Balls to the Super League

AFTER a week filled with drama off the pitch, Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez maintains that the European Super League project is still alive.Meanwhile, we’ve got exclusive updates on Tottenham’s interest in Brendan Rodgers and transfer news from Arsenal, Man City and Chelsea.
Follow ALL of the latest updates below after an explosive week in the world of football…
YOU HAVE TO UNDER-STAN
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has urged majority holder Stan Kroenke to listen to the fans and work on regaining the club’s identity.
Henry told The Daily Telegraph: “Fans always decide, as you saw with the ESL. You have to listen to the fans and I can understand why they protested.
“The ESL didn’t happen because of the fans. Not only me, you and the fans said it was wrong, they [the owners] also said it was wrong. They showed their hand and that was disappointing.
“I remember when I arrived, not the Tottenham fans or our rivals, but a lot of the time I used to hear: ‘My second team, if I had to pick one, is Arsenal’. Because of the history, the culture, the class, the family.
“But I don’t hear that or see that anymore and it pains me. We need to get that image back. We need our identity back”
FANS ARE BACK!
This year’s Carabao Cup final marks a special day for football as fans return to Wembley Stadium for the big game.
Spurs and City fans have been given 2,000 tickets each for this major encounter at the esteemed ground.
The remaining 4,000 tickets are split between other groups, such as the Brent residents and NHS staff.
A major move back to how things were before the coronavirus pandemic
GETTY IMAGES
GETTY IMAGES

LES MISERABLE
Luke Shaw’s new contract at Manchester United will raise doubts over Alex Telles’ future at Old Trafford.
Telles’ signing from Porto last summer furthered speculation that Shaw was on his way out of United.
According to the Daily Star, however, the Brazil international may be the one to leave Old Trafford following the England defender’s stunning comeback.
The 28-year-old is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time and could force a move away from the Red Devils at the end of the campaign
FULL-TIME
It’s full-time at Elland Road with Manchester United and Leeds enduring a 0-0 draw.
United are still second in the Premier League table with 10 points separating them from rivals Manchester City at the top.
But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men are enjoying a comfortable eight-point lead from third-placed Leicester.
Leeds have climbed up to ninth with six points separating them from seventh place, which usually leads to qualification for next season’s Europa League

CARABAO CUP FINAL XI
Manchester City and Tottenham are set to lock horns in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
The game kicks off at 4.30pm and this is how the two teams are going to line up.
Spurs star striker Harry Kane returns to the fold for this important game that could see the north Londoners winning their first piece of silverware since 2008.
Kevin de Bruyne also starts for Pep Guardiola’s men
𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 ⚪️ Lloris (C), Aurier, Alderweireld, Dier, Reguilon, Højbjerg, Winks, Lo Celso, Lucas, Son, Kane.#CarabaoCupFinal ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/J88a3Jyehy— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 25, 2021

The boys going into battle! 💙XI | Steffen, Walker, Dias, Laporte, Cancelo, Fernandinho (C), Gundogan, De Bruyne, Mahrez, Foden, SterlingSUBS | Ederson, Ake, Jesus, Aguero, Zinchenko, Rodrigo, Bernardo, Torres, Mendy⚽️ @HaysWorldwide 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/H41AwZZNMp— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 25, 2021

COOL HAND LUKE
Manchester United ace Luke Shaw is set to be offered a new contract by the Manchester giants.
According to the Daily Star, Shaw will be handed a contract extension along with a pay-rise by United.
The left-back has been enjoying a tremendous comeback under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after falling down the pecking order during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at the Red Devils’ dugout.
The England international will earn £190,000 a week until the end of the 2025-26 season, something that would make him the sixth highest-paid player at Old Trafford
GETTY IMAGES
NO WOE OF THE DYCHE
After Chris Wood’s first-half hat-trick catapulted Burnley up to 14th with a 4-0 win at Wolves, Clarets’ boss Sean Dyche insisted he never lost sleep over their lowly position.
Dyche said: “Our performances have been good. You don’t always get what you deserve but the details were good at both ends of the pitch.
“I don’t tend to worry too much. It’s a season’s work. It’s how you end up in the season and our focus has to be the next game.”
And of striker Wood, he added: “He keeps improving for me.
“Every now and again he eased off but when he plays strong like that he causes problems.”
BRIDGE SHUT-OUT
With Thomas Tuchel poised to earn Chelsea top-three finish, whilst also facing a Champions League semi-final with Real Madrid, here’s one stat to show how well Thiago Silva and Co have been performing at the back.

TRANSFER KOU
Bristol City striker Saikou Janneh is on the radar of Premier League new-boys Norwich as a group of clubs consider making a move this summer.
Janneh, 21, has caught the eye of the Canaries as boss Daniel Farke looks to piece together a squad capable of staying in the top flight next season.
But there is also competition from Brighton and fellow Championship promotion hopefuls Watford for the Gambian forward who has two years left on his current deal at Ashton Gate.
Bristol City boss Nigel Pearson is desperate to keep hold of the forward, who has climbed out of non-league to show his qualities in the professional game.
He enjoyed a successful loan at Torquay where he scored 16 goals in 28 appearances before a short-term move to Newport County this season was cut short by injury.
But Pearson believes there is much more to come at Ashton Gate for Janneh and has already brought him into his first team plans.
GLAZE OVER IT AND MOVE ON
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
PLANE ANGER
Furious Manchester United fans flew a ‘#GlazersOut’ banner over Elland Road in protest against their owners.
The Red Devils made the trip to Leeds on Sunday afternoon to continue their long-standing rivalry.
And before kick-off a place went over the stadium with a sign calling for the American family to sell the club. It read: “2bn stolen #GlazersOut.”
Already unpopular among United supporters, the Glazers infuriated fans even further last week by being conspirators in the breakaway European Super League plot.
Joel, one of the co-chairmen, did apologise in a statement after the club’s dramatic U-turn.
But his brother and fellow co-chairman Avram refused to say sorry for his involvement. And then made no comment when quizzed if he would sell the club.

‘EARN IT’
Leeds fans have savaged Manchester United with a brutal banner outside Elland Road this afternoon.
The banner, which describes the Red Devils as ‘plastic’ and ‘shallow’, is in response to the failed attempt at creating a European Super League.
The banner reads: “ESL and MUFC – just a tactical, temporary withdrawal, we see! Until your PR agents and media can reframe a package and construct an acceptable narrative and plan for your greedy, selfish followers to push this through in two years’ time. We know who you are! We know you from old!
“Manchester United! Nonsense! What a joke! Find a new, more appropriate name! This was always coming, given the soulless, win at all costs, plastic, shallow, selfish, worthless money monster you have made of yourselves!
“MUFC have fed off and divided, not United, football and communities. You are killing football! Children should be encouraged to support their community and play fairly and not bully people by exclusion!
“The Leeds family is fully United with and in full support of and shoulder to shoulder with all true LFC, MCFC, AFC, THFC, and with the few remaining genuine MUFC and CFC fans, whose clubs have been hijacked by power monger and shallow weak-minded glory hunters! And together we’re fans United, we’ll never be divided! Earn it on the pitch! Football is for the fans!”

KICK-OFF!
Leeds 0 – 0 Man Utd
The players are off and underway at Elland Road.
And you can follow SunSport’s LIVE kick-by-kick match blog HERE.
FULL-TIME!
Wolves 0 – 4 Burnley
What a win for the Clarets.
Chris Wood’s first half hat-trick fired them out the blocks and Ashley Westwood’s strike five minutes from time put the cherry on the cake.
Surely that win spells safety for Sean Dyche’s men who move 14th on 36 points and nine points clear of 18th place Fulham.
Wolves stay 12th.

NO POG PROBLEM
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has left Paul Pogba on the bench against Leeds in order to manager his game time.
Dan James comes in to replace the Frenchman and the Norwegian admitted he has Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first-leg against Roma in mind.

HOPE FOR A WIN
Hope Powell says Brighton are looking to spoil Arsenal’s top-three hopes as Albion hunt for a third win against a WSL big gun.
And the Seagulls boss reckons the upturn in her side’s league form means they are unlikely to be underestimated by their top-flight rivals. Brighton, who are sixth and the only team to have beaten Chelsea this term, have won six of their last seven games across all competitions.
They are targeting another major scalp after defeating Man United who are battling Arsenal for Champions League qualification. And the Seagulls are yet to beat the Gunners since their arrival in the Women’s Super League in the 2018-19 season.
Powell, 54, said: “I think what Arsenal won’t do is take us for granted, which perhaps doesn’t help us. Historically they would beat us and I think there’ll be absolutely on it in this game.
“They want to secure a top-three spot to go into Europe, but what we’re trying to do is spoil their party as we would do with any team that we come up against. I think now, because of recent results, teams will make sure that they’re absolutely on it.
“And Arsenal will come at us and I’m sure they will play their strongest side. For us, that means a very tough game. And we will make it tough for them. We will do our utmost to be the best we can.”

WHO DUN IT?
Gary Lineker joked David Moyes was spotted with a box of matches after the fire alarm went off at the VAR HQ.
Alarm bells rang around Stockley Park just minutes before Wolves’ Premier League clash with Burnley. Players went out onto the field unaware of the drama in Hayes but unfortunately for many traditionalists, normal service was restored in time for kick-off.
When Lineker told viewers that VAR might not be functioning live on BBC, Danny Murphy joked: “That’s not good news, that’s phenomenal news.”
Lineker then quipped: “Rumours that David Moyes was seen outside with a box of matches are grossly exaggerated at this stage.”
Moyes was left raging on Saturday after Fabian Balbuena was essentially sent off for kicking a ball. The defender lumped the ball upfield but his follow-through caught Ben Chilwell who crashed to the turf in pain.
VAR looked at the incident and then advised referee Chris Kavanagh to take a look at the incident himself. Kavanagh then brandished a straight red card much to the disbelief of everybody watching Chelsea’s 1-0 victory.

TEAM NEWS IS IN!
Manchester United vs Leeds kicks-off at 2pm at Elland Road.
And this is how both teams will line up for the eagerly anticipated clash.
📋 Marcelo names an unchanged side to the one that drew against Liverpool, but Summerville and Greenwood feature on the bench— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 25, 2021

HALF-TIME!
Wolves 0 – 3 Burnley
Chris Wood’s first-half hat-trick fires the Clarets into a 3-0 lead at Molineux.
If the scores stay like this it will be a huge boost for Sean Dyche’s men in their race for safety and they will move to 14th.
Wolves’ season looks destined to end in the same mediocre fashion it has played out so far with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side rooted in 12th spot.

TELL ME MORENO
Manchester United target Pau Torres has been asking his teammates what it’s like to play for a big club – and one of them is Alberto Moreno.
The ex-Liverpool flop, who joined Torres at Villarreal in 2019, is one of three players to give the 24-year-old some much-needed advice.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Sport, Torres said: “Players who have gone through important clubs, when they talk about an experience they have had, I like to listen to them, both Paco Alcacer and Raul Albiol or Alberto Moreno.
“They tell you things that you have not yet experienced and that you think you would like to experience.”
The Red Devils are said to be keen on signing the centre back, with reports suggesting a £52million bid may be imminent.
Real Madrid, however, are also believed to interested in the Spain international and may challenge the Premier League side for his signature.

JAN YOU BELIEVE IT – EXCLUSIVE
Bristol City striker Saikou Janneh is on the radar of Premier League new-boys Norwich as a group of clubs consider making a move this summer.
Janneh, 21, has caught the eye of the Canaries as boss Daniel Farke looks to piece together a squad capable of staying in the top flight next season.
But there is also competition from Brighton and fellow Championship promotion hopefuls Watford for the Gambian forward who has two years left on his current deal at Ashton Gate.
Bristol City boss Nigel Pearson is desperate to keep hold of the forward, who has climbed out of non-league to show his qualities in the professional game.
He enjoyed a successful loan at Torquay where he scored 16 goals in 28 appearances before a short-term move to Newport County this season was cut short by injury. But Pearson believes there is much more to come at Ashton Gate for Janneh and has already brought him into his first team plans.
Hertha Berlin and Bayer Leverkusen have also shown an interest as the German clubs look to scour the Championship for players with potential and a summer fight for his signature could be on.
Credit: Rex
RED-DY TO GO!
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ready for a serious challenge at Leeds this afternoon.
Manchester United travel to Elland Road for the 2pm kick-off and the Norwegian warned his side they have to be prepared physically and mentally.

EK OF A PLAN
Spotify founder Daniel Ek is preparing a takeover bid to buy Arsenal, according to reports.
And Gunners owner Stan Kroenke may be open to selling the club for £2billion. Billionaire Ek, 38, announced on Friday he would be keen to purchase his beloved Gunners.
He tweeted: “As a kid growing up, I’ve cheered for Arsenal as long as I can remember. If KSE would like to sell Arsenal I’d be happy to throw my hat in the ring.”
And according to The Telegraph, it was not just a PR stunt but in fact, Swedish Ek is ready to enter negotiations with the view to submitting a formal offer.
Forbes estimate Ek is worth around £4.1bn after the entrepreneur successfully launched the music streaming platform in 2008. Kronke, 73, is chairman of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment and joined the Arsenal board in 2008, three years before becoming majority shareholder.
He was a key figure in the breakaway European Super League plans, named as a vice-chairman alongside Liverpool’s John Henry and Joel Glazer of Manchester United.

WAYNE LEFT ON BENCH – EXCLUSIVE
Wayne Rooney was consigned to the bench as he waited for his dinner with wife Coleen.
The Derby boss, 35, looked deep in thought while his other half, also 35, studied her phone.
The pair had popped out with their Pomeranian Pip to collect a food order from a café near their home in Prestbury, Cheshire.
It came as Wayne vowed to back Coleen ‘all the way’ in her Wagatha Christie court fight.
A source told The Sun Online last year: “Wayne and Coleen Rooney are stronger than ever after spending lockdown together.
“This is the longest time they have spent together uninterrupted since they got married, and Coleen has fallen in love with Wayne all over again. She says that she now remembers what a wonderful, caring companion he is – and an amazing dad to the boys.”

HONEST BERGER
Ann-Katrin Berger admits she is ‘quite critical’ of her shot-stopping heroics for Chelsea despite Emma Hayes hailing her efforts as world-class.
And the WSL ace who helped seal a Champions League semis spot for the Blues relishes seeing herself as an underdog. Berger’s breathtaking saves against Atletico Madrid and Wolfsburg helped Hayes’s side line up a clash over two legs with Bayern Munich.
The German giants and the WSL league leaders are battling for a place in the finals against PSG or Barcelona. But perfectionist Berger, 30, keeps an eye out for errors in performances that have won her praise from pundits.
The Kingsmeadow keeper told SunSport: “I couldn’t tell you which of my games is my best performance. Even in my best games, I find a mistake or something annoying.
“You would have to ask my goalkeeping coach that because I’m quite critical of myself. With the Atletico and Wolfsburg matches, I was just doing my job.
“I enjoy goalkeeping for Chelsea because I have a really good connection with the front four and midfield. It makes it so much easier for me to do my job And having the faith the defenders have given me, I think it’s the nicest feeling to get that trust you need to work.”

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THE fallout from the European Super League continues after it was revealed Real Madrid and Barcelona were set to earn £52m MORE than the English big six.Meanwhile, we’ve got exclusive updates on Tottenham’s interest in Brendan Rodgers and the very latest as Spotify founder Daniel Ek reveals that he wants to buy Arsenal.
Follow ALL of the latest updates below after an explosive week in the world of football…
GLAZER TAG
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford in a bid to remove club’s owners

BLANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Thierry Henry hailed his ‘happiest moment’ as English football unites in a stand against racism and all online abuse.
The Prem, EFL and the women’s game will boycott Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over four days next weekend.
From 3pm on Friday, April 30, through to the end of Bank Holiday Monday on May 3, every club will switch off their social media accounts.
Prem legend Henry has been at the forefront of the fight after removing himself from social media last month.
He said: “English football coming off social media is a powerful statement. Everything that tries to destroy the beauty and the happiness of our game — we should fight it.
“This is my happiest moment. Football stands for something. Not only money.
“What happened with the European Super League was about standing up for values — and so is this.”

GIGGS’ NEW LOVE
Ryan Giggs has found love with a lingerie model — as he waits to appear in court charged with assaulting two women, including his ex-girlfriend.
The former Manchester United star, 47, was seen out with Zara Charles, 33, in Hale, Cheshire, days before he was also charged with coercive and controlling behaviour against ex Kate Greville, 36.
A source said: “Zara has been supporting Ryan over the last few months.
“She’s a great, upbeat girl. Ryan has been completely open with her about his situation. They seem very strong together.”
Giggs was, on Friday, charged with assaulting two women.
One alleged victim is his ex Kate and the other — a woman in her twenties — is believed to be her younger sister.
BLADES WIN
Sheffield United have won just their fifth Premier League game of the season, defeating Brighton 1-0 at Bramall Lane.
A first-half strike from David McGoldrick was enough to give the relegated side all three points.
Brighton sit seven points above the relegation zone with five games to play – and will no doubt be regretting this sitter from Neal Maupay.

HIBS REACH SEMIS
Hibernian are through to the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup after beating Motherwell in a penalty shoot-out.
The match finished 2-2 after 90 minutes and the two teams still couldn’t be separated following extra time.
Here’s the winning penalty…

LIONS WARNING
Police issued a “strong” warning about Covid rules when called to a party attended by England aces Ben Chilwell and Mason Mount.
The Chelsea pair and team-mate Billy Gilmour were at Chilwell’s £4million home last Sunday.
Police attended after neighbours complained about a large gathering.
Rules allow households to meet outdoors in groups of six, but not indoors unless in a support bubble or exempt.
Last night a source for Chilwell, 24, Mount, 22, and Scottish international Gilmour, 19, said none had been found to be in breach of Covid rules or were directly spoken to by police.
But the police visit is likely to worry England boss Gareth Southgate who has spoke of his concern about squad discipline.

YES SERB
Manchester City are in negotiations to sign Red Star Belgrade starlet Andrija Radulovic, SunSport understands.
Scouts from the Premier League leaders have been watching the winger for over a year.
And SunSport understand that the Citizens made contact with Red Star last month to open talks.
Man City scouts have been impressed by the Serbian youth international.
Radulovic, 18, delivered good performances in last season’s Uefa Youth League, scoring in a 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur.
SET THE BENCHMARK
James Milner broke the Premier League record for most appearances as a substitute during Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle.
The ex-England star, 35, has enjoyed a long career in the top-flight with Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City and now the Reds.
In fact, at the time of his debut for Leeds, Milner became the second-youngest player in Premier League history, aged 16 years and 309 days.
Now, more than 18 years later, Milner has put his name in the history books.
The three-time Premier League champion climbed off the bench to replace Diogo Jota with 30 minutes to play in the game against Newcastle.
And in doing so, he overtook Peter Crouch for most substitute appearances in the league’s history.
Click here to find out the 10 most subbed on players in Premier League history.
1-0 BLADES
Sheffield United have taken the lead against Brighton in this evening’s Premier League clash.
David McGoldrick’s strike means it’s 1-0 to the Blades with 40 minutes played.
Here’s the goal…

CHELSEA RATINGS ARE IN
Timo Werner’s goal handed Chelsea a huge Champions League boost as they beat top four rivals West Ham 1-0.
The Blues edged a nervy game at the Olympic Stadium as the Hammers finished with ten men.
But who was Chelsea’s best player today? And did anyone have a game to forget?
Click here to read SunSport’s Chelsea player ratings.

WAS THIS A RED?
West Ham’s Fabian Balbuena was sent off after he caught Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell with his follow-through.
Did referee Chris Kavanagh make the right call?
Here’s the incident…

WERN TO WATCH
Chelsea found themselves at the centre of yet another huge football shock story as Timo Werner scored a goal.
The dust has yet to settle on their outrageous bid to join a European Super League and now the misfiring German has only gone and hit the target.
Werner’s first since mid-February and only his second in the Premier League this year was enough to settle this tepid episode of the battle for the top four.
Victory means Chelsea cement their spot in the Champions League places for now while West Ham concede a three point cushion to their big-spending rivals with five games to go.
Click here to read SunSport’s match report.

KYL-ER BLOW
Kylian Mbappe has handed Paris Saint-Germain a major injury scare ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City.
The French forward limped off with a suspected thigh injury in the 87th minute of the 3-1 victory over Metz.
Two goals from Mbappe and a late strike by Mauro Icardi ensured the French champions headed to the top of Ligue 1.
But their afternoon was soured with the potential injury to their key man.
PSG are set to take on Manchester City on Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
KEPT AT BAY
Bayern Munich were thwarted by Mainz as they missed out on winning the Bundesliga title with three games to spare this afternoon, losing 2-1.
Hansi Flick’s men found themselves two goals down at the interval, having delivered a lacklustre performance.
And even the returning Robert Lewandowski couldn’t inspire them to a comeback, although the Pole did get on the scoresheet late on.
Click here to read SunSport’s match report.
Credit: AFP
NU MOVE
Nuno Espirito Santo has rejected the idea of becoming Tottenham’s next manager.
The Wolves boss asserted his commitment to his current job by stating he still has a contract he aims to honour.
He said: “I have a contract. It is my decision to sign a contract and that is what I want to say.
“When I make a decision like that there is no doubts in my mind. There are no doubts at all.
“I am going to be here on Friday at 8.30 in the morning to prepare our game against Burnley.”

BERGE KING
Arsenal have been warned off a transfer for Sander Berge with Paul Heckingbottom expecting the ace to stay at Sheffield United.
The Star claims both Arsenal – and north London rivals Tottenham – are interested in Berge after the Blades were relegated to the Championship.
But interim United boss Heckingbottom has said: “Sander hasn’t spoken about the future. If he is here, that will be out of my hands.
“But I’m expecting him [to stay], yes. He’s contracted to us, don’t forget that, and what a player he would be to help us get back.
“The only thing Sander is bothered about at the moment is getting fit, that’s what’s driving him on.”
Credit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
NHO SLACKING
Fernandinho gave Manchester City stars a New Year’s Day rollicking in a crisis meeting to spearhead the club’s title charge.
Manager Pep Guardiola had moaned to the Brazilian about attitudes within the camp after a poor training session on December 31.
So the club captain stepped up as the leader of the group to get things sorted – before the team embarked on a staggering winning run towards the Premier League title.
Speaking to The Players’ Tribune, Fernandinho said: “I’m usually not a guy who makes big speeches, but a few months ago I really had no choice.
“It was December 31, New Year’s Eve. We were eighth in the Premier League table. And we had just finished training. And Pep wasn’t happy.
“It was not a good session. The attitude, the body language, the effort from some players, it was just obvious: misplaced passes, players not tracking back, not running, not looking interested.
“This was not us. This was not the team that had won two titles in a row, or that had set a record points total.
“Pep told me that not everyone was at 100 per cent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 per cent, or you stay home. Once you enter the pitch, there is no conversation, no negotiation.
“He was right. And he made it clear that the responsibility for keeping those standards rested with me.”
Credit: The Sun
FOWL PLAY
Sheffield Wednesday are almost out of their misery after a collapse against Middlesbrough, losing 3-1.
The Owls must win their final two games to stay up after late goals from Josh Coburn and Duncan Watmore delivered a hammer blow to their survival hopes.
Stand-in boss Jamie Smith said: “There’s still a belief we can stay up.
“We have still got a chance as mathematically it’s still possible. We will keep fighting.”
Wednesday host Nottingham Forest in a must-win fixture before a potential final day shoot-out with relegation rivals Derby.
Smith added: “We have to go get three points – whatever it takes.”
Credit: PA
NO DEAL
Liverpool’s owners Fenway Sports Group have rejected a staggering £3BILLION bid to buy the club, according to reports.
The Reds’ American owners, led by John W Henry, have come in for monster criticism lately.
Fans protested with banners outside Anfield ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime draw with Newcastle following the club’s involvement in the controversial European Super League.
And now, the Mirror claim Henry rejected a huge bid – believed to be from the Middle East – BEFORE the chaos unfolded.
FSG have lost around £120million in revenue due to the pandemic, with fans not allowed at Anfield, according to the report.
But Henry and Co were unwilling to sell up, knocking back the bid – believed to be close to £3bn.
Credit: Rex
NEW ERROR
Thousands of ‘New Era’ Super League football shirts have been put on sale for just £2 after the competition’s calamitous collapse.
Last Sunday, it was revealed 12 clubs had signed up for the controversial breakaway tournament.
But by Tuesday, the European Super League was dead in the water after NINE clubs – including all of the Premier League’s Big Six – withdrew following an incredible fan backlash.
However, within that 48-hour window, a well-known high street store had designed a ‘New Era’ football shirt for each of the six English clubs involved.
The unnamed chain bought a staggering 70,000 tops and had planned to sell them for £29.99.
However, Wholesale Clearance UK have now decided to take the jerseys off their hands and try to sell them themselves for just £2, a sensational 93 per cent price slash.
Credit: NC
PSG GO TOP
Paris Saint-Germain have gone top of Ligue 1 with a 3-1 victory at Metz.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side took the lead in the fourth minute when Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring.
Metz equalised just after half-time when Fabien Centonze made it 1-1, but Mbappe’s second goal in the 59th minute restored PSG’s lead.
A late Mauro Icardi penalty confirmed the win and they are now two points ahead of Lille, who have a game in hand.
Here is Mbappe’s first goal…
Three Metz defenders didn’t stand a chance of catching Kylian Mbappe 💨Ander Herrera with the ball over the top… And then we just wait for the celebration 🥶 pic.twitter.com/HDCHqm5QFI— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

FAN OF THAT
Manchester United star Nemanja Matic has hailed his manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for showing ‘we respect our supporters’ by confronting angry protesters this week.
A group of fuming fans stormed Carrington on Thursday morning, in protest at the club’s decision to break away as part of the European Super League.
The fans brought banners with them, featuring anti-board messages including ‘Glazers Out’ and ’51 % MUFC 20′.
Matic and Solskjaer, as well as ex-players Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher confronted the angry supporters.
And the Serbian, 32, believes that the incident is a ‘positive thing’.
He told Sky Sports: “We saw the fans here in our training ground and that was very nice from our manager to decide to go out and speak to them.”
Credit: Getty
WELCOME BACK
Watford have joined Norwich by sealing promotion to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
The Hornets needed to beat Millwall at Vicarage Road to secure their spot back in the big time.
And it was club-record £40million signing Ismaila Sarr who ensured a top-two finish with a narrow 1-0 victory.
Watford had the champagne on ice and wasted no time in celebrating their success on the pitch.
The players then launched Xisco into the air after his appointment in December sparked a remarkable run of form to seal promotion.
In his 24 games in charge, he has picked up 54 points – more than anyone else in the Championship.
Credit: Getty
BLUE MOVE
Chelsea are fully focused on landing either Erling Haaland or Romelu Lukaku this summer as Thomas Tuchel prioritises a new striker, according to reports.
The Blues – like rivals Manchester City and United – need a No9 when the transfer market reopens.
And according to Bild’s Christian Falk, Chelsea are prioritising either of Europe’s leading hitmen.
But the report adds the West Londoners are not pursuing a chase for Haaland’s Borussia Dortmund team-mate Jude Bellingham.
Chelsea have struggled in front of goal this season.
Tammy Abraham, frozen out under Tuchel, penalty-specialist Jorginho and Mason Mount lead the scoring charts with six Premier League goals.
Credit: Reuters
ICING ON THE KAYK
Manchester City’s new signing Kayky has shown exactly why he is heading to the Premier League giants.
Pep Guardiola’s table-toppers have forked out £9million for the 17-year-old from Fluminense.
Dubbed the ‘next Neymar’ the Brazilian sensation certainly lived up to the billing with a brilliant solo strike for his club.
With goals like that, Man City fans can be forgiven for being excited to see their new man in action.
Watch Man City’s new wonderkid Kayky score amazing solo goal after humiliating FOUR defenders
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THE fallout from the European Super League continues after it was revealed Real Madrid and Barcelona were set to earn £52m MORE than the English big six.Meanwhile, we’ve the very latest as Spotify founder Daniel Ek reveals that he wants to buy Arsenal.
Follow ALL of the latest updates below after an explosive week in the world of football…
HAA IS HE THIS GOOD?
Another day, another Erling Haaland masterclass.
The 20-year-old scored his 24th and 25th Bundesliga goals of the season today in Borussia Dortmund’s 2-0 win against Wolfsburg.
It wasn’t all good news for Dortmund, though, as Jude Bellingham was sent off.
Here’s Haaland’s second goal…

AGUER-GO
Inter Milan are in the hunt to sign Sergio Aguero, according to reports.
Barcelona are believed to be close to an agreement with the Manchester City striker, who is being chased by a number of clubs including Juventus.
Tottenham and Arsenal have both been linked with a move for the Argentine since City announced he would not receive a new deal.
And Serie A champions-elect Inter have now joined the battle for Aguero’s signature after the striker was offered to them, report Tuttosport.
TAG, YOU’RE IT
Manchester City are interested in signing Ajax defender Nicolas Tagliafico, according to reports.
The 28-year-old left back is said to be on Pep Guardiola’s radar, with Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Leeds United also reported to be keen.
According to AS, City are interested in the player and were considering a move last summer before Oleksandr Zinchenko decided to remain at the Etihad.
Guardiola has deployed several players, including Zinchenko, at left back due to Benjamin Mendy’s severe injury problems.
The French World Cup winner has made just 46 Premier League appearances since joining the club in July 2017.
The City boss may be keen to sign another left back to ensure Mendy has plenty of cover – and Tagliafico may just fit the bill.
Credit: Getty
RECKON THAT’S A YELLOW
Liverpool’s Champions League hopes have been dealt a huge blow after Newcastle’s Joe Willock scored a 95th-minute equaliser in today’s clash.
Shortly before Willock’s goal, Fabinho picked up a yellow card for cynical foul on Allan Saint-Maximin.
The French winger certainly felt that one…

DOR CLOSED
Borussia Dortmund will not sell ‘untouchable’ Jude Bellingham this summer, according to reports.
The English teenager has been linked with the likes of Chelsea, having impressed in his debut Bundesliga season.
But if Dortmund have their way, the former Birmingham City starlet will be going nowhere.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims that Dortmund consider Bellingham, 17, ‘untouchable’ going into the summer window.
And the Italian ‘expects’ the German giants to keep their wonderkid this summer.
Credit: Getty
PL-OTTING AGAINST EU
Arsene Wenger has sensationally claimed the rest of Europe ‘dream of destroying the Premier League’ as he took aim at the failed Super League plot.
The former Arsenal boss, 71, has taken another swing at the failed breakaway competition following its humiliating collapse having already launched a scathing attack earlier this week.
And now, Wenger has told The Telegraph: “It was born dead. From the start, I couldn’t believe it would work.
“The most surprising in all that was the English behaviour.
“Everybody dreams of destroying the Premier League in Europe. In England we do it ourselves.
“I can’t understand the rationality behind that because England voted for Brexit and now they want to bring a Super League.”

SOL DESTROYING
Rio Ferdinand has opened up on the ribbing he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his £30million move to Manchester United in 2002.
The England star set a record as most expensive defender ever at the time as he swapped Leeds United for Old Trafford.
And the United dressing room, including current boss Solskjaer, demanded the highest standards immediately.
Speaking to the Mail, Ferdinand revealed that he immediately found passes being fired at his shins in training, as his new team-mates tested his skills. And when one didn’t stick, there was hell to pay.
Ferdinand, 42, said: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the one who immediately went, ’30mill? Really? Wow’.
“It was intimidating but you have to cope. I have seen players walk in for England or United and you can see the fear. They can’t deal with it.”

SALI-BAN
William Saliba has been hit with a suspended one-month ban by the French FA for his role in an X-rated video scandal.
In February, a leaked Snapchat video resurfaced which showed the young Arsenal defender, 20, filming a team-mate masturbating in the dressing room.
The original clip is believed to have been from 2018 but only did the rounds on social media earlier this year. Saliba has now been hit with a suspended one-month ban following a disciplinary hearing.
That means he will NOT miss any playing time for Nice – where he is currently on loan – or France unless he breaches any rules again, say RMC Sport.
Meanwhile, Brighton ace Ulrick Eneme Ella, 19, has been banned for three months for his role in the video. In Ella’s case, just ONE of those months has been suspended, meaning he will serve a two-month ban.
The forward – who has not yet played for Brighton since his 2020 move from Amiens – is permitted to play for his club. But Ella will not be allowed to feature in any of France’s youth or senior squads.

SEEING RED
Manchester United fans have headed to Old Trafford in their droves to protest against the club owners.
Supporters are furious following the foiled plans for the European Super League.
Red Devil fans arranged the protest on Twitter for 3pm on Saturday – exactly 123 years after the club was founded.
Manchester United even shut the Old Trafford megastore earlier in the afternoon ahead of the expected protests.
The loyal fanbase were vocal in their anger towards American owners The Glazers which was further fuelled following the fallout of the ESL.
They set off smoke bombs, chanted against the Glazers and held banners such as ‘Glazer Out Now’ and ‘Enough is Enough.’

MOUR FIGHT
Jamie Carragher revealed the details of his X-rated first meeting with Jose Mourinho – and hailed him as ‘one of the greatest coaches of all time’.
The Special One was sacked by Tottenham on Monday less than a week before the Carabao Cup final where the North Londoners will be looking to end their 13-year trophy drought.
And writing in his column for The Telegraph, Liverpool legend Carragher reminisced on the first time he locked horns with the Portuguese during his early Chelsea days. He said: “I will never forget my first encounter with Jose Mourinho.
“It was in Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium during the 2005 League Cup Final, and the Chelsea manager rushed to the technical area to accuse my team-mate, Luis Garcia, of diving.
“Dashing to the scene, I let rip. ‘Don’t you f***ing start about diving,’ I shouted. ‘Your Porto side was the f***ing worst.’ The altercation lasted 30 seconds. The Chelsea and Liverpool fans loved it.
“Chelsea beat us after extra-time and I was distraught. After the game Mourinho found me. His mood was much different as he offered me his commiserations. ‘You know I was just fighting for my team, don’t you?’ he said.”

‘STAND WITH THEM’
Ian Wright has claimed the Kroenke family ‘are not fit to run’ Arsenal as he backed supporters’ protests.
Police were forced to intervene as thousands of Arsenal fans gathered at the Emirates to call for Stan Kroenke’s departure ahead of the defeat to Everton on Friday. A huge group expressed their outrage at the failed European Super League breakaway attempt and general running of the club in North London on Friday.
Fans HUNG an effigy of Stan Kroenke outside the ground prior to Bernd Leno’s own goal gifting the Toffees the points. Now the legendary Gunners striker, who has tweeted ‘Kroenke Out’ this week, has further offered his backing for the American chief to sell up.
Wright told Dazn: “I stand with them. I made it clear what I think about the owner. I think they’re right to be outside there. The statement from the manager as well, fans have every right to be out there saying what they’re saying.
“KSE are not fit, for me, not fit to run the club, not fit to own the club. We’ve heard Josh Kroenke saying they’re not selling the club – and I wouldn’t expect them to, it’s a massive cash cow for them.
“But if they are going to stay and run the club then it’s going to have to be done under different terms. The only thing I can seek solace from is that the government are going to be doing a review on club ownership. Everything to do with what owners like that do and what they don’t do.”

FULL-TIME!
Liverpool 1 – 1 Newcastle
Incredible stuff!
After Callum Wilson had a goal disallowed deep into stoppage time for handball, justice was served as Willock stabbed home from 12 yards.
Mo Salah’s strike gave the Reds the lead early in the first half.
They had plenty of chances from then on but the Magpies made them pay at the death.
Liverpool go sixth with the draw and miss the chance to go into the top four.
Newcastle stay 15th but move nine points clear of the drop zone.

LIVERPOOL 1-1 NEWCASTLE

In the SIXTH minute of added time Newcastle have their goal!

The ball is floated into the box before falling to the feet of Joe Willock twelve yards out.
His effort is deflected by Fabinho, wrongfooting Alisson and salvaging a point for Newcastle!
That is an incredible finish to a brilliant game!
GOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLL!
JOE WILLOCK DOES IT AGAIN FOR NEWCASTLE!
FEELING BLUE
Southend United fans are out in force protesting against floundering owner Ron Martin.
The Blues were relegated from League One last season and will be drop into non-league for the first time in their history today if they lose to bitter rivals Leyton Orient.
Deluded Martin has overseen the recent downfall and appeared determined to keep his head in the sand with a recent statement in response to an offer of help from former Shrimper Stan Collymore.
Supporters gathered at Roots Hall ahead of kick-off today chanting ‘we want Martin out’ and ‘we want our Southend back’ as first team players Alan McCormack and Jason Demetriou came out to meet the disgruntled group.
But as the rest of the first team gathered at the stadium entrance, the protesters made it clear their anger was aimed at Martin rather than the players.

KLOWNING AROUND
Gary Lineker has hit out at Jurgen Klopp for being ‘spectacularly tone deaf’ over the European Super League fallout.
The Liverpool boss was further asked his thoughts following the fierce backlash and collapse of the money-making farce.
A hundred or so angry Liverpool fans protested against their American owners before kick-off against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal and Chelsea supporters protested outside their stadiums while a group of Manchester United fans also blocked the player’s access to the Carrington training ground – all in protest against the ESL plans.
Klopp was eager to remind supporters that the blame lies only at the feet of the owners while asking the public to ‘calm down’ with their opinions.
Lineker was far from impressed with Klopp’s reasoning and believe the fans have every right to continue making their voices heard.

“You all have to calm down. It’s winding people up.””Nobody wanted it. Definitely. But now let’s deal with it.”A passionate Jurgen Klopp on dealing with, and moving forward from the European Super League fallout.🎙 @TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/2xMFzfIPUt— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

RAPH AND READY
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes always talks about rumoured target Raphinha, team-mate Fred has revealed.
The Leeds United winger is reportedly on the Red Devils’ radar, having impressed since joining Marcelo Bielsa’s side from Rennes. And having played alongside Raphinha at Sporting Lisbon, Fernandes hasn’t forgotten his talent.
Fred, who played for Raphinha’s boyhood club Internacional, told Man United’s official website: “Bruno’s been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived. They played together at Sporting.
“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him. I met him recently, great guy, excellent player but… I hope he won’t be lining up against us!
“I wish him a quick recovery and a lot of success in his career. He’s a stand-out star player for Leeds so, of course, it’s better for us if he’s not on the pitch.
“If he does play, we’ll look to mark him carefully and work on our game-plan as best as possible. We’ll try to nullify his threat to come out on top in this game.”
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes were team-mates at Sporting
IN A HARRY
Harry Kane revealed his shock at Jose Mourinho’s sacking – and only found out five minutes before Tottenham wielded the axe.
The Special One, 58, was dismissed on Monday – just six days before the Carabao Cup final. Kane broke the Spurs players’ silence with a post on social media to thank Mourinho for his 17 months in charge.
And speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Carabao Cup final, the striker provided further details about how events unfolded. Kane, in a race to be fit for the Wembley showdown, said: “I was surprised (by Mourinho’s sacking) – I’ll be totally honest.
“I came in that morning and probably found out five or ten minutes before it was announced. A lot of the focus was on the Carabao Cup final and preparing for that but, look, it’s football.
“I’ve been here now where a couple of managers have been sacked and, as a player now, I don’t think you ever expect the boss to be sacked but it’s part of the game, you have to deal with it.
“I had a great relationship with Jose, I wish him all the best for whatever his next job is, but he knows as we know football can be cut-throat and we just have to look forward.”

HALF-TIME!
Liverpool 1 – 0 Newcastle
Mo Salah’s early strike sees former Super League side Liverpool take a slender lead in at the break.
The Reds have had the lion’s share of possession and chances but the vistors have also had glimmers of hope.
Sean Longstaff had Newcastle’s best chance but it looks like Liverpool will be going fourth if it stays like this.

AMERICAN DREAM
Lionel Messi has just splashed out £5million on an apartment fit for a king.
And it means the Argentinean superstar may have further dropped a hint that he is preparing to have a final swansong in America.
Messi, 33, has purchased the entire ninth floor of a luxury apartment in Florida that boasts all the facilities for a millionaire to live in paradise.
According to The Real Deal, the remarkable property sits on Sunny Isles Beach with beautiful views of the ocean. It has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, 360-degree views and even a 1,000-bottle wine cellar in 511 square metres of indoor space.
As well as his own private pool, Messi and his family have access to six pools in total.
There is also a spa, a fitness centre, a yoga studio, a children’s playhouse, and a champagne bar. And just to top it off, a private chef is on-site for when Messi wants to line his stomach before delving into his wine cellar.

FOOTBALL WHISPERS
The conversation between Erling Haaland and Phil Foden has allegedly finally been revealed.
The talented young duo were caught on camera embracing at full-time after Manchester City had defeated Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League earlier this month.
That followed a similar scene a week after the first-leg of the quarter final. They then departed the pitch separately, with Foden caught chuckling as he entered the tunnel.
Pep Guardiola’s City side are favourites to sign the in-demand Dortmund striker this summer. And that led to many speculating that Foden could have been trying to persuade the ace to line-up with him next season.
Seconds after the footage was aired, BT Sport’s Gary Lineker told BT Sport said: “I wonder what’s been said there… ‘see you next season?’” To which Rio Ferdinand replied: “See you next year, see you next year.”
Now the Daily Telegraph has claimed the pair were not talking about a potential transfer. They state Haaland told his rival Foden, who had found the net against Dortmund: “I’m the one who was supposed to score the goals.”

LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
3. The Reds take the lead early on!
Mane floats a nothing cross into the box that Newcastle can only half clear.
It’s headed into the air and Salah eases Ritchie off the ball to take it down.
He swivels and smashes it left footed past Dubravka who has no chance!
Great finish!
GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLL!
MO SALAH FIRES LIVERPOOL IN FRONT!
KICK-OFF!
Liverpool and Newcastle are off and underway at Anfield.
Follow kick-by-kick action on SunSport’s LIVE match blog HERE.
NINTCHDBPICT000649353600Credit: Reuters
AV THAT UNITED
Avram Glazer refused to apologise to Manchester United fans over the European Super League plot.
And when asked whether he will sell the club, the Red Devils co-chairman ‘snapped’ in response. The Mirror tracked down the American near his £16million six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.
He was approached by a reporter as he visited a pharmacy in a black t-shirt, grey jeans and red trainers while driving his big, white Jeep Wrangler.
Glazer, 60, had not been seen since his club confirmed their intention to join the controversial breakaway competition last Sunday and subsequent withdrawal within 48 hours.
The Mirror reporter repeatedly asked him if he wanted to say sorry to fans – but he declined.
He was then asked if he would sell United following the debacle but the report adds he snapped back: “No comment.” Glazer got into his car alongside wife Jill and sped off and returned home.

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