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      Which teams have the most favourable fixtures this December?

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      CHRISTMAS is a time for friends, family and football.The games come thick and fast throughout the festive period and Dream Team managers will need to have their wits about them if they are to come out the other side with an improved rank.The festive period is a crucial juncture in the Dream Team calendarCredit: Dream TeamMany gaffers like to take each Gameweek as it comes but it’s often beneficial to plan further ahead.With that in mind, let’s analyse each Premier League team’s fixtures between Gameweeks 13 and 17 – some teams will play NINE games during this crucial period.LIVERPOOLManchester City (h)Newcastle (a)Everton (a)Girona (a)Fulham (h)Southampton (a)Tottenham (a)Leicester (h)West Ham (a)Everything’s coming up roses for the Reds right now.Arne Slot’s side are top of the league and well on course for safe passage through to the Champions League round of 16.And it’s a great time to play Man City with the defending champions in the midst of a rare crisis.No fewer than five Anfield residents have achieved 100+ points to date – they’re flying.Most read in FootballMANCHESTER CITYLiverpool (a)Nottingham Forest (h)Crystal Palace (a)Juventus (a)Manchester United (h)Aston Villa (a)Everton (h)Leicester (a)Pep Guardiola’s winless run has extended to six games in all competitions and so it has to be considered a terrible time to visit Anfield.Erling Haaland (£8.6m) addressed his minor blip with a brace against Feyenoord but points have severely dried up for the likes of Rico Lewis (£3.4m) and Josko Gvardiol (£4.6m).Dream Team’s transfer activity suggests many gaffers have lost patience with City assets… at least for the time being.Guardiola has problems to solveCHELSEAAston Villa (h)Southampton (a)Tottenham (a)Astana (a)Brentford (h)Shamrock Rovers (h)Everton (a)Fulham (h)Ipswich (a)The Blues are one of five teams with nine fixtures to fulfil from this weekend until New Year’s Day.However, Enzo Maresca has made extensive use of rotation in the Conference League so it’s likely to be Christopher Nkunku (£4.5m), Joao Felix (£4.4m) and Mykhailo Mudryk (£3.1m) who cash in against Astana and Shamrock Rovers.Those three league games at the end of the month could be profitable for Cole Palmer (£6m) backers if Chelsea’s talisman is in the mood.ARSENALWest Ham (a)Manchester United (h)Fulham (a)Monaco (h)Everton (h)Crystal Palace (h)Crystal Palace (a)Ipswich (h)Brentford (a)The Gunners won’t be leaving London until 2025 and one suspects minimal travel time will be an advantage when the schedule gets hectic.A double header against the Eagles has to be considered a stroke of luck (facilitated by the Carabao Cup quarter-final draw) given Oliver Glasner’s men are currently languishing 19th in the table.Bukayo Saka (£6.4m) could well be a must-have asset for December as ninth-placed Fulham is his toughest domestic opponent according to the league table.EssentialCredit: RexBRIGHTONSouthampton (h)Fulham (a)Leicester (a)Crystal Palace (h)West Ham (a)Brentford (h)Aston Villa (a)Just the seven games for the Seagulls but a string of bottom-half opponents (and Fulham) until the end of Gameweek 16 appears ripe with potential.Joao Pedro (£4.1m) averages 8.7 points-per-game at the time of writing, a rate only bettered by Haaland and Mohamed Salah (£7.4m) among forwards.Kaoru Mitoma (£3.7m) and Georginio Rutter (£3.4m) might prove to be smart differential midfielders.TOTTENHAMFulham (h)Bournemouth (a)Chelsea (h)Rangers (a)Southampton (a)Manchester United (h)Liverpool (h)Nottingham Forest (a)Wolves (h)There’s almost no point looking at Spurs’ schedule because their inconsistency defies the form table; as typified by their mighty 4-0 win over Man City in the wake of their defeat to Ipswich.Son Heung-min (£5.3m) and company will be busy boys in the coming Gameweeks though with plenty of points on offer.As well as the skipper, Pedro Porro (£4.4m), Dejan Kulusevski (£3m), Brennan Johnson (£3.7m), James Maddison (£4.5m) and Dominic Solanke (£4.3m) are all perfectly viable options.Plus, Fraser Forster (£1.8m) is a potential bargain while Guglielmo Vicario (£3.1m) recovers from a fractured ankle.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWNOTTINGHAM FORESTIpswich (h)Manchester City (a)Manchester United (a)Aston Villa (h)Brentford (a)Tottenham (h)Everton (a)After a flying start to the campaign, consecutive losses to Newcastle and Arsenal either side of the international break have come as a reality check for Forest.Chris Wood’s (£3.8m) owners will be hopeful of healthy returns at home to the Tractor Boys this weekend but the schedule takes a nasty turn from Gameweek 14.ASTON VILLAChelsea (a)Brentford (h)Southampton (h)RB Leipzig (a)Nottingham Forest (a)Manchester City (h)Newcastle (a)Brighton (h)In complete contrast to last season, the Villains have earned more league points away from home this time around.Unai Emery’s men are in a bad moment right now having gone seven games without a win in all competitions.Emi Martinez (£3.9m), Ollie Watkins (£5.3m), Lucas Digne (£3.5m) and Morgan Rogers (£2.8m) are all popular selections in the realm of Dream Team but gaffers will need to see an upturn from Villa sooner rather than later.Villa’s form has fallen away in recent weeksCredit: ReutersFULHAMTottenham (a)Brighton (h)Arsenal (h)Liverpool (a)Southampton (h)Chelsea (a)Bournemouth (h)The West Londoners have enjoyed a positive start to the campaign but their next four opponents are all within the top six of the table – a tough test.Fulham will be desperate to get one over their local rivals on Boxing Day but their record against Chelsea is miserable – they haven’t won at Stamford Bridge since 1979!NEWCASTLECrystal Palace (a)Liverpool (h)Brentford (a)Leicester (h)Brentford (h)Ipswich (a)Aston Villa (h)Manchester United (a)Gaffers keen on backing Alexander Isak (£5.4m), an understandable inclination, might want to target the Magpies’ fixtures in Gameweeks 15 and 16 (Leicester, Brentford, Ipswich and Villa).Eddie Howe’s side looked to be heading the right direction after wins over Chelsea, Arsenal and Forest but an unexpected defeat to West Ham on Monday night has slowed their momentum.Truth be told, Newcastle games have been a tad light on Dream Team points this season.Always a tempting optionCredit: GettyBRENTFORDLeicester (h)Aston Villa (a)Newcastle (h)Chelsea (a)Newcastle (a)Nottingham Forest (h)Brighton (a)Arsenal (h)The Bees boast the best home record in the top flight but the second-worst away record.Given the nature of their away fixtures in December, their problems on the road could extend until the new year.That being said, Bryan Mbeumo (£4.3m) is a decent midfield option for Gameweek 13 – the Cameroon star averages 8.1 points-per-game this season.MANCHESTER UNITEDEverton (h)Arsenal (a)Nottingham Forest (h)Viktoria Plzen (a)Manchester City (a)Tottenham (a)Bournemouth (h)Wolves (a)Newcastle (h)The last of our teams with nine fixtures to fulfil.A match-up with the Toffees represents a relatively favourable first league game at Old Trafford for Ruben Amorim but the Portuguese tactician faces some tough tests in December.A trip to Czechia in the Europa League might provide some relief before a tricky Gameweek 15 (Man City and Spurs) but if the Red Devils come through relatively unscathed there could be healthy returns up for grabs against the Cherries and Wolves.Bruno Fernandes (£6.4m), Alejandro Garnacho (£4.2m), Noussair Mazraoui (£4.1m) and Diogo Dalot (£4m) have all provided their fair share of points across the first 12 Gameweeks of the season.Can Amorim get a tune out of Man United in the coming weeks?Credit: APBOURNEMOUTHWolves (a)Tottenham (h)Ipswich (a)West Ham (h)Manchester United (a)Crystal Palace (h)Fulham (a)Antoine Semenyo (£2.9m) is the only player in the squad to make any waves in Dream Team so far and he’s suspended for this weekend’s trip to Molineux.And with just seven games for the Cherries, let’s move on…WEST HAMArsenal (h)Leicester (a)Wolves (h)Bournemouth (a)Brighton (h)Southampton (a)Liverpool (h)The Hammers have just seven fixtures with testing match-ups bookending this run but a few Dream Team managers may feel Jarrod Bowen (£5.3m) is worth a whirl at some stage.The England international has amassed 105 points at an average of 7.5 per outing via four goals and four assists.Bowen has almost twice as many points as West Ham’s next best performers, Mohammed Kudus (£5.1m) and Aaron Wan-Bissaka (£3.3m), who are level on 56 each.A reliable performerCredit: PAEVERTONManchester United (a)Wolves (h)Liverpool (h)Arsenal (a)Chelsea (h)Manchester City (a)Nottingham Forest (h)There’s no sugarcoating the Toffees’ December; it’s a brutal run.Dwight McNeil (£3.7m) has impressed this season but gaffers should probably stay well clear of all Everton assets in the run-up to New Year’s Day.LEICESTERBrentford (a)West Ham (h)Brighton (h)Newcastle (a)Wolves (h)Liverpool (a)Manchester City (h)The Foxes are in desperate need of a new manager bounce and they’ll probably need to get their points early in December as they face an extremely taxing end to the month.WOLVESBournemouth (h)Everton (a)West Ham (a)Ipswich (h)Leicester (a)Manchester United (h)Tottenham (a)Wolves are a tad light without European fixtures or a Carabao Cup quarter-final but six consecutive bottom-half opponents could yield plenty of points for Matheus Cunha (£4.8m).Gary O’Neil’s star player averages 8.3 points-per-game this season and is in particular strong form right now having banked over 50 points in his last four appearances.A strong wildcardCredit: RexIPSWICHNottingham Forest (a)Crystal Palace (h)Bournemouth (h)Wolves (a)Newcastle (h)Arsenal (a)Chelsea (h)Liam Delap (£2.4m) is the only Tractor Boy with an ownership above 0.3% and that’s unlikely to change any time soon, despite Kieran McKenna’s admirable efforts in Suffolk.CRYSTAL PALACENewcastle (h)Ipswich (a)Manchester City (h)Brighton (a)Arsenal (a)Arsenal (h)Bournemouth (a)Southampton (h)The Carabao Cup draw has cruelly given the Eagles a double header against the Gunners but at least they have eight fixtures, one more than nine other clubs.Palace have found it hard going this season but Eberechi Eze (£5m) is player to keep an eye on as he tends to collect Dream Team points for fun when fit – he’s due back from injury any day now.Palace need Eze back sooner rather than laterCredit: GettySOUTHAMPTONBrighton (a)Chelsea (h)Aston Villa (a)Tottenham (h)Liverpool (h)Fulham (a)West Ham (h)Crystal Palace (a)With all due respect to Saints, there aren’t many Dream Team bosses out there keen on a club rooted to the bottom of the table.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir next six opponents are all top-half clubs too – it could get messy for Russell Martin and his troops.Target the right fixtures with the right players and you will surge up the leaderboard this Christmas!BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Frank Lampard CONFIRMED as Coventry manager as Chelsea legend returns to management after 18 months unemployed

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      FRANK LAMPARD has been announced as the new manager of Coventry City.The Championship outfit have announced that the former Chelsea, Everton and Derby County boss will take over at the club.Frank Lampard has been announced as the new Coventry City managerCredit: GettyLampard has penned a two-and-a-half year deal with the Sky Blues, who currently sit 17th in the Championship.A statement from the club read: “Coventry City are delighted to announce the appointment of Frank Lampard as the Club’s new Head Coach.”The 46-year-old has signed a two and a half year contract with the Sky Blues and will take charge of City for the first time this Saturday against Cardiff City at the Coventry Building Society Arena.”Frank will be supported by two new coaches, Joe Edwards and Chris Jones, who he has worked with extensively previously.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Lampard has enjoyed an illustrious career in football, both on and off the pitch.”While Coventry owner and Executive Chairman Doug King said: “I am delighted that Frank Lampard has agreed to join our club as Head Coach.”Frank cut his teeth in the Championship and knows what is needed in this League to be successful.“His experiences thereafter at Chelsea and Everton will ensure he brings to our talented squad clear understanding of exactly what is needed to succeed at the very top level that we as a Club are striving to reach.” Most read in FootballFrank Lampard’s managerial recordHere’s a look at Lampard’s record as a manager…Derby County May 2018 – July 2019P57 W24 D17 L16 Win percentage 42.1%Chelsea July 2019 – January 2021P84 W44 D17 L23 Win percentage 52.4%Everton January 2022 – January 2023P44 W12 D17 L24 Win percentage 27.3%Chelsea (caretaker) April 2023 – May 2023P11 W1 D2 L8 Win percentage 9.1%Overall: P288 W132 D72 L16 Win Percentage 45.83%FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLampard is set to sit down in front of the press himself this afternoon.Lampard, 46, last held a job in management in June 2023, when he spent two months as Chelsea’s interim boss.I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’Taking charge of just 11 games, Lampard managed to guide the Blues to only one victory.The unsuccessful interim period came after Lampard had spent a season and a half in charge of his former club between 2019 and 2021, securing a top four Prem finish and making it to the FA Cup final.The former England international also managed Everton between 2022 and 2023 where he helped keep the Toffees afloat in the Premier League.While he began his managerial career in the Championship with Derby County where he narrowly missed out on promotion to the top flight before earning his first move to Chelsea.Lampard’s first game will come on Saturday as Coventry host Cardiff City at the Coventry Building Society Arena.And fans have welcomed him to the club online, getting behind the Premier League hero already.One said: “Time to get behind him now. Super Frank’s Sky Blue Army.”A second wrote: “Always been better than Gerrard.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA third commented: “Finally! Get in there.”And a fourth said: “Welcome Frank! Time to kick on, and write a new chapter.”Lampard started his managerial career as Derby County boss in the ChampionshipCredit: PA:Press AssociationLampard’s appointment is a kick in the teeth to Coventry faithful – fan’s viewBy Alex JohnsonIt was always going to be tough to fill the boots of a club legend like Mark Robins, a manager who provided many Sky Blues’ with their best-ever memories supporting the club, but the arrival of Frank Lampard has gone down like a lead balloon among the Cov faithful.In his Q&A appearance with fans after firing Robins, owner Doug King emphasised his intention to bring in a tactically minded head coach to get the best out of what is the most expensively assembled squad in Coventry City history.To end up with Lampard, whose former assistant Jody Morris received a lot of the credit for his success at Derby County, feels like a kick in the teeth. This isn’t someone who has won league titles or been praised for his brilliant style of football in the slightest.Coventry fans will get behind Lampard and give him a chance. But to suggest he is an upgrade on Mark Robins after one playoff finish and a 9.1% win percentage in his last job is laughable. More

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      Jude Bellingham waits outside Liverpool dressing room to get bestie Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shirt off Gravenberch

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM went to extreme lengths to make sure to make sure he got bestie Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shirt.The England team-mates put their friendship to the side on Wednesday night as Real Madrid travelled to Anfield to take on Liverpool for their Champions League clash.Jude Bellingham wanted outside Liverpool’s dressing room after their Champions League clash with Real MadridCredit: TNT SPORTSHe seemingly asked Kop star Ryan Gravenberch to get Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shirtCredit: TNT SPORTSMidfielder Gravenberch returned with the top a few moments later and passed it over to BellinghamCredit: TNT SPORTSAnd Bellingham wanted to commemorate the moment by getting his buddy’s matchday shirt, so much so that he waited outside Liverpool’s dressing room after the final whistle.Footage has emerged of the superstar twiddling his thumbs as he waited outside the Reds’ changing room with two Real youngsters.He ended up having a brief conversation with Kop star Ryan Gravenberch, who returned a few moments later to give him Trent’s shirt.Footie fans were quick to comment on the viral clip, with one saying: “Wow this love.”READ MORE ON LIVERPOOLAnother said: “Bro really waited for Trent’s shirt. I know who my GOAT is.”And another said: “Everyone wants Trent’s shirt.”One remarked: “Love this.”Another chimed in: “Jude and Trent have been mates in the England camp. It’s not that deep.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLiverpool ran out 2-0 winners over the defending Champions League holdersCredit: GETTYThe Reds ran out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo.Kop chief Arne Slot said of the victory: “I think it’s always good to win a game.Liverpool boss Arne Slot gives update on Trent injury “And especially a big game like this because you know you face so many quality players.”For me, it would even mean more if we go into the later stages of the tournament because this is such a strange.”And [a] different set-up in the Champions League that it’s difficult to judge how important these wins are.”If we arrive in the last 16 or the quarter-finals or wherever we can arrive to and we face them again and then we are able to beat them.”That would be maybe a bigger statement than this.”But we are definitely happy with the win, let that be clear.” More

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      Chelsea wonderkid locked in contract stand-off spotted in first-team training ahead of Heidenheim clash

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      CHELSEA wonderkid Josh Acheampong has returned to training with the Blues ahead of their Conference League clash with Heidenheim.Acheampong had previously been frozen out of training amid an intense contract stand-off.Josh Acheampong is locked in contract talks with ChelseaCredit: GettyThe defender (second from left) has returned to training after being frozen out amid the negotiationsThe 18-year-old right-back is highly rated in SW6 but has made just two substitute appearances for the first team so far, with only one of them coming under Enzo Maresca.His current deal expires in 2026 and reports have suggested that Chelsea have opened talks over an extension to secure his long-term future.Acheampong is understood to be the third choice right-back at Chelsea, behind Reece James and Malo Gusto.But fans of his were left frustrated when he wasn’t even included in the matchday squad for games against Bournemouth and West Ham when neither James or Gusto were available earlier in the season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHowever, it looks as though the teenager could be part of the squad again soon after he was spotted in training ahead of the Blues’ European tie against Heidenheim.Reece James remains injured for Chelsea meaning there is a spot that Acheampong could fill for Maresca’s side.Acheampong is listed in Chelsea’s B-list for the Conference League, meaning he is eligible to play in the competition despite not being named in the A-list squad.However, he wasn’t included in the travelling squad posted on Chelsea’s social media accounts yesterday.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans were buoyed by Acheampong’s return to training, feeling it could be a sign he has renewed his terms with the club.But Maresca was quick to throw water on the rumours by explaining in his post-match press conference that wasn’t the case.Chelsea legend John Terry reveals moment that ‘broke me’ three days after Champions League final penalty slip vs Man UtdHe said: “There is not any update in terms of contract or these kind of things. “He had a session with us in the last two days with some of the young players. He is not in the squad for tomorrow and we have four or five from the second team with us.”Acheampong hasn’t played for the U21s since September and has been short on game time since talks over a new deal stalled.The England U20 international is rumoured to be locked in talks over an extension with Chelsea said to have made tentative progress in the negotiations.Acheampong is considered as a top talent and has been linked with a move away to the likes of Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.Chelsea are understood to be keen not to sell their rising star with clubs circling ahead of the January transfer window.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe versatile defender could follow in the footsteps of other highly-rated full-backs that have left Stamford Bridge in pursuit of regular minutes.Both Tariq Lamptey and Tino Livramento took the leap to leave Chelsea and kickstart their careers elsewhere. More

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      Moment blunt Liverpool boss Arne Slot embarrasses reporter with very obvious fact after Ryan Gravenberch question

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      ARNE SLOT left a reporter embarrassed with an obvious fact about Ryan Gravenberch.The incident occurred after Liverpool secured an impressive 2-0 win over holders Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage.Arne Slot embarrassed a journalist over a question about Ryan GravenberchCredit: YouTubeThe Dutch midfielder starred in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Real MadridCredit: GettyA thriller at Anfield saw both sides miss penalties.But it was the Reds who emerged victorious thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo.There were impressive performances all over the pitch from Liverpool.Yet it was in midfield where the game was won.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDeployed in a deep solo role, Gravenberch helped his side control the tempo while dominating Real Madrid trio Luka Modric, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham.The Dutchman’s top show was his latest this season, having become a key player under new boss Slot.But one reporter was left red-faced when asking Liverpool’s manager a question about Gravenberch.Slot was asked at his post-match press conference whether the Reds’ classy playmaker could be the next Toni Kroos.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe ex-Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Germany star retired after the Euros with seven league titles, six Champions Leagues and a World Cup.Unfortunately for the reporter though, Slot responded with an obvious fact.Liverpool boss Arne Slot gives update on Trent injury The gaffer said: “No, because he (Gravenberch) is Dutch, not German.”Gravenberch is in his second season at Liverpool following a £33million move from Bayern Munich in 2023.He struggled to impress under Jurgen Klopp last term despite clocking up 38 appearances in all competitions.But Gravenberch looks a different player in Slot’s possession-focused side, already featuring in 17 matches.And his dad Ryan Snr reckons Liverpool’s new manager is the exact reason why Gravenberch is playing so well.He said: “We are God-believing people, and we think God sent Arne to us and to Liverpool.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Obviously he’s Dutch so when he explains something to Ryan, he can understand it very clearly. He communicates superbly.“The main thing he’s said to Ryan is: ‘I’m going to play you and so it is on you to maintain playing.’ He was very clear about that and that has worked for both sides.” More

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      Brighton vs Southampton: Get £60 in football free bets and bonuses with William Hill

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      THE Premier League weekend kicks off with a south coast battle on Friday night when Brighton host Southampton.And brand new William Hill customers who register an account and stake a tenner on the game will be rewarded with a colossal £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereBrighton vs Southampton: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*How to claim..William Hill £60 bonusVisit the William Hill website on your mobile device HERE*Register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60Place a bet of at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greaterAfter settlement – win or lose – William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonusesWilliam Hill: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Brighton vs Southampton: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Not got a William Hill account? No problem!It’s really easy to register an account and you can get your hands on that generous £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on the footy!Simply register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60After that, stake at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greater.After settlement — win or lose — William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football and in the casino!Brighton vs Southampton: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Remember 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 – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply. More

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      Awkward moment John McGinn gets ‘pied’ by young mascot as cheeky snub caught live on air

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      HE’s a hero to the Tartan Army and Aston Villa’s main man.But one young mascot had absolutely no time for John McGinn as she SNUBBED a pre-match high-five from the midfield star.John McGinn made his way down the tunnel high-fiving the mascotsEach of the youngsters enthusiastically high-fived him backUntil one fan decided she was having none of itThe Scotland ace played 90 minutes last night as Aston Villa drew 0-0- with Juventus at Villa Park in their Champions League encounter.But prior to kick-off he was given a slice of humble pie by a cheeky young supporter.In his role as Villa captain, McGinn is given the responsibly of leading the mascots out of the tunnel and onto the pitch before the game.Often, he (and many other captains) will take some time to meet and greet the young fans.This could be in the form of a high-five, a hug or a brief pep talk.Last night at Villa Park, McGinn was spotted by the TV cameras working his way through the line of mascots wand giving each of them a high-five.All was going well until he reached the girl who was second from the front of the line.As McGinn raised up his hand expecting her to return the favour, he was met with nothing but a stare.Most read in FootballThe Villa skipper kept his hand up for a short moment and could be seen saying “No?” with a smile, before he took the hint and moved on.He then took a few seconds to have a quick chat with the mascot at the front of the queue, who gave him a bit of street cred back by returning his high-five.His focus then turns to the referee, who approaches him to start speaking about the game itself.On presenting duty for TNT Sports, Reshmin Chowdury laughed over the footage: “That little girl has just pied John McGinn.”Most fans on social media saw the funny side of the incident.As this punter said: “McGinn’s poker face didn’t stand a chance… mascot 1, McGinn 0. Sometimes you just have to take the pie and the L with a smile.”McGinn was hilariously pied by the young fanBut he laughed it off and got another high-five seconds laterKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Ricky Gervais pokes fun at Roy Keane with 14-word post after Man Utd legend ‘offered out’ fan to car park

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      RICKY GERVAIS poked fun at Roy Keane with a 14-word post after the Manchester United legend “offered out” a fan to a car park.Keane clashed with an Ipswich supporter after seeing his old side draw 1-1 at Portman Road on Sunday.Ricky Gervais has poked fun at Roy Keane after his clash with an Ipswich fanCredit: InstagramKeane ‘offered out’ the fan to a car park after Man Utd’s 1-1 draw at Portman RoadCredit: https://x.com/adenLFC4lifeThe Irishman was working as a pundit for Sky Sports when the incident occurred.An irate home fan gave Keane a peace of his mind following the ex-midfielder’s beleaguered time as Ipswich boss 15 years ago.This saw Keane confront the supporter before saying: “I’ll wait for you in the car park.”And comedian Gervais could not resist poking fun at United’s former captain on social media.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe creator of TV hits like The Office and Extras was revealed as the guest on the next episode of The Overlap.Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher sparked Gervais’ Keane quip by saying: “Bloody loves football.”Gervais responded: “I’m just glad Roy didn’t want to chat to me in the car park.”This saw fans react in delight, with one saying: “The crossover we all wanted.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnother declared: “Can’t wait to watch this.”One noted: “Challenge him to shoe throwing.” ‘If he wants to pay’- Roy Keane accepts Ruben Amorim’s offer to meet Man Utd legend live on TVMan Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5Another added: “Did you enjoy the interview Ricky? Not at all, to some extent, very much so, don’t know.”Meanwhile, the Ipswich supporter had his say on the incident with Keane on Facebook.Neil Finbow wrote: “New claim to fame – just been offered out into the carpark by Roy Keane after a few choice words.“Even Jamie Redknapp had to come over to get him away – just ya average Sunday evening out.”Responding to a comment, he then allegedly wrote: “I was reminding him that he set us back five years and ruined our football club. “I also mentioned how he wasn’t fit to step foot anywhere near our ground [Portman Road].”Oh, and I mentioned about him walking out on a World Cup and breaking Haaland’s leg and putting it in his autobiography.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I hate the bloke, and that’s been boiling up since he got sacked all those years ago.”Finbow went on to write in a further comment: “The truth hurts, mate. I feel sick when I look at him.”Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More