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    Goal-shy Man Utd ‘draw up THREE-MAN striker shortlist as transfer chiefs desperately seek support for Rasmus Hojlund’

    MANCHESTER UNITED reportedly have a three-man shortlist to strengthen their attack in January.The Red Devils have struggled for goals this season with Marcus Rashford the only recognised forward in the squad with a Premier League goal to his name.
    Manchester United want to sign an experienced striker to support Rasmus HojlundCredit: AP
    United remain interested in Victor OsimhenCredit: Getty
    Ivan Toney is wanted by several Premier League teamsCredit: Alamy
    Mehdi Taremi would be a cheaper optionCredit: Getty
    Rasmus Hojlund has scored three goals in Europe since his blockbuster summer arrival but it is understood the club are keen to sign a striker to support the young Dane.
    It is felt there is too much of a burden on Hojlund’s young shoulders to score goals, and United feel he could learn from playing alongside an experienced frontman.
    According to the Daily Mail, United already have several targets in mind who they could try to sign when the transfer window re-opens.
    One is long-term target – Napoli striker Victor Osimhen who finished as Serie A’s top goalscorer last season.
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    Napoli slapped a huge asking price on the Nigerian in the summer but a recent fallout means they may now be more willing to listen to offers.
    If not, the Red Devils could splash out on Brentford star Ivan Toney, who will be free from his gambling ban.
    However recent reports claim the Bees could demand £100million to let the England international leave.
    And with United also keen to sign a world class centre-back like Edmond Tapsoba or Jean-Clair Todibo, they could decide to bring in a striker on a budget.
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    Porto hitman Mehdi Taremi is also understood to be on the club’s radar.
    The Iranian, 31, is out of contract at the end of the season and was linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer. More

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    Fulham vs Man Utd clash set to make Premier League history as trailblazing female referee appointed

    REBECCA WELCH has made history by becoming the first woman appointed fourth official of a Premier League game.The 39-year-old will take to the touchline at Craven Cottage on Saturday as Fulham take on Manchester United.
    Rebecca Welch has become the first woman to be appointed fourth official of a Premier League gameCredit: PA
    The trailblazing official made history by becoming the first woman to referee a professional game in England after officiating a League Two clash between Port Vale and Harrogate in 2021.
    Welch followed that up by becoming the first female referee to oversee an FA Cup game this year, before officiating a Championship clash between Birmingham and Preston.
    And she has impressed enough to earn a call-up to the Premier League.
    Welch will act as fourth official to referee John Brooks and will be called upon if he is unable to officiate the match due to injury or any other reason.
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    She will become the fourth woman to be part of the team of officials for a Premier League match, following on from assistant referees Wendy Toms, Sian Massey-Ellis and Natalie Aspinall.
    But Welch will not be the first woman to act as fourth official for a Prem game – Massey-Ellis holds that honour after taking on the responsibility for the second half of West Ham United v Everton in 2017.
    Massey-Ellis was lineswoman but picked up an injury so took on fourth official duty for the Prem clash.
    Massey-Ellis will act as assistant VAR for United’s trip to Fulham.
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    Welch picked up a referee’s whistle 12 years ago at 27 after being dared to do so by a friend.
    The former NHS admin officer, who has played football since childhood, started her life as a ref in university football clashes and Sunday League games.
    Welch has officiated two Women’s FA Cup finals and has built up her experience refereeing in the WSL, Women’s Champions League and in international clashes. More

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    Man Utd have two ‘potential replacements’ in mind with Ten Hag ‘on thin ice’ according to ‘senior source’ at club

    MANCHESTER UNITED have two potential alternatives in mind to replace manager Erik ten Hag who is “on thin ice”, reports suggest.Ten Hag has overseen United’s worst start to a season in 61 years with his team languishing in eighth place after losing five out of their first 10 Premier League games, of which they have won the other half.
    Man Utd manager Ten Hag is on “thin ice” after a terrible start to the seasonCredit: Getty
    Manchester United are considering Zinedine Zidane to replace Erik ten HagCredit: AP
    Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is also a top target for Man UtdCredit: Reuters
    According to The Times, a “senior source” believes the Red Devils’ two most recent heavy losses to Manchester City and Newcastle at Old Trafford have left the Dutch tactician at serious risk of being sacked.
    That is why club chiefs are already thinking ahead and view Zinedine Zidane as well as Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim as potential replacements.
    Zidane has been a free agent since 2021 after his second stint as Real Madrid manager came to an end following a staggering three Champions League triumphs across both tenures.
    Amorim, on the other hand, is considered a rising star as he led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in his first full season in charge two years ago.
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    However, there are major complications due to the club’s ongoing ownership saga.
    Sir Jim Ratcliffe is still waiting to complete his 25 per cent purchase of the club, which could see him run all sporting matters.

    Ratcliffe’s partial takeover could affect chief executive Richard Arnold’s position, and he will be needed if United decide to look for a new manager at this time.
    The Red Devils have previously expressed confidence on Ten Hag and, according to Fabrizio Romano, club sources claim there have been no moves to replace him.
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    Sir Jim is said to be looking to make changes in other key positions, such as finding a new chief executive and sporting director as well as establishing a new football board.
    However, there have been reports that the players are losing faith in Ten Hag.
    Reports suggested there have been complaints regarding his tactics, which led to showdown talks in the dressing room after the loss to City, and training methods, which some feel have led to injuries. More

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    Tottenham vs Chelsea: Pochettino returns to old stomping ground for Premier League derby – stream, TV channel, teams

    GRAB your popcorn football fans as Tottenham host Chelsea in a blockbuster Premier League affair – and the action unfolds THIS Monday.Ange Postecoglou has been a revelation to this Spurs side as the league leaders going into this weekend currently hold an undefeated record along with bitter rivals Arsenal.
    Son Heung-min was on the score sheet for Tottenham once again last time outCredit: ALAMY
    And Tottenham’s recent comfortable 2-0 away win at Crystal Palace epitomised how much they have improved.
    However, Spurs face another tough challenge in the form of Chelsea who are notoriously known for throwing a spanner in the works whenever these two face off.
    Furthermore, confidence will have been restored amongst the Blues after their Brentford loss having booked a Carabao Cup quarter-final spot on Wednesday night.
    In addition to that, Mauricio Pochettino would love nothing more than to halt the progress of his former team.
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    When is Tottenham vs Chelsea?

    Tottenham’s thrilling Premier League derby against Chelsea will take place on Monday, November 6.
    It is scheduled to get underway at 8pm GMT.
    The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will host this huge match and it can hold approximately 62,850 roaring fans.
    Oliver Skipp and Harry Kane fired Spurs to a 2-0 win when the sides last met in February.

    What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

    Tottenham vs Chelsea will be broadcast LIVE on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK.
    Coverage is expected to commence from 6:30pm GMT – one hour and 30 minutes before kick-off.
    Fans also have the option to stream the action on NOW TV via any mobile or tablet device.Alternatively, follow SunSport’s live blog for minute-by-minute coverage of the entire match.

    What is the team news?
    Ange Postecoglou’s men have had more than a week to rest since their 2-0 win against Crystal Palace.
    However, the Tottenham gaffer is still expected to be without Destiny Udogie (knock), Ryan Sessegnon (hamstring), Manor Solomon (meniscus), Ivan Perisic (cruciate ligament), Hugo Lloris (groin) and Alfie Whiteman (ankle) for this tasty match.
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    Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino’s would have been delighted to see his Chelsea side progress to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with no fresh injury concerns.
    But the Blues boss will potentially still have a number of key players missing.
    Carney Chukwuemeka (knee), Mykhailo Mudryk (muscle), Trevoh Chalobah (hamstring), Ben Chilwell (hamstring), Armando Broja (muscle), Romeo Lavia (ankle), Christopher Nkunku (knee) and Wesley Fofana (cruciate ligament) are all expected to be unavailable.
    What are the latest odds?

    Tottenham to win 11/10
    Draw 5/2
    Chelsea to win 9/4

    *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More

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    Liverpool ‘verbally agree’ January transfer of exciting Brazil star in huge blow to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta

    LIVERPOOL have agreed personal terms with one of Brazil’s most highly-rated stars, reports suggest.Fluminense ace Andre Trindade, who has also been linked with Arsenal, is said to be close to joining the Reds.
    Liverpool have reached a verbal agreement with Fluminense star Andre TrindadeCredit: AFP
    Liverpool transfer target Andre has also been linked with ArsenalCredit: Getty
    However, Liverpool appear to have stolen a march on the Gunners as they seem closer to landing the versatile midfielder.
    According to sports journalist Francois Plateau, the Brazil international has already reached a verbal agreement with the Merseysiders.
    However, there is no official agreement between Liverpool and Fluminense at this stage.
    Jurgen Klopp’s side are still facing competition as there have been other clubs getting in touch with the Brazilian club as well as Andre’s camp.
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    This comes amid reports claiming Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen in midfield with Thomas Partey linked with a move to Juventus.
    Liverpool have been monitoring the 22-year-old since the summer but their advances were turned down due to the Copa Libertadores.

    Reports suggested Klopp’s side offered £25million for the No6, who can cover all positions in the middle of the park.
    However, talks could move faster after Saturday’s Copa Libertadores Final which will see Fluminense facing off against Boca Juniors at the Maracana.
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    Andre’s commitments with the Tricolor will then be completed for the season and he could thus be free to move to Anfield if his release clause is met as he still has a contract until December 31, 2026.
    The defensive midfielder has amassed a total of four goals and three assists in 160 appearances for Fernando Diniz’s side despite his young age.
    The youngster’s impressive performances also led to a senior debut with Brazil in June as well as a total of two caps. More

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    Gareth Bale shares rare snap of stunning Wag as former Real Madrid star enjoys retirement in sweet family pics

    GARETH BALE revealed he is making the most out of his retirement as he now spends more quality time with his family.Bale barely had any free time for himself during his glittering 17-year career in football, which started with the Premier League’s gruelling schedule while at Southampton and Tottenham.
    Gareth Bale shared rare pics of himself enjoying some family timeCredit: INSTAGRAM
    Bale went on holiday with his wife Emma Rhys-Jones and their four childrenCredit: INSTAGRAM
    Bale and Emma are the parents of Alba Violet, Nava Valentina, Axel and XanderCredit: INSTAGRAM
    Real Madrid legend Bale went on a luxurious holiday with his familyCredit: INSTAGRAM
    The legendary winger also rose to superstardom at Real Madrid where he won three LaLiga titles and a staggering five Champions League trophies.
    All of them came with a price, as the Welshman had to spend a lot of time on the training ground and travel around the world to face some of the best teams around the globe.
    Bale also gave it his all for Wales, whom he led to the Euro 2016 semi-finals as well as their first World Cup appearance since 1958 in 2022.
    However, all that grind came to an end when the Tottenham legend shocked the world in January and announced his early retirement at the age of 33.
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    Many fans were gutted to see one of football’s biggest stars calling it a day so abruptly but Bale seems to be loving life.
    The former forward took to social media where he shared photos showing him enjoying some fun time with his wife Emma Rhys-Jones and their children Alba Violet, Nava Valentina, Axel and Xander.
    It’s fair to assume the ex-Wales captain found some time for some golf, but he also showed he is trying his hand at tennis during his holiday.
    Bale posted on Instagram: “Family time.”
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    The Real great’s post attracted over 375,000 likes from his 53million followers, who stormed the comments’ section.
    One fan wrote: “Wales, golf, tennis, Madrid lol.”
    Another commented: “Best Real Madrid player of all time.”
    A third said: “Boss.”
    This fan posted: “Idol.”
    And that one stated: “Glad you’re happy, mate. You deserve it!”
    The Bale family went on holiday and enjoyed some time on the beachCredit: INSTAGRAM
    The Bales had some quality time during the Tottenham hero’s retirementCredit: INSTAGRAM
    Bale has been retired since January after the World CupCredit: INSTAGRAM
    Bale enjoyed tremendous success at Tottenham and Real MadridCredit: INSTAGRAM More

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    Jude Bellingham reveals surprise four football idols as fans joke ‘never heard his and Zidane’s name in same sentence’

    REAL MADRID superstar Jude Bellingham revealed a bizarre list of football idols that left fans stunned.Bellingham has set the world alight at the Santiago Bernabeu with 13 goals and three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions for Real.
    Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham revealed his four football idolsCredit: Getty
    The midfielder’s stunning performances with Los Blancos, following a glittering campaign with Borussia Dortmund, led to the Kopa Award for best young player in the world.
    After winning the prestigious honour, the 20-year-old was asked to name the football stars he looked up to while growing up and cutting his teeth at youth level.
    The England international’s response stunned fans around the world as he started out by naming Birmingham City legends Seb Larsson, Craig Gardner and Lee Bowyer – and Zinedine Zidane.
    Bellingham grew up loving the Blues and went on to spend ten years at St Andrew’s before moving to Dortmund in 2020.
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    Larsson, Gardner and Bowyer earned a permanent place in the LaLiga star’s heart after they led Birmingham to their League Cup triumph in 2011 by beating Arsenal 2-1 at Wembley.
    But as he kept growing, Bellingham started studying the game a lot more and learned about Zidane thanks to his father’s admiration for the France legend.
    The Birmingham hero learned to idolise Zizou so much that he asked Real team-mate Jesus Vallejo to give up the No5 jersey for him so that he could honour his idol on the same pitch where he competed as a Galactico.
    Bellingham told L’Equipe: “I admired the Birmingham players, the team that won the League Cup at Wembley. My heroes were Seb Larsson, Craig Gardner and Lee Bowyer.
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    “As I got more into it, dad was the most important. Later, my first models were Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard, simply because they played in England.
    “And then when you grow up, you start watching football. My dad had a fake Zidane shirt that he had bought on the beach. He took it everywhere, often at home.
    “One day I asked him: ‘By the way, who is that guy?’ He replied: ‘Go on YouTube and check him out’. Since then, I probably haven’t stopped.
    “Zidane was the player I wanted to be. I was lucky enough to meet him during the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool [in 2022].
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    Bellingham idolised Zinedine Zidane as well as Seb Larsson, Craig Gardner and Lee BowyerCredit: Rex
    “I was like a kid, wide-eyed. It’s so humbling for someone who has achieved so much. He gave off a great presence. And, according to the guys who played with him here, he was a great coach. That is just as important.”
    Fans were left in disbelief as they stormed social media to analyse Bellingham’s unique choices.
    One supporter wrote: “One of the rare occasions that Lee Bowyer and Zinedine Zidane get mentioned together.”
    Another commented: “He’s literally a cross between the players he mentions. Craig Gardner, Seb Larsson, Lee Bowyer and Zinedine Zidane.”
    And a third wrote: “Jude Bellingham loves Zidane so much.” More

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    I won a Premier League title with Michael Ballack at Chelsea but he always used to forget to put on underwear

    FORMER Chelsea star Jon Obi Mikel has lifted the lid on some of his team-mates’ antics during his stint in a legendary Chelsea team.Mikel spent 11 years at Chelsea and played under the likes of Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti – winning a clean sweep of club trophies available to him including the Champions League and Premier League.
    Jon Obi Mikel and Michael Ballack were part of a potent midfield duo at ChelseaCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    Mikel and his co-host laughed at Ballack’s messy habitsCredit: The Obi One Podcast
    Terry joked that Ballack’s pants should have been binned
    He played 372 times for the club before going on to play in China, Turkey and Kuwait and calling time on his career last year.
    The former Nigeria international is now running his own podcast, named The Obi One Podcast where he regales tales from his time in the game.
    In his most recent episode, he had fellow Chelsea legend John Terry on as guest as the two reminisced about that trophy-laden Chelsea team.
    But top of the pile was a story of how Michael Ballack would leave his pants strewn around the dressing room.
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    Ballack made 166 appearances for the Blues between 2006 and 2010 after impressive stints at Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich.
    The pair reminisced, however, about how the former midfielder would always leave his underwear lying around after getting changed.
    Mikel told the Obi One Podcast: “I just remember a funny story about him when he used to come in the dressing room and get changed.
    “Bally was a special character but when he walked in, he is a tall, huge guy, and he’s got a presence about him.
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    Mikel and Terry won two Premier Leagues together at ChelseaCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    They were not impressed by Ballack’s changing room habitsCredit: Getty
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    “Like JT, Frank (Lampard), Didier (Drogba) – all of those guys are imposing and Ballack used to walk in jamming and sometimes he would say a lot and sometimes he wouldn’t and just f*** off straight to his locker and get changed. But every time, he would forget his underwear. His underwear was always on the floor, just by his locker.”
    Mikel insisted that Ballack would do this “all the time” and continued: “He would take off his clothes, his trousers and close his locker but his pants were on the floor. He would just leave it there and walk off so every time we came in Michael Ballack’s underwear would be on the floor.”
    John Terry replied amid fits of laughter that they should have binned the underwear in order to keep up the “good standards” the club had at the time. More