Coronavirus

Subterms

    More stories

    • 175 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Paul Scholes flouts local lockdown rules by throwing huge seven-hour bash for son’s birthday

      by

      FOOTIE ace Paul Scholes threw a huge party at his Oldham pad — on the day a new Covid lockdown was imposed.
      The Manchester United ­legend went ahead with celebrations for Arron’s 21st on the first day new anti-Covid regulations were imposed across a swathe of the North West.
      ⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

      11

      Paul Scholes has flouted lockdown rules by throwing a seven-hour party at his homeCredit: NB PRESS LTD

      11

      Partygoers ignored social distancing while attending the bash

      11

      Groups could be seen entering the star’s £3.5million Oldham mansionCredit: NB PRESS LTD

      11

      The Manchester United legend went ahead with celebrations for his son’s 21st birthday
      Camera phone footage showed Arron singing karaoke wearing a “Lockdown Live” slogan T-shirt and partygoers ignoring social distancing as they drank and danced.
      The party at Scholes’ £3.5million Oldham home, which went on until 2.30am, took place as 4.5 million people across the North West were banned from get-togethers in other people’s homes or gardens.
      Tory MP Andrew Bridgen tonight accused TV pundit and ex-England midfielder Scholes, 45, of setting a bad example.

      He added: “You’d expect a much more responsible attitude from a role model who has worn an England shirt 66 times.
      “The people of Oldham are fully aware reckless behaviour like this has caused the return to lockdown.
      “While young people are less likely to suffer serious complications if they are infected, they may spread it to somebody for whom the consequences could be very severe.”
      Some living near Scholes also accused him today of “blatant disregard for the rules”.

      One local said: “The family have been planning this for weeks. Originally they were going to have a big party at a hotel but they ­cancelled that on Friday morning because of the latest advice.
      ‘SELFISH BEHAVIOUR’
      “Then an hour later word went round that they were going to have a house party at home instead.
      “It’s madness. They have ignored all the rules because they wanted to go ahead with it.
      “What about all the people who haven’t been able to go to funerals or get married in front of their friends because of the lockdown?
      “Loads of people have had to cancel their birthday parties — why is Paul Scholes’ son different?
      “Paul has a reputation as a down to earth, normal guy. He’s loved by millions of United fans and should be setting an example.”
      The local added: “It’s exactly this kind of selfish behaviour which is making it so hard for the country to shake off the pandemic.
      “There were loads of young people at the party. It started at around 7pm and went on until at least 2.30am.
      “Now all the people who attended are going to go home and ­potentially infect their brothers, sisters, parents and grandparents. Paul should hang his head in shame.”
      The party kicked off 19 hours after new rules came into force at midnight on Thursday.

      11

      The party even included karaoke, a DJ and a burger vanCredit: NB PRESS LTD

      11

      Locals accused Scholes of ‘blatant disregard for the rules’

      11

      Camera phone footage showed a crammed dance floor and Arron being carried by his mates

      11

      Scholes’ daughter Alicia uploaded videos on Instagram showing youngsters dancing and singing
      During the celebrations Scholes’ daughter Alicia uploaded videos to her Instagram account showing youngsters close to each other as they danced and sang.
      Arron, wearing a black T-shirt, was at one point lifted up by his friends and carried across the dancefloor.
      One Instagram user commented under Alicia’s posts: “How is Arron having a party at your house when Oldham is in lockdown between 2 households?”
      Friday’s tightening of rules came after a spike of coronavirus infections in large areas across the North West.

      Loads of people have had to cancel their birthday parties — why is Paul Scholes’ son different?

      Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey urged the public to respect the tightened rules.
      He said: “We understand the frustration of not being able to continue social lives, or visit friends and family, however the risk of ­coronavirus is still present and attending events in large groups is in breach of Covid legislation.
      “The only way to stay safe and protect your family and loved ones is by following the guidelines.”
      ‘YOUNG PEOPLE THINK THEY’RE IMMUNE’
      Manchester mayor Andy Burnham today repeated the police chief’s message, saying: “Anyone can get coronavirus and anyone can spread it.
      “That is why it is so important everyone observes the new restrictions. This includes not seeing friends and family in each other’s homes and gardens.”
      Public health officials in Greater Manchester have said they believe the Covid-19 spike is being fuelled by young people.
      Deputy mayor Sir Richard Leese said: “You can see young people thinking basically they’re immune — and that if they do catch it, it won’t be too serious.”
      Scholes, his family and other Oldham residents were already ­living under tougher rules after restrictions were introduced when the borough saw a ­dramatic spike of more than 100 cases in a week.
      According to the latest figures, the infection rate in Oldham has soared to 58.1 per 100,000 people.
      Anywhere with more than 50 cases per 100,000 is rated “red” by the Government.
      On Tuesday residents were told they could not have “social visitors” to their home and must keep two metres apart from friends and family when seeing them outside.
      Vulnerable and elderly people who have been shielding were asked to continue doing so for another two weeks.
      Officials blamed a “significant proportion” of recent cases on ­multiple positive tests in a single household.

      11

      It comes as Britain ‘put the brakes’on the easing of lockdown in areas across the North WestCredit: AFP or licensors
      Deputy leader of Oldham council Arooj Shah said: “We’re urging ­residents to continue to take the risk of coronavirus seriously and to stick to the guidelines.
      “The best way to avoid infection is to limit contact with others as much as possible and to stay home wherever you can, including working from home.
      “Limit contact with other people and respect social distancing where you do go out.
      “We know people across Oldham desperately want to see their friends and family and get back to normal.
      “But these restrictions are essential if we are to stop the spread of ­coronavirus.”
      According to government rules, hosting a party at your home is ­illegal. Police can shut it down and fine those attending £100.
      In May, scientists said family celebrations such as birthdays and weddings are among the easiest ways to spread Covid-19.
      Studies show indoor gatherings of ten to 30 people can result in one person carrying the virus to infect up to ten others.
      Adam Kucharski, a senior epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: “If you look at where these super-spreading events occur, it’s often at family gatherings and meals and weddings and parties.
      “We are seeing ten or so people getting infected instead of the usual reproduction number, which is about two or three.”

      11

      Blackburn with Darwen, Oldham and Leicester currently have the highest infection ratesCredit: AFP or licensors
      In July, the Scholes family including youngest son Aiden, 14, holidayed at their villa on the Algarve. Alicia posted a picture on July 18 of them all in the sea with a paddle board.
      A video showed Arron, who last year was convicted of assaulting an ex-school friend, lying on the beach.
      The Foreign Office advised against all but essential travel to Portugal at the start of July after ruling the country did not have enough of a grip on coronavirus.
      The Government rules are that anyone arriving in the UK from Portugal must isolate for 14 days. Anyone who refuses can be fined £1,000.
      The guidance says: “Self-isolating will reduce the chance of a second wave of coronavirus in the UK and help prevent family, friends and the community from contracting coronavirus, as well as helping to protect the NHS.”
      The Sun last month published ­pictures showing Scholes’ wife Claire was no longer wearing a wedding ring. The couple met when they were 18 and wed six years later.

      Claire has moved out of the family home and is renting a place 20 minutes away. Scholes played more than 700 times for United and won 66 England caps.
      He retired in 2013 and is co-owner of Salford City FC and a regular BT Sport pundit. He had short spell as manager of Oldham Athletic.
      Scholes has been contacted for comment about the party.

      11

      Scholes retired in 2013 and is co-owner of Salford City FCCredit: Alpha Photo Press Agency Ltd.
      GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk More

    • 200 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Georgina Rodriguez donates £18k to coronavirus fight after flogging her clothes and signed Cristiano Ronaldo shirt

      by

      GEORGINA RODRIGUEZ generously donated £18,000 to the fight against coronavirus.
      The stunning Spanish model gave the funds to an initiative aiming to speed up the scientific response to the Covid-19 virus.

      5

      Georgina Rodriguez posted a photo on Instagram to signify her support

      5

      Georgina Rodriguez poses with partner Cristiano Ronaldo

      5

      Rodriguez regularly stuns fans with sexy selfies online
      She posted a snap on Instagram showing her solidarity with the #YoMeCorono movement.
      Originating in Spain – which has been particularly badly hit by the pandemic – the campaign has raised over £2.1million.
      Rodriguez captioned the post: “I also crown myself and join the cause for the Covid 19 vaccine research, doing my bit. #YoMeCorono”
      It is not the first time that Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner has made a charitable contribution in wake of the pandemic.

      The 26-year-old previously auctioned off a load of her designer gear to help raise money for Spanish hospitals as well as donating 20,000 masks.

      5

      Georgina Rodriguez loves to bombard her fans with sexy snaps

      5

      Ronaldo’s family have been soaking up the sun after he won Serie A
      She also threw in a Juventus shirt signed by her boyfriend Ronaldo to help generate attention and spark bids.
      She said: “Now we are going through a horrible moment, in which hospitals, nurses, doctors, all healthcare personnel and patients of coronavirus are in need of our help.
      “Spain is suffering a lot due to the Covid-19 pandemic and therefore I want to help.”

      Ronaldo also dipped into his pocket to help support Portuguese hospitals.
      Along with his agent Jorge Mendes, he generously donated £1million to hospitals in his homeland back in March.

      View this post on Instagram

      🏸
      A post shared by Georgina Rodríguez (@georginagio) on Jul 30, 2020 at 11:24am PDT

      The mega rich couple have been snapped enjoying a luxury break on board a £5.5million yacht.
      Ronaldo had been celebrating Juventus’ Serie A title win but the 35-year-old will not be winning the Golden Boot.
      He was axed from Juventus’ squad for the final day game against Roma, with Lazio’s Ciro Immobile taking the crown.

      Georgina Rodriguez shows off amazing curves as she works out from home More

    • 200 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Boris Johnson speech – PM announces fans to not be allowed back into sporting events yet

      by

      BORIS Johnson has announced sports fans will not be allowed to return to live events over fears of a coronavirus second wave.
      A rise in cases across the UK has seen the Government pull the handbrake on the easing of lockdown just 24 hours before a new round of measures were set to be introduced.
      ⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

      3

      Boris Johnson spoke today at a Downing Street press conferenceCredit: PA:Press Association

      3

      Premier League grounds and other sports stadiums are set to remain emptyCredit: PA:Press Association
      New figures show 35,700 Brits are currently infected with coronavirus following a rise in cases in recent weeks.
      There were around 0.78 new Covid-19 infections for every 10,000 people in England last week – equal to around 4,200 new cases per day.
      This is up from an estimated 2,800 new cases a day the previous week.

      The PM had earlier warned of a second wave of Covid-19 spreading across Europe as holidaymakers were told to self-isolate for 10 days after returning from Spain.
      This week’s Surrey v Middlesex cricket match at the Oval had seen 1,000 spectators take to the stands in an early pilot of holding live sports events with social distancing.
      The World Snooker Championship started on Friday with fans in attendance, with further spectators due for the rest of the 17-day event.
      Around 5,000 racegoers had been due to attend the Glorious Goodwood Festival on Saturday.

      It had been hoped Community Shield match between Liverpool and the winners of the FA Cup on August 29 would be a test for fans to be able to return to football stadiums ahead of the new Premier League season.
      But speaking at a Downing Street press conference today, the PM said such trials “must pause” as Britain looks to prevent a second wave.
      He said: “Indoor performances will not resume, pilots of larger gatherings in sports venues and conference centres will not take place, and wedding receptions of up to 30 people will not be permitted.”

      3

      Socially-distanced fans were allowed at The Oval this weekCredit: AFP or licensors
      The Premier League was hopeful fans would be able to take their seats in bigger numbers by October but the plans now appear to be on hold.
      The final eight rounds of this season’s Premier League were played behind closed doors.
      Every match has been available to watch live to make up for fans being banned from entering grounds.
      Players were made respect strict guidelines to reduce the risk of any contamination, including regular testing and not sharing tunnels in the moments before kick-off.

      From August 1, staff were set to be told to return to workplaces unless they couldn’t work from home.
      Casinos, bowling alleys and skating rinks were also to be allowed to reopen and indoor gigs were also set to resume.
      Certain beauty treatments involving close contact such as make-up application and eyebrow threading were also set to return.

      Boris Johnson tells Brits to wear face masks in cinemas as rules extended amid fears of coronavirus second wave More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton slammed by fans for sharing anti-vaxxer post accusing Bill Gates of ‘lying’ over coronavirus jab

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has shared an anti-vaxxer post that accuses Bill Gates of “lying” over a coronavirus jab, sparking a fierce backlash.
      The Formula One driver, 35, twice put a video on his Instagram story on Monday morning but deleted the updates.

      3

      Lewis Hamilton shared a video claiming Bill Gates is lying over a coronavirus jab to his 18.3million Instagram followers

      3

      The British star twice added the video to his story but then deleted the posts amid a heavy backlashCredit: PA:Press Association
      Internet celebrity Andrew Bachelor – known as King Bach – uploaded a 13-minute video of Bill Gates being interviewed over a vaccination for Covid-19.
      Gates plays down the suggestions of the potential vaccine’s side effects in the interview with CBSN and rubbished claims of tracking chips being implanted through jabs.
      Quizzed about the many conspiracy theories surrounding him and the work of his global health foundation, Gates said: “No, there’s no connection between any of these vaccines and any tracking type thing at all, I don’t know where that came from.
      “Dr Fauci and I are the two most mentioned, and some of these are deeply ironic. Like, our foundation is about reducing death and bringing equity to health.

      “And yet the idea that we get accused of creating chips or the virus, I think we just need to get the truth out there.
      “We need to explain our values so that people understand why we’re involved in this work and why we’re willing to put billions towards accelerating the progress. It’s a little unclear to me, but I hope it will die down as people get the facts.”
      But King Bach captioned the clip: “I remember when I told my first lie.”
      Hamilton, who has earned plenty of respect for his Black Lives Matter and climate change campaigning, decided to share the post to his 18.3million Instagram followers.

      But the six-time F1 world champion came in for a major backlash for seemingly promoting an anti-vaxxer stance.
      One wrote on Twitter: “The fact that Lewis Hamilton is actively supporting anti-vax conspiracy theories proves the point that I’ve been making for years.

      “He isn’t humble and he is isn’t a good guy. He is a fraud.”
      A user said: “All your fantastic work with BLM is thrown right out the window with your one single Instagram post.
      You’re surrounded by incredibly smart people daily. You cannot honestly hold an opinion so dumb and unfounded in science. Explain yourself.”
      Another added: “Can I ask why @LewisHamilton is sharing anti-vax posts on his instagram story?
      “In a pandemic, is this really the time to be giving a platform to this?
      “Come on man, your team are at the peak of science and engineering, you can do better than share this anti-science b******s.”
      A third said: “I am a huge fan. I can forgive you for the Vegan nonsense. But being Anti-vax is just foolishness.
      “You got too much money to be this dumb. Educate yourself.”
      Fellow sporting hero Novak Djokovic has also come under fire for his stance on vaccinations.
      World No1 tennis star Djokovic even threatened to pull out of events once the ATP Tour gets back underway due to his strong opinions on vaccines.
      Last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson blasted anti-vaxxers as “nuts” and urged everyone to get the flu vaccine this summer.
      The PM lashed out at those who don’t get their jabs as the Government launched a huge new drive to try and protect the NHS this winter ahead of a possible second coronavirus wave.
      The popularity of groups and websites opposing vaccinations is a real concern, with a surge in interest during the last few months in line with the global pandemic.

      WIL TO GO
      Man Utd and Arsenal on alert with Zaha ‘set on leaving Palace’, reveals Hodgson

      Pictured

      CEL OUT
      UFC stunner Arianny Celeste shows off growing baby bump in yellow bikini

      IN RU-DE HEALTH
      Ruiz Jr shows off body transformation with slimmed-down look for comeback

      Gossip

      NO SAN-K YOU
      Man Utd’s ‘£89m Jadon Sancho bid REJECTED by Dortmund’

      ‘VERY SOON’
      Aubameyang’s dad posts cryptic Instagram message about Arsenal star’s future

      MAN NEW
      How Man Utd could line-up next season with huge Champions League cash windfall

      Should anti-vaxxers continue to press forward with pushing their message, this could lead to the fight against coronavirus being derailed.
      In order for a jab to be effective – once it is ready – it would need to be taken by a large proportion of people in order to increase the immunity.
      So mass refusal to cooperate and be vaccinated may lead to coronavirus remaining present and, therefore, spreading.

      3

      The six-time world champion has been lauded for his fight against racism and climate change but many were angered with his latest moveCredit: EPA

      The fact that Lewis Hamilton is actively supporting anti-vax conspiracy theories proves the point that I’ve been making for years. He isn’t humble and he is isn’t a good guy. He is a fraud.
      — JD (@veryjimportant) July 27, 2020

      @LewisHamilton I am a huge fan. I can forgive you for the Vegan nonsense. But being Anti-vax is just foolishness. You got too much money to be this dumb. Educate yourself. @MercedesAMGF1
      — It’s A Secret! (@Moekind) July 27, 2020

      Lewis Hamilton blasts Formula 1 drivers after Hungarian Grand Prix win as anti-racism message continues to fall flat More

    • 263 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League stadiums to have no more than 25% of fans back next season with full crowds ‘difficult’ for another year

      by

      PREMIER LEAGUE teams are likely to be without packed stadiums for at least another year as a result of coronavirus.
      That’s according to leading government adviser James Calder, who told The Associated Press that only 25 per cent of capacity will be filled once arenas are able to open their doors to the public.

      1

      Coronavirus means Premier League teams will likely be unable to have 100 per cent capacity until next yearCredit: PA:Press Association
      Since last month’s restart, all Prem teams have been playing games behind closed doors.
      Fans have had to make do with watching matches on their TV.
      And it was hoped supporters would soon be able to watch their favourite sides in action live.
      However, Calder says it will be “very difficult” for Premier League sides to host full stadiums while there is no vaccine available.

      And if the green light is given to arenas opening their doors, a maximum of just 25 per cent of seats will be filled.
      Following confirmation of the dates for next season, Calder explained: “Whilst we’ve got a virus around without a vaccine, I think it’s going to be very difficult [to have full crowds.
      “I can’t see it happening really until next year at the earliest.

      “We’re probably looking at a maximum 25 per cent full capacity.
      “Perhaps in some stadiums it may be down to 17 per cent and there’s a financial viability as to whether it’s viable to open up the stadium.”
      Calder also hopes less Covid-19 tests will need to be conducted on footballers in the next campaign.
      But he has warned players to steer clear of certain countries when they break for their holidays.
      Calder added: “In the next season we may start off with once or twice a week and then review throughout the season.

      “When you’re away, just keep your social distancing – don’t let your guard down.
      “You probably want to choose the place you go to carefully. The USA and Brazil and South America are difficult places.
      “I’d avoid the States and South America at the moment, and India and Pakistan.”

      Premier League 2020-21 season to start on September 12 but fixtures will be released just three weeks before kick-off More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 confirms two positive coronavirus tests but insists there will be no impact on Hungarian GP

      by

      FORMULA ONE has confirmed two people have tested positive for Covid-19 and have been placed in isolation.
      SunSport understands that neither person works for an F1 team and their removal will have no impact on the racing this weekend.

      1

      Two positive coronavirus tests will not affect the running of the Hungarian GPCredit: AFP
      It is the first positive cases in over 14,000 tests during this season’s opening three races – with zero cases in the two races in Austria.
      Teams, drivers and media have all been part of a testing programme every five days with results being given within 24 hours.
      A statement from F1 said: “The FIA and Formula One can confirm that between Friday 10th July and Thursday 16th July, 4,997 tests for Covid-19 have been performed on drivers, teams and personnel.
      “Of these, two people have tested positive.

      “The individuals were not present in Austria,with the affected people removed from operations and isolated.
      “Tracing of close contacts completed and isolated.
      “The FIA and Formula One are providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.

      FINALLY!
      Leeds promoted but celebrations turn sour as thousands flock to Elland Road

      Revealed

      RACE FOR TOP DRAW
      How Man Utd and Leicester could need just 0-0 draw to BOTH get top four

      Exclusive

      BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT
      Man Utd step up Sancho pursuit as Solskjaer eyes all-England attack

      WHO YA GOT?
      Boxing legends predict Joshua vs Fury fight including Tyson and Mayweather

      LEW BEAUTY
      Lewis Hamilton had ‘romantic’ relationship with model who Ronaldo also ‘DMed’

      SCHURR LONG
      Ex-Chelsea star Schurrle retires aged just 29 and admits career left him lonely

      The ten greatest F1 drivers of all-time – according to SunSport’s motorsport correspondent Ben Hunt
      “No specific details as to teams or individuals will be provided by the FIA or Formula One and results will be made public every seven days.”

      SunSport reported how Lewis Hamilton and his fellow British F1 drivers have been told they could face PRISON if they break strict isolation rules this weekend in Hungary.
      The draconian punishment has been slapped on all Brits working in Formula One by Hungarian ministers – but not to fellow Europeans.

      Lewis Hamilton ahead of Schumacher and Senna on list of the 10 greatest F1 drivers of all time More

    • 313 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Celtic fans to be first allowed to a game for PSG friendly next week but they must wear masks and a ticket will cost £57

      by

      CELTIC fans will be the first set of British supporters in a stadium since March – but it will cost them an eye-watering £57.
      The Scottish champions head to France for a glamour friendly with Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes next week.
      ⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

      3

      Celtic fans will be able to watch Neymar in actionCredit: Rex Features
      And with all games in Scotland set to be behind closed doors for the foreseeable future, it could still be months before any fans are allowed into stadiums.
      Celtic are due to play three upcoming games in France with fans inside stadiums.
      They will play in a pre-season tournament in Lyon, along with Rangers and Nice, with the host club insisting only members and their own supporters will be allowed inside the Groupama Stadium with a limit of 4,500.
      However, PSG are selling a limited number of briefs online for their friendly with Celtic next Tuesday in a general sale to all fans, after allocating a set amount for their season ticket holders and members.

      The Parc des Princes will have a maximum of 5,000 fans allowed inside the stadium and plenty of Hoops fans have already snapped the tickets up, after they went on sale today.

      3

      Just 5,000 fans will be allowed into Parc des Princes for the friendlyCredit: Reuters

      3

      Odsonne Edouard could impress against his former teamCredit: PA:Press Association
      But it comes at a price because the French champions are charging £57 including a booking fee for the pre-season friendly.
      And all fans will have to wear face masks inside the stadium.
      PSG stated: “The club will put in place sanitary measures to welcome all supporters.

      “Wearing a mask at the stadium will be compulsory and social distancing measures must be respected in each stand.
      “The safety and health of supporters is the club’s top priority.”
      The last game supporters of a Scottish club attended was at Rangers’ Europa League, Last 16, first leg loss to Bayer Leverkusen in March.
      PSG sent out a warning ahead of that game with a 9-0 romp against Le Havre this week – leaving former Rangers boss Paul Le Guen warning they could have scored FIFTEEN goals against his club.

      PSG romped to a 9-0 win against the Ligue 2 side, who are managed by ex-Ibrox flop Le Guen, who was in charge of Rangers for a disastrous, ill-fated spell in 2006.
      The Paris big-spenders handed starts to big guns Neymar and Kylian Mbappe and romped to a comfortable win and Le Guen admitted it could have been even worse.
      He said: “We could have lost 12 or 15 goals, but I am not embarrassed.
      “We played with a lot of youngsters and they are not ready overnight. The score does not matter.”

      Celtic Park as you’ve never seen it before with vision of how new south stand would look More

    • 288 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Football fans could be back in grounds in two weeks as Celtic hope to see supporters at Parkhead for friendly on July 25

      by

      FOOTBALL fans could be back inside stadiums within a fortnight as Celtic hope to stage a friendly game at Parkhead on Saturday, July 25 — in front of 1,000 fans.
      But Hoops chiefs fear they will be forced to delay their plans as the Government stalls on whether to allow supporters back into grounds.

      2

      Celtic are hoping to test fans inside stadiums during a friendlyCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow
      SunSport can reveal the Scottish champions are in talks with a number of clubs about organising a bounce game in just over a fortnight.
      They believe they could cope with 30,000 punters inside Celtic Park.
      But with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon refusing to budge on reducing significant restrictions, Scotland’s champions realise that’s unlikely to be given the go-ahead.
      They are instead looking at hosting a friendly game with 1,000 supporters as a test event — but fear even those plans may be kicked into touch until some time next month.

      2

      Neil Lennon’s men will travel to France for pre-season tiesCredit: SNS Group
      Neil Lennon’s squad are currently in Loughborough at a training camp.
      They will travel to France at the weekend ahead of friendly games with Lyon, Nice and PSG on July 16, 18 and 21.
      Lyon are set to invite key workers to their stadium to make up a limited crowd for that game with the Hoops.
      The Old Firm are both due to face Lyon at their Groupama Stadium in a pre-season tournament.

      Lyon are yet to officially confirm the dates, but reports suggest they will play Celtic on the 16th and then Steven Gerrard’s side two days later.
      Hoops supporters are buying into ten-in-a-row after the club sold more than 50,000 season tickets.
      Supporters had until July 7 to renew their books ahead of a huge season for Lennon’s side.
      And SunSport understands more than 50,000 punters have pledged their backing for the new campaign.
      The incredible show of support comes despite a number of games set to be staged behind closed doors amid the coronavirus crisis.
      Celtic will unfurl the league flag at home to Hamilton on Sunday August 2 as they kick off their quest for ten.
      Lennon’s side will also target Champions League qualification before they host Rangers in the first derby at Parkhead. More