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      Former Premier League star scores hilarious ‘goal of the season’ as fans admire ‘trip over yourself’ technique

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      A FORMER Premier League star was hailed by fans for his “trip over yourself” technique as he scored a hilarious “goal of the season”.Ashley Barnes, 34, is currently starring in the Championship for Norwich.Ashley Barnes scored a hilarious goal for Norwich against MiddlesbroughCredit: Sky SportsThe striker tripped up before scrambling along the floor to fire homeCredit: Sky SportsGoal of the season for Ashley Barnes? 👀🟢— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) March 6, 2024

      He joined the Canaries last summer after 10 seasons with Burnley — seven of which were in England’s top flight.Barnes has since gone on to score five goals in all competitions for his new side.And the striker’s latest came in last night’s 3-1 defeat at Middlesbrough.Barnes fired the visitors ahead in the 17th minute as he latched onto a pass from deep in the Boro box.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHaving already beaten the defenders, Barnes swung a leg at the ball in the hope of connecting with a volley.But he missed the ball and instead tumbled to the floor in comical style.Barnes showed his doggedness though as he began scrambling along the pitch while the ball rolled towards Middlesbrough’s goalie.And just before the opposition’s defence closed him down, Barnes — still on the floor at this point — swung his leg again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis time, it made contact with the ball, and sent it flying into the Boro net.Fans were certainly loving Barnes’ hearty effort, with many jokingly declaring it the “goal of the season.”Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersBarnes’ goal wasn’t enough as Norwich went on to lose 3-1Credit: PAOne said: “Nice, the trip over yourself technique is up there with the scorpion, scissors, banana and bicycle kick.”Another declared: “Ashley Barnes has just won goal of the season.”One noted: “The most Ashley Barnes goal to ever exist.”Another added: “Seen him score better but they all count!”Unfortunately for Norwich, Barnes’ goal did not seal victory at the Riverside.Teammate Borja Sainz was sent off for the Canaries in the 30th minute.And Boro stormed back moments later through Marcus Forss before Emmanuel Latte Lath made it 2-1 before the break.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe game was then put to bed in the 62nd minute by Lukas Engel.The result leaves Norwich seventh in the Championship table, while Boro are up to 12th. More

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      West Brom star controversially recreates Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ to stop crucial goal in Championship

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      THERE was huge drama in the Championship last night as West Brom defender Cedric Kipre recreated Maradona’s “hand of god”.The incident took place in the 52nd minute of the game after QPR midfielder Sam Field headed a goalbound effort towards the West Brom net.Sam Field managed to loop the ball over PalmerCredit: Sky Sports/XBut Kipre was there to provide coverCredit: Sky SportsHe deflected the ball over the crossbarCredit: Sky SportsHowever, with the ball already having beaten West Brom keeper Alex Palmer, the shot was cleared off the line by the hand of Kipre – who slapped the ball over the crossbar with his hand.Kipre managed to disguise his handball so well that barely any QPR players in the West Brom box even appealed for a penalty.QPR fans behind the goal also didn’t appear to notice the hand of God, with many simply putting their head in their hands in the belief that the Hoops had missed a great chance.Likewise, the Sky Sports pundits at full time said they all thought they’d witnessed an “unbelievable” save from Palmer on first glance and only realised there had been a handball after they saw a replay.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe controversy could be crucial for both teams at either end of the table with the game ending 2-2.Victory would have seen QPR rise to 16th in their fight to stave off relegation.Instead, they sit in 19th and are just one point above the drop zone.And for West Brom, a point was valuable in keeping them in the hunt for a playoff place.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Baggies sit fifth on 60 points and are five points ahead of seventh placed Norwich.After the game, QPR coach Marti Cifuentes joked that his team would have to train playing against “two goalkeepers” going forward.My dad ‘beat up’ Man Utd legend Roy Keane in a furious dressing room fight – now I’m making my own way in the EFLThe Spanish coach joked: “I’ve been told West Brom have played with two ‘keepers for while. Football is a game with mistakes, and unfortunately, the referees can make mistakes as well.”It’s a difficult job, the second-most difficult job, after being a manager. But I’m not going to complain, I’m here to make sure my team is better than that, so if today we had to play against two ‘keepers, we need to practice against two ‘keepers.Like most at the ground, Cifuentes also thought that the hand of god was simply a great save at first, saying: “I thought the keeper made an amazing save. The real keeper.”QPR defender Steve Cook was less magnanimous however and said: “It was a blatant handball from Kipre and it can’t be missed. It’s a terrible decision from the referee.”West Brom manager Carlos Corberan meanwhile said he “couldn’t remember the action.”When pressed on the matter he said: “Hopefully the decisions made by the referees are the correct decisions, but unfortunately, mistakes happen.” More

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      Southampton vs Preston CALLED OFF as St Mary’s is evacuated after huge fire breaks out and engulfs stadium in smoke

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      SOUTHAMPTON’S game with Preston tonight has been postponed due to a huge fire.The Saints were due to be in action on the South Coast against Ryan Lowe’s side but a massive blaze has broke out near the ground.A huge fire near to Southampton’s home forced their stadium to be evacuatedCredit: Simon JonesSt Mary’s stadium was left engulfed in smoke after a fire broke outCredit: Simon JonesThe blaze was at a factory on the industrial estate next to the stadiumCredit: SunBrave firefighters raced to the scene to battle the blaze after being alerted at 1:05pmCredit: Simon JonesSouthampton’s stadium had to be evacuated after a huge fire raged near it.St Mary’s was covered in thick black cloud as flames engulfed a factory on an industrial estate next door.And now their Championship clash against Preston could be postponed due to the incident.Emergency services raced to the blaze and quickly set-up a cordon around the fire on Wednesday afternoon.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDramatic video footage revealed how brave firefighters battled the flames with hoses as smoke rose high into the air.An incredible fireball soared above St Mary’s and the surrounding area.Then a loud speaker was heard telling staff to evacuate the 32,000-capacity stadium immediately.A statement from the fire service at 1.50pm had earlier said: Crews are currently attending a fire in Marine Parade Southampton. The initial call came in at 1:05pm. Most read in Championship“The fire is affecting industrial units near St Mary’s football stadium.“There are currently eight fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms and other specialist vehicles in attendance.Ipswich legend Tommy Miller believes Ipswich have the tools to make the Premier League and see off the challenge of Southampton and Leeds“People in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke.“Some roads local to the incident are closed and people are advised to avoid the area to allow movements of emergency vehicles.”A spokesperson for the service then said at 2:24pm: “Additional fire engines are now heading to the scene to make it up to 18.“The fire is currently involves four industrial units.“There is lots of smoke and people the area are reminded to keep doors and windows closed.”The EFL then announced that they were “closely monitoring” the situation as the scheduled kick-off approached with firefighters still battling the blaze.Thousands of spectators were due to attend the Championship matchCredit: RexBlack smoke began engulfing the city just hours before the game was due to take placeCredit: XThe fire brigade provided regular updates throughout the afternoon as they fought the blazeCredit: Simon Jones More

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      Southampton’s St Mary’s stadium evacuated as it’s engulfed in smoke after huge fire breaks out hours before match

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      SOUTHAMPTON’S stadium has been evacuated after being engulfed in smoke by a huge fire raging on its doorstep.St Mary’s was covered in thick black cloud as flames blazed at a factory on an industrial estate next door causing the Saints clash with Preston tonight to be called off. Southampton’s St Mary’s stadium was engulfed in smoke after a fire broke outThe fire was at a disused factory next to the arenaSouthampton are due to host Preston in the Championship tonightIt remains to be seen if the match goes ahead tonightCredit: Simon JonesAn emergency cordon was placed around St Mary’sCredit: Simon JonesThe fire broke out at an industrial estate next door to St Mary’sIt came just hours before tonight’s crunch Championship clash against Preston, with EFL chiefs now closely monitoring the situation in case they need to call the game off.Emergency services rushed to the scene on Wednesday afternoon before setting up a cordon and closing off adjacent roads.Dramatic video captured the moment brave firefighters battled the flames with hoses as smoke rose into the air.The incredible fireball soared above St Mary’s and the surrounding area, leaving locals stunned.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA loud speaker was heard telling staff to evacuate the 32,000-capacity stadium immediately, while nearby residents have been advised to shut all windows.The factory affected is reportedly owned by Southampton and is currently disused.According to the BBC, “pops” could be heard coming from inside.The fire forced the roof to collapse while also blowing out all the windows.Most read in ChampionshipThe factory is based on Melbourne Street and sits opposite St Mary’s south stand.An incident report from Fire and Rescue said: “Crews are currently attending a fire in Marine Parade Southampton.“The initial call came in at 13:05. The fire is affecting industrial units near St Mary’s football stadium. Fans in disbelief at Nathan Jones interview as former Southampton manager makes bold claim on Sky SportsThe fire broke out at an industrial estateThe disused factory is owned by SouthamptonSmoke could be seen for several milesMultiple fire engines were on the scene to battle the blazeCredit: Simon JonesSouthampton are currently fourth in the ChampionshipCredit: Getty”There are currently 8 Fire engines, 2 Aerial Ladder Platforms and other specialist vehicles in attendance.“People in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke. “Some roads local to the incident are closed and people are advised to avoid the area to allow movements of emergency vehicles.”It was later revealed that three of the four industrial units next to St Mary’s were destroyed in the blaze.The fire comes just hours before Southampton’s home clash against Preston.READ MORE SUN STORIESSaints are desperate to win after falling eight points off automatic promotion back to the Premier League.But it remains to be seen if the match goes ahead. Staff for the match are set to arrive at 3.30pm as it stands. More

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      Sheffield Wednesday announce controversial transfer for Nico Schulz is OVER after fan fury over domestic violence charge

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      SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY have decided against the controversial transfer signing of Nico Schulz amid fan pressure.The 30-year-old former Borussia Dortmund defender was charged with assaulting his former partner on three separate occasions in 2020 in court last month.Sheffield Wednesday have opted against the controversial signing of Nico SchulzCredit: GettySchulz, who has been capped 12 times by Germany, was ordered to donate over £128,000 to five different charity organisations over a three-month period.That was for the case to be discontinued after his ex-partner refused to testify, according to various reports.Amid that investigation, Schulz was released by Dortmund following a four-year period there last summer.He has since been unemployed but spent time training with Championship strugglers Sheffield Wednesday last month.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHowever an open letter was posted on social media by the Sheffield Wednesday Women’s Supporters Group in which the club was urged not to sign the player.And now the club’s German coach confirmed after the Owls’ win over Plymouth that he would not be pursuing a deal amid the outcry from supporters.Danny Rohl told The Star: “I would not normally speak after a game about a player who is not here, that’s not in my mind, but I have made a final decision.“I’ve said before with transfers that I always look to the whole picture, and that was the same in this case.Most read in Championship“I’m very happy with my team here, I know Kristian Pedersen will come back soon, and that’s the reason why I will stay with my squad… Nico Schulz will not be coming.”Schulz came through the ranks at Hertha Berlin before leaving for Gladbach in 2015.Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersHe spent two years there prior to signing for Hoffenheim but it was not long before he was on the move again.In 2019 Dortmund swooped with a £22m transfer deal and he went on to lift both the DFB Pokal and DFL Supercup with the Yellow Submarine.Meanwhile, last night’s victory was Wednesday’s fourth-straight triumph.It is only goal difference that now separates them from safety as they sit on 38 points along with Stoke, Huddersfield and QPR.They are next in action on Friday when they host promotion hopefuls and neighbours Leeds United. More

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      Sky Sports forced to apologise for Ipswich star during live TV interview after dramatic win over Bristol City

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      SKY SPORTS had to apologise to viewers after Ipswich Town hero Ali Al-Hamadi dropped some X-rated language live on air.The Tractor Boys remain three points behind leaders Leicester City and on course for promotion to the Premier League after last night’s thrilling victory over Bristol City.Ipswich Town’s Ali Al-Hamadi helped them come from behind to beat Bristol CityCredit: PASky Sports then had to apologise after he swore live on air afterwardsCredit: Sky SportsThe Robins took the lead at Portman Road before 22-year-old forward Al-Hamadi scored inside a minute of coming on as a second-half substitute.But the visitors regained the lead only for Conor Chaplin to make it 2-2.Then Iraq international Al-Hamadi had the opportunity to win it for Ipswich from the penalty spot – only to see his strike saved by goalkeeper Max O’Leary.Fortunately for Al-Hamadi his team-mate Leif Davis popped up in the 89th minute to secure the points and keep them second in the Championship with just ten games to go.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe pair were interviewed on the pitch by Sky Sports after the rollercoaster encounter, but the ex-Wimbledon ace Al-Hamadi’s choice of language left the broadcaster red-faced.He said: “I’m happy to come on and work my b******* off – sorry!”The player, who moved to Ipswich from the Dons in January, started laughing as the Sky interviewer told viewers: “Apologies for the language there!”Al-Hamadi struggled at Swansea City and Wycombe Wanderers before finally finding his form in League Two with Wimbledon.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd his 27 goals and eight assists in just 48 matches soon caught the eye of Ipswich, who he could soon be lining up for in the Premier League.After the swearing, he added: “It’s an amazing story from the outside. I’m not shying away from the challenge, I love it.Ipswich legend Tommy Miller believes Ipswich have the tools to make the Premier League and see off the challenge of Southampton and Leeds“I’m here because I deserve to be here.“I’m ambitious as a player, we’re ambitious as a club and just to join a team at such a high level and high intensity – there was a point in the middle of the season when it was tough, but I’ve adjusted and you’ve got amazing players and the boss have made me feel welcome.“It’s just about trying to make an impact in any way possible.” More

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      Tottenham outcast wants to turn loan move into permanent transfer after stunning Championship season

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      JOE RODON is keen to deliver promotion for Leeds – and then extend his stay in the Premier League.The Spurs centre-back, 26, has played a huge part for the third-placed Whites after being picked by boss Daniel Farke for 32 of the 35 league matches since his loan move in August.Joe Rodon in action for Leeds against Chelsea in the FA Cup fifth roundCredit: RexThe Wales defender wants to stay at Leeds if they win promotion to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyBut Rodon, who plays alongside Wales pals Ethan Ampadu, Dan James and Connor Roberts at club level, has expressed his desire to join the Yorkshire outfit on a permanent basis if they reach the top-flight.Rodon, valued between £10-15million, is under contract at Tottenham until the summer of 2025.Rodon said: “Playing is what everyone wants. All of us together would be a really nice journey if we did get there.”With the journeys we have all been on and now it has all led us to this moment.Read More Sport”It would be great for the collective that all of us are playing together in the Premier League.”To be with the boys always makes it easier for me. I’ve enjoyed it this season.”Tonight could be a pivotal night in the Championship title race.Leeds host Stoke, leaders Leicester travel to Sunderland on the back of three successive defeats while Ipswich are at home to Bristol City at Portman Road.Most read in FootballFarke’s men are only five points adrift of the Foxes and two behind Kieran McKenna’s men with just 11 games left.Connor Roberts is another Leeds star dreaming of promotion and celebrating with Rodon, Ampadu and James by parading a Welsh flag at Elland Road.Antonio Conte sends Wales glowing report of Tottenham defender Joe Rodon after his display against AustriaRoberts, who joined on loan from Burnley on deadline day, told Sgorio: “When the opportunity came up, to be a part of something that could be even bigger than just getting promoted at the end of the season.”To do it with these boys and hopefully we are standing on Elland Road with a Welsh flag and we’ve got some medals round our necks. “That is the end goal.” More

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      Hollywood star worth £95m becomes part-owner of Leeds United as they aim for return to Premier League

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      RUSSELL Crowe has become part-owner of Leeds United as the club aims for a return to the Premier League.The Whites announced their takeover by the 49ers Enterprises last summer.Gladiator actor Russell Crowe has become part-owner of Leeds UnitedCredit: GettyThe Whites announced their takeover by the 49ers Enterprises last summerCrowe is a huge fan of the Elland Road club, having been hooked watching Match of the Day as a kidCredit: GettySwimmer Michael Phelps, who won 23 Olympic golds, and golf superstar Jordan Spieth were among the names who joined in the buy-out.But now it has emerged that the Hollywood actor, 59, also has a financial stake in the club.Leeds announced the Oscar winner’s summer gig at the Brudenell Social Club in Hyde Park on X, formerly Twitter.In response one user suggested Crowe “put his money” into League Two outfit Wrexham – owned by fellow Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Read more Sports NewsThe Gladiator actor then denied being associated with Wrexham instead saying he put money into his beloved Leeds.He replied: “I don’t have any part of what’s going on in Wrexham man.”I’m really impressed with Ryan and Rob, and what they are achieving, but I’m not part of that.”I do however have a very small connection now financially to LUFC via the 49er family. So, yeah, exactly… but opposite.”Most read in FootballCrowe is a huge fan of the Elland Road club, having been hooked watching Match of the Day as a kid in his native New Zealand.He even considered buying the club in 2015, calling them a sleeping dinosaur at the time.But after weighing up the family sacrifice he would have to make, the Beautiful Mind actor decided against it.The superstar has a net value of almost £95million.The American group – the business arm of NFL team the San Francisco 49ers – have gradually increased investment in the Elland Road club since 2018.It follows Wrexham’s transformation – and return to the EFL – after Reynolds and McElhenney took over in February 2021.Leeds United currently sit third in the Championship table behind league-leaders Leicester City and Ipswich Town.He denied being associated with Wrexham – owned by fellow Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenneyCredit: REUTERSCrowe previously showed interest in buying Leeds back in 2015Credit: Sky SportsSwimmer Michael Phelps also has a financial stake in the clubCredit: GettyLeeds United currently sit third in the Championship tableCredit: RexMove over Ryan Reynolds…
      Jade Thirlwall – South Shields FC
      Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall was among more than 750 fans who invested in South Shields FC, which raised more than £280,000 for the club in 2020.
      She was also named as an honorary president – alongside ex-politician David Miliband – and her involvement in the club hasn’t stopped there.
      The Power hitmaker designed a limited edition football strip for the club and joined LGBTQ+ inclusion workshops at the stadium.
      Stormzy – Croydon Athletic
      Rapper Stormzy joined a consortium with Crystal Palace’s former striker Wilfried Zaha and kit manager Danny Young to buy Croydon Athletic last year.
      Fans were thrilled, including one eager supporter who told news site Inside Croydon: “This could be our ‘Wrexham moment.'”
      The site reported the team was ‘purchased’ for “a token sum” but they believed Stormzy and his pals would “be providing the kind of investment which the club’s fans, players and backroom staff could, until now, only dream about”.
      Michael B Jordan – AFC Bournemouth
      Famed for starring in the Creed and Black Panther film franchises, many were surprised when Hollywood star Michael B Jordan invested in AFC Bournemouth. 
      He’s part of a consortium led by American businessman Bill Foley, who purchased the club from Maxim Demin in December 2022.
      The following year, Michael revealed getting involved with the Cherries was “crazy and amazing” but he knew there was “so much potential there”.
      LeBron James – Liverpool FC
      Lebron James is considered among basketball’s greatest-ever players, so in 2011, some were surprised by his decision to invest in an English football team.
      He was revealed to have purchased a 2 per cent stake in Liverpool FC, reportedly for around £5.1m ($6.5m).
      Just over a decade later, LeBron and business partner Maverick Carter exchanged their stake for a part-ownership of Fenway Sports Group (FSG) for an undisclosed fee. More