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    Watch Thierry Henry torment his opponent in Match for Hope to win penalty in cheekiest way

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    ARSENAL legend Thierry Henry has rolled back the years – at the expense of influencer Tobi Brown. The Gunners legend, 47, is playing for Team KSI in the 2025 Match for Hope.Thierry Henry was up to his old tricks in the 2025 Match For HopeCredit: YouTube / @ChunkzThe French superstar began doing keepy-ups to trick defender Tobi BrownCredit: YouTube / @ChunkzHenry tempted influencer Brown into a rash tackleCredit: YouTube / @ChunkzThe Frenchman immediately appealed for a penalty for handballCredit: YouTube / @ChunkzHenry joined a host of fellow legends for the charity event in Qatar. And the 47-year-old showed off some of the flair that made him one of the Prem’s best-ever players. With his side leading 3-2 just before the break, Henry began doing keepy-ups as he took on YouTube star Brown.Tobi – known as TBJZL – was bamboozled by the Frenchman’s fast feet.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe lunged forward to try and tackle, with his arms flailing about in the process.Henry waited for Bown to commit and then attempted to cross, with the ball striking Tobi’s arm.The referee immediately pointed to the penalty spot, with Henry producing a trademark grin for the cameras. One fan responded: “Thierry Henry with the masterclass! Tobi didn’t stand a chance there!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother said: “Pure filth.”While a third argued: “i know its a charity game, but how is that a pen?”Kate Abdo left in disbelief as she hides face after Thierry Henry’s controversial comment live on CBS Sports Earlier in the contest, Team KSI went behind after a bizarre head-loss from their captain.KSI put through his own goal under no pressure from the opposition, crumpling to his knees in embarrassment. Fans were quick to brand his effort the “worst own goal ever.”The Match for Hope aims to raise money for an estimated 70,000 schoolchildren in countries around the world.It sees teams of both influencers and ex-pros go head-to-head, with Henry, Alexander Del Piero and David Silva all involved this year.Last year’s edition raised more than £7million for charity. More

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      Embarrassed KSI scores horror own goal before getting brutally mocked by opponent in Match for Hope

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      KSI has been brutally mocked after a bizarre own goal in the 2025 Match for Hope.The YouTuber-turned-boxer, 31, left fans and teammates bemused after the bizarre moment during the charity match in Qatar. KSI put through his own goal in Friday’s Match for HopeCredit: XThe YouTuber bizarrely found the back of the net as he attempted a clearanceCredit: XKSI fell to the floor and was mobbed by ecstatic players from the other teamCredit: XKSI – captain of his own XI in the contest – attempted to cut out a cross from fellow streaming star iShowSpeed eight minutes into the game. But the 31-year-old inexplicably turned the ball into his own net as he tried to clear. KSI sank to the floor in embarrassment, with rival captain Chunkz diving on him in celebration.One fan gasped on X: “This is the most KSI thing to happen.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnother said: “I think that might be the worst own goal ever.”While a third claimed: “KSI with the most scripted own goal of all time.”The Match for Hope aims to raise money for an estimated 70,000 schoolchildren in countries around the world.It sees teams of both influencers and ex-pros go head-to-head in a chaotic 90 minutes.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLast year more than $8.8million (£7million) was raised for charity. The chas will be split between schools in Palestine, Sudan, Mali, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Pakistan.Incredible body-cam footage shows what it was like to play against Hazard, Drogba & Co after Match For Hope charity gameThis year’s edition features legends including Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry, Alessandro Del Piero and David Silva. While ex-Premier League bosses Arsene Wenger and Mauricio Pochettino are in the dugouts. KSI’s unfortunate moment opened the floodgates at both ends of the field. The goals flowed before halftime, with SIX flying in as both defences crumbled in Qatar.And despite KSI’s bizarre OG, his team triumphed 6-5 in a thriller. More

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      Match for Hope EXACT start time – what UK time is huge clash between KSI and iShowSpeed kicking off today?

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      MATCH FOR HOPE has returned for a second consecutive year and fans will want to know when this year’s edition is kicking off!The big charity clash is pitting superstar influencers KSI and iShowSpeed against each other in blockbuster teams which include an array of footballing legends such as Thierry Henry and Andres Iniesta.More footballing icons will be returning this yearMATCH FOR HOPE 2025 LIVEIn last year’s Match for Hope, more than $8.8 million was raised last year to support over 70,000 out-of-school children as Team Chunkz beat Team AboFlah 7-5.A standout moment of last years charity showdown was iShowSpeed taking out Kaka with a slide tackle from behind which brought out mixed reactions. Fans will be hoping for different but more iconic moments this year and it will be intriguing to see if there will be more viewership than the outstanding 22.5 million that tuned in last year and hopefully a similar amount raised in comparison to the $8.8 million of last year.KSI will be leading a team against SpeedCredit: GettyHow to watch Match For Hope and what time is kick-offKick-off is scheduled for 5pm UK time/ 8pm local today – Friday, February 14.The game will take place in Stadium 974 in QatarMatch for Hope 2025 can be watched live in Arabic on Al Kass, beIN Sports, and AboFlah’s YouTube channel, and in English on beIN Sports English and Chunkz’s YouTube channel.SunSport will also be covering all the action LIVE as it happens.Who is playing in the Match For Hope?The confirmed names are:Team KSI x AboFlah:KSI – Co-captainAboFlah – Co-captainArsene Wenger – ManagerOmar Sy – Assistant coachAndrea PirloAlessandro Del PieroThierry HenryDanny AaronsDavid VujanicAngry GingeAmine MaTueFanumSharkyBilly WingroveBehzingaMiniminterAdam WaheedM12 AlFouzanOussiFootyOssy MarwahMost read in FootballTeam Chunkz x IShowSpeed:Chunkz – Co-captainIShowSpeed – Co-captainMauricio Pochettino – ManagerTim Cahill – Assistant coachDavid SilvaAndres IniestaMubarak MustafaAJ ShabeelThogdenHarry PineroTaiyo KimuraEman SV2Samy ChaffaiManny BrownFutCrunchTobi BrownBen AzelartBashar ArabiLuva de PedreiroKing Kenny More

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      Former Liverpool Champions League winner, 44, completes incredible 24-hour treadmill run covering 106 miles

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      JOHN ARNE RIISE has completed an incredible 24-hour treadmill run.The former Liverpool star covered an astonishing 106 miles during the daring challenge.John Arne Riise took a gruelling running challenge in NorwayCredit: InstagramHe covered 106 miles in a 24-hour running stintCredit: InstagramRiise, 44, is a cult hero at Anfield and was a part of the side that won the Champions League in 2005.He retired from playing back in 2023 and has now completed his toughest challenge.The Norweigian took part in a charity running event at Toppform Fitness in the town of Moss in his homeland.The challenge saw runners take on a day’s worth of running on an indoor treadmill.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey raised money for a mental health charity.Most runners only completed segments of the 24 hours, while Riise ran for the full day.His spectacular efforts drew in large crowds as he helped the event raise £17,850 for charity.After completing the mega run, Riise admitted that it was evidently exhausted.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “It’s the toughest and most intense thing I’ve ever been through, physically and mentally.”(The money raised) makes it worth it, even though it was incredibly tough at times.”Miron Muslic ‘very emotional’ after Plymouth knock Liverpool out of FA Cup Riise spent seven years at Liverpool during his careerCredit: PA:Press AssociationRiise also revealed his brilliant plans to start his recovery after putting his body through the gruelling challenge.He proclaimed: “I’m going home, shower, put my feet on the couch, order the biggest kebab ever with hot sauce, Pepsi Max, candy.”Then I’m not going to move for two days.”He also posted a message to his fans on Instagram.He wrote: “This is the moment I finished 24 hours on the treadmill.”Proud of my achievement and especially where I was physically and mentally four months ago.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Did this for a great cause, mental health! I ended up with 172km, in a run I didn’t think I could do.”Thanks for all the support and everyone that participated and ran during this very hard 24 hours.”He won the Champions League 2005 with the RedsCredit: Getty More

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      My champagne lunch date with Derek Chisora turned into a naked chat in scorching sauna as he was whipped with leaves

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      “YOU know I do this s*** BUTT-NAKED, Wally.”That’s what Derek Chisora said to me as he peeled off his trunks and carefully arranged ALL of himself face-down on the massage table.SunSport’s Wally Downes Jr shared a sauna with Derek ChisoraCredit: The SunChisora braves an ice bath, which he uses to aid recovery in trainingCredit: The SunChisora is a regular at the the luxurious bathhouse BanyaCredit: The SunIt was not how I expected a champagne-and-oysters Frank Warren and Chisora media lunch to peak.But when the generous hall-of-fame promoter suffered a diary clash and had to cancel his presence at the event to promote Del Boy’s February 8 clash with Otto Wallin, things took a turn.The trademark meal Warren regularly and generously hosts at Milos’ stunning fish restaurant at No1 Regent Street was canned.But Queensberry’s quick-thinking PR team and 41-year-old Chisora’s manager arranged for a trip to Banya, the luxurious bathhouse and spa in Belgravia.READ MORE IN BOXINGZimbabwe-born millionaire Chisora is a regular at the health club, usually enjoying caviar and dumplings when he is not in training camp for a fight – but always avoiding their potent vodka now he is a teetotal athlete.His explanation for loving the exhilarating experience is simple: “This place is unbelievable, you jump from being in the scorching hot, to the freezing cold.“It keeps the heart attack away, it keeps so many problems away from your body and makes you feel great afterwards.“It keeps me young as well, it helps me keep up with all these young guys.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSunSport jokes that he is doing well considering he is 48 and he sticks a giant middle finger up at my face and reminds us age is just a number.“When I come here after a hard session, I come here for an hour and, instead of feeling tired and beat up, I come back the next day totally normal.Derek Chisora unveils plan for shock career change once he’s retired from boxing but plans dream 50TH fight first “I am the guy who controls the heat levels in here. Nobody can beat my record.“I have four guys in there hitting me with the leaves and it gets so hot that everybody else runs out.“When you are fit your body can take more heat, so I know the more heat I can take, the better condition I am in.”Most of the reporters in attendance had never stripped off with the 18st powerhouse, followed him into a pitch-black sauna and been battered with prickly bouquets of birch, oak and eucalyptus leaves, known as veniks, in unbearable heats, while wearing unflattering hats.I have four guys in there hitting me with the leaves and it gets so hot that everybody else runs out.Derek ChisoraI don’t think I would have gone through with the challenge for any other British boxer but – outside of the financial and world title riches Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have brought us – I struggle to think of a fighter who has given more of himself to fight fans.Journalists and fans – even Warren – have been calling for Chisora to retire with his fortune and faculties intact – for almost a decade.Because we know he has suffered 14 punishing losses, done hundreds of thousands of hard sparring rounds and has two beautiful little girls at home who deserve a coherent daddy to grow up with.Chisora beat Joe Joyce in his last fightCredit: GettyHe has refused to retireCredit: PABut the fearless b*****d defies us time and time again with incredible performances and shock wins, most recently over the likes of David Price, Kubrat Pulev and Joe Joyce.The tone of the introduction gave no indication of how the afternoon would later turn.Once we sat down in a private room we were told there was water on the way and a basic round-table interview would take place.Then Del Boy strolled in and stunned us all, in a way that shouldn’t really surprise us anymore.Thanks to our mutual friend, the Daily Mail’s photographer Kevin Quigley, Chisora pointed across the room and congratulated me on a recent charity white collar bout I won for the Valencia Monroe Ward, at the Royal Brompton hospital.He went around the room and greeted everyone in his own very unique way, some got an unpublishable insult delivered with genuine affection and humour, one poor cameraman who had never met Chisora was suddenly having his long ginger hair praised.The complimentary mineral water order, placed before his arrival, was ramped up rapidly too, as Chisora demanded everyone be treated to traditional soup borscht, beef and chicken mince dumplings and an incredible caviar platter.Chisora and David Haye were involved in an infamous press conference brawlCredit: ReutersChisora infamously threw a table at Dillian WhyteCredit: ReutersChisora’s generosity does not only extend to promotional tours to flog his 49th fight.The bad-boy persona he played perfectly at the modest start of his career left a few fans thinking the mask had eaten into his face.The face-off spits and kisses, the table thrown at Dilllian Whyte, the backstage brawl with David Haye, all painted Chisora as a violent maniac.But when you are climbing your way up the amateur and small-hall circuit as an African unknown, while the likes of Fury and David Price are miles ahead of you on the circuit, you need to do something to catch the eye.Nobody as unhinged as Chisora has sometimes appeared to be could be as popular as he is.Billy Joe Saunders and Chris Eubank Jr loathe each other, Fury and Joshua are in a vicious rivalry and Tony Bellew and Haye were as spiteful as sport can get.Guess who can break bread with all of those guys – as well as all of his former opponents – Del Boy.Derek Chisora’s last ten fights Joe Joyce, points win Gerald Washington, points win Tyson Fury, stoppage loss Kubrat Pulev, points win Joseph Parker, points loss Joseph Parker, points loss Oleksandr Usyk, points loss David Price, stoppage win Artur Szpilka, KO win Senad Gashi, points win Away from the cameras he regularly asks the boxing press pack how the family of much-missed colleague Ron Lewis is coping following his 2023 passing.That is another reason I jumped into the steaming underground unknown with the hulk nicknamed War, I feel like I owe him and every moment spent in his company – nude or otherwise – will be well spent.I also fear that, in ten or twenty years time, Chisora will start showing heartbreaking signs of CTE and dementia and the guilt I will feel at having benefited professionally from covering it all might be slightly softened by lighter memories of time spent together.Another reason Chisora loves the space run by Alex Lazarev, is his passionate hatred for GOLF.“Most men go to play golf,” he pointed out. “I hate golf.“I went to a charity match once and I went to hit my first ball and completely missed it.“I thought ‘f*** this s***’, gave them the kit back and tried to leave. I hate golf, I gave them some money for the charity and left.’He tells me to f*** off’“This is my golf and this is great.”Chisora has spread the gospel too, Oleksandr Usyk visits on his UK trips and Del Boy has grown the gang outside of the hurt business.Every Sunday he is joined in the pits of humidity hell by Lethal Bizzle – the steamed-up superstars call themselves the Skint Gang and challenge each other to hotter heats and colder plunges.Chisora and his pals taking over the private rooms of these palatial rooms – where far daintier Eastern Europeans and uber-rich locals quietly try to rejuvenate – has not scared anyone off.Banya director Lazarev explained to us: “Derek has been coming to The Bath House since we opened in late 2019.“I remember very well receiving a call and someone saying ‘Derek Chisora would like to visit your place’.“Derek likes the relaxed atmosphere and we hope he feels at home here. He is a part of the family now and we are good friends.When I come here after a hard session, I come here for an hour and, instead of feeling tired and beat up, I come back the next day totally normal.Derek Chisora “Banya is not a competitive exercise, but Derek can certainly absorb a lot of heat and is one of the top guys at The Bath House.”When he does our parenie treatment, he typically does four-hands hands parenie which is when two guys as opposed to just one are warming you through at the same time.“I think he values banya and parenie in particular for the recovery it offers.“It’s not about beating or whipping. Aromatic oak and birch leaves are used to move the steam around and warm your body and muscles through fully.“Sitting in the sauna is one thing, but parenie takes it to another level.”And, of course, Chisora takes it to another level when he whips off his last small layer of clothing and tells us to sit at the highest and hottest point while he gets his eight-handed horticultural hammering on his back.Chisora can break bread with boxing’s top stars like Anthony JoshuaCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunFury and Chisora fought three timesOleksandr Usyk also beat FuryCredit: GettyI took a risk and said: “You’ve been coming here for so long now, Del, I thought they would have cut a hole in the middle of that table for you by now.”He tells me to f*** off.There have been – and will be – millions of better British boxers than Derek Chisora.We have had – and are due – more choreographed and mainstream-appeal showmen in the sport.But I am not sure we have had too many better blokes.I hope his 50th fight later this year is his last.READ MORE SUN STORIESI hope little Angelina and Harare get to enjoy their dad as much as I have been lucky enough to, before the ravages of time and such a punishing career take their toll.And I hope he knows how grateful we are to have had him, his blood and brain cells and caviar and body, every last bit of it. More

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      Former world champion, 47, vows to end Jake Paul’s boxing career with ‘one punch’

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      CARL FROCH has threatened to end Jake Paul’s boxing career with just one punch. Froch, who retired in 2014, has embarked on an outspoken punditry career since hanging up the gloves.Carl Froch has threatened to end Jake Paul’s boxing career with just one punchCredit: RexJake Paul has come under criticism by FrochCredit: GettyAnd YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul has been among the most criticised by the British legend.Froch, 47, has vowed to come out of retirement to fight the American and claimed he would even do it for free. He said on his YouTube channel: “I will fight for charity. Which part of that do you not understand? “You conveniently left that out cause that shatters your whole illusion of, ‘oh, Carl Froch is begging for a payday.’READ MORE IN BOXING”I ain’t begging for a payday, I’m begging to ram Jake Paul’s teeth down the back of his f***ing throat. Boom. Game over. “Jake Paul’s bulls***, fake, clown career over with one punch. That’s all I’m begging for.”Froch retired in 2014 after knocking out George Groves in front of 80,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.Paul, 27, is meanwhile 11-1 as a boxer with his only defeat coming in 2023 against Tommy Fury, 25, via split-decision in Saudi Arabia. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHis last bout was marred in controversy after he beat 58-year-old great Mike Tyson over eight rounds. And Froch was among the harshest of critics as he then called to fight Paul for charity. ‘I’m kind of depressed a little’ – Boxing legend Mike Tyson’s alarming confession one month on from Jack Paul fightAnd Paul’s promotional partner Nakisa Bidarian told SunSport: “Sure Carl, show up with an offer that makes sense – since he’s fighting for charity anyways – he’s made it clear that he’s going to donate 100 per cent of his earnings to charity.”Show up with an offer that makes sense for MVP and Jake Paul, who drive the biggest numbers in the entire sport and we’ll have happy to have a conversation.”We’re certainly not looking to come to the UK to offer a 47-year-old Carl Froch – who’s never sold a pay-per-view in his life in the US which is the most important market – and make him an offer.”And, he’s fighting for charity anyways, he’s fighting for free. “So, if and when they’re ready to show us an offer that shows that he’s 100 per cent donating all proceeds that he gets paid and any entities associated with him to charity…”And that it is an eight-figure opportunity for Jake Paul – which is what Jake Paul makes in every single fight – happy to have the conversation. Absolutely.”Jake Paul with Nakisa BidarianCredit: Esther Lin/ Most Valuable Promotions More

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      ‘It’s more than ridiculous, it’s a disgrace’ – Jim Ratcliffe has gone ‘too far’ with latest Man Utd decision, fume fans

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans are demanding Sir Jim Ratcliffe face the music over his latest cost-cutting at Old Trafford.SunSport exclusively revealed on Friday the Red Devils owner is slashing funding for a charity helping out former players.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has come under fire from Man Utd fansCredit: AlamySunSport revealed on Friday the club was halting payments to a charity helping former playersThe club previously gave £40,000 a year to the Association of Former Manchester United Players, which fears it will fold without the cash.Set up in 1985, the charity helps former footballers who didn’t earn the millions raked in by today’s superstars.,Ratcliffe – who is worth £23.5billion – has recently raised ticket prices and even axed the club’s famous Christmas party. Outspoken United fan and YouTuber Mark Goldbridge is the latest to rail against the cost-cutting measures. READ MORE ON MAN UTDSpeaking on The United Stand, he said: “It’s more than ridiculous – it’s a disgrace.”This football club may be about winning on the pitch, this football club may be about transfers.”But this football club is also [about] community.He added: “This is not what we want at our football club.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Good people are being sacked. Good people are not getting bonuses. And now good people are getting their costs cut.”Fans were quick to agree, with one demanding “answers” from Ratcliffe over the decision to cut the charity support.Ruben Amorim admits he’s in danger of losing Man Utd job if results don’t improve with fans ‘tired’ of disastrous slump One fan fumed on X: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe needs to do an interview and explain what is currently going on with his running of Manchester United. We need answers.”Another argued: “Has any owner in Premier League history made as many PR gaffes as Jim Ratcliffe in his first 12 months in charge? I don’t think so.”A third added: “Genuinely feel sorry for the fans who were excited about Ratcliffe.As I feared a year ago, a Glazer 2.0!”While a fourth commented: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe is targeting the wrong people. He rode in like the Lone Ranger only to reveal he’s one of the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse.”Man Utd ratings vs WolvesBy Ken LawrenceWOLVES landed a shock Boxing Day knockout as Manchester United’s struggles continued.The 2-0 defeat means Ruben Amorim has won just two of the seven Premier League games he has taken charge of.United find themselves 14th in the table and today were not helped by Bruno Fernandes’ red card and Andre Onana letting one in direct from a corner.Here is how SunSport rated the performances…ANDRE ONANA: 4He needed to make an agile save from Jorgen Strand Larsen in the first half, but badly misjudged the flight of Cunha’s corner for the opening goal – his claim that he was obstructed by Matt Doherty was rejected.LENY YORO: 5Recalled but booked after only four minutes for a foul on Cunha, so he was walking on eggshells and was tested by Wolves throughout. Subbed just after the hour mark.HARRY MAGUIRE: 6The England defender did his best to keep United in the game when they were under pressure for long periods – at least he helped to stem the tide until the dying seconds and had a header on target in stoppage time.LISANDRO MARTINEZ: 6Teamed up well with Maguire to stop Wolves from winning this more easily, he stood his ground and produced some important challenges in the latter stages before Wolves caught him on the break with the last action of the game.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI: 5Tenacious and determined, but was one of several players given a torrid time by the best player on the pitch – Cunha.MANUEL UGARTE: 5Dispossesed too easily at times, struggled against a lively Wolves attack and was eventually taken off as one of Amorim’s subs following Fernandes’ red card.KOBBIE MAINOO: 5Looked a threat early on, created some good openings, but he was booked after the break as United looked short on ideas. Faded and was subbed.DIOGO DALOT: 6Brought a tremendous save from Jose Sa in the first half in what was a rare bright spot for United – but he had no major influence on a poor team display.AMAD DIALLO: 5Lacked awareness of his team-mates sometimes and looked a shadow of the player who turned the Manchester derby around less than two weeks ago.BRUNO FERNANDES: 3Sent off early in the second half for a second yellow after a challenge on Nelson Semedo, but the captain had cut a frustrated figure before that.RASMUS HOJLUND: 5Became visibly annoyed at times at a lack of service from his team-mates, he had no joy up front and was subbed with 10 minutes left.SUBSCasemiro (for Mainoo, 63 mins): 6Christian Eriksen (for Ugate, 63 mins): 6Antony (for Yoro, 63 mins): 6Alejandro Garnacho (for Amad, 79 mins): 5Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 79 mins): 5On the field, United’s fortunes have not improved despite tempting boss Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon.The Portuguese has endured a torrid start to life at Old Trafford.Following a 2-0 defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day, Amorim is now the first United coach since 1932 to lose five of his first ten games. United’s dismal form could also end up costing them in the pocket down the line.According to The Times, United’s contract with kit manufacturer Adidas contains a penalty clause that sees them lose out on £10MILLION for every season they fail to qualify for the Champions League.Inside Man Utd chaos with Dan Ashworth axed just five months into jobBy Neil CustisThe blame game has another victim as things go from bad to worse at Old Trafford.Manchester United’s first sporting director, Dan Ashworth, arrived in the summer and is gone before Christmas.SunSport exclusively revealed in November that there was trouble at mill.That the new senior management team were already blaming each other for the mess the club were in.Chief executive Omar Berrada and Ashworth were trying to wash their hands of it all, claiming they had arrived too late after serving their gardening leave.New part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said making decisions was all down to them.Meanwhile, Jason Wilcox thought it was all a mess under previous boss Erik ten Hag but was part of the team that encouraged him to stay after every other candidate ran for cover.Defeat Nottingham Forest in December, after their second-half capitulation at Arsenal a few days previously, proved too much.READ MORE ON MAN UTD’S CHAOS That hefty loss would be coupled with huge amount of losses in broadcasting and match-day income too.The club’s annual report says that players’ salaries change based on their participation in Europe or not.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt reads: “Failure to qualify for the Champions League would result in a material reduction in revenue for each season in which our men’s first team did not participate.”To help mitigate this impact, the majority of playing contracts for our men’s first team include step-ups in remuneration which are contingent on participation in the group stage of the Champions League.” More

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      Man Utd fans blast Sir Jim Ratcliffe after he cuts £40k donation to charity helping club icons despite £23bn fortune

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      MAN United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been dubbed Scrooge after cutting funding for a charity helping former players.United previously gave £40,000 a year to the trust, which fears it will fold without the lifeline.Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, worth £23billion, has been dubbed Scrooge after cutting funding for a charity helping former playersCredit: Alamy­Payments to the charity helping some of the club’s older players, including former skipper Bryan Robson, have been terminatedCredit: AllsportRed Devils great Denis Irwin is among 300 members of the Association of Former Manchester United PlayersCredit: AlamySupporters said it was a “kick in the teeth” following £23billion tycoon Sir Jim’s ticket price rises and a Christmas do ban.It follows a series of petty penny-pinching measures by Sir Jim, Britain’s richest man who is worth an estimated £23billion.The club had previously given a yearly sum to the Association of Former Manchester United Players, which was set up in 1985 to help footballers from bygone eras who earned nothing like the megabucks of today’s superstars.It puts on four events a year where ex-players can rub shoulders with others who signed professional forms with the club but never made a first-team appearance.READ MORE ON MANCHESTER UNITEDBut when the charity contacted Old Trafford after two quarterly payments of £10,000 failed to arrive, it was shocked to learn it plans to end all funding as part of Sir Jim’s cost-cutting drive.Trustee Jim Elms, 84, who played for United’s youth team and reserves from 1957 to 1960, called the move “ridiculous”. He said the charity does “so much good for the club for so little”, and has urged it to reconsider.He told The Sun: “We sent a ­letter to say we’ve not been paid. Nobody came out and told us so we had to send another letter.“That’s when we started hearing things that it was going to be the end of us.”Most read in FootballHe told how United’s chief executive Omar Berrada called him just days before Christmas.Jim, who played with Bobby Moore for an England youth team, said: “It didn’t go too well.Man Utd fans launch foul-mouthed protest at Sir Jim Ratcliffe and call him a ‘c—‘ over ticket price decision“Omar was non-committal. He’s going to meet us again in January but he said he couldn’t see it changing.“He didn’t seem to think that we were a necessity.”Jim, of Bramhall, Cheshire, added: “We’ve ran it since 1985.“Keeping the old players together. Looking after the ones that couldn’t pay for funerals.“I just can’t understand them myself. It’s ridiculous.”He added that each event was held at Old Trafford’s Manchester suite, which they pay to hire out.Among its 300 members are ­former skipper Bryan Robson, Alex Stepney, Denis Law, Brian Kidd, Arthur Albiston, Frank Stapleton, Denis Irwin and David May.Jim went on: “We give away around £10-20,000 to charity, mostly children’s charities in the local area. We’ve had £20,000 this year but not the rest of it.”The tycoon has launched a ruthless cost-cutting drive since his minority takeover of the club was announcedSir Jim has been clear that United need to save money, but this move has left him looking like a Christmas ScroogeA sourceHe has written a follow-up letter to the CEO, telling him: “We do so much good for the name of MUFC for so little. Please look again.”The cuts were also slammed by Dan Coombs, editor at supporters’ group United In Focus.He said: “After a summer where United spent £101million net and continue to pay incredibly high wages, the savings from this latest cut are a drop in the ocean, and are a kick in the teeth for many of the club’s former greats, who were not paid the excesses today’s footballers receive.”A source added: “Everyone knows the club needs to save money but some things just shouldn’t be cut.”Some of the players who benefit from this organisation never earned a penny from football and aren’t in the best financial circumstances.“Sir Jim has been clear that United need to save money, but this move has left him looking like a Christmas Scrooge.”Party scrappedThe chemicals tycoon, 72, has launched a ruthless cost-cutting drive since his minority takeover of the club was announced 12 months ago.More than 250 employees have been made redundant, while managerial legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassador role has been axed.Staff have also seen their ­traditional Christmas party scrapped and their bonus cut.Employees no longer receive free tickets for the FA Cup Final and had to pay for their own transport to Wembley in May this year.Ticket discounts for youngsters and over-65s were also scrapped.A club source said United “greatly appreciated” the role of AFMUP in maintaining relationships between former players and would continue supporting events.They added: “We are no longer able to make charitable donations to AFMUP while the club is ­making significant losses.“Our focus is on putting the club back on a sustainable financial footing so that we are in a position to invest in our priorities of achieving success on the pitch, and renewing our infrastructure.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityThe move comes at a turbulent time on the pitch, with new ­manager Ruben Amorim overseeing four defeats in their last five ­Premier League matches.There were fan protests against ticket price rises at last month’s game against Everton at Old ­Trafford, with banners reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”.A spokesman for supporters group MUST said asking them to pay their “fair share” after decades of mismanagement was “offensive”.He went on: “We have done everything we have been asked. We’ve cheered the players on even in the face of substandard performance.”But United have defended their penny-pinching, saying: “We have been focused on cost saving to put us on a stronger financial footing.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSir Jim has also insisted “hard choices” are needed. He added: “I want to be free for us to buy really good footballers, not spend so much of the money on infrastructure.”United were approached for comment. RUTHLESS RATCLIFFEBy Sarah RidleySIR Jim Ratcliffe’s savage cuts even shocked United skipper Bruno Fernandes.He was “taken aback” when staff lost their traditional free FA Cup Final ticket, travel, food and accommodation. Fernandes offered to pay himself but was rejected.Some 250 staff were then made redundant in the summer. The club also stopped Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salary, cancelled the staff Xmas party, and axed company credit cards and private chauffeurs.The cost of disabled parking bays were also hiked by 20 per cent. Sir Jim has also considered halving the annual £40,000 budget for the club’s Disabled Supporters’ Association.Earlier this month fans protested at a rise in ticket prices, with the club abolishing discounts for kids and OAPs.The Old Trafford roof is also leaky while water came though the ceiling during manager Ruben Amorim’s press conference last week.A mice infestation has also seen United’s food hygiene rating drop.Fans have expressed their fury over the club’s latest ticket price hikesCredit: GettyManchester United’s stadium Old Trafford has a leaky roofCredit: GettyThe club has stopped Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salaryCredit: Getty More

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      Carl Froch hits back as he dubs Jake Paul ‘FAKE PAUL’ and says his partner is ‘a clown managing a clown, in clown world’

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      CARL FROCH has dubbed Jake Paul’s promotional partner a “clown managing a clown” as the war of words continues.Froch, who retired in 2014, has embarked on an outspoken punditry career since hanging up the gloves. Carlo Froch hit out at Jake Paul and his teamCredit: YouTube/Froch on FightingJake Paul with Nakisa BidarianCredit: Esther Lin/ Most Valuable PromotionsAnd YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul has been among the most criticised by the British legend. Even his business partner Nakisa Bidarian has faced the verbal wrath of Froch and he unloaded once more on his YouTube channel. Froch said: “Right, Nakisa is Jake Paul’s manager.”This guy is an absolute clown, it’s a clown managing a clown in the fake world, in the clown world that is Jake Paul pretending to be a professional fighter.READ MORE IN BOXING”We’ll call him Fake Paul from here on in because he’s not real, is he? He’s a fake boxer. But Nakisa said I’m “irrelevant.””I’ve straightened him out, I’ve already said that I’m not irrelevant and I’ve invited him on the show. And guess what? He’s declined.”He doesn’t want to come on the show because he knows The Cobra speaks facts and he tells it how it is. Shoots from the hip.”Nakisa cannot come on the show because he knows as soon as I say to him, you’re convinced Jake Paul is going to become world champion, who is he going to fight for a world title?Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”As soon as I ask him the question about Jake Paul becoming a world champion, he’s going to hit a brick wall because Fake Paul is never going to become a world champion.”He’s got that f***ing plastic Toys R US belt that Nakisa gave him and that just about sums up Jake Paul’s career, a fake world title belt.”Mike Tyson’s ex-coach opens up on boxing’s legend’s bizarre ‘biting fixation’ after chewing on glove in Jake Paul fightFroch retired in 2014 after knocking out George Groves in front of 80,000 fans at Wembley Stadium. But he has called out Paul and vowed to fight for FREE by donating his purse to charity. Bidarian – who is not officially Paul’s manager but instead a business and promotional partner – hit back with their terms. He told SunSport: “Sure Carl, show up with an offer that makes sense – since he’s fighting for charity anyways – he’s made it clear that he’s going to donate 100 per cent of his earnings to charity.”Show up with an offer that makes sense for MVP and Jake Paul, who drive the biggest numbers in the entire sport and we’ll have happy to have a conversation. “We’ll call him Fake Paul from here on in because he’s not real, is he? He’s a fake boxer.Carl Froch”We’re certainly not looking to come to the UK to offer a 47-year-old Carl Froch -who’s never sold a pay-per-view in his life in the US which is the most important market – and make him an offer.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And, he’s fighting for charity anyways, he’s fighting for free. So, if and when they’re ready to show us an offer that shows that he’s 100 per cent donating all proceeds that he gets paid and any entities associated with him to charity… “And that it is an eight-figure opportunity for Jake Paul – which is what Jake Paul makes in every single fight – happy to have the conversation. Absolutely.” Calr Froch retired in 2014 after knocking out George Groves in their rematchCredit: Getty Images – Getty More