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      Jeremie Frimpong signs one of biggest boot deals in history as incoming Liverpool ace bags deal on par with Lionel Messi

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      JEREMIE FRIMPONG has signed one of the biggest boot deals in football history.And it has put the incoming Liverpool star on a par with the likes of Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.Jeremie Frimpong is on the brink of signing for Liverpool from Bayer LeverkusenCredit: GettyFrimpong has already signed a big contract – worth £20m with New BalanceCredit: Instagram @jeremiefrimpongWing-back Frimpong, 24, is on the brink of completing a £29.5million move to Anfield.The Reds triggered his Bayer Leverkusen release clause to make Frimpong Real Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold’s successor.He has agreed a five-year deal at Anfield and is set for a medical today.That comes after he penned a mammoth contract with New Balance.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAccording to the Daily Mail, the Dutch international signed a £20m agreement with the boot manufacturers. The American sportswear giants see Frimpong as one of the hottest talents in Europe – and were therefore keen to tie him down with the megabucks.The £20m contract, signed by January, incorporates Frimpong’s commitment to community and family with his charity Pathways which supports footballers who do not reach the very top level. And that figure is similar to the value of Messi’s deal with adidas and Erling Haaland’s with Nike, emphasising just how highly regarded Frimpong is.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNew Balance also have Bukayo Saka, Endrick, Eberechi Eze, Harvey Elliott and Raheem Sterling among their list of clients. Ex-Manchester City youngster Frimpong is not the only full-back expected to sign for Liverpool this summer.Fans convinced Frimpong will join Liverpool after spotting his Holland camp antics The Premier League champions are also chasing left-back Milos Kerkez.The Hungarian, 21, has enjoyed a superb season for Bournemouth, attracting plenty of transfer interest.And Liverpool are said to be in advanced talks over Kerkez, who has had a reported £45m price tag put on him by the Cherries.Kerkez’s arrival could spell danger for the futures of both Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, with the potential big-money signing coming in.Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes was at Bournemouth when Kerkez signed from AZ in 2023.Frimpong was snapped up as one of the hottest talents in European footballCredit: Instagram @jeremiefrimpongLiverpool are hoping to sign Milos Kerkez from BournemouthCredit: Getty More

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      Goals 4 GOSH: Date, kick-off time and how to watch star-studded charity match as Chelsea legend Eden Hazard makes debut

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      CHELSEA legend Eden Hazard will nostalgically lace up his boots to feature in the star-studded Goals 4 GOSH charity match.This is set to be the fifth edition of the match which is put on to support Great Ormond Street Hospital.Eden Hazard will be rolling back the years at Goals 4 GOSHCredit: GettyRegional Development Director at Funeral Partners, Jamie Groves and his co-organiser, Charlotte Styles, both spearhead the event and all the proceeds go to GOSH.Celebrities from TV, entertainment and music will also grace the pitch including the likes of Bionic from BBC’s Gladiator, YouTube superstar Danny Aarons and UK rapper SwarmzAnd not only will fans get to watch a thrilling game of football, but there will be a lot of fun family activities on the day.When is the Goals 4 GOSH charity match?Goals 4 GOSH will take place on Sunday, May 25 – which is also the final day of the Premier League season.The huge charity match is scheduled to get underway at 4pm BST.Organisers have announced that there will also be a content creators tournament that is expected to start at around 10:30am BST.Plough Lane – the home of AFC Wimbledon is the chosen venue for this great event.Read more on footballHow can I watch the Goals 4 GOSH charity match?Details of how to watch the Goals 4 GOSH charity match are yet to be confirmed.However, tickets are available for purchase through the official Goals 4 GOSH Instagram page.All proceeds will be going to the Great Ormond Street Hospital.Who is playing in the Goals 4 GOSH charity match?Eden HazardEman SV2Wayne RoutledgeTroy DeeneyGrime GranRon HallMannyJoel BayaGemma DavisonBeau the BeardNathan DaweSwarmzA StarLianne SandersonShane LongDanny AaronsAdrian MariappaJoe ColeJason EuellPaul GortonLeon Jackman Nathan KhiderMarc WhiteJay & PoppyMatty BriggsSpecs GonzalezFara WilliamsBionicJolie SharpeStuart DouglasColin Kazim-RichardsLia LewisBig GFennersJunior AndreKatie ChapmanMost read in FootballWhat has been said?Jamie Froves and Charlotte Styles won the Care Award for consistently putting such an incredible Goals 4 GOSH event.Speaking after winning the award, Jamie said: “To be honest, I didn’t realise there were even awards going on.“Getting chosen, as the winner was a bit mind-blowing.“Every single penny makes such a difference when it comes to the hospital’s equipment, beds and everything else.“They rely so much on the funding that the charity provides.“So, it is a massive thanks to every single player, volunteer, supporter and everybody involved.” More

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      Serie A preparing for bonkers PLAYOFF to decide title as final day fixtures are moved at last minute

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      THE ITALIAN title deciding games are set to be moved forward by 48 hours – in case there needs to be a play-off next week.Napoli lead defending champions Inter Milan by a single point after the San Siro side conceded a 90th-minute equaliser against Lazio on Sunday.The Serie A title could be decided by a rare playoffNapoli and Inter Milan are fighting for the Serie A titleOn a mad evening, which also saw Napoli held to a goalless draw at relegation-threatened Parma, all FOUR coaches involved in the two matches were sent off.Inter boss Simone Inzaghi and Lazio counterpart Marco Baroni were both dismissed after a spat followed the award of former Chelsea winger Pedro’s equalising spot-kick.In the other match, Napoli’s Antonio Conte and home boss Cristian Chivu also saw red after the former Chelsea and Spurs boss lost it with a group of Parma players in the last minute.It means both Conte and Inzaghi are banned from the bench for the final games of the season, when Napoli host Cagliari and Inter travel to Cesc Fabregas’ Como. Read More on FootballUnder rules introduced in 2022-23, teams level on points in the Serie A title are separated by the head to head record, rather than on goal difference.Both games between the top two finished in 1-1 draws, meaning they would be locked together if Inter draw and Napoli lose.But with Inter due to be in Munich for the Champions League Final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 31, it has left Italian league chiefs scrambling for a solution.That will see the two crucial Serie A matches played on Friday night, with the rest of the programme still kicking off on Sunday afternoon.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIf the results do make a play-off required, that is expected to be held next Monday.Inter, with the better goal difference of the two, would have home advantage with the game – and the title – settled by penalties if there was no winner after extra-time.With Atalanta confirmed in third, the fourth and final Champions League spot for next season will also be on the line on Sunday.Juventus – a point clear of Roma – travel to Venezia, who must win to have any chance of avoiding relegation.Claudio Ranieri’s Roma are at Juventus’ city rivals Torino, while Lazio – a point further behind – face Lecce, who need a win to be sure of survival.A playoff for the title in Italy has only been played once before in 1964 when Bologna beat Inter 2-0. More

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      SFA to review ‘corrupt’ Rangers TV comments made by Ibrox hero in wake of Hibs ‘ghost goal’ controversy

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      THE SFA are launching an investigation into comments made by former Rangers defender John Brown whilst appearing on the club’s official TV channel.Brown, 63, sounded off on-air on Rangers TV about the failure to award Rangers a second goal against Hibs in the first half.Nicolas Raskin thought he’d put Rangers 2-0 up against HibsCredit: PABut Nick Walsh didn’t give it and Hibs went up and scored at the other endCredit: Willie VassNicolas Raskin had ran through and beat goalkeeper Jordan Smith to the ball, poking it under his body.The ball appeared to cross the line but referee Nick Walsh didn’t signal for it and he wasn’t called to review the incident by VAR.Gers interim boss Barry Ferguson later criticised Walsh for his attitude on the park and called the decision “baffling”.But in the immediate aftermath of the flash point, Rangers TV co-commentator Brown was even more incredulous and his remarks could land him – and the club – in hot water.The nine-in-a-row hero branded it “corrupt”, before lead commentator Tom Miller said: “Well, I’m not sure we can actually say that.”Those are not necessarily the views of Rangers Football Club.”Brown continued: “Well, I am saying it.””That’s a disgrace and it’s the worst decision I’ve seen in all the years I’ve been in football.”Most read in FootballMiller added: “John Brown obviously has his own opinion there, but it’s certainly questionable.”Those comments have caught the eye of the SFA’s Compliance Offer and a charge could be forthcoming.Dundee Utd fan ‘caught mocking Ibrox disaster’ during Rangers clash days after Celtic supporter lost jobAccording to The Herald, the SFA believe there are grounds for action under article 29.2 of the rules which reads: “A club or recognised football body which publishes, distributes, issues, sells or authorises a third party to publish, distribute, issue or sell a match programme or any other publication or audio/visual material of any description in any media now existing or hereinafter invented, including but not limited to the Internet, social networking or micro-blogging sites, shall ensure that any such publications or audio/visual material does not contain any criticism of any match official calculated to indicate bias or incompetence on the part of such match official or to impinge upon his character.”Celtic were previously subject to a review when club legend and club TV pundit Tom Boyd alluded to referee John Beaton drinking in a Rangers pub.He said in 2019: “If he doesn’t know that’s a penalty he should not be in the middle of the park refereeing a football game.”He’ll probably be welcomed down his pub tonight again.”Celtic rushed to defend club legend Boyd after his misdemeanor and it remains to be seen if Rangers do the same with Brown. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Man Utd files: Seven strikers targeted across two transfer wishlists in case United miss out on Champions League

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S summer striker search will be shaped by Bilbao on Wednesday night.Beating Tottenham to lift the Europa League will make a £100million-plus difference to United’s finances – as well as bringing silverware and a ticket back to the Champions League elite.Viktor Gyokeres is a target for Manchester UnitedCredit: Shutterstock EditorialSo too is RB Leipzig striker Benjamin SeskoCredit: Shutterstock EditorialLiam Delap is set to leave Ipswich after the club’s relegation from the Prem and is at the top of United’s wishlistCredit: AlamyUnited scouts have scoured the market over the past six months, desperate to give Ruben Amorim the attacking weaponry he needs to take the Old Trafford club back into Premier League title contention.Yet if Ange Postecoglou and his Spurs players are parading around San Mames in joy after the final whistle, the knock-on effects for United’s recruitment drive will be huge.United’s talent-spotters have kept tabs on Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, Moise Kean, Liam Delap, Mateo Retegui and Jean-Philippe Mateta as well as Udinese’s “Tower of Pisa” Lorenzo Lucca.Both Gyokeres, 26, and Sesko, 21, are also targets for Arsenal, who have reportedly made the Sporting Lisbon striker No1 on their shortlist.Swede sensation Gyokeres is one of Europe’s hottest properties after netting 53 goals so far this term, with Portuguese champions Sporting willing to let him go for around £60m.Amorim knows his former star well but he is unlikely to come to Old Trafford without top-level European football.Likewise, RB Leipzig star Sesko’s reported £64m release clause would be out of United’s price range, too, given their PSR concerns – unless Amorim can shift out a swathe of his current players.Delap, 22, would cost just £30m thanks to a relegation clause in his Ipswich contract and is believed to be the Red Devils’ top target.The former Manchester City striker has impressed in an often lonely and forlorn role, scoring 12 Prem goals and showing power and intelligence.But there are questions, too, over whether he would join United without European football, especially if fellow admirers Chelsea qualify for the Champions League.How Europa League final will be decided – four key Man Utd vs Tottenham tactical battlesSunSport understands the Blues – managed by Delap’s former City academy coach, Enzo Maresca – are confident of landing the England Under-21 international.Should United miss out on Champions League football, it would mean shopping in a different market – less Harrods, more Waitrose.Ex-Everton forward Kean, Atalanta’s Retegui and Lucca are among the fallback options.Italy star Retegui, 26, has 23 goals in 31 games for Atalanta this term, with Liverpool reportedly also interested.Kean, 25, flopped in the Premier League with the Toffees but has revived his career with 17 league goals in 30 games for Fiorentina this season, while 6ft 7in Lucca has netted 11 Serie A goals for mid-table Udinese.Amorim’s scouting team have also identified Crystal Palace’s Mateta, 27, following his 14-goal breakout season.The Frenchman, who showed his value once more in Palace’s FA Cup triumph at Wembley on Saturday,  would cost around £30m, with the Eagles already resigned to losing him in the summer.United are also big fans of Marcus Thuram at Inter Milan but a deal could be tricky as his agent does not get on with Red Devils CEO Omar Berrada.Lorenzo Lucca is Udinese’s ‘Tower of Pisa’ up frontCredit: GettyEverton flop Moise Kean, now at Fiorentina, is a surprise target for UnitedCredit: GettyMateo Retegui of Atalanta is also on their listCredit: GettyJean-Philippe Mateta – another target – celebrates Crystal Palace’s FA Cup winCredit: GettyWIL POWER UNITED hope technical director Jason Wilcox could be their trump card in the battle with Chelsea for Delap.Ruben Amorim has identified the England Under-21 striker as one of the men who could solve their chronic goal-scoring problems next season.And Wilcox knows him well through his work at the City Football Academy while Delap was coming through the ranks.He was the head of the youth set up at the Etihad when Delap joined from Derby in 2019. That personal relationship might give United an advantage.Man Utd technical director Jason WilcoxCredit: GettyTURKISH DELIGHT TURKISH champions Galatasaray could give United a way out of their increasingly troublesome Jadon Sancho predicament.United believed they had seen the last of the former England winger when he was sent on loan to Chelsea with a £25m obligation to buy him at the end of this season.But Chelsea are understood to be ready to send Sancho, 25, back to Old Trafford for a £5m “penalty” repayment, leaving Amorim with another player he knows the club do not want.With Sancho having a year of his contract remaining, United need to raise just under £15m for him this summer to avoid a PSR “loss” on any move.Galatasaray, who clinched the Turkish crown this weekend, are gearing up for their Champions League return and are ready to come in with a bid.Sancho, though, who broke through at Borussia Dortmund after leaving Manchester City when he was just 17, might be more tempted by a return to the Bundesliga, especially with Bayer Leverkusen expected to undergo a major rebuild following the departure of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid.Jadon Sancho is wanted by Turkish champions GalatasarayCredit: GettyFRIENDLY FIRE HARRY MAGUIRE and Amad Diallo were among a handful of players on media duty when United held their Europa League open day – and all seemed to be harmonious between the pair.That might not be the case on Saturday though – as two of their former clubs go head to head at Wembley in the Championship play-off final.Maguire took time out from his busy season to watch Sheffield United complete their demolition of Bristol City last Monday night.And 24 hours later, Amad sent a good luck message to his old team-mates at the Stadium of Light – which maybe helped inspire their dramatic late winner against Coventry.Neither player is likely to be at Wembley for the final as Man United play Aston Villa in their last Prem game of the season the following day.Harry Maguire watched Sheffield United’s play-off semi-finalCredit: GettyFAN FRIENDLY THOUSANDS of United supporters are heading to Bilbao – many of them with tickets for the game and some without.But all will be encouraged to visit the designated fan zone at Etxebarria Park – which is described as ‘one of the largest green zones in the city’.It is surrounded by green hills and offers magnificent views of Bilbao – according to the local tourist board – so supporters should be quite happy there.Local police are not anticipating too much trouble but the Spurs faithful will be directed towards the Amezola area of the city for their fan zone.Man Utd’s designated fan zone at Etxebarria ParkCredit: AlamyPICTURE THATDAVID DE GEA netted a whopping £22.8 in image rights while at United.The Spanish star – set for a return to Old Trafford in a pre-season friendly with Fiorentina – built up a fortune of £22,755,059 in Bedamarse Ltd, the company he used to handle his off-field pay. The keeper’s fortune shot up £3.5m in his last season at Old Trafford, the equivalent of £67,300 a week, according to accounts.The mega pay came on top of De Gea’s £375,000 a week wages.As well as image rights payments, De Gea signed a number of lucrative sponsorship deals with the likes of Adidas, Pepsi and EA Sports.David de Gea netted a whopping £22.8m in image rights while at Manchester United.Credit: PALEAVING A MARC MARCUS RASHFORD paid himself a huge £12.2m dividend last year.The forward paid himself the huge sum from his investment company, MUCS Enterprises.Rashford also took out an interest free loan from the business worth £6.6m.The company made a profit of £6.2m in 2024.And despite pocketing the huge sums, his firm still has assets worth £5.6m.The on-loan Villa striker has also hit the jackpot with his investment properties.The total value of his rental properties jumped by almost £700,000 last year – from £7.1m in 2023 to £7.8m, according to latest paperwork for his rental firm, MUCS Properties Limited.Marcus Rashford paid himself a huge £12.2m dividend last yearCredit: RexGETTING SHIRTY MANCHESTER UNITED and Liverpool may be miles apart in the Premier League, but the fierce rivals both banked £123m in kit sales last season.The pair received the whopping sum from kit and merchandise sales, according to a fresh Uefa report.Only Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich pocketed more than the Premiership giants.Jude Bellingham helped Real Madrid top the charts with club sales worth £165m last season.The England man’s shirt is the most popular in the club’s official stores.Bruno Fernandes jerseys are the biggest sellers at Old Trafford, while Mo Salah’s shirt is among the most popular for champions Liverpool.Man Utd banked £123million in kit sales last seasonCredit: GettyWAYNE TO GOWAYNE ROONEY has won a £200,000 windfall after defeating HMRC in a long-running dispute.The United legend, 39, has landed the huge sum after closing down the firm he used for his lucrative sponsorship deals and image rights as a player.He has been waiting for three years for the payment after placing his company, called Stoneygate 48 Limited, into voluntary liquidation.Company liquidators said: “We have continued to be in contact with HMRC over a substantial tax refund which was due. This has resulted in a substantial but, in our opinion, partial repayment. We are seeking clarification of whether anything else is due.”The Manchester United legend received £22.2m after closing down the firm, including £11.9m in cash and more than £9mfrom the sale of properties.Wayne Rooney has won a £200,000 windfall after defeating HMRC in a long-running disputeCredit: GettyFROM THE GROUND UP UNITED’s new stadium bill could reach £4BILLION, according to industry experts.A number of experts have warned in private that the Red Devils’ ambitious plans for a 100,000-seater arena could spiral out of control.The new stadium will replace Old Trafford, which has been the Red Devils’ home since 1910.Ineos chief and club co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe put an ambitious five-year target on the build.It would see United move into their new ground for the 2030-31 campaign.But industry insiders believe that United’s plans could cost double the club’s £2bn budget.A concept of Man Utd’s new stadiumCredit: PA More

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      How Man Utd can use Bruno Fernandes in a ‘free role’ to win the tactical battle and Europa League vs Tottenham 

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      THE position of Bruno Fernandes against a depleted Tottenham midfield is the key to Manchester United winning the Europa League.It is an all-English final in Bilbao on Wednesday as both sides look to save themselves from the consequences of a disastrous season.Bruno Fernandes holds the key to United unlocking SpursCredit: GettyThe tactical battle in midfield will make all the differenceCredit: GettyRuben Amorim’s spell at United has been incredibly poor and his side are from settled in his 3-4-3 system.But if the Red Devils get it tactically right, they can carve apart a Spurs team without injured trio James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Lucas Bergvall in midfield.Where should Bruno Fernandes play?Amorim has a conundrum – whether to play his skipper in one of the No10 positions or deeper in his midfield two.United must trust Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in the final so Fernandes can be used in a free role further up the pitch.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhen he has played as one of the No10s, he is expected to run in-behind and stretch defences.But this does not suit his game and against Micky van de Ven, a waste of time. Amorim must ditch that and let his most complete player have freedom, drifting out the structure to give Spurs a headache.Ange Postecoglou wants his team to press aggressively and get high on United when they have possession deep. Most read in Europa LeagueJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBut letting Fernandes float into a “normal” central No10 position will force Spurs to pull one of their midfielders back to deal with him or they will have a 3 vs 2. Spurs will have to form a three to deal with Fernandes moving insideAnd a pass should be on when Spurs attack down their left as they like to do with Destiny Udogie.Fernandes must not get sucked into chasing the ball and instead pull into a pocket to quickly switch the attack as Tottenham overload the left.Getting the ball out quickly to the other side can catch Spurs outIf United’s captain plays as one of the midfield two, they will be pressed relentlessly and struggle to get out.United could struggle to play through Spurs’ press if Fernandes does not use his intelligence to pick up the best areas further up the fieldThey will have no player beyond the ball with the intelligence to drop into areas to receive it, plus his lack of creativity in the final third will hurt.Going direct is not an option as Rasmus Hojlund does not hold it up well enough.Going over the top to the speedy Alejandro Garnacho cannot be done, as again, Van de Ven will have an easy night.Should Amad play wing-back?Amad Diallo can be Amorim’s wing-back long-term but not on Wednesday night.Spurs full-backs drift inside to allow for the centre-backs to then fire passes out to the wingers.Due to this, Amad risks being forced into doing an awful lot of tracking runs and one vs one defending, which are not his strengths.Amad will have to track Udogie inside and stick with him as he runs beyond the ballSpurs work the ball forward with interchanges and overloads down the channels.And to combat this, it is a safer bet to start with Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu as the wing-backs.Amad can be an impact sub later in the game when players begin to tire and he can use his pace to burst forward. Amad could end up in one vs one situations defensively and it is therefore safer to play MazraouiCan Man Utd play through the Spurs press?It is unpopular but Postecoglou has changed this season, especially away in Europe with more measured, less gung-ho performances to counter-balance opponents.And they need to be wary of United using their left flank to expose Spurs.United like to circulate the ball in a W shape with the midfield two with the centre-backs so the wing-backs push high.United use a W shape to move the ball around in their own half and get their wing-backs to advanceBalls between the lines into a free role Fernandes will cause issues and they will target right-winger Brennan Johnson to get out.He does not read the game well enough, not cutting out passing lanes and pressing at the wrong moments.Away from passes into Fernandes’ feet, zipped ones to the wing-back Dorgu will cause problems for Spurs as right-back Pedro Porro will be reluctant to press him and leave Fernandes open behind him. United must target Johnson and they will be able to play around himThe ball to Dorgu will be on from midfieldHow Spurs can winWithout Maddison, Kulusevski and Bergvall, it is likely to be a defensive and physical trio from Tottenham in midfield.Instead of the usual 4-2-3-1, Postecoglou should implement a more standard 4-3-3.Spurs should play a 4-3-3An extra man in midfield will allow them to press United’s midfield two and help them combat Fernandes’ drifting in the free role as they have one more player in there.Tottenham can press United’s two and they will have a free man to pick up FernandesSpurs will get Udogie and Porro involved in attack and look to pin United’s wing-backs in a back five rather than a three.It will mean there are spaces in the pockets for Spurs to work the ball into areas to create.But not having Maddison or Kulusevski in these spaces is a real blow as they can produce the killer pass.Read More on The SunSpurs need to pin United’s wing-backs back and createBut Spurs could suffocate United with their press and there is no easy out ball with Hojlund unlikely to win a duel or race against Van de Ven or Cristian Romero.Check out the SunSport YouTube channel on Wednesday night for a LIVE watch-a-long. Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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      Gary Lineker’s statement in full as he officially quits BBC after anti-Semitism row – and WON’T get pay off

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      GARY Lineker has today officially quit the BBC and will no longer front the 2026 World Cup coverage following an anti-Semitism row.The former Leicester City, Tottenham, Barcelona and England striker, who has hosted Match of the Day for 26 years, has said: “I’m sorry, unreservedly.”Gary Lineker released a video statement on InstagramCredit: InstagramLineker has confirmed he is leaving the BBCCredit: GettyLineker outside his home in London todayCredit: PAHe will present MoTD one last timeCredit: PALineker will make his final appearance on the Beeb’s flagship football show on Sunday to present coverage of the Premier League’s end of season matches.He said in a statement released at midday on Monday: “Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio.”I care deeply about the game, and about the work I’ve done with the BBC over many years. As I’ve said, I would never consciously repost anything anti-Semitic – it goes against everything I stand for.”However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action.”He will reportedly not receive a pay off despite being the broadcaster’s highest paid star, raking in £1.35million a year, according to The Times.The parting of ways also includes the licensing deal for Lineker’s Goalhanger podcast titles, The Rest Is Football and The Rest Is History, which ends this year, it is understood.Lineker agreed to leave the BBC for good after meeting bosses last week – with a source saying he realised his position was untenable.The MOTD host’s early departure comes five days after he apologised for sharing a controversial post which saw him accused of anti-Semitism.Most read in FootballLineker, 64, faced a huge backlash after he re-posted a video which criticised Zionism and included an illustration of a rat.Alongside his statement today, he also released a video on his Instagram page in which he said: “I would like to say once again I am sorry, unreservedly, for the hurt and upset caused. ‘No offence lads’ – Gary Lineker gives no-nonsense Match of the Day verdict in savage goodnight message”It was a genuine mistake and oversight but I should have been more diligent.” Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, said: “Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. “Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season.”Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. “His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made.”His final years as MOTD host have been marred by his outspoken views and fallouts with bosses.He is now likely to focus on his successful Goalhanger Podcasts business.Lineker’s statement comes after The Sun revealed he was planning to step down following the scandal.It comes after an anti-Semitism row with the post involved now deletedCredit: SplashHe presented coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace on SaturdayCredit: GettyA young Gary presenting Match of the Day in 1999Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdGary had been due to host the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup but his final bow will be on Sunday, we exclusively revealed.A source told The Sun previously: “Gary acknowledged his position at the BBC, anchoring the most prestigious ­tournament in world football, was untenable, and he will not be hosting the World Cup.“He offered to step down at the end of the season, and did not want the BBC — an organisation he still holds in the highest of esteem — dragged into any further controversy.“He remains absolutely devastated by the recent turn of events and is deeply regretful about how his post was interpreted.”His last Match of the Day will air on Sunday now and he won’t be back.”Those close to the star said his exit means he will be able to speak more freely.They added: “Gary remains passionate about speaking out over perceived injustices in the world, and will continue to call out things that he believes to be wrong.“He will be able to speak without the shackles of the non-partisan BBC, and has already had a lot of TV offers to mull over.“And, of course, he will be cheering on England like any other fan this summer.”How Gary Lineker became the BBC’s highest paid starGary Lineker has hosted Match Of The Day for more than 25 years but will leave the role earlier than expected following a row over his use of social media.The Leicester-born star, who moved seamlessly from footballer to one of the most famous and highly-paid presenters at the corporation, began his career at Leicester City, the club he had supported since childhood, in 1978.The 64-year-old striker scored 103 goals for the Foxes in all competitions before signing with Everton for £800,000 in 1985.He scored 40 goals in 57 games for the Toffees in his only season with the Liverpool-based side, before his six goals for England at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico won him the competition’s golden boot award and attracted the attention of Spanish football giants Barcelona.Moving to the Catalan side in 1986, Lineker went on to become the highest scoring British player in La Liga, Spain’s highest football division, under English manager Terry Venables. His record 42 goals was only beaten by Welsh winger Gareth Bale in 2016.Lineker spent three years in Spain before moving to Tottenham Hotspur in July 1989 for £1.1 million.He played a part in England’s run to the semi-finals of the 1990 World Cup in Italy, which resulted in a defeat on penalties against West Germany.After the match, Lineker, who captained the Lions from 1990 to 1992, coined the phrase: “Football is a simple game: 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans win.”He won the 1991 FA Cup final with Spurs, beating Nottingham Forest 2-1 despite having a goal controversially disallowed for offside and Forest goalkeeper Mark Crossley saving a penalty.In 1992, Lineker became the first English footballer to play in Japan’s highest division, the J League, when he joined Nagoya Grampus Eight for £2 million.He retired after an injury-hit two-year spell at the club which saw him play just 23 times.Throughout his career Lineker was renowned for never receiving a yellow or red card booking from the referee.Following his retirement, Lineker joined BBC Radio 5 Live as a football pundit before becoming a team captain on the sports game show They Think It’s All Over from 1995 to 2003.In 1997 he took over as host of Grandstand when then-presenter Desmond Lynam was at Aintree for the Grand National which was abandoned due to a bomb alert.He replaced Lynam as presenter of the BBC’s flagship football highlights programme Match Of The Day in 1999, when Lynam defected to rival ITV.Lineker would later become the corporation’s highest-paid presenter, with the BBC’s annual report for 2023/24 showing his salary to be to around £1.35 million a year.He was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then-government’s new asylum policy.In November 2024 he announced he would be stepping down from presenting Match Of The Day at the end of the season, but would still host World Cup and FA Cup coverage.He exited the broadcaster early, however, after apologising for sharing and then deleting a post on his Instagram account from the group Palestine Lobby, illustrated with a picture of a rat, which prompted calls for him to be sacked from the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA).After this the BBC said Lineker would leave his presenting role following the conclusion of Match Of The Day for the 2024/25 season and added that he would not present its coverage of the 2026 World Cup or next season’s FA Cup.Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates and Mark Chapman will share the presenting role on the football show from the next Premier League season.The former England striker is also the co-founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, makers of the popular The Rest Is History series and its spin-offs about politics, football, entertainment and money.Last Tuesday Gary deleted an Instagram story post from the group Palestine Lobby after he had shared it with his 1.2million followers.The re-post led to widespread calls for the BBC to drop Gary and the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism said it was submitting a complaint to the corporation.HATE ROW APOLOGYIn a statement that day, Gary’s agent said: “Whilst viewing and reposting a video, Gary did not notice a rodent emoticon added by the author of the post.“Although if he had, he would not have made any connection. The repost has been removed.”On Wednesday Gary apologised and said: “On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references.“I very much regret these references. I would never knowingly share anything anti-Semitic. It goes against everything I believe in.“The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue.“Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.”I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views.”BBC Director General Tim Davie addressed the backlash the same day, saying: “The BBC’s ­reputation is held by everyone and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.“And I think we absolutely need people to be the exemplars of BBC values and follow our social media policies, simple as that.”Last October The Sun revealed that Gary would quit Match of the Day at the end of this season — but anchor the BBC’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the World Cup.He previously clashed with bosses for pushing the BBC’s impartiality rules but has staunchly defended using social media to speak out.Read More on The SunIn 2023 he was temporarily removed from MOTD after likening the then-Tory government’s asylum policy to rhetoric of Nazi Germany.His co-presenters Alan Shearer and Ian Wright then boycotted the show and it went ahead without post-match analysis.Gary Lineker has presented Match of the Day for a whopping 26 yearsCredit: GettyLineker played for Barcelona in his heydayCredit: Getty More

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      ‘Rotten vs rancid’ – Lineker, Shearer and Richards predict winner of Man Utd vs Tottenham in Europa League final

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      GARY LINEKER, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards shared their predictions ahead of the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham.United and Spurs lock horns on Wednesday at San Mames with both teams in desperate need to win the trophy as it is their only hope of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards shared their Europa League final predictionsLineker and Shearer predicted Tottenham, while Richards backed Manchester UnitedThe two Premier League giants have endured a horrid campaign that will see them finishing in the bottom half of the table and thus the loser will miss out on European football altogether next term.That is why Shearer, 54, dubbed both Man Utd and the North Londoners as “rancid” and “rotten” in his most recent appearance on The Rest is Football with Lineker, 64, and Richards, 36.The Newcastle legend said: “They have been rotten in the Premier League. Rancid and rotten – rancidly rotten the both of them and one of them will be playing Champions League football next season.”Nevertheless, Shearer still predicted an entertaining encounter filled with goals that will go to penalties with Tottenham ending their 17-year run without a trophy.Read More on Man UtdThe legendary striker added: “My prediction is going to be 2-2 or 3-3 after extra-time and Spurs to win on penalties.”Tottenham legend Lineker agreed with his fellow Match of the Day icon and also isn’t ruling out extra-time.The England icon replied: “Oh, he’s gone full on there, sounds like a World Cup final. I’m going to have to go for Spurs, I couldn’t not.”Shearer responded: “After 90 minutes?”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLineker said: “Well, I’ve got this feeling that it’s the teams that have not won for ages this year. “And I think they’re going to, I don’t know about 90 minutes or, I think it could easily go to extra-time.”Gary Lineker destroys Wayne Rooney’s managerial career live on BBC leaving pundits speechlessRichards was the only one that backed United to lift the Europa League and finally lift the gloom at Old Trafford following their worst ever Premier League season.In fact, the Manchester City hero expects Man Utd to win 1-0 with Casemiro’s winner following an assist by Bruno Fernandes.Richards predicted: “I’m going to say, I think a lot of people have laughed off Casemiro or laughed at him for a while now. “But I think in these competitions, sometimes it goes down to set pieces. So I’m going to say Bruno assist for a Casemiro goal, 1-0.” More