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      Premier League star and Hungry Hippos world champ ‘almost loses his THUMB while doing washing up in freak accident’

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      IPSWICH TOWN defender Axel Tuanzebe has been ruled out for a number of weeks after “almost losing his thumb”.Tuanzebe missed Ipswich’s trip to West Ham at the weekend after a freak accident while washing up left him needing surgery.Axel Tuanzebe missed Ipswich’s 4-1 defeat to West Ham after ‘almost losing his thumb’ in a freak accidentCredit: GettyIpswich boss Kieran McKenna has ruled Tuanzebe out for a number of weeksCredit: AlamyIpswich boss Kieran McKenna confirmed that Tuanzebe was unavailable through a hand injury for the Hammers defeat.And now the Mail have reported that the injury came as the 26-year-old was washing his dishes, with the star almost losing his thumb in the process.It’s claimed that Tuanzebe was washing a glass last week when it shattered and deeply lacerated the former Manchester United man’s hand in the process. Tuanzebe was reportedly in need of urgent medical attention and there was initial concerns that the star could have lost his thumb as a result.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThankfully, a successful surgery has saved the DR Congo international’s digit.However, Tuanzebe still looks set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after McKenna gave a worrying update following the Tractor Boys’ 4-1 defeat to the Hammers.He said: “He’s done a hand injury, a very unfortunate accident.”He’s had surgery and will be out for a while. It’s not going to be a couple of weeks, probably longer. Most read in FootballFootball’s strangest injuriesA look at some of the weirdest injuries in football…RAPHINAFormer Leeds United winger Raphinha managed to injure his knee while reacting angrily to being subbed off for Barcelona.The Brazilian reportedly kicked a fridge, doing enough damage to rule him out for a game.FRANK LAMPARDFrank Lampard unbelievably managed to break his hand as a manager!While Everton boss, Lampard celebrated a late winner and took a whack to his hand, subsequently breaking it.FRENKIE DE JONGBarcelona midfielder and long time Man Utd target Frenkie de Jong almost missed a number of games after being stung by A BEE!The star’s hand was left massively swollen after a painful reaction from the nasty sting. RIO FERDINANDDuring his time at Leeds United, Ferdinand managed to injure himself while playing football… on the PlayStation!The England and Man Utd icon strained his knee after resting on his leg for too long while playing Pro Evolution Soccer.DAVID JAMESFormer England No.1 David James has managed to injure himself in bizarre fashion TWICE!The retired shot stopper pulled a muscle in his back while reaching for the TV remote, while he also hurt his shoulder when he was carp fishing.READ MORE INCREDIBLY BIZARRE INJURIES HERE.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”There are still discussions with the specialists.”He’s naturally a miss with the way he’s started the season. He’s going to be out for a little while.”Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelTuanzebe has been a huge part of the Ipswich side so far this season, starting all six of their Premier League games prior to the freak injury.His injury may not have just put a hold on his season on the pitch, but could have scuppered his chances of bettering his world record in board game Hungry Hippos.Tuanzebe isn’t just a Premier League star, but also the world record holder for the fastest time to clear the game of Hungry Hippos.The right-back broke the record back in 2018 while on pre-season tour with Man Utd, clearing the game in just 17.36 seconds.Any chance of bettering that record will have been put on hold with his hand injury surely ruling him out of playing minutes for Ipswich and playing Hungry Hippos any time soon.Tuanzebe broke the world record for the fastest time to clear the game of Hungry HipposCredit: Instagram @roshaunwilliams More

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      Erling Haaland and girlfriend Isabel go house hunting as they check out £3.5million mansion of Premier League star

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      ERLING HAALAND appears to be putting down roots in the UK to the delight of Manchester City fans after he was seen viewing a £3.5million house for sale.The City striker and his Wag Isabel Haugseng Johansen were spotted chatting in the street to an estate agent as they explored the stunning £3.5m mansion in Cheshire.Earling Haaland has checked out a new £3.5million propertyCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe property is being sold by another Premier League starCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe looked at the house with Wag Isabel Haugseng JohansenCredit: SplashThe property – which is being sold by a Premier League star – boasts six bedrooms and six reception rooms, along with its own gym, swimming pool and steam room and sauna.And the modern mansion, built in 2017, is just a five-minute drive from the home of Haaland’s best mate and City winger Jack Grealish.Haaland currently lives in a rented mansion in Alderley Edge which is understood to belong to the Kamani family, who own BooHoo and PrettyLittleThings.But the fact that he is looking to add to his already impressive property portfolio fuels hope for fans that the £375,000-a-week Norwegian target man plans to extend his stay at the Etihad despite interest from Spanish clubs Barcelona and Real Madrid.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA source said: “Haaland has always kept his cards close to his chest about his future plans on the pitch.”When he first moved to Manchester, he moved into a flat, and then more recently, he has been living at the rented property.”But the fact he’s looking to splash some cash could mean he’s thinking about staying at City long-term, which is good news for City fans and bad news for everyone else.”Haaland signed for City in the summer of 2022 from Borussia Dortmund for £51m and has since scored 101 goals in 107 matches for the Citizens.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe has previously credited his goal-scoring ability with his ability to relax off the pitch.He said: “I think it’s a really good thing to relax, to try to not think too much.Erling haaland’s bizarre new therapyHaaland is believed to have started dating Isabel while he was at DortmundCredit: Getty”Because stress is not good for anyone.”I hate to be stressed, and I try not to be stressed.’But the concept of meditation is to try to let go of these kinds of thoughts.”It’s really individual, but for me it’s worked really well.”The 24-year-old has already built up a multi-million-pound property portfolio.He owns a £6m mansion in the Spanish playground of Marbella and also bought a £2.6m three-bedroom apartment in Oslo.The potential new home is being sold by West Ham star Danny Ings.The striker joined the Hammers in 2023 from Aston Villa and has got one goal to his name this season.Ings started his career on the south coast at AFC Bournemouth before making his name at Burnley.After impressing at Turf Moor, he earned a move to Liverpool in 2015.However, Ings failed to shine at Anfield and eventually left the club in 2019 for Southampton.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe forward rediscovered his scoring touch and netted 41 goals in 91 Premier League appearances for the Saints.He then joined Aston Villa in 2021 and scored 13 times in the league before appearing for this third claret and blue team in West Ham.West Ham’s Danny Ings is selling the houseCredit: Getty More

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      How Liverpool’s Bellingham transfer plan spectacularly backfired with Alexander-Arnold now on verge of Real Madrid move

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      TWO years ago, Liverpool hatched an elaborate plan to bring Jude Bellingham to Anfield.However, the idea could have spectacularly backfired amid rumours that Trent Alexander-Arnold could join Real Madrid.Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold have struck up a close friendshipCredit: APThe pair are inseparable off the pitchCredit: GettyAnd the tables have now turned, with Jude possibly trying to lure Trent to Real MadridCredit: GettyWhile at Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham had the world’s biggest teams chasing his signature.Liverpool were among them, with the club desperate to overhaul an ageing midfield that featured Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Thiago.The Reds knew they may not be able to match the financial strength and glamour of Real Madrid – but they offered Bellingham the chance to come home to England.They knew they needed to convince the midfielder that the right move was to Merseyside, so the club plotted a sensational plan to get him on side.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReports claim they told Liverpool and England stars Henderson and Alexander-Arnold to go on the charm offensive while they were together on international duty.Wherever Bellingham went, one of the duo seemed to be nearby as they tried to form a bromance.Fans noticed on social media that Trent had become especially close mates with Jude, only fuelling the conspiracy there was perhaps an ulterior motive.Bellingham chose Real Madrid and signed for the European giants for £115million in the summer of 2023 despite Liverpool’s interest.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe then fired Los Blancos to Champions League and La Liga glory last season, scoring 23 goals.And although he chose the Spanish sun over Liverpool, Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold struck up a true friendship.’It’s not fair’ says Jude Bellingham as Real Madrid and England star admits fear for younger brother JobeThe best mates performed a pre-planned celebration after Jude scored at Euro 2024, relating to the game Werewolf they often play.And the pair even holidayed together in the US over the summer.Now, the tables have spectacularly turned with Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract expiring at the end of the season.Real Madrid are keen to bring him to the Bernabeu and are ready to step up their interest as right-back Dani Carvajal has sustained a long-term ACL injury.The club reportedly also have plans to use him in midfield. In a spectacular U-turn, it is now Bellingham in the ear of Trent, trying to get them to team-up in Spain.The Birmingham-born star even made him a giant birthday card and hid inside it during the current England camp. Jude Bellingham surprised Trent Alexander-Arnold with a huge birthday cardCredit: GettyReal Madrid love to use their power as of one of the world’s biggest clubs to strike bargain transfers.They tell the player they want them but can only do a deal for free.Such is Real’s huge status, stars have been known to run their contract down to force a move to them.Look at Kylian Mbappe leaving PSG in the summer as a prime example.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot forgetting Antonio Rudiger ditching Chelsea and David Alaba running down his contract at Bayern Munich.The ploy has saved Real Madrid millions and perhaps “Agent Bellingham” will prove his worth by getting Alexander-Arnold to be the next in a long line of clever free transfers. More

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      Erik ten Hag updates: Man Utd board in crunch talks, Thomas Tuchel ‘lined up as replacement manager’ – latest

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      ERIK TEN HAG’S future as Manchester United manager continues to be in serious doubt despite the Red Devil holding Aston Villa to a draw on Sunday afternoon.United have made a shocking start to the new season, winning just two of their opening seven Premier League games.The Red Devils are also winless in the Europa League after draws with FC Twente and Porto.United’s hierarchy will undergo crunch talks today amid growing uncertainty around Ten Hag’s position at the club.Should the Dutchman lose his job, the likes of Gareth Southgate, Thomas Tuchel, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Graham Potter have been linked with the post.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKeep up to date with the latest from Old Trafford below…Great ScottJust weeks after leaving Man Utd, Scott McTominay is already the talk of Italy.The ex-Utd midfielder has made a superb start to life with Napoli.So much so, he’s even being compared to Diego Maradona in the Italian press.Football agent Christian Bosco has now gone even further with his assessment of the Scotland international.Discussing McTominay, Bosco told Canale 8: “You can be a winner even if you have different DNA. This Napoli is a cynical Napoli.”McTominay will still have to prove himself in Italy, but he is potentially one of the best midfielders in Napoli’s history.”Copy linkCopiedDepay on the move? Ex-United star Memphis Depay is at risk of having his Corinthians contract RIPPED UP just one month after joining the club.The winger joined the Brazilian outfit in September, having left Atletico Madrid in the summer.Depay, 30, signed a two-year contract with Corinthians but could see his time at the club come to an end 23 months early.He could leave the club and become a free agent due to doubts over his salary.This is down to his pay coming from one of Corinthian’s sponsors, a betting company called Esportes da Sorte.It has been reported that the company has been denied a state license, which would make their funding uncertain.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag suffers another blowMan Utd have been hit by injury crises often during Ten Hag’s tenure, and that is no different this season.Harry Maguire is the latest to be struck down and the defender could be out for four weeks.Maguire said: “Frustrated to pick up an injury at the weekend. Will be a few weeks on the sideline for me, but I’ll come back stronger.”Copy linkCopiedSchmeichel weighs in on Ten HagPeter Schmeichel has urged Manchester United to ‘stick with’ under-fire manager Erik ten Hag but insists Thomas Tuchel ‘fits the bill’ as a possible replacement.Schmeichel said on the Seaman Says podcast with Betway: “I like Thomas Tuchel, I really I like him. “Being around the Champions League, talking to him and interviewing him, listening to him talk to his players in the technical area, he just looks like someone who would be a good manager for Manchester United.”I don’t think he got his way at Chelsea and I know for sure he didn’t get his way at Bayern Munich. I just think he’s got such a great aura around him that he fits the bill for United.”But, Erik ten Hag is still the manager and I will support him because I want the club to do well. I don’t want United to be the club that changes the manager all the time.”I hope they stick with Erik because we need consistency now. Let him have a fair go at this.”He’s been hampered by a lot of things over the last two years, now he’s got his own players, let him show us what the plan is and what he can do with the football club. If that doesn’t work then maybe then we talk about a change.”Copy linkCopiedRooney shows Ten Hag supportMan Utd legend has shared his belief in Ten Hag, praising his trophy record.He said of the under fire Red Devils boss: “Well that’s obviously down to the owners of the football club to look at that. I’m sure Erik Ten Hag is a fantastic manager.”He’s won trophies wherever he’s been and won trophies at Manchester United as well. So yes, he’s going through a difficult period and I think he’d probably say that himself.”But you hope he can turn it around because too often managers lose their jobs and then it’s another rebuild with a different manager.”Copy linkCopiedCarragher shares Ten Hag verdictSky Sports pundit believes Ten Hag could be lucky to survive until the next international break next month.He told Sky Sports: “Probably find it tough to come out to the next international break.”Maybe he still is the manager. Listen, if the results turn, of course he will.”But with Man United, it’s not just about results actually. For a long time, it’s actually been about performances. A lot of the time, when they get results, it feels a bit fortunate in some ways.”Copy linkCopiedKeane speaks highly of TuchelRoy Keane has previously described Thomas Tuchel as a ‘top-quality manager’ as Manchester United line up the former Chelsea boss as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag.He said in 2022: “There has obviously been loads of uncertainty over the club the last few months, that has been sorted out now obviously with the new ownership coming in.”I’m pretty sure again he (Tuchel) will be able to bring some players in. He is a top-quality manager, he has dealt with a lot of issues over the last few months.”Ultimately it was a disappointing end to the season for them. But he is a top-quality manager.”Copy linkCopiedOne candidate ruled outFabrizio Romano says Manchester United have no chance of replacing Erik ten Hag with Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi in the middle of the season, as the Italian tactician remains focused on his job in Serie A.He said: “We had reports on Simone Inzaghi but, guys, Inzaghi never had any concrete conversations with Man United, and there is never going to be any chance of Inzaghi leaving Inter during the season to sign for any other club, even for a top club like Manchester United.“Inzagi is not leaving Inter during the season, forget about that.“So all the stories about Inzaghi going to Man United now are completely out of context and completely impossible. Then, in the future, we will see.“But as of today, no contacts for Inzaghi to Man United now and full focus for Inzaghi on Inter.”Copy linkCopiedLatest betting oddsIf Ten Hag is sacked Man Utd have a number of candidates in mind to replace him.Here are the favourites to replace the Dutchman, according to BetMGM.Thomas Tuchel – 2/1Ruud van Nistelrooy – 2/1Gareth Southgate – 3/1Graham Potter – 8/1Michael Carrick – 10/1Kieran McKenna – 11/1Copy linkCopiedMoyes gives Ten Hag backingDavid Moyes has left Manchester United fans baffled after giving his thoughts on Erik ten Hag.That is because Moyes thinks that Ten Hag has been “brilliant” since arriving in Manchester.He told the BBC: “I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”I think he’s shown brilliant resilience in the situation that he’s in and I think he should be credited for how well he’s conducted himself.”As far as I know, I don’t see him ducking any questions or any media interviews that you people [the media] put forward to him.”I think you have to give him great credit for that, but it’s a job that is going to attract immense pressure, with people talking, so I have to say that I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”Copy linkCopiedTen Hag confident he’ll stayErik ten Hag has whisked himself off on holiday believing he will not be axed as Man Utd boss.It’s understood Ten Hag spoke with United’s top brass in the wake of the draw against Aston Villa, and has no fear they will sack him during the international break.He has now taken a holiday with the bulk of United’s players away on international duty.Copy linkCopied’Ten Hag not to blame’Erik ten Hag is not solely to blame for Manchester United’s current crisis – according to their former striker Andy Cole.Cole told Betfred: “Whatever the people in charge decide to do, it will be done with the best interests of the club in mind. “However you look at it, for an individual to win two cup competitions in their first two seasons at Manchester United, that’s not lucky. You can’t be lucky two seasons on the bounce.“The club will do whatever they decide to do, but if you look at the bigger picture, you can’t just blame the manager. The manager picks the players, but the players are the ones that have to go out there and win football matches. That’s the way it is.”Copy linkCopiedDoc to hit Old Trafford?Man Utd have been swamped with offers to make a behind-the-scenes documentary of the club’s planned revival under new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, writes Matt Hughes.SunSport has learned that several production companies have made approaches on behalf of streaming giants Netflix, Amazon and Disney+.United have yet to enter serious negotiations, though, with their priority is improving performances on the pitch following another difficult start to the season.Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle have all made documentaries with Amazon in recent years.Meanwhile, Liverpool are in the process of selling a series on Jurgen Klopp’s final six months at Anfield.Copy linkCopiedTV chef has his sayIcon Ainsley Harriott was asked to compare Man Utd to a food and he came up with: Scrambled eggs.Harriott explained: “I think it would be overcooked scrambled eggs.”A bit too heavy, not moving. It needs to be…remade.”Copy linkCopiedUnited bosses will be “measured”Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford will be measured in their approach to Ten Hag’s future during discussions with Omar Berrada and Dan Ashworth, according to Sky Sports.Co-chairman Joel Glazer, chief operating officer Collette Roche and chief financial officer Roger Bell will also be present at the meeting.Technical director Jason Wilcox will also be there and he could have a big say in what happens to Ten Hag as he works closest with the United boss.The United hierarchy will assess the shortcomings and the reason behind Ten Hag’s failings – whether tactical or psychological.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag situation affecting squadThe scrutiny on Ten Hag is affecting the Man Utd squad, according to defender Jonny Evans.He said: “It does affect the players. It’s on our minds too. I think the more experience I’ve got in my career I’ve made sure I do everything to be ready and give everything I can to the team.“That was the important thing to show the spirit in the team. Everyone competed as much as they could. That’s a pleasing thing to see.”Copy linkCopiedCarragher has “sympathy” for Ten HagSky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has expressed sympathy for Erik ten Hag over the way he was treated in the summer.He said: “I have sympathy for him, I think he’s been left to hang out to dry on the back of what happened over the summer with the ownership speaking to other managers.“I feel for him. No manager or anyone in employment would want his bosses publicly speaking to lots of different people within the game. It’s going to be tough for him to see out the season.”Copy linkCopiedThe cost of firing Ten HagSacking Ten Hag could cost Man Utd more than they paid out to the likes of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.It would have cost the club £10million to get rid of Ten Hag in the summer, but his compensation package would now be worth around £15m after he penned a contract extension.Copy linkCopiedSupercomputer predicts Man Utd to have worst-ever finishManchester United have been tipped for their worst-ever Premier League finish by a supercomputer.The Red Devils have endured their worst start to the season after picking up just eight points from their opening seven games.They have broken the record they set only last year, and are 14th in the table following a 0-0 draw with Aston Villa.Erik ten Hag is under increasing pressure with United appearing to have got even worse after recording their worst-ever Prem finish last season.They finished eighth in the previous campaign with 60 points, yet look unlikely to even manage that this time around.A supercomputer run by Grosvenor Sport predicts United will be even worst this term and will end up ninth on just 55 points, behind the likes of Brentford.They are expected to lose an astonishing 15 games, managing just one win more to leave them a staggering 19 points off the top four.A predicted final goal difference of zero also reveals what a dire season United could be in for.Copy linkCopiedFlying DutchmanERIK TEN HAG has jetted off on holiday — as he is confident Manchester United will not sack him during the international break, writes Martin Blackburn.United are off to their worst start in 35 YEARS under the Dutchman, with just eight points from seven games to leave them 14th in the table.His future is certain to be discussed at the next meeting of United executives — including co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe — in London.But it is understood Ten Hag spoke to Old Trafford’s top brass following Sunday’s goalless draw at Aston Villa and did not get the impression he was facing the chop.Copy linkCopiedICYMI – ‘Tuchel would be perfect’BetMGM ambassador and renowned TV presenter Laura Woods believes Thomas Tuchel is the ideal replacement for Erik ten Hag should Manchester United choose to sack the Dutch coach.Woods said: “I don’t like calling for a manager’s head as we really don’t know what is going on behind the scenes at Old Trafford, but, if they did decide to move on from Ten Hag, then get Thomas Tuchel back in the Premier League!“It’s been too long. I love him as a coach and a character and I think he’d be perfect for Manchester United. “He’s a bit of a maverick and, although his appointment might not last more than a couple of seasons, I bet he’d get them closer to winning something than they currently are.”Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedICYMI – Ruud on ‘standby’Ruud van Nistelrooy is “on standby” to take over from Erik ten Hag as Man Utd caretaker boss, according to reports.The Dutchman, 48, joined Ten Hag’s coaching staff in the summer.According to The Guardian, Ten Hag’s fate will be decided at a routine board meeting in London later today.They add that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox will be present at the crucial meeting.Should they decide to sack Ten Hag, it’s claimed that Van Nistelrooy would be the prime candidate to take over as caretaker.Copy linkCopiedICYMI – United chiefs at OTManchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was spotted heading into Old Trafford with chairman Joel Glazer on Monday amid speculation over the future of manager Erik ten Hag.The Red Devils played out a goalless draw at Aston Villa on Sunday in their final match before a two-week international break – with Ratcliffe and other Man Utd bosses watching on from the stands.He is set for showdown talks with club chiefs, including co-chairman Glazer, in London later today.SunSport understands their trip today is for various meetings, with Glazer attending one with the Fans’ Advisory Board.Copy linkCopiedMore on Mainoo injuryKobbie Mainoo Ezri Konsa and Morgan Gibbs-White have all withdrawn from England’s upcoming Uefa Nations League squad.The Three Lions host Greece at Wembley on Thursday, before heading to Finland on Sunday, in Lee Carsley’s second round of fixtures.The trio drop out after sustaining injuries for their respective clubs over the weekend in what is a triple injury blow for Carsley’s new-look side.Konsa, 26, suffered a hamstring injury and left the pitch just 12 minutes into Villa’s goalless draw with Manchester United.And Gibbs-White, 24, was removed after 76 minutes of Nottingham Forest’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea.But Mainoo played 85 minutes at Old Trafford on Sunday before he was replaced by Casemiro.It comes as a further blow for under-fire boss Erik ten Hag who also lost the services of Harry Maguire, who left Villa Park in a plastic boot.Maguire was dropped from Carsley’s squad after featuring in September and Mainoo has been carrying a knock for some time.Copy linkCopiedNoussair Mazraoui latestAmid the speculation surrounding Erik ten Hag’s future, there has been an update on Noussair Mazraoui’s status.The full-back, 26, was withdrawn at half-time during Man Utd’s 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Sunday.After the game, Ten Hag admitted that’d be been forced to take the Moroccan off, and that there would be a further diagnosis on Monday.Following that diagnosis, Mazraoui has now withdrawn from the Morocco squad.He had been due to join up with his country for matches against the Central African Republic.United will now be sweating on Mazraoui’s fitness for their clash with Brentford after the international break.Copy linkCopied More

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      Legendary stadium looks unrecognisable as club post incredible new pictures of £1.25BILLION renovation

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      INCREDIBLE new pictures of one of football’s most iconic stadiums have been released amid a £1.25BILLION renovation.Barcelona’s Nou Camp has been undergoing a huge makeover for over a year now and the club has now released new images of what the ground is set to look like.Barcelona’s Camp Nou looks unrecognisable in new mockups released by clubCredit: FC BARCELONAIncredible images show what the stadium will look like after its £1.25bn renovationCredit: FC BARCELONAThe ground will have a completely new lookCredit: FC BARCELONAOne image released by the club shows the stadium’s transformation through the yearsCredit: FC BARCELONAThe Spanish giants moved out of the stadium in May 2023, beginning the process of a major overhaul of the 67-year-old arena. Barca have been temporarily housed in the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium during the renovation.And now the European heavyweights seem closer than ever to returning to their historic home after the club released new images of the stadium and a statement announcing their intentions to move back into the ground THIS SEASON.The stadium looks unrecognisable from its former self in the computer generated mock-ups released by the club.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe ground is set to have the largest roof in Europe, an aerial viewing platform and a number of new bars and VIP areas.While the stadium’s capacity is also being increased from 99,354 to an impressive 105,000.The club have taken off the entire top tier of the stadium as they rebuild the third tier to increase the capacity of the iconic ground.Barcelona vice-president Elena Fort has revealed that the club intends on returning to the stadium this season, but have scrapped original plans to be inside the ground by the club’s 125th anniversary in November. Most read in FootballThe inside of the ground looks stunningCredit: FC BARCELONAA brand new third tier that wraps round the entire ground will increase the Camp Nou’s capacity to 105,000Credit: FC BARCELONAThere will also be a roof over the ground – the largest in EuropeCredit: FC BARCELONAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSShe said: “There are no exact dates to return to the stadium. We can’t say right now, but we are on the correct path.”The city council knows our full plan. We are following all the safety protocols and we’ve received the green light from several institutions.Cash-strapped football giants selling tufts of iconic stadium’s GRASS for £340 as fans say ‘how the mighty have fallen'”Now we’ll need to make rapid work to get the license back to reopening the stadium and execute everything.”Despite plans to return to the Nou Camp this season, it’s expected that Barcelona will be playing in front of a 60 per cent capacity at that time.The full renovation isn’t due to be completed until 2026.The modernised arena – which is set to be sponsored by Spotify – will have three huge screens hanging over the pitch for fans to rewatch the action.The concourse and the press facilities are among the other areas to be modernised.The stadium will reportedly also use green energy sources through 18,000m2 of solar panels, producing its own energy and generating zero CO2 emissions.While new images show an incredible light display on the outside of the ground, putting out Barcelona’s famous colours.The new stadium is sponsored by music streaming platform SpotifyCredit: FC BARCELONAHuge screens will hang down from the roof for fans to rewatch the action in the groundCredit: FC BARCELONANew VIP areas will also be a part of the stunning redesignCredit: FC BARCELONA More

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      Six-time Champions League winner warned he has just 50 PER CENT chance of recovering from horror injury

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      REAL MADRID legend Dani Carvajal has just a 50 PER CENT chance of recovering from his serious knee injury, according to a top doctor.The Spaniard, 32, won his sixth Champions League last season and also triumphed at the Euros.Dani Carvajal may never return to his top levelCredit: AFPHe was left in tears on the floor after rupturing his cruciate ligament, external collateral ligament and popliteal tendonCredit: RexSix-time Champions League winner Carvajal faces at least 12 months on the sidelineCredit: EPABut his season was ended during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Villarreal on Saturday after he ruptured his cruciate ligament, external collateral ligament and popliteal tendon.Doctor Pablo Gelber, founder and president of the European Knee Society’s Lateral Knee Injuries Committee, has now given his take on Carvajal’s injury – which left the defender in tears.He confirmed it will take a minimum of 12 months to recover and also shockingly revealed the right-back only has between a 50 and 60 per cent chance of getting back to his optimum level.Speaking to Marca, Dr Gelber said: “Of all the factors for returning to sport, the time since surgery is perhaps the least important. It is a necessary factor, but by no means sufficient. In this case, I would not speak of less than 12 months of recovery.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”And another issue is the return to the same sporting level, which, speaking in cold numbers, is not more than 50 or 60 per cent.”A negative factor is that footballers tend to have varus legs, as we technically call it. It basically refers to having bowed legs, as Rivaldo, for example, had in a very pronounced way.”This fact is a negative factor for the successful recovery of these injuries, because it puts the ligaments that are being reconstructed under a lot of stress, potentially stretching them to levels that make the surgery fail.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSNew Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink.”In normal people, we often correct this deviation of the leg to avoid this potential failure, especially in cases that have been going on for some time since the injury.Most read in Football”But in a professional footballer, this correction of the shape of the legs is totally contraindicated, because it would mean the end of a footballer’s career.Cristiano Ronaldo ‘agreed to rejoin Man Utd with Real Madrid star in £200m deal’ “On the other hand, the mental state in such serious injuries is of vital importance, because frustration, fears and negative thoughts can undermine optimal recovery.”Real Madrid made the classy decision to extend Carvajal’s contract until 2026 following the injury that is set to keep him out for the rest of the campaign.He has been with Los Blancos since 2002 when he was 10 years old and competed across all of their youth teams.After a year playing at Bayer Leverkusen, the defender joined Real’s senior team in 2013 and went on to win all major honours, including four LaLiga titles and six Champions Leagues.He also won Euro 2024 with Spain in the summer, defeating England in the final. More

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      Fans say ‘Moyes is joking, right?’ after his bizarre interview about under-fire Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag goes viral

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      DAVID MOYES has left Manchester United fans baffled after giving his thoughts on Erik ten Hag.The Scottish manager is currently without a club, having left West Ham at the end of last season.Erik ten Hag’s position at Man United is under threatCredit: GettyDavid Moyes has back the Dutchman for doing a ‘brilliant’ jobCredit: GettyMoyes was the first manager at Man United after the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.The club has gone on to have multiple bosses but have not won a Premier League title since the legendary manager departed.Ten Hag is the latest man to have the hot seat in the Old Trafford dugout, having been appointed in 2022.The Dutchman has come under fire for his results, despite winning a Carabao Cup and FA Cup in his first two seasons.READ MORE ON MAN UTDDespite the cup successes, performances in the league have been questionable with the Red Devils placing 8th last term, their worst ever finish.This season has also started poorly with the club having their worst start to a campaign in 35 years, beating the previous record by one point.That record was set last season under Ten Hag as the club only achieved nine points after seven games.Despite this, Moyes thinks that Ten Hag has been “brilliant” since arriving in Manchester.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe told the BBC: “I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”I think he’s shown brilliant resilience in the situation that he’s in and I think he should be credited for how well he’s conducted himself.Erik ten Hag really did not help himself with what he said after Man Utd’s draw with Aston Villa, slams BBC pundit Moyes was the first Red Devils manager after Sir Alex FergusonCredit: AFP”As far as I know, I don’t see him ducking any questions or any media interviews that you people [the media] put forward to him.”I think you have to give him great credit for that, but it’s a job that is going to attract immense pressure, with people talking, so I have to say that I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”Fans have been left confused about the comments as the reacted on social media.One posted: “David Moyes is joking, right?”A second wrote: “Moyes has always had a great sense of humour.”A third commented: “This is too funny! Moyes is ‘LMAO’ on the inside.”A fourth said: “Top tier trolling well in.”Another added: “I can’t tell if he is being serious or not.”Ten Hag’s five worst defeatsERIK TEN HAG has suffered some heavy defeats during his tenure as Manchester United manager.5. Copenhagen 4-3 Man Utd, November 2023The damaging defeat saw the Red Devils dumped out of the Champions League.4. Man Utd 0-3 Bournemouth, December 2023It was the first time the Cherries had ever won at Old Trafford with the players being booed off.3. Brentford 4-0 Man Utd, August 2022Perhaps a sign of things to come, in Ten Hag’s second Premier League game, his side was dismantled by the Bees.2. Crystal Palace 4-0 Man Utd, May 2024The heavy defeat to the Eagles saw the Dutchman edge ever closer to the sack.1. Liverpool 7-0 Man Utd, March 2023Man Utd were embarrassed at the hands of their bitter rivals as they crumbled at Anfield as it was the club’s worst defeat in 92 years.Ten Hag is currently on holiday for the international break and is confident that his job is secure.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Man United chiefs are undergoing crunch talks over the future of the former Ajax boss.Should they decide to axe Ten Hag then the likes of Graham Potter, Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel are among the candidates to replace him. More

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      World Cup legend Johnny Rep, 72, rushed to hospital after suffering heart attack

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      WORLD CUP legend Johnny Rep has sparked fears for his well-being after suffering a heart attack.The former Ajax winger, 72, who now lives in Spain, has been rushed to hospital.Johnny Rep has suffered a heart attack at the age of 72Credit: GettyRep played for Holland in successive World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978Credit: GettyThe Dutchman’s health crisis came just a day after his Holland teammate Johan Neeskens passed away on Sunday aged 73.Rep helped inspire Holland to runners-up spots at both the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals.He set a national record by scoring seven goals at the tournaments in West Germany and Argentina.Rep’s late goal in Holland’s 3-2 loss to Scotland in 1978 infamously put the Dutch into the second round – and sent the Scots home despite Archie Gemmill’s heroics.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRep’s biographer Mark van den Heuvel told Dutch media the ex-player needs to be fitted with a pacemaker.He said: “The insurers want Johnny to go back to Holland, as it just costs £8,400 [10,000 euros] to fit him with a pacemaker as against £21,000 in Spain.”But his family says that Johnny is far too weak to make the journey.”It’s not clear to me how the next few days are going to pan out.Most read in FootballHe played 42 times for his country and scored 12 goalsCredit: GettyHe spent four years at Ajax and won two European Cups with the Dutch giantsCredit: Getty”Johnny swore to me that he will survive this, and everyone around him says he will be OK.”His children are at his bedside.”Rep revealed last summer that he has undergone three stomach operations as well as back surgery.The former right winger has also battled alcohol addiction, and endured financial difficulties.Rep inspired Ajax to European Cup glory in both 1972 and 1973.He also won two Eredivisie titles with the Amsterdam club, and went on to play for Valencia, Bastia, Saint Etienne, Zwolle and Feyenoord. More