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      Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want it

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has been named the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year at Manchester United for the fourth time, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record. However, the United captain has urged his team-mates to raise their performance levels next season, because he doesn’t want to win it again under the same circumstances.Bruno Fernandes has been special even if others have failed to keep upCredit: AlamyThe Manchester United captain has grown into his roleCredit: GettyRegardless of who has been the manager at United Bruno has excelledCredit: AlamyFernandes made headlines not for his on-field prowess, but for his humility in accepting the award.The award, voted for by fans, recognises individual excellence, but Fernandes said he would prefer it if others raised their game and challenged him for the honour.The 30-year-old midfielder shared what he had told some of his team-mates.He said: “The main thing I want and I was even joking with Josh [Zirkzee] the other day.READ MORE MAN UNITED NEWS “We were talking about the awards, and they were saying, ‘Oh, who’s going to win Player of the Season?’ They were kind of joking about it.”And I said that I hope next year I’m not even in the conversation, even if I have the same season I had this year and that I’m not involved in winning that trophy.”Because that will mean you step up, Amad will step up, Garnacho will step up, Rasmus will step up.”If they start scoring goals, providing assists, running back, and tackling, then they’ll be the ones getting the attention, not me.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”And I’ll be the happiest person in the world.”I’m here to help my team-mates get the best out of themselves, and that’s all I want to do, because I know that when they’re at their best, the team will be much better.”Sean Dyche wants to manage MAN UTD as he gives Ruben Amorim advice and claims he’d have won more games as bossHis comments reflect a selfless attitude, prioritising team success over personal recognition.United fans have praised Fernandes for his leadership and commitment.One supporter commented: “Bruno’s decision shows true captaincy. He leads by example, always putting the team first.”Another added: “It’s rare to see such humility in a player of his calibre. He deserves the award, but his focus remains on the collective.”A third said: “Bruno is the only player who truly makes me happy at Manchester United.”While Fernandes’ gesture is commendable, it also highlights the challenges United have faced this season. Read More on The SunDespite his individual brilliance, the team has struggled for consistency and his desire for others to step up underscores the urgent need for collective improvement.As the campaign draws to a close, Fernandes and Manchester United will hope to beat Tottenham and win the Europa League-a much-needed consolation in what has been a disappointing season.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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      ‘Should be illegal’ – Man Utd and Spurs fans face staying in £2,000 Squid Game-like hostel for Europa League final

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      A BILBAO hostel has been slammed for charging football fans over £2,000 – to stay in beds reminiscent of Netflix show Squid Game. Manchester United and Tottenham fans are desperate for accommodation in the Spanish city ahead of the Europa League final. A hostel that reminds fans of Squid Game has gone viral for its Europa League pricingCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel is charging fans over £2000 for a three-day stayCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe hostel is just a short distance from the Europa League final stadiumCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsFans will be treated to bunk beds and lockers in the shared roomsCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Prem sides are set to do battle at the Estadio de San Mamés next Wednesday. But the Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel – just a nine-minute drive from the ground – has been accused of cashing in. Disgruntled supporters have likened the bedroom set-up to the dorms in Squid Game, which became a global phenomenon in 2021. Contestants are forced to sleep in a warehouse full of bunk beds in the South Korean show.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd fans were outraged to learn the price for a three-night stay in similar digs at the Bossh Hotels hostel. Four adults would need to fork out a whopping £2,338 if they wanted to stay from Tuesday, May 20 to Friday, May 23, as reported by NeedToKnow.Fans flocked to social media to complain about the hostel raising prices so dramatically ahead of Wednesday’s showpiece. One fan wrote in response: “Sleeping in Squid Game for £2,000.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnother joked: “You could win 45 billion Korean Won.”While a third added: “Should be illegal to take advantage like they are.”Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want itAnd a fourth countered: “Surely no one’s paying £2,000 for a hostel. I wouldn’t even pay £200. Would rather sleep in the airport.”Bossh Hotels has been approached for a comment.Last week, it was revealed United are not going to be giving staff free tickets to the final.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clashBoth clubs have been allocated around 15,000 seats each by Uefa.It’s been reported that Spurs are offering all full-time employees a complimentary ticket for the match – a stance that United are not following.The Mail claim that United are instead holding a ballot with a small number of tickets available for their staff, but will see the majority of workers go without the opportunity to watch the club in Spain. More

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      Emmanuel Kunde dead at 68: Pioneering World Cup icon who scored against England at Italia ’90 passes away

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      EMMANUEL KUNDE has tragically died at the age of 68.The former footballer is best remembered for scoring against England in the 1990 World Cup.Emmanuel Kunde has sadly diedCredit: RexHe scored against England in the 1990 World Cup quarter-finalsCredit: PAKunde jostled with Paul Gascoigne for the ballCredit: PASamuel Eto’o has paid tribute to the CameroonianCredit: APHis death was confirmed by the Cameroonian football federation.A statement read: “His death constitutes a huge loss for Cameroonian football.”His most famous career moment came when he netted the winning penalty in the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations final against Nigeria.He also won the continental cup four years earlier and came on as a late substitute in the 3-1 win over Nigeria again in the final.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe also scored a penalty against England in the 3-2 defeat in the quarter-finals of Italia ’90.Former Chelsea and Everton striker has shared an emotional tribute to Kunde on Instagram.He wrote: “I’m just learning of the demise of the Elder Emmanuel Jérôme Kundé, an iconic figure in Cameroonian football, who died at the age of 68.”Oh the sadness! It is a certain value of our heritage that is thus cruelly taken away from us.Most read in Football”I keep with him the memory of a discreet and affectionate man, a figure of moderation and consideration.”He was a fantastic footballer, the control tower in the midfield, the defensive wall the opponent crashed into but also a great playmaker when the team had possession.”Individually, it was a fine passer and an artifact with phenomenal power and goldsmith precision.”In fifteen years as a national team (127 selections), he took part in the two legendary epics of the Indomitable Lions in the World Cup (1982 and 1990), twice winner of the CAN (1984 and 1988).”His long career brought him to France (Laval, Reims) and Gabon (US Bitam) as a coach, even though it is in the Canon sportif de Yaoundé that his name and legend will remain associated forever, as a player and as a coach.”Praying for the great football family to keep him in your thoughts and my deepest condolences to his nuclear family.”Kunde started his playing career at the Mbankomo Club in Cameroon.He then played for the likes of Tempête de Nanga-Eboko and Canon Yaounde before joining French sides Laval and Reims.Read More on The SunHe retired in 1992, back in Cameroon after two years with Olympic Mvolye.In total, he played 102 times for Cameroon’s national team between 1979 and 1992 and scored 17 goals. More

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      Leeds forced to issue statement as pic of Ethan Ampadu’s son wearing Galatasaray shirt emerges after fan tragedy

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      LEEDS UNITED have thrown their support behind captain Ethan Ampadu after his son was pictured in a Galatasaray shirt. Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight – both Leeds fans – were tragically killed ahead of a Uefa Cup semi-final clash against the Turkish side in April 2000.Leeds have defended Ethan Ampadu after his son was pictured in a Galatasaray shirtCredit: PAThe snap was shared by Amapdu’s ex-partner on social mediaCredit: XAmpadu is Leeds’ club captain and helped them amass 100 points in the Championship this seasonCredit: XAmpadu’s former partner shared a snap of their son wearing a Galatasaray kit on Thursday. It came after the Super Lig leaders beat Trabzonspor 3-0 to secure the Turkish Cup. The post immediately received a backlash from Leeds supporters.And the club were quick to release a statement defending Ampadu. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe statement read: “Leeds United are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu’s son.”Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question. “Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families.”The club asks for Ethan’s privacy to be respected in what is a difficult time for him personally.”Most read in FootballAmpadu, 24, joined the Whites in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea.He has become a firm fan favourite in West Yorkshire, helping the club amass 100 points this season on their way to the Championship title.Inside Leeds stars’ wild title celebrations as Bamford and Ampadu ‘leave Burnley fanbase in meltdown’ with karaoke songThe statement continued: “Our captain has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, demonstrating his commitment to the club, its history, and the broader Leeds community. “Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds United. The club will be making no further comment.”Ampadu has previously attended events commemorating the tragic deaths of Loftus and Speight.He laid flowers for the pair at Luton’s Kenilworth Road earlier this season as the club marked 25 years since their passing.On Thursday, Ampadu’s ex-partner Saara Sa posted on Instagram claiming Leeds were pushing a “false narrative”.The post read: “My condolences are with the families of the two people who passed away in Istanbul. “I am Turkish and our son is part Turkish. “Galatasaray is my families[sic] supporting home team and has been for years. Read More on The Sun”We are the parents of our child and Ethan was aware of the photo. “I would appreciate if Leeds United football club would not portray a false narrative by making a statement stating lies.” More

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      Wrexham confirm EIGHT players leaving after promotion to Championship including star who rejected new deal

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      WREXHAM have confirmed that EIGHT players will be leaving the club.The Welsh outfit have achieved a remarkable three promotions consecutively under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Wrexham have been promoted to the ChampionshipCredit: RexSteven Fletcher is one of eight players who have left the clubCredit: GettyHowever, their season in the Championship will not include a number of stars that helped them climb up the English football ladder.Wrexham has now confirmed that eight players have will leave the club upon the expiry of their contracts.This includes former Premier League star Steven Fletcher, who has previously stated that it was not his choice to leave.The striker formerly played for the likes of Sunderland, Burnley, Stoke City and even on loan at Marseille in France.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joined Wrexham back in 2023 and made 77 appearances, scoring 16 goals.Fan favourite goalkeeper Mark Howard has also been released and he penned a touching tribute to the club.He wrote on Instagram: “From the moment I pulled on the Wrexham shirt, I have tried to bring professionalism, passion, and personality to the club.”As I reflect on what an incredible journey it’s been, I consider myself fortunate to have shared a dressing room with the best teammates.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”Everyday I have left with a smile on my face wanting to come back and do it all over again. Love you boys.”Being able to say I’m the only goalkeeper ever to do the 3peat. Back2Back2Back. I say tongue in cheek.’He’s got the fastest hands’ – Wrexham star James McClean tipped to beat up Jake Paul in boxing fightWrexham squad updateHere is a full rundown of players with updated roles at Wrexham…Released:Steven FletcherMark HowardSam DalbyJordan DaviesHarry DeanBrad FosterLiam HallJosh AdamOffered new deal:Callum EdwardsAutomatic extension:Aaron JamesDecision pending: James Rainbird”I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here.”Working alongside some of the most amazing staff on and off the pitch, giving me the encouragement to do more, I cannot thank you enough.”The connection with the fans was tough at times but now I feel part of the family, I would like to think you’ve all grown to love me.”At this stage I still feel like I have more football in me, so it’s not retirement yet, I still want to dive around while my body lets me.”Finally, a huge thank you to these two amazing people.”Jordan Davies, Harry Dean, Brad Foster, Josh Adam and Liam Hall have all also been released.The club also revealed that Sam Dalby as offered a new deal to stay but was turned down.Read More on The SunHe spent last season out on loan at Dundee United and netted 14 goals in 34 appearances in the Scottish Premiership.Meanwhile, Wrexham players were treated to a £500k party trip to Las Vegas after gaining another promotion.Owners’ tribute to two starsRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney shared a kind message to Steven Fletcher and Mark Howard after it was announced they would be leaving…Reynolds wrote: “Mr Steven Fletcher. Words aren’t agile enough to capture what you’ve brought to Wrexham, the sport, and the lives of myself and this whole town.”You aren’t a PART of greatness. You ARE greatness. I don’t really know what a co-chairmen is supposed to do or say in these moments and I don’t much care. I’m gonna miss you.”I’ll miss your leadership and wit and the way you remind everyone — including me — that this is also FUN. Like the first day we met, I’m here for you any time and any place. Always.”And Mark Howard— how on earth do we put into words the clutch work you do as a keeper. You have the hardest job in football. And you can’t have that ability without being a clutch person in life.”You have a beautiful family and you have a second family in Wrexham now and always. You’re the big beating heart of this team and the reason we have the best locker room in sports.”Fletch and Chomp, you’ve authored some of the greatest moments of my life. And so many others. All I can do is thank you.”McElhenney added: “This is truly the worst part.”I cannot say enough about these two men. Mark Howard and Steven Fletcher are not just players on the team.”They are my friends and people I admire. They are men of ability and principle and commitment and compassion.”They are men of character and fortitude who have achieved something beyond anyone’s imagination.”I greatly admire everything about them and have so thoroughly enjoyed every moment I’ve had to see them play, or to just spend time with them. Godspeed men.”I hope our paths cross again very soon. All I can say to these great men is THANK YOU.” More

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      Leeds target Newcastle star Callum Wilson on free transfer with Daniel Farke desperate for more firepower up front

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      LEEDS are targeting Newcastle striker Callum Wilson.Elland Road boss Daniel Farke is desperate for more firepower after promotion from the Championship.Leeds are plotting a free transfer swoop for Newcastle striker Callum WilsonCredit: ReutersAnd Newcastle forward Wilson is out of contract at the end of the season so is available to Leeds on a free transfer.The 33-year-old was a £20million arrival from Bournemouth five years ago.He has since achieved a terrific record of 47 goals in 111 Premier League appearances in the north-east.But his biggest problem at Newcastle has been injuries.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd he has also moved down the pecking order due to the blistering form of striker Alexander Isak.Wilson has made 16 Premier League appearances this term.But just one of those has been a start.And he has also struggled with both hamstring and back issues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWilson has won nine England caps too.But his last appearance for the Three Lions was against Scotland in 2023.How Newcastle bamboozled Chelsea in battle for Champions League Leeds, meanwhile, have also been looking at Wilson’s teammate Sean Longstaff.He is in the final 12 months of his contract at Newcastle.The 27-year-old has made 31 appearances this term.And he will count as a club-grown player if he stays and features in Europe for Toon next season. More

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      ‘The crowd just gasped’ – Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton was so good Barcelona tried to sign him aged EIGHT

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      ADAM WHARTON has enjoyed a monumental rise since signing for Crystal Palace.The midfielder signed for the Eagles in January 2024 in a £22million transfer from Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers.Adam Wharton is set to appear in the FA Cup finalCredit: GettyHe came through the ranks at BlackburnCredit: https://www.facebook.com/1RoversHe once caught the attention of Barcelona scoutsCredit: https://www.facebook.com/1RoversHe was sold in 2024 to Palace for £22millionCredit: https://www.facebook.com/1RoversWharton, 21, is now prepping for the biggest game of his club career so far.He and Palace will take on Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday.It won’t be his first final as he was in the England squad for the Euro 2024 final against Spain.And had things turned out differently, England’s opponents that day might have been far more familiar with the youngster.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDuring an appearance at a youth tournament, he was scouted by Barcelona coaches and offered a spot at their famous La Masia academy.Daniel Stubberfield, who coached Wharton for five years in his younger years, revealed that the midfielder could have had a very different career path.He told the Mail: “There was a trip to Holland where he was player of the tournament at Oldenzaal.”He scored a half-volley in a seven-v-seven game but it felt like it was a long way out, arrowed as an adult would hit it, rocketed straight in.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”He was outstanding against Barcelona when he was eight.”To the point where the Barca coaches actually said to his parents: ‘Look, if you ever come to Spain, call us, we’d love him’.”Incredible footage shows Adam Wharton dazzling defenders aged 10 before rising to Euro 2024 stardom with EnglandWharton came up against Jobe Bellingham in his youth daysCredit: RexHe first played at Wembley when he was tenCredit: https://x.com/TalkOfEwoodHe impressed in a video that went viralCredit: https://x.com/TalkOfEwoodHe was featuring in a school’s cup finalCredit: https://x.com/TalkOfEwoodWharton came up against the like of Jobe Bellingham in his academy days.The two were pictured duelling for the ball in a youth game between Blackburn and Birmingham City.Wharton has since earned one cap for England as he played 28 minutes at St James’ Park against Bosnia last year.He played a crucial role for Oliver Glasner’s side as they beat Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-final in April at Wembley Stadium.However, that was not his first time playing at the home of football.When he was ten years old, he featured in a school’s cup final at the 90,000-seater stadium.Wharton represented Salesbury CoE Primary School in the National Primary Schools Final in 2015.Video showed his impressive skills that included a Maradona-spin, which left the crowd gasping.His former teacher, Stephen Bird, said: “There are around 10,000 people in the ground at that stage. The crowd just gasped.”They purred a bit when the replay came on the big screens.”Last month, SunSport exclusively revealed that Wharton was a £50m target for Liverpool.Read More on The SunThe Anfield transfer team believe that the midfielder’s passing ability could help the Reds tick.But before the transfer rumour mill goes into overdrive, Wharton will be looking to guide Crystal Palace to FA Cup glory this weekend.Adam Wharton has picked up a cap for EnglandCredit: GettyHe was vital in the FA Cup semi-final triumph over Aston VillaCredit: Alamy More

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      Former Premier League stadium undergoes major works with all the seats ripped out as EFL club share update

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      BLACKPOOL have torn apart their Bloomfield Road stadium as a major revamp gets underway.All the seats have been torn out of the East Stand as part of work ahead of the 2025/26 League One campaign.Photos released by the club show all of the seats from the East Stand have been removedCredit: https://x.com/BlackpoolFCThere are changes being made to this historic groundCredit: GettyThis stadium used to host Premier League games back in the dayCredit: STEVE ALLENThe upgraded stand will replace a temporary structure originally built during the club’s Premier League days, aiming to enhance the match day atmosphere for fans.The project will include the replacement and refurbishment of all boards and seating, along with new media facilities and a camera platform.The club also plans to repaint the South Stand roof in tangerine and white over the summer.Fans can also expect the introduction of safe standing, with railings set to be installed over the coming months.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS Subject to planning approval, the club aims to make further improvements to the East Stand and its facade.New LED floodlighting will be introduced throughout the stadium, along with a new tannoy system – both part of the second stage of stadium upgrades.Following confirmation of these developments, owner Simon Sadler highlighted progress both on and off the pitch.He said: “I am delighted that we are about to embark on this major build and refurbishment project in and around Bloomfield Road.Most read in ChampionshipJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS “I am very excited about what lies ahead for our club. I am particularly pleased that we have found a cost-effective solution to rebuild and address the deficiencies of the East Stand by utilising its existing frame, which I’m assured has at least another 20 years of life.“While I understand there may be some disappointment among fans that we aren’t building a new cantilevered stand from scratch, the savings-likely in excess of £10 million-are substantial.Steve Bruce dealt huge blow just days after being named Blackpool boss as striker banned for appearing to SLAP opponent“These savings free up funds to invest elsewhere in and around the stadium and also mean we won’t have to sacrifice stadium capacity during the construction.“The installation of railings in the North Stand and the addition of tangerine to the underside of the South Stand roof are key improvements, but more can still be done to stamp our identity on Bloomfield Road.“As such, we will formally reach out to fans and fan groups to explore ways to add more colour and vibrancy throughout our home.“When completed, the Sports Village will be a fantastic asset for our Community Trust and Academy, both of which will be based at the Bloomfield Road complex.“This means that in the heart of Blackpool, we will have a busy, vibrant facility used seven days a week by local boys and girls, men and women, for a range of football and sport-related activities.“With Squires Gate training ground receiving further off-season investment and the Sports Village set for completion next summer, the club—from the Academy to the first team—will soon be the most integrated and professional it has ever been.“For the first time, we will have Championship-level facilities throughout, giving us a strong foundation for future success.“I truly believe that after several years of disappointment, we have turned the proverbial corner. We now have, by far, the best all-round footballing setup during my time as owner—and make no mistake, promotion back to the Championship is our goal. Better times lie ahead for us all.”Read More on The SunBlackpool finished ninth in League One, falling just short of the play-offs.They were last in the Premier League back in 2010/11 and last in the Championship for the 2022/23 campaign. More