Philippa Kaur

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    Moment car ends up pitch side in middle of English football match as fans say ‘non-league at its finest’

    STUNNED fans reckon a surprise intervention from a CAR showed ‘non-league football at its finest’. Matlock Town’s clash with Lancaster City was revving up nicely when a Honda Jazz trundled past pitchside – in front of the main stand.Fans didn’t know whether to focus on the match or the vehicleThere was no ‘brake’ in the first-half action as the seventh-tier, Northern Premier League game continued.But visitors Lancaster posted in their match coverage: “A car has taken an unexpected detour and found himself pitch side at the fittingly named Proctor Cars Stadium.”And if the venue name was apt, how about the player who put City in front soon after…Lewis Mansell – a moniker combining two of Britain’s most famous Formula 1 stars – put Lancaster in the driving seat with a 24th-minute opener.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMontel Gibson levelled just before the interval – in his final game for relegated Matlock as Town have freed the hotshot from his contract to play at a higher level.There were no more goals in the 1-1 stalemate… if only the car had brought its scoring boot!And it was the unexpected motoring moment that captivated viewers when the incident was posted online.One responded: “Normal non league behaviour over here.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Live car auction during the game?” wondered another.And a third reckoned the vehicle should be “offered as part of hospitality” at future matches.Non-league clash SUSPENDED with players forced off the pitch due to weatherAnother fan reckoned it was “more like CAR-lisle” – with Vauxhall Motors another suggested host.  Meanwhile, one expert analyst delivered some tactical advice.He concluded: “Can’t park there mate.”The ‘Matlock Motor Mystery’ might then have been solved by another post.A fan wrote: “For those wondering, this was a musician who provided pre-match entertainment having to leave the game early to get to his next gig, but to exit our small club car park you have to follow a ‘driveway’ round the pitch. Unfortunate if the game is in progress!” More

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    Nottingham Forest 0 Man City 2: Pep and Co set up FA Cup final showdown with Crystal Palace as Nuno’s side spurn chances

    WHAT a strange old FA Cup semi-final this was. Thousands of Manchester City fans didn’t bother turning up for it – and neither did Nottingham Forest’s players for the first hour.Man City have the chance to salvage something from their seasonA goal in each half from Rico Lewis and Josko Gvardiol was enough for City to face Crystal Palace in the final on May 17Lewis scored inside TWO minutesBut there were plenty of empty seats at WembleyNottingham Forest missed a handful of chances in the second halfOn the day when City’s four-year reign as champions of England came to an end, goals from Rico Lewis and Josko Gvardiol, early in either half, booked Pep Guardiola’s men a third successive FA Cup Final appearance.There were almost 10,000 empty seats in the City end, with Wembley 17,000 short of its 90,000 capacity.And City keeper Stefan Ortega could have taken one of those vacant places in the stands for the entire first half, when he was a complete spectator. With Mateo Kovacic outstanding in midfield, City showed patches of their vintage form as they secured a final date with Crystal Palace on May 17. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSForest struck the woodwork three times in a late rally – skipper Morgan Gibbs-White doing so twice, including a stunning long-range volley. But after Aston Villa’s thumping by Palace on Saturday, for a second straight day an upwardly-mobile Midlands club completely underwhelmed at Wembley. There was no doubting which set of supporters were more up for this – the Forest end was rammed and raucous.And given that this was their club’s seventh successive FA Cup semi-final – and their 28th major fixture at the new Wembley – it felt like a far more routine day out for City. Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGuardiola might have been accused of ‘overthinking it’ for a big match again when he benched Kevin De Bruyne, as well as Ilkay Gundogan.Yet within two minutes, Lewis – a surprise selection in midfield, had thumped home the opener.Pep Guardiola gives Jack Grealish update as Man City star ‘slapped’ after Manchester derby Kovacic was the creator, holding off a challenge and angling a pass to Lewis, who arrowed his shot past Matz Sels and into the bottom corner. Kovavic was beasting Forest in midfield, winning several tackles, as City kept their opponents pinned back.  Jack Grealish, his shinpads now almost microscopic, was menacing as a false nine. City had been on a seven-match unbeaten run since losing at Forest in early March Omar Marmoush blazed one over but City were playing like something from their peak years. Nuno had handed a first major start to his 18-year-old defender Zach Abbott and along with the rest of Forest’s defence, the kid was seriously under the pump. It wasn’t until the 24th minute that Forest had a touch in the City box, they had barely ventured into the opposition’s half – and every time they did, they were caught offside. Nico O’Reilly, popping into midfield from left-back, executed a pirouette and drilled a shot narrowly wide.But City had taken their foot off their gas and by half-time this was dying a death. Forest had failed to register a single shot and managed just a single touch inside the City box.There was no surprise when Nuno sent on birthday boy Anthony Elanga at the break, in place of Danilo, and he had clearly inserted a rocket up a few jacksies.  And a minute into the second half, Forest had a shot. Hudson-Odoi raced down the left and centred low for Elanga poked wide from close range. Yet that brief burst of attacking intent was short-lived as City started to pepper the Forest goal. First Sels saved an angled shot from Lewis with his feet at the near post, then the Forest keeper pushed out a Matheus Nunes effort.And then Sels made a brilliant improvised stop with his feet from a deflected Kovacic effort. Still, the Belgian’s heroics were in vain because, from the resulting corner, delivered by Marmoush, Gvardiol leapt above Murillo for a mighty header which doubled City’s lead.  Soon, Grealish’s reverse pass located Marmoush whose shot was repelled by Sels.  But then Gibbs-White – a summer target for City, who had been quiet all afternoon – met an Elanga centre with a stunning volley which crashed off the crossbar, combining exquisite technique with thunderous power.  And Gibbs-White then struck the woodwork for a second time in four minutes. Read More on The SunCity got seriously sloppy trying to play out from the back and a dozy Gvardiol pass was intercepted by the Forest skipper, who rounded Ortega but shot against the post from a tight angle. Forest were staging a very belated comeback attempt and sub Taiwo Awoniyi fired against the post before Ortega saved brilliantly, pushing away a Gibbs-White header. Morgan Gibbs-White hit the woodwork twice in the second half More

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    Liverpool 5 Tottenham 1: Reds crowned champions in front of Kop after coming from behind to demolish woeful Spurs

    MO SALAH celebrated scoring by taking a selfie with a fan’s phone – as Liverpool snapped up the title in fittingly-easy fashion.In a season where few tipped them to be champions before a ball was kicked, Arne Slot’s picture-perfect team have waltzed to victory, seemingly without breaking sweat.Mo Salah celebrated with a Kop selfie as Liverpool secured the 2024/25 title in styleCredit: APVirgil van Dijk led the celebrations at a jubilant AnfieldCredit: GettyLiverpool fans have not been able to celebrate a title in person since 1990Credit: ReutersLuis Diaz and Alexis Mac Allister both netted as the Reds came from behind to beat TottenhamCredit: EPAAnfield was bathed in colour as the Reds put on a show to seal a historic Prem titleCredit: PACody Gakpo made it 3-1 just before half time to settle any Liverpool nervesCredit: AFPSalah bagged himself a goal as the floodgates openedCredit: PAThis win to clinch it looked the most effortless of them all against a powder-puff Spurs who have seemingly given up on their Prem campaign in favour of the Europa League.An early Dominic Solanke header aside, Ange Postecoglou’s shower were ideal opponents for Slot’s glory-hunters, and rolled over as soon as their hosts moved out of first gear.First-half strikes from Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo put the result, both in this game and the title race, beyond doubt.Then Salah’s banger and Destiny Udogie’s own goal after the break created a champagne scoreline to toast an Anfield party 35 years in the planning.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFor this was the first time Liverpool had been able to celebrate a league title success in front of supporters since Kenny Dalglish’s side recorded the club’s 18th in 1990.Five years ago, Jurgen Klopp won the 19th – and his only Prem crown of his glittering tenure – but of course, that was in Covid times when no fans were allowed.The supporters more than made up for it here, as their beloved club went level with Manchester United on 20, by bringing the festival vibes long before the game had even kicked off.Thousands lined the streets outside the ground, waving flags and flares as the team bus arrived.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKInside the stadium, everyone was in carnival mood, including Sir Kenny and Alan Hansen who were in attendance.This red-letter day for the hosts came 24 hours before the anniversary of when they clinched the title in 1990.Gary Neville reveals fear with Liverpool to become most successful English team everDalglish’s side, captained by Hansen, also fell behind to an early header when Roy Wegerle stunned Anfield for QPR.Back then, the edgy hosts had to wait until just ahead of half-time for Ian Rush to level things up before John Barnes sealed a 2-1 win from the penalty spot after the break.Here, the nerves were calmed far quicker after Solanke’s powerful header had threatened to puncture the party atmosphere inside 12 minutes.The England striker, who had a brief spell with the Reds as a youngster, escaped Diaz and outjumped Ryan Gravenberch to thunder home James Maddison’s corner.No one saw it coming – but pretty much everyone expected the response.Dominic Solanke had headed Spurs into an early leadCredit: RexBut the Reds stormed back with three goals before half timeCredit: GettyIt came extremely swiftly – even for this excellent Liverpool attack and this porous Spurs defence – as Slot’s side hit a quick-fire double.First, Salah ingeniously found Dominik Szoboszlai who rolled it across the box for Diaz to sweep home.Szoboszlai, now the first Hungarian Premier League champion, was originally ruled offside, but VAR correctly intervened and the goal was given. Six minutes later, and after Gakpo had had a goal this time rightly chalked off for offside, the hosts were in front.Spurs, so often the masters of their own downfall, could only have themselves to blame as Mathys Tel lost possession trying to play out from the back.Gravenberch got in front of Archie Gray and managed to offload it to Mac Allister, who drew his left foot back and blasted the ball into the top corner.Postecoglou had spoken in the week how he at times has “poked the bear” with his own critics this season by snapping sarcastically back at them.Poking the bear was a good description of what his own side had done to Liverpool here – and his team were eaten alive as punishment.Two became three on 34 minutes to extinguish any sense of jeopardy out of the occasion.Salah’s strike was his first for Liverpool since March 8Credit: ReutersSpurs were at fault again as Lucas Bergvall’s pathetically weak header to try to clear a corner fell at Gakpo’s feet.The Dutchman was afforded the space to get the ball under control, shift it onto his right and pick his spot into the far corner.Slot’s animated celebration at that point suggested that even he, the cool head insisting no one get ahead of themselves, knew the title was theirs now.After the break it was just a matter of how many more they would get.And whether Salah, who had not netted in 50 days for his club, would move closer to breaking the Prem record for combined goals and assists in a single campaign.Ahead of the game, the brilliant Egyptian destined to win every individual award going this term was on 45 thanks to 27 goals and 18 assists.Destiny Udogie put through his own goal as Spurs wilted in the Merseyside sunCredit: EPATrent Alexander-Arnold celebrated with the supporters after the gameCredit: ReutersBoss Arne Slot put on a Liverpool shirt before being saluted by the KopCredit: ReutersThat was two behind joint-holders Andy Cole and Alan Shearer from their respective exploits at Newcastle and Blackburn in the early 90s.Salah moved one closer to their hauls with his SIXTEENTH goal against Spurs, cutting in from the right and curling into the near post before borrowing a supporter’s phone for a priceless selfie snap.The Liverpool icon was trying to claim a second shortly afterwards as Slot’s men made it five, but there was no doubting it was Udogie who turned home Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross.Read More on The SunSpurs had well and truly put up the white flag but mercifully Liverpool left it at that.The hard work had been done – in truth it was completed long ago – as Slot and his players enjoyed their photo finish a country mile ahead of the chasing pack More

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    Liverpool win historic Premier League with four games to spare as emotional scenes break out at Anfield after 20th title

    IT’S OFFICIAL, Liverpool are Premier League champions and have equalled Manchester United’s record of 20 top-flight titles.Arne Slot has reclaimed Liverpool’s place at the top of English football in his debut season, after taking over from club legend Jurgen Klopp last May.Liverpool have won the Premier LeagueCredit: PAThere were jubilant scenes throughout the 90 minutes and at full-timeCredit: APAnfield celebrated its first title in 35 yearsCredit: AFPMo Salah has been Liverpool’s key man throughout the campaignCredit: PAArne Slot led Liverpool to their 20th league title, moving level with rivals Man UtdCredit: APIt was double dutch for Liverpool’s coach and captainCredit: AFPTrent Alexander-Arnold celebrates his second Prem triumphCredit: GettySalah took selfies with the KopCredit: GettyVirgil van Dijk celebrates his first title as Liverpool captainCredit: GettyThe Kop roared on the Reds throughout the win over TottenhamCredit: ReutersAfter relegating Leicester with a 1-0 win on Sunday, Liverpool put their name on the trophy with an emphatic 5-1 win over Tottenham.They went 1-0 down but hit back four minutes later and led 3-1 at half-time.There were jubilant scenes throughout the match and at full-time the players and staff celebrated in front of the Kop.Mo Salah took more selfies with the crowd – as he did after his goal – with Anfield celebrating its first title in 35 years, since 2020’s Prem title was won behind closed doors.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe stadium was a sea of red and there were emotional scenes as players and fans united as the crowd sang: ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.Slot, 46, is the first Dutch manager to win the Premier League and the fifth man to do so in their debut campaign after Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini and Antonio Conte.And now, with four games remaining, the Kop faithful can officially let their hair down and celebrate.But the Reds have had one hand on their 20th title for several weeks.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArsenal’s Champions League quest has seen them draw consecutive games with Everton, Brentford and Palace this month, to leave any chase impossible.Mikel Arteta’s side’s can only pick up a maximum of 12 points from their four remaining games, meaning their domestic season is officially over.’A brilliant failure’ – Incredible footage of Arne Slot’s craziest coaching idea resurfaces from his playing daysHOW REDS WON ITAug 17 Ipswich (a) W2-0Aug 25 Brentford (h) W2-0Sep 1 Man Utd (a) W3-0Sep 14 Nottm Forest (h) L1-0Sep 21 Bournemouth (h) W3-0Sep 28 Wolves (a) W2-1Oct 5 Crystal Palace (a) W1-0Oct 20 Chelsea (h) W2-1Oct 27 Arsenal (a) D2-2Nov 2 Brighton (h) W2-1Nov 9 Aston Villa (h) W2-0Nov 24 Southampton (a) W3-2Dec 1 Man City (h) W2-0Dec 4 Newcastle (a) D3-3Dec 14 Fulham (h) D2-2Dec 22 Tottenham (a) W6-3Dec 26 Leicester (h) W3-1Dec 29 West Ham (a) W5-0Jan 5 Man Utd (h) D2-2Jan 14 Nottm Forest (a) D1-1Jan 18 Brentford (a) W2-0Jan 25 Ipswich (h) W4-1Feb 1 Bournemouth (a) W2-0Feb 12 Everton (a) D2-2Feb 16 Wolves (h) W2-1Feb 19 Aston Villa (a) D2-2Feb 23 Man City (a) W2-0Feb 26 Newcastle (h) W2-0Mar 8 Southampton (h) W3-1Apr 2 Everton (h) W1-0Apr 6 Fulham (a) L3-2Apr 13 West Ham (h) W2-1Apr 20 Leicester (a) W1-0Apr 27 Tottenham (h) W5-1As things stand, the league leaders’ 15-point advantage on Arsenal is the biggest gap over the second place side since Manchester City’s 18-point lead over Manchester United in 2019-2020.But Man Utd will be more bothered about Liverpool equalling their long-held record of 20 league titles in English football. Sir Alex Ferguson set that in 2013, having spent two decades clawing back to knock Liverpool off their perch laid down in the 1980s.Meanwhile, England also has a new Premier League champion for the first time since Liverpool won it FIVE years ago, which ended a 30-year club drought.Pep Guardiola’s incredible Man City sides have won it for the last four consecutive seasons, setting a new record in the process.In fact, it was Klopp’s heroic efforts to compete with Guardiola during his nine years that left the German manager “under too much pressure” to continue before he quit Anfield last season. Salah – who signed a new two-year contract this month – has provided 46 goal contributions, in the form of 28 goals and 18 assists – the most in both categories across the league.Liverpool have lost just two Prem games this season, a 1-0 defeat by Nottingham Forest in September and a 3-2 loss to Fulham this month.It’s been eight years since the last champions lost as few as two games all season – that was City in 2017-2018.But Liverpool will have to remain unbeaten for their last four games against Chelsea, Arsenal, Brighton and Palace, to keep that stat.Read More on The SunMeanwhile, Arsenal – who have stepped into Liverpool’s place of competing with City over the last few years – could now finish second for the THIRD straight season.That is as long as the chasing pack of City, Newcastle, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest don’t catch up and leapfrog them.Slot became the first Dutchman to win the PremCredit: ReutersCody Gakpo celebrates his second Liverpool trophyCredit: AFPAfter relegating Leicester with a 1-0 win on Sunday, Liverpool sealed the title a week laterCredit: ReutersSalah celebrated in his style after his goalCredit: AFPLiverpool put five past TottenhamCredit: EPAMANAGERS’ PREMIER LEAGUE TITLESTWELVE bosses have won the Premier League13 – Sir Alex Ferguson5 – Pep Guardiola3 – Jose Mourinho, Arsene Wenger1 – Arne Slot, Antonio Conte, Carlo Ancelotti, Roberto Mancini, Jurgen Klopp (above), Claudio Ranieri, Kenny Dalglish, Manuel Pellegrini More

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    How Slot’s Liverpool won Premier League title that was never meant to be theirs after sliding-doors transfer window

    THIS wasn’t supposed to happen.Not with a rookie manager replacing a legend, a disaffected Galactico seemingly wanting out and a lack of action in last summer’s transfer window.Arne Slot has led Liverpool to the title in his first season in charge at AnfieldCredit: AFPMo Salah led the charge for the Reds who lift the trophy for the first time since 2020Credit: EPALiverpool players celebrate with their fans on the pitch after beating Spurs 5-1Credit: AFPThere were jubilant scenes at AnfieldCredit: APPlayers soaked up the atmosphere as fans sang ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’Credit: PAVirgil van Dijk celebrates winning his first title as captainCredit: GettyLiverpool’s Premier League campaign was so consistently good, and their title win so inevitable for so long, that we have forgotten how few people gave them a hope in hell of winning the title in Arne Slot’s maiden campaign.The Dutchman isn’t the first boss to be crowned champion in his first season in English football – the Chelsea trio of Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Antonio Conte all managed it, as did Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City, with Arsene Wenger winning the Double in his first full campaign at Arsenal.Yet the exit of Jurgen Klopp was supposed to be debilitating, the uncertainty over the future of Mo Salah was supposed to be an almighty distraction.Throw in the frustration of Liverpool’s failure to land any significant summer recruits and there was little expectation that they could dethrone Manchester City and overhaul Arsenal to reach the summit.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLYet he we are, with just weeks of the season still to run, and Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th English top-flight title already confirmed.The Reds are now able to parade the Premier League trophy at a packed Anfield for the first time – their only previous such success having arrived behind closed doors, during the pandemic.Contrary to their anthem, Liverpool have walked alone at the top of the table for months.Since hopes of the Quadruple, a Treble or even a Double evaporated during February and March, Slot’s side have been damned with faint praise, as ‘lucky’ champions during a poor season.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKYet this is nonsense. The Reds were unbeaten in the league for almost seven months between a home defeat by Nottingham Forest in September and a loss at Fulham in early April.For almost four months, they did not suffer defeat in any competition – winning 15 of 16 games during one run as remorseless as anything Klopp achieved.Mo Salah commits to Liverpool with new two-year contract And City’s record 19-point winning margin of 2018 is still very much in Liverpool’s sights, so there has been nothing lucky about it.Has it been a poor league season overall? Well the scale of City’s mid-season meltdown was extraordinary after Pep Guardiola’s side had rattled off an unprecedented four successive English titles.Yet Arsenal, who have been Liverpool’s closest – if distant – challengers have been good enough to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League, thrashing Real Madrid.Newcastle have been resurgent, Forest a remarkable surprise package and Aston Villa a growing force, even if Chelsea flattered to deceive, while Manchester United and Tottenham disappeared without trace.For Liverpool, stand-out results and performances have been rare – an early-season demolition of United at Old Trafford, away-day thrashings of Tottenham and West Ham and a hugely significant double over City.After that was completed with a victory at the Etihad – which Klopp never achieved in the league – Liverpool were 11 points clear and Salah declared: “Me and the big guys in the team, we need another title.”HOW LIVERPOOL WON THE TITLETHE Reds’ Premier League results this seasonAug 17 Ipswich (a) W2-0Aug 25 Brentford (h) W2-0Sep 1 Man Utd (a) W3-0Sep 14 Nottm Forest (h) L1-0Sep 21 Bournemouth (h) W3-0Sep 28 Wolves (a) W2-1Oct 5 Crystal Palace (a) W1-0Oct 20 Chelsea (h) W2-1Oct 27 Arsenal (a) D2-2Nov 2 Brighton (h) W2-1Nov 9 Aston Villa (h) W2-0Nov 24 Southampton (a) W3-2Dec 1 Man City (h) W2-0Dec 4 Newcastle (a) D3-3Dec 14 Fulham (h) D2-2Dec 22 Tottenham (a) W6-3Dec 26 Leicester (h) W3-1Dec 29 West Ham (a) W5-0Jan 5 Man Utd (h) D2-2Jan 14 Nottm Forest (a) D1-1Jan 18 Brentford (a) W2-0Jan 25 Ipswich (h) W4-1Feb 1 Bournemouth (a) W2-0Feb 12 Everton (a) D2-2Feb 16 Wolves (h) W2-1Feb 19 Aston Villa (a) D2-2Feb 23 Man City (a) W2-0Feb 26 Newcastle (h) W2-0Mar 8 Southampton (h) W3-1Apr 2 Everton (h) W1-0Apr 6 Fulham (a) L3-2Apr 13 West Ham (h) W2-1Apr 20 Leicester (a) W1-0Apr 27 Tottenham (h) W5-1The Reds have been relentlessly good, rather than captivatingly brilliant, but many clubs have staged similar title-winning campaigns.That largely barren summer transfer window – during which the lesser-spotted Federico Chiesa was Liverpool’s only signing – may have provided a happy accident for Slot.Desperate to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad to anchor his midfield, Slot instead relied upon Ryan Gravenberch as his holding player – then the sliding-doors moment saw his compatriot become arguably the best player in the league during the first half of the season.Salah, meanwhile, had ended last season in open revolt against Klopp, a touchline tantrum at West Ham as Liverpool’s title challenge fell apart last spring adding to suggestions that the Egyptian wanted out.The ambition of filthy-rich Saudi Pro League bosses to capture Salah – the highest-profile Muslim footballer on the planet – has been an open secret for 18 months.Yet while Salah frequently whined about the supposed absence of a new contract offer from the Anfield board, he never took his eye off the ball, producing one of his finest campaigns and currently tops the charts for goals as well as assists.Salah is known to prefer Slot’s man-management style to that of Klopp and his decision to sign a new two-year deal has done wonders for Liverpool’s hopes of defending their crown and winning back-to-back titles for the first time in more than four decades.Like most champions, this Liverpool side is built on firm defensive foundations laid down during Klopp’s glory years.Alisson remains world class between the sticks, skipper Virgil van Dijk has been at his imperious best for most of the season, with Ibrahima Konate a rock alongside him.Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk has penned a new two-year contractCredit: PAWith Trent Alexander-Arnold headed for Real Madrid and Andy Robertson having disappeared over the hill, Alisson and Van Dijk remain the trusty stalwarts of Klopp peak years.Slot has been wise in his ‘ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach, when a manager with a greater ego would have been desperate to provide his own stamp.Yet Liverpool’s playing style has become less frenetic, more risk-averse than during Klopp’s heavy metal era.The midfield trio Klopp assembled during his 2023 revamp – Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have gelled and excelled under Slot.Up front, Salah has taken the bulk of the goalscoring responsibility – only he and Luis Diaz have netted more than six league goals for the Reds this season.Me and the big guys in the team, we need another title.Mo SalahBut even the misfiring Darwin Nunez had his moments – including a late double to beat Brentford in January, on the same day Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead against Aston Villa on a day which went a long way to denying us a proper title race.One more thing, while Liverpool will never be wildly popular champions across the nation – thanks to the grating superiority complex of their fans – they have become more difficult to dislike under Slot.For all Klopp’s goofy grins, he and his attack-dog assistant Pep Lijnders were widely disliked by rival managers and coaches, as well as by many referees – as David Coote so infamously let slip in one of the videos which would spell his downfall.Slot was punished for one major tantrum aimed at Michael Oliver after the concession of a late equaliser during the final Goodison Park derby in February, telling the ref he would blame him if Liverpool failed to win the title. He needn’t have worried.MOST TOP-FLIGHT TITLESLIVERPOOL have joined Manchester United on 20 Premier League titles20 – Liverpool, Manchester United13 – Arsenal9 – Everton, Manchester City7 – Aston Villa6 – Chelsea, SunderlandBut the Dutchman is, at heart, an agreeable, understated bloke.Slot has won his title with Klopp’s squad and with no desire to make this all about himself.At the moment, he looks like being the modest Bob Paisley to Klopp’s bombastic Bill Shankly.The rest of the league will hope this ends up as a false comparison.Paisley won six league titles and three European Cups.Read More on The SunBut while Klopp unleashed a tempest on Merseyside, that storm has ended.In its place, is a golden sky.MANAGERS’ PREMIER LEAGUE TITLESTWELVE bosses have won the Premier League title13 – Sir Alex Ferguson5 – Pep Guardiola3 – Jose Mourinho, Arsene Wenger1 – Arne Slot, Antonio Conte, Carlo Ancelotti, Roberto Mancini, Jurgen Klopp, Claudio Ranieri, Kenny Dalglish, Manuel Pellegrini More

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    Diehard Crystal Palace fan with arm in sling goes viral after using his HEAD to clap FA Cup heroes at Wembley

    A DIE-HARD Crystal Palace fan has gone viral while celebrating during his club’s 3-0 FA Cup semi-final win over Aston Villa.The fan was hindered with one arm in a sling, so he used his HEAD to clap with his free hand.A Crystal Palace fan has gone viral after using his head to clapThe young man couldn’t clap normally because his arm was in a slingPalace fans were in a frenzy after battering Villa in the FA Cup semi-finalThe unnamed Eagles supporter could be seen in the background behind double goalscorer Ismaila Sarr at Wembley on Saturday.The moment came after Sarr’s sublime low shot from distance put Oliver Glasner’s side 2-0 up in the 58th minute.Sarr’s crucial goal came minutes after Villa threatened to turn the tie on its head after Jean-Philippe Mateta sent his penalty well wide.But one Palace fan has gone viral after viewers at home caught him slapping his head with one free hand among the wild celebrations. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe young man couldn’t clap with his broken left arm, so he ingeniously improvised with his head instead.The inventive fella was as enthusiastic as those around him as Palace booked their place in the final against either Manchester City or Nottingham Forest, who play in the other semi-final on Sunday.One X user joked: “This bloke can’t clap so he’s whacking his head instead.”Another claimed: “That’s my mate. He broke his arm in our Sunday league game a couple weeks ago.”Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third quipped: “I normally opt to use my chest, but each to their own 😂.”While one more added: “What a legend. Proper fan 🤣🤣.”Crystal Palace fans earn club an FA charge within 30 SECONDS after engulfing Wembley in smoke by sneaking in flaresIt was a true turning point in the game, before Sarr went onto put the final nail in Unai Emery’s coffin in added time.England international Eberechi Eze had put Palace ahead with an absolute screamer in the 31st minute.Emery reflected on his Wembley defeat and confessed: “Crystal Palace deserved to win.  “This year we played them four times and lost three and drew one. “We have to accept it and keep going in the Premier League where we are close to qualifying for Europe. “We must dominate our frustrations.”Read More on The SunPalace fans broke strict Wembley rules just 30 seconds into the clash by letting off flares.Meanwhile, Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford looks set to miss the rest of Villa’s season after picking up a hamstring injury. More

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    Liverpool vs Tottenham LIVE SCORE: Premier League clash on NOW as Gakpo’s stunning finish puts Reds on cusp of title

    LIVERPOOL are taking on Tottenham in a huge Premier League clash RIGHT NOW – with the Reds needing just one point to secure the title.The Merseyside giants side have been the standout team this season, and they are deservedly closing in on a 20th league crown.But things didn’t get off to the best start after former Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke headed Spurs ahead in the 12th minute.Tottenham’s role as party poopers didn’t last long as Luis Diaz struck to make it 1-1 minutes later.Normal service was then resumed with Alexis Mac Allister putting the Reds 2-1 up with a thunderbolt from the edge of the box before Cody Gakpo doubled his side’s lead with a stunning finish.Live stream: NOW TVTV channel: Sky Sports Main EventLiverpool team: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Konate, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Gakpo, DiazTottenham team: Vicario; Spence, Danso, Davies, Udogie; Bergvall, Gray, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, TelCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Liverpool 3-1 Tottenham35. Tottenham look so open, this could be ideal for Liverpool.Whenever Spurs come forward and lose the ball, the hosts look like they are going to go up the other end and score.It is anyones’ guess what scoreline we will have here this afternoon.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 3-1 Tottenham33. As Bergvall fails to clear his lines, Gakpo picks up the loose ball.He shifts it to his right foot and drills it into the far corner.The champagne is now on ice for Arne Slot’s side.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-1 Tottenham31. Alexander-Arnold strikes it but it sails over the crossbar.That would have been something special for the local lad to get amongst the goals in this crucial game.The atmosphere is something to behold at Anfield today.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-1 Tottenham29. Maddison goes straight through the back of Szoboszlai.The referee awards a free-kick in a dangerous position.This one is definitelty in range for a shot.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-1 Tottenham27. As a cross comes in for the visitors, Solanke gets up to flick it towards goal. Alisson takes no chances as he tips it over the bar.The resulting cross comes in but Konate wins the header.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 2-1 Tottenham25. Liverpool have turned this game on its head and Anfield is bouncing.’We’re gonna win the league and now you’re gonna believe us’ rings out from the stands.Arne Slot’s side are going to take some stopping at this point.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 1-1 Tottenham23. This game is evenly poised now, Spurs are struggling to get forward.The Reds are passing it around moving into pockets of space.At times, the visitors look all over the place in defence.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 1-1 Tottenham21. Liverpool have the ball in the back of the net once again.Gakpo is the player to tap home but it is ruled out offside.This time it was the correct decision from the linesman.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 1-1 Tottenham19. Anfield is rocking once again.Liverpool needed that quick goal after falling behind.Now Tottenham will be put under some intense pressure.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 1-1 Tottenham17. Szoboszlai squares the ball for Diaz to tap home.The flag immediately goes up for offside but the Hungarian is on by a country mile.The VAR review informs the referee to award the goal and Anfield erupts.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Luis Diaz (Liverpool)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-1 Tottenham15. Slot’s side will feel some pressure now having gone behind.It was a solid header from the Tottenham striker to his credit.Of all the people to score, an ex-Liverpool player.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-1 Tottenham13. Well this was not in the script for today.As a corner comes in, Solanke rises to head it home.The Reds have it all to do now.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Dominic Solanke (Tottenham)Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham11. As the corner comes in, Szoboszlai receives it with his back to goal.He takes one touch to control and tries an acrobatic overhead kick.It narrowly misses the top corner.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham9. A hopeful ball is played into the far post.Gakpo does well to get it down and get a shot off.Vicario makes a save but the referee deems it having gone behind for a corner.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham7. As a Tottenham attack breaks down, Liverpool hit them on the counter.Salah makes a run out wide and is found by a lofted pass.He looks to play it in early for Diaz but the Columbian had stopped his run.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham5. A brief glimpse of goal for the visitors.It drops to Tel in the box but he cannot react quick enough.The last things these fans want is for the visitors to throw a spanner in the works.Copy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham3. Liverpool are awarded a free-kick in a danngerous area.It is too far out for a shot so they quickly work it out wide.Salah gets a shot off with his trusted left foot but sends it sailing over the target.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedLiverpool 0-0 Tottenham1. The atmosphere at Anfiield really is something else.Gakpo gets away down the left and Robertson is quick to support.The Reds pass it around, looking to stretch the visitors early on.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Liverpool vs TottenhamWe are underway at Anfield.This is such a huge game for Arne Slot’s side this afternoon.Liverpool get the match started.Copy linkCopiedAnfield rocking ahead of gameThe Liverpool fans are making this a cauldron of noise for this massive fixture against Tottenham.’We’re gonna win the league’ rings out from the stands.Games do not get bigger than this.Credit: APCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedBoss focussed on job for RedsArne Slot spoke to Sky Sports about the szie of the task at hand for his side today against Spurs:First of all is what is required of the players, they need to work really hard. Then the fans can play a big part as well. The louder they are, the harder the players work. There is a job to do for us, we have to be ready for Tottenham. Everybody knows what is is about, we need one point, today is the first chance we have to do that. Hopefully after we can start to enjoy.Arne SlotLiverpoolCopy linkCopied More

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    Nottingham Forest vs Man City LIVE SCORE: Lewis gives Pep’s side dream start in thrilling FA Cup semi-final tie – latest

    MANCHESTER CITY have taken the lead inside TWO minutes in this mouthwatering FA Cup semi-final tie against Nottingham Forest.A lot of the focus before kick-off surrounded 18-year-old Zach Abott who is making his full debut for Nuno’s side.However, Forest fell behind inside TWO minutes courtesy of a sublime strike by Man City teen Rico Lewis.FREE live stream: BBC iPlayerTV channel: BBC OneNottingham Forest starting XI: Sels; Toffolo, Milenkovic, Murillo, Abbott; Dominguez, Oliveira; Gibbs-White, Danilo, Hudson-Odoi; WoodMan City starting XI: Ortega Moreno; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Lewis, Kovacic; Bernardo, Savinho, Grealish; MarmoushBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from Wembley with our live blog below…33 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityBit better for Forest who play direct through the middle of the park.Hudson-Odoi is then slipped in down the right and he slides a pass for Wood in the box but sensational last-ditch defending puts him off and prevents a certain goal.The flag then does go up but it would’ve been tight…Copy linkCopied30 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityMilenkovic covers well when Savinho looked to get into the box in behind the defenders.The Forest man sees his clearance hit off the winger and go behind for a goal kick, before he waves his hands looking for more from the Forest supporters.The fans have given so much for over an hour and aren’t getting much to shout about from his teammates…Copy linkCopied27 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityThis would’ve been one of THEE Wembley goals to remember.O’Reilly latches onto Gibbs-White and dispossesses him 15 yards inside the Forest half.His close control and strength is superb to evade two challenges with Maradona-esque footwork before unleashing a rocket of an effort from 25 yards which bounces a couple of yards wide.Copy linkCopied24 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CitySet piece for Forest this time as they’re enjoying a couple of minutes up the park, and a chance to get the big boys up.It’s wide on the left and about 45 yards from goal, when it’s clipped into the area for the team in red to attack.Until, the linesman’s flag goes up for offside. Dearie me.Copy linkCopiedLloyd Canfield at Wembley StadiumForest are slowly settling here. After what was a chaotic start to say the least, Forest are starting to settle a bit and their fans are reacting accordingly. The occasion may have been a little large for those players right from the off, but it seems like now they’re being a bit more patient on the ball which should pay dividends for them. It’s all going to depend on that final ball now – in my view they’re missing Anthony Elanga big time so far, who is on the bench. Anthony Elanga is on the bench for Forest vs Man CityCredit: GettyCopy linkCopied22 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityNearly an opening for Forest for the first time this afternoon.Anderson did look in an offside position when trying to bundle his way beyond the City defence but the defenders come out on top in any case.Copy linkCopied19 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityThey don’t really deal with that City corner initially and it’s only half cleared to Savinho out wide again.His next delivery is a good one but nobody in sky blue meets it and Sels comes out to claim.Copy linkCopied18 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityKovacic is man of the match already. EVERYTHING is going through him and he’s already twice won the ball high up the park for City.Toffolo with an important tackle down his left side but at the expense of a corner.Copy linkCopied15 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityAnother shot comes in on the Forest goal.Having said that, it was more at the Forest fans.Clever one-two between Marmoush and Grealish before the former strikes from 25 yards out but he’s a mile off target.Copy linkCopied14 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityA rough 14 minutes for Forest to this point.Although, they’ve had 1% possession for every minute played so far…City with 86% possession in the opening quarter of an hour and I’m actually a tough surprised it’s not more.Copy linkCopied12 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityThe corner is dealt with as Sels punches it away but it’s coming straight back.Marmoush has an effort from the corner of the area which is blocked and spins out to the City right where they win a free kick.Again, the set piece is dealt with before it’s knocked to halfway and City’s players work hard to win it back almost immediately.Copy linkCopied10 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityKovacic running the show at the minute.And he’s almost in for a second City goal, taking a sublime touch to beat two Forest players on the edge of the box and get nearer goal before Forest scramble and get the ball behind for a corner.They look a complete bag of nerves back there.Copy linkCopiedLloyd Canfield at Wembley StadiumWhat a start that is. Exactly what Man City needed, as it’s kicked their fans into gear and quietened down what were a ferocious Forest fanbase. Forest have work to do now if they want to be playing in the final here…Rico Lewis netted within two minutes for Manchester CityCredit: GettyCopy linkCopied6 – Nottm Forest 0-1 Man CityNo change since the goal as City knock the ball about for fun while Forest deploy their formation inside their own half.City were almost in again down the right with Nunes but his attempted cross was blocked.Copy linkCopiedNottm Forest 0-1 Man City – GOAL DETAILI was just about to say this game has started perfectly for both these sides; City with possession and Forest out of possession.But that perfect start has been continued by City and it’s a nightmare for Forest.The defending is absolutely horrific.City are patient and Kovacic makes a darting ball through the middle, committing three Forest bodies when doing so.He finds Rico Lewis inside the D at the edge of the box and he’s given time to take a touch and fire low and hard into the bottom corner.So many red shirts there and nobody thinks to get close. Copy linkCopiedGOALLLL!!! Nottm Forest 0-1 MAN CITYInside two minutes and City are in front already!RICO LEWIS with it!Copy linkCopiedKICK-OFF!A spot in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace is up for grabs!Nottm Forest vs Man CityCopy linkCopiedHuddledThe City XI group into a huddle with Ruben Dias delivering an impassioned final speech.Morgan Gibbs-White with the final message in the Forest huddle.Ready to go…Copy linkCopiedHere they comeA steely look on the face of the 22 players – and indeed the 22 mascots – as they make their way out at Wembley.The Forest tifo is unfurled just as they’re making their way out. Good stuff from both sets of supporters.A really brilliant atmosphere. Let’s hope it delivers on the park too!Copy linkCopiedFrom Lloyd Canfield at Wembley StadiumThe Nottingham Forest fans have absolutely blown the Man City faithful out of the water here at Wembley. To my left the stadium erupts at every mention of the word Nottingham, with almost every seat full, scarfs waving around and people singing as if they were using their final breaths. To my right, the City fans seem apathetic. This is their 28th visit here since the new Wembley was built, perhaps they’ve begun to take the importance of an occasion like this for granted. As for Forest, this is just their second visit since the stadium was built – the previous being a play-off final vs Huddersfield in 2022. I was sat here for the Carabao Cup final, where Newcastle’s atmosphere helped them beat champions elect Liverpool – and I’ve got a feeling we might see a similar story here today. Copy linkCopiedIn the tunnelA terrific noise from the fans in here, sky blue at one end and red on the other.The noise coming from those in red, mainly as they outnumber their City opponents.However, the Man City fans have unfurled a huge tifo behind the goals where they’re housed!Copy linkCopiedEnjoyNuno has urged his players to enjoy their ‘special occasion’ at Wembley afternoon.He said: “You don’t have to shield them, it is impossible to shield a squad of players when there is so much information and when it is such a special occasion for us.“We have to enjoy it, but we have to go as a group of players and staff to compete.“That’s the best way to enjoy the semi final of the FA Cup, if you are focused and committed to compete.”Copy linkCopiedWarming upIt’s getting warm inside Wembley – on the pitch and off it!The players are coming to the end of their warm-ups.And the Forest fans – who’ve been in here for quite some time – are the ones making all the noise!Copy linkCopiedMatch oddsCity the warm, warm favourites to win the tie in 90 minutes here.The value, almost certainly would be with Forest. You just can’t ignore City in these situations though.Nottm Forest 15/4Draw 29/10Man City 13/20Copy linkCopiedHow City line-upA few surprise selections from Pep Guardiola as Jack Grealish is brought back into the starting 11.The Spaniard has made two further changes from the side that beat Aston Villa on Tuesday with Rico Lewis and Savinho coming in for Iklay Gundogan and the suspended James McAtee.Copy linkCopied More