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      Arsenal player ratings: Havertz shines in different role but Jesus can’t keep up hot streak against Ipswich

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      KAI HAVERTZ scored his 12th goal of the season to send Arsenal second with a 1-0 win over Ipswich at the Emirates.It was the German’s close-range strike that broke the deadlock as the Gunners moved within six points of Prem leaders Liverpool.Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the game against Ipswich TownCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus struggled to make an impactCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side started brilliantly, suffocating Ipswich’s back five at every opportunity as the visitors failed to have a touch in the opposition box in the first 45 minutes.The question heading into this game was how would Arsenal cope without Bukayo Saka, who registered 28 goal involvements in 2024.But Havertz, who roamed all over the pitch, is next on the list after earning his 24th contribution of the year in the 23rd minute.An expected second-half push from Ipswich saw the home fans grow anxious but it finished 1-0 to the Arsenal.READ MORE ON ARSENALHere’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSClearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full back and driving up the pitch. William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.Arsenal star Thomas Partey shares Christmas video of the Grinch stealing presents and then poses for family photo William Saliba was solid at the backCredit: GettyThe Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Declan Rice was able to push up field against Ipswich TownCredit: GettyRice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack when he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout. Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly has the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.READ MORE SUN STORIESSubsMikel Merino (Jesus ’73) – 6The Spanish star came on to secure the game after Ipswich started growing into the game.Thomas Partey (Rice ’83) – N/AUnusedJakub Kiwior, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Riccardo Calafiori, Ethan Nwaneri, Kieran Tierney, NetoWho are these famous footballers? More

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      in Boxing

      Paul Bamba dead at 35: World champion boxer who was linked with Jake Paul and Tommy Fury dies days after winning title

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      BOXING world champion Paul Bamba has passed away at the age of 35.He became cruiserweight champion this year and was linked with fights against Jake Paul and Tommy Fury.Paul Bamba has passed away suddenly aged 35Credit: https://www.instagram.com/bambajuice/Bamba became champion by beating Rogelio Medina only last weekend.In doing so he broke a record set by Mike Tyson for most wins in a calendar year via knockout, with 14.He was friends with pop star NE-YO, who paid tribute to Bamba following his untimely passing.NE-YO and Bamba’s family released a joint statement which read: “It is with profound sorrow that we announced the passing of beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives.READ MORE IN BOXING”He was a fierce yet confident competitor with an unrelenting ambition to achieve greatness.”But more than anything he was a tremendous individual that inspired many with his exceptional drive and determination.”We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”Bamba fought a bout in every month this year with the exception of September, which meant he had more than one fight in some months.Most read in BoxingFans have shared their tributes and condolences for Bamba following his death.One wrote: “What??? Absolutely heartbreaking, so out of the blue. RIP Paul.”Oleksandr Usyk shows true colours with classy message to Tyson Fury after victory in heavyweight rematchAnother added: “Extremely upsetting news, may his soul R.I.P 🕊️”And a third wrote: “Really heartbreaking and shocking to hear. God rest his soul🙏❤️” More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal 1 Ipswich 0: Gunners may as well drive Prem trophy to Liverpool after making meal of beating Tractor Boys

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      IF we are going to have some sort of a title race, then it is up to Arsenal to really raise their game.But without Bukayo Saka in their team, you really have to wonder whether Mikel Arteta’s mob are capable of giving Liverpool manager Arne Slot some sleepless nights.Kai Havertz scored the winner as Arsenal beat IpswichCredit: GettyThe German made no mistake with his close-range finishCredit: RexOn this evidence, they may as well drive the Premier League trophy up to Merseyside now.Kai Havertz scored his 12th goal of the season against an Ipswich side who failed to land a glove on their opponents but defended stubbornly.The fact Arsenal made a meal of beating such a limited team does raise some questions over whether they can close this enormous gap at the top.The fact Liverpool are six points clear at the top of the Premier League – with a game in hand – merely underlines how much better Slot’s team have been this season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile Arsenal have to keep on plugging away, they must still hope for a major blip from the leaders and at this stage, it still seems unlikely.After squeezing past Kieran McKenna’s team, Arsenal now have away trips to Brentford and Brighton and once again, Saka’s genius on the right will be sorely missed.Maybe, this game was further evidence for Arteta to persuade his board to dip into the January transfer market. Arteta switched Gabriel Martinelli to the right with Leonardo Trossard, who delivered the assist for the first goal, starting out on the left.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut this was still not particularly impressive stuff from an Arsenal team who really hoped that this year, would be THEIR year.Former midfield favourite Santi Cazorla was welcomed on to the pitch before the game and the crowd sang his name at regular intervals.Arsenal star Thomas Partey shares Christmas video of the Grinch stealing presents and then poses for family photo Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.Although now aged 40, he is – remarkably – still playing in the second tier of Spanish football for Real Oviedo and is only over here because he is on a winter break.He picked up a couple of FA Cup winners’ medals with Arsenal and would dearly love it if his former team-mate – and close friend – Arteta was finally able to win the title.Such was the pace of the game throughout that Cazorla could easily have slotted into the home team’s midfield without any problems.This was Ipswich’s first-ever Premier League trip to the Emirates although their last win at Arsenal came way back in 1979 when Arnold Muhren and Allan Hunter were the scorers in a 2-0 victory.Those were heady days for Ipswich when seasons in European competition were standard but now all they would love is a second successive season in the Premier League.Yet the 4-0 loss at Newcastle on Saturday was their best proper hammering so despite being dominated, at least they avoided another battering.McKenna reverted to the back-three system which sprung a surprise for a 2-1 win at Spurs on November 10 but a repeat never looked likely.To illustrate Arsenal’s dominance in the first quarter of the game, they had a staggering 91 per cent of possession. Yes, 91 per cent.The problem was that they kept trying to walk the ball into the net and their only chance was a long-range shot by Jurrien Timber straight at Ipswich goalkeeper Aro Muric.Yet finally, and predictably, Arsenal found a way past all the blue shirts who were blocking the goal.Visiting defender Ben Johnson failed to cut out a decent cross from Trossard and Havertz was literally standing on the line for a simple tap-in.Yet while he did not have much of a chance for that one, keeper Muric got lucky when he was somehow beaten at his near-post by Gabriel Jesus who was then flagged offside.In the second half, Ipswich had a bit more of the ball without really hurting Arteta’s team.Arsenal somehow failed to make it 2-0 when Gabriel Magalhaes headed wide from a couple of yards out.Martin Odegaard danced his way past a few Ipswich players before seeing his shot deflected for a corner, Declan Rice’s volley was blocked by Dara O’Shea and sub Mikel Merino had a shot well saved by Muric.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis was hardly a sitter for Arteta. But even so, you get the feeling that if he is to win a trophy this season it will be the Cup… Liverpool look home and dry in the Premier League. Gabriel should have made it 2-0 with this free headerCredit: GettyThe Brazilian defender could not believe he had put the ball wideCredit: PAGabriel Jesus scored from a seemingly impossible angle but it was chalked off for offsideCredit: GettyAro Muric kept the scoreline down with a string of savesCredit: GettyIpswich remain 19th in the table following another narrow defeatCredit: ReutersMikel Arteta would have preferred a more comfortable scorelineCredit: GettySanti Cazorla was back at the Emirates to watch the GunnersCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich LIVE RESULT: Havertz fires Gunners up to second in Premier League as Arteta’s side end 2024 with win

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      ARSENAL have beaten Ipswich 1-0 as Mikel Arteta’s side end 2024 with a huge three points.Kai Havertz’s 23rd-minute strike was the only goal on the night as the German took his tally to 12 for the season in all competitions.Arsenal’s win saw them leapfrog London rivals Chelsea into second in the Premier League table.Match result: Arsenal 1-0 IpswichArsenal team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Havertz, Odegaard, Martinelli, Trossard, JesusIpswich team: Muric, Johnson, O’Shea, Woolfenden, Greaves, Davis, Phillips, Cajuste, Hutchinson, Szmodics, DelapFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Match reportIf we are going to have some sort of a title race, then it is up to Arsenal to really raise their game.But without Bukayo Saka in their team, you really have to wonder whether Mikel Arteta’s mob are capable of giving Liverpool manager Arne Slot some sleepless nights.On this evidence, they may as well drive the Premier League trophy up to Merseyside now.Kai Havertz scored his 12th goal of the season against an Ipswich side who failed to land a glove on their opponents but defended stubbornly.The fact Arsenal made a meal of beating such a limited team does raise some questions over whether they can close this enormous gap at the top.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – FORWARDSGabriel Martinelli – 6 : All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right hand side. The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy but he’s saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus. Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’ goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7: Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season. Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout. Gabriel Jesus – 5: Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush. Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment. Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – MIDFIELDERSDeclan Rice – 7: Rice was pushed into a defensive No 6 role but didn’t have to stay there long. Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8: Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top. But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes. Rotated and exchanged the No 9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6: Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing. Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – DEFENDERSHere’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated tonight’s Arsenal players, beginning with those at the back.David Raya – 5: Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession. Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6: Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric. Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full back and driving up the pitch. William Saliba – 7: Joined Gabriel in the highest line set up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half. The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8: Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday. Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7: Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess. But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark. The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Copy linkCopiedLegend – aryQuite a strange moment on Prime Video Sport.John Legend and Chrissy Teigen were in the stands with their family, with the singer saying he was an Arsenal fan.Though it quickly came across that he wasn’t quite sure what he’d just watched for 90 minutes.It seemed Chrissy Teigen was a Chelsea fan and arrived in a Chelsea shirt, but meant for it to be Ipswich, but kept calling them Chelsea. I think…He told Prime Sport: “This was so fun! It was our first Premier League game ever. We’re here for the holidays and having a great time.“I don’t know the league very well. My friends said Arsenal would win by six goals but it was closer than we expected. It was entertaining though.”While Chrissy added: “I love an underdog and love being surprised by how a team could do. I wanted to really give Ipswich the support they needed!“We don’t know what we’re doing, we’re clueless!”The family then ran on the pitch playing some variation of tig.Copy linkCopied’Could’ve shown more’Kieran McKenna believes hesitancy prevented his side making more of a fist of the later stages of the game.But he insists his players can take confidence from a lot of what they did tonight.He told Prime Video Sport: “It was a difficult first 20 minutes, we got pinned in by a good side. We grew into the game well and turned a bit of momentum at the end of the first half and got into some good positions in the second half.”There were a few situations late in the game where we could have shown more belief but we were too hesitant.”It was important that we ended the game solid and feel we can be compact. We’ll take confidence from that. The way we turned momentum to put the game in a good position for us, I think is something to take confidence from.”Copy linkCopiedHuge news!SunSport’s Katherine Walsh has reported that Mikel Arteta confirm Bukayo Saka will be out for MORE than two months with his hamstring issue.The initial reports were up to six weeks but the winger has since undergone surgery and he’ll now be out for ‘many weeks’.Ouch, that’s a major blow for Arsenal.Arteta said: “I prefer to leave it to the doctor. But yes Bukayo had surgery, and he will be out for many, many weeks.“Many weeks, I think it will be more than two months, I don’t know how long it will take with the scar tissue or improving his mobility.“We have to rely on the team, that is our strength, we are a team of players who can score 20/30 goals together.”Copy linkCopiedTough to Kalvin Phillips reckons Liverpool have been the standout team so far but expects Arsenal to nip away at them for the remainder of the campaign.He told Prime Sport:  “Arsenal are very good team and they had a lot of the ball and created a few chances. We created a few in the second half but we just need that extra bit of special play at the end.”It’s always difficult coming to Arsenal and we didn’t have much to lose when at 1-0 so we came out and tried to force them into mistakes in the second half.”They are a really good team, really strong. I think Liverpool are the standout team so far but I think Arsenal are the ones who will push them in the end.”Copy linkCopiedMore from MikelOn having to adapt without Bukayo Saka and how the players did tonight, Arteta added to Match Of The Day: “Very good. It will be different. “We had moments in the second half. It is a unit that is new and will take time for players to understand fully.”Copy linkCopiedArteta speaksMikel Arteta says there’s no frustration despite his side’s flat display, but admits there’s plenty they need to improve on.He told Prime Sport: “Frustration when you win? No! Things to improve, yes!“We played the ball back to David [Raya] from the restart and were in trouble and gave them some momentum.“Then we give some simple balls away which gave them a chance to get some belief and win some set pieces without creating anything.“You see the first half and the stats were significant. We have to get used to that and we are used to that.“Credit to them, they’re very organised. We restricted them to nothing.”Copy linkCopiedComing up…The next four games for Arsenal and Ipswich.Two tricky away games in the league before attentions turn to cup duty for Arsenal.Brentford and Brighton played out a 0-0 draw tonight and they’re the next two trips for the Gunners.Chelsea and Fulham the next two for Ipswich.Copy linkCopiedMore from HavertzOn the team having to step up without Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz told Prime Sport: “I try to help the team, it was a different role for me today.”Everyone has to step up because we know Bukayo Saka is a very important player for us. But we have to adapt.”Home games are so important to us and we feel the energy. Everyone is together, we are one football club. The players, the fans, everyone needs to raise their level to win football matches.”Copy linkCopied’Frustration’Declan Rice admits it’s becoming a ‘theme’ for Arsenal of dominating games and struggling to break teams down.He told Prime Sport: “Yeah definitely [a frustration]. It’s been a bit of a theme for us recently. We’ve dominated games but teams are coming here in low blocks, putting men behind the ball.“It’s really tough to break down a 4-5-1. You just have to keep probing, keep going.“Luckily enough it was an important win and that’s all that matters.”Copy linkCopiedHow we stand – bottomAnd for Ipswich, as mentioned before the game they have kept that goal difference almost as it was.They’re three points adrift of safety almost at the halfway mark.Copy linkCopiedRounding off with a winThe matchwinner has taken to social media to thank fans for their support.This game was Arsenal’s last of 2024 – another eventful one for the club without being able to get over the line.Here’s what Kai Havertz said when back in the changing room.Copy linkCopiedHow we stand – topArsenal now up to second with Chelsea dropping points yesterday and they move six points behind Liverpool.But having played a game more and on the evidence of tonight without Bukayo Saka, they are battling it out for second unless something drastic happens.Copy linkCopiedTough to crackKai Havertz says tonight’s win was just about getting the job done.He told Prime Sport: “Three points at home is nice. Tough opponent.“They didn’t have a proper chance so we controlled the game well.“Every team is the same, this is the Premier League. Every team is hard to break down.”Copy linkCopiedFull time statsNine more shots at goal for Arsenal in the second half but Muric only really forced into one save.Kieran McKenna will be really disappointed his side created virtually nothing of note as they looked scared to lose the ball in the final third.But they had considerably more of the ball after the break that in the first half. Though it would’ve been impossible not to.Copy linkCopiedSummed up perfectlyAlan Shearer tells Prime Video Sport: “You take the points and you move on.”Arsenal have just done enough. They’ve found it difficult to break down the defensive Ipswich.”Copy linkCopiedFT! Arsenal 1-0 IpswichThree Points, 2nd place, one goal and next-to-zero quality.But job done for Arsenal.Copy linkCopied90+4 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichPenalty appeal from Ipswich as Broadhead’s strike flying towards goal hits Havertz’s arm.It’s tucked behind him so VAR don’t take long to check it.Copy linkCopied90 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichFour minutes added on. Hopefully those minutes don’t drag on like the 90 that preceded it.Copy linkCopied89 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichOmari Hutchinson should be running at Lewis-Skelly but opts to try a ball in from deep which Raya claims.A sign of how nervy Arsenal are at present, Raya lies on the ball for 10 seconds to kill that bit of time.Ipswich make one final change:OFF: WoolfendenON: Harry ClarkeCopy linkCopied88 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichTrossard with a poor pass back to his own defender – he’s not learned his lesson – and Ipswich pounce.Taylor drives to within a few yards of the box but opts not to shoot, instead finding Leif Davis on the left but he shows too much of the ball to Timber.The two players then grapple for the ball, grabbing each other’s shirts before Arsenal are given the free kick.Copy linkCopied86 – Arsenal 1-0 IpswichStraight swap for Arsenal with five to play:OFF: RiceON: ParteyCopy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Troy Deeney: Being a footballer around Christmas might be the most depressing time of your life – it’s torture

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      BEING a pro footballer around Christmas might be the most depressing time of your life.I’m not asking for huge amounts of sympathy.Footballers do not get time off during ChristmasCredit: AlamyBrighton and Hove Albion were visited by the GrinchCredit: Instagram @officialbhafcWe are very privileged people who get paid extremely well, so I don’t expect the tiny violins to be coming out.But it is not an easy time. Your whole family is buzzing — the Pringles are out, the wine, the beers.So many things that you would normally enjoy but just know you cannot do it.I remember as a footballer having Christmas dinner and knowing we were playing a game the next day.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLI would have to ask for a third of what I would normally stuff on my plate.Now I am retired — my first Christmas away from the game for nearly 20 years — I asked my family to give me a third more than I can even stomach.I was so excited and loved it.But as a professional player, you would be counting how many potatoes you have eaten.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThen the club nutritionists would be on to you.I used to have to jump in the gym straight after my turkey dinner. ‘Who do you think you are’: Sir Alex Ferguson reduced Cristiano Ronaldo to tears after ‘ripping in’ to Man Utd iconCody Gakpo was one of the scorers on Boxing DayCredit: AFPWho are these famous footballers?Usually, if we had an away game on Boxing Day, we would have to train in the late afternoon or early evening on Christmas Day — and then it was straight to wherever the hotel was.I’d get up in the morning on Christmas Day, do stuff with the kids, have a light breakfast, probably run a 5k on the treadmill, then the family came over to have dinner but you are always watching the time.Let’s say we had dinner at 1:30pm.I would then get on the scales at 2:45pm and I am two kilos over. So, I have to jump in the sauna for 20 minutes.Then it is in the car, down to training, weigh yourself again and into a hotel with 20 other lads who also don’t want to be there.You’re looking on your social media and everyone is posting videos of themselves enjoying some drinks, opening presents, spending time with their kids. It really hits you.By the time Boxing Day comes around, everyone is in the mindset of, ‘Thank God that’s over’.I always tried to have a bigger dinner that day to make up for what I missed.For me and my family, our Christmas Day would be on the 27th, so you could enjoy yourself and have a few days resting before the New Year games.As players, we were generally well behaved during those periods.Sometimes at Watford, depending on the manager we had, we would have to come in for training at 8am on Christmas Day, so everyone would be home by midday.Get in, get out.There used to be a rule whereby you then did not have to report until Boxing Day morning.But that was stopped after a few players would turn up with red eyes after staying out until 2am.Those Christmas Day morning sessions were the worst, because my kids would wake up all excited wanting to open their presents and I would have to say: “No, wait until dad gets home!”It’s torture.And even when I got home, I would have to eat, shower, have a little nap and then drive back to the hotel for 7pm.When I first met my wife, she thought I would only train a couple of times a week and then play on a Saturday.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe then got the biggest shock of her life. My life was so regimented, even at Christmas.Look, it’s part of the gig. You’re paid to put up with it but it was a mental strain at times, especially with kids and those who were really family-orientated. More

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      in Soccer

      Brighton 0 Brentford 0: Premier League release statement after Joao Pedro escapes red card despite elbow

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      BRIGHTON star Joao Pedro escaped a red card during a goalless Premier League draw with Brentford at the Amex Stadium.Pedro, 23, and the Bees’ Yehor Yarmolyuk vied for the ball on 75 minutes.Brighton star Joao Pedro escaped a red card against BrentfordCredit: ReutersPedro appeared set to elbow Brentford’s Yehor YarmolyukCredit: ReutersVAR deemed there was no violent conduct from Brighton’s PedroCredit: ReutersAnd Yarmolyuk, 20, committed a foul, for which he was booked by referee Andrew Madley.However, VAR intervened to check for potential violent conduct by the Seagulls striker after the Ukrainian committed the foul.Replays showed Pedro appearing to swing an elbow towards Yarmolyuk’s face.The Brazil international looked ready to deliver the blow but rapidly withdrew at the last moment.Read More on FootballReplays also showed the Brazilian had clearly made little contact if any.However, VAR deemed there was no violent conduct and Pedro was spared his marching orders.The Premier League released a statement explaining why Brighton weren’t left with ten men.And the announcement claims that is because the referee’s call was “not clear and obviously wrong”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Prem statement read: “The referee’s call of no red card to Joao Pedro for violent conduct was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed the referee’s call was not clear and obviously wrong.”The scoreline remained the same after the controversial incident, which means the two clubs’ winless streaks go on.Premier League club announces major stadium changes with new capacity and away fans moved However, injury-hit Brentford will be happier with the draw than Brighton. It was only Thomas Frank’s side’s second point on the road all season rather than the first away win they had hoped for.But with their injury situation reaching crisis point it was probably more than some of their fans expected.Brighton, meanwhile, are without a victory anywhere in six successive games – all against teams who had been in the bottom half of the table when they played them. The Seagulls’ temporary rise up to second place in the table at the back end of last month is becoming a distant memory.And they were perhaps fortunate that VAR ruled out a Brentford goal in the first half.Brentford’s injury hellThe Bees rolled up at a misty Amex Stadium without NINE injured players and it was ten by half-time as goalkeeper Mark Flekken limped off to be replaced by Iceland stopper Hakon Valdimarsson for his Premier League debut.But Flekken had made his mark before being replaced. Brighton went in search of goals from the kick-off and were nearly ahead after four minutes. Carlos Baleba picked off a poor pass out Flekken and fed Pedro. The Brazilian teed up Julio Enciso, whose curler beat Flekken’s left hand but smacked back off the post.Then Baleba sent Flekken full-length with a snap shot from the edge of the penalty area, and Enciso tested the Brentford goalkeeper with a header from Kaoru Mitoma’s cross.But Brentford had the ball in the net first. After 13 minutes Yoane Wissa ran onto Mads Roerslev’s pass infield from the right and hit a shot high past Bart Verbruggen and into the top far corner. It seemed he had scored his first career goal against the Seagulls and also joined Ivan Toney as the club’s leading Premier League scorer with 36 goals. Brentford denied openerBut VAR Chris Kavanagh ruled that he had been fractionally offside, by a kneecap.Soon Flekken was in action again, clutching a 22-yard free-kick from Germany Under-21 winger Brajan Gruda, and then diving to his right to parry a shot by Matt O’Riley. So Brentford fans’ hearts were in their mouths when the keeper stayed down after kicking clear from a deflected cross from Mitoma.Flekken carried on for a while, but was replaced after 35 minutes by Valdimarsson, who has 17 caps for Iceland but had not featured for Brentford since signing last January from Elfsborg.Mikkel Damsgaard relieved the pressure for a while with a run past three Brighton defenders that finally ended when Joel Veltman put an uncompromising foot in. And the action switched back to the other end, where O’Riley’s effort was deflected wide and then Mitoma half-volleyed into the side-netting.’Same old story’To Albion fans this felt a bit like the same old story of recent matches, as they were dominating possession but could not score.By half-time they had had 15 shots to Brentford’s two but only six on target and were sometimes guilty of looking to walk the ball in.The crowd were getting restless, hoping for fewer flicks and tricks and more purpose. And there was the constant danger of a Brentford breakaway goal, which nearly came when Christian Norgaard’s scissor-kick was diverted just wide with Verbruggen scrambling. Or when Nathan Collins got his head on a set play but sent the ball high into the ranks of visiting fans behind the goal.The home side had scored in each of their previous 13 games and boss Fabian Hurzeler threw on wingers Yankuba Minteh and Simon Adingra to try to keep that run going. And then record £40million summer signing Georginio Rutter.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut although most of the action was still in and around the Brentford penalty area, Valdimarsson was not nearly as busy as Flekken had been. And the team from West London were beginning to believe that they could nick a win.Brighton even sent on long-serving winger Solly March for his first appearance since suffering a serious knee ligament injury 434 days before. But they continued to dither when the chances came to strike for goal.Brighton and Brentford played out a goalless Premier League drawCredit: ReutersBrentford star Yoane Wissa thought he scored but his goal was ruled out by VARCredit: Alamy More

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      Jhon Duran slapped with BAN after FA reject Aston Villa’s appeal to overturn red card against Newcastle

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      JHON DURAN has seen his three-match BAN confirmed after the FA rejected an appeal.The Aston Villa ace was sent off for an alleged stamp on Newcastle’s Fabian Schar.Jhon Duran was sent off for an alleged stamp on Fabian ScharCredit: GettyAnthony Taylor showed him a red card with the FA later rejecting an appeal against the decisionCredit: GettyDuran, 21, lost his balance while running behind the Toon defender before appearing to direct his right boot down onto Schar’s back in frustration.Referee Anthony Taylor then gave Duran his marching orders after just half an hour before VAR confirmed the call.The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on social media: “The referee issued a red card to Durán for violent conduct. The VAR checked and confirmed the referee’s call.”The feisty match at St James’ Park ended in a 3-0 win for the home side, though with Duran – who had been on fire ahead of the clash – that score may have been different, while Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall was sent off at half-time.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFeeling he had been wrongfully punished, Villa sent an appeal to the FA to get the ban overturned.However, an announcement from the club on Friday evening revealed the star would NOT have the ban rescinded.A statement said: “Aston Villa can confirm that our decision to appeal Jhon Durán’s red card in our match with Newcastle United has been rejected. “The player will now miss our next three matches.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFormer Aston Villa star and beIN Sports pundit Ahmed Elmohamady said of the rejected appeal decision: “Duran’s red card been rejected it’s absolutely disgraceful it’s never been a red in the first place.”There was a huge outcry from fans on social media that the decision was harsh following Taylor’s red card.Aston Villa hothead Jhon Duran rages as he’s subbed moments after scoring and kicks back of team-mate’s chair One said: “Harsh red.” Another wrote: “Not in a million years.” And a third added: “Disgraceful decision.”But another user replied: “The first one I would give him the benefit but the second is so deliberate.” And a final commented: “He 100 per cent tries to do him, right decision red card, intent more than actual contact.”Ex-Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given also gave his verdict at half-time. He told Amazon Prime Video: “I think Schar puts in a brilliant tackle.”But I think he leaves a bit on Duran in the tackle and Duran reacts raking his studs down him.”The Colombian risked further punishment as he was seen kicking a water bottle in anger before going down the tunnel.Duran has scored 12 goals in 26 games for Unai Emery’s side, with many of these coming off the bench.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe had scored in each of his last league three games before the Newcastle defeat.Missing the next three matches means Villa will be without his services for their visit to Brighton, their clash with Leicester and their FA Cup third-round clash against West Ham.Considerations for violent conductPGMOL considerations for violent conduct:A player who is not challenging for the ball will be sent off if they:-use or attempt to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent, teammate, team official, match official, spectator or any other person, regardless of whether contact is made-deliberately strike an opponent or any other person on the head or face with their hand or arm, unless the force used was negligible-make a clear forward movement with their head resulting in contact with the head or face of an opponent or any other person, unless the force used was negligible-clearly make forceful contact by holding or grabbing the throat/neck area, or gouges the eye of an opponent or any other person-make a clear action to pull the hair of an opponent or any other person with force More

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      Man Utd fans blast Sir Jim Ratcliffe after he cuts £40k donation to charity helping club icons despite £23bn fortune

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      MAN United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been dubbed Scrooge after cutting funding for a charity helping former players.United previously gave £40,000 a year to the trust, which fears it will fold without the lifeline.Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, worth £23billion, has been dubbed Scrooge after cutting funding for a charity helping former playersCredit: Alamy­Payments to the charity helping some of the club’s older players, including former skipper Bryan Robson, have been terminatedCredit: AllsportRed Devils great Denis Irwin is among 300 members of the Association of Former Manchester United PlayersCredit: AlamySupporters said it was a “kick in the teeth” following £23billion tycoon Sir Jim’s ticket price rises and a Christmas do ban.It follows a series of petty penny-pinching measures by Sir Jim, Britain’s richest man who is worth an estimated £23billion.The club had previously given a yearly sum to the Association of Former Manchester United Players, which was set up in 1985 to help footballers from bygone eras who earned nothing like the megabucks of today’s superstars.It puts on four events a year where ex-players can rub shoulders with others who signed professional forms with the club but never made a first-team appearance.READ MORE ON MANCHESTER UNITEDBut when the charity contacted Old Trafford after two quarterly payments of £10,000 failed to arrive, it was shocked to learn it plans to end all funding as part of Sir Jim’s cost-cutting drive.Trustee Jim Elms, 84, who played for United’s youth team and reserves from 1957 to 1960, called the move “ridiculous”. He said the charity does “so much good for the club for so little”, and has urged it to reconsider.He told The Sun: “We sent a ­letter to say we’ve not been paid. Nobody came out and told us so we had to send another letter.“That’s when we started hearing things that it was going to be the end of us.”Most read in FootballHe told how United’s chief executive Omar Berrada called him just days before Christmas.Jim, who played with Bobby Moore for an England youth team, said: “It didn’t go too well.Man Utd fans launch foul-mouthed protest at Sir Jim Ratcliffe and call him a ‘c—‘ over ticket price decision“Omar was non-committal. He’s going to meet us again in January but he said he couldn’t see it changing.“He didn’t seem to think that we were a necessity.”Jim, of Bramhall, Cheshire, added: “We’ve ran it since 1985.“Keeping the old players together. Looking after the ones that couldn’t pay for funerals.“I just can’t understand them myself. It’s ridiculous.”He added that each event was held at Old Trafford’s Manchester suite, which they pay to hire out.Among its 300 members are ­former skipper Bryan Robson, Alex Stepney, Denis Law, Brian Kidd, Arthur Albiston, Frank Stapleton, Denis Irwin and David May.Jim went on: “We give away around £10-20,000 to charity, mostly children’s charities in the local area. We’ve had £20,000 this year but not the rest of it.”The tycoon has launched a ruthless cost-cutting drive since his minority takeover of the club was announcedSir Jim has been clear that United need to save money, but this move has left him looking like a Christmas ScroogeA sourceHe has written a follow-up letter to the CEO, telling him: “We do so much good for the name of MUFC for so little. Please look again.”The cuts were also slammed by Dan Coombs, editor at supporters’ group United In Focus.He said: “After a summer where United spent £101million net and continue to pay incredibly high wages, the savings from this latest cut are a drop in the ocean, and are a kick in the teeth for many of the club’s former greats, who were not paid the excesses today’s footballers receive.”A source added: “Everyone knows the club needs to save money but some things just shouldn’t be cut.”Some of the players who benefit from this organisation never earned a penny from football and aren’t in the best financial circumstances.“Sir Jim has been clear that United need to save money, but this move has left him looking like a Christmas Scrooge.”Party scrappedThe chemicals tycoon, 72, has launched a ruthless cost-cutting drive since his minority takeover of the club was announced 12 months ago.More than 250 employees have been made redundant, while managerial legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassador role has been axed.Staff have also seen their ­traditional Christmas party scrapped and their bonus cut.Employees no longer receive free tickets for the FA Cup Final and had to pay for their own transport to Wembley in May this year.Ticket discounts for youngsters and over-65s were also scrapped.A club source said United “greatly appreciated” the role of AFMUP in maintaining relationships between former players and would continue supporting events.They added: “We are no longer able to make charitable donations to AFMUP while the club is ­making significant losses.“Our focus is on putting the club back on a sustainable financial footing so that we are in a position to invest in our priorities of achieving success on the pitch, and renewing our infrastructure.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityThe move comes at a turbulent time on the pitch, with new ­manager Ruben Amorim overseeing four defeats in their last five ­Premier League matches.There were fan protests against ticket price rises at last month’s game against Everton at Old ­Trafford, with banners reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”.A spokesman for supporters group MUST said asking them to pay their “fair share” after decades of mismanagement was “offensive”.He went on: “We have done everything we have been asked. We’ve cheered the players on even in the face of substandard performance.”But United have defended their penny-pinching, saying: “We have been focused on cost saving to put us on a stronger financial footing.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSir Jim has also insisted “hard choices” are needed. He added: “I want to be free for us to buy really good footballers, not spend so much of the money on infrastructure.”United were approached for comment. RUTHLESS RATCLIFFEBy Sarah RidleySIR Jim Ratcliffe’s savage cuts even shocked United skipper Bruno Fernandes.He was “taken aback” when staff lost their traditional free FA Cup Final ticket, travel, food and accommodation. Fernandes offered to pay himself but was rejected.Some 250 staff were then made redundant in the summer. The club also stopped Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salary, cancelled the staff Xmas party, and axed company credit cards and private chauffeurs.The cost of disabled parking bays were also hiked by 20 per cent. Sir Jim has also considered halving the annual £40,000 budget for the club’s Disabled Supporters’ Association.Earlier this month fans protested at a rise in ticket prices, with the club abolishing discounts for kids and OAPs.The Old Trafford roof is also leaky while water came though the ceiling during manager Ruben Amorim’s press conference last week.A mice infestation has also seen United’s food hygiene rating drop.Fans have expressed their fury over the club’s latest ticket price hikesCredit: GettyManchester United’s stadium Old Trafford has a leaky roofCredit: GettyThe club has stopped Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salaryCredit: Getty More