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    Sky Sports pundit tipped to replace under-fire Julen Lopetegui as West Ham manager

    A SKY SPORTS pundit has been tipped to take over from under-fire West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.The Hammers boss is under mounting pressure in East London after a poor start to the season was compounded by a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Nottingham Forest on Saturday.Julen Lopetegui has had a poor start to the season as West Ham managerCredit: GettyThat defeat has left West Ham looming in 14th spot, losing half of their league games already this term.With former Wolves boss Lopetegui now under a microscope, managers up and down the country are being linked with the job.And Jeff Stelling reckons that a Sky Sports pundit could be the right man to replace the Spaniard.Speaking on talkSPORT breakfast, Stelling backed Frank Lampard to fill the hot-seat.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLampard has been working as a Sky Sports pundit since his last foray into management as Chelsea’s interim boss last year. It’s understood that Lopetegui is still being backed by chiefs at West Ham, but Stelling reckons Lampard would do a great job at filling his boots if that changes.He said: “I’m going to mention someone who might divide opinions.“Is it time, if Lopetegui goes, for West Ham to bring Frank Lampard home? Just a thought.Most read in FootballJeff Stelling has tipped Frank Lampard to take over from LopeteguiCredit: GettyLampard is currently without a job after last managing Chelsea in 2023Credit: PAFrank Lampard managerial careerA brief look at Lampard’s managerial career so far…July 2017 – June 2018: Chelsea Youth CoachJuly 2018 – July 2019: Derby County Manager July 2019 – Jan 2021: Chelsea ManagerJan 2022 – Jan 2023: Everton ManagerApril 2023 – June 2023: Chelsea Interim ManagerFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“He is available. He’s been mentioned in connection with the Roma job, but West Ham would be ideal for him.“I know there’s a man in situ at the moment, but it is just a speculative suggestion at the moment.”I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’Lampard started his playing career with West Ham as a youngster, making 179 appearances for the club before switching to London rivals Chelsea in 2001.His managerial career has seen him take charge of Everton and Derby, as well as having two spells at Chelsea.He hasn’t ventured back into coaching since his second spell at Stamford Bridge ended in June 2023, but has been linked with a return to the technical area in Italy.According to reports, Lampard is being eyed as the potential new boss at Italian giants Roma.Lampard started his career at West HamCredit: GettyHe has managed Chelsea twice, once as permanent boss and once as interim managerCredit: GettyLampard has been working as a pundit since his last job with the BluesCredit: X / SkySportsPL More

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    ‘That’s the type of game where babies are made’, says Prem legend to leave Monday Night Football studio in stitches

    PREMIER LEAGUE legend Dimitar Berbatov left fans in stitches with a hilarious comment about Fulham’s comeback win over Brentford.The Cottagers were trailing 1-0 in stoppage time – only for substitute Harry Wilson to score two stunning goals and turn the result on its head.Dimitar Berbatov said ‘babies will be made’ after his former club’s late winnerHarry Wilson scored two stunning goals to win it for FulhamCredit: GettyWith the hosts struggling to break their West London rivals down, Wilson darted across the near post and cleverly flicked the ball over Mark Flekken between the sticks with 92 minutes on the clock.And then just seconds from the final whistle, he grabbed his second with a sensational diving header.The goal sparked huge celebrations at Craven Cottage and in the Sky Sports studio as ex-Fulham striker Berbatov ran around with his hands on his head.After calming down to provide his analysis of the game, the 43-year-old Bulgarian made a hilarious remark.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBerbatov said: “This is the type of game where, you know, after the game babies are made.”Sky presenter David Jones and pundit Jamie Carragher burst into laughter.The former Liverpool man then cheekily added: “On that note let’s go for a break.”Fans found it brilliant, with one saying: “Sky Sports gold.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnother added: “Can Sky employ Dimitar Berbatov permanently please?”More commented: “Absolutely brilliant.”Man Utd legend shows off ripped body at 42 in first-touch tutorial… as fans say he could teach current stars a thing or twoBerbatov won the Premier League twice at Man Utd during his glittering career.He also played for the likes of Bayer Leverkusen, Tottenham, Fulham and Monaco. More

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    Jamie Carragher savages Arsenal on Monday Night Football and says they’re ‘like a Mourinho team without the trophies’

    JAMIE CARRAGHER has brutally compared Arsenal to a Jose Mourinho team without the trophies.The Sky Sports pundit was sharing his thoughts after the Gunners were beaten 1-0 by Newcastle on Saturday to leave them seven points behind league leaders Liverpool.Mikel Arteta’s side are morphing into a Jose Mourinho team, says Jamie CarragherCredit: GettyJose Mourinho traits are being seen in the current Arsenal teamCredit: GettyBut Carragher brutally reminded Arsenal fans they have not won the leagueStats show Arsenal are relying more on set-pieces and like to go directCredit: Sky SportsCarragher claimed when Mikel Arteta’s side first competed for the title, Arsenal set out to play a brand of football based on what he had learned while with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.But after narrowly missing out on being crowned champions in the 2022/23 season after having an eight-point lead over City in January, the manager must have felt they lacked the physicality to get them over the line.The ex-Liverpool defender says Arteta has changed style and is now like the current Fenerbahce boss – but he so far lacks the Special One’s glittering trophy cabinet. Carragher explained: “Guardiola and Mourinho are the two most dominant and successful managers in the last 20 years. But they are at both ends of the spectrum in terms of style of football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Arsenal are morphing into Jose Mourinho. It is not a criticism of Mikel Arteta, it is an analysis.”This is a guy who has won the Premier League three times, Arsenal have not won it in 20 years.”Carragher then listed the traits he sees in the current Gunners team that reminds me of Mourinho’s old Chelsea side.He highlighted they are both strong defensively, have height and strength, rely on set-piece and play a direct style at times.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut there is one difference as Carragher added: “But the one thing we should also say where Arsenal are not like Mourinho is winning trophies.”If Mourinho is watching tonight, he will say ‘but I win trophies’.Edu’s exit is a huge loss for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal will feel very different without him, says SunSport’s Jack Rosser”At the moment Arsenal have not won a trophy, but they have been fantastic.”Anyone who thinks I have plucked this Mourinho thing out to create negativity around Arsenal – it is analysing where Arsenal are going.”If people do not agree with that then I don’t think you are actually watching what is going on.”I think Arteta feels he does not have the attacking quality of Man City.”So he is going another way to try to win the league, which is being strong defensively and a more powerful team.”This is what the team is morphing into, it is not a criticism, it is an analysis.”Fans loved the comparison, with a Tottenham saying: “Carragher basically saying Arteta is Mourinho without the trophies lol.”Another added: “He’s spot on. Arsenal fans done want to hear the truth.”Carragher also highlighted how Arsenal have moved away from signing technical players like Martin Odegaard and Oleksandr Zinchenko.Instead, Arteta with the help of resigned chief Edu have gone in favour of physical stars like Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori.The stats back up Carragher’s theory with Arsenal more reliant on set-pieces and are more playing long balls than they did last season.On the numbers, the pundit said: “Especially in away games, I struggle to see how they score a goal aside from a set-piece.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The elephant in the room is that Martin Odegaard is injured, he is probably among the top four or five players in the Premier League.”But do not forget City were without Kevin De Bruyne this and last season. They are heavily reliant on Odegaard.”Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.” More

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    Fans spot Frank Lampard’s reaction after Roy Keane gets called ‘Cardi B’ for his outfit choice at Man Utd vs Chelsea

    ROY Keane was the butt of the joke because of his fashion choice as he appeared as a pundit on Sky Sports.The Man Utd legend was a guest on Super Sunday alongside Frank Lampard and Jamie Redknapp.Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates pokes fun at Roy Keane’s fashion attireFellow pundit Frank Lampard thought the joke was hilariousEven Keane saw the funny side of Cates’ Cardi B gagThe former pros were taking in the Red Devils’ game against Chelsea at Old Trafford.But at half-time, things took a turn when presenter Kelly Cates poked fun at Keane’s attire.She began the half-time segment saying: “We’ve seen Olivia Rodrigo watching on from the stands, and we’ve got Cardi B in the studio as well.”The quick gag drew laughter from Lampard who couldn’t help but chuckle at Cates’ jibe.read more football newsWhile a smiling Redknapp was heard saying: “Wow.”For his part, Keane took the quip in his stride and gave Cates a grin.However, fans online spotted Lampard and Redknapp’s reaction and loved the moment.One posted: “Lampard and Redknapp laughing at that comment Cardi b to Roy Keane quality.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA second shared: “@skysports Kelly Cates is simply a class presenter. Saying they’ve got Cardi B in the studio because Roy Keane is wearing a cardigan and then zooming in on Roy’s stare at her was great.”A third wrote: “Roy Keane getting called cardi B for his cardigan has been the highlight of super Sunday so far.”Manchester United vs Chelsea: Player Ratings Breakdown (2)While a fourth added: “I swear @KellyCates life flashed before her eyes when she made that Cardi B joke about Roy Keane at half time just then.”The half-time entertainment certainly provided more thrills than a dull first half at Old Trafford.The second half was marginally better, and United thought they may have won it when Bruno Fernandes scored from the spot after 70 minutes.However, they were quickly pegged back by Moises Caicedo’s volley.It ended 1-1 with Man Utd climbing to 13th in the table. Chelsea’s point took them into the top four, above London rivals Arsenal. More

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    Jamie Redknapp blasts Man Utd fans accusing Old Trafford crowd of creating as much atmosphere as Covid times

    JAMIE REDKNAPP has called out Manchester United fans for giving their players the silent treatment against Chelsea.The Sky Sports pundit savaged the subdued atmosphere during United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Super Sunday. Jamie Redknapp has savaged Man Utd’s atmosphere – and likened it to a game in CovidA capacity crowd is at Old Trafford to watch United face ChelseaCredit: GettyInterim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy is taking charge of his first Premier League gameCredit: PARedknapp was far from impressed by the noise levels as Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side drew a blank in the first half at Old Trafford. Marcus Rashford came closest to breaking the deadlock before the break at the Theatre of Dreams, crashing a volley onto the crossbar.But the game remained scoreless at the break, with Redknapp baffled by the lack of energy in the home support. Redknapp told his Sky colleagues Roy Keane and Frank Lampard: “It’s like watching a game in Covid. READ MORE MAN UTD”There’s no crowd, there’s no atmosphere, no energy.”The players have got to do more [to get the crowd going].”One fan agreed on X: “Old Trafford feels more like a library than the Theatre of Dreams lately.”Another wrote: “It’s disappointing to hear that about Old Trafford. A lively atmosphere makes all the difference in the game. Fans need to bring that energy back!”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut a third argued: “Redknapp baiting as usual. Crowd is immense.”Van Nistelrooy watched his side improve in the second 45, taking the game to the visitors.Manchester United vs Chelsea: Player Ratings Breakdown (2)Bruno Fernandes looked to have given United all three points, slotting home from the penalty spot after Rasmus Hojlund was felled.But Moises Caicedo responded with a stunning volley minutes later, ensuring the Blues took a point home to West London. Van Nistelrooy will remain in post for a further two matches before new boss Ruben Amorim arrives on November 11. Redknapp’s colleague Gary Neville had earlier called out the club for its poor transfer dealings over the past decade.Neville claimed only Bruno Fernandes has lived up to his hefty transfer fee out of the £1.8bn in signings United have made since 2013.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.He told Sky: “There are players that have come here with great potential and ones that you thought would be good signings for the club.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Only really Bruno [Fernandes] I can think of in 10 years has signed for the club and done more than I thought he would.”I can’t think of any other player. That’s £1.8bn spent in the last 10 years, that’s one thing that has to change.” More

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    Fans baffled as Paul Merson ‘dresses like a lemon’ for Sky Sports Soccer Saturday return… but there’s a reason for it

    PAUL MERSON left fans baffled after dressing “like a lemon” on his Soccer Saturday comeback.The Sky Sports pundit made his return to the programme for this weekend’s Premier League action.Paul Merson wore an incredible outfit on his return to Sky Sports’ Soccer SaturdayCredit: X / PaulMerseFans were left baffled by the choice as they reacted on social mediaCredit: Sky SportsMerson, 56, had been absent from the show due to his commitment to BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.However, it appeared that he had forgotten to swap the glitzy ballroom outfits, and he took his spot on the panel.The former Arsenal star wore a bright yellow suit, with a sparkly top and a huge rosette, which left many viewers baffled on social media.One fan commented: “He really brought the sunshine to the studio!”READ MORE ON SPORTA second wrote: “He is just sensational.”A third posted: “He’s looking dashing.”A fourth said: “A man of his word!! Nice suit by the way.”A fifth joked: “He is dressed like a lemon.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “I thought he was getting married.”However, there was a reason for his choice of a more flamboyant outfit. Paul Merson AXED from Strictly after shock dance off with series favouriteMerson wore the outfit while appearing on Strictly Come DancingCredit: PASoccer Saturday host Simon Thomas asked him to wear the yellow suit on his return.Merson followed through with the request as he stunned in the studio.He insisted he would be wearing the suit for the whole show as he did not bring “any other clobber”.The retired footballer was the fourth celebrity to leave Strictly after he lost the dance-off to JLS star JB Gill and his partner Amy Dowden.During his time on the show, he danced to the football anthem Vindaloo and Pitball’s Fireball.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Carabao Cup quarter-final draw sees Man Utd handed horror tie at City conquerors Tottenham as Arsenal get Palace

    MANCHESTER UNITED have been handed a horror Carabao Cup quarter-final tie at Tottenham.The Red Devils will travel to North London after cruising past Leicester in the last 16.The draw for the Carabao Cup quarters has been madeCredit: PASpurs beat United’s rivals Man City 2-1 at home this evening.And they will be hoping to inflict more misery on Manchester when United pay a visit.Elsewhere, Arsenal will host Crystal Palace after easing past Preston.Palace defeated Aston Villa in the Midlands but face another tough trip away from home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the third tie, Newcastle have been rewarded for beating Chelsea with a home clash against Brentford.The Bees sealed their place in the last eight with a penalty win over Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday.Finally, Southampton will take on Liverpool after beating Stoke 3-2 yesterday.But Arne Slot’s Reds continue to look strong and slipped past Brighton 3-2 this evening.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe draw was made on Wednesday night following a six-game epic on Sky Sports, with Jamie Redknapp and Izzy Christiansen drawing the balls alongside host Mark Chapman.But there will be a lengthy wait until the quarters are played.Incredible before and after video shows AFC Wimbledon’s progress fixing huge sinkhole after Carabao Cup clash postponedThe full draw for the Carabao Cup quartersTies to be played week commencing Monday December 16:Tottenham vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Crystal PalaceNewcastle vs BrentfordSouthampton vs LiverpoolThe matches will not take place until the week commencing Monday December 16.The winners of the quarters will then progress to the semis, with the first of two legs to be played on the week commencing Monday January 6.And as for the holy grail, the final will take place at Wembley on March 16 — nearly a month later than last season’s match between Liverpool and Chelsea. More

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    Sky Sports slammed as ‘complete joke’ as technical error leaves fans unable to watch bumper night of cup football

    FOOTBALL fans were left furious after Sky Sports Plus appeared to crash during Manchester United’s Carabao Cup clash with Leicester City.The streaming service stopped working for some viewers in the early stages of the match.Some fans were unable to watch Man Utd vs LeicesterCasemiro scored an excellent goal – but many United fans were unable to see it liveCredit: PAA number of fans quickly took to social media to vent their frustration, with one person writing: “Would be nice if I could watch it live instead of on here (X). Absolute joke.”Another commented: “Would be great if your app/red button actually worked so we could watch it!”A third fumed: “SORT THE RED BUTTON MATCHES OUT!”A fourth said: “Shame I’ve been staring at an error message for 20 years.”Read More in FootballWhile another wrote: “Shame I can’t watch as your service is horrific. Waste of my money.”Sky Sports has been approached for comment.Man Utd took the lead through a Casemiro screamer in the 15th minute.Alejandro Garnacho made it two at the half-hour mark before Bilal El Khannouss pulled one back for Leicester.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCasemiro scored again and Bruno Fernandes followed with a goal before Conor Coady scored Leicester’s second.The score at Old Trafford was 4-2 at half-time, before Fernandes added his second and United’s fifth to complete the rout.’Ruben Amorim feels like Erik ten Hag all over again – Man Utd missed out on the perfect coach who’s done it already’ says Paul Scholes Ruud van Nistelrooy managed the Red Devils for the first time tonight following the departure of Erik ten Hag.Ten Hag was sacked by United on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham.Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is now expected to take over the job permanently.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More