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      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer REJECTS emotional return to former club three years since Old Trafford axe

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has rejected the chance to return to management, according to reports in Norway.Solskjaer, 51, has been out of work since his dismissal by United in 2021.Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been offered a return to MoldeCredit: EPASolskjaer isn’t keen to return to Molde after leaving Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Norwegian tactician, who enjoyed tremendous success with the Red Devils as a player, earned the full-time job at Old Trafford after a stint as interim manager in 2018.However, despite a promising start with United, the former striker was axed after two-and-a-half seasons.Now, according to VG, Solskjaer has been offered the chance to take over another former club, Molde.Solskjaer kicked off his coaching career with the Norwegian giants in 2011, after a stint in charge of United’s reserves.Read More on Man UtdHe then had a short spell in charge of Cardiff in 2014 before returning to Molde a year later and ultimately leaving to take over United.Molde recently sacked their manager Erling Moe after a disappointing fifth-placed finish, with Norway’s domestic league finishing last month.And chairman Leif-Arne Langoy is said to have immediately called Solskjaer in a bid to convince him to come back.However, Solskjaer is not interested in a third spell and turned the opportunity down.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis was not the first offer the ex-United boss rejects as he was also approached and asked to take over as Denmark’s head coach.However, he did express an interest to work as Norway’s manager if the opportunity ever arose.‘Don’t tell anyone!’, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reveals what Sir Alex Ferguson said to make him stay at Man UtdSolskjaer said: “I am a proud Norwegian, and of course if the question arises, when Stale [Solbakken] decides to give up, I will happily engage in discussions.”I am a proud Norwegian and proud of where I come from.” More

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      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk 2 undercard: Who else is on the huge Saudi bill?

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      TYSON FURY and Oleksandr Usyk are running it back next week in Riyadh – and the undercard is looking stacked too.Last May, we witnessed one of the fights of the year as both men put on a crazy bout that had fans demanding a rematch immediately.Tyson Fury is up against Oleksandr Usyk in a huge rematch on December 21Credit: PAIn the last fight, both fighters put it all on the line to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.This was highlighted in the build-up because all the heavyweight belts had not been held by one man since Lennox Lewis was champion back in 1999.After that impressive victory against Fury, Usyk lost the IBF belt after being unable to make a mandatory defense, which meant the belt was given to Daniel Dubois.Fury is now preparing to redeem his first-ever loss in what is the final huge fight of 2024.READ MORE IN BOXINGBefore that, fans get to enjoy a huge undercard that has a few familiar names.And SunSport can reveal who will be on the Saudi bill below.Fury vs Usyk 2: Ring walk time, TV channels and undercard – all you need to know for big rematchWho is on the Fury vs Usyk 2 undercard?Teenage heavyweight Moses Itauma, 19, has taken UK boxing fans by storm and he now looks to win his fourth fight of the year taking on 22-1 boxer Demsey McKean.Johnny Fisher, known for his big personality on social media is one to look out for as he makes his return to the ring to take on David Allen in an exciting heavyweight clash.Most read in BoxingThe final fight on the undercard was meant to see Israil Madrimov fight Serhii Bohachuk however, Madrimov has now had to pull out but in steps Ishmael Davis on short notice to save the fight.Here is the FULL undercard below:How can I watch the undercard?The FULL undercard will be broadcast LIVE on DAZN PPV, TNT Sports Box Office, and Sky Sports Box Office.All three will offer the action as a pay-per-view event – both DAZN and TNT have priced it at £24.99, while Sky has set a slightly cheaper price tag of £24.95.The action will also be available to stream on their apps.Alternatively, SunSport will be live blogging all the action from Riyadh as it happens. More

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      in Soccer

      Astana 1 Chelsea 3: Marc Guiu scores twice past keeper wearing a BEANIE as young Blues win in crazy -14C conditions

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      YOU can question why Chelsea were playing over 3,000 miles from home – but the bigger farce is the fact they are in the Conference League at all.The travel for their trip to the outer reaches of Kazakhstan, where it was -14C when Enzo Maresca’s men landed, was always going to be a bigger concern than the Astana side waiting there for them.Chelsea extended their perfect Conference League run at AstanaCredit: ReutersMarc Guiu took advantage of a rare Chelsea start in KazakhstanCredit: ReutersRenato Veiga sealed Chelsea’s three points before half-timeCredit: GettyChelsea’s youngsters stood out in subzero temperatures at AstanaCredit: AFPThis latest Conference League encounter brought three goals, five debuts and a sixth win on the bounce for the Blues – taking them into the Last 16 after Christmas.All very good, all very cheery – all rather pointless at this stage of the competition.Maresca insists he will only ever focus on the next step of the competition, but if they are not in Wroclaw for May’s final something will have gone horribly wrong.Chelsea sit top of the group stage, having won five from five, scoring 21 goals and conceding just four.Read More on ChelseaAfter the ordeal of their eight-hour flight, skirting between two warzones on the way, the Blues’ youngsters showed fine discipline in Almaty.Maresca had told his Chelsea squad to try and remain on English time during their travels.And for the most part they made this look like an afternoon stroll on a heavy surface cleared of snow by undersoil heating.Pedro Neto’s punishment for picking up a suspension for Sunday’s meeting with Brentford was a seat on the flight east.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe winger was the only player who started at Tottenham to make the journey, but made a real difference.After seeing an early effort denied by Astana’s beanie-wearing keeper Mukhammedzhan Seysen, Neto set up the first two goals for Marc Guiu.How Chelsea embarrassed Spurs with Enzo Fernandez leading genius in-game tactical shake-upChelssea ratings vs Astana as Marc Guiu shines on rare opportunity in freezing cold KazakhstanMARC GUIU impressed as Chelsea romped to victory in freezing-cold Kazakhstan.The Blues claimed a 3-1 win over Astana in the Conference League to maintain their perfect record in the competition.Here’s how SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson rated the Blues stars…Filip Jorgensen – 6Never really troubled in the Chelsea net and made a couple of comfortable saves.There was little he could do to stop Marin Tomasov’s brilliant strike.Renato Veiga – 7He netted his second goal of the Conference League campaign with an easy header in the first half.But he was beaten too easily by Tomasov before he netted Astana’s goal.Josh Acheampong – 6Looked comfortable in the defence on his return to the team despite his ongoing contract dispute.Tosin Adarabioyo – 6Dealt with the Astana attackers fairly well and put in some tidy passes.Axel Disasi – 6Took the armband for the match and looked solid in the backline for Chelsea.Samuel Rak-Sakyi – 6Did well in the midfield to win the ball back and get Chelsea moving forward.Carney Chukwuemeka – 5Chukwuemeka struggled in the game as he was clearly desperate to get on the scoresheet.The midfielder wasted multiple chances for the Blues to extend their lead.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Was involved in a lot of the build-up play throughout for Chelsea.Dewsbury-Hall also picked up an assist for his corner kick, which was headed in by Renato Viega.Pedro Neto – 6Forced a good save early on when the game was still goalless. He proved to be a constant threat on the wing.It was the winger’s cross that led to the second goal, which was bundled into the net.Tyrique George – 7Looked very composed when on the ball and threatened with his driving runs into the box.He almost netted his first goal for the club, only to see his effort cleared off the line.Marc Guiu – 8The Spanish striker broke the deadlock with a fantastic goal. He took on his defender and put in a clever finish to beat Mukhammedzhan Seysen.He made it a brace with a fortunate goal that was bundled in.SubsAto Ampah 45′ – 5Struggled to get into the game and make an impact for the visitors.Harvey Vale 66′ – 5Did okay when he came into the action.Shim Mheuka 77′ – NAGot a decent run out in the last minutes against Astana.Keanu Dyer 85′ – NAReplaced Samuel Rak-Sakyi late on in the match.The opener, though, was all to do with the Spaniard.The former Barcelona man collected the ball wide right and strode past the Astana defence like they were training mannequins before finishing at the near post.Having shown his pace and power, the second was pure instinct – given Guiu could hardly have known what was going in.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall fed Neto out wide, with his cross finding the back of the net off the side of Guiu’s torso.Having raced into a two-goal lead, Chelsea eased off until, 20 minutes later, Renato Veiga added a third.The Portuguese was left free in the Astana box to rise and nod in a Dewsbury-Hall corner.Youngsters dominateMaresca’s men were cruising, though the hosts offered a sharpener on the brink at half-time as captain Marin Tomasov cut inside Veiga and poked into the far corner.Tomasov’s goal gave Astana a bit more bite after the break and Filip Jorgensen had to tip over another effort from the Croatian.Maresca started making the changes and Harvey Vale almost scored with his first touch, while Tyrique George and Dewsbury-Hall both went close.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the second half was a display of control and maturity from a very young group.On Chelsea march, with anyone who matters tucked up warm at home and ready for Brentford on Sunday. 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      in Soccer

      Chelsea ratings vs Astana: Guiu takes advantage of rare start to triple goal tally but Chukwuemeka fails to take chance

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      MARC GUIU impressed as Chelsea romped to victory in freezing-cold Kazakhstan.The Blues claimed a 3-1 win over Astana in the Conference League to maintain their perfect record in the competition.Marc Guiu was clinical against AstanaCredit: ReutersCarney Chukwuemeka put in plenty of effort but was not rewarded with a goalCredit: APGuiu, 18, opened the scoring for Chelsea with a brilliant individual goal inside 15 minutes.He beat his defender before slotting past the goalkeeper to set the Blues on their way to victory.The striker doubled up as he helped bundle the ball in after good work from Pedro Neto.Renato Veiga also got himself on the scoresheet as he nodded in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s corner.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSunSports’ Henry Tomlinson has given his ratings of Chelsea’s players…Filip Jorgensen – 6Never really troubled in the Chelsea net and made a couple of comfortable saves.There was little he could do to stop Marin Tomasov’s brilliant strike.Renato Veiga – 7He netted his second goal of the Conference League campaign with an easy header in the first half.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut he was beaten too easily by Tomasov before he netted Astana’s goal.Josh Acheampong – 6Looked comfortable in the defence on his return to the team despite his ongoing contract dispute.The state-of-the-art stadium with special features that will host Chelsea’s clash vs Astana in extreme -13C temperatures Renato Veiga netted Chelsea’s third with a tidy headerCredit: APTosin Adarabioyo – 6Dealt with the Astana attackers fairly well and put in some tidy passes.Axel Disasi – 6Took the armband for the match and looked solid in the backline for Chelsea.Samuel Rak-Sakyi 85′ – 6Did well in the midfield to win the ball back and get Chelsea moving forward.Carney Chukwuemeka 66′ – 5Carney Chukwuemeka should have made more from his chancesCredit: GettyChukwuemeka struggled in the game as he was clearly desperate to get on the scoresheet.The midfielder wasted multiple chances for the Blues to extend their lead.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Was involved in a lot of the build-up play throughout for Chelsea.Dewsbury-Hall also picked up an assist for his corner kick, which was headed in by Renato Viega.Pedro Neto 45′ – 6Pedro Neto was a constant threat in the first halfCredit: GettyForced a good save early on when the game was still goalless. He proved to be a constant threat on the wing.It was the winger’s cross that led to the second goal, which was bundled into the net.Tyrique George – 7Looked very composed when on the ball and threatened with his driving runs into the box.He almost netted his first goal for the club, only to see his effort cleared off the line.Marc Guiu 77′ – 8The Spanish striker broke the deadlock with a fantastic goal. He took on his defender and put in a clever finish to beat Mukhammedzhan Seysen.He made it a brace with a fortunate goal that was bundled in.Subs Ato Ampah 45′ – 5Struggled to get into the game and make an impact for the visitors.Harvey Vale 66′ – 5Did okay when he came into the action.READ MORE SUN STORIESShim Mheuka 77′ – NAGot a decent run out in the last minutes against Astana.Keanu Dyer 85′ – NAReplaced Samuel Rak-Sakyi late on in the match. More

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      in Boxing

      Who is Neeraj Goyat Misfits Supercard star and what is his boxing record?

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      NEERAJ “Gangster” Goyat is an Indian social media, reality and movie star, as well as boxer and mixed martial artist.And he most recently defeated Whindersson Nunes in Qatar on the Misfits 19 Supercard.Neeraj Goyat is a boxer and mixed martial artist from IndiaCredit: GettyHe fought on the Tyson vs Paul undercard in November 2024Credit: @GoyatNeerajWho is Neeraj Goyat?Neeraj Goyat is a 33-year-old Indian boxer and mixed martial artist born on November 11, 1991.He has made significant strides in the boxing world, becoming the first Indian boxer to be ranked by the World Boxing Council (WBC). His journey in boxing began at the age of 15 in 2006, inspired by former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.In March 2024, The Sun revealed Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions had signed Goyat.read more on Neeraj GoyatHe said: “I’m truly honored to be the newest member of the Most Valuable Promotions family.”MVP has been making waves in the boxing world, particularly with its commitment to showcasing and uplifting women in the sport since 2021.“In just 2.5 years, MVP has organised some of the world’s most significant boxing events, and I’m excited to work with MVP to elevate the status of professional boxing in India and bring attention to boxers from India globally.”And MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian has already confirmed business partner Paul could be a future opponent for Goyat in India.Most read in BoxingHe said: “My hope is that we can figure out a way fro MVP and Neeraj to collaborate and build up to the biggest event that India has ever seen and to see Jake Paul and Neeraj Goyat fight respectfully in India.”On November 15, 2024, Goyat even got to share a fight card with Iron Mike when he faced The Problem Child Jake Paul in their highly-anticipated showdown.Jake Paul clashes with Indian boxing star Neeraj Goyat amid fight callout He defeated Brazilian YouTuber and comedian Whindersson Nunes, dominating the bout and landing 171 punches compared to his opponent’s 87.However, it was an action from the Indian boxer in the third round that sparked controversy.As boxing debutant Nunes was shoved into the blue corner, Goyat made the decision to dry-hump him from behind.The referee quickly broke up the action and Goyat returned to his corner of the ring.Neeraj Goyat dry-humped Whindersson Nunes during their fightCredit: X/TwitterGoyat’s achievements so far include:Bronze medalist in the 2008 Youth Commonwealth GamesHe became the first person to defeat Chinese boxer Xu Can in China in 2014First Indian to attempt the 2016 Summer Olympics qualifier in VenezuelaWBC Asian Champion for three consecutive years (2015-2017)Winner of the WBC Asia ‘Honorary Boxer of the Year’ award in 2017On top oh his pugilistic accolades, Goyat has almost 1million Instagram followers and has starred in movies in India and reality shows on Netflix.Neeraj Goyat boxing recordGoyat has an impressive professional boxing record of 20-4-2.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis means he’s won 20 of his 26 fights, lost four and drawn two.Of those 19 victories, eight have come by way of knockout, giving him a KO ratio of 42%. More

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      in Motorsport

      Inside Eddie Jordan’s fast paced life from owning F1 team, to presenting on Top Gear and circling globe on a £32m yacht

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      EDDIE JORDAN has revealed he’s been battling an “aggressive cancer”.The F1 legend, 76, was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer earlier this year which then spread.Eddie Jordan has revealed his cancer battleCredit: GettyKeen musician Jordan also plays drums in a rock and roll bandCredit: GettyEddie Jordan had a successful career as a team owner in F1 with Jordan Grand PrixCredit: GettyHe said he’s had some “dark days” and urged people to go out and get tested and spoke about the importance of looking after one’s body.In an appearance on his Formula For Success podcast, which he hosts alongside David Coulthard, Jordan said: “We’ve kind of alluded to it David, over the shows. Way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer.”And then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive. And we’ve all heard about our wonderful friend Sir Chris Hoy, who is an absolute megastar, and he [was] coming out and talking about illness such as like what I’ve got, but he’s a far younger man.”But this is a little message for all the anchors and everybody listening to this: don’t wait or put it off.Read more motosport news”Go and get tested, because in life you’ve got chances and there is so much medical advice out there and so many things that you can do to extend your lifetime. Go and do it.”Don’t be stupid, don’t be shy. It’s not a shy thing – look after your body, guys.“We’ll move on, but yes, some very dark days in there – but we pulled out of it, thankfully.”Jordan has enjoyed an epic life in racing, from launching his own career to owning F1 teams, and becoming a pundit and TV host.Most read in MotorsportAway from the sport, he’s a keen sailor and boating enthusiast – who once splashed the cash on a boat formerly owned by a US politician, and has circumnavigated the world.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rantRock and roll fan Jordan, who’s understood to be worth around £470million, also loves music and plays drums in a band, while his art collection is mint.Racing careerAge 15, Jordan contemplated becoming a priest. Then, he toyed with the idea of accountancy, taking a course, before getting a job at a bank in Ireland.During a work trip in Jersey, he discovered go-karting – returning to his native country and buying a go-kart.He had a natural flair for the sport.Jordan entered the Irish Kart Championship in 1971 – winning it.In ’74, he moved to Formula Ford, the Irish Formula Ford Championship and, in 1975, to Formula Three.However, he was forced to sit out the entire ’76 season after shattering his leg in a crash.Jordan soon switched to Formula Atlantic, where he won three races in the 1977 season.In ’78 he won the Irish Formula Atlantic Championship – racing in British Formula Three a year later for Team Ireland.Jordan had his own racing career in the 70’s after discovering a love of motorsportCredit: GettySoon, Jordan, a former accountant, would want to be a team owner himself.Credit: GettyIn the late 70s Jordan raced once in Formula Two and did some test driving for McLaren.But, soon his thoughts began drifting towards life away from behind the wheel.Team ownerCome 1979, he founded his own team – Eddie Jordan Racing.Touring car drivers David Leslie and David Sears ran for him, as did James Weaver in European F3.Jordan also hired Martin Brundle, now famed for his celebrity grid walk interviews, who finished second to Ayrton Senna in British F3.In 1987, Johnny Herbert won the team the British Formula Three Championship.In 1991, Jordan had grander plans. After hiring Reynard chief designer Gary Anderson, he founded Jordan Grand Prix and entered Formula 1.They quickly punched above their weight thanks to the quality of drivers that drove for the team.Jordan memorably gave Michael Schumacher his first start in F1 in the team’s debut season.Jordan famously launched the career of Michael SchumacherCredit: GettyEddie Jordan celebrates success at the Belgian Grand PrixCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresAfter one start, the German was lured to Benetton.However, in 1998 the team achieved its best ever result when Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished first and second at the Belgian Grand Prix.A year later, they had Heinz-Harald Frentzen as a genuine contender for the world championship, until he fell away.In 2005, Jordan finally sold up – Midland Group, financed by wealthy Russian-Canadian businessman Alex Shnaider, bought the team and renamed it MF1 Racing.Following a hiatus from motor racing, Jordan returned to F1 as a pundit and has worked for BBC Sport, Channel 4, and is a regular now on Sky Sports.Yacht ownerAway from racing, Jordan loves sailing.He has owned several boats, including the biggest Sunseeker Yacht ever built.Sailing enthusiast has circumnavigated the world thanks his love of boatsCredit: Rex FeaturesBlush eddie jordan yachtCredit: BLUEI PRODUCTIONSIt featured a nightclub and a parking garage for jet skis as well as opulent dining rooms, lounges, bars, viewing decks, jacuzzis, bedrooms and ensuite bathroomsIt reportedly set him back £32million, but he decided to sell it in 2017.He revealed to Boat International that his busy schedule only allowed him to enjoy two weeks a year on it, and it wasn’t worth the £1.2m running costs, including fuel, dockage, maintenance, insurance and crew salaries.Jordan also owned a 45-metre sailing boat called Blush, which he recently sold for around £9m.His passion for sailing allowed him to tick off a dream on his bucket list.“I was very lucky to circumnavigate the world so that’s no longer on the bucket list,” Jordan revealed.Back in the paddockFor all his love of the ocean, motorsport is still clearly his biggest love.In 2016, he became a presenter for the revamped Top Gear, alongside Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc.But he’s at home when he’s in the paddock – working as an analyst.In recent years, he’s been a regular on Sky Sports – delivering his expert opinion.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile he remains outspoken on his podcast Formula For Success, alongside David Coulthard.Long may we continue hearing Jordan’s expertise on the world of F1.Jordan starred opposite Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc on the revamped Top GearCredit: BBCIn recent years, Jordan has worked as a punditCredit: GettyJordan was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer earlier this yearCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta surprises Laura Woods with heartwarming present as TNT Sports host says ‘this was amazing’

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      ARSENAL manager Mikel Arteta surprised Gunners superfan Laura Woods with an early Christmas present.TNT Sports presenter Woods, 37, is a well known Gooner and covered her favourite club’s Champions League clash with Monaco on Wednesday at the Emirates.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta surprised Laura Woods with a giftArteta and Woods met after Arsenal’s Champions League win over MonacoArteta gave Woods a baby onesie as she expects her first childWoods announced her pregnancy back in JulyArteta, 42, led the North Londoners to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Ligue 1 giants with a brace by Bukayo Saka and a goal by Kai Havertz.And the Spanish tactician met with Woods after full-time where he offered her a heartwarming present as she prepares to welcome her first child with Love Island alumni Adam Collard.The Arsenal boss offered the TV star a baby onesie straight from the club’s official store.The reporter was left with a big smile on her face as she shared pics on Instagram thanking the Spaniard.Read More on ArsenalWoods issued the following caption: “This was amazing, thank you.”And she followed it with: “My club.”Woods broke the news that she was pregnant back in July.The journalist managed to keep her pregnancy a secret throughout the entirety of Euro 2024.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSShe made the announcement before jetting off to Paris to cover the Olympics.Woods and Collard broke the news of their engagement back in September.Watch hilarious moment Laura Woods cracks cheeky joke live on TNT Sports leaving Ferdinand and Crouch in stitchesThe couple started dating last year and the reality TV personality got down on one knee on the beach in Cornwall to pop the big question.Woods covered Arsenal’s clash with Monaco and spoke to Arteta at full-timeCredit: GettyArsenal ratings vs Monaco as Lewis-Skelly gets standing ovation but Merino is heavy and slowBUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 7/10Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do.Commanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray.Wasn’t caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco’s left side.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten.JAKUB KIWIOR – 7A capable deputy in Gabriel’s absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco.A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco’s press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal’s opener.Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes.DECLAN RICE – 7Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks.Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn’t his job this evening with Merino alongside him.MIKEL MERINO – 4I wasn’t moved.Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard – Merino – Rice midfield they were excited about. Looked heavy and slow, and got booked.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal.Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4A threat down the left side in the first half, he should’ve had an assist were it not for Arsenal’s number nine.While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough.BUKAYO SAKA – 8In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus.Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games – clinical.GABRIEL JESUS – 5Could’ve had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie.What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal.SUBS:LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5Much the same story as the man whom he replaced.JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it.JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal’s level didn’t drop much.KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka’s second.Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third.ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5Another good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future.Some good touches to get the home fans excited. More

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      in Soccer

      Footballer handed Bart Simpson-style punishment after disrespectful comments towards rivals

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      BRIGHTON’S sister club have humiliated an errant player – by putting him through a Bart Simpson-style punishment.The Seagulls have close links with Union SG, with club owner Tony Bloom the Belgian outfit’s majority shareholder since 2018.Union SG midfielder Loic Lapoussin was forced to undergo a Simpsons-style punishmentCredit: Instagram @rusg.brussels and @lapoussin_94The punishment was inspired by the TV show’s introLapoussin caused a row at the weekend by criticising Cercle Brugge’s stadiumCredit: AFPUnion midfielder Loic Lapoussin caused a row at the weekend by criticising rivals Cercle Brugge’s stadium.So the Brussels club compelled him to make a video in which he had to write lines on a board while in detention.Entitled The Lapoussins, the social-media clip mirrors the start of numerous episodes of The Simpsons.Schoolboy Bart each time scrawls a series of lines on a chalkboard before racing out of the classroom when the bell rings.Read More in FootballUnion’s version sees Lapoussin, 28, writing: “Union – Cercle” dozens of times before running off to join team training.The France-born player had sparked fury with his comments after Union’s 0-0 draw at Cercle on Sunday.He said: “With all due respect to Cercle, these surroundings really don’t make me want to play football.”It’s no fun for our supporters to come here either. There is a world of difference between playing at Club Brugge’s stadium and playing here.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMadagascar international Lapoussin issued a grovelling apology alongside the video.He said: “I want to apologise to our friends from Cercle Brugge, and to the Unionists, for my comments after the game on the stadium and the fans.”Football teams that controversially changed their badgeUnion declared: “Loic learned his lesson the Bart Simpson way.” More