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      in Boxing

      Anthony Joshua tipped to snub Daniel Dubois ‘revenge’ and instead target Tyson Fury fight in huge Battle of Britain

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA has thrown his rematch with Daniel Dubois into doubt as he now eyes a fight against Tyson Fury. AJ was dropped FOUR times on the way to a brutal fifth-round knockout defeat at Wembley in September.Anthony Joshua could snub a rematch with Daniel DuboisCredit: GettyTyson Fury could instead fight JoshuaCredit: GettyAnd he was expected to rematch Dubois in a bid for revenge – already eyed for February in Saudi Arabia.But his promoter Eddie Hearn revealed the turnaround looks to be too close – leaving the rematch facing the KO. Hearn told BBC Sport: “AJ desperately wants revenge but the only issue is timing. “For the rematch to happen in February, training camp will have to start in a couple of weeks.READ MORE IN BOXING”There are always niggles and he had a few so physically it’s just a case of whether AJ is ready to do that.”Fury, 36, rematches Oleksandr Usyk, 37, on December 21 following his loss in their May undisputed title decider.But Usyk was forced to vacate the IBF belt to proceed with the return as Dubois inherited the belt after being elevated from interim champ. With Joshua, 34, planning a May comeback he could now sit and wait to fight Fury opposed to a rematch with Dubois. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHearn added: “It would be frustrating if we made the Dubois rematch and Fury won.”Then we’re sitting there going ‘hang on a minute, we’re fighting Dubois but we could have fought Fury in May for the biggest fight in boxing.'”Win or lose, we can fight Fury next summer. But if he wins, AJ fights him for the world title.”Tyson Fury willing to wait until he’s 50-YEARS-OLD to fight Anthony Joshua and says rival ‘knows he’s getting it’ More

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      in Soccer

      Incredible moment Man Utd star is given flowers and rapturous applause from Fenerbahce fans as one runs on to hug him

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      FENERBAHCE fans have moved one Manchester United player to tears with a hero’s welcome.Erik ten Hag’s men are in Turkey tonight as they continue their Europa League campaign. Altay Bayindir has received a hero’s welcome from Fenerbahce fansCredit: ReutersThe Turkish goalkeeper spent four seasons at the club before leaving for Utd last yearCredit: ReutersOne young fan burst onto the field to hug the goalkeeper prior to Thursday’s matchCredit: ReutersThe Dutchman continues to fight for his job after a dismal start to the new season.Ten Hag has selected Andre Onana between the sticks for the showdown in Turkey. But it was United’s backup keeper Altay Bayindir feeling the love from home fans during the warm-ups. The stopper spent four years playing for Fenerbahce before heading to the Premier League in 2023.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBayindir has struggled to break into the first team at United, where he has been backup to Onana for the past 16 months. The 26-year-old was a fan favourite during his time in Turkey, with Fenerbahce fans keen to salute him ahead of the game. The usually hostile Sukru Saracoglu Stadium is renowned as a difficult place for away players to come.But an emotional Bayindir enjoyed a huge ovation from the ultras as he strode out into familiar territory, blowing kisses to the crowd. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAs he applauded the fans, a child vaulted the advertising hoardings and ran onto the field to hug him.Fenerbahce Director of Football Mario Branco also presented the keeper with a bouquet of flowers to celebrate his return.Jose Mourinho reveals he’s still holding out hope of winning Premier League title with Man UtdMan Utd ratings vs Fenerbahce: Onana saves the day for Red Devils as Lindelof has a stinker MANCHESTER UNITED were held to a 1-1 draw by Fenerbahce on a disappointing night in Turkey.Christian Eriksen broke the deadlock for Erik ten Hag’s side in the first half before En-Nesyri levelled soon after the break.Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho was sent to the stands in the second half after a touchline tantrum.But the Red Devils could find a much-needed winner for Erik ten Hag.SunSport’s Emillia Hawkins rates the performances…Andre Onana – 7Made an outstanding double save in the 37th minute to keep two attempts from Youssef En-Nesyri out.His defenders could’ve done much better to prevent Fenerbahce’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 5Failed to track back at times and had his blushes saved in the first half by Ugarte, who made a crucial tackle on Dusan Tadic to prevent a goal.Matthijs de Ligt – 6Made some good blocks during the first half to keep Fenerbahce at bay.Missed a few chances from set-pieces after the break.Victor Lindelof – 4Failed to follow En-Nesyri for Fenerbahce’s opening goal and made no attempt to win the ball.Hauled off in the 54th minute.Lisandro Martinez – 5Like Lindelof, he did not apply any pressure to En-Nesyri for the hosts’ first goal. Poor communication from both.Christian Eriksen – 7Broke the deadlock for United with a great strike into the top-left corner from the edge of the box.Manuel Ugarte – 6Won the ball in the build-up to the first goal and saved Man Utd from conceding with a fantastic last-ditch tackle in front of goal in the 22nd minute.Was lucky to avoid giving away a penalty after the break.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Didn’t look too out of place starting in the No10 position. Played a role in the build-up to the goal, passing the ball to Zirkzee who got the assist.Eventually moved into left-back, allowing Martinez to move central.Marcus Rashford – 5Played out of preferred position and started on the right as opposed to the left.Didn’t make too much of an impact on the game.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Played a key role in the build-up to Erikson’s goal by making a direct run into the box.Challenged Dominik Livakovic a few times and looked lively.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A poor overall performance from the striker despite providing the assist for Eriksen’s opener.Failed to make much of an impact and was hauled off in the 54th minute.It turned out to be honours even in Turkey as United were held to a 1-1 draw.Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho saw red in a feisty encounter, just moments after being left stunned by an Onana double save. Bayindir joined Fenerbahce from Ankaragucu in July 2019.He instantly made the No. 1 shirt his own, racking up over 100 appearances for the club over the next four seasons. The goalkeeper was presented with flowers by Fenerbahce director Mario BrancoCredit: X @GurkanAkThe stopper helped Fenerbahce to the Turkish Cup in 2023, before his £4.3 million deadline day move to Old Trafford.READ MORE SUN STORIESBayindir penned a four-year deal at the Theatre of Dreams.He made his United debut in January’s 4-2 FA Cup win over Newport County. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea ratings: Mudryk delivers star showing with goal and two assists but Badiashile caught out for Panathinaikos goal

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      CHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos. Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Chelsea eased to a routine win over PanathinaikosCredit: EPAJoao Felix got the goals flowing with a neat finishCredit: ReutersBefore kick-off, the Greek side paid tribute to former defender George Baldock in their first home match since his tragic death.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku. However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation. Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…READ MORE ON CHELSEAFilip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start. Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet. Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts. Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBenoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede. Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central. Chelsea star spotted at Emirates Stadium watching Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Shakhtar DonetskFilip Jorgensen’s biggest challenge was dealing with the laserCredit: TNT SportsRenato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post. Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession. Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance. Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal. Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband. Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure. Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner. Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix. Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all. Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again – brilliant performance, best man on the pitch and one of his best performances for Chelsea.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in at the back postCredit: APChristopher Nkunku made no mistake from the spotCredit: ReutersJoao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home. Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on. Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.READ MORE SUN STORIESCesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday. Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall had bags of energy in midfieldCredit: APJoao Felix found the net twice and won a penaltyCredit: AP More

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      Panathinaikos 1 Chelsea 4: Joao Felix gives Enzo Maresca selection headache with double as Blues go top of table

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      ON this evidence Enzo Maresca should win his first Chelsea trophy at a canter this season.His Blues strolled past Panathinaikos without much need to engage their brains, let alone work up a sweat.Chelsea run riot in AthensCredit: RexThe biggest resistance offered in Athens was a crafty supporter armed with a green laser pen – trying but failing to put off the Chelsea players.Given how much of a stroll some of these games should be, they offer a chance for those in need of a confidence boost.Two of those did just that, Joao Felix scoring twice having struggled for minutes since his before and Mykhailo Mudryk netting one and setting up two.Mudryk, desperately needing a statement performance, skied an early chance and looked to be heading for another frustrating night.READ MORE IN footballBut soon he started to make things happen.The Ukrainian, whose potential is undoubted but rarely looks like being fulfilled, was causing constant trouble down the left and teed up the opener.After Felix flicked on a header into his path, Mudryk raced forward and picked his moment to slide the ball back to his Portuguese teammate, allowing him a first time finish past Bartlomiej Drągowski.He could have had another assist minutes later too, squaring well for Enzo Fernandez to strike – though it was just tipped over.Most read in FootballJoao Felix opened the scoringCredit: ReutersFelix started the rout in GreeceCredit: GettyMykhailo Mudryk got himself a much needed goalCredit: APMudryk has another positive performance in EuropeCredit: APCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAfter a couple of early scares – including Filip Jorgensen needing to save from Tin Jedvaj’s second minute header – Chelsea were in full control.They may have had a rough couple of years but they are clearly too good for Europe’s third tier competition.Roberto Mancini brutally sacked from job as highest-paid manager in the world just days after clashing with fansThat was made more than clear inside ten second half minutes as Chelsea bagged another three.First Mudryk added to his first assist with a maiden goal of the season, heading in at the far post from Pedro Neto’s cross.He then set Felix up for his second of the night, taking advantage of the hosts’ failure to clear a Neto cross, laying the ball back before the shot deflected in off Serbian Nemanja Maksimovic.Within moments of putting the game beyond doubt, Felix won a penalty – his cross striking the hand of Daniel Mancini. Chelsea ratings vs Panathinaikos: Mudryk gives rare glimpse of his talent but one defender strugglesCHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos.Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…Filip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start.Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet.Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts.Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick.Benoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede.Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central.Renato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post.Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession.Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance.Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal.Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband.Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure.Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner.Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix.Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all.Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again.Joao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home.Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on.Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.Cesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday.Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then.The winger was denied the chance to wrap up his hat-trick as Christopher Nkunku converted from the spot, despite having to deal with a laser pen constantly in his eye.From there Chelsea slowed, a number of changes and chances for youngsters: Tyrique George, Marc Guiu and Cesare Casadei.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith Chelsea’s guard down a touch, the hosts grabbed a consolation.Sub Georgios Vagiannidis found space down the right and crossed for former Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri to tap in at the far post.Christopher Nkunku scored from the spotCredit: GettyHe pulled off his trademark celebrationCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd fans shocked with manager Erik ten Hag set to play Noussair Mazraoui in bizarre new position

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      ERIK TEN HAG left Manchester United fans shocked with Noussair Mazraoui to play in a new role.United travel to Turkey to face ex-manager Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce side.Follow all the action from Man Utd vs Fenerbahce hereErik ten Hag fans shocked with Noussair Mazraoui to play in a new roleCredit: GettyMazraoui was handed a new roleCredit: GettyAnd they did so with a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation – but with a twist. As full-back Mazraoui did not start on the right side of defence, with Diogo Dalot instead preferred. Instead, eyebrows were raised with the defender in line to play in an attacking midfield role despite Amad Diallo sitting on the bench.READ MORE ON MAN UTDOne said: “Ten hag has fully lost the plot.” Another added: If the rumours are true and Ten Hag is playing Mazraoui as a 10 instead of Amad, I’m actually going to lose it. “Best attacker this season hasn’t seen the pitch in hours but the fullback gets the 10 spot. I’m speechless.” One fumed: “He’d rather play Mazraoui #10 than the other attacking players we have, this guy is a sicko.”Most read in FootballBut another argued: “Mazraoui playing as a number 10 is wild! Didn’t see that coming. Let’s see how this experiment works out!” CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTen Hag confirmed Mazraoui’s advanced role – something they tried out while both at Ajax. He said: “Mazraoui will play in the 10 position tonight. I know him from before at Ajax I played him there.”Also as a full back he plays in the half spaces. So he’s capable to do this job.”The game ended 1-1 with Christian Eriksen opening the score for United but Youssef En-Nesyri levelled five minutes after the break. More

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      Arsenal legend drops huge hint Bukayo Saka WILL be fit to face Liverpool after visiting Gunners’ training ground

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      ARSENAL icon David Seaman has suggested Bukayo Saka WILL be available to face Liverpool on Sunday despite injury concerns.Saka has not played since he was forced off with a knock during England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece earlier this month.Bukayo Saka could make a return from injury this weekendCredit: ReutersFormer Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman suggests he will be availableCredit: GettyHaving already missed two games for Arsenal, he is now a doubt for this weekend’s huge Premier League match against Liverpool.Following Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta admitted: “Saka is not training yet so he won’t be available.”However, ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Seaman this week revealed that he saw the 23-year-old in training.Speaking on his Seaman Says podcast, the former England international explained: “I’m a little bit nervy, if I’m honest, because we’re not going to be at our strongest, depending on Saka.Read More on Arsenal”Although when I was in last Thursday at Arsenal, coaching with the young goalies, I saw Bukayo with his boots on and I was like, ‘ah, good sign’.”Not trainers or anything like that. He was going off to do some one-to-one rehab, so that was a good sign. Hopefully it’s not too bad.”Arsenal will be without several key players for the huge match.William Saliba will serve a suspension after being sent off against Bournemouth last week.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/AClub captain Martin Odegaard remains on the road to recovery from an ankle injury.Jurrien Timber is experiencing some fitness issues.Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal suffered with tiredness against Shakhtar Donetsk And new signing Riccardo Calafiori is set to miss Sunday’s match due to a knee injury he picked up against Shakhtar.Seaman added: “The only indication they’ve got that’s definite is that Saliba’s out with his suspension.”It’s going to be tough, but these are the games you want. These tell you how good you are, or how good you’re going to be in the season.” More

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      Medics rush to help and cover Nice star Sofiane Diop after terrifying injury in Europa League clash with Ferencvaros

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      NICE fans were stunned to see Sofiane Diop play on in their clash with Ferencvaros – after an injury so severe he was covered with a SCREEN. The 24-year-old midfielder was shielded from view as medical staff rushed onto the field during Thursday’s Europa League clash in Hungary. A screen was put up around Sofiane Diop after a clash of heads against FerencvarosCredit: GettyFans were stunned to see the Nice star play on after colliding with a teammateCredit: AFPDiop went down after clashing heads with a teammate midway through the first half at the Groupama Arena. Medical staff ran onto the field as the former Monaco star hit the turf, with Ferencvaros defenders urging them to hurry. Diop remained down on the ground for several minutes, with stewards holding a makeshift medical tent made out of Ferencvaros flags. Luckily for Diop, he appeared to escape serious injury after walking away under his own steam.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDiop was strapped up by the medical team with a bandage, with blood seemingly visible on the back of his head. And fans were stunned to see him return to the game just moments after the collision. One wrote on X: “It’s not serious to keep Sofiane Diop in this match! He needs to get stitched up and go out.”Another said: “I hope that is nothing serious for Sofiane Diop.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTrailing 1-0 after an own goal from Moise Bombito, Nice eventually subbed Diop out of the contest at half-time, around 20 minutes after the incident. He was replaced by former Birmingham City midfielder Jeremie Boga.Roberto Mancini brutally sacked from job as highest-paid manager in the world just days after clashing with fansA former French international youth star, Diop has opted to play for Morocco at international level.He began his career with Rennes before joining Monaco in July 2018. New Europa League format explainedTHE Europa League has been given a revamp this season, with a whole new group-stage format.All 36 teams are in one big league.Each team will play eight matches in the opening phase – against seeded opposition, in a system designed to ensure that teams play opponents of similar difficulty.At the end of the league phase, the top eight teams in the “final” table will automatically go through to the last 16, where they will be joined by the eight play-off winners of ties between the sides placed ninth to 24th in the table.The bottom 12 teams are eliminated from Europe entirely.Despite there being just eight matches in the opening phase, European matches will be spread over 10 midweek slots.The knockout phase of the tournament remains the same as previous years.The Tours native spent four years in Monte Carlo, including a successful season on loan at Sochaux.Diop linked up with Nice in August 2022, with the £18.3m midfielder currently enjoying a breakout season. More

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      Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku has banned laser pen shone in his FACE by fans before scoring penalty vs Panathinaikos

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      CHELSEA stars Filip Jorgensen and Christopher Nkunku had lasers shone in their faces at PanathinaikosThe Swedish-Danish goalkeeper, 22, got a rare start between the stick for the Conference League trip in Greece on Thursday.Filip Jorgensen had a laser beamed on his face during the Conference League trip to PanathinaikosCredit: TNT SportsChristopher Nkunku was also targetedCredit: TNT SportsThe Frenchman kept his composure to score the penaltyCredit: TNT SportsBut when the hosts got ready to put a corner into the danger area after 14 minutes, he was distracted by a laser.The green beam could clearly be seen on Jorgensen’s face. An announcement was put out over the PA system at the Olympic Stadium in Athens. However, it was seemingly ignored by some as Enzo Fernandez also had his face lit up in green during the first half.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThen before Nkunku took his penalty to make it 4-0 on the night, he was blinded by the bright laser beams.The Frenchman had to cover his eyes with his hand and squinted while being targeted but kept his composure to slot home the spot-kick. And the offences could prompt a fine from Uefa as punishment to Panathinaikos for their fans’ behaviour.Chelsea fans took to X, outraged by the use of a laser pen – which is an all-too-familiar occurrence in Greek football.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne fumed: “So Panathinaikos fans are doing laser in the face of Chelsea players? How classy.”Another wrote: “Why are Panathinaikos fans pointing laser pens at Chelsea’s players?? Why?”Chelsea star spotted at Emirates Stadium watching Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Shakhtar DonetskAnd a third added: “Nothing says Conference League like laser pointers on the faces of Chelsea players!”Joao Felix rounded off a lovely team move to break the deadlock before Mykhailo Mudryk headed in for 2-0.Mudryk, who assisted the first, turned provider again for the third as Felix’s deflected strike bounced in.The Portuguese forward won the penalty from which Nkunku scored before ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation for the hosts. Earlier on, Panathinaikos paid an emotional tribute to their former defender George Baldock.Baldock died tragically in the swimming pool at his Athens home on October 9 aged just 31. A live band played a version of David Bowie’s Starman ahead of kick-off, the song Sheffield United used for his chant during his time with the club.Fans in both the home and away end held up cards with Baldock’s No32 on, while 32 flags bearing the number were waved pitchside.Supporters also displayed a homemade banner reading “George Baldock, Immortal” in Greek in the club’s first home game since his sudden passing.Chelsea ratings vs Panathinaikos: Mudryk gives rare glimpse of his talent but one defender strugglesCHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos.Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…Filip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start.Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet.Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts.Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick.Benoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede.Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central.Renato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post.Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession.Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance.Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal.Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband.Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure.Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner.Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix.Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all.Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again.Joao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home.Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on.Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.Cesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday.Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then.Players from both sides, who took part in a minute’s silence ahead of the game, wore black armbands while the Chelsea squad also posed with a Blues shirt with “Baldock, 32” printed on the back.READ MORE SUN STORIESBaldock’s team-mates appeared close to tears during the minute’s silence, with manager Diego Alonso having said the club were still in a state of mourning.Panathinaikos players and staff plan to travel to England for Baldock’s funeral later this month, while the club are also considering honouring the remainder of his three-year deal to support his family. 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