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      Man Utd 0 Newcastle 2: Red Devils dismantled by high-flying Magpies as Amorim admits his side are in relegation battle

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      RUBEN AMORIM predicted at the start of December that a ‘storm’ was coming to Manchester United.Yet the new boss cannot have forecast it would be quite this ferocious as his team slumped to a fourth straight defeat.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak headed Newcastle in front early onCredit: ReutersJoelinton doubled Newcastle’s advantage when he climbed above Lisandro MartinezCredit: GettyThe Brazilian seemed to shoulder the ball in beyond Andre OnanaCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim has now suffered four successive defeatsCredit: ReutersMan Utd had periods of dominance in the second half but could not make them countAnd the worry is that more dark clouds are gathering – it could get worse for the Portuguese with trips to Liverpool and then Arsenal to come next.Defeat leaves the Red Devils perilously close to the Premier League’s bottom three at the halfway stage.So much so that after this latest disappointment Amorim conceded his side are in a relegation battle.Asked about the threat of going down, he admitted: “That is really clear. It’s one of the most difficult moments in the history of Man Utd and we have to address it with honesty.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDAlready this is a storm every bit as bad as the one that has put paid to the Hogmanay celebrations north of the border.The Red Devils were simply blown away in the first half by Eddie Howe’s rampant Toon who scored twice and should have had more.Alexander Isak scored for a sixth straight Premier League game while Joelinton scored almost an identical second 15 minutes later.Eddie Howe’s men are in electric form right now and they fully deserved only their second league win at the Theatre of Dreams in 40 visits.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIsak now has 12 Premier League goals this seasonCredit: ReutersMan Utd produced another desperately disappointing performanceCredit: GettyOnly when Amorim took off hapless summer signing Joshua Zirkzee and replaced him with Kobbie Mainoo did the home side get any sort of handle on this game.But by then it was too late as the damage had already been done.Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedThe evening started with news of a return to the squad for Marcus Rashford – 18 days after his last appearance for Man Utd.Amorim was short of options with Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte both suspended but even so the England forward was only on the bench.And if the 27-year-old can’t get into this United side then his best days really must be behind him.There were plenty of concerns before kick-off about the lack of pace in the team that Amorim picked and it did not take long for them to be realised.Less than four minutes in fact.Bruno Guimaraes sprayed a pass out to Lewis Hall on the left and the full back controlled before hanging up a lovely cross.Isak got in between Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez and was somehow completely unmarked to nod the visitors ahead.The Swede has now scored in six straight Prem games – and becomes only the second Toon player to achieve that feat.VAR confirmed the full-back was onside and Eddie Howe’s men had another early goal – following the ones they got against Ipswich and Aston Villa.And they clearly saw that the home side were there for the taking.Isak ran onto Bruno’s first time pass and cut in from the right but tried to be too clever with his finish and chipped it straight into Andre Onana’s grateful hands.Man Utd ratings vs Newcastle as Joshua Zirkzee is hooked after half an hour and Kobbie Mainoo the only bright sparkKOBBIE MAINOO’S performance was the only silver lining as Manchester United suffered a fourth consecutive defeat.Newcastle struck twice in the opening 19 minutes as they threatened to tally up a cricket score at Old Trafford.Joshua Zirkzee was ruthlessly subbed after half an hour after struggling in a No10 role – but there was no recovering for Ruben Amorim’s side.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the United display…Andre Onana – 5Little he could do about both goals and was barely tested other than that.Noussair Mazraouri – 4The first two goals came down his side as he failed to close down the crosses that were turned in by Isak and Joelinton.But he was positive in possession and put in a few dangerous crosses.Matthijs de Ligt – 5Did not do much wrong for Newcastle goals but can be criticised for his failure to organise his defensive team-mates.Harry Maguire – 4Lost Isak for the opener as he was caught ball watching.Almost made amends but his diving header cannoned back off the post.Lisandro Martinez – 3A complete mismatch as he attempted to battle Joelinton for a cross the Brazilian turned in.Also lost Isak for the opener and even faced the wrong way as the cross came in.Diogo Dalot – 5Offered some much needed stability on the left flank and produced a good cross for Maguire’s headed chance.Casemiro – 3Dismal throughout. So far off the pace and barely made a pass.Missed a guilt-edge chance to pull one back on the stroke of half-time.Christian Eriksen – 4Similarly inept in protecting his defence as Casemiro, as he was overran time and time again.He did at least put a few passes together and improved after Mainoo came on.Amad Diallo – 4A tricky evening up against the hardworking Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall so was largely ineffective.Joshua Zirkzee – 2Nothing went his way and the fans quickly got on his back. He was hauled off in the 33rd minute and his substitution was greeted with cheers by the Old Trafford faithful.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Fed off scraps but did not stop running and was a rare bright spark – came very close with a low shot that whistled past the post in the first half.SubsKobbie Mainoo (for Zirkzee) – 6Turned things around after his introduction and made things happen with his accurate passing.Set up Casemiro for a chance the Brazilian should have buried.Leny Yoro (for Martinez, 64mins) – 6Had a good chance from a corner but sent his free header wide.Alejandro Garnacho (for Casemiro, 64mins) – 4Struggled to make an impact as he failed to beat a man.Antony (for De Ligt, 83 mins) – 5Not enough time to influence the match.But the reprieve was short-lived. Once again Newcastle had too much time in the middle to work the ball out to the left.This time Anthony Gordon breezed past Noussair Mazrouai and crossed for Joelinton who got above Martinez and nodded into the corner.It was almost a carbon copy of the first goal just 15 minutes later – United had simply not learned their lesson.That’s 18 goals conceded by United in December – the most in a calendar month since 1964.Amorim’s men were in complete disarray and Kieran Trippier had clearly done his homework – as he twice fired his corners right under the crossbar.The Red Devils have conceded straight from a flag-kick twice in the space of a week either side of Christmas – but this time they managed to keep it out.Isak fired an absolute rocket into the top corner of Andre Onana’s net and the home fans were relieved to see it ruled out for offside.And then Sandro Tonali swapped passes with Gordon before shooting against the post when, frankly, it looked easier to score.Just 33 minutes had gone when Amorim decided he had seen enough.He hauled off summer signing Joshua Zirkzee and replaced him with Kobbie Mainoo in a bid to somehow stem the black and white flow.The move was widely cheered by large sections of the home crowd while others booed as the £36.5 million man ran off.It is hard to see how he comes back from this but if there is any consolation for the Dutchman, it is that any one of the United players could have come off.Maybe it served as a wake up call for the rest of them as they could have pulled one back before the break.A rare United attack saw Rasmus Hojlund get in down the left but he fired his shot just past the far post with Martin Dubravka beaten.A loose pass from Fabian Schar went straight to the feet of Mainoo and he played in Casemiro but the Brazilian could not even find the target.Newcastle had become a little sloppy – perhaps it was too easy for them. But they certainly seemed to ease off after the break.Yet Howe can forgive them that – his team have banged in 13 goals in four straight league wins – and none conceded. A return to the Champions League looks on for them.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe home side went close again just before the hour as Diogo Dalot’s cross from the left was headed against the post by a diving Maguire.Yet even when United needed a goal, there was no call from the bench for Rashford. More

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      Aston Villa 2 Brighton 2: Lamptey’s smart strike snatches point for visitors after Watkins and Rogers lead comeback

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      TARIQ LAMPTEY salvaged a point for the Seagulls with a stunning late strike to spoil Ollie Watkins’ 29th birthday bash!But once again VAR was the big talking point and ref Craig Pawson seemed as confused as the fans!Simon Adingra curled in Brighton’s opener after 12 minutesCredit: RexOllie Watkins levelled from the penalty spotCredit: ReutersMorgan Rogers completed the turnaround for the home sideCredit: GettyTariq Lamptey struck late on to earn a point for the visitorsCredit: ReutersVilla controlled the majority of the match but Brighton finished stronglyThe match official courted controversy when he ignored two Villa penalty claims – only for VAR to step in and side with him on one but not the other.It all amounted to a muddle with the man in the middle as Watkins scored from the spot kick his team were awarded, to cancel out Simon Adingra’s early opener.Morgan Rogers then fired Villa in front before Lamptey had the last word on a ight of controversy.This affair was fast, furious and had a flurry of bookings and controversy.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt all started with a bang – when Joao Pedro clashed heads with Boubacar Kamara – and the game was held up for four minutes while his split eye was patched up.The Seagulls striker returned, resembling Rab C. Nesbitt and the slapstick continued as Unai Emery hit the deck rushing to retrieve the ball at a throw-in!Everywhere you looked bodies were crashing into each other and hitting the turf.But it was Brighton who landed the first real blow after 12 minutes.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAston Villa came from behind to lead before being pegged backCredit: ReutersRogers thought he had won the game for VillaCredit: GettyLewis Dunk’s long ball out of defence wasn’t dealt with by Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres who were outmuscled by Joao Pedro.The ball fell to Simon Adingra who chopped inside onto his right foot and curled a beauty beyond Emi Martinez into the far corner from the edge of the box.Man Utd hero Lee Sharpe warns Marcus Rashford potential exit could come back to haunt club if he joins Prem rivals Villa’s night got worse when Pau Torres hobbled off after damaging his right ankle and was replaced by Tyrone Mings.Martinez did well to claw Enciso’s dipping shot away for a corner which Jan Paul van Hecke headed just off target.But the game erupted over two first-half penalty claims which backed up Unai Emery’s pre-match warning about how ‘politics,’ are affecting VAR decisions.The Villa boss, still incensed by Jhon Duran’s three-match ban for stamping on Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar, let rip in his programme notes.He wrote: “In our opinion, the referees are not using enough and correctly the VAR.”The Video Assistant Referee came to help us avoid injustice or mistakes, and to protect whatever it takes for the on-field decisions to be delivered – right or wrong – by the referee.”If we start to use VAR in a political way, we are forgetting that the video tool is here to protect the game and the fairness of the competition.”In other words he feels the man in the middle should be helped by MORE VAR decisions – rather than less – and his point was underlined here.Villa were the subject of two penalty claims which ref Craig Pawson decided NOT to award.In the first instance it looked as if Van Hecke clipped Morgan Rogers boot – then played the ball – as the Villa man hit the deck in the box.Brighton remain winless in seven despite Lamptey’s strikeCredit: PAHowever VAR decided it wasn’t a clear and obvious error by Pawson and let the ref’s original decision stand, to Villa’s fury.Two minutes later we had a similar incident with a totally different outcome.Youri Tielemans corner was dropped by Bart Verbruggen and Joao Pedro appeared to clip Rogers who went down in the box.However this time VAR intervened and sent Pawson to his pitchside monitor to have a second look.It took at least three minutes for Pawson to decide Rogers had indeed been fouled – and that Verbruggen hadn’t been fouled while dropping the ball – and so he pointed to the spot.The point is that when margins are so tight, surely the man in the middle of the action should decide – rather than those at Stockley Park?Ollie Watkins kept his cool and dished up a birthday treat as he sent Verbruggen the wrong way from the spot to celebrate his 29th birthday with a goal.We were treated to 12 minutes of first-half stoppage time before Villa hit the front two minutes into the second half.Watkins lofted the ball over the Brighton defence after the Seagulls only half-cleared a corner and Rogers took the ball down on his chest before crashing it beyond Verbruggen.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever Brighton refused to accept their fate and hit back with a stunning equaliser nine minutes from the end.Pedro worked a one-two with Mitoma and laid it off for Tariq Lamptey who slammed a low shot beyond Martinez from just inside the box to earn the Seagulls a hard-earned point. More

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      Man Utd 0-2 Newcastle LIVE RESULT: Red Devils end 2024 with horror show as Isak and Joelinton fire Toon to huge win

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      NEWCASTLE UNITED have beaten Manchester United 2-0 as the Red Devils end 2024 with another horror show.The Toon took an early lead through Alexander Isak’s close-range header with just four minutes on the clock.Things went from bad to worse for Ruben Amorim’s side after Joelinton doubled Newcastle’s advantage on 19 minutes.Man Utd offered little in the second half and the Magpies cruised towards a valuable three points on the road.Defeat to Newcastle means the Red Devils go into 2025 on the back of four straight defeats in all competitions. Match result: Man Utd 0-2 NewcastleMan Utd team: Onana, De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez, Mazraoui, Casemiro, Eriksen, Dalot, Amad, Hojlund, Zirkzee.Newcastle team: Dubravka, Trippier, Schar, Burn, Hall, Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton, Murphy, Isak, GordonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Magpies have plenty to play forEddie Howe’s Newcastle are now fifth in the league.The Magpies are just three points behind Chelsea in fourth, who have lost two games on the bounce.Finally the future is looking bright for the Geordie faithful and it will certainly be a happy New Year in the North East.Copy linkCopiedNothing gets any easier for Red DevilsMan Utd need more than ever a run of results to give the side some confidence in their game.Sadly for the Red Devils, they have a tough run of fixtures coming up.They have now lost five of their last six games and are only seven points from the bottom three.Copy linkCopiedRuben gives stark warningThe Portuguese manager spoke of tonight’s game and his tactics for his new side:We are suffering always the first goal in set pieces. We have a lot of problems. It is really clear today that Newcastle is the better team. It was really tough on me to bring Josh (Zirkzee) off but we needed another midfielder. I know he is a really good guy, I can understand why he went down the tunnel. I am not going to change my approach, if it is not working, maybe they need another coach.Ruben AmorimMan UtdCopy linkCopiedPrice of Swede rocketing up weeklyAlexander Isak is impressing everyone with his performances for Newcastle this season, with plenty of big clubs watching.There are some sides across European football who are crying out for a striker like the Swede.The Magpies will have their work cut out keeping him at St James’ Park, but every goal and assist is adding £10m to his price.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNo end in sight for AmorimThe manager was honest with the fans when he came into the club, telling them that will be a lot of pain to get to where they want to be.He certainly was not lying.After a couple of early wins against questionable sides in the Europa League, many thought the good times were back.Now they realise, those are just a distant memory.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedNeville rips into Red DevilsThe former Man Utd full-back give a frank assessment of his old team:You are watching the worst pound for pound football team in the country right now. Bar none.Gary NevilleSky SportsCopy linkCopiedBrazilian dominates at Old TraffordBruno Guimaraes seems to be thriving in the number 8 position.To be fair, he is happy to be the box-to-box midfielder and gets back to help out his defence also.When they hiigh-press, he is all over the back four and forces opponents into errors.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 0-2 NewcastleThat is five defeats from their last six games for Man Utd.Newcastle scored two goals early on and never looked back.The only criticism if any is that they should have scored more.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 0-2 NewcastleThe referee brings this game to an end.It was a dreadful performance from Ruben Amorim’s side.This is definitely an evening to be a Magpies’ fan here.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle90+2. This is an impressive victory for The Magpies.To add to the fans’ joy, results elsewhere are going their way too.When the camera pans onto the Man Utd fans, they have a look on their faces like they are watching their homes being burgled on ring doorbell cameras live.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle90. The home fans stream out of Old Trafford in their numbers.Alexander Isak should be called ‘The Magician’ this evening.After all, he has made 70,000 Man Utd fans disappear it seems.We are going to have an added three minutes.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle88. If Man Utd are going to do anything in this game they need a goal from this Eriksen free-kick.He looks to whip it into the box but Burn heads it away, inadvertently taking it away from his own keeper.Antony goes around in circles as he cuts into the middle of the park, trying to avoid using his right foot.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle86. Amad dribbles the ball into the box and goes down.The referee is not interested his penalty claims at all.To be fair, the Man Utd winger goes down easier than most elevators.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle84. Newcastle fans are still loving their trip down south.Willock and Barnes are coming on for The Magpies.They replace Murphy and Gordon.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle84. Antony is on for de Ligt now.Having seen most of his career on the wing for Man Utd, it will be interesting to see how he is at centre-back.Man Utd need to throw caution to the wind a little more now.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle82. Garnacho looks to take on Guimaraes in the Newcastle half.The Brazilian reads it well and blocks him.Momentary chance of a counter but it breaks down.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle80. Schar is booked for a foul on Hojlund.The free-kick is played into the box and de Ligt heads it into the path of Hojlund.He cannot get onto the end of it however.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle78. Still no sign of the introduction of Rashford for the hosts.It looks liike Antony is being prepared to come on.The away fans are now singing ‘sacked in the morning’ to Ruben Amorim.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle76. The hosts are passing it around but there is no penetration.It’s like trying to put a hole in the wall with a drillbit made of jelly.Newcastle’s goal is not being put under any threat whatsoever.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle74. We have got to that stage now where The Magpies may start considering shutting up shop.Three points and a clean sheet would do nicely for Eddie Howe.Man Utd are running out of time to change this result.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle72. This is the quietest the home fans have been at Old Trafford since……..their last defeat.We have Newcastle to thank this time for the fact we are not hearing Christmas songs about Frenchmen who haven’t played for the club for some 27 years.Man Utd fans once used to accuse Liverpool fans of living in the past, they now seem to be the Marty McFly of football.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle70. The Man Utd defenders need to be careful with their challenges.A few times now Dalot has gone lunging in on Isak, he was just lucky that the Swede saw them coming and sent him to the shops on both occasions.Otherwise he would be giving the referee something to think about.Not a good idea when that official is Simon Hooper, he doesn’t operate well his brain requires engaging.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle68. The Magpies are starting to ask questions in the final third.This time Hall gets into the box but he decides to go for goal and sends it sailing over the crossbar.Gordon is raging, he felt he should have laid it off to him in a better scoring position.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle66. The Magpies need to try and get another goal to put this game to bed.As things stand they fully deserve a win and the three points but if Man Utd get a goal, this could provide a nervy end.When the ball is played through for Hall to chase, Onana comes sprinting out of his box and clatters the player.The Man Utd fans are relieved to see an offside flag.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 0-2 Newcastle64. Amorim looks set to bring on Garnacho and Yoro.Considering they are chasing the game and two goals down, that seems like employing the services of a couple of arsonists to put out a fire for you.Either way they replace Casemiro and Martinez.Copy linkCopied More

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      Ipswich 2 Chelsea 0: Blues’ nightmare Christmas goes on as brilliant Tractor Boys all-but kill off faint title hopes

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      AFTER months of relentless positivity, Chelsea are back into ‘billionaire bottle jobs’ territory.That was the wounding barb spat out by Gary Neville last season to describe Mauricio Pochettino’s under-achieving Blues.Liam Delap helped fire Ipswich to their first home win in the Premier League since 2002Credit: PAChelsea are now winless in their last three gamesCredit: AFPEnzo Maresca seemed to have consigned all of that to the trash – whatever day the binmen might be coming this week.But here, Chelsea’s lavishly-assembled team were made to look foolish by an Ipswich side who hadn’t won at home all season.Maresca was right about one thing – Chelsea were never in a title race.After taking just one point out of nine over the festive period, they are now ten points adrift of Liverpool having played a game more.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Scousers will be crowing before Easter at this rate.But Maresca has been wrong about everything else of late, including his team selection here – as he dropped Nicolas Jackson and Jadon Sancho, among five changes, and saw his side defeated for a second successive match.Maresca was involved in a Championship title race with Ipswich while in charge of Leicester last season and so he should have known that lightweight options like Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku might be vulnerable to a bullying here. So it proved.Chelsea’s owners were also made to look daft by the identity of Ipswich’s second goalscorer, Omari Hutchinson, one of the promising homegrown youngsters they flogged for what they call ‘pure profit’ under Profit and Sustainability Rules.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDelap fired Ipswich in front from the penalty spotCredit: AFPOmari Hutchinson scored the second with a tidy finishCredit: ReutersHutchinson pulled off a stunning flip to celebrate against his former teamCredit: GettyThe £20m received from the Tractor Boys for the winger last summer will not look so pure after this.Aside from the sublime Cole Palmer – who hit the woodwork twice and delivered the pass of the night for a disallowed Felix goal – Chelsea were bang average.Enzo Maresca gives blunt two-word response when asked about Noni Madueke’s Chelsea axingIpswich, who led through an early penalty won and converted by Liam Delap, are now just a point away from the safety line after finally breaking their Portman Road duck.On Boxing Day, the Blues didn’t even look to be the best team in their London SW6 postcode, when Fulham stormed Stamford Bridge.That shock defeat led to wholesale changes, including Filip Jorgensen replacing Robert Sanchez in goal.This was Chelsea’s first visit to Portman Road for a quarter of a century, predating Roman Abramovich’s takeover of the club.And while the novelty of welcoming the Premier League elite teams was beginning to wear off for the Tractor Boys fans, McKenna’s men sensed from the off that Chelsea were wobbly.Hutchinson provided the early threat, darting down the right and centring for Nathan Broadhead, whose shot was blocked near the line by Tosin Adarabioyo.Soon, the breakthrough arrived and it was a shocker for Jorgensen.Leif Davis delivered a through-ball which wrong-footed Moises Caicedo and the Chelsea keeper rushed off his line to clip the trailing leg of Delap.Ref John Brooks pointed to the spot and there wasn’t enough evidence to overturn it. Delap rammed home the spot-kick.Delap almost had another soon after – Marc Cucurella’s attempted clearance charged down by Hutchinson, allowing the centre-forward to leather a shot which Jorgensen pushed out.Chelsea ratings vs Ipswich as Blues defenders have a shocker and only ONE star can hold his head highCHELSEA made it back-to-back losses as they slumped to an awful 2-0 defeat at Ipswich.Enzo Maresca’s side went into the match hoping to bounce back from their 2-1 home loss to Fulham on Boxing Day.But instead saw their title hopes take another massive dent after goals from Liam Delap and old-boy Omari Hutchinson.On a night to forget for the Blues, SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates and slates each performer…FILIP JORGENSEN – 6His first bit of action was a clumsy trailing leg to catch Delap and give away a needless penalty.Followed it up with a few decent stops to deny the forward anything else, but the damage was already done.AXEL DISASI – 4Offered very little until a fine pass early in the second half to put Madueke through.But that was then overshadowed by a woeful piece of defending to give the hosts a second goal, first with a stray pass to Delap and then giving Hutchinson the freedom of Ipswich to slot home.TOSIN ADARABIOYO – 5Struggled to deal with Delap, physically and for pace. Looked terrified to press him. Lumbered about for most of the game.LEVI COLWILL – 6Looks so much better with a proper defensive partner, unlike here.Not his best game, but not his worst.MARC CUCURELLA – 5Nervy clearance off Hutchinson almost gave Delap a second inside 15 minutes and caught out of position plenty when Ipswich countered.Poor in attacking areas.ENZO FERNANDEZ – 6A real mixed bag.Picked up some good pockets of space but out-muscled on occasion.MOISES CAICEDO – 6Blazed over a glorious chance from the edge of the box off his left peg.Controlled the game well from deep at times.NONI MADUEKE – 7Involved in everything good with Chelsea, taking on defenders and unlucky not to grab a first half goal.Linked up well with Palmer and Enzo.COLE PALMER – 8A joy to watch. His cleverly-disguised free-kick smacked the post and his cross for Joao Felix at the far post to score from was delightful, only to be called back for offside.He was then denied a curling beauty by a worldie save. Did not deserve to be on the losing side. Best player on the pitch by a mile.JOAO FELIX – 6Perhaps a harsh one but should have stayed onside before tapping in Palmer’s brilliant cross to level the scores.Had a header cleared off the line just after the break.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU – 5An anonymous first half was followed up by more anonymity in the second before being hauled off just after the hour mark.Feels like he has wasted a huge chance given to him by Maresca to prove he can be the difference maker.SUBSNICOLAS JACKSON (for Felix, 55) – 6Missed a blatant one v one, spared blushes by a delayed offside flag.JADON SANCHO – (for Nkunku, 65) – 6Did very little, but the game was pretty much done by the time he came on.MALO GUSTO (for Disasi, 77) – 6Came on just so Disasi could make way, it seems. Made his presence known by getting into a late scrap with Davis.PEDRO NETO (for Madueke, 77) – 5Brought some zip, but let himself down by going down soft holding his face from a Kalvin Phillips ‘challenge’.The confidence which had been surging through Maresca’s side just a fortnight ago appeared to be gone.Chelsea did, though, have Cole Palmer, who never has to worry about confidence and will win the Ballon d’Or before long.When Nkunku won a free-kick outside the box, Chelsea’s man from the chiller cabinet curled his shot against the post – Nkunku’s follow-up straight at Walton.Then Palmer – who imagines passes nobody else could ever dream of – thought of a picturesque centre with the outside of his boot, then delivered it to the far post.There, Felix found the roof of the net and VAR Michael Oliver took approximately half an hour to agree with what was obvious from a single glance at the replay. Felix was offside.Chelsea decided they ought to pass Ipswich into oblivion but it was still too frantic in front of goal.Cucurella belted one wide, Caicedo hammered one over. They needed one to fall for their iceman.On an Ipswich break, Delap thumped a shot towards the near post and Jorgensen tipped it wide.But then it was Palmer again. Turning a misplaced pass from Enzo Fernandez into an opportunity to humiliate his marker, Jens Cajuste, Palmer advanced and curled a wicked shot which Walton pushed onto the bar.After the break, Felix had a header cleared off the line by Wes Burns, Madueke was repelled by Walton.But just like the first half, Ipswich stunned their visitors with an early goal.Dozy Axel Disasi played a ridiculous pass straight to Delap who advanced and laid off for Hutchinson to wriggle between two defenders to steer a shot past Jorgensen.All too late, Maresca sent for Jackson but Ipswich had their tails up now and Delap threatened a third goal.READ MORE SUN STORIESLate on, Davis started – and won – a shoving match with sub Malo Gusto.Chelsea’s billionaire kids had had their dinner money stolen. More

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      Ipswich 2-0 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Lacklustre Blues hand Tractor Boys first home Premier League win of season – reaction

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      IPSWICH have beaten Chelsea 2-0 to claim their first Premier League win of the season at Portman Road.The Tractor Boys took a shock lead through Liam Delap’s 12th-minute penalty.Right after half-time, former Chelsea youngster Omari Hutchinson fired Ipswich into a 2-0 lead.The hosts held firm, despite late pressure from the Blues, to claim a well-deserved three points.Match result: Ipswich 2-0 ChelseaIpswich team: Walton, Burns, O’Shea, Woolfenden, Greaves, Davis, Morsy, Cajuste, Hutchinson, Broadhead, DelapChelsea team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Madueke, Palmer, Joao Felix, NkunkuFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from Portman RoadAnd that’s all from the Premier League for 2024.It’s been a mixed year for Chelsea, and it’s ended on a sour note with defeat at a struggling but spirited Ipswich.But the Blues will be aiming to roar right back in 2025, and we’ll be there with them when they football restarts in January.Until, thanks for joining us and a happy new year!Copy linkCopiedExtra! Read all about it!Before we call it a night, it’s time to relive a memorable night at Portman Road by enjoying David Kidd’s match report of Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town.Here, Chelsea’s lavishly-assembled team were made to look foolish by an Ipswich side who hadn’t won at home all season. And Maresca was right about one thing – Chelsea were never in a title race. After taking just one point out of nine over the festive period, they are now ten points adrift of Liverpool having played a game more.David KiddThe SunCopy linkCopiedNext up for the BluesChelsea will hope to right their run of form when 2025 arrives, and first up for the Blues is a London derby at Selhurst Park.After an FA Cup tie with League Two Morecambe, Enzo Maresca’s side return to league action at Stamford Bridge against high-flying Bournemouth.Further home games with Wolves and West Ham await, sandwiching a trip to faltering champions Manchester City.Copy linkCopiedMaresca calls for improvementJust as he played down talk of a title challenge, Enzo Maresca was quick to quash the suggestion that Chelsea are going through a minor crisis.Instead, the Italian insists that a difficult period like the Blues are currently experiencing was inevitable, and shows just how much his squad still have to do in order to truly compete at the top.And while Maresca believes the club can be proud of where they’re at as they enter 2025, he has called for an improvement in performance when they head to Crystal Palace on January 4th.I expected this kind of moment in the season. It’s almost impossible to have a season when you don’t have a moment like this. No one expected us to be in this position where we are. It shows we are moving in the right direction, but we are also far from the best teams in England. We have to be satisfied with where we are but we also have to do many things better.Enzo MarescaBBC SportCopy linkCopiedMisfiring Blues blank againAfter bagging 16 goals in five successive wins, Chelsea’s forwards appear to have forgotten where the net is.The Blues have scored just once in their three games since. Their 20 shots against Ipswich this evening is the club’s most attempts without scoring in a Premier League away game since a 0-0 draw at Everton in December 2017 (25 shots).Copy linkCopiedDevastating Delap destroys Chelsea defenceIpswich Town striker Liam Delap put in a sensational match-winning performance this evening, one that will undoubtedly have had clubs all over Europe taking notice. The 21-year-old not only won and scored his first half penalty, but then brilliantly teed-up Omari Hutchinson’s goal after the break.Delap was a tireless runner and outlet for his team throughout, and his performance saw him score and assist in the same game for the second time this season.He is only the second ever Ipswich player to do so more than once in a single campaign, following in Finidi George’s footsteps from back in 2001-02.Copy linkCopiedPortman problems remain for BluesIpswich finally land their first home win since returning to the Premier League – but perhaps we should have seen it coming.After all, the Tractor Boys have never lost to Chelsea here since the top-flight was rebranded in 1992.In six Premier League meetings at Portman Road, four have been drawn with Ipswich’s last win before this evening coming in August 1993.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Portman RoadTwenty shots at goal, 722 passes and 76% possession, but still Chelsea couldn’t find a way through the Ipswich rearguard.It means the Blues have failed to score in consecutive Premier League away games in a single season for the first time since a run of three under Maurizio Sarri in February 2019.Copy linkCopiedGoing fourth into new yearPreparing themselves for a two-horse title race just a fortnight ago, Chelsea will begin 2025 in fourth place behind leaders Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Arsenal.And after results elsewhere, the Blues also have in-form Newcastle breathing down their necks.Aston Villa 2-2 BrightonIpswich 2-0 ChelseaMan Utd 0-2 NewcastleCredit: premierleague.comCopy linkCopiedFull time – Ipswich 2-0 ChelseaPortman Road erupts as John Brooks blow his whistle, and Ipswich have their first Premier League home win for 22 years.Kieran McKenna’s Tractor Boys are full value for their victory too. They soaked up pressure superbly when necessary, and then bullied Chelsea on the counter-attack thanks in main to the immense Liam Delap.Delap won and scored a penalty in the first half, and then set up former Chelsea youngster Omari Hutchinson to score in the second.It means that Ipswich will begin 2025 with renewed hope in their battle against relegation, but for Chelsea, their title challenge may already be over before it began.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90+5. It’s going off again in the middle, and Chelsea are once again cementing their reputation for being bad losers.At their best this season, they have been a scintillating side of attacking flair.At their worst – like this evening – they have been a disgrace.On this occasion, Enzo Fernandez steps out of line and is the latest to receive a yellow card.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90+3. Another Chelsea shot goes awry, and now it’s time for Ipswich’s two goalscorers to receive a heroic reception as they take their leave.Omari Hutchinson is withdrawn for Jack Taylor, and then the magnificent Liam Delap makes way for Ali Al-Hamadi.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea90. Cole Palmer takes a dive by the corner flag and gets nothing for his troubles other than some choice words from the Ipswich defence and barracking from the home support.The visitors have five more minutes of stoppage time to get through before they can draw a line under a shambolic evening.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea88. The Chelsea players are losing their heads here somewhat. Now Colwill picks up a booking for his reaction to not getting a free-kick after an aerial challenge with Delap. He didn’t deserve one, and if anything had a sly kick out at his opponent.And his reaction to being booked isn’t the best either with his mouth giving it plenty in the direction of both the Ipswich bench and the match officials. Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea87. It’s another flashpoint!Malo Gusto and Leif Davis are going at it after the Ipswich left-back refused to give the ball back after being pushed over by his opponent.I’m not sure why he had to, to be honest, it was certainly his free-kick. After some grappling, pushing and shoving, the referee issues yellow cards to both players.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea85. Chelsea are up to 678 passes for the evening. It’s their most in a Premier League game this season.Unfortunately, it has got them precisely nowhere.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea83. Cole Palmer drifts a hopeless cross behind for a goal-kick as ironic cheers ring out from the home fans.You know things are bad when ever Chelsea’s star performer is getting it wrong.Copy linkCopiedFrom Jordan Davies at Portman RoadSome Chelsea fans have already started heading for the exits and the train back to London. They have seen enough.It is probably the right call. Chelsea do not even look close to getting back into this one.(You have to stay though, Jordan).Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea80. There’s some more nonsense involving Cucurella, who has gone down off the ball after a coming together with Morsy.Meanwhile, Chelsea are complaining about a Phillips challenge on Neto.In truth, there is nothing in either incident, and all it serves is to break the game up much to the home side’s delight.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea78. Two changes apiece as the clock moves towards the 78-minute mark.Kieran McKenna brings on the fresh legs of Kalvin Phillips and Sammy Szmodics for Jens Cajuste and Nathan Broadhead, while Enzo Maresca sees if Pedro Neto or Malo Gusto can change his team’s fortunes.Noni Madueke and Axel Disasi make way.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea76. The flag stays down as Nicolas Jackson races through on goal!The Chelsea substitute sidefoots wide and the flag goes up!A whole evening summed up in one act for the Blues. Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea74. Liam Delap is at it again! When his team need it most, the Ipswich striker carries the ball upfield on his own, shrugging off challenge after challenge.But rather than just alleviating the danger for a short period, h then creates a chance of his own – breaking beyond two defenders and thumping a shot at goal that Jorgensen has to tip over.This has been a phenomenal performance from the 21-year-old.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea72. A dangerous inswinging corner from Enzo on the left draws an excellent defending header from Woolfenden.Chelsea’s Argentine gets another go, but once again the Ipswich backline stands firm to clean.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea70. There are claims for a handball from the Chelsea players as the ball ricochets around the Ipswich penalty area, but these are more in hope that expectation.Twenty minutes remain and the Londoners are getting desperate.Copy linkCopiedIpswich 2-0 Chelsea68. Ipswich fancy their chances of increasing their lead on the counter!A Delap knock down ends with the ball falling nicely for Broadhead, who steers a half-volley into the hands of Jorgensen.Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘Shouldn’t be playing together,’ fumes Gary Neville as Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd team demolished by Newcastle in 20 minutes

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      GARY NEVILLE took aim at Manchester United’s ageing midfield as the Red Devils faced a torrid opening 20 minutes against Newcastle United.Man Utd didn’t even put up a fight in the opening exchanges of their Premier League clash against the Magpies – falling 2-0 down after only 19 minutes.Gary Neville tore into Man Utd during his commentary on Sky SportsCredit: RexManchester United were 2-0 down after only 19 minutesCredit: APUnited were trailing in the FOURTH MINUTE thanks to a goal from Alexander Isak.And Joelinton added a second for the visitors 15 minutes later to leave the Theatre of Dreams stunned to silence.One person who wasn’t short for words was Gary Neville, who didn’t hold back in his assessment of his former club from the commentary gantry at Old Trafford.Digging into Ruben Amorim’s chosen midfield partnership of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, both 32, Neville claimed the pair shouldn’t be playing together.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe fumed: “We’ve mentioned their age… Casemiro and Eriksen should never be playing in a Premier League game together. They really shouldn’t.””They’ve been brilliant in their careers, but the last thing they want to see alongside them is the other.”As the clock ticked on Neville continued his passionate dismantling of the two veterans.After describing the opening exchanges as a “mauling”, he added: “When I saw the team sheet I thought it would be difficult for Man Utd to play well”Most read in FootballNeville took aim at CasemiroCredit: APNeville also criticised Christian EriksenCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSContinuing: “[They have] two centre midfield players who can’t run”.Ruben Amorim clearly felt the same way and resorted to making a huge decision just 33 minutes into the game.Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedMan Utd ratings vs Newcastle as Joshua Zirkzee is hooked after half an hour and Kobbie Mainoo the only bright sparkKOBBIE MAINOO’S performance was the only silver lining as Manchester United suffered a fourth consecutive defeat.Newcastle struck twice in the opening 19 minutes as they threatened to tally up a cricket score at Old Trafford.Joshua Zirkzee was ruthlessly subbed after half an hour after struggling in a No10 role – but there was no recovering for Ruben Amorim’s side.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the United display…Andre Onana – 5Little he could do about both goals and was barely tested other than that.Noussair Mazraouri – 4The first two goals came down his side as he failed to close down the crosses that were turned in by Isak and Joelinton.But he was positive in possession and put in a few dangerous crosses.Matthijs de Ligt – 5Did not do much wrong for Newcastle goals but can be criticised for his failure to organise his defensive team-mates.Harry Maguire – 4Lost Isak for the opener as he was caught ball watching.Almost made amends but his diving header cannoned back off the post.Lisandro Martinez – 3A complete mismatch as he attempted to battle Joelinton for a cross the Brazilian turned in.Also lost Isak for the opener and even faced the wrong way as the cross came in.Diogo Dalot – 5Offered some much needed stability on the left flank and produced a good cross for Maguire’s headed chance.Casemiro – 3Dismal throughout. So far off the pace and barely made a pass.Missed a guilt-edge chance to pull one back on the stroke of half-time.Christian Eriksen – 4Similarly inept in protecting his defence as Casemiro, as he was overran time and time again.He did at least put a few passes together and improved after Mainoo came on.Amad Diallo – 4A tricky evening up against the hardworking Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall so was largely ineffective.Joshua Zirkzee – 2Nothing went his way and the fans quickly got on his back. He was hauled off in the 33rd minute and his substitution was greeted with cheers by the Old Trafford faithful.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Fed off scraps but did not stop running and was a rare bright spark – came very close with a low shot that whistled past the post in the first half.SubsKobbie Mainoo (for Zirkzee) – 6Turned things around after his introduction and made things happen with his accurate passing.Set up Casemiro for a chance the Brazilian should have buried.Leny Yoro (for Martinez, 64mins) – 6Had a good chance from a corner but sent his free header wide.Alejandro Garnacho (for Casemiro, 64mins) – 4Struggled to make an impact as he failed to beat a man.Antony (for De Ligt, 83 mins) – 5Not enough time to influence the match.The new boss hooked striker Joshua Zirkzee and replaced him with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in the hopes of offering more support for Casemiro and Eriksen in the centre of the pitch.But even that decision didn’t stop Neville’s criticism, with the former defender saying: “You are watching the worst pound for pound football team in the country, bar none.”Alexander Isak and Joelinton netted for the Toon, who saw the game out comfortably to go fifth in the Premier League.It was United’s third consecutive loss and left them 14th, just seven points above the relegation zone.Joshua Zirkzee was substituted after 33 minutesCredit: Reuters More

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      Chris Wood has gone from Barnsley loan flop to outscoring Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins in feelgood story of 2024

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      LET’S just call him Saint Christopher, the patron saint of footballing travellers.A journeyman, targetman, everyman hero, who is living proof good things can come to those who have a loan spell at Barnsley terminated after seven matches and no goals.Chris Wood has excelled for Nottingham Forest this seasonCredit: ReutersWood, 33, was largely written off at NewcastleCredit: GettyThe Indian summer of Chris Wood’s career has been the feelgood story of 2024.Nottingham Forest are Wood’s FIFTEENTH club and, at the age of 33, the big Kiwi unit is on course to lead them into the Champions League.At a time when old-school centre-forwards are officially recognised as an endangered species by the World Wildlife Fund, Wood is leading the revival like an uncharacteristically randy panda.And despite decent spells at Leeds and Burnley, nobody saw this coming.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNewcastle’s Saudi owners were ridiculed for panic buying when they shelled out £25million on a 30-year-old Wood three years ago.And the Toon Army smirked when Forest spent £15m on his signing 18 months ago — right up until  Boxing Day last year when Wood turned up at  St James’ Park and netted a hat-trick, which included two deliciously cool finishes.On Sunday, Wood netted Forest’s opener in a 2-0 win at Everton with a rinky-dink chip which sent Nuno Espirito Santo’s side second in the table and belied his unfair caricature as a limited carthorse.Toffees boss Sean Dyche, who oversaw Wood’s previous best spell at Burnley, declared him the difference between the two sides.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWood has also played for West Brom, Brighton, Birmingham, Bristol City, Millwall, Leicester and Ipswich, as well as three clubs in his New  Zealand homeland.He was on the books of the Baggies for four years but in that time managed more loan spells — five — than goals for his parent club — two.Ruben Amorim explains why Marcus Rashford is still exiled at Man Utd despite ‘wanting to play’ That loan at Oakwell with the Tykes, an agreement ripped up by mutual consent, was an early setback from which Wood rebounded pretty well.Throughout the majority of his career he was seen as a decent Championship striker, winning promotion with Leicester and scoring 27 goals in a second-tier season with Leeds.But for Wood to have netted 21 times in the Premier League since Boxing Day 2023 —  more than Kai Havertz or Ollie Watkins, more than twice as many as Marcus Rashford — is extraordinary and heartening.Wood narrowly missed out on the Premier League’s greatest miracle when he was sold by Leicester to Leeds the summer before their 2015-16 title triumph.Back then, Jamie Vardy’s rise, from playing at Stocksbridge Park Steels with an offender’s tag on his ankle, was the Hollywood storyline.But if Nuno’s Forest make the Champions League — as looks increasingly possible after a fifth straight win — theirs would be English football’s unlikeliest story since the Foxes topped the pile.Marcus Rashford has struggled for goals in 2024Credit: GettyWood has even outscored Ollie WatkinsCredit: RexWandering gun-for-hire strikers are a great footballing breed.Peter Withe, one of that tribe’s finest, won Aston Villa the European Cup while playing for the tenth of his 13 clubs.Wood is far from being the most nomadic of all. Trevor Benjamin represented 29 clubs from the Premier League to the Northern League Division Two over a 16-year career.Meanwhile, the legendary non-league highwayman Jefferson Louis has changed clubs 51 TIMES and is still going strong for Southern League Thame United, aged 45.But Wood is now the standard-bearer for these merry travellers — and that’s without even mentioning the air miles clocked up in an 80-cap international career for New Zealand.He spends international breaks on the opposite side of the world, scoring shedloads of goals in routine, savage beatings of Pacific Islanders from Samoa, Tahiti and Vanuatu.At a time when old-school centre-forwards are officially recognised as an endangered species by the World Wildlife Fund, Wood is leading the revival like an uncharacteristically randy panda.Dave KiddHis is not the only heartwarming personal story at the City Ground — Nuno was seen as a busted flush after a miserable spell at Tottenham, yet Forest now sit 13 points above his former employers.Ryan Yates did the loan rounds from Barrow to Scunthorpe before playing a lead role in his hometown club’s journey to the brink of history.Callum Hudson-Odoi, Morgan Gibbs-White and Anthony Elanga were all struggling to fully emerge in the Premier League before they put down roots with the Tricky Trees.And Serbian hardnut Nikola Milenkovic is Nemanja Vidic reincarnate.Those who can remember Brian Clough leading Forest to back-to-back European Cups will relish his old club’s revival.Indeed, Nottingham boasts as many European Cups as London, Paris and Rome combined.This is a great club and, at the forefront, is a man on a most round-the-houses mission.Real ‘East’ End starIT WAS heartening to see the warm reception given by West Ham fans to Ludo Miklosko on Sunday, after their 63-year-old former keeper announced he has withdrawn from further cancer treatment.There were very few foreign footballers in the English game when Czech Miklosko signed for the Hammers  in 1990 — and even fewer from behind the old Iron Curtain.But during eight years as a player, and a further stint as a Hammers goalkeeping coach, big Ludo became the very definition of a cult hero.He also managed to inspire one of the most geographically challenged terrace chants of all time: “My name is Ludo Miklosko, I come from near Moscow.”Miklosko’s native town of Prostejov is closer to East London than to the Russian capital.Ludo Miklosko received a brilliant reception back at West HamCredit: RexSale awayTHE transfer window opens this week and the questions are endless.Will Manchester City sign a Rodri replacement? Will Arsenal get a proper centre-forward?Will anyone in their right minds join Southampton, on course for the worst season in Premier League history?But whatever happens don’t believe the old chestnut that there are no good long-term signings to be made mid-season.Liverpool bought Luis Suarez and Virgil van Dijk in the New Year sales, while Sir Alex Fer­guson signed Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra in the same January week.Man Utd have had January window joy in the pastCredit: GettyDart MaddFURY among Tottenham fans on social media that James Maddison went to the darts at Ally Pally after the 2-2 home draw with Wolves.How dare their leading Premier League goalscorer go out and have some fun?Because, as we all know, the best way to get over a frustrating day at the office is to sit alone in a darkened room and never, under any circumstances, go out  somewhere and enjoy yourself.James Maddison and Brennan Johnson headed to the darts on SundayCredit: RexGo ‘All inTHERE was a 20-man brawl in the tunnel at half-time during Newcastle’s 3-0 thumping of Aston Villa last week.And I don’t know about you but I was staggered to hear that Toon manager Eddie Howe’s No 2 Jason Tindall was red-carded for being at the centre of it all.READ MORE SUN STORIESGood luck finding character witnesses if there is an FA hearing.Jason Tindall is never one to sky away from the limelightCredit: ReutersA VERY Happy New Year to you all!Here’s to 2025, to triumphs Down Under in The Ashes and for the Lions, to Ryder Cup glory for Europe in the States, to England qualifying for the World Cup in style under Thomas Tuchel — and to a stunning collapse for Liverpool in the title race. More

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      Ruben Amorim hauls off Joshua Zirkzee after 33 minutes to huge cheers as Man Utd as Neville says ‘that is brutal’

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      RUBEN AMORIM hauled Joshua Zirkzee off after just 33 MINUTES against Newcastle.And the Dutch forward received sarcastic cheers from Manchester United fans as he was replaced – with commentator Gary Neville left feeling sorry for him.Ruben Amorim replaced Joshua Zirkzee with Kobbie Mainoo in the 33rd minuteCredit: AFPAmorim made the brutal call as Manchester United fans cheered the decisionCredit: ReutersZirkzee made little contribution before being taken offThe Red Devils flopped to 2-0 down inside 20 minutes at Old Trafford after goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton.Man Utd boss Amorim was playing Zirkzee as a second striker, behind Rasmus Hojlund.But he had seen enough before half-time as he made the decision to swap him for Kobbie Mainoo.Zirkzee stormed immediately down the tunnel, before he re-emerged to sit on the bench a couple of minutes later.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd Man Utd legend Gary Neville was sympathetic towards the £36.5million summer signing.He said: “I actually feel sorry for him, I really do.”I know that he’s earning a lot of money but there’s a human being in there that’s basically being cheered off by his home fans and that is brutal.”We’ve not seen that too many times at Old Trafford. 43 years I’ve been coming here.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Neville pulled no punches when assessing Man Utd’s first-half performance as a team.He said: “You are watching the worst pound-for-pound team in the country, bar none.”Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedZirkzee has made 26 appearances for Man Utd this season, scoring four goals and assisting two.But the ex-Bologna forward was criticised by Neville, along with Man Utd’s other summer signings, ahead of the clash with Newcastle.Neville said: “What am l surprised about is that when in the summer Manchester United signed those three or four players, I didn’t hear anyone say ‘Manchester United have had a terrible transfer market.”I am shocked about how poor those players have been in their early months.You are watching the worst pound-for-pound team in the country, bar none.Gary Neville”I have said it before that this club has been a graveyard for players who have come with decent reputations. And it is happening again.”I didn’t hear anyone say in the summer when Yoro, De Ligt, Ugarte, Zirkzee joined that United hadn’t signed half-decent players.”The problem is that when you have seen them out here in a red shirt that Manchester United look a worse team. That’s the odd thing.”Meanwhile, Amorim spoke about taking Zirkzee off in his post-match comments.He said: “You have to think about the team but also the player, but the player is suffering.”I thought the team was suffering and we needed another midfielder to have more ball. It was really tough for me to do that, but I’ve spoken to Josh as it was important to express the message. For the team, it was important for Josh to go out.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I know that Josh is a really good guy. When he went to the tunnel, I can understand that some guys can be in a bad way but he is a really good lad.”It is life, and we will support Josh and continue. Newcastle were better than Manchester United, they weren’t better than Josh.”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 charity More