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KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.The Metropolitan Police are not investigating the incident, while Zouma’s brother Yoan’s future is in jeopardy with his club Dagenhan & Redbridge after appearing in in the damning footage.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
Chelsea are over in Abu Dhabi for the start of the Club World Cup this week.
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Kurt Zouma latest
Thousands of people have signed a petition calling for shamed West Ham ace Kurt Zouma to be prosecuted for animal cruelty.
Zouma was filmed kicking one of his two cats like a football and slapping it out of a child’s hands in disturbing footage filmed at his multimillion-pound mansion.
The defender has since issued a grovelling apology after the clip, shared by his brother Yoan on Snapchat, was exclusively featured by The Sun.
But the France international could still face a criminal prosecution if the RSPCA deems the clip contains illegal behaviour.
The Met Police say they won’t be investigating but the charity has its own powers to prosecute if it sees fit.
But more than 7,000 Brits have signed a petition calling for the Met to launch a probe.
The Change.org petition, started by Matthew Dixon, says: “Professional football player Kurt Zouma was filmed horrendously abusing a defenceless animal.
“He should be prosecuted for his actions”
Rice in, Kante out?
Chelsea could have the best chance of signing West Ham star Declan Rice next summer but N’Golo Kante may have to leave first.
Rice is reportedly keen on joining the Blues over Premier League foes Manchester United and Manchester City.
But the west Londoners would first need to sell Kante to free up a position in their squad for the star midfielder, which is a possibility given the France international’s age, according to The Mail.
That is a blow for United who have made the England international their top transfer priority ahead of the summer
Hornets combine youth and experience
Roy Hodgson has only been in charge of Watford for a fortnight but already the affable old timer is breaking records in his new job.
The 74-year-old oversaw the Hornets first Premier League clean sheet in 31 matches during his first game – a goalless draw at Burnley – and tonight takes his side the short distance to West Ham.
And at Turf Moor, the former Fulham and England manager put his faith in some young talent including 20-year-old Brazilian Joao Pedro.
At 54 years and 48 days younger than Hodgson, the age gap to the forward marked the biggest in Premier League history between a manager and a player who had started a match.

Pep reacts to Grealish video
Pep Guardiola has just completed his press conference ahead of tomorrow evening’s game with Brentford, and has responded to questions regarding the video of Jack Grealish appearing to be drunk on a night out.
The Manchester City manager was in good humour as he gave his views, insisting his players behaved well, and that nothing should be assumed from a short social media video.
I am upset because they didn’t invite me and I don’t like it. Hopefully next time they will invite me and we’ll do dinner together correctly at 8pm. All of them – Riyad, Kyle and Jack – they were perfect, but they will be fined because they didn’t invite me.Pep Guardiola
Kurt behaviour disrupts Hammers preparation
The build-up to West Ham’s match with Watford this evening has been thrown into chaos by the emergence of a video that shows defender Kurt Zouma mistreating a cat.
The Frenchman has apologised for the footage of him punching and kicking the family pet, but animal protection groups are not satisfied.
Calls to drop Zouma have been made while a petition has been lobbied at the RSPCA to investigate the incident further.
Zouma’s club were quick to release a statement strongly condemning their player’s behaviour, but the necessity has disrupted preparations in the West Ham camp.
The Hammers face struggling Watford tonight as they continue their challenge for Champions League football.
Major milestone for Clarets
Burnley host Manchester United this evening in what will be the 5,000th league game in their history.
The Clarets will become only the second club in the English game to reach the milestone, following in the footsteps of their Lancashire neighbours Preston North End.
Indeed, it was a match between the two clubs that marked Burnley’s first ever match as a founder member of the Football League. Preston prevailed on that day back in 1888, winning 5-2 at Deepdale.
Salah back in Liverpool contention
Mo Salah returned to Liverpool this morning following his African Cup of Nations heartbreak, and could now be in line for the Reds’ Premier League match with Leicester on Thursday.
The Egyptian was due to take a short break, having played all seven games for his country at Afcon – four of which went to extra-time – but he instead wishes to return to domestic football at the first opportunity.
Manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that the Premier League’s top scorer could play some part in the midweek match at Anfield.
Egypt were beaten on penalties in the final by Senegal on Sunday with Salah’s clubmate Sadio Mane scoring the winning spotkick.
Lampard preparing for huge clash
Frank Lampard is set to take charge of his first Premier League game with Everton this evening, and the stakes could not be higher.
The 16th-placed Toffees face relegation-threatened Newcastle at home with just four separating the two sides.
Lampard saw his new team power past Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday, and has now been boosted for the run-in by the return from injury of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The former Chelsea boss is also likely to hand debuts to new signings Dele Alli, Donny van de Beek and Anwar El Ghazi.
The last Everton manager to lose his first league game in charge of the Goodison Park club was Gordon Lee in February 1977.
Twelves new bosses have avoided defeat since then, will Lampard continue the 45-year-run or will it be unlucky number 13 for Frank?
Toon could conquer Europe
Newcastle United can win the Champions League, according to their new signing Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian star joined the Magpies from Lyon at the end of January for a fee that could rise to £42million, and is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton.
Now the 24-year-old has explained why he snubbed a move to Arsenal in favour of the north-east, and that’s because Newcastle are destined to become a global power.
“We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more – we want to win the Champions League.”
Ralph ready to call time
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is considering retirement when his contract comes to an end in 2024, reports HampshireLive.
The popular Austrian took charge at St Mary’s in December 2018, and feels that half a decade in charge of a Premier League outfit is enough for one career.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”

Jack the lad about town
Jack Grealish has endured a difficult first season at Manchester City, and may now face the wrath of manager Pep Guardiola after footage emerged of the player supposedly being ‘turned away from a bar for being too drunk.’
A video was posted on TikTok that appears to show the £100million footballer swaying as he was led away from Albert’s Schloss in Manchester city centre by a member of his entourage.
Grealish had been out with teammates Kyle Walker and Riyad Mahrez, but an accompanying comment with the video on social media stated that “Man like Jacky too drunk to get in.”
Along with Phil Foden, Grealish was reprimanded by Guardiola earlier in the season after the City boss was unhappy with the state in which the pair reported back for training after a night out.
The leaders are scheduled to host Brentford in the Premier League on Wednesday night.
Muller time at St James’ Park?
Big-spending Newcastle United are reportedly interested in bringing German superstar Thomas Muller to St James’ Park in the summer.
The Magpies supposedly made tentative enquiries about the 32-year-old during the January transfer window, but were given short shift by Bayern Munich.
However, Eddie Howe’s team remain interested in the attacking midfielder, as well as his compatriot Bernd Leno.
Muller is out of contract at the Allianz Arena next summer, and Newcastle officials are hopeful that he may be swayed by a large payday.
A legend for club and country, Muller has been capped over 100 times, and has scored 136 goals for Bayern in 404 Bundesliga appearances.

Zouma act far from purr-fect
West Ham have “unreservedly condemned” the actions of defender Kurt Zouma after he was filmed kicking and slapping his cat.
The Frenchman has also apologised after the video of him mistreating his pet surfaced.
The player admitted he was sorry for and ashamed of the incident via a statement: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
“They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again.”
Good morning football fans
Bruno Guimaraes claims he snubbed Arsenal and Juventus as Newcastle can win the Champions League.
The Brazil anchorman says he quit Lyon for the newly-rich, Saudi-backed Magpies as they are ‘definitely going to be a world power’.
Meanwhile, RB Leipzig handed the Gunners another blow in their search for a defensive midfielder.
The Germans vowed to battle to keep Frenchman Christopher Nkunku.
With Emile Smith Rowe blossoming, the Gunners’ need for a new playmaker is far less.
But Arsenal, like the rest of the Premier League, will surely cast a curious eye towards Brentford, where ex-Tottenham stylist Christian Eriksen has begun training following his deadline-day arrival.
Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has urged his players to sort out any grievances with him ‘directly’ – not on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial both rocked the boat at Old Trafford by contradicting claims from Rangnick.
But Lingard and Edinson Cavani are back in the United squad as the Premier League returns at Burnley tonight.
Newcastle host Everton while West Ham are at home to Watford in this evening’s other two fixtures.
Hasenthuttl quit hint
Ralph Hasenhuttl has hinted he is planning on quitting management in two years, writes TOIM BARCLAY.
The Southampton boss, 54, says he does not want to be a veteran boss like Roy Hodgson.
Speaking to German publication Kicker, Hasenhuttl has revealed he wants to leave Saints on a “very healthy footing by 2024” and then walk away.
He said: “I always wanted to prove to myself that I could very well work for a club for a longer period of time. 
“Hopefully, it will be five and a half years here, that’s a damn long time in modern football, and then that’s probably it.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.”
Should Hasenhuttl stay in his current role for another two years, he would be Southampton’s longest-serving manager since Chris Nicholl who was in post from 1985-91.
He is said to have already informed Saints’ new owners Sport Republic of his ambitions.
Hasenhuttl added: “Saying no to everything else is also a yes to yourself, and I want that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024, but then that was it.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”
Are RU kidding?
FA bosses face a hostile battle with Russia to host Euro 2028. writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five-nation bid — the UK and Ireland — after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 final.
But they now face the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 deadline.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine, it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
England PULL OUT of ‘doomed’ 2030 World Cup bid as FA chiefs turn attention to hosting Euro 2028 instead
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 World Cup bid to  concentrate on Euro 2028.
He said: “For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and when we assess everything we can put together a highly-competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic.
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa — and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact.
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Eriksen’s hunger to return
Brentford new boy Christian Eriksen revealed he wanted to return to football just “two days” after his shock cardiac arrest, writes ISABELLE BARKER.
The Denmark star, 29, also reassured fans that even with his implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) he can “run marathons and deep dive” if he wanted to.
But he says on the journey to the hospital from the Parken Stadium following his Euro 2020 collapse, he was close to leaving his boots at the ground because he thought his career was finished. 
When asked about how long it took for him to change his mind about returning to the pitch, Eriksen said: “Two days later. It was in the moment and I recognised what happened to me later on in that night and the next few days about what was really going on.
“The feeling of getting to hear from the doctors that even with an ICD there are no limits and with your condition there are no limits not to (play).
“People can run marathons, swimming, deep diving, whatever, all sorts. It just depends on the diagnosis and how you feel about it 
“I told Sabrina ‘I’m saying this now I’ll leave my boots but don’t be certain if a few days goes by and I’ll probably change my mind if everything is ok’ and luckily everything after was ok.”
Utd are ‘biggest transfer losers’
Manchester United have made by far the biggest loss on transfers in the Prem in the past 10 years, research says.
CIES Football Observatory say United were £78million more in debit than neighbours City.
The Red Devils’ worst-value big buys probably include Angel Di Maria (£67.5m), Anthony Martial (£54m) and Harry Maguire (£78m).
And so far the £112m double buy of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane could, so far, hardly be called money well spent.
Toon can win Champions League
Bruno Guimaraes revealed he snubbed Arsenal because Newcastle CAN win the Champions League, writes OSCAR PAUL.
The Brazilian midfielder star is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton and vowed to turn Newcastle into a global power.
Guimaraes, 24, signed for the Saudi Arabia-owned Toon from Lyon for a fee rising to £42million amid January interest from Arsenal.

Asked if relegation-threatened Newcastle are as big as the Gunners, he declared: “Definitely. We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more — we want to win the Champions League. The owners were very up front and honest. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.
“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and to eventually win the Champions League.
“I believe in the project and I believe in everything they told me.”
EXCLUSIVE: Stop complaining on social media
Ralf Rangnick has told his players to stop moaning at him on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial have both caused a storm at Manchester United after contradicting their manager’s comments.

Asked if it would be better sorted behind closed doors, Rangnick said: “It’s always better. I never ever read or communicate by those social media accounts.
“I don’t exist there and wouldn’t have time to do that so therefore it’s always better and I always communicate with the players directly.
“I did that with Anthony Martial and Jesse but maybe I’m a different kind of generation. My generation didn’t grow up with those kind of things.
“I can even remember a time when there were no mobile phones or internet so for me it’s always better to communicate directly.
“I know in both cases what I said to the players and what happened so for me there’s no reason to discuss this anymore.”
Is Gnab worth a grab?
Ex-Arsenal youth winger Serge Gnabry is reportedly at loggerheads with Bayern Munich over a new deal.
So what price a bid from his old club or other Premier League giants for the 31-cap Germany star?
Gnabry, 26, has 18 months left on his current Bayern deal.
Credit: Getty
FA in ‘Cold War’ with Russia
The FA face leading a “Cold War” battle with Russia after ditching plans to bid for the 2030 World Cup in an attempt to land Euro 2028, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five nation British Isles bid after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 Final.
But the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 bidding deadline is a real one.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 bid in favour of concentrating on Euro 2028.
Bullingham said: “We looked at two fantastic, multi-billion pound economic impact events.
“For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and landscape and when we assess everything for that we know we can put together a highly competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. 
“Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic. 
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact. 
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Kein and willing
Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper says says striker Keinan Davis is in good shape mentally and physically for Wednesday’s Championship trip to Blackburn Rovers, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
The 23-year-old was attacked and punched by a fan during Sunday’s 4-1 FA Cup victory over their East Midlands rivals.
After the game, Davis – currently on loan from Aston Villa – Tweeted: “What a win, but I got a headache,” while Leicester City confirmed his assailant, who was arrested, faces a lifetime ban.
However Cooper was quick to assure Forest fans their new striking hero has come through his ordeal and can’t wait to return to action against Tony Mowbray’s second-placed Rovers at Ewood Park.
“When I spoke after the game I hadn’t seen the incident.
“I’ve now seen it back and there is obviously no place for any supporter to enter the pitch at any time at any club.
“Certainly the act that was done, there is no place for that in society, never mind the game.
“I believe both clubs and the police and the governing bodies are in control of everything and I am sure the right process will take place in dealing with it.”
Zouma filmed kicking and slapping pet cat
West Ham defender Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted after being filmed booting his cat like a football across his kitchen floor.
The 27-year-old is also seen slapping his pet’s face.
The club has condemned his actions and will “deal with the matter internally”.
Zouma is seen attacking the pet at his £2million mansion while his brother films him.
He drops the moggy and boots it in mid air across the kitchen floor.
Premier League defender Kurt Zouma seen in sick video drop kicking a cat – and slapping it across his kitchen
The French international then chases the animal around his dining room in front of a child as the cameraman laughs.
Zouma also hurls a pair of designer shoes at the pet — which frantically tries to escape.
In a final clip, he is seen forcefully slapping the cat in the face — and out of the child’s arms.
Last night, Zouma issued a grovelling apology for the attack and insisted it was an isolated incident.
He said: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
Prem chiefs to debate fan flare-ups
Premier League chiefs will discuss this week how to tackle the alarming recent spate of ugly scenes involving supporters, writes TOM BARCLAY.
The issue will be one of the key points on the agenda at Thursday’s shareholders meeting where an urgent update from league bosses and the police is expected.
Leicester issued a lifetime ban to a fan who ran onto the pitch and punched Nottingham Forest striker Keinan Davis during their FA Cup defeat at the City Ground on Sunday.
It was arguably the worst incident in an alarming trend of supporter misbehaviour of late, not only in the Premier League but across English football.
Other shameful episodes have included spectators entering the field of play, missiles being thrown, flares being set off and allegations of racial abuse directed towards players.
Prem supremos raised the issue at their last get-together on January 26, which was held predominantly to discuss protocol surrounding match postponements due to Covid-19.
During that meeting, clubs agreed to hold talks with the FA, EFL and Football Policing Unit which took place a few days later.
Top-flight clubs are expecting to be given feedback from those talks on Thursday as their fears grow over this escalating fan problem.
One Premier League chief told SunSport: “This is a huge issue. We predicted a player would get hurt, and it’s happened. 
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CHELSEA will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.And the Africa Cup of Nations final did not disappoint with drama involving Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.
Egypt star Salah told his keeper Gabaski which way to dive to stop Mane’s early spot kick, but he Senegalese star had the last laugh after extra time as he scored the winning penalty after 120 minutes without a goal for either side.
For Barcelona, Dani Alves had a rollercoaster afternoon during their 4-2 win over Atletico Madrid as he provided an early assist, then scored but was later sent off for foul play.
Antonio Rudiger has REJECTED Chelsea’s new offer of a £200,000 per week contract, according to reports.
The Blues star defender is out of contract in the summer, with Spanish giants Real Madrid interested.
While Liverpool are eyeing Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka after the Reds added Porto’s Luis Diaz in the January window.
Though the Reds may MISS out on Fabio Carvalho this summer, who came agonisingly close to joining from Fulham on deadline day.
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Reece misses Club World Cup
Reece James is OUT of Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad – despite travelling to Abu Dhabi.
But Edouard Mendy looks set to feature in the tournament just days after winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.
James, 22, was included in the travelling party heading out to the Middle East on Sunday.

The right-back has not featured since picking up a hamstring injury against Brighton in December.
But despite returning to training and being in the UAE, the updated Fifa squad list does not include ten-cap England international James.
However, it does include goalkeeper Mendy.
The shot-stopper made one save during the penalty shootout, parrying Mohanad Lasheen’s tame effort away.
That set Sadio Mane up with the winning penalty, smashing into the bottom corner to get one over his Liverpool pal Mo Salah.
Nike drop Greenwood
Nike have dropped their sponsorship deal with disgraced Mason Greenwood after he was arrested on suspicion of rape and GBH.
His lucrative agreement with the company was suspended last week following the allegations, but the sports giant has now completely cut ties with the Manchester United striker.
Greenwood, 20, was quizzed by cops and spent three nights in a police cell after being re-arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.
He was arrested at his home in Bowden, Greater Manchester, after a series of allegations were made on social media.

The images and allegations were reportedly visible on the woman’s Instagram on January 30, but have since been deleted.
Greenwood has since been bailed, but the sportswear giants, who provided his boots, have now completely dropped him.
A spokesman for Nike told the Athletic: “Mason Greenwood is no longer a Nike athlete”.
The company previously said that they would be “monitoring” the situation after the “disturbing” allegations were made.
Rodgers is shock favourite for aack
Leicester’s humiliating 4-1 FA Cup defeat to Nottingham Forest has left boss Brendan Rodgers as the surprise favourite to be the next Premier League chief sacked.
Rodgers, who has been linked with top rivals in recent months, is rated 7/2 ahead of no manager to leave at 4/1, with Burnley’s Sean Dyche 6/1.
Next come Eddie Howe and Roy Hodgson at 8/1, with Antonio Conte at 9/1.
Ladbrokes’ Alex Apati said: “Brendan Rodgers looked set to leave Leicester of his own accord just a few months ago, seemingly having his pick of a range of top jobs.
“But a humiliating defeat at the hands of Forest, coupled with a poor season in the Premier League suggests he could ultimately pay the price in the coming weeks.”
Hard Call to make
Newcastle United’s survival hopes have been hit today by the revelation that injured striker Callum Wilson has only just come off his crutches and is unlikely to return until ‘the last few games of the season.’
Eddie Howe initially hoped to have Wilson back in training this month, but now admits that his inclusion in his 25-man squad is something of a risk.
The news has also left the Toon Army short in the attacking department despite the arrival of Chris Wood from Burnley for £25million.
A move for Reims’ Hugo Etikite collapsed on deadline day, leaving only Dwight Gayle as a centre-forward to provide competition to Wood.
Sadio the main Mane
Sadio Mane scored the winning penalty to crown Senegal African Cup of Nations champions last night, and then picked up the Player of the Tournament award.
The Liverpool forward went from zero to hero as he made up for his penalty miss in normal time by netting the decisive kick to earn his country their first Afcon title.
“It’s the best day of my life and the best trophy of my life,” the 29-year-old said after the match.
“I have won the Champions League and other trophies, but this is the special one for me. This is most important for me.”
The Senegal star was even seen commiserating with his clubmate Mo Salah, a runner-up with Egypt, following the conclusion of the shootout.

Johnstone tipped for Premier League return
West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper is preparing for Premier League football next season – even if the Baggies aren’t.
West Ham and Southampton are said to be heading the queue to sign the goalkeeper, who has three England caps, on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and has turned down a new deal at the Hawthorns.
Johnstone’s reluctance to put pen to paper led to him being dropped by Valerien Ismael, but he will now be targeting game time following Steve Bruce arriving as the Frenchman’s replacement.
Bielsa baffled by Bamford injury
Another striker who looks to be no nearer to regaining fitness is Leeds’ Patrick Bamford with manager Marcelo Bielsa admitting the situation is a real concern.
Bamford has been out with a foot problem since December, sustained when celebrating a late goal versus Brentford on his return from another injury.
The forward has played only six games in total this campaign, and his absence has been felt by Leeds, who are languishing near the relegation zone.
He hasn’t played for 15 games now, how can I not worry? We can’t predict when he will return because it depends on the pain going away so he can start jogging again.Marcelo Bielsa
Toon dealt further Wilson blow
Newcastle United’s survival hopes have been hit today by the revelation that injured striker Callum Wilson has only just come off his crutches and is unlikely to return until ‘the last few games of the season.’
Eddie Howe initially hoped to have Wilson back in training this month, but now admits that his inclusion in his 25-man squad is something of a risk.
The news has also left the Toon Army short in the attacking department despite the arrival of Chris Wood from Burnley for £25million.
A move for Reims’ Hugo Etikite collapsed on deadline day, leaving only Dwight Gayle as a centre-forward to provide competition to Wood.
Breaking – Ashworth resigns from Brighton
Dan Ashworth has resigned from his role as Technical Director at Brighton and Hove Albion, and will soon take on a similar role at an unnamed Premier League club.
The former FA Director of Elite Development had been linked with a move to Newcastle United, who recently bought defender Dan Burn from Brighton for a fee of £13million.
Former Everton and Rangers centre-back David Weir will take over as acting Technical Director at the AMEX as Albion begin searching for Ashworth’s replacement.

Good morning football fans!
West Ham boss David Moyes warned the Premier League big boys interested in Declan Rice that they will have to splash more than £100million.
Rice has been linked with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.
Moyes said: “You will need humongous money to get close.
“I said in the summer that I thought Declan Rice was £100m. That was your chance to get him cheap. You can make your mind up over what I’m talking about now.
“I feel his commitment. He’s under contract and we’re really pleased to have him. He’s here for certainly a few years.
“He’s like a special edition Declan Rice, there’s not many like him.
“He’s arguably playing as well as any midfielder in European football, and the prices were expensive in January weren’t they?”
Elsewhere, Real Madrid have pulled out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland this summer.
Real have long been favourites to beat the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City to Haaland’s signature.
But according to the Star, Los Blancos have decided against making a move for the striker.
They claim that Madrid have deemed it too expensive to land Norway international and No1 target Kylian Mbappe in the same summer transfer window.
Real are set to sign Mbappe on a free transfer at the end of the season, with some reports claiming that the Paris Saint-Germain superstar has agreed a contract worth £800,000-a-week.
Another striker is also attracting interest with Manchester United and Chelsea joining Arsenal in the bidding war for Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak.
Isak has a £75million release clause in his deal with Sociedad and has a host of admirers across the continent such as United, the Gunners and the Blues.
According to the Daily Mirror, the Red Devils are looking to swoop in for the centre-forward.
The Manchester giants view the Sweden international as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 37 on Saturday, should the club legend leave this summer.
The west Londoners may also be on the look-out for a forward at the end of the season if Romelu Lukaku fails to hit top form.
And, of course, Arsenal require a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after he signed with Barcelona.
De Ligt transfer war
Manchester United, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are interested in landing Juventus star Matthijs de Ligt in the summer.
According to Calciomercato, United, Barca and Bayern have entered a bidding war for De Ligt.
The Italian outlet reports: “Juventus is preparing for a summer in which Matthijs de Ligt will be considered as one of the most valuable pieces in the market.”
The Red Devils’ interim boss Ralf Rangnick, who is expected to take over as a consultant in June, is keen to bring in another defender to increase his team’s chances of challenging for silverware
Tevez on the move
Ex-Manchester United and Manchester City star Carlos Tevez is ‘in talks’ with DC United over a potential move to the MLS.
Tevez is currently a free agent after leaving Boca Juniors in the summer.
But now Wayne Rooney’s former team DC United have offered the 38-year-old a return to football, according to The Athletic.
They claim a move is ’25 per cent’ likely to happen, and hinges on whether the club and centre-forward can thrash out an agreement over a financial package.
The former Argentina international’s representatives are said to have offered their client to the American side ‘multiple’ times in the last few years, but the club declined on each occasion
Mertens situation
Napoli star Dries Mertens, who has been previously linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, is out of contract in June.
Cristiano Giuntoli told DAZN: “We’ve an option to extend Mertens current contract until June 2023.
“We’ll decide together with Dries.
“We’re gonna meet at the end of the season to make a decision on Dries’ future”
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Martial problems
Manchester United loanee Anthony Martial has been told he ‘has to give more’ by his new Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui following his innocuous debut against Osasuna.
Lopetegui said: “He has to give us more.
“It was his first game, it’s not easy to adapt.
“He comes with a bit of baggage because he’s hardly played. Bit by bit he has to get up to speed”
Chelsea injury worries
Chelsea are sweating on the fitness of three key players going into the Club World Cup.
The Blues could be without Mason Mount, captain Cesar Azpilicueta and Hakim Ziyech.
Coach Michel Arnos, who took charge in manager Thomas Tuchel’s absence, admitted afterwards: “We have a few problems.
“Mason we had to take out, Hakim we had to take out, Azpi felt his hamstring.
“We had a few muscle problems, but they’re hopefully only little ones”
Liverpool eye promising talent
Liverpool are keeping tabs on Le Havre youngster Andy Elysee Logbo, dubbed the next Romelu Lukaku – reports suggest.
That is according to Foot Mercato, who report that the Reds are lining up a bid to bring Logbo over to Anfield during the summer transfer window.
The striker is seen by the second-division club as the next big thing as he has amassed eight goals and four assists in 13 appearances for the youth side this season.
The Frenchman has also attracted comparisons to Chelsea star Lukaku due to his imposing stature as he stands at 1,88m
Lyon on Lacazette
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas confirmed the team’s interest in bringing Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette back.
Lacazette’s deal with the Gunners expires in the summer and he is expected to become a free agent.
Aulas said: “We will do our best to sign Lacazette in June.
“We will make every effort possible for his return to Lyon”
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Lacazette transfer future
Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette has started ‘discussions with Lyon’ over a potential return this summer.
Lacazette will become a free agent in June and football.london states he has already begun discussing personal terms with his former team regarding a transfer.
The reports claims the centre-forward is ‘currently in discussions with several European teams’.
However, Lyon ‘remain the frontrunners’ in the chase to re-sign the France international
Isak reacts to transfer rumours
Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak didn’t rule out a move amid interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.
Isak told Mundo Deportivo: “I am not talking about other clubs.
“I am a Real player, I work here and this is my club. My work is on the pitch, and as I told you before, there are other people who work outside.
“You can never be sure of anything.
“As I always say, you never know what can happen in football but in the end I’m here, happy, and nothing more”
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Isak transfer war
Manchester United and Chelsea have joined Arsenal in the bidding war for Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak.
Isak has a £75million release clause in his deal with Sociedad and has a host of admirers across the continent such as United, the Gunners and the Blues.
According to the Daily Mirror, the Red Devils are looking to swoop in for the centre-forward.
The Manchester giants view the Sweden international as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 37 on Saturday, should the club legend leave this summer.
The west Londoners may also be on the look-out for a forward at the end of the season if Romelu Lukaku fails to hit top form.
And, of course, Arsenal require a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after he signed with Barcelona
Man Utd’s Pochettino hope
Manchester United are ‘growing increasingly confident’ that they will appoint Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino at the dugout.
Pochettino is coming under more pressure in France following PSG’s penalty shoot-out elimination to Nice in the Coupe de France.
According to Le Parisien, the Argentine head coach’s final hope is winning the Champions League this season.
But the former Tottenham boss’ future will hinge on whether they progress past 13-time winners Real Madrid in the Last-16.
The Mirror reports Pochettino is the ‘No1 candidate’ to take over from interim manager Ralf Rangnick at Old Trafford.
Rangnick is set to move into a consultancy role for the club at the end of the season
Haaland transfer boost
Real Madrid have pulled out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland this summer.
Real have long been favourites to beat the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City to Haaland’s signature.
But according to the Star, Los Blancos have decided against making a move for the striker.
They claim that Madrid have deemed it too expensive to land Norway international and No1 target Kylian Mbappe in the same summer transfer window.
Real are set to sign Mbappe on a free transfer at the end of the season, with some reports claiming that the Paris Saint-Germain superstar has agreed a contract worth £800,000-a-week
Triple Summer Splash reminder
Arsenal are planning the largest spending spree in their history with up to £180million for summer signings at the end of the season.
The Gunners’ owner Stan Kroenke is keen to show his faith in boss Mikel Arteta by providing the funds for a major squad upgrade.
SunSport understand Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak, Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Wolves’ Ruben Neves have been identified as the players required to take the north Londoners to the next level.
But Arteta understands he will need to secure Champions League qualification this season if he is going to land such targets
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Liverpool Carvalho blow
Liverpool may MISS out on Fulham wonderkid Fabio Carvalho.
Carvalho is reportedly attracting interest from the Serie A, specifically AC Milan.
A move before the January window slammed shut failed to materialise meaning the Reds will have to agree a pre-contract.
But according to Calciomercato, Milan are looking to hijack any potential deal
Moyes advice reminder
West Ham boss David Moyes warned the Premier League big boys interested in Declan Rice that they will have to splash more than £100million.
Rice has been linked with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.
Moyes said: “You will need humongous money to get close.
“I said in the summer that I thought Declan Rice was £100m. That was your chance to get him cheap. You can make your mind up over what I’m talking about now.
“I feel his commitment. He’s under contract and we’re really pleased to have him. He’s here for certainly a few years.
“He’s like a special edition Declan Rice, there’s not many like him.
“He’s arguably playing as well as any midfielder in European football, and the prices were expensive in January weren’t they?”
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