More stories

  • in

    Gareth Southgate snubs titanic Liverpool vs Man City clash to watch the worst England audition of the weekend

    IT was Kalvin Phillips’ performances for England which convinced David Moyes he would be a good January signing.But the West Ham midfielder’s move now looks to have placed his Euro 2024 spot in jeopardy rather than saved it.Southgate was at the Olympic stadium to witness Phillip’s latest disappointing performanceCredit: RexThe midfielder is at risk of losing his place in Southgate’s England squadCredit: GettyInstead of watching the pulsating clash between Liverpool and Manchester City, England boss Gareth Southgate was in the stands to check in on Phillips during West Ham’s draw with Burnley.Southgate announces his Three Lions squad for the March international break this week and will have been looking for signs that Phillips deserves to keep his place.Even for the most loyal of managers, as Southgate has proved to be, it will be hard to select the former Leeds star off the back of his showing.Phillips was at fault for the opening goal, wasteful on the ball and hooked at half-time. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAn eye-catching performance for all the wrong reasons.It has not been an easy start to life at the London Stadium for Phillips.Moyes had tried to sign the 28-year-old before his ill-fated move to Manchester City, and was encouraged to offer him a way out by his displays for England.Southgate had stood by the midfielder, who still impressed for the Three Lions while not getting a look in under Pep Guardiola.Most read in FootballCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL The Hammers boss hoped a few games was all it would take to shake off the rust brought about by just two Premier League starts in 18 months at The Etihad.But his early West Ham showings have not offered encouragement. There was a nightmare start minutes into his debut against Bournemouth, handing them an early goal by gifting the ball to Dominic Solanke.Man Utd fans brutally troll Kalvin Phillips with X-rated chant as he warms up – but City rival has perfect responseA red card at Nottingham Forest followed before the Burnley horror-show.Phillips has spoken candidly about the impact of his time playing under Guardiola, watching on in isolation as City won the Treble.It is not an experience he is able to shake off lightly. West Ham was supposed to be a new dawn, a fresh start to get him back to being the player who shone alongside Declan Rice at Euro 2020 as England reached the final.But it has not materialised. Southgate had made it clear to Phillips he had to find a new club to keep his place in the squad ahead of this summer’s tournament, but it is hard to see how his standing with the Three Lions boss would be any worse if he was still warming Manchester City’s bench.There is still time, of course.Aside from Rice, the former West Ham captain, England’s options in a midfield two are limited.Phillips managed to retain his place in the England squad despite not appearing often for CityCredit: GettySouthgate has been out to Amsterdam to watch Jordan Henderson try to rediscover his form with Ajax after his short-lived Saudi adventure.But that has hardly got off to a flying start and Henderson is another player whose inclusion is becoming harder to justify.The lack of depth at the base of midfield helps the case for both, but the squad announced on Thursday is the final one before Southgate selects the group for Germany.Missing out this week would be a crushing blow for Phillips, but hardly surprising given there are no guarantees he will find form between now and the end of the season. He may not even get much more of a chance to.READ MORE SUN STORIESMoyes is fighting for European qualification in the Premier League and for progress in Europe – he cannot afford many more first halves like the one Phillips contributed to on Sunday.If you cannot be trusted at West Ham, what hope is there with England? More

  • in

    Man Utd icon Sir Alex Ferguson’s son heaps praise on Man City youngster and gasps ‘he’s going to be some player’

    A MANCHESTER CITY starlet has been tipped to become “world class” by none other than Sir Alex Ferguson’s son.The 19-year-old Jadel Katongo left the Etihad in order to get some first-team experience back in August.Man City loanee Jadel Katongo has produced great form on loan at PeterboroughCredit: AlamyDarren Ferguson, the son of Sir Alex, believes he can reach the very topCredit: RexThe defender headed to League One promotion chasers Peterborough United, who are managed by Darren Ferguson.Katongo has shone in the third tier throughout the campaign, catching the eye of Southampton, but perhaps produced his best display of the season last week.He played a part in Peterborough’s first three goals in their 5-1 victory over Northampton Town and then excelled again as they enjoyed a 3-1 win at Burton on Saturday.And Ferguson, who won a Premier League title medal with United back in his playing days, is convinced that the Red Devils’ rivals have a brilliant talent on their hands.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking to the BBC Cambridgeshire Sport, he said: “Yeah and he’s improving, there’s no question.“He’s not a right-back, he’s a centre-half really and we’ve played him in midfield, we’ve played him hardly at centre-half funnily enough.“But he understands the role better. He knows when to go outside, when to come inside.”“This is his first loan, he’s going to be some player, I tell you.”Most read in FootballKatonga has already joined time training with Pep Guardiola’s first team squad at City.But he will be hoping for double joy come May.Peterborough are hoping to secure promotion to the Championship with a top two finish.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey are currently fourth, four points behind second-placed Derby, with a game in hand.Meanwhile, City are chasing another treble.Ex-Man Utd ace Mikael Silvestre opens up on brutal Hairdryer Treatment he received from Sir Alex FergusonYesterday’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool meant Arsenal were left top of the Premier League, level on points with the Reds but crucially ahead on goal difference.City are one point behind the other two but have an inferior goal difference. More

  • in

    Roy Keane can’t stop smiling at Daniel Sturridge’s perfect gag live on Sky Sport after Liverpool draw with Man City

    DANIEL STURRIDGE got a belting response to a clever gag about his own outfit as he gave Roy Keane a hearty buckle chuckle.The ex-Liverpool striker lit up his verdict on Sunday’s 1-1 thriller against Manchester City with a dig at a huge belt buckle that entranced viewers.Daniel Sturridge had the whole Sky Sports studio roaring with a gag at the expense of his super-sized belt buckleCredit: X/ @SkySportsPLFans joked Sturridge looked ready for a plane journeyAnd fellow pundit Keane could’t stop grinning as the Sky Sports studio exploded into laughter at the jibe from Sturridge on live TV.The smart-suited former England star reckoned the match gleamed as bright as his silver buckle – which fans compared to a “seatbelt”.But even that wasn’t the comparison Sturridge made to his clothing accessory as he delivered an enthusiastic assessment of an Anfield classic.Second-placed Liverpool remain a point above City after an epic draw.READ MORE TOP STORIESAnd Sturridge said: “It was exhilarating. It was back and forth – chances, challenges, a lot of drama, a penalty, this and that.”It was just a brilliant game for all to see. It was a rollercoaster ride. Buckle up like my blazer!”Manchester United legend Keane smiled broadly at how Sturridge seamlessly threw in that reference to his own belt.And the ex-midfield hardman continued to beam as the post-match discussion continued.Most read in FootballViewers had already teased Sturridge over his stand-out buckle.In fact, one congratulated him on “wearing his seatbelt in the Sky Studio, can never be too safe” while another joked, “Strap yourselves in folks”.Man Utd legend Paul Scholes claims Phil Foden is ‘much better footballer’ than Frank LampardAnd after Sturridge gave his views on a scintillating stalemate, fans jumped in with more fashion observations.One posted: “Funny dude, nice game yeah, no doubt” then a second viewer simply said: “Haha Sturridge”.And a few asked mischievous questions like: “Why did the cameraman zoom in on his blazer?” More

  • in

    Jurgen Klopp confronts referee after 98th minute season-defining VAR call saves Man City at Anfield

    FUMING Jurgen Klopp confronted referee Michael Oliver after Liverpool were denied a late penalty against Manchester City. The game was level at 1-1 and in the eighth minute of extra time when Jeremy Doku collided with Alexis Mac Allister. This is the collision between Jeremy Doku and Alexis Mac AllisterThe City forward got away with itJurgen Klopp confronted referee Michael Oliver after Liverpool were denied a late penaltyReplays revealed the City forward kicking Mac Allister in the chest as they both went for the ball in the box. But ref Oliver waved play on and the VAR team refused to intervene as the game ended all square. Klopp was left raging after the final whistle and confronted Oliver to probe him on the controversial call. Manchester United legend Gary Neville said at the time on commentary: “I think he’s a lucky, lucky boy.” READ MORE IN football Neville also added: “Doku is very lucky. I thought he was in trouble.”The two sides played out a thrilling clash, but neither could find a winner meaning Arsenal now sit top of the table.City centre-back John Stones opened the scoring in the first half but a Mac Allister penalty levelled the game after the break.Klopp was still devastated after the final whistle as he said: “It was 100 per cent penalty. Most read in FootballCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL “They will find an explanation. It was 100 per cent foul in all areas of the pitch and probably a yellow card.”All the people with ipads around me were ‘wow, clear’. Maybe they can hide behind the phrase it is not clear and obvious.Roy Keane tells Micah Richards to calm down on live TV after furious rant about Man City and Pep Guardiola”It is of course a penalty but we didn’t get it and that is fine. The most important thing for me is that we can play football like that. “I saw so many sensational performances today.”Pundits’ viewsSky pundit Roy Keane didn’t agree though. He told Sky Sports: “Klopp makes a good point about Doku getting the ball but his foot is so high.”I don’t think there’s any force behind it. So, I think the officials got it right.”Ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher said: “I think he sees Mac Allister coming in and he’s almost trying to pull his foot away. I think if that’s being given on the pitch, it’s not being overturned.”But once it’s not given, he’s not gone fully through him. Klopp says anywhere else on the pitch and that’s a foul. I agree with that, but there is an unwritten rule in football where a penalty has to be a bit more.”When it’s in the box, it has to be a little bit more. He’s lucky but I can see why he’s not given it.” More

  • in

    Fans convinced Daniel Sturridge is wearing a SEATBELT on Sky Sports for Liverpool vs Man City and joke ‘safety first’

    DANIEL STURRIDGE had fans convinced he was wearing a SEATBELT for punditry duty for Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City. The former striker – who played for both Premier League giants – was drafted in as an expert for the massive match. Micah Richards, Daniel Sturridge and Roy Keane on punditry dutyCredit: X@SkySportsPLAll eyes were on Sturridge’s ‘belt’But viewers couldn’t take their eyes off his stylish all black outfit that included a strap across his midriff. Some fans even joked Sturridge was wearing a seatbelt after spotting the silver buckle.One said: “Fair play to Sturridge wearing his seatbelt in the Sky Studio, can never be too safe.”Another joked: “Strap yourselves in folks.” READ MORE IN footballOne asked: “Why is Sturridge wearing a plane seatbelt?”Another said: “Clunk click before every game! Sensible!”Another agreed: “Daniel Sturridge going for the aeroplane seat belt look. Safe choice.”On a similar theme, one said: “When you got a pundit gig a 15:00 but a flight at 15:05″Most read in FootballCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Sturridge made 32 appearances for City, scoring six but made his name at Liverpool where he had 68 goals in 160 games. The 34-year-old, who is not officially retired, has not played since 2022, with his most recent game coming for Perth Glory in Australia.Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville give their Liverpool vs Man City predictions in vital Premier League title clash, Arsenal enter the game top of the league with a game in hand with Liverpool a point behind and City two. So victory for either side will take them to top of the table with only ten games to go. More

  • in

    Redknapp gives prediction for Liverpool vs Man City… and thinks it could be a GREAT result for one of their rivals

    IF ever there was a game to put a smile on your face, it’s the mouth-watering one at Anfield this afternoon.But trying to pick a winner between Liverpool and Manchester City keeps bringing me to the same conclusion . . . I’ll never have a go at the missus for changing her mind again!Either Liverpool chief Jurgen Klopp or Man City manager Pep Guardiola might not be smiling like this come Sunday eveningCredit: ReutersPhil Foden has been this season’s best player, says Harry RedknappCredit: ReutersOr take the mickey when it comes to making a decision, either. Because I have to admit I’m guilty of both when it comes to this one.Try as I might, I really can’t split the two of them . . . so in the end I’ve decided it will be a point apiece for Liverpool and City.Which wouldn’t be a bad result for Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, either, because I reckon his team will still be in the mix right to the end — whatever anyone else might think.The way City and Liverpool are playing right now, dropped points have become as rare as a weekend without a dodgy VAR decision.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBoth are picking up wins for fun, which leaves me scratching my head about who will be Premier League champions every time I watch them.One minute Liverpool are nicking another last-minute winner despite all their injuries — and I’m thinking nothing can stop them in this mood.The next day I see how City just carried on playing with no panic after going 1-0 down in the Manchester derby — and I’m going, ‘My God, they’re fantastic’.Then 24 hours later it was Arsenal’s turn to run riot, when they put six past Sheffield United.Most read in FootballCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Harry Redknapp admits it’s a tough match to callCredit: GettyConsidering everyone thought they’d blown it when they lost to West Ham and Fulham a few months back, no one’s going to make the same mistake and write them off again.This year we have a genuine three-horse race and, looking further ahead to the summer, England have surely GOT to win the Euros when you see that bunch of players.Unemployed Jose Mourinho reveals he would return to management ‘tomorrow’ as he is linked with Premier League returnI was in Spain last weekend and everyone was telling me, ‘Your team is fantastic’.Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, John Stones, Declan Rice, Kyle Walker . . . who can match that? For me, England are on another level to anyone else in the tournament.But all that is for another day. This afternoon it’s all about Anfield — and the chance for someone to make a massive statement.The bookies have City as slight favourites and it’s hard to argue. I think they’re the best team in the world and agree with boss Pep Guardiola that Foden is the star of the season.But Mo Salah is back for the Reds, Darwin Nunez is fit and flying and we all know what can happen with that crowd behind them.I don’t see it as a problem for City — they’ve been in Champions League finals — but a packed Anfield has lifted Jurgen Klopp’s team to great things before.It could come down to a flash of brilliance from Salah, Foden or Kevin De Bruyne, maybe a half chance for Nunez or Erling Haaland.A flash of brilliance from someone like Mo Salah could settle itCredit: AlamyTo think people were making a big thing of it when Haaland went four games without a goal recently. Seven in his last three wasn’t a bad way to answer that!I do think Jack Grealish is a big miss for Pep’s men because as fast as Jeremy Doku is, they don’t get half the end product from him.And although Conor Bradley is no Trent Alexander-Arnold, the kid is a very solid defender — and getting better all the time.For once, I really can’t pick a winner. Yes, Liverpool could turn them over, but if City are on it they can beat anyone in an instant.So if I had to put my life on it, I’d have to go for a draw. Nowhere near a boring, negative one with two teams tip-toeing around each other, though.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey’ll go for it and the football will be fantastic — it can’t be anything else with this pair.This race is going to the wire . . . and I’ll change my mind half a dozen times before we get there. More

  • in

    Joao Cancelo ‘thrown Premier League lifeline’ as Barcelona hesitate over permanent transfer for Man City star

    JOAO CANCELO is set to be handed a Premier League lifeline, according to reports in Spain.The Manchester City full-back, 29, is currently on loan at Barcelona having fallen out with City boss Pep Guardiola last year.Joao Cancelo is keen to remain at Barcelona but the Spaniards may not be able to afford himCredit: AlamyHe spent the final six months of last season on loan at Bayern Munich, but they opted not to pay the £61.5million option to make the deal permanent.And it looks as though his deal with Barcelona will meet a similar end according to Spanish outlet Sport.Barcelona could make the deal permanent for £34m but will again be limited by their financial issues this summer.Sport report that signing a right-back is not a priority for the Catalan club, and they would rather use their resources this summer to sign a left-footed right winger.That’s despite Cancelo being keen to stay at the Catalan club.The report states that Cancelo could earn a move to Barca by kicking up a fuss when he arrives back at City and therefore causing them to lower their asking price.But that is believed to be unlikely, with City keen to recoup as much of the £60m they paid for him in 2019 as possible.If that move does not come to fruition, it is reported that Cancelo will not be short of offers from both the Premier League and Saudi league.CHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Credit: The SunCancelo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, will seek to broker another loan with an option to buy between City and Barcelona.The defender recently expressed his desire to remain at Barca when asked about his future by Mundo Deportivo at the screening of a documentary on Ronald Araujo.Rueben Dias’ new girlfirend revealed after dumping Love Island’s Arabella Chi-InboxCancelo has two goals and three assists in his 23 league appearances for Barcelona this season. More

  • in

    ‘Gap between Man Utd and Pep Guardiola’s side is huge’ – Man City fan has his say on Sun Sport’s Tap In

    MANCHESTER CITY YouTube sensation Jonny Morris from Typical City joins Will Pugh and Izzy Barker on episode eight of SunSport’s Tap In. Jonny does not hold back on going in on bitter rivals Manchester United and their demise in form. Man City YouTube sensation Jonny Morris from Typical City joins Will Pugh and Izzy Barker on episode eight of SunSport’s Tap InHe gives his thoughts on what the future will hold under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and declares Erik Ten Hag’s time is now up. He said: “Two decades of my life I’ve had to listen to Manchester United living it up at the top of the top and now we’ve replaced them. “It’s sweet, calmer and enjoyable. United have a long way to go. They’re trying to emulate us now. They’ve got a long way to go.”Jonny delivers an unbelievable record breaking score in our guessing game WHO ARE YA?!  MORE TAP INHe then passionately puts his point across on the unfairness of Financial Fair Play in football with a 60 second rant in ON OR OFF TARGET.Jonny declares his love for Pep Guardiola and backs Phil Foden as the best player in the Premier League.Jonny gives as good as he gets as Will and Izzy press him hard in this week’s team focus THE REAL DIOLA or LACK OF RES-PEP.He finishes off by setting his sights on a winning score in our weekly fan challenge THE PRESSURE TEST.Most read in SportClick here to watch the full video on The Sun Sport’s Youtube channel. More