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      Tottenham 2-1 Southampton LIVE RESULT: Son late penalty gives Spurs crucial Premier League win

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      SON HEUNG-MIN has given Tottenham a crucial three points with a 90th minute penalty.In the first half, Danny Ings headed Southampton ahead against the North Londoners.
      But Gareth Bale equalised with a beautiful curling strike on the hour.
      And after a VAR check, Son converted from the spot to earn 29-year-old Ryan Mason, the Premier League’s youngest manager, a win in his first game.
      THAT’S ALL FROM TOTTENHAM
      Tottenham beat Southampton 2-1 after an impressive comeback in the second half at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
      Spurs were quite flat in the first half with Saints dominating and reaching an opener after 30 minutes when James Ward-Prowse’s stunning delivery from the corner found Danny Ings whose header beat Hugo Lloris.
      But the north Londoners picked up the pace in the second half and were a bit lucky as Ings hobbled off the pitch with an apparent hamstring injury.
      Tottenham equalised on 60 minutes thanks to Garethe Bale’s incredible curling shot from the edge of the box.
      Spurs thought they turned things around soon after thanks to Son Heung-min’s finisher but VAR overruled it
      Lucas Moura, who was offside, was blocking Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy’s view as he stood in front of Son.
      But VAR worked in Tottenham’s favour soon after when it awarded them a penalty following a foul by Moussa Djenepo on Sergio Reguilon inside the box.
      Son took the penalty kick after 90 minutes and beat McCarthy to score the winner on Ryan Mason’s first match in charge of the north Londoners.
      That’s all from us here at Tottenham, have a lovely night!
      GETTY IMAGES
      MASON REACTS
      Tottenham interim head coach Ryan Mason opened up about his half-time talk, Harry Kane’s injury and Gareth Bale’s influence.
      Mason said: “It was just about giving them the belief and the bravery to play and express themselves. The performance in the second half is how we want to be.
      “It’s just a case of taking it each day at a time. Harry is giving everything to be back out on the pitch, he couldn’t be today but we’ll see by the end of the week where we’re at.
      “Gareth is an exceptional player and especially when you don’t have Harry Kane you need someone who can make that difference in the final third.
      “First of all the feeling is a massive relief. It’s been a whirlwind the last two or three days but thankfully we got the win and most importantly I felt second half we were outstanding.
      “The performance, the commitment, the energy was brilliant because I thought in the first half we found it very difficult. It was quite tough to get out and they were very good. They created some chances.
      “Hugo [Lloris] pulled off two world class saves for us but I thought as the game wore on we gained control of it and I thought there was only one team that was going to win the match”
      GETTY IMAGES
      BALE REACTS
      Tottenham star Gareth Bale revealed that half-time’s team talk by young manager Ryan Mason helped them come back in the second half.
      Bale told Sky Sports: “They came at us and pushed hard in the first half.
      “Obviously we’ve only had a couple of days with the new manager to work on a couple of things.
      “At half-time we had a good chat, a few things we could improve slightly, and we controlled the game in the second half and deserved victory. We had a few positional issues and needed to be more patient on the ball.
      Obviously it was a very good team-talk at half time, and we came out in the second half to play well.
      “Some minor teething issues, but we continue to improve, we’ve got a cup final at the weekend, a few days to work, and we go from there”
      GETTY IMAGES
      MAS-IVE DEBUT
      Tottenham interim head coach Ryan Mason has already achieved something impressive.
      Mason has helped Spurs come from behind at half-time as many times as Jose Mourinho already.
      This was the former midfielder’s first game in charge of the north Londoners compared to the Portuguese gaffer’s 14 instances under these conditions.
      More below:
      1 – Tottenham Hotspur have come from behind at half-time to win as many Premier League games under Ryan Mason as they did in 14 instances under José Mourinho (W1 D2 L11). Inspired. pic.twitter.com/Jd5w8E40su— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 21, 2021

      SON-THING SPECIAL
      Tottenham star Son Heung-min has left his mark tonight thanks to his winning goal.
      Son registered his fifth goals against Southampton in one season, which is the most a player has netted against a single opponent in one campaign since the 2017-2018 season.
      Tonight’s performance also marked the forward’s 15 Premier League goal.
      The South Korea international has never had a better season since the day he joined Tottenham in 2015
      15 – Son Heung-min has scored 15 Premier League goals in 2020-21, his best ever goalscoring season in the competition. Improving. https://t.co/A0hgxpjvAV— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 21, 2021

      UPDATED TABLE
      Tottenham have climbed up to sixth place and are only two points away from Chelsea and fourth place.
      The Blues, however, have a game in hand and so do Liverpool and West Ham, who are also gunning for a top-four finish.
      Southampton, on the other hand, remain 14th with nine points still separating them from the relegation zone.
      But Saints still have a game in hand

      STATS
      Tottenham dominated 61.9 per cent of possession throughout the match.
      Spurs produced a total of 12 shots, but only three of them were on target.
      Southampton, on the other hand, registered 10 shots, with five of them on target.
      But Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was busier as he made four saves compared to Saints’ Alex McCarthy’s one
      FT: TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      Tottenham picked up an important victory over Southampton on Ryan Mason’s first match as interim head coach.
      Saints opened the scoring after 30 minutes when James Ward-Prowse’s corner-kick found Danny Ings who beat Hugo Lloris with a brilliant header.
      After a flat display in the first half, the north Londoners picked up the pace with Gareth Bale running the wings.
      Bale equalised for Tottenham on 60 minutes with an incredible curling effort from the edge of the box.
      Spurs thought they turned things around soon after when Son Heung-min striked the ball behind Alex McCarthy’s net.
      However, VAR overruled that goal as Lucas Moura, who was offside, was obstructing McCarthy’s view as he stood in front of Son.
      But the video referee redeemed Tottenham on 90 minutes as it pointed out a foul from Moussa Djenepo on Sergio Reguilon inside the box.
      Son took the penalty-kick and scored Spurs’ winner!
      GETTY IMAGES

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      AND THAT’S FULL-TIME AT TOTTENHAM!!!!!!
      TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      90+ 5 YELLOW CARD
      Eric Dier picks up a late booking for time-wasting
      TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      90+3 Tottenham are comfortable in possession after Son’s goal.
      Southampton can;t create any threats in the last few minutes
      TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      90 Six more minutes of added time to go.
      But can Southampton respond following an unipiring second half?
      GETTY IMAGES
      TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      90 This time it counts!
      Referee deems that Djenpo fouled Reguilon inside the box and points to the penalty spot.
      Son takes it on and beats McCarthy with ease

      GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!
      TOTTENHAM COME BACK WITH SON!!!!!!!
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      89 PENALTY FOR TOTTENHAM!!!!
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      88 YELLOW CARD
      Djenepo gets booked for a foul on Reguilon, which appears to be taking place inside the box.
      VAR is also checking that!
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      87 PENALTY APPEAL
      Tottenham are having a penalty shout as a corner-kick sees Adams’ header hitting Vestergaard’s arm inside the box.
      VAR is checking this!
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      85 Southampton try to create some threat down Tottenham’s box but Ward-Prowse’s free kick goes straight to Lloris’ hands.
      A draw, though, wouldn’t be too bad for Saints…
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      83 SUBSTITUTION
      Tottenham coach Mason removes his most creative player due to fatigue, it seems.
      Bale is replaced by Bergwijn
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      82 This is why Son’s goal was disallowed by VAR.
      Moura, who was offside, appears to be blocking McCarthy’s view as he stands in front of Son

      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      80 Tottenham are still looking for a winner whereas Southampton look to have lost a great deal of motivation.
      The visitors are seriously lacking some spark ever since Ings left the pitch
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      79 SUBSTITUTION
      Tottenham coach Mason shakes things up again as he introduces Lamela and brings out Lo Celso
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      77 Referee is notified by VAR and checks Son’s goal in the monitor.
      It appears like Moura, who was offside, was blocking the view as he was standing between Son and McCarthy.
      Short-lived joy for Tottenham…
      TOTTENHAM 1-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      77 NO GOAL!
      TOTTENHAM 2-1 SOUTHAMPTON
      74 Tottenham have turned things around!
      Lo Celso delivers a beautiful diagonal pass to Reguilon down the left flank, where he has been causing all sorts of problems for Southampton.
      The full-back passes to Son inside the box who sends the ball to the back of the net!

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham vs Southampton: Live stream, TV channel, teams and kick-off time for TONIGHT’S Premier League fixture

      by

      TOTTENHAM host Southampton as they look to keep their slender Champions League hopes alive.Following the sacking of Jose Mourinho, the responsibility of guiding Spurs to European football falls to 29-year-old caretaker boss Ryan Mason.
      Tottenham are looking to make a Champions League push after Jose Mourinho was sackedCredit: Reuters
      Southampton were beaten by Leicester in the FA Cup semi-finalCredit: Getty
      TOTTENHAM VS SOUTHAMPTON BETTING OFFER

      Visitors Southampton sit in mid-table and have just pride to play for after losing the FA Cup semi-final to Leicester by a single goal.
      What time does Tottenham vs Southampton kick off?

      What TV channel is Tottenham vs Southampton on and can I live stream it?

      Tottenham vs Southampton is live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.
      Coverage commences at 5.30pm – half an hour before kick-off.
      To stream the game live, head to your Sky Go account.
      Non-Sky Sports subscribers can still watch all the action with a Now TV Day Pass from £9.99.

      Team news
      𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 ⚪️ Lloris (C), Aurier, Alderweireld, Dier, Reguilon, Hojbjerg, Lo Celso, Ndombele, Bale, Lucas, Son. #THFC ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/ZRWIzrQSQg— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 21, 2021

      Latest odds
      Tottenham 4/5
      Draw 27/10
      Southampton 10/3
      SOUTHAMPTON SUBS
      Forster, Stephens, Redmond, Djenepo, Minamino, Diallo, N’Lundulu, Ferry, Jankewitz
      TOTTENHAM SUBS
      Hart, Sanchez, Winks, Lamela, Sissoko, Alli, Bergwijn, Tanganga, Vinicius
      SOUTHAMPTON XI
      1 McCarthy; 2 Walker-Peters, 35 Bednarek, 4 Vestergaard, 22 Salisu; 32 Walcott, 8 Ward-Prowse, 17 Armstrong, 23 Tella; 10 Adams, 9 Ings

      TOTTENHAM XI
      1 Lloris; 24 Aurier, 4 Alderweireld, 15 Dier, 3 Reguilon; 5 Hojbjerg, 18 Lo Celso, 28 NDombele; 9 Bale, 27 Moura, 7 Son
      𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 ⚪️ Lloris (C), Aurier, Alderweireld, Dier, Reguilon, Hojbjerg, Lo Celso, Ndombele, Bale, Lucas, Son. #THFC ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/ZRWIzrQSQg— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 21, 2021

      THE TEAM SHEETS ARE IN!!!
      ESL ANGER
      A small group of Tottenham fans are protesting outside the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
      They are heard chanting, “We want our Tottenham back” and “Levy out”.
      Chairman Daniel Levy shared a statement after Spurs’ withdrawal from the European Super League.
      Levy said: “We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal.
      “We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid.
      “We believe that we should never stand still and that the sport should constantly review competitions and governance to ensure the game we all love continues to evolve and excite fans around the world.
      “We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions”

      OUT OF THEIR LEAGUE
      Tottenham were among the 12 clubs that shocked the world of football when they announced their intention to break away and form the controversial European Super League.
      Spurs joined fellow “big six” clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United along with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.
      All six Premier League sides withdrew from the proposed format, which sparked worldwide anger, on Tuesday with City and the Blues being the first to pull out.
      Inter and Milan followed soon after and that marked the beginning of the end for what many described as a “closed-shop” competition.
      An announcement from the European Super League then followed stating that plans have been suspended
      Tottenham fans were among those who passionately protested against that intiative
      GETTY IMAGES
      GOOD AFTERNOON FROM TOTTENHAM
      Welcome to our live coverage of the Premier League clash between Tottenham and Southampton at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
      Spurs were among the 12 teams that announced their intention to break away and form the European Super League, a move that brought the world of football to some rage-filled disarray.
      However, the north Londoners along with the rest of the Premier League’s “big six” pulled out of the controversial format, which was condemned by governing bodies, fans, players, legends, pundits and journalists alike.
      But that wasn’t the only crisis Tottenham have endured the last three days as manager Jose Mourinho was let go on Monday following a series of poor results.
      Former player Ryan Mason has taken over as interim head coach for the time being at the young age of 29 years old.
      Mason’s coaching debut won’t be without problems as star striker Harry Kane is likely to miss out due to an ankle injury he suffered in Mourinho’s last game in charge against Everton last week.
      Ben Davies is also still sidelined due to an ankle issue of his own but Matt Doherty is back in contention after overcoming a muscle problem.
      Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl will welcome back Liverpool loanee Takumi Minamino, who was cup-tied and therefore couldn’t play last week in the FA Cup semi-final loss to Leicester at Wembley.
      Michael Obafemi has returned to training after a muscle injury he suffered four months ago but Oriol Romeu and William Smallbone remain sidelined with an ankle and knee injury respectively
      GETTY IMAGES
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      in Soccer

      European Super League LIVE: Latest updates as Chelsea, Arsenal, Man Utd, Man City, Liverpool and Spurs ALL pull out

      by

      THE European Super League is in tatters with EVERY Premier League club confirming they have pulled out. After a dramatic 48 hours, the project appears to be doomed with all six Prem clubs announcing they have dropped out.
      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…
      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

      FEELING BLUE
      Thomas Tuchel has revealed exiled striker Tammy Abraham is ‘worried, sad and angry’ about his Chelsea situation.
      The England striker hasn’t featured since a 1-1 draw with Southampton on February 20 and was left out of the squad for the FA Cup semi-final win over Manchester City and missed Tuesday’s 0-0 draw with Brighton.
      The German boss said: “Everybody is concerned when they’re not in the squad but it’s never an easy decision for me to take.
      “I have a lot of sympathy for him and I can understand that he is worried and sad and maybe angry with me when I make these decisions.
      “Sometimes we spend almost an hour talking after the last training which decisions to take and which players we have to leave at home because it’s thin margins which decide.
      “Tammy has had this decision now a few times against him which is never personal but this is life at Chelsea sometimes as a player.
      “I hope that he does not get lost in too many thoughts because he knows not to be too concerned about his situation.
      “Everything he can do is stay focused and stay with belief because the situation for a striker can change in minutes. We have an important training coming up and my decisions are not made yet.”
      Credit: AFP
      FLOR-GET ABOUT IT
      Cristiano Ronaldo will not be returning to Real Madrid, according to disgraced Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
      Ronaldo has been heavily linked with a Real return having cemented himself as one of the greatest players in history at the Bernabeu between 2009 and 2018.
      It is suggested Juve will sell him this summer to balance the books and recent reports claimed Los Blancos were planning an emotional reunion.
      But during a farcical interview in which Perez, 74, tried to defend the money-grabbing European Super League, he was asked whether the Portuguese would be re-signed.
      Perez replied: “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.”
      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.
      Ex-sports minister Tracey Crouch will do a “root and branch” probe into how footie is ruled and how fans can best be represented, the PM vowed this lunchtime.
      The PM said today it was essential that the investigation continues – after all six English clubs pulled out last night – killing the project before it could really begin.
      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.”
      Bashing the proposed new Super League project, which was slammed by politicians and fans alike, he added: “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.”
      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.
      GUESS WHO’S BACK
      Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appeared to hint he was too hasty to quit Twitter.
      Aubameyang said: “Got a bit too emotional last night.
      “Bottom line is – yesterday was a big day for football and our fans and an even bigger day for social justice.”
      Got a bit too emotional last night. Bottom line is – yesterday was a big day for football and our fans and an even bigger day for social justice ⚽️❤️✊🏾— AUBA⚡️ (@Auba) April 21, 2021

      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’.

      JUVE HAD IT
      Juventus have admitted defeat on the Super League despite chairman Andrea Agnelli’s core role.
      Just Barcelona and Real Madrid are yet to pull out of the controversial project.
      A club statement read: “In this context, while Juventus remains convinced of the soundness of the project’s sport, commercial and legal premises, it believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived.
      “Juventus remains committed to pursuing the creation of long-term value for the Company and the entire football industry.”
      RED WITH RAGE
      Arsenal fans in charge of the club’s popular Reddit channel have cut official ties with the Premier League team.
      In the fallout from the Gunners’ controversial commitment to the failed European Super League, supporters have voiced their anger.
      Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has faced calls to sell up and leave North London over his role in signing the club up.
      And the latest group to make their voice heard is the r/Gunners subreddit that provides a virtual forum for thousands of fans.
      Previously, the channel’s moderators had collaborated with the club to arrange Ask Me Anything (AMA) chats between players and fans.
      Arsenal were also given permission to take subreddit comments to be discussed in their post-match The Breakdown show, which regularly attracts tens of thousands of viewers.
      But the ESL debacle has led to the subreddit cutting its official ties with the club and releasing a pointed statement.
      Arsenal Reddit Statement
      “The Gunners subreddit has been at the forefront of Reddit relationships with their club. We’d like to address that.
      “This has been a hard time for all of us… As fans of the beautiful game and fans of Arsenal as a whole.
      “We, as a moderation team, have decided that in the best interest of keeping football as the sport by the fans, for the fans, will hereby retract our relationship with Arsenal.
      “Effective immediately our tactics and analysis thread, from which the club were allowed to take content for The Breakdown, will now simply serve as a ‘serious’ match thread alternative as was originally requested from you guys.
      “We will ask the club to not use content from this thread for their show from this point on. On top of that, we will be declining player AMAs.
      “The tactics and analysis post was originally created as a product of our relationship with Arsenal but we understand people find a use for this thread and see it’s independent value so, instead of scrapping it as a whole, it will just undergo some small changes.”

      PLAYING POLITICS
      Andrea Agnelli blamed politicians for getting involved and helping to break up the Super League.
      The Juventus chairman was a key founder in the crumbling project which was announced to uproar on Sunday.
      England’s Bix Six all pulled out on Tuesday after widespread fan fury.
      And he told Reuters: “I have had speculation to that extent that if six teams would have broken away and would have threatened the EPL (Premier League), politics would have seen that as an attack to Brexit and their political scheme.”
      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’.

      TURN THE AC OFF
      AC Milan are the latest club to ditch the Super League.
      A club statement read: “We accepted the invitation to participate in the Super League project with the genuine intention to deliver the best possible European competition for football fans around the world and in the best interest of the club and our own fans.
      “Change is not always easy, but evolution is necessary for progress, and the structures of European football have evolved and changed over the decades.
      “However, the voices and the concerns of fans around the world have clearly been expressed about the Super League, and AC Milan must be sensitive to the voice of those who love this wonderful sport.
      “We will continue to work hard to deliver a sustainable model for football.”

      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.
      SUPER LEAGUE RECAP
      Blink and you would’ve missed it!

      EFL STATEMENT
      The EFL has backed the Big Six’s withdrawal from the Super League and released the following statement.
      EFL STATEMENT IN FULL ON SUPER LEAGUE
      The EFL welcomes the decision made by six English Premier League teams to withdraw intentions to join a European Super League.
      With widespread opposition met at home and abroad, including from the EFL, these divisive proposals threatened the sporting principles of the football pyramid that our founding members pioneered over a century ago.
      Across the globe, people in and outside of the game spoke up when it counted. The EFL is heartened by the response and remain proud to be part of a unified footballing system that promotes open competition, gives everybody a chance to dream and continues to inspire generations of young people in the communities from where our Clubs take their name.
      The message is clear that the pyramid must be protected above all. The European Super League failed in part due to a model of distorted and unfair financial distributions, a criticism that can also be levelled at the current financial model in our own domestic game.
      The EFL hopes the same enthusiasm can be immediately directed to achieve appropriate and much needed change to the distribution of wealth in our domestic leagues, and we will work with all parties to push for this reform.
      By resetting economically, we can support all Clubs in achieving a sustainable future, promoting the principles that so many have fought for.
      Reforms must also consider UEFA’s own Champions League restructuring which pose an existential threat to our competitions, including the League Cup, which provides vital income to EFL Clubs and is the breeding ground for stars of the future.
      The EFL will embrace the Government’s fan-led review and confirm we will contribute fully to help shape any decisions taken and ensure they are made in the best interests of supporters and the Clubs that we represent.

      RIGHT RESULT FOR FOOTBALL
      Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the Big Six quitting the Super League.
      The PM said ‘we must continue to protect our cherished national game’.
      I welcome last night’s announcement. This is the right result for football fans, clubs, and communities across the country. We must continue to protect our cherished national game.— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 21, 2021

      TRUST ISSUE
      Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli slammed the state of the football industry despite calling time on the controversial project.
      Agnelli told Reuters: “If you tell me other methods for putting together such projects … if you were to ask the authorisation of others, I don’t think you would have carried out a project like this.
      “The relations are there, I have seen relations changing in time, some people I am quite sure that people will be open and talk to each other.
      “I don’t think our industry is a particularly sincere, trustworthy or reliable one in general.”
      GOLDENBALLS TO SUPER LEAGUE
      Even Florentino Perez’s own Real Madrid stars showed their discontent at the Super League.
      Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez, Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola all ‘liked’ David Beckham’s critique of the plot, as spotted by Marca.
      The England legend decried the game being ‘in danger’ as the ESL proposals emerged – before spectacularly collapsing under the weight of fan criticism.
      Los Blancos club president Perez, recently re-elected to 2025, spearheaded the operation financed by US bank JP Morgan.
      The 74-year-old cited the supposedly declining interest of young people in football as one key reason behind the ESL.
      But there was a sense of irony as the man who shot to fame through his Galactico transfers was called out by two of his most iconic signings with Luis Figo also panning the project.
      The Portuguese said: “This so called ‘Super League’ is anything but ‘Super’.
      “This greedy and callous move would spell disaster for our grassroots, for women’s football, and the wider football community only to serve self-interested owners, who stopped caring about their fans long ago, and complete disregard for sporting merit. Tragic.”
      Credit: AFP
      MORE CLUBS OUT!
      Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan have confirmed they are OUT of the crumbling Super League.
      They join the Big Six English clubs who all ditched the highly controversial project on Tuesday night.
      Atleti say the team and boss Diego Simeone are both happy with the decision to quit and that sporting merit is the most important thing.
      ‘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.”
      TOO MUCH AG
      Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli still believes in the beauty of the Super League project despite it is now workable after the Big Six quit.
      “I remain convinced of the beauty of the [ESL] project”Juventus president Andrea Agnelli says the European Super League cannot go ahead without England’s big six, but he still believes it is the way forward pic.twitter.com/dIrgpue7lz— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) April 21, 2021

      JOHN YOUR BIKE
      Liverpool owner John W Henry is refusing to sell the club amid the European Super League fiasco despite widespread calls for him to get out.
      Reds legend Jamie Carragher is one of thousands of Liverpool fans calling for the American to leave but the billionaire has dug his heels in and said: “My work is not done.”

      Henry was one of the main protagonists in the group whose plans threatened to destroy football and caused widespread outrage.
      However the Reds joined their Big Six counterparts in backing out of the closed shop franchise league on Tuesday night.
      Liverpool eventually released a video from the Fenway Sports Group chief on Wednesday morning in which Henry finally apologised for dragging the Reds’ name through the mud but also included a clear message regarding the future.
      He said: “More than a decade ago when we signed up with the challenges associated with football, we dreamed of what you dreamed of.
      “And we’ve worked hard to improve your club. Our work isn’t done.”
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      Man Utd OUT of European Super League, Ed Woodward RESIGNS, Glazers LATEST, Sir Alex Ferguson and Beckham speak out

      by

      ED WOODWARD has sensationally resigned as Man Utd executive vice-chairman with Man Utd confirming they are out of the European Super League project. It follows a monumental day where Man City and Chelsea had earlier left the scheme.
      Club legends Sir Alex Ferguson and David Beckham had earlier come out and slammed the ESL plans.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      THE FALL OF THE ESL
      Man City and Chelsea sparked the collapse of the cursed European Super League in a glorious victory for people power.
      The two Prem giants were the first of the hated Big Six to wave the white flag and condemn the £4.6billion breakaway to an early grave.
      They were later followed by Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham and Manchester United, while Spanish clubs Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also pulled out less than two days after announcing their despised scheme.
      City issued a statement just hours after boss Pep Guardiola had ridiculed the plans, branding them “not sport”.
      It read: “City have formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.”
      Within hours Liverpool issued their own statement which read: “Our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.”
      It followed pressure from Reds skipper Jordan Henderson and the rest of the first team squad who tweeted: “We don’t like it and we don’t want it to happen.”
      United, who with Liverpool were chief ringleaders of the plot, issued their own statement: “We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders.”
      Arsenal and Spurs then issued their own grovelling apologies with the Gunners insisting they had only signed up so they were not “left behind”.
      Arsenal said: “The response from supporters in recent days has given us time for further reflection and deep thought.
      “It was never our intention to cause such distress.
      “We didn’t make the right decision here, which we fully accept.
      “We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.”
      Spurs chairman Daniel Levy added: “We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal.
      “We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions.”
      The evening began with hundreds of protesting Chelsea fans blocked roads around Stamford Bridge which led to the delay of last night’s 0-0 draw with Brighton.
      Blues legend Petr Cech had to calm fans and told them: “Give us time.”
      Then boss Thomas Tuchel announced: “I trust my club to take the right decisions.
      “The owners know this game is about competition.”
      Before the game, Blues bosses were preparing to draft their letter of resignation, while City had already told Super League bosses they were out.
      Wembley chiefs, backing the Prem and supported by PM Boris Johnson, had promised the other 14 top-flight clubs they would refuse permission for the Big Six to join the rebel league.
      Former England skipper Gary Lineker rejoiced: “We’ve got our ball back”.
      The FA and Uefa welcomed the news after English football’s ruling body earlier threatened not to sanction any of the Super League games on English soil.
      They said: “It was a proposition that could have divided our game but instead it has unified us.
      “We would like to thank the fans for their influential voice during this time.”
      Earlier, former Prem boss Richard Scudamore was spotted going into the League’s Paddington HQ ahead of a virtual club meeting which saw Spurs chairman Daniel Levy castigated despite admitting to being “shaken” by the national backlash.
      WRIGHT-ING ON THE WALL
      Ian Wright has called for Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke to LEAVE the club.
      Arsenal joined the other five rebel Premier League clubs in pulling out of the proposed European Super League.
      Ed Woodward announced he will step down as Manchester United’s chief executive at the end of the year.
      But Arsenal fans have called for Kroenke’s exit – and have the backing of club legend Wright.

      THEY THINK ITS ALL OVER
      All six English clubs have now quit the hated European Super League in a massive victory for fan power.
      Old Trafford chief executive Ed Woodward also resigned, while Arsenal, Spurs, United and Liverpool quit the £4.6billion project.
      Chelsea were the first to do so, with Manchester City following after.
      Massive protests by Chelsea supporters outside Stamford Bridge last night delayed their game against Brighton.

      ARSENAL CONFIRM ESL EXIT
      A statement read: “The last few days have shown us yet again the depth of feeling our supporters around the world have for this great club and the game we love.
      “We needed no reminding of this but the response from supporters in recent days has given us time for further reflection and deep thought.
      “It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future.
      “As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.
      “We know it will take time to restore your faith in what we are trying to achieve here at Arsenal but let us be clear that the decision to be part of the Super League was driven by our desire to protect Arsenal, the club you love, and to support the game you love through greater solidarity and financial stability.
      “Stability is essential for the game to prosper and we will continue to strive to bring the security the game needs to move forward.
      “The system needs to be fixed. We must work together to find solutions which protect the future of the game and harness the extraordinary power football has to get us on the edge of our seats.
      “Finally, we know this has been hugely unsettling at the end of what has been an incredibly difficult year for us all.
      “Our aim is always to make the right decisions for this great football club, to protect it for the future and to take us forward. We didn’t make the right decision here, which we fully accept.
      “We have heard you.”
      As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 20, 2021

      SPURS CONFIRM ESL EXIT
      A statement read: “We can confirm that we have formally commenced procedures to withdraw from the group developing proposals for a European Super League (ESL).”
      Chairman Daniel Levy said: “We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal. We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid.
      “We believe that we should never stand still and that the sport should constantly review competitions and governance to ensure the game we all love continues to evolve and excite fans around the world.
      “We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions.”
      We can confirm that we have formally commenced procedures to withdraw from the group developing proposals for a European Super League (ESL).#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 20, 2021

      SPUR OF THE MOMENT
      Following the news Chelsea, Man City, United and Liverpool have also pulled out of the proposed European Super League, Tottenham and Arsenal are set to follow.
      It would mean all six Premier League sides who announced plans to move into the rebel breakaway ESL would have cancelled plans.
      The Athletic report Arsenal are no longer looking to be involved, and according to Football.London, neither are Spurs.
      Understand Spurs have begun the process to withdraw from the Super League.— Alasdair Gold (@AlasdairGold) April 20, 2021

      MAN DOWN
      Manchester United have also confirmed they will no longer pursue a move into the proposed European Super League.
      It comes following the news City, Liverpool and Chelsea were also pulling out of the rebel breakaway ESL season.
      A United statement read: “Manchester United will not be participating in the European Super League.
      “We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders.
      “We remain committed to working with others across the football community to come up with sustainable solutions to the long-term challenges facing the game.”
      We will not be participating in the European Super League.#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2021

      POOL OUT
      Liverpool have confirmed they will no longer pursue a move into the proposed European Super League.
      It comes following the news Manchester City and Chelsea were both also pulling out of the rebel breakaway ESL season.
      Liverpool’s statement read: “Liverpool Football Club can confirm that our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.
      “In recent days, the club has received representations from various key stakeholders, both internally and externally, and we would like to thank them for their valuable contributions.”
      CITY BREAK
      Man City were the last of the initial six Prem clubs and the 12th in all to sign up to aplan hatched by Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester United and funded by US investment giant JP Morgan.
      Like Chelsea, who are in the process of preparing their withdrawal documents, the Etihad outfit were understood to feel they had no option other than to join the breakaway.
      That was despite both clubs’ hierarchies harbouring doubts over the project.
      But the fear of missing out on a huge tranche of the initial £3bn joining pot and minimum £130m per year on offer saw both clubs take a bite out of the carrot.
      City’s concerns have grown over the past 24 hours, with the backlash intensifying as fans groups castigated the rebel clubs.
      FOOTBALL SAVED
      The European Super League lies in tatters this evening as Chelsea and Manchester City QUIT with Arsenal set to follow.
      The FA, Uefa and Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined in the chorus of joy as ESL plans crumbled, while Manchester United confirmed executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is QUITTING “at the end of 2021”.
      It is also believed that Atletico Madrid have pulled out of the 12-club rebel league, while Barcelona have said they will put the proposal to their fans before deciding.
      In what will be a potentially fatal blow to the £4.6billion scheme, Man City chiefs decided they could no longer be party to the plans that have rocked football to its very foundations.
      And in a brief statement, the club confirmed: “Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.”
      Uefa president, Aleksander Ceferin welcomed City “back to the European football family”.
      WHAT A TONIC
      Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have taunted the European Super League by TOASTING its spectacular collapse.
      Fans’ mass protests brought the 12-club, closed-shop league crashing down as suddenly it was announced just three days.
      And Manchester United legend Neville was followed by ex-Liverpool hero Jamie Carragher in posting joyous photos on social media as they drinked to the ESL’s sudden demise.
      Both particularly condemned their own club’s owners, with “disgusted” Nev one of the most outspoken critics of the “criminal act”.
      Fans from all across the country quickly lapped up the duo’s celebrations of the Tuesday night U-turn.

      RED DANGER
      Share prices in the Red Devils have CRASHED amid Tuesday night’s European Super League chaos.
      Sky Sports reporter Bryan Swanson revealed that United’s share prices have gone done dramatically.
      Shares were down 6.60 per cent at 16.12 USD this afternoon.

      ENDFIELD
      Liverpool owner John Henry has been warned there’s no way back for him by Graeme Souness.
      And the ex-Reds player and manager warned that the relationship between the board and Anfield faithful will be ‘damaged forever’.
      Souness said on Sky Sports: “It’s been so underhanded, these are relationships that will take some mending.
      “The biggest one is not chairman to chairman – it’s chairman to supporters.
      “I know what Scousers are like. The will not forgive John Henry for this. I can’t see how he gets back from this.”
      SIMPLY DE BEST
      Kevin de Bruyne speaks out following the news Man City will walk away from the proposed European Super League.

      HEADS WILL ROLL
      Ed Woodward resigning from Manchester United is ‘just the beginning’ of European Super League fallout, Graeme Souness reckons.
      Souness thinks there will be more casualties given how bosses had kept their plans quiet for months before Sunday’s bombshell announcement.
      He said: “For six to nine months, they’ve been playing the game knowing that next season it won’t apply to them.
      “These chairmen have been going to meetings knowing their intention was to pull out of the Premier League.
      “It’s outrageous. How do they correct that situation? How can they ever go to one of these meetings ever again and sit there and be taken seriously?
      “Ed Woodward is just the beginning.”
      “Woodward was just the beginning. Lots of them have to go.”Graeme Souness questions whether the senior figures at the ‘Big Six’ clubs can be ‘taken seriously’ at Premier League meetings after they were prepared to join a breakaway Super League…💬 pic.twitter.com/EE3cOVCwRN— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 20, 2021

      STERLING JOB
      Raheem Sterling has reacted to the news Man City officially confirmed their intentions to walk away from the proposed European Super League.

      CITY OF LOVE
      UEFA President, Aleksander Ceferin welcomed the withdrawal of Manchester City from the breakaway closed league project.
      He said: “I am delighted to welcome City back to the European football family.
      “They have shown great intelligence in listening to the many voices – most notably their fans – that have spelled out the vital benefits that the current system has for the whole of European football; from the world beating Champions League final right down to a young player’s first coaching session at a grassroots club.
      “As I said at the UEFA Congress, it takes courage to admit a mistake but I have never doubted that they had the ability and common sense to make that decision.
      “City are a real asset for the game and I am delighted to be working with them for a better future for the European game.”
      NO AVERAGE JOE
      Manchester United’s co-chairman Joe Glazer has spoken out after Ed Woodward’s depature from the club.
      He said: “Ed Woodward has served the club with great distinction.
      “On behalf of everyone at United I would like to place on record our sincere thanks for his tireless work and dedication.
      “His contribution to the club has been massive, and he will always be welcome at Old Trafford as a part of the Manchester United family.”

      CITY BREAK
      Manchester City have officially confirmed their intentions to walk away from the proposed European Super League.
      Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.

      ED WOODWARD’S STATEMENT IN FULL
      Ed Woodward said:“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.
      “The club is well positioned for the future and it will be difficult to walk away at the end of the year.
      “I will treasure the memories from my time at Old Trafford, during a period when we won the Europa League, the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. I am proud of the regeneration of the club’s culture and our return to the Manchester United way of playing.
      “We have invested more than £1bn in the squad during my time here and I am particularly delighted with the progress the players have made under the astute leadership of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his coaching team in the last two years.
      “I am sure that with the changes we have made on-field and to the coaching and football staff in recent years this great club will soon be lifting silverware again. It deserves to. 
      “I desperately wanted the club to win the Premier League during my tenure and I am certain the foundations are in place for us to win it back for our passionate fans.
      “Our world-famous academy is flourishing again, with 34 players progressing into the first team since 2013, and it has been a pleasure to watch talents such as Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Axel Tuanzebe flourish in the first team environment.
      “In the years to come the club’s production line of young talent will continue to push established first team players for their places. That competition bodes well for the future.
      “We have also established Manchester United women and their progress is further evidence of the demand for success at this great club.
      “The last 16 months have brought so many unique challenges and the club’s work in the community and around the world during the Covid-19 pandemic has been heroic.
      “The financial impact on football clubs has been severe, but United have been one of the most robust and resilient in the face of extraordinary financial pressures. 
      “I would like to thank United’s passionate fans for their support during the good and bad times. I know this has been a challenging period in our history, but your support for the team has never, ever been in doubt.
      “Finally, it has been a pleasure to work with so many magnificent, talented and hard-working people.”
      FIRE BURNING
      Sevilla appear to be relishing in the madness and fallout of the proposed European Super League.
      The Spaniards – who had confirmed the would not be participating in the rebel ESL – posted a GIF to poke fun at the situation.

      JOHN TOP OF IT
      Prime Minster Boris Johnson hailed Chelsea and Man City after it was reported they have decided to walk away from the proposed European Super League.
      Johnson tweeted: “The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is – if confirmed – absolutely the right one and I commend them for it.
      “I hope the other clubs involved in the European Super League will follow their lead.”
      The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is – if confirmed – absolutely the right one and I commend them for it.I hope the other clubs involved in the European Super League will follow their lead.— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 20, 2021

      LIVERPOOL SPEAK OUT
      The Premier League champions, through Jordan Henderson, have voiced their opposition against the proposed European Super League.
      He wrote: “We don’t like it and we don’t want it to happen.
      “This is our collective position.
      “Our commitment to this football club and its supporters are absolute and unconditional.
      “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

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      Chelsea 0 Brighton 0 LIVE REACTION: Lallana and Welbeck denied late winner as Blues held to goalless draw at the Bridge

      by

      CHELSEA and Brighton played out a drab goalless draw after the Blues sensationally quit the European Super League in the build-up.
      Final score: Chelsea 0-0 Brighton

      Follow all the latest reaction with our live blog below…

      Chelsea vs Brighton SPECIAL OFFER: Get £20 risk free bet

      GOODBYE
      It’s over.
      As another dramatic day comes to an end so too does the nightmare that football fans have been staring down for the past 48 hours.
      The proposed European Super League due to feature six of England’s richest clubs is poised for the scrapheap following the withdrawal of its Premier League components.
      The news had broken across a night that started with fierce protests from Chelsea supporters outside of Stamford Bridge ahead of their home game with Brighton.
      With the team unable to make it through the crowds, the Chelsea board took note and began the process of pulling out. It set the dominos tumbling, and soon others followed suit.
      To a backdrop of fan power outside the ground, Chelsea and Brighton then played out a dreary goalless draw inside an empty stadium. While not the most important event of the day, it could be a crucial point for both come the end of the season in their respective battles for Champions League football and Premier League survival.
      Normally, I’d leave you with the match report but tonight it seems more fitting to feature the front page success story that is all six Premier League giants pulling out of European Super League.
      Goodnight.

      SUPER LEAGUE SUSPENDED
      Following the withdrawal of all six English clubs, it is being reported that the Super League project is set to be formally suspended this evening.
      Good, and take your rubbish logo with you.
      ENGLISH SIDES WITHDRAW
      The European Super League project is over.
      We did it.
      Football won. Football fans won.
      Liverpool Football Club can confirm that our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 20, 2021

      We can confirm that we have formally commenced procedures to withdraw from the group developing proposals for a European Super League (ESL).#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 20, 2021

      We will not be participating in the European Super League.#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2021

      As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 20, 2021

      LALLANA RELIEVED
      Brighton’s Adam Lallana revealed that the news of clubs withdrawing from the Super League earlier this evening helped to lift a sick feeling from his stomach. The midfielder paid tribute to his side’s performance, and added that these kind of surprise results are what the game is about.
      That is what football is about – the underdogs. We were outstanding and should have taken three points. Together we are stronger. It is great to see everyone coming together as one. We want games like this to have meaning.Adam LallanaSky Sports
      “He leads all the captains and the football club.”Adam Lallana praises Jordan Henderson’s leadership and ‘all the football clubs’ for coming together to ‘hopefully put the Super League to bed’. pic.twitter.com/xiNS8gmosR— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 20, 2021

      FAN POWER
      Few impressed in Chelsea blue during the match this evening, but their fans certainly made their mark prior to kick-off.
      Their protests in opposition to their club’s decision to join a European Super League, be it directly or indirectly, led to the news that Chelsea are formally withdrawing from the project.

      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CHARGE
      It’s widely believed that Chelsea have formally begun procedures to withdraw from the Super League, and an official statement is expected from the club tomorrow.
      And so it’s back to competitive football, and the race for a place in the top four to seal Champions League football. A point this evening has moved the Blues above West Ham and into fourth, but it’s getting very tight at the top.
      Only three points separate Leicester in third and Liverpool in sixth, while a win for Everton in their game in hand will have them back in the mix. Even Tottenham, currently five points off the pace are not out of the running now they are free of Jose Mourinho’s shackles.

      SANCHEZ’S SAFE HANDS
      Another clean sheet for Robert Sanchez means that the Brighton goalkeeper has now kept nine in his first 21 Premier League appearances.
      His 43% clean sheet ratio is the best of any other Brighton goalkeeper to have played in the competition, and almost double that of Mat Ryan (22%) and David Button (25%).

      FULL TIME STATS
      Chelsea seven shots against Brighton were their lowest they have managed in a Premier League game since Thomas Tuchel took charge.

      FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL
      A dreary game, but an excellent point for Brighton in their battle to avoid the drop.
      The draw takes Brighton seven points clear of Fulham while still holding a game in hand over the 18th-placed Cottagers. The Seagulls travel to Sheffield United at the weekend.

      FT: CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      The football took a back seat to developments off the pitch this evening which is just as well because this game was a washout. The best chances fell to the visitors late on as a result of Chelsea carelessness, but Adam Lallana was off target while Danny Welbeck clattered the post. A fine defensive performance from Brighton’s Ben White was marred in stoppage time as he picked up a second yellow card for fouling Callum Hudson-Odoi.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      90+3. From the subsequent free-kick, Hudson-Odoi’s cross is headed tamely at Sanchez.
      That will be that.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      90+2. In the second minute of three added on, Brighton are reduced to ten men.
      Chelsea finally show some pace on the counter-attack, and when Callum Hudson-Odoi attempted to skip back inside Ben White, the defender brought him crashing to the ground.
      He had just been named as Sky Sports’ Man of the Match.

      BEN WHITE BRINGS DOWN CALLUM HUDSON-ODOI!IT’S A SECOND YELLOW CARD FOR THE DEFENDER!
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      90. Thinking he has a corner coming his way, Werner allows the ball to roll out of play only to react in disbelief when a goalkick is awarded.
      It kind of sums up Chelsea’s collective performance tonight.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      87. Brighton opt to to remove a forward for the final moments. Danny Welbeck goes off, and Jakub Moder, a young defensive midfielder from Poland, is on in his place.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      85. There’s always an inevitability when Giroud comes on in a game like this that he is going to be the player to end the resolve of a determined team from lower down the table.
      The Frenchman may have just passed up his chance though as he pokes Hudson-Odoi’s cross wide of the near post.

      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      84. A blatant bodycheck denies Jorginho the chance to pick up possession in the Brighton half.
      There’s no card, nor even a free-kick, however, as the culprit was referee Stuart Atwell.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      82. A reminder that Brighton have never scored a goal away at Chelsea before in six previous attempts.
      They’ve come so close in the last few minutes, and really believe they can win this late on.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      80. Welbeck thumps the post!
      Chelsea once again show themselves willing to be architects of their own downfall as they once more give up possession in a dangerous area.
      Gross is involved, and then Welbeck takes over with a wonderful effort from outside the area that beats Kepa before rebounding back off the woodwork.
      The visitors keep the attack alive, and seconds later Lallana follows up with a shot that is well saved by the Chelsea keeper.

      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      78. Giroud is on for Ziyech…
      …and Brighton are almost in front!
      Zouma is caught in possession by Maupay as he attempts to dribble his way out in defence, and it sparks a three-on-one break.
      Lallana has options to either side, but goes for goal himself with a curler just wide of the far post.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      76. There is some high-pitched screaming following a Bissouma challenge on Christensen. Azpilicueta would be the usual suspect but he’s not playing.
      Anyway, the suggest is that the Brighton man was dangerous and reckless in his tackle, but replays show it was nothing more than your common or garden late challenge.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      74. Graham Potter introduces Brighton’s leading scorer to proceedings. Neal Maupay comes on for Alexis Mac Allister.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      73. White goes into the book for a foul on Mount. How unbecoming of two future England teammates.
      CHELSEA 0-0 BRIGHTON
      72. Ziyech gives away possession to Burn in his own half, and play is once again moved on to Bissouma to shoot.
      This one is higher but without the accuracy of his previous attempt, and the ball nestles itself in an empty Shed End.
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      European Super League LIVE: Explosive latest as Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Spurs, Man City confirm

      by

      ARSENAL, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have CONFIRMED their plans to join the controversial European Super League.The tournament would be held throughout the season and would make the clubs even richer than they already are. 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…
      HOW THE PROPOSED ESL WILL WORK

      ICYMI
      Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has reportedly called an emergency meeting between all Premier League captains.
      The Mail reports the England midfielder has taken the action as the fall-out from the breakaway Super League continues.
      The 30-year-old will chair meeting with club reps from sides in and out of the breakaway.
      Henderson previously helped lead players in their response to the crisis caused by the pandemic.
      Credit: Reuters

      MORE ON LEVY
      Another club boss added: “Daniel can paint himself as a victim but nobody was buying that at all. It’s too late for that.”
      Richard Masters and the Prem leadership, as well as the clubs outside the Big Six, were left bolstered by a firm vow from PM Boris Johnson that he will bring in urgent legislation that would prevent the Six from joining the £4.6billion scheme.
      That meeting involved representatives of Arsenal, Spurs and Manchester United supporters’ trusts and the Football Supporters Association, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, as well as Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
      Johnson is understood to have made it abundantly clear to the meeting that he would simply not allow the breakaway to take place.
      SUPER LEAGUE EXCLUSIVE
      Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is “shaken” by the Super league backlash.
      In a stunning act of contrition he told Brighton chief executive Paul Barber to pass on details of a conversation they had before the 14 clubs left out of the breakaway met with League chief Richard Masters.
      In a message that left the clubs increasingly confident they have the rebels on the run and will be able to kill off the proposals within days, the Spurs chief conceded he may have misjudged the mood of the nation.
      Barber, who previously served on the board at White Hart Lane told the clubs Levy said this was “not what I wanted, or expected”
      The Brighton exec added: “Daniel says this all grew from a feeling that Uefa simply doesn’t listen to us as a League. He believes the big clubs deserve more respect and more money.”
      But while Levy’s message was viewed by the clubs as the first recognition of the scale of the mistake, it did not spare him and the rest of the Big Six from the wrath of the 14 left on the outside.
      One club source revealed: “Paul was told to pass on a simple message back – that Daniel and the rest of them were destroying all of us by this act.
      “We are all still seething at what has gone on. Every single one of us. There is no sympathy at all for Levy or anyone else involved. They’re the ones who put us in this position because of their greed.”
      RAN A MILE
      Claudio Ranieri – the man who pulled off the biggest shock in sporting history by taking Leicester to the Prem title – has slammed the Super League.
      The Italian said: “It’s very sad for me. Super League is so bad, I hope Uefa will stop them.
      “Leicester story was something special and we’d lose these stories.
      “It’s not just about football, I remember the feeling between Indian and English people celebrating Leicester together.”
      Credit: Getty
      PRIME TIME
      Amazon have confirmed they were not involved in Super League talks and believe the beauty of European football is the chance for any side to do well.

      STILL NO FOR BAYERN
      Bayern Munich have reiterated that they will NOT play in the Super League.
      Per Fabrizio Romano, CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: “Bayern will NOT play in Super League, absolutely.”
      Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge still on the same position: “Bayern will NOT play in #SuperLeague, absolutely”. 🚨 #Bayern— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 20, 2021

      ‘VIGOROUSLY REJECT PLANS’
      The Premier League have released a statement announcing all 14 clubs ‘unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans’ for the European Super League.
      A crisis meeting was held this morning with all top-flight clubs except the ‘big six’ who want to form a breakaway league. And the Prem reassured everything in their power will be done to prevent the plans from going ahead.
      It adds how they will also hold shareholders to account for their role in the farce while hinting at bans.
      The statement read: “The Premier League, alongside The FA, met with clubs today to discuss the immediate implications of the Super League proposal.
      “The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition.
      “The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those Shareholders involved to account under its rules.
      “The League will continue to work with key stakeholders including fan groups, Government, UEFA, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to protect the best interests of the game and call on those clubs involved in the proposed competition to cease their involvement immediately.
      “The Premier League would like to thank fans and all stakeholders for the support they have shown this week on this significant issue.The reaction proves just how much our open pyramid and football community means to people.”
      GARY’S WORD
      Gary Lineker confirmed he will NOT work on the Super League.
      To be clear: if it actually happens, I will never work on this European Super League.— Gary Lineker 💙 (@GaryLineker) April 20, 2021

      MARC MY WORDS
      Marcus Rashford has tweeted a powerful image of the Old Trafford stands showing a banner with the Matt Busby quote: “Football is nothing without fans.”
      The England man shared the photo in the wake of the hugely controversial Super League breakaway with Manchester United one of the ‘founders’.

      JOR DROPPING
      Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has reportedly called an emergency meeting between all Premier League captains.
      The Mail reports the England midfielder has taken the action as the fall-out from the breakaway Super League continues.
      The 30-year-old will chair meeting with club reps from sides in and out of the breakaway.
      Henderson previously helped lead players in their response to the crisis caused by the pandemic.
      PSG PUBLICLY AGAINST SUPER LEAGUE
      French giants Paris Saint-Germain have publicly declared their opposition to the Super League.
      CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi said: “Paris Saint-Germain holds the firm belief that football is a game for everyone. I have been consistent on this since the very beginning.
      “As a football club, we are a family and a community; whose fabric is our fans – I believe we shouldn’t forget this.
      “There is a clear need to advance the existing Uefa competition model, presented by Uefa yesterday and concluding 24 months’ of extensive and collaborative consultation across the whole European football landscape.
      “We believe that any proposal without the support of Uefa – an organisation that has been working to progress the interests of European football for nearly 70 years – does not resolve the issues currently facing the football community, but is instead driven by self-interest.
      “Paris Saint-Germain will continue to work with Uefa, the European Club Association and all stakeholders of the football family – based on the principles of good faith, dignity and respect for all.”
      PEP TALK
      Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola slammed the anti-competitive nature of the Super League that his side has signed up for.
      PEP 💬 It is not a sport if success is guaranteed or if it doesn’t matter when you lose. I have said many times I want a successful Premier League, not just one team at the top. I don’t know if the statement will change and four or five teams will be able to go up.— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 20, 2021

      SHEAR CHEEK!
      Alan Shearer wants the Prem to ban the Big Six immediately!
      Alan Shearer calls on Premier League to ban six breakaway sides
      NO SPAIN NO GAME
      Sergio Aguero is closer to putting pen-to-paper at Barcelona after receiving a draft contract, according to reports.
      The Argentine has been locked in talks with the Catalan side after announcing he is leaving Manchester City in the summer.
      Aguero, 32, is eager to team up with Argetine compatriot Lionel Messi.
      Chelsea and Manchester United were linked with City’s club-record striker but it appears they may have to look elsewhere.
      According to Catalan publication Beteve, Aguero’s agents have their hands on a copy of the draft contract.
      They add a deal is ‘imminent’ after his agents jetted to Barcelona to hold talks with club representatives.
      Credit: PA
      CHELSEA EXCLUSIVE
      Chelsea stars were left in a state of shock and confusion after they were told the club was part of the Dirty Dozen splitting football in two.
      Blues chairman Bruce Buck called a meeting of the players in an attempt to explain why they were signing up to the European Super League.
      But SunSport understands the news did not go down well with the squad. Individuals are concerned about the damage it threatens to do to the game.
      Those fears only grew when it became clear Uefa were threatening to throw them out of the Champions League.
      Chelsea face Real Madrid in the semi-finals, with the first leg in Spain next Tuesday.
      To make matters worse, players potentially face being banned from international football in the future.
      Stars were left ‘gutted’ by the announcement, which came as they were putting the finishing touches on their preparations for tonight’s clash with Brighton – before which a planned protest of Chelsea supporters is expected outside Stamford Bridge.
      UN-IQUE
      Former Arsenal boss Unai Emery has spoken out against the Super League because it would spell the end of fairy tale victories and giant killings like the one his grandad enjoyed over 100 years ago.
      Emery is now in charge at Villarreal and is set for a reunion against his old side in the Europa League semi-finals.
      He said: “My grandad won the Copa del Rey with Real Union in 1920.
      “I want to let these kind of feelings continue.”
      Credit: EPA
      FANS FIRST
      Boris Johnson today held a crisis summit with football bosses over the European Super League and backed Prem bosses to kick out the ‘Big Six’ if they want to.
      The PM vowed not to stand by “while a small handful of owners create a closed shop” and promised to back fans all the way.
      PM vowed to do all he could to stop it from going ahead in a meeting with top footie bosses.
      Downing Street said today the PM “expressed his solidarity with football fans and agreed they must always be at the heart of any decisions about the future of the game.”
      They added: “He reiterated his unwavering support for the football authorities and confirmed they have the government’s full backing to take whatever action necessary to put a stop to these plans.
      “All attendees agreed that action was necessary to protect the fairness and open competition we expect to see in football, and to uphold the fundamental principle that any club should have the chance to play and win against the biggest players in the game.
      “The Prime Minister confirmed the government will not stand by while a small handful of owners create a closed shop.
      “He was clear that no action is off the table and the government is exploring every possibility, including legislative options, to ensure these proposals are stopped.”
      TIME TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
      Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin today made a personal plea to the Prem Big Six to admit to their “mistake” and recant the decision to sign up to a breakaway Super League.
      In a remarkable direct statement to Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs, United and City, Ceferin’s address to the Uefa Congress in Montreux urged the six to reflect on the damage they were on the verge of dealing to English and world football and to the fans who “bleed themselves dry” for their clubs.
      Ceferin, who branded the owners of the rebel 12 as turning their backs on the heritage and integrity of football, recognises Real Madrid and Juventus are now too far gone to come back into the fold.
      But while Liverpool and United were the two English ringleaders, the Slovenian clearly feels an emotional appeal could yet bring a U-turn.
      Ceferin said: “I would like to address the owners of some English clubs. 
      “Gentlemen, you have made a huge mistake. Some will say it is greed, others disdain, arrogance, flippancy or complete ignorance of England’s football culture. Actually, it doesn’t matter.
      “What matters is that there is still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes in life. English fans deserve to have you correct your mistake. They deserve respect.”
      Credit: Reuters
      NOT SO BRIGHT
      Brighton have voiced their total opposition to the European Super League – claiming it would “destroy the dreams of clubs at every level of the domestic game”.
      Albion released a statement ahead of today’s Premier League meeting involving the 14 sides who have not signed up to be part of the controversial breakaway division.
      In it, the South-Coast outfit hit out at the “efforts to create a closed-shop for all but the largest clubs”, branding the actions of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham as hugely disrespectful to all other clubs.
      The statement read: “Brighton & Hove Albion are totally opposed to plans for a breakaway European Super League as it would destroy the dreams of clubs at every level of the domestic game. 
      “These plans are the latest in an alarming and growing list of clandestine attempts from a small group of clubs whose actions would be wiping out close to 150 years of football’s tradition, competition, and sporting progress through merit.  
      “The ups and downs of football – promotion, relegation, winning titles and cups, challenging for, or missing out, on a European place – are all part and parcel of the drama, jeopardy, joy and heartbreak that makes our game the most watched and most loved in the world.
      “These key attributes create significant value from which we feed a financial support structure which helps to sustain football at every level in our country and well beyond. By contrast, a European Super League would concentrate value for the benefit of a small number of clubs.
      “The efforts to create a closed-shop for all but the largest clubs demonstrate a clear lack of respect for the contributions of all clubs within the domestic leagues in this country and across Europe.”
      GOOD BAY!
      Bayern Munich have come out against the Super League and also hinted they will drive down player salaries and agents fees.
      Club CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: “FC Bayern has not been involved in the plans for creating a Super League. We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation.
      “FC Bayern welcomes the reforms of the Champions League because we believe they are the right step to take for the development of European football.
      “The modified group stage will contribute to an increase in excitement and the emotional experience in the competition.
      “I do not believe the Super League will solve the financial problems of European clubs that have arisen as result of the coronavirus pandemic.
      “Rather, all clubs in Europe should work in solidarity to ensure that the cost structure, especially players’ salaries and agents’ fees, are brought in line with revenues, to make all of European football more rational.”

      BECK OFF BILLIONAIRES
      David Beckham has lashed out at European Super League plans and blasted: “Football is in danger.”
      Former Manchester United star Becks took to Instagram to demand the game we love is protected.
      Inter Miami owner David Beckham spoke out on the Super League
      The 45-year-old wrote on his Instagram: “I’m someone who loves football.
      “It has been my life for as long as I can remember. I loved it from when I was a young child as a fan, and I’m still a fan now.
      “As a player and now as an owner I know that our sport is nothing without the fans. We need football to be for everyone. We need football to be fair and we need competitions based on merit.
      “Unless we protect these values the game we love is in danger…”
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      in Soccer

      Next Tottenham manager LIVE: Ryan Mason interim head coach until end of the season, Nagelsmann closes in, Mourinho out

      by

      RYAN MASON, 29, has been appointed interim head coach of Tottenham until the end of the season.While Julian Nagelsmann is closing in on becoming the new Spurs permanent boss after Jose Mourinho’s sacking on Monday, just SIX days before the EFL Cup final.

      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      MOUR TO GIVE
      Jose Mourinho proved he was a special friend after appearing to give his former staff member a lift to collect their stuff from Tottenham’s training ground.
      The Special One was fired on Monday after 17 months in charge, just six days before Spurs face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final.
      Mourinho’s coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin, and Giovanni Cerra were also relieved of their duties.
      And the 58-year-old showed how much he valued loyalty after appearing to drive his goalkeeping coach Santos to Tottenham’s Enfield base today.
      Mourinho, who had already cleared out his office the day before, then waited in his Aston Martin while Santos went inside to pick up his things.
      It remains to see where the pair will end up next with the former Chelsea and Manchester United gaffer already ‘ready to go again’.

      ICYMI
      Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has reportedly called an emergency meeting between all Premier League captains.
      The Mail reports the England midfielder has taken the action as the fall-out from the breakaway Super League continues.
      The 30-year-old will chair meeting with club reps from sides in and out of the breakaway.
      Henderson previously helped lead players in their response to the crisis caused by the pandemic.

      MORE ON LEVY
      Another club boss added: “Daniel can paint himself as a victim but nobody was buying that at all. It’s too late for that.”
      Richard Masters and the Prem leadership, as well as the clubs outside the Big Six, were left bolstered by a firm vow from PM Boris Johnson that he will bring in urgent legislation that would prevent the Six from joining the £4.6billion scheme.
      That meeting involved representatives of Arsenal, Spurs and Manchester United supporters’ trusts and the Football Supporters Association, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, as well as Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
      Johnson is understood to have made it abundantly clear to the meeting that he would simply not allow the breakaway to take place.
      SUPER LEAGUE EXCLUSIVE
      Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is “shaken” by the Super league backlash.
      In a stunning act of contrition he told Brighton chief executive Paul Barber to pass on details of a conversation they had before the 14 clubs left out of the breakaway met with League chief Richard Masters.
      In a message that left the clubs increasingly confident they have the rebels on the run and will be able to kill off the proposals within days, the Spurs chief conceded he may have misjudged the mood of the nation.
      Barber, who previously served on the board at White Hart Lane told the clubs Levy said this was “not what I wanted, or expected”
      The Brighton exec added: “Daniel says this all grew from a feeling that Uefa simply doesn’t listen to us as a League. He believes the big clubs deserve more respect and more money.”
      But while Levy’s message was viewed by the clubs as the first recognition of the scale of the mistake, it did not spare him and the rest of the Big Six from the wrath of the 14 left on the outside.
      One club source revealed: “Paul was told to pass on a simple message back – that Daniel and the rest of them were destroying all of us by this act.
      “We are all still seething at what has gone on. Every single one of us. There is no sympathy at all for Levy or anyone else involved. They’re the ones who put us in this position because of their greed.”
      KAN HE MAKE IT?
      Ryan Mason does not know if Tottenham’s star striker Harry Kane will be fit for the Carabao Cup Final.
      Spurs can end a 13-year trophy doubt on Sunday against Man City but may have to do it without the England captain after he hobbled off against Everton on Friday night.
      Kane did not train on Monday and Tuesday and will miss Wednesday’s game against Southampton.
      Interim boss Mason said: “I’m not sure currently, he didn’t train today.
      “It’s a case of taking it day by day.
      “We’re not sure about the weekend just yet but what we do know is Harry’s working hard to get over this injury.”
      NEW BOSS SPEAKS
      Hear from Ryan Mason, the Premier League’s youngest ever manager.

      NO CHANCE TO SPEAK
      Ryan Mason confirmed he didn’t have a chance to speak to Jose Mourinho after filling his job as Spurs boss.
      The 29-year-old said it is one game at a time for Tottenham as they need to get back to winning games.
      After 20 years attached to the club, Mason said it was an overwhelming sense of pride at being given the job to the end of the season.
      NO WAY JOSE
      Check out Jose Mourinho’s record at Tottenham.

      MOUR PAY OFFS
      Jose Mourinho may be unemployed but he certainly isn’t short of cash.

      PARKHEAD THE BUS
      Jose Mourinho has entered the race to become the next Celtic manager with the sacked Spurs boss ‘ready to go again’.
      The Special One was relieved of his duties in North London on Monday morning.
      But he insisted he does not need a break from football.
      And with no permanent Celtic boss sorted for next season, could that mean a knee slide along the touchline north of the border before long?
      MASON’S TEAM
      Ryan Mason is the new interim Tottenham manager.
      A statement by chairman Daniel Levy read: “We have great belief in this squad of talented players.
      “We have a cup final and six Premier League games ahead of us and we shall now focus all our energies on achieving a strong finish to the season.”
      Mason, who played 70 times for Spurs, will be joined by Chris Powell and Nigel Gibbs as interim assistant head coaches.
      Michel Vorm has been appointed interim goalkeeping coach while club legend Ledley King continues as first team assistant.
      Credit: Getty
      BEAT THE BOSS
      Ryan Mason will take the reins at Spurs aged just 29 after a brutal head injury KO’d his career early.
      Mason was forced to retire as a football player in 2018 at the age of just 26 due to risks associated with a head injury he had suffered the previous season.
      He joined the coaching set-up at Tottenham in April 2018 before becoming the official academy coach of the Under-19 team in July 2019.
      Then in August of last year the ex-England midfielder became head of youth development with the Lilywhites.
      RY SMILE
      Ryan Mason is confirmed as the Spurs interim boss until the end of the season.
      Following the departure of Jose Mourinho, we can now confirm that Ryan Mason will take charge as Interim Head Coach for the remainder of the season.#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 20, 2021

      SPUR OF THE MOMENT
      Spurs are looking for a new boss after sacking Jose Mourinho SIX days before the Carabao Cup final.
      Julian Nagelsmann and Brendan Rodgers have been installed as the joint favourites with out-of-work Eddie Howe third.
      Tottenham next manager oddsProvided by Betfair
      Julian Nagelsmann – 10/3Brendan Rodgers – 10/3Eddie Howe – 7/1Scott Parker – 8/1Nuno Espirito Santo – 8/1Jurgen Klinsmann – 10/1Rafa Benitez – 10/1Massimiliano Allegri – 14/1Ledley King – 14/1Maurizio Sarri – 14/1Antonio Conte – 16/1Daniel Farke – 17/1Jesse Marsch – 17/1Graham Potter – 20/1Steven Gerrard – 20/1Roberto Martinez – 20/1Ralph Hasenhuttl – 20/1

      BACK THE NAG
      Tottenham want Julian Nagelsmann to replace sacked Jose Mourinho — and the RB Leipzig boss may arrive before the season ends, DAVE KIDD exclusively reveals.
      Mourinho was axed on Monday after 17 months in charge at Spurs, with player power understood to have played a part in his dismissal just six days before the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
      Former Charlton boss Chris Powell and ex-Spurs midfielder Ryan Mason will take caretaker charge at Wembley.
      But the duo have not been told they will definitely remain in charge for the rest of the season.
      Spurs hope Nagelsmann may arrive before the summer — although the 33-year-old is under contract for two years.
      Bayern have also been linked with him after Hansi Flick announced his desire to quit this summer.
      But Spurs believe they can lure Nagelsmann, who wants to manage in England.
      WHERE NEXT FOR JOSE?
      Jose Mourinho said he’s not planning a break after being axed by Spurs.

      A LOOK AT JOSE’S SPURS RECORD

      EU CANT PASS
      Fans attempted to stop Liverpool team buses from entering Elland Road ahead of tonight’s match against Leeds.
      The actions of the fans, who could be from either club, were a protest against Liverpool’s decision to join the European Super League.
      Liverpool are the first member of the newly-found ESL to play a Premier League game since news of the competition broke yesterday.
      The reigning champions have agreed to join the ESL along with Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham.
      The Premier League’s so-called ‘Big Six’ have joined Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan in creating the league.
      Presuming they go ahead, the plans will see a £4.6BILLION pot backed by JP Morgan split between the ‘dirty dozen’ – as many have described the clubs – and relegation scrapped.
      Those protesting outside Elland Road may well have been by Leeds fans – or even just football fans in general – considering the overwhelmingly negative response to the breakaway league.
      Marcelo Bielsa’s team have already shown their disgust at the plans – wearing T-shirts with the words ‘EARN IT’ emblazoned across the front as they warmed up for tonight’s game.

      JAMES MILNER SPEAKS OUT
      The ex-England international was asked about the proposed European Super League after Liverpool’s draw at Leeds.
      Asked when he heard about the news of the ESL, Milner says: “Same as everyone else I think when it broke yesterday. That was the first we had heard of it.”
      Milner asked on his opinion of the ESL: “I don’t know I think it’s the same as everyone, there’s a lot of questions. My personal opinion, I don’t like it and hopefully it doesn’t happen.”
      The stand-in Liverpool skipper was asked what he doesn’t like about the ESL, he responds: “Probably the same reasons as everybody else who has been talking out over the last day.
      “Obviously it’s been difficult for us, we’ve tried to prepare for the game but I can only imagine what’s been said about it and probably agree with most of it.”
      Asked if he felt the negative response to Liverpool players was underserved, he says: “I think the players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight was a bit unjust because obviously we’re here to play football and in no control of it.
      “But for us we just need to get on the field and try and finish strong.”
      🗣 | “I don’t like it and I hope it doesn’t happen.”James Milner speaks out against the proposed breakaway European Super League…😳#MNF pic.twitter.com/NkMmNJhiyA— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2021

      MORE FROM BAMFORD
      Asked about wearing the T-shirts in protest of the ESL, he said: “For me personally, from what I’ve seen on Twitter and the news, I haven’t seen one football fan that’s happy about the decision.
      “I think football ultimately is for the fans. Without the fans every single club would be pretty much nothing.
      “So I think it’s important we stand our ground and show that football is for the fans and keep it that way.”
      “I haven’t seen one football fan who is happy about the decision and football is ultimately for the fans.”Patrick Bamford gives his thoughts on the proposed breakaway European Super League after #LUFC’s draw with #LFC. pic.twitter.com/qBTirdetBg— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2021

      PAT ON THE BACK
      Patrick Bamford asked about the proposed European Super League.
      He replied: “We’ve just seen pretty much what everyone else has seen on Twitter and stuff.
      “It’s amazing just the things that they’re talking about. I can’t quite comprehend, it’s amazing the amount of uproar that comes into the game when somebody’s pockets are being hurt.
      “It’s a shame it’s not like that with other things that go wrong at the minute, with racism and stuff like that, but it’s just how it is at the minute.”
      BORIS JOHNSON ADDRESSES THE NATION
      In a world exclusive, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has wrote a column in The Sun to address the proposed European Super League.
      He writes: “Anyone who has watched me play football or played with me in the same match will know that I am far from an expert on the beautiful game.
      “But you don’t need to be an expert to horrified at the prospect of the so-called “Super League” being cooked up by a small number of clubs.
      “You only need a pulse to know that football is not a brand or a product. In fact it’s so much more than even a sport.
      “Football clubs in every town and city and at every tier of the pyramid have a unique place at the heart of their communities, and are an unrivalled source of passionate local pride.
      “And the joy of the game’s current structure, one that has kept people coming back year after year, generation after generation, is that even the most seemingly endless period of frustration is made bearable by the possibility, however remote, that one day you could see them rise up.
      “After all if Leicester City can win the Premier League, if Nottingham Forest can be champions of Europe not once but twice then maybe, just maybe, your team can do the same.
      “But that can only happen if the playing field is even vaguely level and the ability to progress is universal.”
      READ THE PM’S FULL COMMENT SECTION HERE
      BORIS JOHNSON ADDRESSES THE NATION
      In a world exclusive, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has wrote a column in The Sun to address the proposed European Super League.
      He writes: “Anyone who has watched me play football or played with me in the same match will know that I am far from an expert on the beautiful game.
      “But you don’t need to be an expert to horrified at the prospect of the so-called “Super League” being cooked up by a small number of clubs.
      “You only need a pulse to know that football is not a brand or a product. In fact it’s so much more than even a sport.
      “Football clubs in every town and city and at every tier of the pyramid have a unique place at the heart of their communities, and are an unrivalled source of passionate local pride.
      “And the joy of the game’s current structure, one that has kept people coming back year after year, generation after generation, is that even the most seemingly endless period of frustration is made bearable by the possibility, however remote, that one day you could see them rise up.
      “After all if Leicester City can win the Premier League, if Nottingham Forest can be champions of Europe not once but twice then maybe, just maybe, your team can do the same.
      “But that can only happen if the playing field is even vaguely level and the ability to progress is universal.”
      READ THE PM’S FULL COMMENT SECTION HERE
      Credit: PA

      ‘THANK YOU’
      Harry Kane has broken the silence regarding Jose Mourinho’s dismissal by Tottenham as he publicly thanked the Portuguese gaffer.
      The Special One was sacked by Spurs on Monday after 17 months in charge and just six days before the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
      Mourinho had been under huge pressure in North London after they crashed out of the Europa League at the hands of Dinamo Zagreb in March.
      He leaves with Spurs sitting seventh in the Premier League following Friday’s 2-2 draw against Everton, with the club winning just one out of their last five top-flight games.
      Spurs issued a short statement addressing his axing earlier this morning where chairman Daniel Levy thanked him for his services.
      And England international Kane was the first Tottenham player to respond to the news as he spoke of his honour at working with him.

      BUSSINESS MOVES
      Here is a rundown of the Spurs hierarchy that sacked Jose Mourinho while backing the move into a proposed European Super League.
      Owner(s): Joe Lewis
      Nationality: British
      Net worth: £3.5bn
      Club value: £1.66bn
      Lewis took over from Lord Alan Sugar in 2001 and has been in charge ever since, alongside chairman Daniel Levy.
      Tottenham are yet to break their now-13-year trophy drought, with their last piece of silverware coming in 2008 when they won the League Cup.
      Spurs fans are often left frustrated by the club’s inability to challenge their rivals financially in the transfer market.
      However, in recent season, the club have proven they’re willing to spend big when the right opportunity arises.
      The board’s next job will be to find anew manager after Jose Mourinho was sacked on Monday.

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    • 175 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Rashford CONDEMNS European Super League plans, Sir Alex Ferguson and David Beckham join opposition

      by

      MARCUS RASHFORD has come out AGAINST the European Super League on social media.The Man Utd star becomes the biggest name player from one of the 12 participating clubs to condemn the plans backed by the Red Devils owners.
      Meanwhile Premier League clubs are considering EXPELLING United and the other five clubs who signed up to the new competition.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      HOW THE PROPOSED ESL WILL WORK

      ICYMI
      Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has reportedly called an emergency meeting between all Premier League captains.
      The Mail reports the England midfielder has taken the action as the fall-out from the breakaway Super League continues.
      The 30-year-old will chair meeting with club reps from sides in and out of the breakaway.
      Henderson previously helped lead players in their response to the crisis caused by the pandemic.

      MORE ON LEVY
      Another club boss added: “Daniel can paint himself as a victim but nobody was buying that at all. It’s too late for that.”
      Richard Masters and the Prem leadership, as well as the clubs outside the Big Six, were left bolstered by a firm vow from PM Boris Johnson that he will bring in urgent legislation that would prevent the Six from joining the £4.6billion scheme.
      That meeting involved representatives of Arsenal, Spurs and Manchester United supporters’ trusts and the Football Supporters Association, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, as well as Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
      Johnson is understood to have made it abundantly clear to the meeting that he would simply not allow the breakaway to take place.
      WHO ARE YA?
      Manchester United are owned by the Glazers but who are the other people behind the breakaway Super League.

      ‘VIGOROUSLY REJECT PLANS’
      The Premier League have released a statement announcing all 14 clubs ‘unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans’ for the European Super League.
      A crisis meeting was held this morning with all top-flight clubs except the ‘big six’ who want to form a breakaway league. And the Prem reassured everything in their power will be done to prevent the plans from going ahead.
      It adds how they will also hold shareholders to account for their role in the farce while hinting at bans.
      The statement read: “The Premier League, alongside The FA, met with clubs today to discuss the immediate implications of the Super League proposal.
      “The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition.
      “The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those Shareholders involved to account under its rules.
      “The League will continue to work with key stakeholders including fan groups, Government, UEFA, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to protect the best interests of the game and call on those clubs involved in the proposed competition to cease their involvement immediately.
      “The Premier League would like to thank fans and all stakeholders for the support they have shown this week on this significant issue.The reaction proves just how much our open pyramid and football community means to people.”
      MARC MY WORDS
      Marcus Rashford has tweeted a powerful image of the Old Trafford stands showing a banner with the Matt Busby quote: “Football is nothing without fans.”
      The England man shared the photo in the wake of the hugely controversial Super League breakaway with Manchester United one of the ‘founders’.

      CON JOB
      Manchester United fan Connor Kennedy showed his fury at the club joining the league outside Old Trafford.
      Credit: PA
      BACK INVOLVED
      Eric Bailly is back in Manchester United training after testing positive Covid-19.
      Eric Bailly is back in training after recovering from COVID-19 ⬇#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2021

      CANT BELIEVE IT
      Eric Cantona has had his say on the Super League – power to the fans!

      FANS FIRST
      Boris Johnson today held a crisis summit with football bosses over the European Super League and backed Prem bosses to kick out the ‘Big Six’ if they want to.
      The PM vowed not to stand by “while a small handful of owners create a closed shop” and promised to back fans all the way.
      PM vowed to do all he could to stop it from going ahead in a meeting with top footie bosses.
      Downing Street said today the PM “expressed his solidarity with football fans and agreed they must always be at the heart of any decisions about the future of the game.”
      They added: “He reiterated his unwavering support for the football authorities and confirmed they have the government’s full backing to take whatever action necessary to put a stop to these plans.
      “All attendees agreed that action was necessary to protect the fairness and open competition we expect to see in football, and to uphold the fundamental principle that any club should have the chance to play and win against the biggest players in the game.
      “The Prime Minister confirmed the government will not stand by while a small handful of owners create a closed shop.
      “He was clear that no action is off the table and the government is exploring every possibility, including legislative options, to ensure these proposals are stopped.”
      TIME TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
      Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin today made a personal plea to the Prem Big Six to admit to their “mistake” and recant the decision to sign up to a breakaway Super League.
      In a remarkable direct statement to Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs, United and City, Ceferin’s address to the Uefa Congress in Montreux urged the six to reflect on the damage they were on the verge of dealing to English and world football and to the fans who “bleed themselves dry” for their clubs.
      Ceferin, who branded the owners of the rebel 12 as turning their backs on the heritage and integrity of football, recognises Real Madrid and Juventus are now too far gone to come back into the fold.
      But while Liverpool and United were the two English ringleaders, the Slovenian clearly feels an emotional appeal could yet bring a U-turn.
      Ceferin said: “I would like to address the owners of some English clubs. 
      “Gentlemen, you have made a huge mistake. Some will say it is greed, others disdain, arrogance, flippancy or complete ignorance of England’s football culture. Actually, it doesn’t matter.
      “What matters is that there is still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes in life. English fans deserve to have you correct your mistake. They deserve respect.”
      Credit: Reuters
      BECK OFF BILLIONAIRES
      David Beckham has lashed out at European Super League plans and blasted: “Football is in danger.”
      Former Manchester United star Becks took to Instagram to demand the game we love is protected.
      Inter Miami owner David Beckham spoke out on the Super League
      The 45-year-old wrote on his Instagram: “I’m someone who loves football.
      “It has been my life for as long as I can remember. I loved it from when I was a young child as a fan, and I’m still a fan now.
      “As a player and now as an owner I know that our sport is nothing without the fans. We need football to be for everyone. We need football to be fair and we need competitions based on merit.
      “Unless we protect these values the game we love is in danger…”
      SUPER LEAGUE LATEST
      Cracks are ‘starting to appear’ in the European Super League plans with two Premier League clubs ‘losing nerve’ after the furious fan backlash.
      Meanwhile, Liverpool have cancelled an all-staff meeting scheduled for Tuesday to explain the club’s ESL plans.
      The Reds were joined by Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and the two Manchester clubs signing up for the new closed-shop breakaway franchise.
      As founding members, they would be guaranteed involvement every season for 23 years with huge financial gain while abandoning the English game.
      The remaining ‘angry and dismayed’ 14 Premier League clubs are meeting today to discuss how to deal with the other six – and could even order them to quit the division.
      And now, according to the Daily Mail, seeds of doubt are creeping in with two of the six top-flight English rebels ‘close to losing their nerve’.
      It is thought their support of the proposed ESL is ‘wavering’ – although it is unclear whether that will mean a U-turn in their plans.
      GARY ON THE CHARGE
      Gary Neville is continuing his call for people to pressurise the breakaway Big Six.
      Joel Glazer won’t turn easily! Jurgen Klopp and the senior players could turn FSGMan City most likely to crack. This isn’t for them! The other 3 will follow the lead of others— Gary Neville (@GNev2) April 20, 2021

      WAYNE’S WORLD
      Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney called on fans to not ‘jump the gun’ on the breakaway Super League.
      “The people in charge of these clubs are not stupid”#MUFC legend Wayne Rooney says clubs and fans shouldn’t ‘jump the gun’ and should wait to see what happens with the new European Super League pic.twitter.com/bgZ4PLcEdR— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) April 19, 2021

      SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED
      Manchester United can’t leave the breakaway Super League even if they change their mind, according to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.
      The Super League’s chairman told El Chiringuito: “The contract of the Super League is binding.
      “Nobody can leave, we will work all together.
      “All the clubs signed the contracts last Saturday, there’s no problem.”
      YOUS PLEASE
      Manchester United and Liverpool have entered the race sign Sevilla forward Youssef En-Nesyri this summer, according to reports.
      But West Ham remain in the driving seat to secure the Moroccan’s signature.
      The Red Devils are in the running for Sevilla’s Youssef En-NesyriCredit: Alamy
      The Hammers tried to sign En-Nesyri to replace Sebastian Haller in January but their £26.7million bid was knocked back.
      David Moyes’ side remain keen on the 23-year-old, and are expected to up their offer at the end of the season.
      But, according to Estadio Deportivo, Man United and Liverpool see the striker as a potential alternative to the in-demand Erling Haaland.
      Sevilla are rumoured to be willing to let go of their leading goalscorer for around £40m, despite efforts to renew his contract – although his current deal does still have four years left to run.
      RAPH RACE
      United are set to face off with Chelsea in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
      The Frenchman, 27, could ask to leave the Bernabeu this summer ahead of his contract expiring in 2022.
      Real would not want to lose their man on a free in a year’s time and are said to favour cashing in if he won’t sign a new contract.
      That has opened the door for Chelsea and United in their quest to bolster their defence.
      It had previously been suggested in the Spanish media that Varane was edging towards Old Trafford.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is thought to have made a new partner for Harry Maguire his transfer priority.
      EF-HELL
      The ‘Big Six’ claim they do not just want to sail off into the Super League sunset and sink the rest.
      But irrespective of their motives and the post-Covid financial squeeze, the consequences for those left behind will be immense.
      As Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City and United turn their backs on Uefa and join the money hunt they will:
      As Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City and United turn their backs on Uefa and join the money hunt they will:

      Cause a £35million-per-club drop in Premier League TV revenues — even if they stay in the top flight
      See that figure drop by more than double if they are banned from playing in the Prem
      Render the league’s “top-four” race redundant
      Smash a huge hole in the potential value of top-flight clubs
      Make clubs ponder whether stadium expansion or rebuilding plans have any real merit
      See a huge knock-on impact on the Championship, where many clubs are already on the brink
      And bring the very existence of clubs in Leagues One and Two under real and genuine threat — despite promises of a huge cash windfall.

      TROY DEENEY SPEAKS OUT ABOUT THE ESL
      In an exclusive column with The Sun, Deeney writes: “In my heart of hearts, I believe — and I hope — that a breakaway European Super League will not happen.
      “But the threat is real and the questions, for footballers as well fans, are endless. Will Watford be promoted into a Premier League without the Big Six next season?
      “Will we ever see another story as inspiring as Jamie Vardy’s, who rose from non-league to Leicester, where he won promotion, won the Premier League and played in the Champions League?
      “Will Harry Kane have to choose between playing Super League football with Tottenham or breaking the England goalscoring record because players from the proposed “rebel” league will have been banned from the international game?
      “There are a million more questions — but one thing we know for certain is the owners of English football’s Big Six do not care too much about their own loyal match-going supporters.
      “Because fans of the breakaway clubs hate the idea of ruining football’s pyramid system as much as anyone else.The vast majority do not want a breakaway league.”
      READY TROY DEENEY’S FULL COLUMN HERE
      LIONS IN WAIT
      England’s starting XI at the World Cup in 2022 without ‘Big Six’ stars could see some fan-favourite players getting their chance.
      Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and the two Manchester clubs have signed up to a 20-team breakaway European Super League.
      The Premier League’s so-called ‘Big Six’ are joined by Spanish trio Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Italian sides Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus.
      But Uefa and Fifa have threatened ESL players they will be BANNED from representing their national teams.
      And while that may rule out many of Gareth Southgate’s top players including Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire, plenty of others would be ready to jump at the chance to represent the Three Lions in Qatar next winter.
      Here SunSport names an 11 who WOULD be eligible to play.

      NEVILLE HITS BACK
      In response to Klopp, he said: “I don’t know what spiked him. Yesterday was a passionate rant from me to defend football.
      “I’ve equally distributed enough criticism to both Manchester United and Liverpool over the last 24 hours. So I don’t know what his problem is.
      “He talks about hotseat, I had a 25-year career at Manchester United, an 11-year career at Sky and I’ve earned that.
      “I didn’t go where the most money is. I didn’t have choices. Sir Alex Ferguson didn’t say ‘do you want to stay here every single day?’.
      “I have no idea what he’s talking about. I employ 600 people in my city. I’ve tried to keep them employed during a pandemic.
      “Is that not a hot enough seat for him?”

      JUR JOKING
      Jurgen Klopp fired a shot at Garry Neville after the Manchester United legend referenced Liverpool’s ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ anthem when spouting his rage at the proposed European Super League.
      But Klopp responded: “Gary Neville talks about ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, that should be forbidden to be honest.
      “We have a lot of rights to sing that anthem and it’s our anthem, not his anthem. He doesn’t understand it anyway so I really don’t want these things because it’s not fair.
      “All the talk is around and I don’t like it as well, but I don’t talk about other clubs like this. We can be emotional but I wish Gary Neville would be in a hot seat somewhere, not where the most money is.
      “Whether it’s at Man United where the most money is, Sky where the most money is. Don’t forget that we have nothing to do with it.
      “We are in the same situation as you all, we got information and we still had to play football and you deal with us already like this. That’s really not OK.”

      LEED THE WAY
      Leeds trolled Liverpool after their 1-1 draw by refusing to refer to their club name.
      The English champions are one of the six Premier League clubs pushing ahead in the proposed European Super League.
      In response, Leeds referred to them simply as – Merseyside Red – very similar to the name given to them on the video game Pro Evolution Soccer.
      FULL TIME: #LUFC hold Super League side Merseyside Reds to a 1-1 draw after late Llorente equaliser— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 19, 2021

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