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    Why are Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison not playing in the Man Utd vs Spurs Europa League final?

    TOTTENHAM Hotspur will be without two of their most influential attacking players for the Europa League final against Manchester United.Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison’s absences are due to injuries sustained in the final weeks of the season, severely impacting Spurs’ preparations for this crucial match.James Maddison left the quarter-final first leg between Tottenham Hotspur and Bodo/Glimt injuredCredit: GettyDejan Kulusevski was injured playing in the Prem against Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersKulusevski in hospital posted this pic from hospital on InstagramCredit: https://www.instagram.com/spursofficial/?hl=enDejan Kulusevski — knee injury and surgeryDejan Kulusevski has been a key figure for Tottenham this season with 10 goals and 11 assists across 50 appearances.He suffered a knee injury during Spurs’ 2-0 home defeat against FA cup heroes Crystal Palace on May 11, 2025.The Swedish international was forced off the pitch in the after 19 minutes, with subsequent medical evaluations revealing damage to his right patella.Kulusevski underwent surgery on his knee shortly after the injury, which has ruled him out for the remainder of the season, including the Europa League final.read more on spursAt first Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou said: “It should be okay. Just talking to him after, the medical team’s not too concerned with him.It’s more of a knock than anything else… We’re hopeful it will be fine. I can’t say for sure, though.” However, after further assessment and surgery, Ange confirmed the the news his side’s fans were fearing: “Initially we thought it wasn’t too serious but it blew up the day after.”He’s had the surgery, which will put him out for at least a few months.”Most read in Europa LeagueOn whether Kulusevski would be ready for the start of next season, he added: “We’ll see. I currently have only basic details regarding his recovery, but it will definitely keep him out for a considerable period.”James Maddison — season-ending knee injuryJames Maddison, another creative force in Tottenham’s midfield, has also been ruled out of the Europa League final due to a knee injury.‘Spurs does crazy things to people’ – Postecoglou takes swipe at Wenger as Arsenal legend proposes shock rule changeMaddison sustained the injury during the first leg of the semi-final against Bodø/Glimt at the start of May.Despite his instrumental role in Spurs’ European campaign, both scoring and assisting in key knockout matches, Maddison’s season was abruptly ended by this setback.Tottenham confirmed he would not return before the end of the season.The midfielder expressed his disappointment publicly, stating he was “absolutely gutted” to miss out on the club’s biggest match in years.Maddison wrote on social media: “Gutted. Just absolutely gutted.”Maddison believes his side an still win the final despite the absencesCredit: Reuters”We’ve had our sights on that European final in Bilbao from day one.”He added: “But I truly believe it can be a special night for my football club. Bring on the 21st. All together.”His absence leaves a significant creative void in Spurs’ lineup for the final.Impact on Tottenham’s lineupThe loss of both Kulusevski and Maddison is a major blow for Tottenham.Both players have been central to the team’s attacking play and their injuries have forced Ange to rethink his approach for the final.Read More on The SunIn addition to these two, Spurs are also missing Lucas Bergvall (ankle injury) and Timo Werner (hamstring injury) from the squad named for the knockout stages.Nevertheless, Tottenham will look to rally around their available squad members in hopes of securing their first major trophy since 2008. More

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    Donny van de Beek appears to blame Man Utd for injuries and admits warming the bench left his confidence shot to pieces

    DONNY VAN DE BEEK has linked his ongoing injury problems with being benched during his nightmare spell at Manchester United.Van de Beek’s was forced to undergo surgery on his Achilles last week after a confidence-building debut season with Girona. Donny van de Beek’s career took a downward spiral when he joined Man Utd in 2020The Dutchman said injuries came after being sidelined for extended periods of timeThe former Man Utd and Ajax midfielder rediscovered his love for the game with 35 appearances for the LaLiga side this season.It marked a significant step in his quest to rediscover a run of form that once made him one of Europe’s most wanted players.In fact, Van de Beek was so keen to impress that he pushed through a disastrous pain barrier to help Girona retain their LaLiga status this term.He told SPORTbible: “I’ve had this Achilles issue for a while and kept playing through it, but it got too much in the end.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe 28-year-old has suffered another setback and will miss the final game of the season on Sunday after having surgery on his left ankle.The Dutchman has endured several different injuries since his doomed £35million move from Ajax to Old Trafford in 2020.And Van de Beek as now linked his fitness issues to his extended time spent on the bench during his four years at Man Utd.He said: “It’s difficult to build rhythm and confidence when you’re constantly being sidelined.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford”It’s hard to be at your best when you’re in and out of the team, and I think when you’re not playing regularly.”Your body isn’t used to the intensity and you become more prone to injuries. The lack of consistent minutes didn’t help either.”Bilbao cops to launch ‘biggest security operation ever’ as 70,000 Brits flood Spanish city for Europa League finalFrom thighs, groins and hamstrings, to a huge knee injury that kept him out for 179 days, Van de Beek spent more and more time in the medical room.And it was the same at during his loan spells at Goodison Park and Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt.After starting just four league games in his debut season under Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, Van de Beek started three consecutive games for the first time under Erik ten Hag after two years in 2022.But a brutal season-ending injury against Bournemouth, wiped out that momentum. I’ll be watching on Wednesday night. I still love to see United play and hope they can win it.Van de BeekSPORTbibleVan de Beek added: “I think I deserved more chances, especially in my first year.”I didn’t play all the time, but when I did, I had some good games. I was convinced I would get more opportunities.”I felt good, and thought, ‘Okay, my time will come’ but for some reason, it didn’t happen.”After a year or two, it gets harder because if you don’t get a longer run of games then it’s difficult to prove yourself.”But the Dutchman still holds Man Utd close to his heart and his family have fond memories of living in Manchester.And he’ll be cheering Ruben Amorim’s side from afar against Tottenham in the Europa League final – four years after being part of the United squad that fell to a penalty shoot-out defeat against Villarreal.He said: “I’ll be watching on Wednesday night. I still love to see United play, and I stay in contact with a lot of people from the club.”I really hope they can win it, they deserve it. The fans have been through a lot recently.”I never had any bad experiences with the fans. We had a great relationship. They were always so good to me. Read More on The Sun”That gave me a lot of energy, especially during difficult moments.”The fans and staff deserve so much better than what’s happening now. It’s tough to see.”MAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM – EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVELatest betting odds, offers and predictions More

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    Taiwo Awoniyi health update with Nottingham Forest star recovering in hospital after emergency abdominal surgery

    NOTTINGHAM Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi is out of an induced coma and recovering well after his urgent abdominal surgery. The striker ruptured his intestine after colliding with the goalpost during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Leicester and was rushed to surgery on Monday.Awoniyi ruptured his intestine after a collision with a goalpost against Leicester on SundayCredit: PAHead coach Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Awoniyi is recovering wellCredit: PAForest owner Evangelos Marinakis was among many frustrated at how the situation was handledCredit: AFPHe was put in an induced coma to regulate his heart rate and restrict his movement but head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that he is now doing well.He said in Friday’s press conference ahead of Sunday’s away clash with West Ham: “He went to surgery and surgery went well, thank God.”He is on observation now. He is recovering. We are concerned but we are positive.”It has been very difficult on us and on everybody.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThere was outrage over the in-match handling of Awoniyi’s injury as the club’s owner Evangelos Marinakis came on to the field to voice his frustrations on the matter.SunSport understands that he is set to launch an investigation into the incident.The striker was allowed to continue playing despite his obvious pain and many blamed the ill-fitting offside rules for the injury occurring.Forest said in a statement: “The truth of the matter is there was no confrontation with Nuno or with others, either on the pitch or inside the stadium.Most read in Football”There was only shared frustration between all of us that the medical team should never have allowed the player to continue.”Nuno Espirito Santo argues with Nottingham Forest owner on City Ground pitch moments after disastrous drawFootball’s offside rules are again being scrutinised as Awoniyi’s awful collision could have been prevented if play was stopped earlier.Anthony Elanga was in a clear offside position when he released the pass that Awoniyi was chasing when he got hurt.It was not flagged and play was allowed to continue, leading to the incident.This is due to an IFAB rule which states delaying the flag is ‘only permissible in a very clear attacking situation when a player is about to score a goal or has a clear run into/towards the opponents’ penalty area.’The rule, introduced in 2021, favours the run of play by directing the linesman to keep their flag down if there is any element of doubt over the offside position.This allows offside technology to make the tight call instead of the fallible human eye and prevents onside goals be wrongly ruled out.Frustration arises, however, when obvious offsides are not called and players get injured in runs of play that should have been stopped earlier.Speaking on Ref Watch, Stephen Warnock said: “Surely common sense has to kick into gear at some point.”If it’s two or three yards [offside] and something in your mind is thinking, ‘is it offside or isn’t it? I’m not so sure here’. Then keep your flag down, I understand that.”But that? Just put your flag up.”Read More on The SunAwoniyi will be kept in hospital for observation for at least five days.Nuno hopes that he will be able to return to Forest’s training ground after that to see the players and staff.Awoniyi will stay in hospital for observation for five days minimum after surgeryCredit: Getty More

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    Anthony Joshua to undergo surgery THIS WEEK as Eddie Hearn reveals ‘encouraging’ update with ‘big tease’ Tyson Fury

    ANTHONY JOSHUA is to have surgery on his elbow THIS WEEK – as talks to finally fight “big tease” Tyson Fury move a step closer. Joshua, 35, is yet to return since his September knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois, 27, with a secret injury delaying his comeback. Anthony Joshua with promoter Eddie HearnCredit: GettyTyson Fury back in training with his dad John and cousin Ricky GormanCredit: @tysonfuryAJ has since revealed the setback was caused by a problem with his elbow – which promoter Eddie Hearn reveals is due to be fixed this week. Hearn told SunSport: “He just goes back into camp and just can’t fire on all cylinders consistently. “So he can go back, have a couple of sessions, bit of soreness in the elbow.”They tried to let it rest and recover and they’ve told him that I think it’s this week, he has a small keyhole surgery in the arm.READ MORE IN boxing “Clear out, and it’s four-six weeks, he’s good to go. So I think we’re looking post-September.”Following Joshua’s loss and Fury’s double defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, 38, last year, it set up the beaten Brits to finally settle their overdue score. That was until Fury announced a shock retirement – the fourth of his career – in January only one month after Usyk won their rematch. But the unpredictable Gypsy King has since ended his social media silence to begin hinting at a comeback – leaving Hearn hopeful. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe promoter said: “Tyson Fury is a big tease, everyday I open up Instagram like today and he’s got his wraps on saying he’s done 12 rounds.”He looks super fit, Tyson Fury, he looks like he’s ready to go now! Which is encouraging, but obviously probably the delay that AJ’s got is a blessing, to be honest with you.Cacace Crushes Wood, AJ & Pacquiao Plot Shock Returns | Split Decision”One, you’ve got Usyk against Dubois coming up so that gives you a little bit of time. “And number two, you’ve got Tyson Fury who could potentially come back to the ring so it’s gonna be interesting to see what plays out.”Turki Alalshikh’s introduction to boxing and his deep Saudi pockets have helped bridge the gap between Hearn and long-time rival Frank Warren. The previously warring promoters even share the sports streaming platform DAZN now – paving the way for talks between AJ and Fury. Hearn admitted: “I’d be lying if I said we haven’t discussed it socially, because obviously everyone’s desperate to make it happen.”But, no one said, ‘Oh, I think it’s coming, I think he’s coming back.’ But at the same time, he’s training.Tyson Fury is a big tease, every day I open up Instagram like today and he’s got his wraps on saying he’s done 12 rounds. He looks super fit, Tyson Fury, he looks like he’s ready to go now! Which is encouragingEddie Hearn “And I feel like with Tyson Fury over the years, you’ve seen him not training and balloon out of shape and then it takes him a long time to come back.”Now it looks like he’s either ready to fight or he’s ready to begin camp, which is hugely encouraging. But I just don’t think he’ll be able to leave it alone, if I’m honest with you.”Because, the money’s one thing, but just the occasion and the challenge, and he’s a competitor, he’s a winner. And I just can’t believe he’s gonna let it slide.”While Fury is Joshua & Co’s main target, Hearn warned they will await the result of Dubois’ July 19 rematch with Usyk at Wembley. Hearn is adamant AJ will fight before the year ends – with or without Fury. He warned: “Next couple of months, if there’s no movement, we fight. “I mean there’s no way AJ’s not fighting this year. So who that will be? I can’t tell you. “I mean, that’s the million dollar question at all times, but I think more importantly is, do we get any news from Fury in the next four, six, eight weeks? Read More on The Sun”If we do, we’ll fight him this year. If not, we’ll fight and then maybe he comes back next year, who knows? “But I’d be lying if I said we weren’t desperate to see him return. But, at the same time we can’t just wait around and see what happens.”Hearn teased talks with Frank Warren for AJ to fight FuryCredit: Reuters More

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    Nottingham Forest star Taiwo Awoniyi ‘out of induced coma and recovering well with family after urgent surgery’

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST star Taiwo Awoniyi is out of his induced coma, according to reports.The striker, 27, was forced to undergo surgery following an abdominal injury suffered against Leicester on Sunday.Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone urgent surgeryCredit: PAAwoniyi, 27, is reportedly ‘recovering well’Credit: GettyAwoniyi required urgent medical attention after crashing into the post during the 2-2 draw.Following the first part of his emergency surgery on Monday, the Nigerian was placed in an induced coma.Awoniyi subsequently underwent part two of his operation earlier today, and according to the Mail is now out of his coma and “recovering well”.Nottingham Forest are set to launch an internal investigation into their medical team’s handling of Awoniyi’s injury.MORE ON NOTTINGHAM FORESTThe forward received lengthy treatment on the pitch following the incident, but was subsequently allowed to continue playing.Awoniyi was then finally forced to go off, with further assessments determining that he would have to go under the knife.SunSport revealed earlier tonight that Forest chief Evangelos Marinakis is furious with how Awoniyi’s injury was handled.The Greek tycoon is set to have experienced club doctor Dr Prithish Shyam Narayan quizzed, along with club medics and coachesMost read in FootballFollowing the final whistle on Sunday, Marinakis entered the pitch and confronted boss Nuno Espirito Santo.A Forest statement subsequently read: “The seriousness of Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first.Nuno Espirito Santo argues with Nottingham Forest owner on City Ground pitch moments after disastrous draw”This principle is not just policy for us, it is the deeply held belief and conviction of our owner. To Evangelos Marinakis, this isn’t just a club, it’s family, and he instils that message in all of us.”That is why he was so personally and emotionally invested in the situation. His reaction was one of deep care, responsibility and emotional investment in one of our own.”He didn’t just see it as an isolated incident, but something that reflected the values and unity of the entire team.”In moments like that he demonstrates his leadership, not just through words, but through action and presence.”When he saw our player clearly in discomfort it became increasingly difficult for him to stay on the sidelines.”It was instinctive, human, and a reflection of just how much this team and its people mean to him. He would do the same again if such an unfortunate event were ever to reoccur.”There was no confrontation, with Nuno or others, either on the pitch or inside the stadium. There was only shared frustration between all of us that the medical team should never have allowed the player to continue.” More

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    Nottingham Forest set to launch investigation into medical team’s handling of Taiwo Awoniyi injury with Marinakis fuming

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST are set to launch an internal investigation into their medical team’s handling of Taiwo Awoniyi’s horror injury on Sunday.The 27-year-old Nigerian striker remains in hospital, in an induced coma, after having surgery to repair a ruptured intestine on Monday.Nottingham Forest will launch an internal investigation after Taiwo Awoniyi’s injuryForest owner Evangelos Marinakis was furious with the way the medical team handled Awoniyi’s injuryAwoniyi suffered severe abdominal injuries when he collided with a post during his side’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City.Surgeons took the decision to stabilise Awoniyi’s condition by placing him in an induced coma, which will help restrict his movement and regulate his heart rate.However, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is still fuming at how the stricken striker was allowed to continue playing by the club’s medics and coaches.SunSport understands the Greek tycoon has ordered a comprehensive internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding that controversial decision.Read More on FootballForest’s vastly experienced club doctor Dr Prithish Shyam Narayan will be quizzed along with club medics and coaches, so that Forest get a precise picture and understanding of what happened on Sunday.Marinakis was so incensed at Awoniyi’s plight he raced onto the pitch at full-time to quiz manager Nuno Espirito Santo.Now he wants answers before deciding if any further action is required.In a hard-hitting statement issued by Forest on Monday, the club made it clear it will not tolerate any player being endangered.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt said: “The seriousness of Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first.”This principle is not just policy for us, it is the deeply held conviction of our owner.”The statement went on to seemingly criticise the club’s own medics when it concluded: “There was only shared frustration between all of us that the medical team should never have allowed the player to continue.” More

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    Footballer Savy King undergoes emergency heart surgery after terrifying collapse on pitch

    ANGEL CITY star Savy King had emergency heart surgery after her shocking collapse during an NWSL game last weekKing, 20, fell down during the second half of Friday’s match between the Los Angeles outfit and the Utah Royals at the BMO Stadium in California.Angel City star Savy King had emergency heart surgery after a shocking collapseKing was rushed to hospital and is now recovering wellThe versatile defender received treatment while the rest of the players looked on, visibly shaken.The former USA youth international was ultimately stretchered off after the game was stopped for 10 minutes.Angel City announced the centre-back underwent the operation after doctors at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in LA determined she had a heart abnormalityKing’s family announced she is currently recovering, and her prognosis “is excellent.Read More on FootballA statement read: “On behalf of our entire family, along with Savy, we have been so moved by the love and support from Angel City players, staff, fans and community, as well as soccer fans across the country.”We are blessed to share Savy is recovering well and we are looking forward to having her home with us soon.”A number of football personalities questioned the decision to continue the game after King’s collapse.USA and Washington Spirit ace Trinity Rodman wrote on her Instagram Stories: “In no world should that game have continued.”Most read in FootballRoyals manager Jimmy Coenraets also believes play should not have resumed.Angel City found the courage to pull through and picked up a 2-0 victory.Goals by Christen Press and Alyssa Thompson sealed the big win for the hosts. More

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    Taiwo Awoniyi placed in induced coma following abdominal injury that could have been fatal to Nottingham Forest star

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma after undergoing emergency surgery.The 27-year-old went under the knife after sustaining a serious abdominal injury in Forest’s clash with Leicester last Saturday.Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced comaCredit: GETTYThe Nigeria international suffered a nasty abdominal injury in Forest’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City last weekendCredit: ALAMYHe underwent urgent surgery on the potentially fatal injury on MondayCredit: ALAMYAwoniyi suffered the injury after crashing into the post in the 2-2 draw at the City Ground and received immediate medical treatment before playing on.But he’d eventually be forced to leave the pitch, with further assessment discovering he’d need to have urgent surgery.The Nigeria international was rushed to the hospital it was confirmed on Monday and initial signs indicated the surgery had been a success.He had surgery on Monday night and remains in hospital, with the rest of the procedure set to be completed on Wednesday.READ MORE ON TAIWO AWONIYIDoctors had hoped to complete the complex procedure on Tuesday but were unable to, which meant that Awoniyi had to be placed in an induced coma.Forest issued a statement shortly after Awoniyi went under the knife but have yet to issue one on his current condition, although he’s understood to be “recovering well” from the ordeal. It read: “Nottingham Forest can confirm that Taiwo Awoniyi is recovering well so far following urgent surgery on a serious abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City. “The seriousness of his injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game, and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first.”Most read in FootballThe statement also addressed owner Evangelos Marinakis’ angry reaction towards manager Nuno Espirito Santo at the end of the game, which they claim was due to his frustration over the handling of Awoniyi’s injury.It continued: “At Nottingham Forest, this principle is not just policy for us; it is the deeply held belief and conviction of our owner. “To Evangelos Marinakis, this isn’t just a football club — it’s family – and he instils that message in all of us.Taiwo Awoniyi left with blood pouring from his face after horror clash with Exeter ace in Forest’s FA Cup frustration”That is why he was so personally and emotionally invested in the situation that unfolded at the City Ground on Sunday.”His reaction was one of deep care, responsibility, and emotional investment in one of our own. “He didn’t just see it as an isolated incident, but as something that reflected the values and unity of the entire team.”In moments like that he demonstrates his leadership, not just through words, but through action and presence. “In the final ten minutes of the game, when he saw our player clearly in discomfort, struggling through visible pain, it became increasingly difficult for him to stay on the sidelines.Read More on The Sun”His deep frustration at seeing our player lying on the ground in severe pain – something no one with genuine care could ignore – triggered him to go onto the pitch.”Awoniyi has made 32 appearances for Forest in all competitions this season, scoring two goals for the East Midlands club. More