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    ‘He paid for it’ – Marseille boss De Zerbi reveals why he controversially dropped top-scorer Mason Greenwood

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    ROBERTO DE ZERBI has revealed why he dropped Mason Greenwood from Marseille’s starting XI.The disgraced former Manchester United winger has been the Ligue 1 side’s star performer so far this season, scoring 15 goals in 26 appearances.Mason Greenwood has been one of Marseille’s star performers this seasonCredit: AFPBut the winger has made to make do with sub appearances against Lens and PSGCredit: GETTYMarseille boss Roberto De Zerbi has rubbished claims that Greenwood was demoted because of his work rateCredit: GETTYGreenwood, for much of the campaign, was one of the first names on the teamsheet.But he’s had to make do with substitute appearances in Marseille’s recent clashes with Lens and Paris Saint-German.It was recently claimed that the 23-year-old’s work rate was the reason why De Zerbi demoted him to the bench.But the former Brighton boss insists that couldn’t be any further from the truth.READ MORE ONThe Italian said: “We need to clarify the Mason Greenwood case a little.”Because you journalists are always in a position to change things a little, to create some scoops.”Because you have to do what all journalists do a little bit, which is to make a little bit of chaos.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMason Greenwood has ten goals and six assists to his name this seasonCredit: REX”‘He’s had a bit of a tough time lately because he had a daughter who was born, and I don’t think he’s used to playing such an intense season and being a main player.Most read in Football”I think he paid for it physically.Man Utd braced for Mason Greenwood lawsuit after Mendy successfully sued City over £11m unpaid wages”That is to say that he didn’t push himself and wasn’t 100 percent as I wanted in training, in terms of what I expect from a player like him.”His physical condition has declined a little, but my project in Marseille is not only to qualify for the Champions League, it is also to create something like what Luis Enrique has created (at PSG).”He has created a team, a group of strong players, but with a soul.”Greenwood’s promising Manchester United came to a screeching halt in January 2022 when he was arrested on suspicion of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive control – which he was later charged with.The Crown Prosecution Service, however, dropped the charges following the “withdrawal of key witnesses and new material coming to light.”Greenwood returned to action last season with LaLiga side Getafe, for whom he scored ten goals and provided six assists.He officially left Manchester United last summer, joining Marseille for a fee in the region of £26million. More

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      Newcastle trophy parade LIVE: Toon Army gather to celebrate HISTORIC Carabao Cup victory over Liverpool

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      NEWCASTLE fans gather at St James Park after the side won their first trophy in 70 YEARS!Eddie Howe’s side beat Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley to claim their first silverware in over half a century. The side will be celebrating the famous victory, as they take to the streets of Newcastle in an open-top bus parade.Fans will be treated to a full replay of the game, before the side tour the city with the trophy.Timings:Full match replay – 2pm GMTMain stage entertainment starts – 4pm GMTBus parade starts – 4:30pm GMTPlayers take to the stage – 6:35pm GMTEvent ends – 7:30pm GMTLive stream: SunSport YouTubeFollow our live blog below…Fans scale Shearer’s statue! Copy linkCopiedAlan Shearer arrivesAs the players and staff head towards the Town Moor, Newcastle will host a question and answer session with club legends for those already in attendance.The Q&A segment will see Newcastle’s leading goalscorer Alan Shearer take centre stage, along with Bob Moncur, Les Ferdinand and the women’s team.Copy linkCopiedThe 15 minute markThe Wembley final is currently being shown on the big screens as fans pile into Town Moor.But live entertainment will begin shortly at 4pm – half an hour before the parade bus leaves St James’ Park.Sonny Tennet, Ellie Scougall, The Belta Reivers and Paige Temperley are a few names down to perform.Following them and the trophy celebrations, including a cup lift, Q&A with players and team photo, a light show will take place.Copy linkCopiedToon Army surrounds St James’ Park!Fans are waiting for the parade bus to leave the stadium in less than an hour!Copy linkCopiedOpen-top bus passes late fitness testThe bus transporting Newcastle’s jubilant players and staff from St James’ Park to Town Moor failed a late MOT this week.On Tuesday, government records show that the plate set to be at the heart of today’s celebrations failed its test as it was being prepared.The issue was fixed the following day, however, and is now ready to go.Testing manager Chris Reeves told ITV News Tyne Tees: “It failed on a ramp with a minor wiring issue. “The company took it away to get it fixed and we got it booked in for a retest on Wednesday, where it gladly passed.”It’s been thoroughly tested and it is all good to go.”Copy linkCopiedCopy linkCopiedWhere can I watch Newcastle’s parade?For those unable to attend the celebrations today in Newcastle, there are options to follow the event online.A Sky Sports News special will broadcast on Sky channel 402 from 6pm to 7pm. While Newcastle United’s YouTube channel will also be streaming live.And of course you can keep up to date with events right here on Sun Sport’s live blog…Copy linkCopiedOur man on the groundFrom SunSport’s Newcastle correspondent Gary Stonehouse live at Town Moor.While beers are getting downed in town, up on the Moor thousands are still cramming into the main event.And, despite the rain, the weather is not dampening the atmopshere as the Toon Army enjoy a re-run of the Wembley win. A stage has been set up for a Q&A with Alan Shearer and Les Ferdinand before the players will come out.Copy linkCopiedBanned items at Town MoorThe open-top bus will arrive at Town Moor at approximately 5pm, but fans with tickets have been warned not to bring items into the event that are on the banned list.The club have advised that the following things are not permitted on site:AlcoholChairs/camping equipmentFlagsPyrotechnics/flaresDronesPetsIt is a dry event and supporters have been urged to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks.Copy linkCopiedEarly best dressed award nomineesTaking inspiration from the black and white Golden Globes this year…Copy linkCopiedKey parade timingsNewcastle have issued a statement informing attending fans that they should arrive on time in order to make the most of the day.1.30pm – Town Moor site opens.2pm – Final match replay.4pm – Main Stage entertainment.4.30pm – Bus parade starts.5pm – Q&A with Legends.6.35pm – Players take to the Main Stage.7.15pm – Sela spectacular surprise.8.15pm – Site closes.Copy linkCopiedAnt and Dec have arrivedGeordie royalty Ant and Dec have been seen outside St James’ Park as anticipation continues to build over today’s event.Chronicle Live claim that they were spotted by a group of fans and laughed when asked: “What do you think of Sunderland?”The iconic pair walked through the chairman’s entrance of the stadium after posing for pictures with fans and signing autographs.Copy linkCopiedCopy linkCopiedParade and bus routeNewcastle have confirmed that today’s bus will depart St James’ Park at around 4:30pm to kick off the festivities.It will then make its way down Gallowgate, turn onto Percy Street, and head onto the B1318 towards Gosforth.The bus will stop just once, at the Town Moor, where the players will then make their way onto the stage.After that, live music and a special lights show by Saudi Arabian events company Sela.Proceedings will begin at St James’ ParkCopy linkCopiedGood afternoonHello and welcome to Sun Sport’s live coverage of today’s Carabao Cup trophy parade in Newcastle.We will be bringing you all the latest news, updates and big moments from the open-top bus event.Car parks are closed, roads are blocked off as nearly 150,000 fans will take to the streets to watch their heroes celebrate the Toon army’s first domestic trophy in 70 YEARS.A replay of the 2-1 win over Liverpool at Wembley will be shown at some point too!”This will be one of the biggest events we have seen in the city,” said Karen Kilgour, leader of Newcastle City Council.Fans have been on the drink since this morningFor many, it’s Newcastle’s first trophy in their life timeCopy linkCopied More

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      Brighton vs Nottingham Forest LIVE SCORE: FA Cup quarter-final updates as Prem high-flyers clash for last-four spot

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      BRIGHTON host fellow Premier League high-flyers Nottingham Forest in a huge FA Cup quarter-final clash this afternoon.Nuno Espirito Santo’s side thrashed the Seagulls 7-0 when the two sides last met in February.But Brighton are unbeaten since their drumming at the City Ground, and the Seagulls will be out for revenge as they look to stay on course to claim the first major trophy in their history.Forest are in a strong position to finish in the Premier League’s top four, but the Tricky Trees will want some silverware to remember such an outstanding season.Kick off time: 5.15pm GMTTV channel: BBC OneFREE live stream: BBC iPlayerBrighton team: To follow…Nottingham Forest team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Forest looking to buck trendNottingham Forest do not have a good record at this stage of the competition, something they will want to address today.In their last three FA Cup quarter-finals, they have been defeated all by a one-nil scoreline.It is 35 years since Forest progressed to the semi-finals, eventually losing to Tottenham in the final.Copy linkCopiedSeagulls continue to BloomFor any newly promoted side to the Premier League, they would do well to look at Brighton as a model to emulate.Owner Tony Bloom backs the managers financially to improve their squad with young talent.Every player has their price but The Seagulls never seem to sell any of their players for less than their true value.That is then reinvested in the squad and they are starting to reap the rewards.The icing on the cake for Brighton would be to bring some silverware to the Amex Stadium in the process.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBlow for Forest in FA CupNuno Espirito Santo’s side will go into this game without prolific striker Chris Wood this afternoon.The striker picked up a hip injury on international duty for New Zealand in the recent international break.It will be interesting to see how that disrupts the machine that is Nottingham Forest on the south coast but it does offer the chance for Taiwo Awoniyi to impress the manager.Copy linkCopiedBrighton vs Nott’m ForestNow we move onto the second semi-final of the day.Two form teams meet each other at the Amex Stadium.The Seagulls will be looking for revenge for their 7-0 drubbing at the hands of Forest earlier in the season.Copy linkCopiedCottagers left wondering what could have beenThe spring sunshine was beating down in West London and everything looked set up for a memorable afternoon.Fulham dominated the early stages of the game and Craven Cottage was bouncing.However, they could not carve out any clear-cut chances to break the deadlock against Crystal Palace.This one will hurt The Cottagers, Marco Silva has some job to pick his players up as they turn their attentions back to Premier League duties.Credit: ReutersCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedEagles soar in FA CupWhile talk of silverware was deflected by the players and manager, Crystal Palace fans are dreaming of what could be a special season.They knew it would be a tough challege against Fulham in West London but having secured an emphatic victory, Wembley now awaits.If Oliver Glasner is able to bring a trophy to Selhurst Park, he can probably expect a statue of him to be erected soon after.Credit: AlamyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedPalace wing it in West LondonWhat a week it has been for Eberechi Eze.Scoring his first England goal in midweek against Latvia, he carried that form into the FA Cup this afternoon as Fulham were put to the sword.Constantly linked with moves to bigger clubs, the winger really showed how integral he is to this Eagles side at Craven Cottage.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies at Craven CottageFulham look dejected, but the Palace players are fist-pumping the away end, and don’t look like stopping any time soon.Marco Silva will be desperately disappointed. For all their dominance, they barely laid a glove on Palace, who will revel in the one of the most smash-and-grab 3-0 results you will see in a long while.Wembley awaits the soaring Eagles…Copy linkCopiedBoss plays down Eze factorSpeaking with ITV Sport after the match, The Eagles’ manager gave his thoughts on their victory:Key number one was to survive the first fiteen minutes. We were rusty and the structure was not good due to the international break. It was so important the first goal as we got the belief back. When you are struggling in a game, you need these actions. It was a great team effort which is what I told the guys in the dressing room. We can achieve a lot.Oliver GlasnerCrystal PalaceCopy linkCopiedMunoz asks questions of CottagersWhile Crystal Palace had plenty of defending to do in the early stages of this game, when they had the chance to counter, their full-backs supported the attacks.Munoz spent the match working up and down the flanks, dragging Fulham’s players out of position.This then allows the likes of Sarr, Mateta and Eze to exploit the gaps in the hosts’ defence.Copy linkCopiedEze does it at Craven CottageMatch-winner Eberechi Eze spoke with ITV Sport about their win over Fulham in the FA Cup quarter-finals:Yes it was an important goal, happy to help the team, this is what am here to do. It was no a good start from us. This is where I want to get the ball to run at defenders. When you get the chance, you need to take it and that is what we have done today. We’re confident in ourselves, we know what we are capable of.Eberechi EzeCrystal PalaceCopy linkCopiedFT: Fulham 0-3 Crystal PalaceMikel Arteta take note of this one, The Eagles have shown how you get nothing for dominating possession in the modern game without any penetration.A classic away performance from Oliver Glasner’s side.They are heading to Wembley for a big day out.Copy linkCopiedFT: Fulham 0-3 Crystal PalaceThe referee brings the game to a close at Craven Cottage.Crystal Palace are heading into the semi-finals.A superb performance from The Eagles in West London.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace90+2. These Palace fans are going to enjoy their short trips back to the other side of London after this one.All eyes will be on that semi-final draw tomorrow for The Eagles.A lot of teams would like to see Bournemouth dump Man City out of the cup tomorrow to improve their chances of silverware.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace90. Clyne is shown a yellow card for a poorly-timed challenge.For all their possession today, Fulham really have not tested Henderson enough in the visitors’ goal.We are going to have three minutes of added time.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace88. Munoz and Sarr are replaced for the visitors.Devenny and Clyne come on for Glasner’s side.It would take a dramatic comeback for Fulham to keep their hopes alive in the FA Cup now.Silva’s side have been well and truly dealt with by Palace today.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace86. Munoz counters and Palace have numbers forward.He ends up dribbling the ball into danger as he is crowded out by three Fulham players.Had he looked up and played the early pass, the visitors could have grabbed another goal there.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace84. This has been the perfect away performance from Palace.They absorbed all Fulham had to throw at them and were clinical when a chance presented itself.It has been a comfortable win for The Eagles on paper this afternoon.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace82. This could be a massive springboard for Palace’s season.They have been one of the form teams in the Premier League in 2025.Only Liverpool and Arsenal have taken more points than them.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace80. The Eagles’ fans are enjoying their afternoon now.They continue to sing ‘we’re going to Wembley’.It has been some time since Crystal Palace played in a FA Cup semi-final.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace78. Earlier in the season there was relegation talk at Selhurst Park.What a job Oliver Glasner has done to turn that around.Now they are dreaming of European qualification and a trip to Wembley.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-3 Crystal Palace76. The ball is rolled in behind the Fulham defence.Nketiah runs onto it and slots it past Leno.Game, set and match for The Eagles.This may well be the worst Saturday afternoon in West London since news broke that the Gucci store was closing.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedGoal – Eddie Nketiah (Crystal Palace)Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-2 Crystal Palace74. Lerma is fouled in the middle of the park.He takes the opportunity to roll around and make it seem worse than it is so he can run the clock down.Lacroix is then shown a card for time-wasting in taking the set-piece.Copy linkCopiedFulham 0-2 Crystal Palace72. Time is starting to run out for the hosts.For The Eagles, it is just a matter of defending what they have now.That said, if they get the chance to counter, another goal really puts this game to bed.Copy linkCopied More

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      Liverpool owners FSG exploring takeover of forgotten former Champions League club after they fell into decline

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      LIVERPOOL owners Fenway Sports Group [FSG] are going head-to-head with Paris Saint-Germain for a takeover of Spanish side Malaga.The former Champions League side have slipped down the leagues following mismanagement in the last decade.FSG owner John Henry is looking to buy MalagaCredit: GettyThey recently went into administration and are attracting attention from potential buyers.Now Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group are weighing up a bid to buy a majority stake in Malaga from Qatari businessman Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani.FSG representatives are said to have visited Malaga last month to inspect facilities and assess what form any investment should take as they bid to create their own multi-club empire.Malaga spent last season in the third tier for the first time since 1998.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey were promoted and are now sitting 15th in LaLiga 2.Spanish hotel and real estate group Blue Bay owns the remaining 49 per cent.It follows an attempt made by FSG to buy French club Bordeaux following their relegation to the third tier.That move broke down “following extensive and constructive discussions with all stakeholders”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSFSG are understood to be interested in developing a multi-club model akin to that of the City Group.They bought Liverpool in 2010, adding to their portfolio which includes the Boston Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Penguins.Fans convinced Frimpong will join Liverpool after spotting his Holland camp antics More

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      Fulham 0 Crystal Palace 3: Ebere Eze’s magic sends Glasner’s side off to Wembley for FA Cup semi-final

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      CRYSTAL PALACE produced a stunning FA Cup splash-and-grab to book a semi-final date at Wembley.Jean-Philippe Mateta – donning his water polo-inspired protective headguard – barely made a ripple on his Eagles return.Ebere Eze’s magic sent Crystal Palace into the FA Cup semi-finalCredit: GettyHe curled a superb finish in off the far post at Craven CottageCredit: ReutersInstead, Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr stepped up to grab two goals in four first-half minutes, blowing a stunned Fulham out the water at Craven Cottage.A third goal against the run of play in the 75th minute sealed it thanks to second-half sub Eddie Nketiah.Marco Silva – enjoying his 500th game in management – will be scratching his head for weeks at this scoreline, shocked by how his Fulham boys failed to see this one out after such a dominant but toothless showing.The Portuguese coach will also be wondering what might have been had Adam Wharton received a second yellow for a 22nd-minute kick-out at Rodrigo Muniz.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFor now, Fulham’s 50-year wait to reach a domestic cup final goes on. Meanwhile, Austrian boss Oliver Glasner’s hero status in South London has hit new heights. The Selhurst faithful will genuinely be believing this is finally their time in the most open FA Cup for years – even if they were outplayed for large parts on the banks of the Thames.Mateta’s comeback was another positive for Palace and Glasner – the Frenchman making his first appearance since requiring 25 stitches in his left ear after being hit with a horrific kung-fu kick by Millwall keeper Liam Roberts in the fifth round on March 1.A bizarre-looking headband covering the ear made its debut. Glasner joked in the build-up he looked like a water polo star, while his team-mates compared Mateta to a WWE wrestler.Most read in FA CupUnsurprisingly, he looked rusty and leggy, unable to add to his 15 goals in all competitions so far this term in this 69-minute outing, with chances few and far between for the visitors.Silva also made a big decision, bringing in Muniz to lead the line after his impressive goal-scoring display to down Tottenham in the Premier League before the international break, dropping Raul Jimenez to the bench.Why Man City could be dumped out of the FA Cup by Bournemouth | Experts’ best bets – Weekend WagerThe early signs were promising. Inside the opening two minutes, Muniz outmuscled Marc Guehi, nipped past Maxence Lacroix and curled just wide of Dean Henderson’s far post.The Cottage was rocking. The noise was sensational. White and black flags had draped the stands before kick-off while red and blue balloons bounced around the away end. Early kick-offs in the cup are often recipes for tame, muted affairs, but this one – smothered in sunshine – had the feel of a final. Both sides recognised what a chance this was.Fulham continued to pile on the pressure, suffocating Palace. Sander Berge’s long-range shot was deflected wide by the hand of a lunging Jefferson Lerma. VAR weren’t fussed.Muniz then sent a header from a corner straight into the arms of Henderson. The visitors were struggling for a solution. Mateta cut an isolated, frustrated figure.He almost got his chance as Sarr skipped in front of Calvin Bassey on the edge of his box – only for his cut-back to be comfortably dealt with.It seemed inevitable Fulham would score. Bassey, this time rampaging forward, made the most of a mistimed Guehi clearance but his tee-up for Andreas Pereira was wasted.Soon after, Wharton kicked out at Muniz off the ball in the middle of the pitch, having already picked up a yellow for wiping out Willian in the 14th minute.Ref Darren England, surrounded by furious Fulham players, opted to give Wharton the benefit of the doubt. In hindsight, it was a huge let-off for Palace, one they would take advantage of.Lerma had just smacked the bar with an audacious volley, and in the 34th minute, Eze was given too much space to cut in off the left and curl a beauty in off the post from 25 yards, shushing the home fans with a smile.Palace’s cup king, four of Eze’s last five goals have come away from the Prem.Shell-shocked and downbeat, Fulham’s reaction could not have been worse, backing off Eze yet again, this time the England international going on the outside and getting a cross in.Sarr had wriggled free of Bassey’s grasp for the simplest of flicked headed finishes.In truth, Fulham never looked like getting back into it from there. Palace were beginning to enjoy themselves, especially Wharton, suptuously pirouetting on the ball around two players just before the break.The Cottage demanded an almighty response, a memorable comeback. They received neither. The air had been let out of Fulham’s FA Cup balloon.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir second-half highlight included a deflected Willian effort off Wharton that was palmed away by Henderson and a subsequent goalmouth scramble from a corner that Bassey somehow failed to convert.Sticking to the script of the day, Palace then struck against the run of play once more, Nketiah – who had replaced Mateta – slipped in down the left and poking a cute finish through the legs of his old Arsenal pal Bernd Leno.Adam Wharton was fortunate not to get sent offCredit: AlamyIsmaila Sarr headed in the second for the EaglesCredit: AlamyEddie Nketiah rolled in for 3-0Credit: ReutersNketiah was all smiles as he put the result beyond any doubtCredit: ReutersJean-Philippe Mateta returned to action with protection for his earCredit: GettyPalace fans revelled in their side’s emphatic winCredit: GettyMarco Silva knows this was a glorious chance for Fulham to win the FA CupCredit: AFP More

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      Jean-Philippe Mateta wears water polo-style helmet as he starts for Crystal Palace three weeks after horror head injury

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      JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA wore a water polo-style helmet on his return from a horror head injury.The Crystal Palace striker was taken to hospital after being on the receiving end of a sickening tackle in the last round of the FA Cup against Millwall.Jean-Philippe Mateta is wearing a helmet against FulhamCredit: GettyIt is reminiscent of a water polo hatCredit: PAMateta has not played since suffering an ear injury in the previous round of the FA CupCredit: GettyThe Eagles won the clash 2-1 to set up Saturday’s quarter-final clash with Fulham, but Mateta had not played since.He required 25 stitches in his ear and was spotted wearing a big bandage in a recent interview.On his return to action Mateta wore a water polo-style helmet to protect his ear and helped Palace to a 3-0 win at Craven Cottage.There was serious planning to put into the helmet’s design, with three versions considered.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMateta, 27, wore the helmet in a behind-closed-doors friendly, with Eagles boss Oliver Glasner joking afterwards that the helmet was better suited to water polo.He said: “It’s like a water polo helmet. In water polo it’s so they don’t get water into their ears, he has it just on one side. It sounds crazy, but we are used to it.“I said to him maybe you should try [water polo] because he’s tall enough.”It looks a bit strange but he says he feels comfortable so let’s see.Most read in FA CupBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS“When he scores a header, then it was the right mask and the right protection.“Our doctor and the team did a great job finding the right protection. Everything is approved by the FA.’Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall star“There were three different ones. He tried one like you use to ride a motorbike but he couldn’t train with this because it was too heavy.“I said to the doctor I remember Petr Cech wearing a helmet but the ear was free so we needed the full helmet. Then we found the right one.“He tried in training which one fits him best and doesn’t influence him in the wrong way.“If I believed it was a problem, I wouldn’t play him but it looks like it isn’t a problem.“The last 10 days he’s had this protection and he did well in training so I didn’t find a reason to talk about this.” More

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      Erling Haaland looks sheepish as he’s seen for first time since Man City probe into claim he ‘gave club mascot whiplash’

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      ERLING HAALAND looked sheepish as he arrived at Manchester City training after it was revealed he left the club mascot with suspected whiplash and concussion.SunSport exclusively told how the Norwegian striker twice struck the woman dressed up as furry alien Moonbeam across the head before a game with Southampton.Erling Haaland hid from the cameras as he arrived at Manchester City trainingCredit: ZenpixHe refused to smile following SunSport’s revelationsCredit: BackGridHaaland was accused of leaving the woman with whiplash and concussion after the playful hitsCredit: mancityThe lady dressed up as the furry alien vomited and made a furious complaintCredit: GettyThe lady vomited and struggled with neck pain as she went to hospital, believing she had been hit by a stray football before being told it was Haaland. Her CT scan revealed no damage but she accused “arrogant” City of sweeping her complaint under the carpet as a “cover-up” to protect Haaland.City’s probe concluded Haaland did not cause the uni graduate’s injuries.But on Saturday morning, the two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner kept a low profile on his way into the training ground as he was spotted for the first time since SunSport’s shock revelations.READ MORE ON ERLING HAALANDHaaland drove his outlandish lime green Aston Martin DBX 707 in through the gates of the Etihad Campus.But he turned his head away from the camera inside the £350,000 motor to avoid having his face snapped. City face Bournemouth away in their FA Cup quarter-final tomorrow afternoon, hoping to book their place at Wembley.And Haaland will be keen to get back to scoring goals – and away from the drama surrounding the mascot. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe woman, who does not want to be named, was posing for photos on October 26 when she felt the two blows to the back of her head, leaving her in shock as she left the pitch.She said: “I was pretty upset and I was crying and my head was thudding and I think I was in shock.How Pep can ignite Marmoush and Haaland partnership with aggressive attacking shape in FA Cup“I later realised he’d come behind me and hit me on the head and then leaned on my head.”She told City’s safeguarding boss who allegedly laughed it off, saying: “At least you can say Erling Haaland hit you.”Following the incident the woman was offered the chance to go home but continued to work the shift. City’s health and safety head Paul Kenyon launched the internal investigation and told the woman they wanted to look at CCTV. But the report stated: “Erling Haaland always does a gentle touch on the back or head of Moonbeam as recognition.”It also described his contact with Moonbeam’s head as “grazing”. The lady also lodged an assault complaint with police.She returned to her role in the ticket office but was told she would have to reapply to get her contract renewed.Following a half-day interview, she was informed last December she had not been successful.She said: “I have never had any complaints from any of the managers about my work before.The unnamed woman also went to the police about the incidentCredit: GettyThe striker drove his lime green £350,000 Aston MartinCredit: ZenpixHe covered his face with the sun visorCredit: Zenpix“They said they didn’t feel like I’d performed in the interviews to the 100 per cent I usually do.”Greater Manchester Police also told her Haaland had not acted with malice. Last night she hit out at City, saying: “I’m sure Erling would have apologised to me if they had given him the chance.“But they just wanted to sweep it under the carpet.”A  City spokesperson said “Manchester City refute the complaint that was made in this regard.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The Club fully investigated and found that none of the evidence, including video footage backed up the claim that an injury was sustained in the manner alleged.“We’re also aware a complaint was made to Greater Manchester Police and no further action was taken by them either.” More

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      Fulham vs Crystal Palace live stream FREE: How to watch FA Cup quarter-final today

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      FULHAM go head-to-head with London rivals Crystal Palace for a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals TODAY.Both sides have aspirations of going all the way in football’s oldest competition, with many of the big boys already out of the conversation.Fulham knocked out Manchester United on penalties in the FA Cup fifth roundCredit: AlamyCrystal Palace avoided an upset against MillwallCredit: GettyNeither Fulham nor Crystal Palace have won the FA Cup in their history, but they do have three final appearances between them.The Cottagers’ only final came in 1975, when they were beaten 2-0 by West Ham, while the Eagles have made two appearances (1990 and 2016) but they were beaten by Manchester United on both occasions. Palace are set to be boosted by the return of striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was on the receiving end of a horror challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts in the last round, which left the Frenchman needing 25 stitches to his left ear.Fulham have some firepower of their own with both strikers Raul Jimenez and Rodrigo Muniz in fine goalscoring form of late.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis afternoon’s FA Cup tie promises to be a thriller as the two London rivals battle for a spot at Wembley.SunSport brings you all the information you need so you don’t miss a minute of action at Craven Cottage.How to watch Fulham vs Crystal Palace for FREEFulham’s huge FA Cup quarter-final tie with Crystal Palace will be broadcast live on ITV1.You can live stream all the action for FREE via the ITVX app/website.Most read in FA CupThe match will kick off at 12.15pm GMT on Saturday, March 29, with coverage beginning at 11.30am.Mark Pougatch will be on presenting duties, while Karen Carney and Ian Wright will provide analysis.Seb Hutchinson and Ally McCoist are on commentary for the London derby at Craven Cottage. More

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      ‘He’s not seen a match this season’ – Nice boss hits back at Sir Jim Ratcliffe after Man Utd owner’s BRUTAL criticism

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      NICE’S manager hit back at Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal criticism by claiming the club’s owner he has “not watched a match all season”.Ratcliffe bought Nice in 2019 before purchasing a minority stake in Manchester United midway through last season. Sir Jim Ratcliffe angered the Nice manager with his commentsCredit: GettyFranck Haise hit back and insisted the owner has not watched the team all seasonCredit: Willie VassThe British billionaire has certainly upset many at Old Trafford including fans and staff with his various extreme cost-cutting measures. But frustrations towards Ratcliffe are not limited to United.That is because the Ineos chief sparked fury at Nice by revealing he does not like watching them play.Ratcliffe controversially stated: “I don’t particularly enjoy going to watch Nice because there are some good players.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”But the level of football is not high enough for me to get excited.”However, the comments prompted a reaction from the man he appointed as manager in the summer.Franck Haise insisted Ratcliffe does not have a leg to stand on – because he has not even been to a game since the new manager took over. Haise said: “The article that [the comments] appeared in was a lot more complete than that. But he hasn’t seen a Nice match this season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”He’s speaking a bit more about what he saw at another time.”With the people who are here at the club, we are here to make the club progress in order to be even better.”Man Utd confirm Old Trafford decision with club set to build £2bn 100,000-seater ‘Wembley of the North’ But mindful not to cause a rift with his employer, Haise insisted there was no bad blood between the pair.He added: “It’s not that serious. We can be annoyed, that’s obvious.”But is it really worth staying annoyed for a long time? “We have got to keep working, enjoying ourselves and we have got to be doing the best possible. “We have to move on and continue on our path.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityHaise will be desperate to prove Ratcliffe wrong come the end of the season.His Nice side sit fourth in Ligue 1 in a crazy six-team battle for a Champions League place. PSG are the runaway leaders but Nice are two points adrift of Marseille in second.The top three are guaranteed a league phase place, with fourth going into qualifying. Nice have not played in the top European competition since 2017-18 – but have a far stronger chance than United of qualifying through their league finish.READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited are slumped down in 13th in the Premier League table – but could get into the Champions League by winning the Europa League.Ruben Amorim’s men face Lyon in the quarter-finals in April with the winners to face Rangers or Athletic Bilbao in the semis – and potentially a blockbuster final against Tottenham on May 21 in Bilbao.Nice are on course to earn a spot in the Champions League next seasonCredit: Reuters More