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      Football star who notched up over 300 appearances for his club dies aged 89 as tributes pour in

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      FOOTBALL star Mick McGrath has passed away aged 89.The defender was one of the last remaining survivors of Blackburn Rovers’ 1960 FA Cup final side.Football star Mick McGrath has passed away aged 89Credit: FacebookThe stalwart made more than 300 appearances for Blackburn RoversCredit: GettyMcGrath later made the East Lancs town his homeCredit: GettyThe Irishman also featured in the 1957/58 Division Two promotion-winning team.McGrath arrived from the Home Farm club in Dublin.The stalwart made more than 300 appearances for the club and secured 22 caps for the Republic of Ireland.He told the Telegraph: “Coming from Ireland as a young lad playing for someone like Blackburn Rovers was a great thing in itself and to get in the first team, well it was a feeling hard to describe.”He played 50 times for Bradford after leaving Rovers at the end of the 1965-66 season.The footballer finished his career as player-manager at Bangor City.McGrath later made the East Lancs town his home.He worked for Thwaites Brewery for over 20 years before retiring.Most read in FootballA Rovers spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Mick McGrath, at the age of 89.”Everyone at Blackburn Rovers offers our thoughts and sincere condolences to Mick’s family and friends at this sad time.” More

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      Football matches postponed in Italy following death of Pope Francis and Serie A games on Easter Monday called off

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      ALL football matches in Italy have been postponed after the passing of Pope Francis.A Serie A statement confirmed the top flight would postpone all games on Easter Monday.The Serie A has postponed all games after the death of Pope FrancisCredit: APAs confirmed by the Vatican on Monday morning, the late Pope passed away at the age of 88.Four top flight games in Italy were scheduled to commence today, starting with Torino v Udinese at 11:30 UK time.A league statement released shortly after the announcement said: “Following the passing of His Holiness, Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A can confirm that today’s league games in Serie A and Primavera 1 have been postponed. “The date of the rearranged fixtures will be announced in due course.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe other top flight games affected by the decision today were Cagliari v Fiorentina, Genoa v Lazio and Parma v Juventus.There were also three games in the Primavera 1 – Italy’s development league – which were also hit by the postponements.It is currently unclear when the games will be rearranged.The late Pope had suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed when he was younger.Most read in FootballHe was admitted to hospital on February 14 for a respiratory issue that developed into double pneumonia.His Holiness had been in hospital for 38 days. The day before his death, he had emerged on Easter Sunday to bless thousands of people in St Peter’s Square in a Popemobile tour.The Vatican statement on Pope Francis’ death said: “At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.” More

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      Man Utd ‘lead race to sign in-demand Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, 25, but sky-high valuation could be an issue’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are leading the race to sign Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, according to reports.The forward has been in fine form this season, finding the net ten times in all competitions.Man Utd lead the race to sign Antoine SemenyoCredit: RexHe is believed to have attracted attention from every Big Six club, with the exception of Arsenal.But it is United who are the frontrunners for his signature, claim Sky Sports.Ruben Amorim is said to be a big admirer of the winger, who joined Bournemouth from Bristol City for £10.5million in January 2023.Now it is understood Semenyo could cost £70m, with the Cherries unlikely to let him go easily.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat could present an issue for United, although the structure of the deal could include a lower fee with big add-ons.The Red Devils are in need of a forward with Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony all expected to depart on a permanent basis.However Liverpool also need an attacker so could battle United for Semenyo’s signature.Amorim is in desperate need of new recruits after suffering his 13th defeat as boss at home to Wolves.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSCrystal Palace and England star Eberechi Eze is another who has been earmarked for the summer in a potential £50m deal.Aston Villa are also interested in the midfielder and could make Rashford’s loan stay permanent.Ruben Amorim will go all out to secure Europa League glory for Man Utd More

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      Ruud van Nistelrooy drops huge hint over Leicester future after Foxes are relegated back to the Championship

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      RUUD VAN NISTELROOY has dropped a big hint about his future after Leicester were relegated.The Foxes fell to a 1-0 defeat at home to Liverpool courtesy of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s dramatic winner 14 minutes from time.Ruud van Nistelrooy hopes to continue as Leicester boss despite taking them downThat was Leicester’s 23rd Premier League defeat of the season with Van Nistelrooy winning just two of his 21 league matches in charge.Despite his record, Van Nistelrooy is hopeful he will be given the chance to continue in his role and lead the rebuild at the King Power Stadium.He said following Leicester’s relegation: “I’m focused on taking my responsibility to do the best things for the future and next season. “Performances like Brighton and the Liverpool game are signs that the players are willing to do that. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We have to take responsibility and that’s what I’m doing for the next five weeks and after that we have to see.”Van Nistelrooy highlighted the gulf in quality between the three promoted sides and the rest of the division, with Leicester and Southampton set to be joined by Ipswich in the Championship next season.He is still keen on the job however and spoke about coming to an agreement with the owners over staying on.Asked if he wants to continue, Van Nistelrooy said: “Of course. Then you have to find each other.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”The winter window went a certain way and we have to take that into evaluations moving forward.”If we are willing to do so, both sides, then we have to find each other, and of course the sooner the better.”Leicester fans spotted streaming out just 35 minutes into Newcastle clash as hopeless Foxes hurtle towards relegationHe added: “I expected to get more points than I was able to get.”I think there some very good performances and that’s what we’ve said in press conferences and there were games where didn’t perform to our capabilities. “Over 33 games, it’s the level of the three promoted sides – the gap has been too big compared to the other 17 teams – it’s a clear, difference in quality with two teams relegated already and the other one 15 points back with five games – that’s the first conclusion and most important one.” More

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      Argentina legend Hugo Gatti dies aged 80, after ‘complications’ following hip surgery during two-month hospital stay

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      LEGENDARY Argentinian goalkeeper Hugo Gatti has died aged 80, just months after he reportedly suffered complications following surgery.The footballer, nicknamed El Loco or “The Madman” for his outspoken character and eccentric play style, also made more than 350 appearances for Argentinian giants Boca Juniors in an illustrious career.Argentina legend Hugo Gatti has died aged 80Credit: GettyThe goalkeeper was credited with being one of the first to wear gloves and to regularly leave his penalty areaHe made 18 appearances for the Argentinian national team, including at the 1966 World Cup in EnglandCredit: AlamyIt comes just weeks after it was reported Gatti was in intensive care after contracting pneumonia, following surgery undertaken on his hip.The star was operated on after injuring himself in a fall while walking his dog..Tragically, he passed away on Sunday, after more than a month in hospital, sources confirmed to La Nacion.Gatti is credited as one of the first goalkeepers to wear gloves and made 18 appearances for the Argentinian national team.Read More on SportHe was also part of the squad that travelled to England to compete at the 1966 World Cup.The iconic goalkeeper played for both River Plate and Boca Juniors in Argentina after turning professional with Buenos Aires club Atlanta.He holds the record for the most appearances in the Argentine league ever, with 765 games played.Gatti was also credited as being one of the first keepers to regularly leave his penalty area.Most read in FootballAfter retiring, following 13 years at his last club Boca Juniors, he became a TV football pundit.Earlier this year, it was reported how the legendary keeper was being treated in intensive care after contracting pneumonia, following hip surgery.While the 80-year-old’s operation initially went well, a virus he contracted in hospital caused post-op complications.The aftermath and breathing problems that occurred saw Gatti placed in a high-dependency care unit.One of his two sons was already in Argentina, but the other had to return to his homeland after being told Gatti was fighting for his life.It comes less than a year after the goalkeeper lost his wife of more than 50 years, Nacha Nodar.They had married in 1977 and had two children.One of their kids, Lucas, went on to play as a midfielder for Argentinos Juniors, Dundee, and Badajoz.Lucas was appointed U23 manager at League Two side Bromley after hanging up his boots in 2022.Read More on The SunThe 47-year-old coach also managed Serie D side Olbia in Italy for a month last year.Argentina legend Gatti made headlines in 2019 after he claimed Lionel Messi would need to leave Barcelona and join Real Madrid to prove he was truly the greatest of all time.Gatti made more than 350 appearances for Boca Juniors during his careerCredit: AlamyThe goalkeeper was hospitalised earlier this year after suffering from ‘complications’ following surgeryCredit: GettyHe played his last match in 1988Credit: AFP More

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      Nicky Butt seen for the first time since accepting a police caution for head-butting a guard at his 50th party

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      NICKY Butt is pictured for the first time since accepting a police caution for head-butting a guard at his 50th party.The ex-England player was seen in Manchester, a day after we broke the story.Nicky Butt is pictured for the first time since accepting a police caution for head-butting a guard at his 50th partyCredit: ZenpixThe ex-England player was seen in Manchester, a day after we broke the storyCredit: ZenpixThe Sun revealed in January that the guard was treated for a suspected broken nose.He accepted the criminal sanction for actual bodily harm over the attack at Soho Farmhouse near Great Tew, Oxfordshire.The former Manchester United star also agreed to donate to charity.He had snapped and attacked the security guard during a seven-hour bash on January 24.Read More on FootballTrouble erupted between 7pm and 8pm after the ex-midfielder left the bar for a courtyard.The guard was said to have seen Butt relieving himself against a wall.A row developed and sources said Butt lashed out in a fury.The guard was treated in hospital for facial injuries amid fears of a broken nose.Most read in FootballA source said previously: “There was blood everywhere. People were shocked as the guard came inside with his face a mess. It ruined a lovely day.”The guard took time off work but later returned.Man Utd star Nicky Butt’s 50th party at centre of police probe after ‘head-butt’ left security guard with ‘broken nose’Butt accepted a caution for actual bodily harm over the attack at Soho Farmhouse, OxfordshireCredit: Zenpix More

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      ‘It would be ridiculous’ – Liverpool boss Slot slams fans questioning Alexander-Arnold as transfer rumours grow

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      ARNE SLOT has hit out at fans who have questioned Trent Alexander-Arnold’s commitment to Liverpool.The out-of-contract defender is heavily tipped to be on his way to Real Madrid this summer.Arne Slot hit out at fans questioning Trent Alexander-ArnoldThe defender is hotly tipped to move to Real Madrid in the summerCredit: ReutersThe expected move has been hit with backlash from fans, with Liverpool set to miss out on millions from a valuation transfer deal.However, Alexander-Arnold, 25, silenced some critics with a match-winning strike against Leicester City.The goal not only relegated the Foxes but also put the Reds just one win away from claiming their second Premier League title.Alexander-Arnold celebrated the goal in front of the Liverpool fans passionately as he whipped off his shirt in jubilation.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSpeaking after the match, Slot labelled those who question the England international as “ridiculous”.He said: “The headline today should be the goal he scored and not about his contract but it would be ridiculous if someone argues his commitment for this club.”The work rate he puts in. No one can argue his commitment to this club but the headlines should be his great goal and not his contract.”I don’t think it only meant a lot for him, for everyone who loves Liverpool.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”A big moment and big players like to have big moments in their career. Virgil had one last week.”Players of the quality of Trent, you know these players step up when most needed.”Moment Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold are pulled apart after apparent spat during Liverpool training He netted a vital winner against Leicester CityCredit: ReutersAlexander-Arnold is believed to have put pen to paper on a five-year contract to play in the Spanish capital.However, there has been no official confirmation on the move that would see him lose his iconic No.66 shirt.He was also asked about his future on the pitch of the King Power Stadium.The defender did not give much away as he insisted he is happy to be closing on the title.He told Sky Sports: “I’ve said all season I’m not going to speak on my situation. I’m not going to go into details.“But days like these are always special.”Scoring goals, winning games and being close to winning titles are special moments that will live with me forever. I’m glad to be part of it.”Liverpool could still earn some cash from the exit of Alexander-Arnold.Should he make the move to the Santiago Bernabeu before the Club World Cup on June 15, then a fee would be needed to buy him out of his contract that runs until June 30.It is thought that Real Madrid are willing to stump up £5million to make the move happen on June 1.Alexander-Arnold could become a two-time Premier League champion should Arsenal lose to Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.If the Gunners win, then the Reds can wrap up the title with victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in front of the crowd at Anfield.Jamie Carragher does not think Alexander-Arnold should be starting games for LiverpoolCredit: GettyCarragher has urged the club to back Conor BradleyCredit: PALiverpool legend Jamie Carragher, however, has hit out at the defender and suggested that he should not be playing if he is on his way out.He said: “If Trent hasn’t committed to the manager for next season, he shouldn’t be starting games.”Liverpool are not here as a football club to give someone a send-off.”It’s not about: ‘Let’s give Trent a send-off.’ It’s about: ‘We need to assess whether Conor Bradley is the guy for us next season playing week in, week out.'”The decision Liverpool have is: ‘Does Conor Bradley become our first-choice right back and we buy a back-up player?’ or ‘Are we buying a first-choice right back and Conor Bradley is going to have to battle with him?'”So that lad [Bradley] needs as much experience as he can get.Read More on The Sun”So, yes, bring [Alexander-Arnold] on if you need to go and win the game.”But, in terms of starting games, if Trent hasn’t committed to the club, Conor Bradley should be starting every game.”What happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally. 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      French match between fierce rivals St-Etienne and Lyon SUSPENDED after official hit on head by object thrown from crowd

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      THE fierce derby between Saint-Etienne and Lyon was suspended shortly before half-time after a linesman was struck by an object from the crowd.Saint-Etienne had led 1-0 courtesy of Lucas Stassin’s goal when the unsavoury incident occurred.Reports in France suggested that a ‘coin’ had struck the officialThe referee was struck by an object from the crowdReports in France suggested that the match official, named Mehdi Rahmouni, was struck by a “coin” thrown from the crowd at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.Following the incident in the 44th minute, officials decided to take the players off the pitch.Crisis meetings followed between match officials, Ligue 1 delegates, police and representatives from both clubs.It was decided that the match WOULD recommence following a 45-minute delay.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA Ligue 1 official subsequently confirmed the decision – revealing that Rahmouni had taken a painkiller and would be able to continue.They also pointed out that, should any more projectiles be thrown from the crowd, the game would be abandoned.As Lyon players re-emerged from the tunnel, they were met by a chorus of boos from the home crowd.Saint-Etienne is located around 35 miles from Lyon and the two clubs have shared a bitter local rivalry for many years.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe officials decided what to do following the controversial incidentCredit: AFPThe match was played in front of a lively atmosphereCredit: AFPMehdi Rahmouni worked on Euro 2024Credit: AFPLes Vertes were not in Ligue 1 last season, having dropped into the second tier.Ahead of the match, home fans mocked their Lyon counterparts by showing off Manchester United shirts, following the Red Devils’ dramatic comeback win over the French side in the Europa League last Thursday.Ligue 1 match SUSPENDED twice and players rushed down tunnel as plume of smoke engulfs stadium after flares thrownTonight’s game took on great importance, with Lyon knowing that they could climb into the top four with a win.Struggling Saint-Etienne, meanwhile, went into the clash aiming to go level on points with 16th-placed Le Havre as they bid to avoid the drop.Lyon boss Paulo Fonseca watched the match from the stands.The 52-year-old is six weeks into a nine-month touchline ban for angrily confronting referee Benoit Millot during his side’s 2-1 win over Brest on March 2.Following the resumption of the match, Stassin grabbed his second to double Saint-Etienne’s advantage on 67 minutes.Lyon’s US international midfielder Tanner Tessman pulled on back 14 minutes from time, but Les Vertes held firm to secure a vital 2-1 win.Saint-Etienne’s match at Montpellier last month was abandoned due to crowd trouble.Members of the home crowd in the Etang de Thau stand set their stadium on fire by throwing flares after their side went 2-0 down to ten-man Saint-Etienne early in the second half.Read More on The SunPlayers were subsequently sent back to the dressing rooms, before fans were told to evacuate the stadium around half an hour later.A meeting between Ligue 1 officials subsequently decided to award Saint-Etienne a 3-0 victory.Lyon players look on as they wait for smoke from flares set off in the stands to clearCredit: AFPAimen Moueffek battles with Lyon forward Alexandre LacazetteCredit: AFP More