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      Premier League’s ‘most disliked player’ joins condemnation of Man Utd ace Antony as he says ‘not even I would do this’

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      NEAL MAUPAY, who dubbed himself the Premier League’s “most disliked player”, has slammed Manchester United flop Antony for his antics against Coventry City.The Red Devils narrowly avoided a major upset as they snuck into the FA Cup final on penalties.Antony has been slammed by Neal Maupay for his celebrations against CoventryCredit: GettyAntony cupped his ears as Man Utd avoided an embarrassing defeatCredit: RexUnited were leading 3-0 before Coventry scored three of their own to send the game to extra time.The Championship outfit then netted a dramatic 120th winner, only for VAR to controversially rule it out for offside.United then went on to win the shootout, despite Casemiro missing their very first effort.Rasmus Hojlund netted the decisive penalty but was left hanging after initially celebrating wildly with fans.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAnd despite almost all of United’s players appearing to look highly embarrassed by their performance, Antony also decided to toast the moment.As his teammates remained still, with some of them going to shake the hands of Coventry’s brave battlers, Antony got other ideas.He instead sprinted towards Hojlund, who was already at the advertising boards with United supporters.As Antony charged, he turned around to Coventry’s broken-hearted stars and unbelievably cupped his ears to rub their faces in the defeat.Most read in FootballMan Utd star Diogo Dalot builds the ‘worst footballer in history’ with the left foot of AntonyMaupay has clashed with numerous players but says he would not have celebrated like AntonyCredit: GettyKyle Walker threatened to ‘knock out’ Maupay in one matchCredit: GettyAntony’s unsporting conduct was roundly condemned by fans and pundits alike, especially after such a dismal performance from the Brazilian and his United pals.Now, even the Premier League’s No1 wind-up merchant Maupay has declared it was a step too far.The Brentford striker, on loan from Everton, has clashed with numerous players this season.His antics on the field saw Maupay crown himself the league’s “most disliked footballer.”The Frenchman clashed with James Maddison by copying the Tottenham star’s celebration, with Richarlison also getting involved.And Maupay also collided with Kyle Walker, with the Man City star threatening to “knock him out.”But even he wouldn’t have stooped so low to celebrate a win like Antony did under the circumstances.Taking to social media, while posting a clip of Antony’s reaction, Maupay said: “Just for the record, not even I would do this.”Our beautiful game is brokenBy Dave Kidd
      When Manchester United got lucky in their FA Cup semi-final, Antony’s first instinct was to goad heartbroken opponents Coventry. To rub their noses in the dirt.
      Antony seems to be a vile individual but this isn’t really about Antony. Because Antony is merely a symptom of the hideous sickness within England’s top flight.
      There is so much wrong.
      After our elite clubs persuaded the FA to completely scrap Cup replays — which gave us Ronnie Radford and Ricky Villa and Ryan Giggs — without due recompense or reasoning with the rest of English football.
      The previous day, after his Manchester City side had defeated Chelsea in the other FA Cup semi-final, Pep Guardiola whinged about the fixture scheduling of TV companies who effectively pay much of his £20m salary.
      Up at Wolves, Guardiola’s friend and rival Mikel Arteta was playing the same sad song about fixture congestion, despite his Arsenal side having played two fewer games this season than Coventry — who don’t have £50m squad players to rotate with.
      Chelsea, oh Chelsea. The one-time plaything of a Russian oligarch now owned by financially incontinent venture capitalists who have piddled £1billion on a squad of players who fight like weasels in a sack about who should bask in the personal glory of scoring the penalty that puts them 5-0 up against Everton.
      Read Dave Kidd’s full column as he takes aim at Nottingham Forest, Fulham’s ticket prices, the 39th game, VAR and much more… More

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      Unai Emery signs Aston Villa contract extension in blow to Bayern Munich and Premier League giants

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      UNAI EMERY has committed his long term future to Aston Villa by signing a one-year extension to his contract.The news will come as a blow to Bayern Munich who had identified the 52-year-old Spaniard as their preferred candidate to replace Thomas Tuchel this summer.Unai Emery has committed his future to Aston VillaCredit: GettyThe Spaniard has ended Bayern Munich’s hopes of landing himCredit: GettyIt will also rule out Manchester United and Liverpool from targeting the former PSG, Arsenal, Sevilla and Valencia boss.Villa moved swiftly to extend Emery’s current deal, which already had three years to run, after a sensational season.He has led Villa to fourth place in the Premier League and to their first European semi-final in 42 years.The club’s billionaire owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens are so delighted with the transformation he has brought about at Villa they intend to sit down with Emery this summer to prolong the deal even further.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey believe they currently have one of the best bosses in Europe, who is on a par with Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp and who could become their version of Sir Alex Ferguson.They have backed Emery since he arrived from Villarreal on a four-and-a-half year deal in October 2022.That was when Villa were languishing in 17th place in the Premier League.Emery has had a major say in every significant club appointment since from Head of Recruitment Monchi, down to his large staff of coaches and video analysts.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERIt is that autonomy which has allowed Emery to control almost every aspect of life at Villa, which the likes of Bayern could never grant him.Emery is understood to love the project he has taken on at Villa and the power he has due to the trust the owners have placed in him.Former Aston Villa CEO joins fans in Unai Emery chant at Stamford Bridge away end during Chelsea winNews of Emery’s contract extension until 2027 will be greeted with joy by Villa’s players such as Ollie Watkins and skipper John McGinn, who have seen their own performances soar under the gifted Spanish coach.Villa fans will also rejoice at the news Emery has turned his back on some of the giants of the European game to commit his future to their club, in what will come as a huge boost for the remainder of their season.Emery takes his side to Chelsea on Saturday looking to take another step towards Champions League qualification.They are currently fourth in the top-flight, three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham having played two games more.Villa have a trip to Brighton and a home clash with title-chasing Liverpool to go before their final day showdown with Crystal Palace.However, they also have a two-legged Europa Conference League semi-final with Greek giants Olympiacos to navigate.The winner of that will face the victors of Fiorentina and Club Brugge in the final next month.Our beautiful game is brokenBy Dave Kidd
      When Manchester United got lucky in their FA Cup semi-final, Antony’s first instinct was to goad heartbroken opponents Coventry. To rub their noses in the dirt.
      Antony seems to be a vile individual but this isn’t really about Antony. Because Antony is merely a symptom of the hideous sickness within England’s top flight.
      There is so much wrong.
      After our elite clubs persuaded the FA to completely scrap Cup replays — which gave us Ronnie Radford and Ricky Villa and Ryan Giggs — without due recompense or reasoning with the rest of English football.
      The previous day, after his Manchester City side had defeated Chelsea in the other FA Cup semi-final, Pep Guardiola whinged about the fixture scheduling of TV companies who effectively pay much of his £20m salary.
      Up at Wolves, Guardiola’s friend and rival Mikel Arteta was playing the same sad song about fixture congestion, despite his Arsenal side having played two fewer games this season than Coventry — who don’t have £50m squad players to rotate with.
      Chelsea, oh Chelsea. The one-time plaything of a Russian oligarch now owned by financially incontinent venture capitalists who have piddled £1billion on a squad of players who fight like weasels in a sack about who should bask in the personal glory of scoring the penalty that puts them 5-0 up against Everton.
      Read Dave Kidd’s full column as he takes aim at Nottingham Forest, Fulham’s ticket prices, the 39th game, VAR and much more… More

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      ‘Antony plays like he’s s*** himself’, says ex-Chelsea star in withering attack on ‘pathetic’ Man Utd flop

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      FORMER Chelsea star Khalid Boulahrouz has launched a blistering attack on Antony after the winger taunted Manchester United’s FA Cup rivals.Former Holland international Boulahrouz dubbed the £85million buy from Ajax a “pathetic” waste of money – who plays every game as though he has SOILED HIMSELF.Antony has been heavily criticised for his behaviour and performancesCredit: GettyFormer Chelsea man Khalid Boulahrouz described Antony as ‘pathetic’Credit: ReutersUnited sneaked past Coventry City into the FA Cup final on penalties on Sunday after the Championship club staged an epic comeback to draw 3-3, and had a winner ruled out by VAR.Antony then goaded the Sky Blues with an ear-cupping celebration while most of his team-mates remained embarrassed at going through.Boulahrouz, an £8.5m Chelsea buy from Hamburg in 2006, has now savaged the 24-year-old on Dutch TV.The 42-year-old told Rondo: “Antony’s behaviour was completely uncalled for. I think it was a bit pathetic.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”He completely failed to understand the situation he is in, and the way his team had just performed.”He is truly the last person who should be acting this way.”He has been signed for 100 million euros and he plays every game as though he has s*** in his pants.”As far as I know he has just provided one assist, and not scored any goals [in the Premier League this season].Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAntony mocked the Coventry players after Manchester United’s winning penaltyCredit: RexHe has been largely disappointing since arriving for £85million in 2022Credit: Rex”And what about Coventry, whose players put in a terrific performance?”You simply have to afford them respect, and congratulate them. You should leave the pitch as a gentleman, and he should be deeply ashamed.Man Utd stars accused of playing up to ITV cameras with ‘classy’ gesture after FA Cup penalty shootout win over Coventry”If I was Antony’s team-mate I would tell him: ‘You ought to be ashamed, man. Behave yourself!'”Boulahrouz won 35 Netherlands caps and made 20 appearances for Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea side.He also played for Sevilla, Stuttgart, Sporting Lisbon and Feyenoord, and helped Holland reach the 2010 World Cup final.I’ve covered Man Utd for 25 years – that win over Coventry was biggest ever embarrassmentBy Neil Custis
      The win over Coventry was an embarrassment for Manchester United supporters, and one that will be felt for some time.
      In my 25 years covering the club, this was the biggest.
      Forget a 6-1 defeat at home to Manchester City, an aberration, this was the denouement of a long and sorry chapter in the club’s history.
      Fans briefly celebrated Rasmus Hojlund’s winning penalty in the shootout only because they felt they should.
      There was no such delight on the pitch, apart from the penalty taker and that clown Antony who had come on with the side well in control at 3-0.
      It was no coincidence they went into reverse when he imparted his questionable attributes on proceedings.
      Indeed his cupping of the ears to the Coventry players when Hojlund landed that final cruel blow, only added to the feelings of unease.
      Read Neil Custis’ full view on United’s Wembley shambles here.
      For more from Neil Custis click here.

      Boulahrouz also said Antony should feel ‘ashamed’ about his actionsCredit: RexAntony has just one goal contribution in the Premier League this season More

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      England star Anthony Gordon planning shock career change as Newcastle ace reveals his ‘calling’

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      NEWCASTLE UNITED’S in-form Anthony Gordon has revealed the secrets behind his success – and what he wants to do after football.The 23-year-old winger joined the Magpies from Everton in a £45million deal in January 2023.Anthony Gordon joined Gary Neville on the latest episode of The OverlapCredit: YouTubeThe winger has been in stunning form for Newcastle United this termCredit: GettyAfter a tricky start, he has blossomed this term since leaving his boyhood club and is now aiming for a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad.Gordon has scored 11 goals and produced eight assists this season for Newcastle and that led to him making his international debut against Brazil last month.This week he appeared on The Overlap, brought to you by Sky Bet, with Gary Neville.And the Liverpudlian explained his desire to go into psychology after hanging up his boots – despite previously hinting at a shock career change into photography.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGordon said: “I was speaking to some close friends about this [leadership] recently, because I feel my calling after football may have something to do with that – whether that be through football and management, or through the psychology route.“That may be my end goal – I’m not too sure yet, but I’m so invested in that stuff that it surely has to come to fruition at some point.“As a footballer, I lead by example rather than being a big speaker, I’m very quiet in the dressing room.”He then explained how he starts preparing for games two days in advance with meditation and visualisation.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERGordon said: “My preparation for a match will start two days before – three days will be set out to the minute. Thursday night, I’m fully switched on.“I try not to think too much about the game, it’s more so that I do a lot of meditation, visualisation, so that if a chance comes I feel like I’ve already lived it – all I have to do then is be present and trust my ability rather than overthink it.Gareth Southgate presents Kobbie Mainoo, Anthony Gordon and Ezri Konsa with England caps after their debuts v Brazil“I’ll visualise my opponent – I know what they’re going to do, what their habits will be. If I’m playing against a full-back who’s running – if he does a one-two around me, I’m going to put myself in that position of being tired and getting back, so that in the game it’s a lot easier.”He continued: “It [preparation] is more of a coping mechanism for how to handle pressure of playing.“That’s where the meditation and visualisation just allows me to react from a higher perspective than my own emotions. Being emotional is not the best – it’s no good in sports.“It’s not how you’d perceive it to be with your legs crossed, it’s just sitting in a room on your own, with no noise if possible, closing your eyes and getting in touch with your body through breathing, and letting the game run. “I start by arriving at the stadium, going through the warm-up, through the game, and ultimately trying to see how I want to feel after that game – and what I need to do to achieve that.”And despite his Everton roots, Gordon revealed that he has drawn inspiration from a Liverpool legend.He added: “My confidence comes from my preparation. I don’t know where it comes from, I wouldn’t say anyone round me is anything like that.“I just love learning stuff, and throughout my years growing up, I’ve taken a liking to learning about psychology.“There may be people who do the same thing as me, there may be loads who just haven’t spoken about it.“Some footballers like to think less, just turn up and play and trust their instincts. I just love the mindset of getting myself in that place before I’m already there.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I saw Mo Salah talk about it – that’s where I took even more interest, because I see him as an absolute machine and a winner.“People like that, you’re not going to go too far wrong following what they do.”Gordon made his England debut last month against BrazilCredit: PA More

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      Nottingham Forest updates — Premier League club demands VAR audio is released as points deduction appeal looms

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      NOTTINGHAM Forest have gone to war with the Premier League, FA and PGMOL.The Premier League club has issued a series of shocking reactions to their relegation six-pointer defeat to Everton.During the match, several decisions went against Forest, leading the club to demand VAR footage and audio be released to the public.The club went as far as to suggest VAR’s Stuart Attwell may have been biased against them.This comes as Forest’s appeal against their four-point punishment for breaching profit and sustainability rules (PSR) will be heard tomorrow, Wednesday, 24 April.Follow our live blog below for the latest news and updates…Premier league’s statement
      The Prem issued its own statement, saying it was “extremely disappointed” with Forest’s comments.
      They added: “It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules.”
      Forest could be charged under Prem Rules B.15 and B.16.
      Copy linkCopiedForest make demands
      Nottingham Forest have made their demand for the audio recordings of conversations between Attwell and ref Anthony Taylor to be played out on TV.
      A club spokesman said: “Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park. 
      “The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute).
      “We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.”
      Copy linkCopiedWebb insistent the claim that he was asked to take Attwell OFF the match is untrue
      Forest remain furious over the three penalty decisions that went against them in the relegation six-pointer while  Webb is insistent the central claim that he was asked to take Attwell OFF the match is simply untrue.
      Webb’s position is that, while he did receive a call from Clattenburg on Friday, it was to inform him that Forest thought Espirito Santo might be asked about Attwell’s appointment as VAR in his pre-match news conference.
      Managers and players have been warned that ANY pre-match comments about officials is an offence, although the question was then not asked.
      But Webb is adamant that Clattenburg categorically did not ask for the appointment to be changed and that Forest said they had no problem with it.
      Copy linkCopiedHow much are clubs allowed to lose under PSR?
      Clubs who are in the Prem for three seasons are limited to “allowable losses” – after calculations including the “amortisation” of transfer fees, stadium building and Covid-related expenditure are taken out – of £105m over three seasons.
      As Forest only had one top flight campaign, their limit was £61m.
      Forest, the Premier League argues, made losses greater than that number.
      Copy linkCopiedHow many points were Everton docked?
      Nottingham Forest aren’t the only Premier League side to be docked points this season.
      Everton were hit with a 10-point deduction earlier this season for breaching PSR.
      This was later reduced to six points.
      Copy linkCopiedCould Manchester City face a points deduction?
      Last February, Pep Guardiola’s team were hit with 115 allegations of breaching competition rules between 2009 and 2018 by the Premier League.
      The club denies all charges and has vowed to clear its name.
      These charges are far more complex than those levied at Everton and Forest.
      That means any punishment for the alleged rule breaches could take much longer to be announced.
      Copy linkCopiedAlan Shearer slams ’embarrassing’ Nottingham Forest statement in X-rated rant
      Alan Sheerer has taken aim at Nottingham Forest following their explosive Twitter statements.
      Slamming Forest’s complaints as “embarrassing”, Shearer told the Rest is Football podcast: “Honestly, before we go anywhere, let’s just say well done to Everton.
      “Very much like at the top of the table, at this stage of the season, it doesn’t matter how you play or what decisions you get, just get the three points, by hook or by crook. Everton got them and that’s all that matters.
      “But what the f*** are Forest doing putting that statement out? It’s an absolute embarrassment, isn’t it? ‘We told the PGMOL he was a Luton fan’. What on earth are they thinking about? It’s embarrassing.
      “I thought Anthony Taylor and Stuart Attwell had a terrible afternoon, but you can’t behave like that if you’re a top professional football club, one of the best, a team that has been amazing over the years, a European Cup and all of that.
      “Then behaving like that, there’s just no class to it. However angry you are, however upset you are, you cannot be putting statements out like that.”
      Credit: The Rest is Football
      Copy linkCopiedWhat has the Premier League said?
      The Premier League said it was “extremely disappointed” following Nottingham Forest’s explosive statements on Sunday and Monday.
      Writing on X, the league said: “The Premier League was extremely disappointed to read the comments made by Nottingham Forest on social media yesterday, following its match against Everton.
      “We note The FA has confirmed it will be investigating the club’s statement. It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules.”
      Copy linkCopiedWhat are Forest accused of?
      Nottingham Forest first admitted on December 31 when they filed their accounts for last season that they had breached the allowed Profitability and Sustainability limit.
      They finally admitted a breach of £34.536m.
      This breach has seen the side docked four points while in a crucial relegation battle.
      Copy linkCopiedGary Neville calls for Mark Clattenberg to resign
      Sky’s Gary Neville has demanded former Premier League ref Mark Clattenberg resign from his role as a consultant at Nottingham Forest.
      This comes after Forest shared a tweet slamming the Premier League for a series of decisions that went against them at Goodison Park this weekend.
      Neville said: “Mark Clattenberg must resign tonight.
      “If he saw those words go out in which question the integrity of a referee and claims someone is a cheat for supporting another club, then he’s supporting what is being said.
      “He would lose all credibility with referees in the game. He should stand down tonight and distance himself from that statement.
      “The statement is like a petulant child. It’s embarrassing.
      “Today has been a horrendous day for Nottingham Forest. Possibly horrendous because of the decisions that they’ve had, but horrendous for how they’ve reacted to the situation.
      “To mention the VAR official as being a Luton fan and inferring in some way that’s had an impact on the decision-making process and suggesting to me as a fan, thinking ‘has he cheated us’, you’re into really dangerous territory.”
      Copy linkCopiedPremier League demands explanation for Nuno’s comments
      The Premier League are demanding an explanation from Nottingham Forest regarding manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s comments after his team’s defeat to Everton.
      Espirito Santo’s interviews included him saying “it’s been clear what has been happening to us”  and suggesting “if we were in another country, we will start speaking about conspiracy.”
      In response, the FA said it had “formally requested observations” from Forest.
      Copy linkCopiedThe state of play
      Forest have four games to go and sit one point above the relegation zone.
      Here are the club’s remaining matches:

      Manchester City
      Sheffield United
      Chelsea
      Burnley

      Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest ‘consider SUING Sky’ after Gary Neville made ‘mafia gang’ claim
      Nottingham Forest are reportedly considering “suing” Sky after Gary Neville hit out at the club on live TV.
      In response to Forest’s recent statement, Neville said: “It’s like a mafia-gang statement. I mean, honestly, what the hell are they playing at? It’s like a petulant child, it’s embarrassing.
      “And some of those things they’re saying in there, the suggestion of some sort of inferring of cheating because there’s an official in VAR in Stockley Park who’s a Luton fan is a scandal, and they will pay for that.”
      Now, according to the Mail, Forest are considering legal action.

      Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest’s statement
      A club spokesman said: “Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park. 
      “The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute).
      “We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.”
      Copy linkCopiedPoints deduction appeal looms
      Looming in the background here is Nottingham Forest’s four-point deduction for alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules.
      The club’s appeal will be heard tomorrow, a moment that could make or break their season.
      Forest currently sit 17th, one point above the relegation zone.
      Copy linkCopiedThe claims from both sides…
      *Forest demands the public release of the conversations between ref Anthony Taylor and VAR Stuart Attwell
      *The FA announced they wanted urgent explanations from Nuno Espirito Santo, Neco William and ex-Prem whistler Mark Clattenburg
      *Forest then repeated allegations that refs’ chief Howard Webb was asked to take Luton fan Attwell off VAR duties for Sunday’s contentious Goodison clash before suggesting their “fears of a sideshow” had come true
      *Prem chiefs then signalling they will bring their OWN charges against Forest for the incendiary outing of Attwell as a Hatters supporter and implying he was biased against them.
      Copy linkCopiedWhat have Forest said?
      Following a series of decisions that went against Nottingham Forest in a relegation six-pointer vs Everton, the club released an astonishing statement.
      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. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”
      Yesterday the club released a fresh statement which can be read below…
      Following yesterday’s match at Everton, NFFC issued a statement highlighting our concern at the perception of the PGMOL appointment of VAR for the game. This was an issue we raised with PGMOL prior to the fixture because of the fear of the side show that would ensue if anything…— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) April 22, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedForest go to war with the Premier League
      Nottingham Forest are locked in a feud with the Prem, the FA AND PGMOL.
      An astonishing day of claim and counter-claim over the fall-out from Sunday’s defeat at Everton saw the club demand VAR audio is released.
      This comes just hours before the league will hear the club’s appeal for alleged PSR breaches.
      Copy linkCopiedHow much are clubs allowed to lose under PSR?
      Clubs who are in the Prem for three seasons are limited to “allowable losses” – after calculations including the “amortisation” of transfer fees, stadium building and Covid-related expenditure are taken out – of £105m over three seasons.
      As Forest only had one top flight campaign, their limit was £61m.
      Forest, the Premier League argues, made losses greater than that number.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘It looks like hard work but…’ – Bruno Fernandes slammed by ex-Man Utd title winner over deceptive aspect to play

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      MANCHESTER UNITED captain Bruno Fernandes has been branded “annoying” by club hero Lee Sharpe.Fernandes, 29, has worn United’s armband throughout a turbulent season that has seen Erik ten Hag’s men crash out of Europe and drift further away from the top four.Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been slammed by Lee SharpeCredit: GettySharpe criticised Fernandes’ antics and style of play which leaves his team-mates exposedCredit: GettyThe playmaker has often produced the goods in terms of workrate, goals and assists but has come under fire due to occasional tantrums that see him lashing out at his team-mates instead of instilling composure as skipper.Sharpe, 52, believes the Portugal international “lets himself down” as captain with that attitude.The ex-England international insists Fernandes “works hard” for the Red Devils but his game is “ill-disciplined” as his runs leave his team-mates exposed.Sharpe told BetVictor: “I have to say that Bruno Fernandes does annoy me. I’m not keen on him throwing himself around and throwing his arms in the air as the Manchester United captain. Read More on Man Utd”You have to keep your calm when others around you are losing their heads, but the hand waving, the gestures and the moaning is what I just don’t agree with at all. “You have to be a class above when you’re the captain of Manchester United and he lets himself down in that aspect.“He does work hard but I think he’s a bit ill-disciplined at times with his positional play. “Him running all over the place looks like hard work, but it leaves his team-mates exposed. He is hot and cold with me, parts of him are unbelievable but other parts I can take or leave.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“He does have the ability to produce something out of nothing and his work rate is second to none, but he does still give the ball away cheaply in dangerous areas. “He tries to play the killer ball too often when he could just keep possession. Against Liverpool I think he touched the ball seven or eight times and gave it away every time. EXCLUSIVE: I felt full force of Fergie’s hairdryer at Man Utd… he told me to sell my house and leave during Liverpool horror show”I turned to my mate and said, ‘He’ll score a wondergoal now’, then sure enough he went and scored from his own half!”Bruno Fernandes should be embarrassed by this… United fans were, says Neil CustisBy Neil Custis
      BRUNO FERNANDES ended the FA Cup semi-final a man bemused as to what he had been a part of.
      No doubt knowing it would be he would have to try and explain it all again.
      Rarely have a team slunk away from this stadium with a feeling of embarrassment having just reach an FA Cup Final.
      The next time Fernandes turns up at the home of football he wants to be heading up those metal steps and picking up silverware.
      Nothing less will do for the captain of Manchester United.
      But he knows they have not got a hope of gaining revenge on this cross town rivals Manchester City if this is what they are going to deliver.
      This was an embarrassment, plain and simple, for Ten Hag, for Fernandes, for every player in red.
      After the skipper finished his TV interview he turned around to the end that had housed the United fans to clap them in thanks.
      There was barely anyone left.
      Read Neil Custis’ opinion in full here.
      Or click here to read all of Neil’s article. More

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      Arsenal cult hero, 32, in line for shock role at Olympic Games with Thierry Henry ready to call him up to France team

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      FORMER Arsenal Alexandre Lacazette is “on the list” to play a surprise role at the Olympic Games for Thierry Henry.Lacazette, 32, has been capped 16 times by France during his career and scored three times for his country.Thierry Henry could spring a few surprises with his French Olympic squadCredit: GettyLyon’s Alexandre Lacazette could be going for Olympic gold this summerCredit: APHowever, he has not represented Les Bleus for SEVEN YEARS – but that could change at Paris 2024.Lacazette left Arsenal for Lyon in 2022 and he has been in sensational form for them since with 42 goals in 60 matches in the top-flight.Despite his prowess, his team were in the relegation zone after 16 games this term until Pierre Sage took over as manager.But Lacazette has fired eight goals since the turn of 2024 as the strugglers climbed up the table.READ MORE ON ARSENALThat form could be about to land the hitman a shot at winning a gold medal for his country.Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is the manager of France’s U21 side and will be in charge of the team that enter the Olympics this summer on home turf.He holds grand ambitions of being able to include Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud in his squad.And now Henry assistant, another ex-Arsenal ace in Gael Clichy, has told Telefoot that Lyon skipper Lacazette is also on the list.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERHe said: “I see that he has a lot of playing time, I see that he is decisive and above all I see that he is a captain. He is a part of this list.“Inevitably, there will be some surprises.”Gus Poyet explains why Arsenal are not out of Prem title hunt after Aston Villa heartbreakLacazette spent five years playing in London for Arsenal and scored 71 goals in 206 games under Arsene Wenger, Unai Emery and Mikel Arteta.He lifted the FA Cup in 2020 with the Gunners but returned to Lyon in 2022 after leaving them for the Emirates in 2017.The star recently admitted how he was left shocked by the lack of facilities for young footballers in England.He said: “One thing that surprised me in London: there is no ground where you can play football for free.”And he also hit back at those critics that claimed he has “finished”.Lacazette added: ““Many people thought I was finished.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They were saying that I wouldn’t succeed, that the club was making a mistake.“I wanted to show that Lyon were right in calling on me.”Mikel Arteta’s striker shopping listBy Jordan Davies
      ARSENAL are stepping up plans to sign a world-class striker in the summer after their Champions League heartbreak.
      Mikel Arteta splashed out £204.5m last summer on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.
      But the Spanish manager accepts he needs a proven goalscorer to take the club to the next level.
      And here are the players he is looking at to get the Gunners firing:
      BENJAMIN SESKO (RB Leipzig, value £40m-£45m)
      One for the future at 20 years old. Scored 16 goals for RB Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga last season and the Slovenian has carried on that good form in Germany with Leipzig this campaign.
      VIKTOR GYOKERES (Sporting Lisbon, value £60m-£80m)
      Been scouted several times this season. The Swedish striker, 25, is more of a traditional No 9 so may not suit Arsenal’s demand for flexibility but would bring a physicality that boss Mikel Arteta craves.
      ALEXANDER ISAK (Newcastle, value £75m-£85m)
      Impressed in his first two seasons in English football. The Swede, 24, has the pace and finesse to match his finishing ability, and Eddie Howe’s Toon may need to sell to balance the books this summer.
      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (Bologna, value £45m-£50m)
      Dutch wonder  is attracting the attentions of clubs across Europe. At 6ft 4in the 22-year-old forward would have no trouble adapting to the Premier League and already has an eye for goal.
      XAVI SIMONS (RB Leipzig, value £70m-£80m)
      An incredible talent in the Bukayo Saka mould, currently on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. The future of the Dutch attacker, 20, depends on how much money his parent club want to make from him. More

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      in Soccer

      Liverpool target Ruben Amorim breaks silence after landing in London to hold shock talks over taking West Ham job

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      RUBEN AMORIM spoke for the first time after holding shock talks with West Ham.The Sporting Lisbon manager, 39, had been tipped to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.Ruben Amorim broke his silence after holding talks with West HamCredit: GettyAmorim has put his club on the brink of the Portuguese league title, having already won it three years ago.And Liverpool were tipped to make a move after seeing first choice Xabi Alonso stay with Bundesliga winners Bayer Leverkusen.However, it’s now emerged that Amorim is not in real contention for the Anfield hot seat.Instead, the tactician has now emerged as West Ham’s top target to replace David Moyes.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd Amorim jetted to London on Monday for talks with the Europa Conference League kings, with reports suggesting he is eager to take charge.He returned to Portugal in the small hours of Tuesday morning, with a crunch clash against rivals Porto on the horizon.Upon touching down, Amorim was immediately questioned about his talks with West Ham.He was also asked whether he would commit his future to Sporting, having led them to next month’s Portuguese Cup final too.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut Amorim broke his silence with a three-word reply that gave little away.Referring to his next press conference, he laughed: “See you Saturday.”Watch awkward moment David Moyes ‘has a go’ at reporter as West Ham boss bristles at question about Jarrod BowenWho could replace Moyes at West Ham?Several big names are in the mix:

      Ruben Amorim (Sporting Lisbon)
      Paulo Fonseca (Lille)
      Christophe Galtier (Al-Duhail)
      Julen Lopetegui
      Hansi Flick

      Should Amorim take charge at the London Stadium, he would usher in a major change of style.He prefers to play a fluid 3-4-3 system, which features a midfield diamond with wing-backs and wide forwards tucked in closer to the striker.It could see stars like Edson Alvarez, James Ward-Prowse and Emerson thrive, with Mohamed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen also sure to shine.But Amorim may need to dip into the market for a new centre-back and right wing-back, as well as a powerful striker in the mould of his 36-goal Sporting star Viktor Gyokeres.Ruben Amorim’s career statsPlaying career:

      Belenenses, 2003-2008: 106 games, 5 goals

      Benfica, 2008-2015: 154 games, 6 goals

      Braga (loan), 2011-2013: 46 games, 5 goals

      Al Wakrah, 2015-2016: 14 goals, 2 games

      Portugal, 2010-2014: 14 games, 0 goals

      Trophies: Portuguese Cup (Braga); Primeira Liga x3, Portuguese Cup, Portuguese League Cup x5, Portuguese Super Cup (Benfica)

      Managerial stats:

      Casa Pia, 2018-2019: P4 W3 D0 L1

      Braga, 2019-2020: P13 W10 D1 L2

      Sporting, 2020-2024: P218 W155 D32 L31

      Trophies: Portuguese Cup (Braga); Primeira Liga, Portuguese Cup x2, Portuguese Super Cup (Benfica) More