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    Stats show how Ruben Amorim emulated idol Jose Mourinho with cautious Man Utd tactics keeping Arsenal at bay

    RUBEN AMORIM was able to emulate his idol Jose Moruinho by stifling Arsenal – as stats show.The Red Devils manager oversaw one of his side’s best performances since he replaced Erik ten Hag earlier this season.Ruben Amorim set Manchester United up in a low-block against ArsenalCredit: PAThe Red Devils were far from adventurous, but prevented Arsenal creating too many chancesCredit: PAAnd they went on to cause the Gunners problems on the counter-attackCredit: GettyAmorim, 40, has not had a lot to cheer about since he was appointed Manchester United manager back in November.But the credible 1-1 draw against the title-chasing Arsenal at Old Trafford was a measurable improvement on recent outings.During the game, the hosts took the lead through a stunning Bruno Fernandes free-kick.A wonderful strike from Declan Rice late in the second half earned Arsenal a share of the spoils, but effectively ruled them out of the title race.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSMikel Arteta’s side dominated the ball for much of the game but struggled to create many clearcut opportunities.The hosts, on the other hand created the most dangerous chances, and were unlucky not to be out of sight by the time Rice struck.David Raya made great stops to deny both Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee to keep the difference to just one goal.Following the match, stats showed that Man United were happy to camp in their own half and soak up the Arsenal attack.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOf the entire Man Utd team, only Alejandro Garnacho had an average position in the opposition half over the course of the 90 minutes.By comparison, every Arsenal player except Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba spent the bulk of the game in Man Utd territory.Roy Keane fears Man Utd will get WORSE and reveals biggest red flag that could spell the end for Ruben AmorimBut Amorim’s tactics allowed his side to create space behind the visitors’ backline.This almost led to goals on multiple occasions, including in the dying moments, as Raya denied Fernandes with a reaction save then palmed the ball away on the goal line as it was about to roll in.Speaking after the game, Amorim admitted that he does not want to play a low-block style regularly but knew it was needed to ensure the best possible outcome in Sunday’s game.He told Sky Sports: “I think we did well. Of course, we don’t want to play like this [with a low block] defending so much and giving the ball to the opponent.”But with all the games, all the problems, the characteristics of the players – Lindelof to let him not have a lot of metres to cover, Casemiro is comfortable in these types of games.”I tried to adapt and imagine a game we could win. It’s also the opponent.”The last game before the Champions League was high pressure by PSV, man to man. They are harder to make in this way.”In the low block we can control the game and then we have some good players in the transition – Garnacho made a really complete game.”We try to keep the starting eleven until the goal. When you suffer a goal, the players tire.”We try to choose the best moments to press high. When you coach Manchester United, you cannot play too much like that.”You have to try to win the game. I know it is frustrating for the fans sometimes.”We have to deal with that and sometimes do things that are not popular.”Amorim has previously admitted that he looks up to former Man United boss Jose Mourinho.He has even been nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’ in the past.The now-Fenerbahce boss enjoyed great success playing a low-block and counter-attacking style.In his pomp he helped the likes of Inter Milan and Porto win the Champions League and Chelsea win the Premier League playing his football.And the Special One arguably gave Man Utd its most successful period since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson.He won the Europa League at the club and led them to a second placed finish in 2017/18 and insisted that it was his most outstanding achievement.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, was frustrated by United’s style of play, despite not being averse to setting up his own side in the same way when necessary.The Spaniard insisted his team dominated the game but struggled to create in the final third.Before walking out of his interview with Sky Sports, he said: “Very frustrating we haven’t won with the dominance and the chances we had in the first half.”We gave the ball away out of nothing. Gave a foul away. We had them in the second half, you could feel they were really fatigued.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was the threat in the final 25 metres to make something happen.”They didn’t want to play. You come here and you want to win the game. It is frustration.”Mikel Arteta was left frustrated by Man United’s tacticsCredit: GettyAmorim looked up to Jose MourinhoCredit: Getty More

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    Cole Palmer insisted on playing with DIARRHOEA after being wiped out ill for 48 hours, reveals Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca

    COLE PALMER had an afternoon to forget as he suffered stomach cramps and missed his first penalty as a pro.The England ace insisted on playing, despite being ill for 24 hours before this hard-fought win.Cole Palmer was ill for two days before playing against Leicester CityCredit: ReutersEnzo Maresca revealed that Palmer had diarrhoeaCredit: APMarc Cucurella’s second-half strike against Leicester City sent the Blues back into the top four.Palmer — whose perfect record of 15 spot-kicks for club and country was KO’d by Mads Hermansen — went straight to the loo after being subbed off.And boss Enzo Maresca said: “Cole didn’t train on Saturday. During the night he didn’t feel well.“This morning he woke up and said, ‘I want to be on the pitch to help us play in the Champions League’.READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS“In the last two days, he was completely out. Fever and I don’t know if it’s something I can say in English — diarrhoea.“But he asked to play  and this shows how he wants to bring this club where it belongs.”Cole’s first-half penalty woe came when Jadon Sancho was fouled by Victor Kristiansen.Maresca celebrated wildly at the final whistle and revealed Leicester’s tactical trickery meant Chelsea’s pre-match plans had to be ripped up just minutes before kick-off.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDefender Cucurella’s winner was his fourth Prem goal of the season for Chelsea.Maresca also called on fans to be more positive after boos were heard at half-time at Stamford Bridge as they struggled to brush relegation-bound Leicester aside.’That will live with me forever – Boxing champ reveals crazy party with Chelsea stars after 2012 Champions League finalThe Italian said: “I am happy. The main reason is because when we prepare a game, we watch as many games as possible.“So we watched Leicester and they always played with a line of four.“They arrived here with a line of five. So all our sessions were rubbish.“I understand when there is a negative feeling. But today, how many chances did we create in the first half?“People have to understand this is our style and way we’re going to play.“When a team creates the amount of chances we did today, you have to be happy. It’s not easy.“If you think football is just a PlayStation and you win easily — no way. Every game is difficult. We need our fans.”The Foxes are six points adrift of Prem safety with ten matches left.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut boss Ruud van Nistelrooy said: “The display was really good, a lot of heart, a lot of spirit.“We don’t know if we will run out of time. What we do know is we have today and tomorrow.” More

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    Former England star Sol Campbell, 50, reveals new job developing AI football coaches

    SOL CAMPBELL wants to create a “virtual coach” and take AI-led scouting and coaching platforms across the globe.The former Arsenal and England defender started working with a Swiss tech firm last year.Sol Campbell plans to take AI-led coaching across the worldCredit: GettyHis role was to leverage the power of Artificial Intelligence to help clubs analyse matches and player performance.Campbell, 50, has now branched out on his own and wants take his ideas and software worldwide.He said: “In the UK, there are so many analysts and it’s great.“This is for India, America, Africa and the Caribbean where they need sophisticated coaching.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I’m trying to develop, in the future, something where everyone will have access to high-level coaching, wherever you are in the world.”Yet Campbell urged caution about the rise of AI.He said: “You cannot disregard the human eye and experienced coach, scout or fitness expert.”Campbell has experience in coaching from his days as manager of Macclesfield Town and Southend United.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAs a player, he worked alongside legendary bosses like Arsene Wenger, George Graham and Sven-Goran Eriksson.Campbell won two Premier Leagues and three FA Cups at Arsenal after his controversial move from rivals Tottenham in 2001.Thomas Tuchel’s first day at St. George’s Park as he meets England staff and coaches More

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    Mum of Thibaut Courtois’ love-child reveals fear they will be made homeless over unpaid mortgage despite his huge salary

    THE mother of football star Thibaut Courtois’ love child fears they will be made homeless as she cannot afford to pay for her damp-ridden house.Elsa Izac, 50, fears the £3million property could be repossessed as she owes £63,000 in mortgage payments, while severe mould eats away at its ceilings.The mum of Thibaut Courtois’ lovechild fears they will be made homeless as she cannot afford to pay for her damp-ridden houseCredit: GettyElsa Izac fears her home could be repossessed as she owes £63,000 in unmet mortgage paymentsCredit: Peter JordanSevere mould eats away at the ceilings in the propertyCredit: Peter JordanMeanwhile, £35million Real Madrid goalie Courtois, 32, lives a life of luxury in the Spanish capital on pay of £240,000 a week.Elsa, mother to seven-year-old Enzo, said: “Our house is falling apart. We simply can’t continue to live like this.”The former Versace fashion designer had a fling with the Belgian international after he moved in next-door when he joined Chelsea in 2014. They had Enzo three years later.Elsa says that in 2020 Courtois was told to pay her maintenance. Read More on SportBut Elsa, of Wimbledon, South West ­London, said it is not enough.She added: “I’m scared the bank will repossess our home and worry whenever someone knocks on the door. I don’t want to find us homeless suddenly.“It is not acceptable for me to see Thibaut travelling on private jets, partying in yachts, then leaving his child here in this environment.“Surely he can spare a bit more to look after his son?”Most read in FootballCourtois also has an 11-month-old daughter with his wife, and two other children from a previous relationship. He has been approached for comment.Thibaut Courtois’ honeymoon doesn’t go to plan for stunning wife as she shares what it’s like to marry an athleteElsa, mum to Enzo, seven, said: ‘Our house is falling apart. We simply can’t continue to live like this’Credit: Peter Jordan More

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    Fresh twist in Kyle Walker’s troubled marriage as estranged wife Annie makes major change in new business venture

    KYLE Walker’s estranged wife Annie Kilner has used his name professionally for the first time.The model, 31, referred to herself as Annie Walker to plug her jewellery range.Kyle Walker’s estranged wife Annie Kilner has used his name for the first time professionallyCredit: SplashThe 31-year-old referred to herself as Annie Walker to plug her jewellery rangeCredit: Paul Edwards – Commissioned by The SunHer Instagram post reads: ‘Demure. Founded by Annie Walker & Sophie Haynes’Credit: InstagramHer Instagram post, shared on Saturday, showed her wearing a diamond bracelet, and read: “Demure. Founded by Annie Walker & Sophie Haynes.”Sources said the move is a significant thawing in relations between her and the England and Manchester City love rat, 34.But tensions remain after we told how AC Milan loanee Kyle was pictured with two models, a day after Annie and their four boys visited him in Italy. A source said: “Annie was far from happy and made her feelings clear. Kyle denies anything went on and says he was asked to give the girls a lift.“He’s clearly put himself in a difficult situation given his reputation.”It’s the lack of thought for Annie and how it might look that’s caused the upset.”Despite the pictures, he and Annie are said to be working through their issues and are “in the best position” they have ever been. There is even talk they are intent on establishing themselves as a brand.They met when Annie was 15 and wed in November 2021.The marriage fell apart last January after Kyle was exposed for fathering a second child with Lauryn Goodman.Kyle Walker party girls revealed as globe-trotting models – and lift lid on how star is enjoying his new life in MilanAnnie filed for divorce last August. But insiders claim the divorce is purely financial and will see her take a large share of his estimated £27million fortune. It is possible they will remain in the same home beyond the formalities.A source added: “Kyle’s move to Italy has given the family time to take stock. Absence makes the heart grow fonder and it’ll either bring them closer together or confirm what many around them have thought for a long time.”The marriage fell apart last January after Kyle was exposed for fathering a second child with Lauryn GoodmanLove rat Walker is on loan with Italian giants AC MilanCredit: GettyWalker fathered two children with his ex LaurynCredit: Alamy More

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    Former F1 world champion boots toilet door down and has CEILING fall on him after getting stuck in cubicle

    A FORMER F1 world champion has booted a toilet door down after getting locked inside.Jacques Villeneuve was hit on the head by failing CEILING as he made his daring escape.Jacques Villeneuve found himself stuck in an airport toiletCredit: Instagram @jacques_villeneuve_officialHe had to boot his way out after being locked inCredit: Instagram @jacques_villeneuve_officialVilleneuve, 53, won the world title in 1997 while racing for Williams Racing.However, he was caught in a tricky position while on his travels to Australia.Taking to Instagram, the Canadian former driver revealed that he had got himself stuck in a toilet at the Milano Malpensa Airport.He wrote: “Been stuck in the toilets for the last 20 minutes and security incapable of getting me out.READ MORE ON SPORT”Toilet flushing every 30 seconds. Having a blast. Very impressive.”Good start to the trip to Australia.”The post was accompanied by a selfie picture of himself in the cubicle.Villeneuve updated his followers as he was able to get out of the cubicle after half an hour.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut in doing so he accidentally caused a ceiling block to fall on his head after booting the door open.He added: “Managed to get out after 30 minutes.Everyone can see the F1 car but you have the skills of a top racing driver if you can spot the petrol cans in 12 seconds”Had to kick the door down, and a block from the ceiling fell on my head.”Ready to get down under. Travelling is 😀.”The picture showed the damage the retired driver caused to the cubicle as the door had been kicked off its hinges.Villeneuve’s 73.1k followers found the ordeal hilarious as they flooded the comment section.One joked: “S*** happens….”A second posted: “Have you got a newspaper?”A third commented: “It’s door out and away we go!”A fourth wrote: “Still a better place to be stuck in than the 1999 BAR.”A fifth said: “This is the best story of the week, hands down.”Another added: “Longest pit stop ever.”Villeneuve was the first driver from Canada ever to win the World Championship.The driver left Williams in 1999 as he switched teams to British American Racing for the next four years.He finished his F1 career with a two-year stint at Renault and Sauber between 2004 and 2006.After leaving F1, the Canadian entered NASCAR in the US, winning two races from 23 starts.Throughout his career, he has also written lyrics for songs, and in 2005 he rented a professional recording studio in Paris to hear his music better.The same year he released the song Accepterais-tu, and in 2007 he released the acoustic rock album, Private Paradise.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, the 2025 F1 season start is right around the corner.The first race in Melbourne will be on March 16 for the Australian GP. More

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    Man Utd stars Casemiro and Joshua Zirkzee hailed for genius role in Bruno Fernandes’ stunning free-kick against Arsenal

    CASEMIRO and Joshua Zirkzee are stealing Bruno Fernandes’ thunder after his stunning free kick opened the scoring against Arsenal.The pair have been credited with some clever positioning, blocking David Raya’s view of Fernandes’ shot.Raya left a clear gap in the wall before the free kick was taken…Credit: Sky…but Zirkzee and Casemiro filled it at the crucial momentCredit: SkyThe goal follows controversy surrounding where referee Anthony Taylor set the wall – 11.2 yards from where the kick was taken, rather than the ten yards that the rules stipulate.This gave Fernandes more chance of getting his shot up and over the wall.And Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp said: “I want to explain why I think this is so hard to stop. First you have to give credit to the striker of the ball, then I want to look at Zirkzee and Casemiro.Read more football”What they do really clever [is]…”The keeper [Raya] has just got a nice gap and that’s exactly what you want because then you might be able to get a look at it as he’s struck it.”But as he gets to the ball, just watch what Casemiro and Zirkzee do. They take Thomas Partey across.”All of a sudden that gap is gone, so the next time that he’s [Raya] going to see the ball is just after it’s gone over the wall.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”Now you have absolutely no chance by then, with that trajectory and that top spin that he’s [Fernandes] got on it, of getting anywhere near it.”That’s why it’s quite smart from whoever has devised that free kick.”How Bruno Fernandes’ ‘Steven Gerrard syndrome’ spoils Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd systemThe goal was a crucial one, coming at the end of a half where United had been on the back foot.Arsenal made amends, though, clawing an equaliser back through Declan Rice in the second half.The set piece marks Fernandes’ second free kick goal in his last three appearances.And United employed similar antics for his goal at Everton two weeks ago, with Zirkzee and Harry Maguire positioning themselves very intentionally to block Jordan Pickford’s view.The England number one was rooted to the spot as the shot hit the bottom right corner.Before this run of goals, Fernandes had scored just one free kick in his previous 183 Premier League appearances.Ruben Amorim may not have made much of an impact in the results column, but he does at least have set piece routines on song. More

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    Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title race

    MIKEL ARTETA walked out of his interview with Sky Sports after Arsenal drew with Manchester United.The Gunners have dropped 15 points behind Liverpool in the race for the Premier League title with just ten games left to play.Mikel Arteta did not finish his interview with Sky SportsCredit: Sky SportsHe walked out after being asked about the title raceCredit: Sky SportsArteta, 42, was clearly frustrated after watching his side have to settle for a point at Old Trafford.The Spaniard had very little patience during his post-match interview with broadcaster Sky Sports.He answered questions about the performance but wanted to leave before the interviewer finished his questions.The last moment saw Arteta start to walk out after being asked about the club’s failure to sign a striker in January.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe interviewer stopped the manager to insist that he ask about the title race and the huge gap between Arsenal and Liverpool.However, Arteta just muttered “no” and continued to walk out of the interview.Fans found the moment hilarious as they reacted to it on social media.One posted: “Mikel Arteta’s head is HOT.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA second wrote: “Arteta walked off hahaha.”A third commented: “Arteta’s just stormed off from the interview hahaha.”Roy Keane fears Man Utd will get WORSE and reveals biggest red flag that could spell the end for Ruben AmorimA fourth said: “Arteta has just run away from the title race question LOL.”Another added: “Wow, did you see Arteta’s interview? What an absolute embarrassment.”Storms off like a petulant child. It’s on him, he doesn’t have a striker.”Arteta did answer a few questions about the match and insisted that his side did “dominate” the game.He said: “Very frustrated we haven’t won because of the dominance and control we had especially in the first half.”Out of nothing we gave the ball away. In the second half we tried and we generated the goal.”We had them and you could feel that they were really fatigued and we gave them life.”We tried in various ways but ultimately we have to execute — the right moment, with the right weight of pass.”Bruno Fernandes gave Manchester United the lead with a stunning free kick in the first half.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere has been some controversy as it has emerged the wall was 11.2 yards away from the spot it was taken from.Rice fired in a brilliant equaliser in the second half but it was Man United who had the better chances to take all three points.Bruno Fernandes’ goal gave Man United the lead for the first halfCredit: GettyDeclan Rice scored a brilliant equaliserCredit: Getty More