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      Amorim could have made up an excuse for dropping Rashford but didn’t, and now he is on his final chance at Man Utd

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      ALL the talk before this game was about Marcus Rashford.By the end, the delirious Manchester United fans did not give their former hero a second thought.Marcus Rashford is on his final warning at Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyHe was axed by Ruben Amorim for United’s 2-1 win at Man CityCredit: PAThey had done very nicely without him, thank you, a point new Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim made quite forcibly afterwards.Rashford’s ability meant he should have been here — he should have been centre stage, he should have had the spotlight following him.But the forward’s application means the floodlights are fading very fast and he needs to be very careful if he is going to have a United career beyond the New Year.This was a big statement from Amorim to leave Rashford, 27, and the 20-year-old Alejandro Garnacho out of the squad altogether.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn the morning of the game, they were ordered to train with Jonny Evans and Toby Collyer, while the rest of the squad prepared for the trip to the Etihad.Amorim has simply not been happy with the pair in training, in games or, it appears, off the pitch either.The fall from grace for Rashford has been dramatic.From being a shining example to all kids who dream of becoming a football star for the club they grew up supporting.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe trip from Withington to Buckingham Palace and an MBE in recognition of his fantastic work in ensuring this country’s poor and hungry children are looked after should never be forgotten.On the pitch two seasons ago, Rashford also posted the career-best figures of 30 goals for a campaign.’It doesn’t look good’ – Roy Keane tips Marcus Rashford for Man Utd transfer exit after he is DROPPED for City clashRashford has split up with partner Lucia LoiCredit: GettyHe made a surprise appearance at the NBA last monthCredit: GettyThe world then was at his feet . . . and then it all seemed to become too much.The attention, the celebrity, the fame, the riches, the nightlife — all those temptations that come with being a modern-day Premier League star were there and he  welcomed them.Suddenly, a shy lad who used to stay under the radar off the field with his childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi was enjoying the trappings.That relationship with Loi has been a casualty of it all, too.Amorim could easily have used the excuse of rotation, tiredness, a tweak or whatever for his and Garnacho’s absence — but he was not going to. He wanted people to know why they were out. Not good enough.Rashford’s form began to slide last season as he went from that remarkable 30-goal campaign in 2022-23 to scoring just eight times.He lost his place not only in United’s first team but in the England squad for the summer’s Euros in Germany.Former Old Trafford chief Erik ten Hag had protected him. The Dutchman warned him and he was still let down on — and notably off — the pitch.Rashford’s amazing charity work can’t be forgottenCredit: PAFirst, when Rashford partied in the city centre following United’s 3-0 home derby defeat to Pep Guardiola’s men in October of last year.Ten Hag said that was “unacceptable”.It was his birthday and it was a quiet family affair, his PR guru tried to trot out. It was anything but.Then Rashford was partying until the early hours of Friday, January 26, in Belfast, when he was meant to be training later that day ahead of a Sunday trip to Newport in the FA Cup.He got a private jet back but rang in sick.When former Ajax chief Ten Hag found out why, he was beyond angry.The manager later confided that he wanted to freeze him out in United’s reserves but just did not have enough players.The pair barely talked again.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.It takes a lot for the Red Devils supporters to turn on one of their own — but that is what has happened with Rashford.The fans see a lack of application, slumped shoulders, an unforgivable lack of effort on the pitch.His United team-mates see it, too, and there have been verbal altercations on the pitch.Amorim’s arrival from Sporting Lisbon last month offered new hope.So what on earth was he doing  spending the weekend before the new boss arrived courtside at an NBA game in New York, sporting a  Louis Vuitton coat and glitzy grillz on his teeth?Perhaps it was this that Amorim was referring to when he said it was “important how people dressed”.There were so many withdrawals from the England squad at that time that anyone in a replica shirt had a chance of a call-up, but Rashford did not get one.That is how far he has slipped down the ladder with the Three Lions.He scored in the opening two minutes of Amorim’s first game in charge away to Ipswich.And another pair followed in the 4-0 win over Everton.But he started on the bench for the Arsenal and Nottingham Forest defeats.He was then hooked after 56 minutes away to Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. Amorim has seen enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Portuguese says the player will get another chance — it will be his last.And one day Rashford is really going to regret it . . . More

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      in Soccer

      Gary Neville’s commentary for Amad Diallo’s goal goes viral as Man Utd legend has another Torres goalgasm moment

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      AMAD DIALLO’s match-winning moment in the Manchester derby as United came from behind to win 2-1 at City gave Gary Neville one of his famous goalgasms.The 22-year-old won a penalty late – scored by Bruno Fernandes – before then scoring an injury-time winner.Amad Diallo was the match-winner as Man Utd mounted a late comeback to beat Man CityCredit: PAThe goal left Gary Neville in raptures as he had another priceless moment on commentaryCredit: AFPAnd the attacker’s last-gasp strike had Gary Neville in raptures on commentary.As the ball trickled into the goal for the winner, Neville was heard on Sky Sports co-commentary alongside Peter Drury giving another priceless reaction.It was a throwback to his legendary commentary clip when Fernando Torres sent Chelsea into the Champions League final with a shock goal against Barcelona in 2012.Reacting on social media, one fan said: “That Gary Neville ‘OOOOOOHHHHHH WOAHHHHHHHHH’ has got to be one for the history books.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA second said: “Fairs, although I still rate the one he did for Fernando Torres’ goal against Barcelona.”A third said: “One of @GNev2’s very best non-verbal warblings.”Another said: “Top 2 Neville commentary moments and it’s not 2.”A fifth added: “I need a compilation of all of Gary’s ‘OOOOOOOHHHH WOOOAHHH’.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSpeaking in the Sky Sports studio after the game, Neville was full of praise for Ruben Amorim’s bold choice to completely leave out Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.Neville said: “I don’t know about their long-term future.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim says he has no disciplinary issues with Rashford and Garnacho “But what is really clear is that [Amorim] mentioned engaging with team-mates, he’s mentioned standards. “He’s giving us clues, in fact, emphatic clues, about the last few days that they’re moping and not doing their bit around the training ground.”It’s standards in training and he’s thought ‘no, I’m not having it, I’m not accepting it’. Good on him.”For far too long we’ve seen players mope around that pitch and still continue to get a game or on the bench. “No. It’s got to be non-negotiable. If you don’t give your all in your job, you’re gone, you’re out. That’s it.”Rashford shared a picture of him celebrating the win from home to Instagram.On his and Garnacho’s absence, Amorim explained the pair were left out due to simple selection and had trained well on Sunday morning.READ MORE SUN STORIESElsewhere, Kyle Walker was labelled “embarrassing” by Roy Keane after flopping to the floor when butting heads with Rasmus Hojlund, which came after he had fouled the United forward.The result lifted the Red Devils to 11th in the table, while City fell outside of the top four with Pep Guardiola’s side now registering just one win in their last 11.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. More

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      in Boxing

      ‘I’m only doing it for the money’ – Tyson Fury gives brutally honest assessment of boxing career ahead of Usyk rematch

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      TYSON FURY claims he is more motivated by money than his boxing legacy, saying: “I wasn’t born in a Christmas cracker.”The Gypsy King has no intention of being a cheap plaything in the heavyweight division as he prepares for his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.Tyson Fury has admitted he will follow the money over legacyCredit: GettyFury said he wants the ‘easiest fights possible for the largest amounts of money’Credit: AFPAnd he is still fuming that Anthony Joshua cost him a fortune with his September slaughter at the hands of Daniel Dubois.He said: “I’m only doing it for the money, obviously. More generational wealth.“All prize fighters, if they tell the truth, do it for the money, don’t they? Who here is not doing it for the money?“I don’t want to work for f*** all. I want as much as I can get. I want the easiest fights possible for the largest amounts of money possible. I wasn’t born in a Christmas cracker.”READ MORE IN BOXINGA Saudi Arabia-written script had AJ winning his old IBF heavyweight world title back from his former Team GB understudy Dubois, with the Gypsy King watching from ringside and ready to pounce.No matter how Fury did in his rematch with Usyk, the biggest fight in British boxing history — and likely a double-header worth half-a-billion pounds — was in the bank.But when AJ, 35, was dropped in the very first round by Dynamite Dan — and ironed out brutally in the fifth — Fury leapt out of his VIP seat and roared: “That’s just cost me 150 million, the silly c”. Joshua has since rejected the instant rematch and is now recovering and however Fury does in his Saturday rerun with the 38-year-old Ukrainian, the battle lines are drawn for 2025. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut the cash-crazed giant is still seething that Joshua’s first brutal KO defeat has hit him in the pocket. Fury, 36, said about his X-rated review of the Wembley demolition: “Yeah, I meant that. Of course I did. Oleksandr Usyk puts Tyson Fury rivalry aside and invites Gypsy King to the pub to ‘drink beer’ and cheer on Man Utd “We would have had a two-fight deal lined up for a s-tonne of money.“Unfortunately, doors open, doors close. If you’ve been knocked out twice or whatever, four, five times, or six or seven? What does it matter? It’s still a big fight.”Once the fanfare kicks off, Tyson’s wild dad John gets involved and brilliant old tales of their 2010 sparring session with a Rolex at stake are retold — it will be a huge money fight.But another Usyk masterclass on Saturday would mean their combined recent record will be 0-3 — and people outside the UK will see the clash as a showbiz fight between two spent forces — for dosh.But Fury’s story has not changed — he does not care about records or belts or legacies. Cash is king — and he will fight a fellow British icon in the desert or an MMA bloke in the snow for more of it.He said: “If he said to me, ‘right, you can fight AJ for 50 quid or you can fight Jon Jones in Antarctica for 1,050 quid’ — where am I going to go?“I’m going to go for the money obviously because I’m a prize fighter.”But even though he is a heavyweight boxing historian he couldn’t care less about his standing among the icons, just that his generational wealth must outlast his lifetime.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe father-of-seven said: “Legacy is my kids, isn’t it?“One thing I do care about is my family, my kids That’s it.” More

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      in Soccer

      Dele Alli joins Hollywood A-listers in stands at Como vs Roma and could begin training with new club

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      DELE ALLI rubbed shoulders with the Hollywood A-list at Como’s drama-packed Serie A win over Roma.But the former England midfielder might be more interested in finding out if he’ll be on an Italian club’s PLAYER list after Christmas.Dele Alli must have been impressed by Como’s spirit in beating RomaKeira Knightley and James Righton were also at Como’s 2-0 home winCredit: GettyMichael Fassbender was another acting star at the Serie A gameCredit: GettyCesc Fabregas’ Como have been inviting big names to help make them more fashionable.Actors Keira Knightley, Adrien Brody and Michael Fassbender were there on Sunday – all looking pretty glam.In contrast, Alli went for a more low-key watching brief – with a cap as well as his hoodie covering his head as he sat in the stands.But there was a promising hint that the ex-Tottenham ace, 28, could soon take the first step towards reviving his career.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlli saw striker Alessandro Gabrielloni and Argentina midfielder Nico Paz strike on 93 and 97 minutes to sink Roma.Then he heard Fabregas speak on his future, after he was released by Everton last summer following months out injured.The Arsenal and Chelsea legend said: “I met him yesterday.”There’s a chance he could train with us after Christmas, but only to get back into shape.”Most read in FootballComo chief Cesc Fabregas suggested Alli might train after XmasCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe former Spain midfielder added he “didn’t want to talk about it” more about it at this stage.That’s not too surprising as Fabegas will want most of the attention on a victory that lifted Como one point above the drop zone.Cesc Fabregas shuts down England position debate as World Cup winner ‘shows why he got over 100 caps’ He said: “The important thing is the team, Gabrielloni’s goal and the feeling of playing face to face against a great team. “The boys and the city deserved a night like this. “Sometimes it’s not a question of tactics, but of resilience and desire. We are Como and to get a result against these teams you have to do more than them.”Knightley and Righton added glamour to the sporting occasionCredit: GettyPeaky Blinders star Adrien Brody looked transfixed by the matchCredit: Getty More

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      Pep Guardiola doesn’t emerge from Man City dressing room for 30 mins after Man Utd loss then says ‘I’m not good enough’

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      PEP GUARDIOLA admitted he is “not good enough” after his Manchester City side threw away the derby in two mad minutes.The champions slipped to an EIGHTH defeat in 11 matches in all competitions — the same number of losses they had in the Prem over the previous two seasons.Pep Guardiola was again left scratching his head as City throw away the derbyCredit: GettyBernardo Silva slammed his team-mates after Man Utd’s comebackCredit: AFPMidfielder Bernardo Silva ripped into his team-mates who played like “Under-15s” and “deserved to pay” for “stupid decisions”.Guardiola, who according to NBC did not emerge from the dressing room for 30 minutes after the game, said: “I’m the boss, I’m the manager and I’m not good enough. I’m not doing well — it’s as simple as that.“I need to talk to them about the way we have to play and press and build-up and I’m not good enough.“I’m the manager and I don’t find the solution. In a big club, when you lose eight in 11 something wrong is happening. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s my job. My job is not just to win games or lift trophies. I’m incredibly well paid for that reason.“We want to play better, create chances. But at the moment it’s not possible. There is no defence for eight defeats in 11.”Guardiola always said he feared this would be a tough season for his weary troops — but admitted he was not expecting things this bad.He added: “This is a big club, I’m still here sitting here in the press conference because of what we have done in the past.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I promise you I tried. I think managers all round the world when they have big problems work more and talk more to try and get the guys to know that we are still good.“I knew it would be a tough season at the beginning, but I didn’t expect it would be this hard.”Man Utd player ratings: Amad Diallo experiences greatest moment of his career but Diogo Dalot doesn’t do enough vs CityAmad Diallo scored a brilliant winner in the 90th minute to spark huge celebrationsCredit: GettyCity were not at their best but Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header looked likely to give them the three points until a moment of madness in the dying minutes.Matheus Nunes put Ederson in trouble with a weak back-pass and then compounded the error by fouling Amad in the box.Bruno Fernandes slammed in the spot-kick on 88 minutes to equalise.And four-in-a-row champs City were caught out two minutes later by a hopeful ball forward which allowed Amad to steal in for the winner.A furious Bernardo said: “We deserved what happened. At this level, a game or two is unlucky. We can’t say this is lucky or unlucky — ten games, it’s not about that.I’m the boss, I’m the manager and I’m not good enough. I’m not doing well — it’s as simple as that.Pep Guardiola“Winning 1-0 and our corner ends in a penalty for them… if we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go you deserve to pay.“Looking at the game, there was only one team that could win, but at the end we lost.”We have to look at ourselves. It’s the decisions you make. Today in the last minute we played like Under-15s.”READ MORE SUN STORIESCity midfielder Phil Foden, yet to break his Prem scoring duck this term, said: “We’ve not been used to losing this amount in a short period.“But sometimes you have to experience it,  you can’t always win.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. More

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      in Soccer

      Russell Martin SACKED by Southampton after shambolic Tottenham battering leaves them bottom of Premier League table

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      SOUTHAMPTON sacked Russell Martin within an hour of their 5-0 defeat to Tottenham.Martin, who led the Saints to promotion last season, managed just one win in 16 Premier League games and leaves with the club on just five points.Russell Martin gets a sympathetic pat from Spurs counterpart Ange Postecoglou as a 5-0 home loss was too much for Southampton chiefsCredit: GettyThe writing was on the wall for Martin when many fans streamed out after Spurs went 4-0 up 25 minutes into the St Mary’s massacreSaints fans called for the manager to leaveNo top-flight club has ever beaten relegation from the position Southampton are in.Fans booed the former Swansea boss – with some even leaving just 26 minutes in at 4-0 down – and held up a banner reading “RM: Get out of our club!”Asked if he thought he could remain in charge following the Spurs defeat, Martin said: “Not a clue, no. Not a clue. You’re speaking to the wrong man.”Asked about the fans booing him and his side, Martin added: “I’ve done nothing but fight on in my life and my career so we’ll keep working and keep fighting until I’m told I’m not going to anymore.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I have no response really. The fans have been amazing for us since we’ve been here from day one.”I understand the frustration. I also understand the modern world and football and what it is and what it’s about. So apart from that, I have no real response.”Martin led Southampton on a club record 25-game unbeaten run on their way to promotion via the Play-Offs last season.But a stubborn commitment to his risky style of play and poor summer recruitment led to Southampton’s worst start to a season in their history.Most read in FootballFULL SOUTHAMPTON STATEMENTTHE Saints confirmed Russell Martin’s departure on Sunday night with this statement:We can confirm that we have taken the difficult decision to part ways with our Men’s First Team Manager, Russell Martin.Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world.However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board have supported Russell and his staff and been open and transparent regarding our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognising the urgency of needing results to improve.We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russell and his staff for all the hard work and dedication they have given the club on and off the pitch over the last 18 months. Everyone connected with Southampton FC will always have fantastic memories of last season, especially the Play-Off Final win in May.Current Under-21s Manager Simon Rusk will take charge of the team on an interim basis until we announce a permanent replacement.Behind the scenes, we are encouraged by the continued development of talent coming through our Academy. We are proud of the contributions our young players are making and are confident this will remain a source of strength and pride for everyone associated with the club.We are also deeply grateful for the continued support and positivity shown by our fans. We are witnessing first-hand the significant gap between the Championship and the Premier League, but your understanding and passion, even when results have not been what we all want, continue to drive our long-term commitment to the club.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis exit came on the day second-bottom Wolves aced Gary O’Neil.Southampton owners Sport Republic, who sacked two managers during their last Premier League season, are unlikely to pursue the likes of David Moyes.Disgusted Southampton fans stream out of St Mary’s 27 minutes into Tottenham clash after going 4-0 downSunSport understands a foreign appointment is the most likely outcome at the moment.Some at the club admire Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl, who worked at the club as an assistant to Ralph Hasenhuttl.However, it may be a struggle to attract anyone to take the job given Southampton’s current position.The Saints issued a statement confirming and explaining the “difficult decision” to part with Martin.Part of it read: “Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world.”However, the reality of our situation is clear.”Gaps emerged in the St Mary’s stands as Spurs thrashed the Saints More

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      in Soccer

      Premier League release statement as Chelsea star Marc Cucurella is sent off AFTER full-time of win over Brentford

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      CHELSEA ace Marc Cucurella was sent off after the Premier League clash with Brentford at Bridge.Cucurella, 26, helped the Blues beat the Bees 2-1 as he scored the opener before Nicolas Jackson’s winner, with the hosts getting a consolation in the dying minutes with Bryan Mbeumo.Chelsea ace Marc Cucurella was sent off after the Premier League clash with BrentfordCredit: ReutersCucurella was shown a second yellow card after full-time due to a scuffle with Kevin SchadeCredit: PABut the full-back was shown a second yellow card after the full-time whistle due to a scuffle with Kevin Schade as the Chelsea ace shoved his opponent.Schade was also booked for the post-match row by the match official.The Premier League addressed the incident and stated that both players were penalised for “adopting an aggressive attitude”.The statement read: “The referee issued a second yellow card to Cucurella for adopting an aggressive attitude. Schade was also booked for the same offence.”Read More on ChelseaThat means the Spain international is going to miss Sunday’s Prem clash with Everton at Goodison Park.Boss Enzo Maresca said the red card was a sign Chelsea can “do better”.Speaking after full-time, he said: “I didn’t see the second yellow card. The referee said the second yellow card was for bad attitude. There are things we can do better.”It marks the second league match in a row that Cucurella has stolen the headlines.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe defender went viral last week during the London derby at Tottenham.The ex-Brighton star was at fault for both of Spurs’ two opening goals as he tripped in the build-up.Marc Cucurella charges over to Chelsea bench and changes boots after being totally at fault for Tottenham’s second goalChelsea ratings vs Brentford as Caicedo runs the show in midfield but goalscorer Cucurella lets himself downCHELSEA closed the gap at the top of the league with a 2-1 West London derby win over Brentford.Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson netted for the Blues as they went two points behind Liverpool.Here is how SunSport’s Andy Dillon rated the Chelsea performances…Robert Sanchez – 7Capable of making huge mistakes but also of great saves and made several tonight. One of his better night’s work.Malo Gusto – 7A class act and is strong physically and mentally for this team. Chelsea do not even miss captain Reece James at the moment.Levi Colwill – 7Made a crucial block to deny Damsgaard in the style of Chelsea legend John Terry. A solid performance.Tosin Adaribioyo – 6Cracking strength to play having also played in minus 11 centigrade out in Kazakhstan on Thursday. Injuries to defenders Badiashile and Fofana put pressure on him and he did his best.Marc Cucurella – 4Great run and header for the first goal but then totally spoiled himself with awful gamesmanship.And then reckless to get two yellow cards in the space of a few minutes to be sent off.Moises Caicedo – 8So neat and tidy with his tackles and command of midfield. Chelsea dominated possession and in physical terms – largely due to this bloke.Enzo Fernandez – 7Looks settled and provided several neat through passes to link midfield and attack. Composed too.Noni Madueke – 6Great left foot cross to set up Cucurella’s goal. Dynamic on the run – but did get caught off guard a couple of times.Cole Palmer – 6A powerful shot saved in the first half but otherwise a quiet night for the star of this team.Jadon Sancho – 6Slowly regaining his position in the first-team after falling out of favour.Nifty footwork in the second half almost brought the goal that would have settled this game much earlier.Nicolas Jackson – 7Tasty finish for what was ultimately the winner but also messed up a chance in the first half.A decisive strike though that keeps Chelsea on the winning beat.Subs:Christoper Nkunku (for Jackson 83 mins) – 5Did not get much time to make an impact. Chelsea were on the back foot for the run in.That led Cucurella to run to his bench and change his boots, which proved to have worked as he helped the West Londoners turn the game around and pick up a dramatic 4-3 win.The Spaniard decided to laugh the situation off at full-time as he binned his dodgy Puma boots and took a photo that he shared on social media as an apology to the fans.The football boots were set to be released by the sportswear brand the following day.And they were even engraved with the following message: “This boot might be leaked. We’re used to it. Don’t worry. Stay tuned.”It looked to be a marketing own goal but Puma have brilliantly responded.In a new advert posted on social media, Cucurella is wearing the boots alongside a caution wet floor sign.READ MORE SUN STORIESPuma captioned the image: “It’s not how you slip, it’s how you bounce back.”The post also sees the wet floor sign placed in front of a goal, by the entrance of a Puma store, at a bus stop and on a West London street. More

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      Chelsea player ratings: Caicedo dominates against Brentford but Cucurella spoils his display with awful gamesmanship

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      CHELSEA closed the gap at the top of the league with a 2-1 West London derby win over Brentford.Marc Cucurella made amends for slipping over twice in the build-up to two Spurs goals last week by scoring the against the Bees.Marc Cucurella scored his first goal of the season and Nicolas Jackson wrapped up the three pointsCredit: GettyNicolas Jackson then added a second, with the three points taking the Blues just two points off Liverpool, who have a game in hand, at the top of the table.Here is how SunSport rated the Chelsea performances.Robert Sanchez – 7Capable of making huge mistakes but also of great saves and made several tonight. One of his better night’s work. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMalo Gusto – 7A class act and is strong physically and mentally for this team. Chelsea do not even miss captain Reece James at the moment. Levi Colwill – 7Made a crucial block to deny Damsgaard in the style of Chelsea legend John Terry. A solid performance. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTosin Adaribioyo – 6Cracking strength to play having also played in minus 11 centigrade out in Kazakhstan on Thursday. Injuries to defenders Badiashile and Fofana put pressure on him and he did his best. ‘I’m getting emotional’ – England manager Thomas Tuchel’s comments on Cole Palmer leave Chelsea fans close to tearsMarc Cucurella – 4Great run and header for the first goal but then totally spoiled himself with awful gamesmanship. And then reckless to get two yellow cards in the space of a few minutes to be sent off. Moises Caicedo – 8So neat and tidy with his tackles and command of midfield. Chelsea dominated possession and in physical terms – largely due to this bloke. Enzo Fernandez – 7Looks settled and provided several neat through passes to link midfield and attack. Composed too. Noni Madueke – 6Great left foot cross to set up Cucurella’s goal. Dynamic on the run – but did get caught off guard a couple of times. Cole Palmer – 6A powerful shot saved in the first half but otherwise a quiet night for the star of this team. Jadon Sancho – 6Slowly regaining his position in the first-team after falling out of favour. Nifty footwork in the second half almost brought the goal that would have settled this game much earlier. Nicolas Jackson – 7Tasty finish for what was ultimately the winner but also messed up a chance in the first half. A decisive strike though that keeps Chelsea on the winning beat. Subs:READ MORE SUN STORIESChristoper Nkunku (for Jackson 83 mins) – 5Did not get much time to make an impact. Chelsea were on the back foot for the run in. More