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    Chelsea FA Cup tickets latest, John Terry takeover BID, bidder Nick Candy EXCLUSIVE, Havertz’ gesture – updates

    CHELSEA are waiting to find out whether or not the club will be allowed to sell tickets for their FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium.The Blues have been drawn against Patrick Vieira’s side in the last four and are set to face them on the weekend of the 16th and 17th of April.
    The FA are in talks with the Government to make sure Chelsea fans can attend the Wembley clash.
    The Blues are currently banned from selling tickets under the sanctions imposed on owner Roman Abramovich.
    And Chelsea fans will now be waiting to see who their new owner will be, following final bids from prospective buyers last week.
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    Ricketts confident of making shortlist
    The Ricketts family are confident they will be shortlisted in the race to buy Chelsea, according to an Evening Standard report.
    The owners of American baseball club Chicago Cubs are set to jet into the UK to meet Blues fans and the Chelsea Pitch Owners PLC to outline their vision for the club.
    Chicago Cubs chairman Thomas Ricketts is co founder of investment bank Incapital LLC.
    Chelsea fans’ FA Cup hope
    The FA is in talks with the government to find a way to sell tickets to Chelsea fans for next month’s FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace.
    The Blues are currently barred from selling tickets due to sanctions placed on club owner Roman Abramovich in the wake of his country Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    But an FA spokesperson said: “We hope to have sell-out crowds at both of our Emirates FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley Stadium.
    “This includes tickets for Chelsea supporters for their match against Crystal Palace.
    “And we are working with the government on a method to achieve this while respecting the sanctions that are currently in place on Chelsea.”
    Candy makes improved Chelsea offer
    Nick Candy’s bid to buy Chelsea has been bolstered by a new financial backing from South Korea’s Hana Financial Group and C&P Sports Group.
    Candy, 49, submitted a £2billion bid for his boyhood club last Friday but his Blue Football Consortium has now upped its offer.
    Women’s FA Cup London derby
    Women’s FA Cup holders Chelsea will go to Arsenal in the semi-finals of this season’s competition.
    The Blues beat the Gunners in last year’s final.
    The other last-four tie sees West Ham hosting Manchester City.
    Both games will be played on Sunday, April 17, with the final at Wembley on May 15.
    Manchester United ‘not after’ Tuchel
    Manchester United are not chasing Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel to be their new manager, according to reports.
    The German has been linked with the position at the Red Devils, which will become vacant in the summer when interim boss Ralf Rangnick moves into a consultancy role.
    Sky Sports are now reporting United are ‘not considering’ Tuchel and describe him being linked to the Old Trafford hot-seat as ‘media talk and not reality’.
    Shevchenko on ‘changed’ Abramovich relationship
    Andriy Shevchenko says his relationship with Roman Abramovich has been changed as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Ukraine’s legendary striker was signed by Russian oligarch Abramovic’s club Chelsea in 2006.
    Now Sheva is trying to help those in his war-torn homeland while Abramovich has been hit by sanctions by the UK government due to his alleged ties with Russian president Vladimir Putin.
    Shevcnehko told the Daily Mail: “We had a long relationship and I don’t think it will ever be the same.
    “But I also know there are a lot of Russian people who want to stop the war.”
    Lampard labeled ‘salty’ by fans
    Crystal Palace fans felt Everton manager Frank Lampard was a sore loser after Sunday’s FA Cup humiliation at Selhurst Park.
    After a 4-0 quarter-final win for the Eagles, Chelsea legend Lamps described two of the goals as ‘average’ and one as ‘a fluke’.
    One Palace fan tweeted: “Sooo salty Lampard.”
    Another said: “Why’s Lampard so f***ing salty. Get over it, we battered you and you were s***!”
    Ex-Chelsea keeper’s MMA win
    Former Chelsea goalkeeper Ricardo Prasel has made a winning start to his new MMA career in Poland.
    The Brazilian, 31, was a Blues squad player over a decade ago who never made a first-team appearance for Jose Mourinho’s star-studded side.
    On Saturday night he recovered from a first-round battering at the hands of fellow heavyweight Michal Kita in a KSW MMA event to win by TKO in round two with a ground and pound finish.
    Blues fancy summer Tchou coup
    Chelsea are plotting a move for Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni at the end of the season, according to French Media.
    Foot Mercato state that the Premier League club have been tracking the midfielder ‘for months’ ahead of a possible summer move to Stamford Bridge.
    However, the Blues face stiff competition for the 22-year-old from several clubs including that of rivals Liverpool.
    Thomas Tuchel is understood to be an admirer of the French international, and is already considering long-term replacements for Jorginho and N’Golo Kante.
    Dybala exit to fuel transfer frenzy
    Premier League clubs have been placed on red alert after it was announced that contract talks between Paulo Dybala and Juventus had broken down.
    After two hours of negotiations this morning, the striker’s agent revealed that the striker would not be signing a new deal in Turin, and would leave the club this summer on a free transfer.
    A number of English clubs had been linked with the 28-year-old in recent months including Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham, but the expectation was that the forward was about to commit his future to Juve.
    This afternoon’s revelation is now likely to start a bidding war as clubs prepare attractive packages for the Argentine.
    Dybala has scored 113 goals in 283 appearances for the Old Lady, and has 32 international caps for his country.

    Progressive talks just the ticket
    Chelsea fans could yet be in attendance at their FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace at Wembley after it was revealed that government officials are in discussion with the club and the Football Association.
    The Times report that plans regarding a commercial ticket agency being brought in to sell tickets to supporters is being considered with the proceeds to be held in a frozen account.
    The Stamford Bridge outfit have been prohibited from selling new tickets to games following the sanctioning of owner Roman Abramovich.
    If agreed, the process could also be used to sell tickets for Chelsea’s Champions League quarter-finals with Real Madrid, and their remaining Premier League matches.
    Jose wants big-time Charly
    Roma boss Jose Mourinho wants Charly Musonda to become the latest Chelsea player to join him at the Stadio Olimpico.
    The forgotten Blues star is finally set to depart Stamford Bridge after a decade with the London club when his contract comes to an end in the summer.
    Goal report that former boss Mourinho hopes the 25-year-old will make the same journey as Tammy Abraham before him by heading to the Italian capital.
    The Belgian midfielder broke into the Chelseas first team in 2016, but has had to deal with a host of injuries and loan spells away since.

    Centricus reveal bid for Blues
    Global investment firm Centricus has confirmed that it made an offer to buy Chelsea on Friday, and revealed four key areas it intends to fund should their bid be successful.
    The London-based firm is headed by Nizar Al-Bassam and Garth Ritchie, who have also teamed up with Cheyne Capital’s Jonathan Lourie and Talis Capital’s Bob Finch. All four are season ticket holders at Stamford Bridge.
    Centricus oversees global assets worth a staggering £40 billion, and vowed to pour money into the club, allowing for normal day-to-day operations while also building for the future.
    A statement confirmed the bid, and proposed the four areas which they wish to finance:

    Working capital required for the day-to-day operations of the CFC Group.
    Funds required to maintain an elite global brand.
    Investment in grassroots and in-community football initiatives such as the Chelsea Academy, the Women’s Team, the Youth Development Program and the Chelsea Foundation.
    Strategic real estate investment.

    Blues facing frantic April schedule
    Chelsea have 12 days in which to begin resolving their off field issues before the April action comes at them thick and fast.
    Thomas Tuchel’s team face five key games in the space of a fortnight that could make or break their season.
    First up is a west London derby with Brentford at Stamford Bridge, four days before they welcome Real Madrid to the capital for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
    Then Blues then go to Southampton ahead of the return fixture in Spain, and then there’s the small matter of an FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace at Wembley.

    Consortiums to learn purchase failure
    A number of consortiums are expected to discover this morning if their bids to buy Chelsea have been unsuccessful.
    That’s the understanding of The Independent’s Miguel Delaney, who reports that the Raine Group view some of the offers received on Friday as being ‘less serious’ than others.
    The bank intend to narrow the field with a shortlist of around four potential purchasers in the coming days.
    American businessman Todd Boehly is currently seen as the favourite to take over ownership at Stamford Bridge.
    Nice one, Ma-son: Mount praises players
    Mason Mount put in another top class performance as Chelsea saw off Middlesbrough in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday, and then afterwards praised the mentality of his teammates.
    Despite the trials and tribulations off the pitch, The Blues reached their fifth FA Cup semi-final in six seasons as two Mount assists took his total goal involvements for the club to 50 (25 goals, 25 assists) in just 147 appearances.
    Speaking at full time, the England midfielder maintained that Thomas Tuchel’s squad were fully focused despite all the issues, and that they were confident they could maintain their impressive form. He said: “We have that winning mentality in the group.
    “Any game, any competition, we want to win. Cup or league, we give it everything. It’s been a tough couple of weeks, but we are focused and ready to play.”

    FA demand assurances over agent payments
    The Athletic report that the Football Association have written to agents to ensure that any money from Chelsea will not be going to those currently under government sanctions.
    Agents and agencies connected to the club will receive their latest round of payments after the cash was released to the FA just days before restrictions were put in place.
    In normal circumstances, the governing body would quickly distribute money to player representatives, but on this occasion they have contacted recipients for documented proof as to the finances’ final destination.
    Broughton’s Blues bid in doubt
    Sir Martin Broughton’s attempt to buy Chelsea could be scuppered if it emerges that Joshua Harris and David Blitzer are behind the bid, report The Telegraph.
    The pair are currently shareholders in Crystal Palace, and, under Premier League rules, would not be able to hold stakes in both clubs due to a conflict of interest.
    The identity of investors within Broughton’s consortium are currently unknown, but Harris and Blitzer are understood to have close ties to the businessman.
    Official offers for the football club were submitted to the Raine Group on Friday with bidders now expected to hear back in due course.
    Good morning footy fans
    Lionel Messi reportedly looks set to stay at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season despite talk he could return to Barcelona.
    Messi has struggled for goals and was knocked out in the second round of the Champions League by Real Madrid.
    However, according to Marca, Messi will stay at PSG beyond the end of this disappointing season.
    After emotionally leaving Barca last year, he signed a two-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s team.
    And he is expected to see out his deal with the club, although there is currently no option of an additional year.
    Meanwhile, Chelsea are set to pull Reece James out of the England squad due to injury – leaving Luke Shaw as the only specialist full-back.
    Blues boss Thomas Tuchel revealed the news after his side secured a place in the FA Cup semi-final by beating Middlesbrough 2-0 on Saturday.
    He said: “The recommendation is that he does not go.
    “He is still in individual training, otherwise we would have brought him to Lille and we would have brought him here for sure.
    “There is no doubt about it. He needs one more week of rehabilitation and I think we can provide this much better.
    “It is not the job of the national team to do this.”
    Crystal Palace star Tyrick Mitchell is expected to be called up as his replacement.
    In transfer news, Aston Villa are in pole position to snag Kalvin Philips from Leeds, reports suggest.
    Villa are willing to pay the Whites £60m for the England and ace, according to the Times.
    And Steven Gerrard’s side plan to lure Philips with a huge salary, The Times claim.
    Crazy scenes at Amsterdam Arena
    A fire broke out at the Amsterdam Arena on Sunday afternoon prior to Ajax’s game against Feyenoord.
    The hugely anticipated Dutch clash saw scary scenes before kick-off when flares were set off at one end of the ground.
    When they went out a blaze then ensued, with reports saying that flares caught a banner which fed the flames.
    Thick black smoke engulfed a large portion of the fans behind the goal, before the fire was eventually put out.
    It is unclear whether or not anybody was injured.

    Piers Morgan slams Aubameyang exit
    Piers Morgan took aim at Mikel Arteta over the manager’s decision to let Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leave the club, after the Gabonese forward scored twice in his first Clasico for Barcelona.
    He tweeted: “A free transfer. WE GAVE HIM AWAY”.
    “Another brilliant goal by Aubameyang – this time in El Clasico.
    “He’s been the world’s most lethal goal machine since joining Barcelona… and with every goal he scores, he makes Arteta look more absurd for giving him away.”
    Forest rue bad cup luck
    Nottingham Forest were left fuming after being denied a late penalty in their FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
    Ryan Yates burst through on goal in the 85th minute looking to net a dramatic equaliser.
    He tried to knock the ball around Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who stretched wide in vain after rushing out from his station.
    And a full-throttle charge from both men saw Yates go down in the box.
    The Forest star and his teammates wildly protested to the referee that it should be a penalty.
    However, VAR entered the chat as Stockley Park officials reviewed the footage.
    And replays suggested that although Alisson’s decision had been rash, there was minimal contact between him and Yates, who also appeared to drag his leg out.
    United receive midfielder transfer boost
    Manchester United and Liverpool are on alert after Monaco reportedly dropped their asking price for midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
    Previously, reports have put Tchouameni’s price tag at £50million.
    Goal, who cite reports in France, provide an update on the star’s future – and it is good news for the potential suitors.
    The report claims Monaco will now accept bids worth £42m. The reason for the price drop is not given though.
    Fans fume over El Clasico
    Football fans were left fuming after tuning into El Clasico to discover BOTH sides had opted for strange kit choices.
    Usually, regardless of whether the match is played at the Bernabeu or Nou Camp, traditionally teams would wear their home jerseys.
    However, rather than wear their traditional white kit – Los Blancos opted to debut a black ensemble designed by Yohji Yamamoto that’s celebrating the 20th anniversary of Adidas x Y-3 and 120 years of Real Madrid.
    While Barcelona went with their yellow away kit with three red stripes across the chest.
    Those choices did not sit well with the football purists, who slammed their chosen outfits on Twitter.
    One viewer wrote: “Just turned on Real Madrid v Barca – neither team wearing their home kit, game is well and truly gone.”
    Beckham shows support for Ukraine
    David Beckham’s Instagram account has today been taken over by a doctor in Ukraine in a bid to show the reality of their struggling medical facilities.
    The Man United legend issued a heartfelt plea to his followers to support the “incredible people” working in “appalling conditions”.
    He praised the head of the regional perinatal centre and child anesthesiologist Iryna before handing over his social media account to her on Sunday.
    The dedicated doc detailed her plight caring for newborn babies and their mothers in Kharkiv as the war in Ukraine rages on.
    Iryna told how on the first day of the devastating conflict, pregnant women and mothers had to be “evacuated to the basement”.
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    Chelsea could play FA Cup semi-final in front of fans with the FA set for talks with the Government over ticket ban

    THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION are in talks with the Government to make sure Chelsea fans can attend next month’s FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace.The Blues are currently banned from selling tickets under the sanctions imposed on owner Roman Abramovich.
    Chelsea were backed by 600 travelling fans at MiddlesbroughCredit: Rex
    Crisis club Chelsea took just 600 fans out of their 4,500 ticket allocation for last Saturday’s quarter-final win over Middlesbrough.
    As a result, there were fears Wembley’s 90,000-capacity could be half full for the London derby on the weekend of April 16/17.
    But an FA statement last night read: “We hope to have sell-out crowds at both of our FA Cup semi finals at Wembley.
    “This includes tickets for Chelsea supporters for their match against Crystal Palace, and we are working with the Government on a method to achieve this while respecting the sanctions that are currently in place on Chelsea.”
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    Earlier, Julian Knight MP – chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee – slammed the situation and said money from ticket sales should go to victims of the Russian invasion in Ukraine.
    He said: “It is ridiculous that we face the prospect of a half full Wembley for the Chelsea vs Palace FA cup semi-final. Chelsea is more than just its owner, it’s a living organism with huge importance to its fans and community.
    “It was understandable that, at short notice, last week’s game against Middlesbrough went ahead without Chelsea fans. But, with this much notice, the FA have no excuse for excluding them.
    “The FA must be allowed to sell tickets to Chelsea fans so long as all money goes to the people of Ukraine.”
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    Chelsea were in action at Wembley in last month’s League Cup finalCredit: Alamy
    Despite the FA’s hopes, the last-four Cp ties over Easter weekend have threatened to descend into chaos with the clash between the Premier League’s top two Manchester City and Liverpool also beset by problems.
    Fans of both clubs face travel woes with no direct trains running from the North West on that weekend regardless of whether the game is played on the Saturday or Sunday.
    Engineering works resulting in closures between Milton Keynes and London Euston means supporters will not be able to travel directly on the train from either Manchester or Liverpool.
    A spokesman for City said they are aware of the issues and are looking into the possibility of offering coach travel for their supporters.
    But the worry is that thousands of fans will take to roads which will already be busy due to the Bank Holiday weekend.
    The FA are liaising with City and Liverpool over the logistical nightmare with Reds boss Jurgen Klopp urging the authorities to find a solution after Sunday’s 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.
    The FA statement said: “The FA will be liaising closely with both clubs on all match arrangements including supporters travel – with further details to be announced in due course.
    “We are also continuing to work with both Network Rail and National Express to find a solution so fans of both clubs can travel with as minimal disruption as possible.”
    Malcolm Clarke, chair of the Football Supporters Association, said it would make sense if the planned engineering works could be moved.
    He said: “The FA, clubs and rail authorities must work together to ensure the absolute minimum disruption to supporter journeys at the semi-final.”
    Jurgen Klopp is determined for a solution to be foundCredit: Rex More

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    Nick Candy makes improved Chelsea takeover offer as Korean financial backer joins his consortium to buy Blues

    NICK CANDY’S Chelsea takeover bid has been bolstered by a new financial backer.Candy, 49, submitted a £2billion bid for his boyhood club to The Raine Group last Friday.
    Nick Candy has upped his bid for ChelseaCredit: PA
    Following the addition of a new backer to his Blue Football Consortium, however, he has now upped his offer.
    The bid now has the backing of South Korea’s Hana Financial Group and C&P Sports Group.
    The Blue Football Consortium are working with law firm Squire Patton Boggs – who have confirmed that Chelsea would have cash to spend NOW should Candy’s bid be successful.
    Partner Brian Gordon commented: “The Blue Football Consortium has access to immediate capital with funds readily available for deployment from day one.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Stories.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;}BLUES NEWS .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;}Chelsea ‘could face administration’, JT takeover BID, Nick Candy EXCLUSIVE
    “The bid is sourced from credible co-venturers whose attitude towards governance is top rated.”
    Candy himself has stressed the importance of putting fans ‘at the heart of decision-making’.
    He said: “This remains a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give football back to the fans and put them at the heart of the operations and strategy of Chelsea Football Club.
    “We are committed to preserving the incredible legacy of the club and to promoting community involvement, and we can provide the financial stability to ensure the future growth of the club on the world stage.”
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The Raine Group, overseeing the sale of Chelsea from Roman Abramovich, will narrow down the number of bidders for the club to a shortlist of three tonight or tomorrow.
    Candy faces competition from a number of different bidders, including the Ricketts family, owners of the Chicago Cubs.
    Martin Broughton and Seb Coe have also made their joint-bid public.
    In an exclusive interview with SunSport last week, Candy revealed his plan for his beloved club, should his bid be successful.
    The property developer vowed to keep spending on the playing squad, but is also committed to upgrading Stamford Bridge to be in line Tottenham’s state of the art arena.
    Candy, pictured with wife Holly Valance, has received backing from South Korean financial groupsCredit: Getty More

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    Ex-Chelsea goalkeeper wins MMA fight in brutal fashion after retiring from football aged 22

    A FORMER Chelsea goalkeeper won his debut for MMA promotion KSW – the latest chapter in his storied sports career. Ricardo Prasel was once the Blues third-choice shot stopper under Jose Mourinho.
    Didier Drogba pictured with ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Ricardo Prasel
    Michael Ballack pictured with Ricardo Prasel
    But an injury at the age of 2022 forced the Brazilian to retire from football and start college, where he began jiu-jitsu.
    Soon after, he transitioned to MMA and by 2012 Prasel made his debut, since fighting around the world.
    That included Japan and even a run in UFC president Dana White’s Contender Series.
    But most recently, Prasel, 31, beat Michal Kita, 41, in round two of his debut for KSW.
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STORIES.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;}FINK ABOUT 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;}Chelsea bidder Todd Boehly hires former Government advisor Danny Finkelstein
    The 6ft 7in ex-keeper started his football career with Athletico Paranaense before joining Clube Atletico Juventus.
    He was then signed for Chelsea in 2009 at just the age of 18, proving backup to Petr Cech and Henrique Hilario.
    Prasel never played for the first-team but helped the likes of Didier Drogba and Michael Ballack during free-kick practice.
    In a 2018 interview with MMA Fighting, he said: “Drogba was f***ing unbelievable, man.
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    “I didn’t go to the games with the professionals because I was the third goalkeeper — Cech and Hilario went to the games.
    “But I played with them every day, because after training they wanted to practice shootout free kicks, and I had to be there to try to defend it.
    “Thirty minutes every day, Drogba and Ballack shooting free kicks. My God, they didn’t miss one. It was incredible.”
    The shot stopper was loaned to Belgian side RFC Liege but a hip injury meant he was forced to hang up his boots.
    It was only after he returned to Brazil to study that he started training in jiu-jitsu to stay fit.
    He revealed: “When I started in jiu-jitsu I had no intention to become a professional.
    “I started in college and trained jiu-jitsu for fun, but things started to happen.
    “Leaving a sport and get to this level in another one is sensational. My family is proud of me, my father would be proud of me. It’s awesome.”
    Prasel has no regrets over his footballing career and admitted success in MMA would top anything available in football.
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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;}FLATTENED .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;}Incredible pictures show five mansions worth £1million reduced to rubble
    He told ESPN in 2019: “If you asked me if I prefer to play on the Brazilian team or fight for the UFC, 100 times I would choose to fight in the UFC.
    “MMA is a sport that depends only on me and the adrenaline is much bigger. I love it. I love to fight.
    “My time in soccer was very good, but I would not trade that for my fight career.”
    Ricardo Prasel has fought all around the worldCredit: Getty
    Ricardo Prasel has an MMA record of 12-3Credit: Getty More

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    ‘It will never be the same’ – Emotional ex-Chelsea and Ukraine star Shevchenko opens up on Roman Abramovich relationship

    UKRAINE legend Andriy Shevchenko admitted his relationship with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will never be the same again.Shevchenko was among the first group of stars Abramovich signed for the Blues in 2006, three years after the Russian oligarch took over the club.
    Andriy Shevchenko admits his relationship with Roman Abramovich won’t be the sameCredit: Rex
    But now the AC Milan legend is entirely focused on carrying out his patriotic duties as he looks for peace and helps his compatriots flee war-torn Ukraine following Russia’s unjust invasion.
    Abramovich, on the other hand, has been slapped with sanctions by the UK government due to his alleged ties with controversial Russian president Vladimir Putin and is desperately trying to sell the club.
    The 45-year-old former striker, who led Ukraine to the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 only last summer, admits he had a “long relationship” with the departing Chelsea supremo, but suggested they will no longer be close.
    Shevcnehko told the Daily Mail: “I said from the beginning, I did not believe that this could happen.
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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 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    “We had a long relationship and I don’t think it will ever be the same. But I also know there are a lot of Russian people who want to stop the war.”
    Shevchenko is among a number of influential Ukrainians joining the war effort to defend their country.
    This comes after boxing stars Oleksandr Usyk and Wladimir Klitschko bravely enlisted in the army to fight off the Russian invaders.
    The former Chelsea ace understandably doesn’t pay much attention to football these days but insists the West Londoners’ history “cannot be cancelled”.
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    Shevchenko added: “The history which Chelsea built cannot be cancelled.
    “The Chelsea fans will always stay behind the club because they love the club. I know it’s a difficult moment.
    “But I am also in a position where, with what is happening to my country, I want to appeal to everyone to play your part. Remember what is most important.
    “I want only one thing: to bring the peace in my country, to stop the killing of innocent people, to stop the killing of kids. We all know war is cruel. But we cannot stand for that.”
    Roman Abramovich is desperately trying to sell Chelsea after being slapped with sanctionsCredit: Rex More

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    Half-full Wembley for Chelsea’s FA Cup semi vs Palace slammed as ‘ridiculous’ with Boris urged to let them sell tickets

    TORY MP Julian Knight has claimed there is “no excuse” for not letting Chelsea fans attend their FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. The Blues are scheduled to face London rivals Crystal Palace next month, but the stadium could only be half-full with just Palace fans.
    The government has been urged to sell tickets to Chelsea fans for their FA Cup semi-finalCredit: EPA
    Crippling sanctions placed on Russian owner Roman Abramovich mean the club are BANNED from selling tickets to games.
    Chelsea are currently waiting to see if they will be allowed to sell tickets for the Palace match, with the final decision resting with the government as the sanctions imposed on Abramovich are from Downing Street.
    But the idea of no Blues fans in the stands has been slammed as ‘ridiculous’ by Knight, Chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, and MP for Solihull.
    He demanded for Boris Johnson’s government to allow Chelsea fans into the ground for the crunch tie.
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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;}BLUES NEWS .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;}Chelsea ‘could face administration’, JT takeover BID, Nick Candy EXCLUSIVE
    In a meeting with the FA and the Premier League, Knight said: “It is ridiculous that we face the prospect of a half full Wembley for the Chelsea vs Palace FA cup semi-final.
    “Chelsea is more than just its owner, it’s a living organism with huge importance to its fans and community.”
    “It was understandable that, at short notice, last week’s game against Middlesbrough went ahead without Chelsea fans but, with this much notice, the FA have no excuse for excluding them.”
    Knight instead suggested that all proceeds earned from selling tickets to Chelsea fans for the game are donated to Ukrainian victims of Russia’s invasion, ensuring no profits end up in Abramovich’s pocket.
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    He concluded: “The FA must be allowed to sell tickets to Chelsea fans so long as all money goes to the people of Ukraine.”
    SunSport understands a decision on Chelsea’s ticket allocation will be made during the international break.
    Only 600 Chelsea fans were present for their quarter-final tie away at Middlesbrough on Saturday after the sanctions were placed upon them.
    The remaining 3,200 tickets initially allocated to the Blues were returned and put on sale to Boro fans.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side also face the prospect of playing their Champions League last-eight home tie against Real Madrid behind closed doors.
    Season ticket holders are allowed to attend home games under the sanctions, but as European games aren’t included in their packages the crunch clash could be in an empty stadium. More

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    Chelsea ‘facing administration’, John Terry takeover BID, bidder Nick Candy EXCLUSIVE, Havertz’ gesture – updates

    CHELSEA beat Middlesbrough 2-0 in their FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday in what was a comfortable game throughout for the Blues. The Blues board were condemned, following an attempt to make the case the game should be played in front of no fans, but Thomas Tuchel backed a U-turn.
    The German said: “I think the proposal was withdrawn and it was absolutely the right thing to do, because that was from our side and hopefully it was not meant like this.”
    Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech scores Chelsea’s goals in the clash.
    Blues fans will now be waiting to see who their new owner will be, following final bids from prospective buyers on Friday.
    Follow ALL of the latest updates and transfer gossip from Stamford Bridge right here…
    Ex-Chelsea keeper’s MMA win
    Former Chelsea goalkeeper Ricardo Prasel has made a winning start to his new MMA career in Poland.
    The Brazilian, 31, was a Blues squad player over a decade ago who never made a first-team appearance for Jose Mourinho’s star-studded side.
    On Saturday night he recovered from a first-round battering at the hands of fellow heavyweight Michal Kita in a KSW MMA event to win by TKO in round two with a ground and pound finish.
    Blues fancy summer Tchou coup
    Chelsea are plotting a move for Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni at the end of the season, according to French Media.
    Foot Mercato state that the Premier League club have been tracking the midfielder ‘for months’ ahead of a possible summer move to Stamford Bridge.
    However, the Blues face stiff competition for the 22-year-old from several clubs including that of rivals Liverpool.
    Thomas Tuchel is understood to be an admirer of the French international, and is already considering long-term replacements for Jorginho and N’Golo Kante.
    Dybala exit to fuel transfer frenzy
    Premier League clubs have been placed on red alert after it was announced that contract talks between Paulo Dybala and Juventus had broken down.
    After two hours of negotiations this morning, the striker’s agent revealed that the striker would not be signing a new deal in Turin, and would leave the club this summer on a free transfer.
    A number of English clubs had been linked with the 28-year-old in recent months including Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham, but the expectation was that the forward was about to commit his future to Juve.
    This afternoon’s revelation is now likely to start a bidding war as clubs prepare attractive packages for the Argentine.
    Dybala has scored 113 goals in 283 appearances for the Old Lady, and has 32 international caps for his country.

    Progressive talks just the ticket
    Chelsea fans could yet be in attendance at their FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace at Wembley after it was revealed that government officials are in discussion with the club and the Football Association.
    The Times report that plans regarding a commercial ticket agency being brought in to sell tickets to supporters is being considered with the proceeds to be held in a frozen account.
    The Stamford Bridge outfit have been prohibited from selling new tickets to games following the sanctioning of owner Roman Abramovich.
    If agreed, the process could also be used to sell tickets for Chelsea’s Champions League quarter-finals with Real Madrid, and their remaining Premier League matches.
    Jose wants big-time Charly
    Roma boss Jose Mourinho wants Charly Musonda to become the latest Chelsea player to join him at the Stadio Olimpico.
    The forgotten Blues star is finally set to depart Stamford Bridge after a decade with the London club when his contract comes to an end in the summer.
    Goal report that former boss Mourinho hopes the 25-year-old will make the same journey as Tammy Abraham before him by heading to the Italian capital.
    The Belgian midfielder broke into the Chelseas first team in 2016, but has had to deal with a host of injuries and loan spells away since.

    Centricus reveal bid for Blues
    Global investment firm Centricus has confirmed that it made an offer to buy Chelsea on Friday, and revealed four key areas it intends to fund should their bid be successful.
    The London-based firm is headed by Nizar Al-Bassam and Garth Ritchie, who have also teamed up with Cheyne Capital’s Jonathan Lourie and Talis Capital’s Bob Finch. All four are season ticket holders at Stamford Bridge.
    Centricus oversees global assets worth a staggering £40 billion, and vowed to pour money into the club, allowing for normal day-to-day operations while also building for the future.
    A statement confirmed the bid, and proposed the four areas which they wish to finance:

    Working capital required for the day-to-day operations of the CFC Group.
    Funds required to maintain an elite global brand.
    Investment in grassroots and in-community football initiatives such as the Chelsea Academy, the Women’s Team, the Youth Development Program and the Chelsea Foundation.
    Strategic real estate investment.

    Blues facing frantic April schedule
    Chelsea have 12 days in which to begin resolving their off field issues before the April action comes at them thick and fast.
    Thomas Tuchel’s team face five key games in the space of a fortnight that could make or break their season.
    First up is a west London derby with Brentford at Stamford Bridge, four days before they welcome Real Madrid to the capital for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
    Then Blues then go to Southampton ahead of the return fixture in Spain, and then there’s the small matter of an FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace at Wembley.

    Consortiums to learn purchase failure
    A number of consortiums are expected to discover this morning if their bids to buy Chelsea have been unsuccessful.
    That’s the understanding of The Independent’s Miguel Delaney, who reports that the Raine Group view some of the offers received on Friday as being ‘less serious’ than others.
    The bank intend to narrow the field with a shortlist of around four potential purchasers in the coming days.
    American businessman Todd Boehly is currently seen as the favourite to take over ownership at Stamford Bridge.
    Nice one, Ma-son: Mount praises players
    Mason Mount put in another top class performance as Chelsea saw off Middlesbrough in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday, and then afterwards praised the mentality of his teammates.
    Despite the trials and tribulations off the pitch, The Blues reached their fifth FA Cup semi-final in six seasons as two Mount assists took his total goal involvements for the club to 50 (25 goals, 25 assists) in just 147 appearances.
    Speaking at full time, the England midfielder maintained that Thomas Tuchel’s squad were fully focused despite all the issues, and that they were confident they could maintain their impressive form. He said: “We have that winning mentality in the group.
    “Any game, any competition, we want to win. Cup or league, we give it everything. It’s been a tough couple of weeks, but we are focused and ready to play.”

    FA demand assurances over agent payments
    The Athletic report that the Football Association have written to agents to ensure that any money from Chelsea will not be going to those currently under government sanctions.
    Agents and agencies connected to the club will receive their latest round of payments after the cash was released to the FA just days before restrictions were put in place.
    In normal circumstances, the governing body would quickly distribute money to player representatives, but on this occasion they have contacted recipients for documented proof as to the finances’ final destination.
    Broughton’s Blues bid in doubt
    Sir Martin Broughton’s attempt to buy Chelsea could be scuppered if it emerges that Joshua Harris and David Blitzer are behind the bid, report The Telegraph.
    The pair are currently shareholders in Crystal Palace, and, under Premier League rules, would not be able to hold stakes in both clubs due to a conflict of interest.
    The identity of investors within Broughton’s consortium are currently unknown, but Harris and Blitzer are understood to have close ties to the businessman.
    Official offers for the football club were submitted to the Raine Group on Friday with bidders now expected to hear back in due course.
    Good morning footy fans
    Lionel Messi reportedly looks set to stay at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season despite talk he could return to Barcelona.
    Messi has struggled for goals and was knocked out in the second round of the Champions League by Real Madrid.
    However, according to Marca, Messi will stay at PSG beyond the end of this disappointing season.
    After emotionally leaving Barca last year, he signed a two-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s team.
    And he is expected to see out his deal with the club, although there is currently no option of an additional year.
    Meanwhile, Chelsea are set to pull Reece James out of the England squad due to injury – leaving Luke Shaw as the only specialist full-back.
    Blues boss Thomas Tuchel revealed the news after his side secured a place in the FA Cup semi-final by beating Middlesbrough 2-0 on Saturday.
    He said: “The recommendation is that he does not go.
    “He is still in individual training, otherwise we would have brought him to Lille and we would have brought him here for sure.
    “There is no doubt about it. He needs one more week of rehabilitation and I think we can provide this much better.
    “It is not the job of the national team to do this.”
    Crystal Palace star Tyrick Mitchell is expected to be called up as his replacement.
    In transfer news, Aston Villa are in pole position to snag Kalvin Philips from Leeds, reports suggest.
    Villa are willing to pay the Whites £60m for the England and ace, according to the Times.
    And Steven Gerrard’s side plan to lure Philips with a huge salary, The Times claim.
    Crazy scenes at Amsterdam Arena
    A fire broke out at the Amsterdam Arena on Sunday afternoon prior to Ajax’s game against Feyenoord.
    The hugely anticipated Dutch clash saw scary scenes before kick-off when flares were set off at one end of the ground.
    When they went out a blaze then ensued, with reports saying that flares caught a banner which fed the flames.
    Thick black smoke engulfed a large portion of the fans behind the goal, before the fire was eventually put out.
    It is unclear whether or not anybody was injured.

    Piers Morgan slams Aubameyang exit
    Piers Morgan took aim at Mikel Arteta over the manager’s decision to let Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leave the club, after the Gabonese forward scored twice in his first Clasico for Barcelona.
    He tweeted: “A free transfer. WE GAVE HIM AWAY”.
    “Another brilliant goal by Aubameyang – this time in El Clasico.
    “He’s been the world’s most lethal goal machine since joining Barcelona… and with every goal he scores, he makes Arteta look more absurd for giving him away.”
    Forest rue bad cup luck
    Nottingham Forest were left fuming after being denied a late penalty in their FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
    Ryan Yates burst through on goal in the 85th minute looking to net a dramatic equaliser.
    He tried to knock the ball around Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who stretched wide in vain after rushing out from his station.
    And a full-throttle charge from both men saw Yates go down in the box.
    The Forest star and his teammates wildly protested to the referee that it should be a penalty.
    However, VAR entered the chat as Stockley Park officials reviewed the footage.
    And replays suggested that although Alisson’s decision had been rash, there was minimal contact between him and Yates, who also appeared to drag his leg out.
    United receive midfielder transfer boost
    Manchester United and Liverpool are on alert after Monaco reportedly dropped their asking price for midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
    Previously, reports have put Tchouameni’s price tag at £50million.
    Goal, who cite reports in France, provide an update on the star’s future – and it is good news for the potential suitors.
    The report claims Monaco will now accept bids worth £42m. The reason for the price drop is not given though.
    Fans fume over El Clasico
    Football fans were left fuming after tuning into El Clasico to discover BOTH sides had opted for strange kit choices.
    Usually, regardless of whether the match is played at the Bernabeu or Nou Camp, traditionally teams would wear their home jerseys.
    However, rather than wear their traditional white kit – Los Blancos opted to debut a black ensemble designed by Yohji Yamamoto that’s celebrating the 20th anniversary of Adidas x Y-3 and 120 years of Real Madrid.
    While Barcelona went with their yellow away kit with three red stripes across the chest.
    Those choices did not sit well with the football purists, who slammed their chosen outfits on Twitter.
    One viewer wrote: “Just turned on Real Madrid v Barca – neither team wearing their home kit, game is well and truly gone.”
    Beckham shows support for Ukraine
    David Beckham’s Instagram account has today been taken over by a doctor in Ukraine in a bid to show the reality of their struggling medical facilities.
    The Man United legend issued a heartfelt plea to his followers to support the “incredible people” working in “appalling conditions”.
    He praised the head of the regional perinatal centre and child anesthesiologist Iryna before handing over his social media account to her on Sunday.
    The dedicated doc detailed her plight caring for newborn babies and their mothers in Kharkiv as the war in Ukraine rages on.
    Iryna told how on the first day of the devastating conflict, pregnant women and mothers had to be “evacuated to the basement”.
    Frank Lampard fumes at performance
    Everton boss Frank Lampard has slammed his stars after they were humiliated by Crystal Palace.
    The Toffees were thrashed 4-0 at Selhurst Park on Sunday and missed out on a place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
    Afterwards, the irate manager laid into his flops – asking if they had the “b* to play.”
    Lampard said after the final whistle: “There is only so much you can keep trying to butter someone up to get confidence.
    “You’re playing at the cut-throat end of football; this is the FA Cup quarter-finals. If you haven’t got the confidence to play, you can flip it and say: ‘Have you got the bollocks to play?’ Apologies but that’s the football term.
    “We didn’t play that badly today, Palace didn’t play that well. It was a lack of confidence, and a lack of what I just said. It wasn’t tactics. Palace couldn’t get out of their half in the first 20 minutes.”
    Tuchel still eyeing Prem title
    Thomas Tuchel is refusing to rule Chelsea out of the Premier League title race – despite admitting that it’s almost Mission Impossible.
    Chelsea, with a game in hand on both, currently sit 11 points behind leaders Manchester City, but even though he knows it is a long shot, 48-year-old Tuchel is refusing to throw in the towel.
    He said: “The problem is they are both also on a run for what feels like a long time. It feels like it’s been three years that they’ve both been on a run. And it feels like our 13 games is not enough.
    “We have to be honest, but we will never admit anything before it’s decided. We’ll always push ourselves to the limit.
    “We cannot do anything else and we should not get carried away. Two teams took advantage of our problems.
    “Full credit to them and they deserve where they are. We need to make sure we catch as many points as possible.”
    Abraham creates history in Rome
    Tammy Abraham smashed a record set by Gabriel Batistuta as he helped Roma thrash bitter rivals Lazio 3-0.
    He has further cemented his status as a fan favourite as his early double helped claim the bragging rights in the Rome derby.
    And, incredibly, those two strikes were enough for him to surpass a tally set by the club’s legendary former Argentinian hitman Batistuta.
    The icon and Vicenzo Montella both previously held the record for the most goals scored in a debut season for Roma, each registering 21.
    Now the 24-year-old has surpassed that tally as he moved on to 23 for the campaign.

    Son Heung-min hurt by ball
    Spurs forward Son Heung-min was hilariously mocked for going down after a ball was kicked against him by West Ham’s Kurt Zouma.
    Having already found the net in the 24th minute, Son was already a thorn in the Hammers side.
    However, later on he was ridiculed for feigning injury during a heated incident at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
    When Spurs won a corner and the players were getting ready in the box, West Ham defender Kurt Zouma innocuously kicked the ball towards the corner flag.
    The ball struck Son, who for some reason decided to collapse to the ground writhing in agony.

    Chelsea fans face nervous wait
    Chelsea fans are waiting to find out whether or not the club will be allowed to sell tickets for their FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium.
    The Blues have been drawn against Patrick Vieira’s side in the last four and are set to face them on the weekend of the 16th and 17th of April.
    SunSport understands a decision on Chelsea’s ticket allocation will be made during the international break.
    But the decision will be made by the government and not the FA as the sanctions imposed on Chelsea are from Downing Street.
    Only 600 Chelsea fans were present for their quarter-final tie away at Middlesbrough on Saturday after the sanctions were placed upon them
    Bad week for Kurt Zouma
    West Ham defender Kurt Zouma scored an unfortunate own goal against Spurs in their clash on Sunday.
    The former Chelsea defender, 27, deflected the ball into his own net from a Harry Kane cross after sliding in the box to stop Son Heung-min from scoring in the London derby.
    Zouma’s bad luck came just days after he was charged by the RSPCA for a video showing him kicking his cat across a kitchen floor.
    The clip has caused a public outcry since it was revealed by The Sun last month.
    Last week, the RSPCA announced they had charged Zouma, who is now set to appear in court on a date that’s yet to be set.
    Zouma’s brother Yoan, 23, has also been charged for allegedly filming the incident.

    Gareth Southgate makes Eagles swoop
    Crystal Palace star Tyrick Mitchell is set to be confirmed as part of England’s squad for the very first time.
    The 22-year-old left-back is due to get the call-up from Gareth Southgate within the next 24 hours.
    Mitchell has shone for the Eagles this term, and after helping them to reach the FA Cup semi-final by thrashing Everton, his displays will be rewarded on the international level, claims the Mail.
    It comes after Chelsea confirmed they are set to pull Reece James out of the England squad due to injury – leaving Luke Shaw as the only specialist full-back.
    Mitchell is one of three Palace players to be called up along with Marc Guehi and Conor Gallagher, who is on loan from Chelsea.
    Load more entries… More

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    ‘You say fantastic, I disagree’ – Mourinho wants MORE from ex-Chelsea ace Abraham after breaking Batistuta’s Roma record

    ROMA manager Jose Mourinho demanded more from Tammy Abraham despite his stunning debut season at the Olimpico.Abraham led the Giallorossi to a 3-0 triumph over rivals Lazio when he opened the scoring after just 56 seconds and bagged a second 21 minutes later.
    Roma star Tammy Abraham broke a prestigious club record in his stunning debut seasonCredit: Getty
    Roma manager Jose Mourinho is demanding even more from Tammy AbrahamCredit: Rex
    That has taken the striker’s tally to 23 goals across all competitions this season.
    The England international broke a prestigious record held by Gabriel Batistuta and Vincenzo Montella, who netted 21 times on their debut campaign with Roma.
    However, Mourinho wants even more out of the former Chelsea ace, who recently received an international call-up by Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate.
    The Portuguese head coach knows his true potential and wants him to live up to it while under his wing.
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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;}WHAM BAM TAM .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;}Tammy Abraham breaks Gabriel Batistuta record as Roma run riot on rivals Lazio
    Mourinho told DAZN: “Great performance.
    “Today was really special because it seemed that everything we had planned was put on the field.
    “Lazio in the second half tried to play with pride but we never lost control. No doubt, the boys deserved the victory.
    “When you say Abraham is fantastic, I disagree, he can do even more.
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    “I demand a lot of him because I know his potential, I’m not talking about goals but he must play every game with this attitude.”
    Abraham will be part of England’s squad for the friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast at Wembley. More