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    Ex-Man Utd first-team coach Benni McCarthy to become national team boss in first job since leaving Old Trafford

    BENNI MCCARTHY is set to become the new Kenya national team boss, according to reports.The South African, 47, is said to have landed his first gig since leaving his role as first team coach at Manchester United.Benni McCarthy worked at Man Utd between 2022 and 2024Credit: GettyFormer striker McCarthy worked at Old Trafford between 2022 and 2024 under Erik ten Hag.According to Goal, he is set to be named the new manager of Kenya.They add that, barring a “last-minute change”, McCarthy will be unveiled in early January.Prior to working at Old Trafford, McCarthy did work as a boss in South Africa.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe managed Cape Town City between 2017 and 2019, and took charge of AmaZulu from 2020 to 2022.Kenya were previously managed by Turkish boss Engin Firat.He left his post after his side failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.Kenya’s next goal will be to try to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey have been competing in a group alongside Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Seychelles and Burundi.Since leaving United, McCarthy has not been shy in having his say on matters at the club.Old Trafford starts LEAKING midway through Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd press conference as fans say ‘perfect metaphor’In October he criticised former boss Ten Hag, telling Zero Zero: “He lacks a bit of that fire, that passion. That’s where we differ, him and I.”I think that was one of the difficulties that the team and the players encountered.”Ten Hag, 54, went on to hit back at McCarthy, saying: “I don’t know what he means.”When you win trophies, you can’t do this without passion and desire.”McCarthy worked with Cristiano Ronaldo at Man UtdCredit: Getty More

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    Oleksandr Usyk reveals his ‘fake $100 Rolex’ bought on a beach just days after landing £69m for Tyson Fury rematch

    OLEKSANDR USYK revealed just days after beating Tyson Fury for a second time that he is wearing a fake Rolex watch.Usyk, 37, defeated Fury, 36, on Saturday to retain the WBO, WBA, and WBC championships in Saudi Arabia.Oleksandr Usyk revealed he bought a fake Rolex watch in TurkeyCredit: XUsyk claims no one would dare question the Rolex’s inauthenticityCredit: XUsyk earned a staggering £69m after beating Tyson Fury for the second timeCredit: GettyAccording to Pravda, the undefeated heavyweight earned a staggering $86million (£69m) after extending his perfect winning streak to 23 fights.However, the Ukrainian megastar is apparently not keen on splashing his massive earnings on swanky accessories.And Usyk proved it by buying a fake rolex on a beach in Turkey while preparing for the blockbuster rematch with the Gypsy King.He decided to go for the fake version as he knew no one would dare question the watch’s inauthenticity after all the millions he’s bagged throughout his career by beating fellow boxing stars, like Anthony Joshua.Read More on BoxingUsyk told United44: “I was boasting a little and showed the cameraman my watch. It’s a Chinese Rolex.”I was in Turkey for training and saw guys selling Rolexes on the beach.”I thought if I bought one, no one would guess that it was a fake. So I bought it for $100 (£80).”Fury, on the other hand, left Riyadh with an estimated $70m (£56m) after his loss via unanimous decision.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe British megastar suffered his second ever defeat after Usyk ended his staggering undefeated streak in May.However, the Ukrainian sang Fury’s praises after another gruelling fight between them.Oleksandr Usyk predicts Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury winner after going 24 rounds with each Brit legend Usyk said: “I very much respect this guy because I think he’s very tough, my opponent. Tyson Fury makes me strong.”Tyson is a great opponent, big and tough. He’s a good man. Tyson does a lot of talk. It’s just for show.”I respect him very much. Twenty-four rounds, listen now, it’s already history.” More

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    ‘We have to try to do things better, to use him better’ – Man City boss Guardiola ready to make urgent tactical tweak

    PEP Guardiola has leapt to the defence of struggling forward Erling Haaland – and vowed to to help him find his scoring boots again.The Norwegian striker has scored just three times in his last 12 Premier League outings.Pep Guardiola believes Man City have to improve across the board to help a star playerCredit: GettyErling Haaland’s frustrations were evident in the recent defeat to Aston VillaCredit: AlamyAt the same time, Manchester City have managed to win just once in a dozen outings.However, the Spanish tactician, 53, is not pinning the blame on his star striker.Instead, he believes his side must improve collectively following a dismal run of form.”It’s about us, not just one player,” Guardiola said.Read more in football”When in the past we score goals and Erling was so prolific, helping us, it was because of the team.”When you have problems at the back, in the middle, it is for everyone, it is a team, it is not about one player. It would be easy, if it was just one player, the reason why. It’s not about that.”Erling is so important for us, will be so important for us, has been. (We have to) try to do things better, to use him better.”Haaland has scored an incredible 108 goals in 122 games, since joining the Cityzens in 2022.Most read in FootballAnd after failing to find the net against Aston Villa in a 2-1 defeat, the poacher was quick to blame himself.Pep Guardiola says ‘I’m the manager and I’m not good enough’ as Man City lose again “It affects us all, of course,” the hotshot admitted.”It affects me. I haven’t been good enough and I haven’t delivered for City this season.”I need to step up and work harder, I just need to get better. It just isn’t good enough. I will do everything I can to do better.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”We’re not able to win matches anymore, we can’t control matches like we used to. We used to control matches way more.”In the defining moments I’m failing to score, in the defining moments we’re conceding goals. The margins are small and that’s how it is, I will do everything I can to turn this around.”Manchester City entertain Everton on Boxing Day in the midday kick off. More

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    Sporting Lisbon ruthlessly SACK Ruben Amorim’s replacement on Christmas Day after just eight games in charge

    SPORTING have already sacked Ruben Amorim’s successor Joao Pereira.The Portuguese giants brutally announced the news at 11:54pm on Christmas Day.Sporting have sacked boss Joao PereiraCredit: AlamyPereira, 40, had previously been in charge of Sporting’s B team.After Amorim departed for Manchester United last month, Pereira was promoted to Sporting’s top job.But following just three wins in eight games, he has already been given the boot.Sporting’s brief statement read: “A Lion forever. Thank you, Joao Pereira.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAmorim’s successor became the first Sporting boss to ever lose four of their first five games in charge in all competitions.This run was followed up by narrow home victories over Boavista and Santa Clara.But following the 0-0 draw at Gil Vicente last weekend, club bosses decided to dismiss Pereira.Sporting are reigning champions of Portugal and were top of the league when Amorim departed.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRuben Amorim left Sporting for Manchester United last monthCredit: PAThey have since fallen a point behind Benfica at the summit.Sporting have confirmed Rui Borges as their new head coach.Ruben Amorim explains why Marcus Rashford is still exiled at Man Utd despite ‘wanting to play’ The 43-year-old has left Portuguese side Vitoria to take on the role.Borges only joined Vitoria from Moreirense back in May, but won 18 of his 30 games in charge.His first game at the Sporting helm is set to be a big one, as they welcome Benfica on Sunday evening.Amorim, meanwhile, has had a challenging start to life at Old Trafford.The 39-year-old has won four of his nine games in charge thus far.Since securing a dramatic late 2-1 win at Manchester City, the Red Devils have crashed out of the League Cup at the hands of Tottenham, and been humbled 3-0 by Bournemouth on home soil.Sporting have appointed Rui Borges as their new bossCredit: EPA More

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    Stunning apartment inside former Premier League stadium listed up for sale with sleek kitchen and nod to former glory

    A STUNNING apartment inside an iconic former Premier League stadium has gone up for sale.And there is even a nod to the glory the club enjoyed while playing at the ground.This one-bedroom apartment has gone on the marketCredit: Location LocationThe sleek kitchen features integrated appliancesCredit: Location LocationThe massive windows ensure it is very lightCredit: Location LocationThe bedroom boasts fine views over the cityCredit: Location LocationThe bathroom includes a shower-bathCredit: Location LocationThe one-bedroom pad hit the market today and there will no doubt be a clamour from fans of the historic club desperate to get the keys.That is because the 552-square-foot property is built into the North Stand of Highbury.The former home of Arsenal was converted into flats when the Emirates Stadium opened in 2006. And one of them in the N5 postcode has gone up for sale with estate agents Location Location. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe apartment on the fifth floor boasts an open-plan living area and a sleek kitchen with integrated appliances.The bedroom and living room both have huge windows with lovely views over North London.And if that wasn’t enough, Flat 51 even has its own private balcony to soak up the summer rays. But, of course, the block is part of the old stadium – and that means there are a few Arsenal touches residents can enjoy.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe famous white facade and Arsenal Football Club lettering remain on the exterior.As do the epic marble hallways, complete with Arsenal statues and the Gunners logo on the floor. Inside the former Premier League stadium converted into stunning flats worth almost half a BILLION poundsAnd the grassy communal gardens at the complex are – naturally – where the pitch once stood. Living at Highbury also has its own other perks, too.There is a 24-hour concierge service, underground bike storage, an on-site gym and the Piccadilly Line within short walking distance. Flat 51 launched on the Location Location website this morning with offers in excess of £450,000. One beloved fan could live at the former home of their teamCredit: Location LocationFlat 51 went on the market for £450,000Credit: Location LocationPlenty of storage is included – potentially for more silverwareCredit: Location LocationHighbury was converted when Arsenal moved into the EmiratesCredit: Location LocationThe pitch is now a communal grassy gardensCredit: Location LocationThe entrance still boasts the famous old facadeCredit: Location LocationThe marble hallways remain – as does the Gunners logoCredit: RexLife at the old Highbury has plenty of perksCredit: GettyThe Piccadilly Line is a short walk awayCredit: GettyThe shape of the old stand is clear to seeCredit: GettyA private balcony is a perfect spot to enjoy eveningsCredit: Location LocationThe North Stand flat is being sold by Location LocationCredit: Location LocationApartments are also in the East StandCredit: Location LocationThe flat is located in the N5 postcodeCredit: Location Location More

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    The ‘once-hairiest man on TV’ shows off amazing transformation as presenter reveals progress of his hair transplant

    FORMER Sky Sports host Richard Keys has shown off his incredible transformation thanks to a HAIR TRANSPLANT.And it will suit his self-proclaimed moniker of the ‘once-hairiest man on TV’.Former Sky Sports host Richard Keys showed off the ‘before’ shot of his headCredit: instagram @richardkeysofficialThis is the journey Keys, who was sacked by Sky, is onCredit: instagram @richardkeysofficialThe British Hair Clinic in Essex uploaded a clip of the now-BeIN presenter showing off his locks on TikTok.Pointing at his re-growth, Keys, who married his daughter’s best friend after leaving his wife for her, says: “The once-hairiest man on TV has done a little bit today to restore his reputation. “I’m laughing because I’ve heard the joke.”What an irony that someone who spent his lifetime trying to remove hair finds himself in the British Hair Clinic looking for them to add hair. I mean, you couldn’t make it up really.”But here we are, at the direction of Jason McAteer, who’s been through this process and looks well for it – at least that’s what he told me – and Sam Matterface, a very good friend of mine.”Sam, I spoke to this morning, and he said: “Brilliant, easy, you’ll love it.”Later in the clip Keys, who was sacked by Sky Sports for his part in a sexism storm, admires a pen-drawn hairline guide, saying: “So that’s the new hairline.”That’s where the new hairline will be.”Most read in FootballIn 2012 rumours did the rounds that Keys had his hands lasered or waxed after being dubbed ‘werewolf’ by eagle-eyed fans.A source told The Standard at the time: “Richard is incredibly touchy about his body hair and has put up with years of stick about it. Wolves players and staff clashing with one another after full-time”Richard won’t divulge whether it was his idea or Sky’s to get his hands done.”Keys was sacked in disgrace from his £500,000-a-year job fronting Sky’s Premier League coverage in 2011 after making disparaging remarks about female referee Sian Massey-Ellis.He is now the face of the BeIN Sports channels which broadcast all 365 Premier League games per season mainly on its flagship “Super Saturday” programme.The clinic added: “Richard came in to our Essex clinic back in July and his new hair line is starting to take shape. “We will keep you updated on the progression.”Fans were quick to spot Keys’ hands back in the day…A recording caught out Keys and Andy Gray, left, making vile commentsCredit: PA:Press AssociationKeys now works for BeIN Sports 14 years after he was sacked by SkyCredit: X / beINSPORTS_EN More

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    Neymar and girlfriend Bruna Biancardi hold spectacular gender reveal to announce she is expecting their second child

    NEYMAR and his model girlfriend Bruna Biancardi have announced that they are expecting their second child just over a year after their split.The pair confirmed the shock news as they spent Christmas together with family and friends.Neymar and Bruna Biancardi revealed that they are having a baby girlCredit: instagram @brunabiancardiThe pair are back together after time apartCredit: instagram @brunabiancardiBruna is excited to be having another baby girlCredit: instagram @brunabiancardiNeymar, 32, looked overwhelmed by the newsCredit: instagram @brunabiancardiThe pair held a lavish baby gender reveal ceremonyCredit: instagram @brunabiancardiBruna, who gave birth to their first child Mavie in October last year, revealed she is pregnant with another girl in an emotional video she posted to her 12.3 million Instagram fans.The video showed Mavie kissing her stomach as she lay alongside the Al-Hilal striker and Neymar’s son Davi Lucca, 13.They went on to reveal the sex of the child they are expecting after releasing pink smoke and confetti following a ‘Boy or Girl’ countdown.The 30-year-old brunette wrote in a message alongside the video: “We are living such a sweet phase, and could not help but share with you that HE has once again heard our requests and confirmed our plans.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“Welcome, daughter, may you arrive in good health. We are waiting for you to complete our family even more. May God protect us from all evil.”Neymar, 32, shared Bruna’s post on his social media.The pregnancy confirmation marked a remarkable turnaround to the couple’s turbulent last year and a half.Bruna confirmed she and the Brazil international were no longer together 13 months ago.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNeymar and Bruna are back together after their split 13 months agoCredit: neymarjr/instagramThe model and influencer took to social media to address for the first time rumours they had ended their relationship after the footballer was accused of asking an OnlyFans model for nude photos and trying to flirt with another woman at a party he hosted at his Brazilian mansion.Bruna gave birth to Mavie at a luxury maternity clinic in Sao Paulo on October 6 last year, just weeks after Neymar was forced to respond to claims he had cheated on her after he was filmed partying with two women in a Barcelona nightclub.Neymar breaks down in tears and reveals ‘each day I am away is a day of suffering’ after injury hellOn November 28 last year Bruna, who went official on her relationship with Neymar in January 2023, told her Instagram followers: “This is a private affair but as I’m linked on a daily basis to news reports, suppositions and jokes, I’m informing you that I’m not in a relationship.“We are Mavie’s parents and that’s the reason for our link.“I hope that with this people stop linking me to these frequent pieces of news. Thank you.”She spoke out just hours after screen grabs purporting to show a WhatsApp conversation between Neymar and OnlyFans model Aline Farias were published in Brazilian press.The footballer reacted by claiming the exchange was years-old.Neymar, whose teenage son’s mum is his former girlfriend Carolina Danta, was accused of cheating on his partner in October last year after he was filmed partying with two women in a Barcelona nightclub.’DISAPPOINTED’Bruna reacted to the video and cheat claims by admitting she was “disappointed” but focusing on her pregnancy.She said in a social media message before giving birth: “Good afternoon, I’m aware of what happened and once again I am disappointed but in the final stage of my pregnancy.“My focus and worries are directed to my daughter and that is all I will think about at the moment. I thank you all for the messages of love.”In June last year Neymar posted a grovelling apology to Biancardi and their unborn child on social media after previous allegations of infidelity.’MY MISTAKES’He wrote: “Bru. I do this for both of you and for your family. Justify the unjustifiable. No need to. But I need you in OUR lives”I saw how much you were exposed, how much you suffered with all of this and how much you want to be by my side. And I want to be by your side.“I did wrong. I did wrong to you both. I risk saying I’m wrong every day, on and off the pitch. But I like to resolve my mistakes in my personal life within my own home with my family and friends…”All of this affected one of the most special people in my life. The woman I dreamed of following beside me, the mother of my child. It affected your intimacy at this special moment which is maternity. Bru, I ask for forgiveness for my mistakes.”RETIRED FROM PARTYINGAfter the couple’s break-up it emerged Brazilian model and influencer Amanda Kimberley was pregnant with Neymar’s child.Their daughter Helena is now four months old.The footballer and Bruna are understood to have reignited their love affair over the summer with the help of therapy and friends.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe is said to have moved to Saudi Arabia with Mavie in July after deciding to give the footballer another chance.In a recent video Neymar showed off an engagement ring and said he had retired from partying.Bruna has joined Neymar in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Getty More

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    Mikel Arteta planning tactical switch to cope with Saka injury… and it could mean position change for star Arsenal man

    MIKEL ARTETA is praying Declan Rice’s versatility can help Arsenal cope without Bukayo Saka.A torn hamstring looks set to rule out England winger Saka until at least March in a massive blow to the Gunners’ title hopes.Arsenal take on Ipswich in the Premier League during the holidaysCredit: GettyArsenal may be without Bukayo Saka until at least MarchCredit: ReutersArsenal boss Mikel Arteta may be set for a major tactical changeCredit: GettyArsenal star Declan Rice may be fielded in midfield or attackCredit: GettyBoss Arteta has been pondering how to set up the team in his absence — and midfielder Rice, 25, will be key to whatever he decides.Three Lions enforcer Rice can operate in a defensive midfield role or further up the field.And Arteta hinted he could be having a go at each of them in a busy festive period that kicks off with Friday night’s Premier League visit of Ipswich.The Spaniard, 42, explained: “With the squad that we have, he needs to be versatile.Read More on Arsenal“With the qualities that he has, he needs to be versatile. With the brain that he has, he needs to be versatile.  With the age that he is, he needs to be versatile.“He can offer so much in relation to the opponent, to the needs in the squad. Putting Declan in a box, there’s no point in my opinion.”The Gunners, who are six points behind leaders Liverpool having played a game extra, travel to Brentford and then Brighton in the league at the start of January.Then, they host Newcastle in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, with the winners taking on Tottenham or Liverpool at Wembley.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat all adds up to a host of opponents with markedly different styles and Arteta will be relying on Rice to keep the Gunners in shape.The Emirates chief explained: “He’s going play as a No 6 against a low block in relation to what the nine does, he’s going to be with the centre-backs. If the No 10 is man-marking him, he’s going to have another role.”Exposing the secrets of Arsenal’s CHAOTIC corner routines that can win them the Premier League titleArsenal were struggling to score goals from open play before the Carabao Cup and Prem double-header with Crystal Palace.A 3-2  win at home  on Wednesday booked a semi-final berth — and that was followed by a 5-1 league romp at Selhurst Park on Saturday, which saw Saka limp off early on but Gabriel Jesus scored five times in those two matches.How Arsenal set up against struggling Ipswich will depend on where Arteta deploys Kai Havertz, with the German able to play up front or in attacking midfield.Arteta said: “It is always about that. If you cover something, you uncover something else. That is always the dilemma.“We scored goals with Kai on the pitch and with Declan, who is a different profile.“So, is it related to the players, is it related to the intentions of the team as individuals in certain moments of games and confidence? A lot of aspects play a part.”Ipswich lacking confidenceConfidence is something Ipswich are lacking at the moment following Saturday’s 4-0 home thumping by Newcastle.The Tractor Boys have still not won at Portman Road on their long-awaited Premier League return.But they have triumphed twice on their travels — at Wolves earlier in the month and at Tottenham.Gunners fans certainly enjoyed hearing about that one and Arteta declared himself a big admirer of Town manager Kieran McKenna.McKenna, 38, has guided Ipswich from League One to the Premier League in successive seasons.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd Arteta added: “I have a lot of people who know him and they always say great things about him.“They have been very unfortunate not getting the results they deserve. It’s a very tough game for sure.”Arsenal ratings vs Palace as Gunners stuff Eagles at Christmas with Gabriel Jesus rebornGABRIEL JESUS produced his first Premier League goals since January on a day he could have had a hat-trick to continue his good form.Gabriel Martinelli impressed and got on the scoresheet but Arsenal did suffer a blow in the first half as Bukayo Saka limped off with injury, while William Saliba had a rare off day.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Lipton rated the Gunners display at Selhurst Park.David Raya – 8Lucky to escape a “Fraser Forster” moment as he played Thomas Partey into all sorts of problems early on before he was beaten by Sarr’s curler soon afterwards.But then bailed out Gabriel to foil Mateta when he seemed certain to equalise once again and made more key saves from Sarr and Mateta at the start of the second half. Often there at the biggest moments.Jurrien Timber – 6Dutch defender looked slightly uncomfortable at times on the right as he gave Palace far too much attacking leeway.Booked for taking an age and a half over a throw-in as well although it was not a costly one.William Saliba – 5All over the place in the first half as he seemed determined to open the door to the home side.Saliba stood off Sarr and paid the price as Palace levelled and then made another blunder only for Raya to save from Mateta. Not exactly a dominant performance.Gabriel – 6Saliba’s wobbles meant his partner-in-chief had to stand up and be counted more than normal but he was not at his best either and a booking after half an hour had him walking a tightrope.More of the same after the break. Fortunately Palace’s defensive deficiencies took the sting out of their attacking armoury too.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Youngster is grabbing his unexpected opportunity to make a first-team impact with an understanding of the inverted nature of the Arsenal full-back role.By some distance the best of the four defenders in the Arsenal back division.Thomas Partey – 7Asked to take care of the defensive midfield task but soon to the fore with the lay-off that allowed Jesus to put the Gunners back in front inside the first 14 minutes.Did what was needed defensively and willing to venture forward when the opportunity was there. Solid throughout.Martin Odegaard – 8When the Norwegian turns up, Arsenal turn up.At Selhurst, Odegaard was the orchestrator in chief from the start, dropping deep to pick up possession and then keeping it simple and effective. The skipper is a leader.Kai Havertz – 8Back in midfield having played most of the season up top but he was in the perfect centre-forward’s position to tap into the empty net when Jesus’ header came back off the post.Home hands went up but there were only the five Palace defenders playing the German onside. A tidy display on the ball but did leave his side slightly open defensively.Bukayo Saka – 7The early loss of the England winger to a worrying knee injury could be a major blow to Arsenal’s title chances.Always the out-ball, Saka had signalled his ongoing threat as he made space to deliver the cross that led to Jesus’ early opener. He could be missing for a while now.Gabriel Jesus – 9Midweek hat-trick against Glasner’s men earned him only fourth Prem start of the season and how he took the chance with the early double and another effort off the post that led to a simple Havertz goal.The Brazilian had been waiting more than 10 months for a top flight goal and got two in eight minutes. One against the woodwork and another missed sitter, too. He must want to play Palace every week.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Took the corner that led to Jesus’ second but then switched to the right flank after Saka limped away and supplied the cross which ended with Havertz making it three before netting himself from close range.Arteta will need that level of return from the Brazilian over the coming weeks if this title challenge is going to be a real one.Subs:Leandro Trossard (for Saka, 25) – 6Belgian will have to step up if Saka is out for a long spell after his injury and his low cross ended up bringing the Arsenal fourth.Declan Rice (for Havertz, 58) – 8England star came on to secure the game after Arsenal’s sloppy start to the second half and set up Martinelli with his first touch before steering home the fifth.Riccardo Calafiori (for Lewis-Skelly, 58) – 6Martinelli’s strike meant the game was over before the Italian had touched the ball. That makes it easier.Ethan Nwaneri (for Gabriel Jesus 86) N/A More