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    Man Utd could bring back familiar face in shock appointment to replace Ten Hag as club ‘make contact’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have been linked with a shock move to bring Kieran McKenna back to replace Erik ten Hag as manager.Pressure is mounting on the Dutch coach after Arsenal beat the Red Devils 1-0 on Sunday to leave them stuck in eighth place and on course for their worst Premier League finish.Serious questions still remain over Erik ten Hag’s futureCredit: AlamyIpswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has been linked with his jobCredit: PAUnited are now at serious risk of missing out on European football altogether and have lost 19 games in all competitions, which is the most since the 1978/79 season.The latest setback was also their ninth at Old Trafford this campaign, the joint-most at home in a single season in their history.United do have an FA Cup final with Man City on May 25 to look forward to – and it is after that when new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to decide on Ten Hag’s future.The likes of Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel have been linked with the job, and now The Guardian says that Ipswich Town manager McKenna has emerged as a surprise candidate ahead of tonight’s clash with Newcastle.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe 38-year-old was part of the United coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for six years before taking over at the Tractor Boys in League One in December 2021.He has since led Ipswich to back-to-back promotions and they will compete in the Premier league for the first time since 2002.McKenna is “highly regarded by the United ­hierarchy” and is now “under serious con­sideration to take over” after the post-Wembley review on Ten Hag.This update states that “initial contact is believed to have already been made between United and McKenna’s representatives” although the report states that “sources have stressed that it is still ‘early days’”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMcKenna rejected an approach from Crystal Palace earlier this season and remains under contract at Portman Road until 2027.He started as U18s coach at United after joining from Tottenham in 2016 and then he went on to become one of Solskjaer’s assistants.Erik ten Hag says Man Utd have to ‘fight hard’ to get win against Newcastle Ipswich understandably are desperate to hang on to him and “any move is likely to involve paying considerable compensation”.This report also added that “Ipswich’s owners are planning to hold talks with the Northern Irishman in the next few weeks” over his future.And they also believe that they can “convince him to lead them into the Premier League”.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
    Michael Owen – He has to go
    “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
    Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
    “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
    Jamie Carragher – Sacked
    “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
    Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
    “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
    Louis Saha – On the fence
    “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
    Alan Shearer – Sacked
    “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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    David Moyes says what no Arsenal fan wants to hear with blunt response about West Ham stopping Man City winning title

    DAVID MOYES has left Arsenal fans devastated after revealing his thoughts on West Ham’s chances of stopping Manchester City from winning the title.Moyes, 61, is taking charge of his final game for the Hammers in the Etihad clash on Sunday.David Moyes has delivered a damning verdict of West Ham’s chances of beating Man CityMoyes is taking charge of his final West Ham game on SundayCredit: GettyA City victory will secure an unprecedented fourth title in a rowCredit: AFPWest Ham have nothing except pride and the possibility of finishing above Manchester United in eighth to play for on the final day.Unfortunately, for them their opponent knows they must beat the ninth-place Irons to ensure they win the Premier League title.For Pep Guardiola it will represent an unprecedented fourth English title in a row. Anything but a win will open the door for second place Arsenal to claim their first crown since the Invincibles 20 years ago, with the Gunners two points behind with a superior goal difference.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, much to the dismay of Arsenal fans who will have one eye on the match, Moyes gave a gracious assessment at best of West Ham’s chances of picking up a result against the reigning champions.Asked about the task of stopping Man City from winning the title in his last ever West Ham game, Moyes said: “Well look, it would be difficult to stop their Under-14s from winning the title.”I’ve said to the players, we’ll go and do everything. Professional is the word I’d use. We’ll try to do the best we can.”Reacting to the clip, one social media user said: “It’s so over.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA second said: “Sorry Arsenal fans, this guy just wants to get out of London asap.”Another said: “Congratulations City.”Man City’s five key moments this seasonA fourth added: “Hahhaha Moyes is surrendering before the battle even starts.”Others chose to remain positive by holding out hope of an upset. One said: “Script is written, West Ham will get the result again City because none expects anything from it now they will turn up and get result.”A second said: “In Moyes we trust.”A third added: “And then goes on to do the funniest s*** ever in the PL. Imagine that.”Inside David Moyes’ West Ham exit as Hammers boss rowed with technical director and had contract offer withdrawBy Jack Rosser
    REGARDLESS of how it has ended, David Moyes leaves West Ham a club great and a history-maker.
    The Scot, 61, did not want to go like this, his departure confirmed before the end of the season with his squad in a spiral and rows with the technical director.
    Moyes has insisted all year long that he would wait until the summer to make a decision on his future on his own terms – but that option has been taken away from him.
    These final months and weeks have clouded a tenure at the London Stadium which no one saw coming – and could be quickly missed if the next steps are not carefully taken.
    Having been overlooked after keeping West Ham in the Premier League during his first spell in East London, Moyes returned in December 2019 to keep them afloat once more.
    The ex-Manchester United manager did just that and then took the Hammers to heights they could not have imagined.
    Click HERE to read the full column. More

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    ‘Explain yourself’ – Lineker & Shearer crack up at Micah Richards’ shower routine that’s ‘imperative for the modern man’

    MICAH RICHARDS left Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer in stitches after revealing his shower routine.The three ex-England star got together for the latest episode of the Rest is Football podcast.Micah Richards was left in stitches as his shower routine was read outCredit: YOUTUBE / The Rest Is FootballGary Lineker got Richards’ body moisturiser confession up on his phoneAlan Shearer couldn’t stop giggling[embedded content]Richards, Lineker and Shearer began discussing the commercialisation of modern football, with players now regularly seen promoting brands.And the Match of the Day host wasted no time in calling out the retired right-back’s use of a specific body moisturiser. Shearer interjected: “Speaking of that, what the hell? You kept that one quiet didn’t you. Explain yourself, Richards.”In a recent interview with The Guardian, the ex-Manchester City star said: “Urgh, I hate baths. Sitting in dirty water? No thanks. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’ll have a proper scrub in the shower with Laura Mercier body wash and an old-school bar of Dove soap, then apply Kiehl’s body lotion. It’s imperative for the modern-day man.”Lineker read the extract from the interview to leave Shearer in hysterics.Richards looked increasingly embarrassed as the Newcastle legend joked: “Have you got a sweat on? You’re going to need a shower in a minute.”Laura Mercier body wash. Who’s she? Who’s Laura?”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLineker hilariously replied: “I don’t know but she is suing.” The trio often leave listeners of their show in hysterics, with Richards recently sharing a story about a player leaving poo in his car.And Lineker previously teased his co-host, cheekily asking “are you sure you’re the father” after Richards said his seven-year-old son is a talented young striker.Micah Richards fumes ‘I’ll be texting him later on’ after Man City legend appears at Etihad without telling Sky pundit More

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    When does the 2024 summer Premier League transfer window open and close?

    THE Premier League season is nearing an end – which means it’s almost transfer season!SunSport has the all-important dates for the summer window below…The Premier League have confirmed the dates for the summer transfer windowCredit: REUTERSWhen does the summer transfer window open and close?The summer window will open on Friday, June 14 – 26 days after the final matchday of the Premier League season.And the window will close on Friday, August 30 at 11pm BST – exactly 11 weeks later.Last summer, the window shut at 11pm on September 1, meaning this year it will close two days earlier than 2023.No players signed after noon on deadline day will be eligible to play that weekend’s Premier League fixtures.READ MORE IN PREMIER LEAGUEA spokesperson confirmed Prem chiefs came to the decision after discussing the new window date with the other big five leagues in Spain, Germany, Italy and France.They said: “To ensure harmonisation with the major leagues in Europe, the closing dates were set following discussions with the EFL, DFL, Serie A, LaLiga, and LFP, who will all close their Summer and Winter windows on 30 August and 3 February respectively.”How much did Premier League clubs spend last summer?Last summer, Premier League clubs spent a record-breaking £2.44bn on transfers.The 20 top-flight sides also generated a record-breaking £1.36bn from player sales.Most read in FootballChelsea spent the most on player recruits with a whopping £434.5m spent on transfers.Midfielder Moises Caicedo was a staggering £115m of the total amount after he made the summer switch from Brighton to Stamford Bridge. More

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    Liverpool ace Luis Diaz ‘is Barcelona’s top summer transfer target’ as winger ‘dreams’ of playing for Spanish giants

    BARCELONA are lining up a move for Liverpool’s Luis Diaz this summer, a report claims.The winger has been key in Jurgen Klopp’s squad since his £50million arrival from Porto in 2022.Barcelona are reportedly lining up a move for Diaz this summerCredit: GettyDiaz, 27, has made 97 appearances for the Reds, scoring 24 goals and adding 13 assists.The 47-cap Colombian international has started in 31 of Liverpool’s 36 Premier League games this season.And according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are keen to sign a winger this summer, with Diaz their top target.Despite the club’s financial struggles, the report suggests that the Catalan giants remain determined to bolster their squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe club’s pursuit of Diaz is a strategic move to strengthen their left wing.Diaz has emerged as their top choice, but they are also interested in Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao, RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo and Porto’s Pepe.Xavi’s side are convinced that Diaz’s style of play is ideal for their tactical set-up and are actively devising strategies to secure his services.For Diaz, a switch to Barcelona would fulfil a lifelong dream, which his father has echoed in the past.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe report adds Diaz’s chances of moving are boosted by Klopp leaving the club at the end of the season and to be replaced by expected successor Arne Slot.Diaz’s contract runs until 2027, yet an offer from Catalonia could influence his future at the club.Watch Gary Neville’s brilliant reaction to Aston Villa equaliser against Liverpool on live TV as fans beg ‘meme that’Barcelona have been trying to find ways to overcome their economic challenges, including the sale of future television rights revenues to private companies.According to the report, the club’s strategy for bolstering their squad this summer hinges on complying with La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations and salary caps, to allow them to spend more.The increase in spending capacity is to be supported by new sponsorship agreements with Nike and the selling of shares in Barca Studios – the club’s in-house production company.Barcelona are also set to sell some of their key stars to cover the cost of transfers this summer. More

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    Former EFL star forced to call off his wedding after being ‘drunk for two days’ celebrating promotion to top flight

    FORMER Championship star Jackson Irvine has had to call off his wedding – after two booze-fuelled days celebrating promotion.The Australia international captained St Pauli back into Germany’s Bundesliga on Sunday with a 3-1 win over VFL Osnabruck.Jackson Irvine was forced to call off his wedding with partner JemillaThe Aussie captained St Pauli to promotion to the BundesligaCredit: GettyAnd he celebrated with two days of partyingCredit: GettyIrvine and Jemilla still celebrated their non marriageCredit: GettyEx-Hull City and Burton Albion ace Irvine was due to tie the knot with longtime partner Jemilla in Denmark on Tuesday.But the hungover 31-year-old forgot to bring his passport to the ceremony, and Danish officials refused to marry the pair.Tattooist Jemilla posted a picture of herself and Irvine on Instagram.She wrote: “When you’ve been drunk for 2 days and forget to take your passport to your marriage appointment,” followed by three clown emojis.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Let’s try again tomorrow,” she added. “(Party tonight is still on).”Irvine made one senior Celtic appearance in 2012 after arriving from Melbourne Victory two years before.He went on to play for Kilmarnock and Ross County, with Burton paying a club record £330,000 for him in 2016.Irvine spent three seasons with Hull before returning to Scotland with Hibs in 2021.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCapped 66 times and with 11 goals to his credit, he is now Australia’s captain.The Melbourne native left Hibs in 2021 for St Pauli, based near Hamburg’s Reeperbahn red-light district.EFL club supported by sporting legend set to be saved by mystery US group as buyers scramble to reach agreement in time More

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    Tottenham fans troll Arsenal as they admit Son cost them Premier League title – but not in the way they think

    TOTTENHAM fans have mocked Arsenal by suggesting Son Heung-min cost them the Premier League title… but not in the way they think.The South Korean, 31, raced through in the latter stages of Spurs’ clash with Manchester City on Tuesday night, only to be denied by Stefan Ortega.Son Heung-min was denied by Stefan Ortega towards the end of Spurs’ defeat to Manchester CityCredit: GettySon scored twice at the Emirates in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal earlier in the seasonCredit: ReutersMan City then closed the game out as Erling Haaland converted his second goal of the match from the penalty spot to hand his side a 2-0 win.It puts Pep Guardiola’s men on the brink of a fourth successive title, much to the dismay of Arsenal fans.Had Son scored against Man City and Tottenham drawn the game, the title would have been in Arsenal’s hands heading into the final day.Yet Son is actually responsible for costing Arsenal another two points earlier in the campaign.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat is because he scored twice in the North London derby in September as Tottenham earned a 2-2 draw at the Emirates.Son cancelled out Cristian Romero’s own goal, before Bukayo Saka put Arsenal back in front.But Son then struck again seconds later to secure a point for Ange Postecoglou’s side.If both Man City and Arsenal win their final Premier League matches against West Ham and Everton, those two points dropped against Spurs could cost the Gunners the title.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd some Tottenham fans were quick to point out this fact.One said: “I mean…. I think we already cost you the league 🤣🤣🤣, there’s your 2 points right there [September’s North London derby] you little cry baby c***s.”Man City star Ederson furiously boots drinks box after being substitutedWhile another added: “Do you want Son to score for a two-point swing or not? Make your minds up.” More

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    Differential options for Dream Team bosses in need of a difference-maker for Gameweek 36

    THE sensible play for Dream Team managers is to back Manchester City to the hilt for the remainder of the season.Pep Guardiola’s side have a home game against West Ham in Gameweek 36 and a win would secure them a fourth consecutive Premier League title.Erling Haaland (£7.2m) and friends are unbeaten since early December (having technically drawn with Real Madrid in both legs of the Champions League quarter-finals) and to top it all off, they are favourites to triumph in the only fixture of Gameweek 37 – the FA Cup final.CLICK HERE TO PLAY DREAM TEAM’S EUROS FANTASY GAME – £50,000 PRIZE POT, FREE TO ENTER, GREAT FUN!The logical routeCredit: GettyHowever, the vast majority of Dream Team bosses will follow the same line of thinking.Some gaffers will need to think outside the box if they are to improve their rank, and possibly even pinch a Mini League victory, in what little remains of the campaign.The likes of Kevin De Bruyne (£6.1m) and Josko Gvardiol (£4.2m) are clearly excellent options but if a rival above you in your Mini League also brings them in this week then their returns won’t make a difference.This is the privilege of being a Mini League leader; you inevitably force your chasers to think outside the box and take risks.With that in mind, let’s analyse a few potential differentials ahead of Gameweek 36.Morgan Gibbs-White (£3.4m)Most read in Dream TeamAn underrated gemCredit: Dream TeamNottingham Forest travel to Turf Moor to face an already relegated Burnley on the final day of the Premier League campaign.With Nuno Espirito Santo’s side essentially safe from relegation (if not quite mathematically) the pressure will be off and the nature of the contest might create an environment in which Forest’s No10 thrives.The 24-year-old has registered six goals and 12 assists this season and certainly has the ability to unpick a demoralised defence.No team has earned fewer points at home than Vincent Kompany’s side in 2023/24.Gibbs-White averages 6.7 points-per-game across his last three fixtures and currently features in 1.2% of teams.See also: Callum Hudson-Odoi (£3m).Michael Olise (£4.3m)A class actCredit: RexDream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament gameCrystal Palace face a relatively tricky final opponent in the form of Aston Villa but with the Villains having already qualified for the Champions League, they might not be entirely motivated at Selhurst Park on Sunday.It’s also worth noting Unai Emery’s men are without a win in their last five games in all competitions.In contrast, the Eagles are finishing the season in fine style having taken 16 points from a possible 18 in their last six outings.Eberechi Eze (£4.3m) and Jean-Philippe Mateta (£3.2m) have been key to the upturn while Adam Wharton (£2.2m) continues to gain admirers but Olise reigns supreme from a Dream Team perspective.The gifted midfielder has banked 52 points across the last four Gameweeks.More broadly, he averages 8.9 points-per-game this season – only Haaland boasts a superior average among all assets.Despite these incredible stats, Olise features in just 0.7% of teams right now!Mohammed Kudus (£5.3m)Arsenal’s last hope?Credit: GettyUltra brave gaffers could opt to take Man City on directly by backing a West Ham star to shine at the Etihad.Kudus’ remarkable dribbling ability has earned him 70 bonus points this season – only Bruno Guimaraes (£4.6m) has more to his name at this late stage.Couple this with 12 goals and nine assists and it’s no wonder the Ghana international has racked up 290 points in total – he’s sixth among midfielders overall at the time of writing.Such is his individual brilliance, the ex-Ajax winger was even able to add nine points to his tally against Chelsea in Gameweek 34 despite the Hammers’ 5-0 defeat.READ MORE SUN STORIESGaffers in need of a difference-maker should back a player with a high ceiling and Kudus undoubtedly fits the bill.He appears in 1.9% of teams right now.talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
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