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      Newcastle United to CHANGE badge as owners claim current crest ‘doesn’t translate well’ and give fans three options

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      NEWCASTLE UNITED have begun consultations with supporters to create a new club crest.The North East club sent out a survey on Friday to fans over plans to either refine, revise or completely reinvent their current badge.Newcastle claim their badge doesn’t always translate well onlineThe much-loved crest finally saw a trophy as the Magpies lifted the Carabao Cup in MarchCredit: GettyToon’s current shield crest design was introduced in 1988, the third since the 1950s, but there a number of issues regarding its use in branding and marketing have emerged over modern times.That was based on the city’s 1860s coat of arms – something marketing bods want to respect and keep at the heart of it.It features a shield in the club’s black and white colours with a gold trim, with two sea horses (hippocampi) included in a nod to the city’s Roman past.Though, the castle, lion and flag that it’s holding are where some of the main issues arise.READ MORE NEWCASTLE NEWSThere are issues with the details regarding both embroidery and in marketing corners as it is a struggle to see clearly what sits upon the castle on the shield.The hooves of the horses do not interact or are symmetrical on the shield.In all, they feel that it’s a poor execution of the club crest no matter what technology or embroidery experts are used.Now initial plans have been put in motion over what will be a delicate and sensitive piece of work starting with the survey sent out to fans.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKNewcastle want to ensure that story of the club, community and people remain at the forefront of a new design that represents who the club are and want to be in the future.There will be three options for the Toon Army to consider in the feedback – Refine, revise or reinvent.Newcastle legend, 41, spotted BUSKING in city centre and gushes over ‘dream come true’ to play in ‘my home’Its main purpose is to see how important the castle, lion, flag and ribbon is to supporters.The first two ‘Rs’ are understood to be the preference of club chiefs.Though they are open to any wider concerns or further add-ons suggested and are determined to keep fans at the heart of the process and will remain in thorough and deep consultation process with them.Fans will have a week to respond to today’s survey and give their feedback while the club will host fan workshops both online and in person to provide more info and get more feedback.SunSport understands it won’t be a rushed process and that the current badge will remain for at least next season.A host of clubs have changed crests, to very different responses, over recent years to a more minimalist look.That has followed a trend by fashion designers such as Burberry – although they and even the likes of Ajax in the football world have since gone back to a more intricate look.Newcastle statementUPDATING our crest. Together.As our club grows on the global stage, the symbol that represents us needs to be able to keep pace. It needs to show up clearly and confidently across everything –from kits to screens to merchandise.So, we’ve been asking ourselves: how well does our current crest represent the club today? And how well will it serve us tomorrow?It’s time to update our crestThis isn’t a decision we take lightly. We love our crest. It’s iconic and has stood us through unforgettable triumphs and testing times.But it was created in a different era. Its intricate design doesn’t always translate well in today’s digital world. And it’s difficult to reproduce it clearly and consistently.As football and the world changes, so too must the symbol that unites us.That’s why we’re coming to youThis isn’t about walking away from our past. It’s about carrying it forward with pride.The crest is part of our story. It’s on our shirts and inked in our skin. It deserves thoughtful evolution – shaped by the voices of the people who love it.Tell us what matters mostBased on what we’ve heard, updates to the current club crest should be minimal and therefore ‘Refine & Revive’ is our recommended approach.We’ve spoken to our Fan Advisory Board, now we want to hear from you.What should stay the same? What needs to be updated? And how can we embrace our history – not just by honouring it, but by preserving its spirit and building on it, so we can thrive in the years ahead?We’re inviting Season Ticket holders and Members to share their views in an independently ran survey.A link to that survey will be emailed directly to those fans. The cut off is 5pm on Friday 16th May!Want to hear more?Want to hear more? We will be holding a fan consultation workshop for Season Ticket Holders and Members on Wednesday 14th May, both in person at St. James’ Park and online, to provide more detail on why we’re undergoing this process and offer you an opportunity to share your thoughts.A link will be supplied to register your interest to this event in the same email.What happens after the survey closes?The Fan Advisory Board have recommended that the wider fan base should be given a choice of options to select from during the second stage consultation. This second stage will be delivered via a separate survey, dates to follow.*an independent third party, Savanta, will be collecting responses, and sharing the results with Newcastle United. More

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      Athletic Bilbao star shows off horror gash as wild Lindelof challenge leaves him needing stitches after Man Utd clash

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      MANCHESTER UNITED defender Victor Lindelof left his mark on one of the Athletic Bilbao players last night. The Swedish centre-back played a crucial role in United’s 4-1 Europa League semi-final win over the Basque side at Old Trafford. Prados took to Instagram to complain about his cutLindelof plants his studs on Prados’ legBenat Prados, a second-half substitute, had a battle scar to demonstrate the blood, sweat, and tears that Ernesto Valverde’s visitors put in trying to overturn their first-leg deficit. Prados had been introduced in the 62nd minute, with Bilbao leading 1-0 on the night. The midfielder completed a neat backheel before Lindelof raked his studs into the Spaniard’s leg, causing blood to flow from a nasty cut. He was forced off just a minute after Mason Mount had equalised for United. Read more footballPrados took to Instagram to show the cut that he sustained from a challenge by Lindelof, that referee Daniel Siebert didn’t see. Prados made no attempt tp hide his dissatisfaction on his Instagram, captioning the photo “No red, no yellow, no foul… play on.”The midfielder was required to leave the field and needed stitches to repair the damage that Lindelof had done.Bilbao themselves issued an update on Prados’ condition on Friday morning.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe statement read: “The midfielder suffered a hard tackle that was not penalized by the referee (or VAR) and caused a laceration and contusion to the front of his right leg. His progress is pending.”The Red Devils moved into the final of the continent’s secondary competition with a 7-1 aggregate victory, with Mount netting his second and third goals of an injury-hit campaign. Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund also got their names on the scoresheet as Ruben Amorim’s side came from a goal down. Benat Prados made his feelings felt to referee Daniel Siebert, but to no availLindelof was in the wars against BilbaoThey set up a meeting with fellow Premier League underperformers Tottenham Hotspur, who braved the Arctic Circle to grind out a 2-0 win over Bodo/Glimt. Bilbao were dominant in the early exchanges on Thursday, and deservedly took the lead through Mikel Jauregizar’s sumptuous curler that Andre Onana got a hand to. But Mount equalised, Casemiro scored with a clever header and even Rasmus Hojlund got in on the act to tap in before Mount scored a second with his long-range effort into an empty net.Prados will now probably be a doubt for Bilbao’s game on Saturday against Alaves, when they return to La Liga action at San Mames.  More

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      Norwich City rule Jack Wilshere OUT of manager’s job with Arsenal legend set to leave Championship side

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      JACK WILSHERE has been told he will not be kept on as the next permanent Norwich City manager.Wilshere, 33, was made interim boss of the Canaries following Johannes Hoff Thorup’s dismissal on April 22, stepping up from his role as a first team coach.Jack Wilshere will not be kept on as Norwich City managerCredit: GettyNorwich sporting director Ben Knapper has revealed that the club’s search for a new manager will be ‘focused externally’Credit: AlamyThe former Arsenal and England star, whose career was cut short by injuries, had impressed during his short spell as boss.He led the team to a 0-0 away draw against Middlesbrough and a 4-2 home victory over Cardiff City on the final day of the season.Wilshere’s Bluebirds thrashing was against his former Gunners midfield partner Aaron Ramsey, who had been given the Cardiff job on a temporary basis too.But despite Wilshere impressing in the technical area, Norwich sporting director Ben Knapper has revealed that the club’s search for a new manager will be “focused externally”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe told BBC Radio Norfolk: “Jack is a fantastic person, he and I have a big history together.”He’s a great coach and will be a fantastic head coach, but that’s not going to be here at this particular moment in time.”Knapper and Wilshere know each other well, having crossed paths during his time at Arsenal.Knapper previously worked as Arsenal’s loans manager from 2019 to 2023.Most read in FootballWilshere impressed during his two-game stint as bossCredit: AlamyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNow the retired midfielder is set to leave Norwich completely, with the BBC reporting that he is taking time to consider his options.It’s thought that Wilshere is leaning towards becoming a head coach or manager elsewhere following his exit.Footballers are great role models… but they need to be able to go partying, like I did, says Jack WilshereWilshere was previously linked with making a huge leap into senior management last year.The Arsenal legend reportedly held talks with MLS side Colorado Rapids about becoming their head coach, but a switch never materialised.Wilshere was forced to retire at the age of 30 after battling with injuries throughout his career.After bursting on the scene at Arsenal as a teenager, Wilshere went on to have spells playing at West Ham, Bournemouth and Danish outfit Aarhus GF, before deciding his injuries had got the better of him.It was the same summer as his retirement that the former rising star began his role as head coach of the Gunners’ U18s.During his first season as boss of the youth team he managed to guide the youngsters to the FA Youth Cup final, ultimately losing to West Ham.Read More on The SunWhile he also helped nurture talent such as Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.Since the season ended for Norwich, Wilshere returned to punditry as he joined TNT Sports’ in Paris to watch former club Arsenal take on Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.Wilshere joined Mikel Arteta for an interview ahead of PSG vs ArsenalCredit: Getty More

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      Girona manager Michel Sanchez rushed to hospital after health scare as Real Madrid send well wishes

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      GIRONA manager Michel Sanchez has been taken to hospital with a health issue, a club statement has confirmed.Sanchez, 49, was in the dugout for Girona’s 1-0 win over RCD Mallorca on Monday but has taken ill since.Girona manager Michel Sanchez has been hospitalised with a health issueCredit: GettyA statement released by the La Liga club read: “Girona FC coach Michel Sanchez has been hospitalized due to a health issue. “He is under medical observation as a precaution and is progressing favourably.”He is receiving appropriate care, and we expect his recovery in the coming days.”The coach will not be able to lead the team from the bench in tomorrow’s match at Montilivi.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We appreciate your understanding and respect for his privacy at this time.”Girona are scheduled to play Villarreal at the Montilivi Stadium tomorrow evening, but Sanchez will now be unable to help his team from the technical area.Assistant manager Salvador Funez will occupy the dugout in his absence.Sanchez himself released a statement that read: “I am writing this message to inform you that after a setback in my health I will not be able to be in the dugout next Saturday, May 10, for the La Liga game against Villarreal.Most read in FootballSanchez has said that he ‘feels well’Credit: Getty”After listening to the advice of the doctors, who I thank for their treatment and professionalism, I have to stop for a few days to recuperate and return as soon as possible.”I feel well, under medical observation, and am already counting the days until I can get back to work and continue fighting in what remains of the rest of the season.”I am sure that this group, despite my absence, will give everything, as always, so that our people can feel proud of the club and the values it represents.”I want to thank [everyone for] the displays of affection, the messages from the Girona family and all the people who have been concerned about my situation.”I will have to be admitted [to hospital] under observation for a few days. I am forced to follow the match from another place, but always in contact with my coaching team. See you soon.”The former Huesca and Rayo Vallecano manager has already received an outpouring of support, including from Real Madrid.The official Real Madrid X account wrote: “From Real Madrid, we send you our full support, Michel Sanchez.”Wishing you strength and a swift recovery. We look forward to seeing you back on the sidelines as soon as possible.”While other clubs have shown their support for the manager too. La Liga 2 side Real Oviedo wrote: “We send you all our strength and best wishes for your recovery, Michel Sanchez. Good luck, mister!”Read More on The SunAnd Athletic Club posted: “Good luck and speedy recovery!”Girona are currently 15th in La Liga, six points clear of the relegation zone with four games remaining.Girona are currently 15th in La LigaCredit: Getty More

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      ‘I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him’ – Ange Postecoglou’s rallying speech reduces Tottenham fans to tears

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      TOTTENHAM fans were left in tears after hearing Ange Postecoglou’s “chilling” Europa League rallying cry.The North Londoners booked their place in this month’s final with 2-0 win on Thursday night to seal a 5-1 aggregate victory over Bodo/Glimt in their semi-final tie.Tottenham reached the Europa League final with victory in their semi-final tie against Bodo/GlimtCredit: GettyAnge Postecoglou gave his players a rousing speech in the dressing roomCredit: X@SPURSOFFICIALHis rallying cry sparked jubilant scenes and left several Spurs fans emotionalCredit: X@SPURSOFFICIALAnd under-pressure Postecoglou gave his troops a speech for the ages to hype them up for their all-English final against Manchester United.The Aussie – who hit back at a reporter after the game over a comparison to United – said: “I’ve said it before, what you, as a group, players and staff, have gone through this year.”Let me tell you, I’ve been in this game a very long time and I’ve experienced it all.”But I’m so proud of just how all of you have stuck together. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Not one time have I felt like people are not believing or have lost what we have in here.”It was just outstanding. People will never realise what it’s taken for you guys to be in this position. “And you deserve all the credit for that, it’s unbelievable what you’ve done.”He added: “Now we’ve got just under two weeks to prepare. Every day is important.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnge Postecoglou could maintain his incredible record of winning a trophy with each club he’s been at in the second seasonCredit: SHUTTERSTOCK”Every day, every training session and every game we have between now and then is about getting ready for that big game.”But you can change things. You saw what you did. Four hundred supporters here today, they’ll never forget it, and there are thousands back home.‘Spurs does crazy things to people’ – Postecoglou takes swipe at Wenger as Arsenal legend proposes shock rule change”You can make it something really special. This is the group of players that are going to do it. “Focus on that for now, but you deserve all the credit.”The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium faithful were well and truly moved by Postecoglou’s war cry, with one saying: “I’M LOVIN BIG ANGE INSTEAD.”Another added: “Great, was ange out now I’m crying.”And a further comment on Twitter read: “That speech and body language gave me chills. The players must be so motivated now.”One remarked: “What an emotional speech.”Read More on The SunAnother chimed in: “Yeah, I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him, ICL (I can’t lie).”Victory in the May 28 final in Bilbao will well and truly make up for Spurs’ woeful domestic form, which has left them 16th in the Premier League table.Solanke gave Spurs the lead last nightCredit: ReutersPedro Porro doubled their advantageCredit: reuters More

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      Xabi Alonso agrees to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid manager with announcement date revealed

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      XABI ALONSO has reportedly agreed to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid boss after confirming he will leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer.The former Los Blancos star will quit Leverkusen for his old side on May 25, according to Marca.Xabi Alonso has agreed to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid bossCredit: EPAAncelotti looks set to join Brazil this summerCredit: GettyAnd that will pave the way for Ancelotti to finalise a deal with Brazil.Alonso confirmed on Friday that the time is right to quit German giants Leverkusen after two successful seasons.He said at a press conference: “This week the club and I have agreed that these two games will be my last two games as Bayer Leverkusen coach. We have been talking during this week that is always about the moment and now is the right moment to announce it.”We have always had a good and direct communication and now that we have clarity, it is the right moment to say that for sure. It is a moment with mixed emotions but it is the moment to announce it.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s not the moment to talk about the future. Now we know, we want to have a proper farewell on Sunday for some players and for myself. We have to enjoy this moment with mixed emotions.”The former Liverpool, Real and Bayern Munich star led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title last year, with his side also becoming the first ‘Invincibles’ side in Germany top-flight history.This season will see them finish second behind Bayern Munich.And after being linked with a move to Real last summer, Alonso has now reportedly decided to return to the Bernabeu.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHe made 236 appearances during six years as a Los Blancos player, winning a LaLiga title, two Copa del Reys and the Champions League.Alonso had long been earmarked by Real chiefs as a future manager.Carlo Ancelotti to step down as Real Madrid bossAnd he will now pen a three-year contract to help the club regain their title from champions-elect Barcelona.The Italian will have a grand send-off to toast the 15 trophies he’s delivered in two spells.As for Ancelotti, he is said to have mutually agreed to part ways with Real later this month.And Ancelotti will then finalise a deal with Brazil to lead them at next summer’s World Cup.After securing Alonso, Real’s thoughts will immediately turn to the transfer market.A free deal for Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has already been agreed.Read More on The SunWhile a new left-back and midfielder are also high on the list of priorities, with Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi favoured.Real want to land a new centre-back too, with Bournemouth’s Spanish international Dean Huijsen their top target alongside Arsenal’s William Saliba. More

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      Bournemouth vs Aston Villa FREE BETS: Get up to £40 bonus to spend on football with talkSPORT BET

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      EIGHTH hosts seventh in the Premier League’s Saturday teatime clash as Bournemouth and Aston Villa continue their push for European football next season.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 big south coast fixture.Bournemouth vs Aston Villa: 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*Bournemouth vs Aston Villa: 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)*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 – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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      ‘I’ll never get over these pics’, joke fans as Kevin Hart compared to ‘armrest’ after posing with Premier League giants

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      COMEDIAN Kevin Hart was compared to an “armrest” after posing with two Premier League giants.The pint-sized funnyman, who stands at 5ft 4in, is currently on a tour of the UK performing his new show ‘Acting My Age’.Kevin Hart was compared to an ‘armrest’ as he posed with two Premier League starsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kevinhart4real/?hl=enThe 5ft 4in comic looked tiny standing next to Virgil van Dijk, who is a whole foot tallerCredit: AlamyHart, a Hollywood superstar with a net worth of £340million after starring in box office hits like Jumanji, Central Intelligence and Ride Along, will play two sold-out shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall this weekend.But earlier in the week, he performed at the AO Arena in Manchester to another bumper audience.And among the fans in attendance were Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Man City star Nathan Ake.After the gig, the Netherlands duo met Hart before posing for pictures.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut the comic had the last laugh with a hilarious crop which cut the heads off Van Dijk, who is 6ft 4in tall, and Ake, who stands at 5ft 10in.Hart told his 177m Instagram followers: “I got to meet two amazing guys last night… shout out to Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake.“Congrats on all of your success fellas, keep going. Looking forward to what you are going to do next! Dinner on me when the World Cup hits the States.“Sorry about your heads in the picture fellas but rules are rules… I have to look cool at all times.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSLuckily for Hart, Van Dijk saw the funny side as the newly-crowned Premier League title winner responded with a laughing face and heart emoji.England star Kyle Walker, on loan at AC Milan from Man City, also replied with a series of laugh emojis.Virgil van Dijk ‘destroys’ Michael Owen with brutal 13-word put-down on live TV after Liverpool beat Everton Nathan Ake was also in attendance for Hart’s Manchester showCredit: AlamyThe Hollywood star is touring the UK this monthCredit: GettyWhile Ake said: “Thank you for a great show man, it was nice to meet you and see you soon in the States.”Fans were also left in stitches with the funny snap.One said: “I’ll never get over these pics.”Another declared: “I would do the same if someone used me as an armrest.”One noted: “Bro had to get a camera man who was his height.”Another added: “They knew the rules when they walked into shot.” More