Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal lining up ‘unprecedented’ summer spending spree with Alexander Isak top target and lengthy shortlist

      by

      ARSENAL are gearing up for an unprecedented summer spending spree after signing ZERO players in January.And Newcastle striker Alexander Isak is the name at the top of Mikel Arteta’s lengthy wanted list.Alexander Isak is understood to be Arsenal’s top targetArsenal fans aren’t exactly happy that the club failed to bring in reinforcements last month – Arteta expressed his disappointment too before taking his team out to Dubai for some TLC.Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final exit to Newcastle will serve only to strengthen the fans’ view that the window was a huge letdown.Fans and pundits alike have been belting: “Arsenal need a striker!” for some time now.Injuries to star boy Bukayo Saka (hamstring), goalscorer Gabriel Jesus (knee) and now seemingly Gabriel Martinelli have only compounded that assertion. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Gunners have just one fit centre-forward in ex-Chelsea man Kai Havertz, 25, having decided to stick with what they have instead of bringing in a body to bolster the team.Arsenal did try to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa but had a £45m bid rejected after the Villans sold Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr for £70m.With all that said, Arteta’s quiet January should result in a summer of hefty spending.The foundations are in place but there is an understanding the next window is “critical” to firing the club towards trophies, reports The Mail.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArsenal are at risk of finishing second best in the Prem for the third successive year after Liverpool’s incredible season replaced the dominance of Manchester City.But the Gunners also have their eyes on winning the Champions League for the first time in their history.Mikel Arteta looks ahead to Arsenal’s clash with Newcastle in Carabao Cup semi-final second leg Achieving that goal requires investment. Having kept their purses closed in January, there will be a spending spree before next season.But the big money will be spent on a new dream ticket centre forward – ideally 25-year-old Isak.The Swede has scored 59 goals in 94 games for Newcastle since joining the Toon for a club record from Real Sociedad in 2022.Yet before Isak’s move to St James’ Park was made final, Arsenal had been chasing the striker too.But his £75million release clause was deemed a risk at the time for the then 22-year-old star.Arteta insisted the Gunners’ lack of transfer activity was NOT a “gamble” in January as the club will splash the cash in few months.Martin Zubimendi, who has a £52million release clause, looks certain to arrive from Real Sociedad in the summer.Arsenal are preparing for the expected midfield departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey, who are both out of contract in June.They will likely go all out for Red Bull Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, 21, who is valued at £60m, after registering their interest during the last two windows.Arsenal will likely go all out for Red Bull Leipzig striker Benjamin SeskoCredit: RexThe North London club will explore a move for a versatile right winger too, with Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams on the list.Meanwhile, Wolves forward Matheus Cunha was linked with a move to the Emirates in the summer.Cunha surprisingly signed a new four-and-a half-year deal to stay at Molineux on February 1 – but it does include a £62.5million release clause.Potential moves for Mathys Tel – who has since joined rivals Tottenham – and AC Milan striker Alvaro Morata were also discussed.The role of interim sporting director Jason Ayto was an intriguing backdrop to Arsenal’s January activity.READ MORE SUN STORIESAyto is effectively sitting an on-the-job interview for the permanent position after Edu’s shock departure towards the end of 2024.While fans are furious, Ayto’s considered approach is one that’s aligned with the club’s long-term strategy.Midfielder Martin Zubimendi looks set to join in the summer too More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Michail Antonio begins next stage of rehab after West Ham star broke his leg in terrifying car crash

      by

      MICHAIL ANTONIO is jetting out to Dubai today to step up his rehab following his shocking car crash in December.The West Ham striker, 34, required surgery on a broken leg after a the smash in his £260,000 Ferrari which saw him airlifted to hospital.Michail Antonio is set to begin the next phase of his rehab following surgery on a broken leg in DubaiCredit: Instagram @michailantonioMichail Antonio crashed his Ferrari into a tree in a horror smash before CristmasCredit: Steve BellAntonio was discharged before Christmas and former Hammers manager, Julen Lopetegui, said he expected him to be able to play in the Premier League again.The Jamaica international has visited the club’s Rush Green training ground on a few occasions since new boss Graham Potter took charge.And now he is moving onto the next stage of his recovery, with nearly a fortnight at a training facility in Dubai.Antonio flies out today and will return to London on February 20.READ MORE SPORT STORIESThe striker is currently out of contract at the end of the season, though the club are weighing up whether or not to extend his deal in order to cover the full recovery.A decision on all new contracts, with Vladimir Coufal’s deal also up in the summer, will be made towards the end of the season.Fellow stricken striker, Niclas Fullkrug, has also been working in Dubai in order to aid his recovery from a hamstring injury suffered in Potter’s first game in charge.The Hammers are struggling with injuries across the pitch, which has not aided Potter’s start to his new job.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCaptain Jarrod Bowen returned from injury in the defeat to Chelsea this week.But Crycensio Summerville, Lucas Paqueta, Edson Alvarez and Jean-Clair Todibo were all absent as well as Fullkrug and Antonio.West Ham star Michail Antonio injured in horror crash in Ferrari as club reveals he’s ‘stable’ in hospitalMichail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game. More

    • 200 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Horrendous’ – Jamie Carragher reveals moment Postecoglou’s Tottenham reign changed and they’ve been ‘awful’ ever since

      by

      JAMIE CARRAGHER has pinpointed the moment Ange Postecoglou’s entire Tottenham reign changed for the worse – and reckons Chelsea are to blame.Spurs were marmalised by rampant Liverpool in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, losing 4-0 on the night having won the first leg 1-0.Jamie Carragher has pinpointed the moment Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs reign began to sourCredit: ReutersTottenham were battered 4-0 by Liverpool to crash out of yet another cup competitionCredit: ReutersJamie Carragher believes Chelsea have played a role in Tottenham’s recent demiseCredit: RexCody Gakpo levelled the tie in the first half before Mohamed Salah gave the Reds an aggregate lead.Dominik Szoboszlai and Virgil van Dijk both netted late goals to smear salt in Spurs’ immense wound.The result compounded what has been a miserable season for Tottenham – who sit 14th in the Premier League.And former Reds ace Carragher reckons he’s pinpointed the moment Postecoglou’s fortunes changed – the 4-1 defeat at home to London rivals Chelsea in November 2023.READ MORE SPORT NEWSSpeaking on Sky Sports after the game, Carragher said: “They’ve lost 20 in their last 45 games, since. That’s an awful lot.”Going back to that Chelsea game at home from last season, since then their record is horrendous.”It’s not just a case of injuries right now, which I do sympathise with and playing 18 year old…”I’d like to see him given till the end of the season, but I think we’ve got to be careful talking about the injuries of the last two, three months.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”This form has been a problem since last season.”And former Liverpool star Carragher was hardly surprised by the Anfield demolition job, adding: “It’s Tottenham!Inside Tottenham’s horror performance as season worst stats expose disasterclass from Ange Postecoglou’s flops“When do Tottenham ever win a big game? When do Tottenham ever go and surprise, win against the odds?”The odds were massively in favour against Liverpool, they’re at Anfield, they’re the best team in the country, possibly the best team in Europe right now.”But it’s not just this Spurs team. They never shock you, never do something out of the ordinary.”But Carragher wasn’t the only Sky Sports pundit to tear into Spurs.Jamie Redknapp said: ” It was fun watching Tottenham for a while.”But there’s the old saying: ‘When the fun stops, stop.'”Redknapp – appearing to place the blame on boss Postecoglou – continued: “I cannot remember a team in my lifetime go down with less of a fight with what Spurs did today.”Not having one shot on target in the semi-final of a second leg when you’re trying to change the course of your history?”I feel sorry for those players… there’s been some lows – Palace, Ipswich and Everton this season.”But when you look at that today, the scoreline? Just horrendous.”Another former Spurs ace, Michael Dawson, was equally critical, ranting: “That was a low, low night for Spurs.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was always going to be backs against the wall but they didn’t show any character in possession, out of possession and they didn’t show any desire to keep the ball out of the back of the net.”To come here and get beat 4-0 without any fight and without a shot on target, it’s a damaging performance.”Tottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. More

    • 175 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Tottenham’s horror performance as season worst stats expose disasterclass from Ange Postecoglou’s flops

      by

      ANGE POSTECOGLOU’S toothless Tottenham were taught another lesson last night as they waved goodbye to their best chance at finally ending their trophy hunt. Spurs rolled over to hand Liverpool a 4-0 walkover at Anfield in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.Tottenham were battered 4-0 by Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final second legCredit: ReutersSpurs’ chances of ending their trophy drought are dwindlingCredit: GettyIt’s no secret that Spurs are having a bad season with the North London club facing the genuine prospect of a relegation dogfight.But there has been a small caveat to their calamitous campaign that Ange Postecoglou “always wins” a trophy in his second season.A caveat that now looks much harder to achieve after they were dispatched with ease in the cup semi-final on Thursday.Any team heading into a second leg a goal to the good would fancy themselves to advance, even if they were playing against the best team in the country away from home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut for Spurs, it looked as though they didn’t even think they could force a draw, never mind manage to put Liverpool under the cosh.Postecoglou’s usual style of play seemed to be abandoned completely as they failed to register a single shot on target over the 90 minutes. It’s the first time in the Aussie’s reign that Spurs have failed to do so and a stat that left former player Jamie Redknapp baffled.He said on Sky Sports: “I can’t get my head round them not having one shot on target in a semi-final.Most read in FootballSpurs didn’t manage a single shot on targetSon Heung-Min took just one shot inside the boxDjed Spence managed Spurs’ only other shot in the areaCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Not having one shot on target in the semi-final second leg when you’re trying to change the course of your history.”Spurs managed just five shots in total, a figure dwarfed by the 26 EFFORTS Liverpool peppered on 21-year-old keeper Antonin Kinsky’s goal.’Horrendous’ – Jamie Carragher reveals moment Postecoglou’s Tottenham reign changed and they’ve been ‘awful’ ever sinceBefore last night, Spurs had averaged 13.9 shots per game and 5.6 shots on target – a far cry from their efforts on Merseyside.Liverpool dominated the match, holding 64 per cent of possession and successfully completing almost 150 passes in Spurs’ final third.In fact, Arne Slot’s side were so dominant that they essentially forced Spurs to sit inside their own half. The average position of each Spurs player on the night shows that only Son Heung-Min and Dejan Kulusevski were able to get up the pitch on a semi-regular basis.Between them Son and Kulusevski managed three shots, with only one coming from inside the box.Postecoglou may now be feeling the pressure from above as questions continue to be asked about his side.However, the 59-year-old can still point towards the horror injury record he has had to endure this season – a record which worsened last night as Richarlison was forced off in the first half.Postecoglou has been forced to roll the dice on kids as a result, giving more minutes to players aged 18 or under than any other Premier League team this season.The former Celtic boss has given 4,072 minutes of football to those players, almost double the amount of Arsenal who have given the second most minutes to youngsters this term (2,034).But there’s an argument that Postecoglou isn’t doing enough with what he has, and patience does seem to be wearing thin.Spurs were pinned in their own halfSpurs have been forced to turn to the kids in the midst of an injury crisisRedknapp added: “Everyone seems to find a way of beating this Tottenham side.”And the manager right now, he baffles me with his tactics sometimes. I think he’s completely lost in what he’s trying to do.”Perhaps it’s not his fault and in the words of Giorgi Chiellini is it simply “the history of the Tottenham”.Jamie Carragher seems to think so.Slamming the lacklustre performance of a team who should be putting everything on the line to get to a final, he said: “It was never in doubt before the game [that Liverpool would win].”It’s Tottenham. When do Tottenham ever win a big game? When do Tottenham ever go somewhere and surprise us and win against the odds?”.Adding: “They never shock you, they never do something out of the ordinary.”I’m trying to think of the last big game they won and I’d probably have to go back to that Ajax game in the semi-final [of the 2019 Champions League].”I was in the stadium that night and, I don’t want to take anything away from Tottenham, but they were very lucky.”They were battered for most of the game and then got a fluke and then they got two goals in the last minute.”But whenever they go into a big game as a football club nobody ever believes they’re going to win.”Spurs do still have another two shots at a trophy this season.READ MORE SUN STORIESStarting with their FA Cup fourth round visit to Aston Villa on Sunday, a game that now feels like a must-win.While they have also managed to advance to the Europa League last 16, where they will take on one of Real Sociedad, Galatasaray, AZ Alkmaar or Midtjylland.Spurs could have even more injury problems after Richarlison was forced off in the first halfCredit: GettyJamie Carragher didn’t hold back in his assessment of Spurs as a club in recent yearsCredit: Rex More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘When the fun stops, stop’ – Jamie Redknapp rips into Tottenham flops with brutal rant after Carabao Cup demolition

      by

      JAMIE REDKNAPP tore into Tottenham after their horrific evening at Anfield, saying: “When the fun stops, stop.”Spurs were dreaming of finally ending their 27-year trophy drought in the Carabao Cup with the prospect of a Wembley date with Newcastle next month.Tottenham were battered 4-0 by Liverpool on Thursday night to crash out of yet another cup competitionCredit: GettyJamie Redknapp brutally told Tottenham ‘when the fun stops, stop’ after the lossCredit: Sky SportsAnge Postecoglou is under increasing pressure after his side’s Anfield humiliationCredit: GettyBut – leading 1-0 from the first leg – they were battered 4-0 by Liverpool in an horrendous showing.Goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah gave the Reds an aggregate lead, before Dominik Szoboszlai and Virgil van Dijk rubbed salt in Spurs’ gaping wound.Ange Postecoglou’s side were incredibly poor from the off, and even failed to register a single shot on target as they allowed Liverpool – albeit the best team in Europe this season – to run rampant. Pundits were quick to tear into Postecoglou’s struggling side – with Tottenham 14th in the Premier League – with former Spurs player Redknapp particularly unimpressed.READ MORE SPORT STORIESSpeaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp said: ” It was fun watching Tottenham for a while.”But there’s the old saying: ‘When the fun stops, stop.'”Redknapp – appearing to place the blame on boss Postecoglou – continued: “I cannot remember a team in my lifetime go down with less of a fight with what Spurs did today.”Not having one shot on target in the semi-final of a second leg when you’re trying to change the course of your history?Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I feel sorry for those players. I think Djed Spence played 14 different positions tonight. I’ve never seen anything like it. You have young players, you’re meant to protect them.”Archie Gray and [Lucas] Bergvall, they’re young men and trying their best. But I’m looking at the experienced players today to lead and try and set the tempo. They didn’t do that one bit.’I just cannot get my head round it’ – Jamie Redknapp baffled by embarrassing Tottenham stat in Liverpool humiliation“There’s been some lows – Palace, Ipswich and Everton this season. But when you look at that today, the scoreline? Just horrendous.”Another former Spurs ace, Michael Dawson, was equally critical, ranting: “That was a low, low night for Spurs.”It was always going to be backs against the wall but they didn’t show any character in possession, out of possession and they didn’t show any desire to keep the ball out of the back of the net.”To come here and get beat 4-0 without any fight and without a shot on target, it’s a damaging performance.”Ex-Liverpool star Jamie Carragher was also quick to pile on Spurs’ misery, brutally saying: “It’s Tottenham!“When do Tottenham ever win a big game? When do Tottenham ever go and surprise, win against the odds?”The odds were massively in favour against Liverpool, they’re at Anfield, they’re the best team in the country, possibly the best team in Europe right now.”But it’s not just this Spurs team. They never shock you, never do something out of the ordinary.”Postecoglou hit back at Redknapp in his post-match press conference, though.When asked about the former midfielder’s comments, the under-pressure Tottenham manager said: “Why you asking me? Ask Jamie, he’s made the comment.”I know people get excited about things like that, people on TV give opinions, that’s what they are there to do. My job is to manage this football club.”Whatever people think or don’t think is irrelevant, it doesn’t really matter.”Whatever people think or don’t think is irrelevant, it doesn’t really matter.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I don’t put any emphasis on it, or who we are. Everyone is allowed to have an opinion and express it.”My view is I don’t need to respond to that or be affected by it. I don’t care, it doesn’t worry me, it doesn’t bother me.”Tottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      From football’s poster boy to bench-warmer… Grealish now has more brand deals than goals & even keeper has more assists

      by

      THE images are iconic – a topless Jack Grealish, drenched by rain, fuelled by an almighty booze bender, riding an open-top bus and the crest of a wave.Manchester City had just won the Treble and the most expensive player ever purchased by English football’s richest club had played a major role in an historic triumph.Images of Jack Grealish celebrating Manchester City’s incredible Treble have become iconicCredit: AFPFans loved images of Grealish’s boozy open-top bus parade anticsCredit: AFPThe £100m star had played a pivotal role in City’s stunning trophy blitzCredit: GettyBut a year and a half later, what the hell has happened to Grealish?City’s Brummie wideman can barely get a game – he has played just 33 minutes of Premier League football since Christmas and has been an unused sub in four of City’s last six matches in the competition. Grealish is a creative player who has provided fewer Premier League assists (one) than goalkeeper Ederson (two) this season.And since that 2023 Treble, Grealish has had more sponsorship deals than his six top-flight goal involvements.He is a face of Gucci, of Pepsi, of Puma, of Bose audio equipment, of Airwayz drones and of Kinetica Sports nutrition.Last summer, cardboard cut-outs of Grealish adorned our supermarkets, urging us to spread Hellman’s mayonnaise on our barbecue burgers, while watching England at the Euros.Except that Grealish wasn’t there in Germany. He had been axed from Gareth Southgate’s squad, a shock late omission which prompted near-mutiny among some of his team-mates.   Grealish is a hugely popular figure with fellow players, one of those infectious personalities who illuminate a dressing-room.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTo England supporters he has been a cult hero, with his relative lack of game time often used as a stick with which to clobber the supposedly-cautious Southgate.Commercial partners lap up the good looks and ready smile that make him a natural-born poster boy.Grealish, whose sister Hollie has cerebral palsy, frequently engages with disabled fans in person and with video messages, as well as being an ambassador for Special Olympics UK.Moment Jack Grealish needs a helping hand at hotel as he lets his hair down in Dubai after missing out on Euros squadGrealish’s sister Hollie has cerebral palsy and Jack always makes time to engage with disabled fansCredit: @JackGrealishBut Grealish has largely been reduced to a bench role so far this seasonCredit: ReutersAlso, you won’t find too many members of the media delighting in Grealish’s descent – a sitdown interview with ‘Super Jack’ is a rare pleasure. The man is honest and engaging with a wicked sense of humour.The problem is the actual football.Asked about his decision to select Brazilian winger Savinho over Grealish in the 4-1 win over West Ham last month, Pep Guardiola was almost as brutal about his player as Ruben Amorim had been about Marcus Rashford.Although, while Rashford attracted plenty of interest during the January window before joining Aston Villa on loan, the idea of a move for Grealish was never seriously mooted.A sitdown interview with ‘Super Jack’ is a rare pleasure. The man is honest and engaging with a wicked sense of humour. The problem is the actual football.After that West Ham win, Guardiola said: “Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack and that’s why I played Savinho.“Do I want the Jack that won the Treble? Yeah, I want it, but I try to be honest with myself.”They have to fight. You can say it’s unfair. Okay, if you think that, then it’s fine, but you have to prove (to me), ‘Okay, I’m going to fight with Savinho, to deserve to play in that position’, every single day, every single week and every single month.”I don’t have any doubt about the quality of Jack… I fought a lot for him to be here. “I know that he can do it because I saw him. I saw his level and I want that, every single training session and every single game.”This strongly hinted that – like Rashford at United – Grealish has not been training or preparing well enough.And since then, Grealish’s only Premier League appearance came as a sub at Ipswich, when City were already 5-0 up.Over the next five days, City will face Leyton Orient and Real Madrid.Fashionable Grealish inked a reported seven-figure deal with GucciCredit: InstagramGrealish penned a deal with Hellmans before the Euros – only to be dropped by EnglandCredit: CollectGrealish has signed more sponsorship deals than his six top-flight goal involvements since winning the TrebleCredit: SuppliedBose are another of Grealish’s sponsorship dealsCredit: BoseGrealish might get a run-out at Brisbane Road in the FA Cup on Saturday but is highly unlikely to start against the 15-time champions of Europe on Tuesday night.So what has gone wrong? Since his £100million arrival from Villa in 2021, there has often been a feeling that Guardiola has clipped Grealish’s wings, stifling his natural tendency to dribble and beat defenders, taking much of the joy out of his game.Southgate’s reluctance to start Grealish – who won 20 of his 36 caps from the bench during the former England manager’s reign – was born of the idea that the player was at his best as the main man in a limited Villa side.That he is a ‘big fish in a small pond’ player and that for England, as well as City, his influence is reduced.His reputation as a pretty-boy poser is lazy and unfair. Grealish is a fighter, who has taken more kickings than most, on and off the field.Interestingly, in three appearances as a No 10 under Lee Carsley, Grealish scored twice – doubling his international goals tally before he thanked the interim boss for “bringing back the enjoyment in an England shirt”. There is a widespread image of Grealish as a show pony, as Scotland’s Stephen O’Donnell admitted when he went public with his wind-up tactics after the goalless draw with the auld enemy at the Euros in 2021.“I was telling him how good looking he was and that I loved his calves,” said O’Donnell. “I was asking him how he got his hair like that.”Grealish engaged in ‘banter’ about his famous calves in a surreal exchange with the Shrek character Donkey on a pre-season trip to Orlando Universal Resort last summer.Grealish has another deal with boot manufacturers PumaCredit: PumaAnd has been promoting Kinetica sports nutritionCredit: SuppliedBut his reputation as a pretty-boy poser is lazy and unfair. Grealish is a fighter, who has taken more kickings than most, on and off the field.He became a father last year, will turn 30 this September and is contracted to City until 2027.With City well stocked for widemen – Savinho, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Jeremy Doku, as well as their new versatile £59million forward Omar Marmoush – it is surely time for him to seek a new challenge this summer.Grealish is too talented a footballer to warm the bench for much longer.He must rediscover the sense of adventure that made him a Treble-winner on a double-decker with a singular ability to light up a football ground. More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea discover how much Matheus Cunha transfer will cost as release clause revealed

      by

      MATHEUS CUNHA is one of the Premier League’s most coveted stars – and it will take a huge offer to prize him away from Wolves. Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea are all tracking the exciting 25-year-old Brazilian striker. Matheus Cunha has signed a new long-term contract with WolvesCredit: AlamyThe deal includes a hefty eight-figure release clauseCredit: RexCunha penned a new four-year deal at Molineux last weekend as speculation swirled over his future. The forward was linked with a move away from the West Midlands throughout the January transfer window.But he committed his long-term future to Wolves on Saturday.Cunha’s new release clause stands at a hefty £62million, according to The Mail. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe report claims the clause will become active at the end of the season. And it can be activated by ANY club – with no restrictions on who can come in for the exciting playmaker. Cunha was targeted by United and Arsenal in January, but neither put in a solid bid.While Nottingham Forest were reportedly ready to smash their transfer record to bring him to the City Ground.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCunha is now tasked with helping Wolves stay in the Premier League.The arrival of new boss Vitor Pereira initially sparked a revival among the strugglers.Which Manchester United stars should stay and go?But four defeats in the last five mean Wolves have been unable to pull away from the chasing pack.They currently sit 16th, just two points above Leicester in the final relegation spot and seven behind a resurgent Everton in 15th.Manchester United are likely to require a centre-forward this summer as they eye a complete rebuild under Ruben Amorim.The Red Devils are set to put almost their entire squad up for sale as they reset following a dismal last few years. United will have to sell their biggest stars to make room for incomings, with striker Marcus Rashford set for a permanent move away after joining Aston Villa on loan. Arsenal are also in need of additional firepower and currently lack a natural centre-forward in the squad.Cunha made the switch to Wolves from Atletico Madrid, initially on loan in January 2023 before a £44million permanent deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe began his career with Swiss side Sion before spells in Germany with Red Bull Leipzig and Hertha Berlin.So far this season, he’s scored 11 goals in 23 games, adding 4 assists. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Birmingham vs Newcastle: Get £60 in football free bets and bonuses for the FA Cup with William Hill

      by

      NEWCASTLE already have a Carabao Cup final appearance to look forward to as they head to League One leaders Birmingham in the FA Cup.Brand new William Hill customers who register an account and stake a tenner will be rewarded with a colossal £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereBirmingham vs Newcastle: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*How to claim..William Hill £60 bonusVisit the William Hill website on your mobile device HERE*Register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60Place a bet of at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greaterAfter settlement – win or lose – William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonusesWilliam Hill: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Birmingham vs Newcastle: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Not got a William Hill account? No problem!It’s really easy to register an account and you can get your hands on that generous £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on the footy!Simply register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60After that, stake at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greater.After settlement — win or lose — William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football and in the casino!Birmingham vs Newcastle: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*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 – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More