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      Tottenham stars ‘were on knees’ from mind-blowing Antonio Conte pre-match request before being sacked

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      TOTTENHAM stars were left “on their knees” by Antonio Conte’s incredible pre-match request before he departed the club, according to reports.The Italian walked away on Sunday night after his rant at his players after a 3-3 draw to Southampton.
      Antonio Conte made Tottenham players unhappy with some unusual training methodsCredit: Reuters
      Conte’s assistant Cristian Stellini has been put in charge until the end of the season and the Spurs squad will be hoping for a new lease life.
      The Daily Mail report that Conte had players shattered coming into matches because he often made them run 2km before kick-off.
      They also claim that the team had become disillusioned by the gaffer’s defensive style as they wanted to play more more expansive football.
      A source also said the squad did not enjoy heading to their Enfield base as training was the same every day.
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      The report continues to state that Conte regularly changed training times and it infuriated the players.
      Tottenham suffered a 2-0 away loss to Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League and that led to a fuming Conte to order his team to arrive at their HQ three hours earlier than planned the following day.
      The decision was “not well received”.
      Spurs chief Daniel Levy began to grow increasingly annoyed about Conte’s regular swipes at the club in the media and he had prepared to let him go at the end of the season when his contract was due to expire.
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      However, following his incredible meltdown after the draw to Saints, he decided to pull the trigger.
      The mood in the boardroom had shifted from happiness at having Conte to a feeling of discontent.
      Spurs have been linked with former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann and ex-Barcelona manager Luis Enrique as they search for a new man to take over. More

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      Tottenham line up ambitious move for Zinedine Zidane to replace Antonio Conte as manager

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      TOTTENHAM are being linked with a move for Zinedine Zidane as they search for a new manager following Antonio Conte’s departure.Conte, 53, left by mutual consent on Sunday evening after a 16-month stint in charge of the club.
      Zinedine Zidane is being linked with succeeding Antonio ConteCredit: AP
      Conte left Spurs following explosive comments before the international breakCredit: PA
      He exited under a cloud following a rant about the players and club in the wake of a 3-3 draw with Southampton before the international break.
      But now his departure has been confirmed, a number of candidates are being linked with the role.
      Spurs have given themselves time to appoint a long-term successor after handing the caretaker role to Cristian Stellini until the end of the season.
      But a permanent replacement remains the focus for Tottenham chiefs.
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      And a return for Mauricio Pochettino is one of the possible options for the summer.
      Former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann and ex-Barcelona head coach Luis Enrique have also been mooted.
      But according to Sky Sports Italia, Real Madrid legend Zidane is also on Spurs’ shortlist.
      The 50-year-old has been out of work since leaving Los Blancos for the second time at the end of the 2020/21 season.
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      During his first spell in charge at the Bernabeu, he won an incredible three Champions Leagues in a row.
      It was widely reported he was holding out for the France job under the assumption Didier Deschamps would leave after the Qatar World Cup.

      But after guiding Les Bleus to a second successive World Cup final, Deschamps penned a new deal to keep him in the job until 2026.
      Zidane has also been linked with the PSG job should Christophe Galtier be sacked at the end of the season. More

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      Man Utd takeover LIVE: Rashford contract UPDATE, Mbappe HAILS United target, Neves in TALKS – takeover latest

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      MANCHESTER UNITED talisman Marcus Rashford’s current deal at Old Trafford expires at the end of the next season.The in-form striker is expected to sign a new contract with the club in the next few months, despite interest from PSG.
      Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe believes that United target Randal Kolo Muani is a top talent.
      He said after France’s 4-0 win against Holland at the weekend: “He is very complete and has an impressive volume of play.” 
      Elsewhere, the Red Devils are “already negotiating” a deal for Wolves star Ruben Neves.
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      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford
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      Please continue reading SunSport’s Manchester United blog by clicking HERE.
      Lindelof wanted by Inter
      Victor Lindelof is attracting interest from Inter Milan, according to reports.
      Italian newspaper Tuttosport claim the player is keen to leave Man Utd after falling down the pecking order at the club.
      The Swede has started just five games in the Premier League this season.
      Mourinho to leave Roma?
      Jose Mourinho’s Roma future has been cast into doubt with no new contract on the table, reports suggest.
      Mourinho was appointed by the Italian outfit in July 2021, but after almost two years in Rome this season could be his last.
      This is because his relationship with sporting director Tiago Pinto has “gone cold” according to Get Football Italy.
      Mourinho wants to sort out his future during the season, but Roma chiefs are yet to open negotiations.
      Weghorst confident
      Man Utd star Wout Weghorst appeared confident that his club will lift more trophies this season.
      The club have already won the Carabao Cup and they can add to their collection via the FA Cup and Europa League.
      United face Brighton in the semi-finals of the competition and on the continent, they play Sevilla in the quarters.
      Speaking after the facing Gibraltar for the Netherlands, he said: “There are still two trophies left to win with Manchester United. The FA Cup & Europa League. These are going to be some nice weeks.”
      Is a multi-club model allowed?
      If the Qataris do takeover Man Utd, reports suggest they will look at implementing a multi-club model with Braga and Malaga acting as feeder clubs for the Red Devils and fellow-Qatari backed club PSG.
      There are current restrictions that prevent teams owned by the same person competing in the same European competition.
      Man Utd could attempt to find a way around this as Sheikh Jassim is not involved in Nasser Al-Khelaifi’s PSG group.
      Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin recently hinted at the current rules being changed, handing the Qataris a boost.
      He told The Overlap: “This multi-club ownership question is an interesting question, I think we should think about it for the future and see what to do.
      “There is more and more interest for this multi-club ownership and we shouldn’t just say no for the investments.
      “But we have to see what kind of rules we set in that case because rules have to be strict. We have to rethink the current rules.
      “I think it has to be quick because… everything has to happen quick in football.”

      How about Qat?
      Manchester United could reportedly become a part of the biggest multi-club network in the world if they are taken over by Qatari investors.
      The Red Devils’ owners the Glazers are considering several bids as they weigh up the possibility of selling the Premier League giants.
      One of the most high-profile offers has come from a group fronted by Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani – chairman of the Qatari Islamic Bank and son of the gulf state’s former Prime Minister.
      Qatar Sports Investments already own Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.
      They also have a de facto controlling stake in Portuguese outfit Sporting Braga.
      And according to the Daily Record, QSI chairman and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is considering taking control of Malaga – who are in danger of dropping down to the third tier of Spanish football.
      They plan to create the biggest multi-club network in the sport, with Braga (and possibly Malaga) acting as development outfit for Man Utd and PSG.
      Rashford deal update
      Marcus Rashford is still expected to sign a new contract at the club with the pace reportedly expected to pick up in the next few months.
      The in-form star sees his deal run out at the end of next season.
      The current uncertainty around the ownership of the club is not expected to be a stumbling block for United or the player.
      Man Utd have many deals to renew and David De Gea is chiefs most immediate concern as his contract is up this summer.
      Reports suggest that Rashford is fully committed to Erik ten Hag’s project and declined a £400,000-a-week offer from PSG last year.
      Rashford back in training
      Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United training having missed England’s Euro 2024 qualifiers through injury.
      The in-form forward pulled out of Gareth Southgate’s squad that went on to beat both Italy and Ukraine.
      Rashford, 25, picked up a knock in United’s FA Cup victory over Fulham and later pulled out of England’s matches.
      But he is back on the pitch again and was pictured training on his own at Carrington.
      Rashford did no ball work, instead focusing on fitness as he faces a race to be fit for United’s trip to Newcastle on Sunday.
      Credit: instragram
      Lindelof injury worries
      Man Utd defender Victor Lindelof may have injured his toe again while playing for Sweden.
      The centre-back played the entire 90 minutes as his team beat Azerbaijan 4-1.
      However, Lindelof, who has spent time in the treatment room this season with the foot issue is concerned over reoccurring.
      He said: “I broke my toe in September, and I felt it tightening out there.
      “It was with the national team in September. I got a stamp so I broke it. It hurt for a while, I had to take some painkillers. I could play, but only had a size bigger on the shoe.”
      Mbappe hails Utd target
      PSG star and France captain Kylian Mbappe believes Man Utd target Randal Kolo Muani is a top talent.
      The striker is enjoying a fine season for Eintracht Frankfurt and he impressed for Les Blues at the World Cup.
      Speaking after their 4-0 win over Holland at the weekend, Mbappe said: “He is a striker who offers different game options to our team. He is very complete and has an impressive volume of play. 
      “We are happy with the game he played on Friday.”
      Neves in talks with United
      Man Utd are “already negotiating” a transfer for Ruben Neves as Barcelona pull out of the race for the Wolves star, according to reports.
      With the 26-year-old out of contact at the end of next season, Wolves now face a dilemma of whether to cash in on the star in the summer or potentially let him go for free a year later.
      Fichajes claim Man Utd are already making quick progress to land their long-term target.
      In a further boost for the club, the outlet claim that Barcelona are no longer interested in the Portuguese international.
      Xavi is reported to think the star does not fit the Catalan giant’s “profile” despite reports often linking him with a Nou Camp switch.
      Wrexham’s hilarious announcemet
      Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney got a taste of Sir Alex Ferguson’s mind games when announcing a friendly with Manchester United.
      The non-league side will face the English giants in San Diego on July 26 as part of United’s pre-season tour of America.
      And to reveal the match, Hollywood pair Reynolds and McElhenney filmed a hilarious clip with United icon Ferguson.
      The pair nervously start the chat but get nothing back from the no-nonsense Scot.
      Reynolds says: “What did I tell you? Mind games.”
      After repeated silence from Ferguson’s end, McElhenney asks: “What’s he doing?”
      And Reynolds replies: “Living in our heads rent free.”
      The Deadpool star then panics and ends the call by claiming McElhenney has to leave to make a hair appointment in Beverly Hills.
      It then cuts to Ferguson who jokes: “They were on mute, never heard a thing!”
      You can watch the clip HERE.
      Big clubs in Kone battle
      Man Utd are set to be joined by Chelsea and PSG in the race for Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone, according to reports.
      The Bundesliga side want at least £44m for the defensive-minded player.
      At just 21-years-old he is predicted to have a big future and would help Erik ten Hag get some younger bodies in midfield with Casmerio, Christian Eriksen, Marcel Sabizter and Bruno Fernandes all around 30-years-old.
      Credit: Getty
      United to play Wrexham
      Man Utd will play Wrexham in the United States as part of their pre-season tour in the summer.
      The match will be played in San Diego with the team owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, hoping to gain more fans across the pond.
      United chief John Murtough said: “This will be the first time the team has visited San Diego, and we are looking forward to playing in front of our passionate US fans at the Snapdragon Stadium.
      “Pre-season tours are always a great occasion to give opportunities for our most promising young academy players to gain valuable experience in the first team environment.”
      The boss of the National League side Phil Parkinson said: “We’re looking forward to being able to play in the United States for the first time in the club’s history. 
      “We enjoy welcoming supporters from the US to the Racecourse Ground, and we’re looking forward to being able to play in front of some of these new fans on American soil in the summer.”
      Chelsea keen on United target
      Chelsea are willing to spend £100million to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen this summer, according to Football Insider.
      Man Utd are also thought to be keen with a forward a priority for Erik ten Hag.
      Rumours yesterday suggested that the likes of Harry Kane, Rasmus Holjund, Goncalo Ramos and Evan Ferguson are high up the Red Devils’ wishlist.
      Kane is supposedly Man Utd top choice.
      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer does not seem to want to sell the club.
      United were put up for sale in November with the Glazers seeking £6billion to give up the reins at Old Trafford.
      They have attracted bids from three parties – Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani and Thomas Zilliacus, all of which fall under the unpopular owners’ asking price.
      Elliott Management are also interested into the Red Devils in a deal that would see the Glazers retain majority control.
      But Avram appears to be against the full sale of the club, according to the Daily Mail.
      It is believed the American supremo was merely on a fishing expedition to see how much his family could fetch for the club at some point in the future.
      His brother Joel is also said to be hesitant about a sale, but it is claimed he would greenlight a takeover if the winning bid matches the £6bn valuation, which would mark a significant profit.
      Meanwhile, United are interested in signing Benfica star Goncalo Ramos.
      Ramos is understood to be disappointed that club chiefs have not yet rewarded him for his efforts with a new and improved deal.
      Last summer, the Portuguese giants’ president Rui Costa promised the centre-forward a salary increase which has yet to materialise.
      The Portugal international still has over three years remaining on his contract, which expires in June 2026, but he is growing increasingly frustrated with his current situation.
      If the 21-year-old does decide to leave Lisbon in the summer, any potential suitors would have to meet his huge £105.6million asking price.
      And United were one of several clubs that made a January attempt to sign Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat.
      Amrabat was one of the standout players during the 2024 World Cup, helping Morocco reach the semi-finals.
      The midfielder’s brother Nordin, who plays for AEK, revealed that United tried to buy him, saying: “I can name three clubs who were concrete in the last two or three days of the transfer window.
      “Manchester United wanted a loan with an option to buy deal, Fiorentina rejected.”
      Barcelona and Chelsea were the other sides keen on the 26-year-old star.
      Finally, United are “already negotiating” a transfer for Wolves star Ruben Neves as Barcelona pulled out of the race.
      According to Fichajes, United are already making quick progress to land long-term target Neves in the summer.
      The Red Devils are in talks already with the midfielder while the summer transfer window is fast approaching.
      In a further boost for the Manchester giants, the same report states Barca are no longer interested in the Portugal international.
      Barcelona boss Xavi is reported to think Neves does not fit the Catalan giant’s “profile” despite reports often linking him with a Nou Camp switch.
      Elanga on his future
      Manchester United ace Anthony Elanga has opened up on his future and hinted that he could leave Old Trafford.
      Elanga said: “I love the club, but it’s important for me to play.
      “We have a lot of conversations, not only about game time but also what is happening around.
      “That’s the good thing about the club, we talk a lot and they help me a lot.”
      Major storm Bru-ing
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes risked the wrath of Cristiano Ronaldo after publicly disagreeing with his former Old Trafford team-mate.
      Ronaldo claimed new Portugal manager Roberto Martinez, who replaced Fernando Santos after the 2022 World Cup, brought a “breath of fresh air” to the national team camp.
      But Fernandes disputed the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s comments about Martinez.
      The playmaker said: “No, it’s just a new coach, with new ideas. There’s no breath of fresh air at all.
      “It’s just a transitional period. The atmosphere in the national team has always been good.
      “There are new dynamics, a new coach and we have to assimilate his ideas.”
      Greenwood move blocked
      Manchester United have rejected several offers from Turkish clubs for Mason Greenwood.
      Greenwood, 21, had an astronomical rise through the United ranks from the academy to the first team but his career hit the skids in January 2022 when he was arrested after a woman made allegations against him.
      The striker was charged with attempted rape, assault as well as controlling and coercive behaviour.
      He appeared before magistrates and was told he would face trial later this year but in February the Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges after several alleged witnesses refused to co-operate.
      The Sun revealed the former England international has spoken to manager Erik ten Hag and met with club officials — but his future at the club remains unclear.
      Now The Athletic are claiming that several teams from Turkey have contacted the Red Devils regarding a transfer move but the club has turned down all approaches.
      Missed a Vic
      Napoli superstar and Manchester United transfer target Victor Osimhen has revealed he could have joined Arsenal at the age of 18.
      Osimhen has registered 53 goals in 91 games for the Serie A table-toppers, including 25 in 29 games this term.
      The striker has now confirmed he held talks with then Gunners boss Arsene Wenger about joining the club, only to go elsewhere.
      Osimhen told CentreGoals: “I spoke with Arsene Wenger and he wanted me to come to Arsenal but it was not the best option at the time.”
      Credit: Rex
      Dusan Vlahovic boost
      Arsenal have received a major boost in their pursuit to sign Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic.
      According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Juve are now “preparing for life without” Vlahovic.
      It also states that the Bianconeri have identified potential replacements for the striker.
      Juventus are believed to be plotting moves for either West Ham’s Gianluca Scamacca, who has struggled in the Premier league, and Galatasaray star Nicolo Zaniolo.
      Scholes criticises Conte
      Manchester United legend Paul Scholes hit out at former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte in a now-deleted Instagram post.
      Scholes wrote: “A manager gets sacked so everyone blames recruitment, and a top class manager blames lack of ambition.
      “Why don’t any managers say when they’re smiling and shaking hands with a player at their press conference, ‘I don’t like this player, I think [he] will eventually get me the sack.’
      “Saves the same old b* once they are sacked or leave.”
      Ansu Fati talks
      Barcelona and Manchester United target Ansu Fati have held talks over the disgruntled star’s future.
      There is serious speculation over Fati’s future this summer amid reports that agent Jorge Mendes has offered him to “half of Europe”.
      The winger’s father, Bori Fati, is reported to have had a meeting with Barca representatives where they discussed his son’s future.
      Negotiations lasted an hour with director of football Mateu Alemany and sporting advisor Jordi Cruyff believed to be present.
      According to Sport, the Spain international is unsettled and is considering his future.
      Nev-er in doubt
      Manchester United are “already negotiating” a transfer for Wolves star Ruben Neves as Barcelona pulled out of the race.
      According to Fichajes, United are already making quick progress to land long term target Neves.
      The Red Devils are in talks already for the midfielder with the summer transfer window fast approaching.
      In a further boost for the Manchester giants, the same report claims Barca are no longer interested in the Portugal international.
      Barcelona manager Xavi is reported to think Neves does not fit the Catalan giant’s “profile” despite reports often linking him with a Nou Camp switch.
      Credit: Getty
      Man Utd’s Amrabat bid
      Manchester United were one of a number of clubs that made a January attempt to sign Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat.
      Amrabat was one of the standout players at the 2024 World Cup, helping Morocco reach the semi-finals.
      The midfielder’s brother Nordin, who plays for AEK Athens, revealed that United tried to buy him, saying: “I can name three clubs who were concrete in the last two or three days of the transfer window.
      “Manchester United wanted a loan with an option to buy deal, Fiorentina rejected.”
      Barcelona and Chelsea were the other sides keen on the 26-year-old.
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      Which teams have the most favourable fixtures in April? Essential information for Dream Team gaffers…

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      THE fixtures will come thick and fast once the international break is done and dusted.FA Cup semi-finals, European knockout ties and some Premier League double game weeks make for an April ripe with Dream Team points.
      In the spirit of helping gaffers devise an optimised strategy, we’ve laid out next month’s fixtures for each team in the top half in one convenient location.
      ARSENAL

      Leeds (h)
      Liverpool (a)
      West Ham (a)
      Southampton (h)
      Manchester City (a)
      Chelsea (h)

      Man City vs Arsenal is undoubtedly April’s standout Premier League fixtureCredit: GETTY
      At the risk of oversimplifying things, the Gunners’ six fixtures can be divided in two: three favourable match-ups, three tough tests.
      Leeds, West Ham and Southampton are all threatened by relegation and while they’ll be scrapping for points, the gulf in class should benefit Mikel Arteta’s troops.
      Elsewhere, the trips to Anfield and the Etihad look massive in the context of the title race with the latter likely to be an emotionally and physically taxing game – getting back up for a London derby against the Blues three days later will be a challenge.
      MANCHESTER CITY

      Liverpool (h)
      Southampton (a)
      Bayern Munich (h)
      Leicester (h)
      Bayern Munich (a)
      Sheffield United (n)
      Arsenal (h)
      Fulham (a)

      Most read in Football
      Pep Guardiola’s side remain active in the FA Cup and the Champions League so, unlike Arsenal, they won’t be able to focus solely on the league run-in.
      Naturally, the two legs against the Bundesliga giants stick out like a sore thumb but at least they have the luxury of relatively favourable fixtures around the quarter-final tie: rotated teams will still be heavy favourites over Saints, Leicester and Sheffield United.
      The fact City’s two biggest domestic fixtures, Liverpool and Arsenal, are home games will be seen as a positive and, generally speaking, it once again looks like a good time to back Kevin De Bruyne (£7.7m).
      MANCHESTER UNITED
      A busy month ahead

      Newcastle (a)
      Brentford (h)
      Everton (h)
      Sevilla (h)
      Nottingham Forest (a)
      Sevilla (a)
      Brighton (n)
      Spurs (a)
      Aston Villa (h)

      The Red Devils have no fewer than NINE fixtures to fulfil next month and that alone should make their players immensely popular in the world of Dream Team.
      At the time of writing, Erik ten Hag’s side are the bookies’ favourites to win the Europa League but in Sevilla they will come up against the modern masters of the competition in the quarter-finals.
      Away days to Newcastle and Spurs will go some way to determining who finishes third and fourth this season and they’ll feel confident of positive results at home throughout the month.
      Bruno Fernandes (£6.5m), Marcus Rashford (£6.5m), Luke Shaw (£4.6m) and David de Gea (£4.1m) are all either first or second in the their respective positions in the Dream Team rankings currently and a busy April should help them solidify their placings.
      TOTTENHAM

      Everton (a)
      Brighton (h)
      Bournemouth (h)
      Newcastle (a)
      Man United (h)
      Liverpool (a)

      It’s hard to know what to make of the north Londoners now that Antonio Conte has officially departed.
      Will the players feels as if a weight has been lifted off their shoulders or will they simply be thinking of getting to the end of the campaign and a summer reset?
      Harry Kane (£8.1m) can be relied upon at least, England’s all-time top scorer seems to bang in the goals no matter how bleak the outlook at Spurs – he’s on 205 points currently.
      If things aren’t going well then the second half of April could be rough.
      A Dream Team double centurion once again
      NEWCASTLE

      Man United (h)
      West Ham (a)
      Brentford (a)
      Aston Villa (a)
      Spurs (h)
      Everton (a)
      Southampton (h)

      Four away days, including three in a row, will ask questions of the Magpies’ endurance at the back end of this unique season.
      However, the St James’ Park faithful will surely play their part when Man United and Spurs come to town as part of the top four merry-go-round.
      The main thing Dream Team bosses are interested in is whether Eddie Howe’s side can rediscover their clean sheet habit – they haven’t kept one since January having provided bucket-loads throughout the first two thirds of the campaign.
      LIVERPOOL

      Man City (a)
      Chelsea (a)
      Arsenal (h)
      Leeds (a)
      Nottingham Forest (h)
      West Ham (a)
      Spurs (h)

      Which version of the Reds will turn up in April?
      If they’re at their swashbuckling best then they could have a major say in who wins the title but if their defensive problems persist then City and Arsenal could inflict defeats similar to those suffered at the hands of Real Madrid, Wolves and Bournemouth in recent weeks.
      In fairness, Jurgen Klopp’s men have scored their fair share of goals despite their struggles so Mohamed Salah (£8.7m) and Darwin Nunez (£5.2m) are likely to provide more returns for their backers but the first half of the month could mean minus points for the likes of Virgil van Dijk (£5.1m) and Andy Robertson (£3.9m).
      BRIGHTON

      Brentford (h)
      Bournemouth (a)
      Spurs (a)
      Chelsea (a)
      Man United (n)
      Nottingham Forest (a)
      Wolves (h)

      Brighton’s mastermind
      Such is the enterprising nature of the Seagulls under Roberto De Zerbi that fans and neutrals alike will expect them to be ultra competitive in every game for the remainder of the campaign.
      The FA Cup semi-final against Man United represents a massive opportunity for a club that wouldn’t have even dreamed of domestic glory just a few years ago.
      When everything clicks there’s usually enough points to share around between Kaoru Mitoma (£4.5m), Solly March (£4.1m), Alexis Mac Allister (£3.5m) and Evan Ferguson (£3.3m).
      BRENTFORD

      Brighton (a)
      Man United (a)
      Newcastle (h)
      Wolves (a)
      Aston Villa (h)
      Chelsea (a)
      Nottingham Forest (h)

      The Bees have only lost one Premier League game since the start of November so it’s taken for granted that they’ll give any opponent a stiff game.
      Once again it’s seemingly a month of two halves as their first three opponents are all above them in the table while the latter quartet are all comfortably below them.
      Ivan Toney (£6.2m) averages 5.7 points-per-game this term so expect more returns from him after the international break so long as he’s not slapped with a lengthy suspension.
      FULHAM

      Bournemouth (a)
      West Ham (h)
      Everton (a)
      Leeds (h)
      Aston Villa (a)
      Man City (h)

      Dream Team bosses need to find a replacement for the suspended MitrovicCredit: GETTY
      Marco Silva’s side have run out of steam somewhat in recent weeks and Aleksandar Mitrovic’s (£3.8m) suspension means their assets aren’t as viable as they were.
      Saying that, barring City’s visit to Craven Cottage, it’s a relatively favourable run for Fulham that starts with four consecutive match-ups against teams in the relegation dogfight.
      CHELSEA

      Aston Villa (h)
      Liverpool (h)
      Wolves (a)
      Real Madrid (a)
      Brighton (h)
      Real Madrid (h)
      Brentford (h)
      Arsenal (a)

      A busy month for the Blues but a testing one that features two legs against Champions League specialists Real Madrid and a trip to the league leaders.
      In fact, Wolves are the only one of Chelsea’s opponents with fewer points at the time of writing.
      Graham Potter’s side improved considerably in March, registering three wins and a draw, including an impressive 2-0 victory over Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund.
      Chelsea are on a mini undefeated streakCredit: GETTY
      That’s your lot for the top half but we feel it’s worth including one more team because of their jam-packed schedule…
      WEST HAM

      Southampton (h)
      Newcastle (h)
      Fulham (a)
      Gent (a)
      Arsenal (h)
      Gent (h)
      Bournemouth (a)
      Liverpool (h)
      Crystal Palace (a)

      Read More on The Sun
      The Hammers play nine games in the space of 27 days in April and while they’ve underwhelmed this season, this flurry of fixtures is ripe with potential.
      Take Jarrod Bowen (£3.9m) for example, a top ten midfielder with so many double Game Weeks is surely worthy of consideration? More

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      How Tottenham could line up next season with Luis Enrique taking over as boss including raid on three top Spanish stars

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      TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR are set to undergo a huge change in the summer as they look to appoint a new manager. Luis Enrique is one coach on Daniel Levy’s managerial shortlist.
      Luis Enrique is on Tottenham’s managerial shortlistCredit: Getty
      Ferran Torres was Spain’s most capped player and top scorer under EnriqueCredit: EPA
      Alvaro Morata was a close second in both metricsCredit: Reuters
      Pau Torres was also a ever-present figure in Enrique’s Spain squadsCredit: Alamy
      Enrique’s Spurs side may draw inspiration from his Spain team
      The former Spain and Barcelona coach could try to reunite with some familiar faces in North London.
      Spanish trio Pau Torres, Ferran Torres and Alvaro Morata were all favourites of Enrique during his time in the Spain hot seat, with the latter pair the most capped players under the 52-year-old.

      This could see him encourage Spurs to pursue deals for the trio as Enrique looks to cultivate a more possession-dominant philosophy.
      Each have been linked with Spurs and the added pull of Enrique could see deals pushed over the line.
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      This is particularly prudent considering the likely sale of talisman Harry Kane if they fail to achieve a top four finish.
      SunSport exclusively revealed Spurs were preparing a transfer offer for Jordan Pickford, who could find himself in net if they to part ways with captain Hugo Lloris.
      They have also been linked with a move for Wold Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, who could slot into midfield alongside Rodrigo Bentancur and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
      Ex-Premier League stars Morata and Torres could make their returns to England under Enrique, with both knowing his system.
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      An alternative look at a possible Enrique Spurs XI
      Son Heung-Min and Destiny Udogie could also form a new look left flank.
      An alternative look at the team could see the same back line with Torres partnering Cristian Romero and Pedro Porro at right-back, while Ryan Sessegnon is reinstated as an alternative to Udogie.
      An alternative to Pickford could be Brentford’s David Raya.
      Raya has turned down two contract offers from the Bees suggesting a move is on he cards this summer.
      There is no doubt he would suit Enrique’s system, with the 27-year-old proficient both with the ball at his feet and in shot stopping.
      Midfield could see another Enrique-inspired recruit in Paris-Saint Germain’s Fabian Ruiz.
      Enrique handed the 26-year-old nine caps and with PSG stacked with midfield options the French champs may sanction a sale.
      Not wanting to lose the talents of Dejan Kulusevski, Enrique may ask Spurs to purchase the Swedish winger before Torres is moved more centrally to play as a false nine. More

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      Borussia Dortmund ‘have secret plan to keep Jude Bellingham’ in transfer blow to Man Utd, Chelsea, City and Liverpool

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      BORUSSIA DORTMUND reportedly have a “secret plan” to keep hold of star player Jude Bellingham.The England international is one of the most sought after talents in European football with a host of clubs interested in signing him this summer.
      Borussia Dortmund are reportedly planning a new contract for Jude BellinghamCredit: Getty
      Sides such as Chelsea, Man City, Man United, Liverpool and Real Madrid have all been credited with an interest in the midfielder.
      However, they could all be set for disappointment in their pursuit of Bellingham as Dortmund are determined to keep him at Signal Iduna Park.
      According to the German media outlet Bild, Dortmund are hoping to keep hold of him for one more season.
      The club are planning to offer him a new contract that would see his salary increase by 150 per cent up to £13million for the year.
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      The outlet also claims that his contract would include a release clause of £131m.
      This would allow the 19-year-old to leave the club to potential buyers while also guaranteeing the Bundesliga side a large transfer fee.
      This means that interested clubs would have to wait another year to sign the former Birmingham City prospect.
      The report suggests that Real Madrid are currently the favourites to sign Bellingham.
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      The LaLiga side are looking for replacements for veteran duo Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, with both contracts expiring at the end of the current season.
      However, Dortmund could be boosted in their hopes of keeping Bellingham should the veterans sign new deals at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. More

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      I crashed the Arsenal team mini bus while coming through their academy, someone nearly went through the windscreen

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      FORMER Arsenal goalkeeper Graham Stack crashed the team minibus while he was playing for the academy.Stack spent six years at Arsenal without ever playing a Premier League game, though he did make five League Cup appearances
      Graham Stack crashed the Arsenal team minibus as a youngsterCredit: PA
      The goalkeeper spent six years with the GunnersCredit: Getty
      That gave him plenty of opportunity to have fun elsewhere, and on one occasion he commandeered the team minibus despite having just passed his driving test.
      His idea of a bit of fun backfired when he lost control of the vehicle, resulting in the actual team bus driver smashing into the windscreen.
      Stack, 41, recalled the story in an exclusive interview with Ladbrokes Fanzone, saying: “I was quite fortunate really because it didn’t come out in the press at the time.
      “I was in the academy and a chap called Lawrence was our coach driver; I’d just passed my driving test and at the Arsenal training ground there was quite a long driveway.
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      “So I asked Lawrence if I could just drive the minibus down to the bottom of the drive. Lawrence always used to hit the brake if someone was standing up, but he’d do it gently enough that you’d rock forward but not fall over, i.e. just sit down, and he used to do it to me quite a bit.
      “So, he was standing up at the time next to me to see what I was doing and I picked up slightly more speed than I anticipated and didn’t realise the weight of the coach and as we were getting half way down the drive I get up a bit more speed and thought I’d touch the brakes so Lawrence would jump forward, but obviously I hit the brakes slightly harder than I was expecting to and Lawrence has almost gone through the window screen.
      “He smashed the window screen and broke his glasses. It was a scary moment I’ve got to say!
      “Luckily for him, Arsene Wenger or anybody else at the club chose to caution him – perhaps that was because they never found out.
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      “I was worried for Lawrence anyway but also because he shouldn’t have let me drive the bus, but we got it back to Highbury and got the new glass fitted and it wasn’t really spoken about after that.”
      Unfortunately for Stack, he was involved in another chaotic scene while at Arsenal.
      During a loan spell at Belgian side Beveren the goalie punched a Royal Antwerp supporter after fans invaded the pitch.
      He was also subjected to abuse and missiles were thrown in his direction before the confrontation.
      Stack said of the incident: “Out of nowhere, I saw all these fans running at me.
      “I could see someone running at me and it was obvious he wasn’t going to stop. I swung at him out of self-defence.”
      Stack spent time at Millwall and Reading on loan from the Gunners, joining the latter on a permanent basis in 2006.
      He also had spells at Leeds, Wolves, Plymouth, Blackpool and Hibs before a four year stint at Barnet, where he made 125 league appearances.
      Stack is now goalkeeper coach at Colchester United. More

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      Man Utd star Rashford ‘rejected HUGE PSG transfer which would have seen him earn more than any Premier League star’

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      MARCUS RASHFORD reportedly rejected an offer from PSG that would have seen him earn more than any Premier League player.The Man United star was linked with an exit from Old Trafford last summer with the Ligue 1 side heavily interested.
      Marcus Rashford reportedly turned down a huge offer from PSGCredit: Alamy
      PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has previously admitted his desire to sign the attackerCredit: AP
      According to The Athletic, there was an indication that PSG were willing to offer the England international a deal worth £400,000 per week.
      This salary would have put Rashford on the same level as Man City’s Kevin De Bruyne and earn more than Erling Haaland and David de Gea, according to Planet Football.
      But the move did not go through and Rashford remained at Man United and has excelled this season.
      He has rediscovered his best form and hit 27 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions.
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      Club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has previously admitted that he is a big fan of the attacker, whose contract expires in 2024.
      Speaking in December 2022, about a future move for the Red Devils ace, he said: “He’s another player who’s amazing and for free? To have Rashford for free, every club will run after him.
      “Definitely, we spoke before and interest, but the moment was not a good moment for both sides.
      “Maybe summer, why not? If he is a free agent, we can talk to him directly.
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      “But we are not going to talk to him now and let him focus on the World Cup.
      “In January, hopefully, we would be interested in talking to him.”
      The Red Devils are keen to keep hold of their former youth academy star and they do have the option to trigger a 12-month extension to his current £200,000-a-week contract.
      Current owners The Glazers have been trying to get him on a new one since early in this campaign.
      But with Man Utd trying to impose a salary cap which sees the top earners get no more than between £200,000 to £300,000 a week, negotiations have stalled. More