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      Alan Pardew’s career since Wembley dance, from quitting CSKA Sofia over racism storm to bizarre spell in Greece

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      MANCHESTER UNITED won the 2016 FA Cup final courtesy of Jesse Lingard’s extra time goal.But despite Lingard’s heroics, the match is best remembered for then-Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew’s infamous touchline jig.Alan Pardew performed an infamous dance on the Wembley touchlineCredit: BBCBoyhood Palace fan Jason Puncheon fired his side into the lead in 2016Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdBoyhood Palace fan Jason Puncheon sent the Eagles faithful at Wembley into delirium by belting the ball beyond David de Gea on 78 minutes.Celebrating Puncheon’s goal, Pardew turned towards his bench wearing a huge grin.In a moment that would go down in FA Cup folklore, the former Newcastle boss performed the most outrageous example of dad dancing that Wembley Stadium has ever seen.Unfortunately for Pards and Co, Juan Mata equalised barely three minutes later – with Lingard breaking their hearts in extra time.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPardew’s Palace reign never recovered, and he was duly sacked in December of the same year, following a run of just six wins in 36 matches.After 11 months out of the game, Pards was back in the Prem – parachuted into West Brom to replace fellow former Palace boss Tony Pulis.There was nothing for him to dance about at the Hawthorns as he didn’t even see out the season – winning just three of his 21 games in charge on the way to the Baggies’ relegation. Ouch.Pardew’s next adventure saw him take on another relegation battle, this time in the Eredivisie with ADO Den Haag.Most read in FA CupBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKPardew parties in Ibiza in 2015Credit: InstagramThe Hague side looked doomed with Pards having only won once in eight matches… only for the Covid pandemic to see the season KO’d, thus saving them from the drop.ADO Den Haag’s outgoing boss was reportedly due a £100,000 bonus for avoiding relegation, even having been spared by the season being scrapped.Diehard Crystal Palace fan with arm in sling goes viral after using his HEAD to clap FA Cup heroes at WembleyUpon leaving, Pardew insisted: “If I was formally entitled to an amount I would never want to receive it. In this difficult period I would always return any bonus to the club, which will certainly find a good destination for it.”Pardew’s next job saw him take on an advisory role with Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia in November 2020.Eighteen months later he stepped into the CSKA dugout.His spell in charge ended in June 2022, when he resigned after a section of racist CSKA fans threw bananas at their own team’s black players.Per Sky Sports, Pardew was “angered and upset” by the incident – and in a subsequent statement he said: “The events before and after the match against Botev Plovdiv were unacceptable not only for me, but also for my assistant Alex Dyer and for my players. Our players decided to play out of loyalty towards the club.”This small group of organised racist fans, who tried to sabotage the game, are not the fans I want to coach the team in front of. That’s definitely not the right way for CSKA because such club deserves a lot more.”Pardew joined West Brom after leaving PalaceCredit: AFPPards headed to The Hague alongside Chris PowellCredit: GettyPardew managed CSKA Sofia in BulgariaCredit: GettyPardew’s most-recent managerial role took him to Greece, where he would win nine of his 22 games in charge of Aris Thessaloniki prior to his February 2023 exit.Since his last managerial job, Pardew has shifted into punditry.He co-hosts a show on talkSPORT on Sunday nights alongside DJ Mastestic, and he could recently be seen starring in a Paddy Power advert alongside the likes of Joe Cole and Glenn Hoddle.While Pardew can be found on the radio these days, he will not be seen at Wembley during his former club’s FA Cup final… because he doesn’t want memories of his dad dancing to overshadow yet another final.The 63-year-old said: “I told Steve (Parish) that this team deserves so much credit.”The problem with 2016 is that the team didn’t get enough. Every time it comes up in conversation, my dance comes up with it.”And I don’t want there to be even the slightest chance of that happening this time.“I don’t mind talking about it. It was just an off-the-cuff reaction to a goal. No shame. But this cup final should be about this Palace team.Read More on The Sun“I’ve told Steve that if they win, I will celebrate with him at the Wolves game next Tuesday instead.”But I’ll be watching from home for sure.”Pardew recently starred in a Paddy Power advertThe former Palace boss also has a show on talkSPORTCredit: https://twitter.com/talkSPORT More

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      Have Crystal Palace ever won a trophy? Major honours and European qualification explained

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      CRYSTAL PALACE are taking on Manchester City in a stunning FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium!The Eagles headed into the match on the back of a mixed season in the league, but have ended the campaign in good form.Ian Wright playing in 1990 FA Cup final for Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyPalace boss Oliver Glasner has had a huge impact on the side since his arrival at Selhurst Park in February 2024.Glasner said ahead of the FA Cup final: “I’m very pleased. Not just with the improvements, but I think with the environment we have created here at the training ground and also in the club.”We are very ambitious, everyone is working very hard to progress, and this is the main reason why we are where we are now at the end of the season.FA CUP FINAL LIVE – LATEST UPDATES”We are really settled in mid-table and looking at the teams in front of us more than looking at the teams who are behind us.”We are also playing the FA Cup final and very pleased with what has happened in the last 15-16 months.”Have Crystal Palace ever won a trophy?Crystal Palace won the Second Division twice in their history – in 1979 and in 1994.They have also been promoted via the playoffs four times – 1989, 1997, 2004 and in 2013.Most read in FA CupHowever, what is considered a top-flight honour has eluded the club so far.While the club have now reached three FA Cup finals, including taking Manchester United to a replay in 1990.United won 1-0 in the replay after the original clash ended in a 3-3 draw.Before their final in 2025, the last time Palace were in an FA Cup final was in 2016.Palace also played United that day, but lost 2-1 after extra-time in a match famed for manager Alan Pardew’s dance with the side 1-0 up.Winning the FA Cup today will send The Eagles into the Europe. The last and only time they played in Europe was the 1998 UEFA Intertoto Cup, but were knocked out in the third round to Turkish side Samsunspor. More

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      ‘Most beautiful woman’ – Dele Alli’s girlfriend Cindy sets pulses racing in barely-there bikini leaving fans stunned

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      DELE ALLI’s recent move to Como has sparked his relationship with Cindy Kimberly back into the spotlight. Dele, who was signed by the Italian club in January following a successful trial, has only played eight minutes with the Cesc Fabregas-led side – but has seen his relationship with Cindy blossom.Dele Alli and Cindy Kimberly have enjoyed a fruitful relationship so farCredit: InstagramKimberly has teased the release of her new swimwear on her InstagramCredit: LOBAKimberly crafted the brand LOBAwomanCredit: LOBAKimberly has a strong presence on InstagramCredit: LOBAThe pair have been dating since June 2022.Cindy, who currently works as a model and influencer and is signed to Uno models, has sent fans of her work into a frenzy with her recent Instagram post. The 26-year-old with Spanish-Indonesian descent posed in a bikini as she promoted her new line of swimwear for her clothing brand LOBAwoman – which is the Spanish term for she-wolf.Cindy, who boasts a whopping 7.1MILLION followers on Instagram, donned a brown set for a collection of photos. READ MORE IN SPORT”Our first swim comes out tuesday 🐚 @lobawoman,” she captioned the reel of six-snaps. Fans seemed to be in awe of the release as they they flooded to the comments section to shower her with compliments.One wrote: “Girlll I’m so proud of u over 5 years I have followed u and see u grow!!!”Another said: “She’s just so beautiful I wanna be you when I grow up gosh.Most read in SportA third wrote: “You always make my day.” Another posted: “My jaw dropped to oblivion.”And a fifth shared: “What a preciousness pleaseeeee.”The brown set has been shown to her millions of followersCredit: LOBACindy showed revealing snapsCredit: LOBACindy’s photos were met with thousands of comments and likesCredit: LOBACindy has been in regular attendance at Como gamesCredit: Instagram / wolfiecindyDele and Cindy have matching tattoo’s as their relationship continues to blossomCindy’s photos amassed over 92,000 likes in the space of a couple of hours. The LOBAwoman brand has grown since it debuted exclusively online at REVOLVE.COM on May 2023, with the Instagram account growing to over 73k thanks to Cindy’s reach. The multi-tasked individual has been seen featured alongside Dele at Como games also stunning on the Italian shores. More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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