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GARETH SOUTHGATE has announced his England squad for the upcoming internationals against Albania and San Marino.But there is no place in the 25-man list for Man Utd trio Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood and Jesse Lingard.
Meanwhile Erling Haaland could be out until Christmas as the Dortmund forward continues to struggle with a hip problem.
And we’ve the very latest from St James Park as talks progress between Newcastle and Eddie Howe.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
TAKING THE NICK
Nick Pope was shocked and disappointed at failing to make the latest England squad, after proving he is back to his best following knee surgery.
The Burnley stopper seemed to be pushing Jordan Pickford hard for the England No 1 spot before being forced to undergo a cartilage operation in May – on the day Gareth Southgate named his squad for Euro 2020.
Pope was not too surprised at failing to earn a recall for England’s first round of matches a month ago, as he was still feeling his way back to full fitness.
But he was in superb form in Bunrley’s 3-1 win over Brentford last Saturday, and had high hopes of a recall.
He said: “I’m obviously disappointed to be left out – more disappointed than I was last month. But that’s not my decision. It’s the manager’s decision, it’s out of my hands. 
“It’s unfortunate. I think over the last three years I’ve performed at a really good level. So to be dropped from a squad six games into a season, and again now, is something that wasn’t ideal. But that’s how football goes, how life goes. 
“Now it’s about moving forward and getting on with it. I’ve got a really important role to play here at Burnley in a really exciting squad. So I’m looking forward to playing my part in that.”
ROWE YOUR BOAT
England boss Gareth Southgate has revealed why Emile Smith Rowe has not been named in his World Cup squad.
He said: “I think Emile, Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi, in particular, are all playing very well with their clubs but we’ve got depth.
“To put those in, we’ve got to leave some of those on the sheet out. I think it’s not a bad thing that we’re starting to get a very strong under-21 team because you want that depth.
“We fast-tracked lots of young players quickly and the majority of them are still in this squad now. A lot of them played a big part in the Euros.
“We’ve also had some come up and then when you put them back with the under-21s it’s a lot more complicated so we want to get the timing of that right.
“The boys I’ve just mentioned are on a really good path, we like them, we get to see them with the under-21s as well as their clubs.
“At the moment, we think it’s a little early for some of those guys to come in, we could put them in and they would be absolutely fine by the way, but we think the players we’ve picked are just a little bit ahead at the moment.”
WALK IT OFF
Man City have an injury worry over defender Kyle Walker ahead of Saturday’s derby at Old Trafford.
And England boss Gareth Southgate will also be waiting for news of the defender’s foot problem – but for the moment has included him in the squad.
Walker was hobbling during the second half of City’s 4-1 Champions League win over Club Brugge on Wednesday night.
He was replaced by youngster Cole Palmer with 10 minutes to go and was booked in for checks at the Etihad Campus on Thursday.
Manager Pep Guardiola said: “We are going to review the players – some of them. Especially Kyle because he got a big kick on his foot.
“We are going to see on Thursday and Friday but I’m sure that at 12.30pm on Saturday we’ll be there at Old Trafford.”

RED ALL OVER
Suspended Antoine Griezmann sent a cheeky cryptic tweet after watching his team-mate pick up another red card against Liverpool.
Felipe was sent off for Atletico Madrid in a fiery first half of Champions League football for hacking down Sadio Mane.
Griezmann, who was watching on from home due to suspension, tweeted his displeasure following his own red card at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium in the reverse fixture two weeks ago.
The French international’s tweet translates in English to “Yellow in Anfield…” followed by a ‘raised eyebrow’ emoji.
There was little doubt Griezmann, 30, deserved a red card for kicking Roberto Firmino in the face during Atleti’s 3-2 loss to the Reds – a classic European encounter.

WORLD CUP SQUAD
Gareth Southgate has named his England squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and San Marino.
And the big news is that Man Utd trio Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood and Jesse Lingard have NOT been included.
Neither has Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe, who has been in five form this season.
Though Gunners goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has been included, along with Bukayo Saka.
Look at the full list below.

HAALAND BLOW
Erling Haaland faces almost eight weeks on the sidelines after picking up a hip injury, his dad has claimed.
The Dortmund striker has been out of action since his side’s 4-0 battering by Ajax in the Champions League last month.
He had been in typically fine form this season with 13 goals in 10 games so far.
But now dad Alf Inge says his son could be out of action until Christmas as he struggles to shake off the hip problem.
Alf Inge told Norwegian channel TV 2: “He’s doing relatively well considering the situation, but he’ll be out for a little while.
“It would be a bonus if he gets some games before Christmas, but it’s rather unlikely.”
HOWE ABOUT THAT?
Newcastle’s talks with former Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe are ‘intensifying’, according to reports.
Howe left his post at the Cherries before the start of last season after they were relegated from the Premier League.
But talks over a return to top flight management are heating up, with Newcastle interested in appointing Howe as manager.
According to Sky Sports reporter Pete Graves, Howe is the ‘preferred candidate for some members of consortium’.
The Englishman has turned down opportunities to return to management as he’s been ‘waiting for right opportunity’, and newly mega rich Newcastle with a ‘hugely impressive’ vision for the club could be it.
The Magpies turned to Howe after Europa League serial winner Unai Emery turned them down.

COAST NOT CLEAR
Wilfried Zaha has asked not be called up to the Ivory Coast this month and is considering his international future, according to his national boss.
The Elephants chief Patrice Beaumelle claimed Crystal Palace’s superstar feels he returns “sick” after each call-up to his country.
Zaha, 28, missed Palace’s 2-2 draw at Arsenal last month through illness following a victory over Malawi for his country.
Beaumelle said: “He asked not to come because he comes home sick at each meeting. He wants to reflect on the rest of his international career.”
Zaha won two caps for England before switching allegiances in 2016 to the country of his birth, for whom he has 21 caps and five goals.
HUMM DINGER
Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels has not held back after his bizarre sending off against Ajax in the Champions League.
Hummels was sent off in the 29th minute after a seemingly innocuous sliding challenge on winger Antony.
He fumed to DAZN: “I have no idea how you can give a red card there.
“I stayed on the pitch. When he showed me the red card, I was in disbelief. That was an absurdly bad decision.
“You shouldn’t ignore the diving of my opponent. It’s grossly unsportsmanlike conduct. He [Antony] came to me and said himself that it was not a red card.
“This is a farce, this is ridiculous. He’s a super footballer, but he still needs to learn how to be a sportsman.”

JOR DROPPING
Jordan Henderson has blasted FIFA’s plan to hold a World Cup every two years.
Henderson, 31, highlights the welfare of the players as the main reason for it not to happen and believes that the “physical demands on athletes today are just too great”.
The England and Liverpool midfielder told GQ: “It’s not for me. With the amount of games that players have, it’s just too much.
“The physical demands put on athletes today are just too great and it feels, to me, that there’s not really anybody looking out for players’ welfare. 
“Playing more games is all about money, television rights, and I don’t really see the need for another World Cup.”
The greedy plan is to introduce a two year World Cup cycle – led by Arsene Wenger, Fifa’s Chief of Global Football Development.
BEL TOLLS
Arsenal are reportedly keen to bring Torino striker Andrea Belotti to the Emirates in January.
The 27-year-old is in the final year of his contract in Turin and has rejected the club’s offer of a new deal.
And according to Calciomercato, the Gunners will look to sign the Italy international on a cut-price deal.
Torino are desperate to avoid losing him to a Serie A rival with AC Milan understood to be keen to secure his services.
And they will attempt to offload him to a team outside of Italy to avoid losing him on a free transfer.
An offer in the region of £8million could be enough to sign the Euro 2020 winner.
OLYMPIC DREAM
PSG star Kylian Mbappe will reportedly demand a clause in his Real Madrid contract that will allow him to play in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The 22-year-old is widely expected to seal a move to Los Blancos at the end of the season when his contract at the Parc des Princes expires.
According to Spanish outlet AS, he would like a ‘guarantee’ from the Bernabeu outfit to let him represent his country at his home Olympics.
Mbappe published a letter in French newspaper L’Equipe last week as the nation marked 1,0000 days until the start of the games.
And he stated he wants to be part of it and play for France after being refused permission to do so at the recent Olympics in Tokyo.
He wrote PSG ‘cut the grass from under my feet’ and didn’t allow him to jet out to Japan in the summer.
Real Madrid will inevitably be reluctant to allow the clause with the Games scheduled to take place just weeks after the conclusion of Euro 2024.
NOU DEAL
Ousmane Dembele looks set to turn down a blockbuster Premier League move and take a pay CUT to stay at Barcelona.
The France international is out of contract at the Nou Camp next year.
And Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly tracking the 24-year-old.
But Mundo Deportivo reports Dembele feels indebted to Barca and would even be willing to take less money to stay in Spain.
The forward suffered a horror run of injuries after his mammoth £110million move from Dortmund back in 2017.
Club officials have kept faith in him and he shone on Tuesday when coming off the bench against Dynamo Kiev.
Now he is set to accept a new three-year deal with a lower base salary but improved personal and team-related bonuses.

PERMISSION GRANTED
Antonio Conte is set to take charge of Tottenham in the Europa Conference League after securing his visa.
The Italian will be in the hot seat for the visit of Vitesse Arnhem after being given the green light to work in the UK.
He was appointed Spurs boss on Tuesday after the north London club sacked the under-fire Nuno Espirito Santo.
The 52-year-old has been handed a whopping £15million-a-year deal to take over at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
And with the paperwork now complete, he will lead his new side in Thursday’s European outing.

ONE IN ONE OUT
Tottenham are lining up a move for midfielder Franck Kessie that could see Tanguy Ndombele join Barcelona in January.
Antonio Conte and Spurs are big fans of AC Milan man Kessie – having both previously tried to sign him.
According to Spanish outlet Sport the Catalan giants are in the market for a midfielder with Ndombele, 24, reportedly ‘within reach’.
And with Spurs in talks for Ivorian Kessie, 24, the door could be open for Ndombele to move on.
He is said to have been keen on an exit back in the summer with Barcelona long-time admirers of the Frenchman.
Ndombele was previously earmarked as a ‘priority’ target by Ronald Koeman, and despite the Dutchman being sacked the club remain eager to sign him.

JOR DROPPED
Rio Ferdinand is ‘baffled’ that Chelsea midfielder Jorginho is among the favourites to win this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The BT Sport pundit said: He said: “The Jorginho one baffles me. He’s not the best player at Chelsea and he’s not the first name on the team-sheet with Italy either.
“He’s a very good player don’t get me wrong and I’m not trying to be disrespectful at all, but I don’t see how he gets on the list with those players – with the levels that these guys have been playing at.
“If you look at Chelsea, in their run to winning the Champions League, I think (N’Golo) Kante was man of the match in five of their last six games.
“It baffles me. He’s won two of the big trophies, I get that.
“But when you’re putting him up against those other four players there, it doesn’t make sense to me.”

VAN DE BABY
Donny van de Beek is expecting a child with his partner Estelle Bergkamp – daughter of Arsenal legend Dennis.
Things may not be going van de Beek’s way on the pitch but off it they seem to be going just fine.
In an Instagram post this morning the Dutchman posted a picture of himself alongside the smiling Estelle, with the pair holding an ultrasound of their child.
And he captioned the picture: “Happy to announce that we’re expecting a little one.”
The stunning Estelle, 25, also took to Instagram to celebrate the news, posting a different picture of the pair.
And she kept the caption short and sweet like van de Beek did, simply saying: “Happy to announce that we’re expecting a little one.”

PART AND PARCEL
Arsenal star Thomas Partey was left furious after being clattered by youngster Tom Akinola in training, according to reports.
The Ghanaian has been plagued by injuries since joining the Gunners from Atletico Madrid in 2020.
He most recently missed four games earlier this term due to an ankle injury sustained against Chelsea in pre-season.
So when eager Akinola flew into a 50-50 tackle with Partey in training, the 28-year-old was less than enthused.
Football.London claim that he initially reacted angrily towards the youngster, who was participating in first-team practice.
But he later softened towards the former Huddersfield academy midfielder, even offering up a few kind words.
Partey is claimed to have told Akinola that he is the ‘strongest’ player he’d played with.

MOY BIEN
Former Man Utd boss David Moyes’ first league win as a manager brought him to the edge of tears — and he still feels like crying now every time he secures a victory.
Moyes will send his West Ham side out for a Europa League group-stage clash at Genk on Thursday evening, marking his 1,000th game as a boss.
Qualifying for the knockouts would be a far cry from where it all started on a damp night at Macclesfield in the Auto Windscreens Shield 23 years ago.
But Moyes has given a glimpse of the sheer emotion involved in taking charge of a team.
And how he might have jacked it all in and ended up running a boys’ club in Scotland had he not got that first win for Preston at Bournemouth in February 1998.
Read more HERE.
TOON OUT
Unai Emery turned down Newcastle after learning of a ‘termination clause’ in his proposed contract, according to reports.
The former Arsenal boss emerged as the Toon’s preferred candidate to succeed Steve Bruce this week.
Such was Newcastle’s confidence in their pursuit, that they believed Emery would be in place by the time they face Brighton this weekend.
But they have been left stunned after the 49-year-old decided to stay at Villarreal.
According to the Mirror, Emery was unhappy with a clause in the deal offered to him that would have enabled Newcastle to sack him if they were relegated this season.
The Magpies are currently second bottom of the Premier League and are winless in ten games this season.
MORNING, FOOTBALL FANS
Liverpool have secured their place in the Champions League last-16 after easing to a 2-0 win against Atletico Madrid.
First half goals from Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane proved to be the difference against the visitors, who were reduced to ten men following Felipe’s sending off in the 36th minute.
Manchester City have one hand in the knockout stages after outclassing Club Brugge at the Etihad.
The Citizens beat their Belgian opponents 4-1 after going into the break a goal apiece.
Meanwhile, Unai Emery has confirmed he won’t be joining Newcastle while pledging his future to Villarreal on Instagram.
Emery was one of the favourites to take on the vacant Toon role but after having talks with the club’s new owners the Spaniard opted to stay in Spain.
The Magpies may now look to bring in Eddie Howe, who could return to management after departing Bournemouth in 2020.
In other news, Tottenham are facing a transfer war with West Ham and Southampton over West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, reports suggest.
Johnston’s deal with the Baggies expires at the end of the season and the Championship outfit is trying to convince him to stay.
According to Sky Sports, the club is planning to ramp up negotiations with the 28-year-old in January while Spurs, the Hammers and Saints continue to keep tabs.
And finally, Carlos Tevez has revealed he has no plans to return to football yet after cutting short his third spell at Boca Juniors.
The 37-year-old departed his boyhood side in June after stating he was mentally ‘not ready’ to be playing competitive football, despite being physically fit.
HAARD SELL
Man Utd and Chelsea have been warned Erling Haaland’s £64million transfer could actually cost more than a QUARTER OF A BILLION pounds.
The Norwegian is set be the hottest property in the summer transfer window – but his wages and Mino Raiola’s agent fee may mean the buying club have to cough up more than £250m.
He has a cut-price £64m release clause that kicks in at the end of this season.
But Timo Werner’s agent Volker Struth reckons Haaland will be nothing like the bargain some people seem to think.
He told Bild: “Haaland has a release clause. The entire package with five-year salary and commission for the agent will probably be on the border of €250-300m [£254million].
“Even if Bayern Munich had the money, they would not do it. All hell would break out if a player in Germany [was paid] €50million.”
FULL-TIME RESULTS
Manchester City showed their class in the second half as they beat Club Brugge 4-1.
And Liverpool proved to be too good for the ten men of Atletico Madrid to qualify for the knockout stages.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have won all four of their group stage matches.
Here are the results from all of tonight’s clashes below.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰Thrilling Champions League night ✅Ajax & Liverpool book last-16 places 👏👏👏🤔 Best performance? #UCL— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 3, 2021

GUNNER STAY
Arsenal are reportedly set to trigger a contract extension for youngster Daniel Ballard.
The centre-back, 22, has never played for the Gunners but is well regarded at the club and has represented Northern Ireland ten times.
And after impressing on loan at Millwall this season, Arsenal are keen to keep Ballard at the club beyond next summer when his current contract comes to an end.
According to Football.London, Per Mertesacker and Edu have decided to trigger a clause in Ballard’s deal to keep him with the Gunners.
It is believed the clause will extend his stay by a further two years.
Ballard has started all but one league game for Millwall this term and has looked comfortable with the rigours of the Championship.

HALF-TIME RESULTS
Here are how the half-time results look in the Champions League.
Man City have work to do in their clash against Club Brugge, while Liverpool are beating Atletico Madrid.
⏸️ HALF-TIME ⏸️And breathe 😅So. Much. Drama!Predict what will happen in the second half 👇#UCL— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 3, 2021

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HARRY KANE no longer wants a transfer away from Tottenham, SunSport can reveal.The England captain is full of belief in the club following the ambitious appointment of Antonio Conte and ready to help the Italian win trophies.
But Newcastle have been left rocked after Unai Emery rejected their offer of the manager’s role.
Emery was reportedly fuming with the club’s Saudi owners for supposedly putting him in a position where it looked like he was keen to leave Villarreal on the day of their crucial Champions League match with Young Boys.
We’ve also got the very latest on Barcelona’s managerial situation, with former superstar Xavi targeted.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
HAARD SELL
Man Utd and Chelsea have been warned Erling Haaland’s £64million transfer could actually cost more than a QUARTER OF A BILLION pounds.
The Norwegian is set be the hottest property in the summer transfer window – but his wages and Mino Raiola’s agent fee may mean the buying club have to cough up more than £250m.
He has a cut-price £64m release clause that kicks in at the end of this season.
But Timo Werner’s agent Volker Struth reckons Haaland will be nothing like the bargain some people seem to think.
He told Bild: “Haaland has a release clause. The entire package with five-year salary and commission for the agent will probably be on the border of €250-300m [£254million].
“Even if Bayern Munich had the money, they would not do it. All hell would break out if a player in Germany [was paid] €50million.”
FULL-TIME RESULTS
Manchester City showed their class in the second half as they beat Club Brugge 4-1.
And Liverpool proved to be too good for the ten men of Atletico Madrid to qualify for the knockout stages.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have won all four of their group stage matches.
Here are the results from all of tonight’s clashes below.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰Thrilling Champions League night ✅Ajax & Liverpool book last-16 places 👏👏👏🤔 Best performance? #UCL— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 3, 2021

GUNNER STAY
Arsenal are reportedly set to trigger a contract extension for youngster Daniel Ballard.
The centre-back, 22, has never played for the Gunners but is well regarded at the club and has represented Northern Ireland ten times.
And after impressing on loan at Millwall this season, Arsenal are keen to keep Ballard at the club beyond next summer when his current contract comes to an end.
According to Football.London, Per Mertesacker and Edu have decided to trigger a clause in Ballard’s deal to keep him with the Gunners.
It is believed the clause will extend his stay by a further two years.
Ballard has started all but one league game for Millwall this term and has looked comfortable with the rigours of the Championship.

HALF-TIME RESULTS
Here are how the half-time results look in the Champions League.
Man City have work to do in their clash against Club Brugge, while Liverpool are beating Atletico Madrid.
⏸️ HALF-TIME ⏸️And breathe 😅So. Much. Drama!Predict what will happen in the second half 👇#UCL— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 3, 2021

SPURRED ON
Jamie Redknapp believes Tottenham MUST sell Harry Kane if Antonio Conte cannot get him on board.
He told Sky Sports: “Get Harry Kane going, that’s the big thing.
“If I was the manager of that club right now [I’d be thinking] how do I get Kane going?
“You need to have a conversation with him, do you want to be here? Are you part of my plans? If he says no I’d try to sell him in January.
“If he doesn’t want to be there I think you’ve got to look at the situation.
“That would be your first objective – can I get Kane playing well.”
RETURN OF THE KING
Barcelona are set to announce Xavi Hernandez as their next manager, according to reports.
The former Barcelona player, 41, has been heavily linked with a move back to the Nou Camp.
And according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, a deal has been reached between the club and Xavi’s representatives, as well as his current club Al-Sadd.
A photo has emerged of Barcelona chiefs Mateu Alemany and Rafa Yuste talking to Al-Sadd chairman Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani in the stadium prior to a match tonight, which Xavi will take charge of.
But Al-Sadd CEO Turki Al-Alli has played down talk of Xavi leaving.
He said: “We welcome the visit of the administrative delegation from #Barcelona, ​​and we appreciate and respect this.
“The club’s position is clear from the beginning – we are committed to keeping our coach Xavi with us and we cannot have him leave at this sensitive time of the season.”

RESULTS
Two Champions League games have just finished.
Take a look below how the teams got on.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰⚪️ Benzema inspires Real Madrid against Shakhtar 🔵⚪️ Luis Díaz nets as Porto hold Milan at San Siro🤔 Your thoughts on the early results?#UCL— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 3, 2021

TOFFEES LIFT THE IDD
Everton are being linked with a January swoop for Real Mallorca midfielder Iddrisu Baba.
Goodison boss Rafa Benitez tried to sign the Ghana international during his time as Real Madrid coach.
And Toffees scouts watched Baba score in Mallorca’s 1-1 La Liga draw at Cadiz on Sunday.
Everton officials have reportedly opened talks with their Spanish counterparts.
The Accra-born ace is under contract with his Palma-based club until 2024 and has a £38million release clause.
But Everton are expected to open with a £10m offer for the 25-year-old.

RAPH BLOW
Man Utd have confirmed that defender Raphael Varane will be out for a month due to injury.
A statement read: “The club confirms that Raphael sustained a hamstring injury, which is expected to keep him out of action for around a month.
“The centre-back was withdrawn during the first half of the game in Bergamo, with Atalanta leading 1-0. He was replaced by Mason Greenwood and the Reds went on to secure a valuable point against the Serie A side courtesy of a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo.
“United’s next game is on Saturday, against Manchester City at Old Trafford, prior to the two-week international break.
“We then resume our Premier League campaign with a visit to Watford, before travelling to Villarreal in the Champions League.
“November closes out with another away game, against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the league.
“We’d like to wish Raphael all the best as he works on his recovery.”
SON OF A GUN
Crystal Palace will have to pay just £900,000 for Nathan Ferguson following a tribunal.
The right-back, 21, joined from West Brom after his contract expired in the summer of 2020.
That was after Palace had agreed an £8million fee in the January of that year, only to pull out of the deal when a knee problem was flagged up in a medical.
Ferguson is still yet to play for the Eagles with the knee issue keeping him out until the end of last season before suffering a torn Achilles in May.
The news will come as a blow to Championship side Albion, who will have been hoping to land far more for a highly-rated young prospect.
Ferguson has returned to light training but it may be some time yet before Palace fans see him in action as the club remain ultra cautious with the defender.
ENDS
WAIT GOES ON
Tottenham have not won a major trophy for 5,001 days.
But the glory-shy North Londoners are actually only seventh in the list of Premier League clubs who have bagged a piece of silverware most recently.
Chelsea fans have had to wait the least time of all the Prem clubs – just 158 days – after the Blues beat City 1-0 in May’s Champions League final thanks to Kai Havertz’s goal.
Leicester come in second at just 172 days after they denied Chelsea a double at Wembley in May with a 1-0 FA Cup final win.
City complete the top three having won last season’s Premier League.
Arsenal’s 2020 FA Cup and Liverpool’s Premier League title that same year see them fill out the top five.
And Manchester United are the only team to have waited less time than Spurs – 1,624 days – since their 2-0 Europa League final win over Ajax in May 2017.
Aston Villa and Everton are the only other sides for who it’s been less than 10,000 days.

COU-TYNE-HP
Barcelona are ready to accept an offer from Newcastle United for Philippe Coutinho, according to reports.
The move is said to be a loan deal with a compulsory permanent switch included.
The 29-year-old Brazilian is expected to be one of the first players through the door in January, following the Toon Army’s £300m takeover.
Spanish newspaper Sport states that Barcelona are ready to transfer him ‘once and for all.
The view from the Nou Camp is for Coutinho to go out on loan as soon as the January transfer window opens.

AUBA AND OUT
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has revealed that he is NOT the fast player in the Arsenal squad as he stated that Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares are quicker.
Speaking to celebrity car customiser Yianni, he said: “I think no [not the fastest in the Arsenal team], I think we’ve got some players that are really quick.
“We have never done a real race, because if we do that I have my chances
“At 80-100 metres I’m sure I’m one of the best, but in 30 metres, yeah we’ve got some quick players, like Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares, they are really quick in their first steps.
“When I was 18-19 years old I’d kill them, 100 percent.”
TEV-ER COMING BACK?
Carlos Tevez has revealed he has no plans to return to football yet after cutting short his third spell at Boca Juniors.
The 37-year-old departed his boyhood side in June after stating he was mentally ‘not ready’ to be playing competitive football, despite being physically fit.
And five months on, the ex-Manchester United and City centre-forward has declared he is enjoying him break away from the beautiful game.
Tevez has declared that he is struggling to find the motivation to return to the pitch, though he has yet to announce his retirement from football.
Speaking to ESPN, the West Ham cult hero said: “I don’t feel the desire to be there when the ball is rolling.
“On Saturday I had a wedding while Boca were playing and inside I thought that, if I were playing, I’d be missing the wedding.
“Am I thinking about coming back? All my friends and family ask me, but I don’t know where to start. Right now I am enjoying the moment.”
RY NOT
Will Ferrell wants Wrexham to make it big in Hollywood against LA FC.
The American actor is a part-owner of the Major League Soccer outfit managed by Bob Bradley in California.
And big screen funnyman Ferrell is keen for the Western Conference MLS side to take on the Welsh National League club owned by fellow A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Ferrell, 54, told Sky Sports: “I think I’m a catalyst in that regard. I think Ted (Lasso)’s team, Ryan (Reynolds)’s team and LA FC should all try to play each other in some way – like a three-team tournament.”
Elf and Anchorman star Ferrell and Reynolds have teamed up in the new Christmas movie musical ‘Spirited’.
Reynolds told a press conference at the Racecourse last week: “I would love to get Will Ferrell here, he’s a pal and a fan and I’ve just finished working with him, so I’d really like to get him here to the Racecourse.”
TOON BOUM
EX-NEWCASTLE star Jean-Alain Boumsong has stepped up his coaching studies in Wales.
The former France, Juventus and Rangers defender worked with the Dragons’ Under-15s who secured a 1-1 draw with Slovakia on Tuesday.
Boumsong has signed up for the Uefa Pro licence course with the Welsh FA as he continues his coaching journey.
Boumsong, who cost Newcastle £8million in 2005, tweeted: “I’m having a great time with U15 Wales. Thank you @FAWCoachEd, thank you @AdamsDavidFooty, @knight_craig5 and his staff.”
The 41-year-old offered tips of advice to Wales’ next generation and also revealed five ex-Premier League stars in his all-time team-mates eleven.
Boumsong picked ex-Arsenal duo Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira, former Chelsea pair William Gallas and Claude Makelele as well as Fabien Barthez, who played for Manchester United.
Boumsong also included Zinedine Zidane, Alessandro Del Piero, Pavel Nedved, Lillian Thuram, Eric Abidal and Philippe Mexes in his all-star team.
Football Association of Wales technical director David Adams tweeted: “Great to talk football with @FAWCoachEd Pro Licence candidate @JABoumsong supporting the young Wales players this week on his journey.”
EZE BACK INTO IT
Ebere Eze could make a shock return to first-team action for Crystal Palace this weekend.
The Eagles star, 23, damaged his Achilles in training only six months ago.
But he played 62 minutes for the Under-23s on Monday in a 2-1 home defeat to Blackburn.
And now SunSport understands the playmaker has a chance of being on the bench for Saturday’s hosting of Wolves.
If he does and makes an appearance as a substitute, Eze would play in front of fans at Crystal Palace for the first time since joining from QPR for £16million in August 2020.
CREDIT BARRED 
Antonio Conte will not be able to make any new signings in January according to Fabio Paratici – who insists they are happy with the current squad.
A reporter today asked Spurs’ director of football, Paratici, 49, whether he and Spurs’ new manager Antonio Conte intend to sign any new players in January.
To which Paratici replied: “Not at all. Not at all. Because we trust in our players, we trust a lot. So, we are focused to be better, like a club and like a team.”
He was then asked: “Do you think this current squad, as it is right now, is capable of challenging to win big trophies?”
And the Italian responded: “I think yes. Here are here to do our best to win a trophy.”
EMERY SPEAKS
Unai Emery has confirmed he won’t be joining Newcastle while pledging his future to Villarreal on Instagram.
Emery was one of the favourites to take on the vacant Toon role but after having talks with the club’s new owners the Spaniard opted to stay in Spain.
The ex-Arsenal coach had remained quiet throughout the saga but has now come out to dispel any rumours that he could possibly leave the Europa League Champions in favour of a move to Tyneside.
He wrote on Instagram: “No matter how much noise there was yesterday in another country there was transparency and loyalty within Villarreal and the Roig family [owners] and their staff.
“That is maximum for me and that is most important for me. Villarreal is my home and I am 100 percent committed to stay here.
“I am honestly grateful to the interest from a great club, but I am even more grateful to be here and that is why I communicated to Fernando Roig my decision to want to continue being part of this project because of the commitment and respect that I perceive from the club and from my players, which is mutual and reciprocal.
“I want to thank the fans for the support they have always shown me.
“On Sunday we have a very important game and I hope that together we can achieve victory. See you at the Estadio de la Cerámica.”
PLAYING BALL
Arsenal have reportedly extended defender Daniel Ballard’s contract.
The 22-year-defender’s contract was up at the end of the season, but the Gunners have decided to trigger an extension clause in his contract to keep him at the club for another two years, according to football.london.
Football.london also report that Arsenal’s academy manager Per Mertesacker and technical director Edu played a huge role in the club’s decision to keep Ballard at the club.
But despite his new lengthened contract, it’s unlikely that the Northern Ireland international will break into the Gunners first-team, with the likes of Gabriel and Ben White ahead of him in the pecking order.
ANT’S DECK
Antonio Conte insists Tottenham’s team needs stability in an apparent slight dig at their recent shambles.
The Italian replaced Nuno Espirito Santo in the White Hart Lane dugout on Tuesday.
After penning his £15million-a-year contract until 2023, he sat down with the club’s media to discuss his aims and ambitions.
Conte, 52, said: “My coaching philosophy is very simple: to play good football, attractive football for our fans with passion, to have a stable team not up and down.
“I think the fans deserve to have a competitive team with the will to fight. I will do everything to deserve their support.”
WELL I NEV-ER 
Gary Neville admitted he would have played for arch-rivals Arsenal if Manchester United decided to sell him.
The former defender, 46, spent his entire career at Old Trafford, coming through the academy as part of the Class of ’92 before making 602 first-team appearances.
But speaking to Sky Sports’ Off Script last year, the pundit revealed there were four teams he willingly could have joined should he have been let go
The United legend said: “I’d made the decision quite early in my 30s that if Sir Alex had come and told me my time was up, I wouldn’t have played for anyone else. I was fortunate in that sense.
“However, if he’d come to me at say the age of 28, and told me my time was up, of course I would have played for another Premier League club.
If you’d said to me, in a perfect world, in my years of playing, which clubs in the Premier League have the tradition, a proper club? Arsenal would be No 1.
“The tradition of Highbury, I felt they did things the right way. Also in the Premier League, I like Aston Villa and Newcastle.”
SULE FOR SALE
Newcastle United are in discussions with Bayern Munich over the transfer of German international, Niklas Sule, according to reports.
Sule, 26, could become the club’s first confirmed star signing following the takeover which made them the richest club in the world.
Christian Falk of BILD Sport reports that the clubs are in transfer talks, with Sule said to be ‘interested in the project’ at St James’ Park.
The German jounalist tweeted: “TRUE. There were talks between@NUFC and the Management of Niklas Süle (@FCBayern) three weeks ago. The defender is interested in the project of Newcastle.”
Niklas has less than a year remaining on his existing Bayern Munich contract, which ends in June 2022 and his future is said to be up in the air.
NDIDI DOUBT
Wilfred Ndidi has cast doubt over his longterm Leicester future by axing his agents for a high-powered new team of advisors.
And the news will alert Manchester United, Arsenal and Real Madrid – who have all shown interest in the Nigeria international.
Midfielder Ndidi has excelled since joining Leicester from Belgian club Genk in a £17million deal four years ago.
He helped Brendan Rodgers’ Foxes win both the FA Cup and the Community Shield earlier this year.
Leicester value the Lagos-born ace, under contract until 2024, at £60m.
The 24-year-old was previously represented by German outfit FirstEleven International Sports Management.
He has now signed up with global management firm Octagon.
The American agency has 800 clients worldwide, and offices in London.
Company client manager Rory Rebbeck wrote on LinkedIn that he is “delighted” at Ndidi’s decision, adding that the player has “many great years ahead on and off the field.”
Ndidi has made 185 Leicester appearances, scoring nine goals.
He has won 41 caps for Nigeria.
HAAL DEMAND
Borussia Dortmund are confident they will keep Erling Haaland despite his cut-price £64million release clause, reports suggest.
Haaland has taken the world of football by storm with a series of stunning performances for Dortmund, where he has already registered a staggering 70 goals in 69 appearances across all competitions.
That has led to immense interest from some of Europe’s biggest hitters, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, who are looking to make a move in the summer as it looks like his asking price will dramatically reduce.
According to Manchester Evening News, however, the Premier League duo has cause for worry as Dortmund’s head of first-team football Sebastian Kehl is positive the star striker is staying put.
Kehl said: “Of course, we are trying to give him the feeling that Borussia Dortmund continues to be a top address for him and that he can still develop here.
“The decision has not yet been made, but I would bet €100 (£84.8) [on him staying].”
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HARRY KANE no longer wants a transfer away from Tottenham, SunSport can reveal.The England captain is full of belief in the club following the ambitious appointment of Antonio Conte and ready to help the Italian win trophies.
But Newcastle have been left rocked after Unai Emery rejected their offer of the manager’s role.
Emery was reportedly fuming with the club’s Saudi owners for supposedly putting him in a position where it looked like he was keen to leave Villarreal on the day of their crucial Champions League match with Young Boys.
The former Arsenal boss was also said to be baffled that Eddie Howe was the main rival candidate for the role, feeling that this signified that the club had no plan or idea what type of coach they wanted.
Get all the latest football news, updates and transfer gossip below…
EZE BACK INTO IT
Ebere Eze could make a shock return to first-team action for Crystal Palace this weekend.
The Eagles star, 23, damaged his Achilles in training only six months ago.
But he played 62 minutes for the Under-23s on Monday in a 2-1 home defeat to Blackburn.
And now SunSport understands the playmaker has a chance of being on the bench for Saturday’s hosting of Wolves.
If he does and makes an appearance as a substitute, Eze would play in front of fans at Crystal Palace for the first time since joining from QPR for £16million in August 2020.
CREDIT BARRED 
Antonio Conte will not be able to make any new signings in January according to Fabio Paratici – who insists they are happy with the current squad.
A reporter today asked Spurs’ director of football, Paratici, 49, whether he and Spurs’ new manager Antonio Conte intend to sign any new players in January.
To which Paratici replied: “Not at all. Not at all. Because we trust in our players, we trust a lot. So, we are focused to be better, like a club and like a team.”
He was then asked: “Do you think this current squad, as it is right now, is capable of challenging to win big trophies?”
And the Italian responded: “I think yes. Here are here to do our best to win a trophy.”
EMERY SPEAKS
Unai Emery has confirmed he won’t be joining Newcastle while pledging his future to Villarreal on Instagram.
Emery was one of the favourites to take on the vacant Toon role but after having talks with the club’s new owners the Spaniard opted to stay in Spain.
The ex-Arsenal coach had remained quiet throughout the saga but has now come out to dispel any rumours that he could possibly leave the Europa League Champions in favour of a move to Tyneside.
He wrote on Instagram: “No matter how much noise there was yesterday in another country there was transparency and loyalty within Villarreal and the Roig family [owners] and their staff.
“That is maximum for me and that is most important for me. Villarreal is my home and I am 100 percent committed to stay here.
“I am honestly grateful to the interest from a great club, but I am even more grateful to be here and that is why I communicated to Fernando Roig my decision to want to continue being part of this project because of the commitment and respect that I perceive from the club and from my players, which is mutual and reciprocal.
“I want to thank the fans for the support they have always shown me.
“On Sunday we have a very important game and I hope that together we can achieve victory. See you at the Estadio de la Cerámica.”
PLAYING BALL
Arsenal have reportedly extended defender Daniel Ballard’s contract.
The 22-year-defender’s contract was up at the end of the season, but the Gunners have decided to trigger an extension clause in his contract to keep him at the club for another two years, according to football.london.
Football.london also report that Arsenal’s academy manager Per Mertesacker and technical director Edu played a huge role in the club’s decision to keep Ballard at the club.
But despite his new lengthened contract, it’s unlikely that the Northern Ireland international will break into the Gunners first-team, with the likes of Gabriel and Ben White ahead of him in the pecking order.
ANT’S DECK
Antonio Conte insists Tottenham’s team needs stability in an apparent slight dig at their recent shambles.
The Italian replaced Nuno Espirito Santo in the White Hart Lane dugout on Tuesday.
After penning his £15million-a-year contract until 2023, he sat down with the club’s media to discuss his aims and ambitions.
Conte, 52, said: “My coaching philosophy is very simple: to play good football, attractive football for our fans with passion, to have a stable team not up and down.
“I think the fans deserve to have a competitive team with the will to fight. I will do everything to deserve their support.”
WELL I NEV-ER 
Gary Neville admitted he would have played for arch-rivals Arsenal if Manchester United decided to sell him.
The former defender, 46, spent his entire career at Old Trafford, coming through the academy as part of the Class of ’92 before making 602 first-team appearances.
But speaking to Sky Sports’ Off Script last year, the pundit revealed there were four teams he willingly could have joined should he have been let go
The United legend said: “I’d made the decision quite early in my 30s that if Sir Alex had come and told me my time was up, I wouldn’t have played for anyone else. I was fortunate in that sense.
“However, if he’d come to me at say the age of 28, and told me my time was up, of course I would have played for another Premier League club.
If you’d said to me, in a perfect world, in my years of playing, which clubs in the Premier League have the tradition, a proper club? Arsenal would be No 1.
“The tradition of Highbury, I felt they did things the right way. Also in the Premier League, I like Aston Villa and Newcastle.”
SULE FOR SALE
Newcastle United are in discussions with Bayern Munich over the transfer of German international, Niklas Sule, according to reports.
Sule, 26, could become the club’s first confirmed star signing following the takeover which made them the richest club in the world.
Christian Falk of BILD Sport reports that the clubs are in transfer talks, with Sule said to be ‘interested in the project’ at St James’ Park.
The German jounalist tweeted: “TRUE. There were talks between@NUFC and the Management of Niklas Süle (@FCBayern) three weeks ago. The defender is interested in the project of Newcastle.”
Niklas has less than a year remaining on his existing Bayern Munich contract, which ends in June 2022 and his future is said to be up in the air.
NDIDI DOUBT
Wilfred Ndidi has cast doubt over his longterm Leicester future by axing his agents for a high-powered new team of advisors.
And the news will alert Manchester United, Arsenal and Real Madrid – who have all shown interest in the Nigeria international.
Midfielder Ndidi has excelled since joining Leicester from Belgian club Genk in a £17million deal four years ago.
He helped Brendan Rodgers’ Foxes win both the FA Cup and the Community Shield earlier this year.
Leicester value the Lagos-born ace, under contract until 2024, at £60m.
The 24-year-old was previously represented by German outfit FirstEleven International Sports Management.
He has now signed up with global management firm Octagon.
The American agency has 800 clients worldwide, and offices in London.
Company client manager Rory Rebbeck wrote on LinkedIn that he is “delighted” at Ndidi’s decision, adding that the player has “many great years ahead on and off the field.”
Ndidi has made 185 Leicester appearances, scoring nine goals.
He has won 41 caps for Nigeria.
HAAL DEMAND
Borussia Dortmund are confident they will keep Erling Haaland despite his cut-price £64million release clause, reports suggest.
Haaland has taken the world of football by storm with a series of stunning performances for Dortmund, where he has already registered a staggering 70 goals in 69 appearances across all competitions.
That has led to immense interest from some of Europe’s biggest hitters, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, who are looking to make a move in the summer as it looks like his asking price will dramatically reduce.
According to Manchester Evening News, however, the Premier League duo has cause for worry as Dortmund’s head of first-team football Sebastian Kehl is positive the star striker is staying put.
Kehl said: “Of course, we are trying to give him the feeling that Borussia Dortmund continues to be a top address for him and that he can still develop here.
“The decision has not yet been made, but I would bet €100 (£84.8) [on him staying].”
 GAME ON
Tyson Fury is set to star on A League of Their Own’s Road Trip as he played bingo in Morecambe with Jamie Redknapp and Freddie Flintoff.
Both of the captains on the hit Sky One TV show teased Fury’s appearance on their spin of Road Trip series.
England cricket legend Flintoff, 43, posted: “Just three lads playing bingo in Morecambe.
“What a day me and @jamie.redknapp have had with the @gypsyking101, legend.”
Ex-Tottenham midfielder Redknapp, 48, wrote: “Bingo and with the big man and champion of the world. Coming soon.”
BIDDING WAR
Tottenham are facing a transfer war with West Ham and Southampton over West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, reports suggest.
Johnston’s deal with the Baggies expires at the end of the season and the Championship outfit is trying to convince him to stay.
According to Sky Sports, the club is planning to ramp up negotiations with the 28-year-old in January while Spurs, the Hammers and Saints continue to keep tabs.
Tottenham are looking for a shot-stopper to eventually succeed Hugo Lloris between the sticks as the France international’s contract also runs out in June.
West Brom manager Valerien Ismael confirmed there will be showdown talks in the New Year.
AFTERNOON FOOTY FANS
Villarreal boss Unai Emery has turned down the chance to manage Newcastle because the Toon’s new owners lack a clear vision for the club, it has been reported.
But the Magpies new Saudi chiefs refuse to give up on the Spaniard and are frantically trying to change his mind with a flurry of phone calls being exchanged between both parties.
Emery’s the latest in the string of managers to reject Newcastle’s advances as reports claim Antonio Conte, Xavi and Joachim Low have all turned down the job.
Meanwhile, Tottenham-bound Conte won’t be able to start work at White Hart Lane because he’s still awaiting his visa.
But the Italian should’ve received his work permit in time to be in the Spurs dugout for their Europa League conference game against Vitesse Arnhem on Thursday.
In other news, bookies have slashed the odds of Cristiano Ronaldo being named Manchester United new boss to 14/1.
Ronaldo was at the heart of United’s resurgence against Atalanta in the Champions League last night and bookmakers reckon he could replace under-fire Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager.
However, not everyone was happy with Ronaldo’s double against the Serie A side, and Atalanta’s boss Gian Piero Gasperini revealed that he jokingly told the Portuguese star to go to hell after the game.
But Ronaldo’s double strike was eclipsed by Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski who scored a hat-trick in the German sides 5-2 win against Benfica last night.
His treble took his total to a remarkable 81 goals in his first 100 Champions League games, trumping Ronaldo’s tally of 64 strikes in the same number of games.
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HARRY KANE is set to stay at Spurs – as he believes Antonio Conte can end Tottenham’s long search for silverware. SunSport understands striker Kane, along with the rest of the squad, is delighted the club have nabbed the former Chelsea and Inter Milan coach following Nuno Espirito Santo’s sacking.
Nuno Espirito Santo was sacked on Monday morning and Daniel Levy has wasted no time in bringing in his successor.
Meanwhile, Unai Emery has reportedly snubbed Newcastle, despite the club’s new owners hoping to have had him in charge this weekend.
The Villarreal boss was said to be concerned that the club had “no clear vision”.
And we’ve the very latest from Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel eyes reinforcements in January for their title push.
Stay up to date with all the latest from around the clubs with our live blog…
HAKIM’S DREAM

Hakim Ziyech is hoping his struggles are over after showing Thomas Tuchel that he is ready to play a leading role at Chelsea again.

The Moroccan international has been hampered for months by the shoulder injury suffered during the Super Cup victory at the start of the season.

But now he is ready to relaunch his career after scoring a crucial Champions League winner in Malmo last night.

He said: “I have had some hard times behind me because I didn’t really fully recover from my injury and I’ve never been able to find my rhythm again.

“Chelsea have not seen the best of me yet because I know what I can do and what my highest level is.

“But I have always believed in myself and I have worked really hard every day even when things have not been going as they’re supposed to.

“I am trying to be important for the team with goals and assists and I’m happy I was able to help in what was a pretty difficult match for us.”MAKING A MESS

Paris Saint-Germain’s goalscoring statistics are worse when Lionel Messi is on the pitch than they are when he is off.

According to The National, PSG hit the back of the net every 110 minutes when Messi plays but when he doesn’t they find themselves on target every 32 minutes.

That means Mauricio Pochettino’s team score less than a goal per match when the Argentine legend is on the field.

The numbers are damning for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, who netted a staggering 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions.TOON TROUBLE

Newcastle have been dealt a major blow in their hunt for a new manager with Antonio Conte, Xavi and Joachim Low joining Unai Emery in turning down the job, according to reports.

The Toon are still trying to find their replacement for Steve Bruce at St James’ Park.

As reported by the BBC, four of their targets rejected the new Saudi owners’ approaches.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague revealed Conte, Xavi and Low were all contacted by Newcastle about taking over.

But all three made it clear they were not interested in the vacant position.ACE ON BAIL

PREMIER League ace Yves Bissouma today had his bail extended for another five weeks following his dramatic nightclub arrest.

The in-form Brighton midfielder, 25, was led away in handcuffs by uniformed cops in the early hours of October 6 after he was detained on suspicion of assault.

Shocked revellers at The Arch, on the seafront in Brighton, told how they saw Bissouma being marched out of a packed nightclub in handcuffs by police officers.

The Man Utd and Liverpool target spent a night in the cells with a pal in his 40s.

The pair were bailed until today.

But Sussex Police confirmed they’ve extended the date as investigations continue.EM RESCUE PLAN

Newcastle are said to be desperately trying to salvage their pursuit of Villarreal boss Unai Emery.

Emery reportedly turned down the chance to become the Magpies’ new manager because the club’s Saudi owners were lacking vision.

However, the Toons new hierarchy are still keen on the ex-Arsenal head coach and are reportedly embroiled in a last-ditch attempt to change his mind, according to the Daily Mail.

The Mail claim phone calls are now frantically being exchanged between the two parties as the Toon supremos look to rectify the situation.BACK FROM THE DEAD

Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets made a miraculous recovery to get up and defend a Dynamo Kiev attack after going down clutching his left shin.

Busquets, 33, collided with Kiev right-back Oleksandr Karavayev contesting a loose ball.

Both went to ground and rolled around, but it was Busquets who got back up to his feet quickest when he realised his side were a little short defending the attack.

Karavayev rolled around some more hoping to win a free-kick 30 yards from goal, but once the referee passed him he swiftly got back up to his feet.

Some fans saw the funny side to the play-acting, but others think the experienced midfielder should be banned.BEN BROTHERS 

Ben Chilwell insists Chelsea’s red-hot form is down to the humility within the squad – with no egos plaguing the camp.

The Blues have won their last seven matches in all competitions, sitting three points clear at the top of the Premier League and on course to progress into the Champions League knockouts.

The left-back reckons the strong cohesion and unity among all the players, in and out of the team, and coaches is playing a pivotal factor in their recent success.

Reflecting on the Blues’ ascent, he said: “I think that’s a sign of the fact we’ve got such a strong group that’s doing well at the moment because there are no egos in this squad.

“There is a group of players that want to work hard for the manager, work hard for the club and for each other and whoever gets their opportunity they’re ready.”PAPER CHASE

Antonio Conte hasn’t yet started work at Tottenham – because he’s waiting for his visa.

The Italian boss was named as Spurs’ new boss on Tuesday on a £15m-a-year deal.

His first game in charge is expected to be on Thursday against Vitesse Arnhem in the Europa Conference League.

But Conte, 52, is still waiting for a visa to allow him to start working.

He will not take charge of the press conference scheduled for Wednesday while the paperwork finalised.

BBC report that the visa process normally takes up to 48 hours and Conte is expected to be in the dugout on Thursday.UNAI SAYS NO

Unai Emery has sensationally REJECTED the Newcastle job – because the new Saudi owners ‘have no clear vision’.

According to the BBC, the former Arsenal manager, 50, will turn down the approaches because of the lack of clear direction after the £305million takeover.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague said: “Emery felt a huge pressure on the day of their match [against Young Boys on Tuesday].

“And then there was the lack of a clear vision from the club.”GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS

SunSport can reveal Harry Kane is ready to abandon all plans to quit Tottenham – after the arrival of new boss Antonio Conte.

The England captain, 28, believes the Italian’s appointment can help Spurs now challenge for trophies, which is why he tried to force a summer move to Manchester City.

Conte, 52, was officially unveiled yesterday and will be handed a huge £150million transfer war chest.

Meanwhile, across North London, Mikel Arteta is said to be interested in taking Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic on loan.

The Gunners are preparing for life without want-away forward Alexandre Lacazette who’s only got eight months left on his contract.

Despite the Frenchman coming to the end of his current deal, the Gunners still haven’t offered him an extension.

And Arsenal fans will also have been interested to see developments up north, as Newcastle want Unai Emery to be their new manager – and it seems the feeling is mutual.

Toon chiefs have narrowed the search down to Emery and Eddie Howe.

And reports claim Emery, 49, will be in the hotseat for this weekend’s game with Brighton.

And a video of an awe-struck Emery taking the ground in for the first time in September 2018 – prior to a 2-1 win over the Toon – has left Newcastle fans beaming.

In the video, Emery can be seen standing at the heart of the iconic stadium, drinking in the impressive vista.LEW, WHAT A SCORCHER

Hat-trick hero Robert Lewandowski got one over Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as he reached 81 goals in 100 Champions League ties.

Bayern’s Polish striker scorched to 80 in record time for Europe’s top domestic competition despite missing a penalty in a 5-2 rout of Benfica.

But Manchester United legend Ronaldo has 139 overall, thanks to his dramatic double in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Atalanta, while Messi is on 123.

Lewandowski, though, is well clear of the 73 scored by Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema in fourth place after Bayern made the KO stages with their fourth win in four group matches.

GOING DUTCH

Christian Eriksen could reportedly make an emotional return to Ajax – with him currently banned from playing for Inter Milan.

The midfielder, 30, collapsed during Denmark’s match against Finland at Euro 2020 and was rushed to hospital.

The Italian FA have ruled Eriksen’s fitness cannot rely on a ICD heart-starter, and therefore he is not allowed to play in Serie A.

That could lead to a sensational move back to Ajax, who he played for between 2010-13.

Corriere dello Sport reports that Eriksen is ‘tempted’ by a return to the Dutch giants.

It is believed he would be allowed to play in Holland with the device fitted., alongside Ajax star Daley Blind , who has also been fitted with an ICD.CONT LEAVE NOW

Harry Kane is ready to abandon all plans to quit Tottenham – after the arrival of new boss Antonio Conte.

The England captain, 28, believes the Italian’s appointment can help Spurs now challenge for trophies, which is why he tried to force a summer move to Manchester City.

Conte, 52, was officially unveiled yesterday and will be handed a huge £150million transfer war chest.

SunSport understands striker Kane, along with the rest of the squad, is delighted Tottenham have nabbed the former Chelsea and Inter Milan coach following Nuno Espirito Santo’s sacking.

Kane was angry with Daniel Levy in the summer as he believed the Spurs chairman had backed down from a gentleman’s agreement that he could leave the North London club for City if the right offer came in.

Tottenham did not feel that City’s £125m bid was enough, so a frustrated Kane remained at the club.

DAN BOOST

Brighton have received a huge boost as Dan Burn’s injury is not as bad as first feared.

There were worries the giant defender could be out for a lengthy period after landing awkwardly on his knee when going up for a header in last week’s 2-2 Carabao Cup draw at Leicester.

But SunSport understands the results of a scan have shown the versatile Geordie, 29, suffered only swelling rather than something more serious.

The damage could still keep him out of Saturday’s home clash against Newcastle.

But he should be available for selection again after the international break.ATALANTA 2 MANCHESTER UNITED 2

Cristiano Ronaldo saved his side again with a brilliant last-minute equaliser.

United twice fell behind but Ronaldo got them level twice, with his late 20-yard volley nestling in the bottom corner.SCHOL-BOY ERRORS

Paul Scholes claimed Paul Pogba was lucky to stay on the field for the second half against Atalanta.

The Frenchman started in Italy alongside Scott McTominay, but was not at his brilliant best.

Having given the ball away several times and being guilty of some wayward passing, Pogba had a 45 minutes to forget.

And nobody knows that more than Old Trafford legend Scholes, one of the finest midfielders in Premier League history.

He said on BT Sport: “United have been sloppy at times.

“There have been a lot of mistakes in that half, I don’t think Paul Pogba will be particularly enthralled by his performance.

“He’s given the ball away a lot and that goal has maybe made him survive into the second half.”RIO HAILS RUBEN

Rio Ferdinand claims Ruben Loftus-Cheek can emulate Yaya Toure.

Recalled Loftus-Cheek showed why Ferdinand rates him ‘unplayable at times’ in Chelsea’s 1-0 win at Malmo.

The former England superstar told BT Sport: “I love him. He’s a fantastic specimen, first and foremost.

“I liken him, in full flow, to someone like Yaya Toure.

“‘He can intimidate players. When he turns and goes full pelt, it’s unplayable at times.

“As a centre back that’s one of your biggest fears.

‘He’s a fantastic talent. He’s as comfortable in the wide areas of a front three as he is in front of the defence.”

VAR REAL?

Raphael Varane has suffered ANOTHER injury blow as the Manchester United defender was forced off at Atalanta.

The Frenchman limped off after just 38 minutes in Italy with United 1-0 down as Mason Greenwood came on in replacement.

It mounts more frustration for Varane, who has already missed five games with injury this season.

He did return to United’s backline for their 3-0 win at Tottenham on Sunday, which eased the pressure off manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

But Varane faces another setback after being forced off as he went down off the ball, just before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised.

The defender arrived from Real Madrid this summer for £42million, but has so far made just nine appearances.

GLOBAL CITIZENS

Manchester City have held talks over acquiring a minority stake in Russian giants Spartak Moscow.

Representatives from City Football Group met last weekend with the general director of Spartak, whose current owner Leonid Fedun is looking to sell up.

Russian reports have suggested City are interested in buying 20 per cent of the capital-based outfit.

City sources confirmed preliminary talks have taken place but insist nothing has been decided.

Should a deal be agreed, it would extend the number of clubs in City Football Group’s worldwide roster to ELEVEN.

As well as flagship side Manchester City, the umbrella organisation also has stakes in New York City, Melbourne City, Yokohama F Marinos in Japan, Montevideo City Torque in Uruguay, Spanish side Girona, Sichuan Jiuniu in China, India’s Mumbai City, Lommel SK In Belgium and French minnows ES TroyesON GUARD

Pep Guardiola says Wednesday’s clash with Club Brugge is “much more important” than Saturday’s Manchester derby.

Having thrashed Philippe Clement’s team 5-1 just a fortnight ago, some managers may look to keep their squad fresh for a cross-city clash but Pep insists this Champions League tie is the bigger game.

Guardiola said: “This is much more important than United.

“This game can give us an incredible step to make the last 16.

“In the Premier League there are many games, here there are just six and only three are left.

“So we have to take it seriously to make a good performance and take a step forward in qualification.

“The group stages every year get more difficult. If you drop more than one or two defeats, we’re in trouble. We lost in Paris, so we have to take advantage of being at home.”

FRANCK-LY SPEAKING

Tottenham are ‘close’ to agreeing a £165,000-a-week deal with AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie, according to reports.

The North Londoners are said to be in talks with the Ivorian’s agent George Atangana with an £8.5million-a-year deal on the table.

The North Londoners appointed Antonio Conte as their new boss on Tuesday and the former Inter Milan chief has dipped straight back into the market with a raid on his old rivals, according to Rudy Galetti.

The Italian journalist tweeted: “Close agreement between #Atangana and #Tottenham for #Kessie.

“Engagement from €10M per season for the deal and max commission for the agent.”WRONGS WRIGHTED

Ian Wright admits he strongly disliked Roy Keane and was hurt by his fierce rival’s jibe over ‘losers’ medals’.

Wrighty has revealed the mutual hostility extended off the pitch.

But he says as pundits the two have become mates – with Keane an ‘honest man’ the former England striker can discuss ‘serious things’ with.

Wright said: “I see him as my friend now, but like I say, when we played I didn’t like him. I didn’t like him at all.

“I remember when I won my Premier League medal, when the camera came in I remember saying ‘Roy Keane winners medal’ because Roy Keane one time said to me ‘Wrighty, you’ve got a cabinet full of losers medals!’

“It’s the kind of comment I would have said to him if the shoe was on the other foot.

“But when he said it, it hurts you but I was laughing deep down because it’s a killer, it finishes you, bam.

“Even when I reminded him, he said ‘nah I didn’t say that’. I said, ‘Roy, it’s not something you forget!’”

WORK IN PROCESS

New Tottenham boss Antonio Conte watched his new players train today – but wasn’t allowed to take the session.

The Italian has agreed a £15million-a-year contract with the Londoners to replace the axed Nuno Espirito Santo.

But as reported by The Telegraph, he is not quite READY to get his feet under the table.

The newspaper reported that former Chelsea gaffer ‘slept at the club’s training ground ahead of meeting Spurs staff and players’.

He addressed staff at lunchtime – but then watched on as the players were put through their paces because he is still waiting for his work permit.

SunSport understands he will be backed in the January transfer market, and given a £150million war chest to bring in his own players.VAR-FETCHED

Romelu Lukaku joined Chelsea fans in utter confusion after BT Sport’s broadcast of the Malmo game was ‘hacked by VAR visuals’.

Midway through the first half of the Champions League group stage tie, viewers’ screens appeared to display ‘sparkly’ graphics across the pitch.

On closer look, it appears as though two camera angles appeared to be warring with each other, with the bright visuals simply the floodlights super-imposed over the main stream at a bizarre angle.

BT Sport presenter Jake Humphrey apologised for ‘technical difficulties’ during the half-time break.

Humphrey went on to say the feed was coming from Sweden, with BT Sport not at fault for the gaffe.

However, fans – including injured Chelsea striker Lukaku – were left initially baffled.

Lukaku tweeted: “D*mn i thought it was my TV that was tweaking.”

One viewer added: “Looked like BT Sport were temporarily hacked by VAR visuals.”

‘GO FOR IT’ 

Antonio Conte has been urged to go all out to bring the Europa League trophy to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Conte’s arrival in north London has left fans confident their 13-year trophy drought will soon come to an end.

And former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood reckons the Europa League is the club’s route to silverware this season.

Prior to Conte’s appointment, he told MyBettingSites: “If Spurs bring in Antonio Conte, I can see them winning a trophy this season.

“The Europa Conference League is there for the taking, the only other real competition is Roma.

“Tottenham have plenty of work to do in that competition, and aren’t sitting pretty.

“But, they have more than enough with the fixtures coming up to field a strong side and get the points to progress.

“With the right man in charge, they will win it, if they really go for it.

“They shouldn’t rest players, it is an easier route into the Europa League for them than their league position will be.”

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HARRY KANE is set to stay at Spurs – as he believes Antonio Conte can end Tottenham’s long search for silverware. SunSport understands striker Kane, along with the rest of the squad, is delighted the club have nabbed the former Chelsea and Inter Milan coach following Nuno Espirito Santo’s sacking.
Nuno Espirito Santo was sacked on Monday morning and Daniel Levy has wasted no time in bringing in his successor.
Meanwhile, Newcastle reportedly want to announce former Arsenal boss Unai Emery as their new manager this week.
And we’ve the very latest from Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel eyes reinforcements in January for their title push.
Stay up to date with all the latest from around the clubs with our live blog…
LEW, WHAT A SCORCHER

Hat-trick hero Robert Lewandowski got one over Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as he reached 81 goals in 100 Champions League ties.

Bayern’s Polish striker scorched to 80 in record time for Europe’s top domestic competition despite missing a penalty in a 5-2 rout of Benfica.

But Manchester United legend Ronaldo has 139 overall, thanks to his dramatic double in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Atalanta, while Messi is on 123.

Lewandowski, though, is well clear of the 73 scored by Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema in fourth place after Bayern made the KO stages with their fourth win in four group matches.

GOING DUTCH

Christian Eriksen could reportedly make an emotional return to Ajax – with him currently banned from playing for Inter Milan.

The midfielder, 30, collapsed during Denmark’s match against Finland at Euro 2020 and was rushed to hospital.

The Italian FA have ruled Eriksen’s fitness cannot rely on a ICD heart-starter, and therefore he is not allowed to play in Serie A.

That could lead to a sensational move back to Ajax, who he played for between 2010-13.

Corriere dello Sport reports that Eriksen is ‘tempted’ by a return to the Dutch giants.

It is believed he would be allowed to play in Holland with the device fitted., alongside Ajax star Daley Blind , who has also been fitted with an ICD.CONT LEAVE NOW

Harry Kane is ready to abandon all plans to quit Tottenham – after the arrival of new boss Antonio Conte.

The England captain, 28, believes the Italian’s appointment can help Spurs now challenge for trophies, which is why he tried to force a summer move to Manchester City.

Conte, 52, was officially unveiled yesterday and will be handed a huge £150million transfer war chest.

SunSport understands striker Kane, along with the rest of the squad, is delighted Tottenham have nabbed the former Chelsea and Inter Milan coach following Nuno Espirito Santo’s sacking.

Kane was angry with Daniel Levy in the summer as he believed the Spurs chairman had backed down from a gentleman’s agreement that he could leave the North London club for City if the right offer came in.

Tottenham did not feel that City’s £125m bid was enough, so a frustrated Kane remained at the club.

DAN BOOST

Brighton have received a huge boost as Dan Burn’s injury is not as bad as first feared.

There were worries the giant defender could be out for a lengthy period after landing awkwardly on his knee when going up for a header in last week’s 2-2 Carabao Cup draw at Leicester.

But SunSport understands the results of a scan have shown the versatile Geordie, 29, suffered only swelling rather than something more serious.

The damage could still keep him out of Saturday’s home clash against Newcastle.

But he should be available for selection again after the international break.ATALANTA 2 MANCHESTER UNITED 2

Cristiano Ronaldo saved his side again with a brilliant last-minute equaliser.

United twice fell behind but Ronaldo got them level twice, with his late 20-yard volley nestling in the bottom corner.SCHOL-BOY ERRORS

Paul Scholes claimed Paul Pogba was lucky to stay on the field for the second half against Atalanta.

The Frenchman started in Italy alongside Scott McTominay, but was not at his brilliant best.

Having given the ball away several times and being guilty of some wayward passing, Pogba had a 45 minutes to forget.

And nobody knows that more than Old Trafford legend Scholes, one of the finest midfielders in Premier League history.

He said on BT Sport: “United have been sloppy at times.

“There have been a lot of mistakes in that half, I don’t think Paul Pogba will be particularly enthralled by his performance.

“He’s given the ball away a lot and that goal has maybe made him survive into the second half.”RIO HAILS RUBEN

Rio Ferdinand claims Ruben Loftus-Cheek can emulate Yaya Toure.

Recalled Loftus-Cheek showed why Ferdinand rates him ‘unplayable at times’ in Chelsea’s 1-0 win at Malmo.

The former England superstar told BT Sport: “I love him. He’s a fantastic specimen, first and foremost.

“I liken him, in full flow, to someone like Yaya Toure.

“‘He can intimidate players. When he turns and goes full pelt, it’s unplayable at times.

“As a centre back that’s one of your biggest fears.

‘He’s a fantastic talent. He’s as comfortable in the wide areas of a front three as he is in front of the defence.”

VAR REAL?

Raphael Varane has suffered ANOTHER injury blow as the Manchester United defender was forced off at Atalanta.

The Frenchman limped off after just 38 minutes in Italy with United 1-0 down as Mason Greenwood came on in replacement.

It mounts more frustration for Varane, who has already missed five games with injury this season.

He did return to United’s backline for their 3-0 win at Tottenham on Sunday, which eased the pressure off manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

But Varane faces another setback after being forced off as he went down off the ball, just before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised.

The defender arrived from Real Madrid this summer for £42million, but has so far made just nine appearances.

GLOBAL CITIZENS

Manchester City have held talks over acquiring a minority stake in Russian giants Spartak Moscow.

Representatives from City Football Group met last weekend with the general director of Spartak, whose current owner Leonid Fedun is looking to sell up.

Russian reports have suggested City are interested in buying 20 per cent of the capital-based outfit.

City sources confirmed preliminary talks have taken place but insist nothing has been decided.

Should a deal be agreed, it would extend the number of clubs in City Football Group’s worldwide roster to ELEVEN.

As well as flagship side Manchester City, the umbrella organisation also has stakes in New York City, Melbourne City, Yokohama F Marinos in Japan, Montevideo City Torque in Uruguay, Spanish side Girona, Sichuan Jiuniu in China, India’s Mumbai City, Lommel SK In Belgium and French minnows ES TroyesON GUARD

Pep Guardiola says Wednesday’s clash with Club Brugge is “much more important” than Saturday’s Manchester derby.

Having thrashed Philippe Clement’s team 5-1 just a fortnight ago, some managers may look to keep their squad fresh for a cross-city clash but Pep insists this Champions League tie is the bigger game.

Guardiola said: “This is much more important than United.

“This game can give us an incredible step to make the last 16.

“In the Premier League there are many games, here there are just six and only three are left.

“So we have to take it seriously to make a good performance and take a step forward in qualification.

“The group stages every year get more difficult. If you drop more than one or two defeats, we’re in trouble. We lost in Paris, so we have to take advantage of being at home.”

FRANCK-LY SPEAKING

Tottenham are ‘close’ to agreeing a £165,000-a-week deal with AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie, according to reports.

The North Londoners are said to be in talks with the Ivorian’s agent George Atangana with an £8.5million-a-year deal on the table.

The North Londoners appointed Antonio Conte as their new boss on Tuesday and the former Inter Milan chief has dipped straight back into the market with a raid on his old rivals, according to Rudy Galetti.

The Italian journalist tweeted: “Close agreement between #Atangana and #Tottenham for #Kessie.

“Engagement from €10M per season for the deal and max commission for the agent.”WRONGS WRIGHTED

Ian Wright admits he strongly disliked Roy Keane and was hurt by his fierce rival’s jibe over ‘losers’ medals’.

Wrighty has revealed the mutual hostility extended off the pitch.

But he says as pundits the two have become mates – with Keane an ‘honest man’ the former England striker can discuss ‘serious things’ with.

Wright said: “I see him as my friend now, but like I say, when we played I didn’t like him. I didn’t like him at all.

“I remember when I won my Premier League medal, when the camera came in I remember saying ‘Roy Keane winners medal’ because Roy Keane one time said to me ‘Wrighty, you’ve got a cabinet full of losers medals!’

“It’s the kind of comment I would have said to him if the shoe was on the other foot.

“But when he said it, it hurts you but I was laughing deep down because it’s a killer, it finishes you, bam.

“Even when I reminded him, he said ‘nah I didn’t say that’. I said, ‘Roy, it’s not something you forget!’”

WORK IN PROCESS

New Tottenham boss Antonio Conte watched his new players train today – but wasn’t allowed to take the session.

The Italian has agreed a £15million-a-year contract with the Londoners to replace the axed Nuno Espirito Santo.

But as reported by The Telegraph, he is not quite READY to get his feet under the table.

The newspaper reported that former Chelsea gaffer ‘slept at the club’s training ground ahead of meeting Spurs staff and players’.

He addressed staff at lunchtime – but then watched on as the players were put through their paces because he is still waiting for his work permit.

SunSport understands he will be backed in the January transfer market, and given a £150million war chest to bring in his own players.VAR-FETCHED

Romelu Lukaku joined Chelsea fans in utter confusion after BT Sport’s broadcast of the Malmo game was ‘hacked by VAR visuals’.

Midway through the first half of the Champions League group stage tie, viewers’ screens appeared to display ‘sparkly’ graphics across the pitch.

On closer look, it appears as though two camera angles appeared to be warring with each other, with the bright visuals simply the floodlights super-imposed over the main stream at a bizarre angle.

BT Sport presenter Jake Humphrey apologised for ‘technical difficulties’ during the half-time break.

Humphrey went on to say the feed was coming from Sweden, with BT Sport not at fault for the gaffe.

However, fans – including injured Chelsea striker Lukaku – were left initially baffled.

Lukaku tweeted: “D*mn i thought it was my TV that was tweaking.”

One viewer added: “Looked like BT Sport were temporarily hacked by VAR visuals.”

‘GO FOR IT’ 

Antonio Conte has been urged to go all out to bring the Europa League trophy to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Conte’s arrival in north London has left fans confident their 13-year trophy drought will soon come to an end.

And former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood reckons the Europa League is the club’s route to silverware this season.

Prior to Conte’s appointment, he told MyBettingSites: “If Spurs bring in Antonio Conte, I can see them winning a trophy this season.

“The Europa Conference League is there for the taking, the only other real competition is Roma.

“Tottenham have plenty of work to do in that competition, and aren’t sitting pretty.

“But, they have more than enough with the fixtures coming up to field a strong side and get the points to progress.

“With the right man in charge, they will win it, if they really go for it.

“They shouldn’t rest players, it is an easier route into the Europa League for them than their league position will be.”

UN-FAIR FIGHT

Villareal still hope they can keep boss Unai Emery despite Newcastle hoping to appoint him this week.

The LaLiga club’s president Fernando Roig wants Arsenal manager Emery to see out his contract until 2023.

Goal journalist Nizaar Kinsella says Roig told him Emery’s mind is ‘not drifting’ from Villarreal.

But Newcastle’s new Saudi owners reportedly want Emery in charge for Saturday’s Premier League clash at Brighton.

And if they persuade the 49-year-old to return to the Prem they would need to pay Villarreal £5.1million in compensation.

Emery lasted just 18 months at Arsenal after arriving in May 2018.

LUK’S PROMISING

Mikel Arteta is said to be interested in taking Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic on loan.

The Gunners are preparing for life without want-away forward Alexandre Lacazette who’s only got eight months left on his contract.

Despite the Frenchman coming to the end of his current deal, the Gunners still haven’t offered him an extension.

Lacazette could leave for free in January and Arteta has already lined up his replacement in the form of Real flop Jovic, the Express report.

The Spaniard claims he has no plans to let Lacazette leave before his contract ends.

SIGHT FOR SORE UNAIS

Newcastle want Unai Emery to be their new manager – and it seems the feeling is mutual.

Toon chiefs have narrowed the search down to Emery and Eddie Howe.

And reports claim Emery, 49, will be in the hotseat for this weekend’s game with Brighton.

And a video of an awe-struck Emery taking the ground in for the first time in September 2018 – prior to a 2-1 win over the Toon – has left Newcastle fans beaming.

In the video, Emery can be seen standing at the heart of the iconic stadium, drinking in the impressive vista.

Seemingly unable to tear himself away, the Spaniard continues to stare at his black and white surroundings.

Playing in the background, Newcastle-born singer Jimmy Nail’s 1995 hit Big River – a song about the city and rebuilding hope for the future – can be heard blaring out.TIME TO FORGET

Referee Alan Young has amazingly been let off the hook completely by FA chiefs over his time-keeping clanger.

The official forgot to add on more than four minutes of stoppage time at Leyton Orient on Saturday and faced the wrath of his FA bosses yesterday.

But in a remarkable show of leniency, not only has Young kept his place as fourth official at League One Wycombe Wanderers tonight, he will face no further action over his howler.

Young, who doubles as the Chief-Executive of the Bedfordshire FA, failed to add on 4mins and 20 seconds of stoppage time at the end of the first half during Orient’s League Two home win over Hartlepool at the weekend.

To make amends he agreed with both managers to play the remaining time BEFORE the start of the second half amid chaotic scenes at the Matchroom Stadium in East London.

It is that quick-thinking and decisive action which has saved him from being hauled over the coals and taken out of the firing line and dropped from the referees’ list.

Orient were 2-0 up at the time on the way to a 5-0 win in what was Young’s first game of the season.

RONBELIEVABLE

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has described some of the criticism aimed at Cristiano Ronaldo this season as ‘blasphemy’ and a ‘disgrace’.

Ferdinand has defended the Portugal international when speaking on his FIVE YouTube channel.

He said: “I’ve heard some talk and the only way I can explain it, is it’s blasphemy.

“When I heard some people talking about Ronaldo’s the reason why Man Utd aren’t going to be a success.

“Ronaldo turning up at Man Utd, and yeah it’s great, but he’s going to be the reason why they don’t do anything.

“Listen, I’ve been seeing too much of it, don’t talk like that. Please, it’s a disgrace. Absolute disrespect.

“A player that’s done what he’s done in the game, a superstar of any generation, he’ll be one of the best players in any generation you can think about, and even again he just told people at the weekend what he’s about here… pressure’s on [and] he scores.

“To think that because he doesn’t press, because he doesn’t run as much as other people… that’s not what he’s there for.

“You play to people’s strengths sometimes, you can do that when you’ve got a superstar in your team sometimes for certain clubs.”

CARV A CAREER

Fabio Carvalho has turned down a sizeable contract offer from Fulham.

The whizkid, 19, now looks set to depart Craven Cottage – possibly even in January.

Carvalho is the latest jewel out of Fulham’s academy but his current deal is up at the end of the season.

The West Londoners have been trying to sign him up to fresh terms but are unlikely to make another offer after seeing their latest effort – which insiders described as “massive” – rejected.

Championship high-fliers Fulham may well now cash in on their teen sensation when the transfer window reopens in the New Year.

Carvalho has been linked to a host of clubs including Real Madrid.KARI YOUR BAGS

Liverpool flop Lorius Karius could be allowed to leave for free in January – putting an end to his Anfield nightmare.

The bungling German stopper’s contract is up next summer and it’s highly unlikely the Reds will be renewing his current deal.

And rather than wait until the season ends, the Kop giants are ready to cut their losses and let Karius go in the New Year, according to The Mirror.

He was on the verge of another loan deal this term with Swiss side FC Basel eager to secure his services, but Karius reportedly wasn’t willing to sacrifice a significant chunk of his £25,000-a-week wages.

However, Basel haven’t given up on Karius yet and plan to try again in their pursuit in January.SEALED WITH A CHRIS

Christian Eriksen has sent Tottenham fans into a frenzy after ‘liking’ the club’s social media post announcing Antonio Conte’s appointment.

Conte will earn £15million-a-year in North London which makes him the joint-second highest-paid boss in the Premier League.

Supporters have been left delighted by Conte taking charge of the club, with the 52-year-old to be given a £150million war chest to bring in his own players in January.

And it’s not only fans that are excited by the news, as Spurs cult hero Eriksen liked the club’s Instagram post confirming his appointment.

Eriksen was signed by Conte in January 2020 with the pair winning the Serie A title together at Inter Milan last season.

The Danish playmaker, 29, has been linked with a move away from the San Siro following his cardiac arrest against Finland at Euro 2020.

However he is free to return to competitive football should he depart Inter, with Spurs supporters urging him to return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after liking Conte’s announcement post.

PEP TALK

Pep Guardiola told Sergio Aguero he must not try to rush back to football after his health scare at the weekend.

Manchester City’s all time leading scorer suffered breathing problems while playing for new club Barcelona at the Nou Camp.

The Etihad boss said: “Of course, it is difficult news for everyone. But especially for him and his family.

“We wish him well, he knows it, from all the people at Manchester City.

“We wish him a speedy recovery, but it does not matter about the time. Health and life is much more important than anything else and he knows it.

“I’m pretty sure he is in very good hands, really good doctors will take care of him and he will take care of himself.

“And come back if he can – otherwise enjoy his life and enjoy what he has done. It depends, I am not a doctor.

“I don’t know precisely what he has, but be careful and be safe for the rest of his life.”

WELCOME BACK

Speaking ahead of Man City’s Champions League clash with Club Brugge tomorrow, Pep Guardiola welcome the new Spurs manager Antonio Conte back to the Premier League.

Conte and Guardiola have only faced off four times as managers, each winning twice and losing twice.

Conte joined Chelsea in 2016-17 and won the league in his first season with the Blues.

But came fifth in his second, with Guardiola’s Man City storming to the league title with 100 points.

Spurs are due to face Man City again on the 19th February, having already beaten them 1-0 on the opening day of the season.

🗣 “Welcome back to the Premier League, his career speaks perfectly for himself.”Pep Guardiola welcomes Antonio Conte back to the Premier League and calls him an outstanding manager pic.twitter.com/VAbfGmvl6t— Football Daily (@footballdaily) November 2, 2021Load more entries… More