Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Chris Nicholl dead aged 77: Tributes pour in after former Aston Villa and Southampton star passes away

      by

      FORMER Aston Villa and Southampton star Chris Nicholl has died at the age of 77.The English-born defender represented Northern Ireland at international level.
      Nicholl was well loved at Villa ParkCredit: Rex
      Nicholl also managed the SaintsCredit: Rex
      His former clubs have paid tributeCredit: PA
      Nicholl came through the ranks at Burnley but is best remembered for his spells at Aston Villa and Southampton – going on to manage the latter.
      He spent six years as Southampton boss before leading Walsall from 1994 to 1997.
      Nicholl made his debut for Northern Ireland in 1974 and won 51 caps for his country.
      He played all five of Northern Ireland’s games during the 1982 World Cup, which included beating hosts Spain 1-0.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      Nicholl also had spells at Halifax, Luton and Grimsby over the course of a 19-year professional playing career.
      Later on in his managerial career, he had a stint as Northern Ireland’s assistant between 1998 and 2000.
      Nicholl made 210 appearances for Villa before playing 228 times for Southampton.
      In the 2017 BBC documentary “Dementia, Football and Me” with Alan Shearer he revealed he was battling the disease.
      Most read in Football
      He said he was fighting it after becoming “brain-damaged from heading balls”.
      It was Nicholl that gave Shearer his break in football when he was coming through the youth ranks at Southampton.
      And Shearer led the tributes to Nicholl today, writing on X: “RIP Chris Nicholl. You believed in me and gave me my chance. Thank you.”
      A number of Nicholl’s former clubs and players he either played with or managed have also lined up to pay tribute to him on social media.
      The Northern Ireland national team wrote on X: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Nicholl.
      “He played 51 times for us, including the 1982 World Cup in Spain. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
      Aston Villa wrote: “Aston Villa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Chris Nicholl, who has died at the age of 77.
      “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Chris’ family and friends at this difficult time.”
      The club then added in another tweet: “A two-time promotion and League Cup winner – Chris Nicholl’s achievements in claret and blue will never be forgotten.
      “He was a dominant figure at the heart of the Aston Villa defence for over five seasons, making 252 appearances and scoring 20 goals. Rest in peace, Chris.”
      Alongside this was a clip of Nicholl scoring a goal in the 1977 league cup final and lifting the trophy.
      Wallsall, who Nicholl also managed, wrote: “We are devastated to learn that former manager Chris Nicholl has passed away. Chris led the Saddlers from 1994 to 1997 and won promotion to Division Two in what was a memorable 1994-95 campaign.
      “Our thoughts are with his family & friends at this incredibly sad time.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier wrote: “The thoughts and prayers of my family go out to the family of my first manager Chris Nicholl who has sadly passed away.
      “I’ll always be eternally grateful to Chris for having the faith in me as a 17-year-old boy to give me my opportunity to prove I was good enough to be a professional footballer. Gone but never forgotten.” More

    • 188 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      England star Jack Butland reveals he snubbed mega-money Premier League return in January transfer window

      by

      JACK BUTLAND has revealed he told his agent to snub any offers to return to a club in England last month.The goalie has been in stunning form since joining Rangers from Crystal Palace at the start of the season.
      Jack Butland has been in fine form for RangersCredit: Rex
      SunSport told how a megabucks bid from Nottingham Forest was booted out at the end of January, with other clubs circling.
      Now Butland, 31, has told for the first time how he never wanted to go back south anyway.
      He said: “It was a straight no. My agent said ‘This is happening, what do you want to do?’
      “I said ‘No’ and he said ‘I agree’. The club had said no anyway so it was just a no on all fronts from the get-go – and that was that.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      “We were actually with the team, I think it was deadline day. We were all out altogether at a team event and that was that. There wasn’t even a chance.
      “I’m enjoying it. There is too much to achieve, there is too much left to do.”
      Butland had been on loan at Manchester United from the Eagles before arriving at Ibrox.
      But he’s shown his class again this term, keeping 22 clean sheets in the 42 games he’s played as Gers have hit top spot in the Premiership.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      England boss Gareth Southgate recently confirmed Butland is in contention for a Three Lions recall after winning the last of his nine caps in 2018.
      Butland believes that is a closer possibility than it’s ever been for a while, with a spot in the squad for this summer’s Euros up for grabs.
      Touching moment Jack Butland FaceTimes 11-year-old kid who went viral for practising his goalkeeping in back garden
      He said: “People have been selected for England from Scotland before. It’s not out of the question but it’s also not a given either.
      “It’s certainly closer now than it has been for the last three, four, maybe five years. It’s as good as I’ve played in that period of time.
      “I’ve been to major tournaments. I would love to go to another one. I still believe I can offer a lot.
      “That comes with doing my job here, that puts me in the conversation. If that gets me in, great. If it doesn’t, then we just carry on.” More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Jurgen Klopp left in disbelief as Liverpool denied Carabao Cup final opening goal after ‘unforgivable’ error

      by

      LIVERPOOL controversially had an opener in the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea ruled out.Virgil van Dijk looked to have put his side ahead with a towering header from a Liverpool free-kick.
      Endo was judged to be offsideCredit: Sky Sports
      Van Dijk couldn’t believe the decisionCredit: Sky Sports
      Klopp couldn’t understand why the goal had been ruled outCredit: Getty
      But the goal was struck off after the intervention of VAR.
      Wataru Endo was judged to be offside in the build-up to Van Dijk heading in.
      The player utilised the commonly used tactic of starting in an offside position while the free-kick is being prepared.
      But VAR judged his attempts to move back into an onside position to have interfered with Ben Chilwell’s attempts to stop Van Dijk.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      Jurgen Klopp stood aghast on the sidelines – with the decision looking like a harsh one.
      Fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) couldn’t believe the decision.
      They argued that Chilwell was not marking Endo and therefore his movement had no influence on the goal.
      One fan wrote: “That’s a awful decision. Colwill is marking Endo not Van Dijk he is never getting there so the offside is irrelevant.”
      Most read in Football
      Another added: “That’s an awful decision. Endo didn’t move, he didn’t move into Colwills position. Football is dying.”
      A third said: “Utter shambles that that’s offside! Even if Endo doesn’t touch him he’s not getting close to VVD.”
      Jamie Carragher reveals absolutely savage X-rated text Gary Neville sent over Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool exit
      But not everyone agreed, with one writing: “That’s lazy from Endo. Unforgivable really.”
      It wasn’t the first time in the game that what appeared to be an opener was ruled out.
      Raheem Sterling looked to have put Chelsea ahead in the first half when he tapped a Nicolas Jackson cross in at the far post.
      But the goal was ruled out due to Nicolas Jackson’s leg narrowly being ahead of Ibrahima Konate’s when the ball was played. More

    • 225 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Bournemouth’s new badge ‘leaked’ as Cherries request trademark… but fans say it looks ‘like a cider brand logo’

      by

      A BOLD new Bournemouth badge has been “leaked” – with fans divided on whether it’s a sin or a tonic.The Cherries have applied to trademark the fresh and fruity design – but some supporters likened the image to a “cider brand logo” or “sh*t IPA rebrand”.
      Bournemouth have formally applied to register a new logo
      Strike hero Dominic Solanke could soon be in a new badgeCredit: PA
      Bournemouth’s current shield-shaped badge, including a player with a football on his head, could be replaced by a round logo featuring three cherries.
      And video game researcher Kurakasis revealed that the Cherries have already “filed a trademark application”.
      But there was a mixed response from fans when Footy Headlines posted the new look next to the old badge.
      One observer claimed it would mean the Premier League club “rebranding as a sh*t IPA”.
      READ MORE TOP STORIES
      And a second supporter responded similarly: “Does kind of look like a cider brand logo but it’s definitely better than the current one.”
      But other fans suggested the triple-cherry image might boost Bournemouth’s merchandise sales – even if they themselves were unsure about its style.
      One wrote: “If it is just for the merch that MBJ created then this is fine but if any more than that…”
      The Cherries have formally requested to trademark the logo with the words: “AFC BOURNEMOUTH 1899 THE CHERRIES.”
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      A full image of the badge was also part of the application, filed last Thursday.
      It comes as Bournemouth were unlucky not to snatch a point in Saturday’s 1-0 Prem loss at home to Manchester City.
      Fans all notice something odd in background of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City press conference
      The Cherries are now winless in seven matches, albeit still eight points above the drop zone.
      Boss Andoni Iraola said after falling to Phil Foden’s 24th-minute finish: “In the second half I could have asked for much more.” More

    • 213 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans baffled as Unai Emery spotted shouting at Aston Villa star who was sat on substitutes bench

      by

      FANS were left baffled as Unai Emery was spotted shouting at Lucas Digne.That’s despite the Aston Villa star being sat on the bench at the time.
      Unai Emery was spotted shouting at his own bench against Nottingham ForestCredit: Premier League via X formerly Twitter
      The Aston Villa boss exchanged words with Lucas Digne in hilarious scenesCredit: Premier League via X formerly Twitter
      Emery’s men tightened their grip on fourth place with a 4-2 win against Nottingham Forest yesterday.
      Douglas Luiz scored twice as further goals from Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey sealed victory.
      But it was on the bench where Emery focused his attention.
      With the score 2-0, Emery charged towards the bench with his finger outstretched.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      It soon became clear he was shouting at left-back Digne, who looked back at his boss bewildered.
      Emery continued to argue the toss about an unknown point.
      And Digne could do little but laugh in response as teammates watched on.
      Fans were certainly left confused by the encounter.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      One said: “Digne thought he could take it easy on the bench. Not a chance.”
      Another noted: “I love the passion he displays.”
      Douglas Luiz gets over Arsenal celebration embarrassment after loved-up Valentine’s Day with Alisha Lehmann
      One noted: “Sign of an excellent manager not afraid to discuss things with players.”
      Another added: “Poor Lucas looked like he had no idea what Unai was saying.”
      Speaking after the match, Emery lifted the lid on the incident.
      He said: “It’s something I am discussing with the players on the bench, some tactical ideas their teammates are taking and trying to advise them.” More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Birmingham wonderkid eyed by Premier League side with Italian giants Atalanta also interested in transfer

      by

      CRYSTAL PALACE remain keen on Birmingham’s young Welsh wizard Jordan James.The Eagles tried to buy the 19-year-old midfielder and send him back to the Blues on loan last month — even AFTER signing Adam Wharton from Blackburn.
      Crystal Palace are interested in signing Jordan JamesCredit: Rex
      James stayed at St Andrew’s as the offer was too low.
      However, the two clubs have stayed in contact.
      Italians Atalanta made a bigger bid in January and were turned down — they are also still interested and a summer sale is still possible.
      James has scored eight goals in 31 Championship appearances so far this season.
      Read More on Football
      Palace signed 20-year-old midfielder Wharton in a £22.5million transfer on deadline day.
      Wharton revealed that he wants to follow in the footsteps of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.
      He said: “I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League and to play for such a big club like Crystal Palace is a great honour.
      “The way they’ve brought players from the Championship and developed them into world-class players in the Premier League is something that stood out to me, and it’s a big reason why I wanted to come here.”
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      Crystal Palace announced the arrival of new manager Oliver Glasner this week.
      Former boss Roy Hodgson stepped down from his position after falling ill at training.
      Eight bizarre football rules you may not know
      The Eagles won their first match with Glasner in charge on Saturday.
      They cruised to a 3-0 victory over Burnely at Selhurst Park thanks to goals from Chris Richards, Jordan Ayew and Jean-Philippe Mateta. More

    • 188 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Sheffield United players in furious off-the-ball confrontation with own team-mate as fans say ‘absolutely done’

      by

      SHEFFIELD UNITED stars Jack Robinson and Vinicius Souza had an altercation on the pitch against Wolves.Tempers flared and the pair almost came to blows over a dispute during the first half of their match at Molineux.
      Jack Robinson clashed with Vinicius Souza in the first half
      The players pushed and shoved one another until team-mates intervenedCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Captain Anel Ahmedhodzic and Aaron Trusty calmed Robinson downCredit: PA
      Ahmedhodzic persuaded the ref not to hand out a cardCredit: PA
      Robinson appeared to criticise his team-mate Souza after the ball went out of play for a Sheffield United goal kick.
      Souza seemed bemused as Robinson pointed a finger in his face, leading the pair to butt heads.
      Robinson then pushed the Brazilian in the chest with Souza responding in kind.
      Robinson then pushed Souza again as he tried to approach him, leading captain Anel Ahmedhodzic to intervene by separating the pair.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Ahmedhodzic and another team-mate Auston Trusty then tried to calm down Robinson as Souza trotted off.
      Referee Darren Bond kept a close eye on the clash as it unfolded and he was deep in conversation with Ahmedhovic after the incident.
      Robinson then had a word with the ref and persuaded him not to dish out a yellow card, with VAR also reviewing the incident and not advising any harsher punishment.
      Sheffield United’s disastrous campaign has been plagued by poor discipline with Chris Wilder’s side picking up four red cards this season.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      Just last week Mason Holgate was sent off for a horror tackle against Brighton, catching Kaoru Mitoma at knee height.
      Fortunately for the Blades they were spared another dismissal at Molineux, with the Premier League basement dwellers already trailing at the time of the incident thanks to Pablo Sarabia’s header.
      Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozers
      The Yorkshire club’s fighting went no way to helping them get back in to the game though.
      Sarabia’s goal for Wolves was only game of the match in a 1-0 defeat for Sheffield United that leaves them rooted firmly to the base of the Premier League table. More

    • 225 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Liverpool ‘draw up two-man shortlist’ including ‘one of Europe’s brightest coaches’ if they fail to hire Xabi Alonso

      by

      LIVERPOOL have identified two alternatives to Xabi Alonso in their search for a new manager, according to reports.The Reds are on the lookout for a new boss with Jurgen Klopp stepping down at the end of the season.
      Xabi Alonso is wanted by LiverpoolCredit: AP
      Sporting’s Ruben Amorim is an alternativeCredit: Alamy
      Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann could be available in the summerCredit: AFP
      Alonso is believed to be the club’s first choice amid his stunning season at Bayer Leverkusen.
      The 42-year-old former Liverpool player has led the German side to top of the Bundesliga, the semi-final of the DFP-Pokal and the last-16 of the Europa League.
      With Alonso also attracting interest from Bayern Munich, Anfield chiefs are aware they need other options.
      Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim and Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann are on Liverpool’s wishlist, claims The Telegraph.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Amorim, 39 is a highly-rated young gaffer, guiding the club to their first league title in 19 years in 2021.
      He has since lifted two domestic cups and taken them into the knockout rounds in Europe.
      Meanwhile, Nagelsmann, 36, has had success at both RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich.
      He is currently in charge of the German national team and will take them into Euro 2024 this summer.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      However, his contract expires after the tournament.
      Liverpool have also been linked with Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.
      Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers More