More stories

  • in

    I’m a former Premier League Wag now living in Saudi – here’s what life is REALLY like there

    RIYAD MAHREZ’S wife dreaded the move to Saudi Arabia but she is now enjoying her stay in the Gulf state.Taylor Ward went viral after her concerns about moving to Suadi were coldly shut down by Mahrez, who responded saying: “It’s part of the game innit.”
    Riyad Mahrez and Taylor Ward moved to Saudi Arabia last summer
    Taylor was initially concerned about the moveCredit: Instagram
    But she revealed she is enjoying her stay in the Gulf stateCredit: Instagram @taylorwardx
    However her fears were subsided in her first trip to the country after she spotted a Nando’s, and so far the move has proved a success.
    Taylor, 26, praised the laid-back lifestyle in Saudi Arabia and the friendliness of the locals – the only thing she misses from her previous Manchester home is friends and family.
    She told the Daily Mail: “The vibe is just very different. It’s a lot more chilled out there, it’s quieter and calmer, whereas in Manchester life is so busy – there’s so much going on and we’re always going out for dinner and seeing friends.
    “That’s probably what I’m missing the most, seeing family and friends rather than what the country is missing.
    READ MORE ON WAGS
    “The people have been so lovely – I think that was actually a massive shock, how nice everyone has been.
    “You can’t compare it to the UK – it’s nothing like here. I’m enjoying it so far, it just feels like I’m on holiday, I don’t feel like I’ve moved there yet.”
    Mahrez, 32, joined Al-Ahli in the summer so relocated to Jeddah alongside wife Taylor.
    When asked what Jeddah is like, Taylor added: “I’m not just saying this, I actually really like it.
    Most read in Football
    Football’s 10 richest wags including music stars and millionaire models
    “I can’t fault it so far, we’ve really enjoyed it. We’ve just got our house here so I’ll definitely be staying in Jeddah and won’t be going anywhere else.”
    “It’s got beautiful beaches, shops, restaurants. I don’t think there would be any need to move anywhere else. I’ll be in Jeddah for the forseeable that’s for sure.”
    Taylor and Mahrez wed last year, first in a Muslim ceremony before saying their vows again months later at the five-star Londonder hotel.
    The pair are set to feature in new Prime Video series ‘Married to the Game’, a reality show that will capture the couple’s lives, including plans for a third wedding ceremony.
    Mahrez and Taylor wed last yearCredit: Instagram
    Taylor admitted she misses her friends and familyCredit: INSTAGRAM/TAYLOR WARD
    But she has no complaints with life in Saudi More

  • in

    Conor Gallagher apologises live on Sky Sports in interview after Chelsea’s win over Crystal Palace

    CHELSEA star Conor Gallagher apologised on Sky Sports after his double sunk Crystal Palace.The Blues came from behind to win 3-1 as the midfielder scored the equaliser and a 91st minute winner.
    Conor Gallagher apologised for again scoring against Crystal PalaceCredit: Sky Sports
    Gallagehr put in a man of the match performance last nightCredit: Alamy
    Enzo Fernandez then wrapped up the three points with the last kick of the game – but it was his team-mate who stole the show in a more advanced role in the Chelsea side.
    Gallagher spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Crystal Palace and since leaving the club, he has come back to haunt his former employers.
    The 24-year-old has won all of his four games against the Eagles and scored three goals against them.
    On his record against Palace, Gallagher said on Sky Sports: “I do love them that’s the thing, it’s sad, but you can’t beat that feeling [of scoring].
    READ MORE ON CHELSEA
    “So I’m sorry Palace fans.”
    On his versatility, Gallagher said: “I have played in a number of positions this season.
    “Holding midfield, box-to-box, No10 and even up front – but I’m happy to play anywhere for the manager.”
    And he is greatly appreciated by Mauricio Pochettino, who referred to him as “priceless”.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES

    But uncertainty over his future at Stamford Bridge continues amid concerns over Financial Fair Play.
    Selling Gallagher would count as 100 per cent profit as he is a homegrown player and the matter could be taken out of Pochettino’s hands.
    Chelsea star spotted CROWDSURFING at Crystal Palace as fans smash over advertising board after sealing comeback win
    London rivals Tottenham are interested in a £40million deal.
    Asked about his contract situation while on England duty in November, Gallagher said: “I’m sure that will get sorted out.

    “Everyone knows Chelsea is my club and I love playing for them.
    “The fans are brilliant and I’m loving right now and I’m sure it will get itself sorted out.
    “A lot was going on in the summer, a big transition in the club, a lot of players coming in, a lot of players leaving.
    “I was lucky enough to stay and be a part of the manager’s plans.
    READ MORE SUN STORIES
    “Whatever he wants me to do I have been doing and I will keep working as hard as possible for him.
    “It was a crazy period in terms of ins and outs at Chelsea and I had conversations with the manager and he expressed that he liked me as a player and I was in his plans and I was really happy with that.” More

  • in

    Chelsea fans beg Petr Cech to return to club after spotting what he did in Sky Sports studio during Crystal Palace clash

    PETR CECH could not contain his passion as he celebrated Chelsea’s win at Crystal Palace from the Sky Sports studio. The Blues legend watched as his former club came from behind at Selhurt Park to win 3-1 with Conor Gallagher leading the fightback.
    Petr Cech could not contain his passion as he celebrated Chelsea’s win at Crystal Palace
    Chelsea fans loved Cech’s reactionCredit: Sky Sports
    Gallagher put Chelsea ahead in the 90th minute sparking wild celebrations in the away stands.
    Defender Axel Disasi crowdsurfed, while the advertisement board was crushed by the visiting supporters.
    And the mayhem spilled over into the Sky studio, as footage revealed Cech’s jubilant reaction.
    It did not go unnoticed by Blues fans, as one reacted: “Please come back, we miss you.”
    READ MORE ON CHELSEA
    Another said: “Petr Cech’s celebration on Conor’s winner. Forever Chelsea.”
    One hailed: “Proper Chels!!!”
    Jefferson Lerma put Palace 1-0 up on the half hour mark before former Eagles loanee Gallagher levelled after the break.
    Gallagher then slotted home to win the game and Enzo Fernandez capped off the win following a counter-attack.
    Most read in Football
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
    Cech provided punditry before and after the game where he offered insight into his time at the club as a technical and performance advisor.
    The iconic stopper revealed he pushed to have former team-mate Frank Lampard replace Maurizio Sarri in 2019.
    Petr Cech questions decade-long Mauricio Pochettino tactic that risks ruining Chelsea key man
    He named Lampard and John Terry as two of Chelsea’s most important players ever and said Jose Mourinho was his favourite manager.
    Cech also questioned Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino’s tactic to have his keepers sit deep in their box.

    He said: “In this position, in my liking, he’s too deep. That’s the philosophy you (the manager) have.
    “Generally there are two philosophies in goalkeeping. Whether you want to take a more advanced position for shots, you close the gap, the angle, the goal, but you have less reaction time.
    “Or you drop deep on the goal line, therefore you might have a little more time for a save but you open the goal 
    “Pochettino’s goalkeeper coach has been with him from Tottenham, he has the philosophy of ‘OK you drop back, you always create space’.
    “I think it’s the Spanish philosophy. I personally am the other way around. In a lot of situations to closing the angle and having less reaction time but having less space to cover, for me, is the advantage.” More

  • in

    Chelsea fans come up with ‘the chant we need’ during bizarre delay as Crystal Palace decision backfires horribly

    CHELSEA fans claimed that they had come up with “the chant we need” after the Selhurst Park’s DJ decision backfired horribly.The Blues came from behind to win 3-1 at Crystal Palace on Monday after a stunning second half comeback.
    A technical issue with ref Michael Oliver’s equipment caused a delay to the second halfCredit: Reuters
    That led to Chelsea fans adopting a Bob Marley hit and serenading their playersCredit: X @ChelseaSTrust
    Jefferson Lerma had fired the Eagles ahead of the half hour mark and it stayed that way until the break.
    However, the start of the second half was delayed when referee Michael Oliver suffered some technical issues.
    Some supporters started to jeer and boo with frustration before Palace’s DJ decided to make light of the situation.
    Both sets of players were trying to keep warm on the pitch while Oliver was having his communication problem sorted when suddenly a legendary song started playing over the PA.
    READ MORE CHELSEA
    Bob Marley’s iconic “Three Little Birds” proved to be a huge hit as fans soon began signing along to the chorus of “don’t worry about a thing”.
    And it was soon adopted by the away section, as they continued to belt it out all throughout the second period as Mauricio Pochettino’s men bounced back to claim the points.

    Conor Gallagher got them level within two minutes of the restart and the ex-Palace loanee then put them ahead in additional time.
    Then, to rub further salt in the Eagles’ wounds, Enzo Fernandez added a third right at the death.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
    However, it was the noise of Marley’s famous track being sung that got most Chelsea fans talking.
    And after their season of disappointing and underwhelming displays, it seems many feel it is the perfect song for them as it looks to be sticking around.
    Mauricio Pochettino reacts to beating Crystal Palace 1-3
    One fan shared footage of it being sung along with the words: “The chant we need!”
    Another wrote: “Surely this must be added to our list of anthems – just to help us cope with the weekly stress.”
    “Absolutely criminal if we don’t start playing that after wins,” declared a fellow Blue.
    A fourth wrote: “We are claiming it We are making it our song, destiny.”
    A fifth commented: “Glad to see that the fans understand the difficult situation we’re in. Big love.”
    While another added: “I think Bob Marley deserves an assist. The mood changed when we started signing his song.” More

  • in

    Man Utd star Kobbie Mainoo could switch allegiance from England amid interest from rival nation

    KOBBIE MAINOO is keeping his international options open amid interest from both England and Ghana, reports say. Mainoo, who is just 18, is becoming a regular in Manchester United’s midfield this season with 14 first team appearances and two goals to his name.
    Kobbie Mainoo is keeping his international options openCredit: Getty
    Mainoo has become a regular in Manchester United’s midfieldCredit: Getty
    His form is beginning to catch the attention of Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate, who watched Mainoo in action in United’s 2-1 win over Aston Villa.
    The starlet has represented England at Under-16, U18 and U19 level but is yet to be capped for the senior squad.
    And he is also eligible to play for Ghana through his parents.
    According to the Daily Mail, Mainoo is in no rush to make a decision on his international career and has the door open to all options.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    Randy Abbey of the Ghana FA recently revealed ambitions of persuading Mainoo to switch his allegiance to the Black Stars.
    But Mainoo is expected to wait until he is confident of breaking into the senior England squad on a regular basis.
    The FA are said to be confident of retaining the 18-year-old’s services, but have not been given any guarantees.
    A player can change their nationality at any time if they have only featured in friendlies under Fifa eligibility rules.
    Most read in Football
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
    Kobbie Mainoo has been outstanding this season
    And stars under 21 can also switch after three years if they have played fewer than three competitive matches.
    England have friendlies against Brazil and Belgium to come next month in preparation for Euro 2024 in Germany which starts on June 14.
    Warm-up matches before the tournament will also follow against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland in June.
    Mainoo, 18, netted a stunning 97th minute to seal a 4-3 win at Molineux, just moments after Wolves had fought from two goals down to level the score.
    Ten Hag reacts to Man Utd’s 2-1 win at Aston Villa
    The England U19 star is now being tipped for a bright future at the Theatre of Dreams.
    And he has already been rewarded with a major pay day.
    SunSport exclusively revealed in December that Mainoo will see his wages rocket to £20,000-a-week once his appearances reach double figures.
    Rio Ferdinand compared Mainoo to Dutch legend Clarence Seedorf.
    He said: “I’m not saying he’s of the same ability or that he’s that player yet, but he gives me Seedorf vibes.
    “The way he manoeuvres in tight situations and the way he manipulates this ball and uses his body at times.
    READ MORE SUN STORIES
    “He shifts it, pops it through legs, beautiful. He’s elusive at times as well and the control and the awareness to pick his spot.
    “Some players see the headlines there and think ‘I’m going to go for it’, but he just caresses it.” More

  • in

    Chelsea star spotted CROWDSURFING at Crystal Palace as fans smash over advertising board after sealing comeback win

    CHELSEA fans caused the advertising board at Crystal Palace to smash while celebrating a late victory – while Axel Disasi CROWDSURFED. The Blues needed late goals from Conor Gallagher and Enzo Fernandez to seal off a 3-1 comeback victory at Selhurst Park.
    Axel Disasi crowdsuffered after celebrating Chelsea’s winnerCredit: Rex
    Disasi won the praise of Chelsea fans for his wild celebrationCredit: PA
    Chelsea fans broke the ad board in the standsCredit: Rex
    Gallagher’s 90th-minute winner – his second of the match – set the win in motion and sparked jubilant Chelsea celebrations.
    And no one appeared to enjoy it more than defender Disasi after he jumped into the stands to crowd surf.
    The hilarious moment was picked up by fans online as one said: “Axel Disasi. One of Us. This is Chelsea.”
    Another added: “Axel Disasi knows what it’s like to be a Chelsea fan.”
    READ MORE CHELSEA
    One hailed: “What we love to see.”
    Disasi was booked for his celebration, which helped cause the ad board to smash over as Chelsea fans lost control in the stands.
    Jefferson Lerma put Palace 1-0 up on the half hour mark before former Eagles loanee Gallagher levelled after the break.
    Gallagher then slotted home to win the game and Fernandez capped off the win following a counter attack.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
    And the England international won the praise of his manager Mauricio Pochettino after the London derby.
    Pochettino said: “I think he’s a player with a great commitment to the team, always trying to compensate every single situation.
    Mauricio Pochettino reacts to beating Crystal Palace 1-3
    “It’s priceless to have a player like him. I’m so happy for him as it’s a victory we needed.”
    Gallagher was subject to transfer speculation during the winter window but Pochettino talked down a move away from the club.

    He said: “Always he decided, what he said to me was that he wanted to stay at Chelsea.
    “But it’s about him and the club. I am not [worried about] these types of things, he has another year on his contract. But that’s a matter for him and the club.”
    Conor Gallagher scored a double against Crystal PalaceCredit: Alamy More

  • in

    Enzo Fernandez ‘sends Crystal Palace defender to Sainsbury’s and Tesco’ as £107m Chelsea ace scores stunning goal

    CHELSEA fans might normally want to keep quiet about shopping.At the very least, spending around £850million in three transfer windows to produce a mid-table Premier League team is nothing to shout about.

    Enzo Fernandez finally put grounded Daniel Munoz out of his agonyCredit: Alamy
    Fernandez roars his delight at his cheeky goalCredit: Getty
    So perhaps that’s why, in the words of one viewer, a Blues’ star instead dispatched a rival Crystal Palace player to the shops – with a delightful, delayed finish.
    “Enzo Fernandez just sent Munoz to Sainsbury’s and then to Tesco, what a goal,” posted one fan.
    First, Fernandez cut back to leave Munoz tumbling onto his backside.
    Then just as the Colombian scrambled up, the Argentine dummied to shoot – sending him to the ground once more. 
    READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
    It confirmed Chelsea’s 13th straight Prem victory over Palace.
    The Eagles had led through Jefferson Lerma’s stunning opener.
    But Conor Gallagher struck a double against his old loan club ahead of Fernandez’s cheeky 94th-minute clincher.
    The midfielder had Palace defender Daniel Munoz  sliding to the floor TWICE before firing home to in the 3-1 away win.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
    Chelsea’s costliest buy, £115m Moises Caicedo, again struggled to justify his place alongside their second most expensive – £107m Fernandez.
    But their fans lapped up the late treat from their World Cup winner, even if it was so painful for Munoz.
    Chelsea scouting Athletic Bilbao star with fans convinced ‘this will be the end of Mudryk or Sterling’
    “Let’s stand up for Enzo Fernandez,” taunted one viewer.
    “Enzo is in the form of his life,” claimed another – although some observers accused Chelsea of “over-celebrating” their late joy. More

  • in

    Nicolas Jackson picks up bizarre yellow card on BENCH with fiery Chelsea ace one booking away from two-match ban

    NICOLAS JACKSON picked up a bizarre yellow card while on the BENCH during Chelsea’s 3-1 win over Crystal Palace.A late showing from the Blues saw them maintain their epic winning streak over the Eagles, extending the run to 13 league matches.
    Nicolas Jackson was booked during Chelsea’s win at Crystal Palace while on the benchCredit: Sky Sports
    Jackson ran across the pitch to celebrate Chelsea’s third goal at Selhurst ParkCredit: Sky Sports
    It was Jackson’s ninth booking of the season, leaving him at risk of a two-game banCredit: Sky Sports
    Former Palace loanee Gallagher struck twice as Chelsea came back from a goal down, with Enzo Fernandez putting the finishing touches on a job well done at Selhurst Park.
    The Argentine’s 94th minute effort came just moments after Gallagher broke the deadlock with his second of the night.
    And it sparked wild celebrations among fans and players as the result was confirmed.
    However, in the aftermath, it emerged that Chelsea striker Jackson had picked up a yellow card.
    READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
    That’s despite being subbed off the field 15 minutes earlier.
    It emerged that Jackson, who only returned from Afcon duty with Senegal last week, sprinted the length of the pitch while in his tracksuit to celebrate Fernandez’s goal with his teammates.
    The breach of leaving the technical area was quickly spotted by match officials.
    And Jackson, 22, was swiftly handed his ninth booking of the season, leaving him just one yellow card away from a TWO match suspension.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES

    Fans found the situation hilarious, with one saying: “Jackson found a way to get booked on the bench, incredible.”
    Another boomed: “How did Jackson get booked on the bench?”
    Top ten greatest Premier League players of all time as Kevin de Bruyne and Cristiano Ronaldo both miss out on top spot
    One noted: “Jackson getting booked 15 minutes after coming off is hilarious.”
    Another added: “I’m a big fan of Jackson getting booked for running across the pitch to celebrate a goal. Maverick.”
    Jackson’s first ban came in September after he picked up five yellows in just six matches.
    Pochettino had warned him just a week before the fifth booking that he must control his behaviour on the pitch.
    Chelsea’s boss declared: “I said (to Jackson) ‘come on, for a striker to have four yellow cards, to protest, to talk with the referee. You need to get some yellow cards for different actions not because of that’.
    “It’s so easy, so cheap. He could put the team in a really difficult situation. He understood. But Jackson is 22, he is young, he needs to learn, to improve.
    “He is going to be a fantastic player, but he needs time. Jackson is a fantastic player but he needs to be relaxed in front of goal.”
    READ MORE SUN STORIES
    Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal for £32million last summer and has nine goals in 26 games.
    He started off playing as a striker under Pochettino but has since moved to a new role on the left wing. More