Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Gary Lineker returns to BBC for first time since post likening supporters of Israel to rats as host fronts FA Cup final

      by

      GARY Lineker has returned to the BBC for the first time since being accused of sharing a “anti-Semitic” post.The outgoing Match of the Day host sparked fury over the Instagram upload, which has since been deleted.Lineker has returned to the BBC for the first time since his postCredit: GettyHe presented coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace from Wembley todayLineker has “apologised unreservedly” after sharing the pro-Gaza video that likened supporters of Israel to rats.A rat has been used as an anti-Semitic insult referring to language used by Nazi Germany to characterise Jewish people.The rat accompanied footage of a Canadian-Palestinian lawyer attacking the war in Gaza with the caption “Zionism explained in two minutes.”In a statement, Lineker 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 antisemitic. 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.Most read in Football”I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views.”It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly.”Gary Lineker gets a grilling over Maradonna’s infamous hand of God goal in hilarious new The Assembly teaserLast November Lineker announced he would be stepping down from presenting Match Of The Day.The former England and Barcelona striker will make his final appearance on the highlights show on May 25.But he will still host World Cup and FA Cup coverage.And Lineker returned to TV screens this afternoon for the first time since the row erupted.He presented coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace from Wembley.Lineker appeared alongside Wayne Rooney.But a source said: “He is hosting the Cup final this weekend but beyond that we don’t know at this stage.”Staff are annoyed with him after this week — and he is annoyed with himself too.”This comes after the director general of the BBC said people need to follow the broadcaster’s social media rules when asked about the row involving the Lineker post.Tim Davie, after giving a wide-ranging speech, speaking of trust, disinformation and impartiality, was asked if Lineker had broken the BBC’s rules.Speaking at The Lowry arts centre in Salford, Mr Davie said: “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.”Lineker’s agent told the BBC the presenter immediately deleted the post when he learned about the image’s symbolism, which he had previously not appreciated.Meanwhile, earlier this week Lineker fired savage digs at the new BBC boss as the ex-footballer revealed why he left Match of the Day.The TV veteran slammed BBC’s new director of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, claiming he “has no TV experience” in a brutal interview with The Telegraph.Lineker, 64, warned the BBC not to tamper too much with the iconic show, saying: “He has his reasons, he wants to change Match of the Day a bit.”Ultimately, I don’t think they will, because I don’t see how you move a highlights show away from being about highlights.”Lineker presented Match of the Day for a staggering 26 years.However, the 64-year-old claims that much has changed since the new BBC boss took charge last year.”I think he wants more journalists – he has come from that background,” Gary added.In March 2023 Lineker was temporarily suspended from the BBC after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then-government’s new asylum policy.He was also among 500 other high-profile figures who signed an open letter in February urging the BBC, to re-broadcast a documentary, Gaza: How To Survive A War Zone, to BBC iPlayer.But the legendary footballer has vowed to steer clear of entering the world of politics when he does end his punditry career in 2026.He said previously: “I won’t get involved in politics, I never really have.”Apart from the Brexit vote, because I did a lot of research on that and decided, ‘This could be worse than we think’.”I never back a government. I might criticise Sir Keir Starmer on Israel. But nobody knows my politics.”Read More on The SunLineker is 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.He is being replaced as Match of the Day host by Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates and Mark Chapman next season. More

    • 200 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace vs Man City live stream: How to watch the FA Cup final for FREE

      by

      THE FA Cup final will come LIVE from Wembley in the annual showdown – and fans can watch it all for FREE.Man City will take on Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final, with a new champion guaranteed as Man Utd OUT of the competition.Man City eased past Crystal Palace when they recently met in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyCrystal Palace have only conceded one goal in the FA Cup this seasonCredit: GettyThe FA Cup final will be FREE to watch in the UKCredit: Scott Llewellyn | MI NewsFA CUP FINAL LIVEOliver Glasner’s Palace side eased past Aston Villa in the semi-final, and have only conceded ONCE in the whole competition this season.Pep Guardiola’s City will not win the Premier League title, but could still end with a trophy, despite a poor season by their standards.The Citizens and Palace recently faced off, but City had too much for Palace in a 5-2 victory at The Etihad. Read more FA CupThe Eagles are no strangers to Manchester at Wembley in the FA Cup final, as Utd beat them 2-1 in the final in 2016. How to watch the FA Cup final for FREEMan City vs Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final is FREE to watch in in the UK.The game will be aired LIVE on both BBC One and ITV1.The FA Cup final can also be live streamed via BBC iPlayer or ITVX.The final will kick-off at 4.30pm BST.Alternatively, SunSport will live blog all the action as it happens from Wembley.Why does the FA Cup final start at 4:30pmThe FA Cup final will start at 4.30pm BST this year.This is due to BBC wanting to cover all their bases ahead of the Eurovision song contest later in the day, and were pushing for a 3pm kick-off time.ITV were pushing for a 5.30pm kick-off to maximise viewership and advertisement.As such, the pair settled on 4.30pm BST. More

    • 175 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo tipped to become part-owner of LaLiga club to add to business empire

      by

      CRISTIANO RONALDO is set to buy a stake in Spanish club Almeria, according to reports.The second-tier side have been taken over by a Saudi investment group.Cristiano Ronaldo is still scoring goals for Al-NassrCredit: ReutersAlmeria have undergone a Saudi takeoverCredit: GettyRonaldo, 40, is understood to have a close relationship with the group’s leader Mohamed Al-Khereiji.The Saudi businessman is said to have helped facilitate the Portuguese star’s free transfer to Al-Nassr in 2022.According to Marca, Ronaldo’s friendship with Al-Khereiji could pave the way for the former Manchester United star to buy shares in Almeria.The forward took on Almeria several times during his time at Real Madrid.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRonaldo scored seven goals in as many appearances against the Andalusian side.While CR7 continues to ply his trade in Saudi Arabia, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has built up an impressive business empire off the pitch.Ronaldo famously has CR7 pants, fragrance and shoe lines.And the veteran forward has also invested in water and athlete recovery brands, in addition to a healthy-living app.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSRonaldo celebrates with Emmanuel Adebayor following a goal against AlmeriaCredit: GettyRonaldo is an ambassador for the 2034 Saudi World Cup.The Saudis were confirmed as hosts last October after Australia announced that they would not be running. Cristiano Ronaldo appears to argue with himself as he fights back tears after Al-Nassr cup KORonaldo has scored 23 goals in 28 Saudi Pro League appearances this season.But with Al-Nassr once again going trophyless, some fans blasted Ronaldo on social media this week.Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible lifeAS arguably the greatest player of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo lives a life befitting such a superstar. More

    • 200 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Rangers ‘question effectiveness of VAR’ after Hibs no-goal controversy as Barry Ferguson calls out Nick Walsh

      by

      RANGERS have issued a damning statement after they were controversially denied a goal in today’s game against Hibs.Cyriel Dessers had opened the scoring for Gers after three minutes but Nicolas Raskin thought he had put the Light Blues 2-0 up when he flicked the ball past Jordan Smith and it trundled towards the net.Barry Ferguson couldn’t believe his side were denied a 2-0 lead at HibsCredit: PARocky Bushiri was trying to recover and managed to get his foot to the ball but it looked like it had already crossed the line by that time.However, referee Nick Walsh didn’t signal for a goal and VAR didn’t intervene either.What made matters worse for Gers is that moments later, Hibs went up the other end and scored through Kieron Bowie.The match itself ended 2-2 with Raskin scoring in the second half before Martin Boyle struck with his 99th goal for the club to equalise.At full-time, Ibrox interim boss Barry Ferguson couldn’t hide his frustration with the contentious decision.And his fury was followed up by an official statement from the club.Ferguson said: “I’ve got to be careful what I say. I don’t want to get myself into trouble.”But that is baffling.Most read in Football”I seen it when it happened, I seen it again at half-time and I seen it again at the end of the game. What’s the point?”Ferguson was then asked if he’d spoken to referee Walsh but he said: “Nah, he won’t speak to you.Dundee Utd fan ‘caught mocking Ibrox disaster’ during Rangers clash days after Celtic supporter lost job”The fourth official was brand new but the referee? Not interested.”I’ve seen it all season with bad decisions. Not just with Rangers but with other teams.”But that today was just mind blowing.”I don’t think you need goal line technology for that one. It’s clearly over the line.”Ferguson also highlighted the penalty that was awarded during to Dundee in their midweek clash against Ross County by Walsh, which was also slammed by fans.A Rangers spokesperson added: “Incidents like this again bring into question the effectiveness of VAR and also highlight the need to introduce goal-line technology in Scottish football.”Our supporters, players and staff deserve better. Read More on The Sun”We will raise this with the Scottish FA and continue to press for initiatives which improve the accuracy of decision-making.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Shock moment Aberdeen star requires medical treatment after being hit by seat thrown from OWN FANS after pitch invasion

      by

      THIS is the shock moment an Aberdeen star required major medical treatment after being struck by a SEAT thrown by one of his own fans.Trouble flared at the end of today’s Aberdeen vs Dundee Utd clash at Tannadice when jubilant United fans streamed onto the ground to celebrate the 2-1 win which saw them finish fourth.Aberdeen’s Jack Mackenzie is seen being attended to after being struck by a chairCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe Utd pitch invasion sparked mayhemSunSport understands that a seat was thrown by the visiting fans in response but it only succeeded in catching Dons full back Jack MacKenzie on the head.The Scotland fringe man subsequently required major treatment from medical staff on the Tannadice pitch in a shocking incident.It’s believed he DIDN’T require hospital treatment but images show him blooded and bruised with a head wound requiring significant taping as he was carted off the field on a stretcher.United trailed early on in clash through Jeppe Okkels’ 15th minute opener but they roared back through Declan Gallagher and a Sam Dalby penalty on 63 minutes to secure all three points. There’s no love lost between followers of the two sides but questions will be asked after such a serious incident. The match could well be MacKenzie’s LAST as a Dons player, with his contract expiring this summer. He’s had interest from down south – having previously been on the radar of Preston, Sheffield United and Stoke City.EFL Championship club Plymouth Argyle are interested in a move for the left-back.Most read in FootballKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘My goodness, do better’ – Roy Keane lays into Man Utd star after horror show against Chelsea

      by

      ROY KEANE did not hold back in his scathing assessment of Rasmus Hojlund after Friday’s loss at Chelsea.The former Manchester United star, 53, has never been one to mince his words with regards to the club at which he won seven Premier League titles – and this reaction was no different.Keane did not take any prisoners assessing Man Utd’s performance against ChelseaCredit: Sky SportsHojlund is struggling for form at the momentCredit: AlamyMan Utd’s 1-0 loss to Champions League-chasing Chelsea was their 18th of the league campaign and saw multiple limp performances, including that of Hojlund.Keane said on Sky Sports: “Hojlund tonight, he looked like the young kid from Chelsea (Tyrique George).”He looked like he had just come out of the academy. His runs weren’t right, his timing, his hold-up play. “Again, if you’re a striker playing for Man Utd… even for the whole team, one shot on target?”READ MORE ON MAN UTDHojlund has scored only four goals in 31 league matches this season with many fans giving him grace due to his age, 22.The striker isn’t a stranger to a goal drought having struggled to find his feet when signing in 2023, but patience is wearing thin.Keane said: “We keep making excuses for him. We talk about confidence, but you still think, when you’re a striker, you have to make something happen sometimes.”What the big clubs have – and what United have always had – is strikers who can produce something for themselves even if they’re not getting great service. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”They produce something because they have quality, a bit of determination, a bit of experience, football intelligence. We don’t see that with Hojlund.”Hojlund has looked lacklustre in the Premier League recently – but so has much of the team.Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want itNot even a Europa League final can truly gloss over the disappointing 16th league standing, with the team’s last win coming in March to now-relegated Leicester.The Red Devils will hope to continue their unbeaten form in Europe against Spurs on May 21 in search of silverware.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordHojlund again failed to impress against Chelsea More

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Ashley Young, 39, to be unemployed as Everton release three stars including former Chelsea and Arsenal players

      by

      ASHLEY YOUNG is one of three players being released by Everton.The Toffees have confirmed that the 39-year-old will depart at the end of the season.Ashley Young has been released by the ToffeesCredit: AlamyUpon news of Young’s upcoming exit, boss David Moyes gushed over the veteran star.The Scot, 62, said: “Since my return to the Club, I’ve seen what a great professional Ash is and know the leadership qualities he has brought to the squad during his time at Everton.”His versatility, experience and know-how have also been really beneficial to the team and me.”In addition to Young, goalkeepers Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia are also to depart.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMoyes added: “Asmir and Joao have also worked really hard and conducted themselves impeccably.”On behalf of everyone at the Club, I want to thank all three players for their service and we wish them all the very best for the future.”Young joined Everton on a free transfer in 2023, having previously turned out for Watford, Aston Villa, Manchester United and Inter Milan, in addition to earning 39 England caps.The full-back has gone on to play 68 times for the Toffees.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAsmir Begovic has been released by EvertonCredit: AlamyOn Thursday, online Everton expert The Bobble claimed that the Toffees were set to offer Young a new deal.Earlier today, Young replied to the post: “Well I’m gonna burst your bobble this time.”David Moyes post match press conference, Chelsea vs EvertonHe then went on to add: “I’d like to thank both Sean (Dyche) and David (Moyes) for giving me the opportunity to play for this Club.”To all the staff that have been on this journey thank you all for everything you’ve done and in whatever way you’ve helped trust me.”Then of course You Players, I have loved every minute of every day being in and sharing the dressing room with you, we’ve had ups and downs, people going against us; but Our Togetherness inside Our dressing room has got us through tough times.”I just want to say keep being Together and move into the new stadium giving the Evertonians what they deserve, which I believe is good football, hunger, fight, desire and Winning.”Now to you fans, you’re a tough bunch, haha, but thank you for your support. I’ve had my doubters and haters, I’m all for it as I know you have seen the Passion, Determination, Fight and Winning Mentality I have had all throughout my career. Keep getting behind that team as you say farewell to Goodison and welcome Bramley-Moore Dock.”Tomorrow is going to be full of so many emotions for everyone but let’s leave Goodison smiling and happy.”Per Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth, Young is not planning to retire and has been contacted by clubs both in England and overseas.Despite still playing, Young, who will turn 40 in July, has already launched his punditry career.The former Man Utd skipper worked as a pundit for talkSPORT at Euro 2024.He has also appeared on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football and Prime Video’s Champions League coverage.Begovic, meanwhile, rejoined Everton from Queens Park Rangers last summer for a second spell backing up Jordan Pickford.The Bosnian, 37, appeared 10 times during his first spell at Goodison Park, but has not played this season.Begovic has also turned out for the likes of Chelsea, AC Milan and Portsmouth during his career.Read More on The SunVirginia initially joined Everton’s academy following a three-year spell with Arsenal.The Portuguese stopper made eight first team appearances for the Toffees.Joao Virginia has made eight first team appearances for the ToffeesCredit: Rex More

    • 275 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Ruben Dias’ ex appears to take aim at Man City star in cryptic new song after he went public with Maya Jama

      by

      RUBEN DIAS’ ex-girlfriend appears to have taken aim at the Manchester City star and Maya Jama in a cryptic new song. Dias and TV presenter Maya went public with their relationship last month after first meeting in November.April Ivy is the ex-girlfriend of Manchester City star Ruben DiasCredit: Instagram @aprilivymusicApril Ivy appeared to take a dig at Dias in her new songCredit: TIKTOKApril Ivy was with Dias until 2021Credit: INSTAGRAM @aprilivymusicShe is a singer from PortugalCredit: Instagram @aprilivymusicShe is believed to have split from Dias amid ‘lifestyle differences’Credit: INSTAGRAM @aprilivymusicThey were first reported to have dated in 2018Credit: INSTAGRAM @aprilivymusicMaya Jama has gone public in her relationship with DiasThe City defender was previously in a relationship with Love Island’s Arabella Chi and Portuguese singer April Ivy before that.Dias and Ivy – real name Mariana Barreiros dos Santos Goncalves – were together from 2018-2021 and even lived together in Manchester.But reports in Portugal suggested they split over lifestyle differences.Ivy took to Instagram to preview an upcoming track and included English subtitles to reveal the extent of her cryptic lyrics. READ MORE IN football She sings: “I saw a picture. You guys look so good together. “The both of you, you both look so happy. Just as everyone says, I created a monster. He learned everything with me, then became a danger and left. “To give some context, what you see doesn’t come from thin air. I know you’re going to love what was tiring me.”What he wears, I bought. His perfume, I gave. His favourite song, I showed. He is me. Keep him now, he’s yours.”Most read in FootballDias and Ivy reportedly split after a holiday to Greece in the summer of 2021.According to magazine Flash! – Dias’ desired a “more discreet” life which clashed with his Ivy’s “exuberance”.Maya Jama with her boyfriend Ruben Dias who plays for Manchester CityThe centre-back kept his relationship with Maya a secret for months after initially meeting at the European Music Awards last year. But they have since gone public, recently looking loved up during a romantic lunch date in London.The couple were spotted at the The Summerhouse, which is a fancy seafood restaurant in London.It sits alongside the Grand Union Canal in Little Venice and is the perfect spot for an al fresco lunch.In April, they were seen out for the first time at a Ballers League game – headed up by KSI – in which Maya manages a team. Earlier in the month, Maya watched Dias play at Wembley as City beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in their FA cup semi-final.During the international break in March, Maya flew to Lisbon when Dias played for Portgual.The Love Island host was pictured in the stands at the José Alvalade Stadium when Portugal’s beat Denmark 5-2. She was seen with a pal and glasses of wine in a VIP hospitality box – reserved usually for friends and family of players.Maya also posted a picture of the two celebrating together at their romantic fireside retreat at 3.30am the following morning.The snap is said to have been taken at the Dias’ home in the Cascais region of Portugal – with a swimming pool spotted in the picture.Maya was gifted a bouquet of roses on her return to the UK from Cape Town in February following the conclusion of the 2025 Love Island All Star season.Read More on The SunThe pair were then spotted wearing matching £5,000 Cartier ‘LOVE’ bracelets. Maya wore the pricey gift in the Instagram post before Dias was spotted wearing the same item as he arrived for training in February.Dias signed for City in 2020Credit: Shutterstock Editorial More