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    Liverpool 1 Newcastle 1 LIVE REACTION: Willock nets last-gasp Toon equaliser after Wilson denied by VAR

    NEWCASTLE netted twice in stoppage time at Anfield but had to settle for a point after VAR ruled out Callum Wilson’s strike for handball.
    Final score: Liverpool 1-1 Newcastle
    Goals: Salah 3′; Willock 90′

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    THANKS FOR JOINING US
    That’s all from us today as Joe Willock’s last-gasp 95TH MINUTE equaliser salvaged a point for Steve Bruce’s side after Callum Wilson controversially had a goal ruled out for handball just moments earlier.
    Mo Salah had opened the scoring early on with a fine finish and in truth Liverpool could have been out of sight by half time.
    Salah, Sadio Mane and Diogo Jota were all guilty of missing glorious chances which would have sent the Reds into the top four.
    Instead they’re still a point off the Champions League places and next up is a trip to Old Trafford next Sunday, what a game that will be.
    Meanwhile Newcastle’s next game is a home clash against Arsenal in eight days time.
    That’s all from us for now though.
    Thanks for joining us, it’s been a pleasure.
    SAFETY SECURED?
    It’s still not mathematically guaranteed but Newcastle have a nine point cushion between them and the bottom three with five games left to play.

    AS IT STANDS
    Here’s what that result means for Liverpool.
    They’re one point behind Chelsea and West Ham having played a game more.
    They’ll be hoping the clash between those two at 5.30pm at the London Stadium ends in a draw.

    SUPER SUB
    Despite denying being a Super Sub this stat seems to prove that he is…
    3 – Joe Willock has now scored in three consecutive Premier League appearances as a substitute; the first player to do so in the competition since Adam Le Fondre in January 2013. Super. #LIVNEW— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 24, 2021

    AT THE DEATH
    94 minutes and 58 seconds is the time registered for when Joe Willock’s goal went in.
    Talk about leaving it late.
    94:58 – Since 2006-07 (when we have exact times), Joe Willock’s equaliser for Newcastle is the latest goal that Liverpool have conceded in a Premier League game at Anfield. Gasp. #LIVNEW— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 24, 2021

    THAT’S WHAT IT MEANS
    Joe Willock reacts after netting a last gasp equaliser to grab a point at Anfield for his side.
    He scored late on against Spurs two weeks ago, scored the winner against West Ham last week and was on target today with the last kick of the game.
    Not a bad couple of weeks for him!
    Credit: AP
    Credit: AP
    JURGEN’S THOUGHTS
    Here’s what Jurgen Klopp has to say on the result’s implications for Champions League football:
    “If you deserve it, you deserve it [Champions League].
    “I didn’t see that we deserved [it] today playing [in] the Champions League next year.
    “We have another five games we will see what we can do until then we have a few days until we play Manchester United so it will be a tough one as well.
    “We learn or we don’t play Champions League, that’s it.”
    WILSON DENIED
    Here’s a look at the incident late on where Callun Wilson was denied an equaliser for handball.
    In the end it didn’t matter after Joe Willock’s equaliser but Newcastle would have been left feeling very hard done by if this was the reason they came away with nothing today.

    SCENES
    Steve Bruce and Co. celebrate Joe Willock’s dramatic equaliser at Anfield.
    Credit: PA
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: PA
    JUMPING FOR JOY
    Steve Bruce enjoyed that one!
    It’s safe to say Jurgen Klopp didn’t…
    Bruce’s reaction 🥳Klopp’s reaction 😦Willock’s reaction 😤Salah’s reaction 😔This just sums up a crazy game of football. pic.twitter.com/HTOqMmVgFa— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

    DRAMA AT ANFIELD
    Here’s a look at Joe Willock’s equaliser at Anfield.
    JOE WILLOCK WITH THE LAST KICK OF THE GAME!!Off the bench to grab a massive goal, and a massive point in the fight against relegation for Newcastle 😱 pic.twitter.com/J6nGsq9D9i— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

    SUPER SUB
    Here’s Joe Willock’s reaction to being labelled as a super sub:
    “No that’s not my label.
    “I mean I’m just trying to do my best even if I get ten, fifteen [minutes], half an hour, you know I’m trying to do my best for the team.
    “I’m really enjoying my football at the moment at Newcastle and I’m happy I could help the team again today.”
    STAT ATTACK
    Here’s a look at the stats after 90 minutes.
    Despite nine shots on target Liverpool could only muster one goal and it came back to haunt them.
    Joe Willock’s 95th minute equaliser leaves Jurgen Klopp and Co. ruing their missed chances.

    FT: LIVERPOOL 1-1 NEWCASTLE
    What a game at Anfield.
    Newcastle thought they’d grabbed a point through Callum Wilson before his goal was controversially ruled out for handball.
    Liverpool thought they’d got away with it before Joe Willock popped up to salvage a point for the Magpies after scoring the winner last week against West Ham!
    That is an enormous blow for Liverpool’s Champions League hopes.
    LIVERPOOL 1-1 NEWCASTLE
    96. In the SIXTH minute of added time Newcastle have their goal!
    The ball is floated into the box before falling to the feet of Joe Willock twelve yards out.
    His effort is deflected by Fabinho, wrongfooting Alisson and salvaging a point for Newcastle!
    That is an incredible finish to a brilliant game!
    GOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLL!
    NOW THEY DO EQUALISE!
    JOE WILLOCK DOES IT AGAIN FOR NEWCASTLE!
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    93. Liverpool survive!
    The ball bounces up off Alisson and strikes Callum Wilson on the arm before he taps home.
    There’s nothing he can do about it the ball is barely a yard away from him.
    It does strike his arm though.
    GOAL DISALLOWED!
    VAR OVERTURN IT!
    NO GOAL!
    THAT IS A HUGE DECISION!
    LIVERPOOL 1-1 NEWCASTLE
    93. Callum Wilson’s initial effort is saved by Alisson but it bounces up and hits Wilson on the arm.
    He taps home at the second attempt but VAR will have a look at this one!
    GOOOOOOAAAAAAAAL!
    NEWCASTLE SCORE AT THE DEATH!
    IT HAS BEEN COMING!
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    92. CHANCE!
    Matt Ritchie floats in a cross that is met by Joe Willock.
    He gets his head on it but can only direct his effort over the bar.
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    91. Liverpool deal with the corner but four minutes of added time are signalled by the fourth official.
    Newcastle look the more likely to score here…
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    90. Newcastle corner!
    The Magpies are knocking on the door!
    A cross in towards Wilson is a dangerous one and Fabinho does well to nod over his own crossbar for a corner.
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    89. That is THE buggest stonewall yellow card you will ever see.
    Saint-Maximin touches the ball past Fabinho who knows he’s beaten for pace.
    His solution is to bodycheck Saint-Maximin with the ball more than five metres away.
    LIVERPOOL 1-0 NEWCASTLE
    87. Newcastle free kick.
    James Milner is a bit too eager to win the ball high up the pitch and concedes a free kick.
    Jonjo Shelvey tries to catch out Liverpool by taking it quickly but Ozan Kabak is there to clean up.
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    Arsenal vs Everton LIVE REACTION: Gunners lose 1-0 to Toffees thanks to HORROR Leno OWN GOAL

    ARSENAL lost their vital clash with Everton 1-0 at the Emirates after a horror own goal by goalkeeper Bernd Leno.The loss followed tensions off the pitch as Gunners fans protested outside the ground before the game over Stan Kroenke’s ownership.

    RESULT: Arsenal 0-1 Everton
    Arsenal XI: Leno, Chambers, Holding, Mari, Xhaka, Ceballos, Partey, Saka, Smith Rowe, Pepe, Nketiah
    Everton XI: Pickford, Coleman, Godfrey, Holgate, Digne, Allan, Andre Gomes, Sigurdsson, Calvert-Lewin, Rodriguez, Richarlison

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    THAT’s ALL FOR TONIGHT
    That’s all from me!
    Arsenal’s fans put in a better performance off the pitch than the team did on the pitch.
    It’s not looking good for Mikel Arteta’s side, it’s win the Europa League or bust.
    There’s no way they creep back into contention to qualify for Europe via the league.
    They’re not even in for a shout of qualifying for the new European Conference League!
    As for Everton, the race for Europe is well and truly on.
    Ancelotti’s men are three points off fourth and come Monday, they’ll have a game in hand on most of the teams above them.
    Plenty of footy to come here at SunSport across the weekend!
    We’ve got a massive game tomorrow which could shape the top four race as West Ham welcome Chelsea to the London Stadium.
    The Hammers won the fixture last year thanks to a dramatic, last-minute winner by Andriy Yarmolenko – the goal that kept them up in my books!
    Goodnight!
    HOLGATE’s THOUGHTS
    Holgate gave his assessment to Sky Sports after the game.

    GIFT FROM THE GUNNERS
    BERND LENO’S horror gaffe summed up the state of Arsenal right now.
    A club at war between fans and owner, heading for their worst league finish since Blackburn won the title and capable of shooting themselves in the foot in ever more creative ways.
    Back in December they lost at home to Burnley with a comical own goal courtesy of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s haircut.
    But this was worse as Leno, kept on last summer while cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was sold, somehow deflected a routine Richarlison cross through his own legs and into the net.
    Read More: Arsenal 0 Everton 1 Match Report
    SOUNESS ON THE GAME
    Sky Sports’ Graeme Souness had this to say on the game and took aim at Arsenal’s penalty which was overturned by VAR: “I made the remark at half-time – what has happened to our game?
    “There’s the incident with the penalty [for Arsenal] that was never a penalty, the reaction of players to that, the reaction of two teams who had a lot to play for tonight and not really having any fire or aggression about them.
    “Everyone I speak to wants to see more aggression in the game.
    “It comes from within. It comes from not wanting to lose a tackle or a header and certainly not losing the game.
    “Arsenal look like a group of players just going through the motions.”
    FULL-TIME STATS
    Arsenal saw more of the ball, but Leno’s mistake costed them a point.

    HOME FORM
    The Gunners have lost seven games at the Emirates in the Premier League this season; their most home defeats in a league campaign since 1992-93 (also seven).
    And it was Everton’s first win away at Arsenal in 25 years.
    LENO……..
    Gary Neville – one of many who led the fight against the proposed Super League – appears to like the fact that Arsenal have lost.
    Arsenal were going to be one of 12 founding members up until the massive u-turn.

    FT: ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    Arsenal started the second half the bright and they thought they had a penalty after Ceballos was tripped by Richarlison.
    But VAR intervened and Pepe was judged to be offside in the build-up and it was an incredibly tight call.
    The direction of the game looked like it was going to end a draw.
    But a colossal mess by Leno handed Everton all three points when he spilled Richarlison’s tame shot into the back of his own net.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
    THE FULL-TIME WHISTLE GOES AT THE EMIRATES!
    EVERTON TAKE ALL THREE POINTS!
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    90+2. SAVE!
    Willian finds Partey on the edge of Everton’s penalty area.
    The midfielder then plays a wonderful pass to find Martinelli – who we’ve barely seen – inside the box.
    The Brazilian gets a shot off at the near post but Pickford saves!
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    90. The fourth official holds his board up and there will be four additional minutes added on.
    Four minutes for Arsenal to rescue a point.
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    89. SUBSTITUTION!
    Ancelotti is making another change and he’s bringing on a defender. Richarlison makes way for Mina.
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    87. Oh Leno…… take a look at his calamitous error for Everton’s goal.

    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    85. SUBSTITUTION!
    Rodriguez makes way for Davies
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    84. Arsenal have done themselves NO favours and they find themselves a goal behind with five or so minutes to go.
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    82. SUBSTITUTION!
    Mikel Arteta makes another change and Willian comes on for Chambers.
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    77. VAR has a look for a possible offside, but the goal stands.
    ARSENAL 0-1 EVERTON
    76. Xhaka fails to cope with Richarlison and the Brazilian gets to the byline.
    Richarlison gets a shot off – but it’s not on target – and the ball goes through Leno’s legs and into the back of the net!
    It’s going to go down as an own goal, it took a sight deflection off the keepers leg on the way through.
    Gift by the Gunners, the Toffees lead at the Emirates!
    GOOOOOOAAAAAALLL!!!
    LENO MAKES AN ABSOLUTE MESS OF A TAME SHOT!!!
    EVERTON LEAD!!!
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    75. SUBSTITUTIONS!
    Arsenal make a double change, Odegaard and Martinelli are on for Pepe and Nketiah.
    Martinelli will play through the middle.
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    73. Everton work the ball back to goalkeeper Pickford.
    The keeper shapes up to clear, but takes an extra touch and almost gifts a goal to Nketiah.
    But he manages to play the ball out before being fouled by the Arsenal forward.
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    69. Arsenal catch Everton out with a quick throw down the line to Saka.
    The Arsenal No7 gets to the byline and drives a low cross towards the near post, but Pickford gathers.
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    68. YELLOW CARD!
    Delph – who has just come on – is booked for hacking down Smith Rowe on the halfway line.
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    66. SAVE!
    Pepe holds the ball up on the left-hand side before playing the ball inside to Ceballos.
    The Spaniard shifts the ball onto his favoured right foot and sends a shot towards the far corner but Pickford saves!
    ARSENAL 0-0 EVERTON
    64. SUBSTITUTION!
    Gomes’ evening comes to an end and he is replaced by Delph just past the hour mark.
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    European Super League contracts revealed with Real Madrid and Barcelona earning £52m MORE than English big 6

    DETAILS of the contracts for the failed European Super League have been revealed with Real Madrid and Barcelona enjoying the best terms.The La Liga rivals would have earned a whopping £52m more than any other teams in the competition including those from England.
    Meanwhile SunSport has exclusively revealed that an offer to the Old Firm to join is top of the list of plans being actively discussed for reform of the Premier League.
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
    GIGGS CHARGED
    Former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has been charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville after a row.
    The Wales manager, 47, was held after cops were called to his £1.7million mansion in Worsley, Greater Manchester on November 3.
    He was quizzed at a police station before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
    But Giggs was charged today with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of coercive and controlling behaviour against PR exec Kate.
    The second count spans more than three years – between December 2017 and November 2020.
    Giggs has also been charged with a second count of assault against another woman aged in her 20s following the alleged bust-up last year.
    He will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28.
    Credit: PA
    KANE AND ABLE?
    Harry Kane will be given until Saturday to prove his fitness for Tottenham’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
    The England star missed Spurs’ midweek win over Southampton with an ankle injury picked up against Everton.
    Tottenham are desperate to have Kane fit for Sunday’s Wembley final as they bid for silverware but interim boss Ryan Mason has admitted time is running out.
    Credit: Reuters
    DOUBLE TROUBLE
    Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero have handed Manchester City a Carabao Cup final boost by stepping up their comebacks.
    The pair both trained on Friday – meaning they are in the frame for the Wembley showdown with Tottenham on Sunday.
    De Bruyne injured his ankle in the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea last weekend and there were fears he had suffered ligament damage.
    However the 29-year-old has made steady progress over the week and given himself an outside chance of featuring against Spurs.
    Aguero has been sidelined for the last three weeks but is back in the frame for what will be his last month at the Etihad.
    Guardiola said: “Both Sergio and Kevin trained today.
    “For Sergio this was his first training session for a few weeks. On Saturday there is our last training session and after that we’ll decide.”

    MORE THAN O-KAY
    Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Brazilian forward Kayky.
    We are delighted to confirm we have reached an agreement with Fluminese regarding the future transfer of Kayky. The teenage forward will remain with Fluminese until the end of the Brazilian season.🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 23, 2021

    DIFFERENT LIGA
    The passion of England football fans was the key to victory in the Super League battle.
    That was the verdict of Javier Tebas, head of Spain’s La Liga, as he reflected on a tumultuous and tortuous few days which saw the game pulled back from the abyss of greed.
    Power of the fans – LaLiga boss Javier Tebas
    He said: “We waited 25 years for this to happen.
    “Then it came and in 48 hours, it is going to disappear – dissolving like a teaspoon of sugar in hot water. I don’t want to say the Premier League clubs were forced to join but they were told that many were already in and everybody was going to sign.
    “Then the English clubs withdrew straightaway because their fans and politicians got involved. Some of the English clubs who joined surprised me.
    “But Manchester United, we know the owner, he’s part of the NFL.
    The American owners have a different concept of sport and feel the competition structure for them should be completely closed, getting more money.
    “But that’s the US style, not the European way. We have a different tradition.
    “In Europe we believe in open competition and can’t understand a closed shop.
    “So the people who were the most surprised were the ones who apologised. 
    “They didn’t know the opinions of their fans and the Government. The fans have really strong feelings in England. They showed it and it made a difference.”

    CASH RICH
    Leaked details of the Super League contracts reveal that Barcelona and Real Madrid were due to cash in over £52m more than other sides.
    The El Clasico pair are the only sides along with Juventus to not publicly state their withdrawal from the breakaway league.

    GUNNER BE JUICY
    AFTV host Robbie Lyle clashes with Gunners legend Ray Parlour over whether the YouTube channel want Arsenal to lose to get more hits.
    🤔 𝗥𝗮𝘆: “AFTV want Arsenal to lose to get more hits on YouTube!”🤬 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗯𝗶𝗲: ”Ray, you’re talking absolute rubbish, you’re so out of touch!”Ray Parlour & @ItsDonRobbie clash over claims @AFTVMedia want #AFC to lose!You simply 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 to watch this 🔥 pic.twitter.com/QG0DZfkjgh— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) April 23, 2021

    SPURS SPENDERS
    Daniel Levy needs to back the next Tottenham manager in the transfer market if he wants take the club to the next level.
    That is the view of Alan Hutton, who was in the last Spurs team to win a trophy when they lifted the League Cup in 2008, as Ryan Mason leads out the North North Londoners against Man City in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final.
    He said: “For me that’s always been Tottenham’s problem – they get so far and just when they get to that stage when you think they are going to kick on, they don’t.
    “When you reach that stage, you have to keep spending to bring in better players and improve the squad. Yet it has just felt to me Tottenham have never really wanted to do that.
    “The top teams are always adding to what they already have. But when Tottenham have got to a certain level to challenge they have always just been content to stay there.
    “I think money has been a major part of it. When Tottenham have done well and needed to improve the squad they haven’t been prepared to spend the money and really go for it.
    “Daniel needs to decide what he wants Tottenham to be in terms of playing style and whether he really wants then to go for it now and reach that next level.
    “They always seem to be almost just there, never quite there, just falling short. If they really want to kick on now they are going to need to invest a lot of money to compete with the other clubs up there.”

    SOL-LESS
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hit out at the botched plan for a European Super league being driven by his own boss Joel Glazer.
    The Manchester United manager only became aware of it on the day it was announced last Sunday and has since had to confront an angry group of protestors at the club’s training ground.
    Credit: Getty
    Solskjaer said: “I didn’t like the concept, it has to be on sporting merit, I want to earn the right to play in Europe.
    “We know we’ve been pioneers and we’ve been in Europe for many, many years, with the Busby Babes, we want to be part of a successful European campaign again. One of my best nights was something we worked really hard towards.
    “You can’t be given it because your name is such and such, you have to earn the right to be there. And I’ve always felt and believed in stepping out of your comfort zone, being afraid of failure, that spurs you on, living on the edge a little bit, and that wasn’t part of this.
    “My players last season were excellent, when I talk about this fear of failure, they were afraid of not making Champions League because we were so many points behind. They pulled themselves together as a team, achieved third, a very good achievement, this year striving towards trophies, and we’re second.
    “I back my team to be in the top in Europe. But I still think that fear of failure is helping us do that and being a sporting competitor as I am and my nature is not being handed this, we can’t be handed a place, that’s my opinion.
    “I’m very happy all of the clubs have admitted their mistake, this was a bad idea, and the way it came out as well.”
    TON OF CHECKS
    Manchester United have beefed up their security at Carrington after fans broke into the training complex yesterday – and even boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had to prove who he was.
    As the players arrived for drills today, two security guards greeted them at the entrance.
    Even United gaffer Solskjaer was stopped by two burly high-vis-wearing men.
    He appeared to be asked to remove his sunglasses to prove he really was the Red Devils leader.
    Around 20 supporters stormed Carrington on Thursday to voice their anger at the club’s owners and their attempt to join the breakaway European Super League.
    The group made it on to the first-team pitch and refused to leave until manager Solskjaer came and spoke to them.
    VEST-ED INTEREST
    Southampton are set to face interest from home and abroad as they look to keep Jannik Vestergaard.
    Tottenham are rumoured to be keen on the centre-back along with Serie A pair Juventus and Roma.
    Vestergaard, 28, has been a regular in the Saints line-up since a 2018 move from Borussia Monchengladbach.
    But his contract expiring in 2022 could force the club’s hand if serious interest arises in the summer.
    According to Italian portal TuttoMercatoWeb, Spurs are working on setting up a meeting with the player’s entourage.
    Roma could steal a march on their progress however with club general manager Tiago Pinto tipped to discuss a switch with Vestergaard’s representatives next week.

    BAR-D MOVE
    Cash-strapped Barcelona have released a bizarre statement saying they joined the European Super for ‘financial sustainability’ – despite spending almost £1BILLION on transfers in the last five seasons.

    WEMBLEY WAY
    England have been given a major euro 2020 boost after Uefa moved the Three Lions’ prospective last 16 game to Wembley.
    But hopes that the country would get all of the matches stripped from Dublin have been dashed – with the three group games due to be played in the Irish capital now moved to St Petersburg.
    The news is a huge positive for Gareth Southgate and his men, who can now play SIX of their potential seven games in the tournament under the Arch.
    England were due to play in the last 16 – against the runner up from the group including France, Portugal and Germany – at the Aviva on June 29 if they came out top of their opening group with Croatia, Scotland and the Czech Republic.
    Now, though, they will retain home advantage and play at Wembley if they can finish at the head of Group D.
    It means that, if England can win the group, their path to the Final would be entirely at Wembley apart from a last eight match in Rome on July 3.
    The decision was taken by Uefa’s ruling executive committee this morning after an emergency session.
    Dublin and Bilbao – due to host all three of Spain’s group games – lost their hosting rights after being unable to give Uefa the guarantees demanded by President Aleksander Ceferin that fans would be allowed to attend matches.
    SEAD & DONE
    Lazio are ready to make their move to land Arsenal outcast Sead Kolasinac, according to reports.
    The left-back will return to the Gunners in the summer following a six-month loan stint at Schalke.
    Kolasinac has been a mainstay in the Schalke side but failed to help save them from relegation to the second tier.
    The 27-year-old and his team-mates were pelted with eggs from furious fans following their disastrous season.
    And although Schalke would be interested in a permanent deal, the actions from supporters are likely to do nothing to convince Kolasinac to stay.
    According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Italian giants Lazio are ready to take advantage.
    The reports add how they admire his experience and believe he could be a vital addition to the squad and with his contract expiring in 2022 this is Arsenal’s last chance to cash in.
    Credit: Getty
    FAST SWITCH
    Leicester ace Wesley Fofana was subbed off after an hour of the win over West Brom because he is fasting for Ramadan.
    The French defender, 20, started in a back three alongside Jonny Evans and Caglar Soyuncu at the King Power last night.
    But he was replaced with 61 minutes on the clock by Marc Albrighton.
    And Brendan Rodgers confirmed it was because his young centre-back hadn’t eaten or drank since sunrise.
    The Foxes boss told BBC Radio Leicester: “He’s a young player in the middle of Ramadan so hasn’t eaten.
    “It’s remarkable to think of his performance at the weekend. To still perform to that level was incredible.
    “He finds that strength to train and play. He’s a special talent and a big player for us.”
    Ramadan started on April 13 this year and will end with the celebration of Eid on May 12 or 13.
    Credit: AP
    OWN GOAL
    Former Barcelona player and Match of the Day host Gary Lineker was awfully disappointed at Barcelona’s Super League statement.
    The cash-strapped Catalan giants said they would put the concept to fans but through it was necessary.

    PM TO THE RESCUE
    Uefa chief Aleksander Ceferin has hailed PM Boris Johnson for helping save European football by leading the national ‘revolution’.
    Johnson’s dramatic intervention and promises to bring in laws to block the Super League breakaway cut off the legs of the ‘dirty dozen’ plotters.
    Ceferin said: “Boris Johnson is aware that football fans are from the working class.
    “They live hard, and they spend the last money to watch football matches, which is their passion, relaxation, which is part of European culture, part of history.
    “It seemed to me the reaction was very logical – he cared what happened to football, because that would affect the people, of course.”
    Ceferin added: “In England there are so many fans and they love their club immensely. If the fans get angry, it is a kind of revolution. And no country can afford that.
    “I find it very responsible from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to take a sharp stand on the side of the fans, not only because of the culture and love of football, but also because it ensures order in the country.
    “We were in contact and I also spoke to his cabinet. They responded excellently.”
    UR ON
    Liverpool face a fight for Ugurcan Cakir after Borussia Dortmund emerged as contenders for the Turkish goalkeeper.
    The 25-year-old came through the Trabzonspor academy to cement his place as the side’s first-choice shot-stopper and captain.
    According to Fotospor, via Fanatik, the race is on to snap up Cakir with Liverpool and Dortmund both keen.
    The Reds are set to wave goodbye to back-up keeper Adrian when his contract expires in the summer.
    That would leave Irish youngster Caoimhin Kelleher as first reserve to Alisson Becker amid talk of a new addition.
    But Dortmund have already reportedly lodged a £17million bid for Cakir.
    It is thought the Super Lig side want upwards of £25m for their star man as well as a 25 per cent sell-on clause.
    Credit: Getty
    NO MOR SUPER LEAGUE
    Super League bankrollers JP Morgan have pledged to learn from the breakaway debacle after revealing they misjudged the situation.
    The investment bank were due to stump up a 3.5billion euros loan for the Dirty Dozen before the Big Six pulled out and the project crumbled.
    A statement from a JP Morgan spokesperson read: “We clearly misjudged how this deal would be viewed by the wider football community and how it might impact them in the future.
    “We will learn from this.”
    RON THE WAY HOME?
    Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘tempted’ by a return to Manchester United, according to reports.
    The Portuguese star became a legend at Old Trafford between 2003 and 2009, winning his first Ballon d’Or and Champions League gongs during his time in the North West.
    Credit: Reuters
    According to Gazzetta dello Sport, CR7 is growing unhappy at Juve, with a return to Old Trafford starting to cross his mind.
    Ronaldo has failed to go beyond the quarter-finals of the Champions League since swapping Real Madrid for Juve in 2018.
    And this season, under Andrea Pirlo, the Old Lady appear unlikely to even win Serie A – currently sat in fourth, 11 points behind Inter Milan.
    In fact, Juve are only two points above fifth-placed Napoli, opening them up to the unthinkable possibility of not even qualifying for the Champions League.
    Struggling financially due to Ronaldo’s wages and the effect of the coronavirus pandemic, Juventus could benefit from offloading the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
    CAN’T STAN YOU NOW
    Arsenal fans are set to call for Stan Kroenke’s departure from the club at an Emirates Stadium protest on Friday night.
    Before the Gunners’ game with Everton, a number of supporters are expected to express their outrage at the European Super League and general running of the club.
    Credit: Alamy
    American billionaire Kroenke, 73, joined the board of the Premier League outfit in 2008 and became majority shareholder three years later.
    In that time the side have won four FA Cups but slipped out of title contention, and are set to miss out on a top-four finish for the fifth year in a row.
    Already-brewing fan discontent exploded during the week as ninth-placed Arsenal signed up to the European Super League plot.
    Protests across all six of the English sides committed to the project led to its collapse and the Gunners’ board was forced to apologise.
    However, supporters remain determined to see Kroenke and son Josh, a director at Emirates Stadium, leave North London.
    The hashtag #KroenkeOut has been adopted by many Gooners online ahead of Friday’s protest at the ground.
    ALL BARC NO BITE
    Cash-strapped Barcelona backed the need for a Super League but confirmed they would put the idea to its members.
    FULL BARCELONA STATEMENT
    “FC Barcelona shares the view of most major European football clubs, and even more so given the current socio-economic climate, that there is a need for structural reforms to guarantee the financial sustainability and feasibility of world football by improving the product that is offered to fans around the world and by consolidating and even increasing the fan base on which this sport is sustained, which is its mainstay and greatest strength.
    “In this context, the FC Barcelona Board of Directors accepted, as a matter of immediate urgency, the offer to form part, as the founding member, of the Super League, a competition designed to improve the quality and attractiveness of the product offered to the football fans and, at the same time, and as one of FC Barcelona’s most inalienable principles, seek new formulas for solidarity with the football family as a whole.
    “The decision was made in the conviction that it would have been a historical error to turn down the opportunity to be part of this project as one of its founding members. As one of the world’s top sports club, our intention shall always be to be at the forefront, this being an indispensable part of the club’s identity and its sporting, social and institutional spirit.
    “In whatever case, FC Barcelona, as a club that always has been and always shall be owned by each and every one of its members, expressly reserved the right to submit such an important decision to the final approval of its competent social bodies following careful and very necessary study of the proposal.
    “Given the public reaction that the aforementioned project has generated in many and various spheres, there is no question that FC Barcelona appreciates that a much more in-depth analysis is required into the reasons that have caused this reaction in order to reconsider, if necessary, and to the required extent, the proposal as originally formulated and resolve all those issues, always for the good of the general interest of the football world. Such in-depth analysis needs time and the necessary composure to avoid taking any rash action.
    “We feel it is equally important to highlight the objective fact that a Court of Justice has already granted urgent legal protection as requested, thus confirming right of the initiative on the part of the founding clubs of the Super League project.
    “In this regard, FC Barcelona considers that it would be improper for the necessary process of reflection and debate to be established under criteria of unjustified pressure and intimidation.
    “Despite being perfectly aware of the importance and interest raised by this matter, as well as the need to always act with the utmost transparency, FC Barcelona shall act at all times with due prudence and asks for the utmost understanding, respect and most of all patience among FC Barcelona supporters and public opinion in general.”

    EDIN OFF
    Boca Juniors are a step closer to snapping up Edinson Cavani with the striker reportedly maintaining his desire to leave Europe.
    The 34-year-old has hit ten goals in his first and possibly only campaign at Old Trafford, ahead of his contract expiring in June.
    Last month, SunSport revealed his desire to hold talks with the club and thrash out his future.
    And rumblings of discontent have refused to go away with Cavani’s father asserting that he wants to depart Manchester.
    According to Argentine outlet Depo, the player recently sat down with United and reiterated his plan to move on.
    A return to South America is said to be Cavani’s wish, to bring him closer to his family.
    Buenos Aires giants Boca Juniors have been linked with a deal and discussions with the club are described as positive.
    Credit: EPA
    ROSS LOSS
    Ross Barkley faces uncertainty over his future after Aston Villa ruled out a permanent transfer this summer.
    The Chelsea midfielder, 27, joined the West Midlands club last September on a season-long loan.
    But boss Dean Smith confirmed the Villans have no intention of securing his services for next season – especially with the Blues reportedly quoting a £40million price tag.
    Smith said: “No, Ross Barkley came in on loan at the start of the season.
    “Obviously, Frank Lampard was the manager at the time we brokered a deal to bring him in on loan.
    “He’s got another two years left on his contract at Chelsea and that’s not been discussed at all.”
    Former Everton star Barkley is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2023.
    Credit: Getty
    OLE LOAD OF TROUBLE
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer enraged a group of Manchester United protestors by claiming hated owner Joel Glazer ‘loves this club’.
    A group descended on the Red Devils’ Carrington training ground yesterday morning in protest at the Glazer family’s ownership and their attempts to break-away into a European Super League.
    And they refused to leave the doors to the main reception until boss Solskjaer came out and engaged with them.
    He did and they questioned him as to how he could ever trust the club’s co-chairman Joel Glazer ever again.
    But Solskjaer jumped to his defence saying ‘Joel loves this club’. It was a statement met with derision with a number of protestors firing back saying ‘he doesn’t love this club he loves the money’.
    Solskjaer, 48, was flanked by coach Michael Carrick and technical director Darren Fletcher as he spoke with the group. Midfielder Nemanja Matic was also close by.
    During the exchanges, which lasted just over five minutes, it was pointed out to Solskjaer that back in 2005 he was a patron of protest group Shareholders United and voiced his opposition to the Glazers imminent takeover.

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    Man Utd fans plot protest ahead of Liverpool clash on May 2, Pogba and Bruno contract extension latest, Leeds build-up

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans are planning a protest over the Glazer family’s ownership before the club’s game against Liverpool.The Red Devils host the soon-to-be-dethroned champions at Old Trafford on May 2.
    Meanwhile we have all the latest as the Glazer family publicly apologise for attempting to form a European Super League.
    Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
    GIGGS CHARGED
    Former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has been charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville after a row.
    The Wales manager, 47, was held after cops were called to his £1.7million mansion in Worsley, Greater Manchester on November 3.
    He was quizzed at a police station before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
    But Giggs was charged today with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of coercive and controlling behaviour against PR exec Kate.
    The second count spans more than three years – between December 2017 and November 2020.
    Giggs has also been charged with a second count of assault against another woman aged in her 20s following the alleged bust-up last year.
    He will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28.
    Credit: PA
    TO THE MAX
    West Ham have joined the fight for Max Aarons this summer and Norwich are willing to let the defender leave, according to reports.
    Aarons, 21, has been a long-term target of Manchester United and it now appears he is on the radar of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Tottenham.
    West Ham and United will have to pay £30million to land the England U21 international, claim The Independent.
    The Canaries persuaded him to stay last summer but a promise the club made means Aarons has now been told he can leave.
    But it is The Irons who could hold the advantage in the transfer battle, as Aarons is reportedly keen to stay in the south.
    That could rule out a move abroad or to United, and West Ham may have the added appeal of European football to offer next year.

    BACK TO BRUM
    Manchester United legend Lee Sharpe was once told to move his girlfriend back to Birmingham by Sir Alex Ferguson.
    Sharpe, now 49, had been desperate to move out of digs as a youngster, in order to live with his other half. But when his form subsequently suffered, he felt the famous wrath of his manager.
    The ex-Old Trafford wing wizard said: “I had a few run-ins with him, to be fair!
    “The biggest one was when we went to Anfield. Before that match, I had asked to move out of digs and move in with my girlfriend in my own house.
    “He said I was a little bit too young, but he let me do so because I was in the first team. But he told me that if my work suffered then I’d have to move back into digs. I said that was no problem.
    “I found a house in Whitefield and moved my girlfriend up from Birmingham and everything was great. But then I hit a little bit of form that wasn’t quite up to the manager’s standards.
    “We were at Anfield getting beat at half-time, and he gave me the biggest rollicking of my life and told me to sell my house, move my girlfriend back home and told me to get out there and play!”
    Lee Sharpe (right) with Fergie and Ryan GiggsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    FORWARD THINKING
    Manchester United need to sign Harry Kane or Erling Haaland to compete for the Premier League title, according to two-time winner Louis Saha.
    The Red Devils look on course to finish second this term, well adrift of leaders Manchester City.
    He told GentingBet: “I think when you look at Harry Kane and Haaland, it’s two different profiles but they score goals.
    “Haaland has a great future, he is a top striker and you can see he already has that fire in him so he will really help any side in this world because of that.
    “He’s got the size, he’s got the speed, he’s got all the qualities you need to be a top striker.
    “Harry is more about consistency, you know what he’s going to give you. He’s like a super striker, but a super team player as well. A captain in so many ways.
    “So yes these guys can give a lot to Manchester United but again it depends on the strategy of the management with the transfers.
    “If they want to win a Premier League, these are the kind of players you have to get – a player who has 30 games and 30 goals.”

    CAV A GO
    Here’s how Manchester United could line-up against Leeds.

    SOL-LESS
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hit out at the botched plan for a European Super league being driven by his own boss Joel Glazer.
    The Manchester United manager only became aware of it on the day it was announced last Sunday and has since had to confront an angry group of protestors at the club’s training ground.
    Credit: Getty
    Solskjaer said: “I didn’t like the concept, it has to be on sporting merit, I want to earn the right to play in Europe.
    “We know we’ve been pioneers and we’ve been in Europe for many, many years, with the Busby Babes, we want to be part of a successful European campaign again. One of my best nights was something we worked really hard towards.
    “You can’t be given it because your name is such and such, you have to earn the right to be there. And I’ve always felt and believed in stepping out of your comfort zone, being afraid of failure, that spurs you on, living on the edge a little bit, and that wasn’t part of this.
    “My players last season were excellent, when I talk about this fear of failure, they were afraid of not making Champions League because we were so many points behind. They pulled themselves together as a team, achieved third, a very good achievement, this year striving towards trophies, and we’re second.
    “I back my team to be in the top in Europe. But I still think that fear of failure is helping us do that and being a sporting competitor as I am and my nature is not being handed this, we can’t be handed a place, that’s my opinion.
    “I’m very happy all of the clubs have admitted their mistake, this was a bad idea, and the way it came out as well.”
    TON OF CHECKS
    Manchester United have beefed up their security at Carrington after fans broke into the training complex yesterday – and even boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had to prove who he was.
    As the players arrived for drills today, two security guards greeted them at the entrance.
    Even United gaffer Solskjaer was stopped by two burly high-vis-wearing men.
    He appeared to be asked to remove his sunglasses to prove he really was the Red Devils leader.
    Around 20 supporters stormed Carrington on Thursday to voice their anger at the club’s owners and their attempt to join the breakaway European Super League.
    The group made it on to the first-team pitch and refused to leave until manager Solskjaer came and spoke to them.
    RUUD NOT TO
    It’s 20 years to the day since Ruud Van Nistelrooy joined Manchester United.
    And as they say, the rest is history.

    BAR-D MOVE
    Cash-strapped Barcelona have released a bizarre statement saying they joined the European Super for ‘financial sustainability’ – despite spending almost £1BILLION on transfers in the last five seasons.

    PITCH PERFECT
    Manchester United missed out on hosting Euro 2020 matches due to summer pitch work while Wembley only gets one of Dublin’s games – England’s potential Last 16 tie.
    The FA had made it clear they were open to staging extra Euros matches on English soil, echoing the offer from PM Boris Johnson.
    That appeared to open up the chance of all four Dublin games coming to the north west, with Manchester the initial favourite.
    But both Manchester City’s Etihad and United’s Old Trafford were ruled out when the clubs informed Uefa two weeks ago that they had already decided to major pitch renovation projects that will take much of the summer.
    And while London remained a possibility, Sweden’s game with Slovakia is scheduled for Dublin on June 18 – the same day as England play Scotland.
    Uefa’s aversion to staging major matches in any competitions in the same city on the same day ruled out any London ground.
    More crucially, with all the other groups split over two venues, Uefa felt it would be unfair to make Sweden and Slovakia alone play their group matches in three different stadiums and cities.
    Instead, Group E will now be split between St Petersburg and Seville. Munich finally met the Uefa demands and will keep its planned matches, including a last eight clash.
    SMASH ‘N G-RAB
    Manchester United defender Alex Telles could reportedly be heading to Juventus with Adrien Rabiot coming in the opposite direction.
    The Brazilian left-back has failed to make an impression at Old Trafford since joining from Porto in October having featured in just seven Premier League games.
    Telles has had to settle for a place on the bench due to Luke Shaw’s stunning form, with his last top-flight appearance coming on January 27.
    And according to Calciomercato, the 28-year-old is keen to depart Old Trafford having grown frustrated by his lack of game time.
    They state that Juventus are admirers of the player, and could look to bring him to Turin to compete with Alex Sandro.
    It has been suggested that the Old Lady would be willing to exchange midfielder Rabiot, 26, for Telles.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is known to be a fan of the Frenchman having failed to lure him to the Theatre of Dreams last season.

    PM TO THE RESCUE
    Uefa chief Aleksander Ceferin has hailed PM Boris Johnson for helping save European football by leading the national ‘revolution’.
    Johnson’s dramatic intervention and promises to bring in laws to block the Super League breakaway cut off the legs of the ‘dirty dozen’ plotters.
    Ceferin said: “Boris Johnson is aware that football fans are from the working class.
    “They live hard, and they spend the last money to watch football matches, which is their passion, relaxation, which is part of European culture, part of history.
    “It seemed to me the reaction was very logical – he cared what happened to football, because that would affect the people, of course.”
    Ceferin added: “In England there are so many fans and they love their club immensely. If the fans get angry, it is a kind of revolution. And no country can afford that.
    “I find it very responsible from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to take a sharp stand on the side of the fans, not only because of the culture and love of football, but also because it ensures order in the country.
    “We were in contact and I also spoke to his cabinet. They responded excellently.”
    NO MOR SUPER LEAGUE
    Super League bankrollers JP Morgan have pledged to learn from the breakaway debacle after revealing they misjudged the situation.
    The investment bank were due to stump up a 3.5billion euros loan for the Dirty Dozen before the Big Six pulled out and the project crumbled.
    A statement from a JP Morgan spokesperson read: “We clearly misjudged how this deal would be viewed by the wider football community and how it might impact them in the future.
    “We will learn from this.”
    UNFINISHED BUSINESS
    Manchester United fans are reportedly planning another Glazer Out protest after breaking into the training ground.
    Around 20 supporters stormed Carrington on Thursday to voice their anger at the club’s owners and their attempt to join the breakaway European Super League.
    Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
    The group made it on to the first-team pitch and refused to leave until manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came and spoke to them.
    And according to the Mirror, the anti-Glazer movement plot to make another stand a week on Sunday when United host fellow ESL rebels Liverpool at Old Trafford.
    Thousands of fans will march from Manchester city centre to the stadium and make their voices heard beside the statues of Sir Matt Busby, Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and George Best.
    The report adds a joint-protest alongside Liverpool supporters – usually fierce rivals – has been canned now that both teams announced their withdrawal from the ESL.
    The supporters who breached the security to get into the AON training complex on Thursday were part of the Manchester Education Committee – the same group that confronted Wayne Rooney in 2010 and targeted Ed Woodward’s home in January last year.
    RON THE WAY HOME?
    Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘tempted’ by a return to Manchester United, according to reports.
    The Portuguese star became a legend at Old Trafford between 2003 and 2009, winning his first Ballon d’Or and Champions League gongs during his time in the North West.
    Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Old TraffordCredit: Reuters
    According to Gazzetta dello Sport, CR7 is growing unhappy at Juve, with a return to Old Trafford starting to cross his mind.
    Ronaldo has failed to go beyond the quarter-finals of the Champions League since swapping Real Madrid for Juve in 2018.
    And this season, under Andrea Pirlo, the Old Lady appear unlikely to even win Serie A – currently sat in fourth, 11 points behind Inter Milan.
    In fact, Juve are only two points above fifth-placed Napoli, opening them up to the unthinkable possibility of not even qualifying for the Champions League.
    Struggling financially due to Ronaldo’s wages and the effect of the coronavirus pandemic, Juventus could benefit from offloading the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
    PROUD BRO
    Phil Neville reckons brother Gary showed massive balls in becoming the first critic to slaughter the botched plans for the European Super League.
    Proud Nev was digesting the fall-out from his debut as Inter Miami boss last Sunday when news of the chaos brewing filtered over to Florida.
    He heard former Manchester United and England full-back Gary pull no punches by instantly blasting greedy Old Trafford chiefs and the rest of the snakes who wanted to rip football apart.
    Neville, 44, told SunSport: “Watching my brother speak so passionately about the subject after the game when nobody really knew anything about it, the ins or outs or what the project was all about, he had the courage and bravery to stand up for what was right.
    “He probably started the ball rolling and then in the next 24 to 48 hours later, common sense prevailed. The overriding feeling is that a group of people totally misread and had a lack of knowledge of what football means to people in England and Europe.
    “Think about all the stances of the fans of the clubs who tried to break away, it made me really proud of where I have grown up.
    “The entertainment levels aren’t the same and when you look back in history at the six clubs, their foundations come from working-class people and a group of people made the wrong decision.
    “You have to accept their grave misunderstanding and make sure football is in a good place for the next 100 years.”
    Credit: Getty
    EDIN OFF
    Boca Juniors are a step closer to snapping up Edinson Cavani with the striker reportedly maintaining his desire to leave Europe.
    The 34-year-old has hit ten goals in his first and possibly only campaign at Old Trafford, ahead of his contract expiring in June.
    Last month, SunSport revealed his desire to hold talks with the club and thrash out his future.
    And rumblings of discontent have refused to go away with Cavani’s father asserting that he wants to depart Manchester.
    According to Argentine outlet Depo, the player recently sat down with United and reiterated his plan to move on.
    A return to South America is said to be Cavani’s wish, to bring him closer to his family.
    Buenos Aires giants Boca Juniors have been linked with a deal and discussions with the club are described as positive.
    OLE LOAD OF TROUBLE
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer enraged a group of Manchester United protestors by claiming hated owner Joel Glazer ‘loves this club’.
    A group descended on the Red Devils’ Carrington training ground yesterday morning in protest at the Glazer family’s ownership and their attempts to break-away into a European Super League.
    And they refused to leave the doors to the main reception until boss Solskjaer came out and engaged with them.
    He did and they questioned him as to how he could ever trust the club’s co-chairman Joel Glazer ever again.
    But Solskjaer jumped to his defence saying ‘Joel loves this club’. It was a statement met with derision with a number of protestors firing back saying ‘he doesn’t love this club he loves the money’.
    Solskjaer, 48, was flanked by coach Michael Carrick and technical director Darren Fletcher as he spoke with the group. Midfielder Nemanja Matic was also close by.
    During the exchanges, which lasted just over five minutes, it was pointed out to Solskjaer that back in 2005 he was a patron of protest group Shareholders United and voiced his opposition to the Glazers imminent takeover.
    Credit: Reuters
    GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
    Ed Woodward quit as executive vice-chairman after being kept in the dark about the final plans for the European Super League.
    Bruno Fernandes is ready to sign a new contract at Manchester United as long as Paul Pogba commits his future.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told anti-Glazer protesters to leave Carrington so they would not disrupt training.
    Marcus Rashford is helping teach kids how to make proper food as he continues his fight against child food poverty.
    United have been handed a boost in their bid to sign Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane with the French star facing the exit door.
    Reaction continues to come in following the Glazers’ apology for the attempted breakaway.
    The Red Devils’ hopes of signing Erling Haaland are fading after Borussia Dortmund insisted he will not leave this summer.
    United will reportedly have to pay £10m if they are to sign West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
    MAJOR SHAKE-UP
    Football bosses could be ORDERED to rip up their rulebook after the Government announced the launch of its “fan-led review” of the game.
    In a huge move which comes off the back of PM Boris Johnson’s intervention into the Super League breakaway which featured Man United as one of the founding clubs, the entire structure of the English game is under scrutiny.
    That could see:

    Ownership rules questioned and changed, even looking at the legitimacy of foreign billionaires taking over Prem clubs — and deciding if English football should seek to copy the German system.
     New financial rules drafted to prevent the issues that led to the collapse of Bury.
     Enforced alterations to the flow of money through the entire football pyramid, from the Prem to the grass-roots game.
     Fans given a proper say in the way the game is run.
    A Government- appointed independent regulator, with power to bring the FA, Prem and EFL to account.

    Credit: No 10 Downing Street / BEEM
    NO CAPITAL GAINS
    Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has revealed he snubbed a move to Chelsea when he joined Leeds.
    The ex-England star moved to Elland Road in 2000 but had the chance to seal a transfer to the Blues.
    The BT Sport pundit told the Eddie Hearn: No Passion, No Point podcast: “I could’ve gone to Chelsea – I got a phone call just as I was going to Leeds.
    “I just said to the geezers, ‘there’s no point even trying to pitch the idea to me. I need to leave London. I’ve got all my mates, I go out every weekend. I can go anywhere in town – I’m living a distraction.’”
    Ferdinand added: “Going to Leeds was getting me away from my mates, who were good boys, but we were getting in trouble and going out too much.
    “I didn’t have a hand break, everything was full throttle. The best decision was looking at myself and moving to Leeds when I did. Best thing I done.”
    Credit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    ED’S GONE
    Ed Woodward quit as Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman because he was kept in the dark about the final plans for the European Super League.
    Woodward is stepping down at the end of the year and SunSport understands he resigned because he could not support the Glazers’ plans for the breakaway league.
    Credit: PA
    Woodward had made his mind up on Monday morning he could not be associated with the Super League and took swift action.
    The Prem’s ‘Big Six’ were set to join the new league plot before it all unravelled in the space of 48 hours.
    Woodward joined United following the Glazers’ takeover in 2005 and replaced chief executive David Gill in 2013.
    TAKE ZLAT
    Former Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is staying in Italy after signing a new contract with AC Milan.
    The iconic star has reportedly agreed a new one-year extension with the Italian club.
    Ibrahimovic announced his return from retirement for Sweden recently as the 39-year-old prepares to lead their attack at this summer’s rescheduled European Championship.
    Credit: Reuters
    BIG SAM FEE
    Manchester United will reportedly have to pay £10m if they want to bring Sam Johnstone back to the club.
    The West Brom goalkeeper has impressed for the Baggies and United are interested in signing him.
    Credit: AFP
    Johnstone left United in 2018 but has been linked with a return after performing consistently for Sam Allardyce’s side.
    Tottenham and West Ham are also keen on the shot stopper and a summer move looks likely if West Brom fail to avoid relegation.
    GREAT SCOT
    Sir Alex Ferguson was moved to tears when Scotland qualified for the Euros.
    The legendary former Manchester United boss got emotional after watching Ryan Christie’s post-match interview after ending their long wait to reach a major tournament with victory over Serbia on penalties.
    NINTCHDBPICT000643642052Credit: The Sun
    Ferguson said: “When Serbia scored in the last minute I thought ‘Oh Christ Almighty, extra-time, no chance’. But they saw it through and dug their heels in.
    “But Davie Marshall’s save, and he didn’t even know whether they had qualified or not, and everyone is jumping on top of him.
    “And then the Ryan Christie interview. Christ, I was crying when I saw him crying. It was fantastic. You talk about a boost to the country – it was fantastic.
    “I’m sure half the country would have watched that night. We will always remember Davie Marshall’s reaction and Ryan Christie’s interview.”
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    European Super League LIVE: Real Madrid vs Chelsea may get POSTPONED – Ceferin, Celtic and Rangers British Super League

    CHELSEA’S Champions League tie with Real Madrid could be postponed, says Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin.The Slovene is furious with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and not shy of admitting it, making the comments in an interview in Slovenia.
    Meanwhile the ill-fated Super League could make way for a British Super League with Rangers and Celtic.
    SunSport can exclusively reveal that an offer to the Old Firm to join is top of the list of plans being actively discussed for reform of the Premier League.
    That means they would join Man Utd, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and all the biggest English stars for what would be a massive change to the UK sporting landscape.
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
    SUPER LEAGUE ON STANDBY
    A reminder that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is not taking no for an answer.
    Perez is adamant the European Super League is not a busted flush and simply on hold.
    Perez said: “We’re going to continue working. The project is on standby.”
    Nothing if not stubborn but will his faith in the failed proposal pay off or is he simply wasting everyone’s time?
    LAUGHING STOCK
    Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he thought it was a joke when he heard about the European Super League announcement.
    Ancelotti could not believe what he was hearing after the six Premier League clubs attempted to join the breakaway group.
    Carlo Ancelotti could not believe the Super League breakawayCredit: Reuters
    Ancelotti said: “My immediate reaction was they are joking, this is a joke!”
    “It’s a joke because it’s not going to happen. It’s impossible.
    “Sport culture in Europe is different to American sports. Not because we are right and they are wrong, but because the culture of the people is different. In America, in the USA, sport is different. Sport is entertainment.”
    ONE TO PER-GET
    Premier League clubs have no chance of signing Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland without money from the doomed European Super League.
    That is the view of deluded Real Madrid president Florentino Perez who is still desperately clinging to the remains of the money-grabbing scheme despite all six English clubs bailing on it already.
    Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with Borussia Dortmund ace Haaland.
    His agent, the controversial Mino Raiola, even embarked on a world tour to meet prospective clubs interested in the free-scoring sensation.
    And Mbappe has been linked with a Paris Saint-Germain exit too.
    The France international’s current contract with the Ligue 1 champions expires next summer and talks over a new deal have yet to bear fruit with Manchester City linked.
    NO JOSHING
    Arsenal director Josh Kroenke WILL appear at an online fans’ forum this afternoon.
    The meeting was initially postponed following the European Super League announcement that caused uproar last weekend.
    Credit: Getty – Contributor
    Following passionate protests, the ESL crumbled, but supporters are still demanding answers from those in charge.
    The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust demanded that Kroenke or his father Stan be present at the fans’ forum, as it was they who signed off on Tuesday’s ‘apology’.
    They tweeted: “Yesterday the AST along with most supporter forum members sent the following to Arsenal: The statement issued by Arsenal clearly signs off as the ‘Arsenal Board’.
    “As we know, [chief executive] Vinai Venkatesham is not on the board so who from the board will be joining us on Thursday to apologise and justify their decisions over the last few days?
    “We expect Stan Kroenke or Josh Kroenke to be present – and if they really are sorry, they can tell us themselves. It’s been confirmed that JK will be attending. We’ll be telling him exactly what we think!”
    DON’T DO IT!
    Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s aide told the UAE to stop Manchester City playing in the Super League.
    The Times reports Lord Udny-Lister, the PM’s special envoy to the Gulf, warned the country’s government that it would damage the relationship with the UK.
    City are owned by the Abu Dhabi United group controlled by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan – UAE deputy PM.
    It highlights how desperate Johnson was to derail the breakaway and highly controversial league.
    Credit: AFP
    HARRY UP!
    SunSport understands Tottenham striker Harry Kane is winning his race to be fit for the Carabao Cup final against Man City on Sunday.
    Kane sat out the 2-1 win over Southampton, as 29-year-old Ryan Mason took charge for the first time after Jose Mourinho’s sacking.

    BARC FOR GOOD?
    Barcelona will put the Super League to a vote of their members, president Joan Laporta confirmed.
    Laporta told TV3: We have a position of prudence. It is a necessity (the Super League), but the last word will be from the members. We big clubs add a lot of resources and we must talk about the division of money.
    “It must be an attractive competition, based on sporting merits. We are in favor of the national leagues and we are open to a frank dialogue with UEFA. We need more resources to make this a great show. I believe there will be an understanding.”
    It comes as Laporta’s Real Madrid counterpart Florentino Perez slammed the idea, saying: “Do I have to ask the fans every time I sign a player?”
    The Dirty DozenCredit: AFP
    LACA OPTIONS
    Mikel Arteta will have to make do without Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette against Everton on Friday night.
    Arsenal host the Toffees for the 8pm kick-off without the bulk of their first-choice frontline.
    Here’s how the Gunners could line up.

    BRIT’S A WINNER
    Fans have thrown their support behind the proposed British Super League.
    SunSport exclusively revealed last night that plans were in place for Celtic and Rangers to join an 18-team British top-flight after the European Super League crumbled.

    IT’S NOT FINE
    Uefa are reportedly considering slapping sanction on the dirty dozen after their attempts to breakaway and start the Super League.
    The Guardian reports Uefa are increasingly more inclined to punish the 12 sides involved.
    President Aleksander Ceferin has warned the rebel teams that they will ‘suffer the consequences’ of ‘their mistake’.
    Punishments could extend to bans from the Champions League next season but it remains to be seen if or what is handed down to the sides.
    MEN IN BLUE
    Chelsea are in a four-way transfer battle for wonderkid Gabriel Menino, according to reports.
    The Brazilian has attracted interest with his ‘great technical qualities’ while playing for Palmeiras.
    The Blues are long-standing admirers of Menino, and have been linked with making a £17million swoop.
    But now they’ve got competition.
    According to Calciomercato, Tottenham are also interested in the gifted midfielder, who can play at right-back.
    Menino starred as his side won the Copa Libertadores last year, being selected in the official team of the tournament.
    Credit: Getty
    STRONGER UNITED?
    Bruno Fernandes has revealed he’ll sign a new contract at Manchester United – but only if Paul Pogba does too.
    However, that might not be quite as good news as fans would have first thought.
    After all, according to the stats, United are better all over the pitch when at least one of them is NOT playing.

    SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST
    Scottish champions Rangers would survive their first season in the British Premier League – but Celtic would be RELEGATED, according to Jamie O’Hara.
    SunSport exclusively revealed the Scottish giants are wanted down south as part of a new-look Premier League.
    The radical move would put Glasgow’s big two on a level financial playing field with the rest of England’s top-flight and see them wave goodbye to Scottish football.
    Rangers and Celtic’s dreams of moving south have been blocked in the past – and they would still require the backing of at least 14 Premier League clubs, plus the FA and SFA.
    But crucially, the cross-border league would receive the backing of Fifa, Uefa and the UK Government – with an exclusive SunSport poll revealing more fans want it than don’t.
    O’Hara told talkSPORT: “Right now, if they got put in tomorrow, I think Rangers would survive, they would stay up.
    “If you put them in the Premier League now I think Rangers would stay up with Steven Gerrard in charge. They’ve had a great season. Celtic would go down, I’d put them up for relegation.”
    Credit: The Sun

    SELL BY DATE
    One of the Big Six owners is reportedly close to putting the club up for sale.
    All the mega rich owners have been slammed in the wake of the Super League debacle.
    And Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol reports one is ready to quit the club and cash in.
    Owners beginning to sit up and take notice. Hearing one owner close to throwing the towel in and putting his club up for sale— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) April 22, 2021

    RICCI RICH
    Arsenal are reportedly in competition with Leicester in the race to sign Empoli starlet Samuele Ricci in the summer.
    The 19-year-old midfielder has impressed for the Serie B outfit this term – chipping in with two goals and four assists in 29 league matches.
    And according to Tuttomercatoweb, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed as the Gunners and Foxes look to bring him to England.
    They state that both clubs have made contact with the player’s agent about a potential move at the end of the season.
    And Empoli may be forced to cash in on the Italy youth international to avoid losing him on a free in 2022 when his contract expires.
    Understood to be one of Italy’s most promising talents, Ricci has been a key player for the Blues since breaking into the first-team in September 2019.
    It has been suggested that Empoli could be willing to do business should they receive a fee in the region of £10million.
    Credit: Getty

    TAMMY BUG
    Chelsea outcast Tammy Abraham has been linked with a return to Aston Villa with the striker ‘sad and angry’ at the Blues.
    The striker has fallen out of favour since Thomas Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard in January and a Villa Park reunion is reportedly on the cards.
    Abraham, 23, has not played for the Blues since February and he wasn’t even in the squad for Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final win against Manchester City.
    The England ace does not appear to be in Tuchel’s plans and his spot in Gareth Southgate’s Euros squad is undoubtedly at risk given his lack of game time.
    As a result, his old club Villa are keeping tabs on the situation ahead of a potential summer move, according to the Birmingham Mail.
    Abraham scored 26 goals in 40 games on loan at Villa to help fire the club back to the Premier League in the 2018-19 season.
    He is said to retain several admirers at Villa Park with Dean Smith expected to target attacking reinforcements at the end of this campaign.
    Credit: EPA
    ED’S ROLLED
    Gary Lineker claimed he knows Ed Woodward resigned because of his belief in the football pyramid.
    Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman announced on Monday he will leave the club by the end of 2021.
    The news came shortly before the controversial Super League crumbled with all Big Six clubs withdrawing from the widely-panned project.
    Woodward praised his club in a statement, saying: “I am extremely proud to have served United and it has been an honour to work for the world’s greatest football club for the past 16 years.”
    He added that it will be “difficult to walk away at the end of the year” but that he is “proud of the regeneration of the club’s culture”.

    Credit: PA
    PEOPLE’S CLUBS
    Government officials are considering mandating English football to adopt the German model of majority fan ownership.
    Bundesliga teams must ensure at least a 51 per cent stake in the club is held by supporters – although there are exceptions.
    The German FA (DFB) does not allow any side where more than 49 per cent is owned by private investors to compete, unless they can meet strict rules.
    For example, 75 per cent of Bayern Munich is owned by the supporters’ club and members vote on its president, with the remaining 25 per cent split between Audi, Adidas and Allianz.
    Any team owned by a single person or company was typically formed by that entity, such as car manufacturer Volkswagen, who founded top-flight club Wolfsburg in 1945.
    Should an investor hope to take majority control of a club, they need to have consistently invested for 20 years such as Hoffenheim chief Dietmar Hopp.
    Software magnate Hopp has nonetheless faced huge criticism from rival clubs for guiding the historically small club to European football.
    Introducing such a system to English football is being mooted following the European Super League debacle.
    Credit: Getty
    SORRY STATE
    Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke and CEO Vinai Venkatesham have apologised to boss Mikel Arteta and the club’s players following the Super League debacle.
    Arteta was asked if the bigwigs had said sorry at his press conference today and he replied: “Yes. Starting from Vinai, the ownership and everybody that is involved in the process.
    “All of them, with the right intentions to defend the club and put the club in the best possible position for now and for the future, but accepting that the way it’s been handled has had terrible consequences and that it was a mistake.
    “I really have to respect that when people have genuine intentions to do the best for this football club. But if it doesn’t happen or not the right thing to do, they can stand up here and apologise.
    “I’m speaking for myself and I think the players, staff, everybody working at the club, we have to accept that and move on. The way it’s been handled has been really good internally.”
    He was pressed on if the Kroenkes had also apologised and added: “Yes, absolutely. Obviously they have the maximum responsibility of running the football club and this is what they said.
    “They apologised for disturbing the team, not having the capacity or ability to communicate in a different way earlier and explain the reasons why.
    “They wanted me to pass on the message to the players. That’s all you can ask for. The way they’ve done it, I have to accept it completely.”
    Arsenal majority shareholder Stan KroenkeCredit: Getty
    GET A GRIP
    Florentino Perez continues to cling on to his European Super League dream despite nine clubs pulling out.
    And the Real Madrid president sensationally claimed protests from Chelsea fans were STAGED.
    He told Spanish radio show El Larguero: “If anyone thinks the Super League is dead, are they wrong? Absolutely.
    “We’re going to keep working and what everyone thinks is for the best will emerge.
    “The project is on standby. The Super League still exists.”
    Perez then unbelievably suggested ‘somebody placed’ the Chelsea fans to start the protest.
    He said: “Who brought those Chelsea fans to protest? Someone moved them.”
    Credit: Reuters
    HAAL OR NOTHING
    Manchester United’s hopes of signing Erling Haaland this summer have been hit after Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc insisted their star man will stay.
    Just hours after United’s humiliating European Super League about-turn, they have been handed another hammer blow.
    Dortmund chief Michael Zorc says that the 20-year-old striker won’t be moving anywhere – even if the Germans miss out on Champions League qualification.
    Speaking to Sky Germany, Zorc said: “We made a clear statement about the Haaland cause.
    “The decision will not be made without Borussia Dortmund. No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play for us.”

    FAN FURY
    Manchester United fans today broke into the club’s training complex to protest against the failed European Super League project – armed with a banner which read ‘We decide when you play’.
    Around 20 furious supporters targeted the Aon training complex in Carrington this morning – just hours before the first team squad were due in for training.
    A Manchester United spokesman addressed the situation, confirming that boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had spoken to protesters: “At approximately 9am this morning a group gained access to the club training ground.
    “The manager and others spoke to them. Buildings were secure and the group has now left the site.”
    Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher are also understood to have spoken to fans.
    Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
    Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
    Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
    FOR REAL?
    Real Madrid chief and Super League chairman Florentino Perez slammed Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin’s claims next week’s Champions League semi-final against Chelsea could be called OFF.
    Ceferin said there was a ‘relatively small chance’ the game may not take place in wake of the Super League scandal.
    But Perez snapped back at the claims.
    He said: “Why Ceferin says that there is a small chance that Real Madrid – Chelsea won’t be played?
    “Why? I don’t understand.”
    Credit: PA
    GAME OFF?
    Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin hinted Chelsea’s Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid may be called OFF.
    The football world is reeling in the wake of the rise and fall of the Super League this week.
    And Ceferin told Slovenian outlet 24ur.com: “The key is that the season has already started, the key is for the television to claim damages against us if we don’t play the semi-finals.
    “Therefore, there is a relatively small chance that this match will not take place next week. But it will be a little different in the future.”
    Credit: Getty
    GLAZED OVER
    Manchester United fans have BLOCKED both entrances to the club’s Carrington training complex as they protest against the Glazers.
    The American owners have had an uneasy relationship with the supporters for years, with debts having mounted and Old Trafford being allowed to rust.
    And the Super League debacle has sparked a fresh wave of discontent.
    Chelsea fans barricaded stars from entering Stamford Bridge prior to their match with Brighton on Wednesday night.
    And United supporters have followed suit, blocking the entrance to the Red Devils’ AON Training Complex at Carrington.
    Banners featured the slogans ‘Glazers Out’ and ’51& MUFC’, likely advocating for Germany’s 50+1 fan ownership rule.
    Fans holding up signs of protest made it onto the first team training pitch.

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    Bruno Fernandes to SIGN new contract… if Pogba does, Glazers LATEST and Woodward resignation reaction

    BRUNO FERNANDES is ready to sign a new Manchester United contract, but only if Paul Pogba does.Meanwhile we have all the latest as the Glazer family publicly apologise for attempting to form a European Super League.
    Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
    STUCK IN THE MIDDLE
    How Manchester United have looked with and without Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes this season.

    EXCLUSIVE BY NEIL CUSTIS AND RICHARD MORIARTY
    Bruno Fernandes will commit himself to Manchester United — but only if Paul Pogba does the same.
    Fernandes sees Pogba’s future as key if United are going to make up the gap to Manchester City, with the Frenchman out of contract in 2022.
    SunSport revealed on March 10 how the club had approached Fernandes over a new double-your-money five-year contract worth £200,000 a week.
    But he did not want to enter talks until he saw the club’s ambition in the transfer market this summer, with Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho targets.
    Now he wants assurances over Pogba’s future too as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans for an assault on the title next season.
    Bruno Fernandes is waiting to see if Paul Pogba stays at Man Utd before committing himself
    EXCLUSIVE BY MARTIN LIPTON
    Celtic and Rangers are wanted to join a BRITISH League as part of the fall-out of the failed Euro breakaway plot.
    While the Big Six led the humiliating retreat from the Super League debacle, they remain convinced that reform of the Prem is essential.
    Top of the list of plans being actively discussed is an offer to the two Glasgow giants to come south of Hadrian’s Wall.
    Celtic and Rangers would jump at the chance to take a slice of the Prem cake, while their inclusion would also see a spike in interest from fans across the world, sponsors and broadcasters.
    One club source said: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
    “It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”
    Celtic and Rangers are being lined up to join a British league
    FROM SUNSPORT’S KEN LAWRENCE
    Furious fans have refused to accept grovelling European Super League apologies from the billionaire American owners of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
    Powerful supporters group Spirit of Shankly blasted: “These crocodile tears will not wash.
    “We have always asked for honesty, integrity and transparency from club owners FSG, but the arrogance and deception they have shown behind this money-grab is frightening, but not surprising.
    “We have noted John W Henry’s apology, but this PR exercise is too little, too late.
    “Our owners have thrown everyone under the bus, supporters, manager, players and staff, and humiliated themselves through sheer greed and arrogance.
    “This debacle must be a catalyst for real change, not an exercise in damage limitation.
    “We need a fundamental change in football governance, one that is fair for the whole football pyramid, not just the rapacious elite.”
    Football fans have rejected apologies from American owners including John W Henry
    RAPH AND READY
    Chelsea have reportedly joined Man Utd in the race for Raphael Varane.
    Bild claims the Real Madrid defender is on Thomas Tuchel’s shortlist as he approaches the final year of his contract.
    The Red Devils have been long-time fans of Varane, believed to be available for £50million.
    But Chelsea have now entered the running and are set to submit an enquiry for the World Cup winner.
    Chelsea will rival Man Utd for Raphael Varane
    ERL GREY
    Premier League target Erling Haaland is set to stay at Borussia Dortmund this summer.
    That’s according to sporting director Michael Zorc.
    Haaland has been linked with Man United, Man City and Chelsea after another stunning season in Germany.
    But Zorc is confident Haaland is staying put regardless of whether Dortmund qualify for the Champions League.
    Zorc said: “No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play with us.”
    Borussia Dortmund are confident Erling Haaland will stay put this summer
    EU WHAT?
    The chaos caused by the Super League shambles meant far-reaching changes to the existing European competitions passed by almost unnoticed.
    Uefa rubber-stamped its proposals, backed by national associations, for a major revamp to start from the 2024-25 season and to run for at least nine years.
    Check out the Champions League changes below…
    How the revamped tournament will look
    PS-GLEE
    PSG chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been named the new European Club Association chairman.
    He takes over from Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, one of the European Super League ringleaders.
    Agnelli resigned from the post after Sunday’s controversial announcement.
    And Al-Khelaifi has been voted in as the man to replace him.
    Breaking: Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi appointed chairman of European Club Association – replacing Andrea Agnelli who quit on Sunday— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) April 21, 2021

    CLAUD NEIN
    Claudio Ranieri has launched a scathing attack on the European Super League – insisting a similar competition would have excluded his title-winning Leicester side.
    Slamming the Premier League clubs who signed up, he said: “My Leicester team would have not played in Europe under such a system. 
    “It would have been a glaring injustice, and an insult to the values of sport.
    “These people must be kidding us. We finished first in the richest and most competitive league in the world.
    “But this European league would have told us: ‘Sorry, you can’t come in – you don’t have the right CV.’
    “It is madness, and a betrayal of one of the basic fundamentals of sport – meritocracy.
    “The beauty of football lies in the fact that the poorest clubs can always beat the stronger ones.”
    Claudio Ranieri has slammed the Prem’s Big Six over the European Super League
    RAM RAID
    European Super League plotter Florentino Perez admits Man Utd target Sergio Ramos could leave Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer.
    Perez explained: “I love him very much, but we are in a very bad situation. We have to be realistic.
    “I did not say that Ramos is not going to continue. We are thinking about finishing this season, then we will see what happens.
    “A lot of things can happen. First we are going to finish this season. We are talking to many players and many are voluntarily lowering their salary.
    “Some have already lowered it, specifically the two who have left, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard. 
    “Last year Ramos accepted. This year he is in a different situation.”
    Real Madrid admit Man Utd-linked Sergio Ramos could leave this summer
    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Prince William has had his say after England’s ‘Top Six’ withdrew from the European Super League.
    The Duke of Cambridge, who previously expressed concern at the plans, tweeted: “I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to.
    “It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels.
    “As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work.”
    I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to. It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels. As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work. W— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) April 21, 2021

    RON NOT ON WAY
    Man United legend Cristiano Ronaldo will not be returning to Real Madrid from Juventus, according to disgraced Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
    He said: “They are very good players. Lionel Messi and Cristiano. It’s a historical thing.
    “Cristiano’s return? No. He has a contract with Juventus. 
    “But it doesn’t make sense for him to come back. I love him a lot, he has given us a lot.”
    Real Madrid are not looking to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo
    GLAZE OVER
    Man Utd chief Joel Glazer has written an apology letter to fans over the disastrous European Super League.
    It read: “We got it wrong and we want to show that we can put things right.
    “Although the wounds are raw and it will take time for the scars to heal, I am personally committed to rebuilding trust with our fans and learning from the message you delivered with such conviction.
    “In seeking to create a more stable foundation for the game, we failed to show enough respect for its deep-rooted traditions and for that we are sorry.
    “This is the world’s greatest football club and we apologise unreservedly for the unrest caused during these past few days.”
    Joel Glazer has apologised for the European Super League plans
    BALLS OUT
    Boris Johnson insisted today that an investigation into football governance WILL still go ahead – despite the collapse of the European Super League last night.
    He said at PMQs today: “It’s entirely right that (former sports minister Tracey Crouch) will do a root and branch investigation into the governance of football and into what we can do to promote the role of fans in that governance.
    “I think that one of the most worrying features about the European Super League proposals is that they would have taken clubs that take their names from great, famous British towns and cities.
    “English towns and cities, and turned them just into global brands with no relation to the fans, to the communities that gave them life and that give them the most love and support.”
    Boris Johnson insisted a review of football will still go ahead
    FIXTURE SWAP
    Manchester United’s games against Liverpool and Aston Villa have been confirmed in May.

    SUMMER LOVIN’
    Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly in talks to battle it out in two pre-season friendlies this summer.
    The two humiliated clubs – who have pulled out from competing in the European Super League – both face the possibility of being unable to travel for overseas tours.
    Due to the coronavirus pandemic, both teams could miss out on playing abroad if travel restrictions remain in place.
    And according to the Mirror, United and Liverpool are in negotiations over staging lucrative friendlies ahead of the 2021-2022 season.
    They claim that a first meeting could take place at Old Trafford in late July, before Anfield hosts the second clash in early August.
    It has also been suggested that the games could be used as test events for capacity crowds ahead of the new Premier League campaign which starts on August 14.
    Reported by the Daily Mail, Jurgen Kopp’s side are not planning on competing in any friendlies abroad in the summer.
    AL OVER
    Manchester United appear to have missed out on David Alaba after it was reported he had agreed a five-year deal with Real Madrid.
    Chelsea were also linked with the Austrian who revealed he will quit Bayern Munich after 13 years this summer.
    Sky reports Alaba has signed on at the Bernabeu until 2026.
    The 28-year-old previously expressed his desire for a new challenge and is thought to have set his heart on a move to Spain.
    BULLY BOYS
    Former Manchester United player and coach Nicky Butt slammed the ‘worst case of bullying from powerful people’ and said any apologies are irrelevant after the Super League debacle.
    🗣️ “It is the worst case of bullying from powerful people”Former Man Utd player and coach Nicky Butt doesn’t expect fans to trust clubs for a long time after the Super League attempts pic.twitter.com/Sd0W9piUb1— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 21, 2021

    VICTORY FOR FANS
    Culture secretary Oliver Dowden heralded the crumbling of Super League as a ‘real victory for fans’.

    RETURN OF THE MAC
    Glazers out, McGregor in?
    Hey guys, I’m thinking about buying Manchester United! What do you think?— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) April 20, 2021

    ON BRAND
    Brandon Williams bid a hasty retreat after accidentally revelling in the European Super League’s end with a post of Liverpool celebrations.
    Fans were quick to point out that the Manchester United defender had focused his thanks on his club’s bitter rivals.
    An Instagram post of Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League bus parade went online to his one million followers on Tuesday night.
    It was captioned: “To you all 👏🏼 Everyone is equal⚽️.”
    It did not take long for 20-year-old Williams to swap out the picture for one of his own fans.
    And an image of United fans cheering on the streets was put up with a similar caption, which now emphasised that ‘we are ALL equal’.

    HIT IN THE POCKET!
    All of the Big Six have reportedly lost £8million after signing up to the Super League.
    The English clubs all rapidly pulled out of the widely slammed new competition yesterday just 48 hours after it was announced.
    The Mail reports all the ‘founder’ members had bought around £8m worht of equity stakes.
    And the clubs are also set to face financial penalties after signing contracts that committed them for three years.
    NO THANKS!
    Gary Neville revealed he took his Manchester United medals out of the club museum four years ago.
    His revelation came in response to a tweet that claimed former Red Devils captain Martin Buchan had asked for his medals back due to his outrage at the club signing up to the Super League.

    ‘EAT THEMSELVES’
    Gary Neville hopes the six rebel Premier League clubs are fined by £100million each by Real Madrid and they end up ‘eating themselves’ in the messy fallout from the European Super League.
    And fans are calling on the so-called ‘Big Six’ to be hit with a punishment within the English game.
    Neville was one of the strongest voices condemning Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and the two Manchester clubs for signing up to the 20-team breakaway franchise league.
    Fans, players, managers and pundits together made their fury known and all six made a sheepish U-turn on Tuesday night to withdraw from the ESL – less than 48 hours after their public statements signalling their intentions.
    But Neville still wants to see the Premier League sides made to pay for their initial plans which would likely have decimated the rest of English football.
    The former United and England right-back told Sky Sports: “Florentino Perez might have them on a £100m fine and I hope he does.
    “I hope Perez has got them on a massive fine to withdraw the lot of them and they basically end up eating each other.”
    COMM ON!
    Manchester United legend Gary Neville slammed the club’s Super League leaving statement as ‘quite possibly the worst communication I’ve ever seen in my life!’

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    European Super League LIVE: Rangers and Celtic British Super League EXCLUSIVE as Premier League hold talks

    THE ill-fated European Super League could make way for a British Super League with Rangers and Celtic.SunSport can exclusively reveal that an offer to the Old Firm to join is top of the list of plans being actively discussed for reform of the Premier League.
    We’re bringing you ALL of the twists and turns from this explosive story here.
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
    GREAT SCOT
    Rangers and Celtic’s rivals are thought likely to back their departure for a British Super League.
    These clubs are said to feel that the Old Firm’s departure would allow them to win the title and have a shot at qualifying for the revamped Champions League.
    Meanwhile a Premier League club source told SunSport: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
    “It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”

    NEW FIRM
    Executives at the Premier League’s top six are keen on an 18-team Premier League, in addition to inviting Celtic and Rangers, writes Martin Lipton.
    A club chief told SunSport: “We have never wavered from the belief that 18 clubs is the only sensible way forward.
    “It is also what Uefa, Fifa and the European Club Association have long called for.”
    However that proposal would likely face stiff resistance from the 14 clubs who teamed up to block the top six’s Super League plans.
    The Premier League would also be interested in introducing an MLS-style playoff system for the British Super League.

    EXCLUSIVE BY NEIL CUSTIS AND RICHARD MORIARTY
    Bruno Fernandes will commit himself to Manchester United — but only if Paul Pogba does the same.
    Fernandes sees Pogba’s future as key if United are going to make up the gap to Manchester City, with the Frenchman out of contract in 2022.
    SunSport revealed on March 10 how the club had approached Fernandes over a new double-your-money five-year contract worth £200,000 a week.
    But he did not want to enter talks until he saw the club’s ambition in the transfer market this summer, with Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho targets.
    Now he wants assurances over Pogba’s future too as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans for an assault on the title next season.
    Bruno Fernandes is waiting to see if Paul Pogba stays at Man Utd before committing himself
    EXCLUSIVE BY MARTIN LIPTON
    Celtic and Rangers are wanted to join a BRITISH League as part of the fall-out of the failed Euro breakaway plot.
    While the Big Six led the humiliating retreat from the Super League debacle, they remain convinced that reform of the Prem is essential.
    Top of the list of plans being actively discussed is an offer to the two Glasgow giants to come south of Hadrian’s Wall.
    Celtic and Rangers would jump at the chance to take a slice of the Prem cake, while their inclusion would also see a spike in interest from fans across the world, sponsors and broadcasters.
    One club source said: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
    “It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”
    Celtic and Rangers are being lined up to join a British league
    FROM SUNSPORT’S KEN LAWRENCE
    Furious fans have refused to accept grovelling European Super League apologies from the billionaire American owners of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
    Powerful supporters group Spirit of Shankly blasted: “These crocodile tears will not wash.
    “We have always asked for honesty, integrity and transparency from club owners FSG, but the arrogance and deception they have shown behind this money-grab is frightening, but not surprising.
    “We have noted John W Henry’s apology, but this PR exercise is too little, too late.
    “Our owners have thrown everyone under the bus, supporters, manager, players and staff, and humiliated themselves through sheer greed and arrogance.
    “This debacle must be a catalyst for real change, not an exercise in damage limitation.
    “We need a fundamental change in football governance, one that is fair for the whole football pyramid, not just the rapacious elite.”
    Football fans have rejected apologies from American owners including John W Henry
    ASTON VILLA 1 MAN CITY 2
    Pep Guardiola’s men are closing in on the Premier League title after a narrow 2-1 win at Villa Park.
    John McGinn put the hosts ahead with just 20 seconds on the clock in dramatic scenes.
    Phil Foden and Rodri then scored to put City 2-1 up before John Stones was sent off in the 44th minute.
    However, Villa failed to capitalise as Matty Cash saw red in the 57th minute, allowing City to hold on for the win.

    RAPH AND READY
    Chelsea have reportedly joined Man Utd in the race for Raphael Varane.
    Bild claims the Real Madrid defender is on Thomas Tuchel’s shortlist as he approaches the final year of his contract.
    The Red Devils have been long-time fans of Varane, believed to be available for £50million.
    But Chelsea have now entered the running and are set to submit an enquiry for the World Cup winner.
    Chelsea will rival Man Utd for Raphael Varane
    BILLY NO MORE
    FC Cologne have announced their iconic goat mascot has had to be put down.
    The legendary Hennes had been at every single home match for an 11-year period until 2019.
    Now he will be laid to rest after the Bundesliga side confirmed the sad news earlier.
    We are going to miss you, Hennes VIII.Our loveable goat, who was #effzeh mascot from 2008 until 2019, had to be put down due to health reasons. He was 14 years old.Rest in peace, Hennes! 😢 ❤ pic.twitter.com/3P77QkujGf— 1. FC Cologne (@fckoeln_en) April 21, 2021

    ERL GREY
    Premier League target Erling Haaland is set to stay at Borussia Dortmund this summer.
    That’s according to sporting director Michael Zorc.
    Haaland has been linked with Man United, Man City and Chelsea after another stunning season in Germany.
    But Zorc is confident Haaland is staying put regardless of whether Dortmund qualify for the Champions League.
    Zorc said: “No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play with us.”
    Borussia Dortmund are confident Erling Haaland will stay put this summer
    EXCLUSIVE BY ANDY DILLON
    Mark Warburton is close to agreeing an improved new deal as a reward for reviving QPR this season.
    Warburton has lifted Rangers into eighth place in the Championship on one of the division’s smallest budgets.
    He is also credited with the development of players such as keeper Timothy Dieng, Lyndon Dykes and winger Eberechi Eze who was sold to Crystal Palace last year for £20 million.
    Talks have been ongoing between Warburton and the club for some time and he is expected to sign new terms shortly.
    He has been at QPR since May 2019 on a rolling one-year deal and is now set to pick up a pay rise as a sign of the club’s appreciation of his work and to cement his future there.
    Warburton had been linked with the vacant England Under-21 job recently but declared he is happy at QPR.
    Mark Warburton is set for a new QPR contract
    EU WHAT?
    The chaos caused by the Super League shambles meant far-reaching changes to the existing European competitions passed by almost unnoticed.
    Uefa rubber-stamped its proposals, backed by national associations, for a major revamp to start from the 2024-25 season and to run for at least nine years.
    Check out the Champions League changes below…
    How the revamped tournament will look
    BROKE THE MALD
    AC Milan director Paolo Maldini has revealed the European Super League plotters were so secretive he knew NOTHING of the plans.
    He said: “I’m the director of AC Milan and I didn’t know anything about the Super League project.
    “I want to say sorry to the fans again. There was confusion.
    “Sport is about dreams and meritocracy: we have to take this as a lesson.
    “I have never been involved in the discussions concerning the Super League.
    “I’ve seen the news on Sunday evening with the statement of the clubs.
    “The owners decided and not me. Despite this, I want to apologise to the fans”.
    AC Milan chief Paolo Maldini claims he was left in the dark over the European Super League
    BIRDS OF A FEATHER
    Sergio Aguero will only sign a two-year deal with Barcelona if close friend Lionel Messi confirms he is staying at the Nou Camp, reports in Spain claim.
    Manchester City’s outgoing record scorer Aguero, 32, is already said to have received a draft contract from Barca.
    But AS say the 32-year-old will not formalise his move unless he knows one-club legend and Argentina team-mate Messi has ‘committed his future’.
    City and Aguero announced a month ago he would leave the Etihad in the summer on a free transfer. 
    FOLLOW ASTON VILLA VS MAN CITY WITH OUR LIVE BLOG
    Barcelona’s hopes of signing Sergio Aguero rest on Lionel Messi’s future
    SPURS 2 SOUTHAMPTON 1
    Son Heung-Min’s late penalty sealed a debut win for interim Tottenham boss Ryan Mason.
    The former Spurs player was placed in charge until the end of the season following Jose Mourinho’s sacking on Monday.
    Tottenham fell behind at home to a goal from Danny Ings, reported to have been a major target for Mourinho this summer.
    But the Londoners got back on track thanks to a delightfully curled goal from Gareth Bale.
    Sergio Reguilon was then brought down in the box late on, with Son stepping up to fire in Spurs’ winner.

    PS-GLEE
    PSG chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been named the new European Club Association chairman.
    He takes over from Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, one of the European Super League ringleaders.
    Agnelli resigned from the post after Sunday’s controversial announcement.
    And Al-Khelaifi has been voted in as the man to replace him.
    Breaking: Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi appointed chairman of European Club Association – replacing Andrea Agnelli who quit on Sunday— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) April 21, 2021

    CLAUD NEIN
    Claudio Ranieri has launched a scathing attack on the European Super League – insisting a similar competition would have excluded his title-winning Leicester side.
    Slamming the Premier League clubs who signed up, he said: “My Leicester team would have not played in Europe under such a system. 
    “It would have been a glaring injustice, and an insult to the values of sport.
    “These people must be kidding us. We finished first in the richest and most competitive league in the world.
    “But this European league would have told us: ‘Sorry, you can’t come in – you don’t have the right CV.’
    “It is madness, and a betrayal of one of the basic fundamentals of sport – meritocracy.
    “The beauty of football lies in the fact that the poorest clubs can always beat the stronger ones.”
    Claudio Ranieri has slammed the Prem’s Big Six over the European Super League
    RAM RAID
    European Super League plotter Florentino Perez admits Man Utd target Sergio Ramos could leave Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer.
    Perez explained: “I love him very much, but we are in a very bad situation. We have to be realistic.
    “I did not say that Ramos is not going to continue. We are thinking about finishing this season, then we will see what happens.
    “A lot of things can happen. First we are going to finish this season. We are talking to many players and many are voluntarily lowering their salary.
    “Some have already lowered it, specifically the two who have left, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard. 
    “Last year Ramos accepted. This year he is in a different situation.”
    Real Madrid admit Man Utd-linked Sergio Ramos could leave this summer
    WRITE AND WRONG
    Tottenham still listed Jose Mourinho as manager in their match programme for today’s clash with Southampton.
    That’s despite him being sacked on Monday and replaced by Ryan Mason!
    Former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri is favourite to replace the Special One.
    But Mourinho’s name lives on at Tottenham – on paper, anyway.
    FOLLOW SPURS VS SAINTS WITH OUR LIVE MATCH BLOG
    Jose Mourinho was named in Spurs’ programme against Southampton despite being sacked
    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Prince William has had his say after England’s ‘Top Six’ withdrew from the European Super League.
    The Duke of Cambridge, who previously expressed concern at the plans, tweeted: “I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to.
    “It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels.
    “As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work.”
    I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to. It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels. As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work. W— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) April 21, 2021

    SPUR OF THE MOMENT
    Raging Tottenham fans have protested outside their stadium with banners calling for Daniel Levy to leave the club.
    Supporters descended on the north London arena ahead of tonight’s game against Southampton.
    Fans held ‘Levy Out’ banners and also want owners, ENIC International Limited, to follow out the door.
    FOLLOW SPURS VS SAINTS WITH OUR LIVE MATCH BLOG
    Spurs fans demanded Daniel Levy leave the club this evening
    Supporters descended on their stadium ahead of the game with Southampton
    Fans are fuming about the European Super League
    RON NOT ON WAY
    Man United legend Cristiano Ronaldo will not be returning to Real Madrid from Juventus, according to disgraced Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
    He said: “They are very good players. Lionel Messi and Cristiano. It’s a historical thing.
    “Cristiano’s return? No. He has a contract with Juventus. 
    “But it doesn’t make sense for him to come back. I love him a lot, he has given us a lot.”
    Real Madrid are not looking to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo
    BLUE DEMANDS
    Chairman Bruce Buck and chief executive Guy Laurence have been told to resign by Chelsea Supporters’ Trust after withdrawing from the planned European Super League.
    A statement read: “The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust is appalled with the tone and insincerity of the statement issued by CFC today. 
    “We request a full and in-depth explanation as to why the board took the decision to turn their back on the European competition and for CFC to explain why they signed up to the Super League without prior consultation with their loyal supporters.
    “We are disappointed that an apology has not been included in the statement. The legacy of our club was put at risk for what appears to have been solely for financial gain.
    “The CST presently have little or no confidence in our current leadership at board level. On Monday, Bruce Buck extensively defended CFC’s plan to remain in the Super League at a fans’ forum meeting.
    “Buck, alongside Laurence, appears to have given no consideration towards the loyal supporters, so their positions would seem untenable moving forward.
    “Our relations with CFC will remain frayed until we have a better understanding of why this decision happened and we are assured that change and safeguards are put in place.
    “The CST will not rest until we are comfortable that change and protections are put in place, because 116 years of history was jeopardised. This is our club and will remain our club.”
    Guy Laurence and Bruce Buck are under fire from the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust
    GLAZE OVER
    Man Utd chief Joel Glazer has written an apology letter to fans over the disastrous European Super League.
    It read: “We got it wrong and we want to show that we can put things right.
    “Although the wounds are raw and it will take time for the scars to heal, I am personally committed to rebuilding trust with our fans and learning from the message you delivered with such conviction.
    “In seeking to create a more stable foundation for the game, we failed to show enough respect for its deep-rooted traditions and for that we are sorry.
    “This is the world’s greatest football club and we apologise unreservedly for the unrest caused during these past few days.”
    Joel Glazer has apologised for the European Super League plans
    SUMMER LOVIN’
    Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly in talks to battle it out in two pre-season friendlies this summer.
    Due to the coronavirus pandemic, both teams could miss out on playing abroad if travel restrictions remain in place.
    And according to the Mirror, United and Liverpool are in negotiations over staging lucrative friendlies ahead of the 2021-2022 season.
    They claim that a first meeting could take place at Old Trafford in late July, before Anfield hosts the second clash in early August.
    It has also been suggested that the games could be used as test events for capacity crowds ahead of the new Premier League campaign which starts on August 14.
    Man Utd and Liverpool could play each other twice in pre-season friendlies this summer
    NEW START
    Arsenal fans are desperate for Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to buy the club following Stan Kroenke’s involvement in the disastrous European Super League.
    The magnate, worth £8.3billion, invested in an oil refinery and claimed it would be operational this year, allowing him to focus on new projects which could include buying Arsenal.
    Dangote said in January 2020: “It is a team that yes, I would like to buy some day.
    “I’m trying to finish building the company and then after we finish, maybe some time in 2021, we can.
    “I’m not buying Arsenal right now, I’m buying Arsenal when I finish all these projects because I’m trying to take the company to the next level.”
    aliko dangote please take over Arsenal now @Arsenal ! 😭😭— M.Richards ⭐️ (@MarcusDashing) April 21, 2021

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    Aston Villa 1-2 Man City LIVE RESULT: Foden and Rodri secure City win as Stones and Cash shown red cards

    MAN CITY have beaten Aston Villa through goals from Phil Foden and Rodri.But John Stones is out of the Carabao Cup final after being sent off following a VAR review.
    Luckily for City, a second booking for Matty Cash made it 10 vs 10 at Villa Park as Pep Guardiola’s men comfortably held on for a win.
    Earlier in the game John McGinn gave Villa the lead after just 20 seconds.
    THAT’s ALL FOR TONIGHT
    That’s all from me.
    Plenty of footy still to come this week with Arsenal welcoming Everton to the Emirates on Friday.
    at the weekend, there’s plenty of Premier League action to come including a massive top-four clash between West Ham and Chelsea.
    And luckily for you guys, we’ll be covering all the big games here at SunSport!
    Goodnight.
    DEAN SMITH’s ASSESSMENT
    Aston Villa manager Dean Smith gave his thoughts to Sky Sports after the game: “Great start – we played a ball in behind with a quick free-kick which we had spoken about.
    “And then had to defend very because they had 25 minutes of wonderful football. 
    “The disappointing part for me is the manner of the goals, we know Ederson has a good strike on him and they pick up the second ball there.
    “And if you lose against Man City you want them to be working wonderfully executed goals, you don’t want to concede those kind of goals.
    “Matty Cash’s first yellow was harsh but the second one was just stupid and reckless, with them having ten men you won’t get a better chance to beat City.”
    FERNANDINHO SPEAKS
    The Man City captain was mainly asked about the Super League: “It’s been crazy since Saturday after the Chelsea defeat in the FA Cup – guys were a bit down and then on Monday the Super League comes out and we were surprised.
    “We didn’t expect it but eventually they had good sense and it was the right thing to do.
    “Everyone who loves football didn’t support the Super League including our players so we’re happy now that it’s turned around, but it was a surprise.
    “It’s a tough situation, we wanted to find out from the people at the top of the club to see the reasons why they are there with the other clubs.
    “We wanted to come out and say we are against it but we had to have a chat among the players and we all agreed to wait for the club statement, we are happy in the end because football wins.”
    FOD ‘N ROD DO THE JOB
    AFTER the week City have had last night was always going to be about Cash.
    The Etihad giants were slammed for being part of the “Dirty Dozen” who signed up for the megabucks European Super League.
    But back on the pitch they were grateful to Matty Cash whose stupid dismissal cost Aston Villa dear – and maybe Manchester United too.
    Read More: Aston Villa 1 Man City 2 Match Report
    MIDFIELD GENERAL
    Rodri put in a brilliant performance for Man City!

    FT: ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    Man City are three wins away from reclaiming the Premier League title, it will be their fifth in ten years and third in four years, if they can see the season out.
    Cash being sent off was the only bit of action we were treated to in the second half.
    The right-back received two yellow cards within a matter of minutes, chucking away Aston Villa’s advantage.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEP!
    THE FULL-TIME WHISTLE GOES AT VILLA PARK!
    MAN CITY TAKE HOME ALL THREE POINTS!
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    90+2. Man City are closing in on an important three points, putting them closer to reclaiming the Premier League title.
    A minute left to play.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    90. The fourth official holds his board up and there will be three additional minutes added on.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    89. SUBSTITUTION!
    Fernandinho comes on and replaces Mahrez, and he takes the captains armband off Gundogan for the final few minutes.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    87. Foden gets down the left-hand side and floats a cross towards the far post.
    Mahrez brings the ball down and tees up Silva.
    But the Man City No20 leans back and sends a shot comfortably wide of the target.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    85. Watkins concedes a free-kick for a foul on Walker.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    83. Some nice pass and move by Man City.
    Mahrez flicks the ball inside to Walker and continues his run down the right channel.
    The right-back plays the ball back to Mahrez who carries the ball to the byline and delivers a cross towards the far post.
    Foden tries to get on the end of it but Konsa JUST beats him to it and it remains 2-1.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    80. We’re into the final ten minutes and Man City still lead – they’ll be three points closer to reclaiming the Premier League title if they hold on.
    A win also puts them 11 points clear of city and title rivals Man Utd – but United will have a game in hand.
    To put into perspective how dominant Man City have been tonight: they’ve made 662 passes to Aston Villa’s 223.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    77. Still no real flow in the game.
    Man City are continuing to dominate the ball, but it’s all really slow and Villa aren’t putting them under any pressure.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    74. SUBSTITUTION!
    El Ghazi is on for the final 15 minutes replacing Traore.
    Gundogan of Man City goes over to take a cornerCredit: GETTY IMAGES
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    72. Dean Smith could be about to make some more changes – El Ghazi and Elmohamady have been warming up.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    70. Mahrez shows some lovely skill to slip the ball down the line for the overlapping Walker.
    Foden makes a run towards the six yard box, but the right-back hesitates and fails to find his team-mate.
    Walker then overhits his cross and a promising attack goes to waste.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    68. A rather slow last few minutes, Man City are holding onto the majority of possession.
    But when Aston Villa do get a foot on the ball, they lose it rather quickly – there’s no real flow in the game.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    66. Man City continuing to dominate the ball.
    Cash’s pointless, reckless challenge on Foden which resulted in a second yellow card, ultimately being sent offCredit: CARL RECINE – POOL/GETTY IMAGES
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    64. Good play from Man City as play is spread wide to Mahrez on the right-hand side.
    Walker overlaps, isolating Targett in a two-on-one situation.
    The right-back gets the beating of the left-back to the byline and delivers a low cross towards the near post.
    But Villa captain Mings cuts it out.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    62. SUBSTITUTION!
    Konsa concedes a foul for accidentally elbowing Laporte inside Man City’s penalty area.
    And whilst there’s a stoppage in play, Aston Villa make a substitution and it’s Nakamba making way for Barkley.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    60. Half an hour to go and Man City are leading, and both teams are down to ten men.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    57. You have to question what’s going on in Cash’s thought process, he was booked just minutes ago!
    And he’s flying in on Foden inside Man City’s half whilst already walking on a tight rope and he’s shown his marching orders.
    Stupid is the only way I can describe it.
    ASTON VILLA 1-2 MAN CITY
    55. RED CARD!
    Cash receives a second yellow for another foul on Foden! What a STUPID decision from the right-back who was only booked minutes ago!
    Both teams now have ten men…… Aston Villa had the chance to capitalise on Stones’ first half red card but they’ve blown it.
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