Retime

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s £20m new boy Carney Chukwuemeka was chased by Barcelona and Arsenal but couldn’t get Blues ‘out of his head’

      by

      THERE will be many at Villa Park smarting about Carney Chukwuemeka’s £20million move to Chelsea.The talented 18-year-old was the talisman for Aston Villa’s U18 side in 2021 – starring in their FA Youth Cup campaign as they lifted the trophy by defeating Liverpool in the final.
      Carney Chukwuemeka has moved to Chelsea in a £20million deal
      However, with chances hard to come by under Steven Gerrard – the playmaker wanted assurances about his future.
      Chukwuemeka refused to sign a new deal to commit beyond 2023, and felt his career could progress elsewhere.
      That’s why he has chosen the Blues. And he’s ready for the challenge ahead.
      “It’s been quite hectic but I couldn’t get Chelsea out of my head the last few days so I’m just happy and relieved that it’s all done”, he told Chelsea’s website.
      Read more wonderkid stories
      “I’m so excited and just can’t wait to get on the pitch, meet all the players and try to win games and trophies with Chelsea.”
      He was a wanted man
      Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund were watching developments closely as they contemplated swooping for the coveted talent.
      While Barcelona were believed to have offered Chukwuemeka a deal to move to the Camp Nou.
      Most read in Football
      AC Milan had also previously offered £3million for the his services, before Chelsea blew them out the water with their bid.
      Reports suggested Chukwuemeka was looking for a deal worth £100,000-per-week.
      He has now agreed a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, where he could flourish under German boss Thomas Tuchel.
      He’s come a long way since Northampton Town.

      Early career
      Chukwuemeka was plucked from the Cobblers’ academy in 2016.
      He worked his way up through the ranks and was heralded as a future star for the Villa first team from a young age by insiders at the club.
      But it was in April last year when many in the football world were alerted to his remarkable ability.
      The playmaker was incredible in the 6-1 demolition of Newcastle United in the FA Youth Cup semi-final, scoring a hat-trick to fire his side into the final.
      Villa would go on to defeat Liverpool in the showpiece 2-1, with Chukwuemeka pulling the strings.
      Not only did he finish as the competition’s leading scorer with seven goals.
      Chukwuemeka was the jewel of Villa’s academyCredit: Getty
      However, Chukwuemeka refused to sign a new deal at VillaCredit: Rex
      A week prior, he made his senior debut for the first team, hitting the post moments after coming on as a sub against Tottenham Hotspur.
      His remarkable rise saw the youngster named as the club’s Young Player of the Year.
      Contract renegade
      However, the was trouble brewing behind the scenes.
      As is the norm, wonderkids with an abundance of skill have an expectation to play minutes in the first team.
      Chukwuemeka has had minutes, but not as many as he would have liked.
      He made his first start in the second game of the season as Villa could only manage a draw at home to promoted Brentford.
      But his performance was the standout in an otherwise disappointing result.
      Pundit Paul Merson hailed him as “outstanding” saying “he will be an absolute star”.
      But Chukwuemeka only appeared 12 times in the Premier League – with two of those being starts.
      Arsenal, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund were all reportedly monitoring Chukwuemeka’s situationCredit: Getty
      A contract stand off seemed to have got in the way of his development.
      Back in January, Villa boss Steven Gerrard revealed talks over a new deal for Chukwuemeka were being had.
      “We want him to sign and to extend and reward him for what we’ve seen so far,” Gerrard revealed in a press conference.
      “We’ve got big aspirations and a big road map for Carney but, in terms of answering your question, there’s only one person who can answer and that’s Carney.”
      However, the Liverpool legend seemingly conceded defeat in losing the youngster by revealing he was in the dark with how those discussions were progressing.
      “No, no. As far as I know they haven’t progressed,” he told reporters.
      “We’ve done everything we can from our side to try and make them progress. I’m not sure where that’s up to at the moment.”
      Chukwuemeka’s next task will be to break into Chelsea’s already heavily-stocked midfield.
      Rest assured, though, he has the ability to make it in West London.
      Chukwuemeka wants more first team football and only started twice for Villa last campaignCredit: Reuters
      Capped by England at youth level, Chukwuemeka is rated as one of the best teen players in the UKCredit: Getty
      Chukwuemeka is buzzing at the chance to play for the Blues More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson would KO sparring partners quickly so he could get home in time for Tom and Jerry, says ex-bodyguard

      by

      MIKE Tyson would destroy training partners in minutes not for pleasure – but to just get home quickly to watch TV. Tyson often turned a planned five-hour sparring session into less than 60 minutes of destruction because he was desperate to watch cartoons.
      Tyson used to rush through training in order to go home and watch Tom and JerryCredit: AFP
      A young Tyson in the gym with an even younger Floyd MayweatherCredit: Alamy
      That is the insight from Tyson’s confidante, ex bodyguard and chauffeur Rudy Gonzalez, who had a ringside seat at fights and home battles during the New Yorker’s rise to infamy.
      Speaking earlier this year, Gonzalez said: “When we trained in Vegas his sparring sessions were from 12 to 5pm.
      “He would be the nicest guy beforehand asking the sparring partners: ‘How you doing today, how’s the family?’
      “Then he would just knock five guys out so within an hour there was nobody left.
      READ MORE BOXING
      “I saw him punch the heavy bag so hard it broke a few times from the chains and the other boxers would just leave saying: ‘we are not f****** with you today. I do not care how much money you pay me.’
      “Anyone who felt they were up for taking him on, he would hit them and they’d snap. Soon after they would pack their bags.
      “So one day I asked: ‘Boss I am confused, isn’t this about working on techniques?
      “He replied: ‘If I keep it going we will miss Tom and Jerry cartoons.’”
      Most read in Boxing
      Tyson, who returned to the ring in an eight-round exhibition with Roy Jones Jr in 2020, has retained his love for cartoons, making his own Mike Tyson Mysteries series for Adult Swim.
      Gonzalez was by Tyson’s side as he rose from the most terrifying teenage boxer in history to become the youngest heavyweight champion of all time aged 20.
      Under the guidance of legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, who became Tyson’s legal guardian after serving time in juvenile prison, he transformed from teen criminal into a street fighting hoodlum and ultimately a polished power punching boxing phenom.
      While living with D’Amato at his Catskills home, his training was far more regimented.
      D’Amato passed months before Tyson became heavyweight champion in 1986.
      BUILDING A BOXING FRANKENSTEIN
      Gonzalez said: “When I first worked with him he had to be home by 9pm, because we were running 10 miles in the morning.
      “His manager Jim Jacob and trainer Kevin Rooney along with Cus would make sure I enforced that training schedule.
      “Mike was so disciplined. He would sit upstairs in the house studying boxing films for hours, seeing how different fighters moved and hit.
      “Cus was injecting him with centuries of training. The peek a boo technique – it felt so clean and natural for him. Cus built a boxing Frankenstein.
      “Cus would repeat over and over to Mike from the beginning, ‘Do you know you’re going to be heavyweight champion of the world someday?’
      “If you say it enough times, you believe it. And if you believe it, then you’ll have no doubt.”
      Gonzalez, whose book about his Tyson experiences – The Inner Ring – is being developed into an animated movie, added that other staff were terrified of Tyson during his training time.
      Gonzalez has made headlines in the past with his book about his time with Tyson, pointing the finger at promoter Don King for many of the star’s troubles.
      He claims King ‘psychologically broke him’, adding: “Mike’s story would have had a different ending if Cus had lived longer.
      “His sister Denise always made me promise to keep Mike away from Don, calling him a clown.”
      He claimed that he witnessed ‘deceit, betrayal, and fraud perpetrated’ upon Tyson
      The Inner Ring (Premium Edition): The Set-Up of Mike Tyson and the Uncrowning of Don King Paperback is available now to buy.
      Tyson was one of the most feared names in boxing throughout his careerCredit: Getty – Contributor More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Cesc Fabregas’ stunning Wag Daniella Semaan is 12-years older, a mum-of-five and has been called Queen of the Wags

      by

      SHE is the gorgeous Lebanese-born mother of five who is married to ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas.Daniella Semaan is one hell of Wag, turning heads wherever she goes with her sultry looks and enviable figure.
      Stunning Daniella Semaan turns heads wherever she goesCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Age is nothing but a number for Daniella Semaan and Cesc FabregasCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      The glamorous Wag was dating the former Spain midfielder, who has just signed for Italian minnows Como after being released by Monaco, for seven years before he popped the question back in 2017.
      But Daniella also has a feisty side that would appeal to any red-blooded male. So, what is it that charmed the World Cup winner?
      She’s 12-years Cesc’s senior…
      EITHER Cesc, who will star in a special ITV 4 documentary about his career at 9pm tonight, is a big fan of Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate or he has a penchant for the older lady.
      Beautiful Daniella is 47-years-old, but she certainly doesn’t look it at all with a body to die for.
      It’s easy to see how Cesc, 35, fell for her charms and she’s definitely a sophisticated gal, who likes to be wined and dined.
      And if you’re into star signs, she was born on June 4 which makes her a Gemini.
      Geminis are famed for being talkative, passionate, witty and independent, so Cesc certainly has his hands full.
      LATEST FOOTBALL NEWS
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Daniella Semaan loves the luxurious things in lifeCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Daniella Semaan is one of the most fashionable Wags aroundCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      A mother-of-five…
      DANIELLA and Cesc began their love affair in 2011 and since then they’ve had three children.
      First to come along was their daughter Lea.
      They added Capri to their brood in 2015, and Daniella gave birth to their third kid, Leonardo back in 2017.
      Daniella also has two children from a previous relationship with ex-husband Elie Taktouk, called Maria and Joseph.
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan have had 3 kids togetherCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Controversially met…
      DANIELLA and Cesc first set eyes on each other in Japanese restaurant Nozomi in London’s super-wealthy Knightsbridge area.
      She revealed how she approached his table to ask for an autograph for her football-mad son, Joseph. The pair soon swapped numbers.
      However, according to reports and who you believe, Barcelona’s Wags have a different story to tell.
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan met in a fancy Knightsbridge restaurantCredit: GC Images – Getty
      Daniella Semaan has a body to die forCredit: Fame Flynet
      They said that Daniella hip-swayed towards Cesc’s table with a hand-written note with her number on it, left the piece of paper on his table and sashayed away.
      But, according to her millionaire London-based businessman ex-husband Taktouk, she was still married at the time.
      Taktouk also alleged that he and Daniella were trying for a baby.
      It was alleged that Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan had an affairCredit: Splash News
      There was a legal battle…
      IT ALL got a bit messy for Daniella, Cesc and her ex-husband.
      Taktouk suggested Cesc and Daniella had an affair in a court battle over the proceeds of their 13-year marriage.
      He also said Daniella lied to a judge by claiming Cesc didn’t fund her extravagant lifestyle.
      Things got messy for Daniella Semaan and Cesc Fabregas in a legal divorce battleCredit: Reuters
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan show their love for one another at the Nou CampCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Taktouk wanted a reversal on an order that said he must sell the home they shared.
      He was left further furious when he listed the home and a bid of £5.4m was made on the property by a company belonging to Cesc, which he rejected.
      Cesc and Daniella won their legal battle in the end, the Belgravia flat was sold and she was awarded £1.4 million.
      Ex-husband Elie Taktouk was forced to sell the pair’s Belgravia flat after an acrimonious court case
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan are one of football’s most glamorous couplesCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Don’t mess with her…
      SUPERMODEL, and former squeeze of Leo DiCaprio, Bar Refaeli felt Daniella’s wrath back in 2012.
      The Israeli stunner was hanging around Barcelona’s star players, attending the Nou Camp regularly and tweeting about it.
      Bar even posed with players including Fabregas, Pique, Messi and Xavi in snaps she shared online.
      Barcelona’s famed Wags were in uproar, but only Daniella spoke out to save the day.
      She tweeted: “Some models obsession about certain player is becoming ridiculous… some respects please !”
      And Daniella had the support of then Barca midfielder Thiago’s girlfriend Julia Vigas, who shared Daniella’s tweet.
      Now, if that isn’t girl power we don’t know what is.
      Daniella Semaan stood up for wag Antonella Roccuzzo against Bar RefaeliCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Daniella Semaan shows off her enviable figure in a stunning bikiniCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Queen of the Wags…
      WELL, we’re calling her that because she’s certainly use to life’s luxuries.
      Back in Barcelona, when she first began dating Cesc, Daniella was often seen zooming around the most prestigious streets of the city in his Ferrari.
      She was a well-known shopper and all the designer stores in the Passeig de Gracia, Barcelona’s answer to Bond Street, knew her.
      Her particular favourite shop was Chopard, where she would often buy expensive jewellery.
      Daniella Semaan knows how to live like a WagCredit: Instagram @cescf4bregas
      Lady in red… Daniella Semaan is fiery and feistyCredit: Dan Kennedy – The Sun
      However, it wasn’t all plain-sailing with the Wags… just ask Andres Iniesta’s missus, Anna Ortiz.
      At their 2012 wedding, Daniella turned heads in a cleavage-revealing purple silk dress that was slashed to the hip.
      There were whispers that she had tried to steal the limelight from the bride, but it all blew over quickly.
      Daniella Semaan and Cesc Fabregas got engaged after 7 years togetherCredit: Reuters
      And finally…
      DANIELLA isn’t popular online. In fact, she was once a target for a hate campaign in her native Lebanon.
      In a spiteful war she’s had on Twitter with someone calling themselves Doctor Lebanon, she’s been labelled a “gold-digger” as well as a “soulless cougar” in several nasty attacks.
      The cyber troll appears to have intimate knowledge of Daniella, having grown up near her in the small village of Miziara.
      Whoever Doctor Lebanon is, it takes a brave mortal to take on this tough chick.
      And they’d certainly have Fabregas to answer to too.
      Daniella Semaan is a hate-figure for cyber trolls in LebanonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Daniella Semaan landed the man of her dreams in Cesc FabregasCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League to have SEVEN new rules next season including confirmed five substitutes and penalty kick changes

      by

      SEVEN changes to the laws of football for next season have been agreed.The game’s law-making body, the International Football Association Board, has confirmed decisions initially made in December.
      Football rule changes were discussed at the 136th AGM of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in DohaCredit: Getty
      The organisation’s annual general meeting was due to be held as a virtual event from Zurich in March.
      But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine saw it rescheduled and finally held as an in-person gathering in Doha.
      Here is an explanation of the seven changes you will see in the beautiful game in the next campaign.
      They will come into effect in both the Premier League and the EFL.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}READ MORE IN FOOTBALL.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou a:not(.nk-card-link){z-index:2;position:relative;}.css-1uyse24{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border:none;}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,114,238,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(34,37,38,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}ROBO SCORES .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Qatar World Cup set to have ‘ROBOT LINESMEN’ for first time in history
      Law 3 – Players
      While competitions have had the option of allowing up to five subs per match after the pandemic, this was only a temporary measure.
      This has now been made permanent and was a significant factor in the Prem and EFL adopting this law change for next term.

      Law 8 – Start and restart of play
      This law now begins with the words “the referee tosses a coin” for the choice of kick-off and ends, where previously it just said a coin toss was required but not the identity of the overseer. Seriously!
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Law 10 – Determining the outcome of a match
      This has seen the addition of the words “or team official” to the participants who can be booked or dismissed during a penalty shoot-out.
      Law 12 – Fouls and misconduct relating to goalkeeper handling
      This change has tidied up some dodgy wording to confirm a goalkeeper can handle the ball inside their own penalty area without being dismissed for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity.
      The law is now completed by the phrase “except a goalkeeper within their penalty area”.
      Law 12 – Fouls and misconduct relating to leaving the field of play to commit an offence against an outside agent
      This covers a scenario in which a player leaves the pitch to assault an “outside agent” – such as a fan, opposition player or coaching team member on the bench or dug-out, or a pitch invader.
      The referee will now award an indirect free-kick at the point on the pitch where he left the field of play, although only if the ball was “in play” at the time. If the ball was out of play, the due restart (kick-off, throw-in, free-kick, corner or goal-kick) applies.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More on The Sun.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou a:not(.nk-card-link){z-index:2;position:relative;}.css-1uyse24{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border:none;}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,114,238,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(34,37,38,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}PRICE WAR .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Tesco sets off fuel pump war after slashing petrol by 6.5p after Asda cut prices
      Law 14 – The penalty kick
      Goalkeepers can now stand with one foot behind the line to face a penalty kick – allowing them to push off from deeper and have more forward momentum.
      Until now, the keeper had to have at least one foot on the line, with the other either on it or in front of the line.
      Law 11.2 – Offside offence
      The International FA Board has now “clarified” the guidelines to referees over what constitutes “deliberate” playing of the ball by defenders that resets play and puts the attacker in an onside position.
      Ifab’s rethink was a result of Kylian Mbappe’s winner for France in last season’s Nations League win against Spain.
      Defender Eric Garcia stretched out to block a through ball, inadvertently setting up Mbappe – who was in an offside position when the ball was initially played – to score.
      Under the revised guidelines, that would now be called offside in the Premier League as Garcia did not deliberately play the ball. More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Jake Paul’s four goals for 2022 include ‘save Floyd Mayweather from bankruptcy’ as he reignites their feud

      by

      JAKE PAUL took aim at Floyd Mayweather after revealing his goals for 2022.The YouTuber fought three times last year, beating Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley twice as he took his professional boxing record to 5-0.
      Paul has revealed his goals for the next 12 monthsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Mayweather fought Jake’s brother Logan in an exhibition bout last yearCredit: Reuters
      Paul will fight Hasim Rahman Jr next on August 6 at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
      Meanwhile, Jake’s brother Logan Paul fought Mayweather in an exhibition bout in June of 2021.
      And while there were no judges on hand to score the contest, it was widely acknowledged that the 50-0 legend comfortably won the eight-round bout.
      Mayweather landed 43 punches of 107 thrown compared to Paul’s 28 landed of 217 thrown.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1h37p88{background-color:rgba(236,245,247,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read more in sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-h98a3b{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(236,245,247,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou a:not(.nk-card-link){z-index:2;position:relative;}.css-1uyse24{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border:none;}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,114,238,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(34,37,38,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}RED DEVILS LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}De Jong ‘wants to stay’ at Barca, Cristiano Ronaldo return CONFIRMED
      Now Logan’s brother Jake has taken the opportunity to fire back at Mayweather – six months after the pair became embroiled in a press conference altercation when the internet sensation stole the boxer’s hat.
      Speaking on Twitter, Jake said: “Some people are asking about my 2022 goals. Here they are.
      “1. Buy Mayweather Promotions and save them from bankruptcy.
      “2. Hire stylist for Floyd Mayweather.
      Paul mocked Mayweather in two of his four goals for 2022
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in boxing.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      “3. Take selfie with Oprah.
      “4. Go 2 chiropractor 2 heal back from carrying the sport of boxing.”
      Paul ended 2021 with a sensational knockout of Woodley as he put to bed the closeness of their first fight – which he won by split decision.
      And the sixth round KO was enough to earn him the ESPN Knockout of the Year award – although some boxing fans were furious at Paul being given the accolade.
      There have also been accusations that the pay-per-view numbers for the Woodley rematch were poor.
      But Paul hit back at those claims with a rant on social media.
      He said: “The PPV number rumours are bulls***. First fight with Woodley we sold 500k+.
      “Numbers for this one [the rematch] are still rolling in but still looking positive.
      Not my best business night. But remember.. everyone wanted to see me vs Fury and that’s what we sold.
      “Shoutout to Showtime for riding with me and all the fighters on the card and Tyron for not being a b***h like most of these ‘fighters’ are..” More

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo once slammed Gary Neville for ‘disgraceful farmer’s field’ tactics as Valencia drew with Real Madrid

      by

      CRISTIANO RONALDO once slammed Gary Neville for his “disgraceful farmer’s field” tactics during Valencia’s draw with Real Madrid in 2016.Neville endured a horror stint as manager of Valencia in the 2015-16 season – lasting just THREE months before being sacked.
      Neville has revealed he wound Ronaldo up after their LaLiga meeting in 2016
      The former Manchester United full-back failed to record a single win in his first nine matches and left with the Spanish giants 14th in LaLiga.
      But amongst the dark moments was one shining light – as his side twice battled from behind to draw 2-2 with a star-studded Real Madrid side.
      In a fiery encounter, now-Chelsea star Mateo Kovacic was sent off as Paco Alcacer secured a late leveller to seal a point.
      And Neville has now revealed how that game got under Ronaldo’s skin.
      ‘NO CHANCE’
      Nev told Sky Sports’ Off Script podcast: “The 2-2 draw with Real Madrid where we almost won it late on was an incredible night.
      “Rafa Benitez was Madrid manager and that was his last game before he got sacked.
      “What I remember most about that game was our tactic of leaving the grass really long.
      “We didn’t water the pitch so the ball wouldn’t travel as quick in the hope of slowing down Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.
      “It was like a farmer’s field.
      “Cristiano came over to me before the game and said ‘it’s a disgrace, cut the pitch’ – I said ‘absolutely no chance’.
      “There was no way he was dribbling that night.”
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}MOST READ IN FOOTBALL.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      Dropping those two points ultimately cost Los Blancos greatly, as they missed out on the LaLiga title to Barcelona by ONE point.
      But it still wasn’t enough for Neville to save his job, as he was sacked just weeks later.
      Neville hasn’t managed since, instead sticking to punditry on Sky Sports. More

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Man Utd star John O’Shea needed ‘an oxygen tank’ after playing against Cristiano Ronaldo in 2003 friendly

      by

      JOHN O’SHEA ‘needed an oxygen tank’ after playing against Cristiano Ronaldo for 45 minutes, according to Rio Ferdinand.Manchester United famously played Sporting Lisbon in a pre-season friendly in a 2003.
      Ronaldo’s bamboozling performance that day made O’Shea the butt of the jokes on the flight homeCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Ferdinand and the other United players found O’Shea’s struggles hilariousCredit: PA:Press Association
      The game left Sir Alex Ferguson adamant he had to sign explosive young winger Ronaldo but left O’Shea feeling dead on his feet.
      Ferdinand told England youngsters Mason Mount and Declan Rice the story during a live FIFA match as part of EA SPORTS and COPA90’s ‘Stay Home. Play Together’ campaign.
      The Man Utd legend said: “We played against Sporting in 2003, we get in at half-time and John O’Shea must’ve needed an oxygen tank next to him.
      “He was in bits and he was sitting there panting. We were telling him to get closer to Ronaldo and he couldn’t even answer us.
      “To be fair, me, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt were standing there going ‘this kid’s unbelievable, we’ve got to sign him’.
      “We got on the coach and we were delayed for about an hour and a half, and then they said they were doing a deal to sign Ronaldo now.”
      While talks were seemingly already close to completion ahead of the game, the legend goes that Ferguson felt an extra impetus to secure his signature on a permanent basis after witnessing how he’d run O’Shea ragged.
      Ferguson had apparently been considering letting Ronaldo stay at Lisbson for another year as part of an arrangement that would see the youngster come to Old Trafford the following summer.
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}MOST READ IN SPORT.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}

      Ultimately, there was no shame in O’Shea having been torn apart as the Portuguese would do that to virtually every defender in the league over the next six seasons as he scored 84 times in 196 appearances for United.
      Despite then going on to have his best seasons at Real Madrid, there is a strong argument that he is the Premier League’s best ever player.
      Ronaldo has since returned to Old Trafford, however his future looks like it belongs away from the club with reports that he wants to leave for a Champions League club.
      Fuming Man Utd fans block stars from entering training ground in Glazers Out protest More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Former Arsenal star Eboue told the Queen he would quit football and look after her corgis cracking Her Majesty up

      by

      FORMER Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue once told the Queen he would quit football to look after her corgis.The ex-Gunners right-back spent seven years at the North London club between 2004 and 2011.
      Eboue spent seven years in England as an Arsenal playerCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      The Queen’s corgis are regularly seen alongside Her MajestyCredit: PA:Press Association
      As well as his footballing ability, Eboue was known for having a wicked sense of humour.
      And he previously revealed how he went against Thierry Henry’s wishes during an encounter with Her Majesty – only to leave the Queen in stitches.
      Speaking to The Telegraph back in 2016, he said: “We went there and Thierry Henry said to me: ‘Please, Emmanuel, this is Buckingham Palace, it’s the Queen’s house, don’t do anything.’
      “‘No problem,’ I said. ‘Don’t worry’.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read more in sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou a:not(.nk-card-link){z-index:2;position:relative;}.css-1uyse24{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border:none;}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,114,238,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(34,37,38,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Arsenal news .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Gunners still interested in £55m Paqueta, Gabriel Jesus stunning HAT-TRICK
      “So the Queen came in and went along shaking each player’s hand. After she’d finished I saw all her corgis so I said, ‘Ma’am, Ma’am’.
      “She turned back and asked, ‘How are you?’
      “And I said, ‘Ma’am, I am OK thank you but please, I don’t want to be a footballer any more, I want to look after your dogs. I want to take them for walks, wash them, feed them. I want to be a dog carer’.
      “The Queen, honestly, she was laughing. Prince Philip was laughing too. All the team were laughing.”
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      Eboue made 219 appearances for Arsenal during his lengthy spell in the English capital, scoring nine goals.
      However, he failed to win a single piece of silverware.
      The closest he came was in the 2006 Champions League final when Arsenal were beaten by Barcelona.
      He was also a part of the squads which lost in the 2007 and 2011 League Cup finals. More