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    Alex Ferguson pays emotional tribute to Man Utd legend Denis Law as he joins Rooney and Neville at funeral

    SIR Alex Ferguson has paid an emotional tribute to Manchester United legend Denis Law – as he was joined by Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney at his funeral.The last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinity passed away on January 17 aged 84 after a battle with dementia.Former MUFC manager Sir Alex FergusonCredit: GoffThe coffin leaving Manchester CathedralCredit: PAManchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit Gary NevilleCredit: SplashWayne Rooney arrivesCredit: SplashLaw’s coffin is carried into the cathedralCredit: PAThe funeral cortege leaves Old Trafford as fans line up to pay respectsCredit: AFPA portrait of Denis Law inside Manchester CathedralCredit: PP.A copy of the order of service for the funeralCredit: GettyThe former striker’s cortege left the club’s Old Trafford stadium at around 1.10pm before making its way to Manchester Cathedral for the funeral service.His coffin was then carried inside, with his daughter Diane Law among those seen arriving.Ex-United defender and Sky Sports pundit Neville, as well as former teammates Wayne Rooney, Nicky Butt, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel, and their treble-winning manager Sir Alex, are all in attendance.David Beckham’s dad Ted has also been snapped outside the church, as has ex-footballer and TV personality Dion Dublin and ex-Scotland internationals Eddie Gray and Kenny Dalglish.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSir Alex has been described as “visibly emotional” as he stood at the lectern to read a tribute during the service, according to a reporter in attendance.’WITH A HEAVY HEART’Law’s heartbroken family said in a statement last month: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.”We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. “We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”Most read in FootballBallon d’Or winner Law started his career at Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.Sir Bobby Charlton, Law and George Best were integral as the Red Devils become the first English side to win the European Cup.Man U said in a statement: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84.Man Utd legend Denis Law reveals he is suffering from dementia aged 81 “With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players.”The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation.”Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”Best, Law and Charlton together scored 665 goals in 1,636 games for the club.And each won the Ballon d’Or between 1964-68 — with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 the only United player to do it since.The footballing legend scored 30 goals in 55 games for Scotland.The United trio of David Beckham, Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney were among figures from around the world of football to pay their respects to the Scot.READ MORE SUN STORIESBecks wrote on his Instagram page: “Tonight we lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis’s family.”Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off.”Law’s daughter Diane LawCredit: PP.A note left from musician Sir Rod StewartCredit: ReutersTom Heaton, Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire arriving at Manchester CathedralCredit: PALiverpool legend Kenny DalglishCredit: GoffPaul Scholes arrivesCredit: AlamyEx-United and Denmark keeper Peter SchmeichelCredit: AlamyEx-MUFC midfielder Nicky ButtCredit: SplashRuud van Nistelrooy arrivesCredit: ReutersA mourner holds an order of serviceCredit: SplashMourners arrive at the cathedral before the funeralCredit: ReutersFormer footballer and Homes Under the Hammer host Dion DublinCredit: SplashEamonn Holmes arrives at for the funeralCredit: GoffDavid Beckham’s dad TedCredit: SplashFlowers have been laid for Law at the Holy Trinity statue outside Old TraffordCredit: ReutersA note left to the football legend left outside the Manchester United groundCredit: LNPFlowers and tributes left outside Old Trafford todayCredit: LNPManchester United paid tribute to their former star in a post on XCredit: X/ManUtdFabulous tributes paid to Denis Law in serviceSome in the service were moved to tears, reports the BBC, when his daughter Diana spoke about him being reunited in heaven with George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Matt Busby.Copy linkCopiedLaw ‘loved beating England’Also speaking at the service, Sir Alex Ferguson said: “Trying to place Denis in the pantheon of all time greats is a challenge. But it is made easier by Pele.”He was asked if there was a British player who could get in the [great] Brazil team. He said Denis Law – which is a fantastic tribute.”Sir Alex went on to say he often wondered why supporters called him The King, and came to the conclusion “it was to do with his profile”.”He would fight his granny for a goal,” he said.”He had so much courage. A skinny guy standing amongst all those big defenders.”Sir Alex continued: “He loved Scotland and he loved beating England.”He once lined up before a game against England. He loved Nobby Stiles and Nobby worshipped him. Nobby came bounding down the tunnel and wished Denis all the best.”Denis gave him a withering look and let off a volley of abuse Nobby never forgot.”Sir Alex Ferguson arriving at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Copy linkCopied’Dad used to travel back to Aberdeen every weekend’Law’s daughter Diana told the congregation her father used to travel back to his hometown in Scotland every weekend after first meeting his wife – also named Diana – but only with his manager Sir Matt Busby’s permission.She said: “There were rumours he sometimes took an early bath to get back quicker. I don’t believe that.”And I don’t believe either that he deliberately got sent off just before Christmas so he could have Christmas off.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd CEO attends serviceOmar Berrada is among those attending today’s funeral.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedFloral tribute to ‘the King’Hundreds of floral tributes have been left across Manchester, including this one from Man Utd.Credit: REUTERSCopy linkCopiedFergie overcome as he reads tribute to his hero Sir Alex Ferguson has become visibly emotional while paying tribute to Denis Law, writes Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst), chief Man Utd writer for Manchester Evening News.Copy linkCopiedDenis Law’s daughter has arrived for the funeralDiane Law, the daughter of Denis Law, at the funeral.Copy linkCopied’My footballing hero’ – Sir Rod Stewart’s tender note to LawScottish football fan Sir Rod has sent this note to Denis Law’s funeral.Credit: REUTERSCopy linkCopiedPiper accompanies funeral as coffin arrives at cathedralThe coffin of former Manchester United and Scotland forward Denis Law has arrived at Manchester Cathedral.Credit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedRooney arrives for funeralWayne Rooney is among those to have arrived for the funeral in the past few minutes. Other recent arrivals include Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes and current beleagured Utd head coach Ruben Amorim, below.Copy linkCopied’Thanks for the memories’Fans have been leaving tributes to ‘The King’ all day, including these, left outside the Holy Trinity statue at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedNeville, Scholes and Schmeichel arrive for funeralUtd legends Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel, pictured, are the latest legends to arrive for the service. Also in attendance is Scotland and Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, bottom.Credit: ALAMYCopy linkCopiedFans pay respect to Law as funeral cortege passes Old TraffordHere is a poignant moment from Manchester as fans outside the ground pay tribute to the legend.The funeral cortege of Denis Law passes by Old Trafford, as fans pay their respects, below,Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedNicky Butt arrives for funeralFormer Utd player Butt, below, is among those to have arrived recently for the funeral.Copy linkCopiedMore Utd legends arrive for the funeralSir Alex Ferguson, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Bryan Robson, below, are among those to have arrived for the funeral.Sir Alex Ferguson arriving at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Credit: ALAMYGeorge Best’s son Calum arrives for the service.Copy linkCopiedOrder of service for Law as more fans arrive outside servicePoignant images are starting to arrive from outside Manchester Cathedral, including this one of the order of service, below, while more fans, bottom, arrive to pay their respects to the Utd legend.Copy linkCopiedBecks’ dad arrives for funeralDavid Beckham’s dad Ted has arrived for the funeral.Ted Beckham arrives at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Credit: PETER POWELLCopy linkCopiedFans arrive at Manchester Cathedral ahead of funeralHere’s the first pic of fans arriving for the funeral of Denis Law.Meanwhile, David Beckham’s dad Ted has also been photographed outside the funeral.Copy linkCopiedOne legend to anotherSir Alex Ferguson pays tribute to Denis Law before the start of the English Premier League game between Utd and Brighton at the Old Trafford stadium last month.Copy linkCopiedFloral tributes to Law at Old TraffordFans have started arriving at Old Trafford to pay tribute to Denis Law, whose funeral is taking place today.One fan puts down some red roses in memory of Denis Law today at Old Trafford.A portrait of Fomer Manchester United and Scotland footballer Denis Law inside Manchester Cathedral.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd flag at half mastManchester United flag is flying at half-mast at Old Trafford today in the memory of former Scotland and Manchester United footballer Denis Law, on the day of his funeralCopy linkCopiedHistory of a Scottish legend – who never played for a Scottish clubBorn in Aberdeen in February 1940, Law never actually played for a Scottish club. Instead he joined Huddersfield straight from school in 1955 before moving to Manchester City five years later for a then British record fee of £55,000. Copy linkCopied More

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    How it all unravelled for ‘new Pele’ Robinho – from joining wrong Manchester club to languishing in Brazil jail

    ROBINHO was hailed from an early age as the new Pele – even by the man himself.But instead of becoming another Brazilian football legend, Robinho is now one of the game’s most notorious criminals.Robinho once had the world at his feet – now he languishes in a Brazilian jail cellCredit: EPARobinho was once dubbed ‘the new Pele’ but saw his career implodeCredit: AlamyThe Brazilian former player is now in the ‘prison of the famous’Robinho, left, with Ronaldinho after winning the 2005 Confederations Cup in GermanyCredit: GettyAt the age of 12, he joined Pele’s old club Santos. At 24, he became the most expensive player in English football history when he joined Manchester City for £32.5million as the marquee signing of their new Abu Dhabi owners.But at 41, he is serving a nine-year sentence for gang rape.An Italian court heard in 2017 how Robinho and five friends attacked a woman in a Milan nightclub in 2013.After years of legal arguments, he finally entered Dr Jose Augusto Cesar Salgado P2 prison in Tremembe, Sao Paulo state, in March 2024.In the institution nicknamed ‘the prison of the famous’, the winner of league titles in five different countries has high-profile murderers for company.And within football, he is the ultimate pariah, even in Brazil.When Santos tried to bring him back for a fourth spell in 2020, there was public outcry and a major sponsor cut ties with the club.Inside Robinho’s jailDISGRACED footballer Robinho swapped his luxury seafront home for a hellish overcrowded prison housing murderers and follow rapists.The Brazilian, who has an estimated £60million net worth, now spends his days in a tiny 8m squared cell, which he shares with another inmate. Some cells sleep up to six prisoners.His new neighbours include a man who killed his own daughter, a man serving 98 years for kidnapping and murdering a 15-year-old girl and a doctor who abused 39 sedated patients.Robinho’s cell is said to have only one single bed, a small sink and a toilet built into the floor.A small barred up window provides just a glimpse of the outside world.All 430 inmates are forced to wear matching outfits of a white T-shirt and khaki pants.The former Real Madrid star is given four meals each day – the first being at 6am and the last at 5.30pm.He will be expected to work during his time behind bars.Prisoners make items such as school desks and chairs, or even toilet disinfectant tablets – something the P2 jail is known for.Inmates can also take acting lessons and participate in workshops on reading, literacy, and origami.While Robinho’s fellow prisoners gifted him some football boots to play during recreation times.Santos and Robinho cancelled the five-month deal and a career that had promised so much ended in infamy.Pele, who later died in 2022, did not offer his thoughts on this occasion.Court finds Ex-Man City star Robinho ‘brutally humiliated gang rape victim’But he had plenty to say about the young Robinho.When Pele saw Robinho at 15, three years after the young man had joined his former club, the legendary No10 said the winger reminded him of himself.Similar glory soon followed, as Robinho helped Santos win the Brazilian championship in 2002 and 2004.A horrible consequence of his growing celebrity was the kidnap of his mother Marina de Silva Souza in November 2004. She was returned unharmed after six weeks in captivity following the payment of a ransom.And her son regained enough form to seal a move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2005.He went with the blessing of Pele, who said: “He is already the best player in Brazil and he has all the qualities needed to be one of the best in the world.”Robinho, like the rest of the Galacticos, did not quite hit the heights that ambitious president Florentino Perez had hoped.Yet over his three seasons, which brought two LaLiga crowns, he was the third highest scorer behind Raul and Ruud van Nistelrooy.But he was unhappy with his treatment by the Bernabeu bosses, who stopped him going to the Olympics and openly courted Cristiano Ronaldo.Robinho wanted out. But he did not end up where he thought he would.Robinho wanted Chelsea and is claimed to have believed he was joining Manchester United when he ended up at CityCredit: GettyHis transfer to Manchester City on deadline day in September 2008, hours after Sheikh Mansour completed his takeover, was not only one of the most expensive deal involving a British club – it also remains one of the most bizarre.Chelsea and their CEO Peter Kenyon were convinced they would reunite Robinho with former Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, their new manager.So convinced that the Blues’ website started offering fans the chance to pre-order shirts with his name on.Instead, Robinho found himself being unveiled at the Etihad – much to his own confusion, it seemed.Robinho said: “On the last day, Chelsea made a great proposal and I accepted.”Decapitated inmates & jailhouse warlords – inside Brazil’s hellish prisons where ex-Man City star Robinho faces 9 yearsA reporter replied: “You mean Manchester, right?”. “Yeah, Manchester, sorry!” answered Robinho.He also responded to criticism of the move by Pele, who said the player had been badly advised.Robinho said: “I accept Pele’s criticism as he is the king of football, but if he had been me, he would have done the same.“Real did not want to retain me. They even used me as a potential exchange to sign Cristiano Ronaldo. But as that negotiation fell through, they wanted to retain me then.”One story – or urban myth – says that Robinho thought he was signing for Manchester United.That has never been proved, but the-then City boss Mark Hughes helped fuel the rumours when interviewed years later about the deal.Timeline of Robinho’s rape caseThe rape case involving Brazilian footballer Robinho spans several years. Here’s a brief timeline:January 22, 2013: Robinho was one of a group of six men convicted of sexually assaulting an Albanian woman in a club during his stint for AC Milan.2014: Brazilian media reported on the allegations against Robinho, but no formal charges were filed at that time.2017: Robinho was found guilty of sexual assault by an Italian court and sentenced to nine years in prison. However, he denied the charges and appealed the verdict.2020: After the appeal process, Robinho’s sentence was upheld by the Italian court. But due to the statute of limitations in Italy, he was not extradited to serve his sentence.2022: Robinho’s prison sentence is ratified.March 2023: Robinho surrendered his passport to authoritiesNovember 2023: Italian prosecutors said they felt Robinho should serve his time in Brazil.March 20, 2024: Brazil’s Superior Court formed a simple majority and voted for Robinho to serve the sentence in his home country.Hughes said: “It was a crazy day, there were bids going out for Lionel Messi and all sorts! “We finally managed to get Robinho over the line which was a hell of a statement, and the rest is history. “There’s probably a grain of truth in the rumour that Robinho thought he was actually signing for Manchester United. “He certainly didn’t recognise me when he turned up, he was probably expecting to see Sir Alex Ferguson at the airport! “He was probably a bit disappointed to say the least.”Robinho’s recollectionRobinho later recalled: “My first goal was to go to Chelsea as it was the only club to have made a formal offer. “But Real did not like Chelsea shirts with my name on being sold before sorting out the negotiations.“Also, they did not reach the value Real demanded so then Manchester City came in at the last minute to sign me.”Whatever the truth, Robinho started his City career well, scoring a fine free kick on his debut against, of all teams, Chelsea.But a 3-1 defeat by the Premier League’s original moneybags club underlined how far City had to go.And Robinho would not be there to see the glory years as he and fellow Brazilian signings Jo and Elano failed to impress.Mark Bowen, Hughes’ assistant, reflected: “What we found was, for all his talent, Robinho – and maybe Elano at the time, and Jo – yes they were sticking together but they weren’t putting the shift in. “When the going got tough in certain games, you could almost see Robinho thinking “What am I doing here? I’ve come from Real Madrid’.”That could cause problems, sometimes on the training ground and matchdays in the dressing rooms. “They wanted to see that commitment of putting the effort in.”Inside Robinho’s cell in the notorious prisonRobinho started his promising career at Brazilian giants SantosCredit: AFPRobinho returned to Santos in 2010, 2014 and 2020 – with the latter causing uproarCredit: Getty Images – GettyRobinho returned to Santos on loan in early 2010 and helped them win another Brazilian title.But he was unable to secure a permanent deal to go home and was instead sold to AC Milan for £15m.With 14 goals in his first season, Robinho was a key figure in Milan’s Scudetto triumph and he scored 11 more as they finished runners-up the following year.Injuries took their toll, however, and in 2013, the year of the rape, he almost returned to Santos twice before agreeing a new San Siro deal on a lower salary.More injury problems hindered Robinho again and in the summer of 2014 he made his second return to Santos.That reunion lasted just a year, only for another to appear, as the winger joined the talent exodus to the mega-rich Chinese Super League to play under Scolari at Guangzhou Evergrande.Robinho scored three times in 10 league games in 2015 as he claimed a title in a fourth different country.Then it was back to Brazil again, this time with Atletico Mineiro. In the second of his two seasons there, he received a one-off recall to the Brazil squad.He made his 100th and final appearance for his country in January 2017 in a friendly against Colombia.Brazil picked a group of entirely home-based players for the match that was staged to raise money for Chapecoense, the Brazilian club that had lost 19 players when their plane crashed on the way to the Copa Sudamericana final in Colombia.Robinho is still married to his childhood sweetheart Vivian GuglielmettiCredit: ReutersThe allegations against Robinho are said to have broken VivianCredit: ReutersRobinho admitted cheating on his wife but denied rape at his trialCredit: Instagram / @robinhoRobinho was still only 33 and seemed to gain a new lease of life when he moved to Turkey.After a promising season and a half at Sivasspor, he joined newly-rich Istanbul Basaksehir and helped give them bragging rights over their three big city rivals as they lifted their first Turkish title in 2019-20.But Robinho could not enjoy that fifth league crown of his career for long.Santos announced his latest return on October 10, 2020. But the backlash was swift.Brazilian media published transcripts of voice and other messages that formed part of the 2017 trial in Milan at which Robinho was found guilty of raping the woman.In one message, Robinho said: “I’m laughing because I couldn’t care less, the woman was completely drunk, she has no idea what happened.”Inside Robinho’s family lifeIN 2009, Robinho married Vivian Guglielminetti. The couple have two sons, Robson Jr, 17, and Gianluca, 14, and a daughter Giulia, 9.Robinho and Vivian’s love story began when they were teenagers.The childhood sweethearts had been together 12 years prior to tying the knot in July 2009 at the Casa Grande hotel in Guaruja, Brazil.At the time Robinho was already playing for City and was still the Premier-League’s highest paid player, earning £165k-a-week.Vivian initially postponed their wedding when Robinho was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub in Leeds earlier that year.The wedding was rescheduled after the case was dropped and Robinho and Vivian have remained together since – despite Robinho’s current convictions.But the allegations broke Vivian, who told police she stood there like a “stupid woman who doesn’t know anything”.Son Robson Jr is following in his father’s footballing footsteps, having signed a professional deal with Santos.He’s regarded as one of the gems of their youth academy and already has a release clause of over £40m, with European sides likely to come calling.In another chat Robinho insisted he did not have sex with the victim.His friend replied: “I saw you when you put your penis inside her mouth.”Robinho’s response was: “That doesn’t mean having sex.”Orthopride, a leading dental health firm in Brazil, cancelled its shirt sponsorship in protest at Robinho returning to Santos.Chief operating officer Richard Adam said: “We have enormous respect for Santos’ history. But at this point, we have decided to terminate the sponsorship contract.“Our audience is mostly female and, out of respect for the women who buy our products, we had to make that decision.“We want to make it clear that we were not previously informed about the signing of Robinho, we were taken by surprise by the news over the weekend.”Robinho and Santos finally read the room and cancelled the contract, leaving him to concentrate on his defence.The player always protested his innocence and claimed his sexual contact with the woman in 2013 was consensual.Brazilian jails are overloaded with dozens of convicts in a single cell in some placesRobinho was transferred to Penitentiary 2 of Tremembe, in Sao Paulo, where he will serve his nine-year sentenceCredit: Laurene Santos/TV VanguardaBut later in 2020, the Milan Court of Appeals upheld Robinho’s conviction and sentence, finding that he had “belittled” and “brutally humiliated” the victim and misled investigators with a false account of what happened.In January 2022, Italy’s Supreme Court of Cessation also confirmed the original trial’s findings and a month later an international arrest warrant was issued for Robinho.Brazil does not extradite its citizens to overseas jurisdictions and refused to hand over Robinho and his friend Ricardo Falco, who had also been found guilty of the rape.But in 2023, Italy asked Brazil to make them serve their sentences in Brazil under a law that had been introduced in 2017.On March 20, 2024, the Brazilian authorities agreed to impose the nine-year sentence on Robinho. Two days later, he was arrested and jailed – justice was finally served, 11 years after the crime.Robinho is now a different kind of celebrity.Some reports credit him with helping to set up a controlled version of Tinder that allowed inmates in his jail to make contact with those in a nearby women’s prison. It is a distasteful and disturbing idea.Among Robinho’s fellow inmates are notorious murderers, including Lindemberg Alves, a man who kidnapped and shot dead 15-year-old former girlfriend Eloa Cristina Pimentel in 2008.Despite that appalling crime, Alves was among the prisoners let out for 11 days over Christmas 2024, according to local reports.But Robinho spent the festive season behind bars.Cells at the Dr Jose Augusto Cesar Salgado P2 prison are between eight metres and 12 metres squared. Up to six men cram into each one.Robinho was once spoken of in the same breath as Pele. After one of football’s most shocking falls from grace, he is now forced to share the air with fellow criminals. More

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    Celtic vs Bayern Munich: Get up to £40 in free bets to spend on football with talkSPORT BET

    CELTIC welcome Bayern Munich to Parkhead for a glamour Champions League play off, first leg tie.And brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim up to £40 in free bets when they register an account and stake at least £20 on the huge European tie.Celtic vs Bayern Munich: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim talkSPORT BET offertalkSPORT BETVisit the talkSPORT website HERE*Create an account and Opt In to this promotion via the OFFERS tabMake a depositPlace your first bet up to £40, minimum £20, on any football market, at odds of Evens or greaterYou must do this within 7 days of registrationOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first betFor example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free betsIf you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free betstalkSPORT BET: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim Here*Celtic vs Bayern Munich: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*What’s the offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of up to £40 when they register an account.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £20 or more on any football market at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.What happens next?Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first bet bet.For example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets. If you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free bets:On settlement of your qualifying bet, your account will be credited with the following:£10 free bet – Bet Builder (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Correct Score (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:£10 free bet – To Win and Both Team to Score – 90 mins (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Acca 4+ selection (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)You can read the full breakdown of free bets and more on how to claim talkSPORT BET’s welcome offer here**18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile device, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember 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 More

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    Celtic vs Bayern Munich prediction: Free betting tips, odds and Champions League preview

    CELTIC are in knockout stage football in the Champions League for the first time since 2013.Their reward? A two-legged play-off tie against European giants Bayern Munich!So SunSport have enlisted the help of their betting experts to preview the Champions League showdown and select the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesCeltic vs Bayern Munich previewIt was an incredible feat for Celtic to reach the knockout play off round, and with one game to spare.Granted the draw was very kind to them given how the table ended but it had been a hurdle the club had struggled to overcome since last doing so back in 2013.Defeat to Aston Villa left them finishing in 21st place and therefore always facing a tough ask in the play-off round. But it couldn’t have been much tougher.The Hoops welcome Bayern on Wednesday for the first leg before a trip to Germany next week, where they’ll hope to still be in the tie.That task has been made slightly easier by Daizen Maeda’s suspension being halved, allowing him to play here.Bayern will be bitterly disappointed to have missed out on the top eight but will be thrilled with the draw.Vincent Kompany’s men are away and gone at the top of the Bundesliga and this competition now is their main focus.They last visited Celtic Park in the groups of this competition back in 2017, with Kingsley Coman and Javi Martinez goals either side of a Callum McGregor strike earning them three points.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 1-3 at 9/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Harry Kane 13/5 with talkSPORT BET – HERECeltic vs Bayern Munich latest oddsOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Celtic vs Bayern Munich predictions and tipsBookingAlistair Johnston has been a terrific performer at Celtic, attacking and defensively.But it’ll be the latter of those traits tested here, particularly with the attacking talent down the Bayern left.The last game he’d have been forced back was the goalless draw at Atalanta earlier in this competition and he picked up a booking there. Tenacity of him means there’s every chance of one here too.Alistair Johnston to be carded at 14/5 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREEffortArne Engels has had a couple of moments since joining Celtic for big money – but not yet had THAT moment.Set piece man, penalty taker, chance to shoot from distance. This could provide one of those moments for him but we’ve taken the insurance of just an effort on target.Arne Engels at least 1 shot on target at 6/5 with William Hill – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 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.*Betfred. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.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 More

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    Dream Team’s most in-form defender deserves popularity spike after latest double-digit haul

    DANIEL MUNOZ (£4.9m) is the Dream Team defender who refuses to drop down the rankings.We tipped the Crystal Palace wing-back in last week’s transfer recommendations article and he delivered in spades with a 15-point haul against Doncaster on Monday night.RelentlessCredit: Dream TeamThe Colombia international scored the opening goal and contributed to a clean sheet in the Eagles’ 2-0 win over their League Two opponents in the FA Cup fourth round.At the time of writing, Munoz is the top-scoring asset in his position for Gameweek 23.More broadly, he’s the most in-form defender in the game having plundered 35 points from his last three outings.But even that doesn’t tell the full story of his fruitful form of late.Munoz has been on a tear since Boxing Day, banking a mighty 88 points across the last eight Gameweeks!Munoz does it allCredit: ReutersThis surge has propelled the 28-year-old up to third in the defensive rankings.TOP DREAM TEAM DREAM DEFENDERS THIS SEASON:223 pts – Trent Alexander-Arnold (£6m)195 pts – Pedro Porro (£4.5m)189 pts – Daniel Munoz (£4.9m)187 pts – Virgil van Dijk (£5m)173 pts – Gabriel (£4.8m)Most read in FootballThe fact Munoz is rubbing shoulders with the absolute cream of the crop without European fixtures to bolster his schedule is highly impressive.One of the reasons he’s been able to amass such a high total is Oliver Glasner’s reluctance to rest him in the domestic cups.Munoz has earned 42 points from six appearances split between the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in 2024/25.And it’s this boon that makes him a particularly tempting option for the foreseeable future.Palace have four fixtures to fulfil across the next three Gameweeks and Munoz should start them all so long as he remains fit: Everton, Fulham, Aston Villa, Millwall.Munoz is the first name on Oliver Glasner’s team sheetCredit: GETTYThe ex-Genk defender is such a strong Dream Team asset because he has multiple routes to points.Glasner’s side have tightened up in recent weeks with five clean sheets in their last six games in all competitions – half their tally for the season.Munoz is also one of just two players to have made 100+ tackles in 2024/25, with Noussair Mazraoui (£2.9m) being the other.In fact, he’s earned a whopping 45 points from tackles alone this season.Factor in three goals plus five assists and it’s recipe for sustained success.READ MORE SUN STORIESOnly Alexander-Arnold averages more points-per-game than Munoz among defendersCredit: GettyAmazingly, only Alexander-Arnold (7.2) averages more points-per-game than Munoz (6.8m) among defenders this season.Palace’s No12 features in 3.3% of teams right now but he deserves a steep popularity spike this month.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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    Paul Scholes tells Ruben Amorim Man Utd are staring RELEGATION in the face unless they make seven new signings

    MANCHESTER UNITED need to make seven signings or risk relegation, according to Paul Scholes.The Red Devils have endured yet another torrid season with Ruben Amorim so far unable to transform their fortunes.Man Utd need seven new signings or face relegation says Paul ScholesCredit: ReutersScholes raised concerns over some players in the squadCredit: GettyFormer midfielder Scholes has been very critical of several players in the squad and believes United need a revamp to improve results.Scholes, 50, claims United need a whole new spine through their team and could need seven new faces in their squad.He told The Overlap Fan Debate: “There are a few things that are concerning. There’s a lot of stuff he (Ruben Amorim) needs to do, we all know that, especially in transfer windows, but I don’t see a core of players.”When you look at teams, you look right down the spine of a team. Liverpool: great goalkeeper, great centre half, forwards, midfielders, whatever. I don’t think United have any of that in any position.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”I think a new goalkeeper is needed, possibly two centre halves, two centre midfield players, and two centre forwards.”Alright, I’ll go for one centre midfielder and one centre forward, but with a bit of stature, a bit of quality, and really create a spine. When you’ve got that spine right, then you can add bits to it.”Scholes has also questioned whether certain stars are capable of playing in a Premier League-winning side.Even players who have performed well have been scrutinised by Scholes, who took aim at the United defence.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAsked if he rates De Ligt, Scholes said: “Not really. Where are your ambitions? I’m talking about getting a team to win the Premier League.”Are you going to win the Premier League with De Ligt and Yoro as your centre-halves? Is “quite good” good enough for Manchester United?Roy Keane launches incredible blast at ‘shocking and boring’ Man Utd after woeful first half vs Leicester”Even when Lisandro Martinez is fit he’s not good enough to win the Premier League.”With De Ligt, his age and his amount of clubs does concern me. He seems to have got worse as he’s got older. Those clubs have got rid of him for a reason.”[Leny] Yoro is a young player but I haven’t liked what I’ve seen so far. Did you see the Southampton game? Look, he’s a young player and I would keep him in the squad.”Scholes has also expressed concerns over Kobbie Mainoo as he thinks he is lost and managers are unsure of what his best position is.He highlighted a problem with his athleticism, saying: “I think Mainoo is lost. I’ve talked about Declan Rice being lost before – I think Mainoo is lost as well. They don’t know what to do with him.”I don’t think he knows where to play on a football pitch because he’s been played in one of the number 10 positions, he has been played in the two in the midfield, which I can see probably doesn’t suit him because I don’t think the greatest athlete.”He’s a great footballer. I think the No 10 does suit, (but) the false nine, never in a million years.” More

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    Man City vs Real Madrid: Get £50 in free bets, plus 80/1 Bet Builder tips with Betfred

    MANCHESTER CITY and Real Madrid meet at the Etihad tonight in a mouth-watering first leg clash in the Champions League play offs.So our team of betting experts have selected a Bet Builder for the top-flight encounter, which Betfred have priced up at a stunning 80/1!Not just that! New Betfred customers who register an account with Betfred and stake a tenner on football will receive £50 in sports free bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*Man City vs Real Madrid tipsOur Bet Builder selections: Over 4.5 goals, Kylian Mbappe to score, Matoe Kovacic and Aurelien Tchouameni to be carded at 80/1. ADD TO YOUR BET SLIP HERE!Back our 80/1 Bet BuilderHere’s why we’ve made those selections..Over 4.5 goals: Last three Madrid visits to the Etihad have brought 13 goals – including a 1-1 draw in there. Madrid’s defensive crisis followed by City’s weakness at the back means best form of defence attack – and both attacks aren’t bad.Kylian Mbappe to score: Frightening pace in the Madrid front three and Mbappe’s can punish City. Slow start to Madrid career but now scored in six of last eight games – scoring nine in that time including in Madrid derby at weekend.Mateo Kovacic to be carded: Midfield battle is huge and City likely without the ball more than they’d usually be. Booked in two of his last three home starts as he continues having to try and fill Rodri void. Aurelien Tchouameni to be carded: Will again provide cover for those missing defenders and will be tested at points. Pace and power of Haaland to cause issues, as will new boy Omar Marmoush. Booked in last Euro away game.Back our 80/1 Bet BuilderRemember 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*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.Most read in Football More

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    Man City vs Real Madrid: Get up to £40 in free bets to spend on football with talkSPORT BET

    MANCHESTER CITY host Real Madrid on Tuesday night in a mouth-watering first leg of their Champions League play-off.And brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim up to £40 in free bets when they register an account and stake at least £20 on the huge European tie.Man City vs Real Madrid: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim talkSPORT BET offertalkSPORT BETVisit the talkSPORT website HERE*Create an account and Opt In to this promotion via the OFFERS tabMake a depositPlace your first bet up to £40, minimum £20, on any football market, at odds of Evens or greaterYou must do this within 7 days of registrationOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first betFor example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free betsIf you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free betstalkSPORT BET: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim Here*Man City vs Real Madrid: Get up to £40 in free bets – Claim here*What’s the offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of up to £40 when they register an account.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £20 or more on any football market at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.What happens next?Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with up to £40 free bets based on your first bet bet.For example, if you stake £20, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets. If you stake £40 you would receive the full 4 x £10 free bets:On settlement of your qualifying bet, your account will be credited with the following:£10 free bet – Bet Builder (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Correct Score (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:£10 free bet – To Win and Both Team to Score – 90 mins (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)£10 free bet – Acca 4+ selection (if your qualifying bet is £20, you will only receive a £5 free bet)You can read the full breakdown of free bets and more on how to claim talkSPORT BET’s welcome offer here**18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile device, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember 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 More