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      Inside Phil Foden’s love of FISHING as Man City star reveals which footballer he would love to take down to the lake

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      FROM Match of the Day to catch of the day – Phil Foden is a man of all talents.The England international has been Manchester City’s star man this term and has them firing towards a Premier League and FA Cup double.Phil Foden has proven himself to be a hot rod off the pitchCredit: InstagramThe Man City star loves nothing more than reeling in a monster away from footyCredit: InstagramHis love for angling was born through his father at a young ageFoden’s biggest catch is this whopping 130lb Catfish in SpainCredit: INSTAGRAM/phil fodenFollowing on from last season’s treble, the 23-year-old has scored 24 goals this term with his displays already landing him one of the game’s most prestigious player of the year prizes.However, when he is not kicking the ball into the back of the net, he loves nothing more than pulling a monster out of one.Foden developed a love of fishing as a youngster from his father, Phil Snr, and it remains a top dad and lad hobby for the pair whenever the hotshot has time off from football.The City man explained previously: “Probably about 95 per cent of the football lads don’t enjoy it.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“The odd one likes fishing, so when people find out they say: ‘what a weird sport to enjoy’. They don’t understand why you enjoy it.“Obviously, they need to go and try it. I think it’s the perfect hobby to rest your legs and have some down time.”Foden missed the City players’ 2018 Premier League title celebrations due to a pre-planned fishing trip with his dad.And he has shared several of his top catches on social media from his trips to lakes across the UK and in Spain, which was the location of his biggest catch yet – a HUGE 130LB Catfish.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFoden told City’s website previously: “I was probably about six or seven and my dad had a fishing rod of his dad’s and said we should go and try it out.“I fell in love with it and we ended up going every weekend. I still remember my first catch. It wasn’t very big, I was just learning, but it’s the excitement of when you get one for the first time.Three reasons why Phil Foden is world-class“I think that’s the buzz that makes you want to go again, but it’s also a chance to chill and relax and to spend time with my dad.“I think it’s really good after games when you have to rest your legs and I just find it really enjoyable.“There’s tactics. Knowing in which spots to fish, knowing where the fish are, fishing at different lengths…“There’s a lot behind it but when I get the odd day off, I fish simple. I’m not a specialist at it but I still manage to catch.”Foden is hoping to fire City to more silverware this seasonCredit: GettyEven though his dad undoubtedly remains his favourite to fish with, there is also one other man that he would love to cast out next to.He revealed: “If I had to spend all day fishing and could take one person with me, that would be [Lionel] Messi. He’s been my idol since I was little.”Foden also revealed that he is no slouch when it comes to throwing arrows – even without practice.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “I generally love all types of sport, but I don’t do any others apart from fishing. I do like darts, but I don’t really play.“We have a dartboard when I’m with England and a few of the lads say I’m a natural. We don’t really compete, but sometimes I hit a 180 and they’ll be gobsmacked.”Three ways Phil Foden has been transformed into Man City, and England’s, most important playerBy Lee Scott
      PHIL FODEN ran away with the voting for Footballer of the Year – and it’s easy to see why.
      Foden has been transformed into Man City’s new David Silva and England’s Euro 2024 swiss army knife.
      Initially used sparingly by Pep Guardiola, the Stockport technician has become a key player for City.
      Foden’s his tactical intelligence and game understanding make him stand out week in, week out – even in City’s team of expensively-assembled superstars.
      From playing the final pass and running between the lines to leading the press, Foden really can do it all.
      Click here to read our tactical analysis of the Premier League’s best player. More

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      Jurgen Klopp vows NEVER to watch TNT Sports again as Liverpool boss launches hilarious rant over ‘favourite TV channel’

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      JURGEN KLOPP has jokingly claimed that he will never watch TNT Sports again after he leaves Liverpool.The German coach, 56, dropped the bombshell in January that he would be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.Jurgen Klopp has joked he’ll never watch TNT Sports againCredit: GettyThe Liverpool boss has hit out at his side regularly being scheduled for the Saturday lunchtime slotCredit: GettyThe ex-Dortmund manager has transformed Liverpool back into one of the game’s top sides since taking charge in October 2015.He achieved legendary status when ending their 30-year title drought in 2020 while he also led the Reds to three Champions League finals – tasting success in 2019.Despite Liverpool’s title aspirations and Europa League hopes going up in smoke over the past fortnight, Klopp is departing Anfield with a Carabao Cup triumph.He was in good spirits this morning at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s home clash with Tottenham.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut he could not resist another rant of fixture scheduling and pile-ups as he took a swipe at TNT Sports again for the broadcaster regularly putting his side in the Saturday lunchtime spot after they had been in midweek European action.And he also said English football’s congested calendar is hindering our sides from enjoying more success against the continent’s top teams.Klopp began his tongue-in-cheek rant by saying: “The boys had a few days off this week which was super important and we could have proper training sessions again, which we are not used to.“We stumble from one -1 into the next. I said it from the first day, training helps.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“In general it’s a really interesting subject, seeing that Aston Villa lost 4-2 last night. If they go out it would mean no English team is in a European final.“You will all stay here, you will all talk about it. If you don’t decrease the intensity for the players…Michail Antonio ‘reveals what Jurgen Klopp told Mo Salah’ in furious touchline spat vs West Ham “If you think that all English teams underperformed, there were definitely moments – us against Atalanta and things like this. “But the Premier League is the best league in the world. It is not overrated, the players are overworked. Somebody needs to help the people.”Klopp continued: “You cut off one game (FA Cup replays), you give the top teams three more Champions League games. Everyone has a reason to say, ‘You cannot cut off these games, they are important!’ But you cannot sort it all the time.“I had a discussion the other day with colleagues from my favourite TV channel which I will definitely never watch again, TNT. And people always say, ‘They pay you! They give money for football’. It’s not that, it’s the other way around, football pays them.“They broadcast and deliver it but it’s not like TNT or Sky is doing really well and can pay all of you. “You have to become a partner of football again and not just the squeezer. That’s just a little advice from an old man on the way out.”Klopp was not finished as he added: “I will watch a lot of football but not all – people can survive without matches from time to time. “Manchester City and Arsenal are out in the quarter-finals, it’s just not a reflection of quality. I would like to be part of that meeting when someone says, ‘Liverpool 12.30’ and the whole room bursts into laughter. I would like to be thereJurgen Klopp”We are out in the quarter-finals. Yes other countries have good teams, it’s not about that – it’s a sign.“We have to change our approach. That’s how it is. When I speak about it they think it’s because of our situation, if we lost the last game. “But it’s a general problem. Nothing to do with our schedule now. They dare to give Thursday, Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday 12.30 – it’s a crime!Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.

      “I was waiting for Amnesty International to go to them. I would like to be part of that meeting when someone says, ‘Liverpool 12.30’ and the whole room bursts into [laughter]. “I would like to be there. The quickest turnaround in the whole world… Liverpool!“They say you have to fight more and go for it. It’s absolutely insane. But they are still happy. “They like subscribers, you can take me off that list. If you are ever looking for a pundit, I speak English and could do it, but… what was the question by the way?”Klopp and Liverpool talisman Mo Salah were spotted rowing on the touchline in last week’s draw at West Ham.And talk of a rift between them escalated after the forward’s post-match remarks.However, the departing boss has rubbished any talk of a fall-out, saying: “Completely resolved.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s not a problem. We have known each other for (a long time) and respect each other. “We have a right to deal with these things completely independently. It’s a non-story.”Klopp says English football’s schedule is killing our sides in EuropeCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag admits Rasmus Hojlund was his SECOND choice striker transfer in brutally honest interview

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      ERIK TEN HAG has lifted the lid on Manchester United’s hunt for a new striker last summer.The Red Devils parted with £72million to bring Rasmus Hojlund to Old Trafford from Atalanta.Erik ten Hag has revealed Rasmus Hojlund was Manchester United’s second choice targetCredit: GettyUnited tried to sign Harry Kane before his move to Bayern Munich last summerCredit: GettyHowever, they were also strongly linked with Harry Kane and pushed to sign the England captain before he joined Bayern Munich.Kane has gone on to break multiple scoring records with his 43 goals in 43 appearances for the German giants.Meanwhile, Hojlund had to wait until Boxing Day for his first Premier League goal and is currently on a run of one goal in six league matches.The Danish forward has scored 14 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions, though, including a run of scoring in six consecutive league matches after breaking his duck in December.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSTen Hag has now revealed Hojlund was only their second choice and explained the decision to sign him after missing out on Kane.Discussing the type of players United can sign, he told Gary Neville on Sky Sports: “That can only be outstanding players.”That’s players who have all the skill sets, that is the physical and especially the mental skill set they need to perform and contribute because we have to win every game. “There’s an expectation around every game from us so you can only fulfil that expectation when you have those outstanding players.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      “But in the last decade and in this period, we couldn’t always get the players we wanted. But then you have to build and you have to accept that you get talent in instead of players who already proved it in the past.”We have had some choices made with talents like Rasmus Hojlund. I can see a striker who already proved it, who we wanted to sign and we couldn’t get him. And then we went to Rasmus because he’s a talent.”Manchester United’s fall from glory since Sir Alex Ferguson Asked if he was referring to Kane, Ten Hag added: “Yes, and you know Harry Kane will get you 30 goals.”I think Rasmus will get there, but he needs time. It’s not fair to assess him the same as Harry Kane. I would never compare two players because they are very different.”But with Hojlund, I think we had the biggest potential in the striker position last summer and we are very happy with him. But he also needs time to adapt and we are very pleased he showed his assets in scoring goals.”Hojlund has been installed as a part of United’s long-term project since his arrival last summer.Despite the Red Devils planning a squad overhaul ahead of next season, he is seen as “untouchable” by the club.Fellow youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho complete the trio of players who are not for sale this summer. More

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      Man City star Phil Foden named Player of the Year beating Declan Rice and Rodri to top award after stunning season

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      PHIL FODEN has been rewarded for his outstanding season by being named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers Association.The Manchester City midfielder has scored 24 goals to help put his boyhood club on course for a Premier League and FA Cup double.Phil Foden has been named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers AssociationCredit: GettyHe pipped Arsenal’s Declan Rice and team-mate Rodri to the prizeCredit: GettyAnd his efforts were recognised by FWA members – as he earned 42 per cent of the vote to scoop the prestigious award.His England team-mate Declan Rice, who has enjoyed an excellent first campaign at Arsenal, was second.Meanwhile Foden’s fellow City star Rodri – who has not lost a game with the club in 15 months – was third.Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa and Chelsea’s summer signing Cole Palmer made up the top six.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut Foden is the third player from the Etihad to receive the FWA award, which Sir Stanley Matthews first won in 1948, in the last four years after Ruben Dias in 2021 and Erling Haaland last season.He said: “Being named the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year is a huge honour.“I’m very, very happy to receive this award but I could not have done it without the help of my team-mates.“We have a very special squad of players at City, and I’m privileged to be a part of that group.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I want to thank all my team-mates as well as Pep and the coaches for all the support and advice they have given me.“I strive to be the best that I can be every single day and that is all down to the way the manager and my colleagues always seek to improve and get better.Every Premier League club’s most famous and also most surprising fan“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted for me as well as my fellow nominees.”It is also a double celebration for City as forward Khadija Shaw was named Women’s Footballer of the Year by the association.The Jamaican, 27, and Chelsea’s Lauren James dominated a record vote – receiving 80 per cent between them.But it was Shaw who edged it – becoming the first City player to win since Nikita Paris in 2019.And the news will be a welcome tonic for her as earlier this week she had surgery on a broken foot which will rule her out for the remainder of the season.Three ways Phil Foden has been transformed into Man City, and England’s, most important playerBy Lee Scott
      PHIL FODEN ran away with the voting for Footballer of the Year – and it’s easy to see why.
      Foden has been transformed into Man City’s new David Silva and England’s Euro 2024 swiss army knife.
      Initially used sparingly by Pep Guardiola, the Stockport technician has become a key player for City.
      Foden’s his tactical intelligence and game understanding make him stand out week in, week out – even in City’s team of expensively-assembled superstars.
      From playing the final pass and running between the lines to leading the press, Foden really can do it all.
      Click here to read our tactical analysis of the Premier League’s best player.

      But she still looks set to finish as the WSL’s top scorer as Gareth Taylor’s side close in on the league title.Three of her club mates also finished in the top six with Alex Greenwood third, Yui Hasegawa fourth and Khiara Keating in sixth.Brighton’s Norwegian striker Elisabeth Terland broke up the sequence by finishing fifth.Shaw said: “I am very proud and privileged to have received this award and to be recognised in this way is a special honour.“I want to also thank all of my team-mates. They provide me with the chances to score goals and I could not have won this award without them.“I also owe such a lot to Gareth, the rest of the coaching team and everyone else here at City. It’s a pleasure to be part of such a special group.“Many thanks to all who voted for me and to my fellow nominees. It means such a lot to have won this award.“Hopefully the side can now finish off the season in style and give everyone special cause to celebrate.”It is the first time in five years that a City player has won both the men’s and women’s award.It was double delight for City as Khadija Shaw scooped the women’s prizeCredit: AlamyLast time it happened was 2019 when Paris and Raheem Sterling topped the votes.A total of 18 players got votes in the men’s section.The others were: Virgil Van Dijk, Mo Salah, Bukayo Saka, Bruno Guimares, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, John McGinn, Ross Barkley, Alexis Mac Allister, Diogo Dalot, Son Heung Min and Jarrod Bowen.Meanwhile, the other players to get votes for the women’s award were: Erin Cuthbert, Sjoeke Nusken, Lauren Hemp, Alessia Russo, Ella Toone, Katie McCabe, Ashleigh Neville,READ MORE SUN STORIESMillie Turner, Niamh Charles, Fuka Nagano, Taylor Hinds and Jess Carter.Both winners will be honoured at the Footballer of the Year dinner in London on Thursday May 16.Inside humble Phil Foden’s family lifeBy Jon Boon
      PHIL FODEN may be flashy on the pitch, but the Premier League’s Player of the Year is a humble family man off it.
      The Man City superstar earns an astonishing salary believed to be £11.7million-per-year.
      But the Stockport kid is frugal with his cash as he enjoys his down time with childhood sweetheart Rebecca and their two kids.
      Foden only passed his driving test last year… and turns up for training in City’s glittering club car park in a £40k VOLKSWAGEN.
      And in his spare time he loves nothing more than a FISHING trip.
      He celebrated his first big City contract by buying his mum and dad a Cheshire mansion and lives with them until 2021.
      But Foden has now splashed out on a luxury £3million mansion for his own growing family.
      Click here for to find out all about Foden’s glamorous life… More

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      Chelsea eye £9m transfer to solve problem position with ex-Arsenal star who last played in Premier League 9 years ago

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      CHELSEA are reportedly plotting a shock swoop to bring an ex-Arsenal star back to London.Transfer business between the clubs has grown over recent years with both Jorginho and Kai Havertz heading from the Blues to the Emirates.Ex-Arsenal star Wojciech Szczesny has emerged as a shock taget for ChelseaCredit: AlamyWojciech Szczesny has been on top form this seasonBut this ace last played in the Premier League nine years and has since won several big prizes in Italy.Now Mauricio Pochettino could allegedly move to try and snap him up and solve a problem position.Todd Boehly has splashed out over £1billion on players since he took over at Stamford Bridge.That has seen both goalkeepers Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic arrive at the club.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Spaniard, 26, started the campaign as first-choice after last summer’s move from Brighton.However, an injury allowed Serbian Petrovic, who joined in August from New England Revolution, the chance to shine and he’s kept the No.1 spot since.But Tutto Juve is suggesting that Poch is still not happy with his goalie options.And they state that Chelsea could be set to make another signing in that department by targeting Juventus’ Wojciech Szczesny.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 34-year-old is believed to be available for around £8.5m and Monza’s Michele Di Gregorio is already looking to replace him.He still has a year remaining on his deal, which is widely-reported to be worth around £125,000-a-week.Pochettino speaks out after Chelsea’s brilliant 2-0 win over Spurs.mp4But the Italian club wants to reduce their wage bill and the Polish international is one of those they are said to be prepared to listen to offers for.Szczesny has made 32 appearances in Serie A so far this season and kept 15 clean sheets as they sit third in the top-flight.He already has experience of England having spent 11 years at Arsenal from 2006 when he joined their academy from Legia Warsaw.The ace made his debut under Arsene Wenger in 2009 and played 181 times for the Gunners after gaining experience on loan at Brentford.Dave Kidd: Why I’ve voted for Cole Palmer to be Footballer of the Year despite Chelsea woesBy Dave Kidd
      THE voting for the Footballer of the Year award closes on Tuesday and, unlike many, I’ve gone for Cole Palmer.
      Most Football Writers’ Association members vote by starting with the likely Prem champs and work backwards. So the winner will be Phil Foden, Rodri, Declan Rice or Martin Odegaard.
      There is dissent if a player from a less successful team wins, like David Ginola from mid-table Spurs in Manchester United’s ’99 Treble- winning year.
      But enjoying a superb individual season in a poor team is a greater achievement.
      And for Palmer — just 21 and in his first season as a regular starter — to have chalked up 23 goals and 13 assists in such a basket-case team as Chelsea, makes him this season’s outstanding player.
      Read Dave Kidd’s full column here
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.

      He remains a popular figure with supporters after helping them to two FA Cup successes.However, he grew tired of waiting to be No.1 and, after a two-year loan at Roma, he left permanently for Juventus in 2017.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince then he has won Serie A three times and also has two Coppa Italia medals in his collection.Szczesny has played 249 times in total for the Old Lady.Wojciech Szczesny – The CVAll you need to know about the 34-year-old goalie:
      Clubs:
      Arsenal, Brentford (loan), Roma, Juventus
      International:
      Poland (81 caps)
      Club honours:
      Arsenal
      FA Cup (2014, 2015)
      Community Shield (2014)
      Juventus
      Serie A (2018, 2019, 2020)
      Coppa Italia (2018, 2021)
      Italian Super Cup (2018, 2020)

      The Pole spent seven years at Arsenal under Arsene WengerCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      Germany swiped extra Champions League spot from entitled Premier League while keeping fans happy – they put us to shame

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      WHAT a good week to be German — a sentence you never thought you would read in this newspaper.But confirmation that the coveted fifth place in next season’s expanded Champions League is heading to the Bundesliga instead of the Premier League caps a stunning few days for our noisy neighbours across the North Sea.Borussia Dortmund’s players genuinely shared their joy with fansCredit: ReutersHarry Kane notched a penalty for Bayern in a 2-2 draw with Real MadridCredit: APHow impressive to see Borussia Dortmund’s deliriously exhausted players celebrating Wednesday’s win over Paris Saint-Germain with the massed hordes standing on the famous Yellow Wall at their monstrous stadium.And the night before with the brilliant, cosmic glow of red neon strip lights illuminating Bayern Munich’s admirable fightback against Real Madrid.Two mighty German clubs, each with one foot in the Champions League final.If the irony is lost on you that more than 90,000 Germans could be descending on Wembley next month to contest the biggest game in club football, it shouldn’t be.READ MORE TOP STORIESWhen Uefa announced an extra place for the league performing the best overall in Europe this season, you could almost smell the sense of entitlement in the Premier League.State-backed Manchester City and Newcastle, Arsenal and Manchester United flying the flag for the blue-chip corporations of England? What could possibly go wrong?For the 20-team conglomerate whose unofficial motto is ‘here comes money’ it looked a shoo-in that it would lead to a fifth team from England asserting the Prem brand authority.Instead the prize for ‘best all-round effort’ is going to a league where there remains some notion of perspective.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhere the clubs are not allowed to ‘squeeze the lemons’ of the fans until the pips squeak even if they want to.Dortmund match-winner Niclas Fullkrug is not a particularly good dancer.Five things you didn’t know about Jadon SanchoBut the sight of his awkward arms-flapping, skip jive in full view of 81,000 fans during the post-match party on the pitch only fuels the feeling that German  football possesses something we do not. And it’s not money.German clubs are closer than ever to their supporters, just as English ones are growing further and further apart.Estimates put Fullkrug’s weekly pay at around £130,000 a week. That is comparable to some in the Premier League but it wouldn’t be a standout wage.Moreover, he has worked his way up from humble beginnings, playing second-tier football with Werder Bremen and Hannover, suffering dreadful injuries along the way.At 31, Fullkrug is believed to have earned less than £3million altogether before his move to Dortmund. His misfortune and spirited nature appeal to the fans.There are widespread discrepancies in pay levels like there are here. But there is no need to even mention pay caps for players in Germany like there is here.Ticket prices for Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final against PSG were as little as £17.Buy a ticket for any game and public transport within the city limits comes free. Germany is a big country. When clubs and TV colluded with the idea of Monday night football, it was met with tennis balls lobbed on pitches during games, angry demos and was quickly binned.No sending Newcastle fans to Arsenal for an 8pm Saturday kick-off.Bayern ended their association with Qatari Airways last June because it did not sit well with fans unhappy about allegations of human rights abuses in the Middle Eastern state.At the Allianz Arena, it is half price for pensioners. Let’s see what happens if Bayern tried scrapping that like they are at Spurs. Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern’s Bundesliga title gripCredit: GettyThe Prem clubs will argue that the ‘50 per cent plus one’ rule placing fans in majority ownership of German teams makes the league unwieldy, unable to operate as efficient businesses and uncompetitive.Bayer Leverkusen just won their first Bundesliga title. Bayern are the only team in the current top four who also finished there last season. Leverkusen are in the semi-finals of the Europa League.It’s almost as if German football is run for the people who fill its grounds, create the atmospheres and act as the lifeblood of the game. It’ll never catch on here.How very obviousHOWARD WEBB has revealed “football’s played by human beings and officiated by human beings”.Webb was a copper before he became  the most senior referee in the country but you do not need to be Sherlock Holmes to work out his  latest pearl of wisdom for yourself.Of course, his comments come after  an almighty ruck erupted because Nottingham Forest should have had a penalty against Everton last month.Webb’s effective public apology for a mistake by match ref Anthony Taylor points to the fact people get things wrong. It’s called the human condition.Yet the whole theory behind the introduction of hated VAR technology was to move away from the margins of error caused by malfunctions in the human brain.The umpteen cameras and replay facilities were — by design — supposed to eradicate discrepancies. But now  Webb has testified to confirm what most of us already thought.That is, until players, managers, fans, refs, assistant officials and VARs are replaced entirely by Artificial Intelligence or eagle-eyed gizmos with faster reaction speeds than a snail on Valium, there will still sometimes be the odd cock-up.Which means, m’lud, that VAR has only added another layer of potential arguments to a sport already riddled with angry people fired up by a burning sense of injustice.Therefore we can all deduce that it has merely just added to the  beautiful game’s existing problems instead of solving them.And, therefore, it should be scrapped with immediate effect.No further questions, Mr Webb. I rest my case.Infamy, infamy, they’ve all pot it in for meFAREWELL, Rocket Ronnie. Snooker’s greatest showman tumbled out of the World Championship with a typically colourful exit.If Ronnie O’Sullivan were a footballer, he would be strung up on an FA charge for claiming some referees ‘have got it in for me’ as a parting shot.Ronnie O’Sullivan congratulates his conqueror Stuart BinghamCredit: ReutersHopefully he won’t be punished, though, because O’Sullivan going out in the quarter-finals for the second year in a row is more of a blow for the tournament than it is for him.There are three qualifiers and the world No 12 left to fight for the biggest prize in the sport.O’Sullivan has had run-ins with snooker’s authorities before amid suggestions that no single player is bigger than the game itself.Let’s see what happens to the interest in events at the Crucible from now until Monday’s finale and then decide, shall we?Bax lyrical over dedicated keeperBOLTON play at Barnsley tonight in their League One play-off semi-final first leg.In goal for them will be Nathan Baxter, formerly of Chelsea, who went out on loan to seven clubs to gain experience.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne spell was at Scottish Prem side Ross County, where he barely played due to injury and was sent back to London for treatment.Baxter, now 25, paid his own air fares to fly to Scotland regularly just to remain part of the squad. If anyone deserves a bit of success, it is him. More

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      Ange Postecoglou’s four-word blast at Tottenham flops caught on camera as Gary Neville says ‘he’s snapped’

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU was accused of losing it with his players in a four-word tirade caught on camera in Spurs’ costly 2-0 defeat at Chelsea.Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville reckoned the manager singled out two of his Tottenham stars and “snapped”.Ange Postecoglou was furious during what could prove a costly defeatPostecoglou was seen screaming “Stop passing it backwards!” as Spurs struggled to create anything meaningful in a tame Premier League loss.Tottenham, in fifth, are now seven points off fourth-placed Aston Villa in the hunt for Champions League places.Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino’s Blues are suddenly scenting a European spot themselves.Victory via Trevoh Chalobah’s header and Nicolas Jackson’s rebound nod-in put Chelsea eighth, two points off Newcastle just above them.READ MORE TOP STORIESPostecoglou, normally so calm, launched a stern-faced blast from the touchline at Stamford Bridge.Manchester United legend Neville responded: ”He is having a right go at (Pape Matar) Sarr, he’s having a right go at (Cristian) Romero, he has snapped, has Postecoglou.”But many fans on social media blamed the ex-Celtic chief himself – claiming his tactics are now being found out.Other Spurs fans are fed up with their dead-ball defending.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOne posted: “It’s literally his football that’s got us in this absolute state.”Another argued: “Can’t defend set pieces, but there isn’t a problem with that… The football is awful.”Frank Warren reveals he was ‘quite close’ to joining Premier League club despite being massive Arsenal fanA third wrote: “Been found out. Needs a plan b (and better players).”And one observer suggested Poctecoglou is already worried chairman Daniel Levy will sack him – as Spurs risk fading after a brilliant start to the season.That fan said: “He knows he’s under pressure. He knows Levy will get rid if this gets worse.”Spurs’ set piece woesBY TOM BARCLAY
      ANGE POSTECOGLOU took the blame after another set-piece disaster left Tottenham’s Champions League hopes hanging by a thread.
      Trevoh Chalobah and Nicolas Jackson headed home from free-kicks to take the number of goals Spurs have shipped from dead-ball situations to SIXTEEN this season, excluding penalties.
      Only Luton, Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest have conceded more in a week where Postecoglou downplayed the importance of set-pieces.
      “We didn’t have the mindset that I expect us to have. That’s on me, I’ve got to take responsibility for that.
      “I’m the one putting them out there and preparing them for it. When we’re so far off it, I’ve got to look at myself and see how I’m preparing this team for it.
      “We lacked a real conviction and positive mindset in our football. We didn’t really have any fluency, any sort of aggression with and without the ball.
      “It’s a bit unlike us because if nothing else we’ve always been competitive.”
      He later added: “We had bigger issues tonight than set pieces.”

      Chelsea were more clinical than the visitors More

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      Chelsea ratings: Badiashile gives Rolls-Royce performance to keep Richarlison quiet but Cucurella nearly cost Blues goal

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      CHELSEA extended their brilliant run at home to Tottenham – thanks to two headers.The Blues have not lost at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League to their fierce rivals since April 2018.Trevoh Chalobah celebrates his first goal since March 2022Credit: GettyChelsea continued their excellent record against TottenhamCredit: EPAAnd Trevoh Chalobah and Nicolas Jackson ensured Mauricio Pochettino did not let that record slip against his former employers.The pair found the net either side of half-time from two very different free-kicks that ended up with the same outcome: the ball in the back of the net and the home fans going bananas. Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Mauricio Pochettino’s men…Djordje Petrovic – 6Completely uninvolved for opening stages before a smart low stop to turn away a cross – then did the same seconds after the break. read more on footballThat was just about that for the Serbian stopper. Alfie Gilchrist – 6Could not resist the cry of 40,000 Chelsea fans screaming “shooooot” as the ball fell kindly to him on the corner of the box – but the right-back couldn’t keep his sweet drive down.Outjumped at the back post by Cristian Romero who should have equalised but failed to find the target with his close-range header – where have we heard that before this week?Limped off with five minutes to go having put in a top shift against some quality attackers. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTrevoh Chalobah – 9Sent Stamford Bridge into raptures with his cracking, old-school header after evading his marker at the back post. His first goal since March 2022 – and he had even longer to wait as VAR checked offside and a foul but eventually it was confirmed… well worth the extra few minutes. Jose Mourinho’s iconic first Chelsea press conferenceThen made a vital last-ditch challenge to deny Pape Sarr just before half-time and produced another fine sliding tackle to dispossess Son Heung-min. Benoit Badiashile – 9In the week Thiago Silva announced his exit, Badiashile showed what Chelsea fans can expect for years to come with a Rolls-Royce performance keeping Richarlison very quiet. So much so that the Brazilian was dragged off on the hour having offered absolutely nothing – well, 18 touches to be precise. Organised the back four, solid throughout and confident stepping out with the ball. Excellent. Benoit Badiashile was immense from the first whistle to the lastCredit: ReutersChalobah leapt highest to thunder a header home on 24 minutesCredit: ReutersMarc Cucurella – 5Caught out of position a couple of times early on then touch let him down at other end in great position. Could have been in Chalobah’s bad books if he was penalised for a cynical off-the-ball block before the goal.Did make an important intervention as Spurs built pressure, though, and was fortunate to win the very soft free-kick for second goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Chelsea fans showed their love for the skipper before kick-off with a giant tifo unfurled up The Shed. And the captain delivered with a peach of a free-kick delivery to the back post for Chalobah to open the scoring. Helped provide calm head in what is always an emotional game, constantly barking out orders and instructions to his team-mates.Moises Caicedo – 6Again seemed to thrive with a bit more freedom in the absence of fellow £100million-plus midfield partner Enzo Fernandez. Just put too much weight on a through ball that could have set Nicolas Jackson through for a one-on-one – should have done better, really. The home fans revealed a massive tifo in support of their skipper Conor Gallagher before kick-offCredit: ReutersMarc Cucurella could have been penalised for his blockCredit: Sky SportsThe Spanish left-back was not at his best in the derbyCredit: GettyNoni Madueke – 7Might have had his heart in his mouth when tussling with Emerson Royal in Blues area, but the Spurs man’s theatrical fall did not help his penalty appeals. At the other end, his eyes lit up as he flashed a fizzing effort just over.Very much won his battle with Emerson Royal and often made the right decision – even if it did not yield a goal. There’s a lot to like about the winger when he’s on song. Cole Palmer – 8Had no chance with early open goal as ball smashed at him and just couldn’t sort his feet out in time. As usual, effortlessly carried the ball forward with that languid style of his – but was a bit too casual with his first-time effort early in second half. Desperately, desperately unlucky not to make it 2-0 when his pearler of a free-kick flew over the wall and crashed against the underside of the bar… thankfully Jackson was following in. Cole Palmer could not sort his feet out in time with an open goalCredit: Sky SportsPalmer came within centimetres of getting Chelsea’s secondCredit: GettyNoni Madueke was not punished after Emerson Royal went down too easilyCredit: RexMykhailo Mudryk – 7Certainly Chelsea’s liveliest player in the first half.Constantly wanted to get on the ball and cause havoc for the Spurs defence – creating plenty of chances before curling one of his own beyond the far post. A few hits and a few misses – the story of his Chelsea career so far. Much quieter after the break.Nicolas Jackson – 7Less than 90 seconds on the clock when he got into his first spat with Cristian Romero. Who had minute two on the sweepstake?READ MORE SUN STORIESThree minutes later was in behind the Argentine and should have scored but Guglielmo Vicario and Micky van der Ven combined to just about clear.Did get the goal for his efforts on 72 minutes, though, as he reacted first to that Palmer free-kick and looped a header over three Spurs men on the line, cue bedlam inside the Bridge. Mykhailo Mudryk was lively throughoutCredit: ReutersNicolas Jackson did very well to head in when Cole Palmer’s effort came back off the crossbarCredit: RexSUBSCesare Casadei (for Mudryk, 75 mins) – 6Josh Acheampong (for Gilchrist, 85 mins) – N/AJimi Tauriainen (for Jackson, 90 mins) – N/AChelsea’s bench was full of youngstersCredit: Getty More