More stories

  • in

    Alvaro Morata rushed to hospital after ex-Chelsea star suffers horror injury during AC Milan training session

    ALVARO MORATA was reportedly rushed to the hospital following a nasty clash of heads in training.The AC Milan hitman is said to have clashed heads with one of his team-mates in an aerial collision on Thursday.Alvaro Morata reportedly suffered a head injury in trainingCredit: GETTYThe striker, 32, is said to have been rushed to hospital to undergo emergency scansCredit: GettyAnd according to reports, the 32-year-old was promptly taken to a hospital in the Legnano district of Milan to undergo scans on his head.But ESPN claims the former Chelsea and Real Madrid striker hasn’t suffered “a serious injury.”He will, however, undergo further tests before giving the all-clear to return to action.Morata is expected to remain in hospital this evening and is set to miss the Rossoneiri’s trip to Cagliari on Sunday.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Spaniard joined Milan from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid in July for a fee of £10.9million.Morata – who inked a four-year contract at the San Siro – has struggled this campaign, finding the back of the net a mere three times in 12 appearances in all competitions.The veteran striker skippered Spain to Euro 2024 glory this past summer.But he went into the tournament fresh off a battle with depression, which was the result of heavy criticism from Spanish fans and journalists in the build-up to the tournament.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlvaro Morata skippered Spain to Euro 2024 glory in JulyCredit: GETTYHe bravely revealed to El Partidazo: “When you have really tough times, depression, panic attacks, it doesn’t matter what job you do. “What situation you have in life, you have another person inside that you have to fight against every day and every night.”Alvaro Morata throws cup at fan during Spainb’s trophy parade after Euro 2024 winHe added: “For me, leaving Spain was the best option; I couldn’t stand it.”I had a really bad time. I thought I wouldn’t be able to put my boots on and go out on the pitch again.”But hey, thanks to a lot of people, from [Diego] Simeone, Koke, Miguel Angel Gil last year, my psychiatrist, my coach.”We are what you see on TV and on social media but often it’s not real.”You have to give an image because it’s your job. “I had a really bad time, I exploded and there came a time when I couldn’t lace up my boots.”And when I did I would run home because my throat would close up and my vision would start to blur.Alvaro Morata was dealing with depression before Euro 2024Credit: GETTY”Three months before the Euros I was wondering if I would be able to play another match. “I didn’t know what was happening to me but it’s very complicated and delicate.”At that moment you realise that what you like most in the world is what you hate the most, it’s complicated.”Every time I went out with them I always had some episode, sometimes without malice, with people about something that had happened in previous games. “And, in the end, they didn’t want to go shopping either, things that a normal father does with his children. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There came a time when they said so many things to me in front of them that I was embarrassed to be with them. “I was an easy joke, a joke to make the person next to you laugh.” More

  • in

    Julen Lopetegui in danger of being next Premier League manager sacked as new-look West Ham struggle in six areas

    WEST HAM’S new era is yet to take off.After bringing in Julen Lopetegui and backing him with £127.5million in summer signings – there was every right to expect more than this.West Ham have struggled since Julen Lopetegui’s arrivalCredit: PAThe Hammers are 14th in the tableCredit: GettyThe Hammers are 14th, could be overtaken by Everton with another defeat this weekend and have shown few signs of improving.There are mixed messages over Lopetegui’s future. West Ham’s owners have never been trigger-happy when it comes to dismissing managers and do not like admitting they were wrong.But fans have not warmed to the new regime and even the most patient of clubs would be tested if this continues.SunSport runs through how it has all gone so wrong…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDEFENSIVE ISSUESWest Ham’s biggest problem last season was their leaky defence, conceding a club-record 74 Premier League goals under David Moyes.Money was spent to try and fix the problem. Max Kilman arrived from Wolves for £40m, Aaron Wan-Bissaka joined in a £15m deal from Manchester United before Jean-Clair Todibo was signed on loan with a view to a £35m deal next summer.All are individually good players, but they have struggled to gel so far while Wan-Bissaka has been used in a variety of positions.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Hammers have shipped 19 goals in 10 Premier League games, the same as odds-on relegation favourites Southampton.Conceding at this rate they will end the season having let in 72 – hardly the improvement expected after significant investment.Who is Julen Lopetegui?STODGY MIDFIELDThe problems at the back do not lie solely with the defenders.West Ham possess one of the most immobile midfields in the Premier League. When not suspended or injured, Edson Alvarez struggles to keep up with play.Tomas Soucek has been a fine servant for the club but should have been improved upon some time ago. The likes of Edson Alvarez have failed to properly cover the midfieldCredit: GettyThe Czech is a brilliant squad option but is too limited a footballer to be a regular success.Guido Rodriguez, a free signing from Spanish side Real Betis, has made little positive impact – mistakes being his most memorable moments.And with each minute Carlos Soler plays, it becomes harder to work out why so much late effort was put into shifting James Ward-Prowse to Nottingham Forest just to bring him in.The lack of dynamism and legs in the middle is making it easy for teams to bypass and charge straight at an unprotected back four.POOR SIGNINGSTim Steidten, who won the power struggle with Moyes over the summer, was given almost ultimate power in the transfer window.Lopetegui was not exclusively his pick, but many of the players were.Rodriguez is probably the most baffling, but others raise big questions too.Niclas Fullkrug appears to be the latest in the line of failed West Ham strikers. Tim Steidten paid £127.5m for players this summerCredit: PAIt may seem harsh given he has been limited to just an hour of Premier League play due to injury so far – but it was hardly an inspirational signing.The German arrived, for £27.5m, the wrong side of 30 and with a detailed injury record leaving another manager to rely on Michail Antonio and Danny Ings through the middle.A bungled attempt to sign Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran, who has eight goals in 16 appearances this season, only makes it look worse.Areas clearly lacking were never properly addressed.LACK OF LEADERSHIP & DISCIPLINENot all of this can be put at the door of the manager or higher-ups.Players are the ones tasked with going out and putting in a shift each weekend and few have done that in a West Ham shirt this season.Mohammed Kudus and Alvarez are both suspended this weekend – the Mexican after his second red card of the season.There is a lack of a strong mentality and clear leadership within the squad.Sources say the dressing room has become a quiet one in the absence of Declan Rice’s leadership or Mark Noble before him.Lucas Paqueta has looked disinterested for most of the yearCredit: GettyAntonio is a loud character but not when it comes to leadership, while new captain Jarrod Bowen prefers to do his talking on the pitch.Perhaps the biggest problem is Lucas Paqueta. The Brazilian, awaiting a hearing for his spot-fixing charges, has looked disinterested for most of the year.It is understandable given his situation, but West Ham are still paying his wages and expect someone who was recently valued at £85m to be delivering far more.Coaches have noticed a collective lack of mentality amongst the squad, something which must be addressed.NO STYLE OR INSPIRATIONThe end of the Moyes era was largely brought about due to a desire for fans to see a far more attractive style of play.Lopetegui was never seen as a total football appointment, but players and fans alike have struggled to identify a clear plan of attack from the Spaniard.They are not sitting tight and counter-attacking nor going for expansive, dominant football. West Ham have lacked a clear style since the departure of David MoyesCredit: ReutersThe muddle leads to inconsistent performances and a reliance on individual brilliance – which has been in short supply.Lopetegui is struggling to get the best out of Bowen and – when he’s not suspended for lashing out at Tottenham players – Kudus.The manager’s deadpan approach in front of the media does not help either. The lack of spark means fans are struggling to warm to the former Wolves boss.HOW LONG HAS HE GOTThis will be the question on many fans’ lips. A heavy defeat to Everton on Saturday and it could be that Lopetegui struggles to see out the weekend.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut there is an insistence that the board remain behind their man, though all remain frustrated by the poor performances.There is a feeling they have not reached the lows of the second half of last season, but get any closer to it and a change will more than likely be made.West Ham have worst stadium in Premier LeagueBy Andy DillonAll that has been achieved under David Moyes has made West Ham forget that they have by far the worst home ground in the entire Prem.A stadium totally unfit for staging regular football matches.One that can work on big European nights when the fans have electrified their voices in the nearby Carpenters Arms before kick-off.But one which drains your soul during routine home games against the likes of Burnley or Everton.A home ground where giant trampolines separate fans from the action.With temporary seating and scaffolding trying to bring the players and crowd closer.When West Ham are playing badly but winning, issues with the rented stadium are pushed aside.If they are playing badly and losing, the whole festering sore surfaces and the frustration will be aimed once more at chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady.It wasn’t long ago that fans were invading the pitch, that 8,000 protested against the owners, that Sullivan was hit in the eye by a coin thrown from the crowd. Moyes has been an effective human shield with his consistent, if not entirely pretty, brand of success.This is what incoming boss Lopetegui has to contend with.Read Andy Dillon’s full column here. More

  • in

    Chelsea 8-0 Noah LIVE RESULT: Blues put Armenian minnows to the sword with dominant Conference League performance

    CHELSEA beat minnows Noah FC 8-0 to soar to the top of the Europa Conference League group phase. Goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Joao Felix (2), Axel Disasi, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku (2) sealed the deal for Enzo Maresca’s side at Stamford Bridge. Kick off time: 8pmTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: discovery+Chelsea team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Adarabioyo, Badiashile, Veiga, Fernandez, Felix, Mudryk, Nkunku, George, GuiuFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…FULL TIME – Chelsea 8-0 Noah It’s full time at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have done their job and they now sit top of the Europa Conference League group phase after a thumping performance at Stamford Bridge. Tosin Adarabioyo got things underway with his first goal for the club before Marc Guiu, Axel Disasi and Joao Felix added three more in quick succession. Felix and Mykhaylo Mudryk put the Blues six up just before the break and Christopher Nkunku bagged a brace for himself in the second period to round up the scoring. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90+4. Filip Jorgensen is rolling on the floor in pain holding his head after rushing out to grab the ball from the Noah attacker. Thankfully he gets up and is okay. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90+2. A huge chance for a big moment!Carney Chukwuemeka escapes down the right for Chelsea, and his left footed shot on goal is deflected out by the Noah goalkeeper. The ball bounces out to Sam Rak-Sakyi, but he is just leaning back as his shot goes over the bar. The youngster should have many more chances to get his first Chelsea goal in future games at least. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah90. Willy Caballero on the Chelsea bench raises an arm in frustration as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall wastes a chance to add a ninth goal to Chelsea’s already impressive lead. The fourth official’s board goes up, and there will be four minutes added on. That announcement is greeted with chants of “We want ten”.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah88. Noah have another shot from inside the box, but Jorgensen saves again after some good work from the Armenian visitors. Lots of home fans are heading for the exits now to beat the traffic – I mean that’s poor, you could easily miss another 5 goals here! Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah85. Noah get forwards and have a chance from close range with a header, but Jorgensen saves it with ease. You almost want them to score just for their fans, who have been brilliant all night. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah80. Into the last ten minutes here, and you can tell Joao Felix is keen on getting his hat-trick. He lashes a shot from distance well over the bar. Just a minute later Carney Chukwuemeka gets down the right, and sets up Casadei for a shot from range, but he forces a good save from the Noah goalkeeper. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 8-0 Noah77. Samuel Rak-Sakyi is ready to enter play here, as the young number 51 comes on for his Chelsea debut. What a moment for the youngster who replaces Christopher Nkunku. Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLLLL! Chelsea 8-0 Noah74. The Chelsea fans continue to chant as Christopher Nkunku holds the ball in his hands, ready to take the penalty. They certainly want an eighth goal here. Nkunku steps up…AND HE SCORES! Straight down the middle from the Frenchman.Copy linkCopiedPENALTY! Chelsea 7-0 Noah73. It’s a penalty to Chelsea after the referee takes a look at the screen! Stamford Bridge erupts once more!Copy linkCopiedVAR CHECK, POSSIBLE PENALTY: Chelsea 7-0 Noah71. Chants of “WE WANT EIGHT” come from the Matthew Harding stand, as Carney Chukwuemeka blasts a shot wide of the goal with Joao Felix cowering in the net to stay onside. There may have been a foul in the box on Christopher Nkunku however in the build up, and VAR will check that. The referee goes over to the screen…Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Chelsea 7-0 Noah68. It’s seven heaven for Chelsea, and after a great move by Joao Felix, it’s Christopher Nkunku who has his goal at last. It was at the second time of asking, but counts all the same. He doesn’t perform his signature balloon celebration, perhaps a touch of respect from the Chelsea man. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah65. Carney Chukwuemeka is ready to come on for Chelsea here, as Noah press forward with the ball. Pinson gets down the left and wins a corner from Axel Disasi. The Noah fans go wild as their side win a corner. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah62. Safe to say incoming Chelsea star Willian Estevao is happy with what he’s seeing over in Brazil. Willian Estevao reacts to Chelsea winning 6-0 in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: X – @EstevaoWillian7Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah59. Just a reminder in case you were wondering, Chelsea’s biggest ever win was a 13-0 triumph over JeunesseHautcharge in the first round of the cup winners cup in 1971. The Blues will need seven goals in the next 30 minutes or so if they want to better that. Not impossible by any stretch, but if the rest of their shots are like that one from Joao Felix then they won’t make it…Copy linkCopiedOFF THE BAR! Chelsea 6-0 Noah57. It’s almost seven for Chelsea, as Nkunku turns once more inside the box and smashes a left-footed shot off of the crossbar and over. He practically had one hand on the balloon there already.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah54. Another big chance for Chelsea, this time it falls for Nkunku. He receives the ball well and turns, but his shot is saved by the Noah goalkeeper. It pings back out at Joao Felix, but the keeper holds onto it at the second time of asking. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah52. A huge mistake from the Noah goalkeeper sees him pass the ball to Joao Felix from close range. Felix is not expecting the pass, but takes a touch and has a go on goal anyway – but the goalkeeper atones for his sin.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah50. Noah get their foot on the ball and have retained possession well here as they work the ball into midfield. But as soon as they try to do anything incisive, Renato Veiga is on hand to cut it out. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 6-0 Noah48. Chelsea nicely work a corner into the box which falls to Benoit Badiashile. But the only Chelsea centre-back not on the scoresheet is unable to make it there for now with a volley looped over the bar. Copy linkCopiedSECOND HALF: Chelsea 6-0 Noah46. Back underway for the second half here, and a long ball over the top is immediately played into Tyrique George. A lovely bit of link-up play between him and Joao Felix sees Chelsea get the ball into the middle, but nothing comes of it this time. Copy linkCopiedHT Changes: Chelsea 6-0 NoahHT. Two changes to report for Chelsea before we get back underway here at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Fernandez has been replaced by Cesare Casadei, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is on for Marc Guiu.Copy linkCopiedHALF-TIME: Chelsea 6-0 NoahHT. The referee blows the whistle for half-time. Copy linkCopied45. Chelsea 6-0 NoahThere will be just one minute of added time at the end of the first half, which sees a collective sigh of relief come from the Noah fans and players.Just one more half to go, lads…Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLL! IT’S SIX! Chelsea 6-0 Noah42. The goals are flooding in once more at Stamford Bridge (no I won’t get bored of that pun). This time the ball is rolled into Joao Felix on the left, and he cuts it back under his spell past the defender and fires a shot at the far side of the goal. It takes a big deflection and beats the Noah keeper, who is going to be suffering from back pain after picking the ball up out of his net for the sixth time. Joao Felix is on for a hat-trick against NoahCredit: APCopy linkCopied More

  • in

    Man Utd 2 PAOK 0 LIVE RESULT: Amad brace gives Red Devils first Europa League win of the season – latest updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED picked up their first Europa League win of the season with a 2-0 victory over Greek side PAOK. Two second half goals from Amad Diallo won the game for interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side at Old Trafford. Kick off time: 8pm GMTTV channel: TNT Sports 2Live stream: discovery+Man Utd team: Onana, Dalot, Evans, Lindelof, Mazraoui, Ugarte, Casemiro, Fernandes, Amad, Hojlund, GarnachoFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Fixtures await new managerWhile Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the next Premier League game against Leicester City, Ruben Amorim will then be in the position.It is a favourable fixture list when he starts, before the tough test of a trip to North London to face Arsenal.Anticipation is high in the red half of Manchester, believing the Sporting Lisbon manager is the man to take them back to where they want to be……..challenging for trophies.Copy linkCopiedBoss gives honest opinionSpeaking with BT Sports after the game, the manager was asked his thoughts on his side’s performance against PAOK:We started with a pretty poor first half, which was not nice. Amad made the difference for us tonight. Positionally we weren’t good at all in the first half. Too much out of position. It was a lot better in the second half. If we can keep our positions then we have everything to play for. It is not helping the team when we leave our positions all the time.Ruud van NistelrooyMan Utd Interim ManagerCopy linkCopiedDiallo shines for van NistelrooyIt seemed a bold call when the teams were announced that the interim manager dropped Rashford for Diallo but it proved a game-winning decision.There was no doubting that the young winger was the man of the match tonight for the Red Devils.He will enjoy all the attention from his performance this evening and will hopefully use that as a platform for the remainder of the season.Copy linkCopiedYoungster steals the show for Red DevilsSpeaking with BT Sport after the game, Diallo was asked how it felt to get the goals to secure Man Utd’s first European win in over a year:Nice. It has been a long time. It has been one year, it was important to win today. It is important to score everytime. I am happy to score two goals today. When I score I like to celebrate with the fans and make people enjoy.Amad DialloMan UtdCopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Phil Thomas at Old TraffordFIRST impressions count the most so, assuming Ruben Amorim was watching, Amad Diallo couldn’t have made a better one.The smallest man on the pitch had the biggest heart, the biggest effort…and served up the biggest entertainment. Pretty much the only entertainment, to be honest.If there was any luck in his opener, the second was down to grit AND glamour. His new gaffer will have been well impressed.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 2-0 PAOKThe stats suggest this was a comfortable victory for the hosts.In reality, it was two moments of quality from Amad Diallo that was the difference between the two teams.Other than his goals, the Red Devils did not ask very much of the PAOK keeper tonight.That said, it is the result that matters most for Man Utd.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 2-0 PAOKThe referee brings the game to a close.Man Utd get their first victory in Europe this season.PAOK have to turn their attentions to their day jobs now.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK90+4. This result is in the bag now.At times it looked in the balance but that second goal really killed this game off.Van Nistelrooy remains unbeaten as interim manager.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK90+2. Immediately Zirkzee makes an impact.He plays a superb crossfield ball to Fernandes out on the left.The Portuguese midfielder holds it up well before laying it off to Rashford who comes on the overlap.Looking to bend one in the far corner, Rashford does not get enough curl on it as it goes well wide of the post.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK90. That is his last action for the evening.Zirkzee comes on to replace the misfiring Dane.We are going to have four additional minutes.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK88. Hojlund runs through behind the defence.He looks to lift it over the keeper but it ends up in the side netting.His blushes are saved as the flag then goes up for offside.The replay shows he was a good yard off having set off too early.Sean Dyche take note.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK86. Casemiro is penalised for a handball and shown a yellow card for his troubles.Man Utd seem happy to try and manage the game now.Passing it around, not so keen to venture forward and hold onto what they have.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK84. Shola Shoretire comes on for the visitors now.The former Man Utd player will want to make an impression.However, the home fans will be hoping that does not happen.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK82. Credit where it is due to the travelling fans.Despite being two-nil down, they are still all you can hear.It would be nice to see PAOK get a goal now to make that long trip worthwhile.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK80. This is looking a more comfortable win now for the hosts.It looks like Mason Mount is about to join the action.He has spent more time in the treatment room than he has on the pitch since he joined from Chelsea.The Man Utd ‘Mr Glass’.It looks like he is replacing the hosts’ best player tonight, Amad Diallo.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Phil Thomas at Old TraffordNO more fitting scorer of United’s opener than Amad…far and away their liveliest player on the night. Fitting, too, that he was trying to nod back across goal rather than for the far corner. A misplaced header on a misfiring evening….Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 PAOK78. That is the goal the home fans have been craving.Amad does well to win the ball from the defender and cuts inside onto his favoured left-foot.He looks to bend one in the far corner and the keeper cannot get anywhere near it, as it nestles into the back of the net.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedGoal – Amad Diallo (Man Utd)Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK76. The visitors are growing in confidence as the game goes on.A needless foul from Casemiro gifts PAOK another free-kick.It has all gone a bit quiet in Old Trafford apart from the away end now.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK74. Some nice passing from the hosts as they look turn defence into attack.Hojlund is dispossessed far too easily and PAOK come forward once again.Here is a bold claim, Rasmus will be leading the line for Everton in two seasons unless he sorts his game out.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK72. Rashford gives the ball away in his own half and it invites PAOK to come forward again.The entire Man Utd team are dropping deep behind the ball now, looking to hold onto their lead.It is sad to see really, how the mighty have fallen.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK70. PAOK are getting forward more now.Their approach play looks good but again they are lacking that killer pass in the final third.They force a corner on this occasion but it is hacked clear by Rashford.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK68. PAOK need to throw more players forward now.They find themselves in the ‘early exit’ positions in Europa League currently.Even a draw would not be seen as a positive result due to this.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK66. Man Utd make a triple substitution.Martinez, Eriksen and Rashford join the game.They replace Dalot, Ugarte and Garnacho.The latter must be tired from his acrobatics.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedMan Utd 1-0 PAOK64. What a chance for PAOK to score.A fantastic pass picks out Tissoudali in the box with only Onana to beat.His shot is poor and has no power behind it, allowing the Man Utd keeper to make a routine save.I suppose that is why he plys his trade in the Greek Super League.Copy linkCopied More

  • in

    Danny Murphy admits he’s ‘upset’ and ‘annoyed’ by TNT Sports’ decision to put Noel Gallagher on co-comms

    DANNY MURPHY has said he was left “upset” by TNT Sports’ decision to throw Noel Gallagher on co-commentary for Manchester City’s game against Sporting Lisbon.The Oasis star surprised fans by appearing on comms alongside Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist.Danny Murphy has been left unhappy at TNT Sports’ decision to place Noel Gallagher on co-commentaryCredit: BBCGallagher joined Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist during Man City’s loss to Sporting LisbonCredit: ReutersAnd he soon proved to have the commentators curse as his club lost 4-1, with the first goal for the Portuguese side coming moments after Gallagher had remarked “how easy” the game had been for City.However, the decision to hand musician Gallagher the job over an ex-professional left him “annoyed”.Speaking on talkSport on Wednesday, Murphy said: “It would upset me. I wouldn’t want to hear that. “Partly from a selfish perspective. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Because I know how much work I put in and how difficult it is to try and see things, engage things, spend years watching different techniques and games to try and analyse them.”So, yeah, that would annoy me. “I’ve got no problem with listening to different types of people watching football, pre [or] post [match], maybe even after.”As co-commentary, it’s neither here nor there. It doesn’t add much value for me. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”It’s a very difficult job. I know from doing it. As a third one [like Gallagher], it’s fine. “But there’s not much there you’re going to learn.Danny Murphy says Ex-Rangers star El Hadji Diouf was strange and he once blanked him for weeks for no reason “I’d rather see him before or after the game, giving his little anecdotes about Pep [Guardiola] and the players. “He gives you something different. Some people will like it because of the novelty. “I wouldn’t want to hear it every week, put it that way.”Murphy has been a regular pundit on Match of the Day since retiring. More

  • in

    Former international manager named as spectator who died after medical emergency at Bayern Munich vs Benfica

    A FAN who died following a medical emergency while attending Bayern Munich’s Champions League match against Benfica has been named as a former international football manager.Romain Jean was the former manager of Luxembourg women’s national football team.Former Luxembourg women’s coach Romain Jean died after a heart attackCredit: by Roland MinyThe German club announced he died on the way to hospital after suffering a heart attack.Jean had received emergency medical treatment in the Allianz Arena shortly after kick-off, which had been delayed by 15 minutes due to a signal box malfunction at Odeonsplatz metro station.He was initially resuscitated multiple times by first aiders before being transported to the hospital under intensive care.However, one hour after the final whistle, the club were informed that Jean had passed away.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA club statement said: “In the Champions League league phase match against Benfica, FC Bayern’s 1-0 victory was overshadowed by a sad occasion. “A medical emergency in the stands of the Allianz Arena cast a shadow over the game right from the start. “Out of consideration, the Südkurve (Bayern ultras) refrained from its usual vociferous support for their team, and the club also reduced its coverage of the match.”Around an hour after the final whistle, the German record champions received the sad news that the fan had died on the way to hospital. Most read in Football”FC Bayern is in mourning side by side with the fan’s relatives.”Manager Vincent Kompany also paid tribute when speaking after the game.He said: “We didn’t celebrate much after the game,” while also revealing that players only learned of Jean’s death when returning to the dressing room.Jean served as the Luxembourg women’s team coach from 2006 to 2012.Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said: “There are definitely more important things in life than football.” More

  • in

    Cole Palmer stars in heartwarming video to tackle homelessness as Chelsea launch Wrap Up Warm campaign

    COLE PALMER has starred alongside a number of familiar faces and Chelsea icons in a superb campaign tackling homelessness.Chelsea and Chelsea Foundation are working with a number of charities this festive period to try and combat homelessness at Christmas. Cole Palmer has starred in a new video for a Chelsea campaign to tackle homelessnessCredit: X @vsrsusThe video starred a whole host of familiar facesCredit: X @vsrsusTo launch their ‘Wrap Up Warm’ campaign, Chelsea put together an incredible video packed with celebs and Blues stars.Men’s team stars Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku and Enzo Fernandez all star in the touching video.While women’s team hero Sam Kerr also makes an appearance in the video centering around a young Chelsea fan.But it’s not just the current crop that are featured either.READ MORE ON CHELSEAIcon Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink shows his face alongside music star Central Cee and Madness singer Graham “Suggs” McPherson. The video ends with the phase “Leave the cold to Cole”, playing on Cole Palmer’s famous celebration.But away from the lighthearted video there’s a deeper message that Chelsea are trying to portray in their campaign.Nearly 12,000 people were sleeping rough in London last year, with over 3,200 in south-west London alone.Most read in FootballEnzo Fernandez made an appearance in the clipCredit: X @vsrsusChristopher Nkunku was also a part of the videoCredit: X @vsrsusNicolas Jackson made an appearance tooCredit: X @vsrsusAnd Chelsea fans are being urged to donate warm clothing to those who need it most in the local community during the colder months.The Stamford Bridge club have also vowed to make a donation of the proceeds of their new festive clothing range to the Chelsea Foundation, which will then be distributed to homeless charities.Chelsea star Cole Palmer makes a cup of tea during Burberry advertWhile the men’s and women’s teams will be making a contribution with funds to support those that need it most too.Laura Cordingley, CEO of Chelsea Foundation said: “With over 3,000 people sleeping rough in our local community, it is crucial to be supporting individuals and families affected by homelessness and its root causes during the festive period and beyond.”‘To help tackle this, we will be working with the club, supporters and local organisations to donate warm clothing to those who need it most this Christmas.”Whilst also raising funds that will support charities tackling homelessness and its root causes in London longer term.”Madness singer Suggs joined the videoCredit: X @vsrsusWomen’s team star Sam Kerr also took partCredit: X @vsrsusCole Palmer places a coat on the shoulders of a cold kid, with a title card reading ‘Leave the cold to Cole’Credit: X @vsrsusThe youngster is left bewildered by the touching momentCredit: X @vsrsus More

  • in

    Declan Rice suffers broken toe but still plans to play for Arsenal and England after being named in Lee Carsley’s squad

    DECLAN RICE is ready to play through the pain barrier for Arsenal and England with a BROKEN TOE.The Gunners midfielder suffered the injury during the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park last weekend – still managing to complete the full 90 minutes.Declan Rice suffered the injury against Newcastle last SaturdayCredit: RexThe Gunners lost 1-0 at Inter Milan in Rice’s absence last nightCredit: ReutersHe then stayed home for the side’s mid-week Champions League trip – losing 1-0 to Inter Milan – with boss Mikel Arteta admitting the player was struggling to put his boot on.But SunSport understands that Rice, 25, WILL be able to start against Chelsea on Sunday before joining up with the Lee Carsley’s England camp 24 hours later.The Three Lions face Greece on November 14 and the Republic of Ireland on November 17 in the upcoming Nations League internationals.And should Rice come through the trip to Stamford Bridge unscathed, he will be in contention to start both outings for his country.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRice has started all but one of Arsenal’s Prem fixtures so far this term, his only absence coming via a suspension after getting sent off against Brighton on August 31.And he has missed a total of three games in all competitions – rested for the Carabao Cup fourth round trip to Preston on October 30 before sitting out of the Inter trip.And when he does start, Rice usually completes the entire 90 minutes – subbed off in just one of his last 10 games in all competitions for Arsenal.Rice also played the entirety of England’s September wins over Republic of Ireland and Finland, as well as last month’s 2-1 loss to Greece before featuring for 85 minutes in the 3-1 win away in Finland on October 13.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArteta will be desperate to have Rice involved with Arsenal currently on a poor run of form that has seen them drop to fifth in the Prem – seven points off leaders Liverpool.Arsenal’s woeful early-season injury record appears to be clearing up, with skipper Martin Odegaard expected to return against Chelsea after a near-three month spell out with ankle ligament issues.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett runs the rule over England’s squad after two players are given first call-upMikel Merino should also shake off a knock that forced him off at half time at the San Siro having been PUNCHED in the head by Inter keeper Yann Sommer in the first half.Merino, 28, conceded the crucial penalty against Inter, being penalised for handball on the stroke of half-time.Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories. More