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    I was a scaffolder 16 months ago but now I’m on the verge of being a Premier League footballer and going to a World Cup

    SORBA THOMAS reckons a Hollywood blockbuster should be based on his rags to riches life story.And he insists WIll Smith would be perfect to star as the lead of his meteoric rise from day-dreaming scaffolder to the verge of a stunning Premier League and World Cup double.
    Huddersfield ace Sorba Thomas has gone through a remarkable underdog storyCredit: PA
    He’ll be in action for Huddersfield at Wembley this weekendCredit: Getty
    The Huddersfield winger is gearing-up for two massive play-off games with Wales’ crunch tie against Scotland or Ukraine coming hot on the heels of Town’s £170million Wembley clash with Nottingham Forest for a place in the top flight.
    Just 16 months ago the 23-year-old was juggling gruelling 13-hour shifts on sub-zero scaffolding sites and turning out for non-league Boreham Wood while dreaming of breaking into the big time.
    After grabbing his chance to play a leading role in the Terriers’ unexpected third- place Championship finish, the down-to-earth Londoner now has Gareth Bale on speed-dial and is rubbing shoulders with players he admits the closest he previously got to was while gaming on PlayStation.
    It’s a remarkable rise with all the hallmarks of a big screen epic, and Thomas reckons Men In Black Star Smith would be ideal for the lead. He joked: “I feel like I’m living in a movie right now and If they ever make a film of this story then I’d like Will Smith to play me! 
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FINAL ACT .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}All TV and live stream info for mouth-watering event at Wembley
    “I worked for a year at a sports shop in Oxford Circus selling footy boots and then moved into the scaffolding trade with regular 6am starts in freezing conditions. I didn’t enjoy it at all and it doubled my determination to make it as a footballer but I wouldn’t change a thing because it’s all part of my journey. 
    “It’s all helped me massively and I feel like my drive has come through those long cold days on the scaffolding. When you were there, the lads didn’t care if you played football, they just threw another scaffolding pole at you to carry.”
    Released by West Ham at 15, Thomas has to pinch himself as he lives a dream which could see him clinch a place in the Premier League and at the Qatar World Cup finals in the space of a week. 
    He qualifies for Wales through his Newport-born mum, and added: “It’s amazing to think there’s two massive games coming up where two dreams could come together in such a short space of time. To get into the Premier League with Town and to go to a World Cup with the country I love would be hard to top. 
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    “With Gareth Bale in the Wales team anything is possible and it’s been an honour and a privilege to play alongside him and to get to know him. For all his great achievements in the game he’s just so humble and someone I’m learning from all the time.” 
    Thomas comes up against Wales team-mate Brennan Johnson at Wembley, where he is set to make his first start for almost six weeks after suffering what he feared to be a season-ending knee injury in the win at Middlesbrough last month.
    Thomas added: “I was told my season was over, it was devastating but I thought to myself there’s no way I’m done. I went to see a specialist in London and he said there was a possibility I could play again this season. 
    “That was all the motivation I needed and I’ve worked every hour to get back since then and here I am 100 per cent ready to start on Sunday.”
    Thomas could be going to the World Cup
    Thomas with the Wales set upCredit: Alamy More

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    Championship play-off final – Huddersfield vs Nottingham Forest: Date, TV channel and team news for HUGE Wembley clash

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST will be taking a trip to Wembley THIS SUNDAY when they take on Huddersfield Town in the Championship play-off final.Forest booked their spot in the most dramatic of circumstances having beaten Sheffield United on penalties.
    Nottm Forest booked their spot at Wembley via the penalty shootout routeCredit: Rex
    Huddersfield scraped a 2-1 win against Luton to get to the finalCredit: Rex
    Which has meant that they are closing in on a incredible return to England’s top division for the first time since 1995.
    However, Huddersfield Town have other ideas as they have been missing out on top-flight football since 2017.
    And their 2-1 victory over Luton Town sets up a mouth-watering final on the weekend.
    What time does Huddersfield vs Nottingham Forest kick off?

    The showpiece event will take place THIS Sunday – May 29.
    It is scheduled to kick off at 4:30pm UK time.
    Wembley Stadium in London is the assigned arena for the huge event which can hold around 90,000 spectators.
    Brentford were last year’s play-off winners after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Swansea at Wembley.

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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}all to play for .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}When are the EFL play-offs 2021/22? Championship, League One and Two dates
    What TV channel is Huddersfield vs Nottingham Forest on and can I live stream it?

    The Championship play-off final will be broadcasted live on Sky Sports Main Event and Football.
    Coverage will commence from 3:30pm UK time on Football but only from 4pm on Main Event.
    Subscription members will have the option to stream the game live via the Sky Sports website and the Sky Go app.

    Team news
    Forest boss Steve Cooper will be without Lewis Grabban who continues to struggle with a hamstring injury.
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    And Max Lowe is expected to be out for a minimum of six weeks due to ongoing groin troubles.
    Elsewhere, Carlos Corberan has mixed news ahead of the huge Championship play-off final.
    Sorba Thomas made a remarkable brief cameo in the semi having set up the goal that decided the tie.
    However, Danny Ward and Ollie Turton are major doubts who were both forced off early in the first leg against Luton.
    Latest odds
    90 minutes only

    Huddersfield to win 13/5
    Draw 11/5
    Nottm Forest to win 11/10

    To gain promotion

    Huddersfield to get promoted 6/4
    Nottm Forest to get promoted 1/2

    *Odds courtesy of Betfair are correct at time of publication More

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    West Brom release 12 PLAYERS including Man Utd transfer target Sam Johnstone and Andy Carroll

    WEST BROM have released a whopping 12 players including Manchester United target Sam Johnstone.Steve Bruce’s Baggies ended the 2021/22 Championship campaign in a disappointing tenth place, although they were only three points off the final play-off spot.
    England international Sam Johnstone has been released by West BromCredit: PA
    Former England hitman Andy Carroll has also been released by the BaggiesCredit: PA
    Romaine Sawyers has also left the HawthornsCredit: REUTERS
    And Bruce has wasted no time in getting rid of the deadwood at the Hawthorns.
    Andy Carroll, Johnstone and Romaine Sawyers are the casualties from the first team.
    And youth players Jamie Soule, Owen Windsor, Aurio Teixeira, Kevin Joshua, Zak Delaney, Mark Chidi, MacKenzie Lamb, Leon MacHisa and Daniel Ngoma have also been shown the Hawthorns exit door.
    Johnstone’s departure could pave the way for a summer move to Manchester United.
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}READ MORE IN SPORT.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BIDDING WAR .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Tottenham in Sam Johnstone transfer fight with two Premier League rivals
    The Red Devils are interested in signing the England international as a replacement for Dean Henderson.
    Henderson is eyeing a departure from Old Trafford after years of playing second fiddle to David de Gea.
    Despite impressing Baggies fans since his January arrival, former England international Carroll hasn’t done enough to bag himself a new contract.
    Bruce confirmed the striker’s departure earlier this month, saying: “I need to strengthen in other areas rather than number nines.
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    “Andy has done really well for us. He’s in the best nick he’s been in in years and I’m sure he’ll get fixed up with a club.
    “But we’ve got five centre-forwards and six centre-backs. We have an imbalance in the squad and we need to use the wages to strengthen in other areas.
    “I know how popular Andy was in the dressing-room and it was a really tough decision to make, but I’ve got to think of the overall balance.
    “I’ve got two other big strikers in Daryl Dike, who I’ve not seen play yet, and Kenneth Zohore, who we’ve paid a lot of money for and they’re both number nines.
    “Zohore hasn’t had a great time of it but he’s got a big summer ahead of him, to get himself fit and get back into some sort of contention.” More

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    Tom Daley praises Jake Daniels for coming out and thanks Harry Kane for support to make it ‘safer for other athletes’

    TOM DALEY has praised Blackpool footballer Jake Daniels for coming out – and thanked Harry Kane for the key public support.Daniels, 17, last week became the only professional footballer in the UK currently playing who is openly gay.
    Tom Daley has praised Jake Daniels for his ‘brave decision’ to come outCredit: PA
    The 17-year-old announced that he was gay on MondayCredit: Blackpool FC
    Olympic diving champion Daley, 28, came out in a YouTube video in December 2013 and is married to Hollywood scriptwriter Dustin Lance Black.
    Daley, who won 10m synchro gold at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, says midfielder Daniels’ “brave” decision will encourage other footballers to follow his lead.
    And he feels the backing of England and Tottenham striker Kane – who is straight – will make football a safer place for the LGBTQ community
    Daley told The Daily Beast: “It’s just incredible.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}B-LEW IT .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Hamilton suffers puncture in AWFUL start to Spanish GP after first-lap collision
    “I think about what it means for any queer young kids growing up thinking now: ‘Maybe I do now have a space in football, maybe I will get in, maybe I will be welcomed.’
    “It’s not just that the queer community has been so celebratory of it, but the fact of seeing people like Harry Kane speaking out about how amazing it is.
    “Straight footballers at the top of the game are commending him, and I think for visibility in the sport it’s just incredible.
    “The culture of football doesn’t seem like such a safe space to come out.
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    BIG FINALE LIVE: Stay up to date with all the Premier League final day action in SunSport’s live blog
    “The fact that Jake came out is a really powerful message to send.
    “It’s so incredibly brave it might encourage people to be brave and more people to come out, able to be themselves.
    “It will also make it safer for other athletes to do so as well.
    “There is such power in visibility, and in telling or sharing your personal story.
    “With me, I had people respond that they liked me before I came out, and what had really changed when I came out? Not much.”
    Daley also called on sporting bodies like the Premier League and FA to create an “open culture” within the sport to ensure there are more gay players.
    The Plymouth-born diver added: “Last year we saw at the European Championships how racist fans can be, and what they shout.
    “It’s as if, in that spectator ground, they’re empowered to say what they want.
    “It’s because they feel in a safe place around like-minded people.
    “It takes a shift in culture from the top down where the heads of organisations and governing bodies are creating that accepting and open culture because if it doesn’t start there, it’s never going to change.” More

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    Sunderland PROMOTED to Championship after 2-0 win over Wycombe with Embleton and Stewart the Wembley heroes

    SUNDERLAND are back in the Championship following victory in the League One play-off final against Wycombe Wanderers.The Black Cats returned to the second tier of English football thanks to a 2-0 victory over Wanderers in the play-off final at Wembley.
    Elliot Embleton fired the Black Cats into the lead in the first halfCredit: REX
    His strike sent the travelling Sunderland supporters into a pandemoniumCredit: REX
    Ross Stewart sealed their return to the Championship five minutes before full-timeCredit: Getty
    A first-half strike from Elliot Embleton put the northeast club on the brink of a Championship return four years after their second successive relegation.
    And Ross Stewart’s goal five minutes from time sent the travelling Sunderland supporters into pandemonium and ended their four-year stint in League One.
    MORE FOLLOWS
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    When are EFL play-off finals 2021/22? Championship, League One and League Two dates

    THE EFL has reached its business end as teams look to secure those promotion places.And as every year, in each of the three divisions – Championship, League One and League Two – four teams compete in the play-offs with only one earning promotion in the Wembley finals.
    Brentford were last year’s Championship play-off final winnersCredit: Getty
    Brentford were last year’s Championship play-off winners after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Swansea at Wembley.
    When are the EFL play-off finals?
    The dates for each of the EFL play-off finals have been confirmed and will take place across two weeks.
    The League One final will be played a week before the League Two and Championship finals as Wembley is unavailable on the Bank Holiday Monday of May 30.
    The reason for this is the Uefa-Conmebol Finalissima, which will see European Champions Italy take on Copa America winners Argentina at the national stadium on Wednesday, June 1.
    EFL play-off final dates
    League One

    Wycombe vs Sunderland (3pm) – Saturday, May 21

    League Two

    Mansfield vs Port Vale (4pm) – Saturday, May 28

    Championship

    Huddersfield vs Nottingham Forest (4.30pm) – Sunday, May 29

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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FUL FOCUS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Liverpool to sign Carvalho with Fulham to replace winger with Manor Solomon
    When are the EFL play-off semi-finals?
    Dates for the EFL play-off semi-finals are as follows:
    Championship

    League One

    Wycombe 2-0 MK Dons
    MK Dons 1-0 Wycombe (1-2 agg)

    League Two

    Mansfield 2-1 Northampton
    Northampton 0-1 Mansfield (1-3 agg)

    Swindon 2-1 Port Vale
    Port Vale 1-0 Swindon (2-2 agg; Port Vale win 6-5 on pens)

    Do the EFL play-offs have away goals?
    The EFL play-offs do NOT have away goals.
    The rule was scrapped in 1999 after third placed side Ipswich were beaten by sixth placed Bolton on away goals.
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    Gareth Bale backed to join Cardiff in sensational transfer when his Real Madrid hell ends this summer

    GARETH BALE has been backed to make a sensational move to Cardiff because it ‘ticks all the boxes’.That’s the view of the Real Madrid superstar’s national boss Robert Page, who has given the thumbs up to the possible switch if Wales reach the 2022 World Cup.
    Gareth Bale has been backed to make a Cardiff homecomingCredit: Getty
    Talk of Cardiff-born Bale, 32, returning home when his Bernabeu contract expires this summer has been growing in recent weeks.
    Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett has already stated the Wales captain will decide on his club future depending on the outcome of the World Cup play-off final in Cardiff on June 5.
    But Page endorsed a Cardiff homecoming when he said: “It ticks all the boxes. It makes a lot of sense. He can base himself at a training ground he’s familiar with.
    “Everybody is thinking the same thing. It will depend on how that results go with regards to what he does next season with a club.
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}READ MORE 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    “The only person who can answer that is Gareth and ultimately, it’s his decision. All I know is whenever he turns up for us he is first class so he’s right to say, ‘Let’s throw full focus on the 5th’. Let’s see what happens.”
    Before Wales’ bid to make history by reaching a global finals for the first time since 1958, Bale has a Champions League final against Liverpool on May 28 to prepare for.
    Bale – as well as Brennan Johnson and Sorba Thomas who are involved in the Championship play-off final between Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield, will miss next week’s training camp in Portugal.
    Although if Bale’s not in Real boss Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for Paris and the option of releasing him is available, Wales will take him.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Championship.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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    Page said: “We will keep in touch with him. It’s common sense if he is not going to feature at all and Real Madrid are happy with releasing him then of course we would like him on camp.
    “They don’t have to. We don’t have to have the players until the 30th so we can’t pull rank on that. 
    “Gareth puts himself when he is fit to be available for Real Madrid like he does with us.
    “It is down to the manager then whether he wants to select him or not in the squad. He is confident he will be involved and we will wait and see whether he is involved – and rightly so because he’s employed by the club. If there’s an opportunity to get players in earlier then we would like that.”
    The Algarve camp is preparation for the play-off against Scotland or Ukraine plus four Nations League matches, starting against Poland on June 1.
    Page confirmed Bale, who scored twice against Austria in March’s play-off semi-final, will be available for all Wales’ June fixtures up to the 14th but would want him to find a club if the Dragons qualify for the Qatar finals in November.
    He added: “If he was playing for Cardiff and we had qualified for the World Cup I wouldn’t change my thoughts or respect for Gareth whatsoever.
    “He would definitely be a part of the World Cup squad anyway. As long as he is out playing football – that’s the most important thing for us.
    “He’ll need to be part of a club and training, even if he is not playing, at that tempo with other players every day.”
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    Page hopes 102-cap Bale will not retire if Wales do lose the play-off final because his influence is similar to the late Gary Speed among his team-mates.
    Page said: “I wouldn’t want him to. The door is always open, for what he does in the changing room as well. I’m blessed I see how he is with the players.
    “I see a lot of what Speedo was in Gareth and I told him that. Whether you played Championship football or Premier League football, you were treated exactly the same.
    “And Baleo does that. I’d want him to carry on as long as he possibly can because it’s the influence he has in that changing room as well.” More

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    Billy Sharp attack latest – Oli McBurnie ‘stamps on Forest fan’ as Sheffield United captain is left needing stitches

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST beat Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties to book their place in the Championship play-off final.But the triumph was soured by a disgraceful fan attack on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp during the post-game pitch invasion, which left the player needing stitches.
    And in a separate video, Sharp’s furious team-mate Oli McBurnie appeared to kick a Nottingham Forest fan in the head while he was on the ground.
    Sheffield United said of the McBurnie incident: “There were football fans on the pitch, where they shouldn’t have been, and he was acting in self defence.
    “The video doesn’t show what happened before – or after – and it does not show that any contact was made.”

    Result: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheff Utd (3-3 on agg; Forest won 3-2 on pens)

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    Attack fan branded a “coward”
    Ally McCoist has labelled the fan who attacked Billy Sharp as a “coward.”
    McCoist raged on talkSPORT: “It’s as cowardly an act as I have seen at a football ground maybe ever.
    Billy Sharp is looking disappointed at how things are going, and some idiot, absolute idiot comes from his blindside and puts a head on him, gives him stitches.
    “It is an absolute disgrace, do you know who the guy is? He is a coward. That’s what he is. It’s the worst thing you can call any man, believe me. The worst thing you can call a man is a coward and that’s exactly what he is. Coming in on Billy Sharp’s blindside, didn’t see him, no chance to protect himself.
    “It was absolutely shocking and it took the gloss off.
    “I don’t care what anyone says I’m delighted for Forest, Steve Cooper has done a wonderful job let’s not get away from it and I’m looking forward to the game against Huddersfield so congratulations, but I am telling you that has taken the shine off that Forest result, no doubt about it. Scandalous.”
    Agbonlahor calls for action
    Gabby Agbonlahor has given his thoughts on the Billy Sharp fan incident.
    He said on talkSPORT: “You don’t know what fans are going to do, that’s the problem.
    “Sometimes it might even be the player that plays for the team the fans are coming on for.
    “It doesn’t mean that because you’re playing for, for instance last night, Nottingham Forest that every fan is going to love you.
    “You might have upset a fan or… So it is very dangerous. They need more stewards, more police and maybe punishments for the clubs that allow the fans to get on the pitch.
    “You can stop them. I think it’s become a thing where they let the fans on, it’s a big occasion. But it needs to stop.”
    Forest face Prem punishment
    Nottingham Forest could face a Premier League punishment after the Billy Sharp attack.
    Forest are just one game away from Prem promotion after they beat Sheffield United on Tuesday night.
    But after Sharp was attacked by a Forest fan, the Daily Star report that Forest’s first game in the Prem may have to be played behind closed doors if they win the play-off final.
    Forest fans raise Sharp cash
    Nottingham Forest fans have decided to raise money in support of Billy Sharp.
    Sharp was left needing stitches after a brutal attack by a Forest fan.
    But Forest supporters have rallied together to raise cash for a charity of Sharp’s choice.
    The group labelled, A Just Giving Page was launched to; “to show our condemnation as Forest fans.”
    And so far the Forest collective have pulled in £2,600.
    Sharp attack was “absolute disgrace”
    The attack on Billy Sharp was an ‘absolute disgrace,’ according to ex-Nottingham Forest star Michael Dawson.
    Dawson’s horror comes after the UK’s football police revealed that arrests at football matches across the top five English leagues were at their highest levels in years, according to the BBC.
    And the report also stated fan disorder was “getting worse”.
    Billy Sharp releases statement
    Billy Sharp released a statement after after the vicious attack by a pitch-invading Nottingham Forest fan that left him needing stitches.
    It read: “One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football.
    “Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final. As an ex Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
    “Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages of support after the incident.”
    Sharp was left needing stitches
    Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp was left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch-invading Nottingham Forest fan during wild celebrations at the City Ground.
    A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault following the incident.
    A club spokesperson confirmed to media that Sharp was left needing stitches after the disgusting incident.
    Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    More on Forest fan ‘stomp’
    Decked out in the club’s tracksuit, the 25-year-old Scottish international appears to have been chasing an individual, who falls to the ground, as another teammate is pulled away.
    And the 6ft 2in powerhouse then starts stamping his leg on the floored fan before a melee of bodies get involved and the forward is pushed away amid the chaos.
    A supporter, who appeared to be filming the scenes on his phone, can then be heard shouting: “Sheffield United player just stamped!”
    A Sheffield United spokesman refused to comment.
    Forest fan gets ‘stamped on’
    Sheffield United star Oli McBurnie appeared to stamp on a Nottingham Forest supporter amid the chaos following last night’s play-off clash.
    After Forest’s place in the Championship play-off final was confirmed, thousands of supporters invaded the pitch from the stands to celebrate.
    However, the night was marred when Blades captain Billy Sharp, who was watching the penalties from the touchline, was viciously attacked by a home supporter.
    Police have confirmed that they have arrested a 31-year-old man following the assault that left the striker needing stitches.
    However, another investigation is likely to be launched after fellow United striker McBurnie, who was injured for the clash, appeared to stamp on a Forest supporter during the pitch invasion.
    More from EFL
    Partial ground closures or ordering teams to play behind closed doors are now on the EFL agenda.
    Their statement pointed out: “Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a club ban and criminal record.
    “More importantly it puts the safety of players, coaches, managers and match officials at risk.
    “It is vital that those playing the game can do so safe in the knowledge that they will not be subjected to violent, threatening or anti-social behaviour going forward.”
    EFL bosses statement
    Speaking on the new measures, a spokesman said: “We recognise that this lawlessness is being conducted by a small minority of individuals and that the majority of people attending matches are a credit to their club.
    “However, it is not acceptable for supporters to enter the field of play at any time given the EFL’s objective is to ensure our matches remain a safe and welcoming one for all.
    “Over the summer we will consider what further measures are now at our disposal, including the potential use of capacity reductions or other similar mitigations.”
    EFL fan violence crackdown
    A crackdown on fan violence chaos could see EFL grounds closed next season, MARTIN LIPTON WRITES.
    League chiefs are ready to bring in new hardline rules in the wake of a series of incidents this term.
    The disgraceful and cowardly assault on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp by a Nottingham Forest fan after the Reds’ Championship play-off semi-final win at the City Ground has prompted a new demand for action.
    But EFL bosses have opted to act now with a strong upgrade in policy to come into effect in August.
    EFL: Pitch invasions under investigation
    The English Football League have released a strongly-worded statement following events that marred both Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield’s play-off semi-final wins this week, not least the incident in which Billy Sharp was assaulted.
    It reads: “Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and Play-Off Semi-Final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.
    “These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities and the EFL condemns in the strongest possible terms the reckless actions of individuals who have brought the game into disrepute with this unacceptable behaviour. The League is working closely with the Police and Clubs, offering its full support to the ongoing investigations.
    “Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a Club ban and criminal record. More importantly it puts the safety of players, coaches, managers and match officials at risk. It is vital that those playing the game can do so safe in the knowledge that they will not be subjected to violent, threatening or anti-social behaviour going forward.”
    Sharp: Idiot ruined unbelievable night
    Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp has spoken out following his assault at the end of last night’s play-off semi-final with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
    The Blades captain was attacked by a home supporter as he watched on from the sidelines following his team’s penalty shootout defeat.
    The shocking incident marred what had been a brilliant game, one in which United had fought back from 3-1 down on aggregate to level the tie.
    However, the South Yorkshire side were unable to get the better of Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba in the shootout with the hosts’ victory sparking a mass pitch invasion.
    Sharp tweeted this morning: “One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football.
    “Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on victory and good luck in the final. As an ex Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
    “Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident.”

    Suspect arrested after Sharp assault
    Police have confirmed that they have arrested a 31-year-old man following the assault on Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp at the end of last night’s play-off at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground.
    Sharp was left needing stitches after being aggressively knocked to the floor by a supporter that had run on to the pitch to celebrate Forest’s penalty shootout success.
    The shocking incident marred a thrilling Championship play-off semi-final, and has brought calls for both police and internal club investigations.
    Striker Sharp had not been involved in the encounter due to injury, and had been stood on the touchlines when the attack occurred.
    Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident. He remains in custody and will be questioned by officers.
    “Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. We have spoken to the player concerned and we are working with both clubs who are supporting us with our investigation.”
    Billy Sharp latest
    Nottingham Forest beat Sheffield United via a thrilling penalty shootout to reach the Championship play-off final.
    But the victory was soured after a fan shockingly attacked Blades star Billy Sharp in the post-match pitch invasion.
    Sharp needed stitches after the attack and Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom said Sharp was shaken, bleeding and angry.
    Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    Nottingham Forest released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
    It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
    “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
    “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”

    Billy Sharp attack
    Furious Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    “There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attack
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Latest – Sharp needing stitches
    Billy Sharp has been left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    Nottingham Forest statement
    Nottingham Forest have released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
    It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
    “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
    “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”
    Latest on Sharp’s condition
    Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has said Billy Sharp is shook up and bleeding after the attack.
    Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Credit: Sky Sports
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    More from Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom: “How can you come to a place of work minding your own business and be assaulted in that fashion?
    “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
    “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attacked
    Sheffield United star Billy Sharp has been viciously attacked by a Nottingham Forest pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    The evening was soured by a disgraceful attack on striker Sharp, who was standing watching the celebrations.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the floor.
    It is not yet clear if Sharp suffered any injuries.
    United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “There’s a prison sentence there for sure.”

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