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      Roy Keane wins prestigious award immediately after ITV pundit appearance for England’s win over Latvia

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      ROY KEANE has been named Pundit of the Year at the Sports Journalists’ Association Awards. The Manchester United legend won the gong just hours after going live on ITV for England’s game with Latvia. Roy Keane has scooped Pundit of the Year at the Sports Journalists Association awardsCredit: ITV SportThe 53-year-old is a regular on both ITV and Sky SportsCredit: AlamyKeane joined colleagues Mark Pougatch and Ian Wright to discuss the Three Lions’ 3-0 win at the Home of Football on Monday.The 53-year-old – who also appears on Sky Sports – is known for his fiery on-air punditry and refusal to back down from a debate. SJA’s Pundit of the Year award was chosen this year by a members’ vote.Wright, Ally McCoist, Emma Hayes, Michael Holding, Gary Neville and Osi Umenyiora have previously taken the crown. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKeane won the vote to see off competition from nine other pundits including talkSPORT’s McCoist and Sky’s Jamie Carragher. One fan wrote on X in response: “Congratulations. One of the few pundits left who tells honest opinions based on fact, and doesn’t sugarcoat things.”Another said: “One of the very few proper ones left now.”While a third joked: “That’s his job you don’t congratulate the postman for putting letters through the postbox.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd a fourth added: “One of the few worth listening to. Well deserved, and I’m a Leeds fan.”Kelly Cates, who presents Premier League football for Sky and will soon host Match of the Day, claimed the prize for Presenter of the Year.Roy Keane leaves Ian Wright laughing after ITV pundit’s joke about Thomas Tuchel following England’s win over Latvia While the BBC’s Chris Jones won the award for Best Commentator.Keane was in typically combative form as he analysed Thomas Tuchel’s first two games as England boss on Monday night. The Three Lions were in cruise control at Wembley as they saw off Albania on Friday and Latvia four days later.But Keane wasn’t impressed with what he saw – and believes England should have been more ruthless. The 53-year-old said: “If this was a school report, you’d give him a would be a C+.Roy Keane’s angriest momentsWhat really ticks off Roy Keane?The Irishman is known for his no-nonsense approach to football.And some particular things really do get on Keane’s wick.It all makes for great entertainment for fans, who love the Man United legend’s take on the beautiful game.But is Keane being a bit too sensitive himself?From smiling players to ABBA, nothing is sacred.And we all know about his dislike for a prawn sarnie…Here are the things that really make Roy Keane angry.”I think there’s a lot more to come from him. I think the two games on paper were very easy.”It’s a great start for the manager, but you knew he was going to get the two victories, just look at the 27 shots tonight.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s loads of bits to improve. The end product wasn’t that great but at least the subs came on and had an effect on the game.”But I thought it was OK. It was OK.” More

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      ‘Best 30 seconds of football ever’ – Fans joke Baller League is the ‘future’ as madcap footage of debut night emerges

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      FANS joked that the new Baller League is the “future” after crazy footage from the first day of the tournament emerged.The six-aside competition kicked off on Monday as celebs and former footie stars faced off.Fans were caught off guard by one aspect of the Baller League formatCredit: Sky SportsThe Game Changer section sees players go 1vs1Credit: Sky SportsJohn Terry suffered defeat on the first night of Baller LeagueCredit: PAThe six-aside tournament takes place at the Copper Box arenaCredit: PAFormer pros are taking part alongside some famous managersCredit: PAThere were some extraordinary goals and big moments on show at the Copper Box arena in East London.But one aspect of the Baller League caught fans by surprise – the “Game Changer” format.No matter the score, in the final three minutes of every game the teams get whittled down to 3vs3.But only one player from the group of three takes to the pitch at any one time, meaning it is 1vs1, with every player getting one turn to have a shot and a turn to prevent a goal from going in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever they are forbidden to use their hands when protecting their goals, while goals from long range count as two.Players are subbed in and out once the ball goes out of play, meaning there is constant change and plenty of room for excitement.After watching the unusual format for the first time on Monday fans joked that Baller League could be the next big thing.One fan said sarcastically: “No doubting that this Baller League really is the future of football.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnother added: “Mark my words, its gnaa be the real life Fifa Street 👌🤝”A third wrote: “No way are they doing End-End 😍😍”Fans baffled as Mark Goldbridge ‘chats up Alisha Lehmann’ on Baller League live watchalongFans were also left bemused after seeing internet personality Mark Goldbridge in conversation with Juventus Women’s star Alisha Lehmann, who is a manager in Baller League.In an awkward start to the interview on Sky Sports, Goldbridge said: “We’re going to have to share the microphone. It’s a technical issue.”Lehmann claimed she was delighted with her team’s 5-4 victory in the tournament opener.But the interview had to be cut short as a flustered Goldbridge appeared to forget if MVPs United had won a bonus point.Reacting to the unexpected collab, one confused fan wrote on X: “Mark Goldbridge chatting up Alisha Lehmann on a Monday night wasn’t on my Bingo card.” More

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      Top 15 things fans would do it they could own their club for a day revealed including name a stand after themselves

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      FOOTBALL fans are dreaming of becoming chairman for a day – and have revealed their ultimate wishlist. A poll of 2,000 footie enthusiasts revealed the things they would do if they held all the power at their EFL clubs. Football fans have revealed their biggest priorities – and what they would do if chairman for a dayCredit: GettyThe fan poll saw the majority wanted fairer ticketing for supporters across the EFLCredit: GettyNearly 30 per cent of respondents to the poll believe clubs across the English pyramid could do better when it comes to spending their cash. Player transfers, team kits, and marketing were just some areas fans believe their club invests too much in.While reducing ticket prices for fans and pumping money into youth academies topped the wishlist. Supporters also want teams to offer free tickets to those who can’t afford them, while a cap on players’ wages was equally popular. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd some cheekily claimed they would name a stand after themselves or build a statue if given free rein. Chris Houghton, CEO of Egg, which commissioned the research, said: “We’ve loved hearing what fans would do if they were club owners for a day.”Football plays such a big part in many of our lives.”So it’s no wonder there is so much passion and inspiring ideas about what would make the nation’s favourite teams even better.”Most read in FootballEven if being the owner is a far-off dream, the study found 48 per cent would like to have more of a say in how their club is run.A large part of this would be changing how the money is spent, with fans wanting to see bigger investments in local community initiatives (41 per cent).Todd Boehly gives major Chelsea stadium update and vows to leave Stamford BridgeStadium upgrades were also on the agenda, (34 per cent), as well as the addition of mental health and wellbeing services (33 per cent).And a whopping 78 per cent believe sustainability is important in football and should be prioritised by clubs.It also emerged that fan-focused advisory boards would be an avenue for increasing supporter involvement, with 78 per cent believing more clubs would benefit from this.That model is utilised in Germany, where the 50+1 rule ensures that clubs are majority-owned by their members. Supporters are also eager for a shift towards valuing eco-friendly policies, especially in terms of sponsorship. TOP 15 THINGS FOOTBALL FANS WOULD DO IF THEY COULD BE OWNER FOR A DAY1. Reduce ticket prices2. Put more money behind youth academies3. Offer free tickets to those who can’t afford them4. Put a cap on players’ wages5. Arrange fan and player interactions6. Improve toilet facilities7. Better recycling facilities e.g. dedicated bins for paper, food waste, glass, plastic8. Make the club green with improvements like installing solar panels on the roof of the stadium9. Add live music performances at half time10. Install heated seats in the stadium11. Give more vegetarian and vegan options at the stadium12. Name a stand after myself13. Erect a statue of my favourite player14. Change the kit15. Invest in new players47 per cent said they wouldn’t be happy if their clubs partnered with a fossil fuel company – instead of a green alternative.And if clubs are set on investing in fossil fuels, 61 per cent believe these should be offset by doing more for the environment.This was also reflected in the changes fans would like to see by the year 2030, with 22 per cent dreaming of solar-powered stadiums.While 18 per cent hope for better recycling facilities, and 16 per cent expect to see players travelling more sustainably in the next five years.READ MORE SUN STORIESHoughton added: “This data shows that it isn’t just the scores and wins – every aspect of the club is important to fans, including sustainability.”As more and more of us become aware of the issues affecting the environment and take steps to be more eco-conscious, we also want to see this mindset shared by the players and teams we love so much.” More

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      Man Utd injury boost as Amad Diallo hints at early comeback with cryptic Snapchat post

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been given a potential injury boost after Amad Diallo appeared to hint at an early comeback with a Snapchat post.The 22-year-old had been United’s best player this season until he suffered a setback last month.Amad Diallo has hinted at an early returnCredit: GettyThe ace was initially ruled out for the season with damaged ankle ligamentsCredit: Snapchat/coloelpopoDiallo damaged his ankle ligaments during a training session in mid-February and was ruled out for the rest of the season.It came as a major blow to Ruben Amorim, with Diallo stepping up as United’s best player with nine goals in 36 outings.The whizz had only just signed a new contract too.But Diallo has now given fans a glimmer of hope over his fitness return.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Ivory Coast star showed a picture of himself on Snapchat along with two emojis – an egg timer and a smiley face.It appeared to suggest that Diallo’s recovery is coming along well.But it remains to be seen whether he does indeed return before the end of the campaign.United are in dire need of some inspiration as they sit just 13th in the Premier League table.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAmorim’s men have won just ten of their 29 matches and are seven points off the top half with just nine games to go.Paul Scholes feels like Man Utd are ‘begging’ for money to build new stadium The Red Devils boss revealed there could soon be good news over Diallo’s availability.Amorim said: “Amad we will see in the last month.”I don’t want to say anything but I have the hope to have him before the end of the season.”Let’s talk (about the next game) and we’ll see.” More

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      Millwall launch their own MOBILE NETWORK in British first but confused fans say ‘this isn’t real surely’

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      MILLWALL have become the first club in Britain to launch their own mobile network.The unusual move has caught fans by surprise, with many poking fun in response.Millwall have launched their own mobile networkThe club will offer three packages starting at £10 a monthCredit: GettyMillwall have partnered with shaka to deliver network coverage on Three.Millwall Mobile will have 99.9 per cent coverage and is available from just £10 a month.There are three packages to choose from with normal sims and e-sims available, as well as the option to cancel at any time.The club revealed supporters will be able to receive special discounts and offers with exclusive rewards, but the unique product has left fans confused.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne reacted saying: “This isn’t real. Surely.”Another added: “Is this a simulation?”And another commented: “April Fools is next Tuesday.”Millwall’s Chief Commercial Officer, Luke Wilson, said: “With the advent of eSIMs there are now a number of virtual networks in the UK run by a variety of brands including Supermarkets and Satellite TV providers.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”There are also several football clubs in Europe who have taken advantage of the technology to deliver affordable and rewarding mobile plans to their fans, backed up by the reliability and scale of a main network provider.”We’re delighted to be the first club in the country to bring this model to the UK and to our fans. Fans call for Jose Mourinho to stick to his word with Millwall hunting for new manager “Ahead of the proposed Three/Vodafone merger, we believe our tie up with shaka, a pioneering connectivity provider, will not only mean our fans will have great value, flexible plans that reward their loyalty via the club benefits on offer – but also access to the best network in London. “Not only that, but every plan will be directly supporting their club. Our delivery partner shaka have a wealth of experience in the Telco industry, so we’re excited to now launch the service to our fans alongside them.”Fans will be hoping the new link-up will give them a direct line to the play-offs, with the Lions currently 11th in the Championship, six points behind sixth place West Brom, with six games left. More

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      ‘Obviously learnt that well at Arsenal’ – Roy Keane takes swipe at Gunners live on ITV with Myles Lewis-Skelly analysis

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      ROY KEANE couldn’t resist a cheeky dig at old foes Arsenal as he reviewed Myles Lewis-Skelly’s England impact. The Manchester United legend was on the ITV panel as the Three Lions ran out comfortable winners over Latvia.Roy Keane couldn’t resist an Arsenal dig as he reviewed England’s win over LatviaCredit: X formerly Twitter / @itvfootballArsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly again impressed for the Three LionsCredit: GettyThe Gunners teenager hit the deck in the first half, with Reece James scoring from the resulting freekickCredit: GettyKeane watched on at Wembley as Reece James, Harry Kane and Eberechi Eze sealed a comfortable 3-0 victory. Lewis-Skelly was felled in the first half just outside the box, with James curling a sumptuous freekick into the top corner.But Keane wasn’t convinced the 18-year-old was fouled and hit the deck a little too easily.Watching footage of Lewis-Skelly drop to the ground, Keane quipped: “He’s obviously learnt that well at Arsenal.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLaughing in response, fellow pundit Ian Wright agreed: “You can see he’s taken to get that touch in front [of the defender].Keane added: “He was smart with it, wasn’t he.”Lewis-Skelly made an instant impact on his England debut, netting the opener against Albania last Friday. His Gunners teammate Declan Rice admitted he and his fellow stars had been “taken aback” by the youngster’s confidence on his first call-up.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRice said: “He is fearless. He does everything right off the pitch and he is only 18.”I try to look after him as best I can but I knew he was going to play like that tonight because of the confidence he has. ‘I don’t expect anything’ Roy Keane savages England star after below-par display in Thomas Tuchel’s first game”He has kept his feet on the ground and it is only the start for him.”Keane also gave his verdict on Thomas Tuchel’s opening two games as England boss.The German led the Three Lions to back-to-back victories, with no goals conceded. But Keane believes there is plenty of room for improvement – and England should have won by bigger margins.England ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…He said: “If this was a school report, you’d give him a would be a C+.”I think there’s a lot more to come from him. I think the two games on paper were very easy.”It’s a great start for the manager, but you knew he was going to get the two victories, just look at the 27 shots tonight.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s loads of bits to improve. The end product wasn’t that great but at least the subs came on and had an effect on the game.”But I thought it was OK. It was OK.” More

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      Reece James marks first England start after two and a half years out with injury with Beckham-like goal and MOTM award

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      REECE JAMES played it cool as he barely celebrated scoring his first ever England goal.James was given his first start for the national team in two-and-a-half years – or 910 days – against Latvia by the new England boss Thomas Tuchel.Reece James barely celebrated scoring his first-ever England goalCredit: PAJames, making his first Three Lions start for 2.5 years, scored a sublime free-kick against LatviaCredit: GettyThe free kick from 25 yards out curled above the wallCredit: RexThe ball’s trajectory went very high into the airCredit: ReutersJames was then mobbed by team-mates but he did not cast a smileCredit: ReutersAnd James repaid the faith of his old Chelsea boss by scoring a sensational free-kick from 25 yards out to break the deadlock, becoming the first defender to score at Wembley from a direct free-kick since Stuart Pearce against Turkey in 1992.James made no mistake with his effort as he curled the ball over the wall and into the top right corner of the goal, leaving the goalkeeper gawping in disbelief as it hit the back of the net.However, while many stars may have wheeled off in jubilant celebration, the Chelsea defender simply walked off to the side and did not even threaten to cast a smile.James was mobbed by team-mates with Declan Rice holding a beaming smile with his hand over his shoulder.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans had a mixed reaction to the muted celebration, with one fan saying: “By all standards a great free kick from Reece James And I love his (no) celebration.”A second said: “That Reece James free kick goal and celebration against Latvia, cold.”A third joked: “Reece James. Come for the goal, stay for the celebration.”Another said: “Stunning lack of celebration from Reece James there. We love to see it.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKA fifth said: “Lack of celebration very weird tho…”A sixth added: “Sorry did Reece James used to play for Latvia? No time for that goal with a celebration like that.”Roy Keane was also full of praise for the goal at half-time in ITV’s studio, comparing it to David Beckham.He said: “It was like David Beckham used to do. I plucked Thomas Tuchel out of his job working in a bar in Stuttgart before he became England boss, reveals Man Utd flop”Very difficult to do, to get the angle right, very difficult.”England completed a routine 3-0 win late strikes from Harry Kane and Eberechi Eze gave the scoreline a respectable look.James was voted England’s player of the match for his all-round display, in what was just his 18th cap for his country.His stats show he made 97 passes, and 96 were completed to a team mate.His career has been undermined by a string of injuries, since his last start for England in September 2022 in a 3-3 draw with Germany.James much of last season after undergoing hamstring surgery, which was designed to help him overcome a series of injuries.He has been eased back gently into the Chelsea first team by boss Enzo Maresca since recovering from his most recent hamstring injury.The 25-year-old later explained his muted reaction to the goal.Speaking to ITV James said: “It has been a long time, I have had a frustrating two years.”I’m so happy to be called up by my country again. I saw the wall and felt I could bend it round. I was a bit surprised it hit the net.”I thought the keeper could have maybe got there but looking at the replay it was probably tough.”Thomas Tuchel’s ideas are clear. We have one objective and that starts this week right up until the World Cup.”Tuchel was delighted for James and hopes he can play a big part in his World Cup campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIESTuchel said: “I know Reecey and I know the quality that the boy has is amazing.”He has every right to be proud and happy and satisfied with his performance.” More