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    Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Wasteful Man Utd would have run out of cash THIS YEAR without cuts.. I want trophies not free lunches

    SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has defended his controversial cost-cutting at Old Trafford – and claims the club was on track to run out of money THIS YEAR. The United co-owner broke his silence following recent fan protests at Old Trafford. Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched Man Utd’s draw with Arsenal on Sunday from the Old Trafford standsCredit: PAThe Ineos chief has presided over unpopular cost-cutting at the clubCredit: GettyThousands of United fans protested ahead of the 1-1 draw with the GunnersCredit: GettyRatcliffe, 72, told the BBC: “Manchester United would have run out of cash by the end of 2025.”Where do you want to spend the money?”Do you want to spend it on operating the club or do you want to spend it on the squad?”Because if you spend it on the squad, you get better results.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”At the end of the day, what is Manchester United here for if not to win trophies?”What we want to do is invest in the best players in the world, if we can. “Rather than spend it on, I’m afraid, free lunches.”Ratcliffe completed a minority takeover in 2023 and has since gained control over sporting operations at United, which in turn led to some severe downsizing.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsHe has pursued unpopular cost-cutting over the past year. Last week, SunSport revealed how United are staring at a £100million black hole after a horror season. Amorim ‘pleased’ with Man Utd performance despite missed chances against Arsenal Last summer saw 250 staff members made redundant, with another 200 estimated to follow.Ratcliffe has slashed costs across the club, including ditching the annual Christmas party and removing Sir Alex Ferguson from his paid role as an ambassador. He continued: “The losses are because the club’s just been spending money needlessly.”We’ve got a body language consultant. There’s all sorts of stuff we’re spending money on that we don’t need to be.”On the field, the Red Devils are languishing in the lower reaches of the Premier League.And they may be forced into selling their star assets in the summer to counter PSR rules. The players were not immune from Ratcliffe’s criticism in the scathing interview.He added: “Some [players] are not good enough and some probably are overpaid.Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Man Utd signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as everIT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.Arsenal’s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances.”But for us to mould the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time.”We’ve got this period of transformation where we move from the past to the future.”There are some great players in the squad as we know, the captain is a fabulous footballer. We definitely need Bruno [Fernandes], he’s a fantastic footballer.”Prior to Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal, thousands of United fans took to the streets outside Old Trafford to protest.Organised by the 1958 fan group, spokesperson Steve Crompton claimed the club is “dying” and “facing financial Armageddon”.Crompton said: “The club is slowly dying before our eyes, on and off the pitch, and the blame lies squarely at the current ownership model.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The club is facing financial Armageddon. Debt is the road to ruin.”Sir Matt Busby would be turning in his grave at the current plight of one of the world’s greatest football institutions which is being brought to its knees and in many ways becoming a laughing stock.” More

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    ‘That’s a concern’ – Arsenal legend Martin Keown reveals his big Ethan Nwaneri ‘worry’ with youngster ‘not a man yet’

    MARTIN KEOWN is desperate for Ethan Nwaneri NOT to get an England call-up this month over fears of fatigue.The 17-year-old academy star has been a revelation for Arsenal in the absence of crocked Bukayo Saka so far this term, scoring eight goals in 28 games across all competitions.The Arsenal teenager has enjoyed a meteoric rise this seasonCredit: GettyWith Thomas Tuchel announcing his first England squad on Friday, Gunners midfielder Nwaneri has an outside chance of being included in his first senior Three Lions camp – having already represented the U16s, U17s and U19s.However, Arsenal legend Keown is concerned for Nwaneri’s welfare – especially given his slight drop-off in recent Prem clashes against West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United.TNT pundit Keown explained: “There’s a chance [Nwaneri] may make the international team. That’s a concern, that’s a worry.”You take it if it comes but if it doesn’t, then he gets a nice bit of time with the manager, resting up between games so there’s a balance.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”It does one thing for confidence but another for the body. When you’re 17, you’re not even fully developed in terms of your cardiovascular system. You’re not really a man yet.”There’s still some growing to do, and recently he has looked tired, like he was blowing, and this is normal for a 17-year-old kid.”So it might be a time where he needs resting. And if he doesn’t make the full squad, does he need to be involved in the U21s?”This has got to be sensibly managed between now and the end of the season.”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsTuchel’s England have two home World Cup qualifiers coming up – against Albania on March 21 and Latvia on March 24.Another Arsenal youngster that has a chance of being in the mix is left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly after also breaking into the first team under Mikel Arteta this campaign.Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title raceGiven England’s left-back situation – with consistent fitness issues for Luke Shaw, Ben Chilwell and Lewis Hall – 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly has been earmarked for his international debut following a recent spell as U19s captain.And Keown believes he deserves it – even with a disciplinary record that Arteta has warned could make the teenager a liability.Keown said: “He’s had some issues, but in terms of physicality, he’s ready to go. “He looks like he could play and there’s a problem at left-back for England.”He’s different [to Nwaneri], more developed. I wouldn’t say he’s a freak of nature, but when you see the strength in him, he is all about power.”So he is not going to want to be denied the opportunity to play for England.”Arsenal ratings vs Man Utd as Rice runs Gunners midfield but wonderkid Nwaneri falls below high standardsDECLAN RICE rescued a point for Arsenal after David Raya failed to stop a Bruno Fernandes freekick.Fernandes’ set piece was followed by a brilliant Rice strike in the second half, leaving the sides with a point apiece.After a quiet first half, both sides woke up and provided more going forward after the break but lacked quality in the final third.Raya’s display in the second half more than made up for his earlier error and, alongside Rice, kept his side in the game.Coming off the back of a riotous 7-1 victory over PSV, Arsenal reverted to their goal scoring woes and proved once again that they desperately need a striker.But, who was on the mark for the Gunners?Can Mikel Arteta push for the title without an out-and-out striker?And did anyone shine off the bench for Arteta’s side?Here, SunSport’s Conor Jones delivers his Arsenal player ratings against Manchester United…Lewis-Skelly has been shown two straight reds already in his senior Arsenal career, first at Molineux in January – which was later rescinded – and in February at the Emirates against the Hammers.And he was lucky not to pick up a first-half second yellow in the 7-1 Champions League last 16 first leg victory over PSV last week.Keown – who was shown 6 red cards in 310 Prem appearances for Arsenal – added: “I remember at that age being impetuous, going off your feet. But you just learn.”I had to do that myself, you have to learn the hard way. You think you can win every tackle, and then suddenly you’re playing against a quicker, stronger player, a little nudge here and there, and you’re committed to it.”People now will probably be diving in and around him a little bit, because they know he might go off his feet. READ MORE SUN STORIES”So just pick and choose, but you get better at that.”Arsenal legend Martin Keown doesn’t believe Ethan Nwaneri should link up with EnglandCredit: RexWatch Arsenal in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, live on TNT Sports and discovery+ More

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    Inside Newcastle’s ‘once in a generation’ stadium dilemma of building £3bn new mega-venue or boosting St James’ Park

    NEWCASTLE have always been a huge club in English football, but now they’re on a mission to become one of the biggest sides in Europe.A massive nation state takeover, splashing cash on superstar players, returning to the Champions League, building fan parks and now reaching domestic cup finals in two of the last three seasons – they’re following the blueprint to a tee.Newcastle are setting out plans for a revamp St James’ Park or build a new stadiumNewcastle are facing a dilemma on whether to expand their iconic ground or find a new homeCredit: GettyThe iconic stadium currently boasts a capacity of 52,304Credit: AlamyOther than a first major trophy in 70 years, there’s just one thing missing for the Toon Army – a stadium fit for European elite.St James’ Park is a historic ground in the heart of a true one-club city, but despite its rich history, electric atmosphere and iconic reputation, it has sat in place since the 1800s.With that comes problems, not just with its capacity, but also with the stadium’s condition as a whole.Newcastle’s owners know that things need to change and they are ready to take the necessary steps to do so.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, they face a huge dilemma in deciding whether those steps mean a tricky renovation project or leaving their iconic stadium altogether.ICONIC ST JAMES’ PARKSt James’ Park is actually one of the oldest football grounds in the country, holding its first recorded fixture in 1880 – 12 years prior to the formation of Newcastle United as a club.The Magpies moved into the ground in 1892, calling it home for the last 133 YEARS.The first major development of the stadium in 1899 saw its capacity taken to 30,000.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it was their first league title in 1905 that sparked the next major expansion, taking the stadium’s capacity up to some 60,000.St James’ Park has effectively been built on year by year, seeing the addition of new stands, floodlights and extensions periodically as the ground grew with the club.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’sHowever, changes to laws around standing and seating meant their 60,000 capacity stadium suddenly held a comparatively measly 36,610 fans by the end of 1995.That capacity wasn’t enough for a flying Newcastle side capturing the imagination of fans with Alan Shearer scoring goals for fun.And a proposal was put forward by Chairman Sir John Hall to move the club into a new multi-million pound arena in the adjacent Leazes Park.But after the plans were shut down by local objections and political pushback, the club were forced to look elsewhere to expand their capacity.That led to a stunning £43MILLION expansion that saw the club build upwards on the Milburn Stand, Leazes End and the adjoining corner to take the capacity to the 52,304 it sits at today.Completed in 2000, the expansion means that Newcastle have the eighth largest football stadium in England, and the seventh largest in the Premier League.But seasons of frustration and underachieving saw so many of those seats left empty during the years under controversial owner Mike Ashley between 2007 and 2021.That torrid spell saw Newcastle relegated to the Championship TWICE before Ashley was finally able to sell the club to the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund in 2021.Now the stadium, which famously hangs over the city, is packed to the rafters every week as the Magpies excel under the management of Eddie Howe, reaching two Carabao Cup finals and returning to the Champions League for the first time since 2003 last season.St James’ Park has been home to Newcastle for 133 yearsCredit: GettyThe stadium used to hold 60,000 fansCredit: PAIconic stars like Kevin Keegan have graced the pitchCredit: RexSt James’ has been changed over the years and saw its capacity fall after more seats were addedCredit: PAThe stadium looked different in 1995Credit: AlamyEven more expansions have seen the ground given its iconic look these daysCredit: PASO, WHY NOW?Newcastle’s upturn in form under their new management and ownership is certainly one reason that things are ready for a change at St James’ Park.Most fans will tell you that you can’t get your hands on a matchday ticket for love nor money at the moment, with everyone in the city wanting a glimpse of Howe’s high-flying Mags.So an expansion or move to a larger ground simply makes sense. Both the demand and the funds are there to make it happen.And crucially, a smaller, less-appealing ground means less matchday revenue, which in the age of PSR and FFP means cold hard cash that most modern owners don’t want to miss out on.Although Newcastle currently have the Premier League’s seventh largest capacity, they will fall down to eighth next season following the opening of Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Docks stadium.While they are going to lose even more ground on their rivals after Man City complete their ambitious expansion in 2026.Not to mention the proposed plans for expansions at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium and the potential of Man Utd and Chelsea ditching Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge for new, even bigger, homes.While for the owners, it’s not just about getting more bums on seats and making more matchday revenue.Newcastle’s bigwigs are also looking to help the club’s reputation grow in European football, essentially opting for an “act the part, look the part” strategy.That’s already been evidenced by their lucrative kit manufacturing deal with Adidas, and the way they have thrown their weight around in the transfer market by signing the likes of Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.A world-class stadium would help Newcastle fit in with the teams they’re trying to compete with – in a similar fashion to Tottenham’s £1BILLION move to their state-of-the-art ground from White Hart Lane.Newcastle have made memories at St James’ over the yearsCredit: AFP – GettyClub legends have made history on the pitchCredit: GettyNow they are in a new era and looking to improve on what they haveCredit: GettyWHAT ARE THE CLUB PLANNING?Well, there are two options for Newcastle when it comes to their stadium. It’s quite simple really – stay or go.Staying would mean a huge redevelopment of the Gallowgate End, while leaving would mean building a brand new home elsewhere.Both projects have different positives and negatives that need to be weighed up before a decision is made.Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan flew in for crucial talks in recent weeks and the club provided a statement to update fans on their upcoming decision at the beginning of March.Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone confirmed an announcement is coming “soon” – and possibly hinting which way they have opted to go if the finances get the final say. Silverstone said: “We’re at that point where we’re deciding is it best to renovate and re-invigorate St James’ Park or build a new stadium as these projects have shown and other clubs in the Premier League have done.“That is a decision which will be made relatively soon. What’s clear is we need to satisfy that demand.”Every week we have a very intense fanbase which is determined to come and watch Newcastle but can’t.”A new venue could generate significantly higher revenue both on matchdays and beyond.”Newcastle’s chief operating officer Brad Miller had previously insisted that the club’s first choice is to stay at St James’ Park.That way they can retain their electric atmosphere, unusually sloped pitch and the fact they get to stick the away fans up in the Gods.The ownership have only recently invested in a huge 3,000-capacity fan park next to the ground called St James’ STACK. The fan zone is made up of shipping containers and offers fans a place to eat, drink, watch the game and listen to live music.And a third, more unlikely, option was proposed to give the stadium a lick of paint and a makeover instead of moving permanently or increasing capacity.Newcastle already opened up St James’ STACKCredit: GettyThe 3,000-person capacity fan park offers food, drink and live entertainment for fansCredit: GettyOPTION 1Club execs favour an expansion to the current ground over a move to a new permanent home, but adding even more seats to St James’ is a tricky task that won’t come cheap.COO Miller has promised a “once-in-a-generation” investment into the redevelopment and that kind of cash will be needed to carry out what would be ambitious plans.The idea would be to raise the capacity of the ground to around 60-65,000 – making it the Premier League’s second largest stadium behind Old Trafford.That would be achieved by making the Gallowgate End into one of the largest single-tiered stands in Europe.The stand, which currently holds 11,000 supporters, would be increased to rival Borussia Dortmund’s famous Yellow Wall – similarly to Tottenham’s South Stand.Of course, not all of the additional 12,700 seats would be thrown into the Gallowgate, but the iconic stand would take the majority of the changes.There’s still some issues that could make it difficult for Newcastle to pull this off, mainly a row of listed Georgian buildings behind the East Stand and a so-called “ransom strip” of land bought by a local businessman in spring 2024 that make any expansion on that side of the ground extremely tricky.While surrounding roads that could be impacted offer essential access to one of the city’s main hospitals, the Royal Victoria Infirmary.Some reports suggest the expansion could focus more on the Gallowgate alone and increase the stadium capacity to just 60,300 instead of 65,000 – leaving the stadium looking almost exactly the same as it does now.The Gallowgate End would be given thousands of new seats in an expansionCredit: RexNewcastle would be hoping to recreate Borussia Dormund’s iconic Yellow WallCredit: GettyTottenham aimed for a similar effect when they designed their South StandCredit: GettyOPTION 2The second option for the Magpies is to build themselves a new home for a new era. It’s more expensive, but perhaps a more exciting option.The idea of a new ground would mean that Newcastle could host around 70,000 fans, effectively increasing their capacity by almost 18,000 seats – that’s more than both Brentford and Bournemouth can fit in their entire stadiums at the moment.As with their initial plans back in the 90s, the most likely place to move would be into the adjacent Leazes Park.However, Newcastle are set to face legal hurdles and heavy resistance from members of the public who want to protect the Grade II listed park.As a result their plans would see them use just a small section of the park with the rest of the new ground overlapping with St James’ current footprint – plus a new parkland would be created where the current pitch is situated. That would mean Newcastle would be forced into finding a temporary home for the duration of the demolition and construction. The club are thought to be against the idea of ground-sharing with rivals Sunderland, with a potential option to play some 120 MILES away at Murrayfield in Edinburgh suggested instead.That would obviously cause issues for fans with the round trip for a “home” game likely to take over FIVE HOURS by car.Other options would include playing at the nearby Riverside stadium, home of Middlesbrough.It’s thought that there is another possible option to move into a new stadium five miles north of the current site Gosforth Park on land owned by the club’s minority shareholders, Reuben Brothers.But St James’ Park’s iconic position looming over the centre of Newcastle is thought to make that idea a last resort.Newcastle have already enlisted architects and design firms to look at the feasibility of building a new ground.However, both club execs and the fan base are concerned over losing the rich history of St James’ Park in the process.COO Miller said: “The brilliant thing about St James’ is it is in an iconic location, the atmosphere and competitive edge it gives the team on the pitch, and it has 52,000 seats already.“But a new stadium doesn’t have that and we’d have to pay for all those seats again.”As for the look of a new ground, reports suggest there is consideration over a “bubble wrap” design that would give St James’ a similar visual to Ligue 1 outfit Le Havre’s Stade Oceane.While it could also have some incredible features as football club owners continue to push the boundaries of what is expected in a stadium these days. Spurs added a Formula One Go Kart track under their ground, and even stuck a microbrewery making craft Beavertown Beer in their South East corner. While Fulham have stuck a swimming pool in their new Riverside Stand and Real Madrid added a huge 360-degree screen around the Santiago Bernabeu.It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Newcastle would follow in those footsteps and add some unbelievable features to their proposed ground.At the very least, expect cutting edge technology, staggering design and high-end hospitality areas to host the elite.As for what they leave behind, it’s been suggested that the site of the demolished St James’ would be replaced with new parkland.Newcastle could move into the Leazes Park directly behind the groundCredit: GettyNewcastle’s new ground could look similar to Le Havre’s Stade OceaneCredit: AlamyHOW MUCH WILL IT ALL COST?Good things don’t come for free these days, and Newcastle will have to fork out a fortune no mater what option they choose.A redevelopment of the Gallowgate has been mooted to cost anywhere up to £1BILLION, which is a crazy number in comparison to other expansion projects in recent times.Liverpool spent just £80m on their Anfield Road Stand expansion in 2024, and Fulham spent £120m on their Riverside Stand.But that kind of money may seem worth it when you learn that an entirely new stadium has been estimated at a cost of between £2BILLION and £3BILLION.That would blow Tottenham’s £1bn 2019 project out of the water and make Newcastle the owners of the second most expensive stadium in the world, only lagging behind the LA Rams’ £4.8bn SoFi Stadium.The LA Chargers’ SoFi Stadium is the most expensive stadium in the worldCredit: GettyTIMESCALESo we know it’ll cost a fortune and we know it’s going to be complicated, but when will it be done?Reports have suggested that the club would be targeting the 2031/32 season for a brand new stadium, but would likely see an expansion completed in five years instead of seven.By comparison, Spurs took three years to build their new home and the FA spent four years constructing Wembley in the early 2000s.Expansions are often much speedier, but it still took Liverpool over two-and-a-half years to complete their Anfield Road renovation.A lengthy project could spoil Newcastle’s plans to be one of the host stadiums for the 2028 Euros, but it’s thought that the Magpies see the long-term financial benefits as enough to give up on that.WILL IT BE WORTH IT?Well that’s the multi-billion pound question, isn’t it?Newcastle’s most recent reports show that the club made £40m in matchday revenue last season, figures that are way behind the likes of Arsenal (£128m), Man Utd (£127m), Liverpool (£111m) and Spurs (£103m).An expansion to 65,000 seats at St James’ would be an increase in capacity of around 25 per cent, meaning a similar increase in Newcastle’s matchday revenue would take them up to a more impressive number of £50m. The club reckon the figure could be as much as double at a new ground where Newcastle can add in more bars, food stalls and hospitality areas to increase their income.But even the man in charge, COO Miller, explained that moving to a new stadium “has the potential to earn a lot more, both on matchdays and non-matchdays”.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot only would more seats mean more revenue, but a world-class facility could mean Newcastle would be a more attractive prospect to host music concerts and performers to make money all year round.Put simply, the outlay would be huge, but in the long term it could definitely be worth it for Newcastle.More fans means more moneyCredit: Rex More

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    ‘I’m shaking’ – Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Ashlyn Castro releases emotional statement on relationship history

    JUDE BELLINGHAM’s girlfriend has released an emotional statement on her relationship history.The Real Madrid star was revealed to be dating Ashlyn Castro in January following a string of dates.Ashlyn Castro has released an emotional statement on her relationship historyCredit: TIKTOK @ ashlyncastro17She is dating Real Madrid star Jude BellinghamCredit: La LigaShe is a model and influencerCredit: InstagramAshlyn, 27, from Los Angeles, has made her name as an influencer and model.She has a huge social media following with over 500,000 fans on TikTok and Instagram.The stunning brunette has previously been romantically linked to US basketball star Terance Mann, actor Michael B. Jordan and LaMelo Ball.However, she has now released a ten-minute video statement on her relationship history.READ MORE ON SPORTIn the statement she claims that she has only had three boyfriends and that people have “made up” a lot of things about her.Ashlyn also debunked false claims that she was in another country with a potential partner and one that suggested she was on a boat when it was not even her.Taking to TikTok, Bellingham’s beau said: “I don’t even know where to begin, but I’m going to try my best to just get into it.”It makes me super uncomfortable talking on camera about my personal life.Most read in Football”I’ve never even really spoken on camera too many times, so bear with me.”Every angle you can think of, people have attacked me, harassed me, been so disrespectful. It’s just been too much.Inside Jude Bellingham’s new romance with stunning Instagram modelAshlyn looked glamorous in this one-pieceCredit: instagramShe has tried to debunk speculation over her past relationshipsCredit: instagramEx-partner Terannce Mann has defended Ashlyn in publicCredit: Getty”Let’s talk about this dating history. I’ve had three boyfriends over the last eight years.”In 2017, I was in my very first relationship and he’s a public figure, so because of that, I’ve dealt with people talking about me, making up things about me.”There was nothing on the internet about me prior, so people kind of just made up a bunch of things to justify hating me because of who I was dating at the time.”And then over the last six years after that, I’ve dated two people.”So three relationships in total.”Ashlyn’s ex Mann has even come out publicly and defended her.He has shot down cheating allegation claims and insisted most stuff about her on the internet is “false”.Ashlyn also refuted claims that she has created fake social media accounts in the past.She said: “I’ve never made a fake page or a fake account to say anything.”If I’m going to say something it’s going to come from my real page.”I think people should be held accountable for what they do and say.”The same people claiming that I’ve retweeted offensive things when the only Twitter account I’ve ever had I made in 2013 and I tweeted one time.”I have no retweets, no favourites, no nothing.”Ashlyn insisted that the video was not easy for her to make as the information is “extremely personal”.She added: “I’m like shaking because I’m not ready to talk about this on the internet.”This is extremely personal. This is my real life. I shouldn’t have to talk about this.”But moving forward I will talk about things that are important such as mental health.”This is something that I wanted to use my platform for but I just wasn’t ready.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAshlyn met Bellingham’s mum Denise and dad Mark in the Spanish capital last month.The couple were snapped watching Real Madrid together from the stands as Bellingham was suspended.Ashlyn has a huge online followingCredit: instagramShe has 485k followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe also boasts 142k followers on TikTokCredit: Instagram More

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    Arsenal star spotted furiously gesturing at Declan Rice in unseen moment after equaliser against Man Utd

    DECLAN RICE was given a rollicking by one of his team-mates following his equaliser against Manchester United.The England international rescued a point for Arsenal with a superb second-half strike in Sunday’s 1-1 draw.Declan Rice scored Arsenal’s equaliser against Manchester UnitedCredit: REXThe midfielder shushed the Old Trafford crowd following his screamerCredit: REXGabriel Martinelli was spotted berating Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino for their celebrationsCredit: SKY SPORTSRice proceeded to shush the Old Trafford faithful before doing his best impression of Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘calma’ celebration.The celebration riled up United fans, but it also appeared to tick off Gabriel Martinelli.The Brazilian was spotted gesturing to Rice and his team-mates to stop wasting time and get back in position for the restart.The forward seemingly felt the Gunners could go on to nab all three points.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMartinelli’s actions were spotted by former Red Devils defender Gary Neville, who agreed with his dressing down of Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino.The Sky Sports commentator said: “I think Martinelli is right. Get back to the halfway line.”He’s shouting at Rice, ‘Why are you celebrating?'”Sunday’s draw at The Theatre of Dreams well and truly extinguished what little hopes Arsenal had of overturning Liverpool’s seemingly unassailable lead at the top of the Prem table.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSArsenal ratings vs Man Utd as Rice runs Gunners midfield but wonderkid Nwaneri falls below high standardsDECLAN RICE rescued a point for Arsenal after David Raya failed to stop a Bruno Fernandes freekick.Fernandes’ set piece was followed by a brilliant Rice strike in the second half, leaving the sides with a point apiece.After a quiet first half, both sides woke up and provided more going forward after the break but lacked quality in the final third.Raya’s display in the second half more than made up for his earlier error and, alongside Rice, kept his side in the game.Coming off the back of a riotous 7-1 victory over PSV, Arsenal reverted to their goal scoring woes and proved once again that they desperately need a striker.But, who was on the mark for the Gunners?Can Mikel Arteta push for the title without an out-and-out striker?And did anyone shine off the bench for Arteta’s side?Here, SunSport’s Conor Jones delivers his Arsenal player ratings against Manchester United…Mikel Arteta, however, is refusing to give up hope of the north Londoners overturning the Reds’ 15-point lead.He said: “I don’t want to say that, but today the frustration is that we haven’t won our game.Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title race”We know the urgency and you’re obligated to win every single match.”You won’t have any chance without doing that. I don’t think it’s the right moment to talk about that.”When asked for his thoughts on the Gunners’ dropping seven points in their last three games, he added: “Today, the efficiency we had in the last 20 metres wasn’t good enough. We know that.”To come to Old Trafford and do what we did was superb.”But you have to capitalise and today we didn’t and then we have to overturn a result and you know how difficult that is here.”Arsenal will be back in action on Wednesday night, welcoming PSV to the Emirates for the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. More

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    Liverpool vs PSG: Get £50 in free bets, plus 25/1 Bet Builder tips with Betfred

    LIVERPOOL take a 1-0 lead into their Champions League round-of-16 second leg with PSG.It’s a huge game, so our team of betting experts have selected a Bet Builder for the league showdown, which Betfred have priced up at 25/1.Not just that! New Betfred customers who register an account with Betfred and stake a tenner on football will receive £50 in sports free bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*Liverpool vs PSG tipsOur Bet Builder selections: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to score, Vitinha 1+ shot on target, Andy Robertson to be carded and over 9.5 corners – ADD TO YOUR BET SLIP HERE!Back our 25/1 Bet BuilderHere’s why we’ve made those selections..Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to score: Had one ruled out in first leg and was a threat all night. The eyes will be on opposite flank with Ousmane Dembele after way he performed and also got double at weekend, so that could well play into his hands too.Vitinha 1+ shot on target: Talented midfielder has had 0.46 shots on target per 90 minutes in Champions League. But a driving force in middle of the pitch, no surprise to see him dictate matters in Liverpool’s half and if they have even half of the 27 shots taken last week, he could well be one of those to make Alisson work.Andy Robertson to be carded: Up against Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi which is no walk in the park. Will need a big performance defensively with his place spoken about as being under threat.Over 9.5 corners: PSG themselves registered 14 of the 16 corners last week. Talented wide players normally mean corners aplenty.Back our 25/1 Bet Builder*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. EligibilitRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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    Liverpool vs PSG: Get up to £40 in football free bets for the Champions League with talkSPORT BET

    LIVERPOOL are hoping last week’s late winner in Paris will help see them over the line against PSG this week.Arne Slot’s men snatched a remarkable win last week and that puts them in a great position for a Champions League quarter final spot.And brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim up to £40 in free bets when they register an account and stake at least £20 on the Anfield showdown.Liverpool vs PSG: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim talkSPORT BET offertalkSPORT BETVisit the talkSPORT website HERE*Create an account and Opt In to this promotion via the OFFERS tabMake a depositPlace your first bet up to £40, minimum £20, on any football market, at odds of Evens or greaterYou must do this within 7 days of registrationOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first betFor example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free betsIf you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free betstalkSPORT BET: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim Here*Liverpool vs PSG: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*What’s the offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of up to £40 when they register an account.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £20 or more on any football market at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.Cheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsWhat happens next?Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first bet bet.For example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets. If you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free bets:On settlement of your qualifying bet, your account will be credited with the following:£10 free bet – Bet Builder (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Correct Score (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:£10 free bet – To Win and Both Team to Score – 90 mins (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Acca 4+ selection (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)You can read the full breakdown of free bets and more on how to claim talkSPORT BET’s welcome offer here**18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile device, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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    Liverpool vs PSG prediction: Free betting tips, odds and Champions League round-of-16 preview

    AFTER a smash-and-grab in the City of Love last week, Liverpool are hoping home advantage will get them over the line in a round-of-16 second leg tie against PSG.SunSport have enlisted the help of their betting experts to preview the second leg and select the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesLiverpool vs PSG previewBringing home a goalless draw would’ve been a tremendous result for Liverpool, having been comprehensively outplayed for much of the game in Paris last week.To snatch a 1-0 lead is remarkable – and now they need to build on it in what is a huge week.The league is pretty much wrapped up. The chasers will now be ensuring they secure top four after falling miles behind Arne Slot’s men.The tie is still very much in the balance so they can’t even take one eye off things to focus on the League Cup final on Sunday.PSG registered 27 shots at goal with 10 of those on target. Liverpool scored with their only shot on target from just TWO shots in the game.Alisson was a big part of that and he’ll be needed in top form again with PSG in fine form and scoring another four goals in their win on Saturday as they too canter to league glory.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 1-2 at 9/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Ousmane Dembele 11/2 with talkSPORT BET – HERELiverpool vs PSG latest oddsOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*PSG vs Liverpool predictions and tipsBattleMuch was spoken about Ousmane Dembele last week. While rightly so, they three in the PSG midfield were also very good in possession to keep it attack after attack.Doing likewise here could lead to a nervy Anfield and Alexis Mac Allister’s battling qualities will be needed, having been rested at the weekend.Disciplinary record has actually been fairly strong in recent weeks but was booked in his last home Champions League appearance despite just playing 45 minutes.Alexis Mac Allister to be carded at 11/5 – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 football, 1 x £10 horse racing & 2 x £10 Bet Builders. Free Bets cannot be used on e-sports and non UK/IE horse racing. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned T&Cs apply. 18+ GambleAware.org.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More