Exclusives

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      BBC staff fear MOTD will go woke after ruined Football Focus was geared towards ‘snowflakes and millennials’

      by

      RANK and file staff at the BBC fear Gary Lineker’s departure could see Match of the Day go woke — just like much-mocked Football Focus.They predict some of the traditional fans’ favourite pundits could be ditched to reduce the number of middle-aged, male former players.BBC staff fear Gary Lineker’s departure could see Match of the Day go wokeCredit: GettyAlex Kay-Jelski, who became the BBC’s Director of Sport seven months agoInstead, under Alex Kay-Jelski who became Director of Sport seven months ago, they could be replaced by online influencers and celebrities.That has happened on sister show Football Focus, with core viewers complaining it is being geared more towards “millennials and snowflakes”.A BBC insider said: “The hope would be to draw in younger, new audiences — but the danger is they end up alienating their current viewers and driving them away.“Everyone expects there to be some changes but they don’t want to have MOTD left unrecognisable just because of the whims of a handful of executives.READ MORE ON MATCH OF THE DAY“They want experts on the show who have some genuine expertise and experience, not amateurs who are brought on for their star appeal or online pulling power.“But with change at the top, there’s the concern that the BBC will take the chance to make a major overhaul.”The Sun exclusively revealed on Tuesday that ex-England captain Gary, 63, was leaving as the show’s frontman after 25 years.Yesterday it emerged that bosses wanted Mark Chapman and Kelly Somers to take turns as host, but Chappers is against the idea. MOTD this year celebrated its 60th birthday while Football Focus has been screened on Saturday afternoons since 1974.Most read in FootballHowever, it has been derided due to some of the stars featured.These include Love Island’s Jordan Mainoo-Hames interviewing players, and actors Will Mellor and Ralf Little who appeared together in BBC sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps.Mark Chapman refuses Match of the Day job share as Gary Lineker quits after 25 yearsFormer Lioness Alex Scott took over as host of the show in 2021.By last year it had lost a third of its viewers in the space of four years, leaving some fearing the Beeb may end up axing it.Previous presenter Dan Walker said at the time: “It’s hard to see Football Focus struggling. I loved it growing up and it was an honour to host it and I still miss it.“We poured everything into that show each week and worked hard to keep it relevant. I hope it stays part of the TV landscape.” More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Fresh heartache for George Baldock’s family over late defender’s official cause of death

      by

      THE family of football star George Baldock faced fresh heartache yesterday over his official cause of death.They were told it could be months before they know for sure what killed the Panathinaikos defender last month.Football ace George was found dead in his swimming pool at his villa in AthensCredit: ReutersSheffield United players paid tribute to their former starCredit: GettyThe 31-year-old former Sheffield United player was found dead in his swimming pool at his villa in Athens.A report detailing toxicology and histology results will be prepared but is unlikely to be ready until the new year.Dr Grigoris Leon, of the Hellenic Society of Forensic Medicine, said: “The release of official findings could take months.“There are only five people with the expertise to conduct microscopic tests in Greece.READ MORE ON GEORGE BALDOCK“The cause of his death is very likely to have been pathological and related to the heart.”Baldock, who signed for Panathinaikos in the summer, was repatriated to the UK and laid to rest a week ago.Mourners included former England midfielder Dele Ali.Baldock, known to fans as Furious George due to his all-action playing style, made over 200 appearances for the Blades.Most read in FootballHe also won 12 caps for Greece.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31The family of football star George Baldock faced fresh heartache over his official cause of deathCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      David Coote booted off Uefa match list and facing sack after vid of him calling Jurgen Klopp a ‘German c***’ leaked

      by

      DAVID COOTE has been booted off UEFA’S match list as the fallout grows from his astonishing video rant at Jürgen Klopp.The Premier League ref faces the sack after being captured on film calling the former Liverpool boss a “German c***” among other things.He admitted the viral video of him slamming Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool is of himCredit: XDavid Coote has been booted off of Uefa’s match list following the leaking of his Jurgen Klopp rant videoCredit: ReutersDavid Coote takes on the fourth official role at the San Siro for a Champions League gameCredit: AlamyHe was immediately suspended by his bosses at the PGMOL and now Europe’s governing body are taking similarly strong action.Coote is a VAR specialist for Uefa and was involved in Champions League action only last week when Dutch side PSV Eindhoven beat Girona 4-0 on November 4.Coote was down to work at one of Uefa’s Nations League games taking place during this current international round of fixtures.  But he has now been removed.RAD MORE IN FOOTBALLEurope’s refereeing chiefs have followed their English counterparts and Coote will not be appointed to any UEFA matches for the foreseeable future.The PGMOL have launched an investigation into the sensational footage which emerged online on Monday afternoon.Coote is seen sitting with a male friend also labelling Klopp an “arrogant c***”.Coote has not denied the authenticity of the footage but says he “cannot recall” recording the footage which is several years old.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe goes on to dismiss Liverpool as ‘s***’ and says he had  ‘no interest in speaking to somebody as f****** arrogant’. I do my best not to speak to him. My God… German c***. F*** me.”Coote has history with ex Liverpool boss Klopp.They clashed after Burnley drew at Anfield in July 2020 when the football season was extended due to COVID.Coote was criticised as being too lenient. Premier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantKlopp said at the time: “The referee let lots of challenges go.”Nottinghamshire official Coote’s career as an official faces ruin as his comments about Liverpool and Klopp will be viewed as evidence that he had an axe to grind with the Anfield club.Coote, a Prem ref since 2018, has been involved in a number of controversies involving Liverpool and their title rivals as both a referee and VAR over recent seasons.That includes a Marcus Rashford goal way back in 2019 which saw Divock Origi seemingly fouled in the build-up – but VAR Coote did not intervene.He was also at Stockley Park when Jordan Pickford crunched Virgil van Dijk, rupturing the Liverpool defender’s ACL – but again Coote did not step in as the Reds did not even get a penalty.And he was once again the VAR when he denied Klopp’s side a penalty last season despite a clear handball from Martin Odegaard at Anfield.READ MORE SUN STORIESA PGMOL statement on Monday said: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation.”PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”Coote insists he does not remember making the comments about KloppCredit: ReutersShocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.” More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      Jake Paul and Eddie Hearn heading back to court to settle their $100m defamation lawsuit after years-long stand-off

      by

      JAKE Paul and Eddie Hearn are working to settle their $100 million lawsuit with a new hearing scheduled for next month – after the YouTuber’s big fight with Mike Tyson. British promoter Hearn and Matchroom Boxing first filed a lawsuit in a New York court against Paul in September 2022.Jake Paul looks on during their cruiserweight fight against Mike Perry at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FloridaCredit: GettyBritish boxing promoter Eddie Hearn speaks during a press conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in MayCredit: EPAMike Tyson and Jake Paul face off during a news conference, ahead of their big fightCredit: ReutersThe legal complaint came after Paul criticized boxing judge Glenn Feldman in an interview with iFL TV, regarding the scoring of two prior matches.They included an April 2022 bout between Katie Taylor andAmanda Serrano in New York; and an August 2022 bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia.Feldman scored in favor of boxers Joshua and Taylor.”Clearly [Glenn Feldman] is getting paid money by Matchroom Boxing,” Paul said. “It’s just so blatantly obvious and they’re not even trying to hide it.”Eddie Hearn is the chairman of Matchroom Sport, a company founded by his father, Barry.Hearn slammed his comments as “outrageously false” and later filed suit, seeking $100 million in damages.Paul attempted to have the lawsuit dismissed but was unsuccessful, and then counter-sued, with his legal team invoking New York’s Anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) laws. They argued that Hearn’s lawsuit was an attempt to intimidate and silence him.Most read in BoxingCOMING TO AN END?Now, new court documents seen by The U.S. Sun show the long-running court battle could soon be over. A settlement conference has been scheduled before Magistrate Judge Henry J. Ricardo on December 17, 2024 at 12 pm.The filing states, “The conference will be held virtuallyvia Microsoft Teams and will not be open to the public.Countdown Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson”The parties should exchange their initial settlement demands and responses in advance of their Ex Parte Settlement Letter submissions. “The parties – not just the attorneys – must attend the settlement conference.”A joint letter filed with the court shows all parties are available on December 17 for the “virtual mediation conference.”Hearn and Matchroom Boxing previously filed a letter trying to get Paul’s countersuit dismissed. A filing alleges: “New York’s anti-SLAPP law does not apply because Plaintiffs’ defamation claim has a substantial basis in fact and law.”Paul’s counsel responded with a letter dated November 7, which reads, “After Matchroom Boxing complained to Jake Paul about his statements, and to appease Matchroom Boxing, Jake Paul promptly arranged for the interview to be removed from public view.”Nonetheless, Matchroom Boxing and Hearn then commenced this action (and Feldman later intervened as a co-plaintiff) against Jake Paul alleging that they were defamed by his statements.”The letter goes on to claim, “The lawsuit was filed as an intimidation tactic to chill Jake Paul’s freedom of speech and to silence other critics of the boxing industry, which is precisely the type of misconduct that the anti-SLAPP statute is intended to deter and remedy. “Upon information and belief, Plaintiffs coordinated various mediaoutlets to immediately broadcast, worldwide, that Plaintiffs had commenced this action, as a warning to journalists and anyone else who may want to expose and discuss corruption in the boxing industry.”Hearn’s team is yet to reply or comment on the letter ahead of the settlement conference. Meanwhile, Paul has a lot to prove on November 15, when he takes on boxing legend Tyson at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.The fight is a huge moneymaker, with Netflix streaming it live. Hearn himself is one of the many critics who slammed the idea of Paul going up against Tyson, calling the match “dangerous, irresponsible, and disrespectful to boxing.”In an interview with Pro Boxing Fans, he said he didn’t believe the match was anything more than greed, despite Paul and Tyson saying it’s not just about the money. Tyson is 58 and retired 20 years ago, while Paul is 31 years his junior. Hearn said, “I’m not saying abandon the fight. I am just saying, not for me mate. I don’t wanna watch it.”The heavyweight boxer goes into the bout with 50 wins under his belt, as opposed to his much-younger opponent’s 10.Tyson, who was once reportedly worth an estimated $300 million, blew through most of his fortune and is now said to have a net worth of around $10 million. He is expected to pocket a staggering $40 million from the fight, with Paul making the same amount. The internet sensation, who is worth around $80 million, released a cheeky video offering the champ an extra $5 million if he lasts longer than four rounds.READ MORE SUN STORIESTyson responded to the offer saying, “He should offer more. Tell him probably about 20 (million).”However, if he fails to get past the fourth round, the caveat is that he must get a tattoo that reads ‘I love Jake Paul’.Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson fight poster ahead of it being streamed on NetflixPromoter Eddie Hearn during the press conference after Daniel Dubois won his fight against Anthony JoshuaCredit: ReutersJake Paul stands in the ring during the fifth round of his fight against Nate DiazCredit: Getty More

    • 225 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Bizarre reason Ivan Toney is loving life in Saudi Arabia revealed – and it reminds him of home

      by

      ENGLAND striker Ivan Toney is loving Saudi — because it reminds him of Milton Keynes.The star, 28, is “idolised” in Jeddah, which boasts modern buildings dotted around grid-like roads.England striker Ivan Toney is loving Saudi — because it reminds him of Milton KeynesCredit: GettyIgnoring the hot temperatures, there are similarities to the Bucks city in which Ivan previously lived — and where he met Katie Bio, mother to his two children.A pal said: “Ivan is loving life there because it reminds him of MK.”They have the same system of roads and buildings.“If it wasn’t for the sunshine, you could think you were in Buckinghamshire.”read more on ivan ToneyToney lived there when playing for Peterborough before moving to Brentford. He is said to be on £20million a year after a transfer to Al-Ahli in the summer.Saudi’s strict betting laws are also good for the star, previously banned for gambling.Ivan also has special permission to live out of wedlock.Most read in FootballThe pal added: “The lack of temptation suits Ivan after everything he’s been through. “Getting out and about because of the culture and heat is tough — but that means he’s getting quality time with the family.” Ivan Toney makes very generous offer to pals in leaving speech before Britain’s new highest-paid player jets to SaudiIvan is said to be earning £20million a yearCredit: GettyIvan transfered to Al-Ahli in the summerCredit: GettyA pal of Ivan’s said Jeddah has ‘the same system of roads and buildings’ as Milton KeynesCredit: GettyJeddah boasts much warner tempreturesCredit: Getty More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City plan £50m transfer swoop for LaLiga star and Euros winner – six months after he snubbed Liverpool move

      by

      MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January swoop for Martin Zubimendi — six months after he turned his back on Liverpool.The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s summer hitlist  and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn meant he stayed put.Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a transfer target for Man City in JanuaryCredit: GettySpain’s Euros winner also insisted last month he wanted to remain at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is staying. “I want to grow and develop here.”But sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all. And that has put City on high alert.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTheir failure to cope with the long-term absence of crocked Ballon d’Or winner Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton — their fourth loss in a row. And Zubimendi — who came on for Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 Euros final win over England — would be an ideal replacement.Rodri, 28, is out for the season after rupturing his ACL during September’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.The pair have played together for their nation, giving City the potential of a mouthwatering defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe release clause in Zubimendi’s contract would not be a problem, although manager Pep Guardiola was initially not keen on making any major moves in the January market.City’s injury pile-up and dismal form could signal a rethink, as Guardiola is equally reluctant to pile too much pressure on his younger players.Top 10 best paid managers in world as sacked Roberto Mancini is knocked off No1 spotOne potential stumbling block could be ongoing uncertainty about the Spaniard’s own future.There is still no sign of a definite decision over his plans beyond the summer. More

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Newcastle ace Kieran Trippier enjoys night out with stunning group of party girls amid marriage woes

      by

      NEWCASTLE United’s Kieran Trippier has a night out on the Toon after his team’s win over Arsenal.The footie star, 34, chatted to four women but seemed more sedate than on a previous night out, when he was seen hoisting a blonde girl aloft. Kieran Trippier was seen with a group of party girls in a Newcastle bar, who were hanging on his every wordCredit: XTrippier wore the same jacket earlier in the day as he embraced Arsenal pals at matchCredit: Wife Charlotte has since moved out and the pair do not wear their wedding ringsCredit: GettyThat outing — in May last year — fuelled rumours about his marriage to wife Charlotte. She has since moved 200 miles away and the pair have ditched their wedding rings.Kieran is pictured at Newcastle’s Stack bar last Saturday wearing the same £2,000 Gucci jacket he wore pitchside on TV while greeting Arsenal pals just hours earlier.A fan who was in the bar said of the footie star: “He wasn’t in the VIP area. READ MORE ON KIERAN TRIPPIER”He looked relaxed and was enjoying the attention.“He was deep in conversation. There was lots of laughing and joking.”They appeared to be hanging on his every word.”Earlier in the day Newcastle had beaten Arsenal 1-0, with a goal from striker Alexander Isak.Most read in FootballStunning party girl caught up in Newcastle ace Kieran Trippier’s marriage riddle revealed as tattooed call centre workerNewcastle United star Trippier looked relaxed as he laughed and joked with the girls, a fan saidCredit: EPA More

    • 263 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Andy Carroll puts £8.5m mansion up for sale amid fury from wife Billi Mucklow as he moves on with new love

      by

      FOOTIE’S Andy Carroll has put his £8.5million house up for sale amid fury from estranged wife Billi Mucklow.Billi, 36, has told pals she does not want him turning up unannounced since he moved out.Andy Carroll has put his £8.5million house up for sale amid fury from estranged wife Billi MucklowCredit: GettyAndy has moved on with celebrity make-up artist Lou TeasdaleShe is also angry at how he has moved on with celebrity make-up artist Lou Teasdale, 42 — and feels he is flaunting their romance.Carroll, now with French side Bordeaux, bought the six-bed house in Essex from singer Sir Rod Stewart five years ago for £4.1million.A source said: “Billi has been left hurt and blind-sided that Andy appears to have moved on so quickly with Lou. It feels very public and embarrassing, especially as they only split in summer.“Billi has a close-knit family and they have been left livid with Andy over his lack of loyalty, but are rallying around her to support her.Read More on Sport“Billi wants to cut ties but she doesn’t like the idea that Andy can come and go as he pleases.”She realises the house is part of their divorce discussions, but she doesn’t want him turning up unannounced, particularly with his new girlfriend.”The house is set in 25 acres and boasts a pool, tennis court, boating lake and football pitch. We told how the couple, who have three children aged nine, six, and four, had split in September. Most read in FootballHe was pictured with Lou soon after.  Ex-Liverpool, Newcastle and England striker Carroll got engaged to Billi in 2014 and they married in 2022.Billi’s fury over Carroll’s girlThe wedding was almost called off after a picture emerged of him passed out in bed with two women on his stag do.Billi forgave him when one of the women insisted nothing sexual happened. More