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      in Soccer

      Billy Sharp attack latest – Sheff Utd star needs stitches after fan attack, manager calls for prison sentence

      by

      NOTTINGHAM FOREST beat Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties to book their place in the Championship play-off final.But the triumph was soured by a disgraceful fan attack on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp during the post-game pitch invasion, which left the player needing stitches.
      Furious Blades boss United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
      “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”

      Result: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheff Utd (3-3 on agg; Forest won 3-2 on pens)

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      EFL: Pitch invasions under investigation
      The English Football League have released a strongly-worded statement following events that marred both Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield’s play-off semi-final wins this week, not least the incident in which Billy Sharp was assaulted.
      It reads: “Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and Play-Off Semi-Final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.
      “These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities and the EFL condemns in the strongest possible terms the reckless actions of individuals who have brought the game into disrepute with this unacceptable behaviour. The League is working closely with the Police and Clubs, offering its full support to the ongoing investigations.
      “Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a Club ban and criminal record. More importantly it puts the safety of players, coaches, managers and match officials at risk. It is vital that those playing the game can do so safe in the knowledge that they will not be subjected to violent, threatening or anti-social behaviour going forward.”
      Sharp: Idiot ruined unbelievable night
      Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp has spoken out following his assault at the end of last night’s play-off semi-final with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
      The Blades captain was attacked by a home supporter as he watched on from the sidelines following his team’s penalty shootout defeat.
      The shocking incident marred what had been a brilliant game, one in which United had fought back from 3-1 down on aggregate to level the tie.
      However, the South Yorkshire side were unable to get the better of Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba in the shootout with the hosts’ victory sparking a mass pitch invasion.
      Sharp tweeted this morning: “One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football.
      “Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on victory and good luck in the final. As an ex Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
      “Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident.”

      Suspect arrested after Sharp assault
      Police have confirmed that they have arrested a 31-year-old man following the assault on Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp at the end of last night’s play-off at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground.
      Sharp was left needing stitches after being aggressively knocked to the floor by a supporter that had run on to the pitch to celebrate Forest’s penalty shootout success.
      The shocking incident marred a thrilling Championship play-off semi-final, and has brought calls for both police and internal club investigations.
      Striker Sharp had not been involved in the encounter due to injury, and had been stood on the touchlines when the attack occurred.
      Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident. He remains in custody and will be questioned by officers.
      “Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. We have spoken to the player concerned and we are working with both clubs who are supporting us with our investigation.”
      Billy Sharp latest
      Nottingham Forest beat Sheffield United via a thrilling penalty shootout to reach the Championship play-off final.
      But the victory was soured after a fan shockingly attacked Blades star Billy Sharp in the post-match pitch invasion.
      Sharp needed stitches after the attack and Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom said Sharp was shaken, bleeding and angry.
      Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
      “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
      Nottingham Forest released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
      It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
      “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
      “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”

      Billy Sharp attack
      Furious Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
      “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
      “There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
      Billy Sharp attack
      The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
      Latest – Sharp needing stitches
      Billy Sharp has been left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
      Nottingham Forest statement
      Nottingham Forest have released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
      It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
      “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
      “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”
      Latest on Sharp’s condition
      Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has said Billy Sharp is shook up and bleeding after the attack.
      Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
      “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
      Credit: Sky Sports
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      More from Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom: “How can you come to a place of work minding your own business and be assaulted in that fashion?
      “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
      “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
      “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
      There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
      Billy Sharp attacked
      Sheffield United star Billy Sharp has been viciously attacked by a Nottingham Forest pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
      The evening was soured by a disgraceful attack on striker Sharp, who was standing watching the celebrations.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the floor.
      It is not yet clear if Sharp suffered any injuries.
      United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “There’s a prison sentence there for sure.”

      Master tactician
      Steve Cooper took over from Nottingham Forest when they were bottom of the league.
      He’s just got them to the final of the play-offs.
      The King of City Ground.
      .Credit: PA
      Cook: “I hated every minute”
      A surprisingly calm Cook does the honours, gifting Samba the man of the match award. One of the easier decisions today.
      But Cook was quick to say how difficult he found the game:
      Horrendous. I hated every minute of the second half and extra time… The dressing room is an emotional place.Steve Cook, Nottingham Forest defender
      Both players were quick to acknowledge the task ahead; Huddersfield Town at Wembley.
      Pitch party
      Nobody is leaving the field at the City Ground, soaking up every second, every emotion.
      There are hugs, tears, and a lot of skin on show. After such a tense and enthralling 140 minutes or so, you can understand the need to remove a layer or two.
      .Credit: Getty
      Forest’s hero
      The Red wall!
      Samba more than rose to the occasion this evening, saving 3 of 5 penalties. A penalty saving masterclass.
      He stepped up when they needed him most.
      .Credit: PA
      Heartbreak for The Blades
      Sheffield United gave it everything today. Most people would have written them off after Johnson’s goal, but they stuck at it, finding a way to get back in it. They fell short in the most brutal fashion, but they should be very proud.
      The scenes!
      The players are being escorted off the field through a sea of Forest supporters. There are flares and an awful lot of singing. It’s oddly beautiful.
      NOTTINGHAM FOREST WIN – Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Gibbs-White stutters, and Samba reads him, diving down low to his right.
      The fans are on the pitch celebrating! What a game!!
      Wembley waits Nottingham Forest.
      .Credit: PA
      Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Lolley skies his penalty way over the bar!
      What a twist in this extraordinary story.
      Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Ndiaye scores to keep his side in it! Samba went the wrong way.
      Nottingham Forest 3-1 Sheffield United
      Cook is cool as a cucumber, firing the ball into the top left, before pumping up the fans.
      Sheffield united have to score… Ndiaye to take.
      Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sheffield United
      Berge scores The Blades’ first penalty, cooly slotting it into the top left corner.
      Nottingham Forest 2-0 Sheffield United
      Foderingham gets a hand, but Cafu’s spot kick has enough power on it to beat him.
      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Billy Sharp attack latest – Sheff Utd star needing stitches after fan attack, manager calls for prison sentence

      by

      NOTTINGHAM FOREST beat Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties to book their place in the Championship play-off final.But the triumph was soured by a disgraceful fan attack on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp during the post-game pitch invasion, which left the player needing stitches.
      Furious Blades boss United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
      “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”

      Result: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheff Utd (3-3 on agg; Forest won 3-2 on pens)

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      Billy Sharp attack
      Furious Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
      “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
      “There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
      Billy Sharp attack
      The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
      Latest – Sharp needing stitches
      Billy Sharp has been left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
      Nottingham Forest statement
      Nottingham Forest have released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
      It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
      “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
      “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”
      Latest on Sharp’s condition
      Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has said Billy Sharp is shook up and bleeding after the attack.
      Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
      “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
      Credit: Sky Sports
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      More from Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom: “How can you come to a place of work minding your own business and be assaulted in that fashion?
      “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
      “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”
      Billy Sharp attack – latest
      Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
      “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
      There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
      Billy Sharp attacked
      Sheffield United star Billy Sharp has been viciously attacked by a Nottingham Forest pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
      The evening was soured by a disgraceful attack on striker Sharp, who was standing watching the celebrations.
      Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the floor.
      It is not yet clear if Sharp suffered any injuries.
      United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “There’s a prison sentence there for sure.”

      Master tactician
      Steve Cooper took over from Nottingham Forest when they were bottom of the league.
      He’s just got them to the final of the play-offs.
      The King of City Ground.
      .Credit: PA
      Cook: “I hated every minute”
      A surprisingly calm Cook does the honours, gifting Samba the man of the match award. One of the easier decisions today.
      But Cook was quick to say how difficult he found the game:
      Horrendous. I hated every minute of the second half and extra time… The dressing room is an emotional place.Steve Cook, Nottingham Forest defender
      Both players were quick to acknowledge the task ahead; Huddersfield Town at Wembley.
      Pitch party
      Nobody is leaving the field at the City Ground, soaking up every second, every emotion.
      There are hugs, tears, and a lot of skin on show. After such a tense and enthralling 140 minutes or so, you can understand the need to remove a layer or two.
      .Credit: Getty
      Forest’s hero
      The Red wall!
      Samba more than rose to the occasion this evening, saving 3 of 5 penalties. A penalty saving masterclass.
      He stepped up when they needed him most.
      .Credit: PA
      Heartbreak for The Blades
      Sheffield United gave it everything today. Most people would have written them off after Johnson’s goal, but they stuck at it, finding a way to get back in it. They fell short in the most brutal fashion, but they should be very proud.
      The scenes!
      The players are being escorted off the field through a sea of Forest supporters. There are flares and an awful lot of singing. It’s oddly beautiful.
      NOTTINGHAM FOREST WIN – Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Gibbs-White stutters, and Samba reads him, diving down low to his right.
      The fans are on the pitch celebrating! What a game!!
      Wembley waits Nottingham Forest.
      .Credit: PA
      Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Lolley skies his penalty way over the bar!
      What a twist in this extraordinary story.
      Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
      Ndiaye scores to keep his side in it! Samba went the wrong way.
      Nottingham Forest 3-1 Sheffield United
      Cook is cool as a cucumber, firing the ball into the top left, before pumping up the fans.
      Sheffield united have to score… Ndiaye to take.
      Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sheffield United
      Berge scores The Blades’ first penalty, cooly slotting it into the top left corner.
      Nottingham Forest 2-0 Sheffield United
      Foderingham gets a hand, but Cafu’s spot kick has enough power on it to beat him.
      Nottingham Forest 1-0 Sheffield United
      Samba saves again!
      The keeper stays where he is, and Hourihane strikes it straight at his arm!
      Nottingham Forest 1-0 Sheffield United
      Johnson scores!
      Johnson is composed and fires inside the right hand post.
      1-0 Forest
      .Credit: PA
      Penalty saved!
      Samba goes the right way, and gets a strong hand to brilliantly deny Samba.
      Advantage Forest!
      Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheffield United
      One final word on the tie, before chaos ensues, it’s been brilliant. Both sets of players have put on a show to remember.
      Here we go then. It’s Norwood up first, who has put the ball on the spot before Samba is done chatting to Michael Oliver.
      Load more entries… More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Southampton vs Liverpool LIVE REACTION: Matip heads in winner as Reds take Prem title race to FINAL DAY – latest

      by

      THE PREMIER League title race will be going down to the final day after Liverpool fought back to defeat Southampton 2-1.Jurgen Klopp made NINE changes to his starting XI from the FA Cup final last weekend, and his decision paid off.
      Manchester City now lead by just ONE point going into the final round of fixtures of a thrilling Prem season.

      Result: Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      Southampton XI: McCarthy; Lyanco, Salisu, Stephens, Walker-Peters; Redmond, Diallo, Ward-Prowse, Elyounoussi; Broja, Tella.
      Liverpool XI: Alisson; Tsimikas, Matip, Konate, Gomez; Milner, Jones, Elliott, Minamino; Firmino, Jota.

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      Klopp sets standard for the rest
      Jurgen Klopp has set the gold standard for passion, hunger and management in the Premier League.
      He shows how much every kick, tackle and card matters to him and takes it all so personally.
      It is what the fans want to see in a manager that it means as much to him as it does to them.
      Klopp has changed what football means to these fans and they would not bet against their German manager winning all four trophies.

      Matip the man for Klopp’s battlers
      Bookies would have not expected to be paying out any money tonight on a Joel Matip winner at St Mary’s Stadium.
      The Cameroon international took advantage of Southampton’s Achilles heel which seems to be set pieces this season to head past Alex McCarthy into the top corner.
      Liverpool looked comfortable apart from the final five minutes where nerves did eat away at their team.
      Guardiola will be ruing Liverpool’s comeback this evening.
      Pressure put back on City’s shoulders
      On paper, you would have no doubt that Man City would win at home against Aston Villa to defend their Premier League crown.
      Football has a funny way of throwing up drama in most unexpected of places as City all too well know.
      They will face tough opponents on Sunday with a manager who would love nothing more than doing his old side a huge favour.
      For the neutral, it makes for an entertaining final day of the season with titles to be won, Champions League spots to be decided as well as someone still looking to fill that final relegation spot.
      What a day of football to look forward to.
      FT: Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      And that is that.
      Man City will not be celebrating any titles just yet.
      Liverpool have made sure this will go to the wire.
      We wouldn’t have it any other way.

      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      90+2. Ward-Prowse is causing problems for Liverpool.
      His pinpoint deliveries are putting them under the kosh.
      Alisson is grateful to hold onto the ball.
      Klopp knows his side are almost over the finish line.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      90. Southampton are knocking on the door now.
      Liverpool cannot get out of their own half.
      We will have three additional minutes added on.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      88. Liverpool are giving The Saints not time in possession.
      This is allowing them to force errors and win back the ball.
      Currently, it is The Reds who are struggling to keep hold of it.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      86. Time is running out for Southampton.
      Liverpool are pressing for that killer goal.
      Southampton have dropped a lot of points from winning positions this season and unless they can find a goal in the next five minutes or so this will only fan those flames.

      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      84. There seems to be more urgency about Southampton now.
      Last home game of the season, they cannot go down with a whimper.
      The St Mary’s faithful have experienced that all too often this season.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      82. Broja comes off for Che Adams.
      Naby Keita comes on for Roberto Firmino.
      Liverpool looking to bolster their midfield to see this game out.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      80. Game management seems to be the way for Liverpool.
      They are getting forward but if there is nothing on they are more than happy to pass the ball all the way back to their defence.
      Possession is key to closing this game out now and Jurgen Klopp will have told his players just that.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      78. This will be a big test for Liverpool’s much-changed line up.
      Stick or twist time.
      Another goal wins the game, to concede one loses a potential title shot.
      Curtis Jones is coming alive in the centre for the visitors.

      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      76. Broja turns Konate and goes to ground.
      A free kick is the decision quite rightly.
      Had Konate got a touch on the ball he may have got away with that one.
      No drama for Klopp’s side as they immediately regain possession.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      74. Redmond goes down under the challenge of Matip.
      The referee is in a good position and decides no foul.
      Liverpool get the ball forward to Origi who turns his man and is hauled to the ground.
      This time a free kick is given.
      And a yellow card.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      72. The replays show that Matip got the telling touch for the goal.
      What a huge goal that could be for his club and the player.
      Southampton need to be more positive now.
      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      70. Milner goes down as he is fouled.
      Seemingly turning his ankle in the challenge.
      Stuart Armstrong and Romeu come on for Southampton.
      Milner is back up on his feet.

      Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
      68. Elyounoussi fails to clear the ball at the near post with his header.
      It is debatable who got the final touch but initially it looked like Joel Matip headed into the top corner.
      McCarthy was well beaten.
      Liverpool fans wont care who got the telling touch as long as the ball is in the back of the net.
      Goal – Joel Matip (Liverpool)
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      66. Liverpool seem to be lacking that final pass to open up the Southampton defence.
      They are creating half chances but are not testing McCarthy enough.
      Liverpool win another corner.
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      64. Southampton look to break down the right.
      A searching ball for the run is cut out by Alisson outside of his box.
      The visitors go straight down the other end before Firmino fashions a shooting chance but his shot from outside the box is straight at McCarthy.
      Elliott is replaced by Origi.
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      62. Liverpool are knocking on the door.
      They are getting balls into the box but it is lacking that final touch.
      This time Tsimikas finds Jota but his touch does not take it towards goal.
      It looks like it is time for cult-hero Divock Origi to join us.
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      60. This has been the tactic of Southampton from the start of the game, absorb and counter.
      They are looking to allow Liverpool to come at them but to keep their lines tight and rigid.
      The problem at the moment is that the ball is coming straight back at them and there is no respite for The Saints.
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      58. Liverpool have yet another corner.
      The visitors send up the big guns for the set piece.
      It is taken short to Elliott but his attempted shot is blocked.
      Klopp’s men come straight back at Southampton as they fail to hold onto the ball.

      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      56. It is end to end stuff at the moment.
      Alisson hasn’t had much to do at all this evening apart from picking the ball out of his own net.
      Liverpool need to find a way to get the three points this evening, even if it is not pretty.
      Sometimes champions have to win ugly, if Liverpool harbour any dreams of that, they need at least one more goal.
      Southampton 1-1 Liverpool
      54. The Saints are trying to give their opponents something to worry about defensively.
      In some respects it is their best bet of keeping things quiet in their own box.
      Liverpool dominated the early stages of the second half without as much as a shot fired in anger by Southampton.
      It is only so long the hosts could withstand the barrage.
      Load more entries… More

    • 200 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea takeover ‘CONFIRMED’ by sponsor, Blues held Kane, Haaland and Lewandowski talks before agreeing Lukaku transfer

      by

      CHELSEA’S takeover appears to have been confirmed in a deleted tweet from sponsor Trivago.Earlier this week, the buyout seemed to have hit a massive stumbling block with the final structure of the agreement yet to resolved.
      It has also been revealed that Romelu Lukaku was Chelsea’s fourth choice transfer target last summer.
      The Blues are said to have held talks with Erling Haaland, Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane before settling on Lukaku.
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      Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the Stamford Bridge…
      Liverpool linked with Kante
      Liverpool have been urged to sign Chelsea ace N’Golo Kante by Rio Ferdinand.
      Ferdinand said when speaking on Liverpool’s needs: “That’s where they need a Kante.
      “A fit Kante and he’s given the license to get on and jump out of a defensive block, he’s the one player who could cause them problems.”
      United fans beg for Nkunku
      Man United fans have begged the Red Devils to sign RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku after he was named Bundesliga’s Player of the Season.
      Nkunku’s impact has wowed United’s faithful who flocked to Twitter to voice their desire for him to be in a Red Devils shirt next season.
      One fan reckoned Nkunku’s switch to United is a foregone conclusion and wrote: “United player soon.”
      United have had an indifferent season and currently languish in sixth spot in the Premier League with just one game left to play.
      And one supporter who believes Nkunku will provide a solution to the club’s problems next season, added: “@ManUtd here is our man.”
      While a third Red Devils loyalist chipped in: “Think he’d be perfect for us.”
      Chelsea have also been linked with the midfield maestro.
      Chelsea face Lewandowski Barca blow
      Chelsea target Robert Lewandowski is reportedly desperate to join Barcelona.
      And he is even willing to take a £100,000-a-week wage cut to make his dream move come true.
      Chelsea and PSG are both thought to have joined the race for the wantaway Bayern Munich striker.
      But Mundo Deportivo claims Lewandowski only wants Barcelona and is ready to do whatever it takes to get a move.
      Hurst reveals Rice price tag
      West Ham legend Sir Geoff Hurst has urged the club to accept bids of £100million for Chelsea and Man Utd target Declan Rice.
      He told TalkSport: “I’m hopeful [he will stay] but not necessarily confident. It is a big issue for a young player with his outstanding talent at a club not in the top four or five.
      “They’ve offered him a big contract and I’d like to see him at the club and stay. He’s absolutely brilliant, a decent lad and fantastic player and still to improve.
      “[But] If you were to get £100million plus, which is a possibility, then you could strengthen the club with three or four players in different positions.”
      Barca close in on duo
      Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta are set to join Barcelona this summer.
      Fabrizio Romano claims a deal to sign Alonso is almost complete.
      And Barca are confident of also landing Azpi after offering him a two-year deal.
      The veteran Spaniards would link up with Andreas Christensen at the Nou Camp, with the Dane joining on a free transfer.

      Marina’s Chelsea future remains unclear
      Marina Granovskaia future “has not been decided.”
      The Telegraph claims she is yet to commit to working under potential new owner Todd Boehly.
      The American is keen for her to stay, as well as chairman Bruce Buck.
      And more talks are expected this week to discuss her working role at Stamford Bridge.
      United urged to sign Ziyech
      Dutch legend Marco van Basten has urged Erik ten Hag to sign Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech for Man United.
      Ziyech and Ten Hag worked together at Ajax, with the Moroccan a key player in his XI.
      And with the playmaker struggling for minutes at Chelsea, Van Basten believes a reunion should be on the cards.
      He said: “What comes to my mind now is that I think Ziyech who already plays in England could be a very good footballer at Manchester United for Erik.”
      Azpi sorry for penalty miss
      Cesar Azpilicueta has apologised to Chelsea fans for his penalty miss in the FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool.
      The Blues captain and Mason Mount fluffed their spot-kicks, handing victory to the Reds.
      Azpilicueta tweeted: “I wish I could write to you after having added another trophy for our club last Saturday, but unfortunately it was not possible. 
      “I felt confident to take on the responsibility in the penalty shootout and I didn’t succeed. At the highest level, inches can mean the difference…”
      Prem Teams of the Year
      Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have revealed their Premier League Teams of the Year.
      Unsurprisingly, the XIs are dominated by Man City and Liverpool players.
      But there isn’t one single Chelsea player in the entire side.
      Did Mason Mount or Thiago Silva deserve a look-in?

      Lampard at fault for Rudiger
      Paul Merson believes Frank Lampard is to blame for Antonio Rudiger’s Chelsea exit.
      He declared: “Losing Antonio Rudiger to Real Madrid is going to break Chelsea’s heart – but his mind was made up 18 months ago with the way he was treated by Frank Lampard.
      “He got completely binned out the team by Lampard and I think that left a lasting effect on Rudiger. That’s when he decided that he’s not signing a new contract.
      “Now Chelsea are letting a £70m-80m defender go on a free transfer and they’re going to bring someone in for £70m in that will be nowhere as good as Rudiger.”
      James tipped for England spot
      Gary Neville is backing Reece James to be England’s No1 right-back at the Qatar World Cup.
      He said: “I think Reece James could be the best out of them all.
      “I have concerns over his fitness and I would want to make sure he kept fit for a season or two, but he could be the best out of all of them if he continues to go forward.”
      Pal Jamie Carragher added: “He could be a mix of Kyle Walker and Trent. He’s a great crosser of the ball, Reece James.”
      Lukaku not Chelsea’s first choice
      Chelsea held talks with THREE other strikers before signing Romelu Lukaku last summer.
      Goal claims the Blues attempted to sign Spurs’ Harry Kane, Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski.
      However, the newly-crowned European champions were unsuccessful on all three fronts.
      And that saw them eventually pay a club-record £97.5million for Inter Milan’s Lukaku.
      Blues secure top four finish
      Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat at Newcastle saw Chelsea finally book their place in next season’s Champions League.
      Blues fans faced a nervy wait after winning just three of their last eight league games.
      Chelsea could yet end up finishing fourth if they lose their last two games and Spurs win on the final day.
      But the north Londoners only need a point against Norwich to confirm their top four return ahead of Arsenal.

      Prem teams eye Monaco’s Badiashile
      Monaco star Benoit Badiashile says he has had ‘contact’ with Prem clubs amid speculation of a summer move.
      Badiashile said: “We all know the competitiveness of the Premier League, it is a fantastic league that of course, is very interesting and we all love the games.
      “I had the chance to play in the Champions League with Monaco and I think this club deserves this competition, it’s a club that’s used to playing in this competition and we want to get back on track.
      “Right now, I’m really happy with Monaco. I had some contact in the past with some [English] clubs but I’m fully focused on the end of the season and Monaco and I feel good.”
      Good morning Chelsea fans
      Chelsea departing owner Roman Abramovich has been accused of blocking the final sale of the club and putting its future at risk.
      In a remarkable cranking up of pressure, sources close to the UK Government have turned their fire on Abramovich over the proposed sale condition.
      Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly and his consortium were hopeful of completing a £2.6billion takeover with a promise to spend a further £1.65bn on the stadium, academy and team-building by the end of this week.
      But the ongoing spat between the Blues and the DCMS over the final structure of the agreement has now broken out into a serious issue.
      A UK Government insider expressed “considerable alarm” at the flare-up, suggesting the very viability of the West Londoners could be at threat.
      The source said: “There’s quite serious concern in government that the deal may fall apart and that Roman Abramovich is ultimately willing to let Chelsea go under.”
      Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Andreas Christensen will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
      Tuchel is adamant he will be without Christensen next season as he stated: “We’re losing him.”
      According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the centre-back agreed a deal with Barcelona weeks ago.
      The German head coach confirmed the news while revealing the Denmark international refused to play in the FA Cup Final loss against Liverpool at Wembley.
      And Chelsea are targeting Bayern Munich superstar Robert Lewandowski, who looks set to leave the German champions.
      That is according to The Guardian’s Jacob Steinburg, who is reporting that the Blues do hold an interest in Lewandowski ahead of the summer transfer window.
      Steinburg says that Tuchel “loves” the star striker, although Boehly’s consortium will first have to take over from Abramovich who is sanctioned and thus the club can’t sign new players.
      However, he says that the West Londoners need to work out what to do with Romelu Lukaku as he takes up space in the squad and the wage bill.
      The reporter describes that prospect as “a long shot… but not impossible.”
      Finally, Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been linked with a sensational swoop for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante this summer.
      The takeover disruption at Stamford Bridge has convinced various clubs that many star players are up for grabs.
      According to The Mirror, this has led to United chiefs, including Ten Hag, believing a swoop for Kante is a realistic proposition this summer.
      The news comes after SunSport exclusively revealed that the West Londoners were fearing the midfielder would be one of many players on their way out of the club
      Not Rud timing
      Bayern Munich failed with an 11th hour transfer move for departing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger
      Rudiger is out of contract at Stamford Bridge in the summer and is set to join Real Madrid.
      According to SportBild’s Christian Falk, Bayern contacted the centre-back over a potential deal.
      But the German champions had acted too late, with the 29-year-old having already almost agreed terms with Real.
      This report states that Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic got in touch with the Germany international’s agent after the Champions League exit to Villarreal.
      But the Bavarians would not meet Rudiger’s wage demands
      Ousmane in Dem-and
      Bayern Munich have added Chelsea target Ousmane Dembele to their list of summer transfer targets.
      Dembele is set to leave Barcelona on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer.
      Some of Europe’s biggest clubs have been linked with a potential swoop for the forward, including Paris Saint-Germain and the Blues.
      The West Londoners were planning to go all-out to sign the France international in the coming months, however, they now face some serious competition from Bayern.
      According to Sky Sports, the German champions are very interested in signing the 24-year-old and have already made contact with his representatives.
      Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann is eager to sign a new forward who has the ability to make a difference in attack as he faces the risk of losing star man Robert Lewandowski
      More from Rudiger
      Departing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger wanted a “different ending” at Stamford Bridge.
      Rudiger will leave the Blues in the summer for Real Madrid.
      Rudiger added: “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things.
      “That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending”
      Rudiger talks exit
      Departing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger has dismissed the theory that Government sanctions are behind his decision to quit Stamford Bridge for Real Madrid.
      Rudiger said: “There was a chance but sanctions are not the problem. I don’t want to go too deep in things.
      “At the end of the day it’s not only about one side [helping the other], it’s both sides – Chelsea have been great to me, I have been great to Chelsea.
      “As always, I am very, very thankful me, my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Man Utd eye Kante
      Incoming Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been linked with a sensational swoop for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante this summer.
      The takeover disruption at Stamford Bridge has convinced a number of clubs that some of the Blues’ prized assets are up for grabs at the end of the season.
      According to The Mirror, this has led to United chiefs, including Ten Hag, believing a swoop for Kante is a realistic proposition.
      The news comes after SunSport exclusively revealed that the West Londoners were fearing the star midfielder would be one of a number of players on their way out of the club.
      Chelsea are already having to say goodbye to Antonio Rudiger, who is joining Real Madrid, as well as Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen, who have been linked with Barcelona.
      That is after the club were restricted from doing business back in March following sanctions placed on departing owner Roman Abramovich
      Tuchel backs Mount
      Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel called for an investigation into abuse aimed at Mason Mount after having his FA Cup final penalty saved.
      Tuchel said: “Nothing I can say will stop these guys doing it. I don’t understand social media anyway. It has a huge impact and I don’t get it.
      “I’m not on social media and it keeps me healthy, more healthy than I would be on it. It’s a very thin ice for everybody who is in such a spotlight to be out there. Abuse is not acceptable, be it here or on social media.
      “If someone thinks he has the right to write it, we will not be able to stop him — but maybe we can investigate”
      More from Government source
      The source added: “There’s alarm about the gap between what Abramovich has said he will do publicly and what he’s willing to commit to legally as part of the sale process.
      “There are pressing deadlines this week, and if there isn’t a breakthrough, we’re quite concerned that the sale of Chelsea could be timed out by certain sporting deadlines.
      “Chelsea are saying to us they don’t know who owns Camberley International and can’t talk to them. We cannot contact Camberley International to talk about this.
      “Our understanding of the structure is that Camberley International is an affiliate of a trust fund which is owned by his children or goes to his children with an individual in Cyprus acting as the trustees’ signatory.
      “Abramovich seems unwilling to give the legal commitments that neither he nor his affiliates could stake a claim to that unpaid debt between Fordstam and Camberley.
      “A deal which would allow the cash to be diverted would be a breach of sanctions and would be a red line for ministers”
      More on Chelsea takeover
      The sticking point remains Government demands that the entire £2.6bn from Todd Boehly be placed in a holding account until officials are satisfied all the money will then go to a foundation to help victims of Russia’s unjust invasion of Ukraine.
      But Chelsea and departing owner Roman Abramovich maintain their wish for the £1.6bn debt owed by the club’s parent company Fordstam – effectively money owed to the Russian owner over his 19-year reign – be sent to a Jersey-registered investment company before being sent on to the foundation.
      The Blues’ demand is that the money would be frozen after being transferred to Camberley International Investments ahead of being moved to the foundation.
      But the Government believes that would break the sanctions imposed on Abramovich and other Russian oligarchs for their alleged support of president Vladimir Putin
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Chelsea takeover latest
      Chelsea departing owner Roman Abramovich has been accused of blocking the final sale of the club and putting its future in danger.
      In a remarkable cranking up of pressure, sources close to the UK Government have turned their fire on Abramovich over the proposed sale condition.
      Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly and his consortium were hopeful of completing a £2.6bn takeover with a promise to spend a further £1.65bn on the stadium, academy and team-building by the end of this week.
      But the ongoing spat between the Blues and the DCMS over the final structure of the agreement has now broken out into a serious issue.
      A Government insider expressed “considerable alarm” at the flare-up, suggesting the very viability of the West Londoners could be at threat.
      The source said: “There’s quite serious concern in government that the deal may fall apart and that Roman Abramovich is ultimately willing to let Chelsea go under”
      Christensen is going
      Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Andreas Christensen will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
      Tuchel is sure he will be without Christensen next season as he stated: “We’re losing him.”
      According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the centre-back agreed a deal with Barcelona weeks ago.
      The German head coach confirmed the news while revealing the Denmark international refused to play in the FA Cup Final
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham ‘to hijack £70m Lautaro Martinez from Arsenal’, Lewandowski ‘will take £100k’ pay cut for Barcelona transfer

      by

      TOTTENHAM are reportedly ready to hijack Arsenal’s £70m move for Lautaro Martinez.Spurs were already in a good position to sign the Argentine as they had his former manager at Inter, Antonio Conte, in charge.
      And following the Arsenal’s slip up at Newcastle, they are also set to be able to offer him Champions League football.
      Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski is set to take a £100,000-a-week pay cut to join Barcelona from Bayern Munich.
      And Kylian Mbappe has confirmed that his transfer decision on a potential move to Real Madrid is set to be announced before he jets off with the French squad.
      Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news across the globe…
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      Tottenham set for double transfer
      Tottenham will sign both Cristian Romero and Dejan Kulusevski on a permanent basis this summer, reports suggest.
      That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who claims that Spurs have set aside €80million (£68m) to tie both loan stars down with fresh contracts.
      Kulusevski joined the North Londoners from Juventus in January on an initial 18-month loan deal.
      Romero arrived earlier last summer on loan from Atalanta with the option to buy for £42.5m.
      It is understood that there is also a five-year contract already agreed with the centre-back that will become official once his loan turns into a permanent transfer.
      United fans beg for Nkunku
      Man United fans have begged the Red Devils to sign RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku after he was named Bundesliga’s Player of the Season.
      Nkunku’s impact has wowed United’s faithful who flocked to Twitter to voice their desire for him to be in a Red Devils shirt next season.
      One fan reckoned Nkunku’s switch to United is a foregone conclusion and wrote: “United player soon.”
      United have had an indifferent season and currently languish in sixth spot in the Premier League with just one game left to play.
      And one supporter who believes Nkunku will provide a solution to the club’s problems next season, added: “@ManUtd here is our man.”
      While a third Red Devils loyalist chipped in: “Think he’d be perfect for us.”
      Chelsea face Lewandowski Barca blow
      Chelsea target Robert Lewandowski is reportedly desperate to join Barcelona.
      And he is even willing to take a £100,000-a-week wage cut to make his dream move come true.
      Chelsea and PSG are both thought to have joined the race for the wantaway Bayern Munich striker.
      But Mundo Deportivo claims Lewandowski only wants Barcelona and is ready to do whatever it takes to get a move.
      Juventus refute Pogba contract talks
      Juventus deny they held talks with Man Utd star Paul Pogba over a free transfer.
      Chief executive Maurizio Arrivabene said: “Pogba is a United player, respect first of all goes to him and his team.
      “His agents are the same as [Moise] Kean and [Luca] Pellegrini, it is normal to meet them. The subject today was not Pogba.
      “If we wanted to talk to Pogba we must talk to United first, it’s a gentleman’s agreement between the clubs.”
      Barca close in on duo
      Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta are set to join Barcelona this summer.
      Fabrizio Romano claims a deal to sign Alonso is almost complete.
      And Barca are confident of also landing Azpi after offering him a two-year deal.
      The veteran Spaniards would link up with Andreas Christensen at the Nou Camp, with the Dane joining on a free transfer.

      Messi set for Inter Miami switch
      Lionel Messi will reportedly link up with David Beckham at Inter Miami.
      But he won’t ditch PSG until his deal expires in 2023.
      DIRECTV Sports report part of the proposal will be for Messi to own a 35 percent stake in the MLS franchise.
      The Argentina legend has also been linked with a return to Barcelona this summer.
      United urged to sign Ziyech
      Dutch legend Marco van Basten has urged Erik ten Hag to sign Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech for Man United.
      Ziyech and Ten Hag worked together at Ajax, with the Moroccan a key player in his XI.
      And with the playmaker struggling for minutes at Chelsea, Van Basten believes a reunion should be on the cards.
      He said: “What comes to my mind now is that I think Ziyech who already plays in England could be a very good footballer at Manchester United for Erik.”
      Arsenal transfer hopes take hit
      Arsenal’s Champions League dream is in chaos after a 2-0 defeat at Newcastle.
      Spurs are now in pole position to secure fourth spot.
      And Arsenal could miss out on a host of top signings as a result.
      SEE THEIR TARGETS HERE
      Real set to announce Mbappe
      Real Madrid will announce the free transfer of Kylian Mbappe after their Champions League final against Liverpool.
      AS and Marca both claim the PSG striker has agreed a mega-money five-year deal to move to the Bernabeu.
      And his contract will also include the world’s highest release clause – currently held by Barcelona’s Ferran Torres at £1BILLION.

      Bale ready for Prem return
      Gareth Bale WILL leave Real Madrid this summer – and is targeting a Premier League return.
      Agent Jonathan Barnett said: “Gareth will leave Real Madrid. His return to English football is likely, I think.
      “But his future now depends on Wales and their playoff games for the World Cup. We have to wait for what Wales do.
      “It all depends on whether his national team qualifies for the World Cup, then we will make a decision, which may vary if Wales go to the World Cup or not.”
      Klopp admits Liverpool Mbappe interest
      Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Liverpool are interested in signing Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe this summer.
      He said: “Of course we are interested in Kylian Mbappe, we are not blind!
      “Nothing to say about [contact with the player], but between Kylian and Liverpool, it is all set, it is all fine.
      “We like him – if you don’t like him then you have to question yourself!
      “But no, we can not be part of these battles. There must be other clubs involved, but that is fine. He is still a great player.”
      Lukaku not Chelsea’s first choice
      Chelsea held talks with THREE other strikers before signing Romelu Lukaku last summer.
      Goal claims the Blues attempted to sign Spurs’ Harry Kane, Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski.
      However, the newly-crowned European champions were unsuccessful on all three fronts.
      And that saw them eventually pay a club-record £97.5million for Inter Milan’s Lukaku.
      Gundogan set for City exit
      Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly set to leave Man City this summer.
      The German is out of contract in 2023.
      And the Mail claims City will cash in to avoid losing him on a free transfer.
      Pep Guardiola already has a replacement lined up in Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.
      But it remains to be seen if Gundogan joins a Premier League rival.

      Prem teams eye Monaco’s Badiashile
      Monaco star Benoit Badiashile says he has had ‘contact’ with Prem clubs amid speculation of a summer move.
      Badiashile said: “We all know the competitiveness of the Premier League, it is a fantastic league that of course, is very interesting and we all love the games.
      “I had the chance to play in the Champions League with Monaco and I think this club deserves this competition, it’s a club that’s used to playing in this competition and we want to get back on track.
      “Right now, I’m really happy with Monaco. I had some contact in the past with some [English] clubs but I’m fully focused on the end of the season and Monaco and I feel good.”
      Good morning footie fans
      Arsenal have been dealt a major blow to their top-four hopes after losing 2-0 to Newcastle at St James’ Park.
      The Gunners’ are now facing the prospect of finishing behind North London rivals Tottenham in fifth place with one more league game to go.
      The Magpies opened the scoring on 55 minutes following an own goal by Ben White and sealed the win half an hour later with Bruno Guimaraes.
      The North Londoners are now two points behind Spurs in the Premier League table with just one more game to go.
      Meanwhile, Blackpool ace Jake Daniels has opened up about his “massive relief” after revealing he is gay.
      Just one current male footballer has come out as gay and that is Adelaide United’s Josh Cavallo from Australia.
      The only prominent male English player to have done so before Daniels was Justin Fashanu, who revealed he was gay in 1990. He took his own life eight years later.
      Daniels told Sky Sports: “Now is the right time to do it. I feel like I am ready to tell people my story. I want people to know the real me.
      “I have been thinking for a long time about how I want to do it, when I want to do it. I know now is the time. I am ready to be myself, be free and be confident with it all”
      And Chelsea departing owner Roman Abramovich has been accused of blocking the final sale of the club and putting its future at risk.
      In a remarkable cranking up of pressure, sources close to the Government have turned their fire on Abramovich over the ongoing sale condition.
      Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly and his consortium have been hopeful of completing a £2.6billion takeover with a promise to spend a further £1.65bn on the stadium, academy and team-building by the end of this week.
      But the ongoing spat between the Blues and the DCMS over the final structure of the deal has now broken out into a serious problem.
      A Government insider expressed “considerable alarm” at the flare-up, suggesting the viability of the West Londoners could be in danger.
      The source said: “There’s quite serious concern in government that the deal may fall apart and that Roman Abramovich is ultimately willing to let Chelsea go under.”
      Finally, Departing Manchester United star Paul Pogba is not keen on joining rivals Manchester City.
      That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who reports Pogba has no intention of discussing a move to City.
      The midfielder’s United contract runs out in June and he is set to leave Old Trafford.
      Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also keeping tabs on the France international ahead of the summer transfer window
      FT: Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow to their top-four hopes after losing 2-0 to Newcastle at St James’ Park.
      The Gunners’ are now facing the prospect of finishing behind rivals Tottenham in fifth place with one more league game to go.
      The Magpies opened the scoring on 55 minutes following an own goal by Ben White.
      The Toon sealed the win half an hour later with Bruno Guimaraes.
      The North Londoners are now two points behind Spurs in the Premier League table.
      Relive all the action on SunSport’s results page here
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      Newcastle open the scoring against Arsenal at St James’ Park.
      The Magpies are ahead following an own goal by Ben White on 56 minutes.
      That is a major blow for the Gunners’ top-four hopes as that means Tottenham remain fourth in the Premier League table.
      You can follow all the action on SunSport’s live blog here
      Man Utd eye Kante
      Incoming Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been linked with a sensational swoop for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante.
      The takeover disruption at Stamford Bridge has convinced a number of clubs that some of the Blues’ prized possessions are up for grabs at the end of the season.
      According to The Mirror, this has led to United chiefs, including Ten Hag, believing a move for Kante is a realistic proposition.
      The news comes after SunSport exclusively reported that the West Londoners were fearing the star midfielder would be one of a number of players on their way out of the club.
      Chelsea are already bidding farewell to Antonio Rudiger, who is joining Real Madrid, as well as Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen, who have been linked with Barcelona.
      That is after the club were restricted from doing business back in March following sanctions imposed on departing owner Roman Abramovich
      HT: Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
      Arsenal are goalless at St James’ Park in their crucial Premier League match against Newcastle.
      The Gunners need to beat the Magpies in order to overtake rivals Tottenham in fourth place to advance to next season’s Champions League.
      However, the North Londoners have been unable to break the deadlock and lost Takehiro Tomiyasu to injury after 39 minutes as he was replaced by Cedric Soares.
      You can follow all the action on SunSport’s live blog here
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Dybala transfer message
      Arsenal have been offered the opportunity to sign outgoing Juventus star Paulo Dybala, but there is a catch.
      Dybala is only interested in joining a club that will be playing in the Champions League next season.
      And that will make it even more crucial for the Gunners to finish in the top four of the Premier League table ahead of North London rivals Tottenham.
      With Alexandre Lacazette certain to leave this summer and Eddie Nketiah expected to follow, manager Mikel Arteta is in the market for two strikers
      Darwin Nunez boost
      Manchester United and Arsenal have received a transfer boost in their bid to sign Benfica star Darwin Nunez as his club closes in on signing a replacement.
      According to The Athletic, the Portuguese outfit is lining up a swoop for Stuttgart star Sasa Kalajdzic.
      The Lisbon giants are expecting to lose United target Nunez this summer and ideally want a deal completed as soon as possible to allow them plenty of time to fill the void.
      Now moves are being made to bring Kalajdzic to replace their star striker
      Chelsea takeover latest
      Chelsea departing owner Roman Abramovich has been accused of blocking the final sale of the club and putting its future at risk.
      In a remarkable cranking up of pressure, sources close to the Government have turned their fire on Abramovich over the proposed sale condition.
      Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly and his consortium were hopeful of completing a £2.6billion takeover with a promise to spend a further £1.65bn on the stadium, academy and team-building by the end of this week.
      But the ongoing spat between the Blues and the DCMS over the final structure of the agreement has now broken out into a serious problem.
      A Government insider expressed “considerable alarm” at the flare-up, suggesting the very viability of the West Londoners could be in danger.
      The source said: “There’s quite serious concern in government that the deal may fall apart and that Roman Abramovich is ultimately willing to let Chelsea go under”
      Newcastle vs Arsenal subs
      And here’s who Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta chose for the bench:
      NEWCASTLE: Darlow, Dummett, Lascelles, Ritchie, Gayle, Trippier, Fernandez, Fraser, Murphy
      ARSENAL: Leno, Lacazette, Pepe, Sambi Lokonga, Swanson, Patino, Cedric, Martinelli, Salah-Eddine
      You can follow all the action in SunSport’s live coverage here.

      Newcastle vs Arsenal XI
      Arsenal face Newcastle at St James’ Park in a crucial match for the visitors as they need to win to overtake rivals Tottenham in fourth place.
      You can follow all the action in SunSport’s live coverage here.
      Here’s how the two teams will play tonight:
      ARSENAL: Ramsdale, Tavares, White, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Odegaard, Elneny, Xhaka, Saka, Nketiah, Smith Rowe
      NEWCASTLE: Dubravka, Krafth, Burn, Schar, Targett, Longstaff, Guimaraes, Joelinton, Almiron, Wilson, Saint-Maximin
      Griezmann to stay
      Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has stated that Antoine Griezmann will stay at the Wanda Metropolitano beyond this season’s loan from Barcelona.
      Griezmann returned to Atletico last summer following a hapless two-year stint at the Nou Camp.
      Cerezo said: “Griezmann will stay here, he will continue at Atleti next season.
      “Money is not a problem when the plan is to stay together and the player wants to continue”
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Huddersfield vs Luton LIVE REACTION: Rhodes goal sends Terriers to Wembley in Championship play-off – latest

      by

      HUDDERSFIELD TOWN are through to the Championship play-off final after beating Luton 1-0 (2-1 on aggregate).Jordan Rhodes scores the only goal of the game to book the Terriers place at Wembley.
      Nottingham Forest or Sheffield United await in the play-off final.

      Result: Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1 agg)
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Football
      Huddersfield XI: Ingram, Bree, Naismith, Bradley, Cornick, Burke, Clarke, Campbell, Lansbury, Bell, Jerome
      Luton XI: Nicholls, Toffolo, Hogg, O’Brien, Holmes, Turton, Sarr, Sinani, Ward, Lees, Russell

      SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
      That’s all from the John Smith’s Stadium
      A late goal from Jordan Rhodes has booked Huddersfield’s place in the Championship Play-Off final at Wembley Stadium.
      The Terriers are now just one game away from a return to the Premier League.
      Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
      Harry Toffolo reacts
      Wembley anyone? 🔵⚪️— Harry Toffolo (@Harry_Toffolo) May 16, 2022

      Nathan Jones reacts
      When speaking to Sky Sports, Jones said:
      “First and foremost, congratulations to Huddersfield. They’ve been excellent all season, they finished third.
      “Secondly, I couldn’t be more proud of my team. We were better tonight. We were the best side tonight.
      “We missed chances in the first half. We should’ve been ahead.
      “There was a bit of sloppiness, we didn’t clear it and then they scored from a set play which they do regularly.
      “But we’ve been outstanding tonight. So so proud.
      “So proud of the team. So proud on how they’ve gone about their work.
      “We’ve had to contend with absolutely everything – if you look at our bench we’ve not got the pace and power we had. We’ve got eight missing tonight but look I’m so proud of the group.”
      Credit: Getty
      Carlos Corberan reacts
      “Fortunately, we’ve achieved a result that allows us to go to Wembley and play a very special game. We always try to learn from what we do, use the experience and improve. That’s what we’ve done as a Club.”
      “This is a very special group of players, who have had a real determination to achieve something together from the first day of the season.”
      “Tonight was a very tough game, just as we expected. It was a very balanced and competitive Play-Off semi-final.”
      Credit: Getty
      Sorba Thomas reacts
      When speaking to Sky Sports, Thomas said:
      “Obviously it’s amazing.
      “I was fortunate enough to [get to Wembley] with Boreham Wood.
      “Didn’t play the minutes that I wanted to play in the game but amazing experience.
      “But now, we’re going in there with a lot of confidence.
      “Listen, when you have a striker like [Rhodes], 200 goals and I’m struggling to score one!
      “But it’s amazing!”
      Credit: Getty
      Jordan Rhodes reacts
      When speaking to Sky Sports, Rhodes said:
      “There’s not many words for it.
      “Special nights that you’ll remember for a lifetime and I think that was the message before the game, to go out there and make it a memorable night and do yourselves proud.”
      “I can’t think of one [a more important goal scored] to mind but I’m just happy to be on the field, to try and contribute.
      “Huddersfield Town going to Wembley has a good ring to it!”
      Credit: Reuters
      Scenes at Full Time
      Credit: Getty
      Credit: Craig Thomas/News Images
      Full Time – Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Luton will be kicking themselves for not making the most of their chances.
      They were dominant throughout and arguably could have been two goals ahead at half time.
      But ultimately Huddersfield were able to capitalise on the opportunities they created, and that was what separated the two sides in the end.
      Credit: Rex
      Full Time – Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      A late strike from Jordan Rhodes fires Huddersfield to Wembley!
      The Terriers were on the back foot for the majority of the game, but they made their chances count and now just one match separates them from a monumental return to the Premier League!
      Credit: Craig Thomas/News Images
      Full Time – Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Huddersfield are off to Wembley!
      90+3. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      The Terriers are running down the clock.
      One minute to go.
      90. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Four minutes added on…
      Time is running out for Luton.
      89. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Luton make one final change.
      Cornick is replaced by Adebayo.
      88. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Pipa attempts an audacious strike from distance, but his effort flies over the bar.
      87. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Luton make a change.
      Mendes Gomes replaces Burke.
      86. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Huddersfield make another change.
      Holmes is replaced by Sarr.
      83. Huddersfield 1-0 Luton (2-1)
      Thomas sends an outstanding pass towards the far post from a free kick.
      Rhodes battles to get there and manages to tap it in!
      As it stands, Huddersfield are heading to Wembley!
      82. GOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL HUDDERSFIELD!!!!!
      Super-sub Rhodes puts Huddersfield ahead!
      80. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      The Terriers are really gaining momentum now.
      That penalty dispute has lit a fire under them and they are now pushing for the winner.
      75. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Penalty appeal!
      Toffolo is brought down in the box by Ingram but the referee DOES NOT give the penalty!
      Huddersfield are fuming with that decision!
      Credit: Getty
      73. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Another chance for Luton!
      Cornick breaks into the box before unleashing a powerful strike.
      Nicholls parries it out to Bree, but the wing-back takes too long to rebound and Huddersfield can clear.
      70. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Chance for Luton!
      Snodgrass sends a fantastic pass into the box from a free kick.
      The ball finds Jerome who heads it towards goal, but his effort runs just wide.
      66. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Luton make their first change.
      Jerome comes on to replace Hylton.
      65. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Huddersfield have the ball in the back of the net, but the goal will not count.
      Thomas sends the ball into the box from a free kick, but Colwill commits a foul before Lees heads in.
      Credit: Reuters
      64. Huddersfield 0-0 Luton (1-1)
      Naismith is booked for a dangerous challenge on Thomas.
      Frustrations are starting to show.
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      in Soccer

      Newcastle vs Arsenal LIVE REACTION: Gunners require Champions League miracle after Magpies battering – latest

      by

      ARSENAL need a final day miracle to reach the Champions League after losing 2-0 at Newcastle United.A Ben White own goal and a late Bruno Guimaraes strike saw the Magpies collect all three points at St James’ Park.
      The Gunners now need Spurs to lose to already-relegated Norwich on the final day and beat Everton at home as their only chance to finish in the top four.

      Result: Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League
      Newcastle XI: Dubravka, Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett, Bruno, Longstaff, Joelinton,Almiron, Wilson, Saint-Maximin
      Arsenal XI: Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, Gabriel, White, Tavares, Elneny, Xhaka, Odegaard, Smith Rowe, Saka, Nketiah

      SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
      Xhaka shames his team
      A fascinatingly candid Granit Xhaka reflects on the performance:
      We didn’t deserve to be on the pitch today. I can’t explain to you why we didn’t do the gameplan. Not listening to the coach. It was a disaster of a performance. We don’t deserve to play champions League. You can be 35, you can be 30, you can be 10, you can be 18. If you don’t have the balls to play, stay at home, stay on the bench. We are very sorry to the Arsenal supporters.Granit Xhaka, Arsenal midfielder
      “We had nothing in the game” – Arteta
      A stunned, sombre Mikel Arteta had his say on the game:
      It was a difficult night to swallow. Newcastle deserved to win the match comfortably. We had nothing in the game… We could not cope with the game we had to play here. I was worried. We tried to change some things, but it didn’t make it better. The execution was so poor. The goals we gave away were so poor. Newcastle were 10 times better than us. That was not a performance that belonged in the Champions League. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal boss
      Praying for a miracle
      Spurs play bottom of the League Norwich on the final day of the season. Conte’s men need just a point to secure Champions League football.
      It’s almost a a given, but also an opportunity for Spurs to ‘out-bottle-job’ Arsenal should they want to…
      Only last week, Arsenal were four points in front of their rivals. Today they sink two points below.
      .Credit: Reuters
      Full time – Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      Nketiah can’t keep the ball in play, and Darren England blows his whistle.
      The Arsenal players fall to their knees, staring blindly into the distance. ‘Movin on up’ plays over the tannoy. Oh the irony.
      It’s all smiles amongst those in black and white. They dominated Arsenal from start to finish. Guimares put the nail in the Arsenal coffin after Ben White’s own goal as they look to finish their season in style.
      Arsenal didn’t turn up. They were flat, lifeless, lacking direction, and in truth, they’ve only got themselves to blame.
      .Credit: Getty
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      90+5, The ball is rolled off to Fraser who decides to place one towards the corner. Ramsdale gets a hand to it, denying Newcastle a third.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal – Xhaka yellow card
      90+5, Well it wouldn’t be Arsenal if Xhaka didn’t get a booking.
      Guimares glides past him, and Xhaka trips the Brazilian on his way through.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal – Newcastle change
      92+3, Wilson strolls off and soaks up the applause. He’s been excellent tonight on his return to the starting 11.
      Gayle is on in his place.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      90+2, Pepe slides the ball into Lacazette who looks to have a shooting opportunity, but it’s nicked away from him.
      Cedric then strikes a wild effort from distance. Wasteful.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      90, The board goes up for six added minutes.
      Three goals in stoppage time? We’ve seen stranger things. Although, Arsenal haven’t shown much desire going forward.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      87, Martinelli passes the ball behind Nketiah and out of play.
      That just about sums up their performance this evening. They have turned up.
      This is truly miserable for the Arsenal fans.
      Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      Longstaff dinks the ball through to Wilson. Ramsdale is out to smother him, but it’s straight into the path of Guimares who rolls the ball into an empty Arsenal net. What a signing he is proving to be.
      There is surely no way back for Arteta now, as there Champions League hopes further fade.
      .Credit: AFP
      GOAL! Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
      84, Guimares slides the ball home to double their lead!
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      83, Martinelli weaves down the wing and plays the ball across.
      It breaks to Odegaard, but a group of newcastle shirts throw themselves in the way of his effort.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      81, What an effort from Wilson!
      The forward catches Ramsdale off his line and spins and strikes one on the volley from 65 yards.
      It trickles just wide of the post, with Ramsdale desperately scrambling back.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      79, Nearly curtains for Arsenal!
      Pepe gives the ball away carelessly in midfield, and suddenly it’s two on one. Murphy slides in Fraser, perhaps a tad too early. Fraser plays the return ball. Murphy’s effort is struck with venom but straight at Ramsdale who makes the save.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      77, Murphy’s first involvement is a positive one.
      He sends Saka to the floor, sprinting into the box. But he gets too much on the cross, and it’s out for an Arsenal throw.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal – Newcastle double change
      76, Murphy and Fraser are on. Almiron and Saint-Maximin make way.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal – Arsenal change
      73, Pepe is on for Gabriel. It will be all out attack now, with just three recognised Arsenal defenders on the pitch.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      72, Wilson with another chance!
      It’s cut back to the centre-back who’s first time effort takes a nick off White and out for the corner.
      VAR were checking for a handball against the Arsenal man, but it comes to nothing.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      71, Elneny tries his luck from distance, but it’s too central, and Dubravka can hold on to it.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      69, Xhaka scoops the ball in behind the Newcastle defence to Martinelli. He checks back inside, before turning back again and firing on goal. Krafth gets the block in.
      Joelinton then clears from the corner. He is showing his class this evening.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      67, At full-stretch, own-goalscorer White, blocks Longstaff’s ball across the box.
      Ramsdale then manically tries to get hold of the ball, before Lacazette wins the foul off Joelinton.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      65, A word on the goal…
      To the Arsenal fans’ dismay, it all came from Tavares’ foul throw in the Newcastle half. That will really hurt.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      65, Martinelli is down and looks to be in some discomfort.
      Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
      64, The ball rolls out for Joelinton who hits it first time, but his effort was always rising.
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