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      Kyle Walker hauled off at HALF-TIME for AC Milan then watches replacement set up winner vs Verona

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      KYLE WALKER was hauled off at HALF-TIME during AC Milan’s clash with Hellas Verona.The defender joined the Italian giants on loan during the January transfer window.Kyle Walker was subbed off after 45 minutes against VeronaCredit: GettyHe joined AC Milan on loan in JanuaryCredit: ReutersHis replacement Alex Jimenez (left) helped set up the winning goalCredit: GettyWalker, 34, would have been hoping that a switch to Italy would help him find his form after early season struggles in the Premier League.He has thus far made five appearances for AC Milan, with his latest coming in Serie A.Milan faced 15th-placed Verona at the San Siro on Saturday night, but Walker did not make it past the break.The Englishman was hauled off at half-time by manager Sergio Conceicao.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Porto boss replaced Walker with Alex Jimenez, who went on to help set up the winning goal for the hosts.The Spanish full-back played in a delicate chipped pass into the Verona box, which was cleverly flicked on by Rafael Leao and finished off by Santiago Gimenez.Conceicao did not explain his decision to replace Walker after the game, as he did not attend any media duties.The manager instead sent club advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic in his place.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe reason behind this was due to the death of Porto president Pinto da Costa on Saturday.The Swede said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner set to get £750k to star in Celeb Big Brother – but only if bosses agree to strict ruleSergio Conceicao has won eight of his 13 matches at MilanCredit: AP”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Meanwhile, Walker’s substitution appeared to be more tactical as Milan were pressing for the win.The defender saw plenty of the ball and won all five of his duels, and even helped in the attack with four crosses.He did not concede a single foul and only misplaced two passes during the first half.Conceicao’s decision could have also come with an eye on the club’s Champions League clash against Feyenoord on Tuesday.The seven-time winners must come back from a first-leg 1-0 defeat to progress past the Dutch team.Walker was run ragged in the first game as he struggled to contain Brazilian winger Igor Paixao. More

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      Harry Redknapp: I would choose to boss this Spurs side over Man Utd EVERY time – and I’d make young starlet my captain

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      WHEREVER that old saying about the darkest nights making the brightest stars comes from, it certainly isn’t Tottenham.But if you had to pin it to a Premier League club, it’d be Ange Postecoglou’s side every day of the week.I would much rather manage this Tottenham squad over Man UtdCredit: Darren FletcherAnge Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad but is being let down by injuriesCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is the right man to turn around Man Utd but it will take years to get the right playersCredit: GettyAnge would probably be glad of it, to be honest, as there’s been little else to light up the place this season.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.I do think Ruben Amorim is the right man to turn United around but there is so much work that it will take years.If I had the choice of who I’d like to manage, it is Spurs every time as Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it doesn’t count for much when they’re in the treatment room rather than the dressing room — and loads are.At times Postecoglou has been without a whole team of injured players, which is where that stuff about dark nights and bright stars comes in.And with so many key men missing, Ange has had to rely on some of his kids at a time he needs players AND leaders.But in Archie Gray he has a young man who ticks both boxes despite only making his full Premier League debut in December. And if everyone was available he may still be waiting.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSGray’s dad Andy had a long playing career, his grandad Frank is a Leeds legend, and his uncle Eddie an all-time great.So although he’s only 18, Archie has had more experience of football life than many senior players before he joined Spurs from Leeds last year.Ruben Amorim admits he and Man Utd players ALL fighting for their jobs between now and the end of the seasonAnd while all the lads who’ve been thrown in have done well, Gray has been an absolute diamond — and I have to say it doesn’t surprise me.Everything I’ve seen about him has been positive from day one, wherever he’s played, which is three different defensive positions and midfield already.The way the teenager strolls around at the back reminds me of Franz Beckenbauer or Alan Hansen, which is some comparison.I’m not saying he will ever be that good, of course, as not many got within a mile of those two legends.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.But there is a real style and elegance in everything he does.There was a moment at Aston Villa last week when Marcus Rashford tried to run at him one-on-one, but Archie got his body across, won the ball and shut down the danger. It was class.From what I hear, he is a good talker too, despite being so young. He’s confident, says the right things, and is not afraid to put his message across in the dressing room.So you can forget his age as he is already a natural leader — and Ange certainly needs one with his team in this position.I would make Archie Gray the club captainCredit: RexCloser to the bottom three than the top six in the Prem — like United — out of both domestic cups and just the Europa League left with just over three months of the campaign to go.Spurs may have a team with no inspiring voice on the pitch but at least Amorim has a couple in Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes.Even with a fully fit squad, Ange has no obvious choice for the armband. As much as I love Son, who has it now, he’s never struck me as a captain.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does.There’s more to it than just calling heads or tails, believe me. As a manager, the skipper is someone you can rely on.You will pick his brains, he will be the link with the rest of the team and almost your right arm in many ways. So it is a vital role.READ MORE SUN STORIESI have said for ages that Gray is a captain of the future — and maybe even an England one — but up to the job at Tottenham already.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does. More

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      All this week’s red-hot transfer exclusives from SunSport’s man in the know including Liverpool’s shock goalkeeper swoop

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      SUNSPORT’S Alan Nixon is the Boss of Goss.Check out this week’s red-hot transfer whispers from our man in the know…Everton are keen on Maxime Esteve from Burnley if they lose Jarrad BranthwaiteCredit: RexMAX EFFORTEVERTON want Burnley’s centre-half Maxime Esteve — but will need to sell Jarrad Branthwaite.French defender Esteve will be a big target for many clubs in the summer, whether Scott Parker’s side go up or not.But the 22-year-old is rated in the £30million-plus class so David Moyes may need to balance their books.Everton accept that Branthwaite, 22, will likely leave for financial fair play reasons this summer — but a £60m pricetag will fund two or three signings.Everton are eyeing Rotherham teenager Harrison Duncan as one for the future.Millers boss Steve Evans has had the 16-year-old centre-back on the bench in League One and he started in the EFL Trophy against Newcastle in October.Toffees are keen to have a close look at the defender, who is in the John Stones mould.And they may ask for him to spend some time with them.Duncan has an amazing record at youth level, scoring 11 goals this season.Declan Rice’s cringeworthy Valentine’s Day pick-up lines re-emerge in incredible video years before Arsenal transfer KOP SHOP FOR KOBELLIVERPOOL are taking a shock interest in Borussia Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel.Kop spies are hot on the trail of the Swiss international, 27, ahead of a summer move.The Reds fear Alisson Becker will be tempted to leave Anfield by a lucrative deal.They already signed Giorgi Mamardashvili, who arrives in July, but the Georgian has been in below average form for struggling Valencia in LaLiga.He is still due to come but may not be first choice.There will have to be a decision on Kobel soon as Chelsea and Barcelona have shortlisted him for a move too.Liverpool are looking at Dortmund keeper Gregor KobelCredit: GettyFOXES OSO KEENLEICESTER hope to make a £10million bid for red-hot Chile winger Dario Osorio.The Foxes have tracked the international’s progress at Danish side Midtjylland and a work permit will not be an issue.Osorio, 21, joined from Universidad de Chile in 2023 and fancies bigger things — with the Prem in his sights.Leicester will still have a crack even if they do not stay up.Dario Osorio is a target for LeicesterCredit: AFPDERRY WELLCHELSEA  have  their  eyes  on   controversially raiding Crystal Palace for young winger Jesse Derry.Derry can operate on either side and has been with the Eagles since he was a kid — his dad Shaun played and worked there.But Derry Jr, 17, is out of contract in the summer — and Palace will only get minimal training compensation.The Blues also signed Reggie Watson, son of Palace old boy Ben, when he was 14.YOU WAT?BRIGHTON plan to offer LESS for winger Tommy Watson at Sunderland.Albion’s £8.5million-plus-extras January bid for Watson, 18, was turned down.A smaller summer offer will follow as they are out of the frantic market.And Watson may not even get a game to up his value.WHICH top manager is giving all his players major concerns about his well-being?The gaffer has been around for years but his team are now concerned he starts sentences but does not then complete them.The situation is a bit more serious than just dressing-room banter and nobody is laughing.Some have known the chief for years — and are feeling on edge about it.WELL-WARNEPAUL WARNE will be top of the list at Rotherham if manager Steve Evans cannot turn round their League One season.Warne, 51, is still admired by the Millers from his previous spell in charge and knows the club inside out.His reputation has not been hurt by his Derby spell.WELL INLEYTON ORIENT have put a £250,000 pricetag on the head of their manager Richie Wellens.Wellens, 44, is on the shortlist to take over at managerless Blackburn.He has caught the eye during Orient’s surprise League One play-off bid this seasonJohn Eustace quit Ewood Park for Derby last week.And Rovers are due to meet candidates this week, including Gary O’Neil and some foreign hopefuls.Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens is wanted by BlackburnCredit: RexBrighton are looking for a permanent home for Valentin BarcoCredit: GettyVALENTIN’S DAYBRIGHTON will sell Argentinian left-back Valentin Barco for the right price.Barco, 20, cost £7.8million from Boca Juniors in January 2024 but has failed to reach the levels wanted.The wing-back spent the first half of this season on loan in LaLiga at Sevilla.But he is now in the shop window with French club Strasbourg.And the Seagulls are attempting to find him a permanent home.SHOR THINGHUDDERSFIELD are keen to move for teenage midfielder Jackson Shorrocks.The Blackburn academy youngster captains Rovers’ under-18 side but has been told he can leave Ewood Park.And the Terriers will be first to have a look. More

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      Millionaire Prem star loses court battle with HMRC over thousands in unpaid tax

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      MILLIONAIRE Premier League star Alexander Zinchenko has lost a court battle with HMRC which was chasing him for thousands in unpaid tax.Tax officials wanted to close his company Alex Zinchenko Image Rights over an unpaid tax bill, but representatives promised the bill would be settled at a High Court hearing.Alexander Zinchenko has lost a court battle with HMRC which was chasing him for thousands in unpaid taxCredit: GettyThe company channelled some of his lucrative earnings from a hugely successful career which includes four Premier League titles with Manchester City before a £30million move to Arsenal.Last accounts for the business covering 2023 showed it had a corporation tax bill of £893,133 in 2023 and £834,164 the year before.No figures of the tax owed were made public at the hearing which lasted only a few minutes.The company accounts also showed that Zinchenko, who earns a reported £150,000 a week, had a £1.879 million loan from the business.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHMRC began the action to wind up the company in September last year, but at the hearing in London this week the court heard a settlement had been reached and it would be confirmed in March.Zinchenko was a director of the company and owned the company’s only share until November 3, when fellow director Artemijs Rjabovs, an official who works for the Ukrainian FA took over.Ukrainian Zinchenko has been a vocal opponent of Russia’s war on his homeland and told the BBC he would fight for his country if he was called up.The star told a BBC interview that he donated more than £1million to help refugees suffering in the conflict and that he knew of hundreds of children whose parents have died in the war.Most read in FootballZinchenko reveals ‘secret agent’ turned up at his door with Arteta inside to convince him to complete Arsenal transferUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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      ‘People are losing their jobs… it’s on us’ – Amorim says Man Utd flops are to blame for owner Ratcliffe’s redundancies

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      RUBEN AMORIM says his Manchester United flops should carry the can for the savage Old Trafford redundancies.The club’s new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans to axe 200 more staff in brutal cost-cutting measures, which have also seen ticket price hikes.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim believes the club’s failure on the pitch has cost people their livlihoodsCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe is planning on axing 200 more jobs at Man UtdCredit: AlamyAnd United boss Amorim admits better results on the pitch could have saved people’s jobs.He said: “Our team for a long period of time is not performing.“We are buying players, spending money.“And then we don’t have that return. So, it’s on us, these problems. People are losing their jobs so we have to acknowledge that.“The biggest problem is the football — we’re not in the Champions League, so revenues aren’t the same.Read more Man Utd news “Everybody here knows it’s really hard on people who are losing jobs.“The fans are always supporting us, they are amazing and we’re increasing ticket prices.“We know that is our fault in the football department. We are responsible for that.“It’s really important to not ignore that.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“So the only way to help is to win games, to go to the Champions League.Most read in Football“Then you don’t fire a lot of people. So, we need to step up.”‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerIn autumn, 250 staff were laid off, ticket prices have rocketed and concessions for children and pensioners were scrapped.Legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been axed as an ambassador, while head of team operations Jackie Kay — regarded as a “mum” by the players — is also in danger of losing her job.It is now understood to be affecting morale ahead of Sunday’s visit to fellow strugglers Tottenham.An insider said: “Job losses and spending cuts have shocked the players.“It has left them unsettled, with some fearing they could be sold.”Amorim added: “People are losing their jobs and it affects the environment.“The first thing to do is to win at Tottenham.” More

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      How Man Utd could line up vs Tottenham with ELEVEN first-team stars out after Amad injury nightmare

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      MANCHESTER UNITED could be forced to field a misfit XI against Tottenham with ELEVEN first-team stars out injured.Amad Diallo became the latest big name to find himself sidelined after suffering an ankle ligament injury.Man Utd could field a misfit XI vs Spurs after Amad Diallo became the latest injured aceCredit: GettyThe winger is now expected to miss the rest of the season.And he’s not the only big name who will not feature in north London on Sunday.United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is recovering from a muscle strain.While fellow holders Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer are both major doubts as United look to avoid a third defeat to Spurs this season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMan Utd injuries for Spurs clash11 stars set to miss out:Lisandro MartinezKobbie MainooAmad DialloManuel UgarteToby CollyerAltay BayindirJonny EvansVictor LindelofTom HeatonMason MountElsewhere, Mason Mount remains out along with goalies Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir.While defenders Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof will play no part tomorrow either.It means boss Ruben Amorim has been left with a small amount of options against Spurs.Andre Onana will start between the sticks, with a three-man defence of Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui a possibly combination.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDiogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu could start as the wing-backs, although it remains to be seen which flank they’ll be on.In midfield, Amorim may have no choice but to turn to veterans Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerWhile in attack, captain Bruno Fernandes could get the nod alongside Alejandro Garnacho and Joshua Zirkzee.There are several other options for Amorim to choose from though.Harry Maguire and Rasmus Hojlund will also be pushing for starts.While teen goal sensation Chido Obi could get a go after impressing for United’s youth sides.He is one of five kids to travel with the seniors to London.Sekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse and Elyh Harrison could yet play some part on Sunday.But with Spurs set to welcome as many as six senior players back from injury, including Guglielmo Vicario and James Maddison, Amorim is likely to favour the few senior options available to him. More

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      Bizarre moment an excited SQUIRREL joins the attack for Norwich goal – and fans ALL make same joke

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      THE Canaries were helped by a SQUIRREL in a bizarre turn of events in Norwich’s match against Hull.The visitors were trailing the East Yorkshire side 1-0 when an unplanned secret squirrel attack unlocked The Tigers’ defence.A squirrel made a darting run down the wing before Norwich City’s equaliser at HullIn what was a secret squirrel attack, the rodent offered the perfect overlap for his new teammatesMoments after the squirrel’s run, Josh Sargent headed homeCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskAs the playoff hopefuls worked the ball forward in search of an equaliser, the speedy rodent was seen running down the wing on the MKM Stadium pitch.Norwich’s Borja Sainz spotted the squirrel making the perfect overlap, but opted to play in Kellen Fisher instead.Fisher’s cross was then met by the head of US striker Josh Sargent who notched his ninth goal of the season.However, it would be amiss not to credit his new furry team-mate for creating the goalscoring opportunity.Read more football newsNeedless to say, football fans online were full of puns and praise for the mammal – mostly referencing nuts.One wrote: “That’s nuts.”A second posted: “They squirrelled the ball away.”A third shared: “Decent overlapping run that to draw out the full back.”Most read in FootballHe was later seen running past the Hull benchCredit: GettyThe rodent showed an incredible turn of paceCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhile a fourth joked: “It was onside so no issues.”Animals on the pitch in the EFL are nothing new, though.Shocking moment fans throw pig’s head on to the pitch during bitter derby clash before player kicks it away Only last month, a DOG had to be chased off the pitch moments before kick-off at Bristol Rovers vs Leyton Orient.The League One clash was in danger of being delayed as the hosts tried to chase down the four-legged pitch invader.The dog entered the pitch from one corner and managed to sprint all the way across to the opposite corner flag, all while being chased by a hapless club official.The hound was cheered all the way and greeted to cries of: “Sign him up! Sign him up! Sign him up!” More

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      Man City ace Phil Foden’s WAG Rebecca Cooke spotted with huge diamond ring on engagement finger after romantic trip

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      ENGLAND star Phil Foden’s childhood sweetheart Rebecca Cooke has raised hopes of a glamorous WAG wedding after sporting a huge diamond ring on her engagement finger.The player, 24, is said to have whisked Rebecca, 23, away on New Year’s Eve for a romantic trip to Paris.Phil Foden’s childhood sweetheart Rebecca Cooke was spotted with a huge diamond ring on her engagement fingerCredit: SplashFoden is said to have whisked Rebecca away on New Year’s Eve for a romantic trip to ParisCredit: InstagramShe was wearing it in January when she and Phil headed into Manchester city centreCredit: BackGridAnd Rebecca has been wearing a huge diamond ring ever since.She was wearing it in January when she and Phil headed into Manchester city centre for a birthday party at the Shisha Lounge.And she wore it again when she attended fellow WAG Tanya Bardsley’s Mental Mummies event at Mottram Hall in Cheshire last week.Phil and Rebecca have been childhood sweethearts since their teenage years after meeting at a party and are now parents to three children.Read More on SportPhil flew back from the Euros to be at Rebecca’s side in the delivery room in June for their third child’s birth.Our source said. “The pair of them have been together since they were young and their family and friends have been expecting them to get engaged for a while.“The time seemed right for Phil to pop the question. He took her away to Paris for New Year’s Eve and when they came back Rebecca had a sparkling diamond ring on her engagement finger.“The ring is absolutely huge. It’s a massive diamond. She loves it and she’s very proud of wearing it although she hasn’t announced anything about it.Most read in Football“But all the wags know and all the players know in Manchester about the ring and everybody is looking forward to maybe an announcement soon that something has happened, maybe an engagement.“It would certainly be a massive wedding full of footballers and celebrities and Wags.Manchester City’s Phil Foden shuns posh holiday for £100 tent at a £14-a-day fishing lake in the Cotswolds“Rebecca loves a party and has hosted some amazing baby showers.”Phil became the youngest player to win six league titles when he helped Manchester City clinch their fourth consecutive Premier League last season.His growing wealth and status as one of the best young footballers in the world has transformed the fortunes of his entire family and he even bought a £3million, six-bed house in the north-west for his parents.The house is close to where he lives with Rebecca.The £11million-a-year star loves spoiling his family and at Christmas he bought his eldest son Ronnie a custom-built mini Mercedes G-Wagon.The electric Christmas gifts are modelled on the Man City star’s own £200,000 car.We approached the couple for comment.Phil flew back from the Euros to be at Rebecca’s side in the delivery room in June for their third child’s birth.Credit: Getty More