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    Bukayo Saka’s return marks game-changing junction as Dream Team season reaches dramatic climax

    BUKAYO SAKA (£6.6m) is set to return and that’s no April Fool’s hoax.Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Mikel Arteta told reporters that Arsenal’s No7 is “ready to go” and may even be fit enough to start against Fulham tonight.Saka averages 9.3 points-per-game this seasonCredit: Dream TeamNeedless to say, Dream Team managers worldwide should have their eyes fixed on the Emirates this evening as Saka’s comeback would be a game-changing moment.The England winger was among the game’s top performers throughout the first half of the season when he plundered 224 points via nine goals and 15 assists.Despite the fact he’s been sidelined since Christmas, Saka remains the Gunners’ top points scorer and still ranks joint-eighth among all midfielders.Furthermore, Bruno Fernandes (£7m) is the only player in his position to have provided more assists while team-mate Declan Rice (£4.8m) is the only midfielder to have created more big chances.Perhaps the most telling statistic is that runaway leader Mohamed Salah (£7.7m) is the only man who averages more points-per-game in 2024/25.Saka has been pictured in training this weekCredit: GettyThis is all to say that Saka is a top-tier Dream Team asset.At this moment in time, the 23-year-old is the most popular recruit ahead of Gameweek 30 and any showing of note against the Cottagers will surely cement that status.Arteta’s positive update comes at an intriguing time as Arsenal are one of just five teams set to fulfil four fixtures across the next two Gameweeks.Most read in FootballIn Gameweek 30, they will travel to Everton in the league before welcoming Real Madrid to North London for the first leg of a highly-anticipated Champions League quarter-final.In Gameweek 31, Arsenal are due to host Brentford before flying to the Spanish capital.If Saka’s surgically repaired hamstring allows him to start all four fixtures then he has to be considered one of the best options in the game this month.Arteta rarely rests Saka if the winger is availableCredit: APSuch is his pedigree, it’s no exaggeration to say that the divide between Dream Team bosses who eagerly recruit Saka and those who delay the transfer may be the strategic decision that defines the business end of the campaign.If he immediately picks up where he left off and returns close to 40 points across the next two Gameweeks then hesitant gaffers will be severely punished.However, if Saka’s workload is managed and it takes him some time to get back up to speed – which would be understandable after three months out – then the early adopters might end up regretting their keenness.An impressive performance against Fulham this evening would prompt major activity – over to you, Bukayo!Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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    Nottingham Forest vs Man Utd: Get Forest at massive 40/1 to win tonight at Parimatch

    PARIMATCH have a massive price boost for the Premier League’s return at the City Ground tonight when Nottingham Forest host Manchester United.The bookmaker is offering brand new customers the chance to back Champions League-chasing Forest at a SENSATIONAL 40/1 to claim the three points over Ruben Amorim’s mid-table United!How to claim..Parimatch offerVisit the Parimatch website using this link HERE*Register a new account and deposit a minimum of £5Opt In to this promotion via the Offers tabPlace a maximum £1 bet at the normal price on Nottingham Forest to beat Manchester United tonightThis MUST be done before the match startsIf you’re successful, your bet will be paid at a normal priceYou will then have the extra amount credited in Free Bets, shortly after settlementNottm Forest to beat Man Utd | 40/1!*Nottingham Forest to win at 40/1 – how to claim…Not currently got a Parimatch account? Why not!? Luckily, it’s good news for you as now you can back Nottingham Forest to beat Manchester United tonight at a massive 40/1!And they have made it so very simple to claim too.First, head over to the Parimatch website using this link HERE*.Opt In to this promotion via the Offers tab before placing your bet!You need to register a completely brand new account and deposit a minimum of £5.Place a maximum £1 bet at the normal price on Nottingham Forest to beat Manchester United in the Premier League, which returns tonight.This must be done before kick-off at the City Ground.If you’re successful, your bet will be paid at the normal price.You will then have the extra amount credited in Free Bets, shortly after settlement, bringing your total returns up to the enhanced price of 40/1!Nottm Forest to beat Man Utd | 40/1!*Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.*18+ New Customers Only. Opt in, bet max £1 on Nottingham Forest – Match Betting – 90 mins v Manchester United. Get enhanced odds paid in Free Bets, which expire in 7 days after accreditation. Offer valid until 20:00 UK time on 01/04/2025. Scroll down for T&Cs. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly  More

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    Moment Chelsea flop is attacked on pitch by his own club mascot after Bundesliga clash

    EX-CHELSEA star Michy Batshuayi came off second best after tussling with his team’s beloved club mascot.The Belgian striker currently plays for Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga. Former Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has tussled with a Golden EagleCredit: GettyThe 31-year-old joined the club in January after a spell in TurkeyCredit: GettyThe Belgian was hit hard in the face by Frankfurt’s mascot AttilaCredit: Instagram @eintrachtfrankfurtBatshuayi’s career has been eclectic, involving stints in England, Belgium, France, Turkey and Spain.He’s now trying to find the net in Germany following a January move to Frankfurt, but he doesn’t appear to have made friends with their beloved Eagle mascot Attila.Known as the King of the Skies, the bird of prey has been a regular at games since 2005. Eintracht scraped to a 1-0 win over Stuttgart on Saturday to keep their European push alive. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAfter the game, Batshuayi – an unused sub – approached Attila on the pitch as he was being paraded by his handler.The Belgian stood too close to the Golden Eagle, who suddenly lashed out hard with its giant wing.Batshuayi was struck square in the face – but Attila’s handler simply burst out laughing. One fan laughed in response: “Bird is just testing his reflexes.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnother wrote: “Now he is blessed by Atilla.”While a third joked: “The eagle got his revenge on him for what he did to Besiktas.”Former Chelsea star Demba Ba talks about his role as director of football of USL Batshuayi began his career at Standard Liege before banging in the goals for Marseille in France.He earned a big-money move to Chelsea in 2016, arriving for a fee of £33.2 million.Batshuayi struggled for consistent game time at the Bridge, despite scoring 25 times in 77 games.He was shipped out on loan to Dortmund, Valencia and Crystal Palace.The 31-year-old joined Fenerbahce in Turkey’s Super Lig on a permanent deal in 2022.He enjoyed a spell at cross-town Istanbul rivals Galatasaray earlier this season before returning to Germany in January. Batshuayi has played five times in the Bundesliga, netting twice. More

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    ‘No, that’s your party’ – Newcastle stars were BANNED from drinking during open top bus parade, reveals Alan Shearer

    NEWCASTLE UNITED players were BANNED from drinking during their Carabao Cup celebrations last weekend.Eddie Howe’s troops paraded the trophy, which they pipped runaway Prem leaders Liverpool to last month, in front of hundreds of thousands of jubilant Geordies last Saturday.Newcastle United celebrated their Carabao Cup final win over Liverpool with an open-top bus paradeCredit: SPLASHBut manager Eddie Howe banned the players from drinking any booze during the celebrationsCredit: REXThe Magpies were the picture of happiness as they took an open-top bus around the city.But it was a sober one for the players as Howe didn’t want them nursing prolonged hangovers for their clash with Brentford tomorrow.Toon legend Alan Shearer revealed on the Rest is Football podcast: “They’ve got Brentford on Wednesday and they trained yesterday.“They’re training today, they’re training Monday, they’re training Tuesday, and they’re training Wednesday morning as well.READ MORE SPORTS NEWS”Because Eddie had taken them to Dubai and he said, ‘No, that’s your party.’“And they weren’t allowed to drink yesterday or last evening. “None of them went to the afterparty. He got them back straight in and focused.”Newcastle’s capturing of the Carabao Cup ended their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSToon legend Alan Shearer revealed Eddie Howe’s laying down of the law to his playersCredit: REXAnd club legend Shearer was emotional during Saturday’s celebrations as he lamented his late father, Alan Sr, not being able to see the club lift the trophy.He said: “Yeah, unfortunately, my dad passed away last May.’I wish he would have hung on for one more year’ Alan Shearer chokes up in tribute to his dad at Newcastle parade”He was lucky enough to be at the [Inter-Cities Fairs Cup] final in ’69.”I just wish he could have hung on for one more year just to see and sample this.”But he would have been watching on and would’ve been as proud as I was.” More

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    Former Barcelona goalkeeper rushed into emergency surgery after horror injury left him vomiting in ambulance

    EX-BARCELONA goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen was rushed to hospital where he underwent emergency surgery following a horror collision.The Dutch goalkeeper, who currently plays for LaLiga side Las Palmas, was vomiting in the back of an ambulance.Jasper Cillessen suffered an agonising collision with Borja IglesiasCredit: GettyThe Dutchman currently plays for La Liga outfit Las PalmasCredit: RexCillessen was left writhing in pain on the floor after taking a knee to the lower abdomenCredit: RexCillessen was stretchered off and taken to hospital where he reportedly underwent surgeryCredit: GettyWhile playing in goal for the Gran Canaria club against Celta Vigo on Monday night he suffered a sickening injury.Cillessen, 35, came out of his goal to challenge a through ball and clashed with Vigo forward Borja Iglesias.The incident in the 23rd minute saw Iglesais unable to arrest his momentum before his knee struck the goalkeeper’s lower abdomen.It left Cillessen writhing in pain on the floor and unable to continue playing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was eventually replaced by substitute goalkeeper Dinko Horkas in the 27th minute.However, Cillessen was then taken to hospital, where he was diagnosed with a minor intestinal injury.From there, Marca report he was transferred to another hospital with better equipment.Meanwhile, Movistar LaLiga on COPE’s El Partidazo reporter Isaac Fouto claimed Cillessen was even vomiting after his collision before being taken to hospital.Most read in FootballEl Chiringuito reported Cillessen then underwent emergency surgery in Vigo for a perforated intestine.He is said to be in a stable condition following the surgery.The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with sub goalie Horkas pulling off a string of saves to keep his team in the game.Las Palmas are currently 19th in the Spanish top flight, but are just one point off of safety. More

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    Kyle Walker gives brutal seven-word warning to Chelsea flop Joao Felix during AC Milan loss

    KYLE WALKER fired a brutal warning at Chelsea flop Joao Felix during AC Milan’s most recent loss.The defender joined the Italian giants on loan from Manchester City in January.Kyle Walker delivered a brutal half-time message to Joao FelixBut despite a promising start results have tailed off and Walker appears to have let his frustrations get the better of him.At half-time with Milan trailing Napoli 2-0, he had a few choice words to aim at Felix.As the pair headed towards the dressing room Walker called out to the Chelsea loanee to make him stop.Walker then appeared to say: “Pass the ball, we are not Messi.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMilan pulled one back through Luka Jovic in the 84th minute but it proved to be too little too late.They are struggling in ninth place in Serie A, nine points off a Champions League qualifying spot.Walker, 34, was unbeaten in his first four Milan matches although was subbed off at half-time against Hellas Verona.He then picked up a hamstring injury with Milan losing both the matches they played in his absence.Most read in FootballThat trend continued against Lazio as Walker made his return from the bench, but wins against Lecce and Como followed.Off the pitch the right-back recently signed a deal to model Hugo Boss underwear.Kyle Walker signs big money deal to model huge fashion brand’s underwear just like David Beckham More

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    ‘Completely unacceptable’ – Sheffield Wednesday players not paid on time as club release statement

    SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY fans have demanded owner Dejphon Chansiri “sell the club” after players were not paid on time.The Championship side confirmed “a temporary issue” meant stars have not yet received their wages for March. Sheffield Wednesday’s players have not received their wages for MarchCredit: RexThe club confirmed a “temporary” issue meant wages had not reached their starsCredit: AlamyOwner Dejphon Chansiri has been met with fan protests in recent yearsCredit: GettyWednesday fans have demanded the Thai businessman sell the clubCredit: GettyChansiri headed up a Thai consortium which bought Wednesday from ex-chairman Milan Mandaric in January 2015.His tenure began with back-to-back Championship playoff appearances but has since been dogged by financial issues off the field. Protests were held at the recent Yorkshire derby against Leeds by the 1867 Group against Chansiri’s ownership.After news broke on Monday of unpaid wages for March, a statement from the club read: “Sheffield Wednesday can confirm a temporary issue with the payment of player salaries for the month of March.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”This has occurred as a result of significant sums of money owed to the chairman’s businesses which has in turn impacted on the club’s immediate cashflow.”The chairman is working hard to resolve this situation at the earliest possible opportunity and in the meantime thanks everyone for their patience and understanding.”Chansiri’s family controls the Thai Union Group, the world’s largest producer of canned tuna.Fans flocked onto social media, with many urging the Thai businessman to sell. Most read in FootballOne supporter fumed on X: “You don’t need an MBA to know what’s playing out down at Hillsborough. Another embarrassing chapter under Dejphon Chansiri’s ownership. Please sell the club.”Another said: “Chansiri couldn’t run a bath!! He needs to sell now before we end up like Reading.”Fan confronts stewards armed with CORNER FLAG as Sheffield Wednesday fans invade pitch after all-but avoiding relegationWhile a third added: “Completely unacceptable & it’s not the first time is it? Chansiri is damaging Sheffield Wednesday yet again – not fit or proper to be leading our Club. In the best interests of @swfc SELL THE CLUB.”Wednesday have enjoyed a strong season in the Championship, despite issues off the field.Boss Danny Rohl has proved a revelation since joining in 2023. And Southampton are set to swoop in the summer for the in-demand German. The Owls are on course for a top-half finish and could yet manufacture a late-season playoff push.They currently sit 12th in the table, five points off the top-six. Read More on The SunLast month, SunSport exclusively revealed former Wigan owner Talal Al Hammad had looked into acquiring the club.Wednesday, four-time league champions and three-time FA Cup winners, haven’t been in the top flight in 25 years. More

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    Arsenal’s five-man striker shortlist including star who could cost MORE than Isak as Arteta vows ‘big’ transfer window

    THIS summer transfer window for Arsenal has been five years in the making.And according to boss Mikel Arteta, it is going to be a “big one”.Mikel Arteta is planning to splash big on a new strikerCredit: GettyArsenal could move for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak who could cost around £100mCredit: GettyThere are younger talents such as Hugo Ekitike could go for even moreCredit: AFPTaking over in December 2019, Arteta muddled his way through a roller-coaster first term in charge — one that ended with an eighth-placed Premier League finish and FA Cup glory.In September 2020, his title then changed from head coach to manager, and the Spaniard set out his five-year plan to transform the club back into challengers for major honours.Four summer windows have come and gone since then, plus a huge gutting and rebuilding process that sees the North Londoners’ squad unrecognisable from the start of Arteta’s reign.Summer No 5 is just two months away, and finds the Gunners agonisingly close to ending their title drought, looking likely to fall just short for a third year in a row with Liverpool 12 points ahead of them with nine games to go.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs a result, this window will be all about the missing pieces of the jigsaw.The first piece has potentially already walked through the door — new sporting director Andrea Berta who begins work at London Colney this week.And the Italian, alongside a leadership team that includes Arteta, will now be tasked with doing what his predecessor Edu never managed — landing that elite yet elusive game-changing No 9.Splash £100million or more for Newcastle star Alexander Isak, 25? Most read in FootballEven more for 22-year-old Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt?Between £50m and £60m for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, 26, or 25-year-old Wolves star Matheus Cunha?Arsenal star Kai Havertz gets haircut for wedding before marrying wife SophiaOr in the region of £70m to £80m for Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko who is still only 21? Whoever it is, Arteta is ready to go big this summer.He explained: “It’s going to be a big one and we are very excited about it.“The way we planned the five first summers, they were going to be very big and they were going to have different objectives.“In the beginning there were a lot of players with three, four or five-year contracts, so the turnaround of the squad and how you visualise the next  five years was very dependent on that.“There are certain positions we didn’t expect to have someone like  Ethan Nwaneri or Myles Lewis-Skelly contributing to, which has been great.“The way you start to evolve, you start to master certain things then the changes cannot be that much. That’s where we are.“The line now is thinner, the margins are smaller. But the cost of that, as well, increases. So it goes a little bit in a different direction.“We want to increase the depth of the squad, but as well, we want to increase the quality and the skills we need to go to the next step.“It’s a big summer for many things because first of all we have to maintain the good foundations that we have and then obviously how can we improve and evolve the team.”’A big addition’Berta, 53, introduced himself to journalists at London Colney ahead of Arteta’s press conference previewing tonight’s home clash with Fulham.He is a quiet, unassuming man, preferring to stay out of the spotlight and has his work do the talking, just like he did for over a decade at Atletico Madrid, recruiting players and building squads that won LaLiga in 2014 and 2021 and reached two Champions League finals.Berta is ready to shake up the status quo of the transfer team that includes managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, co-owners Stan and Josh Kroenke and director of football operations James King.Arteta said: “It’s a big addition to the club, to the team, a team that is already formed with a lot of great people. That’s what we need. New blood with people that are so ambitious.“He’s got this personality, this charisma and this drive to win that is going to be very contagious.“What we want to do is clear, for [Berta] to jump on board and hopefully twist it and make it better. I’m very confident he is going to make everyone better. I want to add value.“Straight away the words that come out of Berta’s mouth are always winning, improving and demanding. He’s very honest, very straightforward.“There’s a very clear vision of what he wants to do.“He was so willing to join us, which is a very positive thing as well because he had many other possibilities and he’s chosen to come to us.“And now it’s about us giving him the support and the understanding of the situation and context straight away. “And to start to do what he’s already done for many, many years at the highest level, which has been very impressive.Read More on The Sun“To have people with different expertise, experiences, and they have already done it. It’s very, very helpful.”Arsenal have confirmed they will play the first North London Derby outside the UK in a pre-season clash against Tottenham in Hong Kong on July 31.Viktor Gyokeres is one of Europe’s most lethal forwards at the momentCredit: ReutersWolves’ Matheus Cunha has made himself available on the market and could cost around the same amountCredit: PAArsenal have already been linked with Benjamin SeskoCredit: AFP More