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      Harry Kane given special dispensation to break little-known Bundesliga rule – but it backfires spectacularly

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      HARRY KANE was given special dispensation to break a little-known Bundesliga rule. But it spectacularly backfired in a cruel twist of fate.Suspended Harry Kane had to watch Bayern Munich from the stands on SaturdayCredit: GettyHe went down to be pitchside for the end of the game – but RB Leipzig equalisedCredit: APBayern Munich looked set to clinch the Bundesliga title on Saturday.A win over RB Leipzig would have been enough and see Kane win the very first major trophy of his career. The England captain, though, was suspended for accumulating too many yellow cards. That meant he had to sit in the stands to watch the match and hope his team-mates could get the job done. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd Bundesliga legislation states that suspended players are not allowed on the pitch from 30 minutes before kick-off until 30 minutes after the full-time whistle. However, according to Bild, league officials gave Kane permission to take to the field at the end of the game.The idea being that he could join in the title celebrations with his team-mates.But it did not go according to plan for Kane.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe watched on helpless as RB Leipzig took a 2-0 lead at half-time.Ex-Premier League trio Eric Dier, Michael Olise and Leroy Sane turned it around in the second half, though, to put Bayern 3-2 ahead and on the cusp of the title.I tried Harry Kane’s knobbly sticks after England star did a Gary Lineker by releasing snack brand – here’s my verdictSo much so that Kane headed down to be pitchside for the full-time whistle when their status as champions would be confirmed.But in the fourth minute of injury time, Yussuf Poulsen struck a dramatic equaliser for Leipzig.And that left Bayern nine points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, who have three games left and a 30-goal inferior goal difference. So although it is all but a done deal, Bayern are technically not champions just yet, leaving Kane to wait a little longer. Bayer take on Freiburg on Sunday and know failure to pick up all three points would officially hand Bayern the title. Should Leverkusen do their part, Kane and Bayern know they can get over the line by avoiding defeat at home to Borussia Monchengladbach next Saturday. Kane – who was denied a first trophy last season when Leverkusen stopped Bayern’s ten-year Bundesliga monopoly – has scored 24 league goals this term. But it was his fifth yellow card of the campaign that ruled him out at Leipzig, getting booked for preventing Mainz from taking a quick free-kick.The seething striker said: “First of all, it’s an insane decision. It’s never a yellow card.”Unfortunately, sometimes people come to the Allianz Arena and try to make a name for themselves.”That’s why I’m really disappointed that I got the yellow card, because of course I knew I already had four.”And secondly, I think the rule is crazy anyway. Five yellow cards in 34 games means a suspension. That’s crazy.Read More on The Sun”Crazy, crazy decision. It’s kind of my story that I’ll miss the Leipzig game. But no worries, I’ll celebrate more than anyone else.”But those celebrations will just have to wait that little bit longer for Kane. Kane’s wait to clinch his first major trophy goes onCredit: GettyThe striker was furious to miss the matchCredit: GettySuspended players are usually blocked from going on the pitch before and after the matchCredit: GettyKane was given special dispensation to join his team-matesCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Brentford striker suffers ‘potentially life-threatening’ injury as two stars rushed to hospital after collision

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      A FORMER Championship striker was rushed to hospital after suffering a “potentially life-threatening” injury in a Bundesliga relegation match.Ex-Brentford forward Philipp Hofmann was involved in a nasty collision with Marvin Pieringer during VfL Bochum’s 0-0 draw at Heidenheim on Friday.VfL Bochum’s Philipp Hofmann suffered a ‘potentially life-threatening’ injuryCredit: GettyHofmann underwent minor surgery after a rib fracture caused a lung collapseCredit: EPAHofmann, who is now recovering in hospital, starred for two seasons at BrentfordCredit: Getty Images – GettyBochum revealed the 32-year-old had suffered a rib fracture in his collision, which had seen the rib drill into his rib skin and trigger a lung collapse.A club statement had called Hofmann’s injury “potentially life-threatening”.The club said the German had undergone a minor operation by means of a thoracic drainage to restore lung function.Bochum added that Hofmann would remain at hospital for observation and treatment until he was fit to be transported.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was visited in hospital by club Managing Director Dirk Dufner on Saturday morning, who conveyed the best wishes for him to have a speedy recovery.Hofmann played for the Bees for two seasons from 2015 to 2017 while they were in the Championship, scoring four goals in 31 league games.However, it was not the only sickening injury the game saw.Heidenheim goalkeeper Kevin Muller was also rushed to hospital after a clash of heads with Ibrahima Sissoko while punching a ball clear early in the second half left him unconscious.Most read in FootballThe 34-year-old was put in the recovery position by team-mate Tim Siersleben before the match was stopped for 11 minutes, with privacy screens being set up while he was treated by medical staff on the pitch.Muller was then taken to hospital to receive treatment, with a club statement on Saturday confirming he had suffered a concussion from the incident.Heidenheim boss, Frank Schmidt, also confirmed Muller had regained consciousness on the field before he was whisked away for medical checks.The goalless draw in the game left Bochum bottom of the division on 22 points, while Heidenheim occupy the relegation play-off spot two places and four points above them.With only two games of the season to go, Bochum can at best reach the relegation play-offs, where they would then play the third-best team in the Bundesliga 2 – currently Paderborn – to hold on to their spot in the top flight.Meanwhile, Heidenheim are five points from total safety, with Hoffenheim in 15th place occupying the final safe league spot.At the top end of the table, Bayern Munich were forced to postpone their title celebrations – and Harry Kane’s first club trophy – after a late RB Leipzig equaliser in a 3-3 thriller. Heidenheim goalkeeper also suffered a concussion after being knocked unconsciousCredit: GettyPrivacy screens were set up as he was treated by medical staff on the pitchCredit: AP More

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      Harry Kane’s dreams of a first trophy put on hold as Bayern Munich concede with last kick of the game as he serves ban

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      HARRY KANE’S wait for a first career trophy went on after Bayern Munich conceded in the last minute to draw 3-3 RB Leipzig.Kane was serving a one-match suspension for the match that could have been Bayern’s Bundesliga title clincher.Harry Kane wait for a first trophy goes on after Bayern Munich drew with LeipzigCredit: PAKane appeared to be heading down from the box to celebrate the pending titleKane was pitchside getting ready to run on and celebrate before Leipzig struckLeipzig’s Yussuf Poulsen made it 3-3 in the final secondsKane needs to close out the new few weeks to win the Bundesliga titleKane – who watched on from a box high up in the stands – was just seconds away from the FIRST trophy of is 16-year career.Bayern threatened to replicate Manchester City’s title deciding “remontada” against Aston Villa in 2022.Vincent Kompany’s side – who needed a win to secure the title – mounted an incredible comeback from 2-0 down to lead 3-2 with seven minutes of normal time remaining. And for the first time ever, suspended Kane was waiting pitchside to get ready to run on and celebrate a league title with his team-mates.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCameras picked up Kane leaving his box to head down and join his team-mates after Leroy Sane completed the turnaround.But Leipzig forward Yussuf Poulsen had different plans, as his first footed shot from a difficult angle spoiled the party.Three former Premier League stars completed the turnaround for Bayern, with Eric Dier and Michael Olise grabbing the goals.Bayern are now nine points above chasers Bayer Leverkusen, with two games to spare.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKane was banned for picking up his fifth yellow of the season against Mainz last week.The 31-year-old held onto the ball to prevent Mainz taking a quick free-kick after fouling Jonathan Burkardt.At the time, Kane said: “Crazy, crazy decision! It’s kind of my story that I’ll miss the Leipzig game. “But no worries, I’ll celebrate more than anyone else.”But Kane will have the chance to make things right against Borussia Mönchengladbach at the Allianz Arena in a week’s time.The former Tottenham talisman has famously NEVER won a trophy in his illustrious career.But he looks set to break that curse with the Bavarian club this season. Leverkusen are piling the pressure on and play fourth placed side SC Freiburg on Sunday. Many expected Kane to win his first trophy in his debut campaign, as Bayern had won 10 league titles in a row.But an invincible campaign by Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen ensured his wait for a trophy dragged on yet further.Read More on The SunKane has scored 60 goals in his 61 Bundesliga matches for Bayern so far. He is also on track to become the first player to win the top scorer title in both of his first two Bundesliga seasons.Kane will have the chance to make things right against Borussia MönchengladbachCredit: Getty More

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      Germany World Cup winning-legend Lothar Matthaus ‘dating stunning brunette model, 26, who is 38 YEARS his junior’

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      GERMANY legend Lothar Matthaus has made a name for himself yet again – by reportedly dating a woman 38 YEARS his junior.Matthaus, 64, lifted the 1990 World Cup and won the Ballon d’Or trophy that same year.Lothar Matthaus is reportedly dating a woman 38 years his juniorCredit: GettyHe is allegedly dating German model Theresa SommerCredit: Instagram / @theresa.sommerThe model is 26 years oldCredit: Instagram / @theresa.sommerHe won a record 150 German caps, and inspired Bayern Munich to six Bundesliga titles.Also a Serie A and UEFA Cup winner with Inter Milan, the former midfielder has been wed five times.His most recent marriage, to Anastasia Klimko, lasted seven years before ending in 2021.Matthaus has now been spotted at an Austrian ski resort with German model Theresa Sommer, 26.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe highly-educated brunette reportedly studied economics and management at King’s College in London – as well as psychology at Durham University.An accomplished judo player in her childhood, she is now a talented skier.German media spotted her taking part in a ski event at Ischgl in Austria – in company with Matthaus.Bunte magazine quizzed the football legend about his relationship with Theresa.Sommer reportedly studied economics and management at King’s College in LondonCredit: Instagram / @theresa.sommerMatthaus replied with a smile: “We are here for the skiing, and that is a private matter.”Most read in FootballSeveral of the dad-of-four’s former wives have been significantly younger than him.But news of Bavaria-born Matthaus’ latest age-gap relationship has since set tongues wagging across Europe.The defender-turned midfielder went into management after hanging up his boots.He has coached the Hungary and Bulgaria national sides, as well as clubs in Austria, Serbia, Brazil and Israel.Matthaeus divorced his ex-wife Anastasia Klimko in 2021Credit: Getty – Contributor More

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      How surviving life-threatening brain injury led Oliver Glasner to teach Crystal Palace stars to play without fear

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      WHEN Oliver Glasner took over at Crystal Palace, his first message to the squad was simple, “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.”The Austrian boss sees football for what it is, a game built on errors and believes that only when players are freed from fear can they truly thrive.The nasty head injury that ended Oliver Glasner’s playing career.Credit: SportfotodienstOliver Glasner could now defy the odds and win the FA Cup with Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyOliver Glasner has transformed striker Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: ReutersThat philosophy stems from a life-changing ordeal. Glasner’s own playing career was cut short by a brain haemorrhage after a head collision during a top-flight Austrian game. He needed emergency surgery that saved his life. So when he turned to coaching, he made himself a promise, this wouldn’t just be a job, it had to be a joy.Kennedy Boateng, who starred under Glasner during his first managerial role at LASK in Austria, recalls how the gaffer transformed a modest side into European contenders.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe exclusively told SunSport: “He was a different person on the pitch. “He spotted the smallest things. But in the canteen, he was like a father. He got to know our backgrounds and understood us as people.“I think when you come from Africa, you want to have a father figure, and for those of us who were in Europe for the first time, that was really important.“He didn’t treat us all the same. He tailored our games to who we were as individuals. Not everyone did the same thing, but everyone felt involved.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKGlasner hasn’t changed a bit. At Palace’s Beckenham training ground he still champions self-expression and insists on effort from everyone — players, staff, even kitchen workers.The team comes first is his mantra.’Got to be higher than that’ gasps Jack Grealish after seeing England team-mate Ebere Eze’s EA FC 25 ratingWolfsburg strugglesSuccess in Austria earned Glasner the top job at Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, a big leap, and not without bumps and real challenges.He delivered results, Europa League qualification in year one, and the Champions League in year two. But he struggled with dressing-room discipline. Things eventually exploded, and Glasner walked.When he left, Wolfsburg skipper Josuha Guilavogui didn’t hold back, telling reporters: “I’m happy he’s gone.”But Glasner took the hit and learned. German football journalist Tom Desborough told SunSport: “It was such a strange ending to a very good time. “On the pitch, he did well, but he had problems with Jorg Schmadtke, who went on to hire Mark van Bommel as his replacement, and it was an absolute mess.“He also had issues with the club captain Guilavogui but that was because he always left him on the bench.”I guess there were lessons in all of that, which he took with him to Eintracht Frankfurt.”Crystal Palace fans enjoying life under Austrian manager Oliver GlasnerThe non-negotiablesFrom that moment on, Glasner made a vow, respect and freedom, yes, but discipline is non-negotiable.Speaking on The High Performance Podcast, he said: “In life, if you invest in something and stay focused, you get the reward. “Everyone has an ego. I tell my players, use it for the team. If it’s against me, fine. Against the team? That’s not acceptable.”That new steel worked wonders. Glasner led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory, knocking out teams like Barcelona and West Ham along the way.Before the final, sources say he spent time with every member of the squad, even the kit men telling them they’d already won by getting there.For him it was more about the journey than the final destination, about the culture and environment he had managed to create.Crystal Palace chairman has been blown away by the job Oliver Glasner is doingCredit: GettyThe South London jobWith just three games for LASK and over 500 for SV Ried, Glasner’s CV raised a few eyebrows in South London.But when he arrived at Palace, he made his mark early.There was a high-profile incident where he reportedly promised defender Rob Holding minutes against West Ham but had to change his plan as the Eagles went 2–0 down.Holding didn’t take it well. After the game, he refused to warm down with the rest of the squad, and Glasner wasn’t having it.First, Holding was made to train alone. Then, when no apology came, he was banished him to train with the academy.Asked about the incident in a press conference, Glasner said:“Rob is training individually at the moment. We will talk together, he knows the reason. But it stays between us.”Insiders say the boss stood firm even when the board tried to step in. He knew one thing back down and the dressing room was lost.Sebastian Rode won the Europa League with Oliver GlasnerCredit: GettyWhat working with Glasner is likeSebastian Rode, Glasner’s captain during that historic Europa League triumph with Eintracht Frankfurt, said:“It was a dream. “He opened our eyes and made us believe. The squad was a family-he found a way to get us not only to understand what he wanted but to believe in everything he told us.”Kennedy Boateng also highlighted a key aspect of Glasner’s approach.He said: “For young players, his approach is very good. He is close to his players and allows them to make mistakes.“That freedom is good it allows us to learn without the fear that usually comes with making mistakes.”Glasner has turned things around after a tough start to the seasonCredit: RexWhere he goes when he needs helpBehind the scenes, it’s his wife Bettina Glasner who keeps him grounded, the same woman who, in a twist of fate, had to give the emergency go-ahead for his brain surgery.The procedure was done at the same hospital where Christian Eriksen would later be treated for a heart attack.On the pitch, Glasner surrounds himself with trusted allies from his LASK days, Michael Angerschmid, Ronald Brunmayr, and Palace coach Paddy McCarthy who sources say, has been selfless in backing the boss.The rough start to this seasonAfter a rocky start to the season and no wins in his first eight games, Glasner has led Palace to their first FA Cup final since 2016. He’s also secured a 13th straight Premier League season, and even won over notoriously hard-to-please chairman Steve Parish who said Glasner “made all of us think differently”Read More on The SunThe man who once faced death is now breathing life into the Palace. And one thing is clear, he isn’t just here to survive, he’s building something unique. More

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      Eric Dier to leave Bayern Munich and secure glamorous move as ex-Tottenham and England star agrees free transfer

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      ERIC DIER has agreed to join AS Monaco, according to reports.The Bayern Munich defender, 31, will link up with the French side ahead of next season.Eric Dier is set to leave Bayern Munich this summerCredit: GettyDier has agreed a two-year deal with the Ligue 1 outfit.And according to L’Equipe, the deal possesses an option to extend by a further 12 months.Monaco, managed by Adi Hutter, are fourth in the French top flight with three matches remaining.Dier will hope that his new side can seal Champions League qualification for next term.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe centre-back left Tottenham in January 2024 following eight-and-a-half years in North London.Having previously been a stalwart at Spurs, Dier fell out of favour under Ange Postecoglou.The 49-cap England star played 365 times for Tottenham prior to departing for Bayern.Dier was initially a regular for the German giants under Thomas Tuchel.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDier made 365 appearances in eight-and-half-years at TottenhamCredit: RexThe experienced defender initially didn’t feature much under Tuchel’s successor Vincent Kompany – although he has started Bayern’s last nine Bundesliga matches.Dier will link up with former Premier League stars Thilo Kehrer, Denis Zakaria, Folarin Balogun, Mika Biereth, Takumi Minamino and Mohammed Salisu at Stade Louis II.Ange Postecoglou does NO tactical work in training reveals former Tottenham star Eric DierLast year, Dier opened up on life at Tottenham under Ange Postecoglou while in conversation with Gary Neville.The Three Lions star revealed: “No, interestingly he doesn’t really do any tactical work.“What he does is, every single training drill from Monday to Friday is drawn up to represent the way he wants to play.“(Antonio) Conte, I could do it blind, but that was a lot of tactical work, ten versus zero, walkthroughs.“You were so well drilled, it would be ingrained in you.” More

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      ‘That’s my story..’ – Harry Kane moans as he’s set to MISS Bayern’s title-winning match as he chases first career trophy

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      HARRY KANE is set to miss what is likely to be Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga title clinching game – and he reckons it’s just his luck.A “crazy, crazy” booking in today’s game vs Mainz means Kane is suspended for next weekend’s clash with RB Leipzig, where victory will see the England captain claim his first major trophy.Harry Kane could miss the moment Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga titleCredit: APIt comes after Kane was booked for holding onto the ball to prevent Mainz taking a quick free-kickCredit: APKane was shown his fifth yellow card of the season during Bayern’s 3-0 win at home.The 31-year-old fouled Jonathan Burkardt, but held onto the ball to prevent Mainz taking a quick free-kick.And referee Bastian Dankert wasted no time in whipping out his book to caution Kane for delaying the restart.The moment of madness means the 31-year-old has been suspended for next Saturday’s trip to Leipzig, where Bayern could win their 34th title.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSKane said: “Crazy, crazy decision! It’s kind of my story that I’ll miss the Leipzig game. But no worries, I’ll celebrate more than anyone else.”A victory against Leipzig will secure the title from Bayer Leverkusen, with two games to spare.So Kane may have to watch his side be crowned champions from the sidelines.The former Tottenham talisman has famously NEVER won a trophy in his 16-year career.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut he looks set to break that curse with the Bavarian club this season. Many expected Kane to win his first trophy in his debut campaign, as Bayern had won 10 league titles in a row.But an invincible campaign by Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen ensured his wait for a trophy dragged on yet further.Kane has scored 60 goals in his 61 Bundesliga matches for Bayern so far. He is also on track to become the first player to win the top scorer title in both of his first two Bundesliga seasons.Bayern needed a win over Mainz and a favour from Augsburg against Leverkusen to be crowned champion on Saturday.But goals from Patrik Schick and Emiliano Buendia gave Leverkusen a 2-0 win and kept the defending champions eight points behind Bayern with three games left.Leverkusen can still theoretically defend its first ever Bundesliga title by winning its last three games if Bayern loses its final three.But even a draw against Leipzig next weekend should be enough for Bayern, which has a far superior goal difference. More

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      Chelsea ‘open transfer talks to sign £80m-rated English wonderkid Jamie Gittens, 20, in shock swoop from Dortmund’

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      CHELSEA have opened talks with Borussia Dortmund star Jamie Gittens, according to reports.The Blues are looking to add a winger to Enzo Maresca’s squad this summer and the Englishman is a top target.Chelsea are in talks over a deal for Jamie GittensCredit: RexSky Sports Germany claim the club have been in contact with Gittens’ representatives.The 20-year-old takes home £2.5million-a-year at Dortmund and Chelsea are said to be willing to double his wages.Gittens has been valued at £80m in the past but the latest report suggests a fee could be agreed between £43m and £51m.The England Under-21s international started the season in stunning form and has scored 12 goals in 44 games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut he has fallen out of favour under Niko Kovac, who took over as Dortmund boss in January.Gittens could therefore decide to leave the Bundesliga side this summer and return to his homeland with Tottenham also interested.But staying put is not out of the question as the player’s reps have also been in talks with Dortmund chief Lars Ricken over his future.If Gittens joins Chelsea, it would see him return to the club he spent a short time with as a schoolboy.Most read in BundesligaJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe Berkshire-born ace eventually decided to stay with Reading before joining Manchester City’s academy aged 14.He then moved to Dortmund two years later and made his senior debut at the age of 17 years and 251 days. The making of Tyrique George, who’s family made sacrifices to help Chelsea wonderkid with ‘dynamite’ shot live his dreamAs alternatives to Gittens, Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams are being considered.AC Milan star Rafael Leao is reportedly not seen as an option. More