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    Champions League matches have been using incredible hidden technology all season… have you noticed it?

    CHAMPIONS LEAGUE matches have been using incredible hidden technology all season long.But have you noticed it?This was the angle fans watching Viktor Gyokeres’ second penalty on TNT Sports sawCredit: TNT SportsViktor Gyokeres fired home his second penalty of the game to round off the emphatic 4-1 victory in Ruben Amorim’s final home game as Sporting boss.After blasting to Ederson’s left with his first penalty, he switched it up and opted to go low to the Manchester City goalkeeper’s right and completed his Champions League hat-trick.With the regular TV camera angle, the advertising hoardings around the pitch all showed Qatar Airways on a purple background as the striker stepped up and fired home.However, replays of the goal shown on TNT Sports, photographers’ snaps and videos taken inside the stadium did not show the Qatar Airways advertising.READ MORE ON CHAMPIONS LEAGUEInstead, the screens displayed adverts for FedEx with the iconic blue and orange writing on a plain white background.And that meant the adverts on the boards showing the goal live on TV were different from what was actually in the stadium.The discrepancy was clear to see in a video uploaded from Gyokeres’ Portuguese actress girlfriend Ines Aguiar, who filmed the goal and put it on her Instagram story. The time, 21:38, was consistent across both her footage and the TV footage – but the adverts were not the same.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhen the TV feed cut back from a fan in the crowd, there appeared to be a brief flash of white at the top of the advertising screen – possibly covering the FedEx ad.And Uefa confirmed to SunSport the adverts were indeed being changed for the main broadcast feed.’Referee had no choice but to award a penalty after Tyrone Mings’ schoolboy error – he’s absolutely spot on’The ‘camera one’ view had Qatar Airways around the pitch but inside the ground, there was a different advertCredit: TNT Sports / InstagramPhotos from the stadium also showed the FedEx brandingCredit: ReutersThe hoardings can be remotely edited to suit various broadcast regionsCredit: TNT SportsThis screenshot appears to show the Qatar Airways advert covering the FedEx oneCredit: TNT SportsExplaining the phenomenon, a spokesperson said: “Uefa’s virtual board replacement (VBR) concept has been implemented at selected men’s club competition matches across the 2024-25 season. “VBR replaces advertisements displayed on the in-stadium LED boards in selected markets with alternative advertisements and messaging on the main global broadcast feed. “This approach ensures compliance with local advertising regulations while maintaining visibility for sponsors on the global broadcast feed.”This replacement is visible only on the main broadcast camera (camera one) during live play. “No replacements are made on any other camera during the live match feed or on any camera, including camera one, during replays.”VBR can be implemented either remotely or on-site and can be implemented over any LED boards. “Uefa has appointed several VBR suppliers to manage this process and produce the dedicated feeds.”Uefa has been testing VBR technology for the past six years, with its first official implementation during the 2021–24 cycle of Uefa men’s club competitions, starting with the 2021 Uefa Super Cup in Belfast.”VBR was also used throughout Euro 2024 in Germany this summer.”Supponor is one company that offers VBR services, using “the world’s leading AI software delivering supercharged virtual advertising in live broadcast sports”.The firm specialises in using AI to transform live feeds and adapt advertising for different languages and broadcast regions.Their website says: “Supponor provide a virtual advertising technology solution that replaces and creates in-venue brand placements with real time authentic digital overlays. Developed for any sport, any surface, from anywhere in the world with infinite possibilities.”That can include editing the pitchside advertising hoardings, virtual carpet-style banners next to goals, tunnel coverings and other LED screens around stadiums. This can often be used to exclude betting adverts where gambling is prohibited.The FA, Bayern Munich, LaLiga, Argentina, France, Borussia Dortmund, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Serie A, the Rugby World Cup and the NHL are all clients of Supponor.READ MORE SUN STORIESTennis’ cinch Championships – aka Queen’s – also used the tech during the 2024 tournament to change up the screens behind the court for various TV viewers.SunSport reported in 2018 that Southampton were planning to become the tenth Premier League side to launch the new augmented reality hoardings at St Mary’s.This demonstrates how the tech can make changes for viewersCredit: SupponorSupponor are one of the companies who specialise in virtual advertisingCredit: SupponorThe AI can include elements such as virtual carpets beside the goalCredit: SupponorTennis also uses the system and was used at Queen’s to cover up betting logosCredit: TGI Sports More

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    Premier League’s most attractive players ‘revealed by AI’ as Jamie Vardy comes in second

    THE PREMIER LEAGUE’S most attractive players have been revealed thanks to the use of AI.The findings come from Indian iGaming site Gamblino, who analysed player images from the official Prem site using an artificial intelligence attractiveness test tool.The Premier League’s most handsome male players have been revealedArsenal star Declan Rice tops the most handsome listCredit: RexLeicester star Jamie Vardy comes secondCredit: RexSouthampton ace Ryan Manning completes the top threeCredit: PAArsenal ace and Rice’s team-mate Jorginho comes fourthCredit: GettyNewcastle ace Joelinton completes the top fiveCredit: RexThe tool put together a top 10 consisting of players that were rated from one to 10 based on their looks.Arsenal star Declan Rice tops the most handsome list with a whopping 8.57 out of 10.Rice will be hoping that’s not the only table he tops come May as the Gunners are searching for their first Premier League title since 2004.The midfielder is followed by Leicester legend Jamie Vardy, who helped the Foxes return to the top flight and earned himself a place on the list with a score of 8.36.Read More on FootballSouthampton’s Ryan Manning, who also earned promotion to the Prem in August, completes the top three with 8.31.Arsenal ace and Rice’s team-mate Jorginho makes it in fourth place with 8.24.And Newcastle’s Joelinton completes the top five of the most attractive list with 8.23.Bournemouth’s Philip Billing (8.22) ranks sixth and is followed by Wolves’ Joao Gomes (8.16).Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBilling’s team-mate Lewis Cook and Tottenham’s Radu Dragusin are joint-eighth with 8.07.Ferdi Kadioglu only joined Brighton in the summer and is already turning heads as he is named ninth on the list with 7.99.Fans tell Jamie Vardy ‘never change’ as footage emerges of Leicester star slide tackling a KID during title celebrationsThe top 10 is completed by Fulham’s Andreas Pereira with a score of 7.97.Bournemouth ace Philip Billing finishes in sixth placeCredit: GettyWolves ace Joao Gomes is seventh on the listCredit: AlamyBournemouth ace and Billing’s team-mate Lewis Cook is joint-eighthCredit: GettyTottenham ace Radu Dragusin is also joint-eighthCredit: GettyBrighton’s Ferdi Kadioglu makes the top 10 in ninth placeCredit: ReutersFulham’s Andreas Pereira completes the top 10Credit: Alamy More

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    Female ref banned for life over sex tape scandal claims video was made with AI and ‘malicious intentions’

    THE Turkish referee at the centre of a sex tape scandal has claimed that the X-rated video was faked using AI.Elif Karaarslan, 24, was this week banned from officiating after a video was alleged to have shown her having sex with referees’ observer Orhan Erdemir, 61.Elif Karaarslan has been officiating since 2020Credit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17The Turkish official has found herself at the centre of a sex tape scandalCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Karaarslan denies being the woman in an X-rated video circulating onlineCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Karaarslan, who played for Besiktas before having her career cut short by injuries, has denied being in the video.She said: “I will have a long road ahead legally, but will overcome in the strongest and most robust way.”I look forward to your full support and love in this process. Crying, screaming and being sad are not things I would do. That is not me.”I will stand by my cause until the end. I am just one of many who are being harmed – I hope I am the last.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHer legal team have claimed that her alleged role in the video, which has circulated online, has been fabricated by technology.Their statement claimed: “A montaged video was published on social media, created entirely through AI from someone else’s social media account.”Taking into consideration this montage video, created with malicious and deliberate intentions, poses a threat to anyone facing similar accusations in the future.”Erdemir, meanwhile, has confessed to being the male in the video.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “My honour in my family, my social circle and the refereeing community has been blown away.”In addition to my financial losses, the emotional damage I have suffered is indescribable.”How Arsenal and Liverpool benefitted from VAR failures AGAIN | Ex-Premier League referee reactsLike Karaarslan, Erdemir has also received a lifetime ban from the TFF, Turkey’s FA.Karaarslan debuted as an assistant referee back in 2020.She has since gone on to take charge of the country’s biggest clubs at Under-17s level.And she has also gathered a big social media following, with 462,000 on Instagram.Karaarslan has a large social media followingCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Orhan Erdemir has confessed to being the man in the video More

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    Stunning AI images show how iconic grounds would look if they hadn’t been demolished including Wembley and Highbury

    EIGHT of the current 20 Premier League clubs have moved into new stadiums this century. Iconic grounds such as Highbury and White Hart Lane have been knocked down and replaced by state-of-the-art arenas.Arsenal moved to the Emirates Stadium in 2006Credit: gettySpurs built a new ground to replace the old White Hart LaneCredit: AlamyBut what if some clubs decided to renovate their spiritual homes instead of replace?SunSport, with the help of BonusCodeBets, have used AI to see what those classic stadiums could look like if they had not been demolished.Highbury – ArsenalArsenal left Highbury in 2006 and moved to the 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium.The Gunners were unable to stay and modernise the old venue because the East Stand is a Grade II listed building and redevelopments would have seen houses knocked down.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHighbury has now been converted into flats – but AI reckons its old school-look could have a modern twist if the club remained there.AI’s version of HighburyCredit: Press BoxHighbury has now been converted into flatsCredit: GettyWhite Hart Lane – TottenhamTottenham’s stunning new ground opened in 2019.Spurs spent two seasons playing at Wembley while their home was demolished and building work could be finished on the new stadium.Double the amount of fans can now cheer on the team and concerts can also take place in the ultra-modern arena.Most read in FootballAnd AI thinks building on top of the old White Hart Lane would have seen the ground lose its classic feel anyway.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAI has modernised the classic White Hart LaneCredit: Press BoxThe old ground was demolished with the new build taking its placeCredit: GettyMaine Road – Man CityManchester City switched Maine Road for the Etihad in 2003.The previous home of the club was demolished a year later and is now a housing estate and a school.Some fans wished they had increased the capacity of the 35,000-seater stadium.But AI thinks if they had, City would have kept the square shape and made the other stands as high the main Kippax Stand.Play Home Games and guess which sporting icon lived in this dream mansionThis is how Maine Road could look on Champions League nightsCredit: Press BoxMan City left Maine Road in 2003Credit: GettyBoleyn Ground – West HamWest Ham’s made an emotional departure from Upton Park and headed to the London Stadium in 2016.Some supporters criticise the new ground as “not fit for football” due to it still being able to host athletics events.But the club doubled their capacity and got a shiny new home on the cheap as the London Legacy Development Corporation needed a tenant after the Olympics.If they had not bulldozed the Boleyn, the Hammers’ ground would have kept an old school shape and AI thinks the intimidating Chicken Run Stand would have stayed much the same.AI’s view of the Boleyn GroundCredit: Press BoxThe smaller Chicken Run stand was kept when ran through AICredit: AlamyModern apartments now stand on the site of the groundCredit: AlamyGriffin Park – BrentfordThe stadium was home to Brentford from 1904 to 2020, when they moved across town to the Gtech Community Stadium.The computer-generated image of a modern day Griffin Park looks bigger than the club’s current ground.How a redeveloped Griffin Park could lookCredit: Press BoxThe stadium has now been demolishedCredit: GettyBrentford now play at the Gtech Community StadiumCredit: RexWembley – EnglandThe Old Wembley shut its turnstiles for the final time in 2000 and it was eventually demolished three years later.READ MORE SUN STORIESIts iconic twin towers were swapped for the famous arch, with the stadium host to Euros, Champions Leagues and FA Cup finals in recent years.And by looking at AI’s interpretation, the old style would have lost its distinctive feature if was kept anyway.AI’s version of the Old WembleyCredit: Press BoxThe iconic twin towers were ditched by AICredit: GettyWembley hosted the Champions League final last seasonCredit: AFP More

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    Todd Boehly could give Chelsea four new names if Blues move from beloved Stamford Bridge without fans’ support

    WORRIED Chelsea fans might reckon it’s a Bridge too far – after AI came up with four dodgy suggestions if the club has to change its name.Todd Boehly’s £4billion boardroom battle with co-owner Behdad Eghbali coincides with plans for a new £1bn Bernabeu-style stadium.Chelsea are pondering a new stadium inspired by the BernabeuCredit: Canva’s AIChelsea owner Todd Boehly is embroiled in a £4bn power struggleCredit: AlamyBut an odd clause means the Chelsea Pitch Owners (CPO) could enforce a NAME CHANGE for the club if they disapprove of a move away.Not even Roman Abramovich managed to convince enough of the 14,000-strong group of fans of the need to relocate, yet that is the task the far less popular American faces.But if the fans refuse, they could face moniker misery.SunSport tasked ChatGPT with exploring new names for Chelsea that Boehly could impose.READ MORE CHELSEA NEWSAnd the result was four options ranging from boring to bemusing.In fact, fans might feel it’s a case of Stamford Cringe when they hear a couple of these AI nominations.The app first revealed four issues it decided was vital to throw into the mix for such an important project.It branded them: historical context, cultural significance, branding and marketability, and fan sentiment.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd if that sounded awesomely academic, sure enough the conclusions were more suited to a degree than a dugout.More PhD than PSG, more Uni than Rooney… with one shocking exception.Premier League’s Biggest Spenders: Top 10 SeasonsAI was obviously on a ChatGP-tea break when it came up with the rather lazy opening offering of “Chelsea United FC”.It justified this entry-level suggestion by saying: “This name retains the geographical identity while fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity, appealing to a broader fan base.”Next up was a name with more than a hint of a franchise or perhaps a gloomy mood sweeping across the capital – “London Blues FC”.ChatGPT believes this “emphasizes the club’s geographical location and its traditional color, while also creating a distinct identity that could resonate with international fans”.But it’s the final two ideas that risk alienating fans most.Somehow finding a way onto the shortlist was “Chelsea Heritage FC”.Apparently this “reflects the club’s historical significance and commitment to its roots, appealing to both traditionalists and modern fans”.As for the final alternative, it could also have doubled for ChatGPT’s dissertation title for a Masters in Marketing – “Chelsea Global FC”.The justification? “This name positions the club as a global entity, reflecting its international fan base and aspirations.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, sadly, Chelsea can’t even be sure which name will be leading the boardroom for much longer – as Boehly and Eghbahli both want to buy each other out.So that’s another issue where, so far at least, a “chat” does not appear to have produced the right outcome!Chelsea will lose their soul by leaving Stamford BridgeBy Matt PennJUST what London needs – another £1billion bowl-shaped, soulless football stadium.No offence to Spurs, because theirs looks great, but it’s not like they had years of title-winning history to celebrate at White Hart Lane.Arsenal moved on from Highbury a couple of years after their last Premier League title win in 2004, and to no avail, they’ve been chasing that glory ever since.And the less said about West Ham’s move from Upton Park, the better. The Olympic Stadium pales in significance to Upton Park, where binoculars weren’t needed to see the pitch from Row Z.It’s no secret Chelsea fans have become disillusioned with the club since Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali took over from Roman Abramovich two years ago.The sacking of two full-time managers in that time, a 12th-place finish in the league, no European football, billions spent on Brazilian teenagers you’ve never heard of and civil war between the owners have turned the club into a laughing stock.Seems like the perfect time to revamp plans to leave Stamford Bridge, doesn’t it?According to The Guardian, Chelsea are in talks to move to a new 60,000-seater site in Earl’s Court, something they’ve attempted before.Chelsea are said to have made plans for the Lillie Bridge depot site as an area that could be developed in a move that could cost hundreds of millions.Forget that so much else still needs fixing on the pitch, that the results are still not going the way they should, that players still can’t seem to click on a consistent basis.The owners, who are said to be looking to buy each other out already, might not think it, and the seats might be a little rusty, but fans do value tradition.The Bridge has been a place supporters can call home every other Saturday. It’s raw, the stands are close to the pitch, it has four sides, and most importantly, it’s owned by the fans.For any deal to go through, Chelsea Pitch Owners (CPO), a group made up of over 14,000 fans, have to approve a move away from the 42,000-seater stadium.On the other hand, redvelopment of Stamford Bridge would see the team move away from the stadium for a number of years, likely double the three years Tottenham spent at Wembley.But why not overhaul each stand one-by-one? Both Liverpool and Fulham had stands refurbished and they were able to stay put. There are also plans for Crystal Palace to do the same.If Boehly and Eghbali are so desperate to put money at the forefront of their decision-making, then go about it in a way which will appease fans.Sadly, football isn’t really about fans anymore, and it’d be easy to say Chelsea will lose their soul if they leave Stamford Bridge.But you fear they already have. More

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    Inside futuristic plans for new Chelsea stadium after move from Stamford Bridge as AI comes up with five wild designs

    CHELSEA could move into a futuristic new stadium if they leave Stamford Bridge.SunSport exclusively revealed the Blues face SIX YEARS away from their home if they go through with ambitious redevelopment plans.Chelsea could build a stadium inspired by the BernabeuCredit: Canva’s AIAnother option is an arena with a retracted roofCredit: Canva’s AIAI has imagined a structure made from woodCredit: Canva’s AIWhile another has created an oval-shaped stadiumCredit: Canva’s AIChelsea’s new ground could look similar to the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumCredit: Canva’s AIOr the club could build a new stadium with the American owners previously identifying a site at Earl’s Court in plans that have since been ditched.However if Chelsea do go down the path of building a new state-of-the-art ground they could have an exciting project on their hands.They could look to model the work on Real Madrid’s Bernabeu with a curved asymmetrical circle.Manchester United are said to have looked at the Bernabeu as they plan to construct a new Old Trafford, and AI has produced a number of ideas for Chelsea.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSome look strikingly similar to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with a glass-panelled exterior and shiny finish.While one imagines a perfectly round structure with a retracted roof that gives little cover for the fans seated below, and looks a little like a flying saucer.Another takes an oval shape and includes just two tiers of seating, with most of the designs a little bigger than that.Another interesting take on Chelsea’s potential new ground is a stadium made out of wood – an idea that has been proposed at Forest Green by their eco-friendly owner Dale Vince.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea want to build a new 60,000-capacity ground to keep up with their rivals commercially, and that could mean redeveloping every stand at Stamford Bridge.Architect Janet Marie Smith, who has worked on a host of stadium renovations in America, has been hired to oversee the monumental task of rebuilding Chelsea’s famous ground.Chelsea fans can’t name their OWN PLAYERS after another wild transfer window under owner Todd BoehlySmith’s projects include Baltimore’s Oriole Park, Atlanta’s Olympic Stadium, the Boston Red Sox’s Fenway Park and Dodger Stadium in LA. More

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    Best Premier League XI of all time revealed by ChatGPT but fans are left divided as they ask ‘is AI drunk?’

    THE best Premier League team of all time has been decided by Chat GPT – but some controversial picks have left many fans fuming.No current player makes the cut, while eight-time winners Manchester City have ZERO representatives.ChatGPT’s all-time Premier League XIGary Neville was picked ahead of Kyle WalkerWayne Rooney did not get the nodCredit: GettyChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot, chose six former Manchester United stars and went with a 4-3-3 formation.But that has presented a problem in midfield as Roy Keane, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard are included.History proves that Paul Scholes is grouped alongside the former Chelsea star and the Liverpool icon as the three best midfielders ever.Eyebrows were raised for Gerrard’s inclusion over Scholes, with one fan saying: “You simply cannot be in the starting XI if you didn’t win the Premier League.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThere is also the question of where Kevin De Bruyne fits into this – who was omitted entirely.And fans were quick to pick up on his absence, as one stated: “Where’s De Bruyne? He’s the greatest ever Premier League central attacking midfielder.”There is also a controversial pick in defence with Gary Neville selected instead of six-time Prem winner Kyle Walker.In fact, zero Man City players are represented – though Lampard did spend one season at The Etihad towards the end of his career.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDe Bruyne is the greatest player in arguably the greatest Premier League squad – Pep Guardiola’s Manchester CityCredit: PARio Ferdinand is partnered with John Terry in central defence, whose one-time Chelsea team-mate Ashley Cole features at left-back.Peter Schmeichel is chosen between the sticks with another United icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, playing right-wing.Best ten new Premier League kits for next seasonMany fans highlighted the need for Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah – who has 157 goals in 263 appearances – to be included.One wrote: “Salah over Ronaldo. He’s played his prime years in England.”While a second X user hilariously added: “AI is drunk”, before another said: “Your ChatGPT isn’t functioning properly.”Meanwhile, record 13-time Premier League winner Ryan Giggs starts on the left.On this, a fan wrote: “There’s no all time Premier League XI without Wayne Rooney.”Premier League record goalscorer Alan Shearer missed out, with Thierry Henry fronting the line.READ MORE SUN STORIESPatrick Vieira and Eden Hazard can also consider themselves unlucky not to make the cut.There was also a lot of competition for places in attack as Rooney, Dennis Bergkamp and Sergio Aguero just missed out.Ronaldo was included in the Premier League XICredit: News Group Newspapers LtdFrank Lampard also got the nodCredit: Getty More

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    AI José Mourinho gives rousing team talk to fans after they share everyday mistakes with the legendary football manager

    AN AI powered José Mourinho has been created – designed to deliver a rousing team talk when fans admit their everyday mistakes.They are encouraged to share their funniest blunders to receive a personalised video message from the gaffer, which can then be sent to their pals via WhatsApp.An AI José Mourinho reacts to fans after they share everyday mistakesCredit: SnickersJosé has always been comfortable in front of the cameraCredit: SnickersNow the AI version of José can respond just like the real coachCredit: SnickersThe creation of the AI tool involved over 100 people and countless hours of filming with the Special One.The meticulous process was undertaken to not only ensure the videos of him look and sound like the real José, but it thinks like him too.It was developed using a unique ‘chain of thought’ architecture that makes the responses as José-like as possible.This approach used by the AI pros means there are a limitless number of videos, each being unique and not relying on templated content.Read More Sport News It has been created by Snickers and is available to use on smartphones via its ‘Own Goal’ page.The former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager says he was “excited” to team up with the chocolate brand to bring the technology to life.And Sergio Peniche, senior brand and content director at Mars Wrigley, added: “Partnering with José Mourinho to create the AI version of himself brings a unique and entertaining twist to our ‘Own Goal’ campaign.“Now, everyone can receive a bit of valuable coaching and a lot of laughs from one of football’s greatest minds.”Most read in FootballThe real José spend hours filmingCredit: Snickers More