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    Marco Silva left furious as WRONG Fulham player subbed off but Whites boss can’t do anything about it

    MARCO SILVA was left fuming with the fourth official after the WRONG Fulham player was subbed off during his side’s 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth.A bizarre admin error meant Ryan Sessegnon was forced off as part of a triple substitution in the 57th minute.Marco Silva was fuming with the officials during Fulham vs BournemouthSilva was left raging with the mix-upFulham didn’t want to take Sessegnon off, but had no choice in the endSessegnon had gone close to finding a Fulham equaliser in the 37th minuteWith Bournemouth leading 1-0 after a 53-second opener, Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez and Tom Cairney were brought on to find a goal.Fans at home saw the trio replace Sessegnon, Sander Berge and Rodigo Muniz at the Vitality Stadium.But the changes took more than FIVE minutes and were so long in fact that referee Michael Oliver had to walk over and see what was going on.It has since transpired that Fulham didn’t want to take Sessegnon off, but had no choice in the end.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd Fulham manager Silva looked absolutely incensed with the mix-up.Silva was up on the touchline shouting at fourth official Tim Robinson, but it’s not clear which player he wanted to come off instead of the winger.According to Premier League rules, once a player is subbed off, he “cannot return to the field of play during the same match”.The Sky Sports commentator said: “The card went in with Ryan Sessegnon’s name on it. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”But our understanding from the Fulham technical area is that he wasn’t supposed to be coming off.”The Cottagers were undone by a stunning low finish from Antoine Semenyo inside 53 SECONDS.The Premier League’s Top 10 sexiest managers according to AIEvanilson then struck the post from a yard out in the 17th minute.Sessegnon then missed a huge chance with a straight forward header to level for the Cottagers on the stroke of half-time.But Silva’s subs couldn’t find a leveller, with the Cherries overtaking Fulham to eighth in the Prem table.Bournemouth won their first game in nine matches in all competitions and are back in the race for a place in the European Conference League last season. More

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    How Declan Rice can be ‘world class’ again vs Real Madrid and send Arsenal into Champions League semi-finals

    DECLAN RICE put on a performance for the ages against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final.He had gone more than 400 career matches without scoring a direct free-kick.Declan Rice produced a stunning performance against Real MadridCredit: GettyHe was all over the pitch but got forward wellCredit: SunSportThen he produced two moments of sheer class within 13 minutes to turn the tie in Arsenal’s favour.Mikel Merino turned in a superb third to give the Gunners a 3-0 lead to take to the Bernabeu on Wednesday night. And ahead of the second leg, SunSport’s tactical guru Dean Scoggins unpacked what made Rice’s masterclass so good in the latest episode of Tactics Exposed…DECLAN RICE LOOKED A WORLD BEATER AGAINST REAL MADRID… WHY?Declan Rice is a world-class football player. We talked previously about how he can be wasted in the England system.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAgainst Real Madrid, Rice played much further forward and was freed up – but don’t underestimate the Bukayo Saka factor.Jude Bellingham came back to help David Alaba deal with Saka but that moved the midfield sideways for Madrid – which opens gaps for Rice to get forward and be a threat. Minus Rice’s two free-kicks, Myles Lewis-Skelly was the best player on the pitch – he was unbelievably good. He came in to make a midfield two with Thomas Partey which took some defensive responsibility off Rice.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWHAT DO YOU MAKE OF RICE DEFYING ARSENAL’S SET-PIECE COACH AND SHOOTING RATHER THAN CROSSING?Declan Rice the leader came to the fore in this game, too. Players can magic moments. This was an opportunity and he took it. How Lewis-Skelly could be Tuchel’s secret weapon for EnglandRice told Bukayo Saka he was going to ignore the set-piece coachCredit: GettyRice pushed into the high left No8 positionCredit: SunSportIf he put it over the bar, it wouldn’t matter.Too often in football matches it has becomes robotic and turgid because players don’t want to take the risk and shift responsibility. Rice has done that brilliantly well. We saw Brennan Johnson not take the penalty against Southampton when he could have completed his hat-trick – he semi-asked if he was allowed but Mathys Tel took it. Rice owned the free-kick and is becoming the main man in a very good team.WHICH FREE-KICK WAS BETTER – FIRST OR SECOND?I think the second one. As a mid-ranking amateur footballer that I was, I judge a goal on ‘could I have done it?’If you gave me 100 attempts, maybe I could score one in a hundred for the first one – but the second one not even one in a million. No chance! The pace he hits it at, the angle, the attitude to give it a go. IS RICE PLAYING IN THE WRONG POSITION?At the moment for Arsenal, his position is here, it’s there, it’s everywhere.He’s two, maybe even three, players in one. So yes, Mikel Arteta is getting the best out of him. Out of possession, he drops in with Partey and gets back in position but they call him the ‘horse’ because he never stops running. When the full-back inverts, he can go further upfield. Lewis-Skelly is English – so can he do the same for England to get the best out of Rice in a Three Lions shirt?Read More on The SunIf you have another holding midfielder alongside Rice for England, then you can have Rice and Bellingham running from deep. Get Rice on the field and tell him to run. Rice was able to push on due to the inverted role of Myles Lewis-SkellyCredit: GettyBukayo Saka’s influence cannot be underestimatedCredit: SunSportThe Englishman has been a standout performer all seasonCredit: SunSport More

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    AC Milan having second thoughts over Kyle Walker transfer with veteran former England star’s future in doubt

    AC MILAN are thinking again about making Kyle Walker’s move permanent.The veteran Manchester City skipper made a good impression in the first few weeks after moving to the San Siro in January, making 12 appearances.AC Milan may decide against signing Kyle Walker this summerCredit: GettyAll the signs were they would take up the option to buy the full-back — who turns 35 next month — for around £5million.But the England ace is out for several weeks following surgery after he fractured his right elbow during training.Loanee Walker faces a battle to play much before the end of the campaign.And he will have to wait to see if he has done enough to earn a long-term move.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMilan are ninth place in Serie A.Their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season are fading.That is likely to hit their summer budget, which could also further hamper Walker’s hopes of an extended stay in Italy.Walker was almost reduced to tears when he was deemed surplus to requirements by Pep Guardiola at City.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHis contract at the Etihad expires in June 2026 – meaning he is set to enter the final term of his current deal there this summer. But while the 95-cap England international could be left in limbo of his football contract, he is having no such issues off the field.Kyle Walker signs big money deal to model huge fashion brand’s underwear just like David BeckhamAs revealed by SunSport, Walker signed a big-money deal – said to be worth six figures – to be an underwear model for Hugo Boss.A source said: “He’s so excited about this, he can’t contain himself.“He’s been reluctant to do anything like this in the past because he doesn’t like the spotlight, but things are different now.“He’s loving his new lease of life with AC Milan and hopes his performances can help him reach 100 caps for England.“But he’s also thinking about the future and has half an eye on life beyond football.” More

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    Chelsea make Enzo Maresca decision after worrying downturn in form and taking swipe at Blues fans

    ENZO MARESCA is safe as Chelsea boss – for now.The club’s Italian head coach retains the confidence of the club’s board despite a worrying downturn in form.Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea have endured a poor run of formCredit: RexSunday’s dismal 2-2 draw against struggling Ipswich leaves them sixth in the Premier League and out of the Champions League reckoning for next season.Chelsea’s entire gameplan revolves around returning to the money-spinning European competition as quickly as possible.Maresca’s team was booed off at half time and needed an own goal and one from on-loan Jadon Sancho to grab a point against relegation-bound Town.But Maresca’s dedication to his job and unflinching commitment to the cause mean the Stamford Bridge top brass remain convinced he is still the right man for the job.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has been in charge for less than a season since leaving Leicester City having won last season’s Championship title.Maresca, 45, is the fourth permanent manager to serve under Chelsea’s ownership since they took over less than three years ago.Yet there is no desire for another change of coach even though results have taken a tumble.A Blues insider told SunSport: “Everyone at the club is totally on board and committed to getting us back in the Champions League.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford Bridge“Enzo, the board and the sporting directors are wedded to that ideal.“If it doesn’t happen this season there will be questions asked naturally. But as it stands Enzo is still seen as the man to take Chelsea forwards.”’I can’t see anything’ – Chelsea fans moan as live TNT Sports coverage of Conference League clash is ruined by smokeChelsea have drawn their last two Premier League games dropping four points.They sit a point outside the top five which would qualify them for the Champions League after a two season absence.There are only six games left in which to make up lost ground although they do play direct rivals Newcastle and Nottingham Forest during the run-in.It’s a tough challenge and winger Sancho has called for unity in the closing weeks of a topsy turvy campaign, even though Chelsea face a tough trip to neighbours Fulham on Sunday.Chelsea ratings vs IpswichJADON SANCHO spared Chelsea’s blushes as Enzo Maresca’s side came from behind to draw against Ipswich.The relegation-threatened Tractor Boys went 2-0 up after 31 minutes with Chelsea flat throughout the first half.But Maresca’s men woke up after the break and fought back for what will still be a disappointing point as they chase a Champions League spot.So who were the shining lights for the Blues – and who had an afternoon to forget?Read Conor Jones’ ratings here to find out.Sancho said: “We really want that Champions League spot.“It’s not over, we’ve still got six games to go. From now on every game is going to have to be a final, so we’re going to need everyone at 100 per cent.“We have tough games ahead but if we stick together I’m sure we can get what we need from them.”Maresca complained that the ‘environment’ at Stamford Bridge is not helping his players in their quest to get back among Europe’s elite clubs.Read More on The SunChelsea’s demanding fans are restless and are not happy that even though the team is up against it domestically they are flying in the UEFA Conference League this season.Maresca said: “We are stronger with our fans. We are a better team and it’s up to them to decide the way to be.” More

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    Former England star sells iconic Italia 90 World Cup shirts for more than £100,000 to mystery bidder

    A FORMER England star has sold his collection of iconic Italia 90 kits for a six-figure price.Ex-defender Mark Wright swapped shirts with several opponents on England’s route to the semi-finals.Former England defender Mark Wright has sold his shirt collection from Italia 90Credit: GettyThe collection sold for over £100,000Credit: SWNSAnd as a result, he amassed a collection which included jerseys worn by Ireland’s Andy Townsend, West Germany’s Klaus Augenthaler and Italy’s Giuseppe Giannini.Shirts from Netherlands winger Johannes van’t Schip, Egypt’s Saber Eid, Belgium’s Marc van der Linden and Cameroon’s Emmanuel Kunde were also auctioned.England kicked off their 1990 World Cup campaign with draws against Ireland and Netherlands before defeating Egypt in the final group stage match thanks to a 59th-minute winner from Wright.The Three Lions then beat Belgium in the last-16 before coming from behind to defeat Cameroon 3-2 in the quarter-finals.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, they were knocked out by West Germany on penalties in the semis.The seven shirts collected by Wright during the tournament were accompanied by the defender’s match-worn 1992 FA Cup final jersey from his Liverpool days, as well as six of his England caps.The collection was sold for over £100,000 at an auction at Wembley Stadium last week.Before the sale, Wright said: “I feel very proud when I look at the shirts. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I think how lucky I was to play in a World Cup and against these teams.”The most significant one for me was the Irish one as it was my mate Andy Townsend. To swap with a great mate was fantastic.The football boot customiser who’s scoring BIG with the game’s biggest stars are | Football Fixers”I don’t remember [swapping most of them] but I remember the German one obviously losing the semi-final and you’re switching.”If I’m honest I didn’t really want to switch that one.”The shirts and caps were purchased by a private UK-based buyer.Wright was capped 45 times by England and scored one goal.He also played for Liverpool, Southampton and Derby. More

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    Chelsea’s forgotten men are tearing it up on loan in France, but are Andrey Santos and Djordje Petrovic good enough?

    CHELSEA have signed a whopping 47 players since Todd Boehly took over three years ago.However, many of them have failed to impress.Andrey Santos joined Chelsea in January 2023 but is yet to make a competitive appearance for the first teamCredit: GettyThe Brazilian has enjoyed a breakthrough season on loan at StrasbourgCredit: AFPGoalkeeper Djordje Petrovic is also impressing for the French sideCredit: AFPSome have barely touched the pitch in Chelsea blue, while others haven’t even represented the club yet.One of those stars is 20-year-old Andrey Santos.The Brazilian joined Chelsea from Rio-based side Vasco da Gama in 2023 but is yet to make his senior debut.He spent an underwhelming loan spell with Nottingham Forest last season – where he made just two appearances – but is currently enjoying a sensational breakthrough with Strasbourg in France.There, he is joined by goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, also on loan, who has made 31 outings for the Blues.And the two players have become fan-favourites at the club.Santos is a generation-defining midfield talent that Chelsea have got waiting in the wings in Ligue 1, ready to be unleashed on the Premier League in the 2025/26 campaign.Having watched his side thoroughly this season, I was so impressed by his talent and the development of Petrovic that I flew to Strasbourg to scout them in the flesh vs OGC Nice – this is what I found from each…Join SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeANDREY SANTOS – MIDFIELDER – 20 Y/OMY VIEWA Swiss army knife of a midfielder, Santos is made of steel and was forged in the fire of box-to-box icon Patrick Vieira when he worked under him in the second half of last season.When I arrived at the Stade de Meinau, I had doubts that he could really be as good as the online discourse about him, but he was better.Todd Boehly gives major Chelsea stadium update and vows to leave Stamford BridgeThe young Brazilian was presented the fans’ Player of The Month award to rapturous applause ahead of kick-off vs Nice, and has previously captained the team this season as a 20-year-old loanee.With his collar up, he plays with the swagger of Eric Cantona, having the technical ability to match, hardly ever misplacing a pass and being dependable in his own box as well as the oppositions.He provided two assists, for Sam Amo-Ameyaw and Emmanuel Emegha, taking home the Man of the Match award in what would’ve been a perfect evening had Nice not equalised at the death.THE STATS VIEWIn 27 league games this season, Andrey Santos has racked up NINE goals and four assists, playing as a box-to-box midfielder.That is the same goal tally as Nicolas Jackson, with one less assist than Enzo Fernandez in the Premier League.He averages a 7.78 match rating according to Futmob, and his nine goals have come from an Expected Goal count (xG) of 4.37, a stat in which Chelsea players have made a habit of underperforming.Among midfielders aged under 21 in Europe’s top five leagues he ranks FIRST for: goals, possession won, interceptions, duels won, forward passes, and fouls suffered. (Stats @DataMB)THE FANS VIEWStrasbourg fans are very aware that he has the potential to be up there with their greatest ever players, and if they make it to the UCL this season, he will go down a club cult hero.The overarching view is that it’s a real shame he is BlueCo owned, that they will miss him more than anything when he returns to Stamford Bridge in the summer.Santos has managed nine goals and four assists this seasonCredit: GettyAndrey Santos is the next one, the next generational player that we will remember for years, and in a couple of years we will all be proud when he’s holding the World Cup in Brazil, that this guy played here at the Meinau”LionelStrasbourg fan VERDICTSantos must be a part of Chelsea’s plans next season, most likely fitting in where the injured Romeo Lavia would have liked to have been this season, or be used as an option to occasionally rest Moises Caicedo or Enzo Fernandez.He will give Maresca a huge selection headache however, as if he moves Caicedo to an inverted RB position as we saw earlier this season, then you have to drop club captain Reece James.Will at the very least be incredible squad depth.DJORDJE PETROVIC – GOALKEEPER – 25 Y/OMY VIEWMuch has been made of Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation this season, and rightly so.Robert Sanchez is perfectly portrayed by the stats that make the man, with the best save % in the Premier League at 74.5%, but also the most errors leading to goals (5)…Djordje Petrovic was shipped on loan to Strasbourg to develop his ability on the ball, with his shot-stopping ability rarely questioned in the season he spent as number one at Stamford Bridge.His development in that area has been undeniable, often playing those direct ‘hospital’ passes with great accuracy into the deepest lying midfielder, in this case Andrey Santos, who can turn on a sixpence and spring an attack for his side in transition. The only question mark I was left with from him in this game was his ability to deal with high balls, there were a few times in the game vs Nice that he was almost caught out at the back post and let off somewhat by his opponents poor finishing.Petrovic has zero errors leading to goals in Ligue 1Credit: AFPTHE STATS VIEWThe stats tell us that Petrovic has been one of, if not the best goalkeeper in Europe’s top five leagues this season.He ranks first among his competitors for passes completed and short passes completed, while ranking second for goals prevented. (@DataMB)In Ligue 1 he has ZERO errors leading to goals, compared to Robert Sanchez who has the highest in the Premier League with FIVE.Djordje Petrovic stands clear of most in Europe for passes completed per 90 and prevented goals this seasonCredit: (@DataMB) THE FANS VIEWStrasbourg fans know a thing or two about very good goalkeepers.The contrast between Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels and Robert Sanchez at Stamford Bridge earlier this season was stark, and the Belgian is who the RCSA faithful watched in between the sticks for six seasons.When asked about Djordje Petrovic, this is what I was told by lifelong Strasbourg fan Alex:”Petrovic is Petr Cech reincarnated. In the modern game his ability on the ball has been criticised, but if you’re protecting a one-goal lead there are maybe five goalkeepers in the world I would rather have. It’s astounding that Maresca saw his skill and selected Sanchez”AlexLifelong Strasbourg fanVERDICTHas earned the chance to be Chelsea’s No1 next season once more.Has clearly developed into a very strong goalkeeper on the line, while becoming much better with the ball at his feet, something Enzo Maresca clearly adores. More

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    Moment Jack Grealish parties with pals as he racks up £5k bill at trendy nightclub… after late subs appearance for City

    JACK Grealish and pals racked up a £5,000 bar bill partying at a trendy West End nightclub in the wake of City’s blistering 5-2 win over Crystal Palace – after coming on as a late sub. The £100million England favourite led pals in a 1am dance as he was cheered on by adoring models in a crowded nightclub.Jack Grealish parties with pals after Man City beat Crystal PalaceCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskThe England ace raised his arms like the Wolf of Wall Street Jordan BelfortCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskGrealish performed a similar pose on board a trophy parade busCredit: GettyThe £100m star was subbed on for the final minutes of the 5-2 win in the PremCredit: GettyFootage obtained by The Sun shows the moment the ace, in a white t-shirt and blue shirt, sprung to his feet.The wing wizard, with his distinctive floppy hair on display, stretched out both arms to resemble Leonardo DiCaprio playing morally bankrupt businessman Jordan Belfort in Martin Scorsese’s 2013 financial black blockbuster the Wolf of Wall Street.And as crowds whooped, last year’s revamped hit Dirty Cash (Money Talks) by Pawsa and The Adventures of Stevie V was belted out in London nightspot Bagatelle.Onlookers told The Sun how father-of-one Grealish was the “life and soul of the party” at the venue’s ‘Midnight Mass’ event on Sunday night.Read more on Jack GrealishThe 29-year-old was letting his hair down after starring as an 87th minute substitute in City’s 5-2 Prem demolition of Crystal Palace the previous day.A reveller told The Sun: “Jack arrived around 10.45pm on Sunday and was the life and soul of the party.“He was with four pals and there were girls surrounding him on his table.”He even had a bodyguard protecting his table in the restaurant.Most read in Football“He looked like he was really enjoying himself and totally in his element. He had help moving around the club and was knocking back drinks with his friends.“While Jack’s pals were interested in chatting to admiring women onlookers, he was behaving impeccably and making the most of the belting tunes.”Another party-goer said: “When Grealish resembled the famous Wolf of Wall Street office scene when DiCapario’s character saluted his corrupt bankers, everyone was in hysterics.“He was dancing and singing along to the music before the group left after 1am. The group had ordered many bottles to their table, and eaten inside the club too, so the bill was at least five-figures.”Grealish also pulled the ‘Wolf of Wall Street salute’ during a trophy celebration with Manchester City.Man Utd fan who ‘slapped Grealish’ banned from Old TraffordA MANCHESTER United fan who is charged with assaulting Manchester City ace Jack Grealish at the end of Sunday’s Manchester derby has been banned from Old Trafford.Alfie Holt, 20, is alleged to have slapped 29-year-old Grealish as he walked off the Old Trafford pitch following the 0-0 draw.Grealish was walking towards the tunnel at the end of the Premier League game when Holt is alleged to have beckoned him over and raised his hands to the England midfielder.Grealish, who came on as sub in the 74th minute, complained to club officials and cops later arrested a man.A Gtr Manchester Police spokesperson said: ‘Alfie Holt, 20, of Droylsden, has been charged with assault. He will appear at Manchester Magistrates Court in July.“This charge relates to an incident which took place at Old Trafford Football Club.”After Holt was charged with an offence, United immediately issued him with a ban.Last month we told how Grealish showed off his nifty footwork as he staged a Michael Flatley-style Riverdance jig on a night out in Dubai.He lapped up the sunshine with partner Sasha Attwood and daughter Mila Rose in what was their first foreign holiday together. The loved-up couple described her arrival as ‘the most special moment of their lives’.Grealish was the toast of the North East earlier in April after walking into a social club and getting a round in. The winger bought 200 pints for lucky punters at the North Biddick Social Club in Washington.Grealish on holiday with his partner Sasha AttwoodCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaSasha watching City with their daughter Mila Rose, born in SeptemberCredit: Instagram More

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    Eddie Howe health update as Newcastle boss reveals he is still in hospital with pneumonia and will miss more games

    NEWCASTLE have confirmed that head coach Eddie Howe is recovering from pneumonia.The 47-year-old was admitted to hospital on Friday night after missing his pre-match press conference due to illness.Eddie Howe is recovering from pneumonia in hospitalCredit: GettyHe subsequently missed Sunday’s match against Manchester United at St James’ Park with his assistant, Jason Tindall, leading the team instead.And now the Magpies have confirmed that Howe remains in hospital with pneumonia.A club statement confirmed that he will miss upcoming fixtures against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa while he continues his recovery.The statement read: “Newcastle United can announce that Eddie Howe is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”The club continues to extend its best wishes and support to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery.”Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will lead the team against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa this week, with further updates to be communicated in due course.”In his own statement, Howe thanked the hospital staff who continue to care for him.He said: “A huge thank you to everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider football community for your messages and warm wishes. They have meant a lot to me and my family.Most read in Football”I also want to pay tribute to our incredible NHS and the hospital staff who have treated me.”I’m immensely grateful for the specialist care I’m receiving and, after a period of recovery, I look forward to being back as soon as possible.”Bruno Guimaraes dedicated Newcastle’s 4-1 win over Manchester United to Howe on Sunday.He explained: “When we went to the pitch we said, ‘We’ll play for him’.”He’s been unbelievable for us. We missed him on the training ground.”Hopefully it gave him happiness and he’s back for the next game. It’s been a tough week for him.”Meanwhile, Harvey Barnes added: “He’s on the road to recovery, hopefully. He’s so influential throughout the week.”We knew that we had a job to do without him. We said before the game we had to put a smile on his face.”Howe could potentially return to the dugout for Newcastle’s clash with Ipswich next Saturday.Jason Tindall will remain in the dugout for Newcastle’s next two gamesCredit: Getty More