ENZO MARESCA has a wealth of talent at his disposal at Stamford Bridge, with three Cobham starlets already working their way towards first-team involvement.
After starring during the international break for England‘s youth teams, 16-year-old Ryan Kavuma-McQueen and 17-year-old Shim Mheuka are two attackers the Italian boss is keen to have available for selection going forward.
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Enzo Maresca beamed as he discussed Chelsea’s young talentCredit: Getty
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Shim Mheuka debuted for the Blues’ first team last seasonCredit: Getty
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Ryan Kavuma-McQueen was recently in stunning form on international dutyCredit: Getty
Mheuka, who made his Premier League and European debuts for the senior team last season, scored five goals in three games for the Young Lions, while winger Kavuma-McQueen made headlines with a four-goal haul against Germany‘s under-17s.
With Cole Palmer and Liam Delap both injured, there may be a spot for these youngsters sooner than anticipated, especially when the Blues travel to Lincoln in the Carabao Cup on 24th September, with Marc Guiu cup-tied for that game.
Maresca opened up in his Friday press conference on the impressive pair: “They are both in my plans, for sure. Shimmy was already with us and played some games for us last year. Ryan is more of a winger.
“I was watching when Ryan scored four goals against Germany, so I was very impressed, but I already knew him. One of my staff is always watching the youth team; they told me he was very good.
I’ve always said with young players, you have to be calm because they can change every day. For sure, though, he is one of the players we are looking at.”
Kavuma-McQueen is incredibly highly rated by those involved in the Chelsea youth system, and the Blues are keen for him not to become the next Rio Ngumoha, who joined Liverpool in pursuit of first-team opportunities he has now been granted.
That’s why, after fighting off interest from Liverpool and Barcelona for his signature, they will be thrilled that he is set to sign his first professional contract with the club when he turns 17 on New Year’s Day 2026.
While Maresca was left impressed by the two goal-scoring Brits at his disposal, he admitted he has a favourite when it comes to Blues’ youngsters.
Rio Ngumoha dramatically burst onto the scene against NewcastleCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The Chelsea boss isn’t necessarily known for his enthusiasm in press conferences, but when asked about youngster Reggie Walsh, he was warmth personified with a smile plastered across his face.
Walsh, 16, has been training with the first team and was one of a record-breaking eight youngsters to be given a first team shot last season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him get more chances this year with the Blues already facing injuries to some of their key midfielders.
Liam Delap ruled out for three months as Enzo Maresca gives major injury update on Chelsea striker
Maresca added: “I like all the academy guys, but Reggie is the one I like more than the rest, he’s my favourite.
“He’s very good, but because they are from the academy, we need to protect them.
“We already have the youngest squad in Premier League history, and last year we gave so many debuts to academy players. But Reggie is doing things that I demand of other players, and does them without me asking him to. That’s why I love Reggie.”
While Brentford may come too soon for the Cobham trio, they are all likely to feature when the Chelsea U21’s take on Ipswich next Saturday at Kingsmeadow.
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Reggie Walsh has hugely impressed MarescaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
PREMIER LEAGUE football is back after another dreary international break.
And the highlight of this weekend’s action is undoubtedly the mouthwatering Manchester derby on Sunday.
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Man Utd have a big decision to make over whether to give Senne Lammens a debut against Man CityCredit: Getty
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Gianluigi Donnarumma could line up for Pep Guardiola’s side after his deadline day moveCredit: AFP
City vs United is one of the top fixtures of the season.
But there could be some huge changes for both sides, with Pep Guardiola and Ruben Amorim each signing a new goalkeeper on deadline day.
Will Gianluigi Donnarumma and Senne Lammens get their first taste of English football action in one of world football’s biggest games?
SunSport’s tactical expert Dean Scoggins dives into another brilliant analysis…
NEW GOALKEEPER ‘TRAP’ BATTLE
I reckon both teams will be nervous about potential debuts for their goalies! But United fans should be the most nervous about what decision gets made.
City don’t cross it very much so that’s one thing in favour of sticking with Altay Bayindir over Senne Lammens.
Another thing in his favour is United have learned to play out with him, and Amorim may decide to leave Lammens out.
With Gianluigi Donnarumma, City don’t have to worry about mistakes, he will make stacks of saves, he’s absolutely class.
But what they should be nervous about is how they’re going to cope with playing out.
Pep’s hardly going to stop playing out from the back, but Donnarumma is perceived to not be great with his feet, which could give James Trafford a chance.
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Tactically, United will play 3-4-3 and when they’re pressing from the front, they almost slot into a 4-4-2 diamond.
We’ll expect City to drop the centre-backs in and push the full-backs on. You’d then think the goalie plays over the top.
But United will put real pressure on then. The striker will drop on City’s No6 to stop him getting the ball.
They will then press either side with curved runs to block off Donnarumma’s channels.
United want to set a trap by leaving a City player free — they want Donnarumma to play to him.
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Altay Bayindir’s pass success means he could get the nod ahead of Lammens
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United will look to trap Donnarumma into making risky passes with a sneaky set-up
When he hits it, United are going to shuffle across. It’s a trigger for a press. And City fans will be very nervous in that playing-out scenario.
United should be willing to take that risk to make Donnarumma play those passes, and that could mean a lot of joy.
As for Lammens, he looks really confident on the ball. He puts his foot on the ball to bait people in.
But with City’s set-up, they leave United’s 8’s for a trap. That could see them take advantage of United playing out with a new inexperienced goalie.
I’m a bit nervous if Lammens goes straight in, it takes time on the training ground to prepare these things.
They’ve been very brave with Bayindir so far. Lammens is very confident on the ball but it takes time to get used to set-ups in the Premier League.
WHAT SYSTEM WILL PEP USE?
We’ve seen 4-4-2, 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 so far. That’s with 11 injuries.
In attack they want to be in a 3-2-5 shape. But what they’ve done quite a lot this season, not successfully, is get into a 2-3-5 shape with a full-back moving in.
But up against Bryan Mbeumo, and with injuries, I’d be nervous about that shape.
Nathan Ake could come in for a back three, but I think Bernardo Silva will be the key man in this game with his interchanging.
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City will look to squeeze up with three at the back
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This could open the door for United to counter with four attackers
Tottenham and Brighton had loads of joy against City by leaving four up top.
I think City will use Matheus Nunes as a generic right-back with two in midfield like a 4-2-4 shape.
As for United, I think Amad Diallo will play on the left of attack, with Noussair Mazraoui at right wing-back.
There’s a question mark over midfield, is it two or one at the base? It depends on injuries.
HOW WILL MAN UTD ATTACK?
It’s a 3-5-2, but will Amorim start Sesko? United have been the most direct team in the league this season.
They’ve had the most direct chances but haven’t scored one yet.
Mbeumo’s gone close so that’s what they’re going to do.
I think Sesko has to play just for his physicality. Spurs used Richarlison to great effect against City.
If Cunha isn’t fit, you don’t want Mbeumo moved from the right. Don’t make two changes for the sake of one.
If Mount is out too, does Diallo go to the left? You’ve got other options at wing-back.
Diallo turned the game on its head last season and made a fool of Matheus Nunes so can do that job.
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Man Utd love having possession on the left… but they look to break on the right
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They are the most direct team in the Prem but are yet to score from an attack
United will form diamonds and triangles all over the pitch. It gives them options on either side.
But they’ve particularly liked overloading the left side this season.
That leaves Mbeumo to isolate his defender, with the ball going in behind for him to attack the space.
City have been susceptible to balls over the top and have conceded twice from them so far.
United are having more of the ball on the left, but attacking more on the right. That will be the move they want to get.
That’s something for United fans to lick their lips over in attack.
Long passes are back in fashion. City have been more direct and United are now doing it too.
I fancy United to get some joy in this.
DO RODRI AND NICO BOTH PLAY?
I think they should in this game. Reijnders was outstanding against Wolves but got overrun by Spurs physically and caught out against Brighton.
Because City get greedy with position, a midfielder move forward and the other has a lot of space to cover.
Rodri can’t cover that space, especially after his injury.
I think both Rodri and Nico Gonzalez should play as the two, with Bernardo Silva the key on the right as the most flexible player.
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City would be wise to start both Rodri and Nico Gonzalez
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They can’t afford to leave space in the middle of the park with their high line
He can come inside and bring Nunes forward, forcing Dorgu back.
In the direct way of playing and how open they’ve been, it should be a two.
Also, Pep Ljinders. City are pressing more with him as assistant.
It leaves space open for balls over the top, while City have also been playing a very high line.
It’s too much space so two are needed to make it solid. Trust your attackers to break down United.
If they are struggling, take over Nico and bring on a winger. But start with a solid base.
CHELSEA travel up the road where they will face rivals Brentford in what is already their fourth London derby of the season – and SunSport can point fans in the right direction of where to tune in.
Joao Pedro’s header and Enzo Fernandez’s penalty helped the Blues overcome a furious Fulham side before the international break.
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Joao Pedro scored a controversial headerCredit: AP
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Brentford threw away three points against SunderlandCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
And Pedro’s opening strike was a major talking point with it coming in the NINTH minute of stoppage time despite only eight minutes being added.
Elsewhere, Brentford had drama of their own as they most recently lost to newly-promoted Sunderland courtesy of a 90+6 stoppage time Wilson Isidor penalty after leading the game up until the 77th minute.
So they’ll be itching to get back on track with a win and hand one of the only remaining undefeated sides a loss at the Gtech.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca initially thought his £30million transfer from Ipswich would miss six to eight weeks.
But it is now clear he will miss significantly more than that.
The Athletic report Delap will not return to training until November.
Dario Essugo, Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile are all set to the miss the London derby.
As for Blues talisman Cole Palmer, it is still unclear whether he’ll return after missing both the clash against West Ham and Fulham as well as pulling out of the England side.
NEWCASTLE UNITED supporters are fuming after 45 tickets for their clash with Barcelona were handed to a private school 184 miles away in DUNDEE.
The Magpies welcome the Spanish giants to St James’ Park next Thursday as they kick off their Champions League campaign in bumper fashion.
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Newcastle fans are fuming ahead of the Champions League clash with BarcelonaCredit: George Wood/Getty Images
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Newcastle fans are not happy that 45 tickets were handed to a private school 1in DundeeCredit: George Wood/Getty Images
Only a few lucky thousand managed to secure the hottest ticket in Toon as Newcastle United members entered the ballot in a huge scramble to try and secure a seat.
The membership, which costs £37 an adult and £20 a child each season, is a requirement in order to purchase tickets in ballots or queue sales.
Over 100,000 members were left disappointed as the final few tickets quickly sold out on Tuesday.
And that frustration turned to fury after it emerged 45 had somehow been given to the High School of Dundee, a private school in the Scottish city that costs pupils £20,606.40 a year to attend.
The shock news came to light in a social media post by the school offering a matchday trip by coach plus an overnight stay to students costing £295 per person.
Newcastle United Supporters Trust released a statement that said: “We have been inundated with messages regarding a school in Dundee being given 45 tickets for the Barcelona fixture.
“With >100k in today’s member sale queue and countless tickets on 3rd party sites at vastly inflated prices, we completely understand the ongoing frustration from our members and the wider fanbase.
“We have sent this to the club and continue to push for a response.”
Uefa also have a ticket allocation and their partners also have entitlements to tickets in the Champions League and the governing bodies’ other competitions.
Newcastle are yet to comment but SunSport understands the source of the school’s tickets is being looked into.
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SunSport has contacted the High School of Dundee for comment.
Newcastle return to action in the Premier League on Saturday when they host Wolves.
He blasted: “I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors.
“The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time.
“To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.
“When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue.
“That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”
Toon chiefs’ stance was that the Swedish international, 25, is not for sale – although a £150m figure would reportedly have been enough to convince the Saudi owners to part with him.
The club hit back: “We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak.
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“We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
“Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his team-mates.”
If they don’t, the Magpies still hold hope of getting Isak to agree to a new contract with a release clause kicking in next summer.
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Isak to Liverpool transfer saga timeline
JANUARY: First links to Liverpool emerge
FEBRUARY: £150million record fee mooted
MARCH: Isak denies Newcastle contract talk
APRIL: Eddie Howe hails Isak as “very professional.”
MAY: Howe insists Isak will not be sold
Last match in Newcastle shirt
JUNE: Transfer links to Liverpool heat up
JULY: Flies with Newcastle for Austria training camp
Left out of Celtic friendly
Liverpool hijack Toon’s Hugo Ekitike deal after making Isak enquiry
Doesn’t travel for pre-season tour of Singapore and South Korea, citing injury
AUGUST: Training by himself at Newcastle
Liverpool have £110m bid rejected
Isak stops training and goes on strike
Moves out of his apartment
Releases angry statement blasting ‘trust has been lost’
Newcastle respond by insisting he won’t be sold unless it benefits club
However, a further boost for the champions – who have also signed Toon target Hugo Ekitike this summer – is that The Telegraph claim Newcastle are set to accept a £130m bid even if they are unable to sign another striker.
Howe said: “I don’t know. I’m not party to any talks going on.”
When pressed on whether Isak would be allowed to play for the club again if a move did not materialise, the manager added: “Yes, from my side I’ve said it all along. While he’s still contracted to us that has to be the way.”
In Isak’s absence, Newcastle have started the season with two 0-0 draws either side of the dramatic 3-2 defeat to Liverpool.
MARC Guehi struck a blow for the good guys as he left Eagles’ boss Oliver Glasner with something to remember him by.
The Palace captain may be moving to pastures new inside the next 24 hours if his proposed move to Liverpool gets the green light.
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Marc Guehi scored a superb goal on what could be his final Crystal Palace appearanceCredit: Reuters
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The captain could still leave before the transfer window closesCredit: Getty
But his farewell present was a curling shot that underlined the star quality the Reds are paying for as Unai Emery’s chaotic summer imploded at Villa Park.
Guehi struck Palace’s second goal, building on Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first-half penalty on a night to forget for Villa’s boss.
And Ismaila Sarr rubbed salt into very open wounds by adding a third 12 minutes from time, nodding home after the hosts’ defence had followed the example of keeper Emi Martinez – and gone AWOL.
The Argentinian was left out because his mind was “elsewhere”.
The two-time winner of the world’s best keeper award was nowhere to be seen – apparently his mind was unable to cope with the prospect of a potential move away from Villa Park with Manchester United mulling over an offer.
He was declared unfit to play. And that went too for Emery’s side who spent a large chunk of this going around in circles.
Not so Guehi who may have a money-spinning switch to the champs in the offing.
His name was sung loud and proud by the visiting supporters who were appreciative of his professionalism.
And he had the benefit of celebrating in front of them as Villa’s proud unbeaten record was shattered.
Before tonight, Emery’s side were unbeaten on their own patch in the Premier League over the past 12 months.
How Newcastle’s Woltemade deal impacts Chelsea, Liverpool & Wolves | Transfers Exposed
But Palace are Villa’s bogey side – and they had a field day.
Glasner’s men have held the upper hand against Villa recently, winning four and drawing one of their last five encounters, including in the FA Cup semi-final four months ago.
As if to hammer home the point, the visiting contingent reminded the hosts of that 3-0 defeat, taunting them with “Did you cry at Wembley?” within seconds of the game getting underway.
By that stage, Villa’s stadium announcer had put a red line through his usual pre-match script which involved introducing the “world’s best” keeper Martinez to the home crowd.
Emery also mumbled his way through a pre-match television interview in which, when quizzed about the Argentinian’s absence, merely repeated the name of the Argentinian’s replacement, saying: “Marco Bizot, Marco Bizot.”
It was a bizarre reply to a fair question. Villa’s boss confirmed last Friday that he “didn’t expect” any of his main stars to leave the club.
It was almost as if any late interest had completely thrown the Spaniard – knocked him out of his stride. Palace then did the same to his team out on the green stuff.
Despite the excitement of a trip to Norway to face Fredrikstad in the Conference League on Thursday evening, Palace came with a game plan that stifled Villa at every turn.
The Eagles looked polished and took a 21st-minute lead when Mateta pulled away from Villa’s two centre-backs to receive a ball from Tyrick Mitchell on the left flank.
The Frenchman spotted Daichi Kamada making a run and threaded a pass into him.
The Japan international pushed the ball past Bizot whose outstretched leg clipped him. Stuart Attwell pointed to the spot.
The Dutch keeper couldn’t stop himself moving as Mateta dithered during his run-up and the Frenchman rolled the ball into the net.
Emery chose to blood Evann Guessand, a £26million signing from Nice, from the start. He showed some nice touches but it was the evergreen Ollie Watkins who posed the greatest threat.
The England international made something out of nothing when John McGinn simply booted the ball down the middle of the pitch, Dean Henderson standing up well to the striker’s shot.
Emery chose to shake it up at the interval. By that stage, Villa were yet to find the net and it was to another Argentinian – a forgotten one – that he turned.
Emi Buendia sparked a response – but it was all huff, puff and no end product.
Guehi then showed them how to do it as Villa failed to clear a Mitchell cross.
Palace moved forward on the left and Guehi took aim with a stunning effort that left Bizot grasping at thin air.
Sarr then sealed the points with a close-range header following a long throw allowing the visiting skipper to leave on a high.
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Marco Bizot fouled Daichi Kamada to concede a penaltyCredit: Reuters
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Jean-Philippe Mateta rolled in the spot kickCredit: Getty
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He produced his trademark celebration to kick the corner flagCredit: PA
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Ismaila Sarr headed in the third at the back postCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Adam Wharton limped off injuredCredit: Reuters
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It was a contrasting night for the two managersCredit: PA
MICHAEL SALISBURY has been REMOVED as the VAR official for Liverpool vs Arsenal just hours before kick off.
Salisbury, 40, was on VAR duty for Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Fulham yesterday, during which he controversially sent the referee over to the monitor to disallow Josh King’s opener.
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Referee Robert Jones was sent over to the monitorCredit: Reuters
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Rodrigo Muniz was deemed to have fouled Trevoh Chalobah in the build-up to the goal
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..
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CHELSEA are interested in signing Sporting Lisbon striker Conrad Harder, according to reports.
The Blues could re-enter the transfer market for a forward following the injury suffered by Liam Delap against Fulham on Saturday.
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Conrad Harder is attracting interest from ChelseaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Enzo Maresca’s side were on the brink of loaning Nicolas Jackson to Bayern Munich, having deemed the 24-year-old to be surplus to requirements.
Jackson was allowed to travel to Germany for a medical yesterday, only for Chelsea to pull the plug on the deal upon Delap’s injury.
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Joao Pedro scored his second goal in the Premier LeagueCredit: AFP
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Trevoh Chalobah was too soft in the backlineCredit: AFP
Summer signing Pedro gave the hosts the lead with a header in the dying seconds of the first half.
The Blues‘ afternoon was made more comfortable as Enzo Fernandez converted from the spot in the 56th minute.
Fulham did have chances as defender Trevoh Chalobah seemed like a weak spot in the backline.
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Robert Sanchez – 6
Sanchez will have been relieved that Josh King’s opening goal was ruled out, given he was made to look rather silly with the near post finish.
Other than that, however, the Spaniard had a very, very quiet afternoon with little to do after the first half scare.
Malo Gusto – 6
A couple of fine, flying challenges to stop Fulham on the counter while also supporting the winger in flying forwards whenever he can.
Given how good he can be, it feels like Reece James may take the right-back spot from Gusto soon but the Frenchman is putting forwards a good case at the moment.
A very difficult first half for the Blues defender.
Chalobah was lucky that VAR intervened in the build-up to Fulham’s disallowed goal after he was easily rolled by Rodrigo Muniz.
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He was also easily beaten by Josh King not too long after that. Picked up in the second half.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 6
A tough battle with former Fulham teammates Muniz and Raul Jimenez a times but led the Blues back four well.
Came close to opening the scoring but could not react to get an effort on target after a corner deflected his way off of Kenny Tete.
Marc Cucurella – 6
The Spaniard was fairly untroubled throughout, keeping the danger down his side to a minimum – especially impressive after Adama Traore was thrown on to try and get Fulham back in.
As always, a ball of energy looking to cause trouble going forwards, but little joy on that front this weekend.
Moises Caicedo – 8
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Moises Caicedo impressed in the midfieldCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Despite having trained just once this week since the West Ham game, Caicedo put in another stellar display.
Dominant against a hefty Fulham midfield, the Ecuador international held everything together for the Blues.
And even when the control slipped, Caicedo was there to save the day – making a superb last-ditch challenge to deny Timothy Castange what looked a certain goal minutes before the Blues opened the scoring.
Enzo Fernandez – 6
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Enzo Fernandez converted from the spotCredit: AFP
A bizarre afternoon for the Chelsea captain, who shushed his own fans and raged at the fitness coach at halftime.
Some sloppy play first half but stepped up and helped Chelsea gain a little more control after the break, before pulling rank and keeping his cool to convert the penalty and double the lead.
Estevao – 6
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Estevao put in another bright displayCredit: Getty
Another encouraging afternoon for the teenage winger.
Estevao showed his strength and power with a barge on Ryan Sessengnon in the first half, winning the ball before skipping away and past Calvin Bassey.
End product could do with some work still but plenty to be excited about.
Joao Pedro – 7
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Pedro opened the scoringCredit: Getty
Another week and another goal for Pedro.
The Brazilian found space well and confidently nodded home his second Premier League goal of the season to get things rolling.
Pedro even kept his mouth shut when Enzo Fernandez wanted to claim the penalty and open his account for the campaign, giving his captain a hug for support before the spot kick.
Pedro Neto – 5
A lot of hard work for little reward.
With Alejandro Garnacho watching on and Jamie Gittens already providing competition from the bench – Neto will have to show more if he is to keep his place in the side.
Liam Delap – n/a
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Liam Delap went off injuredCredit: Getty
The striker suffered a huge blow as he went off injured early in the first half.
Substitutes
Tyrique George (Delap, 13′) – 5
Thrown in much earlier than expected after Delap’s early injury and asked to lead the line – not his usual position.
It was a surprise George was even turned to given talks progressing over a move to Roma.
his was not a performance that will add any more to the transfer fee as George struggled to make an impact.
Jamie Gittens (Estevao, 67′) – 6
Offered precious little from the bench, although Chelsea were more seeing out the game rather than pushing desperately for a third goal once Gittens was sent on.
Woltemade, Eddie Howe’s fifth recruit this summer and who will wear the No27 shirt, said: “I’m really happy to be at this amazing club. From the first contact, I felt like the club really wanted me and had big plans for me.
“It’s a big step in my life to leave Germany but everybody has welcomed me so well and it already feels like family.
“I have a really good feeling from speaking to the head coach that this is the right place for me to find my best level.
“I know the stadium from watching games on television – it looks amazing and I know the atmosphere is crazy. I’m really excited to play and start scoring goals here.”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe added: “We’re delighted to get Nick’s signing over the line so quickly. He fits the profile for exactly what we have been looking to add to our attacking options.
“He’s strong in a lot of areas – he has great technical ability and has proven himself to be a real threat in one of Europe’s top leagues – but he’s also still at an age where he has plenty of room to develop and grow here.
“Nick is a great character too and we’re really pleased to welcome him to the group.”
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Woltemade, who has penned a contract until 2031, is not believed to have been registered in time to face Leeds today but could make his debut against Wolves in a fortnight.
The two-time capped German international was top scorer at this summer’s U21 Euros with six goals but suffered defeat in the final to England – who had new team-mate Tino Livramento in their line-up.
Fans stunned at size of Newcastle’s Isak replacement Nick Woltemade as he dwarfs over Liverpool star
He makes the big-money move to the North East after just one season with Stuttgart, having joined them from Werder Bremen on a free transfer just 12 months ago.
He scored 17 goals in all competitions last term, including a crucial goal in the DFB-Pokal final – which Stuttgart went on to win.
Woltemade could watch Toon in action at Elland Road today before linking up with the Germany squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovakia and Northern Ireland.
Meanwhile, we revealed Liverpool are expected to make a record bid for Isak in the coming days after club chiefs sanctioned a £130m bid for the 25-year-old.
Newcastle have already rejected one offer worth £110m and are refusing to sell unless they get a replacement
Isak, who is refusing to play for Newcastle and training alone, reiterated his desire to leave this week to Toon’s Saudi chiefs.
Now he will be praying that Howe can get Wissa or Strand Larsen over the line to finally secure his departure.
MANCHESTER United fans and neutrals alike have revisited a video of Jose Mourinho from last year as evidence that he could be on his way back to Old Trafford.
Jose Mourinho has been linked with a return to Manchester United after comments he made last yearCredit: AFP
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He told the press that he would be interested in moving to a bottom half Premier League teamCredit: X / BBCMOTD
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The 62-year-old legend currently manages Fenerbahce in TurkeyCredit: X / BBCMOTD
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Mourinho previously spent two years managing UtdCredit: X / BBCMOTD
The iconic manager made comments last October hinting that he would be open to a return to a bottom-half Premier League side, after his Fenerbahce side secured a draw in the Europa League AGAINST Man Utd.
He told the press: “The best thing I have to do is – when I leave Fenerbahce – I go to a club that doesn’t play Uefacompetitions.
“So if any club in England, from the bottom of the table, needs coach in two years – I am ready to go.
Fans across the English game this window have jumped on the bandwagon, with Leeds, West Ham, Wolves and Utd fans all linking themselves to the manager through the video on social media.
One United fan succinctly commented on the post: “So Mourinho is going back to Man Utd, innit?”
Fans are split on the Portuguese, who already spent two years at the helm at Old Trafford between 2016-18, but at least some of the Red Devils faithful would be open to the move.
Speaking on the players, one X user commented: “None of them can manage the pressure and the culture of winning. We just need Jose Mourinho back.”
Fans of other clubs have also been circling around the old clip as it circulates on X.
One Leeds fan commented:” “I don’t care if he got us relegated, this needs to happen.”
A Hammers fan added: “Feel like Mourinho and West Ham would be pure entertainment. Let it happen, fate.”
Crazy moment Jose Mourinho pinches Galatasaray manager’s NOSE before he falls to ground sparking chaos
Man Utd ratings v Grimsby
MANCHESTER UNITED are at rock bottom after the biggest cup upset saw the club crash out of the Carabao Cup second-round to League Two Grimsby Town on penalties.
Ruben Amorim’s United lost to a four-tier side for the first time ever.
The home fans sang “you’re getting sacked in the morning” to Amorim throughout and you can’t help but wonder if they’re right.
CHELSEA outcast Christopher Nkunku is set to fly to Italy tonight to tie up a £38m move to AC Milan.
Nkunku seemed poised to join Bayern Munich on loan as the Blues struggled to find clubs willing to pay the asking price for the France international.
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Christopher Nkunku is flying to Italy to finalise a £38million AC Milan moveCredit: Getty
But things moved fast when Milan turned their previous interest into a concrete bid.
And Nkunku’s impending move should accelerate Chelsea’s pursuit of Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons.
It is understood that Milan will pay a guaranteed sum of between £33m and £34m for Nkunku, with the rest of the total fee relying on performance.
That would represent a break even for the Blues on the Frenchman, who was signed for £56m two years ago and so is currently worth about £35m on the club’s books.
Nevertheless the Nkunku transfer would be another coup for Chelsea’s recruitment team, perhaps the biggest in a summer that has already seen them agree incoming and outgoing deals worth HALF A BILLION pounds.
In fact, the £38m for Nkunku would put the Blues into profit – albeit temporarily before they decide whether to meet RB Leipzig’s £60m asking price for Simons and the £50m Manchester United say they want for Garnacho.
The Frenchman arrived from Leipzig with a big reputation but was seriously injured in pre-season.
His Chelsea career never got going, although he did contribute five goals in the Conference League campaign that ended with the Blues lifting the trophy last season.
Nkunku, unlike other players who were out of Enzo Maresca’s first-team plans, did also travel to the USA for the Club World Cup and scored once in six appearances.
But he and Nicolas Jackson were left out of the Chelsea squad for the first two Premier League matches of the season as the club tried to offload them.
As SunSport revealed, the Blues’ activity in this transfer window will enable them to meet both Premier League financial rules and the terms of their Uefa punishment.
By balancing the big-money arrivals of players like Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens with successful sales of Noni Madueke and now Nkunku, they have revamped Maresca’s squad without putting themselves in danger of further penalties.
MANCHESTER UNITED are preparing for more ins and outs ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline!
There has been increased confidence that Chelsea will complete a deal for Alejandro Garnacho before Monday’s deadline, according to reports.
Bruno Fernandes is open to leaving the Red Devils at the end of the season after rejecting offers from Saudi Arabia this summer, according to reports.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly open to leaving Old Trafford, with multiple Premier League clubs and Real Madrid interested.
In other news, Real Betis are said to be confident in landing winger Antony on a permanent basis.
And there are reports in Italy that Napoli are open to including a mandatory buy clause into a loan agreement for Rasmus Hojlund, which would be worth around £39million.
This struggle is best illustrated by the unlikely figure who created the side’s only ‘big chance’ of the game.
Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was the only player to create such a chance, through his repeated use of long balls into the opponents’ half.
That chance came when a long ball from the Turk fell at Matheus Cunha’s feet, but Bernd Leno pulled off a smart save to tip the ball around the post with the Brazilian through on goal.
Fans of the club and neutrals alike were quick to comment on the bizarre statistic.
One X user derided the club, commenting: “When your GK is the playmaker, just know it’s peak banter era.”
Another user piled into the fray on social media, saying: “After spending over 200m on attackers they still need a goalie to create a chance.”
Bruno Fernandes’ horrific missed penalty in the first half seemed to have been redeemed when Leny Yoro‘s header deflected off Rodrigo Muniz’s back and into the net.
But Emile Smith Rowe poked home an equaliser soon after with one of his first touches of the match, just minutes after being introduced off the bench.
Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim insists that there may yet be a future of any of his infamous ‘bomb squad’ that don’t make it out of Old Trafford
JACK GREALISH marked his full Everton debut with two assists as the Toffees won the first match at their new stadium.
Goals from Iliman Ndiaya and James Garner led David Moyes men to a 2-0 win over Brighton.
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Jack Grealish bagged two assists on his full debut for EvertonCredit: PA
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The Toffees were in top form as they beat Brighton 2-0Credit: Getty
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It was Everton’s first match at their new Hill Dickinson stadiumCredit: Getty
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The home fans were in fine form at the magnificent arenaCredit: PA
Jordan Pickford also starred as he saved a penalty from Danny Welbeck.
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..
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CRYSTAL Palace welcome Nottingham Forest to Selhurst Park for a huge Premier League clash TODAY.
The match comes after Palace‘s bitter European battle with Forest, which saw the Eagles demoted to the Conference League and the Tricky Trees promoted to the Europa League at their expense.
More drama came off the field this week as Nuno Espirito Santo said his relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is “not the same” – fueling speculation over a potential departure.
The atmosphere had completely gone in what was an uninspiring 46 minutes.
But they win the ball back high up and Timber feeds a ball down the outside for Saka, inside the box on his right foot.
He has Gyokeres waiting for a cut back but Saka makes the right choice in ignoring that and firing a right-footed shot over the shoulder of Perri who probably should do better and into the top corner!
That’ll likely be game over now here and a much-needed second for Arsenal.
GOAL!! ARSENAL 2-0 Leeds
BUKAYO SAKA makes it two in first half injury time!
Benjamin Sesko made his Manchester United in Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal.
On the field, the £74million striker made little impact as his side crashed to a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford.
But off it, Sesko leads a fabulous lifestyle full of glitz and glamour.
Napoli pushing for Hojlund
Napoli are pushing to sign Rasmus Hojlund from Man Utd, according to football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
Negotiations with United are understood to be entering the advanced stages, with Napoli requesting a loan deal with the option to buy.
United plot Real raid
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a shock move for Real Madrid ace Eduardo Camavinga.
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorin is eager to add some defensive steel to his midfield before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Their interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has reportedly cooled due to the “difficulty” in getting a deal over the line this close to deadline day.
And according to reports in Spain, United are now considering trying to sign Camavinga from Real.
It’s claimed the Old Trafford club are toying with the idea of submitting a £69million bid for the 22-year-old, who Amorim is said to be a big admirer of.
