More stories

  • in

    BBC star shares shock theory as to why Tottenham waited exactly 16 days after Europa League win to sack Ange Postecoglou

    ANGE POSTECOGLOU was sacked 16 days after winning the Europa League – and now a theory has emerged as to why Spurs waited til then.Spurs chief Daniel Levy axed the boss last night – just over two weeks after that glorious night in Bilbao.Ange Postecoglou was sacked after exactly two years at SpursCredit: GettyDaniel Levy held fire for 16 days after the finalCredit: GettyVictory over Manchester United in Spain ended the club’s 17-year wait for a trophy.But after leaving Postecoglou in the dark over his future, Spurs finally announced he was relieved of his duties on Friday afternoon.It marked exactly two years to the day from when the Australian landed the job in North London.BBC senior football reporters Ian Dennis and Sami Mokbel discussed the sacking on the Football Daily Podcast.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBoth were adamant that the move to get rid of Postecoglou was made before the final.They said league form was seen as the “true barometer” and Europa League success was just a “bump in the road” to their ultimate decision.Dennis shared a theory that explained the over two-week wait for the confirmation.He tweeted: “Interesting his departure was timed after he had completed two years and on the first day of his third year. Significant in any settlement?”Most read in Europa LeaguePostecoglou has reportedly pocketed £4m after being shown the exit door by Levy.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHe already collected a £2m bonus for getting the club into the Champions League.Brentford’s Thomas Frank is the leading candidate to take over and he has a £10m release clause in his contract.Who could replace Ange Postecoglou as Tottenham manager?Fulham’s Marco Silva and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola remains in contention.On Postecoglou’s departure, Dennis said: “It was such an inevitability that it was going to happen.”They got off to an absolutely flying start when he first arrived and it’s funny how perceptions can change through results.”If they had started slowly and finished well, you would not be referring to the 78 points from the last 66 games.”It seems there has not been an improvement in their league form.”Ange Breaks Silence On Tottenham SackingANGE Postecoglou issued a statement just moments after being axed.It read: “When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride.”The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.”Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.”There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.”We have also laid the foundations that means this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.”I know there were some difficult times, but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.”It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.”And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years.”A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. “We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.” More

  • in

    Club World Cup to trial FIVE ‘trailblazing innovations’ as Fifa chief confirms ‘groundbreaking’ new rule changes

    THE Club World Cup will trial five brand new rule changes when it kicks off later this month.Fifa’s revamped tournament gets underway on June 15 and will see top clubs from around the globe face off for an elaborate trophy and mega prize money. Fifa have announced five rule changes for the upcoming Club World CupCredit: ReutersFifa secretary general Mattias Grafstrom has labelled the changes as ‘trailblazing innovations’Credit: PAThe tournament, which used to feature just six teams, has been expanded to 32 teams, spanning Europe, South America, North America, Africa, Asia and Oceania.But it’s not just the tournament format that is going to look different, but also the way the games are officiated, after Fifa announced five “trailblazing innovations” to be used in the competition.Football’s world governing body, and tournament organisers, have revealed that fans will get to see more of the referee’s decision making than ever before.The first change announced is that referees will wear body cameras during matches, with the footage used during live match broadcasts.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile footage from referee monitor reviews (VAR) will be aired live inside the stadium – something Premier League fans have been asking to see for some time.Fifa will also trial an “advanced” semi-automated offside technology using sensors inside the balls, in hopes of making further improvement on the tech already used in Uefa competitions like the Champions League.A fourth change will be the use of AI to collect live match data, helping fans see even more stats and figures to dissect the match.While the final innovation is that managers and coaching staff will be able to request their substitutions to the fourth official through a digital tablet, doing away with the old fashioned paper slips used at present.Most read in FootballReferee’s will wear body cameras that will be used during TV broadcastsVAR replays will be shown on screens inside stadiums at the tournamentCredit: ReutersClub World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURESCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFifa’s secretary general Mattias Grafstrom praised the organisation for the new additions.He said: “Fifa has a proud history of breaking new ground at its elite tournaments, and the Fifa Club World Cup will continue that trend. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will see the World’s best players decide which club is the greatest “With the best clubs competing for the title of world champions, it is fitting that these trailblazing innovations will be on display at such a prestigious tournament.”The tournament will be broadcast for free on streaming service DAZN in the UK.Fans can look forward to rare matchups between teams from different continents with clubs like Real Madrid, Flamengo, Man City, Chelsea and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami all involved.The tournament is taking place across the United States of America, with top NFL and MLS stadiums hosting the matches.The final, which takes place on July 13, will be hosted in New York at the MetLife Stadium – home of the New York Jets and New York Giants.Fifa’s new Club World Cup rulesHere’s a look at the five new ‘trailblazing innovations’ introduced by Fifa for the Club World Cup… Referees will wear body cameras with the footage used on live match broadcasts.Footage from referee monitor reviews will be aired live in stadiums.Advanced semi-automated offside technology will be in use. Balls will have a sensor inside.AI will be used to collect live match data as part of FIFA’s partnership with Hawk-Eye.Substitutions will be requested on a digital tablet rather than via paper slips. More

  • in

    ‘I’m going to Hollywood’ – Micah Richards opens up on Tom Cruise acting class before Alan Shearer shuts down film dream

    MICAH RICHARDS has opened up on his impromptu acting lesson with Hollywood legend Tom Cruise.Richards, 36, found himself rubbing shoulders with the acting icon as part of CBS’ Champions League final coverage on their new show ‘Beckham and Friends’.Tom Cruise gave Micah Richards some acting tips live on CBSCredit: @cbssportsgolazoThe new show throws together David Beckham and his A-list pals with the CBS football regulars such as Richards, Kate Abdo, Thierry Henry and Jamie Carragher.And when Tom Cruise joined the crew for PSG’s dominant 5-0 thrashing of Inter Milan in the Champions League final, the Mission Impossible star took the time to lend some acting tips to Richards.Former Man City and England ace Richards cheekily asked Cruise if he would help him learn how to play sad, a contrast to his usually energetic personality.And the four-time Oscar nominee made sure to give him his best advice, telling Richards to bow his head and look down to achieve his best sad look.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow Richards has opened up on the unbelievable moment while chatting to Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer on the Rest is Football podcast – telling them he reckons he has what it takes to hit the silver screen.He said: “[Cruise told me to] put your head down a little bit, lower your eyes, chin down.”And I nailed it! I nailed it guys, I’m going to Hollywood!”Lineker joked: “I’m starting to cry, Micah. It’s so real”.Most read in FootballAlan Shearer brought Richards crashing back down to earthCredit: X @RestIsFootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSBefore Shearer brought Richards crashing back down to earth, telling him he’s too jolly to play sad.He added: “You can’t do sad! You’re the happiest man in the world”.Fans hail ‘incredible’ moment Micah Richards sits on David Beckham’s lap during new show and chats to Hollywood legendLineker, Richards and Shearer aren’t all laughs and jokes, with the trio recently landing a major deal for their popular podcast.Lineker, who has stepped down from the BBC, has now agreed a deal with DAZN that will see the podcast broadcast highlights of the upcoming Club World Cup.The show will air the best bits from matches in the video version of the podcast.DAZN chief Pete Oliver said: “The Rest Is Football is essential viewing and listening for fans who want insight, entertainment, and personality.”This partnership is a brilliant way to bring the Fifa Club World Cup even closer to that audience.“It’s about connecting global football with the voices fans trust and love, and showing the tournament in a fresh, exciting, and authentically British way.”The revamped Club World Cup begins on June 15 and is being held in the US, featuring teams like Real Madrid, Man City, Chelsea and Inter Miami.Club World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURES More

  • in

    Aaron Ramsey lined up for shock transfer to MEXICO as swoop for Arsenal legend, 34, ‘close to confirmation’

    FORMER Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey is being targeted by Mexican giants Pumas as Cardiff City dither over offering him the full-time manager’s post.Ramsey took the reins at Cardiff City Stadium in April and oversaw the Bluebirds’ final three Championship matches of the season.Aaron Ramsey is a shock target for Mexican side PumasCredit: GettyBut two draws and a defeat condemned them to relegation to League One.The 34-year-old’s playing contract expires at the end of the month and the club’s plans for Ramsey remain a mystery.Any hopes they had of appointing Nathan Jones ended on Friday when the boyhood Cardiff fan signed a new deal at Charlton. Ramsey came through the ranks at Cardiff before joining the Gunners in 2008 for just under £5m.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe went on to make over 350 appearances and win the FA Cup three times, featuring alongside Mexican star Carlos Vela for a number of years.Now he has a chance to continue playing in Liga MX with Guadalajara-based Pumas – Vela’s hometown club.Ramsey, who has not played a game for Cardiff since March, is a target for the Pumas, according to Mexican TV reporter Andres Vaca.He told the Seleccione2 podcast: “I don’t know if they’re selling me smoke, they just told me that Aaron Ramsey is going to join Pumas. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”They told me it’s almost a confirmation.”The Mexican club tried to tempt Vela, 36, to reverse his decision to retire last week.Devastated Aaron Ramsey and Cardiff City flops forced to rush to AWARDS NIGHT just moments after being relegatedPumas coach Efrain Juarez, who played alongside Vela for the Mexican national team, revealed his attempt in a FOX Sports interview this week.Their attention has now turned to Ramsey, who made it clear that he wanted to return to the pitch when he assumed interim charge of Cardiff.He said in April: “I am just taking these three games.”I’m still recovering from a hamstring operation, I’m still in the middle of rehab and I’m focused on getting back to full fitness.” More

  • in

    ‘Almost decided’ – Cristiano Ronaldo reveals why he WON’T play at Club World Cup after ‘many invitations and proposals’

    CRISTIANO RONALDO appears to have ruled out playing in the upcoming Club World Cup. The 40-year-old’s future with Al-Nassr remains uncertain ahead of the tournament in the US later this month. Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up about his futureCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe 40-year-old is unlikely to feature in the upcoming Club World CupCredit: GettyRonaldo had been linked with a move away from the Saudi side, with his contract due to expire on June 30. The club remain confident they can convince Ronaldo to stay and pen a new deal. Al-Nassr are not participating in Fifa’s revamped 32-strong Club World Cup. Ronaldo had been linked with a fast-moving transfer, which would require the club to release him early from his contract so he could play in the competition.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA similar deal has been struck between Arsenal and Jorginho, who have released the midfielder early so he can join Flamengo.But Ronaldo has indicated a move in time for the tournament starting on June 15 is unlikely.Ronaldo said, via Fabrizio Romano: “It’s almost decided that I will NOT take part at the FIFA Club World Cup despite receiving many invitations and proposals.”There have been talks, contacts – but you have to think about short, medium and long term.”Most read in FootballRonaldo also opened up on the prospect of retirement.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKNow 40, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner appears to believe he has plenty of time left. He continued: “My mentality is to live day by day. Cristiano Ronaldo’s bodyguard Hichman Bukhari talks about the risks of protecting the football superstar “I don’t have many more years to play – but I’m enjoying the moment. “There’s no day decided for my retirement. “I feel happy, I’m here to enjoy and keep going.”Ronaldo has topped the scoring charts in the Saudi Pro League for the past two seasons.But he has failed to win silverware with Al-Nassr since joining from Manchester United in 2023.Club World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURESAnd sporting director Fernando Hierro believes he can change Ronaldo’s mind about leaving and get him to pen a new deal.Hierro told a press conference late last month: “I have to be positive. I don’t think Ronaldo will leave Al-Nassr.”In any case, we are working hard on all aspects.”Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr runs until the end of June 30.”We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him.Read More on The Sun”He is a huge phenomenon in the history of football and has helped the league grow.”We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us.” More

  • in

    Spurs rejected by ex-Premier League boss and now considering raid on TWO London rivals in hunt for new manager

    TOTTENHAM have been rejected by former Premier League boss Roberto De Zerbi, according to reports.Spurs brutally sacked Ange Postecoglou last night – just two weeks after he lifted the Europa League to end the club’s 17-year trophy drought.Roberto De Zerbi has rejected TottenhamCredit: ReutersChief Daniel Levy is leading the hunt for a new managerCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe club have been sounding out alternatives since the final in Bilbao and De Zerbi was approached.However, journalist Fabrizio Romano claims he rejected Spurs in favour of staying at Marseille.De Zerbi quit Brighton after two years in the job last summer and then penned a three-year contract with the French giants.Brentford boss Thomas Frank and Fulham manager Marco Silva are the leading candidates to replace Postecoglou.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFrank is the front-runner and he reportedly has a £10million release clause in his deal.But reports from The I Paper suggest him moving from West to North London is far from done.Brentford are ready to hear from Spurs but have so far not been contacted.There is still a strong possibility Silva lands the job and his representatives have been spoken to.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFulham are yet to receive a formal approach from Spurs.Silva has shown an interest in working under Daniel Levy before and he came close to being appointed instead of Antonio Conte in 2023.Ange Postecoglou’s BEST Press Conference MomentsBut Postecoglou’s replacement could be walking into a dressing room revolt at Spurs.The Telegraph claim that a number of players are fuming over the decision to axe the Aussie and some now want to leave the club.Thomas Frank and Marco Silva are in the frame for the Spurs jobCredit: ReutersAnge Breaks Silence On Tottenham SackingANGE Postecoglou issued a statement just moments after being axed.It read: “When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride.”The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.”Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.”There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.”We have also laid the foundations that means this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.”I know there were some difficult times, but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.”It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.”And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years.”A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. “We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.” More

  • in

    Ex-Liverpool and Premier League talent guru Malcolm Elias who was behind rise of Trent Alexander and Gareth Bale dies

    FORMER Premier League talent spotter and academy recruitment expert Malcolm Elias has passed away aged 71, it has been announced.Fulham FC confirmed Elias’ passing in a statement on social media.Malcom Elias has passed awayCredit: Fulham FCThe post read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague and dear friend, Malcolm Elias, after a short illness. “The Club’s Head of Academy Recruitment, Malcolm had a fantastic reputation in football for unearthing and nurturing young talent. “A proud Welshman, Malcolm was approaching his 16th anniversary at Craven Cottage this summer, having joined us from Liverpool in July 2009, while he also previously enjoyed a highly successful spell at Southampton alongside future Fulham colleagues Huw Jennings and Steve Wigley. “The influence that Malcolm had on the modern game cannot be understated, having worked with and developed the likes of Theo Walcott, Gareth Bale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, Luke Harris and Jay Stansfield, to name but a few. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A hugely popular figure around the training ground, Malcolm will be sorely missed by all who knew him. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Paula – Malcolm’s ever devoted and endlessly supportive wife of nearly 50 years – his sons Andrew and Daniel, his six beloved grandchildren, as well as his additional family and friends.”Elias was always highly respected within football, having helped to identify and nurture some of the Premier League’s best young talents.The academy recruitment expert previously worked with Liverpool before joining Fulham in 2009 – helping the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harvey Elliott get their breakthroughs.Most read in FootballElias impacted the career of Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: ReutersHe was also crucial in the development of Gareth Bale at SouthamptonCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdPrior to his time on Merseyside Elias worked with Southampton, where he had an impact on the early emergence of the likes of Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale.Tributes for the iconic figure have started pouring in as the football world mourns the loss.QPR posted: “We’re so sorry for your loss.”Sending sincere condolences to Malcolm’s loved ones and all at Fulham.”While Oxford United, where Elias worked as an Academy Manager in the 1980s, posted: “Oxford United were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Malcolm Elias.”A former teacher in Blackbird Leys, Malcolm began working at United in the 80’s as an Academy Manager. “A much loved person and coach at the Club for more than a decade, Malcolm is an integral part of the Club’s history, helping bring through talents such as Joey Beauchamp.”Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this time. RIP.”Read More on The SunAnd Southampton issued a statement that read: “We are incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Malcolm Elias, one of the influential figures in the club’s youth development history.”Our thoughts go out to all of Malcolm’s family, friends and colleagues at this time.”Elias was involved in the early steps of Theo Walcott’s careerCredit: AFPHe also played a part in Luke Shaw’s rise to the Southampton first teamCredit: AFP More

  • in

    Arsenal star Jorginho completes Flamengo transfer and set to become second Chelsea icon to face Blues at Club World Cup

    JORGINHO has completed his move to Flamengo – just hours after leaving Arsenal. The Brazilian midfielder, 33, was released from his contract early by the Gunners. Jorginho has completed his Arsenal exit and has joined FlamengoCredit: GettyThe 33-year-old will face off against ex-club Chelsea in the Club World CupCredit: GettyJorginho joined Arsenal in January 2023 from Chelsea.The 33-year-old made 78 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side, but mostly featured off the bench this season.Jorginho was set to leave the club when his deal expired on 30 June.But the club arranged for him to be released early so he could play for Flamengo in the Club World Cup.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe has penned a three-year deal with the Brazilian side.The Gunners described Jorginho as a “valuable and integral part of the club” in a statement confirming his early release.It added: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to thank Jorgi for his contribution to the club.”We wish him and his family all the best for the future.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFlamengo’s draw for the Club World Cup sees them face Tunis, Los Angeles FC and Chelsea in the group stage.It means Jorginho will face his former club on June 20 at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.£67M Real Madrid Star Rodrygo on Gunners Hit List | From The Sports Desk | Sun SportA familiar face to Blues fans will also play against Chelsea in the tournament opener.Olivier Giroud, who also played for both the Blues and Arsenal, currently leads the line for Los Angeles FC.The MLS club booked their place in the competition with a nervy qualifying win over Mexican giants Club America earlier this month.Club World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURESThe winner-takes-all tie came about after Mexico’s Club Leon were kicked out of the new-look competition before it even started.Leon were due to be in Group D alongside Chelsea. But they were booted out due to a violation of Fifa’s rules on multi-club ownership.Read More on The SunThe 32-team tournament starts later this month.Manchester City, among the favourites for the crown, face Italian giants Juventus, Morocco’s Wydad AC and Al Ain of the UAE in the group stages. More