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    Fans all switch to Sky Sports for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk after realising who is back on TV for fight

    BOXING fans were all switching to Sky Sports’ coverage after realising who was back on their punditry panel.The world is tuning in to watch Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk fight for the undisputed heavyweight crown in Saudi Arabia TONIGHT.Anna Woolhouse presented Sky Sports’ coverage of Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr UsykBarry McGuigan returned to Sky Sports for the first time in a decadeCredit: GettyThe Irishman was on the panel for Sky Sports’ coverageCredit: Sky SportsA host of stars are ringside for the bout – with Cristiano Ronaldo seated alongside Anthony Joshua on the front row.However, Usyk looked completely relaxed as he arrived at the arena in Riyadh carrying a CUDDLY TOY.One man who believes that the Ukrainian will have his arm raised in the humdinger is former WBA and lineal featherweight world champion Barry McGuigan.The Irishman, 63, was a regular on Sky Sports before leaving them a decade ago.READ MORE ON BOXINGHowever, he was back on our screens for them tonight as a pundit and that proved to be a masterstroke as many claimed on X that they had opted for them over rival broadcaster TNT Sports or DAZN.One wrote: “Barry McGuigan back on Sky tonight. Andy Clarke usually very good on comms too.“I’m going with them, DAZN too shaky and TNT have Richie Woodhall which is enough to turn anyone off.”Most read in BoxingAnother wrote: “McGuigan was one of my favourite boxers as a kid.A lovely and humble fella.”CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhile a third commented: “Great to see McGuigan back.”Sky Sports presenter Anna Woolhouse was hailed as being “absolutely smashing” as she fronted the dazzled on screen in the studio in London as she fronted the show. Oleksandr Usyk’s weight announced WRONG at Tyson Fury weigh-in as fans perform massive U-turn on predictionsMeanwhile, Becky Ives stunned on the TNT Sports screens after her late call-up for boxing duty tonight.Those that purchased the fight on TNT Sports will have quickly noticed that Laura Woods was not on hosting duties as expected.The fan favourite host has dropped out after suffering a freak accident this week.Woods posted a heartfelt note on Friday evening revealing she is unable to attend the clash after a horror injury while on holiday with boyfriend Adam Collard.The fan favourite revealed she had accidentally smashed a glass lampshade above her head, causing it to shatter and cut her face and arm.Becky Ives looked stunning in a bold green outfit on TNT SportsCredit: TNTLaura Woods suffered horror facial injuries after a freak accident ruled her outCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyIt was soon announced that Becky would be stepping into the shoes of Woods on fight night.And she was certainly ready to rumble in a bold green dress in Riyadh as she got to work alongside Carl Frampton, David Haye and Steve Bunce to analyse the action.The mind games started between the fighters when Fury REFUSED to even look at rival Usyk in the pre-fight press conference.Usyk’s team continued the eventful build-up by filing a complaint that parts of the Riyadh ring canvas could be a trip hazard.TYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM HUGE UNDISPUTED WORLD TITLE FIGHTHowever, it was the WBC champion’s father John Fury who had stolen the headlines after he shockingly HEADBUTTED Stanislav Stepchuk – a member of the Usyk team – on Monday.The 59-year-old John, who was left with a bloodied forehead, then threatened to headbutt Tony Bellew after he predicted a Usyk win and then launched a bitter attack on “traitor” British fans who believe that his undefeated 6ft 9in boy will be beaten this weekend.Tonight’s fight will see one man crowned the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world for the first time since Lennox Lewis held the mantle in 1999.READ MORE SUN STORIESUsyk holds the WBA, WBO and IBF belts, while Fury is the WBC and lineal heavyweight champion.Both men also have unbeaten records – but someone’s ‘O’ has got to go tonight.Saudi Arabia is no place for Fury vs Usyk… the blockbuster undisputed fight will sound desertedBy Dave Kidd
    IT is the single greatest individual sporting title on the planet — the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world.
    It is the crown worn by Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Rocky Marciano and Jack Dempsey.
    And it is an honour which has not been bestowed for a quarter of a century.
    Yet when Tyson Fury steps into the ring to face Oleksandr Usyk for the ultimate accolade in prize-fighting, he will do so in the dead of an Arabian night, in front of a largely disinterested crowd, one with little atmosphere or sense of occasion.
    What ought to have been The Greatest Show on Earth will feel like a ding-dong held in a vortex.
    The Saudification of elite sport is reaching crisis point — from the civil war in golf, to the march of football’s filthy-rich Saudi Pro League, to the awarding of the 2034 World Cup.
    But this event, at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, in the early hours of Sunday morning local time, is a true crown jewel, allowing the Sheikhs to bask in its reflected glory, to marvel at their own wealth and power.
    Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr met Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami at the same venue earlier this year but that was an exhibition match, this is the real deal.
    The tragedy for British boxing is that it currently holds the balance of power in the heavyweight  division — thanks to Fury, Anthony Joshua and several other decent contenders.
    To read more from Dave Kidd, click here. More

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    Anna Woolhouse stuns in ‘absolutely smashing’ outfit for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk as fans hail boxing presenter

    ANNA WOOLHOUSE stunned in an “absolutely smashing” outfit as she hosted coverage of Tyson Fury’s showdown with Oleksandr Usyk.The Sky Sports presenter dazzled on screen in the studio in London as she fronted the show for the biggest boxing fight of the century. Anna Woolhouse presented Sky Sports’ coverage of Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr UsykCredit: Sky SportsShe looked glamorous in a white numberCredit: Sky SportsThe piece was completed with a frilly skirtCredit: Sky SportsWoolhouse rocked a flamboyant white dress with long sleeves and a frilly skirt.She completed the look with a pair of black high heels. And it did not take long for Sky Sports viewers to flood in with adoring comments for the blonde bombshell. One said: “Anna Woolhouse looking absolutely smashing.”READ MORE ON BOXINGAnother wrote: “WOW!! “Anna Woolhouse looking absolutely stunning on the boxing!”A third added: “Anna Woolhouse 🔥”A fourth commented: “Anna Woolhouse is the best host in the boxing business IMO.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSElsewhere, over on TNT Sports, Laura Woods had to be replaced for the huge live night.That is because she suffered a horror facial injury which required surgery after smashing a glass lampshade. Laura Woods pulls out Fury vs Usyk coverage as TNT Sports host forced into emergency surgery after lampshade accidentAnd that meant Becky Ives stepped into Woods’ shoes in Riyadh. The presenter rocked a wonderful green number as she was joined live in the stadium by pundits Carl Frampton, David Haye and Steve Bunce.Becky Ives looked stunning in a bold green outfit on TNT SportsCredit: InstagramWoolhouse covers the big fight nights for SkyCredit: RexShe is always a popular choice for viewersCredit: Instagram @woolyanna1 More

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    Who is Becky Ives? Glam presenter to replace Laura Woods for TNT Sports’ coverage of Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk

    BECKY IVES will be stepping into the shoes of Laura Woods to present Tyson Fury’s fight with Oleksandr Usyk.The fan favourite host has dropped out of TNT Sports’ coverage after suffering a freak accident.Becky Ives will be presenting Tyson Fury’s fight with Oleksandr UsykCredit: Instagram @beckyivesofficialShe is an experienced sports presenterCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialWoods suffered a nasty injury after hitting a glass lampshade with a pillowCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyThe incident happened during a getaway with boyfriend Adam CollardCredit: In stagramIves will now take the lead for the coverage of the highly anticipated unification fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.She will be working alongside Carl Frampton, David Haye and Steve Bunce to analyse the fight action.She is no stranger to the sporting world having worked for Uefa, Discovery Sports and TNT.The presenter has also starred for Premier League Today and ITV during an impressive career.READ MORE ON BOXINGHer love of sport “stems from her teenage years, where she competed as a High Board Diver, and swimmer to a County and National standard, an avid football fan”, according to her LinkedIn page.Ives has not only starred in front of the camera but has also hosted sporting events such as the United Legends dinner event for Manchester United and the ‘Road To Victory’ Awards celebration Dinner for West Ham last year.She also refers to herself as a “professional talker.”Most read in BoxingShe has built up an impressive following on social media with over 25k fans on Instagram.TYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM HUGE UNDISPUTED WORLD TITLE FIGHTOn the social media platform, she regularly shares pictures of herself at sporting events, but also from her social life.She shows off her love of boxing in one video which sees her sparring for a workout.These remarkable pictures show Tyson Fury’s rise from humble beginnings — to heavyweight champion of the worldIn February, the presenter shared a collection of snaps from throughout the Premier League season in which she visited the London Stadium and Turf Moor.On the social front, she’s shared pictures from holidays to the USA and Majorca with pals.She’s also been snapped alongside a couple of dogs showing herself as an animal lover.While Ives appears to specialise in football, her CV shows she has knowledge of a lot of sports.She has reported for Red Bull during the WRC Wales Rally GB race in which she also interviewed winner Sebastien Ohier.She also hosted for Eurosport for the 2017 British Cycling Elite Series and presented the Strongman Championships for Spike TV.Ives is regularly reporting from grounds across the countryCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialShe has worked for TNT Sports and Premier League TodayCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialShe has an impressive following on InstagramCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialHer account is followed by 25.7k peopleCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialShe often wows fans with her picturesCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialShe is a fan of hitting the poolCredit: Instagram / beckyivesofficialShe was a guest at the Sport Industry Awards in AprilCredit: RexTYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM HUGE UNDISPUTED WORLD TITLE FIGHT More

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    Who is on commentary for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk?

    TYSON FURY goes head-to-head with Oleksandr Usyk TONIGHT in the first undisputed heavyweight title fight for almost 25 years.Both the Gypsy King and the Ukrainian powerhouse go into the bout undefeated.Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet in Saudi Arabia tonightCredit: PAShould one of the fighters leave the ring victorious, they would become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999 – and the first in the four-belt era.Fury will put his WBC strap on the line, while Usyk defends his WBA, IBF and WBO belts.Tonight’s huge bout will be screened by THREE major broadcasters – but who are they and who will be comentating for each?Who is on commentary for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk?Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk will be broadcast by DAZN, Sky Sports Box Office and TNT Sports Box Office.READ MORE IN BOXINGEach will have their own individual commentary and presenting teams for the huge undisputed world title fight in Riyadh.DAZN’s coverage will be fronted by presenters Kate Abdo and Ade Oladip.Lennox Lewis, Joseph Parker, Barry Jones and Darren Barker will join the two on the panel.Mike Costello, Ali Drew, Chris Mannix and Todd Grisham will be on to take you through the card.Most read in BoxingLaura Woods was initially leading TNT Sports’ coverage, but due to a freak accident on holiday, she has withdrawn.It has not yet been confirmed who will replace Woods as the broadcaster’s lead presenter for tonight’s fight.But the panel will contain Carl Frampton, David Haye and Steve Bunce.TNT Sports commentary will come from Darren Fletcher and Richie Woodall.Sky Sports will also have their own team in place for Fury vs Usyk later tonight.What time are the ring-walks for Fury vs Usyk and when does the fight start?
    The ring-walks for Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk are expected at approximately 11pm BST.
    The main event will get underway at approximately 11.15pm BST.
    Timings could be subject to change depending on the length of the undercard fights.
    The undercard is set to begin at 5pm BST. More

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    Premier League final day TV fixtures CONFIRMED with four games to be shown live in blockbuster Super Sunday

    FOUR Premier League matches will be shown live on UK TV this Sunday.The Prem final day is set to be action packed as Manchester City and Arsenal duke it out for the title.Erling Haaland bags for City against West Ham earlier this seasonCredit: GettyArsenal will take on Everton at the EmiratesCredit: GettyReigning champions City are in the driver’s seat after beating Tottenham 2-0 on Tuesday night.Erling Haaland’s double saw Pep Guardiola’s men climb two points above the Gunners going into the final day.City take on West Ham at the Etihad, with the match to be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.Arsenal, meanwhile, will host Everton, hoping to pounce on any potential City slip-up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShould City fail to win, the Gunners will win the title by beating the Toffees.Fans wanting to watch Arsenal will be able to tune in to TNT Sports 1 and Discovery Plus.Should the title race not interest some fans, they will have alternatives.Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool farewell against Wolves at Anfield will be screened on Sky Sports Premier League.Most read in FootballPrem final day TV scheduleAll matches will kick off at 4pm

    Manchester City vs West Ham – Sky Sports Main Event
    Arsenal vs Everton – TNT Sports 1/Discovery Plus
    Liverpool vs Wolves – Sky Sports Premier League
    Chelsea vs Bournemouth – Sky Sports Football/Sky Sports Arena

    Elsewhere, the race for European spots remains alive.Aston Villa sealed a top four finish courtesy of City’s win at Spurs.But places in the Europa League and Europa Conference League remain up for grabs.Chelsea can still overtake Tottenham, should they beat Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge and hope that Spurs slip up at Sheffield United.The Blues could still be caught by Newcastle, however, if they lose to the Cherries and the Toon win at Brentford.Fans hoping to tune in to the European race can watch Chelsea vs Bournemouth on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Arena.Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool farewell will be live on TNT SportsCredit: GettyMauricio Pochettino will try to guide his side into the Europa LeagueCredit: Getty More

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    Awkward moment Erik ten Hag drags Bruno Fernandes out of interview live on Sky Sports when grilled about Man Utd future

    ERIK TEN HAG dragged Bruno Fernandes away from his live TV interview – just as his skipper was being grilled about his Manchester United future.Fernandes, 29, spoke to Sky Sports on the Old Trafford pitch after leading his side to a dramatic 3-2 win over Newcastle.Bruno Fernandes was talking to Sky Sports about his Manchester United futureCredit: Sky SportsErik ten Hag walked over to interrupt the interviewCredit: Sky SportsThe gaffer dragged his captain awayCredit: Sky SportsSunSport revealed this week that the Portuguese playmaker is ready to make the FA Cup final his United swansong. He is considering quitting the club in the summer after four-and-a-half years at the Theatre of Dreams. Sky’s Patrick Davison asked Fernandes about his United future – but he remained coy with his answer.The midfielder – who could be reunited with international pal Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr – said: “I will be here as long as the club wants me to be a part of the future.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”As I have always said, I don’t want to be a player the club doesn’t want to have.”If for some reason they don’t want to have me, I will go. But if they want me, I will stay.”But while Fernandes was talking, in the background Ten Hag walked over waving his arm around and urging the people behind the camera to wrap up the interview immediately.The smiling Dutchman then grabbed his captain by the arm and pulled him away – cue cheers from the crowd. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDavison hurriedly handed over the player of the match trophy just in time before the Red Devils pair walked off laughing. It is unclear if the timing of the interruption was purely coincidental as it is unlikely Ten Hag could hear what Fernandes was talking about and therefore would not be trying to silence him.Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney leaves Sky Sports studio in stitches with brutal one-word response to news of VAR voteInstead, the more plausible explanation is that the gaffer wanted Fernandes to join the rest of the squad as he addressed the Old Trafford crowd following their final home game of the season.And Ten Hag later declared just how important the Portugal star is to the team.He said: “Obviously the club wants to keep Bruno, there’s no doubt about it.”He loves Manchester United, he loves to play for Manchester United. “Especially with the injuries around him, he has to carry the team, he keeps a high level.”Fernandes is not the only one whose future is up in the air.While Raphael Varane confirmed he is leaving on a free transfer, manager Ten Hag could also be heading out the exit door.He, too, was quizzed on his future plans at Old Trafford but refused to be dragged into the conversation. Instead, Ten Hag wanted to keep the focus on the pitch – with tonight’s victory and the end of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIESGoals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund saw the Red Devils end their home league campaign on a high – despite Lewis Hall making it a nervy finale.United head to Brighton on the final day of the season this Sunday before taking on rivals Manchester City in a repeat of last year’s FA Cup final. Fernandes just had to time to offload his player of the match trophyCredit: Sky SportsThey were all smiles together following the win over NewcastleCredit: Sky SportsThe pair walked off together to join the rest of the squad in the centre circleCredit: Sky SportsSunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.

    Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
    Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
    Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
    Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
    Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
    Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
    Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
    Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
    Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
    Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
    Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
    Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
    Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
    Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
    Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
    Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
    Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
    Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
    Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
    Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
    Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
    Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
    Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
    Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
    Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season. More

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    ‘Prime example to get rid of VAR’ moan Newcastle fans as Anthony Gordon shows off gruesome scar after failing to win pen

    OUTRAGED Anthony Gordon joined fans in blasting VAR after suffering a “really sore” injury in a huge penalty controversy.Gordon was left with a nasty heel graze and huge rip in his sock as Sofyan Amrabat floored him in Manchester United’s 3-2 home Premier League win.”I don’t understand what the point of VAR is then” 😳Anthony Gordon vents over VAR and it’s decision to not give Newcastle a penalty ❌ pic.twitter.com/al4CCooNds— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 15, 2024

    Amrabat was unpunished for this challenge on GordonCredit: Premier LeagueSky Sports pundit Wayne Rooney was among viewers insisting it should have been a spot-kick – hours after Prem clubs learned they will vote next month on whether to ditch video replays.And Gordon went much further afterwards – delivering a scathing verdict.The winger, who had also fired a brilliant but temporary equaliser, told Sky: “I’ve watched the incident back – it’s a clear penalty.”I don’t mind the referees getting it wrong on the pitch because it’s a difficult decision – things happen very quickly.READ MORE TOP STORIES”But I don’t understand what the point of VAR is then because it’s there to correct mistakes.”He goes down my Achilles and pushed me in the back, then Casemiro comes and gets the ball – but there’s two fouls before that.”Fans were divided on Gordon’s penalty shout – but one observer claimed the saga was a “prime example to get rid of VAR”.The English Euro 2024 hopeful snaked through the middle, with Amrabat trailing in his wake before lunging in.Most read in FootballGordon reckons Amrabat fouled him TWICECredit: Premier LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCasemiro – converted from midfield to central defence – then tidied up as Gordon slipped over.Many fans reckon Amrabat DID rake the Toon hero’s heel as he challenged.VAR is ruining football and must be ditched, says 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst – so would it have ruled out THAT goal?One posted: “Clear as day penalty. But will never happen at Old Trafford.”Another wrote: “VAR is once again the star of the show, as Newcastle were denied a penalty after replays showed Amrabat stepping on the back of Gordon.”A third added: “It was a penalty, not gonna lie.”And United legend Rooney said: “I think it’s a penalty. Casemiro does well but Amrabat catches him on his heel.”But other observers argued there was minimal contact – and not enough for a spot-kick.One posted: “Explain why its a penalty please? Casemiro perfectly tackled him and Amrabat grazed him.”Another hit back at pro-penalty protestors by saying: “Literally won the ball but you do you.”Gordon’s injury was clear to seeCredit: Premier League More

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    ‘This is not over yet’ – Marinakis demands Gary Neville is ‘subject to FA rules’ over Nottingham Forest ‘mafia’ comments

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST owner Evangelos Marinakis has revealed his legal team contacted Sky about Gary Neville and his “inappropriate” comments.Forest stunned the football world last month after berating the PGMOL following a 2-0 defeat to Everton.Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis believes the FA should take action regarding Gary Nevile’s ‘mafia’ commentsCredit: PAGary Neville suggested Nottingham Forest’s statement was like a ‘mafia-gang’ statementCredit: GettyThe club issued a statement claiming they had warned the organisation about the risk of bias from a Luton-supporting VAR official.Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville heavily criticised Forest as a result, even comparing the act to a “mafia gang” statement.He said: “What the hell are they playing at? They’ve grabbed defeat from victory with the way they’ve handled it.”It’s like a petulant child, it’s embarrassing. The suggestion of cheating because there’s an official who’s a Luton fan is a scandal and they will pay for that.Read More on Football”They will regret that as a football club. It”s a horrendous statement by that football club.”Nottingham Forest subsequently launched legal action against Sky Sports, citing Neville’s statements.And Marinakis believes the FA should also take action.In an interview with the Daily Mail, the owner said: “The truth is this specific referee is well known to be a Luton fan – and no doubt declared his interest to PGMOL, as all of them have to.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”In my opinion, the PGMOL should not have selected him for this match. Luton were directly below Forest at that time. In the final relegation place in 18th position.”The match against Everton was hugely important for the club’s survival in the Premier League. The PGMOL should not have risked even the suspicion or perception of any bias, even unconscious bias.Gary Neville tells Mark Clattenburg to RESIGN from Nottingham Forest role after club’s ’embarrassing’ VAR statement”To be clear, we don’t expect to dictate or to impose a change to the PGMOL or Premier League but it is our duty to warn of a situation and be proactive.”He continued: “We made this announcement because we tried to protect and then there is a big fuss – but that was made from Sky Sports and specific guys.”I can bring you 100 examples of times they exaggerated, didn’t say the truth and humiliated people.”Neville is subject to FA rules too, surely – he is a director of Salford FC. His comment about the club was outrageous, but the FA have done nothing.”I need to be careful – because our lawyers have already been in contact with Sky regarding Neville and this is not over yet. The comments and words he used were inappropriate, didn’t correspond with reality and harmed people.”PGMOL chief Howard Webb claimed after the match that Nottingham Forest should have been awarded a penalty.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Reds all-but secured safety in the Premier League at the weekend.That’s after relegation rivals Luton suffered a 3-1 defeat to West Ham.What have Nottingham Forest said?
    After the final whistle against Everton, Nottingham Forest’s official Twitter account tweeted: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept.
    “We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times.
    “NFFC will now consider its options.”
    On Monday the club revealed they have requested the PGMOL release the audio recordings between officials during the match.
    A statement read: “Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park.
    “The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute).
    “We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.” More