Football

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd in row with Arsenal as they ‘complain about FA Cup third-round tie fan allocation’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly embroiled in a row with Arsenal over their FA Cup ticket allocation.The two clubs are set to meet in the third round on Sunday January 12.Man Utd have contacted the FA over a dispute with ArsenalCredit: GettyUnder FA rules the away side is granted 15 per cent of the ticket allocation, meaning there could be 9,000 Red Devils packed inside the Emirates, which is a 60,000-capacity stadium.But United have been given just under 8000 tickets according to the Daily Mail, which is not acceptable for club officials.As a result, they have raised the issue with the FA with the aim of getting their full allocation.United reportedly raised concerns with Arsenal and gave them time to address the issue, but a solution has not been reached.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSources at the club are said to feel that the match being brought forward to 3pm should avoid any crowd problems.The Red Devils have even had to delay placing their tickets up for sale, which was initially scheduled to take place on December 13.They blamed Arsenal for the delay in a statement which read: “Arsenal have not provided us with the relevant information required to open applications as planned at 8am tomorrow for our away game in the FA Cup.”We’ll update here as and when this is received and will also add updates to our game information on the ticketing website.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAFTER drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time Arsenal and Manchester United have faced off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United.Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.United’s trip to the Emirates is the biggest tie of the third round and is a baptism of fire for Ruben Amorim, who will be managing his first game in the competition.The two clubs have a lengthy history in a tournament and this will be their 17th meeting.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’Two of those matches came in the final, with the Gunners coming out on top on both occasions, in 1979 and 2005. More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Amorim fires bizarre warning to Man Utd stars as he tells them he watches everything including the way they GET DRESSED

      by

      RUBEN AMORIM has bizarrely revealed that he watches the way his Manchester United squad gets DRESSED.The new Red Devils manager has endured a difficult start to his tenure at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim has missed a bizarre warning to his playersCredit: GettyThe former Sporting Lisbon boss has won two from two in the Europa League to match the records of Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Matt Busby.But Amorim, 39, has tasted victory just once in the Premier League since he replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag.And he shocked fans by DROPPING both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad for Sunday’s crunch Manchester derby vs Man City.Explaining his decision in an interview with Sky Sports, Amorim was quick to warn his stars that him and his staff are watching “everything” – from how they get dressed to what they eat.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “We try to evaluate everything training performance, game performances, engagement with team-mates, push their team-mates up.”Everything is on the line when we analyse and try to choose the players. It is my selection. Simple.”I don’t want to send a message it is simply an evaluation and they know it.”The players are really, really smart. Everybody understands my decision and I have to choose. It is simple selection.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Of course the context is difficult because we have to win games and we have a difficult situation now.”I pay attention to everything, the way you eat, the way you put your clothes to go to a game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I decide.Roy Keane fumes at ’embarrassing’ Kyle Walker dive during Man City’s clash against Man UtdMan Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.”There is a communication after the last training.”They are alright. They had training this morning and I was there. They trained really well.”Rashford was hauled off in Man Unted’s win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday.Josko Gvardiol had opened the scoring on 36 minutes of Sunday’s derby – but United sensationally turned the game around.Amad Diallo won a penalty on 88 minutes – converted by Bruno Fernandes – before the forward scored the winner just moments later.And Rashford posted a message of support to Diallo and his team-mates from his home in Manchester.He posted: “Yesssssssss! Love it lads.” More

    • 250 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Devastated Mason Mount forced off injured just 13 minutes into Manchester derby in another injury blow to Man Utd star

      by

      MASON MOUNT suffered more Manchester United misery as he was hauled off injured against City. The former Chelsea star came off injured after just 13 minutes of the Manchester derby – replaced by Kobbie Mainoo. Mason Mount came off injured against Man CityCredit: AFPMount look down in frustrationCredit: AlamyThe former Chelsea star came off injured after just 13 minutesCredit: PAMount has suffered large spells out of the squad this season amid a hamstring problem. And his withdrawal against City at the Etihad is the midfielder’s latest setback in United red. Mount joined from West London in a £60million move last summer under Erik ten Hag. But he has failed to hit the same heights that saw him lift the Champions League at Chelsea. READ MORE ON MAN UTDIn fact, over the 18 months he has been at United, Mount has played a full 90 minutes of football ONCE – against Newcastle in the League Cup in November 2023. United also travelled to the Premier League champions without Marcus Rashford or Alejandro Garnacho. And manager Ruben Amorim appeared to suggest it was down to performances – both in training and on the pitch. He said: “We try to evaluate everything training performance, game performances, engagement with team-mates, push their team-mates up.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Everything is on the line when we analyse and try to choose the players. It is my selection. Simple.“I don’t want to send a message it is simply an evaluation and they know it. The players are really, really smart.Roy Keane fumes at ’embarrassing’ Kyle Walker dive during Man City’s clash against Man UtdMan Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.”Everybody understands my decision and I have to choose. It is simple selection.“Of course the context is difficult because we have to win games and we have a difficult situation now.”I pay attention to everything, the way you eat, the way you put your clothes to go to a game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I decide.”Josko Gvardiol had opened the scoring on 36 minutes – but United sensationally turned the game around.Amad Diallo won a penalty on 88 minutes – converted by Bruno Fernandes – before the forward scored the winner just moments later.Mount looked devastatedCredit: PAAmad Diallo turned the game aroundCredit: AFP More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Premier League star Jesus Navas breaks down in tears as he plays final home game for Sevilla

      by

      FORMER Premier League winner Jesus Navas broke down in tears as he said an emotional goodbye to Sevilla.The 39-year-old legend is hanging up his boots at the end of this calendar year.Jesus Navas said an emotional farewell to SevillaCredit: RexThe Spanish veteran is hanging up his boots due to a hip injuryCredit: RexNavas has played 704 times for his boyhood clubCredit: GettyNavas touched and kissed the ground where his former team-mate suffered a cardiac arrestCredit: RexNavas, who has been on Sevilla’s books for 20 years, played the last home match of his career last night as his side beat Celta Vigo 1-0.And after the game, the veteran was given an incredible send-off at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium.Navas broke down in tears as he and his family were given a guard of honour by his team-mates.Supporters chanted his name and held up banners for him as the emotional Spaniard waved goodbye.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn his way around the pitch, Navas showed his class by stopping and kissing the ground where his former team-mate Antonio Puerta suffered a cardiac arrest during a match in 2007.Puerta sadly passed away three days later.Navas was 18-years-old when he made his Sevilla debut and went on to play for his boyhood club 704 times.He lifted two Copa del Reys and four Europa Leagues, with two of the successes coming while captain.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA Prem-winning four years at Manchester City from 2013 to 2017 came between his spells at Sevilla. Navas initially announced he was leaving in May but chairman Jose Maria del Nido then offered him a lifetime contract.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersDespite managing 71 minutes in his final appearance, the versatile winger hangs up his boots due to a chronic hip injury.Navas admitted he “can’t take” playing through the pain anymore.On the international stage, he won the World Cup and two Euros with Spain.Fans held up a huge banner in honour of NavasCredit: Getty More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans convinced Carlo Ancelotti has had lip fillers as reason for Real Madrid manager’s swollen mouth is revealed

      by

      FANS were transfixed by a lip-smacking thriller – before wondering if Carlo Ancelotti had lip-swelling filler.Viewers were open-mouthed with astonishment over the Real Madrid manager’s swollen bottom lip in a press conference following a 3-3 draw at Rayo Vallecano.Viewers were entranced by Carlo Ancelotti’s lips when he faced the mediaCredit: X @marcaJude Bellingham had earlier netted as Real Madrid drew 3-3Credit: AFPAncelotti saw his Real team fail to move top of LaLigaCredit: GettyMany fans were convinced the legendary ex-Chelsea chief must have had botox treatment or an operationOne posted: “What’s wrong with your lip? Have you had surgery?”Another claimed: “I’ve been giggling about Ancelotti’s lip filler since I woke up”  A third wrote: “Can someone explain to me what Ancelotti has done to his lips?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe unexpected debate about Ancelotti’s facial features came after Jude Bellingham netted for a sixth LaLiga match in a row.The last player to do that was Karim Benzema, also for Real, eight years ago.But the draw means Ancelotti’s men remain a point behind neighbours Atletico Madrid and leaders Barcelona.So one fan felt able to ask: “Why did Ancelotti get lip filler. This is not a serious club.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSpanish outlet mundodeportivo say his large lips were due to an allergy.But it didn’t save the former Bayern Munich and Everton boss from less than generous jibes.Jude Bellingham’s glorious England moment brought back in stylePlenty of fans on social media made up their own mind over the cause of the apparent swelling.One wrote: “Ancelotti has punctured his lips or is it just me.”Another said: “Ancelotti has been more concerned about his lips than about today’s game.”That was particularly unkind as Real recovered from trailing 2-0 to lead 3-2 through Federico Valverde, Bellingham and Rodrygo.But Isi Palazon rescued a valuable point for second-bottom Vallecano.So for Ancelotti it wasn’t a case of all’s swell that ends swell. More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Brighton 1 Crystal Palace 3: Ismaila Sarr scores twice after Trevoh Chalobah as Eagles STUN rivals

      by

      ISMAILA SARR inspired Crystal Palace to rip through rivals Brighton, with a helping hand from Michael Oliver.The Eagles ended Fabian Hurzeler’s unbeaten home run in the Premier League, leaving The Amex stunned and silent.Crystal Palace picked up a huge Premier League win at BrightonCredit: AlamyCrystal Palace ace Trevoh Chalobah opened the scoring against BrightonCredit: GettyIsmaila Sarr sealed the three points for Crystal Place with a braceCredit: GettyBrighton were held up by a fighting Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersSarr, signed to replace Michael Olise, grabbed a superb double after Trevoh Chalobah opened the scoring against the run of play – with Oliver hindering Brighton’s defending in the build-up to the first goal.Marc Guehi gave Brighton a late own goal but not even he will care on reflection.It lifted Oliver Glasner’s men further from trouble at the bottom. After a rotten start to the season, they have now lost just one in their last eight.Palace had not beaten Brighton in their last six attempts in this rather bizarre rivalry.Read More on FootballThe way the visitors started looked as if that trend was set to continue.Glasner was throwing his arms up in the air at his side’s attempts to play out, with Marc Guehi getting lucky on one occasion when robbed of the ball yards from the touchline.But Brighton could not capitalise on Palace’s nervousness and the momentum swung thanks to Oliver’s shoulder and some shocking defending.Palace began a rare break. Carlos Baleba moved to stop Eberechi Eze in his tracks but was prevented by the referee being in his path.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAs officials only need to stop the game if the ball hits them, play was allowed to continue and the Eagles won a corner and then another, from which they struck.Will Hughes whipped a ball to the near post which, after missing Jean-Philippe Mateta, should have been easy to defend.Crystal Palace star Marc Guéhi talks about his road to 100 Premier League appearances But Brighton made a mess of it. The ball struck Jean Paul van Hecke and fell for Sarr, unmarked yards from goal.The winger could not quite connect, but Chalobah was also left alone and free to convert his second goal since joining from Chelsea.Brighton collapsed from there. Palace were showing strength the hosts could not match.Bart Verbruggen saved well from Daniel Munoz three minutes after the first, but was helpless to stop Sarr moments later.The visitors clipped a deep free-kick out towards Tyrick Mitchell. Both he and Tariq Lamptey, who was hooked at the break, effectively ducked the header, leaving the ball to bounce off Mitchell’s back.He turned and swung a fine cross to the far post, where Sarr had been allowed to glide between two blue and white shirts to nod in.It could have been three before the break, though Eze headed just wide from a Munoz cross.Julio Enciso was thrown on at the interval and Hurzeler, after spending the first half venting at officials, had clearly saved a bit of that anger for his players.They emerged with an intensity which had been desperately lacking before half-time, though they could not keep it up.Maxence Larcroix had to block an effort from Kaoru Mitoma before Dean Henderson made a smart stop from Lewis Dunk’s header.The England keeper was hardly tested in the first half, but was far busier now, making a flying save to stop the electric Enciso.Glasner made changes of his own, with Daichi Kamada and Eddie Nketiah coming on while Eze hobbled off.Brighton had failed again to take advantage of Palace’s early wobble after the restart and soon the visitors were causing trouble again.Munoz had the ball in the net for a third, what would have been his third in four games, but the goal was ruled out correctly for a foul by Sarr in the build-up.With Nketiah through the middle Palace were again a threat on the break.The former Arsenal man went close at the near post before feeding a ball through to Sarr, who was stopped by Verbruggen.He was not to be denied next time around. Palace again showed more fight as Hughes and Nketiah beat their men to headers, sending Sarr in.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe beat Dunk to the ball before slotting past Verbruggen and making straight for the jubilant Palace fans.Not even a late and chaotic Guehi own goal, after Henderson fumbled the ball at a corner, could dampen their spirits. More

    • 275 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Elon Musk told which EFL club he should buy if he wants to follow Ryan Reynolds and Tom Brady into English football

      by

      ELON MUSK has been urged to buy an EFL football club.The X owner, 53, is now said to be worth more than £300bn ($400bn).Elon Musk is worth more than £300bnCredit: ReutersRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney co-own WrexhamCredit: PATom Brady co-owns Birmingham with majority owner Tom Wagner, leftCredit: GettyMusk has previously joked that he will buy Manchester United.But football financial expert Dr Rob Wilson feels that the multi-billionaire should emulate the likes of Ryan Reynolds and Tom Brady by looking further down the pyramid.Per RDG Today, Wilson said: “If Elon Musk wants to get into football club ownership, Cheltenham Town are an extraordinarily interesting prospect, particularly to the US market.”Millions of people in the US love British culture, particularly quintessential Middle England and the Cotswolds where Cheltenham is based.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”You’ve got these beautiful rolling hills in the background, you’ve got the racecourse so there is a really powerful story and a powerful narrative at a club like Cheltenham.”They are up and coming and could be a great prospect.”Cheltenham Town currently find themselves 13th in League Two.The Robins were relegated from League One last term, having struggled for several years to maintain a spot in the third tier.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMusk has been urged to buy Cheltenham TownCredit: PAHollywood A-lister Reynolds, 48, has enjoyed incredible success with Wrexham.Alongside It’s Always Sunny star Rob McElhenney, Reynolds has helped Wrexham climb from the National League to League One.Danny Devito celebrates Wrexham’s last-gasp win over Barnsley as he watches from virtual stadium in LAThey now find themselves in a promotion battle with Birmingham City, who are owned by American Tom Wagner, with NFL icon Tom Brady possessing a stake.Wrexham were watched by Hollywood superstar Channing Tatum at the Racecourse Ground yesterday, with the actor joining pal Reynolds at the game.Elsewhere, A$AP Rocky has been linked with a shock swoop for Tranmere Rovers.While another financial expert has tipped Kim Kardashian and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to move for EFL clubs.Kim Kardashian has been urged to purchase an EFL clubCredit: GettyA$AP Rocky has been linked with Tranmere RoversCredit: Splash More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Wolves already working on deal to hire Gary O’Neil manager replacement who sparked Everton fan revolt

      by

      WOLVES are working on a deal to appoint Gary O’Neil’s successor, according to reports.O’Neil was sacked following a 2-1 home defeat to fellow strugglers Ipswich – Wolves’ fourth consecutive defeat.Wolves are working on a deal to appoint Vitor PereiraCredit: GettyGary O’Neil was sacked following defeat to IpswichCredit: ReutersBut Wolves chiefs have wasted no time in their search for his replacement, with Vitor Pereira targeted.The Premier League club are already working on a deal to appoint Pereira, report The Athletic.He is currently in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab but Wolves are prepared to pay his release clause to lure him to the Prem.It is claimed agreeing personal terms should be straightforward as Pereira is keen on the switch.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis knack for discipline and “emotional understanding” are reportedly characteristics which appeal to Wolves.O’Neil oversaw just two wins from 16 Prem games this season with the last two defeats ending in brawls between his own players, as well as opposition stars.Pereira would bring plenty of experience to the dugout at Molineux, having managed 13 clubs.He has won six trophies including two titles with Porto, and league wins in Greece and China with Olympiacos and Shanghai SIPG.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPereira took charge of current team Al-Shabab in February and led them to an eighth-placed finish.He has continued that success this season with his side sixth in the league after picking up seven wins in 13 games.Wolves players and staff clashing with one another after full-timeAfter leaving Fenerbahce in December 2021 Pereira was tipped to take over at Everton.But a fan protest, including a spraypainted message ‘Pereira out, Frank [Lampard] In”, spurned the move. More