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      Leeds 1 Liverpool 1 LIVE REACTION: Llorente rescues late point for Bielsa’s side at Elland Road – latest updates

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      LIVERPOOL missed the chance to enter the Premier League top four with a 1-1 draw away at Leeds.Sadio Mane opened the scoring for the Reds but Diego Llorente notched his first league goal for Leeds minutes from the end to rescue a point.

      RESULT: Leeds 1 Liverpool 1
      Leeds XI: Meslier, Ayling, Struijk, Llorente, Alioski, Phillips, Dallas, Harrison, Roberts, Costa, Bamford
      Liverpool XI: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Fabinho, Kabak, Robertson, Milner, Wijnaldum, Thiago, Mane, Jota, Firmino

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      THANKS FOR JOINING US
      That’s all from us tonight as Leeds and Liverpool shared the points at Elland Road on a day that was dominated by matters off the pitch.
      On the pitch though it was a game of two halves.
      Liverpool dominated the first period and went in to the break in front after Trent Alexander-Arnold teed up Sadio Mane to put Liverpool ahead after half an hour.
      Leeds came out for the second half a different team and really should have scored before Diego Llorente’s 87th minute equaliser.
      Patrick Bamford struck the bar and Alisson made big saves in the Liverpool goal to deny both Jack Harrison and Tyler Roberts.
      In the end the points were shared meaning Liverpool stay sixth in the league, two points off the top four, while Leeds lie in tenth, level on points with Arsenal.
      Next up for the Whites is a mouthwatering clash at home to bitter rivals Manchester United on Sunday after Liverpool host Newcastle in the early kick off on Saturday.
      For more news on the European Super League click here to follow our dedicated live blog on the story.
      That’s all from us now though.
      Thanks for joining us, it’s been a pleasure.
      SCATHING ATTACK
      Jurgen Klopp criticised Gary Neville after the game after Neville’s reference to Liverpool’s famous ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ anthem yesterday.
      He says:
      “Gary Neville speaks about ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ that should already been forbidden to be honest.
      “So because we have a lot of rights to sing that anthem, it’s our anthem and he doesn’t understand it anyway.
      “So i really don’t want these kind of things because it’s not fair.
      “I understand all the talks around and I don’t like it as well but I don’t talk about other clubs now like this, we can be emotional but I would wish Gary Neville would be in a hot seat somewhere and not everywhere where the most money is.”

      DESERVED PRAISE
      The news of the European Super League will continue to dominate football but Leeds United deserve praise this evening.
      They were poor in the first half and rightfully went into the break a goal down after Trent Alexander-Arnold set up Sadio Mane on the half hour mark.
      Whatever Marcelo Bielsa said at half time it worked though.
      The Whites were excellent after the break and fashioned numerous chances to level the game.
      Patrick Bamford struck the bar and Alisson made a couple of good saves to deny Jack Harrison and Tyler Roberts.
      In the end though the pressure paid off as Diego Llorente nodded home to secure a point for Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
      LEEDS RUB IT IN
      Leeds United’s Twitter account were not holding back with their tweet at the full time whistle, again refusing to name Liverpool.
      FULL TIME: #LUFC hold Super League side Merseyside Reds to a 1-1 draw after late Llorente equaliser— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 19, 2021

      MORE FROM MILNER
      This is what Milner has to say on why he doesn’t like the ESL proposal:
      “Probably the same reasons everyone’s been talking about over the last day.
      “Obviously it’s been difficult for us with having a game, we’re trying 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

      MILNER’S THOUGHTS
      This is what James Milner has to say on when the players first heard about the European Super League:
      “Same as everyone else I think yesterday, that was the first we heard of it.”
      On the players’ thoughts:
      “I don’t know I think it’s the same as everyone there’s a lot of questions.
      “You know I obviously have my own personal opinion I don’t like it, you know hopefully it doesn’t happen.”
      PAT’S PERSONAL THOUGHTS
      Here’s more on what Patrick Bamford has to say:
      “I think for me personally what I’ve seen on Twitter and in the news I haven’t seen one football fan that’s happy about the decision.
      “And I think football ultimately is because and is for the fans.
      “Without the fans every single club would be pretty much nothing so I think that it’s important we stand our ground and we show football is for the fans and try 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 has this to say about the proposed European Super League:
      “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.”
      CELEBRATIONS
      Diego Llorente celebrates after his header stopped Liverpool from moving into the top four of the Premier League tonight.

      DRAMA
      Diego Llorente rises highest to nod home a Jack Harrison corner three minutes from time.
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: EPA
      LEVELLER
      Here’s a look at Diego Llorente’s late header that earned Marcelo Bielsa’s side a point at home against Champions Liverpool.

      STAT ATTACK
      Liverpool had their lowest share of possession in a Premier League game (39%) since November 2018 (38% against Arsenal).
      That second half really was all Leeds United.

      FT: LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      A late Diego Llorente header denies Liverpool the chance to move into the top four of the Premier League table.
      They’ve now taken four points off Manchester City and Liverpool in the last week!
      They stay in the top ten and can now look forward to a mouthwatering clash against Manchester United next week.
      PEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THAT’S FULL TIME!
      LEEDS UNITED 1-1 LIVERPOOL!
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      93. Roberto Firmino breaks into the Leeds box and feeds the ball into the path of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
      The substitute can’t quite get his feet sorted and by the time he controls it can only poke a tame effort at Meslier.
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      CHANCE!
      ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN CAN’T WIN IT FOR LIVERPOOL!
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      92. Pablo Hernandez tries to thread a through ball into the path of Poveda on the right.
      There’s far too much power on it though and it trickles out of play for a Liverpool goal kick.
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      91. The fourth official indicates four minutes of added time at Elland Road.
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      89. We enter the final minute of the 90 at Elland Road.
      Is there time for either side to find a winner?
      LEEDS 1-1 LIVERPOOL
      86. That is a brilliant delivery by Jack Harrison.
      It’s a dangerous delivery into an area where Alisson can’t come for it and Diego Llorente rises highest to nod home for Leeds!
      It’s a deserved goal after Leeds’ second half performance.
      GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAALLL!
      LEEDS UNITED EQUALISE FROM THE CORNER!
      IT’S BEEN COMING!
      LEEDS 0-1 LIVERPOOL
      86. Leeds corner.
      James Milner deflects a cross from the right behind for a corner.
      LEEDS 0-1 LIVERPOOL
      85. HUGE CHANCE!
      MO SALAH CAN’T MAKE IT 2-0!
      He latches on to the end of a Thiago pass and is through on goal.
      He drives into the box and tries to shoot across Meslier into the far corner but sends his effort the wrong side of the post.
      CLOSING STAGES
      Tyler Roberts reacts after having his close range effort saved by Alisson.

      LEEDS 0-1 LIVERPOOL
      82. Liverpool can’t make anything of the second corner and Leeds survive.
      Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is on to replace Diogo Jota for the last ten minutes or so.
      Load more entries… More

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      European Super League LIVE REACTION: Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool confirm involvement as UEFA boss Ceferin SLAMS Woodward

      by

      ARSENAL, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have CONFIRMED their plans to join a European Super League.The tournament would be held throughout the season and would make the clubs even richer than they already are.
      Gary Neville did not hold back on TV after Sky Sports discussed the plans live on air while leading football organisations including the Premier League have told clubs traditional competition is best for English football.
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
      PORTO SNUBBED ESL
      Porto president Pinto da Costa confirmed he rejected an offer to join the European Super League following rumours suggesting the Portuguese giants could be one of the additional three “Founding Clubs”.
      The Dragons are now the fourth club to reject the ESL after Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Paris St-Germain.
      Da Costa said: “There were informal contacts from some clubs, but we didn’t pay much attention for two reasons. The first is that the European Union does not allow a closed circuit of events like in the NBA, for example. 
      “As the Portuguese Football Federation is against this, and as part of UEFA, we cannot participate in anything that is against the principles and rules of the European Union and UEFA.
      “If that goes forward, something that I have a lot of doubts about, UEFA will not end and it is certain that they will continue to have evidence. It must be recognized that the events organized by UEFA are the official events. 
      “We are not concerned with being or not, we are in the Champions League and we hope to continue to be for many years”
      BRU-NO NO NO
      Bruno Fernandes has become the first ‘Big Six’ player to break his silence on the much-maligned European Super League.
      Premier League chiefs are furious at the Red Devils, Man City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham for pressing ahead with the £4.6BILLION breakaway plan, which was confirmed last night.
      Now Fernandes has offered his thoughts on the matter as he shared an Instagram post from fellow Portuguese ace Daniel Podence in which the Wolves star appeared to condemn the proposal.
      Podence’s post said: “The ball. The song. The dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s solo… Liverpool in Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf… There some (sic) things we just can’t really pay for.”
      Fernandes replied: “Enorme (enormous).”
      The United attacker then shared the post to his own Instagram Story, and included the text: “Dreams can’t be [bought].”

      $UP£R L£AGU£
      European Super League was axed as Tottenham boss after a players’ revolt.
      The Special One’s 17-month reign in charge at Spurs came to an end when he was sacked this morning – just six days before they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.
      The move was hit by an epic backlash from players, pundits and fans alike.
      But the founding members – 15 when all is said and done – will be laughing all the way to the bank.
      Last season, Bayern Munich pocketed around £71million in prize money for lifting the Champions League.
      However, all 20 teams set to take part in the inaugural European Super League are set to earn a minimum of £285m each, according to the New York Times.
      That’s over four times MORE than the 2020 Champions League winners simply for signing up.
      Clubs joining the proposed tournament could earn up to £310m as an initial ‘golden hello.
      They will then rake in a minimum of £130m each season from their share of a £3.1billion total pot.

      WE’LL SUE EU
      Super League rebels have threatened to sue Fifa AND Uefa if they try to ban the clubs from setting up their breakaway competition.
      Uefa’s response to news of the proposed new self-elected elite was to raise the prospect of the 12 clubs – including all of the Prem Big Six – and their players being unable to play in any national or international competitions.
      Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the FA were co-signatories to that letter.
      In the letter both insisted permission would not be granted by English football chiefs for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and the two Manchester giants to take part.
      But the clubs responded with a joint letter of their own – sent to Fifa President Gianni Infantino and Uefa counterpart Aleksander Ceferin.
      In it they revealed they had already engaged lawyers to fight their corner.

      PLAYER BANS CONFIRMED
      Fabrizio Romano reports that UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has confirmed that players who participate in the European Super League will be banned from the World Cup and Euros.
      That means anyone from the Premier League’s “big six” that could break away won’t be allowed to be part of their national teams.
      There had been rumours of potential sanctions towards the teams involved with the proposed format, which Ceferin described as “disgraceful”.
      The UEFA President also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face ” of all football fans
      UEFA’s Alexander Ceferin confirms: “The players that will play in the Super League will be banned from playing in the World Cup and Euros. Ceferin. They will not be allowed play for their national teams”. 🚫🇪🇺 #SuperLeague— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 19, 2021

      MORE FROM CEFERIN
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin described the proposed European Super League as “disgraceful”.
      Ceferin also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face” for all football fans.
      The UEFA President said: “I cannot stress more strongly UEFA and the footballing world are united against the disgraceful, self-serving proposals we have seen, fuelled purely by greed. It’s a nonsense of a project.
      “This idea is a spit in the face for all football lovers and our society. We will not allow them to take this away from us”
      PREMIER LEAGUE SET MEETING
      The Premier League are going to hold a meeting with 14 clubs on Tuesday morning.
      That means the “big six”, which is Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, who are involved in the proposed European Super League project won’t be included.
      The representatives involved will discuss the ongoing situation and the next steps.
      The meeting will be chaired by Premier League CEO Richard Masters
      CEFERIN LASHES OUT AT WOODWARD
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has strongly criticised Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward as well as Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli following the European Super League announcement.
      Ceferin said: “I was a criminal lawyer for 24 years but I’ve never, ever, seen people like that.
      “If I start with Ed Woodward, he called me last Thursday, saying that he’s very satisfied with reforms and he fully supports them. Obviously, he already signed something else.
      “Andrea Agnelli is the biggest disappointment of all. I’ve never seen a person lie so many times as he did, it was unbelievable”
      MUST TAKE ACTION
      The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust responded to the club’s involvement in the European Super League project.
      United have been granted the title of “founding club” along with five other Premier League teams, which are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham.
      The Trust, though, is completely opposed to the proposed competition as they described it as “unacceptable” and a “betrayal”.
      Here’s the statement they released:

      BRUNO FERNANDES REACTS
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has endorsed a post by fellow countryman and Wolves ace Daniel Podence that appears to criticise the European Super League.
      Podence shared an image on Instagram that shows him celebrating a Champions League goal with his former team Olympiacos last season.
      The Portugal international shared the photo with the following caption: “The Ball. The Song. The Dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s Solo… Liverpool In Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf … There some things we just can’t really pay for it.”
      Fernandes shared that post as a story on his own account with some “clapping” emojis and a caption that read: “Dreams can’t be buy”

      SICK TO THE STOMACH
      Arsenal and Leicester legend Alan Smith took to Twitter following the latest developments regarding the European Super League.
      Smith didn’t hold back as he said he feels “sick to the stomach” and expressed his deep concerns about the future of the game.
      He tweeted: “Just feel sick to the stomach this morning. And depressed.
      “And extremely worried for the future of our game”
      Just feel sick to the stomach this morning. And depressed. And extremely worried for the future of our game— Alan Smith (@9smudge) April 19, 2021

      TUCHEL REACTS
      Chelsea are among the teams that hold the title of “founding club” of the European Super League.
      Blues boss Thomas Tuchel addressed his club’s involvement in the ESL by saying he “trusts” the hierarchy to make the right decisions.
      Tuchel told ESPN’s James Olley: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part.
      “On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach”
      On Tuchel Zoom. Says about Chelsea’s involvement in proposed ESL: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part. On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach.”— James Olley (@JamesOlley) April 19, 2021

      BIG SIX ESL BOMBSHELL
      Sky Sports News have shared some explosive backstage info regarding the European Super League.
      The report includes a statement by an unnamed board member at one of the six Premier League clubs that are breaking away.
      They said: “There are several board members at the six clubs who are opposed to joining the new league but they feel they do not have the power to stop it.”
      They added that the owners were fully expecting a backlash: “To be honest, they are not that worried about PR” as “the wider good of the game is a secondary concern.”
      The unnamed board member also said the owners would be secretly delighted with their players being banned from the Euros and World Cup as “they don’t like giving their playing assets away to countries for very little financial reward”.
      And finally, they stated: “This is not a civil war, it’s a nuclear war”
      PORTO SNUBBED ESL
      Porto president Pinto da Costa confirmed he rejected an offer to join the European Super League following rumours suggesting the Portuguese giants could be one of the additional three “Founding Clubs”.
      The Dragons are now the fourth club to reject the ESL after Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Paris St-Germain.
      Da Costa said: “There were informal contacts from some clubs, but we didn’t pay much attention for two reasons. The first is that the European Union does not allow a closed circuit of events like in the NBA, for example. 
      “As the Portuguese Football Federation is against this, and as part of UEFA, we cannot participate in anything that is against the principles and rules of the European Union and UEFA.
      “If that goes forward, something that I have a lot of doubts about, UEFA will not end and it is certain that they will continue to have evidence. It must be recognized that the events organized by UEFA are the official events. 
      “We are not concerned with being or not, we are in the Champions League and we hope to continue to be for many years”
      CATASTROPHICALLY DESTABILISING
      The League Managers Association (LMA) believes the European Super League would have a “catastrophically destabilising” effect on the sport
      A statement from the LMA read: “We believe that any such league would be catastrophically destabilising to the entire European football pyramid, with deep and far-reaching consequences.
      “Closing off the top of the pyramid of European club football would immediately extinguish many of the ambitions and dreams that drive managers, coaches, players and fans.
      “Club owners are custodians of the clubs they lead and they have a duty and responsibility to the integrity of the game that should always take precedence over self-interest and financial gain. Now more than ever, as the game looks to face the challenges of re-emerging from the COVID pandemic, it needs to be unified, working to the principles of cooperation and solidarity.
      “We will support the game’s stakeholders in taking any appropriate measures required and we urge those leading the clubs responsible for the European Super League proposals to fundamentally reconsider their position and act in the best interests of the whole game”
      DARK DAY
      Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Committee Chair Julian Knight described the European Super League development as a “dark day for football”.
      Knight said: “This is a dark day for football – a deal done behind closed doors apparently with no regard for supporters.
      “Though this idea was mooted several months ago, what’s shocking is the speed at which this breakaway league has been announced.
      “What’s needed is a fan-led review of football with real teeth and here we have more evidence to strengthen the case for it.
      “Football needs a reset, but this is not the way to do it. The interests of community clubs must be put at the heart of any future plans.
      “We, the Committee, will be discussing this when we meet tomorrow in a private session”
      ANDER-STAND THAT
      Paris St-Germain star Ander Herrera took to Twitter condemning the European Super League project.
      Former Manchester United ace Herrera broke his silence and claimed that this is a case of ” the rich stealing what the people created”.
      Reports suggest that the star midfielder’s current club were invited to be part of the format but turned them down.
      It is also claimed that the PSG hierarchy believe that it would be disrespectful to join a top competition that would be exclusive for the richest clubs

      CARRAGHER REACTS
      Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has been highly critical of the European Super League project.
      Carragher also didn’t hold back on his former club’s decision to participate in this initiative.
      The former star defender described the Reds’ involvement as an “embarrassment”.
      The footballer-turned-pundit also claimed all the greats from the past that paved the way for people like him would be very disappointed

      LINEKER REACTION
      Tottenham great Gary Lineker took to Twitter following Jose Mourinho’s exit from north London.
      Lineker combined the news with the ongoing developments regarding the European Super League.
      Spurs are among the teams that have joined the controversial format and have even been given the title of “founding club”.
      And the Match of the Day host decided to add some humour to this situation
      Jose Mourinho is fired. He is the first of the European Super League managers to lose their job.— Gary Lineker 💙 (@GaryLineker) April 19, 2021

      MOURINHO TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT
      Tottenham are set to look for Jose Mourinho’s permanent replacement.
      Spurs announced that Mourinho has left the club along with his coaching staff.
      The north Londoners also confirmed that former club player Ryan Mason will take first team training until further notice.
      Mason spent eight years at Tottenham and amassed a total of 70 appearances across all competitions until he left for Hull in 2016 and was forced to retire two years later due to a head injury at the age of 26
      TOTTENHAM STATEMENT
      Tottenham have confirmed that Jose Mourinho has been removed as manager
      Mourinho will be exiting Spurs along with his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra.
      Chairman Daniel Levy said: “Jose and his coaching staff have been with us through some of our most challenging times as a Club. Jose is a true professional who showed enormous resilience during the pandemic.
      “On a personal level I have enjoyed working with him and regret that things have not worked out as we both had envisaged.
      “He will always be welcome here and we should like to thank him and his coaching staff for their contribution”
      The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 19, 2021

      FERDINAND REACTS
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has joined an ever-growing list of football greats condemning the European Super League project calling it a “war on football”.
      Ferdinand told BT Sport: “This is, for me, a war on football. It’s a disgrace, it’s embarrassing and goes against everything football is about.
      “It’s a closed shop for these bigwigs and it’s completely and utterly only about one thing and that’s money. The rich getting richer and the others not even being considered.
      “How they’ve got the audacity to do it in the climate we’re in at the moment… the pandemic around the world. People are struggling all over the world, and this lot…colluding with this idea that they’ve hatched – and to break it like this.
      “The element of being anti-competitive goes against everything football is about. It screams [that] these people have no idea what football’s about. It’s purely a business transaction. The people who make this game special are not being considered”
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      European Super League BLASTED by Sir Alex Ferguson, Ed Woodward LEAVES Uefa role, Neville rant in full, Varane talks

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have been blasted as CRIMINAL by former star Gary Neville over joining European Super League.Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Erling Haaland and are also reportedly chasing Rafael Varane.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      HAALAND SITUATION
      Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Borussia Dortmund megastar Erling Haaland in the summer.
      However, the fees required by Dortmund as well as Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola are astronomical.
      Therefore, it is important to remind there is a clause in the star striker’s contract that will allow him to leave for a major cut-price of €75m (£65m) in the summer of 2022.
      That would work as a major boost for United along with the other interested parties
      BRU-NO NO NO
      Bruno Fernandes has become the first ‘Big Six’ player to break his silence on the much-maligned European Super League.
      Premier League chiefs are furious at the Red Devils, Man City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham for pressing ahead with the £4.6BILLION breakaway plan, which was confirmed last night.
      Now Fernandes has offered his thoughts on the matter as he shared an Instagram post from fellow Portuguese ace Daniel Podence in which the Wolves star appeared to condemn the proposal.
      Podence’s post said: “The ball. The song. The dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s solo… Liverpool in Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf… There some (sic) things we just can’t really pay for.”
      Fernandes replied: “Enorme (enormous).”
      The United attacker then shared the post to his own Instagram Story, and included the text: “Dreams can’t be [bought].”

      $UP£R L£AGU£
      European Super League was axed as Tottenham boss after a players’ revolt.
      The Special One’s 17-month reign in charge at Spurs came to an end when he was sacked this morning – just six days before they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.
      The move was hit by an epic backlash from players, pundits and fans alike.
      But the founding members – 15 when all is said and done – will be laughing all the way to the bank.
      Last season, Bayern Munich pocketed around £71million in prize money for lifting the Champions League.
      However, all 20 teams set to take part in the inaugural European Super League are set to earn a minimum of £285m each, according to the New York Times.
      That’s over four times MORE than the 2020 Champions League winners simply for signing up.
      Clubs joining the proposed tournament could earn up to £310m as an initial ‘golden hello.
      They will then rake in a minimum of £130m each season from their share of a £3.1billion total pot.

      WE’LL SUE EU
      Super League rebels have threatened to sue Fifa AND Uefa if they try to ban the clubs from setting up their breakaway competition.
      Uefa’s response to news of the proposed new self-elected elite was to raise the prospect of the 12 clubs – including all of the Prem Big Six – and their players being unable to play in any national or international competitions.
      Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the FA were co-signatories to that letter.
      In the letter both insisted permission would not be granted by English football chiefs for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and the two Manchester giants to take part.
      But the clubs responded with a joint letter of their own – sent to Fifa President Gianni Infantino and Uefa counterpart Aleksander Ceferin.
      In it they revealed they had already engaged lawyers to fight their corner.

      PLAYER BANS CONFIRMED
      Fabrizio Romano reports that UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has confirmed that players who compete in the European Super League will be banned from the World Cup and Euros.
      That means anyone from the Premier League’s “big six” that breaks away won’t be allowed to be part of their national teams.
      There had been rumours of potential sanctions towards the sides involved with the proposed format, which Ceferin described as “disgraceful”.
      The UEFA President also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face ” of all football fans
      UEFA’s Alexander Ceferin confirms: “The players that will play in the Super League will be banned from playing in the World Cup and Euros. Ceferin. They will not be allowed play for their national teams”. 🚫🇪🇺 #SuperLeague— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 19, 2021

      MORE FROM CEFERIN
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin characterised the proposed European Super League as “disgraceful”.
      Ceferin also said the ESL acts as a “spit in the face” for all football fans.
      The UEFA President said: “I cannot stress more strongly UEFA and the footballing world are united against the disgraceful, self-serving proposals we have seen, fuelled purely by greed. It’s a nonsense of a project.
      “This idea is a spit in the face for all football lovers and our society. We will not allow them to take this away from us”
      PREMIER LEAGUE SET MEETING
      The Premier League are going to hold a meeting with 14 clubs on Tuesday morning.
      That means the “big six”, which is Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, who are involved in the proposed European Super League project as “founding clubs” won’t be included.
      The representatives involved will discuss the ongoing situation and the next steps.
      The scheduled meeting will be chaired by Premier League CEO Richard Masters
      CEFERIN LASHES OUT AT WOODWARD
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has strongly criticised Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli following the European Super League proposition.
      Ceferin said: “I was a criminal lawyer for 24 years but I’ve never, ever, seen people like that.
      “If I start with Ed Woodward, he called me last Thursday, saying that he’s very satisfied with reforms and he fully supports them. Obviously, he already signed something else.
      “Andrea Agnelli is the biggest disappointment of all. I’ve never seen a person lie so many times as he did, it was unbelievable”
      MUST TAKE ACTION
      The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust reacted to the club’s involvement in the European Super League project.
      United have been granted the title of “founding club” along with five other Premier League sides, which are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham.
      The Trust, though, are completely opposed to the proposed competition as they described it as “unacceptable” and a “betrayal”.
      Here’s the statement they released:

      BRUNO FERNANDES REACTS
      Manchester United superstar Bruno Fernandes has endorsed a post by fellow countryman and Wolves star Daniel Podence that appears to criticise the European Super League.
      Podence shared an image on Instagram that shows him celebrating a Champions League goal with his former club Olympiacos last season.
      The Portugal international shared the photo with the following caption: “The Ball. The Song. The Dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s Solo… Liverpool In Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf … There some things we just can’t really pay for it.”
      Fernandes shared that post as a story on his own Instagram account with some “clapping” emojis and a caption that read: “Dreams can’t be buy”

      TUCHEL REACTS
      Chelsea are among the teams that hold the title of “founding club” of the proposed European Super League.
      Blues manager Thomas Tuchel addressed his club’s involvement in the ESL by saying he “trusts” the hierarchy to make the right decisions.
      Tuchel told ESPN’s James Olley: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part.
      “On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach”
      On Tuchel Zoom. Says about Chelsea’s involvement in proposed ESL: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part. On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach.”— James Olley (@JamesOlley) April 19, 2021

      BIG SIX BOMBSHELL
      Sky Sports News have shared some major backstage info regarding the European Super League.
      The report includes a statement by a board member at one of the six Premier League clubs that are breaking away.
      They said: “There are several board members at the six clubs who are opposed to joining the new league but they feel they do not have the power to stop it.”
      They added that the owners were expecting a backlash: “To be honest, they are not that worried about PR” as “the wider good of the game is a secondary concern.”
      The unnamed board member also said the owners would be secretly pleased with their players being banned from the Euros and World Cup as “they don’t like giving their playing assets away to countries for very little financial reward.”.
      And finally, they stated: “This is not a civil war, it’s a nuclear war”
      ANOTHER ESL SNUB
      Porto president Pinto da Costa confirmed he rejected an offer to join the European Super League, which includes Manchester United.
      This comes after rumours suggested the Portuguese giants could be one of the additional three “Founding Clubs”.
      The Dragons are now the fourth club to reject the ESL after Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Paris St-Germain.
      Da Costa said: “There were informal contacts from some clubs, but we didn’t pay much attention for two reasons. The first is that the European Union does not allow a closed circuit of events like in the NBA, for example.
      “As the Portuguese Football Federation is against this, and as part of UEFA, we cannot participate in anything that is against the principles and rules of the European Union and UEFA.
      “If that goes forward, something that I have a lot of doubts about, UEFA will not end and it is certain that they will continue to have evidence. It must be recognized that the events organized by UEFA are the official events.
      “We are not concerned with being or not, we are in the Champions League and we hope to continue to be for many years”
      MORE FROM NEVILLE!
      Manchester United legend Gary Neville is not done with his scathing criticism of the European Super League and his former club.
      Neville blasted against the new initiative at Sky Sports on Sunday and even suggested the harshest of punishments for United and the rest of the “founding clubs”.
      This time the footballer-turned-pundit took a swipe at the Red Devils ahead of Sunday’s Premier League encounter at Leeds.
      Neville said: “Leeds players should walk to the side of the pitch and just let them keep scoring ! They don’t want competition….”

      CATASTROPHICALLY DESTABILISING
      The League Managers Association (LMA) believes the European Super League, which now includes Manchester United, would have a “catastrophically destabilising” effect on the sport
      A statement from the LMA read: “We believe that any such league would be catastrophically destabilising to the entire European football pyramid, with deep and far-reaching consequences.
      “Closing off the top of the pyramid of European club football would immediately extinguish many of the ambitions and dreams that drive managers, coaches, players and fans.
      “Club owners are custodians of the clubs they lead and they have a duty and responsibility to the integrity of the game that should always take precedence over self-interest and financial gain. Now more than ever, as the game looks to face the challenges of re-emerging from the COVID pandemic, it needs to be unified, working to the principles of cooperation and solidarity.
      “We will support the game’s stakeholders in taking any appropriate measures required and we urge those leading the clubs responsible for the European Super League proposals to fundamentally reconsider their position and act in the best interests of the whole game.”
      DARK DAY
      Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Committee Chair Julian Knight described the ongoing European Super League developments, which include Manchester United, as a “dark day for football”.
      Knight said: “This is a dark day for football – a deal done behind closed doors apparently with no regard for supporters.
      “Though this idea was mooted several months ago, what’s shocking is the speed at which this breakaway league has been announced.
      “What’s needed is a fan-led review of football with real teeth and here we have more evidence to strengthen the case for it.
      “Football needs a reset, but this is not the way to do it. The interests of community clubs must be put at the heart of any future plans.
      “We, the Committee, will be discussing this when we meet tomorrow in a private session”
      ANDER-STAND THIS
      Former Manchester United star Ander Herrera took to Twitter condemning the European Super League project.
      Herrera broke his silence and claimed that this is a case of ” the rich stealing what the people created”.
      Reports suggest that the star midfielder’s current club Paris St-Germain were invited to be part of the format but turned them down.
      It is also claimed that the PSG hierarchy believe that it would be disrespectful to join a top competition that would be exclusive for the richest clubs

      MOURINHO REPLACEMENT
      Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is no longer in charge of Tottenham.
      Spurs are now searching for Mourinho’s permanent replacement following the Portuguese coach’s shock exit.
      Until then, former club player Ryan Mason is going to take over first team training.
      Here’s who Betfair think are the likeliest candidates to take over at Tottenham:

      Julian Nagelsmann – 7/2
      Jurgen Klinsmann – 7/2
      Brendan Rodgers – 5/1
      Ledley King – 9/1
      Massimiliano Allegri – 10/1
      Steven Gerrard – 12/1
      Scott Parker – 12/1
      Rafa Benitez – 14/1
      Nuno Espirito Santo – 14/1
      Gareth Southgate – 16/1
      Maurizio Sarri – 16/1
      Diego Simeone – 20/1
      Graham Potter – 20/1
      Roberto Martinez – 20/1

      HAALAND SITUATION
      Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Borussia Dortmund megastar Erling Haaland in the summer.
      However, the fees required by Dortmund as well as Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola are astronomical.
      Therefore, it is important to remind there is a clause in the star striker’s contract that will allow him to leave for a major cut-price of €75m (£65m) in the summer of 2022.
      That would work as a major boost for United along with the other interested parties
      TOTTENHAM STATEMENT
      Tottenham have confirmed that former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been relieved of his duties.
      Mourinho will be departing from Spurs along with his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra.
      Chairman Daniel Levy said: “Jose and his coaching staff have been with us through some of our most challenging times as a Club. Jose is a true professional who showed enormous resilience during the pandemic.
      “On a personal level I have enjoyed working with him and regret that things have not worked out as we both had envisaged.
      “He will always be welcome here and we should like to thank him and his coaching staff for their contribution”
      The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 19, 2021

      VARANE SITUATION
      Manchester United are in very advanced talks with Real Madrid amid their bid to sign Raphael Varane in the summer.
      That is according to El Chiringuito TV, who claim United are in pole position for Varane’s signature.
      The defender is entering his final year at Real and Los Blancos have accepted that they may have to sell him at the end of the season if they want to make a profit out of him.
      Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly looking for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire at centre-back
      WHAT SOLSKJAER SAID
      Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained coy about the European Super League plans when quizzed before the announcement on Sunday.
      Solskjaer said after United’s 3-1 win over Burnley: “I am dealing with the news this afternoon, the speculation.
      “I don’t think it is for me to comment on now. We just have to wait and see what happens.
      “As I have said, I have seen the speculation or news this afternoon. I can’t comment. It is an issue for the clubs to comment on.
      “I’ve seen this morning the news about the speculation, so I can’t really say too much. My focus has been on this game.
      “I haven’t looked into [the details], I’ve just been focusing on this game. I need to sit down and see what it is. I’ve not seen any, I don’t know all the ins and outs, I need to find out and then the clubs can issue a comment”

      MOURINHO SACKED!
      In what has already been a mad day in football, former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho appears to have been sacked as Tottenham manager.
      That is according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who reports that Spurs have parted ways with Mourinho after a turbulent season.
      The north Londoners are seventh in the Premier League table and look set to miss out on the top four for the second year in a row.
      This comes after Tottenham decided to break away and join the controversial European Super League format

      FERDINAND SPEAKS OUT
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand joined an ever-growing list of high-profile figures condemning the European Super League project calling it a “war on football”.
      Ferdinand told BT Sport: “This is, for me, a war on football. It’s a disgrace, it’s embarrassing and goes against everything football is about.
      “It’s a closed shop for these bigwigs and it’s completely and utterly only about one thing and that’s money. The rich getting richer and the others not even being considered.
      “How they’ve got the audacity to do it in the climate we’re in at the moment… the pandemic around the world. People are struggling all over the world, and this lot…colluding with this idea that they’ve hatched – and to break it like this.
      “The element of being anti-competitive goes against everything football is about. It screams [that] these people have no idea what football’s about. It’s purely a business transaction. The people who make this game special are not being considered”
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      Jose Mourinho sacked LIVE: Julian Nagelsmann bookies favourite to be new Spurs boss, Ryan Mason takes training

      by

      JOSE MOURINHO has been SACKED as Tottenham manager.The Portuguese boss and Spurs have parted ways just six days before the EFL Cup final this weekend.

      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      KEANE DEFENCE
      Roy Keane backed Jose Mourinho as he insisted he needed more time at Tottenham and was more critical of the players.
      Keane said: “He’s got a great record, he’s come into this side to compete; finishing sixth or seventh is not what they’ve employed him for.
      “Jose has always had brilliant defenders, proper midfielders in terms of mindset. But Spurs aren’t strong enough. They’re not good enough to keep it tight behind Kane and Son.
      “If he still has this mindset of getting our noses in front, sit back and hold onto leads, this team defensively – and I’m including the goalkeeper – aren’t good enough.
      “These lads here are nowhere near as good enough defensively as what he’s had at his previous clubs. Lack of leaders, lack of characters, not good enough defensively.
      “It’s a lot of things going into the mix and it’s not an easy fix. But I think his CV warrants staying longer in the job”
      MORE ON MOURINNHO’S DISMISSAL
      There were too many unhappy faces on the training ground which Levy patrols daily.
      They are believed to have included skipper Hugo Lloris and striker Harry Kane.
      Both of whom had been staunchly behind Mourinho, but even the France and England captains are believed to have become concerned by Mourinho’s actions.
      After the 58-year-old’s exit was confirmed, Kane tweeted: “Thank you for everything Boss. A pleasure to have worked together. I wish you all the best for your next chapter.”
      Under previous boss Mauricio Pochettino, Tottenham’s training Enfield HQ had become a place where all members of staff, including execs, cleaners and multi-million pound football celebrities greeted each other with a handshake and a “Good morning.”
      Now it was threatening to become an environment where players and colleagues could not even look each other in the eyes.
      NO MOUR
      Jose Mourinho was spotted for the first time since his Tottenham sacking leaving the club’s training ground on Monday.
      The Special One was given his marching orders by Daniel Levy in a shock announcement this morning, just six days before the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
      And Mourinho was pictured leaving Spurs’ Enfield base in the passenger seat of a car following the stunning news.
      The former Chelsea and Manchester United tactician was only appointed by Tottenham in November 2019 following Mauricio Pochettino’s exit.
      Mourinho managed the capital club for 86 games but struggled to make an impression in the Premier League or Europe.
      Spurs are currently seventh in the table, one place lower than where they finished last season.

      MOUR THAN MEETS THE EYE
      Jose Mourinho was axed as Tottenham boss after a players’ revolt.
      The Special One’s 17-month reign in charge at Spurs came to an end when he was sacked this morning – just six days before they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.
      But while it was Daniel Levy who did the firing, it was the club’s playing stars who supplied the bullets after several of them went to see their chairman to complain about the Special One’s tactics and methods, which had raised an increasing number of eyebrows in their dressing room in recent weeks.
      Senior squad members had bitten their lips after becoming accustomed to the way Mourinho treated and ignored those not in his plans with absolute contempt.
      But they could stay silent no longer when he tried to throw them under the bus and blame them for Tottenham’s failure to win the Europa League and close in on a top-four finish.
      And when first-team regulars who had previously been “Mourinho loyalists” started to voice their concerns, Levy simply had to act.
      READ MORE ON THE INSIDE OF MOURINHO’S SACKING HERE
      PLAYER BANS CONFIRMED
      Fabrizio Romano reports that UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has confirmed that players who perform in the European Super League will be banned from the World Cup and Euros.
      That means anyone from the Premier League’s “big six” that breaks away won’t be allowed to play of their national teams.
      There had been speculation of potential sanctions towards the sides involved with the proposed format, which Ceferin described as “disgraceful”.
      The UEFA President also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face ” of all football fans
      UEFA’s Alexander Ceferin confirms: “The players that will play in the Super League will be banned from playing in the World Cup and Euros. Ceferin. They will not be allowed play for their national teams”. 🚫🇪🇺 #SuperLeague— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 19, 2021

      MORE FROM CEFERIN
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin described the European Super League project as “disgraceful”.
      Ceferin also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face” for all football fans around the world.
      The UEFA President said: “I cannot stress more strongly UEFA and the footballing world are united against the disgraceful, self-serving proposals we have seen, fuelled purely by greed. It’s a nonsense of a project.
      “This idea is a spit in the face for all football lovers and our society. We will not allow them to take this away from us”
      PREMIER LEAGUE SET MEETING
      The Premier League are going to hold a meeting with 14 clubs on Tuesday morning.
      That means the “big six”, which are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, who are involved in the proposed European Super League project won’t be included.
      The representatives involved will talk about the ongoing situation and the next steps.
      The meeting will be chaired by Premier League CEO Richard Masters
      CEFERIN LASHES OUT
      UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has strongly criticised Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli following the European Super League proposition, which includes Tottenham.
      Ceferin said: “I was a criminal lawyer for 24 years but I’ve never, ever, seen people like that.
      “If I start with Ed Woodward, he called me last Thursday, saying that he’s very satisfied with reforms and he fully supports them. Obviously, he already signed something else.
      “Andrea Agnelli is the biggest disappointment of all. I’ve never seen a person lie so many times as he did, it was unbelievable”
      WHY MOURINHO LEFT
      There have been rumours suggesting that Jose Mourinho was fired by Tottenham because of the club’s involvement in the controversial European Super League.
      According to Football London, however, that sort of speculation is wide of the mark.
      It is instead reported that Mourinho was dismissed because of poor results and the lack of improvement.
      Spurs have become the first ever club in which the Portuguese manager doesn’t win anything but he was on course of challenging for the Carabao Cup on Sunday against Manchester City
      KANE REACTS
      Tottenham superstar Harry Kane has responded to Jose Mourinho’s dismissal.
      Kane took to Twitter and thanked Mourinho “for everything” and wished him the best in his future endeavours.
      The England captain tweeted: “Thank you for everything Boss. A pleasure to have worked together.
      “I wish you all the best for your next chapter”

      MOURINHO NEXT CLUB
      Jose Mourinho has officially left Tottenham just six days before the Carabao Cup Final against Manchester City.
      And now Mourinho will be looking for his next destination after some impressive stints at Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Porto.
      Here is what Betfair thinks about the Portuguese manager’s future:

      Juventus 6/1
      Portugal National Team 11/2
      Any MLS Team 11/2
      Porto 8/1
      England national team 10/1
      Celtic 12/1
      PSG 12/1
      Any Chinese Super League Team 14/1
      Inter 16/1
      Dortmund 16/1
      Atletico Madrid 20/1
      Bayern Munich 25/1
      West Ham 25/1
      Newcastle 25/1
      Republic of Ireland National Team 25/1
      Crystal Palace 33/1
      Spain National Team 40/1
      Everton 50/1
      Arsenal 66/1

      MOURINHO FINAL WORDS
      The last time that Jose Mourinho spoke to the media took place shortly after Friday’s 2-2 draw at Everton.
      Mourinho said: “I think it’s not about the changes. It’s not about the system.
      “It’s a system that we played before, it’s a system that many teams they play. It’s a system that you could feel that Everton, even defending in a 4-4-2 they were dealing with three and two wing-backs.
      “I don’t think it’s about the system but I believe that the result is one that’s not bad and it’s not good. Were we perfect? No. Were we bad? Also no.”
      NAGELSMANN PREVIOUS STATEMENTS
      RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann has been tipped as Jose Mourinho’s successor at Tottenham, following recent rumours that he will be replacing Hansi Flick at Bayern Munich.
      Nagelsmann recently discussed the prospect of joining a Premier League club some day in the future and refused to rule out such a move.
      The German manager told the Daily Telegraph in February: “I have a contract now until 2023 so I think I will stay in Leipzig.
      “The Premier League is a very interesting league and I can imagine it could be a big aim to be a big manager in the Premier League one day like Jurgen [Klopp] who is very successful.
      “It could be a step in the future.
      “But, you know, in soccer it’s not that easy to plan ‘how long will you be a manager in Leipzig? When will you go to the Premier League?’
      “I could imagine going to the Premier League. I could imagine staying as a manager in the Bundesliga for my whole career. It’s cool to be a manager in my own country. I love it.
      “But then perhaps in the future we can meet face-to-face in the Premier League, who knows”
      WAY RISKY
      Derby manager Wayne Rooney, who was Manchester United captain during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at Old Trafford, claims Tottenham took a major risk letting him go just six days before the Carabao Cup Final against Manchester City.
      Rooney also described Mourinho as a “fantastic” manager and one of the few that can properly prepare a team for a match against City.
      The United legend said: “He is a fantastic manager.
      “If there is one manager to set a team up to play against Manchester City in a cup final, it is Jose Mourinho. It is a massive risk.
      “I am sure a lot of teams around the world would love to have him”
      GETTY IMAGES
      DIFFICULT JOB
      Jamie Carragher claimed Jose Mourinho had a difficult job of getting Tottenham in the top four as there are “better squads in this league”.
      Carragher said on Friday: “I mentioned about these teams perhaps not being Champions League level and l think we saw that tonight.
      “People may say that it’s not good enough for Spurs, but l don’t believe that with the squad Tottenham have got they should be in the top four. There are better squads in this league.
      “I felt if Tottenham got into the top four this season it would be a slight over-achievement”
      KEANE DEFENCE
      Roy Keane backed Jose Mourinho as he insisted he needed more time at Tottenham and was more critical of the players.
      Keane said: “He’s got a great record, he’s come into this side to compete; finishing sixth or seventh is not what they’ve employed him for.
      “Jose has always had brilliant defenders, proper midfielders in terms of mindset. But Spurs aren’t strong enough. They’re not good enough to keep it tight behind Kane and Son.
      “If he still has this mindset of getting our noses in front, sit back and hold onto leads, this team defensively – and I’m including the goalkeeper – aren’t good enough.
      “These lads here are nowhere near as good enough defensively as what he’s had at his previous clubs. Lack of leaders, lack of characters, not good enough defensively.
      “It’s a lot of things going into the mix and it’s not an easy fix. But I think his CV warrants staying longer in the job”
      REDKNAPP PAST COMMENTS
      Jamie Radknapp criticised Jose Mourinho’s coaching recently as he claimed he made Tottenham a “really tough watch”.
      Redknapp told Sky Sports two weeks ago: “What Jose has done in this period is make them a really tough watch. You can say what you like about Spurs over the last 40 years but they’ve always been a good football team; they’ve always had a style of play.
      “If Spurs fans were in here, I don’t think they’d enjoy that one bit. Too often I watch this Spurs side and there’s no real flair, there’s no excitement.
      “I don’t think this is a bad squad of players; I’ve said it before and I’ll stand by it. This manager has chopped and changed at the back. To play football, you have to have a chemistry, a relationship with whoever you’re playing alongside.
      “The manager has to take responsibility. We talked in the past about a Jose masterclass; he loved it and celebrated it. If he doesn’t think this is a good squad… well, a great manager would find a way to get his players organised”
      MOURINHO STATEMENTS
      Jose Mourinho was at times critical of his former Tottenham players in recent weeks.
      Mourinho notably claimed that some of his stars were “hiding” during last month’s North London Derby defeat to Arsenal.
      He said: “No intensity, no pressing. In terms of creating attacking football, some important players were hiding. In the second half we only had to improve which we did.”
      Mourinho also said after the draw with Newcastle two weeks ago: “It was not a problem of fight, it was not a problem of attitude, the players wanted to win but I have to be honest and say I saw things on the pitch, not in terms of attitude but in terms of profile, vision, balance, which belongs to the top players, I didn’t see in every position”
      MOURINHO RECORD
      Jose Mourinho took over at Tottenham during a difficult time for the club last season as they had slumped to 14th place and struggled in the Champions League.
      However, Mourinho picked them up and led them to sixth place as well as Europa League qualification.
      This season has had its difficulties following the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the sport.
      However, the ex-Manchester United and Chelsea boss still guided Tottenham to the Carabao Cup final and came just a whisker away from becoming the first manager to win a trophy for the club since 2008.
      Check out Mourinho’s analytical stats below:

      LINEKER REACTS
      Tottenham legend Gary Lineker took to Twitter following Jose Mourinho’s exit from the club.
      Lineker combined the news with the ongoing developments of the European Super League.
      Spurs are among the teams that have joined the controversial project and have even been given the title of “founding club”.
      And the Match of the Day host decided to add some humour during this difficult day
      Jose Mourinho is fired. He is the first of the European Super League managers to lose their job.— Gary Lineker 💙 (@GaryLineker) April 19, 2021

      MOURINHO TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT
      Tottenham should be searching for Jose Mourinho’s permanent replacement.
      Spurs confirmed that Mourinho has left the club along with his coaching staff.
      The north Londoners also announced that former club player Ryan Mason will take first team training until further notice.
      Mason spent eight years at Tottenham and made a total of 70 appearances across all competitions until he left for Hull in 2016 and was forced to retire two years later due to a head injury at the age of 26
      NEXT TOTTENHAM MANAGER
      RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann and Tottenham legend Jurgen Klinsmann are favourites to replace Jose Mourinho at Spurs’ dugout.
      That is according to Betfair, who claim the German duo are at 7/2 odds of taking over from Mourinho:

      Julian Nagelsmann – 7/2
      Jurgen Klinsmann – 7/2
      Brendan Rodgers – 5/1
      Ledley King – 9/1
      Massimiliano Allegri – 10/1
      Steven Gerrard – 12/1
      Scott Parker – 12/1
      Rafa Benitez – 14/1
      Nuno Espirito Santo – 14/1
      Gareth Southgate – 16/1
      Maurizio Sarri – 16/1
      Diego Simeone – 20/1
      Graham Potter – 20/1
      Roberto Martinez – 20/1

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      European Super League CONFIRMED as Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs, Man City, Liverpool, Man Utd, Barcelona and Real sign up

      by

      ARSENAL, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have CONFIRMED their plans to join a European Super League.The 12-club tournament would be held throughout the season and would make the clubs even richer than they already are.
      Gary Neville did not hold back on TV after Sky Sports discussed the plans live on air while leading football organisations including the Premier League have told clubs traditional competition is best for English football.
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
      JOEL GLAZER SPEAKS
      Manchester United’s co-chairman said: “By bringing together the world’s greatest clubs and players to play each other, the Super League will open a new chapter for European football, ensuring world-class competition and facilities, and increased financial support for the wider pyramid.”
      Real Madrid president Florentino Perez added: “We will help football at every level and take it to its rightful place in the world.
      “Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires.”
      SUPER LEAGUE FORMAT
      As per the proposals, the League will contain 20 participating clubs with 15 Founding Clubs and a qualifying mechanism for a further five teams to qualify annually based on achievements in the prior season.
      It will involve midweek fixtures with their plan that all participating clubs continuing to compete in their respective national leagues.
      An August start with clubs participating in two groups of ten, playing home and away fixtures, with the top three in each group automatically qualifying for the quarter finals.
      Teams finishing fourth and fifth will then compete in a two-legged play-off for the remaining quarter-final positions.
      A two-leg knockout format will be used to reach the final at the end of May, which will be staged as a single fixture at a neutral venue.
      UEFA HIT BACK
      Potential fallout could see the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo absent from every future Champions League and World Cup with Barcelona and Juventus signed up to the Super League.
      After the #SuperLeague statement, this is the UEFA position: “Every club and player participating in the Super League could be banned from all UEFA and FIFA competitions, European or International level”. 🚨 #UEFA— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 18, 2021

      SUPER LEAGUE STATEMENT
      “Twelve of Europe’s leading football clubs have today come together to announce they have agreed to establish a new mid-week competition, the Super League, governed by its Founding Clubs.
      “AC Milan, Arsenal , Atlético, Chelsea, Barcelona, Internazionale, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Tottenham have all joined.
      “Three more clubs are expected to join as Founding Clubs before the inaugural season, which is expected to start as soon as possible. In the future, the Founding Clubs look forward to consulting with UEFA and FIFA in order to work together.”
      JAVI-NG THE BEST TIME
      Marcelo Bielsa has compared ‘Mr Versatile’ Stuart Dallas to Argentine legend Javier Zanetti.
      He said: “I had a player like him, Javier Zanetti, and also Julio Saldana who I had when I first managed at Newell’s.
      “Those two players are very alike Dallas in terms of their versatility.
      “Dallas is a very potent, powerful player. He can play with either foot, his right or his left, he’s good at defending.
      “He has the capacity to combine as well as make runs, which allows him to flourish playing in the middle.
      “He has a change of rhythm and surprise when he attacks. It’s very difficult to find all that in just one player.”

      ‘WAR OF FOOTBALL’
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has had his say on European Super League plans.

      BRAGGING RIGHTS
      Rangers’ hopes of a league and Scottish Cup Double are ON after a derby win over Celtic at Ibrox.
      The Light Blues ran out 2-0 winners to secure a spot in the quarter-final stage of the competition as they aim to add to their Premiership triumph.
      Steven Davis and an own goal from Jonjoe Kenny handed Steven Gerrard’s men another victory over the Hoops this season and ensured their rivals won’t end the season with any silverware this campaign.
      Read SunSport’s match report HERE.

      RON-MAN TEAM
      Juventus’ Champions League qualification hopes were dented by a late Atalanta winner as they felt the full force of Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence.
      Andrea Pirlo’s side struggled without the injured CR7 and were beaten courtesy of Ruslan Malinovskiy’s 87th minute strike.
      Atalanta leapfrogged their opponents into third place and moved on to 64 points, two ahead of Juventus, with both having played 31 games.
      The Bianconeri are set to see their decade of dominance in the Italian league ended after nine consecutive Scudetto wins.
      CLUB MUST ANSWER TO FANS
      Prime minister Boris Johnson has released a short statement on Twitter addressing plans for a European Super League.
      The clubs involved must answer to their fans and the wider footballing community before taking any further steps. (2/2)— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 18, 2021

      PFA ON EUROPEAN SUPER LEAGUE
      A statement read: “The PFA has substantial concerns regarding the wide-ranging implications of the proposed European Super League concept.
      “Football should strive to preserve the sanctity of a competitive domestic league above all else. Aspiration and sporting merits are an essential part of any sport and a vital component of the game we love.
      “This proposed move would detract from the strength and joy of domestic football and diminish the game for the vast majority of fans across the continent.
      “Clubs across all domestic competitions are not equal, each having differing financial starting points. However, success is never guaranteed, often cyclical and always earned.
      “We have seen countless examples around Europe of teams outperforming their resources. In recent years, at home in the Premier League, this has resulted in unrivalled global entertainment and sporting drama.
      “A system that rewards all clubs for success is paramount. In England, we are privileged to enjoy the most professional teams, the most professional players and in normal times, the highest aggregate attendances across the world. This success is achieved by working together and in solidarity.
      “The PFA will work with players, The FA, Premier League, EFL, LMA and through FIFPRO, with other players’ associations, to represent the game’s best interests and protect the integrity of football.”
      LEICESTER 1 SOUTHAMPTON 0
      Kelechi Iheanacho deservedly fired Leicester to their first FA Cup final since 1969 = on the day fans returned to football.
      The two-goal quarter-final hero this time pounced on a rebound from his own shot on 55 minutes to sink subdued Southampton and set up a May 15 clash with Chelsea.
      Read SunSport’s match report HERE.

      LACA OUT
      Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette was forced out of his team’s 1-1 draw with Fulham after picking up an apparent hamstring injury.
      The 29-year-old limped off in the 70th minute clutching his left leg – just 11 days before the Gunners face Villarreal in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.

      SUPER QUIET
      Mikel Arteta and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have avoided answering questions on the European Super League proposals.
      Both Manchester United and Arsenal are alleged to have signed up, a move that has been criticised by many – including Gary Neville.
      Speaking after United’s 3-1 win against Burnley, Solskjaer said: “I’ve seen this morning the news and speculation. I can’t really say too much because my focus has been on this game.
      “I haven’t looked into it, I’ve just been focused on this game so I need to sit down and see what it is.”
      Arteta, speaking after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham, also remained quiet, saying: “I don’t know anything about it.
      “Once I know every detail and have all the information then I can evaluate the situation and give you my opinion.”
      SUPER SIZED
      A number of Premier League clubs are being linked with the controversial proposals, which have been blasted by Gary Neville as “criminal”.

      MORE FROM NEVILLE
      He told Sky Sports: “I’ve benefited from football hugely, I’ve made money out of football, I invest money into a football club. Now, I’m not against money in football. But the principles and ethos of fair competition and the rights to play the game.
      “So Leicester win the league – they go into the Champions League. Manchester United aren’t even in the Champions League! Arsenal aren’t even in the Champions League, watched them earlier on today, they are an absolute shambles of a football club at the moment. Tottenham aren’t in the Champions League. And they want a God-given right to be in there.
      “They’re an absolute joke and honestly the time has come now, independent regulator, stop these clubs having the power base. Enough is enough.”
      Neville added: “Deduct them all points tomorrow – put them at the bottom of the league and take the money off them.
      “Seriously you have got to stamp on this, it’s criminal. It is a criminal act against football fans in this country. Make no mistake about it. This is the biggest sport in the world, in this country and it’s a criminal act against the fans, simple as that.
      “Deduct points, deduct their money and punish them.”
      NOW OR NEV-ER
      Gary Neville has been lauded for his impassionated rant against plans for the European Super League.
      He told Sky Sports: “Well the reaction to it is that it’s been damned. And rightly so.
      “I mean I am a Manchester United fan and have been for 40 years of my life but I’m disgusted, absolutely disgusted.
      “Honestly, we have to wrestle back the power in this country from the clubs at the top of this league and that includes my club.
      “And I’ve been calling for 12 months as part of another group for an independent regulator to bring checks and balances in place to stop this happening.
      “It’s pure greed. They are impostors. They are impostors. The owners of this club, the owners of Liverpool, the owners of Chelsea, the owners of Manchester City are nothing to do with football in this country.
      “There’s 100-odd years of history in this country from fans that have lived and loved these clubs. And they need protecting, the fans need protecting.”
      SEEING RED
      Gary Neville has said clubs should have points DEDUCTED for signing up to a European Super League.
      The plans, pushed by Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester United and AC Milan, are backed by the financial muscle of US investment giant JP Morgan.
      “This is disowning your own club stuff.” 🚮@GNev2 hits out at the six clubs linked with a Super League breakaway and says they should be ‘punished heavily’ by the Premier League and English governing bodies. pic.twitter.com/Sy0gM6qdgm— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 18, 2021

      LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN
      Roy Keane slammed plans for a breakaway European Super League as ‘pure greed’.
      Speaking on Sky Sports at half-time in Manchester United’s game against Burnley, Keane fumed: “It’s all about money.
      “It doesn’t sound good and let’s hope it is stopped in it’s tracks because it’s greed, pure greed.”
      Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards was similarly unimpressed.
      He added: “What happens about fans and the memories fans have had over the years?
      “Does all that go away because of money? I think it’s a disgrace.”
      MANCHESTER UNITED 3 BURNLEY 1
      Mason Greenwood struck twice in the second-half to keep Manchester United’s faint title hopes flickering.
      The Red Devils looked set to drop points at home against Burnley for a fifth straight season when James Tarkowski headed them level early in the second-half.
      But just six minutes from time Greenwood collected a pass from Paul Pogba and his shot was deflected off Jack Cork before beating Bailey Peacock-Farrell.
      This win cuts City’s lead at the top to eight points with six games apiece remaining – and while it remains possible United are clearly not for chucking in the towel.

      FAN FRENZY
      Football finally welcomed back fans as 4,000 Leicester and Southampton followers streamed to Wembley for Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final
      The lucky ‘few’ strolled in the sunshine to the home of football without the usual packed pavements for such a big match.
      But they looked ultra-relaxed and just happy to be there after the government let the FA select the clash as a one-off pilot event.
      That’s before the May 17 nationwide date when crowds of up to 10,000 can officially return.
      ARSENAL 1 FULHAM 1
      Relegation-threatened Fulham were denied a first-ever win at Arsenal by Eddie Nkletiah’s 97th minute equaliser.
      Scott Parker thought he was going to celebrate his 100th game as Fulham boss with a fabulous famous victory.
      But he was cruelly robbed deep into stoppage time when sub Nketiah prodded the ball over the line after keeper Mat Ryan had come up to flick on a last-gasp corner.
      The visitors had snatched an unlikely 59th minute lead through Josh Maja’s penalty but are now five points adrift of safety and having played more games than all of the teams above them.
      Read SunSport’s match report HERE.

      GOAL KING
      Timo Werner may appear to have struggled at Stamford Bridge since arriving from RB Leipzig in a £48million deal.
      However, the Chelsea forward has remarkably been directly involved in 19 goals in all competitions this season – more than other player at the club.
      Werner has scored 10 goals and provided nine assists for his team-mates – three more than any other Blues star.
      The German international helped provide the breakthrough for Hakim Ziyech against Manchester City on Saturday, after making a darting run and delivering a cross to find the Moroccan to tap into an empty net.
      HELPING HEND
      Chris Wood has the ball in the net straight after kick-off but thankfully for Dean Henderson the goal is ruled out for offside.

      BETTER CALL SAUL
      Man Utd could reportedly meet Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez’s release clause in the summer.
      The Daily Star have claimed that the Red Devils are ready to activate his £43m clause as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer eyes up a new midfielder.
      Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also understood to be interested in the Spain international.
      But it has been stated that Saul could be tempted by a switch to the Premier League.
      MAUR TIME
      PSG have moved to within a point of leaders Lille in the Ligue 1 title race after Mauro Icardi scored a last-minute winner against St Etienne.
      The French champions looked to have dropped two points but the 28-year-old’s late header snatched a 3-2 victory.
      Denis Bouanga opened the scoring for the visitors in the 77th minute, before Kylian Mbappe expertly controlling Marco Verratti’s long ball over the top and slotting home with ease.
      The comeback appeared to be complete in the 87th minute when Mbappe converted a penalty – yet there was more to come.
      A 92nd-minute effort from Bouanga was poorly dealt with by Sergio Rico in the PSG goal and Romain Hamouma scored from the rebound to seemingly maintain Lille’s three-point lead.
      Icardi, however, had other ideas as he leapt high above the defence to head home an Angel Di Maria cross in the fifth minute of added time.
      MAURO ICARDI WINS IT FOR PSG 🤯PSG looked to have blown the comeback when St Etienne equalised in the 92nd minute…But that is a MASSIVE goal in the Ligue 1 title race 🔥 pic.twitter.com/t9j1czOiCq— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 18, 2021

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      Man Utd vs Burnley LIVE SCORE: Greenwood gives United lead after Bruno sells beautiful dummy – Steam and TV channel

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are hosting Burnley in the Premier League as the Red Devils attempt to make an unlikely title charge.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were brilliant in their 3-1 win over Tottenham last weekend and will be looking to continue their fine form in the league against the Clarets.

      KICK-OFF: 4pm
      TV CHANNEL: Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League
      LIVE STREAM: Now TV
      MAN UTD LINE-UP: Henderson, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw, McTominay, Fred, Fernandes, Pogba, Greenwood, Rashford.
      BURNLEY LINE-UP: Peacock-Farrell, Lowton, Tarkwoski, Mee, Taylor, Gudmundsson, Cork, Westwood, Brownhill, McNeil, Wood.

      Stay up to date with every kick from Old Trafford in our live blog, below…
      INSTANT EQUALISER!
      TARKOWSKI HEADS BURNLEY LEVEL!
      MAN UTD 1-0 BURNLEY
      47. Rashford breaks away from Lowton down the left-hand side before playing the ball across the penalty area.
      Fernandes lets the ball roll through his legs to an unmarked Greenwood at the back post.
      And the youngster takes a touch before thumping the ball past Peacock-Farrell!
      Fast start from United!
      GOOOOOOAAAAAALLL!!!
      GREENWOOD SCORES FOR MAN UTD!
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      45. Man Utd get the game back underway!
      Cavani is also on for the home side, replacing midfielder Fred – meaning Pogba will drop back alongside McTominay.
      PEEEEEEEEP!
      AND WE’RE BACK UNDERWAY!
      THE TEAMS ARE BACK OUT
      NEVILLE ON ‘SUPER LEAGUE’
      Gary Neville had some harsh words for the Premier League clubs that have signed up for the proposed ‘European Super League’.
      Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and two other sides are understood to be involved in plans.
      On Sky Sports’ commentary of Man Utd vs Burnley, he said: “I cant’ focus on the game.
      “They should deduct points from all six teams that have signed up to it.
      “Deduct points off them all. To do it during a season? It’s a joke.”
      HALF-TIME STATS
      Man Utd have seen more of the ball, but Burnley have arguably had the best chances of the half through Wood.
      Both sides are favouring the left and right flanks inside the final third – Burnley’s best chances have come from Lowton swinging in crosses!
      And for Man Utd, Rashford cutting inside off the left-hand side.

      HT: MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      Burnley started the game bright and had the ball in the back of the net after 20 seconds.
      Wood latched onto Lowton’s long ball forward and beat Man Utd goalkeeper Henderson in the air to find the back of the net.
      But the linesman and VAR correctly ruled the goal out for offside.
      Not much else to report on in the first half, but Wood looks like a man on a mission to score!
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THE HALF-TIME WHISTLE GOES AT OLD TRAFFORD!
      ALL SQUARE AT THE BREAK!
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      45+1. CHANCE!
      Tarkowski meets a Burnley free-kick and nods the ball across goal towards Wood.
      The striker fails to connect and instead ends up clattering into Man Utd goalkeeper Henderson!
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      45. Just one minute to be added on at the end of the first half.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      43. Gary Neville, on Sky Sports commentary, calls for all the teams that have signed up for the proposed ‘European Super League’ to be deducted points.
      Plenty more to come on that at half-time.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      41. JUST WIDE!
      Lowton pumps a free-kick long into the Man Utd penalty area.
      Tarkowski wins the flick-on and sends the ball into the path of striker Wood.
      The forward spins and sends a shot JUST wide of the near post!
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      39. Relive Wood’s disallowed goal inside the opening minute!

      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      37. CHANCE!
      Rashford is picked out at the far post and plays a first-time pass across the face of goal.
      Greenwood arrives late and fails to connect with the ball and a good chance passes United by!
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      36. Greenwood fails to clear his lines deep inside his own half and the ball falls to Wood inside the penalty area.
      The forward tries to hold the ball up to allow his team-mates to get into the penalty area.
      But Fred pokes the ball away and regains possession for the home side.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      34. Lindelof plays a long ball over the top of Burnley’s backline, spotting the run of Rashford.
      Peacock-Farrell comes out to meet the forward and Rashford goes to ground.
      But a penalty isn’t given.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      32. Lowton swings another cross into the penalty area towards Wood at the far post.
      Wan-Bissaka gives the forward a push from behind leading to penalty shouts.
      But the referee doesn’t award a spot-kick.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      30. CHANCE!
      Lowton gets down the right-hand side and delivers a good cross into the penalty area.
      Wood meets it well but steers a header wide of the post!
      The Burnley forward feels like the goal is coming and who can blame him! He’s scored two in his last two appearances at Old Trafford.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      28. SAVE!
      Lowton lets Rashford drift into the penalty area and the England international moves the ball onto his favoured right foot.
      Rashford sends a strike towards goal but Peacock-Farrell tips his effort over the bar!
      Man Utd corner.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      25. YELLOW CARD!
      Wan-Bissaka is booked for a reckless challenge on Brownhill close to the touchline.
      Burnley will be down to ten men temporarily whilst the midfielder receives treatment.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      24. Cork concedes a free-kick on the halfway line for clipping Fernandes.
      Fernandes sends a shot towards goalCredit: GETTY IMAGES
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      22. Cork plays a wonderful ball down the line for Taylor to chase after.
      Lindelof gets across and tries to hold the Burnley left-back off to win his side a goal-kick.
      But the tenacious Taylor sticks a foot in at the last moment to win Burnley a corner.
      MAN UTD 0-0 BURNLEY
      20. McNeil beats Wan-Bissaka to the ball, holds off the United right-back and plays Brownhill down the line.
      Brownhill gets the ball under control, but Wan-Bissaka is back in time to stick a foot in.
      Good recovery from Wan-Bissaka.
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      Leicester vs Southampton LIVE: FREE stream, TV channel, kick-off time, team news for TODAY’S FA Cup semi-final

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      LEICESTER and Southampton meet at Wembley TODAY for the chance to play Chelsea in the FA Cup final.The Foxes haven’t reached the final of this competition since 1969, but will be confident of seeing off a Saints side with just four wins since January 1.
      Leicester are on course to secure Champions League football once againCredit: Reuters
      Southampton have won the FA Cup once – way back in 1976 – and were beaten finalists 18 years ago under Gordon Strachan.
      When is Leicester vs Southampton?

      This FA Cup semi final is all set for Sunday, April 18 – TODAY.
      Kick-off is at 6.30pm BST.
      When the sides last met in January, Leicester ran out comfortable 2-0 winners after goals from James Maddison and Harvey Barnes.

      Which TV channel and live stream can I watch it on?
      Ycou can catch all of the action live on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Ultimate.
      If you’re a BT Sport customer or have BT Broadband, stream by downloading the official app on your mobile, smart TV, laptop or games console.
      Can I watch for free?

      EE customers can get BT Sport INCLUDED to their plan at no extra cost if they are on a plan with Smart Benefits – simply log in to EE and choose BT Sport app.
      And then get it on the big screen by texting SPORT to 150 to get a FREE three-month trial of large screen so you can cast all the action on your TV.
      At the end of the three months you will automatically roll onto the £15 per month subscription unless cancelled.

      What is the team news?
      James Maddison, Hamza Choudhary and Ayoze Perez are all set to return after being left out for breaching Covid-19 protocols last week.
      Harvey Barnes and James Justin remain sidelined while Jamie Vardy has scored in all three of his Wembley appearances for Leicester.
      Michael Obafemi, Oriol Romeu and William Smallbone are all ruled out for the Saints.
      Takuki Minamino is ineligible to play after appearing for Liverpool earlier in the competition.
      Match odds

      Leicester to win – 17/20
      Draw after 90 mins – 5/2
      Southampton victory – 16/5
      Foxes to qualify – 2/5
      Saints to reach final – 15/8

      *All odds from Paddy Power and correct at time of publication.
      GOOD AFTERNOON FROM WEMBLEY
      Welcome to our live coverage of the FA Cup semi-final clash between Leicester and Southampton at Wembley Stadium.
      The Foxes and the Saints are looking to punch their ticket for the FA Cup final where they will face Chelsea at the legendary ground.
      Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers will be without James Justin and Harvey Barnes who are out with a knee injury, whereas captain Wes Morgan is still dealing with a back problem.
      However, Caglar Soyuncu will be available for selection after healing from coronavirus and the same goes for his Turkey team-mate Cengiz Under, who overcame a hamstring injury.
      Rodgers will also have James Maddison, Ayoze Perez and Hamza Choudhury back in his squad for this crunch clash.
      The trio were omitted from last weekend’s Premier League loss at West Ham after breaching coronavirus restrictions and attending a party at Perez’s house.
      Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will be without Liverpool loanee Takumi Minamino as the winger is cup-tied.
      Hasenhuttl will also be missing Oriol Romeu and William Smallbone, who are sidelined with an ankle and knee injury respectively.
      But the former RB Leipzig boss has welcomed Michael Obafemi back in training after a four-month absence due to a muscle issue
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      Rangers 2 Celtic 0 LIVE REACTION: Davis bicycle and Kenny own goal give Gers Scottish Cup last-16 victory in Old Firm

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      RANGERS are through to the Scottish Cup quarter-finals after victory against Old Firm rivals Celtic.Steven Davis’ overhead kick and Jonjoe Kenny’s own goal put the Premiership winners on course for victory, which they saw out.
      Gers will now play St Johnstone in the last eight.
      Get all the reaction from Ibrox in our live blog…
      RANG-ING SUPREME
      Rangers’ incredible season carries on after the Old Firm Derby!
      After recently sealing the Scottish Premiership, the Gers are now targeting a Double triumph.
      Celtic, on the other hand, just saw their season ending as there are no other goals left for them.
      The Hoops should be looking ahead to next year
      Rangers book their place in the next round thanks to a win over their greatest rivals! 🔵More celebrations at Ibrox for Steven Gerrard’s side, and Celtic’s run of Scottish Cup success comes to an end 👀#ScottishCup #RANCEL pic.twitter.com/EIephcYEJz— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) April 18, 2021

      STATS
      Celtic dominated 55.6 per cent of possession throughout the Old Firm Derby but still got eliminated from the Scottish Cup.
      The Hoops registered a total of 16 shots, but only five of them were on target.
      Rangers recorded nine shots throughout the encounter, but only four of them were on target.
      The Gers goalkeeper Allan McGregor was man of the match with five big saves, compared to Scott Bain’s three
      GETTY IMAGES
      FT: RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      Rangers are through to the Scottish Cup quarter-finals after a dominant victory over rivals Celtic in the Old Firm Derby.
      The Gers opened the scoring after just 10 minutes with a wonderful overhead kick by Steven Davis.
      Steven Gerrard’s men doubled their lead on 34 minutes when Joe Aribo dribbled past Diego Laxalt and found Ryan Kent whose shot got deflected off of Joe Kenny, who registered an own goal.
      Celtic had many opportunities to get back in the game with their biggest one occurring when Odsonne Edouard missed a penalty against Allan McGregor
      GETTY IMAGES
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      AND THAT’S FULL-TIME AT IBROX!!!!!
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      90+3 CHANCE!
      McGregor punches a corner-kick away and Griffiths gains possession but his volley is way off target
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      90+1 YELLOW CARD
      Kent gets booked for time-wasting as we approach full-time
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      90 Four more minutes of added time to go.
      Rangers are quite comfortable on the pitch whereas Celtic look like they have accepted their fate
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      88 McGregor is just killing time by slowly rolling the ball down his box and teasing Edouard until he picks it up with his hands.
      Rangers are closing in on the Scottish Cup fifth round
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      86 SUBSTITUTION
      Celtic interim boss Kennedy makes another change as Ajeti replaces Elyounoussi
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      85 This pretty much sums up Edouard’s afternoon at Ibrox Stadium.
      Here is how the Celtic star missed the penalty…

      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      84 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Rangers almost make it four there!
      Davis delivers a beautiful pass to Aribo, who finds himself in front of Bain.
      But the Rangers star is denied by a wonderful tackle by Taylor!
      Rangers are protesting for a penalty but the game carries on
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      83 Time and stamina are seriously running out for Celtic.
      The Hoops had plenty of chances to comeback, they also had a penalty.
      But they just couldn’t convert any of it, Rangers are just happy to sit back for the last few minutes
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      80 SUBSTITUTION
      Gerrard introduces Roofe, who replaces Morelos after the last two dramatic minutes at Ibrox
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      80 EDOUARD MISSES!!!!
      Another terrible shot by Edouard as his penalty is denied by an easy lunge by McGregor to his right side!
      Great game by the Rangers keeper, but can’t say the same about the Celtic striker
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      79 PENALTY FOR CELTIC!!!
      Edouard’s free-kick finds Griffiths who goes down while under pressure by Aribo.
      Clear penalty!
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      78 Tension builds up in the Old Firm Derby after a rough tackle on Brown at the edge of the box.
      Words are being exchanged and Morelos gets involved, but it all blows over quick
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      76 CHANCE
      Kenny fires a powerful shot from the edge of the box that goes way over the bar.
      Celtic are getting quite desperate now…
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      75 YELLOW CARD
      Rangers star Aribo gets booked for what looks like an unintentional elbow on Ajer’s face during an aerial challenge
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      73 SUBSTITUTION
      Ajer returns to the pitch and thus Bitton sits back down on the bench.
      But Celtic interim boss Kennedy still makes a change with Griffiths replacing Christie
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      72 Uh-oh… Ajer is holding his arm in pain after a 50-50 with Morelos.
      The Cetic ace is receiving treatment while Kennedy is preparing some changes
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      70 Still hard to believe Edouard missed this chance!
      Celtic need a goal real soon to hope for a comeback against this stunning Rangers side

      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      67 CHANCE
      McGregor barely gets his left hand on a corner-kick from the left side and Welsh tries a shot that goes wide.
      That was a difficult effort from the Celtic ace from an equally tough position
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      65 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Rangers come close to a third with a double effort!
      Kent fires a long-range shot from the edge of the box but Bain saves it.
      Morelos picks up the ball and tries a strike of his own but the Celtic keeper blocks it as well.
      Great goalkeeping by Bain there
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      63 Aribo has been a constant problem for Celtic’s defence and midfield.
      The Rangers star has been finding it rather easy to dribble past them and feed his team-mates
      RANGERS 2-0 CELTIC
      61 CHANCE!
      Rangers play the ball very well with a lovely one-two between Morelos and Arfield.
      Arfield flicks the ball over the Celtic defence and finds himself in front of Bain but Welsh clears it right on time
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