More stories

  • in

    Tottenham fans plotting biggest-ever protest against Daniel Levy at Man Utd match including stadium sit-in

    DANIEL LEVY is facing the biggest fan backlash of his 24-year Spurs reign with another protest planned on Sunday.The demo, organised by fed-up season-ticket holders named Change for Tottenham, will take place before and after the Prem fixture against Manchester United.Daniel Levy has come under scrutiny in recent weeksCredit: GettyProtesters plan to march ahead of the game and then stage a sit-in protest at full-time in the South Stand.The aim is to put pressure on majority owners ENIC to sell the club — and for chairman Levy to go.Levy has faced calls for him to leave in recent matches, with injury-decimated Spurs 14th in the table and out of both domestic cups.Anger has reached boiling point over a lack of silverware — with no trophies won since 2008.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAsked if the anti-Levy feeling is the worst it has ever been, Change for Tottenham’s Jamie Coughlan said: “By far. We’ve had the promises broken every single time.“It’s by far the most vigilant fans have been on the way the club acts.“If you look at 2019, we were battling to win a Champions League final.”Fast forward five years and realistically we’re in a relegation fight.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSTottenham fans are planning further protestsCredit: ReutersSpurs are the world’s ninth-richest team under Levy’s control, according to Deloitte’s latest findings.But that report also showed the club’s wages-to-turnover ratio is just 42 per cent, the lowest of all Premier League clubs.Fuming Ange Postecoglou covers face with hands as he loses it over reporter’s question after Tottenham’s FA Cup KOCoughlan is hopeful the unrest could tempt a potential buyer to make an offer for the £4billion-valued club.He added: “It will show that the fans are unhappy with the ownership which could then force somebody into saying, ‘Do you know what, I’m going to try, I’m going to test the waters and see if Tottenham would be interested in selling’.”Spurs fans are planning to stage a sit-in in their South Stand after Sunday’s gameCredit: Rex More

  • in

    ‘What have I done? What an idiot’ – Lando Norris has major regret over 2024 F1 title race as he sends Verstappen warning

    LANDO NORRIS warned Max Verstappen he will be no soft touch this season as he battles to snatch the Dutchman’s crown.The McLaren driver, 25, will fight tooth and nail to dethrone the four-time F1 world champion after his mentality was questioned last year.Lando Norris opened up on going toe-to-toe with Max Verstappen last yearCredit: GettyThe Red Bull driver won his fourth world titleCredit: GettyRed Bull senior adviser Helmut Marko said before the Texas Grand Prix in October that Bristol-born Norris is “not the strongest mentally”.Verstappen and Norris fought fiercely throughout 2024, going wheel to wheel on numerous occasions before an inevitable first collision in Austria which cost them both the lead.The British ace silenced the doubters, though, by delivering an exceptional drive in the season finale in Abu Dhabi to bring home McLaren’s first constructors’ title since 1998.Norris, speaking yesterday at Silverstone where his team revealed their new MCL39 car, said: “I need to get my elbows out and show I’m not going to willingly give him any positions.READ MORE IN F1“But I also have to be a smart driver. You have to be smart to go up against Max. We saw it last year so I look forward to it.“I like those moments when you have to make quick decisions — and it’s always a lot harder when you’re in the car than when you re-watch it.“When I see some things that I do, I’m like, why the hell have I done it, what an idiot.“But at the same time, I don’t need to go out and just prove something to him. I don’t need to take any unnecessary risks and go down trying. I just keep focusing on myself.”Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNorris is a marginal favourite over Verstappen to win the title this year.His runner-up, career-best campaign in 2024 saw four race wins in 24 outings.Watch F1 star Lando Norris drive unique McLaren P1 car round Silverstone – but can you spot why it’s so incredible?Team McLaren came from behind to finish ahead of Ferrari and Red Bull.They will go into pre-season testing later this month — ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 16 — as title favourites.When Norris was asked if he would encourage people to put money on him becoming champion, he joked: “I hope they make a lot of money on me!“Every year is a new year and every driver is going to come back more determined.“When I brought pressure up in the past, people always turn it into a bad thing,“But it’s not a bad thing at all. Those moments I thrive on are the ones where there is more pressure,  more nerves and I enjoy that.” More

  • in

    ‘Man Utd the problem’ say fans as £85.5m flop Antony scores stunning goal for Real Betis in Conference League clash

    ANTONY continued his fine Real Betis form by scoring against Gent in the Europa Conference League.The Manchester United flop, 24, joined the Spanish side on loan in January having struggled for game time at Old Trafford.Antony launched a shot from the edge of the boxThe Brazilian celebrates his second goal in two gamesCredit: RexThe Brazilian found the net in just his second Betis appearance against Celta Vigo last weekend, having laid on an assist on his debut.He continued his resurgence by scoring a fine effort to give his loan side the lead in Belgium this evening.Barely a minute into the second half, the winger received the ball on the right flank.He subsequently drove inside, before unleashing a shot into the bottom corner.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans online were quick to have their say on Antony’s goal.One posted: “United was the problem.”While a second blasted: “Now it is clear that United destroys every player.”A third wrote: “Crazy what confidence can do to a player.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAntony reveals a message on his undershirtCredit: EPAAnd another added: “Prime Antony is back.”Real Betis CEO Ramon Alcaron has already admitted that his side are interested in making Antony’s loan deal permanent.Antony leaves Man Utd with more yellow cards than goals as £86m Ten Hag flop goes down as one of worst transfers everThe former Ajax star remains under contract at United until June 2027.Asked about whether he wants to keep Antony long-term, Alcaron said: “Yes, I think so. The other day the CEO of United called me.“We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here.”It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”Antony joined Man Utd in an £86million deal in the summer of 2022; subsequently scoring 12 goals and laying on five assists in 96 appearances.Antony struggled to perform at Man UtdCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Bukayo Saka set to miss further EIGHT WEEKS in another devastating injury blow for Arsenal as slim title hopes fade

    BUKAYO SAKA is set to be sidelined for a further eight weeks as Arsenal’s injury nightmare intensified.As the Gunners confirmed that German Kai Havertz was out for the season ahead of undergoing hamstring surgery, it emerged that Saka’s similar injury could prevent him returning until mid-April.Bukayo Saka may not return from injury until AprilCredit: RexThe Arsenal star was seen in rehab at the club’s training camp in DubaiCredit: GettyMikel Arteta has an injury crisis to contend withCredit: GettyWhen Saka limped away from the 5-1 crushing of Crystal Palace in December, Arsenal were hoping for him to be fit by next month.The club published photos of the England ace going through rehab drills during this week’s training camp in Dubai.But boss Mikel Arteta, now left with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and teenager Ethan Nwaneri as fit attacking options with first-team experience, will not take a further gamble on Saka unless he is absolutely ready.That reluctance to risk Saka, whose explosive push off on his injured right leg is a major part of his threat, could now see the winger staying on the sidelines for up to four months in total.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, the expected bad news on Havertz, the club’s 14-goal top scorer, was confirmed.Arsenal announced: “We can confirm that Kai Havertz has sustained a hamstring injury during a training session in Dubai last week.”Subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed that the injury will require surgery, which will take place in the coming days.”Soon after surgery, Kai will begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, which is expected to extend into pre-season preparations for next season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”Everyone at the club is fully focused on supporting Kai to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”Arteta, already without Gabriel Jesus, is also expected to be missing fellow Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli for a month.Arsenal wonderkid Lewis-Skelly’s mum reveals he’s ‘still on washing-up duty’… and how she nearly missed Man City goalHe pulled a hamstring in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat at Newcastle last week.Arsenal sit seven points off Liverpool at the top of the table following their chaotic 2-2 draw against Everton yesterday. More

  • in

    Newcastle vs Liverpool Carabao Cup final kick-off time confirmed after chiefs forced into decision by LIMP BIZKIT

    NEWCASTLE’s Carabao Cup final clash against Liverpool has had its kick-off time confirmed.The Magpies reached Wembley after dumping out Arsenal while the Reds beat Tottenham over two legs.Limp Bizkit are playing at Wembley Arena on the day of the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyNewcastle will face Liverpool in the Wembley final after beating ArsenalCredit: GettyLiverpool dumped out Tottenham in their semi-finalCredit: GettyThere were some reports that the match could have a rarely-seen 8pm kick-off on Sunday, March 16.However, this was alwaysunlikely due to US rap rock band Limp Bizkit performing at Wembley Arena on the same day.Led by frontman Fred Durst, they are best known for hits such as Break Stuff and Rollin’.Their energetic performances and unique image made them iconic in the late 1990s and early 2000s alternative music scene.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe band are performing in the evening, so an earlier kick-off time of 4.30pm has been selected, which should see the fans away from the stadium by the time the gig starts.It is the same slot that was used for the 2023 final between Newcastle and Manchester United.Eddie Howe’s side will be hoping that this time does not see the same result as they were beaten by the Red Devils 2-0 that day.The Daily Mail has claimed that Newcastle are now facing backlash from some corporate supporters over final tickets.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe report has stated that they have been handed less tickets than when the club reached the final two years ago.In one case, a fan that spends up to £50,000-per-season was rewarded with four tickets compared to their previous ten.This has seen angry phone calls made to the club with many complaining about the change.However it is suggested that the club has argued the reduction due to having “more partners” to provide for.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak talks to Alan Shearer about Champions League desires One fan said: “I feel like I’ve been robbed and conned. If the club had been transparent at the start of the season then you can manage expectations or make alternative plans.”As it is, I have taken up my box for every cup game and been to the away games in the belief that I would get the full allocation of ten tickets if we made a final.”They set a precedent for the 2023 final, and the assumption was that they would do the same.”People see the word ‘corporate’ and think it’s all business and clients.”I used to sit in the stands as a season-ticket holder and I’m lucky enough now to be able to afford a box.”It’s not ‘corporate’, I see it as ten season tickets for my friends and family.”I’d told them we’d be getting our seats for the final. I’ve now got to choose between grandchildren as to who goes to Wembley. I feel let down by the club.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSky Sports currently holds the rights to the FA Cup, so will be showing the game live on Sky Sports, or via the Sky Go and Sky Sports app for streaming.In addition, the final WILL be available for free-to-air television too with ITV 1 showing the big game, and it will be streamed for free on ITV X. More

  • in

    When is the Carabao Cup final 2025? Kick-off time CONFIRMED, TV channel and stream details

    NEWCASTLE will take on Liverpool for a chance to take home the first trophy of the season at Wembley.Arne Slot will be taking Premier League leaders to face Eddie Howe in the Carabao Cup final.Liverpool will be looking to win back to back Carabao Cup finalsCredit: GettyAlexander Isak guided Newcastle to the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyThe Carabao Cup is the first trophy available of the domestic treble in the 2024/25 season. Liverpool are the defending champions, after beating Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea side 1-0 in the 2023/24 final.When is the Carabao Cup final?The Carabao Cup final in 2025 is set to take place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 16.Kick-off time has been CONFIRMED for 4.30pm.Last season, the match kicked off at the earlier time of 3pm.Who is in the Carabao Cup final?Defending champions Liverpool took home the trophy last season, beating Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley Stadium.Read more FootballAn open game saw Chelsea miss a handful of good chances, before in extra time Virgil van Dijk headed in the first and only goal of the final.Van Dijk’s header won Jurgen Klopp his last trophy as manager of the Reds.This year, after two semi-finals, consisting of two legged play offs, Newcastle will face Liverpool for the first trophy of the season.Eddie Howe’s side reached the final for the second time in three seasons, beating Arsenal 4-0 on aggregate in dominant fashion.Most read in FootballWhile Liverpool overturned the 1-0 deficit into a 4-1 thrashing over Spurs and booked their place in their second Carabao Cup final in two years.How to watch the Carabao Cup final 2025 and is it available for streaming?Sky Sports currently holds the rights to the FA Cup, so will be showing the game live on Sky Sports, or via the Sky Go and Sky Sports app for streaming.In addition, the final WILL be available for free-to-air television too with ITV 1 showing the big game, and it will be streamed for free on ITV X. More

  • in

    Ronnie Boyce dead aged 82: West Ham lead tributes to cup-winning hero who played with Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst

    WEST HAM legend Ronnie Boyce has sadly passed away aged 82.The icon scored the winner in the FA Cup final in 1964 and then helped them win the European Cup Winners’ Cup a year later.West Ham icon Ronnie Boyce has sadly diedCredit: PA:Empics SportBoyce [front centre] won two cups with the Irons as a playerCredit: PABoyce was also a member of the coaching staff when the Hammers lifted the FA Cup in 1975 and 1980 – before taking charge of one game as caretaker manager in 1990.His family penned a touching tribute, which read: “We are so very sad to confirm that our beloved husband, father and grandfather Ronnie passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon.“He fought illness in recent years with typical courage, bravery and no fuss, and with such strength. “His nickname of ‘Ticker’, as the strong heartbeat of West Ham’s team in the 1960s, could not have been more appropriate.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He was a Hammer all of his life, from growing up in East Ham to representing the Club as a player and coach across 34 years of dedicated service, and always had time for the fans and people who gave him so much support throughout his time in football.“He never boasted about his wonderful playing career or achievements.”But he was so proud of the fact that he scored the winning goal in West Ham United’s first-ever FA Cup victory, and his love of the Club and the supporters meant so much to him.“As a family, we were even prouder of the love, support and dedication he gave us all, and of the quiet, honest, decent man that he was. We will miss him greatly and he will never be forgotten.”Most read in FootballThe Hammers added: “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Ronnie’s wife Dawn, his sons Gary and Tony, daughter-in-laws Ewa and Sarah, grandsons Ross, Ben, Jack, Elliott and Tom, and all of his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.”Further tributes to Ronnie will appear across Club channels in the coming days and at London Stadium on Saturday ahead of our Premier League fixture against Brentford.”Devastated fans wrote online: “RIP. A genuine West Ham legend.”Another commented: “Sleep tight, Ticker. A fine footballer and a wonderful gentleman.”Boyce played alongside World Cup winners Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters at Upton Park.He was handed a lifetime achievement award by West Ham in 2019. More

  • in

    Amazing moment Sky Sports News staff gather to applaud speechless presenter during final broadcast after 43-year stint

    A LEGENDARY presenter was applauded by the Sky Sports News staff during his final broadcast.Nick Powell is leaving our screens 43 years of service and was on air for the last time.Nick Powell was given a round of applause in the Sky Sports News studioCredit: Sky SportsHe is leaving the broadcaster after 29 yearsCredit: Sky SportsPowell, 66, was honoured with a montage of himself working throughout the years.As the video ended, he was welcomed in the studio by the staff and given a rousing round of applause.Powell was visibly stunned and left without words until presenter Mike Wedderburn spoke to him.Wedderburn said: “Nick, we love you. Obviously, we are going to miss you.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhen Powell could muster some words, he was composed to make a joke.He said: “I was just going to say if we took as much care as we did with that with the rest of the output, it would be fantastic.”Someone has gone through a lot of trouble and thank you very much.”The clip was shared on social media and many of Powell’s fans took the chance to wish him well in the comments.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne posted: “What a legend Nick Powell is.”His voice and presence have been such a huge part of Sky’s coverage for as long as I can remember, truly the end of an era. Wishing him all the best in retirement.”Former Premier League star signed contract then ripped it up just 20 minutes later in classy gesture A second wrote: “Good luck Nick.”A third commented: “Happy Retirement, Nick! Good luck and you’ll be missed.”A fourth said: “Legendary.”Another added: “Wish you the very best in your future endeavours, Nick.”Powell also revealed one of his sporting heroes in his final Sky broadcast after 29 years with the channel.He said: “There have been lots over the years, but since I saw Kevin Keegan there (in video).”Am I allowed to mention a former Liverpool hero, I was probably 11 when he signed for Bill Shankley.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe popular broadcaster has covered some of the greatest sporting events, such as England’s Ashes triumph in 2005, London 2012 and Andy Murray’s Wimbledon win in 2013.The journalist issued a long farewell message on Sky Sports’ website where he also looked back at unforgettable interviews with the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Muhammad Ali and Princess Anne.Who are these famous footballers? More