Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Sky Sports presenter chokes up on final appearance as he leaves after nearly 30 YEARS with much-loved show axed

      by

      SKY SPORTS presenter Rob Wotton choked up as he waved goodbye after nearly 30 YEARS with the TV channel. Wotton joined Sky in 1998 and helped present coverage across all sports.Rob Wotton choked up as he waved goodbye to Sky SportsWotton was with Sky for nearly 30 yearsHe also presented The Football Show – which aired every Monday – but has since been axed. Presenter Wotton fought back tears as he signed the show off and his career on Sky for the final time. He said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure. I came here in my 20s and I thought I was only coming for a couple of weeks. “And look, they haven’t been able to get rid of me. I keep turning up, maybe one day they’ll pay me!” READ MORE IN footballWotton presented The Football Show with Stephen Warnock and Sue Smith – who helped give Wotton a farewell send off.Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was known to be a big fan of the analysis show. The German especially enjoyed coverage from ex-official Dermot Gallagher – who would join for a section called ‘Ref Watch’.According to the Daily Mail, The Football Show cancellation has caused confusion and “dismay” among staff.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt is claimed Sky chiefs want to attract a younger audience, with the broadcaster already doing away with various old-school elements in favour of YouTubers and influencers.Last year saw the end of the popular Fantasy Football League show after two years.Sky Sports – The Football Show – Guardiola Vs Klopp rivalryBut workers are thought to be “bewildered” by the latest item to fall victim, with Sky Sports currently undergoing a “restructure” that is seeing seven reporters and presenters leave.However, insiders told The Mail that “the changes are aimed at making them more agile and able to concentrate on breaking news stories across platforms.”While Gallagher’s Ref Watch will remain in a new format elsewhere. Wotton joined Sky in 1998He worked across all sports on Sky More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Nottingham Forest in Champions League and Newcastle miss out on Europe – how Premier League table would look without VAR

      by

      NOTTINGHAM FOREST would have earned a Champions League spot at the expense of Newcastle if VAR did not exist.And the Magpies’ escape from any consequences for their home defeat by Everton is put into even starker content as they would have missed out on European football altogether without the technology.Nottingham Forest would have earned a Champions League spot if VAR did not existNewcastle would have missed out on Europe if VAR did not existSunSport have analysed all 380 Prem matches this term and worked out how the table would have looked if the original on-field decisions had not been overturned after intervention by the Stockley Park video booth.Our number crunchers found that Eddie Howe’s men were by far the biggest beneficiaries of VAR changes. Newcastle had a staggering 13 decisions changed in their favour, with just five reversals hurting them.That brought a net figure of +8, with Aston Villa and West Ham next in the benefits column with each having four more interventions in their favour than against them.Read More on FootballOur analysis, which assumes every penalty that was initially awarded and then wiped was scored, suggests that without VAR Newcastle would have picked up four fewer points – dropping them to eighth in the table – and conceded seven more goals.Forest, whose home defeat by Chelsea left them in the Conference League slot, would have finished fifth in our “No VAR” table.And Bournemouth, ninth in the actual table, would have been preparing for a first continental campaign in the Europa League without the technology changes.Andoni Iraola’s side had 11 VAR changes against them and just three in their favour, costing the Cherries EIGHT points and seven goals.Most read in FootballThe study of the 111 changed decisions cannot determine definitively what would have happened in real life if the initial decisions had not been overturned.But one of the most contentious calls saw Dango Ouattara’s last-gasp “winner” against Newcastle in August chalked off for a handball PGMOL chief Howard Webb subsequently conceded was wrongly overturned after the VAR intervention.Taiwo Awoniyi seen for first time since horror injury as he receives hero’s welcome at Nottingham Forest vs ChelseaOver the course of the season there were 12 goals and 25 penalties awarded through VAR intervention – with 21 of those spot-kicks converted – compared to 48 goals and 11 penalties disallowed.Liverpool’s 10-point advantage over Arsenal at the top of the pile would have been reduced to just two without VAR, as the Gunners lost eight points from the six overturns against them – including “winning” goals against Chelsea, Fulham and Aston Villa.Chelsea and Manchester City swap places, with the Londoners up to third, with Villa down one to take the Conference League slot. More

    • 275 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I couldn’t take it anymore’ – Antony breaks down in tears over Man Utd struggles and admits he went DAYS without eating

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED winger Antony broke down in tears over his struggles at Old Trafford while admitting he would go DAYS without eating.The Real Betis loanee, 25, declared “I couldn’t take it anymore” just days before the Spanish side’s Conference League final against Chelsea.Antony has opened up on his darkest days at Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyThe winger is now loving life with Conference League finalists Real BetisCredit: GettyAntony joined Manuel Pellegrini’s side in January after being frozen out at United by Ruben Amorim.But after managing just one goal in 14 games for the Red Devils, he’s since gone on to net nine times for Betis — as well as chipping in with five assists.A permanent move could now be on the cards for Antony, who cost £90million when he joined United from Ajax in 2022.Amorim’s side are reportedly ready to part ways for just £30m.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Antony has now indicated he does not plan on returning to England after lifting the lid on his struggles in the Premier League.Revealing he would struggle to eat while spending days locked in his room, Antony became tearful as he recalled his painful memories.He told TNT Sports Brazil: “(Betis) changed a lot because i needed to find myself, because of everything I went through in my personal life.“As I said, I wanted to do things, but they didn’t see to work out because I wasn’t happy, I didn’t feel that desire to play football, and I needed to find myself and be happy again because playing football was always something I loved.  Most read in Football“I went through difficult times [at Manchester United] when I no longer felt that pleasure. I even always told my brother, I told him that I couldn’t take it anymore.“[My brother] told me to hold on a little longer, that things were going to change. It even made me emotional, because they were very hard days for me.Roy Keane smirks live on TV before responding to Ruben Amorim’s claim that the ‘good days are coming’ for Man Utd“Only I know what it was like to be there at home, not having the strength to even play with my son, going days without eating, staying locked in my room.“So, for me it was very complicated, but thank God, with the help of my family and mainly with the help of God, I managed to get ahead and today I am very happy here.” More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Newcastle star Callum Wilson bravely opens up on moment he considered taking his own life as a child

      by

      CALLUM WILSON revealed he contemplated suicide aged 12 and how seeking therapy a year ago saved him from his demons.The father-of-two forward, whose Newcastle contract expires next month, bravely spoke out during Mental Health Awareness week and hopes his story will inspire others to ask for help.Callum Wilson revealed he contemplated suicide aged 12Wilson has represented England at senior levelCredit: GettyHis Newcastle contract expires at the end of the seasonCredit: GettyEngland international Wilson, 33, bared all about growing up in Coventry as one of six children with a single mum and with a different dad to his siblings.The Leeds transfer target spent time in foster care and had to regularly use food banks while also staying in safe houses after witnessing domestic violence at home.He told Jake Humphrey on the High Performance podcast: “I cried myself to sleep at night. I got to about 12, 13 – it was like suicidal moments.”When I say I cried myself to sleep, I was just praying to God like ‘take me out of this environment, I want to become a footballer’.”read more in football He admitted: “I’ve walked alongside the train track and was building up the courage to jump basically in front of the train. “I’ve tied cables around my bedroom rail and my PlayStation remote controller to see if it was strong enough to hold my weight.“Football really was my saviour, it was my escape.”Wilson, though, refuses to blame his mother for any of his unstable upbringing, saying: “It was my mum on her own, all my siblings in the house. Most read in Football”We had a three bedroom council house. Food was sparing to come by. That, along with a bit of turmoil.“I probably have a lot of aggression from that point, but football was a place that I could be aggressive in my position on the pitch and it would be ok. So it was like a release really.”Champions League places CONFIRMED after Aston Villa VAR controversy as Newcastle have to be saved by Man UtdDespite all of the success in his career on the pitch, Wilson admitted that he had started to become more aggressive over recent years and he started to gamble.Though he hailed a Newcastle physio for spotting he needed help and making him take it – which felt “like a weight was lifted” after the very first session.He added: “Once I started speaking, and revealed everything I’ve been through in life, she was like ‘Wow, how have you got to this point already without not seeing a therapist?’“I speak to my wife about it, but I didn’t want to blur the lines with our relationship. “She’s not my therapist, she’s my wife and the mother of my children, so I didn’t want to burden her with problems. “You can speak to a therapist and it does feel a sense of relief afterwards.“It’s an investment in yourself and more than worth it. I’m probably learning a lot about myself now – little traits that I have that were obviously triggered by things as a kid. I’m really happy.”YOU’RE NOT ALONEEVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organizations provide support:CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.ukMind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123Movember, www.uk.movember.comMeanwhile, Wilson appeared to wave goodbye to Newcastle with a tearful solo lap of honour round the St. James’ pitch on Sunday after the Magpies had secured Champions League qualification.Although Magpies boss Eddie Howe refused to rule out a potential stay.Howe said: “Let’s wait and see. We’re going to sit down and talk with his representatives.“What I can say is Callum Wilson is and has been just an incredible footballer for Newcastle. “Someone who epitomises the spirit that’s got us to where we are really professional. Brave.“To come here and be the No.9 in the manner and the moment that he did in the club’s history. Read More on The Sun”It was a difficult moment and the club needed hope and Callum gave them hope, led the line with that responsibility and the pressure that role brings unbelievably.“He brings a positivity to the group. He’s a leader within the change room. He’s just been incredible and let’s wait and see what happens.”If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More

    • 188 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Arsenal star Tomas Rosicky rushed to hospital with heart issues as he releases worrying statement

      by

      FORMER Arsenal star Tomas Rosicky has been rushed to hospital with heart issues.The Czech icon, 44, suffered the health scare last week while working in his role of sporting director at Slavia Prague.Tomas Rosicky has been rushed to hospital with heart issuesCredit: GettyThe Czech ace won an FA Cup during his time in LondonCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdRosicky, who spent 10 years at Arsenal and was tipped to replace transfer chief Edu Gaspar earlier this year, was immediately taken to intensive care at a hospital in Prague.And he is now being treated at home after doctors decided he did not require surgery.Rosicky’s club Sparta Prague confirmed the news in a worrying statement.It read: “Our sporting director, Tomas Rosicky, was unexpectedly hospitalised in the intensive care unit last Tuesday due to heart-related issues. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Neither Tomas nor the club will disclose further details. Fortunately, no surgery was required. Tomas, you have our full support. We’re all thinking of you.”Until this official announcement, only a few closest members of the club and his family were aware of the situation. “Given the seriousness of the matter, both the club and Tomas chose to communicate publicly only after he was released into home care late last week.”Rosicky himself commented on the situation, adding: “As a player and sporting director, I’ve always gone all in. Full effort, no hesitation. Most read in Football”But this situation has shown me that I need to take better care of myself. Poor lifestyle habits, lack of physical activity, and family predispositions unfortunately brought me here. “The good news is that I’m expected to make a full recovery, though I’m currently unable to carry out the demanding responsibilities of a sporting director. Moment bold Arsenal fan bombarded with X-rated chant from Spurs supporters after strolling around Bilbao in Gunners kit”I’ll remain in touch with my colleagues as we’ve always operated as a team. We have a clear vision, strategy, and structured processes in place. The guys will take care of it.”Rosicky started his playing career at Sparta Prague in the 1998/99 season before spending six years at Borussia Dortmund.With two Czech titles and a Bundesliga under his belt, the midfielder joined Arsenal in 2006 for £7million.He went on to score 28 goals in 247 outings while leading the Gunners to the 2014 FA Cup.Rosicky’s time in London was greatly affected by multiple injury issues.And in 2016 he returned to Sparta Prague, where he made just 13 more appearances before retiring in 2018 and taking up his sporting director role.Tomas Rosicky’s career statsSparta Prague, 1998-2001: 67 games, 13 goalsBorussia Dortmund, 2001-2006: 189 games, 24 goalsArsenal, 2006-2016: 247 games, 28 goalsSparta Prague, 2016-2019: 13 games, 1 goalCzech Republic, 2000-2016: 105 games, 23 goalsTrophiesSparta Prague: Czech First League x2Borussia Dortmund: BundesligaArsenal: FA Cup, Community Shield More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham ‘mulling over whether to sack Postecoglou as rival Premier League boss eyed as replacement’

      by

      TOTTENHAM are mulling over whether to sack Ange Postecoglou with a replacement already eyed, reports say. Postecoglou became a Spurs legend overnight having guided the North Londoners to their first trophy in 17 YEARS. Spurs are mulling over whether to sack Ange PostecoglouCredit: GettyBut despite the Europa League success, it was a worst-ever Premier League finish for Tottenham having ended the season in 17th. According to talkSPORT, Spurs boss Daniel Levy and the board have not yet made a decision on Postecoglou’s future. It is claimed they will wait until the Aussie goes on holiday before deciding on who will be in charge next season. Brentford manager Thomas Frank is said to be one of the leading candidates if Postecoglou is sacked. READ MORE IN football Frank does has a hefty release clause in his Brentford contract, believed to be in the region of £9million.But the Dane also has a long-standing relationship with Spurs’ technical director Johan Lange.Tottenham’s 4-1 loss at home to Brighton on the final day of the season capped off a horror league campaign. But Postecoglou remarkably still called Spurs’ season “OUTSTANDING.” Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe continued: “We won a trophy, which we have not done for 17 years, and we’re in the Champions League.”Ask any supporter at the start of the season if they’d take that and there wouldn’t be a person in the house that wouldn’t.”Ange Postecoglou drops huge hint over Tottenham future with incredible mic-drop moment at Europa League paradePostecoglou also fended off “unnecessary” speculation about his future in North London. He said: “You know my gut feeling? My gut feeling is I feel right now that I’ve done something that no one believed I could.”And I shouldn’t be sitting here talking about it (my future). That’s my feeling, but it is what it is. As I said I am and probably I am talking now because I’m tired, mate. “I have to [talk] about another game and I just want to go on a break and enjoy my family and reflect on being part of something unbelievably special, unbelievably special.”I’ve been fortunate to be in this position a number of times, but seeing those scenes Friday and people have reached out and talked to me about how it has affected them what has happened over the last couple of days. “It’s a beautiful thing and I just want to enjoy that. To be honest, the rest of it? You know I don’t even want to be talking about it. I just think it is unnecessary.”Levy also offered no clarity over Postecoglou’s future in his end-of-season message to Tottenham supporters.Levy’s letter in full read: “Dear all, we did it. What an unforgettable night it was in Bilbao as we ended our long wait for glory.“This is a huge moment for the whole club, an historic achievement that sees us lift our first European trophy since 1984.You know I don’t even want to be talking about it. I just think it is unnecessary.Ange Postecoglou on his Spurs future “This club has been on an incredible journey on and off the pitch since we last won silverware, the League Cup, in 2008 – establishing ourselves as one of the biggest in Europe, moving into our new stadium and experiencing some incredible moments – we knew a trophy was the missing piece.“We’ve come so close on a number of occasions and never quite got over the line – I have never wavered from the belief that success is just around the corner.“I’d like to thank Ange and the players for making this incredible achievement possible and thanks to all of our amazing staff – there is so much hard work that goes on behind the scenes and this moment is for everyone to enjoy.“I’d also like to thank you – the fans – for staying with us and carrying that same belief. “I know it’s been hard at times and I have shared in that pain and frustration along the way. “But when we all come together, we know we can achieve something special.“Your support – whether that was in Bilbao, in our own stadium or in pubs and homes around the world – was the driving force behind our team.“This is one trophy – our clear ambition as a club has always been long-term, sustained success, competing for top honours every year. We have now tasted success and we are determined to use this as a springboard for more.Read More on The Sun“Let’s enjoy this moment as a club together, finish the season strong with a win today and go again next year.“Most of all, be proud. Come on you Spurs!”Postecoglou with Spurs chairman Daniel LevyCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd flops fly to Malaysia for post-season tour just HOURS after Aston Villa win & Amorim’s on-pitch apology to fans

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED players flew out for their post-season tour of the Far East just HOURS after their Premier League campaign ended. United’s flops managed to finish their horror season on a high after beating Aston Villa 2-0 at Old Trafford. Manchester United players flew out for their post-season tour of the Far EastCredit: GettyMason Mount enjoys a meal on the planeCredit: GettyToby Collyer looks relaxed on the flightCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes plugs in his headphones for the journeyCredit: GettyAmad Diallo puts his thumbs up as he takes his seatCredit: GettyRuben Amorim was all smilesCredit: GettyAnd manager Ruben Amorim spoke out and apologised to the disgruntled Old Trafford faithful after the match. Just hours after the match and Amorim’s side were on a flight to Malaysia ahead of their post-season tour. United face ASEAN All Stars at the 84,000-capacity Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on May 28.Then two days later, they conclude in a match against Hong Kong in their 40,000-capacity stadium.READ MORE IN footballAndre Onana – dropped against Aston Villa – posted a video of Mason Mount on their flight to his Snapchat. And pictures revealed Mount, Bruno Fernandes and Amorim enjoying their 15-HOUR flight to Malaysia. Luke Shaw and Alejandro Garnacho also joined the 32-man squad on the plane with only injured Leny Yoro absent. Garnacho’s future at United looks in doubt with reports stating he has been told to find a new club. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Amorim said before Villa’s trip: “Garnacho is a Manchester United player that is not in the squad today, but he continues to be a Manchester United player.”Asked if he will be on the post-season tour, he said: “Yes. Everybody’s going because we have to go and meet our fans and give something to our fans on the other side of the world.”Roy Keane smirks live on TV before responding to Ruben Amorim’s claim that the ‘good days are coming’ for Man UtdUnited ended up in 15th – their worst Premier League finish – but Amorim took the the mic to tell fans that good times are coming. He said: “First of all, I want to apologise for this season. I know you are really disappointed with me and with the team”I want to secondly say thank you. We are very grateful for your support during the season and I know that it’s been really hard. “I know it was really hard to support us in many games but now we have to make a choice or we stay stuck in the past because this season is in the past, it’s over.”We fight each other or we stick together and move forward. Six months ago, in my first three games in charge, with two victories and one draw, I said to you the storm is coming.”Today, after this disastrous season, I want to tell you the good days are coming. Read More on The Sun”If there is one club in the world that proves in the past that it can overcome any situation, any disaster, it’s our club, it’s Manchester United Football Club.”Now I want to say sorry also to my players, sometimes I was not fair, but I always try to be honest with you. Thanks very much, see you next season.”Amorim apologised to fans at Old Trafford More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Matheus Cunha ‘agrees five-year contract with Man Utd and will take Marcus Rashford’s No10 shirt’

      by

      MATHEUS CUNHA will reportedly take Marcus Rashford’s No10 shirt after agreeing a five-year contract with Manchester United.The Wolves and Brazil star, 25, is one of Ruben Amorim’s top summer targets after enjoying a wonderful season at Molineux.Matheus Cunha has agreed a five-year deal to leave Wolves for Man UtdCredit: GettyHe is expected to take the No10 shirt from Marcus RashfordCredit: GettyCunha struck 17 goals and six assists in 36 outings this term.His form arguably saved Wolves from relegation after their miserable start to the campaign.But former Atletico Madrid star Cunha is now set to make the move to Old Trafford, with United finally hoping to kickstart Ruben Amorim’s tenure with several big summer signings.The Red Devils’ final-day win over Aston Villa saw them finish level on points with Wolves.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Cunha has been keen to make the switch ever since being approached earlier this month.And according to Give Me Sport, he has now agreed a lucrative five-year deal to move to the Theatre of Dreams.United now hope to finalise the switch by finally approaching Wolves to meet Cunha’s £62.5million release clause.And it has already been decided that the Samba star will take the coveted No10 jersey, thus spelling the end of the line for academy hero Rashford.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe 27-year-old was frozen out by Amorim before Christmas and eventually secured a winter loan move to Aston Villa.Rashford bagged two goals and four assists in 14 outings under Unai Emery, with Villa holding an option to buy him for £40m this summer.Ruben Amorim vows ‘good days are coming’ after ‘disaster season’ as Man Utd flops give him daggers during public apologyRashford appears unlikely to join Aston Villa on a permanent dealCredit: GettyHowever, the Midlands side controversially missed out on a Champions League spot due to their 2-0 defeat at United yesterday.It ironically means they could now decide against a permanent deal for Rashford due to financial constraints.While the player himself may not be keen on the move as he wants to play Champions League football next season.That could leave United struggling to find a bidder for Rashford, who pockets £325,000-a-week in wages.But he is unlikely to have a way back in at United following Cunha’s arrival, with his shirt number humiliation an almost-certain indication of Amorim’s intentions. More