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      Teemu Pukki facing race to be fit for Euros with Finland after Norwich striker suffers ankle ligament damage

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      TEEMU PUKKI is facing a race against time to be fit for the Euros.The Norwich star, 31, sustained ankle ligament damage in Saturday’s title-winning win over Reading.
      Teemu Pukki is an injury doubt ahead of Finland’s Euro 2020 campaign after suffering ankle ligament damageCredit: Getty
      It has left Finland sweating on their talisman ahead of their first-ever major tournament this summer.
      Yet Finn head coach Markku Kanerva moved to allay fears Pukki, who has hit 30 goals in 90 caps for his country, could miss out.
      Kanerva said: “We believe Teemu is fit to play at the European Championships. 
      “The treatment programme and recovery have already started.
      “Everyone is aiming for Teemu Pukki to be in full working order when the European Championships start.”
      Pukki has taken his Norwich goals tally to 66 in 120 league games with 26 this season to fire the Canaries back into the Premier League.
      He will play no part at Barnsley on Saturday but is still set to join up with his nation at the end of this month.
      Finland are in Group B at the rearranged Euro 2020 with No1 country Belgium as well as Denmark and Russia.
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      Kanerva’s side are 54th in the world rankings but will be hopeful Pukki’s goals can fire the Scandanevian nation into the knockout stages.
      Their opening match is in Copenhagen before two in St Petersburg.
      The striker picked up the problem in the 4-1 win over Reading last weekendCredit: Getty
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      West Ham join Chelsea in Ivan Toney transfer hunt as Brentford demand £35m for strike sensation

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      IVAN TONEY is a summer target for West Ham – but will cost £35million.The Brentford striker has enjoyed a stunning debut season in the Championship and has scored 30 goals since arriving from Peterborough.
      West Ham are the latest club in for Brentford striker Ivan ToneyCredit: Rex
      West Ham are desperate to beef up their striker options and do have some money to spend in the summer.
      Toney, 25, joined the Bees in a £5m deal rising to £10m with add-ons.
      Brentford will feature in the play-offs and if they fail to land promotion, their star man looks certain to be sold.
      Chelsea are among the other clubs who have been watching the former Northampton and Newcastle forward.
      But a number of other forwards – including Romelu Lukaku – are higher on the Blues’ list.
      Brentford were able to sign Toney last year thanks to some of the profit they made after selling Ollie Watkins to Aston Villa for £28m.
      Injury prone Michail Antonio is the only striker West Ham have on the books.
      And the East Londoners have also been heavily linked with Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham who is likely to leave to make way for Toney or Lukaku.
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      Abraham’s future at Stamford Bridge is in doubt after being overlooked by Thomas Tuchel.
      But the West Londoners are still said to be demanding £45m for him.
      The 23-year-old England international is likely to attract interest from across Europe but Hammers boss David Moyes said his side will not be in the running at that sort of money.
      Moyes said: “It would rule us out. So if that’s the figure and that’s what’s being said, we are out.
      “We don’t have that to buy a striker. No.”
      Abraham was a regular under Frank Lampard until the Chelsea legend was replaced by German Tuchel in January.
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      Ex-Barnsley boss Gerhard Struber on Tykes success, NY Red Bulls, MLS kids and Premier League dreams

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      GERHARD STRUBER has watched from afar the unfathomable rise of Barnsley.But the Austrian has no doubts about the part he played in helping the Tykes believe they could jump from relegation probables to promotion possibles.
      Struber left Barnsley for Credit: Alamy
      Struber worked miracles at Barnsley last season as they escaped the Championship’s bottom three on the final dayCredit: Rex
      Bottom of the Championship and seven points adrift in November 2019, Struber’s arrival in south Yorkshire sparked an incredible survival drive, escaping the bottom three on the final day.
      The new season brought new hope, but a poor start saw Struber question the ambition of the Barnsley owners in the transfer market as he left for MLS side New York Red Bulls on October 6.
      Barnsley’s ambitions have soared since under Valerien Ismael having confirmed a play-off spot by losing just three of their last 20 games.
      Asked whether this was always a team capable of reaching those heights, Struber admitted: “I pushed the boys in the right way and right direction and gave them an identity of football helpful for success and development. This was my big duty.”
      The 44-year-old coach continued: “When I look back to Barnsley it was the biggest difference to the Austrian league or the European leagues.
      “We had so many games and you had to look at how you managed and handled the situation.
      “This was a big learning curve for me, especially handling boys from England.
      “I like so much working with the culture of English players. They have a very good attitude and it’s a good feeling to work with such ambitious players.
      “In the end they had a big belief in what we did and this was very interesting to see and also for me to learn from for my next step.”
      His next step was a more of a gigantic leap across the Atlantic to MLS giants NY Red Bulls – just the latest move in a few meteoric years for the young coach.
      From coaching Red Bull Salzburg’s U19s in the UEFA Youth League in 2017 to taking charge of one of America’s largest and most successful sides.
      And it was while getting his Pro License that he moulded his fast and efficient “synchronised pressing” playing style and philosophy during educational trips to Germany and Italy.
      Barnsley’s ambitions have soared under Valerien Ismael having confirmed a play-off spot by losing just three of their last 20 gamesCredit: PA

      Two losses against Sporting Kansas City and LA Galaxy to kick off the MLS campaign was not an ideal start before their first win against Chicago Fire, but preparing a young side during the pandemic has been tough.
      Struber said: “We need patience, we need the right time but we have big ambitions to win trophies in the end. Right now, we are realistic and work very hard for our vision.
      “The goal is to play very attractive and win football games. We will be very successful in the next few years.”
      NY Red Bulls currently have several young English talents on their roster, including Stoke City defender Tom Edwards, Crystal Palace academy graduate Mandela Egbo and former Brentford and Southend midfielder Dru Yearwood.
      Struber explained: “In England you must be a top talent to have the chance to get game time with a club like Southampton or Liverpool or Manchester City. It’s not so easy.
      “But the MLS can be a very good first step in a big professional career. It gives young players a good platform.
      “We can develop young players in a modern direction where they have a big market in the future. In the end, it’s always good when the clubs can make very good deals with players.
      “We have the fantasy that they can play in top leagues in Europe. That is the Red Bull way.”
      After several years of plane-hopping from club to club – and with his family arriving in New York in the summer – Struber is ready to settle and plan for the future with NY Red Bulls.
      But there remains a hole in his heart where English football once was – and has dreams of one day emulating managerial hero Jurgen Klopp.
      He said: “I never forget England. The atmosphere in the stadium I remember with a good feeling and this is a league that is very attractive.
      “It is a big dream for every coach to work in the Premier League. Right now, I have my big focus here in this club with all my energy and we will see what comes in the future.”
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      Swansea report ‘vile racist abuse’ of Morgan Whittaker to police in another shocking incident amid social media blackout

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      POLICE are investigating after Swansea ace Morgan Whittaker was racially abused during football’s social media blackout.The 20-year-old became the latest player to be targeted with sickening abuse after he scored against former side Derby in the 2-1 win at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.
      Swansea have lambasted the vile racist abuse aimed towards forward Morgan WhittakerCredit: Getty
      Whittaker – who left the Rams to join the Welsh outfit earlier this year – is the fourth Swans star to have suffered racist abuse since February.
      Jamal Lowe, Yan Dhanda and Ben Cabango have all been targeted, with the latest incident occurring during the social media boycott.
      The Championship outfit released a statement condemning the abuse, as the said: “Swansea City is saddened, angry and appalled by vile racist abuse received by Morgan Whittaker via social media following Saturday’s game against Derby County.
      “The abuse in question has been reported to South Wales Police and the club is assisting them in their investigation.
      “The fact that this has happened across a period where clubs, players and stakeholders have come together for a boycott of social media for this very reason, again shows just how much work still needs to be done.
      “Morgan is sadly the fourth Swansea City player to suffer such abhorrent and disgraceful abuse online since February – a damning indictment on the world we live in.
      “As a club we will continue to strive for change, urging social media companies to take strong action and implement real change on their platforms that will enable its users to open their accounts and not have to worry about what they might find.
      “Chief executive Julian Winter recently wrote to both Twitter and Facebook, the latter replying with examples of how they try to combat online abuse.
      Whittaker headed in an equaliser against former side Derby on Saturday in a 2-1 winCredit: Getty
      “But with vile incidents appearing on a daily basis, stronger action is clearly required.
      “Morgan has the full and unwavering support of everyone at Swansea City, and our message remains clear. Enough is enough.”
      Meanwhile a statement from SWP read: “South Wales Police is investigating the origin of racially motivated social media posts aimed at a Swansea City footballer following the club’s match against Derby County this weekend.
      “South Wales Police has designated football liaison officers who work with clubs throughout the force area to help prevent and deter crime and anti-social behaviour.
      “Tackling hate crime has always been a priority for South Wales Police – this behaviour is something that will not be tolerated in our community.
      “The force takes hate crime seriously and works closely with those involved in football to raise awareness of hate crime amongst players and supporters.”

      Swansea took a stand against online abuse and discrimination on April 8 by not posting any social media content for seven days.
      The Welsh club called for social media platforms to introduce tougher policing and punishments for those found guilty of sending online abuse.
      Birmingham and Rangers quickly supported Swansea’s stance of a seven-day boycott, and on Friday much of the sporting world followed suit.
      The boycott – which started at 3pm on Friday and runs until 11.59pm on Monday – saw a coalition of football’s largest governing bodies and organisations go silent on social media in a show of solidarity against online abuse.
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      Maurizio Pochettino – son of PSG boss Mauricio – makes Watford first-team debut at 20 as he looks to follow dad’s career

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      MAURICIO POCHETTINO’S son Maurizio has made his senior debut after featuring in Watford’s 2-0 defeat against Brentford.The 20-year-old – who joined the Hornets on a permanent deal from Tottenham in January – has impressed since linking up with the academy.
      Watford youngster Maurizio Pochettino replaced Dan Gosling in the 2-0 defeat against BrentfordCredit: Getty
      Pochettino joined the Hornets from Tottenham during the January transfer window
      He scored a sublime left-footed strike on his debut for the Under-23’s in a 3-2 win against Ipswich.
      And he then found the back of the net in the victories against Millwall and Swansea.
      His stellar form earned him a place on the bench for the Championship clash against Wycombe in March, where he was an unused substitute.
      But he was rewarded with a first-team debut on Saturday as he replaced Dan Gosling with five minutes remaining at the Brentford Community Stadium.
      With the scoreline at 2-0 thanks to goals from Marcus Forss and Ivan Toney, Watford boss Xisco Munoz decided to give Pochettino a run out.
      And within moments after coming on, he almost gifted the Bees a third goal in what was one of his only contributions in the match.
      Pochettino was guilty of slack defending in his own half, with former Liverpool midfielder Sergio Canos beating him to the ball.
      The ex-Barcelona youth star struck the bar with his effort as Brentford beat Watford for the first time since 1977.
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      Pochettino has impressed for Watford’s academy since linking up with the clubCredit: Getty

      Watford’s defeat has no significance to the season as they will finish the 2020-21 campaign in second place as they secured an instant return to the Premier League.
      They have just one game left to play before their season comes to an end, with the Hertfordshire outfit to welcome Swansea to Vicarage Road next week.
      And Watford could bring Inter Milan star Ashley Young back to the club as the 35-year-old mulls over his future.
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      Emi Buendia reveals Messi asked him whether he wants to play for Argentina or Spain after winning Norwich player of year

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      LIONEL MESSI asked Emi Buendia what country he wants to play for, the Norwich star has revealed.The midfielder has had a season to remember, scoring 14 goals and assisting 17 on the way to winning Norwich player of the year – with the Canaries also being crowned Championship winners on Saturday.
      Emi Buendia was presented with the Norwich player of the season trophy ahead of the Reading match – as the Canaries sealed the Championship title
      Lionel Messi seems to be keen for Buendia to play alongside him for Argentina
      And his form has captured the attention of Barcelona superstar Messi, who spoke to Buendia about his international commitment, the 24-year-old told The Guardian.
      He said: “I maybe did something good to impress him.
      “He [Messi] asked: ‘What do you want to do? Do you want to play for Spain or Argentina?’ Quickly I said: ‘Of course I want to play for Argentina. I want to play with you – it is a dream.’
      “The target this year was to be back in the Premier League, so that one is achieved, but everyone wants to play for his national team.
      “It would be something very special for me. I work every day to try to be better and to try to get this chance to represent my country.”
      Buendia has only been fortunate enough to represent Argentina at Under-20s level, despite first being called up by Spain U19s.
      It is not surprising that Messi is keen for Buendia to play for La Albiceleste, as he has had a brilliant season.
      He is the key creative spark for Norwich and has supplied so many goals for Teemu Pukki, who often grabs the headlines.
      Buendia was also named Championship player of the year this week
      An ecstatic Delia Smith embraced Buendia after he picked up the award
      Buendia was asked about the pair’s relationsip on the pitch, and whether he could pick out Pukki with his eyes closed:
      He added: “Yes, sometimes without looking at him, I try to know every time where he is.
      “I think we are playing for years, in my case, together with some players. I know how it works with everyone. For example my connection with Teemu is something special.
      “When I have the ball, I just know he is running in behind to get the ball. Also with Maxi [Max Aarons] on the right wing.
      “Those connections can make the difference in games.”
      Buendia is also confident that Norwich will make a better fist of the Premier League next season, after being relegated in 2019-20.
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      He points out the greater experience in the side that exists now, explaining that the squad knows each other’s games really well after playing together for several years.
      He added: “The experience in this squad means a lot and now with this team and these players, we have played a few years together so everyone knows everyone.
      “This is very good. I think the structure and the project, looking forward it will be good to do it properly next year.”
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      Wayne Rooney reveals he ‘knows everything’ as Spanish businessman tries to buy struggling Rams

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      WAYNE ROONEY says he “knows everything” about the latest takeover bid for Derby County.Rooney takes relegation-threatened Rams into Saturday’s crucial clash at Swansea with uncertainty behind the scenes.
      Wayne Rooney is staying focused on Derby’s relegation battle amid talk of a takeoverCredit: PA
      Erik Alonso is said to be keen to keep Wayne Rooney as manager
      Owner Mel Morris has had to assure the players they are being paid this month, three weeks after Spanish businessman Erik Alonso announced his Pride Park buyout.
      The deal has not yet been officially approved by the EFL and there are doubts if Alonso is able to complete the takeover.
      Morris is said to be reluctant to fund salaries in future months.
      Derby are fighting for Championship survival amid the planned sell-off.
      Asked if he is in the loop on the deal, Rooney said: “I know everything.
      “I haven’t once spoken to the players about the takeover, the focus is very much on the football.
      “The players are getting paid for doing their jobs.
      “There was no worry that the players weren’t going to get paid.
      “We can’t focus on that — it’s not an issue.”
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      SunSport has revealed a major factor in Alonso’s desire to buy Derby was the chance to work alongside someone of Rooney’s legendary status, who can attract potential new signings.
      And in an earlier statement he said: “We are looking forward to working with Wayne Rooney and his team, and will do everything possible to support the club’s vision and ambition.
      “We are privileged to take ownership of one of the founding members of the Football League and to build a fresh future for the fans, staff and players of Derby County.
      “It has undoubtedly been a difficult period both on and off the pitch for the club over the last two seasons and we recognise that all of the staff have been dedicated and worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”
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      Chelsea in transfer talks to sell Ike Ugbo to Watford in £5m deal after 14 years at club following Cercle Brugge loan

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      CHELSEA are in talks over selling Ike Ugbo to Watford for £5million, according to reports.The forward has been on the books at Stamford Bridge for 14 years but looks to be on the way out permanently after impressing on loan at Cercle Brugge this season.
      Chelsea are considering selling Ike Ugbo (right) to Watford in a £5m dealCredit: Rex
      The forward has been on the books at Stamford Bridge for 14 yearsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The 22-year-old is of Nigerian descent and was born in Lewisham, South London.
      He joined the Blues academy in 2007 and linked up with their Under-10s.
      And the forward has since spent time on loan at Barnsley, MK Dons, Scunthorpe and Roda JC before joining Brugge on a season long loan at the end of last season.
      Ugbo has scored 16 goals in 32 appearances this season as Brugge narrowly avoided relegation.
      And his performances have caught the eye of Watford who are in line to seal the deal, according to the Athletic.
      Brugge are said to have had an option to make the deal permanent but the player is keen on a move elsewhere.
      Ugbo has a year left on his contract which is why the Blues are in line to receive a fee.
      An initial discussion between the London clubs reportedly took place earlier this month with another meet is in the diary for the coming weeks.

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      The deal is described as being in ‘the early stages’ with other European sides still keen.
      Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, Belgium club Genk and Ligue 1’s Monaco are said to be keeping tabs.
      The £5m sum is also said to be negotiable with the payment structure of any deal still to be confirmed.
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