More stories

  • in

    BBC presenter claims he was chased around Old Trafford by masked ultras after wearing the wrong club shirt on run

    BBC Radio Manchester reporter Gaz Drinkwater has claimed he was chased around Old Trafford by masked ultras.Drinkwater took to social media to explain how his wardrobe mishap led to him running away from a group of Feyenoord fans.BBC presenter Gaz Drinkwater has claimed he was chased around Old Trafford by Feyenoord fans after wearing an Ajax shirt on a runCredit: TwitterDrinkwater showed his route had taken him around Old TraffordCredit: TwitterAjax and Feyenoord have a historically feisty rivalryCredit: EPAThe BBC presenter and commentator went out for a jog yesterday in Manchester wearing an Ajax shirt.Unfortunately for him, Ajax’s biggest rivals Feyenoord were in town to face Man City in the Champions League.That meant that his leisurely jog soon turned into him being chased around by some disgruntled Feyenoord fans who were less than impressed by his attire.On social media Drinkwater wrote: “Not sure I quite picked the right attire for today’s 10K run…READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Nothing will push you to your PB like a bunch of masked Feyenoord ultras chasing you around Old Trafford”.His followers and fellow football fans reacted to the unfortunate mistake.One wrote: “That’s one way to improve your personal best I suppose”.While another added: “Dutch fans are crazy!”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third joked: “Wait… you might’ve invented a genius way to give, or scare, yourself into a lot more motivation”.And a fourth commented: “Umm this sounds NUTS hahah”.Five Man City disasters that led to Pep Guardiola scratching his OWN face before ‘self-harm’ apologyFeyenoord had a successful trip to Manchester, pulling off a sensational comeback to take a point from their clash with Man City.The Dutch side were trailing 3-0 before they scored three times in the final 16 minutes of the match to draw level.Manchester United return to Europe tonight to face Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League, it’ll be new boss Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge at Old Trafford.Feyenoord pulled off a stunning comeback to earn a draw against Man City this weekCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Paul Dickenson dead at 74: BBC commentator who covered Jessica Ennis-Hill’s iconic gold at London 2012 dies

    FORMER BBC Sport commentator Paul Dickenson has passed away aged 74.Dickenson, who specialised in athletics and winter sports for over two decades, died at home on Tuesday.Paul Dickenson has passed awayCredit: ALAN TOWSE/FAMOUSDickenson worked in commentary for over two decadesCredit: Action ImagesHis death was announced by the BBC on Wednesday evening.Fans took to social media to pay tribute to the man with an iconic voice.One person wrote: “Really sad to read that Paul Dickenson has died. One of my favourite commentators of all time, his voice is very much missed.”While another commented: “Just seen the very sad news that Paul Dickenson has passed away.READ MORE IN SPORT”Having grown up listening to him, it took me a while to pluck up the courage to talk to him when I was first starting out but, once I did, he was always very supportive and just great company.”Dickenson commentated on every Summer and Winter Olympic Games between 1992 and 2014.He is one of only five BBC commentators to call Team GB gold medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympics.In 2012 he commentated on Jessica Ennis-Hill’s iconic gold medal in the Olympic heptathlon.Most read in AthleticsDickenson commentated on Jessica Ennis-Hill’s heptathlon gold at London 2012Credit: ReutersHis final commentary for the BBC was Lizzy Yarnold’s gold at the 2014 Winter Olympics in SochiCredit: PA:Press AssociationHis last BBC commentary took place when Lizzy Yarnold won her skeleton gold at Sochi 2014.Before taking up a role in commentary, Dickenson was an Olympic hammerthrower.He represented Great Britain at two successive Olympic games starting in 1976.His best Olympic result was finishing in 14th place that year, where he threw 68.52 metres.Dickenson also commentated on World’s Strongest Man and Superstars, a TV sports competition. More

  • in

    Footie star Barbra Banda at centre of gender row controversially named BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year

    A FOOTIE star at the centre of a gender row has been controversially named the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.Zambian striker Barbra Banda, 24, missed the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022 due to elevated ­levels of testosterone in a gender test.She has now topped the Beeb’s poll after her performance at the Olympics in the summer.But ex-GB swimmer Sharron Davies branded her win “just bloody ridiculous”.And sailor Tracy Edwards called it “the destruction of women’s sports”.Banda, who plays for US side Orlando Pride, said: “I am shocked and surprised to have this.READ MORE ON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL”It is for everyone.“If I kept on thinking about what was going on in the past, I would not be where I am now.”A BBC spokesman defended her inclusion and said the result was based on a public vote.Olympics 2024 gender row boxer Imane Khelif set to turn pro after winning gold in Paris Zambian striker Barbra Banda, 24, has been controversially named the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year More

  • in

    Neville Foulger dead: Legendary BBC commentator who was ‘voice of Leicester City’ dies aged 85 as tributes pour in

    ICONIC football commentator Neville Foulger has died.The former BBC Radio Leicester commentator has passed away at age 85 after a long career bringing football commentary to fans.Neville Foulger has passed awayCredit: Leicester City Football ClubFoulger, who was coined the “voice of Leicester City”, covered the Foxes from the late 1990’s until his retirement in 2004.But he still kept by the mic for a number of years afterwards as a true lover of the sport.Foulger also published a number of books about Coventry City and Leicester. The commentary legend had a respected career in journalism for over half a century and will be sadly missed by fans up and down the country.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile he leaves behind wife Fran, children David and Anne and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildrenLeicester City’s official X account paid tribute to the hero, writing: “We are all saddened to hear of the passing of much-loved journalist, Neville Foulger.”Covering countless City games, Nev commentated on some of the Club’s greatest moments across several decades.”Nev was known by many generations as the voice of Leicester City, and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.”Most read in FootballWhile BBC Radio Leicester Sport posted: “Some sad news this afternoon.”Former BBC Radio Leicester commentator Neville Foulger has passed away at the age of 85.”He was the voice of Leicester City during one its golden eras under Martin O’Neill in the 1990s.”Our love goes to his family. Thanks for the memories, Nev.”Foulger didn’t just cover Leicester but also worked as a broadcaster and journalist in Nottingham, Birmingham and Coventry.Fans who were raised listening to his iconic commentary also paid tribute to the star online.One wrote: “RIP to one of the great regional sports journalists. Really, really good bloke. Farewell, Nev – Leicester will be poorer without you.”While another added: “Rest in peace Neville, a true Leicester legend”.And a third posted: “Very sad news. RIP Neville, loved listening to his commentary when I was a kid and couldn’t attend games”. More

  • in

    BBC pundit names England’s long-term successor to Harry Kane after Premier League star’s ‘bullying’ performance

    DANNY MURPHY reckons England already have the next Harry Kane waiting in the wings in Liam Delap.England Under-21 international Delap has been the shining light in what has been a difficult season for Ipswich Town.Liam Delap has been Ipswich Town’s main man this seasonCredit: GettyThe 21-year-old has bagged six goals in 12 appearances so far this seasonCredit: REUTERSDanny Murphy reckons Delap is the heir apparent to England legend Harry KaneCredit: REXThe 21-year-old has bagged six goals in 12 matches for the Tractor Boys, who are fighting for their lives in the relegation zone.Delap, who turned in a “bully” esque performance against Manchester United last weekend, has reportedly caught the eye of several teams with his stellar displays.And he’s well and truly impressed Murphy, who believes he’s the heir apparent to Kane’s throne.The BBC pundit said of Delap on Match of the Day 2: “I think he’s got a lot of qualities.READ MORE ON IPSWICH”I’ve seen him a bit quite a lot this season and I’d probably go as far as I say, for me, he the obvious long-term successor to Kane.”I think he’s the best young English striker out there.”I know he’s got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league.”But he’s got all the attributes to be a top international player.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDanny Murphy is a massive fan of Liam DelapCredit: BBCDespite being a million miles away from his prime, Murphy believes former Manchester City academy star Delap is already a complete player.The former Liverpool midfielder said: “I just don’t see a weakness for him.Liam Delap won the golden boot for England at the Under-16s Mercedes Benz Aegean Tournament”I mean, he scored enough goals in a struggling side, really.”But if he gets a lot of chances, he’ll score more. He’s just got that lovely balance between physical and technical [ability].”And rarely, you get both.”Delap and his Ipswich team-mates will be back in action on Saturday, travelling to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forset. More

  • in

    Alex Scott reveals vile trolls threatened to throw ACID in her face after BBC star rumoured to replace national treasure

    ALEX Scott has revealed how vile trolls threatened to throw acid in her face, after she was rumoured to replace a national treasure on a popular TV show.The BBC star and ex England footballer shared how the online threats had stopped her leaving her house.Alex regularly appears on BBC SportCredit: GettyShe is currently dating popstar Jess GlynneCredit: GettyAlex speaking prior to during the Barclays FA Women’s Super League match between Manchester United Women and Manchester City WomenCredit: GettyWriting for The Times about the time she was rumoured to be taking over from Sue Barker as host of A Question of Sport, she said: “I was scared to go out of the house because these trolls were saying they were going to throw acid in my face.”These rumours turned out to be false, with Paddy McGuinness eventually taking over.The 40-year-old added: “There are negatives to fame. I’ve had plenty of racism, abuse and even death threats.”She explained that many people were not happy to see her on major TV channels following her career as a player.Read more Football NewsShe said: “People were saying, ‘She’s only on TV because she’s black, female and younger. She’s just ticking boxes’.However, looking on the bright side, she said she was grateful for those who had kept her positive through the difficult time.She said: “Luckily there are other people who keep me smiling. They’ll come up to me in my local shop and say, ‘Keep going,’ and that’s what I do.”Rumours have been swirling recently that Alex may succeed Gary Lineker as presenter of Match of the Day.Most read in FootballLast year, controversial comments by Gary, comparing government legislation to that seen in 1930s Germany saw the footballing legend taken off air.Alex stood with Gary by refusing to appear on the show in his place.Similar action by other broadcasters saw the show pulled off schedule.Alex Scott has spoken out about her experience with trollsCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Alan Shearer makes cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmed

    ALAN SHEARER made a cheeky pitch to become the new host of Match of the Day.Last night’s edition of the Premier League highlights show was the first since the BBC confirmed Gary Lineker would leave at the end of the season.Alan Shearer made a hilarious pitch to take over as Motd’s new hostCredit: X @BBCMOTDGary Lineker is stepping down at the end of the seasonCredit: X @BBCMOTDThe 63-year-old was in the hotseat yesterday, with Shearer and Ashley Williams the pundits.But Lineker did not introduce the show as usual – instead giving the honours to the Newcastle legend as the pair performed a hilarious joke.Looking down the lens of the camera like a presenter, Shearer quipped: “All good things must come to an end.”Lineker then replied: “Yes, Alan. Lee Carsley’s England reign is over.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s back to business in the Premier League. Seven games on the way. Alan Shearer and Ashley Williams join us.”Lineker then whispered under his breath: “Al ain’t getting the job, is he?”Shearer has been a pundit on Match of the Day since 2006 but is not thought to be in the running to take his pal’s job after his 26 years at the helm.Though he would be a popular choice as a study by Ipsos revealed 22 per cent of viewers want him as the new host.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut experienced presenter Mark Chapman is currently the favourite.Alex Scott, Kelly Cates and Kelly Somers are also in the running.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsLineker will cover FA Cup and World Cup games with the Beeb until 2026 and he will then officially leave.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More

  • in

    Gary Lineker ruthlessly rules out one of favourites to replace him as BBC Match of the Day host

    GARY LINEKER savagely ruled out one of the favourites to replace him as Match of the Day presenter with a hilariously brutal 14-word put down.The former England striker, 63, revealed earlier this month he will leave the programme at the end of the season after 25 years as host.Gary Lineker will step down as Match of the Day presenter at the end of the seasonCredit: ReutersA number of names have been linked with the vacancy including Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Kelly Somers.Regular Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are also in the frame.Recent data showed Shearer to be the viewers’ preference to succeed Lineker.But it appears ex-Manchester City right-back Richards, 36, has been dismissed by Lineker.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking on The Rest Is Football, Richards attempted to rule himself out of the running.He said: “You know what, can I just get this out there, right.”When people are saying Micah Richards is potentially going to take over a presenter, I think it’s a massive disrespect to all the presenters out there. There’s so many talented people.”Just because I’m a pundit, I can give insight to a player, I feel I know the game, I watch tactics.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMicah Richards was savaged by Lineker amid talk of him being given the MOTD jobCredit: Getty”But to take over presenting one of the most iconic shows, not just in sport, but that BBC’s ever had?”He then went on to add: “There’s so many others they can pick over me, I just can’t believe they would even put my name in the hat.”Gary Lineker will stop presenting Match of the Day the end of this season at and will quit Beeb by 2027Lineker then playfully put Richards in his place by insisting there was no chance of him being chosen anyway.He said: “Micah, you can totally relax. I can assure you they won’t be asking you.”Chapman remains the favourite to replace Lineker, followed by Cates, Scott and Logan.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More