Chelsea transfer news

CHELSEA have reportedly made Jules Kounde their top summer transfer target.The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Meanwhile, reports from Spain claim Real Madrid have leapfrogged Man Utd and Man City in the race for Erling Haaland following a constructive meeting.
And Arsenal and Man Utd are both reported to be battling to sign Leicester’s Youri Tielemans.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
PSG prepare huge Mbappe offer
Kylian Mbappe could be about to bring an end to months of transfer speculation by staying put at Paris Saint-Germain.
The France boy wonder has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid when his PSG contract expires this summer.
The Independent reports PSG are prepared to make the striker the highest-paid player in the world in order to convince him to stay.
The report claims the Ligue 1 leaders are ready to pay him a basic wage of close to £1million A WEEK in any new deal.
Aguero leaps to Messi defence
Sergio Aguero has slammed French media over their treatment of friend Lionel Messi at PSG.
L’Equipe gave Messi a 3/10 rating for his performance against Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
Aguero said on Twitch: “Leo played well. He broke it, and not because he’s my friend.
“He was very good, he was very active, too bad about the penalty, but then he broke it. The magazines and newspapers in France killed him, they are as.
“Now I’m going to Paris, I had an interview with a magazine from France but I phoned and told them: ‘No… Leo Messi.'”
Bacary Sagna praises Arsenal’s character
Bacary Sagna believes Arsenal have a good chance of finishing in the top four and praised the mentality and character shown since the poor start to the season.
“I think they have shown some character, they’ve shown some great team spirit. They have the right mentality and they have the right commitment.
“They totally deserve to be where they are today, and honestly, if they keep going that way, playing without any fear in them, keeping the strong basics they have at the minute, I think they have a chance.
“When they played Manchester City, I thought they deserved to win. They played quite well and outplayed City until the red card at least.
“It shows the quality they have. It shows the quality and mentality now compared to the beginning of the season.”
Conte not scared of challenge
Antonio Conte has admitted that managing Tottenham is ‘different’ because the club lacks ‘confidence’.
While praising January arrivals Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur as ‘ideal’ signings for Tottenham, Conte also insisted that there will be no quick fix to his ‘weakened’ side’s problems.
Asked about how his start to life at Spurs compares to when he joined Inter in 2019, he said: “It is always difficult to make comparisons, but surely when you take the job in a team that hasn’t won for a long time it is inevitable that you will lack confidence.
“The confidence is down and many times, at the first obstacle, you throw yourself down and many times the negativity increases even more. Sometimes you grant goals that you struggle to accept.
“This has been happening to us in the last period. This is part of a process of a team that has to grow a lot to try to be competitive.
“Right now we are one of the many teams that are in the middle. They need to work a lot and this does not scare me at all.”
Hasenhuttl not interested in United
Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has rubbished suggestions that he’s in line for a move to Manchester United.
The Austrian has been linked with the United hot seat by various voices in the media after his side’s impressive showing at Old Trafford on Saturday.
The 54-year-old also previously worked with Ralf Rangnick at RB Leipzig, leading many to suggest that he’d be the ideal choice to help replicate their success together at the Theatre of Dreams.
However, the Saints boss gave the idea short shrift in his press conference ahead of the weekend’s match with Everton.
“This is not on my mind and is not something that is interesting me. I don’t want to speak about my future.“
Last week, Hasenhuttl responded to an interview he’d given with German media, laughing off suggestions that he’d retire from the game when his Southampton contract comes to an end in 2024.

Frank sings Borja’s praises
Everton manager Frank Lampard has spoken highly of Southampton’s Armando Broja in his press conference ahead of their meeting at St Mary’s on Saturday.
Lampard was Broja’s manager at Chelsea, and handed the striker his senior debut as a substitute in a 4-0 home win against, ironically enough, Everton.
The Albanian has caught the eye on loan at St Mary’s this season, and his performances have come as no surprise to the new Toffees boss.
“I gave him his debut at Chelsea. He’s a very talented young boy.
“He came into us at the start of Covid and started training with us and showed the attributes you’re seeing now at Southampton. He’s fast, he’s strong, he’s got a real eye for goal. I’m very aware of his talents.”
Blues preparing for Mount negotiations
Chelsea are preparing to open discussions with midfielder Mason Mount over a bumper new contract, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
The England international still has 18 months to run on his current deal, but the Blues don’t want to waste any time in tying Mount down long-term.
Officials at Stamford Bridge hope to begin negotiations with the 23-year-old in the coming months in order to avoid any issues, although the player is considered happy and keen to extend his stay beyond 2024.
Toon to do the Botman
Another hour, another story of Newcastle being willing to spend big in order to see off the opposition in the transfer market.
This time the player in question is Sven Botman with Tottenham and AC Milan the clubs unlikely to be able to compete if the Toon decide to splash the cash.
The Dutchman, who plays on the left side of central defence, was a Ligue 1 champion with Lille last season, and has continued to impress this term despite his club’s faltering defence of their title.
Newcastle did enquire about the 22-year-old during the January transfer window as Eddie Howe sought defensive reinforcements, but are now expected to go back in for the player in the summer.

Molineux to host Three Lions
England will play two matches at Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Molineux Stadium in June when Gareth Southgate’s men take on Italy and then Hungary in the Nations League.
The match against the Azzurri will be played behind closed doors as punishment for fan behaviour at the final of Euro 2020.
The games will be first England men’s international to be played at Wolves’ famous old stadium since a World Cup qualifier against Denmark in December 1956.
Mark McGhee back in the game
But not necessarily in the dugout.
Scottish Premiership side Dundee have this morning announced Mark McGhee as their new manager, replacing James McPake, who was sacked on Wednesday.
Second from bottom in the table, Dee have 13 league games left to save their season, but McGhee won’t be able to appear pitchside for the first six as he still has a touchline ban to serve from his time at Motherwell in 2017.
If you want to see how well the fans at Dens Park are taking the news, head on over to Twitter.
Arsenal battle Spurs for Sosa
Arsenal are ready to slog it out with Tottenham once again, but this time in the boardroom as the two north London clubs prepare to battle for Croatian left-back Borna Sosa.
That’s the understanding of Bild’s Christian Falk, who has taken time out from his Twitter beef with Marcus Rashford to reveal the transfer story.
The Stuttgart defender has attracted plenty of attention this season, and was the subject of an enquiry from Chelsea in January as they sought replacements for the stricken Ben Chilwell.
An asking price of £25million put the Blues off in the first instance, but is unlikely to deter their rivals in the capital with both the Gunners and Spurs in need of reinforcements.
Mbappe considering Liverpool u-turn
Kylian Mbappe may yet line up in the red of Liverpool next season, according to reports coming out of Spain.
The French sensation had been poised to sign a deal with Real Madrid following the conclusion of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain in June.
However, the 23-year-old is supposedly now having second thoughts after being disillusioned by the standard of Madrid’s performance when they visited PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Los Blancos produced an incredibly defensive display at the Parc des Princes, eventually going down 1-0 to Mbappe’s stoppage time goal.
The lack of quality in Real’s ranks is now forcing the forward to reconsider long-time suitors Liverpool as an option.

Royals scandal as fans protest
Furious Reading supporters surrounded the team bus last night as it attempted to leave Peterborough’s London Road following last night’s drab 0-0 draw, and demanded the club take action.
Fans have grown increasingly disgruntled with the direction of the Championship outfit, and refused to move until manager Veljko Paunovic had been sacked.
The Serbian coach has overseen Reading’s 12-game winless run, although did end an eight-game losing streak with a point against Posh.
The result ensured the Royals remained above Peterborough, and two points clear of the relegation zone.
The angry mob were eventually dispersed, and the bus was able to leave the stadium.
Leeds ace Raphinha rejects deal
Leeds United’s Brazilian star Raphinha has stalled on the prospect of negotiating a new contract at Elland Road.
The 25-year-old still has two years to run on his current deal, but the Yorkshire club are keen to tie the attacking midfielder down with some of Europe’s biggest clubs taking interest.
Liverpool are reportedly interested in taking the player to Anfield, and the news of the player’s unwillingness to commit his future to Leeds could tempt the Reds into a summer bid.
Reportedly wanting to compete regularly for silverware, Raphinha joined Leeds from Rennes for £17million in 2020, and has since scored 14 goals in 51 Premier League games.
Sources close to Leeds state the club are not worried, and maintain that talks are ongoing with the player’s representatives.
Saka stay dependent on success
Bukayo Saka will only commit his long-term future to Arsenal providing the club can prove they are ready to compete for silverware.
That’s the view of of former Premier League goalkeeper (and one-time striker) David James, who believes the north London club are stocked with exciting young talent.
James told GGRecon that “[Saka] is in an Arsenal team full of potential, but if that potential isn’t to be fulfilled in the next year or so, then I’m sure someone of his talent will desire success.
“If [Mikel] Arteta begins to show that Arsenal can be successful then Saka will have no reason to leave.”
The 20-year-old’s current deal at the Emirates runs out in 2024, and he has recently been linked with a move to Liverpool.
Pogba open to Premier stay
Paul Pogba’s departure from Old Trafford this summer looks all but certain with the Red Devils set to see the Frenchman leave on a free transfer for the second time in ten years.
The midfielder does not appear interested in signing a new contract with United, and had been readily expected to move to one of European football’s giants given his wage demands..
Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and former club Juventus have all been linked, but now it has been suggested in the Telegraph that the player would not be against remaining in the Premier League.
Few English clubs would have the finances to table a deal for the 28-year-old with Newcastle, Arsenal and Chelsea appearing the most likely to be able to make a move should the player want to stay in the country.
Eze money? Newcastle eye Ebe
Mega-rich Newcastle United are continuing their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, and are now preparing a £45million summer swoop for the exciting forward.
As we reported yesterday, the Toon Army have been tracking the 23-year-old since his return from a long-term achilles injury, and made enquiries about taking the player on loan in the January transfer window.
The Eagles are not keen to do business, but United’s new owners are confident that they can tempt the south London club into doing business with a whopping bid of around £45million.
The former QPR man hit four goals in 34 appearances during his debut Premier League season following a £17million move to Selhurst Park, before succumbing to the foot problem that kept him sidelined for six months.

Overnight round-up
Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe again lead the transfer talk.
Real Madrid reportedly believe they have agreed a deal with Borussia Dortmund to beat Manchester United and City to goal machine Haaland.
And it’s claimed PSG’s French World Cup winner Mbappe is ‘open’ to joining Liverpool.
So far Real have been favourites to land Mbappe, even if they also swoop for Haaland.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea are all said to be chasing Stuttgart defender Borna Sosa.
It’s been suggested Blues’ boss Thomas Tuchel failed with a January bid for the Croatia left-back.
The Gunners and Spurs are also being linked with RB Leipzig’s attacking midfielder Christopher Nkunku.
But some reports say Old Trafford chief Ralf Rangnick might meet resistance from the Old Trafford board if he pursues the exciting Frenchman.
Newcastle are lining up an improved £45million offer for Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze in the summer.
Finally, Liverpool struck twice late on to clinch a flattering 2-0 Champions League last-16 first-leg win at Inter Milan.
Roberto Firmino’s header and Mo Salah’s deflected shot seemingly left the Reds in command for the Anfield return on March 8.   
This is the moment City’s jet is rocked by winds
This is the worrying moment Manchester City’s private jet is ROCKED mid-air by turbulence as it struggles to land.
The terrifying footage was shot as City’s plane attempted to touch down in Manchester following Tuesday’s 5-0 win against Sporting Lisbon.
Worrying moment Man City’s jet is ROCKED mid-air by turbulence from Storm Dudley as it struggles to land in Manchester
Video shows shows the jet struggling to battle the strong winds caused by Storm Dudley.
City’s plane had to circle THREE times before it was deemed too dangerous to land.
And it was forced to change course mid-air to land in Liverpool instead.
High winds meant the plane could not touch down at Manchester Airport, leading to the late change 31 miles away.
The club released a short statement on Twitter that reads: “We can confirm the plane transporting the first team home from Lisbon has landed safely in Liverpool, after high winds forced a diversion from Manchester.”
Storm Dudley has brought severe weather conditions to Manchester with the Met Office issuing a ‘danger to life’ warning across the area.

Conte: We weakened Spurs squad
Antonio Conte has revealed he ‘now realises Tottenham’s vision’ in a frank assessment of their January transfer window.
Spurs brought in Juventus duo Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur but also missed out on a number of targets.
These included Adam Traore, who ended up re-joining Barcelona, and Luis Diaz who was pinched by Liverpool.

And Conte has now spoken out about how challenging the window was for the club.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, he said: “It’s always difficult to make comparisons, but if I had to find something similar, it would be the lack of confidence that is inevitable when you start work at a club that hasn’t won in a long time.
“I saw some situations from the outside that could be developed, but when you get into it, you realise that something… What happened in January was not easy. We lost four players in January. Four important players for Tottenham, and we brought in only two.
“So even just in terms of numbers, rather than reinforce the squad, we on paper weakened it.
“Bentancur and Kulusevski are ideal prospects for Tottenham, because Tottenham are seeking young players they can develop and grow, not players who are ready. That is the issue.”
No Chelsea bonus for world glory
Chelsea players will not receive any bonuses despite the club receiving £7million for their Club World Cup and Uefa Super Cup triumphs, according to reports.
Members of the Blues’ squad are entitled to bonuses if they win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup or League Cup.

But according to the Daily Mail, no negotiations were made before the season started about bonuses being dished out for claiming the Super Cup or Club World Cup.
Chelsea agree a bonus schedule with their players prior to the start of each campaign.
And the West London outfit have one of the most stringent bonus structures as they generally only pay out when trophies have been won – although they are also expected to receive one if they reach the Champions League final.
When they are received, some players often pass them on to lower-paid team-mates or young prospects.
But Chelsea’s squad are not set to receive any for their two European wins this season, despite the club earning as much as £7m for the triumphs – £3.7m for the Super Cup and £3.6m for the Club World Cup.
They secured the Super Cup back in August with a penalty shootout victory over Villarreal.
Kop in Mbappe hunt
Kylian Mbappe is reportedly ‘open to a Liverpool transfer offer’ after his winner for Paris Saint-Germain over Real Madrid ‘radically’ changed his plans.
The French superstar scored a stunning late winner against the LaLiga giants on Tuesday night to secure a 1-0 victory in the Champions League round of 16 first leg clash.
The build-up to the match had been dominated by Mbappe’s future, amid talk that he will agree a contract with Madrid when his deal at Parc des Princes expires in June.https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.500.0_en.html#goog_73045457Play Video
However, Sport are now claiming that Tuesday’s result has ‘radically changed the scenario’.
And the report offers Liverpool plenty of encouragement in their pursuit of the 23-year-old World Cup winner. It adds that Mbappe’s camp have offered assurances that no contract has been agreed with Madrid.
They also state that they have ‘opened the door’ to him staying at PSG. And they are willing to listen to any offer made by Liverpool – ‘a club that attracts Mbappe a lot’.
Speaking to Movistar after the win over Madrid, he said: “I’ve not decided my future. I play for Paris Saint-Germain, one of the best clubs in the world.
“This game to influence my future? No – I’ve not decided. I give my best and then we will see what happens next season.
“I said I would give it my all. I had to show it with actions. I did it the first time, we’ll have to show it a second time at the Bernabeu.”
Newcastle in for Palace ace
Newcastle are lining up a fresh £45million summer swoop for Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze.
The newly-rich Toon offered the Eagles £5m in the January window to take their playmaker on loan for the rest of the season with a view to a £35m permanent switch at the end of the season.
That was flatly rejected by Palace because they did not want to sell one of their players mid-campaign, especially to a top flight rival.
But Newcastle, with cash to splash on new signings following their megabucks Saudi takeover, are confident they can get a deal done for one of the Premier League’s hottest properties once this season is over.
And Palace could be tempted to more than double their money on a player they signed from QPR 18 months ago for £17m.
Greenwich-born Eze, 23, scored four goals in 34 Premier League appearances last season before suffering an Achilles injury in May.
That has restricted him to just one Premier League start so far this term.
Eze was an unused substitute in Palace’s 0-0 draw with Prem newcomers Brentford.
Hasenthuttl tipped to boss top club
Jan Bednarek has tipped Ralph Hasenhuttl to manage one of football’s big beasts one day, writes TOM BARCLAY.
Hasenhuttl, 54, has had an outstanding campaign at Southampton, guiding them to tenth in the Premier League and the fifth round of the FA Cup.
He has masterminded an excellent run of just one defeat in Saints last ten games in all competitions, including draws against both Manchester clubs and a win at Tottenham.
The Austrian is contracted until 2024, after which he has hinted he could even quit life as a manager. 
Yet defender Bednarek is hoping Hasenhuttl’s talents will one day land him a top role.
The Pole said: “You can see with our performances against the biggest teams, he has got the idea and the philosophy of playing football that could suit a big team.
“If we keep going like this and keep performing like this, the big teams will look at him, and analyse the way he plays, the way he is managing the team. 
“If they like him – I don’t see many things against that. Hopefully, I keep my fingers crossed, one day he will  become the manager of some bigger team.”
Big Sam hails Arteta over Auba exit
Sam Allardyce reckons Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta handled Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s ban and resulting sale to Barcelona ‘magnificently’.
Arteta dumped club record-earner Aubameyang as skipper and out of the first-team for disciplinary reasons before the striker departed on transfer deadline for free.
And ex-Newcastle, West Ham and Everton manager Allardyce praised the Spaniard’s treatment of the Gabon superstar, 32.
He said: “He dealt with that magnificently well, because it shows the rest of the team that there’s a certain level of expectation when it comes to discipline, and if you’re not going to adhere to that, you’re gone.”

Load more entries… More

CHELSEA have reportedly made Jules Kounde their top summer transfer target.The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Meanwhile, reports from Spain claim Real Madrid have leapfrogged Man Utd and Man City in the race for Erling Haaland following a constructive meeting.
And Arsenal and Man Utd are both reported to be battling to sign Leicester’s Youri Tielemans.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Spurs target Lingard fancies overseas move
Jesse Lingard is reportedly set to snub a move to Tottenham because he wants to head abroad this summer.
The United midfielder is soon to be out of contract at Old Trafford and appears certain to head for the exit.
He has notched 226 appearances for the Red Devils but this season has found game time hard to come by.
Spurs were mooted as a potential escape route in January but the indications coming out of the Lingard camp now suggest he wants to play overseas next term.
Zaha in the making
Could Arsenal be about to make a surprise move for Wilfried Zaha.
The Gunners have previously been linked with the Ivory Coast international but have never had much of a look in with the player happy at Crystal Palace.
Wilfried Zaha could be on his way out at Crystal PalaceCredit: Getty
That appears to have changed as Palace struggle to tie him down to a new contract.
And boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly considering a swoop for the forward in the summer.
Given his lack of attacking options, any attacking talent would be a welcome addition to Arteta’s squad.
But with the player pushing 30 there are concerns he may not fit into Arsenal’s youthful squad, which currently has the youngest average age in the Premier League.
‘Credit where it’s due’
Paul Merson has some advice for West Ham if they hope to qualify for the Champions League next season – be more like Newcastle.
The Arsenal legend has been impressed by the Toon’s recent run of form which has seen them win three on the bounce.
West Ham are going backwards in terms of a top four finish and now find themselves in fifth after being leapfrogged by Man United.
And Merson said: “Credit where credit is due, winning three games on the trot is some going when you’re virtually bottom of the league.
“If Arsenal did that, it’s a result. If West Ham were to do that now, they’ve got every chance of playing Champions League football next year. 
“The Premier League is hard, so to win three straight games is impressive.”
Man in the middle
Arsenal have reportedly entered the race for Leeds star Kalvin Phillips.
The England international is already the subject of interest from the likes of Man United and Liverpool.
But now reports suggest the Gunners could be in for the 26-year-old this summer.
Boss Mikel Arteta is looking for a midfielder he can rely on after seeing Granit Xhaka pick up too many cards this season.
Any transfer battle would likely push the asking price above the £36million Leeds reportedly value him at.
Dumb luck
Luke Shaw has admitted people will think he is ‘stupid’ for his bold Champions League prediction.
The Man United left-back has insisted the Red Devils still have a chance of winning the European title this season.
Winning the Champions League may be United’s best hope of qualifying for next season’s edition of the tournament – although yesterday’s victory over Brighton sees them move up to fourth for the time being.
And Shaw said: “This is the crunch time of the season and it is very important in the league to get some momentum. As a team we believe we can win the Champions League.
“Not many people on the outside will think it and some will think I’m stupid for saying that but we have that belief and confidence that we can win it.
“I’m sure everyone in this dressing room – the players, the staff and the management – all have that belief that we can. Now we need to pick some momentum up, get results and keep playing well.”
Max power
Wolves defender Max Kilman has called on his Molineux team-mates to use their victory over Tottenham on Sunday as a springboard for a run of results.
The Black Country side are currently seventh and have an outside chance of a top-four spot and qualification for next season’s Champions League.
They stunned Spurs 2-0 away from home on Sunday and now sit one place above the north London club in the Prem table.
And Kilman said: “It’s a good result but we must keep our form going and keep the consistency.
“If we want to be pushing to higher places in the league we need to start winning two or three games in a row and keeping up with the performances instead of winning and losing.
“If we keep winning and then losing it will be very difficult for us to get to higher places in the table at the end of the season.
Future planning
Arsenal legend Kevin Campbell reckons his former club have a real chance of landing talented youngster Armando Broja from Chelsea this summer.
The 20-year-old has been turning heads with his goal-scoring efforts while out on loan at Southampton this season.
And Campbell says the lure of regular first-team football in Arsenal’s youthful line-up could be enough to convince the youngster his future lies at the Emirates.
Campbell told Football Insider: “The thing is with Chelsea, they have so many players.
“They might well say they don’t want to sell him to a rival. But if the young man wants a career, then he won’t want to be going out on loan all the time or stuck in the reserves – he’ll want to move.
“I don’t know how strong the interest is, but he’s certainly performing brilliantly at Southampton. He looks a right handful and he’s a young striker, which ties into the model at Arsenal right now.
“I don’t know what their stance is on selling to a top-four rival, but Chelsea won’t be able to keep everybody happy this summer – that’s for sure.”
Left out in the cold
United legend Andy Cole isn’t impressed with the treatment of one Red Devil under Ralf Rangnick.
The former striker has given his backing to centre-back Victor Lindelof, who is currently rooted to the bench with skipper Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane ahead of him.
Victor Lindelof featured against Brighton last nightCredit: AFP
The Sweden international found himself out-of-favour when previous manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer brought in Varane last summer.
Now Cole has said: “For me personally, I would like to see him given a run in the team.
“I think when he plays well and he has got confidence, he is as good as any of them.
“I don’t think he has been given the run that he deserves.
“When Ole was the manager and he brought in Varane, he left Victor out straightaway.
“You just can’t just make your mind up like I bought Maguire for £80million, so regardless of how he plays he is going to play.
“And then Varane, I bought him for £40m, you can’t do that.
“Sometimes, you have got to look at it and say right, if these are the best combination I am going to go with it.”
‘Pain in the a**’
Pep Guardiola has identified the team he reckons has the best chance of halting his Manchester City juggernaut in this season’s Champions League.
The Sky Blues smashed last-16 opponents Sporting Lisbon 5-0 last night – and that was just the first leg.
But the City boss has refused to get complacent as he cited LIVERPOOL as his side’s biggest threat in their quest for a Champions League title this term.
When asked who he feared most, Pep said: “Liverpool. They are six points behind us. 
“They’ve been our biggest rivals in the past few seasons and are always there – a pain in the a**, all the time! They are a fantastic team in Europe.”
Domestic rivalry
Man United face a transfer shock this summer in the shape of out-of-contract star Paul Pogba.
The France international will become a free agent in July and is yet to sign a new deal to stay at Old Trafford.
Until now a move abroad had seemed the most likely outcome to Pogba’s contract situation, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain all vying for his signature.
But now reports are emerging the 28-year-old could sensationally consider offers from rival Premier League clubs.
The Express suggests unnamed English heavyweights are eyeing the midfielder’s services this summer.
That would come as quite a blow to the Red Devils faithful, who have had a fractious relationship with their academy graduate over the years.
Person of interest
Martin Odegaard has spoken of his excitement at the current crop of Arsenal players under boss Mikel Arteta.
The Norway international is part of the youngest squad in the Premier League after joining permanently from Real Madrid last summer.
Odegaard had been on loan from the Bernabeu before making the switch full-time and now can’t wait to see what his team-mates are capable of.
He said: “We’re a very, very interesting group: a lot of young players, and a lot of hungry players.
“I feel like we’re building something special here with all the players and the staff. 
“It’s really interesting what we’re trying to do and I’m happy with the situation, very happy to be part of the team and hopefully we can keep improving and get better each game. Then we’ll see where it takes us.”
Homecoming king
Son Heung-min says he cannot wait to return to South Korea with Tottenham this summer, writes Paul Jiggins.
Spurs have announced they will be playing two fixtures in the striker’s homeland in July as part of their preparations for the 2022-23 campaign.
Son and Spurs are eyeing their first pre-season tour in two yearsCredit: Getty
It will be the North Londoners’ first overseas tour for three years following the Covid pandemic.
Son said: “I am extremely excited to be returning home to South Korea this summer alongside my Spurs team-mates – for most of whom this will be their first visit.
“I can’t wait to see their reaction to the passionate Korean fans and the incredible atmosphere in what we are sure will be packed out stadiums for our matches.”
Tottenham claim they are the most supported English club in South Korea as they boast the captains of the country’s men and women’s national teams in Son and Cho So-hyun.
Spurs visited South Korea when they played in the 2005 Peace Cup.
They were planning to return in July 2020 before Covid struck.
It will be the club’s first tour since they played in Singapore and China under Mauricio Pochettino in 2019.
Antonio Conte’s side will play two exhibition matches as part of the Coupang Play Series, with dates, opposition and venues to be announced nearer the time.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy said: “We are delighted to be heading back out on tour after what has been such a challenging time for us all.
“Being able to take our team overseas during pre-season is always a key part of the preparation for any forthcoming season – I speak on behalf of all players and staff in saying we have missed being able to do so in recent years.
“A trip to Korea, in particular, is long overdue – we are well aware of the incredible support we have there, with many fans travelling to London to watch our matches in recent years.”
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Man United boss Ralf Rangnick has revealed the secret that transformed his side at half-time in their crucial 2-0 win over Brighton last night.
The Red Devils again looked lacklustre at Old Trafford and went into the break with the score at 0-0.
But during the break the German tactician called on wingers Jadon Sancho and Anthony Elanga to change their approach.
He said: “We told our two wingers to attack the centre-backs so our full-backs could jump to their full-backs.
“That paid off with Elanga and the red card. We should have killed off the game much earlier. We were not lethal enough.
“First half was Mr Hyde, second half Dr Jekyll and for a change it (the result) was different. In the end it was important to get the three points against an in-form team.”
Race for fourth
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has had his say on the Gunners’ top-four prospects this season.
Boss Mikel Arteta is desperate to finish inside the Champions League qualifying spots this term.
And his quest was given a huge boost with the narrow 1-0 win away at Wolves last week while rivals around them dropped points.
And Henry said: “West Ham didn’t take advantage of it. Tottenham has never taken advantage of it.
“But Arsenal had to go and win at Wolves. That was a massive win, so there are still a lot of games to go.
“For me, if they don’t do it, as I said at the start of the season, then it will be a failure.”
Italian job
Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg could be on his way to Roma in the next transfer window, according to reports.
Italian paper Corriere della Sera says the 26-year-old could find himself on the market after failing to impress new boss Antonio Conte.
Former Spurs manager Jose Mourinho reportedly rates the Dane highly.
He was the Special One’s first signing in north London, joining from Southampton for a fee of around £15million in the summer of 2020.
Hojbjerg could be looking at a guaranteed place in the starting line-up at Roma, with Mourinho on the hunt for a new midfielder.
The 59-year-old has reportedly given up on his pursuit for Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka and is now looking elsewhere.
Out of control
Man United aren’t going to win anything until they sort out their midfield.
That’s the view of ex-England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright.
Fred started in the Man United midfield last nightCredit: AFP
The pundit reckons United need an upgrade on the likes of Paul Pogba, Fred and Scott McTominay, who all featured to some extent against Brighton last night.
He said: “I will always say until Man United get the midfield sorted where they can control the game when it’s going against them they are going to have problems.
“Brighton even with ten men, they were still causing Man United problems.
“That should not be happening, not at Old Trafford against eleven men.
“How many transfer windows everybody knows they need for that particular midfield for them to control games.
“If Man United can control games, they will take chances, they will make even more chances and they will win more comfortably.”
Change of schedule
United have reportedly axed plans to play a pre-season friendly in Hong Kong this summer due to Covid-19 restrictions still in place.
The Red Devils had been considering a stop in the city as part of their first ‘proper’ pre-season tour in two years.
But Hong Kong’s strict pandemic protocols don’t look like being relaxed any time soon and United aren’t prepared to gamble with booking in a stay this year.
Howling mad
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has slapped down Ruben Neves for comments the Wolves midfielder made in the aftermath of the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 victory over his side last week.
Neves poured scorn on the north London club for celebrating ‘as if they’d won the league’ when they held on for a vital three points despite going down to 10 men.
Now Wright has hit back, asking Neves what he was thinking when making those comments.
He said: “I was vexed with Neves, coming out and saying ‘look at how Arsenal are celebrating’. What’s wrong with you?
“That’s an unbelievable result for Arsenal the way that you lot have been playing. 
“1-0 nil down with 10 men away from home and we get the goal (to win it). That is cause for celebration!”
‘No one can get near them’
Owen Hargreaves has heaped praise on Pep Guardiola and his team after they smashed Sporting Lisbon 5-0 last night.
Man City have all but guaranteed their place in the Champions League quarters with the thumping first-leg win.
And pundit Hargreaves said: “There is no such thing as perfection, but they’re as close to a perfect team if there is one right now.
“When they’re that clinical and efficient as they were in the first half, I don’t think anyone can get near them.
“In the second half, if anything, they took their foot off the gas because they only had one shot on target.
“I don’t know how you beat them, I’ll be honest.”
Brotherly love
Bruno Fernandes has signalled his approval of Paul Pogba’s return to the Man United line-up.
The France superstar is back in action for the Red Devils having recovered from a long-term hamstring problem.
And he lined up alongside Fernandes in the United midfield for last night’s much-needed 2-0 victory over Brighton.
Now Fernandes has taken to Twitter to hail a duo he has labelled ‘Brogba’…

Fab news for Gunners fans
Arsenal are reportedly set for a busy summer when the transfer window reopens in June.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has told Gooners not to panic as he reckons boss Mikel Arteta is eyeing a new midfielder and top striker ahead of the new season.
He told the Que Golazo YouTube channel: “I want to tell Arsenal fans don’t worry, that the summer will be busy for Arsenal.
“They will go for a new midfielder, a new top striker, so don’t worry. They will do something important.”
Hu-goes there?
Newcastle could be blown out of the water by a Premier League rival in their bid to land Reims wonderkid Hugo Ekitike.
The Magpies reportedly made an offer of £25million for the striker last month but were rebuffed by the Ligue 1 club.
Borussia Dortmund are also thought to be tracking the starlet as a possible replacement for Erling Haaland, should the Norwary talisman depart this summer.
And now world champions Chelsea are said to be considering a move for the 19-year-old when the transfer window reopens.
The Blues are apparently ready to cough up the £33m needed to land his signature and could offer the lure of Champions League next season – something beyond the relegation-threatened Toon.
Hungry for more
He’s had his doubters in recent weeks but last night Cristiano Ronaldo responded in the only way he knows how – by hitting the back of the net.
The veteran striker hit the opener as Man United claimed a vital three points over a determined Brighton side at Old Trafford.
And one ex-United striker watching on couldn’t believe what he was seeing from the current Red Devil goal-getter.
Andy Cole said: “It’s incredible – to be playing at the highest level at 37 now and still scoring goals. The goals that he’s got. He’s done almost everything in his career.
“But to still have that hunger and desire – that tells you everything.”
Gunner sign him
Arsenal are reportedly ‘favourites’ to sign transfer target Rafael Leao this summer.
The Gunners are eager to bring in attacking reinforcements having waved goodbye to ex-skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in January.
Goal-shy Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract at the end of the season and boss Mikel Arteta is plotting striker moves when the window re-opens.
And AC Milan talent Leao is one of the names on his list.
Now reports in Italy suggest Arteta’s side are in pole position to land the 22-year-old’s signature, with the player said to be intrigued by the prospect of a move to England.
Ek of a player
Mega-rich Newcastle are reportedly interested in signing Reims wonderkid Hugo Ekitike.
But they face a potential transfer battle with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund if they’re to land his signature.
Hugo Ekitike is wanted by both Newcastle and DortmundCredit: Getty
Dortmund are thought to be eyeing the 19-year-old as a possible replacement for goal machine Erling Haaland if the Norway striker leaves this summer.
The Magpies reportedly made a £25million bid for Ekitike last month but were rebuffed by the Ligue 1 club.
Reports in Germany now suggest the France U20 starlet is about to be the subject of a bidding war – with Newcastle’s deep-pocketed new owners eager to prove their credentials in the transfer market.
Load more entries… More

CHELSEA have reportedly made Jules Kounde their top summer transfer target.The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Meanwhile, reports from Spain claim Real Madrid have leapfrogged Man Utd and Man City in the race for Erling Haaland following a constructive meeting.
And Arsenal and Man Utd are both reported to be battling to sign Leicester’s Youri Tielemans.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Bale tipped for summer exit
Gareth Bale is expected to depart Real Madrid this summer.
The Wales winger, 32, has been linked with a free transfer return to Tottenham.
Roman fortune drops £650m
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich’s fortune has dropped by about £650million in just one day due to mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
The multi-billionaire Russian tycoon, 55, has seen the value of his 28.6 per cent stake in steel group Evraz, fall sharply.

Investors fear sanctions will be imposed on Russian companies.
Shares in Evraz, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange, were down 129½p, or 29 per cent, at 315¼p.
Danni Hewson, a financial analyst at investment platform AJ Bell, said: “The new trading week has begun on a bad note across Europe and Asia.
“Investors fear the alarm clock is about to sound on a physical battle between Russia and Ukraine.”
Foxes sign Kolo’s son
Leicester are keeping it in the family after signing first team coach Kolo Toure’s son Yassine, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
The teen has joined on a two-year scholarship.
But unlike his defender father, Yassine is a right-winger who wears the number seven shirt.

He also qualifies to play for England and the Ivory Coast.
The youngster was born while Kolo was playing for Arsenal.
And he joined Leicester from Celtic as an under-14 after his dad arrived as part of Brendan Rodgers’ coaching staff.
In December, he was offered a two-year scholarship with the club.
That means he will play for City’s under-18s until the end of the 2023-24 season.
EXCLUSIVE: Pickford caught up in brawl
England goalie Jordan Pickford is at the ­centre of a police probe into a pub ruck after revellers mocked that he had short “T-Rex arms,” writes ROBIN PIERRE.
His pals were furious and a mass brawl broke out in East Boldon, South Tyneside.
One lad was left with a broken nose and another with a smashed phone.Police rushed to the scene but Pickford, 27, and his friends had already left. Officers are investigating and seeking witnesses.

There is no suggestion that £30million ace Pickford assaulted anyone.The ruck happened at around 9pm on Sunday at the Beggar’s Bridge pub, in East Boldon, South Tyneside.
A witness said: “He was getting goaded, like they do. All I heard was ‘little arms’ and then that’s it. It kicked off. It happened as soon as they walked in. They hadn’t even had time to get a drink. One lad suffered a broken nose.
“Pickford wasn’t hurt at all. He was out of the door as soon as it kicked off. Pickford’s group left by minibus before the police came.”
The witness added that a lad who was filming the incident had his phone smashed by one of the star’s group.
Crock Trippier sweats on return
Kieran Trippier faces a race to be fit for Newcastle’s survival fight after breaking his foot.
The England defender fractured the fifth metatarsal in his left foot after being stamped on in the second half of Sunday’s 1-0 win over Aston Villa.

Trippier, who scored with a free-kick, faces six weeks out.
He said: “It’s really frustrating to have picked up the injury. We’ve built some momentum and long may that continue.
“I will remain positive and work as hard as I can on my rehab to be back fit as quickly as possible.”
The 31-year-old went straight for an X-ray before returning to St James’ Park on crutches with his left foot in a protective boot, and now faces surgery.
Trippier, a £12million signing from Atletico Madrid in January, has been at the forefront of Toon’s revival under boss Eddie Howe.
He has scored the winning goal in the last two games and even captained the side against Villa in Jamaal Lascelles’ absence.
Rangnick: We’re scared to press
Ralf Rangnick admits Manchester United’s struggling players are crippled by anxiety trying to play the pressing game.
Club legend Paul Scholes let rip at the Red Devils’ work-rate after Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Southampton, blasting: “They don’t want to put a shift in.”
Interim boss Rangnick, whose side host Brighton on Tuesday night, said: “It’s important we pick the right moments to be proactive to press.
“Even if it’s not possible, stay compact and don’t be too easy to be out-played. Too easily, some of them in transitional moments were almost over anxious.
“We were not ready at the right moment and then were saying ‘oh I should have pressed’, and then coming back one or two steps too late, giving the other team space on the counter attack.
“This is not only tactical discipline but also to be clever and smart enough to realise now it’s not possible so just stay in position.
“Keep your shape, keep your formation and make it difficult for the other team to play through our lines.”
Gooners want grand Stan gesture
Arsenal supporters who stayed up to watch the Super Bowl have flocked to social media to urge Stan Kroenke to show similar investment in the Premier League club.
Kroenke is also the owner of the LA Rams, who beat Cincinnati Bengals 23-20 to win their first Super Bowl championship in the early hours of Monday morning.
The American tycoon is said to have invested around £5billion in the NFL franchise over the past decade.
Now Gunners fans want the 74-year-old businessman to show a similar commitment to his football club in order to end their 18 year spell without a league title.
One supporters wrote on Twitter: “If Stan Kroenke had invested half of the money he’s invested in LA Rams for them to reach the Super Bowl in Arsenal, Arsenal would’ve won the Champions League.”
Ralf: We’re not robo-flops
Ralf Rangnick admitted that Manchester United’s habit of throwing away leads has “affected the minds of the players”.
The German interim boss conceded that they now have no chance of catching Chelsea in third.
The Red Devils only came out with draws against Burnley and Southampton having bagged the opening goal.

And Rangnick, who brought in psychologist Sascha Lense in December, conceded they will only salvage something from their season if they improve their mental strength.
He said: ““They say we should have been 3-0 or 4-0 up and all of a sudden it’s 1-1 – it affects the mindset, it is obvious. They are human beings, not robots.
“The situation is clear, in 11 out of the 13 games we scored the first goal but only won half.
“We have to be more effective to score a second and a third goal and just kill the game off.
“But if that doesn’t happen stick to the game plan, stay solid and stay tactically disciplined. We’ve given away goals too easily and it was our own mistakes we made that allowed them to score.”
How Morgan responded
Piers Morgan doubled down on his criticism of David Beckham as his Twitter exchange wit Gary Lineker continued.
Morgan responded to Lineker:: “You might want to suck up to him, for whatever reason, but Beckham was the most overrated player in history. Wouldn’t have got onto the Arsenal Invincibles bench.”
But Lineker hit back by outlining Beckham’s long list of achievements: “Six Premier Leagues, two FA Cups, one Champions League, one La Liga, one Ligue Un. Balón d’Or runner up. 115 caps for England, 59 as captain.
“One of the best crossers of the ball the game has ever seen. Yeah, overrated.”
Morgan hit back again, saying: “Take away the crossing & free-kicks, he was a fame-hungry snail with dumb haircuts who only won that much because of the truly great players around him.”
Utd made Ron decision over Erling
Paul Ince has questioned why Manchester United signed Cristiano Ronaldo instead of going all out Erling Haaland.
Red Devils icon Ronaldo, 37, returned to Old Trafford to much fanfare in a £12.85m move from Juventus in August.
But the Portuguese superstar’s comeback has failed to inspire improvement as Ralf Rangnick’s side continue to stutter.

Dortmund sensation Haaland has been a long-term target and United could have landed him last summer if they had broken the bank under now axed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
And Ince said: “When Ole first took the helm the project was about going young but all of a sudden they were bringing in 37-year-olds.
“You think, ‘why didn’t you just go and get Haaland?’ You didn’t need Ronaldo, but it’s just the fact that everyone thought he was going to Man City.
“Everyone thought it was great when he first came and if it wasn’t for Ronaldo, they wouldn’t still be in the Champions League.
“But the example he is setting, by throwing his toys out of the pram, is a bad one. Why would you listen to someone prepared to act the way he is? As we’ve seen on numerous occasions – running down the tunnel, not clapping fans, sulking – it’s not a good example.”
Lineker slams Morgan for slating Becks
Arsenal fan Piers Morgan launched a scathing attack on Manchester United legend David Beckham after watching Superbowl LVI.
The SunSport columnist enjoyed the event and marvelled at the performance of Odell Beckham Jr. as he helped the LA Rams to their win.
In typically provocative manner Morgan praised the wide receiver while putting down former England and Manchester United star David Beckham.

Morgan tweeted: “Great to watch a Beckham who can actually play football…#Superbowl.”
That led to a big backlash with many leaping to Beckham’s defence – suggesting Morgan had a bad memory.
Gary Lineker, who often clashes with Morgan on Twitter, said: “You might dislike him, for whatever reason, but David Beckham was a great footballer. One of our finest.”
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s transfer deadline day?
Tough-talking Neil Warnock showed off his romantic softer side as he read a love poem he wrote to his wife for Valentine’s Day.
The former Cardiff and Middlesbrough boss is known for no-nonsense management but caught talkSPORT presenter Laura Woods by surprise by revealing he often writes adoring rhymes for his wife.

Warnock advised listeners to do likewise before reading out his poem, which he insisted was written spontaneously.
The poem included the lines: “That smile said it all that’s why you’re my girl.”The look with those eyes sends my head in a whirl.
“I’m so in love with you at times I could cry, I find myself looking at you and boy do I sigh.”
Neil Warnock has Laura Woods close to tears as iconic boss reads Valentine’s Day poem he wrote for wife on live radio
Amorim is ‘next Mourinho’
Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is the hottest coaching talent from Portugal since Jose Mourinho.
Amorim has the opportunity to prove he too is a “special one” tonight when he leads his side against Manchester City in the last 16 of the Champions League.

As SunSport first revealed, Amorim’s achievements have put him on the radar of Manchester United.
And when Guardiola calls it a day at City, Amorim could even be in the frame to take charge at the Etihad.
Filipe Dias, a senior editor at Lisbon-based sports newspaper Record, said: “Since Mourinho there hasn’t been a manager as captivating here in Portugal as Ruben Amorim.
“We’re a small country but we have had good managers, like Mourinho and now Bruno Lage, in the Premier League.
“I think Amorim is something special as well.”
Gunners ‘might not replace Auba & Laca’
Arsenal might not replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Alexandre Lacazette in the summer, according to reports.
The Gunners shifted Aubameyang off the books in January, sending him to Spain to play for Barcelona.
But they could also lose Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, with both of their contracts up in the summer.

But according to football.london, youngster Gabriel Martinelli has been training as a No9, suggesting the Gunners may not necessarily splash out on a big money forward.
Martinelli’s blistering pace, technical and finishing ability could see him grow into a top class striker. The Brazilian has four goals to his name this term having found himself in good goal scoring positions as a result of his movement.Former Arsenal player Jack Wilshere – who is currently back at the club training to regain fitness – has been left impressed by Martinelli.
Speaking to Arsenal’s official club website, Wilshere said: “The one who I really like and think he’s going to be top, is Martinelli.
“I think what the manager has done with him has been genius as well.
“When I first went there he was training, coming on, not playing much, but training really well and I was thinking, ‘He’s going to get a chance here’ and he eventually got his chance and he’s been brilliant.”
Roo picks Tevez over Ron, Ruud and RVP
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney rates Carlos Tevez his favourite Old Trafford strike partner.
Ex-England skipper Rooney also developed frightening relationships with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Ruud van Nistlerooy and Robin van Persie.
But he reckons his line-up with Tevez was awesome all-round as they won SIX trophies from 2007-9.
That included back-to-back Premier League titles and Champions League glory.

And Rooney revealed the pair of them were ‘like bulls’ when trying to win the ball back from opponents, and ‘complimented’ each other perfectly.
He told Sport Bible: “I just loved our connection. The two of us up front, we complimented each other really well.
“Normally if I played with Louis Saha, Ruud van Nistelrooy or Robin van Persie – these strikers were always the No9 and I’d play as a No10.
“With Tevez we could rotate, I’d be the No9, he’d take the No9 spot and I’d be No10. When we lost the ball we’d be like two bulls trying to get it back.
“As a strike partner, he was the one I enjoyed playing with the most.”
‘Utd should feel embarrassed’
Gary Neville has slammed Manchester United players yet again following the draw with Southampton, writes KEALAN HUGHES.
After the match Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl revealed an area of weakness in the United team he was able to exploit.
Hasenhuttl was critical of the Red Devils’ pressing game and exposed United’s players for their defensive work rate.

He said after the match: “It is not a big secret that when they lose the ball that the reverse gears are not the best from everybody.
“Then you have the chance to create something and we did.
“The pressing for them was good in the beginning, but they aren’t used to doing it for more than 30 or 40 minutes, we came into the game after that.”
Neville felt the United squad should be embarrassed by what the Austrian had to say, believing it reflected very badly on the players.
He wrote on Twitter: “Imagine being a Manchester United player and having a respected opposition manager say that about you.”
Hasenthutl criticism of Utd ‘worst type you can get’
Gary Neville has defended Southampton boss Ralph Hasenthutl for handing Manchester United the ‘ biggest criticism’ professional footballers can face.
Hasenthutl questioned United’s workrate as his Saints’ side fought back for a 1-1 draw.
Hasenthult said: “It is not a big secret that when they lose the ball that the reverse gears are not always the best from everybody.”
Old Trafford legend Neville responded by saying no sportsperson or an athlete’ can face a worse accusation ‘that you don’t work hard enough’.
The ex-England defender told Sky Sports: “He said essentially that not everyone mucks in when the reverse gears are put on.
“If I was a Manchester United player and had that said about me by a respected opposition manager, that would bite deep.
“The reason I don’t think it’s disrespectful is because it’s coming from someone with authority and it’s the feeling in the league.”
Flachi, 46, plays again after 12-year ban
An ex-Serie A star has made his return to football in the Italian fifth tier aged 46 after a 12-YEAR ban for cocaine use.
Francesco Flachi played for Fiorentina and Sampdoria in his pomp and was capped by Italy at youth level.
But a huge suspension in 2010 after traces of cocaine were found in his urine effectively ended his playing career.

Now, though, amateur outfit Signa 1914 have handed the 46-year-old the chance to play again.
He made his comeback for the side based near Florence in a 2-2 draw against Prato 2000 at the weekend.
Upon his return to football, Flachi told Italian outlet Gazzetta della Sport: “This day cancels 12 years of disqualification. It is my rebirth.
“This is the proof that I have also rebuilt. What have I felt? At first I felt dizzy, I haven’t slept for a week due to tension.
“Now I’m so happy, I want to thank everyone who made me feel like I was before: a football player.”
Uefa give 30,000 free tickets to finals
Uefa will hand out 30,000 free tickets for its European club competitions to ‘reward’ fans.
President Aleksander Ceferin revealed plans for the governing body to subsidise thousands of seats for the Champions League, Europa League, Europa Conference League and Women’s Champions League finals.
The tickets will be split between the two competing sides.
Uefa say it is a gift to the most loyal fans for their support during the coronavirus pandemic.

And clubs must not give the tickets away for corporate purposes.
Uefa also confirmed ticket prices for the next three years of finals would be frozen.
That means category four tickets will still cost £60 for 2022, 2023 and 2024, with category three tickets staying at £150.
Uefa chief Ceferin said: “Fans are the lifeblood of the game. And we thought it would be a nice way to recognise the difficulties they have experienced over the last two years.
“We must ensure that loyal travelling supporters can attend historical moments for their cherished teams at affordable prices.”
Trippier ‘frustrated’ by injury lay-off
In-form Kieran Trippier will miss Newcastle games due to the fractured foot he suffered after sinking Aston Villa on Sunday.
Trippier’s superb free-kick was his second goal in two matches as he underlined his value since arriving from Atletico Madrid in the transfer window.
Newcastle said: “Trippier underwent an X-ray immediately after the game and scans have shown a fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot.”
And the England wing-back posted a message to bemoan his ‘really frustrating’ injury.
He added: “We’ve built some momentum and long may that continue.
“I will remain positive and work as hard as I can on my rehab to be back fit as quickly as possible.
“Thank you all for your very kind messages of support!”
It’s really frustrating to have picked up the injury yesterday. We’ve built some momentum and long may that continue. I will remain positive and work as hard as I can on my rehab to be back fit as quickly as possible. Thank you all for your very kind messages of support! 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/FJ2LYyIynK— Kieran Trippier (@trippier2) February 14, 2022

Gunners ‘might not replace Auba & Laca’
Arsenal might not replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Alexandre Lacazette in the summer, according to reports.
The Gunners shifted Aubameyang off the books in January, sending him to Spain to play for Barcelona.
But they could also lose Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, with both of their contracts up in the summer.

But according to football.london, youngster Gabriel Martinelli has been training as a No9, suggesting the Gunners may not necessarily splash out on a big money forward.
Martinelli’s blistering pace, technical and finishing ability could see him grow into a top class striker. The Brazilian has four goals to his name this term having found himself in good goal scoring positions as a result of his movement.Former Arsenal player Jack Wilshere – who is currently back at the club training to regain fitness – has been left impressed by Martinelli.
Speaking to Arsenal’s official club website, Wilshere said: “The one who I really like and think he’s going to be top, is Martinelli.
“I think what the manager has done with him has been genius as well.
“When I first went there he was training, coming on, not playing much, but training really well and I was thinking, ‘He’s going to get a chance here’ and he eventually got his chance and he’s been brilliant.”
Rudiger insists he’s happy at Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger has revealed he is happy to stay at Chelsea with his contract set to expire in the summer.
The centre-back, 28, is wanted by several high profile clubs across Europe.
But Chelsea are determined to keep him and have already offered Rudiger an extension – but he admits signing a new deal does not solely depend on him.

Rudiger told The Athletic: “I feel great here, I have always said it. I think the way I play you can see that I’m happy here.
“But there are also other people who have to make decisions.”
Rudiger reportedly wants £225,000 a week to stay at Stamford Bridge – a massive increase on his current weekly wage of £100,000.
He also wants a signing on fee having reportedly rejected an offer of £140,000 per week from the Blues as well as a £173,000-a-week deal from Real Madrid.
The Blues are believed to be preparing a contract extension worth £200,000 a week in a bid to keep him at the club.
Warnock: Cesar ‘lucky’ to win it all
Neil Warnock says Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta is ‘lucky’ to have had the trophy-laden career he has enjoyed so far.
The 32-year-old has claimed every trophy available to him both domestically and on the European stage.
In his near decade-long spell with the Blues, Azpilicueta has won the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Europa League, Champions League and the Club World Cup.

But former Prem manager Warnock insists the Spaniard has been ‘lucky’ to win the prestigious competitions as he doesn’t think he is ‘a great defender.’
Speaking on talkSPORT, the 73-year-old said: “I think it goes two ways to be honest.
“I think Azpilicueta has been a very fortunate lad to be a at a club like Chelsea. I don’t think he is a great defender. 
“Sometimes in football you need a bit of luck and I think he’s had a bit of luck at the right time and in the right place. 
“That’s what you need in football, you need a bit of luck to be successful.”
Eriksen returns to action in friendly
Christian Eriksen made an emotional return to the pitch today – eight months on from his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.
The playmaker, who turned 30 years old on Valentine’s Day, celebrated his birthday by featuring in Brentford’s behind-closed-doors friendly against a Southend United XI.
Eriksen played for an hour in his first taste of action since last summer’s shocking incident.

And the Dane showed he’s still got it by laying on an assist in Brentford’s 3-2 win, with fellow midfielder Josh Dasilva continuing his own injury comeback with a hat-trick.
Eriksen completed a stunning free move to the Bees on deadline day after leaving Inter Milan.
He was unveiled to home fans before Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.
And Eriksen has been training hard at Brentford’s Hounslow base to build up his fitness.
New manager Thomas Frank is sure to be delighted with the midfielder’s contribution in today’s friendly.
Rangnick: Utd players aren’t robots
Ralf Rangnick admitted that Manchester United’s habit of throwing away leads has “affected the minds of the players”.
The German interim boss conceded that they now have no chance of catching Chelsea in third.
The Red Devils only came out with draws against Burnley and Southampton having bagged the opening goal.

And Rangnick, who brought in psychologist Sascha Lense in December, conceded they will only salvage something from their season if they improve their mental strength.
He said: ““They say we should have been 3-0 or 4-0 up and all of a sudden it’s 1-1 – it affects the mindset, it is obvious. They are human beings, not robots.
“The situation is clear, in 11 out of the 13 games we scored the first goal but only won half.
“We have to be more effective to score a second and a third goal and just kill the game off.
“But if that doesn’t happen stick to the game plan, stay solid and stay tactically disciplined. We’ve given away goals too easily and it was our own mistakes we made that allowed them to score.”
Load more entries… More

CHELSEA have reportedly made Jules Kounde their top summer transfer target.The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Meanwhile Tottenham could be about to get gazzumped by Liverpool for Franck Kessie, as they were with Luiz Diaz
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Better own up
For a split-second it was the ‘best own goal in history’.
Romanian top-flight keeper Iustin Popescu blasted a goal-kick sideways at team-mate Adrian Scarlatache, who saw it cannon in off his heel.
Social media had a Pop at the CS Mioveni flops – but referee Ovidiu Hategan ruled the goal out.
He decided the ball was still moving when Popescu dropped it to take the goal-kick.
FC Arges were outraged at Mioveni’s let-off.
But they can’t complain too much as Mioveni had already gifted them a 1-0 win with a genuine own goal that was almost as crazy!
Read more HERE.
Breaking: The best own goal in the history of football was just scored in the Romanian top flight.The ref canceled it because the ball was still bumping when the keeper hit it. Scenes! pic.twitter.com/wkN2E2ASDD— Emanuel Roşu (@Emishor) February 13, 2022

Keown praises Arsenal target Broja
Arsenal legend Martin Keown waxed lyrical over Armando Broja for his starring display in Southampton’s 1-1 draw away at Manchester United on Saturday.
The youngster proved to be a handful for Red Devils skipper Harry Maguire all afternoon.
And Keown drooled over Broja’s pace and power while speaking on commentary for BT Sport.
He remarked: “You have to applaud him, the pace he has. He’s really impressed for Southampton.
“He’s a physical specimen as well, the ball has been going into him, and Maguire hasn’t been able to win them.
“He’s got everything to his game. His pace there, look at how he wins it – he bullies Maguire there.
“So quick, direct. Players around him. This man is so difficult to play against.”
T-has enough
Jermaine Jenas has blasted Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl for his comments after the Saints’ 1-1 draw with Man United.
Speaking on Match of the Day: “I don’t like it, if I’m totally honest with you. I’m not a fan of it.
“He’s had such a great week so he should focus on that and what his team are doing.
“I get that he’s got that relationship with Ralf Rangnick but it didn’t sit right with me, talking about another team, especially when they’re going through a tough period.”
Broja transfer pursuit
Arsenal are reportedly eyeing up a shock summer swoop to sign Chelsea striker Armando Broja.
But according to Football.London, the south coast side face competition from the Gunners in the race to secure his services.
They state that Mikel Arteta’s side are monitoring his progress at St Mary’s ahead of a possible transfer.
The news outlet adds that Arsenal have put the English-born Albanian international high on their wishlist after missing out on January target Dusan Vlahovic.
Chelsea will back Tuchel
Chelsea have vowed to back Thomas Tuchel this summer with an influx of cash, according to reports.
Stamford Bridge bosses want the Premier League title back in West London.
The Telegraph has reported that Abramovich will support Tuchel financially this offseason.
The club were said to be impressed that their German manager did not push for unnecessary transfers in the January window.
Chelsea have suffered with injuries but remain third in the table.
Shearer rips into Man United
Alan Shearer has torn into Manchester United as a ‘leaky, noisy, messy club’ living on excuses.
He wrote in the Athletic: “When I look at Manchester United, I see chaos, a team lacking any kind of discernible identity and an institution bereft of strategy, whose last three managers, if you include Michael Carrick, have been temporary appointments.
“They have become an interim football club — a club of caretakers, where authority has become diluted and players inhabit a world of excuses — who have spent an absolute fortune to become truly unexceptional.
“On the pitch, they are frayed and ragged, edgy and bad-tempered, casting around for someone else to blame, unsure of who and what they are.
“What a leaky, noisy, messy club they have become.”
Real Rob-bery
Robert Pires has revealed Arsene Wenger sent a private plane to snatch him for Arsenal ahead of Real Madrid and Juventus.
Wenger swooped for the legendary French winger 22 years ago, turning him into a star member of the Gunners’ 2003-4 Invincibles.
But Pires admits he was a Real fan as a kid and even posed in a Madrid top shortly before Arsenal leapt in to sign him from Marseille.
The 1998 World Cup winner, 48, told L’Equipe: “In 2000, I was lucky to have Real, Juve, Arsenal…A very hard choice.
“Everyone told me that I was crazy not to have gone to Real. 
“It was very heated though. I even took the photo with the Real jersey during the Euros in Belgium! For the newspaper AS, I believe. 
“And everything happened very quickly.
“Arsene (Wenger) called me and upset my plans… he sends me a plane, I pass the medical visit and I sign.”
Zouma cat storms
West Ham fans have been blasted for a ‘vile’ Kurt Zouma chant in the wake of the defender’s cat-kicking shame.
His name was loudly booed by home and away fans alike when he was included in the Hammers’ starting line-up for the Watford clash earlier this week.
But now certain Irons fans seem to have made light of the situation with a chant joking about the incident.
Outraged supporters have since taken to social media to condemn the offensive lyrics
TV funnyman Adil Ray tweeted a clip of fans singing the chant and captioned it: “Rewarded with a chant. Vile.”
Not a long Sess
Antonio Conte has been slammed by Spurs fans after hauling off Ryan Sessegnon after just 28 minutes.
A pair of Hugo Lloris blunders saw the team suffer a third straight Premier League defeat.
Spurs were two goals down by the time Sessegnon got yanked from the game.
One Twitter user said: “Conte making a public substitution of Sessegnon. This will completely ruin the player’s confidence. Toxic.”
Another said: “Manager-in-his-prime, Antonio Conte publicly substituting young Ryan Sessegnon before half time.
“I hope Gary Lineker and the rest of the English media have a word with him about it.”
Derby’s fightback plan revealed
Derby County are ready to turn the tables on the EFL — and make a compensation claim if they finish below Reading.
The Rams administrators and their advisers have studied a legal report the League are using to justify Middlesbrough and Wycombe asking millions from them.
The EFL have classed the pair as having ‘football related debts’, which means Derby have to deal with the problem and possibly look for money at the end of the season.
Derby were docked nine points for Financial Fair Play offences — on top of 12 for going into administration.
But Reading were only penalised six points for their offences under the EFL rules.
If the gap between the pair is three points or less after 46 games it could lead to another club versus club legal claim.
Derby’s argument will be that they were hit with more points than Reading — the same kind of technicality that has caused them such grief with Boro and Wycombe.
Should Rooney’s men go down and Reading escape then the Rams intend to quote the EFL legal ruling by top lawyers  Stephenson Harwood that is currently being used against them
Prem player attack scandal
A Premier League star was arrested over an attack on his girlfriend after she called the police.
The player, tipped for international honours, was nicked when cops swooped on his home.
He is also said to have sent her abusive late-night messages.
The player hired lawyers before agreeing a payout to her — thought to be a five-figure sum — in an out-of-court settlement.
Don’t Tripp
Kieiran Trippier scored the winner for Newcastle against Aston Villa – then left the stadium on CRUTCHES.
The England international struck a sweet freekick on 35 minutes to seal three crucial points for the Magpies.
But he was subbed off just three minutes into the second-half with a knock to his foot.
And the 31-year-old was later spotted leaving St James’ Park on crutches with a protective boot.
Toon boss Eddie Howe later confirmed the right-back had been taken to hospital for an x-ray.
Con job
Antonio Conte has admitted that his Spurs team aren’t even good enough for the Europa League after their loss to Wolves.
Speaking after the game he said: “There are a lot of jobs to do but it is not simple because the environment is used to play for Champions League, Europa League, but everyone maybe has to realise something has changed and you have to try to work to build again and we have to know this.
“I am trying with my players to do everything to improve the situaiton but the enviornment has to understand which is our position in this moment.”
Chelsea intensify Kounde chase
Chelsea are reportedly set to revive their interest in Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde with Thomas Tuchel desperate to sign the Frenchman.
The 23-year-old saw a switch to Stamford Bridge fall through in the summer after the Spanish side priced him out of a move.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Tuchel has made signing Kounde his No1 priority.
He tweeted: “Chelsea have Jules Kounde as top target in their summer list, as reported days ago.”
Chelsea target Brighton defender Webster
Chelsea are considering a summer splash for Brighton’s Adam Webster, according to reports.
The Mirror reports that Webster, 27, is being considered by the new world champions.
The Englishman has been in fine form for the south coast club.
So much so that he has been tipped for a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad.
Zouma storm rages on
Graeme Souness and Jamie Carragher clashed over Kurt Zouma ahead of West Ham’s trip to Leicester.
Zouma was selected in the starting line-up for the second consecutive match despite the abuse of his cat being made public, but illness ruled him out of starting.
Carragher defended Zouma in terms of the pressure he has been under and the backlash he faced, but Souness had little sympathy.
Carragher said: “You don’t know what he’s been through in terms of scrutiny.”
But Souness dryly hit back quickly: “Not as much as the cat has been through.
“I’ve not no sympathy for him. The fact that they put it on social media, means they think there is nothing wrong with it.
“For me, I wouldn’t have played him again this year and if I was still a player, I wouldn’t want to play in a team with him.
“They’ve mismanaged it from day one, for me, I wouldn’t have played him again this year.”
Zouma support
Some West Ham fans have reportedly come out in support of Kurt Zouma amid his cat abuse controversy.
Hours before the Hammers’ game against Leicester, a portion of Hammers fans were allegedly captured singing a chant in favour of Zouma and kicking an inflatable cat, Football.London reported.

Newcastle vs Aston Villa delayed
Newcastle clash against Aston Villa was temporarily halted following a medical emergency in the stands.
Play was stopped late in the second half after referee Craig Pawson was alerted to the situation.
Magpies gaffer Eddie Howe and Villans manager Steven Gerrard were seen pointing towards the fan in an attempt to stop the match.
Commenting on the incident, Newcastle tweeted: “Play has been halted due to an incident in the Gallowgate Stand.”
Pawson suspended play in the 74th minute to allow the supporter to receive attention.
He then resumed the match two minutes later.

Wayne of the game
Wayne Rooney posed for a selfie with a young pitch invader after the plucky fan dodged stewards to sprint halfway up the pitch.
The Derby manager, 36, took charge of his side away at Middlesbrough on Saturday.
And with his side 3-1 down in the 84th minute, Wazza was suddenly joined in the dugout by the kid wearing a Manchester United home shirt.
The lad then leaned up against his hero Rooney with his phone in hand to grab the priceless photo.
The United and England record goalscorer put his arm around the youngster, almost shielding him from security personnel.
And once he had got the snap, Rooney twizzled him around away from the approaching fourth official.
The cheeky supporter then darted back down the touchline at the Riverside, cutting across the corner of the pitch then hopping the advertising boardings to get back to his seat.
Tuch of class
Thomas Tuchel has dedicated the Club World Cup win to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
Abramovich, 55, was in Abu Dhabi to celebrate the Blues becoming world champions.
And Tuchel, who has had instant success since joining the West London club, took the time to congratulate Abramovich.
The German boss admitted: “I said, ‘It is for you and it is your club. Your input and passion that made it possible.’
“The trophy is for him.”
Ll-ou gotta be kidding
Hugo Lloris made two blunders inside the opening 18 minutes to gift Wolves a 2-0 lead at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
First the Tottenham captain failed to deal two Wolves shots, parring the ball out to Raul Jimenez who volleyed in from 12 yards out.
And the goalkeeper did not respond well, giving away possession too easily to Daniel Podence, whose shot was turned in by Leonardo Dendoncker on the rebound.
His performance was so bad Wolves fans sarcastically cheered when he managed to catch a cross.
Spurs fans defy owners
Tottenham fans ignored their club’s orders by chanting the Y-word in the first minute of their match against Wolves.
Spurs were playing for the first time since a statement posted on Thursday.
And a large section of the supporters inside the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium refused to follow the advice.
There were loud chants of: “Thing I love most is being Y**.”
This was followed by: “We’ll sing what we want.”
And another rendition of ‘Y** Army’ was belted out by the home faithful.
Chelsea join elite group
Chelsea’s victory over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup final means they have now won EVERY major trophy.
And in becoming world champions Chelsea have become part of an elite club – only four other European teams have won every major trophy.
It is a difficult feat to achieve with Real Madrid missing out because they never won the Cup Winners Cup.
That means they will never be part of the group which boasts Manchester United, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Ajax as members.
Jot gonna make it
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has explained why Diogo Jota won’t be in the Reds’ starting line-up against Burnley today.
Jota picked up a dead leg when Liverpool beat Leicester mid-week, and now Sadio Mane will replace the ex-Wolves star.
Klopp said: “Jota was due to start, with Sadio coming from the bench today but Jota had a dead leg and couldn’t train yesterday.
“Now he looks fine but we were not sure.”
Luk to me
Didier Drogba has backed Romelu Lukaku to finally become a Chelsea hit.
Lukaku has been a disappointment since his £97.5million return to the club from Inter Milan but scored the first goal – his tenth of the season – in Saturday’s 2-1 Club World Cup final success over Palmeiras.
Chelsea ambassador Drogba, who was in the UAE, said: “Is it a turning point? Yes, I hope. We all hope for that because it is important for the club.
“He put himself under a certain amount of pressure by coming back to the club where he started.
“It is difficult and you come back because you want to prove a point, but he’s winning and I think he’s going to make it.”

Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.And Bayern Munich’s Thomas Muller has also been accused of animal cruelty after his racehorse was injured while “rehearsing” for the breeding season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Newcastle vs Aston Villa delayed
Newcastle clash against Aston Villa was temporarily halted following a medical emergency in the stands.
Play was stopped late in the second half after referee Craig Pawson was alerted to the situation.
Magpies gaffer Eddie Howe and Villans manager Steven Gerrard were seen pointing towards the fan in an attempt to stop the match.
Commenting on the incident, Newcastle tweeted: “Play has been halted due to an incident in the Gallowgate Stand.”
Pawson suspended play in the 74th minute to allow the supporter to receive attention.
He then resumed the match two minutes later.

Wayne of the game
Wayne Rooney posed for a selfie with a young pitch invader after the plucky fan dodged stewards to sprint halfway up the pitch.
The Derby manager, 36, took charge of his side away at Middlesbrough on Saturday.
And with his side 3-1 down in the 84th minute, Wazza was suddenly joined in the dugout by the kid wearing a Manchester United home shirt.
The lad then leaned up against his hero Rooney with his phone in hand to grab the priceless photo.
The United and England record goalscorer put his arm around the youngster, almost shielding him from security personnel.
And once he had got the snap, Rooney twizzled him around away from the approaching fourth official.
The cheeky supporter then darted back down the touchline at the Riverside, cutting across the corner of the pitch then hopping the advertising boardings to get back to his seat.
Tuch of class
Thomas Tuchel has dedicated the Club World Cup win to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
Abramovich, 55, was in Abu Dhabi to celebrate the Blues becoming world champions.
And Tuchel, who has had instant success since joining the West London club, took the time to congratulate Abramovich.
The German boss admitted: “I said, ‘It is for you and it is your club. Your input and passion that made it possible.’
“The trophy is for him.”
Ll-ou gotta be kidding
Hugo Lloris made two blunders inside the opening 18 minutes to gift Wolves a 2-0 lead at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
First the Tottenham captain failed to deal two Wolves shots, parring the ball out to Raul Jimenez who volleyed in from 12 yards out.
And the goalkeeper did not respond well, giving away possession too easily to Daniel Podence, whose shot was turned in by Leonardo Dendoncker on the rebound.
His performance was so bad Wolves fans sarcastically cheered when he managed to catch a cross.
Spurs fans defy owners
Tottenham fans ignored their club’s orders by chanting the Y-word in the first minute of their match against Wolves.
Spurs were playing for the first time since a statement posted on Thursday.
And a large section of the supporters inside the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium refused to follow the advice.
There were loud chants of: “Thing I love most is being Y**.”
This was followed by: “We’ll sing what we want.”
And another rendition of ‘Y** Army’ was belted out by the home faithful.
Chelsea join elite group
Chelsea’s victory over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup final means they have now won EVERY major trophy.
And in becoming world champions Chelsea have become part of an elite club – only four other European teams have won every major trophy.
It is a difficult feat to achieve with Real Madrid missing out because they never won the Cup Winners Cup.
That means they will never be part of the group which boasts Manchester United, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Ajax as members.
Jot gonna make it
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has explained why Diogo Jota won’t be in the Reds’ starting line-up against Burnley today.
Jota picked up a dead leg when Liverpool beat Leicester mid-week, and now Sadio Mane will replace the ex-Wolves star.
Klopp said: “Jota was due to start, with Sadio coming from the bench today but Jota had a dead leg and couldn’t train yesterday.
“Now he looks fine but we were not sure.”
Luk to me
Didier Drogba has backed Romelu Lukaku to finally become a Chelsea hit.
Lukaku has been a disappointment since his £97.5million return to the club from Inter Milan but scored the first goal – his tenth of the season – in Saturday’s 2-1 Club World Cup final success over Palmeiras.
Chelsea ambassador Drogba, who was in the UAE, said: “Is it a turning point? Yes, I hope. We all hope for that because it is important for the club.
“He put himself under a certain amount of pressure by coming back to the club where he started.
“It is difficult and you come back because you want to prove a point, but he’s winning and I think he’s going to make it.”

Tierney ‘good enough’ for Real
Rangers icon Barry Ferguson reckons Kieran Tierney is capable of making a step up to represent football giants Real Madrid.
The Scot was linked with a move to the Bernabeu this week by Spanish outlet El Espanyol.
Ferguson told Go Radio: “I could 100% see him playing at Real Madrid. Arsenal are a big club but they are struggling to force their way into England’s top four.
“When Kieran Tierney went down to England and produced good performances, there was no doubt in my mind that he could go to the best about.”
Liverpool battle Tottenham for Zaniolo
Liverpool are reportedly considering a move to sign Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo, according to Calciomercato.
The news will alert Spurs, who are thought to also be tracking the 22-year-old.
Zaniolo’s future with Roma is uncertain, with the Serie A club reportedly open to selling the midfielder.
And they have an asking price of £33.5million which could lead both clubs to challenge for his siganture.
‘Go and sign for Bournemouth’
Richard Keys has slammed Cristiano Ronaldo as being “part of the problem” at Manchester United.
And he thinks Ronaldo should leave now, claimign his attitude is having a negative effect on his team-mates.
Keys said on BeIN Sports: “Jorge Mendes was talking to senior Manchester United executives about (Ronaldo) leaving at the end of the season.
“My own view of that is that he should he leave now.
“I’ve been of the opinion all season long that I think he’s as much a part of the problem – not the whole problem – as anything and anybody else.
“The other night, when he went running down the tunnel at Turf Moor, having recently lectured everyone about being the leader he believes himself to be and that youngsters don’t do the sorts of things he does…how does that encourage team spirit in the dressing room?
“Go and sign for Bournemouth and you’ll play every week.”
Christensen linked to Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich are interested in Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen, according to German outlet Abendzeitung.
Christensen is out of contract in the summer and has attracted the interest of Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund.
But after Bayern centre-back Niklas Sule agreed a pre-contract deal with Dortmund the German champions could make a move for Christensen.
Chelsea have been keen to keep the Dane but so far he has not shown any signs of penning a new deal.
Milner to extend Liverpool stay
Liverpool are gearing up for another round of contract talks after Jurgen Klopp ruled out retirement for Reds general James Milner.
Liverpool have plans afoot to offer Milner a new contract which would see the midfielder enter his 20th season as a professional, and rule out the possibility of retirement.
In Klopp’s words, there is “no chance” the veteran hangs up his boots just yet.
He said: “Talks will happen with Milly. We will see.
“There is no chance he will retire next year. He is desperate to play on. I understand that. Life after football is much longer than your career so it makes sense to extend playing as long as you can, it is better than other things.
“Milly will be fine after his career as well but he obviously loves what he is doing and he will play football next year, definitely.”
Man City favourites for Haaland
Manchester City are increasingly confident about signing Erling Haaland this summer.
The Premier League champions believe they are in pole position to beat off competition from fellow European giants Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
City are ready to pay the £63million release clause in Haaland’s Borussia Dortmund contract, plus a further £35m in commissions to agent Mino Raiola and others.
That combined initial cost of nearly £100m, plus the Norway striker’s demands for a net annual salary of £30m, puts the deal out of reach for all but the richest clubs.
Real Madrid’s No1 summer target is PSG frontman Kylian Mbappe. If the Spanish side managed to strike that deal then PSG would be very much in the market for a high-profile replacement in the shape of Haaland.
Liverpool to hijack Spurs again?
Antonio Conte’s Tottenham Hotspur have made an offer to Franck Kessie, who is also wanted by Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, according to Sport.
The 25-year-old central midfielder is out of contact at Milan at the end of the season.
Barcelona are also keen on Kessie, according to Sport, who have added that Tottenham managing director of football Fabio Paratici wanted to sign him for Juventus and is now prioritising bringing him to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
However, Liverpool are reportedly a big threat from the Premier League to Tottenham for Kessie.
Marca reported this week that Liverpool are keen on signing the Ivory Coast international central midfielder on a free transfer in the summer of 2022.
Chelsea rival Newcastle for Webster
Newcastle United face a battle with Chelsea for the signature of Brighton defender Adam Webster, according to a report from the Sunday Mirror.
The Magpies signed Dan Burn from Brighton last month, having failed in a bid for Webster.
Newcastle continue to monitor Webster but Chelsea are also now said to be interested in signing the defender.
The Blues could lose Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen for nothing in the summer, so the club is targeting potential replacements.
West Ham chase Youri Tielemans
West Ham United are eyeing an audacious move for Leicester City star Youri Tielemans amid question marks over his future with the Foxes.
That’s according to 90Min, who claim that West Ham are keen on luring Tielemans to East London at the end of the season.
It’s stated that Tielemans isn’t interested in renewing his contract with Leicester and his representatives are making that stance clear.
Cavani to leave in summer
Edinson Cavani is eyeing a free transfer to LaLiga in the summer as he looks set to leave Manchester United.
The Uruguayan striker’s contract at Old Trafford expires at the end of the season.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, he is not expected to sign a renewal to stay on in the North-West.
Instead, the report adds Cavani would prefer a switch to Spain.
Good morning all football fans
Chelsea have been crowned as Club World Cup champions after a 2-1 win against Brazilian side Palmeiras.
Romelu Lukaku broke the deadlock with a fine header, before Raphael Veiga equalised from the penalty spot.
And with the game heading for penalties after no goals in extra-time, the Blues were awarded a spot-kick in the 177th minute after Juan handled Cesar Azpilicueta’s shot.
Up stepped Kai Havertz – match-winner from the Champions League final over Manchester City – to tuck home into the bottom left corner.
The victory means that Chelsea have now won every major trophy there is to win at club level.
In other news, Tottenham have reportedly hijacked Barcelona’s move for Franck Kessie by tabling a ‘powerful offer’ for the AC Milan midfielder.
Kessie is out of contract at the end of the season and was thought to have agreed terms with Barcelona over a free transfer.
But now Spurs have put a spanner in the works with an offer of their own, according to Sport.
Meanwhile, Birmingham fans lobbed TENNIS BALLS onto the pitch in protest against the club’s owners.
The Blues welcomed Luton Town to St Andrew’s for the Championship clash on Saturday.
And players and stewards were left with a first-half clean-up job as supporters threw tennis balls from the stands.
And finally, Reading fans stormed onto the Madejski pitch following their 3-2 loss against Coventry to leave them two points above the relegation zone.
It was the Royals’ seventh Championship defeat in a row and supporters made their feelings known towards boss Veljko Paunovic.
A section of supporters raced onto the pitch as the club’s 150th anniversary game turned into a nightmare.
Inside Chelsea’s Club World Cup celebrations
Chelsea celebrated their Club World Cup triumph with injured team-mates – and some dodgy dancing.
The Blues dispatched cup rivals Palmeiras with a Kai Havertz penalty in extra-time.
Victory at Abu Dhabi’s Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium saw Chelsea clinch the one trophy that had evaded them in the Roman Abramovich era.
And it sparked jubilant scenes among their stars on the field and those who were still in the treatment room.
England’s flying full-backs Reece James and Ben Chilwell have been long-term absentees for boss Thomas Tuchel.
But they were able to join the squad in the Middle East to cheer on their mates.
And the pair were among the chief cheerleaders in the changing room once the trophy was secured.
Read more HERE.

Maguire’s pace worries Owen
Former Man Utd striker Michael Owen has spoke of his fear that Harry Maguire’s lack of pace is a real problem for the club.
Speaking after the 1-1 draw against Southampton, Owen told Premier League Productions: “I did fear for him and that was quite embarrassing.
“He’s got no pace at the best of times but he was outwitted there (by Armando Broja). Then you’re thinking don’t try to redeem your mistake, he just got away with it and I don’t think it was a penalty.
“But you are fearful when he’s running towards him man you think are you going to try to do something stupid but he just gets away with it.
“His lack of pace is a real problem. We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again. The goal, he could have been squeezing up but he’s petrified of that space in behind.”
Merson blasts Arsenal’s contract policy
Paul Merson has urged Arsenal to focus on securing the futures of their young stars like Buyako Saka instead of on older players like Alexandre Lacazette.
Merson said to the Daily Star: “Arsenal have young players who have come through the ranks and are getting paid next to nothing compared to him.
“They are the ones the club needs to be sorting out.
“It’s an absolute joke. Arsenal have got to tie these kids down. Give THEM the money.
“It’s players like Saka who need new contracts. Not players like Lacazette.”
Have it your way
Kai Havertz once again proved to be the hero as his 117th-minute penalty crowned Chelsea champions of the world.
The 22-year-old German held his nerve at the death in the 2-1 Club World Cup win over Palmeiras.
The game then looked to be heading for penalties, only for Cesar Azpilicueta’s effort to be handled by defender Luan.
With Jorginho on the bench and Lukaku already substituted, Havertz stepped up to take the crucial kick.
And he said: “I was the third penalty taker but I was the only one left on the pitch.
“My team-mates gave me trust. I dreamed always as a kid of this. This is an amazing feeling for me.”
De light of the show
Man United star Donny van de Beek was the star of the show on his debut for loan side Everton in their win over Leeds.
According to planetfootball, The Dutch ace passed with precision and achieved an accuracy rate of 89.5%.
He also won three aerial duels against The Whites, which was highest out of anyone on the pitch.
De Beek’s defensive talents were also on show and he recorded the most tackles during the Premier League clash with four successful challenges.
The 24-year-old rounded off his robust display by winning the most possession in the middle of the pitch on six occassions.
Grealish’s injury scare
Jack Grealish could be out of action for at least a MONTH after sustaining an injury during training this week.
The 26-year-old star was not in the squad for Man City’s fixture against Norwich on Saturday.
In his pre-match interview prior to City’s 4-0 win, Pep Guardiola confirmed that Grealish was unavailable due to the injury.
He said: “Jack Grealish is injured.
“He has the same problem that he had last season with Villa.
“He trained after the game against Brentford, we did a test but he was not ready today, but hopefully [he will be ready] next Tuesday.”

Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.And Bayern Munich’s Thomas Muller has also been accused of animal cruelty after his racehorse was injured while “rehearsing” for the breeding season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Messi mixes brands
Lionel Messi stars in Paris Saint-Germain’s latest Nike kit launch… despite wearing adidas boots.
The French giants unveiled their latest mid-season Nike x Jordan design in a campaign that features the likes of Messi, Kylian Mbappe and other stars.
But in featuring Messi, photographers were forced to get creative to hide his rival adidas footwear.
In some images, a box with the words ‘Jordan Paris Saint-Germain Spring 22′ written sits at Messi’s feet.
While in another Mbappe sits on the floor, his outstretched leg blocking view of Leo’s boots.

Tottenham’s transfer plans
Tottenham will look to sign young players and those with expiring contracts in the summer, according to reports.
Spurs’ director of football Fabio Paratici is thought to have identified three players that the club will try to secure at the end of the season.
According to The Mail, the first name on that shortlist is Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly.
The U18 French international’s deal with the Ligue 1 side is set to be up at the end of the current campaign.
And Paratici, who has connections in the French transfer market, will look to take full advantage of that by luring him to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Looking away from England
Fifa has approved on-loan Leicester ace Ademola Lookman’s nationality switch from England to Nigeria.
Lookman, 24, came through the youth ranks with England at both U19 and U21 level.
But with Lookman far off a senior international call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad, Lookman decided he’d make the switch to play for Nigeria.
And according to The Associated Press, Fifa have approved the switch.
Shearer’s statue’s on the move
Alan Shearer statue is finally set to be moved on to Newcastle home turf… six years after it was erected.
The £250,000 sculpture was put up outside St James’ Park by the city council way back in 2016.
But former owner Mike Ashley refused to have it on the grounds owned by Newcastle United.
However, as reported by the Newcastle Chronicle, a change in ownership looks on course to mean a change in location.
Planning application has been submitted to get the 16ft bronze bust brought inside the Toon’s official boundary.
If there are no objections, the switch should get the green light.
Southampton troll Antonio Conte
Southampton have brutally trolled Antonio Conte after the Tottenham boss ‘shushed them’… only to later lose.
The Italian, 52, was clearly upset at something that occurred during the match and let his emotions get the better of him.
And he was evidently feeling boastful after Son Heung-min scored to put his side 2-1 up with 20 minutes to go.
Conte turned towards the Saints bench, put his finger to his lip and began to shush his opposite bench.
But unfortunately for Conte he was left to rue that act as Southampton scored twice in five minutes to turn the game on its head.
And it was Southampton manager Ralph Hassenhuttl who had the last laugh as his side came away with a 3-2 win.
The Saints social media admin also had a good chuckle, posting a video of the shush before cutting to a miserable looking Conte at full-time.
And several Saints fans also chimed in to mock the Italian.
Broj of honour
Chelsea loanee Armando Broja was seen beating the Southampton badge on his chest after scoring in Thursday’s 3-2 win at Tottenham.
The striker, 19, netted his sixth Premier League goal of the season as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s Saints completed an incredible comeback in north London.
Reports claim Southampton are willing to break their transfer record with a £25million bid for Broja this summer.
And the Albanian international did little to downplay talks of a permanent move as he proudly beat the Saints crest on his jersey after a 23rd minute equaliser against Spurs.
It prompted Southampton fans to dream of an incredible summer heist, having already pinched top young right-back Tino Livramento from Stamford Bridge.
One gushed: “We gotta buy him.”
In the wink of an eye
Harry Winks thought his Tottenham career was ‘dead and buried’ under Jose Mourinho and Nuno Espirito Santo.
The Spurs academy product and lifelong fan feared his time at his boyhood idols was up when he was frozen out by his previous two bosses.
But new boss Antonio Conte has brought him back in from the cold to the first-team since taking over in November.
Winks said: “The manager’s come in and given me a chance, given me confidence again.
“Every game I play, every training session I have that hunger to try to impress him and do everything I can to try to improve.
“My career at Tottenham was probably dead and buried but he’s come in and given me an opportunity to show myself and prove myself.
“And for that, every time I get an opportunity I really want to impress the manager and show myself and repay that faith he’s shown in me and put it back to me.”
Real love in Paris
Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain’s owners will have dinner together on Valentine’s Day, according to reports.
The two clubs have not always seen eye to eye with Real’s approach for Kylian Mbappe putting a strain on relations.
But with Mbappe’s future uncertain the pair are set to meet in a bid to clear the air and improve their relationship.
Real president Florentino Perez and his PSG counterpart Nasser Al-Khelaifi will sit down for dinner before their teams play in the Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday, report Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV.
The meeting will take place in Paris as the French side host Real the following day.
Joe Cole’s got faith in Lampard
Joe Cole is backing ex-Chelsea pal Frank Lampard to ‘definitely keep Everton up’ this season for three key reasons.
Lampard, 43, was confirmed as Rafa Benitez’s successor last month – a year after he was sacked by the Blues.
Cole told Coral: “The Everton job is a great opportunity for Frank, one of the best. You will never get a better chance to take Everton up the table.
“They still have an owner who is committed and will spend money, the fans hated the previous manager so will get behind you, and the players have been underperforming but will get better.
“He will definitely keep them up. Give it a couple of weeks and results will begin to turn and I don’t think they will be in a relegation battle.
“Then next season he can really get to work with backing from the owner and a new stadium on the horizon. The future looks so bright.”
England’s World Cup rankings
England have been confirmed as top seeds for the 2022 World Cup – despite dropping one place in the latest Fifa world rankings.
Gareth Southgate’s side were leapfrogged by Argentina – who won their World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia – to fall to fifth.
But with the top seven in the rankings joining hosts Qatar in the elite group of eight for the April 1 draw in Doha, England cannot lose their top berth.
Belgium, Brazil and France are ahead of Argentina and England in the latest rankings while seventh-placed Spain are also guaranteed a seeding spot.
And the final seed will be either Italy or Portugal – assuming one of them wins their World Cup play-off mini-group next month.
If neither go through, it would open the door for Denmark or Holland to sneak into the top seeding bracket.
Meanwhile, Brazil are set to end Belgium’s three and a half year reign at the top of the rankings when they complete their qualifying campaign next month, with the Red Devils only playing friendlies.
Of the other Home Nations, Wales stay 20th, Scotland are 40th and Northern Ireland 54th.
Man United’s new sponsors
Man United have announced a £20million-a-year kit sponsorship with blockchain platform Tezos.
The brand will feature on both the men’s and women’s training kits.
United‘s training kit has been left bare so far this season after their deal with Aon expired last season.
Tezos’ branded kit will make its debut this week ahead of United’s first-team game against Southampton.
Arsenal keen on keeping Saka
Arsenal will hold talks with Bukayo Saka over a new contract.
The exciting 20-year-old still has two more years to run on his current agreement, which is thought to be worth just £35,000 a week.
But Mikel Arteta wants to recognise Saka’s increasing importance to his team by making him one of the highest-paid players at the club.
With Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United all monitoring Saka’s situation, Arteta knows that Arsenal’s position will be enhanced if they can secure Champions League qualification this season.
The Gunners boss said: “We are going to have a conversation with the player and then with his family and his agent so that everybody is on board.
“Obviously our desire is to keep Bukayo for as long as possible because we are really happy with him.
“He is part of our DNA who is growing and maturing all the time.
“His importance to the team is unquestionable and we want to keep our best talent at the club, that’s for sure.”
Prem clubs financial winners and losers
Man United and Arsenal have made staggering transfer losses in the last five years.
The two Premier League giants have made losses north of £150million.
United’s reckless spending has put them in a hole to the tune of £192m.
Arsenal don’t look any better with the Gunners recording a loss of £163m in the past five years.
Fellow members of the ‘Big Six’, Manchester City and Tottenham, have also made losses in player sales.
City are in the red by £132m whereas Spurs are only at £52m.
On the other hand, Liverpool and Chelsea have turned a profit on player sales in the last five years.
Liverpool are up by a tasty £93m and Chelsea have made an eye watering £199m.
Calls for Zouma prosecution
Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted for animal cruelty as more than 150,000 people sign a petition calling for justice.
More than 150,000 Brits have signed a petition calling for the Met to launch a probe.
The Change.org petition, started by Matthew Dixon, says: “Professional football player Kurt Zouma was filmed horrendously abusing a defenceless animal.
“He should be prosecuted for his actions.”
Muller accused of animal cruelty
Thomas Muller has become the latest footballer to be accused of animal cruelty… after his prize stallion was injured ‘rehearsing’ for the breeding season.
Germany striker Muller has been blasted by animal rights charity Peta after revealing the bizarre injury suffered by his horse D’Avie, referred to as ‘Dave’.
Peta spokesperson Jana Hoger fumed: “It is awful that self-styled horse lovers force the animals in their care into unnatural sex acts in order to make the maximum profit from them.
“The injuries that D’Avie suffered under Lisa and Thomas Muller’s supervision were avoidable and unnecessary.”
Antonio’s view on Zouma row
Michail Antonio has given a powerful response following West Ham team-mate Kurt Zouma’s horrific cat attack.
The 27-year-old Frenchman has received widespread criticism for the sickening clip which showed him kicking and slapping his pet cat.
Antonio turned things around on an interviewer when he was quizzed about the incident.
The West Ham striker said: “I’ve got a question for you. So, do you think what he has done is worse than racism?”
To which the interviewer responded: “It’s two different things isn’t it.”
Antonio then continued: “I’m not condoning a thing that he has done. I don’t agree with what he has done at all.
“But there’s people that have been convicted and caught for racism and they have played football afterwards.
“They got punished, they got an eight-game punishment or something like that. But people are now calling for people to be sacked, to lose their livelihood.
“I’ve just got to ask this question to everybody out there. Is what he’s done [Zouma] worse than what the people have done that are convicted for racism?”
Not Keane on Sunderland job
Roy Keane is OUT of the running for the vacant Sunderland job.
The Manchester United legend managed the Black Cats between 2006-08 and looked certain to return after two interviews in the last week with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.
According to The Athletic, it is thought that Keane was offered the position on Wednesday.
But as of Thursday morning, Keane will NOT be the man on the touchline at the Stadium of Light.
Keane is said to be no longer under consideration for the role.
Arsenal’s Saka contract worry
Arsenal are reportedly concerned they could struggle to tie Bukayo Saka down to a new contract.
The Mail claims Gunners chiefs have made it a priority to extend the deal of their brightest star, 20.
Saka’s current contract expires in 2024, and Arsenal want to boost his £35,000-a-week wages to match their highest earners.
However, those behind the scenes are concerned that Saka could snub an extension should Mikel Arteta fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
And Champions League veterans Liverpool and Man City are said to be interested in the winger.
Moonpig’s Ronaldo card backlash
Moonpig have removed a Cristiano Ronaldo Valentine’s Day card and apologised for its distasteful content.
The product was being sold on their website but has now been taken down after backlash.
The front of the card featured Ronaldo in a Manchester United kit underneath the words: “Nothing will stop me scoring this Valentine’s Day.”
In light of Ronaldo being accused of sexual assault by Kathryn Mayorga, Moonpig have apologised for any upset caused.
Ronaldo has consistently denied claims he sexually assaulted Mayorga.
Man United target’s wage demands
Man United transfer target Manuel Akanji reportedly wants to DOUBLE his wages as Borussia Dortmund set their asking price for the defender.
Dortmund have been trying to tie him down to a new deal – improving his contract worth £4.2million to a more lucrative £6.75m.
But Akanji has refused to sign as he is holding out for a figure in the region of £8.4m.
Liverpool need more than Diaz
Glen Johnson reckons Liverpool need more than Luis Diaz to help them catch Prem league leaders Man City.
Johnson thinks Diaz will be a good addition to the Reds’ squad, but he doubts one signing is enough for Jurgen Klopp’s side to close the gap between them and City.
Speaking to bettingodds.com, Johnson said: “I’m excited and he’s a good player. He looks like he’s already settled but I don’t want to judge him too soon.
“His signing will have given other players a boost, but if they want to catch Manchester City then they’re going to need a boost.
“I don’t think one player is good enough to bridge the gap with Manchester City, but I do think they’ve made a good addition to their squad.
“Luis Díaz will be knocking on the door for a place in the first eleven. If they were aiming to close the gap quicker then they may have needed a couple more players of the same quality to come in.”
Spurs line up NFL hosting bid
Tottenham are reportedly preparing a stunning bid to host the 2026 Super Bowl at their new £1billion stadium.
It would be the first time ever the NFL showpiece is staged on foreign soil.
As first revealed by SunSport back in 2019, the North Londoners are lining up their offer should the grand finale be taken overseas.
Spurs already have a ten-year contract in place to stage two matches per season at their new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
However, as reported by the Daily Mail, they may face hurdles hosting the 2026 Super Bowl due to the time difference.
It would need to be a very late kick-off in London to hit the prime US viewing slot, with more than 100million usually watching the biggest event of the year.
That could cause problems with Haringey Council – but an earlier time may put off advertisers if viewing figures will drop.
West Ham lose second sponsor
A second West Ham sponsor has withdrawn support for the club after Kurt Zouma was recorded kicking one of his cats like a football.
Experience Kissimmee, the tourism authority for Osceola County in Florida, has now dropped its support of West Ham.
In a tweet, the organisation said: “Experience Kissimmee announced today that it has ended its sponsorship of West Ham United Football Club.”
Vitality has also suspended its sponsorship with “immediate effect”.
The company said it was “hugely disappointed” by the club after Zouma was allowed to play – hours after The Sun exclusively revealed the video.
France manager Deschamps slams Zouma
France manager Didier Deschamps has slammed defender Kurt Zouma after the emergence of a video showing him abusing his cat.
 Deschamps is just the latest individual in football to condemn Zouma’s actions.
He said: “I was very surprised by Kurt. This is something that is inadmissible, intolerable and cruelty without a name.
“I’m sure he became aware of it but these images are shocking and unbearable.”
Mourinho explains Sanchez’s Man United hell
Jose Mourinho has revealed why Alexis Sanchez was not happy at Manchester United.
The Chilean international arrived at Old Trafford in January 2018 following four impressive years with Arsenal.
But he failed to replicate that level of performance for the Red Devils, scoring just five times in 45 games.
Eventually, in the summer of 2019, he secured a move to Inter Milan – where he still is now.
And Roma boss Mourinho, who coached Sanchez for the first 12 months of his spell at the Theatre of Dreams, spoke with the player during Inter’s 2-0 win over his side on Tuesday.
He said: “In England he was not happy, it was not his natural habitat, it is here.”
Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.The Metropolitan Police are not investigating the incident, while Zouma’s brother Yoan’s future is in jeopardy with his club Dagenhan & Redbridge after appearing in in the damning footage.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
And Chelsea are over in Abu Dhabi for the Club World Cup this week.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Crock ‘n roll star Wayne
Wayne Rooney has revealed he hid the injury that should have ruled him out of the 2006 World Cup.
In a stunning admission, Rooney admitted that he was not fit to play in the tournament that ended with his red card as England went out on penalties to Portugal at the quarter-finals.
But the Three Lions’ record goalscorer’s problem was NOT the fractured metatarsals that saw Sven-Goran Eriksson go to war with Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Instead, he explained in the Amazon documentary “Rooney”: “The first training session with the team was the next day.
“We went out on to the pitch jogging and there was a ball by the halfway line.
“I kicked it trying to hit the crossbar and pulled my groin. I had a 6cm tear in my groin which I didn’t report to the physios.”
Eriksson, shown footage of Rooney’s confession, admitted “I didn’t know that.”
And Rooney went on: “I don’t know what the fans will think about it. It was naive of course but you want to play, you want to play for your country. I was thinking I will be OK.
“I was never right at that tournament physically. I was getting pain that was non-stop.”
Gerro tips Ramsey for England
Steven Gerrard hailed his two-goal kid sensation Jacob Ramsey and claimed he will be an England star soon.
Villa’s 20-year-old homegrown midfielder expertly polished off two Philippe Coutinho assists – after the little Brazilian cancelled out Dan James’ opener for Leeds – as Villa came from behind to storm into a 3-1 lead.
However James struck again on the stroke of half-time before Diego Llorente earned Leeds a valuable point after the break, before Villa’s Ezri Konsa was sent off late in this six-goal thriller.   
Afterwards Gerrard heaped praise on his midfield starlet and said: “I don’t want to make any headlines, I want Jacob to continue to make his own headlines with his football.
“It’s my job to keep everyone calm. But he’s a top talent and I’m loving every minute of working with him.
“I know the level of the England players, I’ve been around it and know it is only a matter of time in my opinion. But let’s all be sensible and keep calm about it.
“He’s getting stronger and better with each game because we’ve given him a platform to go and express himself. His performance and his finishes tonight were wonderful.
“That’s the type of midfielder we want, someone who can run without the ball, carry the ball, who is dangerous and can score. He’s in a wonderful place at the moment and credit to him and everyone who’s worked with him over the years.”
Zaha fortunes go Upside Down
Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha channelled his inner Diana Ross as he dragged his penalty five yards wide during the 1-1 draw at Norwich.
The Ivory Coast international, 29, went from hero to zero at Carrow Road after he equalised with an emphatic curling strike in the 60th minute.
I thought Ronaldo and Elanga’s penalties were bad the other night.

Zaha whipped in an effort from the edge of the box into the top right corner for one of the best goals of the season.
But he was then guilty of missing one of the worst spot-kicks in Premier League history just THREE minutes later.
The former Manchester United winger stepped up confidently, but his effort trickled past Angus Gunn’s right-hand post.
Zaha’s shot bobbled off his standing foot and away from goal to leave the player shocked by what just happened.about:blank
It turned out to a decisive moment in the match as the Eagles had to settle for a point to make it four top-flight matches without a win.
Unsurprisingly, social media was sent into a meltdown over the miss as fans likened the attempt to Diana Ross’ failed penalty during the USA 1994 World Cup opening show.
Rudi big pay offer
Chelsea have made a huge contract offer to star defender Antonio Rudiger in a bid to stop him leaving in the summer, according to reports.
Rudiger, 28, is said to have turned down a £140k-a-week offer earlier in the season.
GOAL have reported that the Blues have now offered closer to £200k-a-week.

The German international is out of contract at the end of the season and has been strongly linked with a move away.
The club are supposedly desperate for him to stay as they struggle to keep hold of key defenders.
Chelsea are eager to extend the expiring deals of Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen.
Reports also suggest that there are ‘large signing-on fees’ and ‘competitive salary packages’ waiting for the 28-year-old if he lets his contract expire.
European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are believed to have already thrown offers at the Champions League winner.
Nev slams Wag circus
Gary Neville slammed the Wag circus that turned Baden Baden into a paparazzi paradise during the 2006 World Cup.
Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen was one of the leaders of the England players’ partners’ group.
She said: “There were nights when we went out and had a good time but we didn’t do anything wrong.

“The players went out with us and we never dragged them out at the hotel to come out with us.
“Out of all the tournaments I’d say that was the most memorable one that we felt like a big England family.”
But Neville raged: “Elite sports teams should have no distraction.
“It’s a World Cup. We had distractions like you would not believe.
“When I look back on that 2006 tournament and think about how it was handled, the build up to it, that was obviously the Wags and the families travelling, Wayne’s injury, coming late, ‘the big man’s here’ and all that sort of crap, it was just a nonsense.”

‘What can he not do?’
Former Arsenal left-back Armand Traore has backed Manchester United starlet James Garner to reach the top following his dazzling loan displays for Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old linked up with the Reds for the second half of last campaign where he scored four goals in 20 Championship games.
And after committing his long-term future to the Red Devils in August, the England youth international was sent back to the City Ground for the entirety of this term.
Garner has cemented himself as a key player under boss Steve Cooper, with the midfielder supplying one goal and three assists from 27 outings this term.
He starred in Forest’s 4-1 win against Leicester on Sunday where they dumped the FA Cup holders out at the fourth round stage.
Ex-Forest ace Traore told SunSport via Freebets.com, Traore said: “He’s an absolute baller. What a player! And he’s only 20. “You watch him play with such maturity, he reminds me of Xabi Alonso
“This guy makes everything simple and look so easy. He’s hard in the tackle, he’s not scared, his long-range passing, his short range passing is amazing.
“I’ve seen him score goals with both feet, what can he not do? I’d not be surprised if United tried recalling him, but that would a huge mistake for Garner if he did.”

Zouma video made me sick
DAVID SEAMAN: I’LL never forget how Arsenal manager George Graham used to tell us: “Remember who you are, where you are and who you represent.”
Kurt Zouma has very clearly lost sight of who he is representing and has really let his team down.
After The Sun published the video of him abusing that poor cat, so many fans were rightly disgusted.

To see him starting on Tuesday night horrified many Hammers supporters.
When me and my wife Frankie saw the video we felt sick.
We found it really hard to sleep that night. We’re relieved to hear his cats have been taken into care.
After The Sun published the video of him abusing that poor cat, so many fans were rightly disgusted.
To see him starting on Tuesday night horrified many Hammers supporters.
When me and my wife Frankie saw the video we felt sick. We found it really hard to sleep that night. We’re relieved to hear his cats have been taken into care.
Both of us have always had cats and now we have two rescues from Cats Protection — Willow and Smokey.
We also often foster pregnant and feral cats which we keep in their own room — some having been treated horribly in abusive situations. This episode really shows that, no matter who you are, abusing animals is never OK.
Utd players want Poch
Manchester United stars want Mauricio Pochettino to take over in the summer, writes MARTIN BLACKBURN.
The Red Devils are set to step up their search for a permanent boss now new chief executive Richard Arnold is in place.

And the word from the dressing room is that they want former Tottenham chief Poch to get the nod.
Ajax manager Erik ten Hag will also be closely looked at by United’s hierarchy in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile — as SunSport reported last month — interim boss Ralf Rangnick still has an opportunity to convince the board he is the man for the long term.
However the fact that current Paris Saint-Germain coach Pochettino has worked in the Premier League before is seen as a major positive by the current squad.
Devastated Mo might play for Reds
Mo Salah still has the devastating Afcon final shootout loss ‘on his mind’, says Jurgen Klopp.
Egypt captain Salah, 29, missed out on an Afcon title as Reds team-mate Sadio Mane and Senegal took home the trophy.
The Liverpool winger was due to take the fifth and final penalty in the shootout, but unfortunately for Egypt, it didn’t get that far.
Mane buried the winning penalty to help Senegalese win the trophy for the first time.

Klopp told Sky Sports that Salah was back training with his club on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s clash with Leicester.
The Reds boss said: “Yesterday everyone could see he has the final on his mind.
“He’s very disappointed, it was a massive thing.
“Losing a final is always really hard, I can sing that song, but losing the way they did was especially hard.
“He is happy to be back but is disappointed as well, massively so.”
Cout of this world
Philippe Coutinho bagged a goal and two assists but Villa wasted a 3-1 lead to draw.
Here’s our match report from: Aston Villa 3 Leeds 3.
Result: Aston Villa 3 Leeds 3
Ezri Konsa’s late red card left Villa holding on for a draw after they blew a 3-1 lead.
Zaha stunner foils Canaries
Read how Eagles’ main man Wilfried Zaha denied the lowly Canaries victory.
Here’s our match report:Norwich 1 Crystal Palace 1
Rooney trawled Manchester as a kid for fights
Wayne Rooney has admitted he and his pals used to trawl MANCHESTER looking for punch-ups, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
The Scouser who was to become United’s record scorer would make the short trip from Merseyside to watch concerts by some of his favourite bands.
But he always expected the night to end with a major scuffle – and on one occasion he was left with a broken jaw.

Rooney said: “I wasn’t the nicest kid at that age. “I did some things which were wrong and had a lot of fights when I was younger.
“I wouldn’t say I was a bully but there were things I shouldn’t have done and I crossed the line.”
He added: “I don’t know if it was anger. Sometimes you got hit and that’s not nice but I used to get some sort of enjoyment out of it.
“I remember getting my jaw snapped in Manchester. I was about 13 and some guy grabs hold of me and hit me.  He went to hit me again and I just dropped and threw a big haymaker at him and caught him and then I ran off.We wouldn’t go knowing there was going to be a fight but we knew there was a chance. 
“”I’ve come back from Southport with my eye all stitched up and again my mum wasn’t happy. I was probably about 12. You get taught you have to fight to survive.”
Read our Prem reports here
Man City 2 Brentford 0Tottenham 2 Southampton 3
Purple Rush
Ian Rush was on target in the fashion stakes as he donned a statement purple suit for a night out with his model fiancee.
The Liverpool legend took to the red carpet with partner Carol Anthony, who is 22 years his junior.
The pair were attending a reception to celebrate the British Asian Trust at the British Museum in London.

And while Anthony looked stylish in a classy dress-and-shawl combination, it was her hubby turning most heads with his voguish tuxedo.
The couple got engaged back in 2019 after five years of dating. Plans for a secret wedding in Mauritius 12 months later were scuppered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Their relationship flourished just a year after Rush, 60, split with his partner of 25 years, Tracy.
Speaking to the Irish Independent in 2019, former pop star Anthony told of her delight at the announcement.
She said: “We’ve been speaking about it for a long time. “We don’t feel any different as we always knew we would be together for the long haul.
“When we travel together, Ian always introduces me as his wife. Two weeks ago, I corrected him and said, ‘Ian, I’m not your wife.’ He said: ‘Yes, but I want you to be. That is, if you want to be?'”
Andreas off to Flamengo
Manchester United have finalised Andreas Pereira’s £9million permanent switch to loan side Flamengo, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says.
It’s claimed United have also landed a 25% sell-on clause for the one-cap Brazil midfielder, 26.
Credit: Getty
Pereira has also had loan spells with Granada, Valencia and Lazio.
And the Red Devils will surely be happy to offload a player who never won a regular senior place since arriving at Old Trafford in 2011.

United and Milan could vie for Nicolo
AC Milan are said to have joined Manchester United’s pursuit of Roma winger Nicolo Zaniolo.
Calciomercato report journalist Enrico Camelio as claiming the Italian giants have indirectly asked about the Italy star, 22.
It’s thought Roma would consider cashing in for around £45million.
United and Juventus have been the early frontrunners – until now.
Cooper tipped to be top Prem boss
Steve Cooper is destined for a Premier League dugout regardless of whether he guides Nottingham Forest to promotion this season.
That is the view of former Reds left-back Armand Traore who has waxed lyrical over his managerial abilities.
Forest picked up just one point from their opening seven league games under Chris Hughton – but now lie just two points off the play-offs in ninth spot with three wins in their last four Championship games.

Speaking to SunSport via Freebets.com, the ex-Gunners ace said: “It’s been an unbelievable turnaround.
“They’re doing it consistently, they look good, the players know what they’re doing, they know their roles and they’ve got a really young squad which is very important. 
“Steve Cooper has won the World Cup with the Under-17s for England so he knows how to deal with young players.
“With young players, they have no fear, they have hunger and drive. If you couple that with the right coaching and management, it’s a winning combination. 
“If Steve Cooper doesn’t take Forrest into the Premier League, he will end up there as a manager anyway. The job he’s doing is amazing. He’s a very underrated manager.”
Klopp: Sad Salah’s not shaken off Afcon woe
Mo Salah still has the devastating Afcon final shootout loss ‘on his mind’, says Jurgen Klopp.
Egypt captain Salah, 29, missed out on an Afcon title as Reds team-mate Sadio Mane and Senegal took home the trophy.
The Liverpool winger was due to take the fifth and final penalty in the shootout, but unfortunately for Egypt, it didn’t get that far.
Mane buried the winning penalty to help Senegalese win the trophy for the first time.

Klopp told Sky Sports that Salah was back training with his club on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s clash with Leicester.
The Reds boss said: “Yesterday everyone could see he has the final on his mind.
“He’s very disappointed, it was a massive thing.
“Losing a final is always really hard, I can sing that song, but losing the way they did was especially hard.
“He is happy to be back but is disappointed as well, massively so.”
Everton target Hitchen
Everton want ex-Tottenham transfer guru Steven Hitchen to be their new director of football and replace Marcel Brands.
The highly-rated Hitchins left his director of technical performance role at Spurs last week.
Now he is ‘emerging as the Toffees’ first-choice’ for the post ahead of ex-Wolves sporting director Kevin Thelwell.
Everton sacked Brands in December after a number of disastrous and costly transfer signings throughout his reign.
Following the arrival of Frank Lampard as manager, the Premier League strugglers are now reviewing their whole recruitment and executive operations.
The Mail Online claim that Hitchen has already held talks with Goodison chiefs and is ‘understood to have impressed’ with his vision for the future.
The 45-year-old is believed to have significant support from with Everton’s boardroom as they look to finally announce a new man.
The report states that Thelwell also has his admirers at the Merseyside club.

Shock Shaq switch to Chicago
Ex-Liverpool playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri has moved to MLS side Chicago Fire for £5.5million – just six months after joining Lyon.
The Switzerland midfielder, 30, signed a Designated Player contract transfer in the USA.
Fire sporting director Georg Heitz said: “Xherdan is a game-changing player and someone who will bring joy to our supporters and the city of Chicago.
“As one of the most accomplished Swiss athletes of his generation, Xherdan joins us at a very important time for the club and fully believes in what we are aiming to accomplish.
“We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Chicago very soon.”
Credit: EPA
Garner be special
Former Arsenal left-back Armand Traore has backed Manchester United starlet James Garner to reach the top following his dazzling loan displays for Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old linked up with the Reds for the second half of last campaign where he scored four goals in 20 Championship games.
And after committing his long-term future to the Red Devils in August, the England youth international was sent back to the City Ground for the entirety of this term.

Garner has cemented himself as a key player under boss Steve Cooper, with the midfielder supplying one goal and three assists from 27 outings this term.
He starred in Forest’s 4-1 win against Leicester on Sunday where they dumped the FA Cup holders out at the fourth round stage.
Ex-Forest ace Traore told SunSport via Freebets.com, Traore said: “He’s an absolute baller. What a player! And he’s only 20. “You watch him play with such maturity, he reminds me of Xabi Alonso
“This guy makes everything simple and look so easy. He’s hard in the tackle, he’s not scared, his long-range passing, his short range passing is amazing.
“I’ve seen him score goals with both feet, what can he not do? I’d not be surprised if United tried recalling him, but that would a huge mistake for Garner if he did.”
Utd and Chelsea eye Arsenal target
Chelsea and Manchester United have joined Arsenal and Tottenham in chasing Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, reports say.
French s  Newcastle were also understood to be in for the Frenchman, 19, in transfer deadline week.
And 90m say Chelsea and United scouts watched take on Bordeaux on Sunday.
Chelsea sub ratings
N’Golo Kante on for Jorginho (HT) – 6
Some sloppy passes from Kante but other than that he worked hard and put a few good tackles in.
Mason Mount on for Ziyech (72 mins) – 6
Tried to inject some energy and gain some control, but Chelsea continued to struggle. 
Malang Sarr for Alonso (86 mins) – N/A
More Chelsea ratings vs Al Hilal
Hakim Ziyech – 8
Another very bright game for him as a lot of what Chelsea did good in an attacking sense came through the Moroccan once again. He came off in the second half for Mason Mount as Chelsea looked for more control.
Kai Havertz – 7
Worked very well combining with Lukaku and Ziyech up top for Chelsea, set up the first goal for Lukaku with some good work as well. A very nice technical game from him and he could have and probably should have got a goal himself too and was a little wasteful in the final third. 
Romelu Lukaku – 6
First half goal gave him some needed confidence and he looked a bit more comfortable today. He still wasn’t involved anywhere near enough as he should be and faded a lot in the second half.
Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.The Metropolitan Police are not investigating the incident, while Zouma’s brother Yoan’s future is in jeopardy with his club Dagenhan & Redbridge after appearing in in the damning footage.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
Chelsea are over in Abu Dhabi for the start of the Club World Cup this week.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Kurt Zouma latest
Thousands of people have signed a petition calling for shamed West Ham ace Kurt Zouma to be prosecuted for animal cruelty.
Zouma was filmed kicking one of his two cats like a football and slapping it out of a child’s hands in disturbing footage filmed at his multimillion-pound mansion.
The defender has since issued a grovelling apology after the clip, shared by his brother Yoan on Snapchat, was exclusively featured by The Sun.
But the France international could still face a criminal prosecution if the RSPCA deems the clip contains illegal behaviour.
The Met Police say they won’t be investigating but the charity has its own powers to prosecute if it sees fit.
But more than 7,000 Brits have signed a petition calling for the Met to launch a probe.
The Change.org petition, started by Matthew Dixon, says: “Professional football player Kurt Zouma was filmed horrendously abusing a defenceless animal.
“He should be prosecuted for his actions”
Rice in, Kante out?
Chelsea could have the best chance of signing West Ham star Declan Rice next summer but N’Golo Kante may have to leave first.
Rice is reportedly keen on joining the Blues over Premier League foes Manchester United and Manchester City.
But the west Londoners would first need to sell Kante to free up a position in their squad for the star midfielder, which is a possibility given the France international’s age, according to The Mail.
That is a blow for United who have made the England international their top transfer priority ahead of the summer
Hornets combine youth and experience
Roy Hodgson has only been in charge of Watford for a fortnight but already the affable old timer is breaking records in his new job.
The 74-year-old oversaw the Hornets first Premier League clean sheet in 31 matches during his first game – a goalless draw at Burnley – and tonight takes his side the short distance to West Ham.
And at Turf Moor, the former Fulham and England manager put his faith in some young talent including 20-year-old Brazilian Joao Pedro.
At 54 years and 48 days younger than Hodgson, the age gap to the forward marked the biggest in Premier League history between a manager and a player who had started a match.

Pep reacts to Grealish video
Pep Guardiola has just completed his press conference ahead of tomorrow evening’s game with Brentford, and has responded to questions regarding the video of Jack Grealish appearing to be drunk on a night out.
The Manchester City manager was in good humour as he gave his views, insisting his players behaved well, and that nothing should be assumed from a short social media video.
I am upset because they didn’t invite me and I don’t like it. Hopefully next time they will invite me and we’ll do dinner together correctly at 8pm. All of them – Riyad, Kyle and Jack – they were perfect, but they will be fined because they didn’t invite me.Pep Guardiola
Kurt behaviour disrupts Hammers preparation
The build-up to West Ham’s match with Watford this evening has been thrown into chaos by the emergence of a video that shows defender Kurt Zouma mistreating a cat.
The Frenchman has apologised for the footage of him punching and kicking the family pet, but animal protection groups are not satisfied.
Calls to drop Zouma have been made while a petition has been lobbied at the RSPCA to investigate the incident further.
Zouma’s club were quick to release a statement strongly condemning their player’s behaviour, but the necessity has disrupted preparations in the West Ham camp.
The Hammers face struggling Watford tonight as they continue their challenge for Champions League football.
Major milestone for Clarets
Burnley host Manchester United this evening in what will be the 5,000th league game in their history.
The Clarets will become only the second club in the English game to reach the milestone, following in the footsteps of their Lancashire neighbours Preston North End.
Indeed, it was a match between the two clubs that marked Burnley’s first ever match as a founder member of the Football League. Preston prevailed on that day back in 1888, winning 5-2 at Deepdale.
Salah back in Liverpool contention
Mo Salah returned to Liverpool this morning following his African Cup of Nations heartbreak, and could now be in line for the Reds’ Premier League match with Leicester on Thursday.
The Egyptian was due to take a short break, having played all seven games for his country at Afcon – four of which went to extra-time – but he instead wishes to return to domestic football at the first opportunity.
Manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that the Premier League’s top scorer could play some part in the midweek match at Anfield.
Egypt were beaten on penalties in the final by Senegal on Sunday with Salah’s clubmate Sadio Mane scoring the winning spotkick.
Lampard preparing for huge clash
Frank Lampard is set to take charge of his first Premier League game with Everton this evening, and the stakes could not be higher.
The 16th-placed Toffees face relegation-threatened Newcastle at home with just four separating the two sides.
Lampard saw his new team power past Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday, and has now been boosted for the run-in by the return from injury of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The former Chelsea boss is also likely to hand debuts to new signings Dele Alli, Donny van de Beek and Anwar El Ghazi.
The last Everton manager to lose his first league game in charge of the Goodison Park club was Gordon Lee in February 1977.
Twelves new bosses have avoided defeat since then, will Lampard continue the 45-year-run or will it be unlucky number 13 for Frank?
Toon could conquer Europe
Newcastle United can win the Champions League, according to their new signing Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian star joined the Magpies from Lyon at the end of January for a fee that could rise to £42million, and is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton.
Now the 24-year-old has explained why he snubbed a move to Arsenal in favour of the north-east, and that’s because Newcastle are destined to become a global power.
“We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more – we want to win the Champions League.”
Ralph ready to call time
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is considering retirement when his contract comes to an end in 2024, reports HampshireLive.
The popular Austrian took charge at St Mary’s in December 2018, and feels that half a decade in charge of a Premier League outfit is enough for one career.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”

Jack the lad about town
Jack Grealish has endured a difficult first season at Manchester City, and may now face the wrath of manager Pep Guardiola after footage emerged of the player supposedly being ‘turned away from a bar for being too drunk.’
A video was posted on TikTok that appears to show the £100million footballer swaying as he was led away from Albert’s Schloss in Manchester city centre by a member of his entourage.
Grealish had been out with teammates Kyle Walker and Riyad Mahrez, but an accompanying comment with the video on social media stated that “Man like Jacky too drunk to get in.”
Along with Phil Foden, Grealish was reprimanded by Guardiola earlier in the season after the City boss was unhappy with the state in which the pair reported back for training after a night out.
The leaders are scheduled to host Brentford in the Premier League on Wednesday night.
Muller time at St James’ Park?
Big-spending Newcastle United are reportedly interested in bringing German superstar Thomas Muller to St James’ Park in the summer.
The Magpies supposedly made tentative enquiries about the 32-year-old during the January transfer window, but were given short shift by Bayern Munich.
However, Eddie Howe’s team remain interested in the attacking midfielder, as well as his compatriot Bernd Leno.
Muller is out of contract at the Allianz Arena next summer, and Newcastle officials are hopeful that he may be swayed by a large payday.
A legend for club and country, Muller has been capped over 100 times, and has scored 136 goals for Bayern in 404 Bundesliga appearances.

Zouma act far from purr-fect
West Ham have “unreservedly condemned” the actions of defender Kurt Zouma after he was filmed kicking and slapping his cat.
The Frenchman has also apologised after the video of him mistreating his pet surfaced.
The player admitted he was sorry for and ashamed of the incident via a statement: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
“They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again.”
Good morning football fans
Bruno Guimaraes claims he snubbed Arsenal and Juventus as Newcastle can win the Champions League.
The Brazil anchorman says he quit Lyon for the newly-rich, Saudi-backed Magpies as they are ‘definitely going to be a world power’.
Meanwhile, RB Leipzig handed the Gunners another blow in their search for a defensive midfielder.
The Germans vowed to battle to keep Frenchman Christopher Nkunku.
With Emile Smith Rowe blossoming, the Gunners’ need for a new playmaker is far less.
But Arsenal, like the rest of the Premier League, will surely cast a curious eye towards Brentford, where ex-Tottenham stylist Christian Eriksen has begun training following his deadline-day arrival.
Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has urged his players to sort out any grievances with him ‘directly’ – not on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial both rocked the boat at Old Trafford by contradicting claims from Rangnick.
But Lingard and Edinson Cavani are back in the United squad as the Premier League returns at Burnley tonight.
Newcastle host Everton while West Ham are at home to Watford in this evening’s other two fixtures.
Hasenthuttl quit hint
Ralph Hasenhuttl has hinted he is planning on quitting management in two years, writes TOIM BARCLAY.
The Southampton boss, 54, says he does not want to be a veteran boss like Roy Hodgson.
Speaking to German publication Kicker, Hasenhuttl has revealed he wants to leave Saints on a “very healthy footing by 2024” and then walk away.
He said: “I always wanted to prove to myself that I could very well work for a club for a longer period of time. 
“Hopefully, it will be five and a half years here, that’s a damn long time in modern football, and then that’s probably it.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.”
Should Hasenhuttl stay in his current role for another two years, he would be Southampton’s longest-serving manager since Chris Nicholl who was in post from 1985-91.
He is said to have already informed Saints’ new owners Sport Republic of his ambitions.
Hasenhuttl added: “Saying no to everything else is also a yes to yourself, and I want that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024, but then that was it.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”
Are RU kidding?
FA bosses face a hostile battle with Russia to host Euro 2028. writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five-nation bid — the UK and Ireland — after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 final.
But they now face the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 deadline.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine, it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
England PULL OUT of ‘doomed’ 2030 World Cup bid as FA chiefs turn attention to hosting Euro 2028 instead
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 World Cup bid to  concentrate on Euro 2028.
He said: “For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and when we assess everything we can put together a highly-competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic.
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa — and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact.
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Eriksen’s hunger to return
Brentford new boy Christian Eriksen revealed he wanted to return to football just “two days” after his shock cardiac arrest, writes ISABELLE BARKER.
The Denmark star, 29, also reassured fans that even with his implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) he can “run marathons and deep dive” if he wanted to.
But he says on the journey to the hospital from the Parken Stadium following his Euro 2020 collapse, he was close to leaving his boots at the ground because he thought his career was finished. 
When asked about how long it took for him to change his mind about returning to the pitch, Eriksen said: “Two days later. It was in the moment and I recognised what happened to me later on in that night and the next few days about what was really going on.
“The feeling of getting to hear from the doctors that even with an ICD there are no limits and with your condition there are no limits not to (play).
“People can run marathons, swimming, deep diving, whatever, all sorts. It just depends on the diagnosis and how you feel about it 
“I told Sabrina ‘I’m saying this now I’ll leave my boots but don’t be certain if a few days goes by and I’ll probably change my mind if everything is ok’ and luckily everything after was ok.”
Utd are ‘biggest transfer losers’
Manchester United have made by far the biggest loss on transfers in the Prem in the past 10 years, research says.
CIES Football Observatory say United were £78million more in debit than neighbours City.
The Red Devils’ worst-value big buys probably include Angel Di Maria (£67.5m), Anthony Martial (£54m) and Harry Maguire (£78m).
And so far the £112m double buy of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane could, so far, hardly be called money well spent.
Toon can win Champions League
Bruno Guimaraes revealed he snubbed Arsenal because Newcastle CAN win the Champions League, writes OSCAR PAUL.
The Brazilian midfielder star is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton and vowed to turn Newcastle into a global power.
Guimaraes, 24, signed for the Saudi Arabia-owned Toon from Lyon for a fee rising to £42million amid January interest from Arsenal.

Asked if relegation-threatened Newcastle are as big as the Gunners, he declared: “Definitely. We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more — we want to win the Champions League. The owners were very up front and honest. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.
“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and to eventually win the Champions League.
“I believe in the project and I believe in everything they told me.”
EXCLUSIVE: Stop complaining on social media
Ralf Rangnick has told his players to stop moaning at him on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial have both caused a storm at Manchester United after contradicting their manager’s comments.

Asked if it would be better sorted behind closed doors, Rangnick said: “It’s always better. I never ever read or communicate by those social media accounts.
“I don’t exist there and wouldn’t have time to do that so therefore it’s always better and I always communicate with the players directly.
“I did that with Anthony Martial and Jesse but maybe I’m a different kind of generation. My generation didn’t grow up with those kind of things.
“I can even remember a time when there were no mobile phones or internet so for me it’s always better to communicate directly.
“I know in both cases what I said to the players and what happened so for me there’s no reason to discuss this anymore.”
Is Gnab worth a grab?
Ex-Arsenal youth winger Serge Gnabry is reportedly at loggerheads with Bayern Munich over a new deal.
So what price a bid from his old club or other Premier League giants for the 31-cap Germany star?
Gnabry, 26, has 18 months left on his current Bayern deal.
Credit: Getty
FA in ‘Cold War’ with Russia
The FA face leading a “Cold War” battle with Russia after ditching plans to bid for the 2030 World Cup in an attempt to land Euro 2028, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five nation British Isles bid after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 Final.
But the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 bidding deadline is a real one.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 bid in favour of concentrating on Euro 2028.
Bullingham said: “We looked at two fantastic, multi-billion pound economic impact events.
“For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and landscape and when we assess everything for that we know we can put together a highly competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. 
“Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic. 
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact. 
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Kein and willing
Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper says says striker Keinan Davis is in good shape mentally and physically for Wednesday’s Championship trip to Blackburn Rovers, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
The 23-year-old was attacked and punched by a fan during Sunday’s 4-1 FA Cup victory over their East Midlands rivals.
After the game, Davis – currently on loan from Aston Villa – Tweeted: “What a win, but I got a headache,” while Leicester City confirmed his assailant, who was arrested, faces a lifetime ban.
However Cooper was quick to assure Forest fans their new striking hero has come through his ordeal and can’t wait to return to action against Tony Mowbray’s second-placed Rovers at Ewood Park.
“When I spoke after the game I hadn’t seen the incident.
“I’ve now seen it back and there is obviously no place for any supporter to enter the pitch at any time at any club.
“Certainly the act that was done, there is no place for that in society, never mind the game.
“I believe both clubs and the police and the governing bodies are in control of everything and I am sure the right process will take place in dealing with it.”
Zouma filmed kicking and slapping pet cat
West Ham defender Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted after being filmed booting his cat like a football across his kitchen floor.
The 27-year-old is also seen slapping his pet’s face.
The club has condemned his actions and will “deal with the matter internally”.
Zouma is seen attacking the pet at his £2million mansion while his brother films him.
He drops the moggy and boots it in mid air across the kitchen floor.
Premier League defender Kurt Zouma seen in sick video drop kicking a cat – and slapping it across his kitchen
The French international then chases the animal around his dining room in front of a child as the cameraman laughs.
Zouma also hurls a pair of designer shoes at the pet — which frantically tries to escape.
In a final clip, he is seen forcefully slapping the cat in the face — and out of the child’s arms.
Last night, Zouma issued a grovelling apology for the attack and insisted it was an isolated incident.
He said: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
Prem chiefs to debate fan flare-ups
Premier League chiefs will discuss this week how to tackle the alarming recent spate of ugly scenes involving supporters, writes TOM BARCLAY.
The issue will be one of the key points on the agenda at Thursday’s shareholders meeting where an urgent update from league bosses and the police is expected.
Leicester issued a lifetime ban to a fan who ran onto the pitch and punched Nottingham Forest striker Keinan Davis during their FA Cup defeat at the City Ground on Sunday.
It was arguably the worst incident in an alarming trend of supporter misbehaviour of late, not only in the Premier League but across English football.
Other shameful episodes have included spectators entering the field of play, missiles being thrown, flares being set off and allegations of racial abuse directed towards players.
Prem supremos raised the issue at their last get-together on January 26, which was held predominantly to discuss protocol surrounding match postponements due to Covid-19.
During that meeting, clubs agreed to hold talks with the FA, EFL and Football Policing Unit which took place a few days later.
Top-flight clubs are expecting to be given feedback from those talks on Thursday as their fears grow over this escalating fan problem.
One Premier League chief told SunSport: “This is a huge issue. We predicted a player would get hurt, and it’s happened. 
Load more entries… More