Philippa Kaur

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    ‘I wake up every day with a smile’ – Antony swipes at Man Utd and admits it is ‘easier’ to play with new Betis team-mate

    ANTONY aimed a dig at Manchester United as he spoke of his joy at playing for Real Betis.The winger joined the LaLiga side on loan last month and has hit the ground running.Antony is loving life at Real BetisCredit: RexAntony has scored three goals in his first four games, producing one assist, showing why United were so desperate to sign him for £85million in 2022.He has looked revitalised and puts it down to being happy, suggesting he feels more calm and at ease at Betis.Antony told AS: “I’ve had a great time in Manchester too, I won two titles and I’m very grateful. “But when I say that I’ve found myself here, I’m happy, the people are like us in Brazil. The sun helps a lot. READ MORE ON MAN UTD“I’m very happy here. I wake up every day with a smile and that’s very important.“I have a lot of friends who played here and they left me very calm so that I could sign here. I was sure in my heart that coming here was the best decision for me. I hope to continue like this.”Antony has adjusted quickly to his new team and he puts it down to the skill of his team-mates.He highlighted former Real Madrid star Isco as a big influence, as well as ex-Tottenham midfielder Giovani Lo Celso.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe added: “Isco is a great player, he has a lot of experience, he is a star and we all know it. He tells me that he is very happy for me.“Having him by my side is easier, you get along very well with him. With Lo Celso too. And with other team-mates, too.”Antony leaves Man Utd with more yellow cards than goals as £86m Ten Hag flop goes down as one of worst transfers ever More

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    in Motorsport

    ‘He’s about to get fined’ – Gordon Ramsay has his mic muted after making X-rated outburst at F1 75 Live launch event

    GORDON RAMSAY was hilariously CENSORED at the F1 75 launch event as he gave his thoughts on the FIA’s controversial crackdown on swearing.The celebrity, well-known for his potty mouth, is also a huge Formula One fan and is often seen in attendance at races.Gordon Ramsay was muted as he swore when discussing the FIA’s new rulesCredit: TwitterNew rules championed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem will see drivers hit with heavy fines for foul languageCredit: GettyAnd Ramsay, 58, was a special guest during the new F1’s season’s special launch event at the O2 Arena in London, which paid homage to the motorsport’s milestone 75th anniversary.The night saw the liveries of the ten teams revealed, also giving fans a chance to see the drivers in their new racesuits including Lewis Hamilton, who was in Ferrari colours for the first time.One of the big talking points ahead of the new F1 season is a further crackdown on swearing by the FIA, the sport’s governing body.Asked for his opinion on the rules by comedian-turned-presenter Jack Whitehall, Ramsay said: “Come on Jack you’re going to get me into trouble.READ MORE IN F1″I think it’s an industry language, the fact that these athletes are pushing themselves to the extreme and sometimes it comes out, let them be real. Let it go.”They’re risking their life everytime, they’re travelling at over 200mph so if the s*** hits the fan.”But Ramsay’s microphone was cut-out as soon as he began to say the word “s***”.Whitehall joked: “Gordon please. You’re not getting invited back next year.”Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe incident was clearly pre-planned but fans loved it on social media.One fan said: “Gordon Ramsay about to get fined.”Lewis Hamilton and Charles LeClerc arrive on red carpet at F1 02 car launch in styleAnother said: “Gordon Ramsay about to get fined.”While a third said: “Just when I couldn’t love Gordon Ramsay anymore. He absolutely cooked.”The perceived over-policing of the rules last season led to clashes between F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen, and the FIA after drivers were fined for swearing during media activities.However, new rules announced in January are set to see an even heavier punishments.A continued offence for swearing could see drivers hit with a €120,000 (£101.5k) fine, a one-month ban and an unspecified number of championship points.The first such case under these rules happened last weekend when World Rally Car driver Adrien Fourmaux was fined €10,000 (£8,300) for using inappropriate language during a live post-stage interview.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis included an additional suspended fine of €20,000 (£16,600).During a press conference at the launch event, Verstappen was asked about the new rules, to which he went full Jose Mourinho by saying he prefers not to speak. More

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    I’m one sentence away from ending my career at all times – it’s car crash TV and I’m terrified, admits F1 legend

    FORMULA 1 legend Martin Brundle has branded his famous grid walk interviews “car crash TV” and admits he’s walking a career tightrope.The racing driver-turned-broadcaster, 65, prowls the racing grids in the moments before each race looking for superstar VIPs to interview.Martin Brundle pictured at F1 75 Live in LondonCredit: GettyMartin had a tough time getting answers from Cara Delevingne at SilverstoneCredit: Sky Sports F1Over the years, many have gone viral – from Ozzy Osbourne rambling at him incoherently to a very awkward exchange with Machine Gun Kelly about his music career.Sometimes celebs refuse to engage altogether like when Cara Delevingne controversially shunned him at the 2023 British GP, and he’s even been bundled from the race track by security.The chaotic, unscripted nature of his interviews has left him terrified it could all come crashing down on him live on air.In an exclusive interview with The Sun at F1 75 Live at London’s O2 Arena, he said: “I’m one sentence away from the end of my career at all times, or being cancelled.READ MORE ON MARTIN BRUNDLE”I’m terrified of the whole thing, because it’s live and it’s just pure car crash television. “Machine Gun Kelly, Megan Thee Stallion, I don’t know, getting knocked about by security guards. They’re the ones that people like.”And then I meet some really lovely, fascinating, world-class people, politicians and royalty and movie stars, and I’m very privileged with the people I meet on the grid.”Often celebrity guests admit to knowing nothing about the sport, something that drives die-hard fans who could only dream of being amongst the drivers on race day up the wall.Most read in Motorsport”I understand that,” said Brundle. “Because we watch Formula 1 year in, year out, racing ourselves, and they’re on the grid and they actually don’t know anything about it, and quite clearly don’t really want to be there.”They’re just selling a movie or something. I get that, but for Formula 1, they are A-listers.” ‘I’m in charge round here’ – F1 reporter Martin Brundle brushes off security to get to Mbappe for live TV interviewThe racing veteran, who spent 12 years as an F1 driver from 1984 to 1996, said that there are occasions when many lucky enough to be on the guest list don’t even turn up, with the new Las Vegas track a particular victim of no shows. He said: “I get a list through on it, race morning, with 70 people on it. Half of them don’t turn up, but you get through and you’re like, ‘I’ve not heard of many of those’. Oh, 65 million followers on Instagram. Oh, 140 million followers on Instagram.”How did I not hear of these people? Clearly somebody has. I think it’s all part of the incoming tide, all the boats float higher. That’s part of why something like this works today, and it hasn’t happened in the past.”Last night’s celebration of the sport’s 75th anniversary saw all 10 F1 teams unveil their 2025 liveries ahead of the new season.A spectacular production gave each team their moment in the spotlight to show off their driver partnerships and new look cars.Host Jack Whitehall brought the laughs, while the likes of Machine Gun Kelly, Kane Brown and Take That provided music.He met his match when he tried interviewing Megan Thee StallionCredit: Sky SportOzzy Osbourne made little sense when Martin interview him in 2003Credit: ITVThe most anticipated moment of the night was the chance to see Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari red for the first time.He certainly looked the part and Martin believes the move from Mercedes will reinvigorate the seven-time world champion.He said: “I think Lewis will be energised completely. He’s faster. Think back to Silverstone last year, think back to Las Vegas last year.”Lewis was fast as, and I think he’ll want to show everybody he’s made yet another good decision. “He’s got his hands full because Charles Leclerc is very fast. All the youngsters there, they’re barely half his age, some of them, and they’re fast and they’re fearless.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think he’s got a lot of hard work ahead, but I would never write Lewis out of my mind.”Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton will be re-energised this year, according to MartinCredit: PA More

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    Max Verstappen goes full Jose Mourinho in controversial press conference just weeks before start of new F1 season

    MAX VERSTAPPEN channelled his inner Jose Mourinho during his press conference last night.The reigning world champion was appearing at Formula 1’s 2025 season launch event at the 02 Arena.Max Verstappen appeared at a press conference at the 02 ArenaCredit: GettyVerstappen, 27, was at Formula 1’s season launch eventCredit: GettyDuring his presser, Verstappen was quizzed about the FIA’s controversial new swearing rules.As part of its International Sporting Code, motorsport’s governing body has outlawed “any words, deeds, or writing that have caused moral injury or loss to the FIA, its bodies, its members or its executive officers, and more generally interest of motorsport on the values defender by the FIA.”Drivers will be slapped with a €10,000 (£7,900) fine for a first offence.A second penalty will be met with a $20,000 (£15,800) fine and a one-month suspended ban.READ MORE IN SPORTIf they breach rules for a third time, they will receive a one-month suspension, $30,000 (£23,700) fine AND a championship points deduction.Last year, Verstappen was made to complete community service in Rwanda after swearing in his Singapore Grand Prix press conference.Asked about the new rules on swearing last night, he said: “I prefer not to speak about that. Otherwise I’ll get in trouble.”The moment was reminiscent of Mourinho’s famous “if I speak I’m in big trouble” post-match interview.Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMourinho delivered his famous line after a defeat to Aston VillaHe said the famous line after a 1-0 Chelsea defeat to Aston Villa in March 2014.Verstappen went on to add: “If you look at everyone’s reaction to it, I think that says enough.Lewis Hamilton and Charles LeClerc arrive on red carpet at F1 02 car launch in style”I think we shouldn’t take it so seriously. I’m also not going to tell you how you should behave in life.”Verstappen’s rival George Russell took a different stance.He said: “As an individual it’s going quite far with everything.”As drivers we do show personality but I do think there is merit and no need to swear in an environment like this [press conference].”The season is set to get underway in Australia on March 16. More

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    ‘He’s really lost his head’ – Atalanta captain sent off for moment of madness after ’embarrassing’ blunder

    ATALANTA captain Rafael Toloi saw red as the Serie A side crashed out of the Champions League.The Italians went into last night’s second leg trailing Belgians Club Brugge 2-1 from the first match.Rafael Toloi attempted to throw the ball at an opponentCredit: TNT SPORTSHe then bundled over the Club Brugge aceCredit: TNT SPORTSThings swiftly went from bad to worse for Gian Piero Gasperini’s men, as a disastrous first half saw them fall 3-0 down on the night.Ademola Lookman pulled one back for the Serie A side moments into the second half.But after the former Everton and Fulham man missed a penalty on the hour mark, Atalanta’s hope began to ebb away.In the 86th minute, Toloi’s frustration boiled over.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs the 34-year-old went to take a throw in, he was needlessly bumped by Maxim De Cuyper.The red mist then descended upon Toloi, who tried to throw the ball at his opponent.It slipped out of his hand, however, and he fell over.Feeling embarrassed, Toloi got up and begun to charge at De Cuyper, who had turned and was walking away.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe referee attempted to get in the Brazilian’s away but his efforts were futile, Toloi bundling over his opponent.He went on to be sent off for his head loss, while De Cuyper was yellow carded.AC Milan manager walks out of Champions League press conference after just one question After the game, veteran boss Gasperini was disappointed at his skipper.He said: “That was an ugly incident and we must never lose our heads.”Atalanta must leave the Champions League with dignity, having played great games against the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal and Barcelona.”On the winger’s botched penalty, the 67-year-old added: “Lookman was not supposed to take that penalty, he is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen.”He has a frankly terrible record even in training, he converts very few of them.”Retegui and De Ketelaere were there, but Lookman in a moment of enthusiasm after scoring decided to take the ball and that was a gesture I did not appreciate at all.”Ademola Lookman botched his second half penaltyCredit: AFP More

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    Andoni Iraola lined up to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid manager after stunning Bournemouth success

    ANDONI IRAOLA has reportedly been lined up to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid manager.The Bournemouth boss has made waves since moving to the south coast in 2023 from Rayo Vallecano.Real Madrid are lining up Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola as their next managerCredit: GettyReports claim Carlo Ancelotti could leave Real this summerCredit: GettyIraola has won 31 of his 72 games in charge of the Cherries.And this season has seen them reach new heights with 12 wins and just six defeats in 25 outings.As a result, Bournemouth now sit fifth in the table just one point off the top four while boasting a positive goal difference of 15.And according to the Mail, Iraola’s efforts have not gone unnoticed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt’s reckoned he has now made his way onto a shortlist being drawn up by Real Madrid chiefs of potential replacements for Los Blancos gaffer Ancelotti.The Italian, who won the Champions League during an earlier stint with Real, has led the Spaniards to two more European titles and two league titles since returning in 2021.Ancelotti is hoping for another double this term as Real sit joint-top of LaLiga with Barcelona, while also holding the advantage over Man City in tonight’s Champions League play-off.But reports in Spain suggest Ancelotti may retire this summer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd while the Italian has remained coy on the subject, Real are now bracing themselves for the worst by drawing up a list of suitable candidates to potentially take over this summer.Former player and Bayer Leverkusen title winner Xabi Alonso is thought to be favourite, having rejected Liverpool last summer in the reported hope of eventually moving to Real.Ronaldo reveals cult hero Real Madrid team-mate was ‘very bad’ before turning to poker Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso is another option for RealCredit: GettyBut it’s reckoned that Iraola has now worked his way onto Real’s shortlist, having impressed club chiefs with his incredible job at Bournemouth.The gaffer will have just a year left to run on his contract this summer, putting him at risk of an approach from interested clubs.Tottenham are also thought to be keeping a watch on Iraola as they mull Ange Postecoglou’s future.But after turning Bournemouth into European hopefuls, Iraola may instead fancy staying put at the Vitality Stadium to keep his project moving forwards. More

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    Man Utd ‘AGREE deal with Geovany Quenda, 17, as Sporting demand £50m for wonderkid transfer’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly agreed a deal with Geovany Quenda as Sporting Lisbon demand £50million for the wonderkid.Quenda, 17, is a versatile right sider who was given his big break at Sporting by United boss Ruben Amorim.Man Utd have agreed personal terms with Geovany QuendaCredit: GettyThe wing-back has scored twice in 37 outings this season.Quenda is rated as one of Europe’s top youngsters after joining Sporting’s academy from rivals Benfica in 2019.And United have been linked with making a swoop once he turns 18 in April.Reports in January claimed a deal was “assured” to take place this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAmorim is looking to rebuild United’s squad to suit his 3-4-3 system and has already landed left-back Patrick Dorgu from Lecce.Now, journalist Ben Jacobs claims the Red Devils have upped the ante in their hunt for Quenda.The talkSPORT commentator reckons United have struck personal terms with Quenda on a long-term contract.He told talkSPORT: “The player has agreed verbally personal terms. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS“He’s waiting to see if the club’s pre-agree (a fee) or wait until the summer.“And the price United are looking at is 40million euros (£33m).Gary Neville says he’s seen ‘nothing’ from Man Utd under Ruben Amorim “Sporting want a minimum of 60m euros (£50m). There’s a release clause at 100m euros (£83m).“So if United can get this one done south of 60m euros (£50m), it’s not only a good signing for now and the future, and a player Amorim knows really well, it’s also another deal they can potentially get without being forced to, for example Rasmus Hojlund, pay more than they ideally want to.” More

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    Galway United secure Cian Byrne loan as Ollie Horgan backs squad for competitive season

    GALWAY UNITED have added Bohemians centre half Cian Byrne on loan until July.The 22-year-old was made available by the Gypsies following the return to fitness of Rob Cornwall, with United winning the race for his signature. Cian Byrne has moved from Bohemians to Galway on a season-long loan dealGalway United assistant manager Ollie Horgan is delighted at the signingAssistant manager Ollie Organ said: “He was on our radar, and most club’s radar. He had a very good season last year and he jumped at the chance to take him. “It really only transpired in the last ten days. We’ve a number of injuries in that area of the pitch and we’ve liked him for a long time. “When we were in the First Division, he was with Longford Town and he was outstanding in the games he played against us.”Byrne came through the Bohs academy and spent the first half of the 2023 season on loan at Longford before returning to Bohs, where he played in the FAI Cup final. Last season, he made 26 appearances for the Gypsies though he was not part of the matchday squad for the season opener against Shamrock Rovers. Meanwhile, Horgan believes that Galway United are in a good place this season – but admitted he has no idea where they will finish in what he expects to be a competitive league.He added: “I can’t speak for every club but I’d say the majority of clubs wouldn’t be able to answer you if you asked them where they are going to finish. “Last year, a serious club was going to be relegated and it happened to be Dundalk. You look this year, a big club is going to be relegated.Most read in Football“We’ve brought in players that we think can improve us, to try and improve our finish last year in the top half. “We’re going to have ups and downs with it with the quality that is in this division, the difficult teams are going to be playing away from home.Gigi Buffon’s son Louis scores his first goal in the Primavera 2 championship “But there is certainly a good feel factor, a ‘Let’s go at this’. If it’s good enough, it’s enough. If it’s not, it’s not. “There is no real fear factor, we’ll have a cut off it.” More