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    ‘Man Utd the problem’ say fans as £85.5m flop Antony scores stunning goal for Real Betis in Conference League clash

    ANTONY continued his fine Real Betis form by scoring against Gent in the Europa Conference League.The Manchester United flop, 24, joined the Spanish side on loan in January having struggled for game time at Old Trafford.Antony launched a shot from the edge of the boxThe Brazilian celebrates his second goal in two gamesCredit: RexThe Brazilian found the net in just his second Betis appearance against Celta Vigo last weekend, having laid on an assist on his debut.He continued his resurgence by scoring a fine effort to give his loan side the lead in Belgium this evening.Barely a minute into the second half, the winger received the ball on the right flank.He subsequently drove inside, before unleashing a shot into the bottom corner.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans online were quick to have their say on Antony’s goal.One posted: “United was the problem.”While a second blasted: “Now it is clear that United destroys every player.”A third wrote: “Crazy what confidence can do to a player.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAntony reveals a message on his undershirtCredit: EPAAnd another added: “Prime Antony is back.”Real Betis CEO Ramon Alcaron has already admitted that his side are interested in making Antony’s loan deal permanent.Antony leaves Man Utd with more yellow cards than goals as £86m Ten Hag flop goes down as one of worst transfers everThe former Ajax star remains under contract at United until June 2027.Asked about whether he wants to keep Antony long-term, Alcaron said: “Yes, I think so. The other day the CEO of United called me.“We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here.”It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”Antony joined Man Utd in an £86million deal in the summer of 2022; subsequently scoring 12 goals and laying on five assists in 96 appearances.Antony struggled to perform at Man UtdCredit: Getty More

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    Bukayo Saka set to miss further EIGHT WEEKS in another devastating injury blow for Arsenal as slim title hopes fade

    BUKAYO SAKA is set to be sidelined for a further eight weeks as Arsenal’s injury nightmare intensified.As the Gunners confirmed that German Kai Havertz was out for the season ahead of undergoing hamstring surgery, it emerged that Saka’s similar injury could prevent him returning until mid-April.Bukayo Saka may not return from injury until AprilCredit: RexThe Arsenal star was seen in rehab at the club’s training camp in DubaiCredit: GettyMikel Arteta has an injury crisis to contend withCredit: GettyWhen Saka limped away from the 5-1 crushing of Crystal Palace in December, Arsenal were hoping for him to be fit by next month.The club published photos of the England ace going through rehab drills during this week’s training camp in Dubai.But boss Mikel Arteta, now left with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and teenager Ethan Nwaneri as fit attacking options with first-team experience, will not take a further gamble on Saka unless he is absolutely ready.That reluctance to risk Saka, whose explosive push off on his injured right leg is a major part of his threat, could now see the winger staying on the sidelines for up to four months in total.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, the expected bad news on Havertz, the club’s 14-goal top scorer, was confirmed.Arsenal announced: “We can confirm that Kai Havertz has sustained a hamstring injury during a training session in Dubai last week.”Subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed that the injury will require surgery, which will take place in the coming days.”Soon after surgery, Kai will begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, which is expected to extend into pre-season preparations for next season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”Everyone at the club is fully focused on supporting Kai to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”Arteta, already without Gabriel Jesus, is also expected to be missing fellow Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli for a month.Arsenal wonderkid Lewis-Skelly’s mum reveals he’s ‘still on washing-up duty’… and how she nearly missed Man City goalHe pulled a hamstring in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat at Newcastle last week.Arsenal sit seven points off Liverpool at the top of the table following their chaotic 2-2 draw against Everton yesterday. More

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    Newcastle vs Liverpool Carabao Cup final kick-off time confirmed after chiefs forced into decision by LIMP BIZKIT

    NEWCASTLE’s Carabao Cup final clash against Liverpool has had its kick-off time confirmed.The Magpies reached Wembley after dumping out Arsenal while the Reds beat Tottenham over two legs.Limp Bizkit are playing at Wembley Arena on the day of the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyNewcastle will face Liverpool in the Wembley final after beating ArsenalCredit: GettyLiverpool dumped out Tottenham in their semi-finalCredit: GettyThere were some reports that the match could have a rarely-seen 8pm kick-off on Sunday, March 16.However, this was alwaysunlikely due to US rap rock band Limp Bizkit performing at Wembley Arena on the same day.Led by frontman Fred Durst, they are best known for hits such as Break Stuff and Rollin’.Their energetic performances and unique image made them iconic in the late 1990s and early 2000s alternative music scene.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe band are performing in the evening, so an earlier kick-off time of 4.30pm has been selected, which should see the fans away from the stadium by the time the gig starts.It is the same slot that was used for the 2023 final between Newcastle and Manchester United.Eddie Howe’s side will be hoping that this time does not see the same result as they were beaten by the Red Devils 2-0 that day.The Daily Mail has claimed that Newcastle are now facing backlash from some corporate supporters over final tickets.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe report has stated that they have been handed less tickets than when the club reached the final two years ago.In one case, a fan that spends up to £50,000-per-season was rewarded with four tickets compared to their previous ten.This has seen angry phone calls made to the club with many complaining about the change.However it is suggested that the club has argued the reduction due to having “more partners” to provide for.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak talks to Alan Shearer about Champions League desires One fan said: “I feel like I’ve been robbed and conned. If the club had been transparent at the start of the season then you can manage expectations or make alternative plans.”As it is, I have taken up my box for every cup game and been to the away games in the belief that I would get the full allocation of ten tickets if we made a final.”They set a precedent for the 2023 final, and the assumption was that they would do the same.”People see the word ‘corporate’ and think it’s all business and clients.”I used to sit in the stands as a season-ticket holder and I’m lucky enough now to be able to afford a box.”It’s not ‘corporate’, I see it as ten season tickets for my friends and family.”I’d told them we’d be getting our seats for the final. I’ve now got to choose between grandchildren as to who goes to Wembley. I feel let down by the club.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSky Sports currently holds the rights to the FA Cup, so will be showing the game live on Sky Sports, or via the Sky Go and Sky Sports app for streaming.In addition, the final WILL be available for free-to-air television too with ITV 1 showing the big game, and it will be streamed for free on ITV X. More

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    When is the Carabao Cup final 2025? Kick-off time CONFIRMED, TV channel and stream details

    NEWCASTLE will take on Liverpool for a chance to take home the first trophy of the season at Wembley.Arne Slot will be taking Premier League leaders to face Eddie Howe in the Carabao Cup final.Liverpool will be looking to win back to back Carabao Cup finalsCredit: GettyAlexander Isak guided Newcastle to the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyThe Carabao Cup is the first trophy available of the domestic treble in the 2024/25 season. Liverpool are the defending champions, after beating Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea side 1-0 in the 2023/24 final.When is the Carabao Cup final?The Carabao Cup final in 2025 is set to take place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 16.Kick-off time has been CONFIRMED for 4.30pm.Last season, the match kicked off at the earlier time of 3pm.Who is in the Carabao Cup final?Defending champions Liverpool took home the trophy last season, beating Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley Stadium.Read more FootballAn open game saw Chelsea miss a handful of good chances, before in extra time Virgil van Dijk headed in the first and only goal of the final.Van Dijk’s header won Jurgen Klopp his last trophy as manager of the Reds.This year, after two semi-finals, consisting of two legged play offs, Newcastle will face Liverpool for the first trophy of the season.Eddie Howe’s side reached the final for the second time in three seasons, beating Arsenal 4-0 on aggregate in dominant fashion.Most read in FootballWhile Liverpool overturned the 1-0 deficit into a 4-1 thrashing over Spurs and booked their place in their second Carabao Cup final in two years.How to watch the Carabao Cup final 2025 and is it available for streaming?Sky Sports currently holds the rights to the FA Cup, so will be showing the game live on Sky Sports, or via the Sky Go and Sky Sports app for streaming.In addition, the final WILL be available for free-to-air television too with ITV 1 showing the big game, and it will be streamed for free on ITV X. More

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    Ronnie Boyce dead aged 82: West Ham lead tributes to cup-winning hero who played with Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst

    WEST HAM legend Ronnie Boyce has sadly passed away aged 82.The icon scored the winner in the FA Cup final in 1964 and then helped them win the European Cup Winners’ Cup a year later.West Ham icon Ronnie Boyce has sadly diedCredit: PA:Empics SportBoyce [front centre] won two cups with the Irons as a playerCredit: PABoyce was also a member of the coaching staff when the Hammers lifted the FA Cup in 1975 and 1980 – before taking charge of one game as caretaker manager in 1990.His family penned a touching tribute, which read: “We are so very sad to confirm that our beloved husband, father and grandfather Ronnie passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon.“He fought illness in recent years with typical courage, bravery and no fuss, and with such strength. “His nickname of ‘Ticker’, as the strong heartbeat of West Ham’s team in the 1960s, could not have been more appropriate.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He was a Hammer all of his life, from growing up in East Ham to representing the Club as a player and coach across 34 years of dedicated service, and always had time for the fans and people who gave him so much support throughout his time in football.“He never boasted about his wonderful playing career or achievements.”But he was so proud of the fact that he scored the winning goal in West Ham United’s first-ever FA Cup victory, and his love of the Club and the supporters meant so much to him.“As a family, we were even prouder of the love, support and dedication he gave us all, and of the quiet, honest, decent man that he was. We will miss him greatly and he will never be forgotten.”Most read in FootballThe Hammers added: “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Ronnie’s wife Dawn, his sons Gary and Tony, daughter-in-laws Ewa and Sarah, grandsons Ross, Ben, Jack, Elliott and Tom, and all of his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.”Further tributes to Ronnie will appear across Club channels in the coming days and at London Stadium on Saturday ahead of our Premier League fixture against Brentford.”Devastated fans wrote online: “RIP. A genuine West Ham legend.”Another commented: “Sleep tight, Ticker. A fine footballer and a wonderful gentleman.”Boyce played alongside World Cup winners Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters at Upton Park.He was handed a lifetime achievement award by West Ham in 2019. More

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    Amazing moment Sky Sports News staff gather to applaud speechless presenter during final broadcast after 43-year stint

    A LEGENDARY presenter was applauded by the Sky Sports News staff during his final broadcast.Nick Powell is leaving our screens 43 years of service and was on air for the last time.Nick Powell was given a round of applause in the Sky Sports News studioCredit: Sky SportsHe is leaving the broadcaster after 29 yearsCredit: Sky SportsPowell, 66, was honoured with a montage of himself working throughout the years.As the video ended, he was welcomed in the studio by the staff and given a rousing round of applause.Powell was visibly stunned and left without words until presenter Mike Wedderburn spoke to him.Wedderburn said: “Nick, we love you. Obviously, we are going to miss you.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhen Powell could muster some words, he was composed to make a joke.He said: “I was just going to say if we took as much care as we did with that with the rest of the output, it would be fantastic.”Someone has gone through a lot of trouble and thank you very much.”The clip was shared on social media and many of Powell’s fans took the chance to wish him well in the comments.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne posted: “What a legend Nick Powell is.”His voice and presence have been such a huge part of Sky’s coverage for as long as I can remember, truly the end of an era. Wishing him all the best in retirement.”Former Premier League star signed contract then ripped it up just 20 minutes later in classy gesture A second wrote: “Good luck Nick.”A third commented: “Happy Retirement, Nick! Good luck and you’ll be missed.”A fourth said: “Legendary.”Another added: “Wish you the very best in your future endeavours, Nick.”Powell also revealed one of his sporting heroes in his final Sky broadcast after 29 years with the channel.He said: “There have been lots over the years, but since I saw Kevin Keegan there (in video).”Am I allowed to mention a former Liverpool hero, I was probably 11 when he signed for Bill Shankley.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe popular broadcaster has covered some of the greatest sporting events, such as England’s Ashes triumph in 2005, London 2012 and Andy Murray’s Wimbledon win in 2013.The journalist issued a long farewell message on Sky Sports’ website where he also looked back at unforgettable interviews with the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Muhammad Ali and Princess Anne.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    ‘Arsene Wenger would be shaking his head’ – Tony Pulis says legendary Arsenal boss would HATE Mikel Arteta tactic

    TONY PULIS has claimed that Arsene Wenger would not be impressed by Mikel Arteta’s focus on set-pieces.The Arsenal boss, 42, was compared with Pulis for his side’s set-piece prowess earlier this term.Tony Pulis enjoyed plenty of Premier League battles with Arsene WengerCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side have scored 45 goals from set pieces since the beginning of the 2022-23 seasonCredit: GettyArsenal are consistently a huge threat from cornersCredit: GettyWenger, 75, rarely hid his disdain for Pulis’ Stoke side during their stint in the Premier League.The Frenchman even claimed that the Potters employed “rugby” tactics in 2010.Earlier this season, social media memes compared Arteta to Pulis, with one image even mocked up of the Spaniard wearing the ex-Stoke boss’ iconic cap.Pulis, 67, loves the comparisons – telling the Telegraph: “It’s funny because Arsene brought a lot of good stuff into the game but he couldn’t cope with the belief that set-plays were that important.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It was all about the good football he wanted to play, completely different to maybe what I like to see.“We were called dinosaurs. Maybe I was a trend-setter. I’ve had Liverpool fans bump into me and talk about Jurgen Klopp wearing my cap.”People have mentioned how managers now wear white trainers on the touchline like I did. And now there’s obviously the set-plays.”Arsenal have scored 45 goals from set plays since the start of the 2022-23 season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSArsenal had plenty of physical battles with Stoke down the yearsCredit: AP:Associated PressPulis has admired the work done by Arteta, even if it has been mocked by rival fans.The Welshman added: “Arteta has done fantastically well to recognise how important set-plays are. When you look at it, Arsenal have won a hell of a lot of games from them. ‘Now everyone’s calling me it…’ – Declan Rice reveals hilarious new nickname”Arsene would most probably be shaking his head at the amount of praise Arteta is getting for using the corners and set-plays to such an extent that it’s deciding games for them.”We always knew how important set-plays were and how certain aspects of defending were. It has always been a massive part of professional football, whether you like it or not.”Wenger escaped an FA charge 15 years ago after complaining about Stoke’s approach during a match against Arsenal’s rivals Tottenham.He said: “You cannot say it is football any more. It is more rugby on the goalkeepers than football.”When you see the way (Ryan) Shawcross kicked Heurelho Gomes, how Robert Huth pushed Gomes in the goal, you cannot say that is football any more.”At the time, Pulis hit back: “The club is desperately disappointed with the comments which Wenger has come out with, especially the comments about Shawcross.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We think they are out of order and you don’t expect it from a person of Wenger’s esteem.”What he said about Ryan was very, very poor and the football club will take that matter up. The club will deal with it in the right and proper manner.”Wenger commented on a Stoke clash with Tottenham in 2010Credit: Reuters More

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    Feyenoord’s Igor Paixao at centre of Premier League transfer race after running Kyle Walker ragged in Champions League

    THREE Premier League clubs are chasing Feyenoord’s Champions League star Igor Paixao.Tottenham, Newcastle and Bournemouth are all keen on the Brazilian winger, who scored the winner against AC Milan and gave Kyle Walker a torrid time at De Kuip on Wednesday.Igor Paixao gave Kyle Walker a torrid time in the Champions LeagueCredit: AFPThe Feyenoord winger won the player of the match award vs AC MilanCredit: GettyPaixao beat Walker after just three minutes before firing in at the near post and then continued to torment the England international throughout the night.Newcastle and Bournemouth both had scouts in Rotterdam for the Champions League play-off first leg.Paixao, 24, has eight goals and 14 assists across Eredivisie and the Champions League this season, with the player keen on a Premier League move in the summer.Feyenoord are thought to rate their speedy winger, signed from Brazilian side Coritiba in 2022, at £25million and there was plenty of evidence as to why on Wednesday night.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNot only did Paixao constantly beat Walker, but he was quick and confident in front of goal, hitting the bar after opening the scoring.No player completed more dribbles than the Feyenoord man at De Kuip, while no team-mate had more shots. Paixao also won the ball on four occasions and created two chances.In the second half, he robbed Walker of possession in the Milan half which led to him going close to scoring from the half-way line.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSPaixao also registered an assist in Feyenoord’s 3-3 comeback draw with Manchester City earlier this season.But his goal last night sealed Walker’s first defeat since joining Milan in January.Wayne Rooney slams ‘strange’ decision by Man City to let Kyle Walker join AC Milan on loan after Real Madrid horror showThe right-back insisted that the loss has not impacted what he sees as a bright start to life in Italy, but knows they need a response at San Siro next week.He said: “I’ve been here for two weeks. Since I’ve been here it’s been good, this is a setback and we have to recover first of all in the championship and then in the return leg.“The atmosphere, the crowd with their passion and the belief that we will put in: it will be a different match but also the approach must be different.”It is not only valid for the forwards, we all have to contribute more.” More