Philippa Kaur

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    ‘We know Max is not happy’ – Red Bull F1 chief breaks silence after Verstappen likes post slamming Liam Lawson axe

    RED BULL chief Helmut Marko admits that Max Verstappen is “not happy” with Red Bull’s brutal axing of his team-mate Liam Lawson.The ruthless move to drop Lawson to sister team Racing Bulls and promote Yuki Tsunoda after two races was announced on Thursday.Liam Lawson has been brutally ditched by Red Bull after two races this seasonLawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaMax Verstappen is frustrated with the decision to sack team-mate LawsonThe writing was on the wall after Lawson finished P15 at the Chinese Grand Prix and qualified last in both the sprint and the race in Shanghai.Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was immediately asked, and gave no assurances, about Lawson’s future after the race – won by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.Lawson’s nightmare season began with him dropping out in Q1 at the Aussie GP, before crashing out of the opening race in Melbourne.Reports immediately suggested that Red Bull superstar Verstappen didn’t want Lawson so harshly replaced after two poor weekends in the RB21.READ MORE F1 NEWSThe Dutchman, 27, has been left disappointed and disagreed with the decision before it was made.He subsequently liked an Instagram post accusing Red Bull of “bullying” Lawson after the news was confirmed. And now Marko has broken his silence and accepted that the four-time world champion disapproves of the move.Horner’s advisor told De Telegraaf: “We know Max is not happy. But we need two cars at the front. Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Not only for the constructors’ championship, but also to help Max to his fifth world title. Then you can achieve more strategically in races.”We can use Yuki’s experience and form now. That counts. At the end of the day, that is to the advantage of the team. “And that also means to the advantage of Max.”Red Bull chief Helmut Marko admits that Max Verstappen is ‘not happy’ with their decisionMax Verstappen takes to the stage at F1 launch event at the O2 Tsunoda – who has far greater F1 experience than Lawson – will suit up for Red Bull for the first time at his home Grand Prix in Japan next weekend.Meanwhile, Lawson will return to second team Racing Bulls as team-mate to French rookie Isack Hadjar.The New Zealander, 23, broke his silence in a moving social media post hours after the decision was announced.He wrote: “Being a Red Bull Racing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it’s what I’ve worked towards my whole life.”It’s tough, but I’m grateful for everything that’s brought me to this point. “To every one of you who’s stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.”Thank you to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls for the warm welcome, I’m excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places.”Lawson was the latest in a line of drivers dating back to Pierre Gasly in 2019 – followed by Alex Albon and Sergio Perez – who have struggled to emulate Verstappen in taming the mechanical beast created by the Red Bull engineers.Horner said: “It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and as a result we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We came into the 2025 season with two ambitions: to retain the World Drivers’ Championship and to reclaim the World Constructors’ title, and this is a purely sporting decision.”We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam and together, we see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a team he knows very well.” More

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    in Soccer

    Barcelona victory ‘could be overturned with LaLiga leaders suspected of fielding an ineligible player’

    BARCELONA are set to be investigated for fielding an ineligible player during their 3-0 win over Osasuna on Thursday.Osasuna have filed an appeal to the Spanish FA on the grounds of ‘improper fielding” of centre-back Inigo Martinez.Barcelona are reportedly being investigated for their win over OsasunaCredit: RexIt’s claimed that defender Inigo Martinez could have been ineligible to play in the fixtureCredit: RexMartinez, 33, played the full 90 minutes in the LaLiga clash despite withdrawing from international duty with Spain the week prior.The former Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad defender withdrew from Luis de la Fuente’s squad after a medical report from Barcelona detailed that he was suffering from a knee injury, as per a statement from the Spanish national team.Martinez was then replaced in the Spain squad by Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen.And Osasuna claim that Martinez’s inclusion in the LaLiga tie breaches Article 5 of Fifa’s rulebook.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA rule within that article effectively stipulates that any player who withdraws from international break with injury cannot play for their club within the five days following their nation’s last international match – unless explicitly agreed by the national federation.That could spell trouble for Martinez, who featured against Osasuna just four days after Spain’s Nations League second leg against Netherlands on Sunday.Now Barcelona could face punishment if found to have breached the regulations.A points deduction or a reversal of the result have both been touted as potential punishments.Most read in FootballBournemouth’s Dean Huijsen replaced Martinez in the Spain squadCredit: RexCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat could have a detrimental impact on Barca’s season after the win over Osasuna sent them three points clear of rivals Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga.Osasuna, meanwhile, are desperate for points as they sit just one point above the relegation zone.Horror moment Barcelona star finds his tooth on the pitch after losing it in battle with Real Betis defender For now, it is unclear if the Spanish FA granted permission for Martinez to withdraw from the camp or not.While the last-minute nature of the match could also be a mitigating factor for the 27-time La Liga champions.Both Barcelona and Osasuna were given less than a week to prepare for the match after the fixture was rescheduled to Thursday night from it’s original date of March 8 last Friday, following the sudden death of Barcelona club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia.What does Article 5 say?Here’s a look at the working of Annex 1 of the regulations on the status and transfer of players…”A player who, due to injury or illness, is unable to attend a call-up of the association of the country of his or her nationality, must, if requested by that association, undergo a medical examination by a doctor designated by the association. “If the player so wishes, such medical examination will be carried out in the territory of the association where he or she is registered.”A player called up by his association for one of its representative teams is not entitled, unless otherwise agreed by the association concerned, to play for the club to which he belongs during the period that his release lasts or should last, in accordance with the provisions of this Annex, plus an additional period of five days.” More

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    Controversial goalkeeping tactic made famous by Jordan Pickford set to become thing of the past as new rule is clarified

    GOALKEEPERS will be allowed eight seconds from catching the ball to releasing it, in the latest attempt to cut down on time-wasting.The rule change – which comes into effect this summer – will prevent keepers from using a clever tactic often associated with Jordan Pickford.A controversial goalkeeping tactic is set to become thing of the pastReferees will have to count up with their fingers from three seconds to eightFans joked that Liverpool No 1 Alisson mimicked Pickford in a Merseyside derbyUnder the new rules, goalkeepers will concede a corner if they hold onto the ball for more than eight seconds.The change will stamp out keepers lying on the ball after routine collections in the penalty box.But while Everton star Pickford gets stick for this dark-art metric, virtually every other Prem stopper does it too.And fans laughed their heads off when they accused Liverpool No 1 Alisson of mimicking Pickford in the Merseyside derby in 2022.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe law currently states that teams will concede an indirect free-kick after six seconds, but it is rarely applied.Although, referees have dished out more yellow cards for different time-wasting tactics this season, including delaying the goal kick.But keepers will surely now move quicker, now that the rule change will see them concede a corner for violating the eight-second law.The count is intended to begin when the keeper has the ball in his hands or is bouncing it on the pitch – so no more flopping to the ground for ten seconds.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAfter just three seconds, referees will raise their hands and fingers to count down to zero, with a corner being awarded if the keeper has not played the ball.Positive results in trials across England, Italy and Malta have prompted the games rule-makers, the International Football Association Board (Ifab), to change the law for the start of the 2025-26 season.What is FFP? How Financial Fair Play is affecting Man Utd and Arsenal in January transfer windowThis rule will be implemented worldwide by 1 July, at all levels of the game from elite to amateur.It will also be in place for the Club World Cup, which runs from 15 June to 13 July.The new tournament features Manchester City and Chelsea, so Premier League fans will be able to see how Ederson, Stefan Ortega, Robert Sanchez or Filip Jorgensen cope with that countdown for the first time.Teams can also expect early casualties too.We already know how strictly rules are enforced when they are first brought in.Just ask Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard, who both got handed second yellow cards early this season for delaying the restart. More

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    Arsenal files: Bukayo Saka and Gabriel contract update as Real Madrid consider transfer punt on £100m Gunners star

    A MONUMENTAL summer awaits Arsenal with incomings and departures aplenty.But there is also a pressing need to tie down their Holy Trinity for the foreseeable future.Mikel Arteta will soon need to decide on how to tackle Bukayo Saka’s contract futureCredit: APWilliam Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are also out of contract in 2027Credit: GettyBukayo Saka, William Saliba and Gabriel are all out of contract in June 2027 – a daunting prospect with Mikel Arteta’s Emirates project so close to landing major silverware after five years of promise and progress.This simply cannot become a saga that is dragged into next season.Liverpool are a prime example of the mess it can cause with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold set to walk away in a few months.But Arsenal fans can be fairly confident of avoiding a similar meltdown with Arteta at the helm – a manager who has the knack when it comes to convincing world class talent that North London is the place to be, and that the future remains bright and exciting.Arteta’s ability to win one trophy since December 2019 while keeping hold of his best players and strengthening year on year – as well as maintaining the trust and support of the board and the majority of the fan base – should not be underestimated.And when it comes to correcting a turned head or wandering eye of a player considering his options, Arteta often finds the right words to enthuse and motivate – just like Sir Alex Ferguson did in those early United days before finally tasting league glory in 1993.Arteta is honest and respectful, but he is also ruthless and direct.Behind the scenes, he enjoys heated debates with his staff and players during good times and bad to constantly get the very best out of them and to never feel comfortable.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWhen trying to land new players, Arteta plays an active role in the negotiation process, a dominant voice in presentations that leaves those in the room in awe of his level of tactical detail and immense personalisation and passion.Battling Manchester City for Declan Rice’s signature in the summer of 2023, Arteta and ex-sporting director Edu double-teamed the sit-down discussions in person, using the analogy of: ‘The train is leaving – are you getting on board?’Arsenal Fan TV presenter Robbie credits ‘nature’s ozempic’ for incredible body Rice’s camp had met with several clubs but Arsenal and Arteta’s proposal had blown everyone else’s out of the water.The art of persuasion is also about subtlety, knowing when to push and when to back off.Granit Xhaka was practically out the door in October 2019 after being booed off by his fans and stripped of the captaincy by Unai Emery before Arteta took over two months later.In a heartfelt sit-down with Xhaka in his office, Arteta pleaded with the player to stay until the end of the season, but said he would respect his decision with his family a priority.Xhaka ended up staying, signed a new contract a year later and played a vital role in Arsenal’s transformation into title challengers before departing in July 2023.Talks on horizonSo what of Saka, Saliba and Gabriel? SunSport understands that Arsenal are keen to hold talks with the trio in the coming months. The club’s policy in the past has been to avoid allowing top talents getting into the last two years of their deals.But Arteta is usually hesitant to get into negotiations mid-season. On this occasion, they still have a Champions League quarter final to look forward to.While a deal for Hale End star Saka, 23, is a formality, Arteta knows Real Madrid are sniffing around Frenchman Saliba. In the unlikely event Arsenal were open to selling, he would be valued well past the £100m mark.At 24, Saliba has spoken of his desire to one day be the best defender in the world, and recognises he is best placed to continue his development in the Premier League under Arteta – so long as Arsenal are competing for and winning major titles, which is now the case.Gabriel, 27, has eye-watering interest from Saudi Arabia. A move was blocked in August 2023 which saw Arteta briefly drop the Brazilian to make sure his performances would not suffer as a result.He has since emerged as one of the Prem’s most complete players and his family is settled and loving life in London.Arteta has Arsenal’s prestige and history on his side, pointing to the fact this group can go down as club legends if they lift a Prem or European title.Saliba and Gabriel are coming into their peak years. Uprooting now – with a World Cup next summer – would be a huge risk to their form.There will also be a nudge towards their rivals. While Manchester City are undergoing a major rebuild, Arne Slot’s Liverpool may well lose three of their best players to contract disputes this summer.There is a belief within the club that Arsenal are perfectly positioned to take advantage next term, especially as they look set to finally end their search for a top No.9 this summer – the missing piece.Getting all three to commit by the start of next season will be a huge relief, but Arsenal are confident in Arteta’s power of persuasion.THE NUMBERS BEHIND ISAK VS EKITIKEALEXANDER ISAK is the striker all Arsenal fans want to see arrive this summer.But should Newcastle stand firm in their stance that he is not for sale, Mikel Arteta will have to look elsewhere.SunSport revealed this week that Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike is being monitored as an alternative, and the young Frenchman compares well to Isak.Ekitike was even targeted by Newcastle before they signed the Swede.The France Under-21 international has a similar profile to the Toon forward, tall and imposing but sharp on the ball and blessed with pace.Alexander Isak is a prime target for ArsenalCredit: GettyHugo Ekitike is also on Arsenal’s list this summerCredit: AFPWhile Isak has four more goals in five fewer games, Ekitike has three more assists and is not far behind when it comes to goal contributions per 90 minutes with 0.88 compared to the Newcastle man’s stunning 0.97.The 22-year-old spent half of the season playing alongside Omar Marmoush before the Egyptian’s move to Manchester City and has stepped up since his departure.Ekitike bagged three goals in the two games after Marmoush left for The Etihad.The stats show that the Frankfurt forward is constantly involved up top, having more shots and shots on target compared to Isak per game, though the latter has a better conversion rate.While Isak is clearly the more complete forward, any signing which isn’t the £150million rated Newcastle striker will have an element of risk.Ekitike is confident that, after learning a lot during his struggles at Paris Saint-Germain, he is ready to take the next step.A PIECE OF CAKE FOR NWANERISUNSPORT can exclusively reveal that Ethan Nwaneri was given celebratory cupcakes on the plane back from England U21 duty this week to celebrate his 18th birthday.And the Hale End star has left a lasting impression on his Young Lions teammates, not just from his brilliant debut goal in the 4-2 win over Portugal at the Hawthorns on Monday.SunSport understands that Nwaneri, along with Ipswich Town’s Omari Hutchinson – formerly of the Arsenal academy – were often the last ones to leave the training pitches at St George’s Park during their international camp.His professionalism, attitude and mentality are second to none, highly impressive for someone of his age and limited experience so far.There are those in the FA and the England senior set-up who feel it is only a matter of time before Nwaneri struts his stuff in the seniors under Thomas Tuchel.Ethan Nwaneri was the toast of England’s U21s on international dutyCredit: GettyMERINO’S BUSY BREAKMIKEL MERINO has not taken his foot off the pedal during this international break.The Arsenal midfielder – currently deputising as a striker with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus out for the season – played a combined 12 minutes off the bench across two Nations League games for Spain against the Netherlands, scoring in last week’s 2-2 draw.But not satisfied with that, he also visited his old pals back at former club Real Sociedad.He then got in some extra strength and conditioning training with trusted Spanish personal trainer Miguel Azanza.After breaking his shoulder in his first Arsenal training session following his summer switch, Merino has been working overtime to ensure he remains fit and available for Arteta.The work with Azanza included weighted ball throws and band work to maintain his shoulder strength heading into the home stretch to the season.SunSport understands Arteta and Arsenal’s coaching staff have been impressed with Merino’s physicality and competitiveness in training sessions, not one to hold back in challenges and aerial duels with teammates.Mikel Merino has been a hit up top for the GunnersCredit: Getty More

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    Man Utd facing biggest summer exodus in years with ELEVEN players’ futures in doubt including Mainoo and Garnacho

    THE futures of ELEVEN Manchester United players are up in the air with the club facing the biggest summer exodus in years.The Red Devils have several stars out of favour under Ruben Amorim, while Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho could also be sold.Kobbie Mainoo could leave United this summerAston Villa have an option to buy Marcus Rashford in the summerCredit: ReutersThe Athletic have named eleven Red Devils that could realistically leave Old Trafford this summer for a variety of reasons.Firstly, the four all-but definite exits come in the form of Jonny Evans, Tom Heaton, Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof.Evans, 37, – who has not started in four months – and Heaton, 39, are likely to retire, according to Manchester Evening News.While, fellow soon-to-be free agents midfielder Eriksen and defender Lindelof are set to be released come June.READ MORE ON MAN UTDUnited were open to offers for Eriksen last summer and Lindelof is eyeing a return to Benfica after spending most of the last two seasons injured.The club will likely look to part ways with on-loan stars Marcus Rashford, Antony and Jadon Sancho to reinvest in a new goalscorer.Rashford has impressed since joining Aston Villa on loan in January and worked his way into Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad, starting the German’s first two games in charge.Villa have a £40million option to buy Rashford in the summer and it seems the damage is done in terms of his relationship with Amorim.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordElsewhere, Chelsea have an obligation to buy Sancho for £20-25million, although a £5million get-out clause has since emerged.The Blues are set to sign Sancho permanently in the summer, despite reports that suggested Stamford Bridge chiefs were tempted to pay the compensation to avoid it.’Scars are so deep’ – Ruben Amorim gives concerning interview on why Man Utd isn’t a quick fix and will take YEARSAntony – signed for £85.5million- has also had something of a career revival since joining Real Betis but there looks to be no way back for him too.Meanwhile, transfer expert David Ornstein said the Red Devils could listen to offers for Mainoo and Garnacho.As academy products, both represent “pure profit” on the books and would help United stay in line with Profit and Sustainability Rules. Ornstein said: “They are players I don’t think United actively want out.”But if suitable offers arrive and the club decide to entertain them from a football and financial perspective, there could be movement there.”Mainoo – who could garner a £70million fee – has not been able to agree a new deal, which has two years left.David Ornstein said the Red Devils could listen to offers for Alejandro Garnacho.United are open to selling veteran midfielder Casemiro, 33, who has one year left on his deal. The Brazilian – who cost United a whopping £70million in 2022 – is determined to see out the remainder of his contract, which expires in 2026.Meanwhile, PSV have an option to sign left back Tyrell Malacia on a permanent basis.And SunSport exclusively reported that the club are open to selling goalkeeper Andre Onana to the Saudi Pro League.Speaking earlier this month, Amorim admitted some of his players are already aware that their time at the club is coming to an end.He said: “Everybody understands that in football sometimes you stay, sometimes you have to move on. If I know how to explain it, I will do so because I like to be clear.”I was a player and like to use that experience — when you are honest with someone, they can take it. In the beginning maybe it is hard but they will understand.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’m quite honest with my players and sometimes they know they have to move on at the end of the season.”We can talk about that in the end — now there are still a lot of games to play. But that is clear and not a difficult situation.” More

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    Dundee vs Rangers: Get £40 in free bets and bonuses to spend with BetMGM

    RANGERS head to Dundee in the late Saturday kick-off, hoping to carry on their impressive form from before the break.Bookmakers BetMGM are offering brand new customers a cool £40 in free bets when you register an account and stake a tenner on the Premiership game.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..BetMGM £40 welcome bonusVisit the BetMGM website HERE*Select SPORTS OFFER on the websiteRegister a new account – No Promo Code necessaryOpt in for this promotion by depositing and placing at least £10 on football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free betsDundee vs Rangers: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here*Not got a BetMGM account? No problem!This offer is just for you, and it’s incredibly easy to claim!Simply register a new account, deposit and stake a minimum of £10 on football at odds of Evens (1/1) or greater. This must be done within seven days of opening your account with the bookmaker.Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free bets!Dundee vs Rangers: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here**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.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 – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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    Who is Roy Keane’s son Aidan?   

    ROY Keane is a former Man Utd and Ireland midfield legend, who currently works as a no-nonsense football pundit.Keano is also a family man — here’s everything we know about his son Aidan.Roy Keane pictured with his son Aidan in 2000 after beating Spurs in the FA Cup finalCredit: GettyWho is Roy Keane’s son Aidan?Roy Keane has been married to Theresa for over 20 years — they tied the knot back in 1997.The pair met in 1992, when the midfielder was playing for Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough.Speaking of how they got together, Roy said: “I spotted a beautiful girl in a club in town. Her name was Theresa Doyle but she blanked me.”She was in a steady relationship and didn’t seem at all impressed by Roy Keane, the great footballer. In fact, I think my reputation was as a downer for all kinds of reasons.read more on roy keane”From time to time we ran into each other around Nottingham. I knew some of her friends, who told me Theresa was a dentist’s assistant.”Eventually, after her relationship broke up, she relented and we went out together. I was in love.”Roy and Theresa share five children together, four daughters and a son – Shannon, Caragh, Aidan, Leah and Alanna.Aidan prefers to keep his personal information out of the public domain, but his dad has previously mentioned him in a number of interviews.Most read in FootballBack in 2013, Roy told Today FM that Aidan supports Arsenal, before adding: “Hopefully when he grows up and gets a bit of sense, that will change.”The former midfielder has got his son’s name tattooed on his right arm — along with the names of his four other children.Roy Keane shows soft side in moment with daughter who suffers from incurable illness Roy said: “The wife did ask me why didn’t I get hers.”I said, ‘They’ll always be my kids but you won’t necessarily always be my wife,’ which she wasn’t too pleased about.”When Roy retired from playing football in 2006, before going into management, he initially planned on spending more time with his family.He wrote in his autobiography: “My plan when I first stopped was, we’re going to go on some family trips, we’re going to be like the Waltons.Aidan Keane prefers to keep out of the public spotlightCredit: Alamy”We’re all going to spend time together, go walk in the park and after a month or two they didn’t have the same plan as me so I think they were kind of missing me going to work.”I got offered the job at Sunderland and I was away on a family holiday and my family were looking at me… not saying it directly but going we kind of enjoy your company but not too much of it so when the job came back up they were saying you should go for it.”Aidan also plays football, apparently just like his dad, according to the man himself.In an undated archive interview, which was posted on Instagram in April 2023, Roy said: My young fella plays soccer now, he’s 17.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think he plays like I do — he’s not very good but he runs around a lot.” More

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    Captaincy options for Gameweek 29: Has Erling Haaland’s time come again?

    DREAM TEAM managers must remember to select their captain for Gameweek 29 before Saturday’s 10:45am deadline.Mohamed Salah (£8m) has been the most popular skipper for months on end but his reign may be at an end.Salah is not as viable since Liverpool were eliminated from the FA Cup and Champions LeagueCredit: GettyLiverpool’s top scorer has just one fixture this coming Gameweek, the small matter of Wednesday night’s Merseyside derby at Anfield.The Egyptian superstar may well post another double-digit haul – he’s registered 54 goal involvements this season for crying out loud – but he doesn’t appear to be among the leading candidates on paper.Logically, the best captain is more likely to come from one of the seven teams set to pull double duty.And so the question must be asked: has Erling Haaland’s (£7.8m) time come again?Manchester City travel to Bournemouth this weekend in the FA Cup quarter-finals before welcoming Leicester to the Etihad in the Premier League in midweek.29 goals and countingCredit: GettyThe Cherries are not to be underestimated but the big Norwegian No9 will be licking his lips at the prospect of taking on the Foxes on current form.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side have lost seven games in a row and haven’t scored a league goal since Janaury.The chances of Haaland adding to his season tally of 29 goals at some point this coming Gameweek are relatively high.Most read in FootballAlternatively, might there be a fantastic captain lurking in Crystal Palace’s ranks?Daniel Munoz (£5.4m) averages seven points-per-game this season and so it would be reasonable to expect a healthy return from him with the Eagles due to face Fulham and Southampton.One of Dream Team’s star performers this seasonCredit: GettyThe Colombian wing-back has scored five goals, provided six assists, and contributed to 12 clean sheets.Wednesday’s trip to St Mary’s Stadium represents a mouthwatering mismatch as Saints have mustered just four points on home soil since their return to the top flight.While that’s all valid, many gaffers will be reluctant to captain a defender, even one as good as Munoz.Much of the same logic applies to Palace’s attack-minded assets.Eberechi Eze (£4.5m) averages 6.8 points-per-game while only Bruno Fernandes (£6.7m) has earned more points from his last three outings than Ismaila Sarr (£3.7m).Jean-Philippe Mateta (£4.5m) is expected to return from injury in Gameweek 29.Eze scored for England during the breakCredit: PAElsewhere, Aston Villa have the luxury of a cup quarter-final against lower league opposition as they travel to Preston on Sunday, with a league game against Brighton to follow.Some Dream Team bosses will be tempted to stick the armband on Morgan Rogers (£3.9m), Marco Asensio (£4.1m) or Ollie Watkins (£5.2m) – assuming the latter is passed fit – but predicting minutes isn’t all that easy where the Villains are concerned.READ MORE SUN STORIESMentions too for Justin Kluivert (£4m), Antoine Semenyo (£4.2m) and Evanilson (£4.2m) as it wouldn’t be all that surprising if Bournemouth landed a few blows on Man City before overwhelming Ipswich.In conclusion, Haaland is seemingly the most logical captain among the premium options but there are several tempting alternatives this Gameweek.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More