andrew Hughes goes into the book for wiping out Gabriel Jesus.The left-back becomes the second Preston defender to be cautioned after bodychecking the forward as he moved to reach a one-two with Nwaneri.Copy linkCopied More