More stories

  • in

    Southampton 0 Aston Villa 3: Ramsdale saves TWO Asensio penalties but Saints creep closer to worst ever Prem record

    OLLIE WATKINS saved Aston Villa blushes – particularly two-time penalty flop Marco Asensio – on a bruising afternoon on the South Coast.Villa boss Unai Emery could not have imagined that a trip to relegated Southampton would have proven to be such a difficult and frustrating one.Ollie Watkins spared Aston Villa’s blushesCredit: GettyThe high-demanding Spaniard had to wait until 73 minutes before Watkins’s intervention opened the floodgates for the visitors by the Channel.And once he could relax, he was able to rest some weary bodies before Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against PSG at Villa Park.Within seven minutes of replacing the subdued Marcus Rashford, Watkins showed the flexibility of hamstrings as he managed, while on the stretch, to hook a volley past Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.It was a brilliant goal, one the great Premier League strikers would have applauded, and it settled the nerves for the away fans who had otherwise been in great voice throughout.read more in footballIf anyone was pleased with Watkins’s heroics, then it would have been Asensio who, three minutes earlier, had seen his dreadful penalty saved by Ramsdale.Asensio, 29, had a SECOND poorly-struck penalty saved in stoppage time – he went the same way and so did Ramsdale – but this time John McGinn was on hand to benefit.In the end, it was a result that lifted Villa into fifth place in the Prem and back into Champions League contention – an eighth win out of nine outings.But given the tough fixture list coming up, Emery would have wanted to have sealed this much quicker than they did, so he could rest key players that had been subjected to some hefty Southampton challenges.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt could have been so much easier had Rashford – playing alongside Asenio in the Premier League for just the second time – scored inside the opening 40 seconds.On-loan Rashford, 27, was unleashed by Youri Tielemans and survived the clutches of the new semi-automated offside technology.Yet on his 29th birthday and 250th Saints appearance, Polish defender Jan Bednarek was in the right place to block the attempt.Since their record relegation was confirmed last weekend at Tottenham, it was inevitable that sorry Ivan Juric – who oversaw 13 defeats out of 16 – would not be hanging around.Interim boss Simon Rusk made two changes and went with a back three and though Villa dominated possession in the first half, Southampton had a chance on 16 minutes that could have ruffled a few feathers.Cameron Archer outpaced the tentative Tyrone Mings but Emiliano Martinez saved the attempt with both hands and was reminded by the away support why he is the “world’s No.1 keeper”.Ramsdale, 26, has had a terrible time in the Saints goal this season, following another personal relegation, but he will be proud of the way he blocked the long-distance shot from Amadou Onana on 48 minutes.And also how he managed to palm away the spot-kick from Spaniard Asensio, who must do better if the tie with PSG ends up going to penalties this week.Watkins had won that clear-cut penalty – less than two minutes after replacing Rashford – from a Bednarek challenge.And the Englishman scored his 15th goal of the season as he managed to reach Tieleman’s crafty long-pass.Any prospects of a nerve finale seemed to disappear when Dutch midfielder Malen scored for the third game in a row with a clinical finish on 79 minutes.That was the cue for hundreds of Southampton to go marching out of St Marys and in fairness, who could blame them?Apart from a 88th-minute Martinez full-length save from Mateus Fernandes, it got worse for Rusk’s troops.Read More on The SunAnd though Ramsdale defied Asensio once again, McGinn was quick to react in the 94th minute, showing off once more his famous goggle celebration.Southampton need just ONE POINT to avoid being the statistically worst team in Premier League history but with six matches left, they are running out of time. More

  • in

    What I’ve heard about Phil Foden makes he respect him and even more angry at sick chants about his mum

    THE problem with teenagers, a headteacher told me this week, is that they are trying to live in two different moral universes.He says that there is the moral universe we all know, with its rules, conventions and niceties.Pep Guardiola embraced Phil Foden after he had endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his MumCredit: GettyIncredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptableCredit: GettyDeclan Rice endures similar stuff as Foden, along with his long-time partner Lauren FryerCredit: RexAnd then there’s another universe, the internet’s moral universe, where there are next to no rules and precious few niceties.OK, every day’s a school day, so I’ll take that on board and, just for good measure, I’m going to throw a third moral universe into this mix — football’s moral universe.This one, while not all bad by any means, can be a very ugly place indeed.I’ve not met Phil Foden but from what I’ve seen and heard, as well as being a prodigiously gifted footballer he’s a decent guy.READ MORE FROM ADRIAN CHILESI was talking to one of his coaches at England youth level. Listing the attributes Foden showed as a kid — speed, awareness, bravery, command of the ball etc — the coach added another, one which has stuck in my mind. “He cared what his teammates thought about him,” said the coach.Interesting that. You’d think that caring what your teammates thought of you would be common enough among footballers to not even merit mention. It would seem this isn’t the case.Most read in FootballPhil cares though, and that’s another reason I hold him in high esteem.Perhaps that’s why I was more appalled than usual at the behaviour of football fans when I saw that photo of Pep Guardiola embracing him after he’d endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his Mum.‘They should be ashamed’ – Pep Guardiola slams Man Utd fans for sick chants aimed at City ace Phil Foden’s mumAwful. But incredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptable. Because, you see, this is in football’s moral universe where, for some reason, there are those who think it’s OK to behave despicably.Declan Rice, double miracle-freekick scorer and another nice guy, endures similar stuff — along with his long-time partner, the equally appealing Lauren Fryer.Lauren, you see, doesn’t conform to some football fans’ idea of what a footballer’s wife should look like. So the poor woman gets abused on social media and, for Declan’s benefit, from the stands. Dreadful.This is what happens in football’s moral universe. We seem to forget that footballers are human beings with, you know, feelings. However thick their skins have to be, they still have feelings.I’ve been as guilty of forgetting this as anyone. Many years ago, when I was presenting Match Of The Day 2, I made a joking reference to Arjen Robben’s baldness. The following week I got a letter — yes, a letter, that’s how long ago it was — from someone who said I should be ashamed of myself as Robben could well be very sensitive about his hair loss.Initially I scoffed and was minded to reply that Chelsea’s multi-millionaire Dutch superstar could probably deal with a jibe from me.But when I had thought about it, even though the man himself probably couldn’t have cared less, I concluded that I had been very wrong to mock his appearance.That was on TV. I’m afraid I’ve said a lot worse as a fan at matches.I’m not without sinSo I don’t preach this sermon from any moral high ground, because I’m not without sin. I confess, I’ve yelled and chanted stuff at football matches that I would never, and I mean never, have yelled or chanted anywhere else.I shouted some dreadful things at Jack Grealish, for example, at a play-off semi-final when he was at Villa. I’m quite sure he couldn’t care less, but I can’t say it was my finest hour.I don’t excuse myself, but these things happen in football’s moral universe, where it’s not that there’s no right or wrong, but there is a big, bad grey area.There’s a line in there somewhere and we all know where it is.Bawling abuse at a footballer, calling them terrible names, isn’t a good look. But it probably, arguably, just about falls on the right side of the line.Abusing that footballer’s family is a different matter. That’s on the wrong side of the line.It’s bang out of order, and everyone guilty knows this.BOB’S A COMEDY GREATThere was no danger of anyone else but Bob Mortimer winning Last One LaughingCredit: RexSOME comedians you look at, and think there walks a genius, with a routine to die for.Others, often by means of cruelty or crudeness, shock you into laughter despite yourself.And then there’s Bob Mortimer, who just seems to have funny bones.Really funny bones.There was no danger of anyone else winning TV’s Last One Laughing.What chance did any of them have against a man who can make “have you got a kitchen island?” sound like the funniest question ever asked.And as for, “I like sausage dogs, with those tiny legs”, I will never again see a dachshund waddling past without thinking of Bob.DON AND ON AND ON AND ..The role journalists played in Donald Trump’s rise will one day be worthy of examinationCredit: GettyWHEN the history books about Donald Trump are written, the role of us journalists in his rise will be worthy of examination.We can take a lot of the blame/credit – delete according to your view of The Orange Man. Like him or loathe him, laugh at him or with him, we have found it quite impossible not to give him all the attention he craves because he provides us with all the material we crave.He fills pages of papers and hours of television, radio and podcasts. Where would we be without him.After his first term ended in ignominious defeat, we assumed we’d seen the last of him.Back then, the brilliant political commentator, comedian and excellent Trump mimic Matt Forde captured the mood of many of us when he tweeted, “Goodnight sweet prince”. And now it’s like he never went away.IT’S BOT TO BE A BONUSTHE march of artificial intelligence will, at worst, destroy humanity or, at best, just take a lot of our jobs.One thing pleases me, though, even if it means me being replaced by a machine – I’ve heard what’s about to happen described as the first technological step-change in history that’s going to hit middle-class jobs the hardest.Writers and radio presenters will be easy meat for the machines.But it’ll be a long time before AI can do proper jobs, requiring blood, sweat and tears as well as great skill.Plumbers, chippies, sparks, gardeners, scaffolders, bricklayers – your jobs are as safe as houses.Enjoy the ride, you’ve earned it.WHY do so many people sit on public transport looking at or listening to their phones without wearing headphones?Why should we all have to hear terrible music from those who look at their phones on public transport without wearing headphones?Credit: GettyWhy should we all have to hear their terrible music, boring conversations or mindless TikTok-ery. I’m genuinely interested.But I can’t come up with a way of asking the question in a way that’s not going to end with some kind of violence visited upon me.PAIN IN THE CHIP BUTTYA chip shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up its price to fifteen quidCredit: GettyA CHIP shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up the price of cod and chips to 15 quid.I can’t remember the last time I left a chippy having dropped anywhere near that little. I just get too excited.After a couple of pints with some mates in Stourbridge last month, I popped into the local chip shop on the way home.Before I knew it I’d bought large cod and chips, small cod and chips, mushy peas, two battered potato slices and some cod roe.And this was only for me and my Mum. We’re still not back to full health, financially or physically.AIMEE’S PEARLY QUEENAimee Lou Wood is just brilliant in the White Lotus, despite the show being absolutely indigestibleCredit: HBOEVERYONE I know is banging on about White Lotus being the best TV ever. I’ve heard it praised so many times that it must be true.Well, I’ve found it to be absolutely indigestible, veering wildly between rather silly and terribly boring.Read More on The SunBut I’m glad I saw the bits I managed to stay awake for because that was enough to confirm for me that Stockport’s Aimee Lou Wood is just brilliant.At first you can see nothing but her proudly prominent teeth. But before long all you’re seeing is a brilliant acting talent going from strength to strength. More

  • in

    ‘I preferred to wait to publish this’ – Edu releases lengthy statement as Arsenal gardening leave finally expires

    EDU GASPAR has released an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans after his final day with the club.Having joined as technical director in 2019, Edu became the sporting director in 2022, working closely with Mikel Arteta to overhaul the culture at the Emirates.Edu Gaspar has paid an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans following his official exitCredit: GettyArsenal’s new sporting director is former Atletico Madrid chief Andrea BertaHe is widely credited with doing an excellent job and playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s rebuild into a title-chasing side.Edu, who was last month replaced by Andrea Berta, was on gardening leave until this week, and he has paid farewell to the Gunners. He posted on Instagram: “Thank you, Arsenal. Thank you, Gunners!”With a heart full of gratitude, today formally I close one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”After five and a half years, my journey officially as Sporting Director of Arsenal FC has come to the end.”I joined the club in July 2019 as Technical Director, with the challenge of bringing Arsenal with the mission of bringing Arsenal back where it belongs among football’s elite, driving a cultural shift, keep competing for trophies, and making Champions League qualification the minimum expectation for a club of Arsenal’s size. “Later, I had the honour of becoming the first-ever Sporting Director in the club’s history, a milestone I will always carry with great pride.”And throughout this process of rebuilding, you the fans were an essential part of everything! Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates”To the supporters, my most sincere thank you! The support, the energy, and the connection we felt again in every match were simply special. “The Emirates became an amplified version of the old Highbury atmosphere! To have experienced this alongside you is something I will never forget.”Arsenal’s Kai Havertz hits the gym as he continues his recovery from injury The later added: “It was never easy, but our intense work, united by a true team spirit, made me feel fulfilled throughout all these years!”If I’m only now sharing this message, it’s because I’ve been on garden leave in recent months and, out of respect for the club and everyone involved, I preferred to wait until the final official day of my contract to publish this.”I wish Arsenal FC all the best and every success, and I also send my warmest wishes to the new Sporting Director Andrea, who now takes on this beautiful role.”I leave with a peaceful heart and immense pride in what we’ve built together!”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.Edu is expected to front Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’s multi-club operation which includes the Premier League side, Olympiacos and Rio Ave. He won six trophies with Arsenal during his playing career, including two titles – in 2002 and the Invincible 2004 campaign.As a director, he witnessed one FA Cup triumph and two Community Shield triumphs.The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League in each of the past two seasons, having placed eighth, eighth and fifth in the three campaigns before that.Read More on The SunArteta’s men look set to miss out on the title once again this term as they sit second, 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. But Arsenal have on foot in the semi-finals of the Champions League after hammering 15-time Kings of Europe Real Madrid 3-0 on Tuesday.Arsenal ratings vs Real Madrid as Declan Rice’s free-kick thunderbolts earn him an ELEVEN out of 10BEND it like Beckham? More like bend it like Declan…It was a set-piece clinic from the Arsenal midfielder as he scored the first free-kicks of his career against Real Madrid – and the first player in Champions League history to score multiple direct free-kicks in the same knockout stage game.Thibaut Courtois was on hand to save Real Madrid in a fast paced first half as he pulled off a fine double save to deny a Rice header and a follow-up effort from Gabriel Martinelli.The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute as England star Rice whipped in a sensational free-kick.Rice then sent the Emirates into the stratosphere with as he added a second with an even better free-kick from the left side of the goal which he rifled into the top right corner.Mikel Merino then swept a devastating third into the bottom corner from a low cross to put the cherry on a remarkable night.Rice’s epic showing was enough to earn him an unprecedented ELEVEN in our player ratings.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the rest of the Gunners… More

  • in

    ‘He doesn’t feel good’ – Pep Guardiola gives Jack Grealish update as Man City star ‘slapped’ after Manchester derby

    PEP GUARDIOLA says Phil Foden and Jack Grealish are just two of his stars living in a crazy world.The pair are still recovering from the abuse they suffered in the Manchester derby.Jack Grealish was slapped by a fan after the Manchester derbyCredit: ReutersFoden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United supportCredit: GettyMidfielder Foden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United support who chanted that she was “a s***g.After the final whistle winger Grealish was slapped around the face by a supporter near the entrance to the tunnel – an assault that produced a charge of assault on the elleged perpetrator.Guardiola described the insults hurled as Foden mother as having “no class” while City officials were understood to have been disgusted.But the City boss who will lead his team against Crystal Palace on Saturday fears there will only be more similar incidents in the future.READ MORE IN football Asked how Grealish and Foden have been, Guardiola declared: “He doesn’t feel good but move forward. It happens everywhere.” The City boss added: “It’s a crazy world, not just in sport. Nobody is away from that. it’s not about united.“It’s not a problem about a specific club or department in world football, it happens everywhere.”Guardiola faces the Eagles with a raft of injuries including Erling Haaland but is hopeful he can still steer City into a top five place – and the Champions League for next season.Most read in FootballHe stressed: “The injuries have been all season. So we adapt.“You can see it as a problem or a challenge or a disaster. it could be worse.  I’m really satisfied for the way we handle it.”New footage shows Phil Foden’s reaction to Man Utd fans’ sick chant aimed at his mum City lie a point behind fifth – placed Newcastle United with a game more played but he says: “We have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season. “This is what we have to do, especially at home and tomorrow is a team who has been in incredible form in the last two months and they have always been difficult here. “I admire the manager, the talent they have. But at the same time, I’m optimistic to finish well this season.” More

  • in

    ‘Unstable’ – F1 hit by shock resignation as FIA chief quits with blunt statement and George Russell slams leadership

    GEORGE RUSSELL slammed the FIA’s “unstable” leadership as the sport was thrown into turmoil yesterday.FIA executive Robert Reid resigned yesterday over what he described as a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards”.George Russell wants more trust placed in the teams to work with the FIACredit: EPACarlos Sainz was also scathing in his assessmentCredit: EPAScottish executive Reid was appointed in 2021 when current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was elected, but the pair have fallen out in recent years.When Mercedes ace Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, was asked about Reid’s resignation, he said: “Unfortunately, I think every time we hear some news from that side of the sport, it’s not a big surprise.”As we keep saying, it’s like, what’s next? It’s a shame to see, and hopefully we get more stability sooner rather than later.”It’s getting to a point now where these things are happening so often, and as drivers we’re trying to get involved, in the past, we didn’t really make much headway.RED MORE IN SPORT“Things seem to continuously be going in an unstable direction.“I’ve got to be honest, we’re getting to a point now where our actions are having little impact with those guys, and we’ve got to trust in the teams and Formula 1 to work with the FIA to come to a common ground.“If we can help, we want to be there, but often it just seems like things are going in their own direction.”Reid’s departure is the latest in a string of high-profile resignations at the FIA over the last 18 months.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBen Sulayem has been under fire in the last few years, following various controversies including the FIA’s swearing rules earlier this year.Reid said in his resignation letter: “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rant”Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold.“Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.”My resignation is not about personalities. It is about principles.“Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”On the grid at Suzuka, Sainz reported to the FIA medical team with a stomach issue. After receiving treatment and using the toilet, the Williams driver was late to the national anthem ceremony – something all drivers must attend or risk a fine.The FIA punished Sainz with a €20,000 fine, half of which is suspended for 12 months providing he does not repeat the rules breach, while the fine is usually €60,000.He said: “I was five seconds late, and to be five seconds late and have to pay 10,000, it’s for me, out of the question that we’re having to pay this money.”“I don’t know if I’m gonna get a fine saying this but, s*** happens.”It is not yet known if Sainz will be fined for the swearing incident, with the ex-Ferrari driver in talks with the FIA over whether it will be referred to the stewards.Drivers like Lewis Hamilton have also come under fire for tattoos and piercings in recent years and Russell believes Sainz’s toilet punishment was over the top.He added: “It’s not quite as straightforward as people may think for us to be there on time. Read More on The Sun“We’re often running to the toilet, and there’s sometimes no toilets available between the time you jump out of the car and go into the anthem, and you’ve got people on the grid, or people asking for a quick interview.”He added: “It’s a pretty expensive poo!” More

  • in

    Former Premier League star-turned-manager wears PINK TUXEDO on touchline as he’s compared to Simpsons character

    FORMER Premier League midfielder Segundo Castillo has combined coaching with the catwalk… by sporting a PINK TUXEDO during a game.The ex-Ecuador international star loan spells with Everton and Wolves between 2008 and 2010.Segundo Castillo explained why we wears such spectacular outfitsCredit: ReutersThe ex-midfielder likes to make his Barcelona SC players ‘smile’Castillo’s tuxedo couldn’t quite inspire his team to victoryCredit: AFPCastillo, nicknamed Sir Second Castle, now manages home-country club Barcelona SC.And the 42-year-old went the extra mile to produce a smile for their Copa Libertadores clash with Argentina’s River Plate in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.Castillo stunned onlookers by wearing a flamboyant pink dinner jacket as he saw his side earn a commendable 0-0 draw.The fashion-loving former footballer has previously donned black and white tuxes for Barcelona games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut his latest sartorial statement drew plenty of derision online – including memes of Marge Simpson, a character from animated TV show The Simpsons, wearing a pink dress.Castillo said: “When I come out of my dressing-room and my players see me like this, it makes them smile and makes them feel more free for a moment.”The players can tell they are being well looked-after.  “There is a good atmosphere between them and the coaching staff.”Most read in FootballThe ex-Everton and Wolves loanee produced a smile as dazzling as his attireCredit: ReutersCastillo believes his outfit helps his players look on the bright sideCredit: GettyCastillo made nine Prem appearances for Everton, and scored a UEFA Cup goal against Standard Liege.The anchorman went on to play eight times for Wolves, this time on loan from Red Star Belgrade.Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa AmericaHe later played for six clubs in South America, including Barcelona SC, plus Saudi team Al-Hilal.Castillo retired as a player in 2020, taking the permanent Barcelona boss job last year following two spells as interim chief. More

  • in

    ‘People talk a lot of s***’ – KSI defended by his coach for being spotted at concert a week after pulling out of fight

    KSI has been defended by his boxing coach after being spotted at an Usher concert – one week after pulling out of his fight with Dillon Danis. The YouTuber was due to face MMA star Danis on March 29 in Manchester – but he withdrew with a week to go after falling ill. KSI was spotted at an Usher concert a week after pulling out of fighting Dillon DanisAlexis Demetriades is the coach of KSIBut Danis hit out at KSI after the British social media sensation was spotted at an Usher concert at the O2. Derek Chisora posted a video on his Instagram story showing KSI in attendance and Danis said: “You can’t make this s*** up. “@KSI faked the sniffles. He’s a scared little b***h. I was told he couldn’t get out of bed, and he’s out on the night of the fight? WTF.”KSI’s trainer Alexis Demetriades has since spoken out in defence of the Misfits Boxing co-founder. READ MORE IN BOXINGDemetriades said on Fred Talks Fighting: “It’s quite a strange one for people to jump on that because let’s say I’ve hurt my hand and it’s really hurt, doesn’t mean I can’t go to a concert.”I’m not fighting anymore, I can’t train and put my heart rate at max zones and do my VO2 Max and kill myself in sparring because I can’t fight.”It doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy my life and go out. I think because he’s a high-profile kid a lot of people talk a lot of s*** online like, ‘Why’s here there? What’s he doing?'”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. It’s a very different scenario.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I think people read a bit too much into it. He’s a young man that needs to let off some steam. “If he wants to go out and go to a concert, I don’ think there’s an issue with that.KSI issues worrying statement on health battle and gives major update on boxing career after latest fight collapse “He’s been ill for a month off with two sets of antibiotics and a lot of pressure for him to make this work and it didn’t work out.”KSI, 31, is yet to return since suffering defeat for the first time, losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 25, in October 2023. He was due to fight in August but pulled out with an injured hand before his most recent illness. And KSI – who founded Misfits to home to celebrity-style crossover bouts – even refused to confirm if he will fight again. But coach Demetriades does expect the Britain’s Got Talent judge to fight again and opened the door to a bout with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He said: “We’d love that fight, I think stylistically it’s a great fight.”And also, because the fight everyone wants and we want is the Jake Paul fight and obviously he doesn’t necessarily want it at the moment.”That’s a great idea for people to see JJ fight somebody that orthodox, that’s 200+lb right now that’s got 56 wins and won a world title. It’s quite a good look for JJ.”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. KSI’s trainer Alexis DemetriadesChavez – son to the legendary Mexican Julio Cesar Sr – held the WBC middleweight world title from 2011-2012. And he went 12 rounds with Canelo Alvarez in 2017 but has suffered inconsistent form of late. Chavez, 39, was beaten by UFC great Anderson Silva, 49, in 2021 but did beat MMA middleweight Uriah Hall in a crossover boxing bout last summer. He was in talks to fight KSI earlier in the year and has also been linked with facing Paul, 28, in the past. Demetriades also talked down a tune-up fight – despite KSI’s inactivity in the ring. He said: “I’m not about warm-up fights, personally. “I don’t think we need warm-up fights. I think what you do is get a fight camp and go straight into a fight.Read More on The Sun”As far as I’m concerned the sparring that we have and the pressure we put on KSI, he’s a game day kid. He performs on game day.”When he comes out to fight he comes out to fight. I’m not worried about him performing, that’s what he does. He’s very, very good at that.”Julio Cesar Chavez Jr is linked with fighting KSICredit: Esther Lin/MVP More

  • in

    ‘I’m doing your job’ – John Terry and Mark Clattenburg in furious bust-up as they reignite rivalry at Baller League

    CHELSEA legend John Terry and ex-Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg rolled back the years as they locked horns at Baller League.Terry, 44, and Clattenburg, 50, clashed numerous times during their peak years in the Prem.Chelsea legend John Terry clashed with iconic Premier League referee Mark ClattenburgCredit: X @SkyFootballTerry and Clattenburg rolled back the years at Baller LeagueCredit: Getty – ContributorTerry and Clattenburg’s most famous clash took place 10 years agoCredit: Getty Images – GettyAnd the pair gave fans a trip down memory lane on Monday at the Copper Box Arena in London.The ex-England international is among the Baller League’s celebrity managers as he’s coaching the 26ers.And the former centre-back saw his team pick up a thrilling 3-3 draw against RTW.However, tensions flared when former Manchester United player Josh Harrop was sent off for two minutes for a bad tackle on 26ers’ Sak Hassan, who was making a break down the left flank.Read More on ChelseaThat immediately led to a mini brawl between the two sides on the pitch. And minutes later, Terry lashed out at Clattenburg over what appears to be a decision involving the 26ers having to drop the ball and give their opponent possession.The Chelsea great was heard yelling, “I’ve got to do your job for you” towards the experienced match official.Baller League rules dictate that a manager can use one referee challenge during a match.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHowever, Terry opted against using one of those on this occasion.The two Premier League icons have had several confrontations in the past and perhaps their most famous clash took place 10 years ago.Chelsea legend John Terry goes on 5k run in preparation for London Marathon That was when Chelsea beat West Brom 3-2 at the Hawthorns in a heated match that saw Terry getting sent off with a direct red card.The legendary defender was penalised for denying Salomon Rondon a clear goalscoring opportunity.And Terry protested for a long time in front of Clattenburg until he finally walked down the tunnel. More