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    Man Utd fans brilliantly hijack BBC’s player of the match vote to crown unexpected winner after win over Man City

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans hilariously voted Matheus Nunes as man of the match after his derby horror show.The City midfielder started at left-back for Pep Guardiola’s side and had a disastrous end to the game.Matheus Nunes fouled Amad Diallo to give away the penalty that sparked United’s comebackCredit: PANunes failed to get back on the line in time to clear Amad’s winnerCredit: GettyHe was consoled by Pep Guardiola at full-timeCredit: GettyMatheus Nunes was hilariously voted player of the matchCredit: BBCWith the champions 1-0 up, Nunes played a shocking back-pass to Ederson, which was intercepted by Amad Diallo.The Portuguese star sprinted back but ended up wiping out United’s derby hero to give the penalty that Bruno Fernandes converted.And then for Amad’s 90th minute winner, Nunes was inches away from getting to the ball in time to clear it off the line but just fell short.The BBC had a player ratings vote on their website, only for United fans to brilliantly hijack it.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTo add insult to injury, Nunes was named player of the match with a score of 9.21.All of his City team-mates scored under 5/10.Nunes even rated higher than Amad, who got an 8.25.It was mistakes from the likes of Nunes that annoyed Bernardo Silva and he raged post-match as City’s nightmare run continued to one win in their last 11 games. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “We deserved what happened. “At this level, a game or two is unlucky. We can’t say this is lucky or unlucky — 10 games it’s not about that.’We played like under-15s,’ fumes Bernardo Silva as angry Man City ace admits ‘we deserved’ Man Utd loss “Minute 87 in a derby, winning 1-0 and our corner ends in a penalty for them, if we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go you deserve to pay for that.”Looking at the game I think there was only one team that could win the game, but at the end we lost. “It’s not one game, it’s a lot of games lately.”We have to look at ourselves. You can say ‘oh that’s a bit unlucky’, no. It’s the decisions you make. “Today in the last minute we played like Under-15s.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. More

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    Dream Team bosses backing the wrong horse in Brennan Johnson while James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski thrive

    ONLY Chelsea have scored more Premier League goals than Tottenham this season.In fact, the Blues and league-leaders Liverpool are the only teams that boast a better goal difference than Spurs’ +17 right now.And yet Ange Postecoglou’s side are only tenth in table, level on points with Brentford and Newcastle in 11th and 12th respectively, such is their frustrating nature.It’s hard to get a read on Spurs this seasonCredit: GettySpurs are arguably the most curious team in the land at present, capable of outplaying any opponent on their day but also liable to inexplicable slip-ups.Their inconsistent nature causes headaches for Dream Team managers but the strength of their attack means there are plenty of points on offer most Gameweeks.Certainly that was the case on Sunday when the North Londoners waltzed to a 5-0 victory over Southampton at St Mary’s.Spurs could have inflicted more damage on Saints but opted to conserve energy in a goalless second half.James Maddison (£4.5m) and Son Heung-min (£5.2m) were the biggest beneficiaries as they banked 19 points each – both were directly involved in three of the five goals.The former has amassed 56 points in seven outings since the start of Gameweek 12 while the latter has gone one point better in the same time frame, despite not looking his best.Maddison enjoyed himself against Southampton on Sunday nightCredit: RexDejan Kulusevski (£3.6m) also took advantage of Southampton’s porous defence to score in his third consecutive game.Most read in FootballThe Sweden international now has five goals to go alongside his tally of eight assists in 2024/25 – he averages a goal involvement every 114.6 minutes in all competitions.However, one Spurs player was particularly notable for his lack of returns at the weekend, Brennan Johnson (£3.8m).The Wales international was named on the bench and mustered just one point after he replaced Son at half-time.The former Nottingham Forest man has registered just ten points from his last four outings at a time when several of his team-mates have cashed in.Johnson has been starved of points in the last two GameweeksCredit: APThis disparity is noteworthy because Johnson is the most popular Spurs asset in Dream Team.Not only that, an ownership of 27% makes him the sixth-most selected player in the whole game at the time of writing!On current evidence, it appears gaffers are backing the wrong the horse.On paper, there’s not much between Postecoglou’s main attacking threats.Johnson, Maddison and Son have all registered 14 goal involvements apiece with Kulusevski and Dominic Solanke (£4.2m) on 13 each.The former is the club’s top scorer this season with ten goals to his name in all competitions but it’s Maddison who leads the way in terms of points, the metric that matters most.MOST DREAM TEAM POINTS AMONG TOTTENHAM PLAYERS THIS SEASON:155pts – James Maddison141pts – Brennan Johnson136pts – Son Heung-min132pts – Dominic Solanke123pts – Dejan KulusevskiSon has notched his fair share of points despite not always looking at his bestCredit: RexFurthermore, Johnson owners may be concerned about his minutes lately.Prior to his benching at St Mary’s, he was hooked after 53 minutes against Chelsea and played just an hour at Ibrox in the Europa League.READ MORE SUN STORIESPreviously, Maddison’s playing time nosedived but the 28-year-old has seemingly clawed his way back up the pecking order with some encouraging performances while Kulusevski is arguably Spurs’ Player of the Season at this stage.Postecoglou’s troops are due to take on Manchester United in the Carabao Cup on Thursday night so gaffers will be afforded another glimpse before having to decide upon their strategy for Gameweek 16.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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    Brazil legend Adriano breaks down in tears during farewell match after late dad ‘sends message’ using AI

    BRAZIL legend Adriano broke down in tears during his farewell match.The striker featured for both sides as his former club Flamengo Legends took on a team called Friends of Italy.Adriano broke down in tears during his farewell matchCredit: SPORTVA video of his late father was played with AI used to recreate his voiceCredit: SPORTVAdriano played for both teams during an emotional farewellCredit: AFPHe also played alongside his son AdrianinhoCredit: AFPThe striker said goodbye to around 21,000 fans inside the MaracanaCredit: APAdriano, 42, scored for both sides in a 4-3 win for Flamengo in front of adoring fans at the Maracana.After 30 minutes played the game was paused and Adriano was honoured on the big screen as he watched a video of his late father, who passed away in 2004.His father’s voice was recreated using AI, and the message for Adriano sparked tears from the 48-cap star.Adriano was joined in his farewell game by former Brazil team-mates Romario, Dida and Ze Roberto, as well as his son Adrianinho.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAround 21,000 turned up to pay tribute to Adriano and unveiled a banner of his face ahead of kick-off.His grandmother and mother were also present with the former even kicking off the match.Adriano retired from playing in 2016 after spells at Inter Milan, Parma and Flamengo and has lived a flamboyant lifestyle since hanging up his boots, including partying on a yacht and being crowned an emperor during carnival.Reflecting on his decision to arrange a final game, Adriano stated: “Many people asked me to say goodbye.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Although I stopped playing a few years ago, I needed this match to end my cycle.”I owed it to everyone who supported me and still supports me.”Brazil cult hero is paraded through streets of Sao Paulo as an ’emperor’ during wild carnival More

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    Fifa ‘sincerely regret’ the ‘unacceptable’ error made in World Cup qualifying draw as they release full statement

    FIFA chiefs have issued a grovelling apology to the Ukrainian FA for an “unacceptable” error they “sincerely regret” during the World Cup qualifying draw.The Eastern European country ended up in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and either France or Croatia.Fifa have apologised for a mistake regarding Ukraine during the World Cup qualifying drawCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCUkraine was illegally invaded by Russia in 2022Credit: GettyBut there was a controversial moment during the draw when Fifa attempted to depict countries which could not cross borders to face each other.Spain vs Gibraltar was cited as one example, with Kosovo versus either Serbia or Bosnia & Herzegovina another.A map with shaded areas revealed which nations fell into the category.But Ukrainian chiefs were left outraged when their country was flagged for any potential clash with Belarus.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe dark patch showed Ukraine without the territory of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.The Black Sea peninsula is still officially classed as an administrative division of Ukraine.But Russia now occupies Crimea and has several military air bases stationed there following 2022’s illegal invasion of the mainland.Ukraine’s FA wrote a furious letter to Fifa expressing their anger over the map.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd football’s governing body have now responded, expressing their “sincere regret” over the decision.Elkhan Mammadov, Chief Member Association Officer, said: “We acknowledge receipt of your letter and would like to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.England manager Thomas Tuchel reacts to Three Lions’ World Cup 2026 qualifying drawWorld Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar“We deeply respect the concerns raised and the sensitivity of the issue at hand.“The infographic in question was developed by an external third-party service provider.“Upon recognising the issue, we have taken immediate steps to address the situation, including working to have the image removed from circulation.“Additionally, we are conducting an internal review to ensure such oversights do not recur in the future.“We fully understand the delicate sensitivity of this matter and while the incident was unintentional, we sincerely regret any concern it may have caused and appreciate your understand as we work to address this situation responsibly.”The Ukrainian FA’s initial letter had stated: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024.”The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable.”It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion on his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukrainian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time. More

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    Man Utd launch investigation into player responsible for leaking team news with TWO stars questioned by Ruben Amorim

    MANCHESTER UNITED have launched an investigation into which player is leaking team news information.Both derby day hero Amad Diallo and axed Alejandro Garnacho have been quizzed by new boss Ruben Amorim as to whether they are responsible.Ruben Amorim’s starting line-up was leaked the day before the Manchester derbyCredit: GettyThe leaked XI was exactly the same as the line-up that started the matchNews of United’s starting eleven for Sundays dramatic late comeback win over Manchester City leaked the night before.Garnacho’s brother Roberto had been accused on social media of being one source.Team news has leaked in the past when Alejandro has been left out.Roberto denied last week that he is the mole.Read More on Man UtdAmorim said after the victory at The Etihad that he was unhappy that the United team news had been leaked ahead of the game.Amorim said: “I know that story, I think it is impossible to fix, you have a lot of people in the club, the players talk with agents, it is not a good thing.”Amorim has already proved he will not stand for players stepping out of line.He axed both Garnacho and Marcus Rashford from the squad for Sunday’s game due to their poor training.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAmad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho have been quizzed about the leaksCredit: GettyHe also suggested off-field issues like how the players dressed and are with teammates came into his decision making.Amorim is satisfied neither Amad or Garnacho are involved directly in the leaking.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim says he has no disciplinary issues with Rashford and Garnacho While Garnacho was watching the match from home Amad was the United hero.He won the penalty for United’s equaliser in the 88th minute before scoring the winner in the last seconds of normal time.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.Amorim was full of praise for Diallo after the game, saying: “He can play different positions, he is very humble. We have to be very careful with Amad because sometimes in our club we put young players in a special place. Let’s stay clam with Amad.”The new Manchester United gaffer was delighted with the win over City but says there is much to do.He told Match of the Day: “It was incredible. I think we deserved it. It was a very tough match but we believe until the end. We managed to score, we needed that win, it was important for us and for our fans.”We were in the game for 90 minutes and that is very good. We talk about the Arsenal game, we played well in the first half but they were not believing that we could win. Today was so much more different.”I also believe. Then we have Fergie time and we put the things together and something magic happened. It was a good day for us.READ MORE SUN STORIES”They [the fans] need it. Just like us, but you can see the way they celebrate is special. But we need to continue. Our club needs to win these kinds of matches, I understand the happiness of our fans but we need to continue.”With a victory for City, the performance was the same. We need to improve a lot of things but today the guys deserved the win. They were in it until the last minute and that is important for us.” More

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    Who is Kelly Cates? Sky Sports host rumoured to be joining Match of the Day

    KELLY Cates is a trailblazing British sports broadcaster who has paved the way for women in the predominantly masculine world of football coverage.Reports have emerged that she is set to quit her job at Sky Sports and take on a new role hosting Match of the Day.Kelly Cates is a leading sports broadcaster who has worked on both TV and radioCredit: Getty – ContributorShe reportedly joining the Match of the Day team following the departure of Gary Lineker, who started hosting the show in 1999Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdWho is Kelly Cates?Kelly Cates was born in Glasgow, Scotland on September 28, 1975.She is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish and has established herself as a respected figure in sports journalism.Kelly was married to Tom Cates between 2007 and 2021, with the couple sharing two daughters together.Broadcasting careerThroughout her career, she has worked for various networks and covered numerous high-profile events.read more on kelly catesShe’s been on BBC Radio 5 Live since 2013, presenting iconic fan phone-in show 606 alongside Ian Wright on Sundays up until 2018.After joining Sky Sports her role on the BBC was reduced, but Kelly returned to host midweek sports show 5 Live Sport, while also providing coverage for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.History-makerShe made history as the first female presenter on talkSPORT.Kelly has also presented ITV’s World Cup and Channel 4’s Paralympic Games coverage.Most read in FootballHer versatility as a broadcaster is evident in her work across television and radio platforms.Beyond her broadcasting career, she is known for her involvement in charitable work, serving as an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust and Unicef.I was driving into work and decided not to sign my Sky Sports contract – it’s the scariest decision I ever madeMatch of the DayIn mid-December 2024, reports emerged claiming Kelly is set to make a significant career move.She is reportedly set to join the BBC’s Match of the Day team following the departure of longtime host Gary Lineker, who started hosting the show in 1999.The former Spurs and Barcelona striker became one of the best and most-loved sports broadcasters in the country. It is understood that the move would see Kelly leave her current position at Sky Sports to team up with Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman on Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2.The three presenters would share hosting responsibilities on a rotating basis, it’s understood.If confirmed, the change would mark a new era for the staple English football highlights show, which was hosted by Gary for 25 years.Sky Sports bosses are reportedly sad to see Kelly leave her roles at the broadcasting giant. More

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    Former EFL and international star, 35, victim of brutal assault and rushed to hospital after suffering fractured skull

    AUSTRIA international and former EFL footballer Guido Burgstaller has been rushed to hospital after an alleged savage attack left him with a fractured skull.It’s feared he will never play again after the attack in the streets of Vienna. Guido Burgstaller has been taken to hospital following an alleged assault on SundayCredit: GettyBurgstaller played for Cardiff in 2014Credit: GettyA statement from his club side Rapid Vienna announced that the 35-year-old had been the victim of a physical attack on Sunday.Burgstaller, who has been capped 26 times by Austria, is said to have suffered “significant head injuries”.The attack took place in the city centre in view of witnesses.Burgstaller had announced he would be retiring next summer, but Rapid now fear he will not play for them again following the shocking attack.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA club statement said: “Burgstaller was immediately examined and treated in detail in a Viennese hospital. “Unfortunately, he will have to spend the coming days there and the fact is that he will not be able to practice his profession for several months.”SK Rapid wishes its deserving player a speedy and uncomplicated recovery and trusts in the responsible authorities that the hitherto unknown perpetrator will be brought to justice quickly.”Burgstaller has played 203 times for the Austrian side, scoring 69 goals and adding 41 assists across two spells at the club.Most read in FootballHis second spell began in 2022 after he joined from St. Pauli.Burgstaller also played for German clubs Schalke and Nuremberg and had a short spell with Cardiff in 2014.He joined the Bluebirds straight after their relegation from the Premier League before departing in January 2015, having scored one goal in five games. He was suspended for the club’s most recent league game against RB Salzburg, but did star in their midweek Europa League clash with Omonoia.His last international cap came in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Azerbaijan in October 2023.The club statement added: “We ask you to respect the privacy of Guido Burgstaller and his family. “If there is any news in the next few days, SK Rapid will announce it in consultation with its medical department and Guido Burgstaller. “SK Rapid will of course fully support Guido Burgstaller on his way to a complete and hopefully quick recovery.”A statement from Schalke on social media said: “S04 is sickened by the news of the assault on Guido Burgstaller.”Our thoughts are with you and we wish you all the best for a speedy recovery, Burgi.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFK Austria Wien said: “This news is shocking and affects us deeply.”We wish Guido Burgstaller all the best and a full recovery!” More

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    Joshua Zirkzee has to be pulled away after running back to GOAD crowd as Man Utd fans say ‘I love you so much for this’

    JOSHUA ZIRKZEE sparked a furious reaction from Manchester City fans by goading them after Manchester United’s dramatic derby win.United clinched a shock 2-1 win over their neighbours at the Etihad on Sunday.Joshua Zirkzee celebrated directly in front of the Man City fansCredit: x/ aadamp9The striker had to be pulled awayCredit: x/ aadamp9Amad Diallo scored a last-minute winner for United at the EtihadCredit: EPAWith City 1-0 up in the final stages, Matheus Nunes gave away a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Amad Diallo.Bruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick to equalise, leaving Pep Guardiola furious.And just two minutes later, Amad broke through again, this time poking the ball over Ederson before slotting it into the bottom-right corner.Man City fans at the Etihad were left in complete disbelief, with many quick to make a beeline for the exits.Read More on Man UtdBut those who stayed after the final whistle were taunted by a very smug Zirkzee.The Dutchman walked over to the home supporters behind the dugout before pumping his fists in celebration.It sparked a furious reaction from the fans, who shouted back at him.Zirkzee was then pulled away by United staff members before things escalated.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans took to social media to react to the incident, with one person writing: “ZIRKZEE, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS.”Another commented: “This level of petty is what I love to see.”Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim says he has no disciplinary issues with Rashford and Garnacho While a third said: “Bringing back the proper way the game is played!”Amorim was thrilled with his team’s performance after the match.He said: “It was incredible. I think we deserved it. It was a very tough match but we believe until the end.”We managed to score, we needed that win, it was important for us and for our fans.”We were in the game for 90 minutes and that is very good. We talk about the Arsenal game, we played well in the first half but they were not believing that we could win. Today was so much more different.”I also believe. Then we have Fergie time and we put the things together and something magic happened. It was a good day for us.”Meanwhile, Guardiola sensationally claimed “I’m not good enough” in the wake of his team’s latest defeat.He said: “I’m the boss, I’m the manager, I have to find solutions but I don’t find solutions.READ MORE SUN STORIES”This is a big club and when you lose eight of (11) something is wrong. You can say the schedule is tough or the injuries to players, but no.”I’m the manager and I’m not good enough, simple as that. I have to find a way to talk to them, to train them in the way we need to play, to press the way we need to press. I’m not good enough. I’m not doing well. That is the truth.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. 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