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    BT Sport ‘not happy with normal pundits’ claims Jamie Carragher as star names parachuted in for Champions League final

    JAMIE CARRAGHER aimed a cheeky dig at BT Sport pundits after big names were drafted in for the Champions League final.The pundit was part of CBS Sport’s team covering the game alongside Thierry Henry and Micah Richards.
    CBS and BT Sport pundits met up at the Champions League finalCredit: Twitter @Carra23
    Mario Balotelli hit back at Jamie Carragher after his wind-upCredit: TWITTER @rioferdy5
    And he could not help but wind up the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Joleon Lescott, who appeared on BT Sport.
    He jokingly pointed out the fact the broadcaster had brought in two new pundits for the special occasion – Mario Balotelli and Cesc Fabregas.
    Carragher, 45, tweeted: “BT Sport are not happy with their normal crew @rioferdy5 so they’ve brought outsiders in to try & compete with @CBSSportsGolazo 👀😂.”
    Balotelli and Ferdinand hit back with the latter continuing his tongue-in-cheek feud with Carragher.
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    Former Manchester City striker Balotelli tweeted: “Jamie Carragher, bad player, wonderful hater @Carra23, who cares.”
    Ferdinand responded writing: “Liberties 😂😂😂😂”
    Carragher branded his former England team-mate a “clown” after Ferdinand claimed Inter Milan should have been awarded a penalty against AC Milan in the Champions League semi-final.
    Ferdinand was confused by the hostility on show, saying the comment left him baffled.
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    So when he next bumped into Carra at City’s win over Real Madrid, he decided to snub the ex-defender.
    The pair later shook hands to kiss and make up and appear to have put their differences behind them. More

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    Mario Balotelli shares hilarious Champions League final prediction and reveals why he needs match to finish in 90 mins

    MARIO BALOTELLI has revealed his hilarious Champions League final prediction.The Italian is in Istanbul to watch this evening’s clash between his old clubs Manchester City and Inter Milan.
    Mario Balotelli sat down with BT Sport ahead of the Champions League finalCredit: BT SPORT
    The Italian laughed as he delivered his predictionCredit: BT SPORT
    Prior to the game he sat down with presenter Josh Denzel and pundits Rio Ferdinand and Cesc Fabregas to discuss the big match.
    Asked for his prediction, Super Mario sat on the fence – but admitted he doesn’t fancy extra time or penalties.
    Not wanting to pick between his former teams, Balotelli said: “I hope one of the two wins.
    “But especially wins quickly – not extra time because traffic in Istanbul is crazy.”
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    Ferdinand then chipped in: “He’s got a party to go to.”
    Balotelli chuckled as he replied: “No, no.”
    Ferdinand, 44, offered up his own prediction – opting for a 2-0 City win.
    The duo hugged as they arrived in the studio, reuniting 11 years after a Manchester derby bust-up.
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    Rio Ferdinand and Balotelli clashed in the FA Cup 11 years agoCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
    Balotelli joined Inter in 2007, scoring 28 goals in 86 appearances for the San Siro club before an £18.5million move to Man City three years later.
    He netted 30 times in 80 appearances during a trio of topsy-turvy years at the Etihad under Roberto Mancini.
    Balotelli, now 32, won three Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia and the Champions League during his time at Inter.
    While he added Premier League and FA Cup successes while at City.
    Since leaving City, Balotelli has played for AC Milan, Liverpool, Nice, Marseille, Brescia, Monza and Turkish side Adana Demirspor.
    He joined Swiss outfit FC Sion last year and has often captained them – scoring six goals in 18 league appearances.
    Balotelli, 32, signed for FC Sion last yearCredit: EPA More

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    Fans in stitches at Declan Rice’s teenage haircut and compare him to Tiktok star as amazing throwback video emerges

    FOOTBALL fans were left in stitches after Declan Rice’s teenage haircut was revealed. And fans couldn’t help but draw comparison’s between himself and TikTok star Thogden.
    Declan Rice speaking as part of BT Sport’s build-up coverage for the finalCredit: BT Sport
    But fans were left in hysterics as an old video emergedCredit: BT Sport
    The then teenager spoke to West Ham media after signingCredit: BT Sport
    And fans couldn’t help but draw a comparison with ThogdenCredit: BT Sport
    Football content creatorThogden has over 1.5million followers on YouTube
    Hammers skipper Rice was speaking as part of a BT Sport’s pre-match coverage for the club’s historic Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina.
    Rice, 24, sported a short back and sides with a comb-over on top.
    One fan spotted an uncanny similarity between young Rice and the social media sensation.
    They said: “Young Declan Rice looks like Thogden.”
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    A second fan commented on his haircut.
    They remarked: “Declan Rice hasn’t changed his haircut since he was a schoolboy.”
    As the video was shown to Rice, he said: “Oh my god.”
    In the video, the then 14-year-old said: “I’m very happy to be signing. Since being released from Chelsea two years ago I never would have thought this would happen.”
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    The England international could not help but cringe at the video, before saying: “I’ve gone all embarrassed now.”
    Thogden has an army of followers across his social media pages.
    The football content creator has 1.48million subscribers on YouTube, while adding 637,000 through his Instagram and 338,000 on TikTok.
    West Ham achieved their first European triumph in 58 years following Jarrod Bowen’s late winner to seal a 2-1 win.
    However, the final took an ugly turn after missiles were thrown from the crowd, leaving Fiorentina captain Cristiano Biraghi bleeding from his head. More

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    Fans left delighted as BT Sport coverage of West Ham Game fronted by ‘most beautiful girl in the world’

    VIEWERS labelled Jules Breach the “most beautiful girl in the world” as the presenter led BT Sport’s coverage of West Ham vs Fiorentina.Armchair observers also awarded the Brighton supporter honorary status as a Hammers’ fan – as David Moyes’ men prepared for their Europa Conference League final.
    Jules Breach had a tough battle of the suits, with ex-Hammers Joe and Carlton Cole also smartly dressed for the finalCredit: Twitter / @julesbreach
    Brighton fan Jules hopes to see the Hammers make historyCredit: Instagram / @makeupartistglo
    The TV and rdio star has amassed a following of 128k on InstagramCredit: Getty
    Viewers also noted how sharp Jules’ pink trouser suit looked amid fierce competition from the attire of BT Sport pundits Joe Cole and Carlton Cole.
    Former England midfielder Joe looked dapper in a beige number, while fellow ex-Hammer Carlton power-dressed in a blue striped suit.
    Many fans have been bemoaning the loss of BT Sport Score on Saturday afternoon – fronted by Jules.
    So they were delighted to see the 35-year-old spearhead the coverage as West Ham targeted their first trophy glory since the 1980 FA Cup.
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    One observer wrote: “Coverage fronted by the most beautiful girl in the world I see.”
    Another posted: “As Carlton says, you’re an honorary Hammer now Jules.”
    And a third raved: “Love the suits.”
    Jules has risen to fame via Premier League Productions, CBS, talkSPORT and Channel 4.
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    But although she was bigging up the Hammers’ bid for history on Wednesday, her true football love remains on her native south coast.
    Jules picked up her obsession with Brighton through her cousins, who “lived and breathed everything Seagulls”.
    She’s also a big hit on social media, with her Instagram following rising to 128,000.
    Fans’ favourite Jules has covered football for a host of broadcasters, including club and international levelCredit: Rex
    Jules ls popular with supporters on both the radio and TVCredit: Getty More

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    Fans baffled by Jake Humphrey’s ‘straight jacket’ outfit on High Performance podcast as they say ‘you’ve had a shocker’

    FOOTBALL fans have poked fun at Jake Humphrey once again – this time for his choice of outfit.The BT Sport presenter was recently mocked over his “world class” morning routine.
    Fans mocked Jake Humphrey over his choice of jacketCredit: tiktok
    It looked very uncomfortable for a lengthy sit-down interviewCredit: tiktok
    And now fans have been left baffled over the jacket Humphrey wore on his High Performance podcast.
    In the interview with Brighton CEO Paul Barber Humphrey wore a tan jacket with a really high collar that almost touched his ears.
    Fans were distracted by the item of clothing and came up with creative ways to ridicule Humphrey.
    One said: “You’ve had a shocker with that jacket.”
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    Another added: “Why is he wearing a straight jacket?”
    A third said: “Is he wearing the jacket because he lost a bet?”
    And another commented: “I’ve watched this ten times and I still have no idea of the question or answer… all I see is the jacket.”
    Last week Humphrey announced he will be stepping down from his role as a presenter on BT Sport as the company rebrands to TNT Sports.
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    The 44-year-old is leaving to pursue other projects – with Laura Woods tipped to replace him.
    Humphrey announced his departure saying: “After 10 wonderful years, I am stepping back from BT. As a football fan, hosting Premier League matches, FA Cup games and European Finals has meant the world to me. It has been my dream job.
    “I’ve loved being a very small part of a world class production team.
    “I also feel blessed to have shared the screen with legends of the game and incredible broadcasters, who have become friends. Thank you all.
    “Stepping back from BT will allow me space to pursue other projects and fulfil other ambitions. I’m excited. To everyone that’s watched and commented, both good and bad (!), thank you!” More

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    Laura Woods’ stunning dress worn at awards night is snapped up in minutes after she invites fans to DM her on Instagram

    LAURA WOODS took to Instagram this week to give away a dress that she wore to an awards evening.The talkSPORT presenter wore the black outfit to the Sport Industry Awards, which took place at the end of April.
    Woods gave away the dress she wore to the Sport Industry AwardsCredit: Rex
    She offered the outfit to fans on InstagramCredit: Instagram / @laurawoodsy
    And on Friday she offered to give away the exact same dress after ordering it in two different sizes.
    Within hours, one fan had been in contact to claim it.
    Woods is reportedly being chased to host BT Sport’s coverage of the Premier League next season.
    Lynsey Hipgrave hosted the bulk of BT’s Prem action this term, with former anchor Jake Humphrey – who announced his departure this week – filling in occasionally.
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    But with BT Sport set to rebrand as TNT Sports, directors are keen to sign up a big-name new anchor.
    Woods currently hosts talkSPORT’s breakfast show, as well as boxing coverage on DAZN and international football on ITV.
    And she has already established herself as a huge hit among fans across the UK.
    The 35-year-old sensationally mocked a vile sexist troll with a brilliant comeback on social media earlier this week.
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    After congratulating Sheffield Wednesday on Twitter following their remarkable play-off victory on Thursday evening, she received a reply from an online troll – who says he is a Peterborough fan in his bio – who commented: “Sl*t.”
    But Woods needed just five minutes to form the perfect response – she said: “Except it’s you that’s been bent over tonight eh.”
    The comeback left her followers in hysterics as a result. More

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    Six potential Jake Humphrey replacements on BT Sport including Laura Woods and big hitters currently at BBC

    JAKE HUMPHREY is leaving BT Sport this summer after a decade with the channel.The 44-year-old has opted to step back from his presenting duties to focus on other projects.
    Jake Humphrey is leaving BT Sport after a decadeCredit: Getty
    He had already been predominantly replaced on Premier League coverage by Lynsey Hipgrave, but has remained BT’s lead presenter on Champions League nights.
    With BT Sport rebranding as TNT Sports this summer, they will be chasing a big-name new anchor.
    And they aren’t short of high-profile contenders
    Ahead of the change, SunSport examines six contenders to take over from Humphrey as lead presenter.
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    LAURA WOODS
    Popular talkSPORT host Laura Woods has been linked with a move to the new TNT Sports.
    According to the Mail, positive talks have taken place between the two parties as they look to agree a deal.
    In addition to her radio work, Woods hosts boxing on DAZN and presented for ITV at the World Cup in Qatar – having previously spent 13 years with Sky Sports before leaving 12 months ago.
    Laura Woods is being lined up by TNT SportsCredit: Getty
    LYNSEY HIPGRAVE
    Should TNT Sports fail to land Woods, Hipgrave could be given a more prominent role.
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    In addition to continuing to host Premier League action, the 43-year-old could start to present Champions League coverage.
    Hipgrave has worked for BT Sport in a variety of roles since its inception in 2013.
    Lynsey Hipgrave has presented Premier League action for BT SportCredit: Getty
    JERMAINE JENAS
    The former Tottenham man is a regular pundit on BT Sport, but could yet be offered a hosting role.
    Jenas, 40, presents MOTDx on the BBC, and has occasionally hosted European matches on BT, as well as Match of the Day 2.
    The ex-England international may be in the pipeline to host more matches next season.
    Jermaine Jenas has done plenty of punditry work for BT SportCredit: AFP
    GARY LINEKER
    Match of the Day host Gary Lineker previously hosted BT Sport’s Champions League coverage before quitting in 2021 to follow Leicester in Europe.
    His MOTD commitment has always prevented him from taking on a weekend Prem gig elsewhere, but after his suspension controversy earlier this year, perhaps he could be tempted away from the Beeb.
    And with the Foxes nearing relegation, European jaunts won’t be an issue for Lineker next term.
    Gary Lineker quit BT Sport in 2021 to watch Leicester in EuropeCredit: PA
    MARK CHAPMAN
    MOTD 2 host Mark Chapman could be a target for TNT Sports’ new coverage.
    The 49-year-old is synonymous with the BBC, but did replace Laura Woods as Sky Sports’ League Cup presenter at the beginning of the season.
    Chapman would provide an experienced, reliable option.
    Mark Chapman is synonymous with BBC football coverageCredit: PA
    JULES BREACH
    Rising star Jules Breach has become a popular figure within BT Sport in recent years.
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    Host of BT Sport Score, she has also covered Manchester United and West Ham’s recent European runs, as well as England games for Channel 4.
    With BT Sport Score being axed ahead of next season, TNT could opt to promote Breach into an even more prominent role.
    Jules Breach has been a welcome addition to BT Sport and Channel 4 in recent yearsCredit: Getty More

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    Jake Humphrey leaving BT Sport after decade fronting TV channel with top presenter already tipped to replace him

    JAKE HUMPHREY has announced he is leaving BT Sport after a decade of anchoring the TV Channel’s football coverage.The 44-year-old is leaving to pursue other projects – with Laura Woods tipped to replace him.
    Humphrey has become a familiar figure to football fans after hosting their major football coverage for yearsCredit: Getty
    The presenter often speaks to some of Europe’s biggest stars in his role as presenterCredit: Rex
    Humprey appears alongside famous football pundits such as Rio Ferdinand, Joleon Lescott and Michael OwenCredit: Reuters
    Laura Woods had been tipped for a move to BT even before today’s newsCredit: Getty
    Humphrey presents BT Sport’s Champions League coverage and has become familiar to football fans since the channel took European football from Sky.
    He used to also front their Saturday lunchtime Premier League game before he was replaced by Lynsey Hipgrave.
    The presenter will now focus on other projects like his popular ‘High Performance’ podcast.
    Humphrey tweeted this afternoon: “After 10 wonderful years, I am stepping back from BT. As a football fan, hosting Premier League matches, FA Cup games and European Finals has meant the world to me. It has been my dream job.
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    “I’ve loved being a very small part of a world class production team.
    “I also feel blessed to have shared the screen with legends of the game and incredible broadcasters, who have become friends. Thank you all.
    “Stepping back from BT will allow me space to pursue other projects and fulfil other ambitions. I’m excited. To everyone that’s watched and commented, both good and bad (!), thank you!”
    Humphrey’s unique personality away from the camera has often got fans talking such as earlier this year when he revealed his “world class” morning routine.
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    TalkSPORT, ITV and Amazon Prime presenter Laura Woods has been tipped to join BT.
    The 35-year-old has proved to be a hit with fans across various platforms and would have plenty of experience for the role.
    She presents talkSPORT’s Breakfast show alongside Ally McCoist and was one of ITV’s presenters during last year’s Qatar World Cup.
    The anchor is also one of the many presenters used by Amazon Prime during their rounds of Premier League fixtures.
    Along with Woods, Hipgrave could also step up to replace Humphrey on European nights.
    Jermaine Jenas, who hosts The One Show and has fronted Europa League coverage before, could also step into the role.
    Gary Lineker quit BT Sport two years after fronting their Champions League coverageCredit: Getty
    Gary Lineker may also be linked for a return having previously presented BT’s Champions League coverage.
    And popular presenter Mark Chapman could also be a candidate – if he’s not snapped up by Sky as Jeff Stelling’s replacement first.
    BT Sport is already set for a summer of change as the channel prepares for a major rebrand on July 18.
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    The channel will become TNT Sports after the merger between BT and Warner Bros. Discovery-owned Eurosport.
    The merger is intended to allow BT Sport to become efficient and offer a more premium product. More