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      Jamie Vardy and wife Becky take secret flight to Bahrain in huge transfer hint over Leicester legend’s next club

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      JAMIE VARDY and his wife Becky secretly flew to Bahrain this week as Saudi football clubs continue to clamour to sign him.Insiders said Vardy, who is set to leave Leicester next summer, flew out to the country where fellow Brit Steven Gerrard lives.Jamie Vardy could be set for a summer move to Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyVardy and wife Becky have shared pictures of them in the Middle EastCredit: InstagramVardy snubbed a move to Saudi last yearThe couple stayed at the Four Seasons hotel in the country, which is next door to Saudi Arabia.A source said: “Jamie and Becky went to Bahrain this week to check it out.“He is in demand from Saudi clubs and while he’s still playing the field he could see what it would be like to possibly live out there.“Bahrain is an hour or so drive from some of Saudi’s big clubs and it’s an amazing country, with a culture very similar to that in Dubai. It’s super relaxed and very glamorous.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“While it was a holiday for them both, and involved a trip to Dubai too, it gave Jamie time to think about what he could do next after he leaves Leicester next summer.“People who know them have joked about a deal in Saudi could easily pay off Becky’s Wagatha Christie bill.”Vardy, who has been with Leicester since 2012, turned down a move to Saudi last summer when he still had a year left on his contract.Clubs, including Khaleej, made a bid for Vardy but he rejected the deal because he didn’t think a move would suit his family.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe family could finally be set to leave England for the Middle EastDespite the rejection, it was reported that Saudi dealmakers were speaking with intermediaries working on Vardy’s behalf to try and negotiate an offer.It is believed a deal struck with Vardy could net him £4million a year.Fans tell Jamie Vardy ‘never change’ as footage emerges of Leicester star slide tackling a KID during title celebrationsClubs including Al-Shabab and Al-Qadsiah were reported to be pursuing Vardy.Former Liverpool star Gerrard manages Al Ettifaq and lives between Saudi and Bahrain – which is favoured by Wags because of its more relaxed laws.His wife Alex enrolled their three youngest children into an exclusive English language school in Bahrain and regularly posts pictures online of her in fancy restaurants.Their home in Bahrain is just a one hour drive from Saudi, where Gerrard’s team are based.Earlier this year, Gerrard’s former Liverpool team-mate Jordan Henderson quit Saudi after six months with Al Ettifaq. More

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      George Baldock: Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer caught on live TV after shock win over England

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      GREECE ace Lazaros Rota paid a touching tribute to his late great team-mate George Baldock after a famous victory over England.Baldock was found dead in his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night when he drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 31 plunging the football community into mourning.Greece right-back Lazaros Rota dedicated the win over England to George BaldockBaldock played ahead of Rota at right-back in the Greek national teamCredit: RexA devastated Greek national team found the strength to put on a heroic performance and snatch an emotional 2-1 win in London, which they dedicated to their team-mate and his family.Benfica star Vangelis Pavlidis commemorated the Sheffield United legend by raising his black armband in the air and pointing to the heavens after scoring both of his goals.And after the match Ivan Jovanovic’s men lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that led to many breaking down in tears.That was when right-back Rota, 27, who played behind Baldock in Greece’s pecking order, pointed at the ITV camera and dedicated the win to his former team-mate.Read More on FootballThe AEK Athens ace cried: “Georgie, for you.”This was Greece’s first ever win over England and the team became the first ever Greek side to win at Wembley.That was after the visitors’ captain Tasos Bakasetas issued a spine-tingling pre-match speech urging his team-mates to “sacrifice” themselves on the pitch for Baldock.The full-back was so passionate that he often risked his physical well-being on the pitch, such as against France last year in Paris where he played with a swollen ankle and still silenced Kylian Mbappe.Most read in FootballThere were no celebrations from the Greek national team, who were still overwhelmed by the horrific news, after the game.Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Instead, Bakasetas and Pavlidis opted to use that time to reflect on their friend and his family.Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his Greek apartment on Wednesday evening.His family has now confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool.They have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.Ex-Sheffield United full-back Baldock was supposed to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son Brody’s birthday.Baldock moved to Greece after joining Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer.His heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam hailed him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”His fiancee Annabel Dignam said her ‘world will never be the same’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamGeorge Baldock waves to fans at Bramall Lane on May 19, 2024Credit: GettyA minute’s silence was held in his memory at Wembley before England and Greece’s Nations League clashCredit: ReutersCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.England and Greece stars held a minute’s silence ahead of their Nations League clash.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Nottingham Forest slapped with staggering fine after shocking tweet following defeat to Everton

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      NOTTINGHAM FOREST have been hit with a huge fine after their shocking tweet following last season’s defeat to Everton.Forest lost 2-0 at Goodison Park in April’s potential relegation clash.Nottingham Forest have been fined after their tweet following last season’s defeat at EvertonCredit: GettyBut chiefs were left fuming as they felt Forest were denied three clear penalties.The club then published a wild post on X claiming that the VAR ref on the day was “a Luton fan”, with the Hatters also battling for safety at the time.It read: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept.”We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”Forest were then hit with misconduct charges by the FA.And they have now been fined a massive £750,000.A statement read: “Nottingham Forest have been fined £750,000 and warned for misconduct in relation to comments posted on social media after their Premier League game against Everton on Sunday 21 April.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The club denied that the comments posted on social media imply bias and/or question the integrity of the match officials and/or the video assistant referee and/or bring the game into disrepute.”An independent Regulatory Commission found the charge to be proven following a hearing and imposed the club’s sanctions.”Football icons’ strange hobbiesNottingham Forest have confirmed that they will appeal the decision.A club statement read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club is extremely disappointed with the decision of the Regulatory Commission to impose a £750,000 fine in relation to comments posted on social media following our Premier League fixture against Everton on Sunday 21 April.”We are particularly concerned that The FA, in its submissions, sought a sanction ‘in excess of £1,000,000’. “We believe that this request, along with the subsequent fine, is wholly disproportionate and the Club will be appealing the decision.”Following their initial tweet in April, Forest demanded the VAR audio from the game against Everton was released.Refs chief Howard Webb even went as far as to admit mistakes were made in the match.But that still didn’t save Forest from their FA charge.Thankfully for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, they ended up beating the drop last season.READ MORE SUN STORIESInstead it was Luton who dropped to the Championship.And Forest are now looking solid in 10th place this term. More

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      Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England

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      GREECE captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling speech dedicated to the late George Baldock that inspired his team-mates to victory against England before stepping out at Wembley.Baldock was found dead at his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night at the age of 31 plunging the English and Greek football community into mourning.Greece captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling pre-match speech before the win over EnglandCredit: instagramBakasetas inspired his Greece team-mates to fight for George Baldock after his tragic deathCredit: EPAGreece dedicated their famous win over England to Baldock after the whistleCredit: AlamyThe former Sheffield United star’s team-mates were in London when the news broke and were left devastated ahead of Thursday’s crunch Nations League clash with the Three Lions.However, Bakasetas, 31, took it upon himself to lift his team-mates’ spirits with a powerful pre-match speech in the dressing room.The Panathinaikos star, who also played with Baldock for the Athenian club, described the Buckingham-born ace as an “example” that would even sacrifice his physical well-being for the team. The playmaker then went on to order his team-mates to return the favour by stepping onto England’s hallowed Wembley turf and “sacrificing” themselves.Read More on FootballBakasetas stated: “We know very well what kind of team we are because we earned our way.”We have no one to fear and we should show it from the first minute. We know the game’s importance. Many of us know who George is and what kind of a man he was.”George was always an example for this team. Because many times he left his soul on the pitch. He prioritised the team above all else and he even sacrificed his physical wellbeing.”And tonight in this game he will be our example. Each and everyone of us will sacrifice ourselves to honour him exactly as he deserves. Let’s all be ready. Let’s go!” Most read in FootballGreece went on to produce an incredible performance as they beat England for the first time ever and picked up their first ever victory at Wembley.Vangelis Pavlidis scored a stunning brace to break Three Lions hearts and deliver a hammer blow to interim boss Lee Carsley’s hopes of replacing Gareth Southgate full-time.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31Pavlidis and his team-mates dedicated both goals to Baldock as they lifted their black armbands and pointed to the heavens.However, there was no celebration at full-time, instead the visitors lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that saw many break down in tears.Pavlidis refused to talk about the game in his post-match interview and instead paid tribute to the ex-MK Dons ace.The Benfica star said: “It was a very peculiar day. Our thoughts are with George. The game was not postponed, we are here and [we are] professionals, we played, we gave our souls for him. “[These are] Very difficult times, it was a peculiar match because of that happened with George. It’s not a day to talk about football, he was part of our team and all I can say is he’s going to be sorely missed, we wish strength to his family.”The whole day was silent, even now, we can’t say much. A picture is worth a thousand words, there are no words.”Paying tribute to BaldockBakasetas, who was reduced to tears at full-time, echoed is team-mate’s statement as he paid homage to Baldock’s character and professionalism.The ex-Trabzonspor star even shared two anecdotal stories that showed how dedicated the defender was to the national team.Bakasetas said: “I’m very proud to have these team-mates. We want to dedicate this game to George and his family This way we will try and give them some strength.”It’s a game that shouldn’t have happened in my opinion. It’s not a day we can talk more about football. George today was our guide. He always put the team above all else.”In France last summer he played with an ankle banged up and still delivered for the team.”And against Georgia [in the final of the Euro 2024 play-off qualifying round] he was hurt and knew he would get injured but fought with doctors so that he can play and left it all on the pitch.”We thank him for everything. We wish strength to his family.”Fiancee’s tributeBaldock’s fiancee released a statement last night hailing him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”Baldock was found in the pool by his landlord, who jumped over the fence.Emergency crews pulled the footballer from the water, but were unable to resuscitate him.Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital on Thursday said he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.READ MORE SUN STORIESCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death. More

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      George Baldock: Greek PFA slam Uefa in damning statement for refusing to postpone England game after star’s tragic death

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      ENGLAND’S match against Greece will go ahead despite Premier League and EFL hero George Baldock’s tragic death.Baldock was found dead at the age of 31 in his home in Athens on Wednesday night, plunging the entire Greek football community into mourning.Greece’s PFA lambasted Uefa’s decision not to postpone the match with England after George Baldock’s deathCredit: APSheffield United legend Baldock was found dead in his home at the age of 31Credit: GettyThe Greek football association [EPO] held talks with Uefa in their bid to reschedule the fixture after their beloved player’s shock passing.However, the football governing body refused to postpone tonight’s Nations League clash due to scheduling conflicts.That led to a furious reaction from Greece’s professional footballers’ association, the Panhellenic Association of Paid [Male] Footballers [and Female] Footballers [PSAPP], who lambasted Uefa.The association didn’t hold back on their criticism with a damning post on social media berating football bosses for disregarding the game’s “human” aspect.Read More on FootballThey even described Uefa’s reasoning behind their decision as a “pretext”.The union also took aim at the “inhumane” schedule, which bloated after the introduction of the controversially repackaged Club World Cup.The 32-team tournament takes place this summer in the US and sparked global outrage, especially from players who even hinted at a strike.PSAPP posted on Facebook: “The game of our National team against England will take place as scheduled despite the Greek federation’s attempt to postpone it, with the pretext of not being able to find an alternative date in an already inhumane – in terms of work – calendar. Most read in Football”Once again those who make the decisions did not have time to think about our internationals. “The need to finally understand that the person should always be placed above all else.”Greece boss Poyet reveals Sheff Utd ace Baldock played through ‘unimaginable’ injury when he silenced France’s MbappeGeorge Baldock career statsGeorge Baldock has tragically died aged 312009-2017 – MK Dons 125 games (2 goals)2011 – Tamworth (loan) 3 (0)2012 – IBV (loan) 18 (1)2012 – Tamworth (loan) 15 (1)2015-16 – Oxford United (loan) 47 (3)2017-2024 – Sheffield United 219 (6)2024 – Panathinaikos 4 (0)Uefa confirmed that both sets of players will wear black armbands and there will be a minute’s silence at Wembley.The same is set to take place at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium on Sunday when Greece host the Republic of Ireland.Buckingham-born Baldock switched to Greece in 2022 following a series of stunning performances with Sheffield United, whom he helped achieve two Premier League promotions.The ex-MK Dons star, who qualified through his Greek grandmother, quickly became Ethniki’s starting right-back and earned immense praise after picking up his first caps.The full-back amassed a staggering 125 appearances during an eight-year stint with MK Dons and a whopping 219 with Sheffield United.After seven years with the Blades, the Greece international moved to Panathinaikos last summer, where he played four times.The defender’s last ever game saw him competing against eternal rivals Olympiacos on Sunday at the Olympic Stadium where he helped his team pick up a brave goalless draw.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Premier League legend calls for Man Utd directors to be ‘ARRESTED’ for selling fans’ favourite in transfer window

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      PREMIER LEAGUE legend Paolo di Canio has criticised Manchester United’s decision to offload Scott McTominay.The Red Devils sold McTominay to Serie A giants Napoli in August.Scott McTominay has impressed since joining NapoliCredit: GettyPaolo Di Canio thinks Man Utd chiefs should be ‘arrested’ for selling the midfielderCredit: SplashThey earned £25million from the move, which helped fund a deadline day deal for top summer target Manuel Ugarte.But ex-Prem star Di Canio believes Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co made the wrong decision.In a recent interview with Il Mattino, he said: “I would go to Manchester United to arrest all the directors – how can you give away McTominay?”Following the midfielder’s departure, United boss Erik ten Hag revealed he did not want to sell him.Read More on Man UtdThe Dutchman explained: “It is a little bit mixed, I am very happy for him but it is mixed because I wouldn’t prefer to lose him.”He is Manchester United in everything, he was so important for Manchester United.”He was here for over 22 years but unfortunately it is the rules.”Homegrown players bring more value and that is not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it is a good deal. Scott is happy with it, and Napoli and us.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSince joining Napoli, McTominay has scored two goals in five appearances.Meanwhile, United are struggling in the Premier League.Man Utd board’s EIGHT-HOUR London crunch talks and what it means for Erik ten HagThe Red Devils currently sit 14th in the table with just eight points from seven games.It has been their worst-ever start to a Prem season. More

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      Who was George Baldock?

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      THE world has been left in shock following the tragic death of former Premier League ace George Baldock.Wembley are set to hold a minute’s silence for Baldock ahead of England’s match against Greece tonight.George Baldock last played for PanathinaikosCredit: EPATributes have been paid for ex-Sheffield United star George BaldockCredit: GettyAnd the players will wear black armbands in tribute to George who sadly died on Wednesday.Here is what SunSport know about George Baldock.Who was George Baldock?Born March 9, 1993, George Baldock was raised in Buckingham, England.Baldock was of Greek descent through his grandmother and was eligible to represent Greece at an international level as well as England.Read more on George BaldockHe started his footballing career playing for Milton Keynes Dons’ academy team while older brother Sam Baldock played for the senior side.George made his first-team debut for MK Dons on May 1, 2010 in the League One clash with Brighton & Hove Albion which ended in a 0-0 draw.Baldock then joined Northampton on a month’s loan over a year later but June 13, 2017, George made his big breakthrough by signing for newly promoted Championship side Sheffield United.George Baldock spent seven years at Sheffield UnitedCredit: APAnd then in 2019, Baldock helped the Blades secure promotion to the Premier League following a 12-year absence.Most read in FootballThe full-back went on to represent Sheffield United for seven years making more than 219 appearances before his contract would expireThen on May 29, 2024, Baldock joined Greek side Panathinaikos on a three-year contract, making his debut in the Europa League third qualifying round at home to Ajax.What happened to George Baldock?George Baldock was tragically found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.The former Sheffield United defender was discovered at his home in Greece, where he played for Panathinaikos.Greek media report his wife, who lives in England, was trying to track him down but she couldn’t contact him and started to worry.She then informed the owner of the house in Glyfada, Athens, to check the property, where he was reportedly found dead in the swimming pool.Police are now investigating and were pictured outside his home later in the evening.Family statementBaldock’s family later released a statement following the devastating news.It read: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time.”While club Panathinaikos added: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.”The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”The Blades also paid tribute to Baldock in a statement that read: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and teammates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.” More

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      ‘Who sanctioned that’ fumes Arsenal legend as he rips into Man Utd’s ‘bag of Revels’ transfer failures and £80m flop

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      PAUL MERSON has launched a scathing attack on Manchester United’s transfer business under Erik ten Hag.The Arsenal legend was flabbergasted with United’s pursuit of Antony after ripping into the Brazilian’s £85.5m move.Paul Merson has slammed United’s recruitment business under Erik ten HagCredit: GettyThe Arsenal legend singled out Antony’s move to Old Trafford in particularCredit: GettyErik ten Hag’s future is in the balance after the Red Devils recorded their worst ever start to a Premier League season.United sit 14th after picking up eight points from seven games and have scored ONE goal at Old Trafford in the Prem this season – on the opening day 1-0 win over Fulham.The Dutchman’s future was discussed by club executives on Tuesday but there has been no communication on the outcomes of that near seven-hour meeting.Despite a £180m summer outlay on Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Manuel Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee, Merson took aim at the transfer strategy.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSky Sports presenter Rob Jones asked Merson: “If United have been a bag of Revels for two years now, that’s surely evidence that Ten Hag is not the man to take them forward?”This sparked a classic Merson rant: “Man Utd have to be patient. And the only way to be patient is having a plan. And the plan is going to take time.”I mean Man Utd have to start walking again before they can start running and they definitely can’t start sprinting yet. And this is what everybody thinks. “The one thing that would worry me more than anything is who has come into that club and you’ve gone ‘wow he was a major success’.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I mean Antony was £80m, have you picked up yet? Or have you fallen over?”I thought you’d fall over when I said £80m. I mean that just sums it all up. “I’m looking at the players they’ve bought like the boy Rasmus Hojlund. I like Hojlund, the centre-forward, but he’s a young kid.Roy Keane blasts ‘don’t bloody say it you fool’ in furious rant at Eriksen after Man Utd star’s controversial comment “You can’t put a young kid into Man Utd up front in a struggling team and say ‘go on mate go and get me 20 goals a season’.”You can’t do it. For me it’s so wrong. And that’s me sitting on the outside. I just don’t know what they’ve done.””I mean £80m – who sanctioned that?”And I don’t want to be horrible, I watched him in Holland, he goes down the wing, he cuts in and bends it into the far corner. He done it every week in Holland.”You come to the Premier League and every single full-back is an international. And they work you out and won’t show you on that foot.” “United can’t even say ‘do you what we will swallow one here and get £40m for him – they won’t even get that.”In the midst of his passionate display, Merson also claimed that United legend Gary Neville would be perfect to bring in to oversee recruitment.He added: “Gary has been at that club all his career, and he knows football from the inside out.READ MORE SUN STORIES”You put someone like him in charge, even Rio Ferdinand, someone like that or even both of them together, and you go ‘right, we want to build this club- what players should we be bringing in?’”The Red Devils admitted that they overpaid for Antony, 24, who joined from Ajax in 2022. More