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    Ange Postecoglou fumes after being labelled a ‘clown’ and refuses to answer question during press conference

    ANGE POSTECOGLOU has defended his record at Spurs and hit back at a report branding him a “clown”.The Australian leads Tottenham into the Europa League final against Manchester United on Wednesday.Ange Postecoglou was not impressed after being branded a “clown” in a recent reportCredit: GettyThe Tottenham boss could lead Spurs to their first silverware in almost two decadesCredit: GettyPostecoglou and the Spurs squad flew into Bilbao earlier this week and trained at the Estadio de San Mames. The 59-year-old, whose side sit 17th in the Premier League, has been under increasing pressure over recent months.SunSport understands Ange is expected to leave the club this summer, regardless of Wednesday’s result. Postecoglou was branded a “clown” by one reporter ahead of the game in Spain.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIn a piece published by The Standard, Ange was described as “teetering between hero and clown with Tottenham legacy on the line”.The Spurs boss hit back directly during a tense press conference on Tuesday. Addressing reporter Dan Kilpatrick, Postecoglou said: “I’ll tell you one thing, irrespective of tomorrow, I’m not a clown and never will be.”You really disappointed me that you used such terminology to describe a person that for 26 years, without any favours from anyone, has worked his way to a position where he is leading out a club in a European final.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”For you to suggest that somehow us not being successful means that I’m a clown, I’m not sure how to answer that question.”The former Australia and Celtic boss said he had worked hard at Spurs, who have not won a trophy since 2008.Welcome to Bilbao’s San Mames stadium ahead of Europa League final between Man Utd and SpursThe club have not tasted European success since 1984.He continued: “I’ve tried as hard as I can to stick to that process in getting the club to a position where they can challenge for trophies and at the same time, rejuvenate the squad and change the playing style.”It has been a fair assignment with plenty of challenges along the way.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash”With such a big game tomorrow, there is an opportunity to fulfil at least the main task I was given which was to bring trophies to the club.”Postecoglou confirmed that midfielder Lucas Bergvall would not be fit to face United. James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are also unavailable. More

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    Roma want Nuno Espirito Santo to walk out on Nottingham Forest and believe tensions with owner Marinakis could tempt him

    ROMA want Nuno Espirito Santo to walk out on Nottingham Forest and come to Serie A.The Italian giants will part company with Claudio Ranieri after Sunday’s final game of the season at Torino.Nuno Espírito Santo is a shock target for Roma in Serie ACredit: GettyForest have denied there is any rift between Greek co-owner Evangelos Marinakis (left) and NunoCredit: AFPClaudio Ranieri has left Roma after turning the club’s fortunes aroundCredit: GettyAnd Forest chief Nuno, 51, will be tempted with a two-year deal if he is ready to leave the City Ground.Forest can claim a berth in the Champions League and the chance to play for the European Cup trophy for the first time since 1979 with a win over Chelsea this weekend and other results going their way.But Roma believe there might be a schism between Nuno and Forest co-owner Evangelos Marinakis that could bring a split despite the club’s best campaign in three decades.Marinakis stormed onto the pitch in the final seconds of the 2-2 home draw with Leicester and seemed to be lambasting the manager over the decision not to replace striker Taiwo Awoniyi after he collided with a post.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSources in Italy claimed Roma have already contacted Nuno’s representatives to make him the contract offer with a promise to give him a potential title-winning budget.Nuno has 12 months left on the deal he signed when he replaced Steve Cooper in December 2023.Forest have been attempting to tie the 51-year-old to a new contract.City Ground insiders emphatically dismissed any suggestion of a rift between Marinakis and his manager.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThere is huge frustration that speculation has come just days before a potentially momentous match in the club’s recent history.Forest are still in with a chance of reaching the top five after a 2-1 win at West Ham over the weekend.Mad moment Premier League manager stuns his own players with ’10 out of 10 dive’ off top board They welcome Chelsea to the City Ground for their final match of the season on Sunday. Forest must beat the Blues and hope results go their way elsewhere to sneak into Europe’s elite. And Nuno believes home advantage could be key in such a huge game.He told Sky Sports: “[Being at the] City Ground is another big boost for us. “It’s going to be bouncing and helping us, but we’re going to fight, we’re going to fight.“And we’re going to face a very good team full of talent, but it’s the final game, it’s the final game. “Let’s give it a go.” More

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    Everton release damning statement as Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s wife subjected to ‘threatening’ abuse

    EVERTON have released a statement condemning “threatening” abuse aimed at Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s wife.Sandra Calvert-Lewin received a backlash from some fans on social media after posting in the wake of Everton’s final game at Goodison Park.Everton have condemned abuse aimed at the wife of striker Dominic Calvert-LewinCredit: Instagram / @jerzeUploading a picture of her hubby, who was a late sub in the 2-0 win over Southampton, she said: “30 goals at Goodison.”Top 3 ever. They might not shout about it – but we’re proud every single day.”After receiving some vile abuse, Sandra doubled down on her support for Calvert-Lewin.She added: “I’ve seen the unseen moments – the recovery, the doubt, the strength it took to keep going. The world saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin the footballer. I see the man I love. And I’m endlessly proud of both.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd now, Everton have released a statement slamming the disgraceful comments aimed at Calvert-Lewin’s partner.It read: “Everton Football Club strongly condemns the threatening, racist and misogynistic abuse directed towards the wife of Dominic Calvert-Lewin on social media.“This sinister and intimidating behaviour is not only deeply hurtful and distressing, it is also criminal — and does not represent the values of Everton or the overwhelming majority of our supporters.“The Club has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discriminatory and abuse behaviour.Most read in Football“We are working closely with Merseyside Police and the Premier League to ensure the individuals responsible are identified and held accountable for their actions.“Threats or abuse of any kind — whether online or in person — are completely unacceptable and have no place in our game or in society.“The Club urges anyone who sees or experiences such behaviour to report it to the authorities and relevant social media platforms immediately.“We will continue to offer our full support to Dominic and his family.”THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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    Jamie Vardy linked with shock free transfer move to FA Cup kings Crystal Palace after confirming he’s leaving Leicester

    JAMIE VARDY has been linked with a shock move to FA Cup winners Crystal Palace.Vardy, 38, is leaving Leicester City at the end of the season after 13 years with the Foxes as a club hero.Jamie Vardy has been linked with a move to Crystal PalaceCredit: Shutterstock EditorialVardy scored his 200th goal for Leicester on Sunday after announcing he will leave the club this summerCredit: GettyThe experienced striker will be a free agent this summer on the expiration of his current deal and is thought to be keen on remaining in the Premier League. And according to the Independent, Crystal Palace are one top flight club who are considering offering him a deal.The Eagles, who beat Man City 1-0 to win the FA Cup on Saturday, are reportedly weighing up a move for the forward to bolster Oliver Glasner’s front line.Palace already have both Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah as options up top, but are still considering adding Vardy to the mix.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVardy managed nine goals and four assists for Leicester this season as the King Power outfit were relegated back to the Championship.And the club legend was given a fitting farewell from the Leicester fans when he played his final game for the club in a 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town.The former England international found the back of the net to take his total for Leicester to a satisfying 200 goals in 500 appearances. Vardy had been linked with a switch to Hollywood-owned Wrexham, who sealed a promotion into the Championship this season.Most read in FootballCrystal Palace won the FA Cup on SaturdayCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut a potential move to the Welsh outfit was seemingly ruled out by Wrexham exec Humphrey Ker this week.While Vardy has insisted that Leicester will have no problems adjusting to life after his exit.Rebekah Vardy throws husband Jamie a surprise party as he leaves Leicester CitySpeaking after their 2-0 win over Ipswich, he said: “They’ll be fine, they’ll be fine.”We’ve got a good squad and we’ve got all the youngsters coming through as well. “I’m glad I’m not them, because football is a killer mentally and I couldn’t do it all again if I’m honest.”But I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and I look forward to keeping an eye on the club I love.”Vardy said goodbye to Leicester City on SundayCredit: ReutersHe leaves the club as a Premier League championCredit: Getty More

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    Chelsea ‘preparing shock transfer bid for Real Madrid star Rodrygo’ as ace has ‘one foot out the door’

    CHELSEA are ready to make a shock bid for Real Madrid star Rodrygo, according to reports.The 24-year-old winger is set to be put up for sale this summer.Rodrygo is on the radar of Chelsea as he looks to quit Real MadridCredit: RexShock claims emerged last week that Rodrygo is unhappy at Real Madrid as he believes he is being overshadowed by team-mates like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.Spanish outlet AS have since reported that the Brazilian is in a “complicated moment” and has “one foot out the door”.Rodrygo is waiting to discuss his future with Xabi Alonso, though the incoming boss is supposedly happy to sell him.Chelsea are said to be monitoring the situation ahead of a potential bid.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGoal claim the Blues have begun talks with the player’s representatives to see if he is interested in the move. But Chelsea are yet to begin discussions with Real Madrid.Rodrygo, who has scored 68 goals and got 50 assists from Real Madrid in 267 games, has a contract at the Bernabeu until 2028.The two-time Champions League winner has also been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool in recent weeks.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd it could take a fee of close to £100million to get their man.Chelsea are in the market for a winger this summer and rumours suggest Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams and Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens are on their shortlist. ‘I’m not happy’ – Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca FUMING at Conference League final opponents Real Betis’ unfair advantageGittens’ agent has been in talks with the club for some time and they are willing to double his £2.5million-a-year wages at Dortmund. More

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    Fantasy Paid Leagues and revamped transfer process among exciting changes coming to Dream Team next season

    HERE at Dream Team HQ we’re already getting excited about what comes next.With just one Gameweek remaining of the current campaign, we’re about to implement improvements that will enhance our fantasy football offering for the 2025/26 season.We’re planning to make Dream Team better than ever in 2025/26Credit: Dream TeamThe first thing to note is that we’re offering bigger cash prizes!This includes a greater sum of money for the overall season winner.Secondly, you will have the option to compete against other managers in fantasy Paid Leagues thanks to our partners Plucky (18+).Plucky provide a regulated and licenced platform to ensure all users can play for money in a safe and secure way.Liverpool players will be popular again next seasonCredit: EPAIn regards to the game mechanics, we are adapting the process of transfer rollovers.From the start of next season, you will still get two transfers per Gameweek but if you don’t use either then both will carry over to the next Gameweek, giving you a maximum of four to use before the following deadline.Alternatively, if you use one of your two transfers then you will have three available the following Gameweek.The maximum transfers you can have at any one time is six, meaning four is the most you can carry over.Most read in FootballThis method opens up many more strategic options.For example, you could bank transfers early in the season then start using two per Gameweek until the occasion calls for widespread changes, at which point you have the choice to use the additional transfers you held back earlier in the campaign.This will allow you greater flexibility and may be particularly useful for specific Gameweeks, such as the FA Cup third round or exceptionally juicy European double headers.We plan to tweak our beloved fantasy game in other ways too, guided by feedback provided by thousands of Dream Team gaffers, but we have to keep some secrets for now.Gaffers will be able to flex their tactical muscles to an ever greater degree in 2025/26Credit: Shutterstock EditorialElsewhere, we’re planning to make Score Predictor bigger and better than ever.In 2025/26, you will enter predictions for EVERY Premier League game, as well as selected FA Cup and international fixtures.Every correct score prediction will earn you one entry into a prize draw for £10,000!Furthermore, we’re excited to announce that we will be offering a Score Predictor game for the 2025 Women’s Euros as the Lionesses hope to defend their crown this summer.Then in the summer of 2026, Dream Team bosses will be able to sink their teeth into the men’s World Cup, when Thomas Tuchel will aim to end England’s years of hurt in Canada, USA and Mexico.Play Score Predictor alongside the Women’s Euros this summerCredit: PAIt’s early days but the 2025/26 Dream Team season is shaping up nicely.You will be able to sign-up for the upcoming Game Year in June!More information on all things Dream Team will be provided in the coming weeks.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.orgRead More on The SunFind 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 More

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    ‘I’m not happy’ – Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca FUMING at Conference League final opponents Real Betis’ unfair advantage

    ENZO MARESCA has fumed at Chelsea’s Conference League final opponents Real Betis having 48 hours extra to prepare for the match.The Blues boss will lead his side to Poland for the Uefa showpiece on May 28.Enzo Maresca has spoken ahead of his side’s Conference League finalCredit: GettyChelsea will take on Real Betis in PolandCredit: Shutterstock EditorialJust three days earlier, Chelsea will play their crucial Premier League final day clash with Nottingham Forest.The Blues are fourth in the Prem table, but will fall to fifth should Manchester City avoid defeat to Bournemouth this evening.Maresca’s men would then slip below Forest and out of the Champions League places, should the Tricky Trees leapfrog them by winning on Sunday.In contrast with Chelsea, Real Betis will get to play their LaLiga clash on Friday night, giving them two extra days to prepare for the final.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLManuel Pellegrini’s side will host Valencia, having already secured sixth place.On the differences in Chelsea and Betis’ respective schedules, Maresca fumed: “I am not happy, 100 per cent.”You cannot allow a team 48 hours more when you play a European final.”I don’t know if it’s from LaLiga, from the Premier League or from Uefa.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”If I ask you if it is normal to play a final where one team has 48 hours more than the other, it is not normal, it is not correct.”Further pressed on whether Uefa need to adjust their rules, the Chelsea boss added: “Absolutely, yes.”Cole Palmer eats sandwich and ketchup as Brit music legend makes cameo in brilliant Chelsea kit release videoMaresca, 45, played under opposite number Pellegrini at Malaga.On reuniting with the Chilean, Maresca revealed: ” I spoke with Manuel yesterday.”It’s special. I spent four years with Manuel, he is a reference for me because of his career and history.”As a human being, he is a top person. I define him like a professional dad because when I need to make big decisions, we are in contact.”Manuel Pellegrini has a close relationship with Enzo MarescaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More

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    Man Utd squad for Europa League final CONFIRMED with key man missing out against Tottenham after losing race to be fit

    MANCHESTER UNITED will be without Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez for tomorrow night’s Europa League final.Ruben Amorim’s squad for the blockbuster Bilbao clash has been confirmed with De Ligt and Martinez the only two senior players missing out on a place on the plane.Matthijs de Ligt has failed to make the Manchester United squad for the Europa League finalCredit: GettyLisandro Martinez also misses out as expected following his ACL injuryCredit: GettyOnly two Man Utd first team players will miss out on the Europa League final squadCredit: ReutersMan Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clashDe Ligt had been facing a late fitness battle to return in time for the final having picked up a knock against Brentford earlier this month.The central defender was not thought to have suffered a serious injury, but after sitting out clashes with Athletic Club, West Ham and Chelsea, he will now be forced to miss the final too.Meanwhile Martinez was always going to miss the European clash after a ruptured ACL injury against Crystal Palace in February.Despite the defensive blow to Amorim’s side ahead of the all-English clash, they appear to have been handed a major boost up top.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat’s because Joshua Zirkzee has been named in the travelling squad, despite Amorim previously claiming the Dutch striker was out for the season.The Portuguese manager previously said of the forward: “He’s not going to play more this season. Let’s prepare him for the next one.”It’s tough, especially in this moment. I think he’s improving in all aspects of the game, so it’s hard for any player to stop.”Diogo Dalot and Leny Yoro, who had both been considered doubts too, have also been named in the travelling squad.Most read in FootballJoshua Zirkzee has returned to training early from an injury that was expected to keep him out for the seasonCredit: PALeny Yoro trained ahead of tomorrow’s Europa League finalCredit: PADiogo Dalot was also present in training despite doubts over his fitnessCredit: GettyManchester United Europa League squadTake a look at United’s travelling squad in full…GoalkeepersAltay BayindirTom HeatonDermot MeeAndre OnanaDefendersHarry AmassPatrick DorguDiogo DalotJonny EvansTyler FredricsonAyden HeavenVictor LindelofHarry MaguireNoussair MazraouiLuke ShawLeny YoroMidfieldersCasemiroToby CollyerChristian EriksenBruno FernandesKobbie MainooMason MountManuel UgarteForwardsAmadAlejandro GarnachoRasmus HojlundJoshua ZirkzeeJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordFull-back Dalot has been nursing a calf issue since the 1-0 loss to Wolves at Old Trafford on April 20.Meanwhile Yoro suffered an injury in United’s 2-0 home defeat to West Ham on May 11.Up 70k Man United and Spurs fans begin flooding Bilbao soaking up sun & cervezas ahead of Europa League finalYoung striker Chido Obi will also miss out on the trip due to being ineligible under Uefa rules following his switch from Arsenal in October.Opponents Tottenham will be without a number of big hitters through injury too.Ange Postecoglou will be unable to call on James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, with both creative outlets ruled out with knee injuries.While Lucas Bergvall is thought to be a major doubt with an ankle ligament issue.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More