Philippa Kaur

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    Reading release two former Tottenham stars as rebuild begins after Rob Couhig takeover saved Royals from extinction

    READING have released two former Tottenham players after their takeover was confirmed.The Royals narrowly missed out on a play-off spot in League One this season despite being under a transfer embargo for much of the campaign.Reading have released former Tottenham player Tom CarrollCredit: GettyThey have now announced their retainer list, with six senior players set to leave when their contracts expire next month.Among them is midfielder Tom Carroll, who made 56 appearances for Tottenham between 2011 and 2017.Carroll, 32, only joined Reading in March and played eight games after signing a short-term contract.He leaves alongside another former Spurs player, David Button.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe goalkeeper, 36, joined Reading following their relegation from the Championship in 2023, and he has since made 49 appearances.Also on the released list is Adrian Akande, Coniah Boyce-Clarke, Harlee Dean and Louie Holzmann.While contracts have been offered to Michael Craig, Jeriel Dorsett, Kelvin Ehibatiomhan, Abraham Kanu, Amadou Mbengue, Joel Pereira, Tivonge Rushesha, Michael Stickland, Basil Tuma, Jayden Wareham and Andy Yiadom.Reading are set to begin a new chapter after Dai Yongge finally sold the club to Rob Couhig.Most read in EFLThe Royals were on the verge of going bust before the takeover was confirmed.Yongge purchased a 75 per cent stake in the club eight years ago but quickly became responsible for a series of financial issues.’I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him’ – Ange Postecoglou’s rallying speech reduces Tottenham fans to tearsAs a result, the Royals were hit with several points deductions and suffered relegation.The drop to League One prompted Dai to put Reading up for sale.Couhig expressed an interest in taking over earlier this year.By the time it was completed, the club had been up for sale for over 600 days. More

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    Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want it

    BRUNO FERNANDES has been named the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year at Manchester United for the fourth time, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record. However, the United captain has urged his team-mates to raise their performance levels next season, because he doesn’t want to win it again under the same circumstances.Bruno Fernandes has been special even if others have failed to keep upCredit: AlamyThe Manchester United captain has grown into his roleCredit: GettyRegardless of who has been the manager at United Bruno has excelledCredit: AlamyFernandes made headlines not for his on-field prowess, but for his humility in accepting the award.The award, voted for by fans, recognises individual excellence, but Fernandes said he would prefer it if others raised their game and challenged him for the honour.The 30-year-old midfielder shared what he had told some of his team-mates.He said: “The main thing I want and I was even joking with Josh [Zirkzee] the other day.READ MORE MAN UNITED NEWS “We were talking about the awards, and they were saying, ‘Oh, who’s going to win Player of the Season?’ They were kind of joking about it.”And I said that I hope next year I’m not even in the conversation, even if I have the same season I had this year and that I’m not involved in winning that trophy.”Because that will mean you step up, Amad will step up, Garnacho will step up, Rasmus will step up.”If they start scoring goals, providing assists, running back, and tackling, then they’ll be the ones getting the attention, not me.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”And I’ll be the happiest person in the world.”I’m here to help my team-mates get the best out of themselves, and that’s all I want to do, because I know that when they’re at their best, the team will be much better.”Sean Dyche wants to manage MAN UTD as he gives Ruben Amorim advice and claims he’d have won more games as bossHis comments reflect a selfless attitude, prioritising team success over personal recognition.United fans have praised Fernandes for his leadership and commitment.One supporter commented: “Bruno’s decision shows true captaincy. He leads by example, always putting the team first.”Another added: “It’s rare to see such humility in a player of his calibre. He deserves the award, but his focus remains on the collective.”A third said: “Bruno is the only player who truly makes me happy at Manchester United.”While Fernandes’ gesture is commendable, it also highlights the challenges United have faced this season. Read More on The SunDespite his individual brilliance, the team has struggled for consistency and his desire for others to step up underscores the urgent need for collective improvement.As the campaign draws to a close, Fernandes and Manchester United will hope to beat Tottenham and win the Europa League-a much-needed consolation in what has been a disappointing season.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    Injuries & suspensions update ahead of Gameweek 36: Dejan Kulusevski among absentees

    DREAM TEAM brings you all the latest injury, suspension and availability news for Gameweek 36 in one convenient location.Unai Emery confirmed that Youri Tielemans and Marcus Rashford will not feature against Tottenham this evening.Aston Villa will also be without the suspended Jacob Ramsey.As for Spurs, Dejan Kulusevski has been ruled out for the remainder of the season having undergone knee surgery this week.In brighter news for the North Londoners, Son Heung-min is expected to get more minutes following his comeback last weekend and there’s an outside chance Lucas Bergvall will recover in time to play some part in the Europa League final on Wednesday night.Kulusevski injured his patella against Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim has hinted at a competitive starting XI at Stamford Bridge tonight despite his midweek final in Bilbao.Diogo Dalot was pictured in training this week but it’s not clear whether the wing-back is ready for first-team action.Matthijs de Ligt, Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro are notable doubts.Brighton are boosted by the returns of Lewis Dunk and Joel Veltman from injury with Fabian Hurzeler also hopeful that Kaoru Mitoma will be able to feature against Liverpool on Monday night.Additionally, Joao Pedro is available again having served his three-game suspension in full.Most read in FootballThe newly-crowned champions only trained for the first time today having been given time off earlier in the week and so Arne Slot was not able to give any availability information in his pre-match press conference.Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson is suspended for the rest of the domestic campaign having seen red against Newcastle last weekend.Jackson was sent off at St James’ ParkCredit: GettyPep Guardiola expects to have the same squad available for Saturday’s FA Cup final.The decorated tactician gave another positive update regarding Rodri but stressed that he has to wait for the club doctor’s permission before the Ballon d’Or winner is ready for action.Crystal Palace should be able to call upon the services of Adam Wharton at Wembley.Newcastle are expected to be without Kieran Trippier at Arsenal on Sunday while Joe Willock only has a “slight chance” of making the trip.More damaging is the doubt around Sven Botman, who has endured rotten luck with injuries for over a year now.Eddie Howe admitted he wasn’t clear on the Dutch centre-back’s status but told journalists than he didn’t think it was a serious issue.Havertz has a chance of playing before the season endsCredit: GettyAs for the Gunners, Mikel Arteta told reporters that Kai Havertz “looks in great shape” and so the German forward may play his first minutes since early February.Late decisions will also be made on Gabriel Martinelli, Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard while Mikel Merino is set to serve a one-game suspension.Taiwo Awoniyi was awoken from an induced coma earlier this week having suffered a serious abdominal injury against Leicester last time out.Thankfully, the Nottingham Forest forward is said to be improving having undergone surgery but Nuno Espirito Santo remains understandably concerned, such was the severity of the situation.Murillo may return for Forest’s trip to West Ham on Sunday.PICK YOUR WINNERGet 60/1 on Palace or 30/1 on City with talkSPORT BETCLAIM HERE18+ New customers only. Opt in and bet max £1 on Crystal Palace – Match Betting – 90 Mins vs Man City by 16:30 on 17/05/2025. Enhanced odds paid in Free Bets, which expire in 7 days. Scroll down for T&Cs. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyCommercial content notice: Taking one of the betting offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.ARSENALInjuries: Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz (doubt), Gabriel, Leandro Trossard (doubt), Declan Rice (doubt), Gabriel Martinelli (doubt)Suspensions: Mikel MerinoASTON VILLAInjuries: Marcus Rashford, Youri TielemansSuspensions: Jacob MurphyBOURNEMOUTHInjuries: Enes Unal, Luis Sinisterra, Ryan Christie, Alex Scott, Dango Ouattara, Suspensions: NoneBRENTFORDInjuries: Aaron Hickey (doubt), Josh Dasilva, Fabio Carvalho, Vitaly JaneltSuspensions: NoneBRIGHTONInjuries: James Milner, Solly March, Ferdi Kadioglu, Georginio Rutter, Kaoru Mitoma (doubt)Suspensions: NoneCHELSEAInjuries: Marc Guiu, Wesley Fofana, Christopher NkunkuSuspensions: Mykhailo Mudryk, Nicolas JacksonCRYSTAL PALACEInjuries: Cheick Doucoure, Chadi RiadSuspensions: NoneEVERTONInjuries: Orel Mangala, James Tarkowski, Jesper LindstromSuspensions: NoneFULHAMInjuries: Reiss Nelson, Rodrigo Muniz, Timothy Castagne, Harrison Reed, Sasa Lukic, Antonee Robinson (doubt)Suspensions: NoneIPSWICHInjuries: Chiedozie Ogbene, Wes Burns, Sammie Szmodics (doubt), Conor Townsend, Jaden Philogene, Arijanet MuricSuspensions: NoneLEICESTERInjuries: Abdul Fatawu, Stephy Mavididi, Mads Hermansen, Ricardo Pereira, Bobby De Cordova-ReidSuspensions: NoneLIVERPOOLInjuries: Joe GomezSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER CITYInjuries: Rodri, John Stones, Nathan Ake (doubt), Oscar Bobb (doubt)Suspensions: NoneMANCHESTER UNITEDInjuries: Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven (doubt), Joshua Zirkzee, Diogo Dalot (doubt), Leny Yoro, Matthijs de LigtSuspensions: NoneNEWCASTLEInjuries: Lewis Hall, Matt Targett, Joelinton, Kieran Trippier, Joe Willock (doubt), Sven Botman (doubt)Suspensions: NoneNOTTINGHAM FORESTInjuries: Callum Hudson-Odoi (doubt), Taiwo Awoniyi, Murillo (doubt)Suspensions: NoneSOUTHAMPTONInjuries: Kyle Walker-Peters (doubt)Suspensions: NoneTOTTENHAMInjuries: Radu Dragusin, Timo Werner, Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas BergvallSuspensions: NoneWEST HAMInjuries: Michail Antonio, Crysencio SummervilleSuspensions: NoneWOLVESRead More on The SunInjuries: Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, Yerson Mosquera, Leon Chiwone, Sam Johnstone, Hwang Hee-chan (doubt)Suspensions: NoneScore 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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    ‘Should be illegal’ – Man Utd and Spurs fans face staying in £2,000 Squid Game-like hostel for Europa League final

    A BILBAO hostel has been slammed for charging football fans over £2,000 – to stay in beds reminiscent of Netflix show Squid Game. Manchester United and Tottenham fans are desperate for accommodation in the Spanish city ahead of the Europa League final. A hostel that reminds fans of Squid Game has gone viral for its Europa League pricingCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel is charging fans over £2000 for a three-day stayCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe hostel is just a short distance from the Europa League final stadiumCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsFans will be treated to bunk beds and lockers in the shared roomsCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Prem sides are set to do battle at the Estadio de San Mamés next Wednesday. But the Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel – just a nine-minute drive from the ground – has been accused of cashing in. Disgruntled supporters have likened the bedroom set-up to the dorms in Squid Game, which became a global phenomenon in 2021. Contestants are forced to sleep in a warehouse full of bunk beds in the South Korean show.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd fans were outraged to learn the price for a three-night stay in similar digs at the Bossh Hotels hostel. Four adults would need to fork out a whopping £2,338 if they wanted to stay from Tuesday, May 20 to Friday, May 23, as reported by NeedToKnow.Fans flocked to social media to complain about the hostel raising prices so dramatically ahead of Wednesday’s showpiece. One fan wrote in response: “Sleeping in Squid Game for £2,000.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnother joked: “You could win 45 billion Korean Won.”While a third added: “Should be illegal to take advantage like they are.”Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want itAnd a fourth countered: “Surely no one’s paying £2,000 for a hostel. I wouldn’t even pay £200. Would rather sleep in the airport.”Bossh Hotels has been approached for a comment.Last week, it was revealed United are not going to be giving staff free tickets to the final.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clashBoth clubs have been allocated around 15,000 seats each by Uefa.It’s been reported that Spurs are offering all full-time employees a complimentary ticket for the match – a stance that United are not following.The Mail claim that United are instead holding a ballot with a small number of tickets available for their staff, but will see the majority of workers go without the opportunity to watch the club in Spain. More

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    Emmanuel Kunde dead at 68: Pioneering World Cup icon who scored against England at Italia ’90 passes away

    EMMANUEL KUNDE has tragically died at the age of 68.The former footballer is best remembered for scoring against England in the 1990 World Cup.Emmanuel Kunde has sadly diedCredit: RexHe scored against England in the 1990 World Cup quarter-finalsCredit: PAKunde jostled with Paul Gascoigne for the ballCredit: PASamuel Eto’o has paid tribute to the CameroonianCredit: APHis death was confirmed by the Cameroonian football federation.A statement read: “His death constitutes a huge loss for Cameroonian football.”His most famous career moment came when he netted the winning penalty in the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations final against Nigeria.He also won the continental cup four years earlier and came on as a late substitute in the 3-1 win over Nigeria again in the final.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe also scored a penalty against England in the 3-2 defeat in the quarter-finals of Italia ’90.Former Chelsea and Everton striker has shared an emotional tribute to Kunde on Instagram.He wrote: “I’m just learning of the demise of the Elder Emmanuel Jérôme Kundé, an iconic figure in Cameroonian football, who died at the age of 68.”Oh the sadness! It is a certain value of our heritage that is thus cruelly taken away from us.Most read in Football”I keep with him the memory of a discreet and affectionate man, a figure of moderation and consideration.”He was a fantastic footballer, the control tower in the midfield, the defensive wall the opponent crashed into but also a great playmaker when the team had possession.”Individually, it was a fine passer and an artifact with phenomenal power and goldsmith precision.”In fifteen years as a national team (127 selections), he took part in the two legendary epics of the Indomitable Lions in the World Cup (1982 and 1990), twice winner of the CAN (1984 and 1988).”His long career brought him to France (Laval, Reims) and Gabon (US Bitam) as a coach, even though it is in the Canon sportif de Yaoundé that his name and legend will remain associated forever, as a player and as a coach.”Praying for the great football family to keep him in your thoughts and my deepest condolences to his nuclear family.”Kunde started his playing career at the Mbankomo Club in Cameroon.He then played for the likes of Tempête de Nanga-Eboko and Canon Yaounde before joining French sides Laval and Reims.Read More on The SunHe retired in 1992, back in Cameroon after two years with Olympic Mvolye.In total, he played 102 times for Cameroon’s national team between 1979 and 1992 and scored 17 goals. More

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    Leeds forced to issue statement as pic of Ethan Ampadu’s son wearing Galatasaray shirt emerges after fan tragedy

    LEEDS UNITED have thrown their support behind captain Ethan Ampadu after his son was pictured in a Galatasaray shirt. Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight – both Leeds fans – were tragically killed ahead of a Uefa Cup semi-final clash against the Turkish side in April 2000.Leeds have defended Ethan Ampadu after his son was pictured in a Galatasaray shirtCredit: PAThe snap was shared by Amapdu’s ex-partner on social mediaCredit: XAmpadu is Leeds’ club captain and helped them amass 100 points in the Championship this seasonCredit: XAmpadu’s former partner shared a snap of their son wearing a Galatasaray kit on Thursday. It came after the Super Lig leaders beat Trabzonspor 3-0 to secure the Turkish Cup. The post immediately received a backlash from Leeds supporters.And the club were quick to release a statement defending Ampadu. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe statement read: “Leeds United are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu’s son.”Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question. “Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families.”The club asks for Ethan’s privacy to be respected in what is a difficult time for him personally.”Most read in FootballAmpadu, 24, joined the Whites in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea.He has become a firm fan favourite in West Yorkshire, helping the club amass 100 points this season on their way to the Championship title.Inside Leeds stars’ wild title celebrations as Bamford and Ampadu ‘leave Burnley fanbase in meltdown’ with karaoke songThe statement continued: “Our captain has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, demonstrating his commitment to the club, its history, and the broader Leeds community. “Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds United. The club will be making no further comment.”Ampadu has previously attended events commemorating the tragic deaths of Loftus and Speight.He laid flowers for the pair at Luton’s Kenilworth Road earlier this season as the club marked 25 years since their passing.On Thursday, Ampadu’s ex-partner Saara Sa posted on Instagram claiming Leeds were pushing a “false narrative”.The post read: “My condolences are with the families of the two people who passed away in Istanbul. “I am Turkish and our son is part Turkish. “Galatasaray is my families[sic] supporting home team and has been for years. Read More on The Sun”We are the parents of our child and Ethan was aware of the photo. “I would appreciate if Leeds United football club would not portray a false narrative by making a statement stating lies.” More

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    Wrexham confirm EIGHT players leaving after promotion to Championship including star who rejected new deal

    WREXHAM have confirmed that EIGHT players will be leaving the club.The Welsh outfit have achieved a remarkable three promotions consecutively under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Wrexham have been promoted to the ChampionshipCredit: RexSteven Fletcher is one of eight players who have left the clubCredit: GettyHowever, their season in the Championship will not include a number of stars that helped them climb up the English football ladder.Wrexham has now confirmed that eight players have will leave the club upon the expiry of their contracts.This includes former Premier League star Steven Fletcher, who has previously stated that it was not his choice to leave.The striker formerly played for the likes of Sunderland, Burnley, Stoke City and even on loan at Marseille in France.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joined Wrexham back in 2023 and made 77 appearances, scoring 16 goals.Fan favourite goalkeeper Mark Howard has also been released and he penned a touching tribute to the club.He wrote on Instagram: “From the moment I pulled on the Wrexham shirt, I have tried to bring professionalism, passion, and personality to the club.”As I reflect on what an incredible journey it’s been, I consider myself fortunate to have shared a dressing room with the best teammates.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”Everyday I have left with a smile on my face wanting to come back and do it all over again. Love you boys.”Being able to say I’m the only goalkeeper ever to do the 3peat. Back2Back2Back. I say tongue in cheek.’He’s got the fastest hands’ – Wrexham star James McClean tipped to beat up Jake Paul in boxing fightWrexham squad updateHere is a full rundown of players with updated roles at Wrexham…Released:Steven FletcherMark HowardSam DalbyJordan DaviesHarry DeanBrad FosterLiam HallJosh AdamOffered new deal:Callum EdwardsAutomatic extension:Aaron JamesDecision pending: James Rainbird”I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here.”Working alongside some of the most amazing staff on and off the pitch, giving me the encouragement to do more, I cannot thank you enough.”The connection with the fans was tough at times but now I feel part of the family, I would like to think you’ve all grown to love me.”At this stage I still feel like I have more football in me, so it’s not retirement yet, I still want to dive around while my body lets me.”Finally, a huge thank you to these two amazing people.”Jordan Davies, Harry Dean, Brad Foster, Josh Adam and Liam Hall have all also been released.The club also revealed that Sam Dalby as offered a new deal to stay but was turned down.Read More on The SunHe spent last season out on loan at Dundee United and netted 14 goals in 34 appearances in the Scottish Premiership.Meanwhile, Wrexham players were treated to a £500k party trip to Las Vegas after gaining another promotion.Owners’ tribute to two starsRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney shared a kind message to Steven Fletcher and Mark Howard after it was announced they would be leaving…Reynolds wrote: “Mr Steven Fletcher. Words aren’t agile enough to capture what you’ve brought to Wrexham, the sport, and the lives of myself and this whole town.”You aren’t a PART of greatness. You ARE greatness. I don’t really know what a co-chairmen is supposed to do or say in these moments and I don’t much care. I’m gonna miss you.”I’ll miss your leadership and wit and the way you remind everyone — including me — that this is also FUN. Like the first day we met, I’m here for you any time and any place. Always.”And Mark Howard— how on earth do we put into words the clutch work you do as a keeper. You have the hardest job in football. And you can’t have that ability without being a clutch person in life.”You have a beautiful family and you have a second family in Wrexham now and always. You’re the big beating heart of this team and the reason we have the best locker room in sports.”Fletch and Chomp, you’ve authored some of the greatest moments of my life. And so many others. All I can do is thank you.”McElhenney added: “This is truly the worst part.”I cannot say enough about these two men. Mark Howard and Steven Fletcher are not just players on the team.”They are my friends and people I admire. They are men of ability and principle and commitment and compassion.”They are men of character and fortitude who have achieved something beyond anyone’s imagination.”I greatly admire everything about them and have so thoroughly enjoyed every moment I’ve had to see them play, or to just spend time with them. Godspeed men.”I hope our paths cross again very soon. All I can say to these great men is THANK YOU.” More

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    Leeds target Newcastle star Callum Wilson on free transfer with Daniel Farke desperate for more firepower up front

    LEEDS are targeting Newcastle striker Callum Wilson.Elland Road boss Daniel Farke is desperate for more firepower after promotion from the Championship.Leeds are plotting a free transfer swoop for Newcastle striker Callum WilsonCredit: ReutersAnd Newcastle forward Wilson is out of contract at the end of the season so is available to Leeds on a free transfer.The 33-year-old was a £20million arrival from Bournemouth five years ago.He has since achieved a terrific record of 47 goals in 111 Premier League appearances in the north-east.But his biggest problem at Newcastle has been injuries.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd he has also moved down the pecking order due to the blistering form of striker Alexander Isak.Wilson has made 16 Premier League appearances this term.But just one of those has been a start.And he has also struggled with both hamstring and back issues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWilson has won nine England caps too.But his last appearance for the Three Lions was against Scotland in 2023.How Newcastle bamboozled Chelsea in battle for Champions League Leeds, meanwhile, have also been looking at Wilson’s teammate Sean Longstaff.He is in the final 12 months of his contract at Newcastle.The 27-year-old has made 31 appearances this term.And he will count as a club-grown player if he stays and features in Europe for Toon next season. More