Philippa Kaur

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    Jurgen Klopp makes first sacking in Red Bull job and could turn old Premier League rival for vacant role

    RED BULL LEIPZIG are searching for a new manager after Jurgen Klopp gave Marco Rose the boot. Klopp began his role as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull on New Year’s Day. Jurgen Klopp has made his first sacking since being named Red Bull’s Global Head of SoccerCredit: AFPLeipzig coach Marco Rose was given his marching orders on SundayCredit: RexThe popular German left his role as Liverpool boss last summer after nine years on Merseyside.He won the Premier League and Champions League with the Reds, as well as two League Cups and an FA Cup. But it hasn’t been an easy first months for the 57-year-old back in his native Germany.Leipzig sacked head coach Rose after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Borussia Moenchengladbach.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe loss left RB sixth in the Bundesliga and three points outside of the Champions League places. Rose had been in the role since September 2022.He twice qualified for the Champions League and won the German Cup.But a run of just two wins in 10 games meant he was shown the door by Klopp. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMarcel Schafer, Leipzig’s managing director for sport, said: “We have believed in our co-operation with Marco and his team for a very long time and, up to now, tried everything to turn things around together.”Given the development and the continued lack of results, we’re all firmly convinced that we need new impetus for the remainder of the campaign in order to achieve our aims for the season. Moment Jurgen Klopp had penalty meltdown at David Coote before video that’s likely to KO referee’s career”We’d like to thank Marco and his coaching team for the past two and a half years, the success we enjoyed together and their commitment to the club.”Leipzig could now target Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, according to The Mirror. Klopp is a big fan of the Austrian, but will likely have to wait until the summer to make an approach. His role with Red Bull sees him oversee the management of Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, two clubs in Brazil and a third-tier Japanese side.But he has all but ruled out a return to the dugout, claiming he is “done” with management.Klopp said last October: “I will not be the coach of a Red Bull team. That is a clear commitment.”As much as you can give a guarantee, I will not be a coach at all. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I am probably the only person in this room who will be asked, ‘Where are you in five years?’ I don’t have a clue.””But I will not be a replacement of one of the Red Bull coaches. I hope we can create a structure where these questions will not come up at all.” More

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    ‘Didn’t even have time to get to the TV’ – Goalkeeper makes awful howler less than one minute into huge European derby

    PANATHINAIKOS goalkeeper Bartlomiej Dragowski was left with egg on his face against rivals Olympiacos as he conceded an embarrassing goal during the massive Greek derby.Dragowski, 27, and co are taking on the Super League leaders at Georgios Karaiskakis and got off to the worst possible start.Panathinaikos goalkeeper Bartlomiej Dragowski committed an embarrassing gaffe against OlympiacosDragowski got the ball at the back just 47 seconds after kick-offDragowski tried to clear the ball while under pressure from Olympiacos star Roman YaremchukYaremchuk blocked the clearance and the ball ended up behind Dragowski’s netDragowski’s blunder led to the fastest ever goal in the history of the ‘Greek El Clasico’It was just after kick-off when the hosts applied their manager Jose Luis Mendilibar’s high press to force the visitors to a mistake in defence.Sverrir Ingason passed the ball back to the PAO keeper who got a soft touch on the ball.But the Poland international quickly found himself under immense pressure from Olympiacos star Roman Yaremchuk.Dragowski tried to clear but Yaremchuk read the situation very well and blocked the ball, which then ended up behind the net just 47 seconds into the match.Read More on FootballThe Karaiskakis Stadium erupted in loud celebrations while the Polish keeper cut an inconsolable figure.The ex-Spezia ace’s team-mates quickly rallied around him to raise his spirits.However, many fans were left absolutely stunned with Dragowski’s gaffe, which has led to the fastest ever goal in the history of the “Greek El Clasico”.Thrylos 7 International host Martial Debeaux tweeted: “I didn’t even have time to get in front of the TV before Yaremchuk scored by blocking the goalkeeper’s clearance.Most read in Football”Well done to him, his impeccable mentality throughout the season is paying off.”Another fan commented: “I would easily take Dragowski off after that error.”Fans hail ‘pure class’ Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis for what he did after Forest keep dream title hopes aliveA third complained: “What are you doing Dragowski?!”This fan said: “Rip his contract up now.”And that one wrote: “What an assist by Dragowski.”Olympiacos, who are owned by Nottingham Forest supremo Evangelos Marinakis, extended their lead in the 16th minute with a stunning shot by Chiquinho – with Dragowski bearing no responsibility this time around.However, Panathinaikos hit back just nine minutes later with Filip Mladenovic to rekindle the visitors’ hopes in their first Superleague play-off encounter of the season. More

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    Roy Keane shakes head and gives brutal side-eye at Ian Wright’s antics live on ITV during FA Cup coverage

    ROY KEANE was left unimpressed after his live TV segment was interrupted by Ian Wright.The Manchester United legend was pitchside for the FA Cup showdown between Bournemouth and Man City on Sunday. Roy Keane was on punditry duty for ITV as Man City took on BournemouthCredit: ITVThe United legend gave Ian Wright a death stare after being interrupted mid-flowCredit: ITVKeane was giving his thoughts on the game for ITV during the warm-ups on the South Coast. The 53-year-old was in full flow as colleague Wrighty spotted a ball rolling towards the panel. Wright rushed over to kick it back, only to give Keane a sharp nudge from behind in the process.Keane shot Wright a long stare as the ex-England striker burst into hysterical laughter.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Irishman composed himself and joked: “He’s done my ankle!”A laughing Wrighty hit back: “You didn’t even flinch!”Host Mark Pougatch quipped that the “tackle” reminded him of David Beckham’s infamous red card kick on Diego Simeone in 1998. Keane, known for his hardman persona on the field during his playing days, responded: “I’ve had that before, don’t worry.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe ex-United midfielder recently won Pundit of the Year at the Sports Journalism Awards.And he didn’t miss a beat as he returned to talk about Man City’s chances in the quarterfinal.Pep Guardiola suggests Man City trophy bonuses should be scrapped as stars ‘don’t deserve even a watch’ this seasonPep Guardiola’s men arrived on the South Coast knowing the FA Cup remains their only chance at silverware.Things looked bleak as Erling Haaland missed a first half penalty, with Evanilson giving the hosts a shock lead.But the Norweigan redeemed himself after half time, before Omar Marmoush came off the bench to grab the winner.City now progress to the semi-finals as they look to reach the final for a third-straight season.They will face Nottingham Forest at Wembley after Nuno Santo’s side won a tense penalty shootout with Brighton on Saturday.In the other last-four clash, Crystal Palace face Aston Villa. More

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    Chelsea reignite Jules Kounde transfer interest and could move for Barcelona star or Premier League ace

    CHELSEA have rekindled their transfer interest in Barcelona star Jules Kounde… while they keep eyeing Bournemouth ace Dean Huijsen.The Blues have been looking for a highly-rated centre-back ever since Thiago Silva’s departure from Stamford Bridge last year.Chelsea are planning to rekindle their interest in Barcelona star Jules KoundeCredit: GettyChelsea are also keeping tabs on Bournemouth ace Dean HuijsenCredit: AlamyAccording to Sport, the West Londoners are planning another bid for Kounde, 26, whom they tried to sign from Sevilla in 2022 before Barca hijacked the deal with a £42million swoop.The same source claims Chelsea need a central defender that can also cover at full-back, making the France international the perfect pick for manager Enzo Maresca.Kounde was initially supposed to play at centre-back under previous Barcelona boss Xavi but the Spanish tactician quickly realised how good he is at right-back as well and changed his position.Current Blaugrana manager Hansi Flick has continued to field the Frenchman on the right flank of his defence and the player has proven to be among the best in Europe.Read More on ChelseaKounde is “very happy” in Catalonia and is keen to sign a new contract.His current deal is set to expire in 2026.However, the defender is fully aware he could earn more at Stamford Bridge amid Barcelona’s ongoing financial woes.Plus, Kounde would almost certainly play in his natural position at centre-back with the Premier League giants.Most read in FootballBarcelona are full in that position and are planning a move for Bayer Leverkusen ace Jonathan Tah this summer.Chelsea, though, are prepared for another potential transfer blow involving the ex-Bordeaux star.Former Chelsea star Demba Ba talks about his role as director of football of USL And that is why they are also eyeing Bournemouth’s Huijsen, 19, ahead of the summer transfer window.However, the same source claims Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Spain international. More

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    Serie A star forced to clarify he’s not been bitten by a ZOMBIE as pictures of nasty injury go viral

    BOLOGNA striker Jens Odgaard has been forced to rule out being bitten in a ZOMBIE ATTACK – after sporting a bizarre injury.The Serie A star was spotted with a huge red mark on the back of his neck during this weekend’s clash with Venezia.Bologna’s Jens Odgaard has been forced to speak out after fans noticed a strange mark on his neckCredit: GettyFan theories ranged from a shark bite to a zombie attackCredit: XOdgaard, 25, played a starring role as Bologna recorded a priceless 1-0 win on the road. But fans were left distracted by the bright red ring on the Dane’s neck.Social media was ablaze with speculation during the contest at the Stadio Pierluigi Penzo – with many concerned he’d had a run-in with the undead.The painful-looking injury was noticeable throughout DAZN’s broadcast of the match.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOne confused fan wrote on X: “What is that thing? A zombie bite?”Another said: “Did he just get his neck scraped?”While a third added: “Is that a tattoo or a shark bite on the back of Jens Odgaard’s neck?”The striker played the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 win, with Riccardo Orsolini netting a second-half winner. Most read in FootballAfter the match, Odgaard clarified the mark’s origin on social media.Responding to fan concerns, he wrote on Instagram: “It’s just a medicine I’m using for my neck, nothing serious.”Dusan Vlahovic shows off his skills at Juventus training One relieved fan replied: “Good to know. You had us worried for a while. There were some crazy theories floating around.”Odgaard has enjoyed strong season playing as a central striker for Bologna.He joined the club in the summer of 2023 after a move from Dutch side AZ Alkmaar.What is that thing? A zombie bite?Confused fanThe 25-year-old has netted 6 times in 25 Serie A games, including two in his last three matches. Bologna have now won five games on the bounce to put themselves back in the Champions League spots. Saturday’s win over relegation-threatened Venezia sent them above Juventus into 4th place. More

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    Bournemouth 1 Man City 2: Omar Marmoush keeps Pep Guardiola’s season alive with FIRST TOUCH in FA Cup quarter-final

    PEP GUARDIOLA might be having a bit of a nightmare – but he was still able to wreck the nation’s hopes of a dream FA Cup semi-final line-up.Pretty much everyone, apart from fans of Manchester City, wanted Bournemouth to join Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa in the last four of the tournament.City came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 in the FA Cup to set up a semi-final clash against Nottingham ForestCredit: RexErling Haaland had his penalty saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga in the first halfCredit: RexEvanilson put Bournemouth ahead inside 21 minutes at the Vitality StadiumCredit: RexBut Haaland was set up by super sub Nico O’Reilly in the 49th minuteCredit: GettyCity have O’Reilly to thank for his two second-half assistsCredit: RexHaaland was subsequently subbed with an ankle injury on the hour markCredit: PABefore Haaland’s replacement Omar Marmoush put Pep Guardiola’s side 2-1 upCredit: RexBut while Brazilian striker Evanilson put Bournemouth ahead Erling Haaland – having wasted three first half chances, including a penalty- scored the equaliser just after half-time.And within a couple of minutes of replacing Haaland, Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush scored only his third goal since joining from Frankfurt for £59million in January.So, while this is proving to be a lousy season by City’s ridiculously high standards, a seventh successive appearance in the FA Cup semi-finals is in the bag.Let’s not forget that City’s semi-final opponents Forest are six points clear of them in the Premier League so they have every right to fancy their chances.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut as we saw here, Guardiola has the expertise – and a pretty decent subs bench – to change the game.On a glorious day on the south coast, Guardiola saw that his team were struggling and brought on 20-year-old Nico O’Reilly at the break for centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov.Although he was playing as a left-back, and has played there in the previous two FA Cup ties, O’Reilly is not really a left-back. His favourite position is as an attacking midfielder and while he can play as a No 10, he has also filled in as a defensive midfielder.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSYet here, O’Reilly helped change the game by assisting both goals and although he has only played a handful of first-team games, you would not have guessed it.So, City scraped through but this is still proving to be a terrific year for the cups. Man City launched probe into Erling Haaland after he ‘left club’s mascot with whiplash’ after hit to back of headWhile Liverpool have all but won the Prem, the three promoted teams are going down and it looks as though two of the relegated club will be coming back up automatically, this term will be celebrated as a triumph over the so-called elite of English football if either Forest, Villa or Palace can follow Newcastle’s success in the Carabao Cup.Bournemouth will be annoyed with themselves after putting themselves in such a good position but they were unable to match their highly-charged first half performance after the break.They were missing suspended defenders Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen with left-back Julio Solar making only his second appearance in English football.And they were creaking at the back early on as Haaland could have scored a hat-trick within the space of six minutes.Although he steered Mattheus Nunes’ cross wide, you would have bet your life on him to stick away a penalty three minutes later after Tyler Adams handled.It was not the greatest of penalties but Kepa still had to guess the right way and he flung himself to the left.For Haaland, it was his third miss from the penalty spot in six which followed a run of 11 successive spot-kicks.Incredibly the match was only 16 minutes old when Haaland had another clear but after galloping clear, he lifted his shot over the bar.So it was inevitable that Bournemouth would tear up the other end and score.Nunes was to blame by giving possession away to Lewis Cook and then the City defender was caught out at the far post with Justin Kluivert beating him to David Brooks’ cross. While Kluivert thought he had scored, Evanilson made sure on the line under pressure from KhusanovMarcos Senesi would have made it 2-0 had his leg been an inch longer but he was unable to prod Brooks’ free-kick over the line.Super sub O’Reilly turned the tie around for CityCredit: GettyAt half-time, Guardiola unleashed O’Reilly and the England under-20 international clearly carried out his manager’s orders to perfection.Within four minutes, O’Reilly made his mark as he punished Bournemouth for pushing up too far. His cross was outstanding and while Haaland was not having a good day, he was never going to miss this one.Guardiola celebrated widely but was then booked by sarcastically clapping Stuart Attwell who, quite rightly, did not stop play because Haaland had fallen awkwardly.Yet Haaland was immediately replaced by Marmoush and within a couple of minutes, he scored the second.READ MORE SUN STORIESAgain it was O’Reilly who delivered the assist, capitalising on a slip by Antoine Semenyo although Marmoush’s shot went through Kepa.So, although the FA Cup is going to have one of the so-called big boys in the semi-finals, three out of four unfancied teams is not bad.City’s timely subs proved the differenceCredit: AFP More

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    in Motorsport

    Tai Woffinden crash: Three-time World Speedway Champion airlifted to hospital after horrifying crash

    SHEFFIELD star Tai Woffinden has been involved in a high-speed horror crash in Poland.Britain’s most successful speedway rider was airlifted to hospital in Krosno after a three-man pile-up on Sunday.Tai Woffinden has been airlifted to hospital after a crash in PolandCredit: AlamyThe 34-year-old crashed at high speed while racing for his club RzeszowCredit: XAn air ambulance landed at the facility with Woffinden believed to have suffered a broken femurCredit: XIt’s being reported in Poland that the three-time World Champion has broken his femur, both hands and ribs while racing for his club Rzeszow.Woffinden, 34, was at Sheffield’s media event just three days ago.He was due to race his first meeting of the season in the UK on Thursday at Birmingham.Sheffield put out a statement today: “Sheffield Speedway are aware of a racing crash involving Tai Woffinden in Poland this afternoon.READ MORE ON SPORT”Out of respect for Tai and his family, we politely ask supporters not to respond to, or share, any rumours.”We will provide supporters with an official update when it is appropriate to do so.”The Scunthorpe-born racer has only just returned to the track after a serious elbow injury prematurely ended his 2024 season, also sustained in Poland in June.The crash in Krosno was his first competitive race meeting since that incident. Most read in MotorsportIn an X post on Saturday, he said: “Fun day on the tools tried some crazy s*** with the bikes. Some was good some was not but all in all nice to get a few starts from the tapes it’s only been 10 months.”Just a week ago at the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership media day, he told SunSport: “I’m racing a motorbike with no brakes. “I’m not in a car with a roll cage.“It comes with the sport. It’s what we do, it’s dangerous. “If you worry about getting injured when you race, you might as well quit. I love what I do, I enjoy it.“I’ve had a lot of injuries but I’ve got a lot to achieve still.“I want to win the British Championship and do the Grand Prix qualifiers and get back into the Grand Prix series.”Best wishes poured in from fans and his British team-mates. World No.2 Robert Lambert said: “Sending all my thoughts and prayers to Tai and his family after today’s horrific crash. Wishing you strength and a speedy recovery, brother. We’re all with you.”GB and Ipswich star Tom Brennan said: “Sending massive strength, support and love to Tai and his family after his accident today. We’re all thinking of you mate.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHis Polish club Rzeszow’s official Facebook page stated: “Our rider, Tai Woffinden, had a very serious accident during the seventh race in a sparring match in Krosno. “Tai was transported by helicopter to Rzeszów, where his condition is now being diagnosed by doctors. Detailed information will be provided after examinations.” More

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    ‘I can’t carry on’ – Former England wonderkid and Derby star, 21, forced to retire with heart problem

    DERBY starlet Morten Lunde Spencer has been forced into an early retirement after being diagnosed with a heart condition at just 21 years old.He announced the decision this week in an emotional Instagram post accompanied by a slideshow of black-and-white photos from his career, in which he said he was ‘heartbroken’ to be sharing the news.Morten Lunde Spencer was a promising young talentCredit: Rex FeaturesA central midfielder, Spencer was known for his passing abilityCredit: Rex FeaturesThere has been a huge outpouring of support for SpencerCredit: Rex FeaturesSpencer wrote: “I will be retiring from professional football due to a cardiac problem I can’t carry on with.”All I’ve ever known is to kick a ball and I have learnt everything from the game. I am thankful and proud of what I have achieved.”I will never forget the memories I have created along an amazing journey. Football is in my DNA and I will continue to support everyine who helped me along the way.”Spencer, a central midfielder, played his first academy matches for Sunderland before moving to Leeds United in 2019 and later to Derby County in 2024, where he featured regularly for the u21s.Read more footballThe Darlington native joined his first team, Marton FC, at just 4 years old.He has also been a regular in England youth setups, receiving his first call up at U15 level before switching allegiance to Norway.Tending to sit deep in midfield, fans regarded him as a ‘maestro’, with strong positional awareness and ability to use both feet. He had been tipped to break through into the Leeds first team, an opportunity which would not materialise.Most read in FootballVarious teammates of Spencer’s have sent messages of support following the news including Tottenham midfielder Archie Gray.The pair played together at Leeds’ academy, with the Spurs midfielder writing: “All the best mate.”Bizarre moment SEAGULL helps EFL club with ‘great flick on’ after being hit by ball in League Two clashSpencer was a standout talent in his academy days.Credit: Facebook – Morten SpencerIan Harte, who made over 200 league appearances for Leeds between 1996 and 2004, added: “Gutted for you Morten! Stay strong.”West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville, who moved to East London from Leeds last year, added a heart emoji and a pair of praying hands, while countless other players and fans added their support to the chorus.Among them was his mother, Heidi, who wrote: “Couldn’t be more proud of you, now and forever.”Speaking to Teesside Live when he earned his first England callup, Heidi gushed about her son’s accomplishments.She said: “We’re all so proud and excited that he’s been called up. He started kicking a ball when he was about two years old.” More