Philippa Kaur

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    QPR boss Marti Cifuentes put on gardening leave days before final match of season with rivals ready to swoop for him

    QPR BOSS Marti Cifuentes has been put on gardening leave just days before the final match of the season as rivals prepare to swoop.The Spanish coach, 42, has led QPR to 15th in the Championship table ahead of Saturday’s clash at Sunderland.QPR have put manager Marti Cifuentes on gardening leaveCredit: RexBut Cifuentes will not take charge of the game after the Hoops put him on gardening leave.SunSport exclusively revealed last week that Cifuentes could quit the club this summer after a breakdown in his relationship with chief executive Christian Nourry.He has since been strongly linked with West Brom following Tony Mowbray’s sacking.And QPR have now confirmed that Cifuentes will not take charge against Sunderland, with assistants Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm filling in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA statement read: “Marti Cifuentes has been placed on gardening leave. “Assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm will take charge of first-team affairs on an interim basis and prepare the squad for our final fixture of the 2024/25 campaign against Sunderland.”CEO Nourry said: “This is naturally a disappointing situation for everyone concerned.“I fully understand and appreciate supporters’ frustrations at this time.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS“As a club, we are working to ensure this matter is resolved as swiftly as possible so we can start preparations in earnest for the future.”As revealed by SunSport, Cifuentes is a highly popular figure among QPR fans after saving them from relegation last season.Shelbourne ace Greg Costello recalls feeling homesick after daunting move to QPR as a teen But he has grown frustrated with the huge number of injuries his squad encountered this season, which ended their flickering play-off hopes and will result in a lower-mid-table finish.Cifuentes is also unhappy at the club’s decision to allow director of performance Ben Williams to oversee the club’s sports science, medical, physio and nutrition departments remotely from Dubai.And after this month’s 2-1 home defeat by Swansea, he wanted assurances the club want to progress to the next level having dropped out of the Premier League ten years ago.The Spaniard said: “The supporters since I first came here have been amazing.“But I would like to give them something else and not just celebrate another season in the Championship.” More

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    Arsenal refusing to show huge PSG Champions League semi-final clash on Emirates concourses for very clever reason

    ARSENAL came up with an ingeniously simple way of keeping fans in their seats for the visit of PSG.The Gunners lost 1-0 to the French giants in their first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.Arsenal fans are being encouraged to stay in their seats throughout the match against PSGCredit: APThe Gunners hope to drown out the noise of the travelling PSG fansCredit: GettyMikel Arteta issued a rallying call to fans before the game to make the Emirates a fortress.And even concourse staff are getting in on the act for the big game in North London. TV’s showing the match are usually available for punters while they wait for a drink or collect food.But the screens were not showing the game live on Tuesday night.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLArsenal wanted everyone in their seats for the duration of the 90 minutes in a bid to create a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere.Highlights were shown at half time as the Gunners aim for a first Champions League final in 19 years.Arteta opted to drop makeshift striker Mikel Merino into midfield in a huge call to his starting lineup. Declan Rice filled the void of the suspended Thomas Partey, with Leandro Trossard preferred to lead the line. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIt came after Arteta demanded Gunners’ fans turn up the decibel level and drown out PSG’s travelling Ultras.The Spaniard said: “We are making history. PSG fans take over streets ahead of Arsenal clash as they march through London for Champions League semi-final”It’s a beautiful story right now, but we want much more.”I told [the supporters], and I’m not exaggerating here, when I said: ‘Guys, bring your boots, bring your shorts, bring your T-shirts, and let’s play every ball together. “We want to do something special.”[The Emirates] has to be something that we haven’t seen before.”Earlier in the day, both sets of supporters took to the streets outside the Emirates for fan marches. Thousands of PSG fans descended on Trafalgar Square, setting off flares as they marched through the capital. More

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    Antonio Rudiger slapped with SIX-GAME ban after Real Madrid star hurled objects at ref – but Bellingham’s red rescinded

    ANTONIO RUDIGER has been hit with a six-match ban for launching an object at the referee – but Jude Bellingham has had his red card rescinded. Real Madrid imploded and had three players sent off in Saturday night’s 3-2 Copa del Rey final defeat to El Clasico rivals Barcelona.Antonio Rudiger launched an ice pack at the refereeCredit: X @PremSportsTVA fuming Rudiger had to be held back from confronting the refCredit: X @PremSportsTVJude Bellingham has seen his red overturnedCredit: RexReal Madrid were unhappy with the appointment of Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea before the gameCredit: GettyThere were shocking scenes at the of the match after Kylian Mbappe was judged to have fouled Eric Garcia as Real Madrid staged a last attack.Tempers flared as the bench behind boss Carlo Ancelotti lost their cool and wildly protested.Rudiger, who had been subbed off, was the most incensed and he launched an ice pack at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea.The ex-Chelsea centre-back then had to be restrained from confronting the official. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, Vinicius Junior, Lucas Vazquez and several coaches charged onto the pitch and gestured angrily towards the official.Rudiger and Vazquez were sent off at the time, with Bellingham also seeing red after the final whistle.The official’s report said the English midfielder “approached the referee aggressively” and needed “to be restrained by team-mates”.Rudiger has been slapped with a six-game ban as punishment and Vazquez will be suspended for two.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever, Bellingham has been let off after Real Madrid’s appeal was successful.They reportedly had video evidence that proved he was not “aggressive” to the ref.Real Madrid issue statement after making ref break down in tears and ‘threat to BOYCOTT Copa del Rey final vs Barcelona’Real Madrid were unhappy with the appointment of De Burgos Bengoetxea before the game, taking to their club TV channel to broadcast mistakes made by him and express that he was too inexperienced for a final.It led to the ref breaking down in tears in a pre-match press conference, saying: “When a child of yours goes to school and there are kids telling him that his father is a ‘thief’ and comes home crying, it’s totally messed up.”What I do is try to educate my son, to say that his father is honest, above all honest, who can make mistakes, like any sportsperson.It’s not right what we are going through, many colleagues, and not just in professional football, but also at grassroots level.”Everyone should reflect about where we want to go, about what we want from sport and from football.” More

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    Ex-Brazil star Hulk celebrates sixth anniversary with his ex-wife’s niece and posts emotional message

    HULK celebrated six years with his ex-wife’s niece with an emotional social media post.The former Brazil forward, 38, caused shockwaves on the pitch with his ferocious power and goalscoring exploits on the pitch.Hulk marked six years with his new wife Camila AngeloCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/ClJeod9LceX/The footballer officially married his ex-wife’s niece in JanuaryCredit: Golders/@camiilaangelooficialAnd he certainly caused a stir away from football when he split from former wife of 12 years Iran Angelo de Souza, with whom he had three children.Within months, he started dating her niece Camila Sousa Angelo in April 2019.And now they have been together for six years – including formally tying the knot in marriage in January 2025.Hulk took to social media on Tuesday to mark their initial anniversary. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe posted a photo kissing his new wife Camila to his 4.6million Instagram followers.Hulk captioned it: “Six years by your side and I can only thank God for our story. “Each day is a new blessing, every moment a new memory. “May our love continue to grow with strength, respect and happiness. Most read in Football”I love you, my wife, my life!”He then added the date “20/04/2020” with ring, heart and praying emojis. Watch ex-Brazil star Hulk incredibly miss from a yard out with chance that was easier to score for Atletico MineiroIt is understood that is when they initially married due to Camila needing a visa to stay in China where he was playing at the time.They welcomed daughter Zaya in 2022 and then had Aisha last year. The couple were all smiles in the sunshine in January when they officially got married in Hulk’s hometown of Campina Grande.A sea of roses, huge chandeliers and artwork filled the church, named The Diocesan Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception, where the ceremony took place.But the relationship caused controversy in the family, with his ex-wife Iran’s sister Rayassa taking to Instagram to hit out at the couple and their wedding for his “betrayal”.Six years by your side and I can only thank God for our story.HulkShe wrote: “Today is a hard day to swallow, a day that reveals how far betrayal can go when it comes from the people we least expect.”It is sad to realise that Judas is not only in ancient stories, sometimes he sleeps under the same roof, eats at the same table and, at the right moment, stabs himself in the back.”Wanting what belongs to someone else, wanting to live the life of someone who trusted you, is a reflection of an empty heart, incapable of creating its own happiness.”Read More on The SunFormer Porto and Zenit man Hulk is still playing professionally, racking up more than 120 goals for Atletico Mineiro since signing in 2021. He earned 49 caps for Brazil, finding the net 11 times. Hulk is still enjoying his football at Atletico MineiroCredit: Getty More

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    ‘We’re finished aren’t we,’ say Man Utd fans as club release kit with astronomical price and players won’t even wear it

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans have slammed the club for releasing a throwback kit for an astronomical price.Adidas unveiled their new “Bring Back” range today in honour of the Red Devils’ 1991 European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.Man Utd have released a new vintage kitCredit: MUFCThe throwback shirt has a special ‘Cup Winners’ badge and a new tracksuit is also availableCredit: MUFCIt commemorates the 1991 European Cup Winners Cup win over BarcelonaCredit: GettyThe iconic white away shirt was worn in the final as Mark Hughes scored twice to see off Barcelona 2-1.To commemorate the achievement, they released a modern take on the classic look which “blends football history, perfect for celebrating United’s legacy or making a statement off the pitch”. The new kit, which will not be worn in any matches, has a special cup final badge, detailed stitching and a subtle pattern.Supporters can buy the shirt with the No7 or No10 on the back in homage to former captain Bryan Robson or Hughes.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt is available in the club’s official shop for a whopping £145 in long sleeves or £105 for short sleeves.To accompany the strip, a black and red tracksuit jacket with the old Sharp sponsor on the back can be added to your basket for £90.And the matching tracksuit bottoms are priced at a huge £85.Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martinez modelled the vintage clothing alongside Robson and Hughes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSBut despite fan favourites and legends being used to market the new range, United supporters hit out at the timing and prices.One said: “Liverpool won 20th league title and we have released the 20th kit for the season.”How Ruben Amorim can fix Man United’s Garnacho problemAnother added: “Releasing throwback merch less than 24 hours after our rivals tied our record? Yeah we’re finished aren’t we.”Others wrote: “More merch drops then Premier League wins this season. Give it a rest honestly.”A fourth commented: “That price tag really takes the beauty away from its impact.”Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    PSG fans take over Trafalgar Square ahead of Arsenal clash as they march through London for Champions League semi-final

    PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN fans took over Trafalgar Square ahead of their Champions League clash against Arsenal.French supporters marched through the streets of London before making their base at the famous central landmark.PSG fans took over Tralfagar Square ahead of their Champions League clash at ArsenalCredit: AlamySupporters marched down the street as they sang songs and banged drumsCredit: AFPThey also set off flares in dramatic scenesCredit: TwitterThe group put on a show of strength ahead of the clashCredit: AFPTrafalgar Square was draped in France and PSG flagsCredit: AlamyFans also lit flares when inside the EmiratesCredit: ReutersThere was a party atmosphere for the visitorsCredit: APThey put on a show in north LondonCredit: ReutersFans first set off flares and chanted songs as they brought the capital to a standstill.The large group banged on drums and clapped to their heart’s content to create a brilliant atmosphere.Thousands then gathered at Trafalgar Square to soak up the sun and raise morale ahead of a tense night at the Emirates.PSG fans were praised by many football supporters on social media for their show of strength before facing Arsenal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne user said: “Best supporters in the world.”Another declared: “This is Paris.”One noted: “Let’s gooo.”Another added: “You have one job tonight.”Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSPSG have already dumped two English sides of Europe this season.They KO’d newly-crowned Premier League champions Liverpool in the last 16.How Arsenal can outsmart PSG in Champions League semi-finalThe group enjoyed the weather as they marched onwards to the EmiratesCredit: AlamyIt was a glorious day in the capital for the visitorsCredit: AlamyThey were in good spirits on their way to the groundCredit: AlamyCentral London came to a standstillCredit: AlamyFans from both sides showed good sportsmanshipCredit: EPAAnd Luis Enrique’s men then dismissed Aston Villa in the quarters.They also defeated Man City 4-2 in the group stages to make it a hat-trick of wins.But PSG did suffer one loss to an English side, with Arsenal beating them 2-0 in October.The Gunners are flying high after smashing Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the quarters.Yet Thomas Partey’s suspension has meant a reshuffle with Mikel Merino moving from attack into midfield. More

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    Arsenal vs PSG live stream FREE: How to watch huge Champions League semi-final first leg without paying a penny

    THEY say the best things in life are for free – and fans will be able to watch Arsenal’s mammoth Champions League semi-final first leg against PSG without paying a single penny!After such a promising start to the season, the Gunners were forced to sit back and watch Liverpool get crowned Premier League champions on Sunday.Arsenal convincingly knocked holders Real Madrid out of the competitionCredit: GettyThe Gunners have already beaten PSG earlier this seasonCredit: GettyARSENAL VS PSG LIVEAnd having suffered early exits from the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, it means that Arsenal’s only chance of securing silverware this season rests on the one trophy that eludes them – the Champions League.However, confidence is brewing around North London that they can do the unthinkable, especially after dumping 15-time winners and current holders Real Madrid out of the competition.Two Declan Rice stunning free-kicks in the first leg and a Bukayo Saka chipped effort fired Mikel Arteta’s men to a 5-1 aggregate win over Los Blancos in the quarter-finals.Read more on Arsenal vs PSGAnother confidence booster to help Mikel Arteta’s men overcome this high French semi-final hurdle is that they have beaten PSG earlier on in the campaign.But that was a PSG side without in-form striker Ousmane Dembele, and January super signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.This is set up to be a sensational semi-final and SunSport can reveal how fans can watch the first leg free of charge.How can I watch Arsenal vs PSG Champions League semi-final first leg for FREE?Arsenal vs PSG’s Champions League semi-final first leg is available to watch for FREE on Amazon Prime Video.Most read in Champions LeagueNon-members can sign up for a 30-day free trial giving you all the benefits of Prime including this mammoth match.This season, Amazon Prime has acquired part of the rights to show the Champions League and their top pick this week is Arsenal vs PSG.Prime members can watch the action from the Emirates at NO additional cost to their regular subscription.When is Arsenal vs PSG?The Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and PSG will take place on Tuesday, April 29.It is scheduled to kick-off at 8pm BST.Emirates will play host for this huge encounter and it can host approximately 60,000 fans.Arsenal beat PSG 2-0 when the sides faced off in the group stages of this year’s Champions League campaign. More

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    Eric Dier to leave Bayern Munich and secure glamorous move as ex-Tottenham and England star agrees free transfer

    ERIC DIER has agreed to join AS Monaco, according to reports.The Bayern Munich defender, 31, will link up with the French side ahead of next season.Eric Dier is set to leave Bayern Munich this summerCredit: GettyDier has agreed a two-year deal with the Ligue 1 outfit.And according to L’Equipe, the deal possesses an option to extend by a further 12 months.Monaco, managed by Adi Hutter, are fourth in the French top flight with three matches remaining.Dier will hope that his new side can seal Champions League qualification for next term.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe centre-back left Tottenham in January 2024 following eight-and-a-half years in North London.Having previously been a stalwart at Spurs, Dier fell out of favour under Ange Postecoglou.The 49-cap England star played 365 times for Tottenham prior to departing for Bayern.Dier was initially a regular for the German giants under Thomas Tuchel.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDier made 365 appearances in eight-and-half-years at TottenhamCredit: RexThe experienced defender initially didn’t feature much under Tuchel’s successor Vincent Kompany – although he has started Bayern’s last nine Bundesliga matches.Dier will link up with former Premier League stars Thilo Kehrer, Denis Zakaria, Folarin Balogun, Mika Biereth, Takumi Minamino and Mohammed Salisu at Stade Louis II.Ange Postecoglou does NO tactical work in training reveals former Tottenham star Eric DierLast year, Dier opened up on life at Tottenham under Ange Postecoglou while in conversation with Gary Neville.The Three Lions star revealed: “No, interestingly he doesn’t really do any tactical work.“What he does is, every single training drill from Monday to Friday is drawn up to represent the way he wants to play.“(Antonio) Conte, I could do it blind, but that was a lot of tactical work, ten versus zero, walkthroughs.“You were so well drilled, it would be ingrained in you.” More