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      in Soccer

      Paul Pogba EXCLUSIVE, Harry Kane ‘to cost Man Utd over £120m’, De Gea may leave club on loan, Haaland transfer LATEST

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will have to shell out a whopping £120m if they want to land Harry Kane this summer, according to reports.Meanwhile we’ve the latest on David De Gea, while the Red Devils are also said to have become less keen on Erling Haaland following Mino Raiola’s visit to Barcelona and Real Madrid.

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      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      RICE TRY
      Exclusive: West Ham will tell Manchester United to forget any plans to offer Jesse Lingard as part of a deal to sign Declan Rice.
      The Hammers are desperate to tie Lingard down to a permanent deal at the London Stadium following the success of his loan spell at the club.
      But United want Rice to help provide the base in their midfield to build a team capable of challenging for the Premier League title next season.
      That has led to Old Trafford bosses wondering if they could broker a deal which would see Lingard play a makeweight in an £80million package to take Rice to the North-West.
      Yet West Ham are in no mood to be bullied and want to seal a straight deal for Lingard this summer.
      And they have no intention of their 22-year-old vice-captain being part of any conversations over a transfer.
      TOP POG
      Exclusive: Paul Pogba is a captain in the Manchester United dressing room and will leave his team-mates devastated if he is sold.
      The French World Cup-winning midfielder has a difficult relationship with fans after his agent repeatedly linked him with a move away.
      But a source said Pogba is hugely popular in the dressing room.
      They said: “Paul may be regarded with suspicion by a lot of the fanbase because of his agent courting other clubs, but there is no doubt where the players stand with him.
      “They recognise he is one of the team’s stars and he is as desperate as they are for the club to be successful again.
      “He is well-liked by all his team-mates and no one wants him to leave.
      “But they also understand if a player is unhappy, it usually leads to his departure.
      “They all hope he will start the next season at Old Trafford.”
      PLAY IT AGAIN SAM
      Exclusive: Manchester United want to bring keeper Sam Johnstone back from West Brom in a shock swoop.
      Johnstone’s reputation has grown after a stunning campaign with the Baggies, earning him a first senior England call-up.
      United have put him at the head of their wishlist if David De Gea, 30, or Dean Henderson go this summer.
      We revealed the Red Devils would not carry on with both De Gea and Henderson, 24, sharing games in the future.
      Johnstone, 28, who came through the Old Trafford ranks before a £5million move to Albion in 2018, could be tempted to move as his deal is about to enter its final year.
      West Brom might cash in as Johnstone is also one of their top earners.
      FOR-EVRA
      Even Patrice Evra is getting involved in the 14-year anniversary of Man Utd’s 7-1 win over Roma.
      The classic match saw him net his first Champions League goal.

      PAY FUL PRICE
      Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham are both considering a move for on-loan Fulham defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
      Parent club Lyon are believed to have slapped a £25million price tag on the 24-year-old.
      According to the Telegraph, Lyon have already received an offer for Andersen from an unnamed Premier League club.
      The French side are rumoured to be in need of the cash and willing to accept around £25m for the player.
      Reports suggest the Denmark international is being monitored by Man Utd, who are set to release Phil Jones in the summer.

      MAN UTD’S H2H V SPURS
      The last time Spurs did the double over Man Utd in the top flight? The 1989-90 season. 31 years ago.
      INTERESTING STAT…

      KANE REMINDER
      A reminder of the story of the day which could potentially have a major impact on Manchester United…
      Tottenham star Harry Kane is going to push for an exit from the club if Spurs fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim Kane has grown increasinly frustrated with the north Londoners’ lack of silverware and general direction.
      The England captain has said he will clarify his future after this summer’s delayed Euro 2020 competition.
      However, Kane appears reluctant to spend another year outside of Europe’s elite tournament and may have to look for a different club if Tottenham fail to finish in the top four.
      Manchester United have been previously linked with the 27-year-old but Tottenham are not keen on letting their star striker join a Premier League rival
      TOTTENHAM V MANCHESTER UNITED
      Predictions for tomorrow people?

      SPECIAL NIGHT
      Who remembers this classic performance from Manchester United as they dispatched Roma 7-1? 14 years ago today.

      CAV EXIT
      Edinson Cavani is reportedly close to agreeing his Boca Juniors transfer.
      But the deal will only be announced at the end of the season.
      Todo Fichajes claims there is no chance Cavani, 34, will be extending his Manchester United contract this summer.
      After scoring just seven times in 28 games, while also suffering from persistent injuries, Cavani appears to be on the verge of a swift exit.
      Buenos Aires giants Boca Juniors have long been keen on signing the iconic forward, having already poached Marcos Rojo from Old Trafford.
      It’s now said that a deal is close to completion, with Cavani eager to be closer to his family in South America.

      READY FOR REDEMPTION
      Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 by Spurs before Christmas.
      A LOT has changed since then. Will the Red Devils avenge that horror show with a win over Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tomorrow?
      Credit: AFP
      SET TO STAY
      Manchester United transfer target Paulo Dybala is reportedly set for contract talks with Juventus next month.
      The Red Devils were linked with the attacker in January as reports claimed Dybala, 27, was set for an exit if he did not agree a new deal.
      Talks had stalled between Juventus and Dybala but the two parties are now believed to be ready to sit down to discuss terms.
      And the Argentina international could be offered an £8.7million annual salary to sign, according to Italian newspaper Tuttosport.
      That would represent a £2.1m increase on Dybala’s current £6.5m wages , which shows the Old Lady are determined to keep him.
      The development will come as a blow for United, who have had Dybala in their sights as far back as 2019.
      Credit: Reuters
      CAVANI ‘UNSURE’ ON FUTURE
      Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed his conversations with Edinson Cavani over his future at the club.
      The Uruguayan is out of contract this summer and has been heavily linked with a move to Boca Juniors.
      “I’ve kept in touch with Edi and, of course, we keep an open dialogue,” Solskjaer said.
      “He’s still unsure what he wants to do next season, which I find fine.
      “It’s not been an easy year either for him, or the rest of the world this season, so he still wants to time to make his mind up.”
      Credit: AFP
      ZLA-ZA LAND
      Former Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will make his big-screen debut alongside Hollywood A-listers Marion Cotillard and Vincent Cassel, it has been confirmed.
      The legendary Swedish striker, 39, is set to star Ain sterix & Obelix: The Middle Kingdom alongside a host of big-name stars.
      Zlatan will take on the role of Antivirus in the fifth live-action installment of the iconic French kids’ book franchise.
      The evergreen AC Milan star is yet to speak out publicly about his film debut.
      However, earlier this week he did tweet out a picture bearing the name ‘Antivirus’ – his character in the Asterix & Obelix movie.
      Reports claim the film has been given a whopping £52million budget.
      Credit: AFP or licensors
      BRUCEY BONUS
      It was 28 years ago today that Man Utd legend Steve Bruce netted here…

      VAN DE PLAN
      Manchester United are ready to end Donny van de Beek’s nightmare as they eye a swap deal for Adrien Rabiot, according to reports.
      The Dutch midfielder, 23, arrived from Ajax last summer in a £39million, five-year deal.
      But it has not worked out as expected with just two Premier League starts.
      Now Tuttosport in Italy state the Old Trafford club are looking to ship Van de Beek out – and bring Rabiot in instead.

      HURRY FOR HARRY
      So, after the news that Harry Kane is set to leave Spurs if they don’t qualify for the Champions League this season, do Manchester United swiftly make a move for the England captain.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men have been linked with a move for the Tottenham man for some time. Is this the moment to strike?
      Daniel Levy will reportedly make the Red Devils fork out £120million if they are to secure his services. Worth it?
      Credit: Getty
      TITLE BID ALIVE?
      Are Manchester United still in with an outside chance of the Premier League title?
      Man City’s defeat to Leeds mean the Red Devils have two games in hand and could potentially close the gap to eight points if they win both of them.
      It’s highly, highly unlikely. But possible?
      Credit: Getty
      LUKING GOOD
      Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer substituted Luke Shaw on Thursday’s Europa League win over Granada at half-time.
      There were concerns that Shaw was dealing with an injury ahead of Sunday’s clash at Tottenham.
      However, Solskjaer confirmed that it was just a precautionary measure.
      He said: ““I had to protect Luke. But I think and hope he should be okay for the weekend”
      NO CHANCE
      Paul Merson was very critical of Manchester United’s opponents on Sunday as he claimed Tottenham have no chance of finishing in the Premier League top four.
      Merson told Sky Sports: “I don’t give them a chance of reaching the top four. I just can’t see them putting five or six wins together.
      “They go to Newcastle, who are struggling like mad, and all of a sudden it has opened up for them. Chelsea have been beaten, Leicester have been beaten and Spurs had a chance to stamp their authority on the race for the top four.
      “But they go to St James’ Park and it was never comfortable for them. I never sat watching the game thinking Spurs have definitely won this. It just wasn’t like that.
      “That’s why I can’t see them stringing enough wins together. They do tend to shoot themselves in the foot. They’ve got that inconsistency about them”
      GETTY IMAGES
      FRANK STATEMENT
      Recently departed Chelsea manager Frank Lampard revealed that he tried to sign West Ham ace Declan Rice in the summer transfer window.
      Rice was among Manchester United’s top targets in the summer but the talented midfielder ultimately stayed with the Hammers where he continues to impress.
      Lampard said during Q&A for the Willow Foundation: “I have probably given it away with how I spoke about him, but I think it’s common knowledge that I was a big fan of his.
      “It didn’t happen for various reasons, but we brought in a lot of players in the summer. But I was a big fan of him.
      “For understandable reasons, West Ham know the player that they have on their hands”
      NEVE-S SAY NO
      Manchester United have added Wolves star Ruben Neves to their summer transfer list.
      That is according to 90Min, who claim that the Wolverhampton outfit is prepared to sell their star midfielder.
      Wolves are facing the prospect of having to let a handful of stars go because parent company Fosun are looking to restructure their commitment to the club.
      That is why super agent Jorge Mendes has been instructed to find potential buyers that will meet Wolves’ asking prices for some of their top Portuguese players.
      Neves appears to be one of them and although United are keeping an eye on potential midfield acquisitions they are still prioritising a centre-back and a winger
      KYLING TIME
      Paris Saint-Germain sensation Kylian Mbappe has been linked with a host of Europe’s top hitters ahead of the summer transfer window.
      Reports suggest that Manchester United are among them, although the Red Devils appear to be prioritising a new centre-back and a winger.
      Mbappe is reportedly stalling over a new contract with PSG as his current deal runs out in 2022.
      According to Cuatro, however, the star striker wants to join Real Madrid
      LEEDS UPSET
      Leeds shocked high-fliers Manchester City at the Etihad with a surprise 2-1 win, despite playing with 10 men for 45 minutes.
      Liam Cooper was dismissed following an ugly lunge on Gabriel Jesus, which was upgraded from a yellow card to a red after VAR intervened.
      Cooper was sent off just four minutes after Stuart Dallas opened the scoring for the visitors.
      City equalised with Ferran Torres after 76 minutes but Marcelo Bielsa’s men wouldn’t be denied as they got a late winner during stoppage time with Dallas.
      That means second-placed Manchester United are now 14 points below their rivals ahead of Sunday’s clash with Tottenham
      GETTY IMAGES
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      in Soccer

      Arsenal in for Lingard EXCLUSIVE, Aguero future LATEST, Mbappe to Madrid – Man City, Spurs transfer news

      by

      ARSENAL are plotting to beat West Ham to the permanent signing of Jesse Lingard, SunSport can exclusively reveal.We’ve also got the latest on Sergio Aguero’s future with Tottenham and Leeds reportedly interested, while Kylian Mbappe could be set for Real Madrid.

      Stay up to date with all the latest football news in our rolling blog…
      RICE TRY
      Exclusive: West Ham will tell Manchester United to forget any plans to offer Jesse Lingard as part of a deal to sign Declan Rice.
      The Hammers are desperate to tie Lingard down to a permanent deal at the London Stadium following the success of his loan spell at the club.
      But United want Rice to help provide the base in their midfield to build a team capable of challenging for the Premier League title next season.
      That has led to Old Trafford bosses wondering if they could broker a deal which would see Lingard play a makeweight in an £80million package to take Rice to the North-West.
      Yet West Ham are in no mood to be bullied and want to seal a straight deal for Lingard this summer.
      And they have no intention of their 22-year-old vice-captain being part of any conversations over a transfer.
      THE REAL DEAL
      Real Madrid beat rivals Barcelona 2-1 at home in an entertaining, rain-soaked El Clasico on Saturday to go top of LaLiga.
      Karim Benzema put the champions in charge at a soggy Bernabeu stadium with a delightful backheel in the 14th minute.
      And a deflected Toni Kroos free kick doubled Real’s lead in the 28th.
      Barca hit back on the hour mark through Oscar Mingueza to revive their hopes.
      And the defender almost found the equaliser later on to rescue a point.
      The Catalans also had a huge penalty appeal waved away when Martin Braithwaite fell following a challenge by Ferland Mendy.
      Meanwhile, Real midfielder Casemiro was sent off in stoppage time for picking up two yellow cards in the space of a minute.
      There was more drama to come when Barca substitute Ilaix Moriba hit the crossbar in the fourth minute of added time.
      The hosts survived the nail-biting finish to complete a sensational week.
      TOP POG
      Exclusive: Paul Pogba is a captain in the Manchester United dressing room and will leave his team-mates devastated if he is sold.
      The French World Cup-winning midfielder has a difficult relationship with fans after his agent repeatedly linked him with a move away.
      But a source said Pogba is hugely popular in the dressing room.
      They said: “Paul may be regarded with suspicion by a lot of the fanbase because of his agent courting other clubs, but there is no doubt where the players stand with him.
      “They recognise he is one of the team’s stars and he is as desperate as they are for the club to be successful again.
      “He is well-liked by all his team-mates and no one wants him to leave.
      “But they also understand if a player is unhappy, it usually leads to his departure.
      “They all hope he will start the next season at Old Trafford.”
      PLAY IT AGAIN SAM
      Exclusive: Manchester United want to bring keeper Sam Johnstone back from West Brom in a shock swoop.
      Johnstone’s reputation has grown after a stunning campaign with the Baggies, earning him a first senior England call-up.
      United have put him at the head of their wishlist if David De Gea, 30, or Dean Henderson go this summer.
      We revealed the Red Devils would not carry on with both De Gea and Henderson, 24, sharing games in the future.
      Johnstone, 28, who came through the Old Trafford ranks before a £5million move to Albion in 2018, could be tempted to move as his deal is about to enter its final year.
      West Brom might cash in as Johnstone is also one of their top earners.
      THAU IS YOURS
      Premier League sides Leicester City and Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing Newcastle flop Florian Thauvin.
      The 28-year-old, who failed to score during his half-season at St James’ Park, is out of contract in the summer – but may yet sign a new deal at Marseille.
      According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Thauvin’s future remains unclear, despite there being just three months remaining on his contract.
      There are, however, reports coming out of Italy suggesting he will commit his future to the club.
      According to TuttoMercato, the appointment of former Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli has persuaded Thauvin to stay in France.
      It is believed talks between the World Cup winner’s representatives and several clubs – including Leicester and Crystal Palace – have been held.

      STATEMENT WIN
      This was some performance from Chelsea today. Runaway 4-1 winners over Crystal Palace and a breakout display from Kai Havertz.

      BELL-TER
      Jude Bellingham achieved another remarkable milestone with his first Bundesliga goal.
      The England midfielder, 17, lashed home from the edge of the area as Borussia Dortmund kept alive their slim hopes of a top-four finish with a 3-2 comeback win at Stuttgart.

      MAUR PLEASE
      Maurizio Sarri has reportedly rejected the chance to become Fiorentina’s new manager.
      Football Italia claims the former Chelsea boss, 62, has snubbed the opportunity to take charge of the floundering Tuscans amid links with Napoli and Roma.
      Sarri, who has been out of work since being axed by Juventus last year, is eager to return to football this summer.
      The tactician has already rejected approaches from Marseille and Fenerbahce as he does not want to take charge of a new club mid-season.

      MARRED BY BLUNDER
      Referee Andre Marriner forgot to get Manchester City and Leeds players to take the knee before kick-off of their game.
      Marriner and the players stood for their period of silence to mark the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh before the start of the match, which Leeds won 2-1.
      But the official then didn’t remember to order the usual gesture in support of the fight against discrimination.
      When he blew for the start of the game there was some confusion as a number of Leeds players started to kneel, only for play to go on.
      The Premier League say the incident was an oversight.

      KANE DECIDER?
      Could a defeat for Spurs tomorrow spell the end for Harry Kane’s time at the club? Their clash with Man Utd really does feel that big…
      Credit: PA
      PREMIER LEAGUE’S SUNDAY SCHEDULE
      Here is what Sunday’s Premier League action looks like:

      12:00 – Burnley v Newcastle
      14:05 – West Ham v Leicester City
      16:30 – Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United
      19:00 – Sheffield United v Arsenal

      LOOKING AT LUIS
      Luis Suarez could make a shock return to Liverpool, according to reports.
      The Atletico Madrid forward, 34, is understood to be frustrated with Diego Simeone’s tactics.
      Spanish outlet Todofichajes state the pair have a ‘difficult’ relationship which could result in the striker leaving – with a clause in his contract enabling him to leave this summer with no penalty.
      And the report adds Suarez could be open to a transfer back to Liverpool, seven years after leaving Anfield for Barcelona.

      SET TO STAY
      Manchester United transfer target Paulo Dybala is reportedly set for contract talks with Juventus next month.
      The Red Devils were linked with the attacker in January as reports claimed Dybala, 27, was set for an exit if he did not agree a new deal.
      Talks had stalled between Juventus and Dybala but the two parties are now believed to be ready to sit down to discuss terms.
      And the Argentina international could be offered an £8.7million annual salary to sign, according to Italian newspaper Tuttosport.
      That would represent a £2.1m increase on Dybala’s current £6.5m wages , which shows the Old Lady are determined to keep him.
      The development will come as a blow for United, who have had Dybala in their sights as far back as 2019.
      HANS TIED
      Hansi Flick has dropped a hint he is prepared to quit Bayern Munich at the end of the season.
      The gaffer watched his side lumber to a drab 1-1 draw with Union Berlin to stay five points above RB Leipzig at the top of the table.
      Before the contest with Union Berlin, Flick refused to answer questions on his future and said: “I am around 18 months in this job and I have a team that has developed.
      “We are absolutely focused on our job. It is important that we stick together.”
      When asked about his thoughts on the Bayern hierarchy, he bluntly responded: “Everything has been said.”

      CHELSEA CRUISING
      Quick update from Selhurst Park as Chelsea have beaten Crystal Palace 4-1.
      Christian Benteke managed to pull one back for the hosts but Christian Pulisic doubled his tally for the day to make sure of the points for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
      EASY. NIGHT’S. WORK.
      Credit: Eddie Keogh Telegraph Media Group
      DIE-GO?
      Inter Milan are eyeing Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone – as questions linger over Antonio Conte even before the end of the season.
      Ex-Chelsea chief Conte is tipped to depart despite Inter leading Serie A by 11 points.
      And Todo Fichajes claim Argentinian Simeone, 50, is the clear top target for the Italian giants.
      Conte, 51, was thought to have been close to leaving the San Siro last summer amid reports of conflicts with the Inter board.
      Now it is thought he could depart as early as this summer, although 2022 and 2023 have also been mentioned.

      GRIM REAPER
      Grimsby’s first half with Bradford descended into chaos after Stefan Payne headbutted his own team-mate.
      The League Two strugglers had just fallen behind when the Bantams’ Anthony O’Connor opened the scoring in the 42nd minute.

      With tensions rising, they came to a head just minutes after when team-mates Payne and Filipe Morais were involved in an astonishing bust-up.
      It was sparked when Morais played a pass down the line looking for Payne.
      The ball was wayward and Payne was apparently furious, making his frustrations known to the Portuguese winger.
      Morais, 35, fired back with his own comments before the two squared up as the half-time whistle blew.
      Payne then completely lost his cool and pushed his head towards Morais in front of the officials while the players were heading for the tunnel.
      KO BLOW
      Aston Villa ace Trezeguet was left in tears after being forced off injured in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Liverpool.
      The Egyptian winger, 26, was subbed off at Anfield with just minutes remaining following a tackle from match-winner Trent Alexander-Arnold.

      Trezeguet was clearly distraught as he went down, clutching his face in pain.
      Villa medics rushed on to the field to provide treatment in the hope he could see out the game.
      But Trezeguet who could be seen being consoled by fellow Egyptian Mo Salah – was unable to continue against the Reds and had to be helped off the field.
      As he headed towards the tunnel, the attacker broke down in tears as Jurgen Klopp watched on sympathetically.
      TOP FOUR RACE
      So with Chelsea set to win and Liverpool already having fought back to take all three points at Anfield, who do we think is best placed to finish the season in the top four.
      Tottenham, Leicester and West Ham are all in action tomorrow – the latter two against one another at the London Stadium.
      Could this be a defining weekend in the race for a Champions League spot?
      Credit: Ryan Browne-The Times
      BLUE BEAUTIES
      Chelsea have raced into a 3-0 lead inside half an hour at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace.
      Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic and Kurt Zouma with the goals.
      Credit: AP
      GOODNIGHT, MISTER THOM
      Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed the ‘two-minute’ conversation he had with Paris Saint-Germain bosses before he was sacked last year.
      In an interview with Sky Germany, Tuchel said: “It was very surprising because on December 22 I felt it for the first time in the evening.
      “I had a conversation with my Sporting Director, and another before the match on December 23. I felt that it could be a possibility, but I didn’t feel like it was real.
      “We won 4-0… [we had] a conversation that lasted for two minutes. There was not much left to say.
      “So I got up, I said that he had to sort out the problem and I left. We got our things together and we went home to celebrate Christmas.”
      Credit: AP
      MORE TO COME
      Rangers are tracking Morecambe winger Carlos Mendes Gomes.
      The Senegal-born attacker, 22, has been watched a number of times this season and the Scottish champions have contacted the League Two side about a potential move.
      SunSport also understands Rangers have done their due diligence on the ex-Atletico Madrid youth.
      Gomes is out of contract at the end of this season and could be available on a free if he doesn’t sign a new contract at Morecambe.

      ROB-BED OF LEWANDOWSKI
      Bayern Munich have been dealt a huge blow after Robert Lewandowski revealed he will NOT be fit for the crunch second-leg with Paris Saint-Germain.
      The superstar striker, 32, missed last week’s 3-2 Champions League quarter-final first-leg defeat in Bavaria with a knee injury sustained on international duty with Poland.
      Despite initially being ruled out for around four weeks, there were hopes Lewandowski could make a miraculous recovery for Bayern’s away leg in the French capital.
      But Lewandowski has now confirmed the Champions League holders will have to manage without him once again.
      Lewandowski told Sky Sports: “No, [next week] is still too early.
      “I’ll do everything I can to get back on the pitch, but only when I feel really good and safe. It’s not a good feeling to sit at home.”

      MAKING THEIR MART
      Arsenal are keeping tabs on Fluminese star Matheus Martinelli over a £35million summer transfer, according to reports.
      Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte claim the Gunners have been scouting the 19-year-old midfielder for the last few months.
      Arsenal have been impressed by what they’ve seen so far from the attacking star – no relation to 2019 signing Gabriel Martinelli.
      And now Emirates chiefs are set to make a move for the in-demand star who has a £35m release clause in his contract.

      SIMPLY THE TRENT
      Trent Alexander-Arnold – with Gareth Southgate in the stands – has just hit the winner for Liverpool against Aston Villa.
      A message to the England boss?

      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Boxing

      Conor Benn vs Samuel Vargas LIVE RESULTS: Benn DESTROYS Vargas in first round, Shannon Courtenay wins world title

      by

      CONOR BENN made a HUGE statement with a first-round triumph over Samuel Vargas.And after the fight Benn called out Amir Khan for a battle of Britain.
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      REPORT
      BIG DADDY Conor Benn blitzed respected welterweight hard man Samuel Vargas inside 80 blistering seconds and called out Amir Khan.
      The new father had baby Eli’s name etched on his shorts for the first time since his January birth and made quick work of the veteran to rush home to his new family.
      Father Nigel spoke before the fight about how the 24-year-old’s jab has continued to improve rapidly and he showed it again with a succession of arrow-like lead hands.
      But the Colombian was stunned by an early right hand and Benn unloaded almost a dozen accurate and brutal punches before the referee jumped in.
      Somehow Vargas did not hit the deck but he was utterly shell shocked by The Destroyer who had barely worked up a sweat and still had the breath to call for a mouthwatering all-English clash.
      “Statement made,” the new Benneration roared. “Nobody has banged him out in one round. Give me a proper test.
      “Give me Amir Khan, or is he too busy on reality shows now.
      “I just proved I can deal with hype and pressure and pressure creates diamonds.
      “I am ready for the top dogs, I want them, I want to test myself.
      “I was expecting a hard 12-round fight tonight but I am the most rapidly improving fighter in the world, not just Great Britain.
      “I was hitting him and it felt good, he was there to hit so I let my hands go.
      “I did not get hit with a single thing in there, if it had gone longer I would have shown you even more and I am not even in my prime yet.”
      The tattooed ace went to 18-0 with a faultless performance against a veteran who had only previously been stopped by the absolute elites of the division.
      Khan had to climb off the floor to beat Vargas back in 2018 but Benn battered that effort in rapid time.
      And 34-year-old Bolton hero was then the target of Benn’s remaining adrenaline as he ordered their shared promoter Eddie Hearn to get on the phone.
      RICE RICE BABY
      West Ham star Declan Rice was in awe of Conor Benn’s sensational KO against Samuel Vargas.
      He tweeted: “Omg Conor Benn…. that is ridiculous!!!!”
      Omg Conor Benn…. that is ridiculous!!!!🤯— Declan Rice (@_DeclanRice) April 10, 2021

      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Here is Conor Benn’s stunning knockout win over Samuel Vargas in round one.
      Benn said: “I am ready for the top dogs, I want them, I want to test myself.
      “I was expecting a hard 12-round fight tonight but I am the most rapidly improving fighter in the world, not just Great Britain.
      “I was hitting him and it felt good, he was there to hit so I let my hands go.
      “I did not get hit with a single thing in there, if it had gone longer I would have shown you even more and I am not even in my prime yet.”

      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Conor Benn has taken a swipe at Amir Khan’s recent BBC documentary and called out the ex-world champion.
      Benn, 24, said: “Statement made, no-one bangs him out in one round. Easy. Formella, easy.
      “Give me a proper test, give me Amir Khan. I know he’s too busy on reality shows and all that, but listen, if he wants it, he can get it.”
      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Conor Benn, now 18-0, calls out Amir Khan, Shawn Porter and Adrien Broner.
      This was a sensational statement, Errol Spence took Samuel Vargas out in four rounds.
      Benn by far Britain’s most improved fighter and potentially the next star.

      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Round 1 – Conor Benn came out the blocks fast and produces a massive statement as he knocks Samuel Vargas out in round one.
      He had Vargas hurt with some stinging right hands early but closed the show on the ropes.
      What a devastating finish.
      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Round 1 – IT’S ALL OVER!
      Conor Benn has closed the show in devastating fashion.
      He hurt Samuel Vargas with some stinging right hands and finished the job on the topes.
      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Both fighters have made their ring walks and the first bell is upon us.
      This fight will tell us a lot about Conor Benn, with Samuel Vargas an experienced campaigner.
      Even Amir Khan could not get the welterweight veteran out of there.

      CONOR BENN vs SAMUEL VARGAS
      Final preparations being put in for Conor Benn and Samuel Vargas.

      SHIELD OF HONOUR
      Savannah Marshall has dared Claressa Shields to finally fight her again.
      She said: “I punch too hard for Claressa Shields.
      “I do, I punch far too hard and she doesn’t wanna know.
      “She’d much rather roll about in the octagon, rather call out Katie Taylor when she’s four weight classes below her, she doesn’t wanna know.”
      UP NEXT
      Conor Benn headlines against Samuel Vargas – his biggest career step up.
      Benn, 17-0, has already called out Amir Khan and Kell Brook but all of that will count for nothing unless he gets past the test of Vargas.

      SAVANNAH MARSHALL vs MARIA LINDBERG
      Round 3 – All over in round three as Marshall scores another knockdown and this time Lindberg stays down.
      Very comfortable for the champion but worth remembering Lindberg only got the call to fight this week.
      We all know the big fight for Marshall is Claressa Shields – who she beat in the amateurs.

      AJ – FURY UPDATE
      Little update on the talk between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.
      Eddie Hearn reveals site deals will be presented tomorrow.

      SAVANNAH MARSHALL vs MARIA LINDBERG
      Round 2 – Big round for Marshall as she scored a knockdown with a perfect right hand.
      Lindberg only just beat the count and has not been in the fight at all.
      Marshall stayed composed, but had she stepped on it the fight could have been over.

      SAVANNAH MARSHALL vs MARIA LINDBERG
      Round 1 – Confident start from Marshall, who is boxing comfortably behind her jab.
      She almost has a very Fury-like style, sitting on the back foot boxing and moving.
      Lindberg did not offer much in terms of a threat, though.
      UP NEXT – SAVANNAH MARSHALL vs MARIA LINDBERG

      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Shannon Courtenay is Britain’s latest world champion as she triumphed on points over Ebanie Bridges.
      Courtenay cried: “I can’t put it into words, me and my whole team have worked so hard.
      “I boxed getter and had the cuter shots, she was trying to knock me out and I just had to stop trading.
      “My jab popped her eye and that was where and when I boxed best.”

      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      We got to the judges scorecards and they read, 97-94, 98-92 (x2) to the winner… Shannon Courtenay!
      Her crisper punching and accuracy has won her the WBA bantamweight title.
      Excellent fight, both deserve massive amounts of credit. Britain has a new world champion.
      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 10 – Both women fight till the end and cap off an excellent fight.
      Very close. Bridges the more aggressive but Courtenay landed the more eye-catching of shots.
      It will come down the what the judges like, but that’s another great advert for women’s boxing.
      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 9 – Big round for Courtenay who had Bridges rocked with a couple of big right hands over the top.
      Again, Bridges was smart to cover up but looked wobbled.
      Final round coming up and Bridges is battling a severely swollen eye but makes it into the last sessions.
      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 8 – Another really tight round.
      Bridges coming forward and looking the aggressor but Courtenay is finding the target on the counter.
      All to play for in the final two rounds.

      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 7 – Massively exciting round as Bridges had Courtenay rocked with a couple shots over the top.
      But Courtenay came back with her own combinations after withstanding the onslaught.
      Still, Bridges landed the cleaner shots and had Courtenay in trouble. Big last three rounds here.
      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 6 – Courtenay boxed the whole round almost on the back foot as Bridges showed relentless pressure.
      Courtenay did land a few flash hooks but Bridges looked in the ascendancy that round.
      It could come down to who has the better engine down the stretch.
      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 5 – Massive trade off and Courtenay catches Bridges as she comes in as the pair are broken up in the corner.
      Bridges hurt towards the end of the round as Courtenay lands one through the guard.
      Credit to the Aussie who stayed composed and saw out the round but half way in and Courtenay with the best shot of the fight.

      SHANNON COURTENAY vs EBANIE BRIDGES
      Round 4 – Bridges lands a big one-two down the middle but it has sparked aggression from Courtenay.
      Bridges looking confident coming forward now but Courtenay happy to try counter.
      Really tight fight as we head into round five.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Real Madrid vs Barcelona LIVE: Barca hit crossbar in LAST SECOND in El Clasico thriller – latest reaction and updates

      by

      REAL MADRID host El Clasico rivals Barcelona TONIGHT in a huge clash at the summit of La Liga.Neither team has been at their best this season but now Barca are just a point behind table-toppers Atletico with Real a further two back themselves.

      Start time: 8pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: Premier Sports 1
      Real Madrid XI: 1 Courtois; 17 Lucas Vazquez, 3 Militao, 6 Nacho, 23 Mendy; 10 Modric, 14 Casemiro, 8 Kroos; 15 Valverde, 9 Benzema, 20 Vinicius Jr
      Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen, Dest, Araujo, Lenglet, Alba, De Jong, Sergio, Pedri, Dembele, Mingueza, Messi

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

      Real Madrid beat Barcelona 3-1 earlier this season in La LigaCredit: AFP
      What time does Real Madrid vs Barcelona kick-off?

      Real Madrid’s huge clash with Barcelona will get underway from 8pm UK time on Saturday, April 10.
      The game will take place at the Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium in Madrid.
      There will be no fans in attendance at the clash because of coronavirus restrictions.

      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?

      Real Madrid vs Barcelona is live on Premier Sports 1.
      Coverage commences at 5.40pm – five minutes before kick-off.
      To stream the game live, head to the Premier Player.

      Team news
      Sergio Ramos will play no part for Real Madrid as he remains out with a calf problem.
      Dani Carvajal is also out after losing his battle to overcome a thigh issue.
      Zinedine Zidane may well pick the same eleven that steamrollered Liverpool but could also opt to bring Federico Valverde back into the starting line-up.
      Philippe Coutinho and Ansu Fati are both out for Barca with knee injuries.
      Gerard Pique is also likely to be confined to the bench with a knee problem.
      THE END OF EL CLASICO
      A brilliant week for Real Madrid ends with a victory in the Clasico that takes them to the top of La Liga for the first time this year, and completes a league double over their rivals for the first time since 2007-08.
      They were made to work hard for it, but followed up their scintillating counter-attacking in the first half – in which Karim Benzema and Toni Kroos scored – with a solid defensive rearguard after the break.
      Barcelona pulled one back through Oscar Mingueza, but as the heavens opened above the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano, even God himself – Lionel Messi as he’s known around here – was unable to find a leveller.
      A late red card for Casemiro added to the drama, and in the final seconds, Ilaix Moriba was denied a sensational equaliser by the crossbar, but it was not to be for Barca.
      And so it’s advantage Madrid in the table with Real and Aletico leading the way, but after tonight it’s definitely a three-way race for glory.
      This match was exciting, startling and controversial, and we’re in store for much more of the same between now and the season’s end..
      That’s the end of the football for today, but we’ll be back tomorrow with action from the Premier League. Thanks for reading, and goodnight.

      THREE IN A ROW FOR ZIZOU
      Zinedine Zidane is used to making history with three successes. The Real Madrid manager famously won three Champions Leagues in a row during his first tenure, and now he’s become the first Real coach in more than 40 years to win three consecutive Clasicos.

      KOEMAN FUMING
      Ronald Koeman was no stranger to controversial incidents during his playing career, and now he has been angered by decisions that went against his team this evening. The Barcelona boss felt his side should have had a spotkick when Ferland Mendy pulled back Martin Braithwaite, and was then left confused by only four minutes of additional time when the referee spent so long having his microphone and headset fixed in the second half.
      It was a penalty, it was really clear. But we have to accept it and shut our mouths. It was really clear. I don’t know why it wasn’t reviewed by VAR. And only four minutes of stoppage time in a game like this? Ronald KoemanLaLigaTV

      FULL TIME STATS
      A brilliant game of football that Barcelona will struggle to believe they’ve lost. The Catalans clocked up 707 passes, 18 attempts at goal, and 69% of possession but could not find an equaliser in the second half.

      MESSI THWARTED
      Lionel Messi was Barcelona’s main man, but failed to find the back of the net once again in El Clasico despite his best efforts.
      The captain hit the post from a corner, had a shot blocked by Courtois and passed up two free-kicks in promising positions.
      Lionel Messi’s last 21 shots vs. Real Madrid in LaLiga:❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌He failed to find the net with any of his seven attempts this evening. pic.twitter.com/2itMsUo9gh— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 10, 2021

      151 DAYS
      Real Madrid are back at the top of La Liga for the first time in 151 days after victory in El Clasico.
      Atletico play at Betis tomorrow, and then are eight games left until the end of the season.
      It’s all to play for.

      PIQUE PROTESTS
      Despite not playing any part this evening, Barcelona’s Gerard Pique was furious at the final whistle with Jesus Gil Manzano, confronting the match official on the pitch.

      FT: REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      Madrid claim victory in a superb Clasico. Los Blancos did the damage in the first half with goals from Karim Benzema and Toni Kroos, but Barca fought back after the break. Oscar Mingueza pulled one back, but Ronald Koeman’s men couldn’t find an equaliser despite heavy pressure in even heavier rain. Casemiro saw red towards the end, but Real held on to complete a Clasico double.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!EL CLASICO COMES TO AN END!
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      90+4. CROSSBAR!
      Barcelona go so close to equalising with the last action of the night.
      Ter Stegen went up for a late Messi’s free-kick that Lenglet headed down for Morib, who controlled on his chest before smashing a volley against the goalframe.
      The Barcelona goalkeeper followed up for a shot of his own, but drove it straight into Trincao before Alba scooped over.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      90+2. Marcelo goes through on goal with the chance to wrap things up, only for Mingueza to get back at the last second to poke back to Ter Stegen.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      90+1. The free-kick from Messi is curled into the hands of Courtois.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      90. Another foul by Casemiro, just as cynical and obvious, earns the midfielder his second yellow card in as many minutes, and Real Madrid will have to play out the four minutes of stoppage time a man short.

      CASEMIRO PICKS UP A SECOND BOOKING!REAL MADRID ARE DOWN TO TEN MEN!
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      88. Casemiro is booked for a heavy challenge on Messi in the middle of the park.
      It’s perhaps the most clearcut caution of the season.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      86. The Barcelona complaints and subsequent frustrations seem to have taken time and tempo out of the game just as the visitors were building up a real head of steam.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      84. Controversy!
      Odriozola is short with a backpass intended for Courtois, and that allows Alba to steal in and poke a shot past the Madrid goalkeeper.
      It’s off target, but Braithwaite catches out Mendy in his last ditch attempt to keep the ball in play, and goes down in close proximity to the defender.
      The Barca players are convinced it should be a spot-kick, but the referee doesn’t budge. The complaints lead to a yellow card for Alba.
      The VAR officials take a look but are not convinced that there is enough contact to overturn the referee’s decision. There was slight contact and a little tug, but was it enough?

      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      82. Asensio pulls a cross back for Isco to meet first time, but it’s blasted into the streets outside the stadium.
      Barca have made another two substitutions with Trincao and Braithwaite on for Dembele and Pedri.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      80. Now Messi comes across to the touchline for a change of shirt. He also helps himself to a fresh vest and captain’s armband.
      If that was any other player I’d be ready to mock, but it’s Messi so I’ll allow it.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      79. The referee comes across to the touchline due to an issue with his headset that enables him to communicate with both his linesmen and the VAR officials. It’s hardly surprising given the amount of rain this evening.
      Stick it in a bowl of rice, mate.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      76. Odriozola nearly catches out Ter Stegen with a looping cross. The Barcelona goalkeeper has to show acrobatic reactions in order to tip the ball behind.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      75. Formations and tactics have gone out of the window.
      As crosses, shots and challenges rain in from all over the pitch, the next goal – and there will surely be a next goal – could be crucial. Not just to the outcome here, but the destination of the La Liga title.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      72. Changes galore.
      Barca go for broke by bringing on Ilaix Moriba for Ronald Araujo.
      Meanwhile, Madrid make a triple substitution. On come Isco, Marcelo and Mariano, off go Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior and Toni Kroos. Zinedine Zidane may well have one eye on that second leg with Liverpool on Wednesday.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      70. Messi curls the set-piece straight into Kroos in the Madrid wall.
      Unlike the German’s free-kick earlier, his intervention doesn’t help the ball to goal but rather does the intended job of clearing the danger.
      REAL MADRID 2-1 BARCELONA
      69. This is end-to-end stuff now, and a fourth goal is surely imminent.
      On the break, Messi is off target with a curler, but he’s caught late by Nacho and play is pulled back for a free-kick.
      A yellow card is shown to the Real Madrid defender.
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea and Liverpool in action TODAY, Aguero future LATEST, Mbappe to Madrid – Man City, Spurs, Arsenal transfer news

      by

      THE Premier League returns today with a bumper schedule of matches with Man City, Chelsea and Liverpool in action. On the transfer front we’ve the latest on Sergio Aguero’s future with Tottenham and Leeds reportedly interested, while Kylian Mbappe could be set for Real Madrid.

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      Stay up to date with all the latest football news in our rolling blog…
      SIMPLY THE TRENT
      Trent Alexander-Arnold – with Gareth Southgate in the stands – has just hit the winner for Liverpool against Aston Villa.
      A message to the England boss?

      LIVERPOOL WIN
      Liverpool picked up a late and dramatic 2-1 win over Aston Villa at Anfield.
      Villa opened the scoring with Ollie Watkins on 43 minutes before the Reds saw Roberto Firmino’s equaliser getting chalked off because Diogo Jota was marginally offside in the build-up.
      Mohamed Salah did what Firmino couldn’t in the second half before Trent Alexander-Arnold’s late winner on stoppage time.
      Liverpool are now on their way back to the top four
      GETTY IMAGES
      LIVERPOOL EQUAL
      Liverpool equalised against Aston Villa with the usual suspect Mohamed Salah.
      The Reds worked hard for an equaliser and finally got it when Salah picked the ball up from the far post after Emiliano Martinez saved Andy Robertson’s shot and turned home from close range.
      We are currently on 74 minutes and the Merseysiders need a win to work their way back to the top four.
      Reminding you that Villa opened the scoring with Ollie Watkins before Liverpool saw Roberto Firmino’s equaliser being disallowed because Diogo Jota was marginally offside
      NEVE-S SAY NO
      Manchester United have reportedly added Wolves star Ruben Neves to their summer transfer list.
      That is according to 90Min, who report that the Wolverhampton club is prepared to sell their star midfielder.
      Wolves are facing the prospect of having to let a handful of key players go at the end of the season because parent company Fosun are looking to restructure their commitment to the club.
      That is why super agent Jorge Mendes has been instructed to seek potential buyers that will meet Wolves’ asking prices for some of their top Portuguese stars.
      Neves appears to be one of them and although United are keeping an eye on potential midfield acquisitions they are still primarily looking for a centre-back and a winger
      GETTY IMAGES
      LIVERPOOL BEHIND
      It’s half-time at Anfield with Liverpool trailing 1-0 following Ollie Watkins’ opener.
      Roberto Firmino equalised for the Reds but a lengthy VAR review chalked it off because Diogo Jota was just inches offside in the build-up.
      The reigning Premier League champions haven’t been taking their chances in the first half and are facing an uphill battle in the second half
      AGUERO LATEST
      Leeds have emerged as surprise candidates to sign Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero in the summer.
      According to 90Min, the Whites are keeping tabs on Aguero, who has stated he will be leaving City at the end of the season when his contract expires.
      The Elland Road outfit can’t offer him Champions League football but the prospect of him not having to move from his home in the north west could be a major catalyst.
      The star striker has reportedly received offers from other Premier League clubs as well as teams in Spain, France, Italy, the Middle East and the US.
      Reports suggest that the Argentina international has also been approached by Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and West Ham
      LIVE SCORES
      It’s been 16 minutes since Liverpool’s clash with Aston Villa kicked off at Anfield with the score still goalless.
      Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has started with Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Nat Phillips, Kabak, Robertson, Wijnaldum, Fabinho, Milner, Salah, Jota and Firmino.
      Villa manager Dean Smith, on the other hand, opted for Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Mings, Targett, Luiz, McGinn, Trezeguet, Nakamba, Traore and Watkins.
      Chelsea take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park at 5.30pm.
      LEEDS UPSET
      Leeds stunned high-fliers Manchester City at the Etihad with a shock 2-1 win, despite playing with 10 men for 45 minutes.
      Liam Cooper was sent off following an ugly lunge on Gabriel Jesus, which was upgraded from a yellow card to a red after VAR intervened.
      Cooper was sent off just four minutes after Stuart Dallas opened the scoring for the visitors.
      City equalised with Ferran Torres after 76 minutes but Marcelo Bielsa’s men wouldn’t be denied as they got a late winner during stoppage time with Dallas
      GETTY IMAGES
      ED-ING OUT
      Manchester United ace Edinson Cavani appears to be ‘closer than ever’ to a move to Boca Juniors in the summer.
      That is according to ESPN, who claim Cavani is looking to cut his two-year deal with United in favour of a move to South America.
      A source told ESPN: “He has the option to continue in Manchester, where he feels very welcome, but the option to return to South America at this point is very real.
      “Those close to him think that ‘he ultimately will be the one making the decision’ and that ‘it seems he has it [decision] all very clear”
      BIDDING WAR
      Manchester United have joined the race for young Sheffield United prospect Kyron Gordon.
      Gordon has impressed at centre-back with the Under-23s and while training with the first team this season.
      And thus, the 18-year-old has turned many heads around the Premier League so far.
      According to the Daily Mail, United, Leeds as well as Liverpool and Everton are reportedly keeping tabs on Gordon

      HAALAND PRAISE
      Bayern Munich superstar Robert Lewandowski praised Borussia Dortmund talisman Erling Haaland by saying he has what it takes to become the “best forward in the world”.
      Haaland has been linked with a host of Europe’s top hitters, with the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea being among them.
      Lewandowski told CBS: “He’s a great player. He has great potential, but he’s still very young.
      “In the future, he has the chance to become the best forward in the world, for sure”
      PART DEAL
      Manchester United would be open to a part-exchange player-plus-cash deal with Tottenham for star striker Harry Kane.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim that United can’t afford Spurs’ asking price, which is said to be in the region of £120million, due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
      That is why the Red Devils would only be open to a move if Spurs would accept a part exchange.
      Kane is reportedly set on leaving Tottenham if they fail to qualify for the Champions League
      FRANK ASSESSMENT
      Former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard revealed that he tried to sign West Ham ace Declan Rice in the summer transfer window.
      Lampard said during Q&A for the Willow Foundation: “I have probably given it away with how I spoke about him, but I think it’s common knowledge that I was a big fan of his.
      “It didn’t happen for various reasons, but we brought in a lot of players in the summer. But I was a big fan of him.
      “For understandable reasons, West Ham know the player that they have on their hands”
      BAK NEXT SEASON
      Liverpool appear keen on triggering Ozan Kabak’s buyout clause in the summer.
      The Reds signed Kabak on loan, with an option to buy, during the January transfer window from Schalke.
      According to talkSPORT, the club’s hierarchy has been so impressed that they want the centre-back to sign a permanent deal with the reigning Premier League champions.
      That means Liverpool are likely to pay a fee in the region of £18million for the Turkey international in the summer
      GETTY IMAGES
      SHOCK KANE UPDATE
      Tottenham star striker Harry Kane is going to push for an exit from the club if Spurs fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League competition.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim Kane is growing increasinly frustrated with the north Londoners’ lack of silverware and general direction.
      The England captain has said he will clarify his future after this summer’s delayed Euro 2020 tournament.
      However, the 27-year-old appears reluctant to spend another year outside of Europe’s elite competition and may have to look for a different club if Tottenham fail to finish in the top four
      WHAT WOULD ALEX DO?
      Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at his Manchester United successor Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following his claim that trophies are for egos.
      Mourinho clashes with his former club on Sunday at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and believes Solskjaer’s legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson would disagree with the Norwegian coach, who said before United’s FA Cup quarter-final exit at Leicester that cups are an ‘ego thing’.
      The former Chelsea manager retorted with the following statement: “It’s his opinion. But I’m pretty sure his big boss Sir Alex had a different opinion about it.
      “But I respect what Solskjaer thinks. I think different. It’s not a problem, he’s not being disrespectful.
      “But, I repeat, I believe that his big boss, and the biggest in Premier League history, has a different view in relation to that”
      COOLING OFF
      Manchester United have reportedly cooled off their interest in Borussia Dortmund talisman Erling Haaland.
      That is according to ESPN, who claim the “road show” that Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola and his father Alf-Inge put together in Madrid and Barcelona reminded United the reason why they pulled back last year.
      The Manchester giants were interested in the star striker while he played for Red Bull Salzburg.
      But they ultimately decided to hold fire and thus the Norway international went to Dortmund instead
      THOM TO SHINE
      Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged £45million signing Thomas Partey to step up on the pitch and prove to the world exactly why the club splashed the cash for him last summer.
      Arteta said: “Hopefully we will see the best version of Thomas at Sheffield United on Sunday and against Slavia Prague next week.
      “Now that he has got a sequence of two or three games I think we’ll see him finishing the season in a really strong way.
      “It’s very difficult to make a proper assessment of Thomas’ performances so far because he has missed six months and that is a long time.
      “He is still adapting to our way of playing, which is different to what he did at Atletico, but he we can all see what he brings to the team.
      “It’s about him finding the level of consistency that we need from him because he has the capacity that we can build a team that can play around him.
      “The biggest difficulty he has had so far is that he has not been fit. Then every time he recovered, he missed the next game.
      “He has not had time to prepare himself physically to play at the highest level and that has obviously had an impact because the Premier League demands real fitness”
      GETTY IMAGES
      KANE HE BE SIGNED?
      Manchester United have been long-term admirers of Tottenham megastar Harry Kane, according to reports.
      However, landing Kane will be no easy feat for any Premier League team as Spurs are not willing to let their star striker join a domestic rival.
      Plus, the England international is rated at about £120million, which poses as a sky-high fee amid the coronavirus pandemic’s financial impact.
      Kane has stated recently that he will clarify his future after the summer’s delayed Euro 2020
      AGUERO FUTURE
      Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero is set to leave the club once his contract runs out in the summer following 10 years of glittering service at the Etihad.
      And City boss Pep Guardiola hinted that he wouldn’t mind if Auguero joined a rival club ahead of next season.
      Guardiola said: “The best for him, we wish – all of us. Find the best for Sergio for the last years in his career, for sure.
      “We’ll be delighted with the decision he takes, the best for him and his family and his career. My preference is his preference. His preference is my preference. The best for him is the best for us”
      CRYSTAL PALACE VS CHELSEA
      Chelsea take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park later on in the afternoon as they look to return to the Premier League’s top four.
      The Blues boast almost a full squad with Thiago Silva set to miss the encounter due to the red card he received in last weekend’s thrashing to West Brom.
      N’Golo Kante and Christian Pulisic have returned from injury and could be part of Thomas Tuchel’s starting line-up as they came off the bench on Wednesday’s Champions League win against Porto.
      Palace will be without Michy Batshuayi as he is not eligible to face his parent club and joins Connor Wickham on the sidelines after he picked up a slight knock during training.
      Nathaniel Clyne (muscle), James Tomkins (eye), Mamadou Sakho (thigh) and James McArthur (calf) are still out
      TO BE FRANK
      Frank Lampard revealed he has received some ‘flattering’ offers to return to management – but ‘they were not quite right’ for the Blues legend.
      Lampard returned to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2019 and in his first season secured the club and top four finish and a place in the FA Cup final.
      But 18 months later and he was forced to clear out his locker as Chelsea’s form suffered, leading to his firing.
      Lampard, who was replaced by German Thomas Tuchel, has now spoken out for the first time since being sacked by Blues owner Roman Abramovich.
      Speaking at a Q&A hosted by the London Football Awards in aid of the Willow Foundation, he said: “Football has consumed my life firstly as a player and then as a manager.
      “Nobody wants to lose their job. But when you go into this career, it can happen, no matter how good you think you are.
      “It’s given me a lot more time to be at home. It’s been great to be around the family.
      “I’ve had some opportunities that have come up in the last six weeks, two months, that have been flattering, but not the right thing.
      “They were not quite right.”

      GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
      There will be a two-minute silence before every EFL game this weekend after the death of Prince Philip.
      An EFL statement read: “Following the sad passing of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the EFL can confirm that there will be a two-minute silence ahead of all EFL fixtures taking place tonight and across the weekend (9-10 April).
      “Players, coaches, and match officials will also be wearing armbands as a mark of respect to the late Duke.”
      In the Premier League, Wolves broke Fulham hearts with a smash-and-grab win at Craven Cottage last night.
      Adama Traore smashed a 92nd-minute winner into the top corner to give Nuno Espirito Santo a 1-0 victory.
      The move leaves Fulham three points from safety with just six games left having played two fewer than Newcastle in 17th.
      Wolves moved up to 12th with the win.
      Elsewhere, Jose Mourinho told Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that Sir Alex Ferguson would never have stood for his claim that trophies are for egos.
      Tottenham boss Mourinho took a dig at his Manchester United successor ahead of their Prem clash this weekend.
      Solskjaer — potless since he took over from the Portuguese in December 2018 — said before United’s FA Cup quarter-final exit at Leicester that cups are an “ego thing”.
      He also argued how a league finish is the true barometer of progress. But Mourinho hit back: “It’s his opinion. But I’m pretty sure his big boss Sir Alex had a different opinion about it.
      “But I respect what Solskjaer thinks. I think different. It’s not a problem, he’s not being disrespectful.
      “But, I repeat, I believe that his big boss, and the biggest in Premier League history, has a different view in relation to that.”
      At Man City, Pep Guardiola will have no problem if Sergio Aguero decides to stay in the Premier League this summer.
      At Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel has told Tammy Abraham there is no easy way back into the team.
      And Frank Lampard revealed he has received some ‘flattering’ offers to return to management – but ‘they were not quite right’ for the Blues legend.
      At Arsenal Mikel Arteta has urged Thomas Partey to step up and show just why Arsenal put so much effort into signing him.
      And finally, Troy Deeney says footballers should continue taking the knee next season.
      ‘HAVE TO STAND FOR SOMETHING’
      Reading captain Liam Moore has vowed to quit Twitter after receiving disgusting racist abuse.
      The centre-back was the subject of a vile social media poll and declared his intention to deactivate his account as a result.
      The poll from a now deleted account called Veljko Paunovic talks Reading FC asked: “Should a n***** be captain of Reading FC?” And the available listed answers read: ‘No’, ‘Not him’ and ‘N***** is a name’.
      Moore, 28, saw the horrendous post and hit out at Twitter for letting it happen. He wrote: “2021 and I’m not f****** surprised in the slightest. Twitter you’re as much to blame for making it so easy to abuse people.”
      And in a separate post, the Jamaican international wrote: “I have enjoyed engaging with many of you on here over the years but tonight was just another example of Twitter being toxic. You have to stand for something and for that reason I am deactivating my account. Thanks for your support.”
      Moore has more than 87,000 followers and hundreds of them commented messages of support.

      IT’S THE KNEE FOR DEENEY – EXCLUSIVE
      Troy Deeney says footballers should continue taking the knee next season.
      Watford captain and SunSport columnist Deeney is part of a Premier League advisory group discussing the issue. Players have taken the knee to highlight the need for racial equality since football came out of lockdown last June.
      And, as black players continue to be targeted on social media, Deeney urged his fellow pros to continue the practice. He said: “It’s my personal belief that taking a knee has made a real difference — that it has highlighted the issue and provoked conversation.
      “I think taking the knee in front of full houses will have even more of an impact. There need to be further talks about what happens if some supporters boo or show dissent in other ways.
      “But in my view that would only add to the difficult and necessary conversations on racism continuing. A lot more discussions are needed between players, clubs and the leagues.
      “I would like unity on this and I’d like us to continue reinforcing the key message of civil rights and equality. People of colour simply want the same rights as everyone else. We’re not asking for reparation for what has happened in the past — just equality going forward.”

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      Crystal Palace vs Chelsea LIVE: Stream, TV channel, team news as Havertz and Mount START for Blues – latest updates

      by

      CHELSEA will be looking to get back on track in the Premier League as they face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this evening.The Blues lost 5-2 to West Brom in the league last week but are in buoyant mood after their Champions League win over Porto in midweek.

      Start time: 5.30pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: Sky Sports PL/Main Event
      Palace XI: Guaita, Ward, Cahill, Kouyate, Van Aanholt, Ayew, Milivojevic, Riedewald, Eze, Daha, Benteke
      Chelsea XI: Mendy, Azpilicueta, Zouma, Rudiger, Hudson-Odoi, Jorginho, Kovacic, Chilwell, Pulisic, Havertz, Mount

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

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      What time does Crystal Palace vs Chelsea kick-off?

      Chelsea’s visit to Palace will get underway from 5.30pm UK time on Saturday, April 10.
      The game will take place in London at Selhurst Park.
      There will be no fans in attendance at the clash because of coronavirus restrictions.

      CLIMBING THE MOUNTAIN
      Mason Mount is once again on the lips of everyone who speaks the language of football and this time, it’s for all the right reasons.
      The England international put in another tremendous performance for the Blues in their midweek Champions League first leg against Porto.
      A performance accompanied by the first CL goal of his career and the first of Chelsea’s two goals which helped them to secure the win.
      Mount has received quite a lot of criticism online from fans for his lack of goal contributions to the team, despite the 22-year-old registering eight goals and six assist for the Blues this season.
      And Gary Lineker felt the need to update social media with his thoughts on all the spectators who have bad-mouthed Mount in the past.
      The former Barcelona striker said: “You still see it, don’t you, on social media? Now, social media, as we know, is full of people that know everything about football, but the Mount misunderstanding is weird.”
      Thomas Tuchel has realised Mount’s importance to the team hence why he is often one of the first names on the team sheet.
      Can the attacking midfielder continue to silence his critics with another good performance similar to Wednesday night?
      THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN
      Crystal Palace have arrived masked up and ready to steal the three points.

      CHELSEA DUGOUT
      1 Kepa, 3 Alonso, 33 Emerson, 24 James, 7 Kante, 22 Ziyech, 9 Abraham, 18 Giroud, 11 Werner
      CHELSEA XI
      With possibly one eye on their Champions League second leg quarter-final tie on Tuesday, the Chelsea gaffer has decided to make three changes for this evenings encounter against Crystal Palace.
      Kurt Zouma replaces Andreas Christensen in the defence.
      Callum Hudson-Odoi slots into the midfield instead of Reece James and Christian Pulisic gets the nod ahead of Timo Werner who has struggled this season.
      16 Mendy, 28 Azpilicueta, 15 Zouma, 2 Rudiger, 20 Hudson-Odoi, 5 Jorginho, 17 Kovacic, 21 Chilwell, 10 Pulisic, 29 Havertz, 19 Mount

      RAK EM UP
      Crystal Palace under-18 midfielder, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi has made their first-team squad for the first time.
      Congratulations to the young lad and hopefully he will continue to rack up the appearances.

      CRYSTAL PALACE DUGOUT
      1 Butland, 6 Dann, 34 Kelly, 27 Mitchell, 22 McCarthy, 15 Schlupp, 10 Townsend, Rak-Sakyi, 14 Mateta
      CRYSTAL PALACE XI
      Roy Hodgson has decided to stick with exactly the same team who managed to scramble out of Goodison Park with a point against Everton last weekend.
      Cahill and Kouyate are the centre-back pairing with Van Aanholt and Joel Ward either side of them.
      Jordan Ayew and Eze are left to occupy the flanks leaving the skipper Milivojevic and Riedwald to mop up in the middle.
      And up front is the dynamic duo of Christian Benteke and Wilfried Zaha.
      31 Guaita, 2 Ward, 24 Cahill, 8 Kouyate, 3 Van Aanholt, 9 Ayew, 4 Milivojevic, 44 Riedewald, 25 Eze, 11 Zaha, 20 Benteke

      THE STARTING LINE-UPS ARE IN!
      CHELSEA SQUAD NEWS
      No injury worries for Thomas Tuchel which means that the Chelsea gaffer will have a selection headache for this evening’s encounter with everyone fit.
      N’Golo Kante could reclaim his place in the starting line-up having come off the bench in the 2-0 victory over Porto.
      However, Thiago Silva’s return to action last weekend was cut short when he picked up a second yellow after committing a reckless challenge on Matheus Pereira resulting in suspension for this match.
      CRYSTAL PALACE TEAM UPDATE
      Roy Hodgson had some bitter sweet injury updates to address because the likes of Tyrick Mitchell and James McCarthy are fit and available for selection.
      But others who have been on the treatment table for some time, remain absentee’s for this evening’s clash against the Blues.
      The Palace boss stated in his pre-match press conference that: “The only person missing from the ones that have been available recently is Michy [Batshuayi] because he’s not allowed to play in this game [Chelsea are his parent club].
      “James McCarthy has certainly returned. Tyrick Mitchell has been back with us now for a couple of weeks and is fully fit and available to play.
      “The ones we don’t have are the two centre-backs who’ve been out now for a long period of time, James Tomkins and Mamadou Sakho.
      “James McArthur is still out unfortunately at the moment. Connor Wickham is recovering for a slight knock but will be back soon and Nathan Ferguson [is recovering].”
      Hodgson also mentioned that Nathaniel Clyne should be returning to action next week as a result of some good progress being made in his recovery period.
      PLEASE PARK HERE
      London – A place full of many fans who believe that the football club they support is the best team in the city.
      This evening, all eyes are on the home of Crystal Palace, Selhurst Park in South London and the boys in blue from South West London are hoping to cause some distress to the locals.

      GETTING RID OF ROY
      Roy Hodgson has delivered a more than satisfactory feeling around the Crystal Palace fan base this season on a results basis.
      The Eagles are well clear of the drop zone and if they were to construct a run of wins together for the remainder of the campaign, Palace have an outside chance of qualifying for European football.
      However, rumours are circulating that the desire from the owners of the club is to take Crystal Palace to the next level and Hodgson is not included in their plans.
      According to the Italian outlet, Il Messaggero, the Roma boss Paulo Fonseca could be heading for the exit door due to his inconsistency in Serie A and the writer mentioned that ‘Crystal Palace have just called him’ in hope that he could be a potential suitor should Hodgson leave.
      Despite Roma still being in contention to lift the Europa League trophy, Il Messaggero also reported that ‘Fonseca doesn’t necessarily have the certainty of staying’ even if they win it.
      Hodgson’s contract at Selhurst Park is coming to an end in the summer which is also adding to speculation that he may depart sooner rather than later.
      But should his side pull off a shock victory over Chelsea this evening, the owners of the club may be forced into re-thinking their plans.
      CURRENT STANDINGS
      Crystal Palace currently sit in 13th and three points won’t enhance their chart positioning by much but a win could still see them climb above Wolves closing the gap on Arsenal to only one point.
      As for Chelsea, they’ll be hoping that they can get back to winning ways in the Premier League because a victory for them would lift the Blues back into the top four above West Ham.

      TOP 5
      Here are five of the Blues most favourable goals against Crystal Palace over the years.
      For the Chelsea fans, enjoy because there is some sensational strikes in this video clip.

      LAST TIME OUT
      The Blues were absolutely dominant when Crystal Palace made the trip to Stamford Bridge in October.
      Chelsea just seemed to flip the switch in the second half sending Roy Hodgson’s side back across London with their tails between their legs.
      It was noticeable that Crystal Palace had a game plan to sit deep and try and catch the home-side on the counter.
      But despite Frank Lampard’s men controlling a large portion of the possession in the first 45, the only memorable effort came through Timo Werner which was comfortably saved by Vicente Guaita.
      However, Chelsea finally made a breakthrough only five minutes into the second half.
      When Ben Chilwell on his Premier League debut for the Blues, fired a mistimed Mamadou Sakho clearance on the half-volley past Guaita in the Palace goal.
      Kurt Zouma almost doubled Chelsea’s lead moments later when his header from a corner just trickled wide.
      And the defender was given a second bite at the cherry when Chilwell crossed in the ball from a similar position but this time Zouma made amends of the situation when his looped header crash into the back of the net.
      Lamaprd’s men continued to press a worn out Palace side and the third came when Tyrone Mitchell made a clumsy challenge on Tammy Abraham in the box resulting in a penalty.
      Jorginho stepped up and coolly dispatched the ball to the bottom right in his unorthodox style.
      If there was any reason beyond doubt on the result, Chelsea officially put the game to bed when they were awarded another penalty four minutes later given away by Sakho this time.
      It was a day to forget for the defender because Jorginho stepped up and made him pay for another costly mistake in the game.
      CURRENT FORM
      The Eagles last six Premier League fixtures have been pretty steady.  Three draws and securing a couple victories in that run is what is expected of Palace.
      But the one loss which stands out on their record is that 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Spurs which didn’t go down well with the fans.
      As for Chelsea, life was smooth under the new boss Thomas Tuchel because they went on a 10-game unbeaten run in England’s top division.
      However, that streak came to an abrupt halt when the Baggies, bagged five goals against them last Saturday.

      GOOD AFTERNOON
      Hello SunSport family and welcome to another live coverage of some Premier League action.
      I hope everyone is staying safe and staying sanitised.
      Ladies and gentleman we are almost free!
      This is the first weekend in step two on the road map out of lockdown and there’s no better way to celebrate other than tuning in for a London derby.
      Roy Hodgson’s Crystal Palace Chelsea to Selhurst Park in the midday kick-off and something tells me that we are in for a good game today.
      Despite all the rumours circulating on Roy Hodgson’s future at the Eagles they are coming into this game with a bit of confidence.
      In their last four Premier League fixtures, Palace have held both Manchester United and Everton to a draw and have beaten West Brom in the process.
      But in the other match, Hodgson’s side got thumped 4-1 by Spurs which was a performance that summed up their inconsistency this season.
      As for the Blues, Thomas Tuchel swallowed his first defeat as Chelsea head coach losing 5-2 to relegation battlers, West Brom last weekend.
      Yes you read that right, they conceded FIVE.
      However, the Blues bounced back immediately with a comfortable 2-0 triumph over the Portuguese giants Porto in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.
      So with the West Brom blip well and truly behind Chelsea and Crystal Palace playing with no pressure, it sets this one up to be a fascinating encounter.
      Fancy keeping up to date with how this match plays out?
      Then stick around and you’ll receive all the latest updates including; team news, pre-match quotes and of course, the game itself.
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      Harry Kane ‘to cost Man Utd over £120m’, De Gea may leave club on loan, Haaland transfer LATEST

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED will have to shell out a whopping £120m if they want to land Harry Kane this summer, according to reports.Meanwhile we’ve the latest on David De Gea, while the Red Devils are also said to have become less keen on Erling Haaland following Mino Raiola’s visit to Barcelona and Real Madrid.

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      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      LUKING GOOD
      Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer substituted Luke Shaw on Thursday’s Europa League win over Granada at half-time.
      There were concerns that Shaw was dealing with an injury ahead of Sunday’s clash at Tottenham.
      However, Solskjaer confirmed that it was just a precautionary measure.
      He said: ““I had to protect Luke. But I think and hope he should be okay for the weekend”
      NO CHANCE
      Paul Merson was very critical of Manchester United’s opponents on Sunday as he claimed Tottenham have no chance of finishing in the Premier League top four.
      Merson told Sky Sports: “I don’t give them a chance of reaching the top four. I just can’t see them putting five or six wins together.
      “They go to Newcastle, who are struggling like mad, and all of a sudden it has opened up for them. Chelsea have been beaten, Leicester have been beaten and Spurs had a chance to stamp their authority on the race for the top four.
      “But they go to St James’ Park and it was never comfortable for them. I never sat watching the game thinking Spurs have definitely won this. It just wasn’t like that.
      “That’s why I can’t see them stringing enough wins together. They do tend to shoot themselves in the foot. They’ve got that inconsistency about them”
      GETTY IMAGES
      FRANK STATEMENT
      Recently departed Chelsea manager Frank Lampard revealed that he tried to sign West Ham ace Declan Rice in the summer transfer window.
      Rice was among Manchester United’s top targets in the summer but the talented midfielder ultimately stayed with the Hammers where he continues to impress.
      Lampard said during Q&A for the Willow Foundation: “I have probably given it away with how I spoke about him, but I think it’s common knowledge that I was a big fan of his.
      “It didn’t happen for various reasons, but we brought in a lot of players in the summer. But I was a big fan of him.
      “For understandable reasons, West Ham know the player that they have on their hands”
      NEVE-S SAY NO
      Manchester United have added Wolves star Ruben Neves to their summer transfer list.
      That is according to 90Min, who claim that the Wolverhampton outfit is prepared to sell their star midfielder.
      Wolves are facing the prospect of having to let a handful of stars go because parent company Fosun are looking to restructure their commitment to the club.
      That is why super agent Jorge Mendes has been instructed to find potential buyers that will meet Wolves’ asking prices for some of their top Portuguese players.
      Neves appears to be one of them and although United are keeping an eye on potential midfield acquisitions they are still prioritising a centre-back and a winger
      KYLING TIME
      Paris Saint-Germain sensation Kylian Mbappe has been linked with a host of Europe’s top hitters ahead of the summer transfer window.
      Reports suggest that Manchester United are among them, although the Red Devils appear to be prioritising a new centre-back and a winger.
      Mbappe is reportedly stalling over a new contract with PSG as his current deal runs out in 2022.
      According to Cuatro, however, the star striker wants to join Real Madrid
      LEEDS UPSET
      Leeds shocked high-fliers Manchester City at the Etihad with a surprise 2-1 win, despite playing with 10 men for 45 minutes.
      Liam Cooper was dismissed following an ugly lunge on Gabriel Jesus, which was upgraded from a yellow card to a red after VAR intervened.
      Cooper was sent off just four minutes after Stuart Dallas opened the scoring for the visitors.
      City equalised with Ferran Torres after 76 minutes but Marcelo Bielsa’s men wouldn’t be denied as they got a late winner during stoppage time with Dallas.
      That means second-placed Manchester United are now 14 points below their rivals ahead of Sunday’s clash with Tottenham
      GETTY IMAGES
      ED-ING OUT
      Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani appears to be ‘closer than ever’ to a move to Boca Juniors at the end of the season.
      That is according to ESPN, who claim Cavani is set to cut his two-year deal with United in favour of a move back to South America.
      A source told ESPN: “He has the option to continue in Manchester, where he feels very welcome, but the option to return to South America at this point is very real.
      “Those close to him think that ‘he ultimately will be the one making the decision’ and that ‘it seems he has it [decision] all very clear”
      TOTTENHAM WARNING
      Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has urged his players to maintain a cool head and not to get “conned” by Tottenham on Sunday.
      United are looking to avenge October’s 6-1 thrashing at Old Trafford where Anthony Martial got sent off after retaliating to an elbow from Erik Lamela with a push in the Argentine’s face.
      Solskjaer said: “We didn’t look anything like [them] and we got conned into a red card and that’s something we have to be aware of.
      “We can’t react, because in games there’ll be situations you’ll be wound up; we’ve learnt from that.
      “I think the players will remember that game with a lot of pain and their pride has been hurt.
      “Pre-season was short … but we were so poor and I’m sure we’ll see some players wanting to prove we’re better than that”
      GETTY IMAGES
      BIDDING WAR
      Manchester United have joined the race for Sheffield United prospect Kyron Gordon.
      Gordon has impressed at centre-back with the Under-23s and while training with the first team.
      And thus, the 18-year-old has turned many heads around the Premier League.
      According to the Daily Mail, United, Leeds as well as Merseyside rivals Liverpool and Everton are reportedly keeping tabs on Gordon
      HAALAND PRAISE
      Bayern Munich star striker Robert Lewandowski praised Borussia Dortmund talisman Erling Haaland by saying he has what it takes to become the “best forward in the world”.
      Haaland has been linked with a host of Europe’s top hitters, with Manchester United being among them.
      Lewandowski told CBS: “He’s a great player. He has great potential, but he’s still very young.
      “In the future, he has the chance to become the best forward in the world, for sure”
      POTENTIAL KANE DEAL
      Manchester United would be open to a part-exchange player-plus-cash deal for Tottenham star Harry Kane.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim that United can’t afford Spurs’ asking price, which is said to be in the region of £120million.
      That is why the Red Devils would only be open to a move if Spurs would accept a part exchange.
      Kane is reportedly likely to leave Tottenham if they fail to qualify for the Champions League
      MAKE A DE-CISION
      Manchester United legend Paul Scholes doesn’t agree with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s claim that both David de Gea and Dean Henderson are the club’s No1.
      Scholes told BT Sport: “I think it’s always awkward when you’re trying to keep two goalkeepers happy.
      “I was in a team that tried to replace Peter Schmeichel for years and it wasn’t until we got Edwin van der Sar, five or six years later, until it seemed to settle down again. Who’s number one here?
      “Ole’s said both of them, he’s clearly wrong. I think he couldn’t wait to give Dean Henderson a chance and with David de Gea’s girlfriend or wife having a baby, it gave him the opportunity to play Dean Henderson, which he’s done.
      “I think the number one is the one that plays in Premier League games. Has Dean Henderson totally convinced Ole? I think he’s got a big chance to do it, I don’t think he has over the past five or six games.
      “You have to say, David is a quality keeper, the service he’s given to United. What he did for four or five years when United were really struggling.
      “They could’ve been a mid-table team without him. He’s lost a bit of form and a bit of confidence, but I wouldn’t write him off”
      GETTY IMAGES
      ED’S UP
      Manchester United ace Edinson Cavani remains unsure about his future at the club.
      That is according to United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer amid speculation that Cavani may be on his way to Boca Juniors in the summer.
      Solskjaer said: “I’ve kept in touch with Edi, of course, and we keep an open dialogue.
      “He’s still unsure what he wants to do next season, which I find fine.
      “It’s not been an easy year either for him or the rest of the world this season, so he still wants time to make his mind up”
      MAJOR KANE UPDATE
      Tottenham star Harry Kane is going to push for an exit from the club if Spurs fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim Kane has grown increasinly frustrated with the north Londoners’ lack of silverware and general direction.
      The England captain has said he will clarify his future after this summer’s delayed Euro 2020 competition.
      However, Kane appears reluctant to spend another year outside of Europe’s elite tournament and may have to look for a different club if Tottenham fail to finish in the top four.
      Manchester United have been previously linked with the 27-year-old but Tottenham are not keen on letting their star striker join a Premier League rival
      SIR-TAINLY WRONG
      Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has hit back at Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following his claim that trophies are for egos.
      Mourinho takes on his former club tomorrow at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and believes Solskjaer’s legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson would disagree with the Norwegian coach, who said before United’s FA Cup quarter-final exit at Leicester that cups are an ‘ego thing’.
      The former Chelsea manager said: “It’s his opinion. But I’m pretty sure his big boss Sir Alex had a different opinion about it.
      “But I respect what Solskjaer thinks. I think different. It’s not a problem, he’s not being disrespectful.
      “But, I repeat, I believe that his big boss, and the biggest in Premier League history, has a different view in relation to that”
      COOLING OFF
      Manchester United have cooled off their interest in Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland.
      That is according to ESPN, who claim the “road show” Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola and his father Alf-Inge put together in Barcelona and Madrid reminded United why they pulled back last year.
      The Red Devils were interested in the star striker while he played for Red Bull Salzburg.
      But they ultimately decided to hold fire and thus the Norway international went to Dortmund
      GETTY IMAGES
      RASHFORD CLAIM
      Manchester United legend Dimitar Berbatov believes Marcus Rashford will ‘dominate the future’ alongside Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland and Paris Saint-Germain talisman Kylian Mbappe.
      Berbatov told Betfair: “I hope he can continue improving because his pace, his agility and technique is all there, when he is on form United are dangerous.
      “Rashford is still a very young player and he is a superstar in world football, he’s been leading United’s attack for a while now too, I think he is getting the credit he deserves and hopefully he is only just getting started.
      “Mbappe, Haaland and Rashford are the players I am looking at to dominate the future.
      “Although he’s only 23, he’s already got lots of experience, he’s going into his fifth year of being a senior player and a big part of the team.”
      KANE THEY SIGN HARRY?
      Manchester United have been long-term admirers of Tottenham superstar Harry Kane, according to reports.
      However, signing Kane will be no easy feat for any Premier League side as Spurs are not willing to let their star striker join a domestic rival.
      Plus, the England captain is rated at about £120million, which poses as a sky-high fee following the coronavirus pandemic’s financial impact.
      The 27-year-old has stated that he will clarify his future after the summer’s delayed Euro 2020
      TOTTENHAM VS MANCHESTER UNITED
      Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hopes to have Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw fit for Sunday’s clash at Tottenham.
      Rashford was taken off from Thursday’s Europa League clash at Granada after his goal due to an ongoing ankle issue.
      Shaw, on the other hand, came off due to an unspecified problem but there is yet no update ahead of the upcoming match with Spurs.
      Solskjaer will be without Anthony Martial and Phil Jones, who are nursing a knee injury, as well as Eric Bailly who recently tested positive for coronavirus.
      Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho will take on his former club without Ben Davies and Matt Doherty who are sidelined with an ankle and muscle injury respectively
      MAN UTD 1 LIVERPOOL 0
      Sir Alex Ferguson can celebrate another win in Liverpool today – thanks to his Grand National runner.
      The Manchester United legend’s horse Give Me A Copper will run in the world’s most famous race – after the ex-Man Utd boss already landed a 108-1 treble at the Liverpool course.
      The horse, who Fergie co-owns with four others, has been targeted at the big one since 2019.
      Give Me A Copper is currently a 50-1 shot for the 40-runner contest.

      GOOD MORNING MAN UTD FANS
      Manchester United visit Tottenham on Sunday and Jose Mourinho told Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that Sir Alex Ferguson would never have stood for his claim that trophies are for egos.
      Tottenham boss Mourinho took a dig at his United successor ahead of the Prem clash in London.
      Solskjaer — potless since he took over from the Portuguese in December 2018 — said before United’s FA Cup quarter-final exit at Leicester that cups are an ‘ego thing’.
      He also argued how a league finish is the true barometer of progress. But Mourinho hit back: “It’s his opinion. But I’m pretty sure his big boss Sir Alex had a different opinion about it.
      “But I respect what Solskjaer thinks. I think different. It’s not a problem, he’s not being disrespectful.
      “But, I repeat, I believe that his big boss, and the biggest in Premier League history, has a different view in relation to that.”
      Elsewhere, Manchester United’s Under-23s threw away a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 at home to West Ham last night.
      Former Red Devil Ademipo Odubeko scored a hat-trick for the Hammers as the Londoners took a win back down south.
      And Marcus Rashford will ‘dominate the future’ alongside Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
      That is the view from former Manchester United star Dimitar Berbatov, who hailed the England international as the main man at Old Trafford.
      He told Betfair: “I hope he can continue improving because his pace, his agility and technique is all there, when he is on form United are dangerous.
      “Rashford is still a very young player and he is a superstar in world football, he’s been leading United’s attack for a while now too, I think he is getting the credit he deserves and hopefully he is only just getting started.
      “Mbappe, Haaland and Rashford are the players I am looking at to dominate the future.
      “Although he’s only 23, he’s already got lots of experience, he’s going into his fifth year of being a senior player and a big part of the team.”
      In transfers, United star Edinson Cavani is said to be closer than ever to sealing a move to Boca Juniors.
      The Uruguayan, 34, appears to be heading for the Old Trafford exit door in the summer with his contract coming to an end.
      ESPN claim Boca’s vice president, Juan Roman Riquelme, is personally handling the negotiations to ensure the striker’s arrival.
      Cavani is believed to be unsettled in England but United big wigs are said to have met with him in a bid to convince him to stay for another season.
      Spanish goalkeepers David De Gea and Kepa could be loaned out by United and Chelsea, according to reports.
      Both stoppers have fallen out of favour at their clubs with Dean Henderson edging his way towards being permanent No1 ahead of De Gea at Old Trafford.
      And Kepa has been well and truly ousted by Edouard Mendy at the Blues.
      As a result, ESPN report the pair could be farmed out on loan this summer as both clubs look to free up some wages.
      IT’S THE KNEE FOR DEENEY – EXCLUSIVE
      Troy Deeney says footballers should continue taking the knee next season.
      Watford captain and SunSport columnist Deeney is part of a Premier League advisory group discussing the issue. Players have taken the knee to highlight the need for racial equality since football came out of lockdown last June.
      And, as black players continue to be targeted on social media, Deeney urged his fellow pros to continue the practice. He said: “It’s my personal belief that taking a knee has made a real difference — that it has highlighted the issue and provoked conversation.
      “I think taking the knee in front of full houses will have even more of an impact. There need to be further talks about what happens if some supporters boo or show dissent in other ways.
      “But in my view that would only add to the difficult and necessary conversations on racism continuing. A lot more discussions are needed between players, clubs and the leagues.
      “I would like unity on this and I’d like us to continue reinforcing the key message of civil rights and equality. People of colour simply want the same rights as everyone else. We’re not asking for reparation for what has happened in the past — just equality going forward.”

      MOUR JIBE
      Jose Mourinho told Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that Sir Alex Ferguson would never have stood for his claim that trophies are for egos.
      Tottenham boss Mourinho took a dig at his Manchester United successor ahead of their Prem clash this weekend.
      Solskjaer — potless since he took over from the Portuguese in December 2018 — said before United’s FA Cup quarter-final exit at Leicester that cups are an “ego thing”.
      He also argued how a league finish is the true barometer of progress. But Mourinho hit back: “It’s his opinion. But I’m pretty sure his big boss Sir Alex had a different opinion about it.
      “But I respect what Solskjaer thinks. I think different. It’s not a problem, he’s not being disrespectful.
      “But, I repeat, I believe that his big boss, and the biggest in Premier League history, has a different view in relation to that.”

      KARREN BRADY COLUMN
      The negotiations around Erling Braut Haaland resemble those before the marriage of a prince in years gone by.
      Monarchs depended on the knowledge of ambassadors and the bargaining power of favourite relations for securing a bride with a huge dowry, lands, a title of her own and, with luck, beauty. These negotiators travelled far and wide and were often well rewarded.
      Should this remind readers of agent Mino Raiola and Alf-Inge Haaland, it is no coincidence — the couple have been on a tour of Europe inspecting possible match-ups for young Erling.
      The fee for the 20-year-old blond giant and serial goalscorer is said to be £100-£150million — a sum only affordable to the wealthier aristocracy among clubs. The two envoys have so far talked to hard-up Barcelona and Real Madrid and include the two Manchester clubs and Chelsea among their targets.
      Erling may have liked to join Leeds, where he was born and where his father played for three years, but I don’t think they are in the running.And, make no mistake about it, money is the critical factor.
      Daddy Haaland and his Italian mate are looking for, it is reported, £25m each in agent fees. Should this or the transfer fee prove beyond the reach of clubs, then Erling will remain at Borussia Dortmund for a season more.

      DANNY HIGGINBOTHAM – EXCLUSIVE COLUMN
      When I look at West Ham I see a team who collectively feel they have a point to prove.
      In previous seasons, it seemed some players felt the club should be privileged that they were there.
      But now they have a squad and a manager who feel proud to be at a club instead of using it as a stepping stone.
      You have got Jarrod Bowen and Said Benrahma trying to prove their worth in the Premier League, as well as Craig Dawson trying to show he can still cut it. Then Jesse Lingard who is showing his class after being given the opportunity after joining from Manchester United on loan.
      On top of all that you have former Red Devils manager David Moyes managing them. Who after a great career at Everton, was suffering from his experience of trying to succeed Alex Ferguson at United.
      There is a mentality at the club which is shining through every game.And Moyes has got them playing to their strengths.

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      in Soccer

      Man City 1 Leeds 2 LIVE REACTION: Stuart Dallas scores STOPPAGE TIME winner for 10-men visitors – latest updates

      by

      LEEDS beat Manchester City 2-1 at the Etihad thanks to a stoppage time Stuart Dallas winner to secure three points for the 10-men visitors.Dallas put Leeds 1-0 up in the first half before Liam Cooper was sent off and Ferran Torres equalised.

      RESULT: Man City 1-2 Leeds
      Man City XI: Ederson, Cancelo, Stones, Ake, Mendy, Fernandinho (C), Zinchenko, Bernardo, Torres, Sterling, Jesus
      Leeds XI: Meslier, Alioski, Cooper, Llorente, Ayling, Phillips, Dallas, Raphinha, Roberts, Costa, Bamford

      Follow ALL the action and build-up with our live blog below…

      BETTING SPECIAL: GET £10 FREE BET WITH PADDY POWER

      THAT’S ALL FROM THE ETIHAD
      Wow what a fantastic game of football to start off the weekend.
      Manchester City showed early signs of dominance which was much expected to everyone in the Leeds camp.
      But completely against the run of play, the Whites took the lead through a Stuart Dallas effort that clipped the post and went in.
      Leeds had their tails up and were in the ascendency, until a reckless challenge from the skipper Liam Cooper on Gabriel Jesus, made them go a man down.
      The referee originally showed Cooper a yellow but after a check on the VAR monitor, Andre Marriner’s mind was quickly changed.
      It was all Man City in the second half. Wave after wave, shot after shot.
      And finally, they found the breakthrough thanks to Ferran Torres who picked his spot in the bottom corner after Bernardo Silva expertly put it on a plate for the Spaniard.
      Pep’s side were all over Leeds at this point and the Whites looked like they were happy enough to hang on for the draw.
      But out of nowhere, City were caught out on the counter and Stuart Dallas got his second grabbing all three points for Leeds.
      Thanks for tuning in people, I’m glad the game didn’t disappoint!

      MATCH REPORT
      If you want to re-visit the journey to how 10-man Leeds conquered the goal machine that is Manchester City.
      CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH REPORT
      Put together by Martin Blackburn.
      UPCOMING FIXTURES
      City will have to regroup because they travel to Germany on Wednesday where they’ll be hoping they can finish off the job against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
      And then three days later, Pep Guardiola’s side face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals.
      As for Leeds, they will be welcoming three more of the ‘big six’ to Elland Road in their next four Premier League fixtures; Liverpool, Manchester United and Spurs.
      The tough test continues for Marcelo Bielsa and his men.
      CURRENT LEAGUE STANDINGS
      So after that result, Manchester City will have to wait a little longer to clinch the Premier League title.
      As for Leeds, they move up to 8th and could possibly be in for a shout for European football.

      PEP TALK
      Pep Guardiola pointed out where his team went wrong today in his post-match press conference as well as commending the visitors for their performance.
      The City boss said: “We were arriving in the final positions but unfortunately we could not score a goal.
      “After the send off for them, we were there but we didn’t create enough chances, maybe we should have created a little bit more.
      “When we play against teams that are set up in that way, with the pace they have, we have to control the contrast.
      “At the end, this can happen because a team with their transition, they are fantastic and congratulations to Leeds.
      FANTASTIC FOUR
      The Whites have become only the fourth promoted side to defeat the Premier League leaders in the competition’s history.
      A day Leeds will never forget.
      4 – Leeds have become just the fourth promoted side to win away against the Premier League leaders in the competition’s history, after Ipswich at Norwich in December 1992, Derby at Man Utd in April 1997 and Hull City at Arsenal in September 2008. Underdogs. pic.twitter.com/5OnskB4AKo— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 10, 2021

      SENSATIONAL STUART
      And here is the winner from Stuart Dallas.
      Leeds United fans, make sure you enjoy this one!

      STUART SPEAKS
      The Leeds hero of the day discussing the team spirit and giving us an insight on his technique to scoring the winner.
      Stuart Dallas said: “That was tough out there today. It’s hard against any team with eleven men never mind against Man City with ten.
      “We knew it was going to be difficult and we just knew if we could have a bit more composure on the ball, we could maybe get once chance.
      “When Raphina goes through at the end, you’re hoping that’s the one and obviously I’m able to get on the end of a through ball from Alioski.
      “Against these teams you don’t get too many chances so when you go through and have chance you’ve got to be clinical.
      “Thankfully when I went through, I think I just one touch and closed my eyes and hit it.”
      FULL TIME STATS
      Even more domination for Pep Guardiola’s side in the second 45.
      29 shots for Manchester City and only 2 shots for Leeds.
      But as I said at the end of the first half, the result is all that counts.

      LEEDING THE RACE
      10-man Leeds United have beaten the league leaders Manchester City.
      Brilliant performance from the Whites.
      🙌 What a performance! What a team! 10 man #LUFC defeat league leaders Manchester City!— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 10, 2021

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      LEEDS HAVE DONE IT!
      WHAT A 90 MINUTES OF FOOTBALL!
      FT: MAN CITY 1-2 LEEDS
      DOUBLE FROM DALLAS
      Stuart Dallas gives the Whites the lead in true smash and grab style.

      Alioski picked up the ball in midfield and played a perfect through ball for Stuart Dallas to run onto.
      The attacker just got there ahead of John Stones and Fernandinho who spent most of their game in the Leeds half.
      And just before the oncoming Ederson could get to the ball, Dallas rolled the ball through the Brazilian keepers legs.
      MAN CITY 1-2 LEEDS
      GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!
      SMASH AND GRAB FOR LEEDS!
      DALLAS AT THE DOUBLE!
      I CAN’T BELIEVE WHAT I AM WITNESSING HERE!
      THREE MINUTES OF ADDITIONAL TIME!

      MAN CITY 1-1 LEEDS
      87. Wow from where I’m sitting, that looked like it was going in.
      Bernardo Silva cut inside onto the dangerous left from from the right-wing and tried to bend one.
      But the ball flew inches past the post.
      MAN CITY 1-1 LEEDS
      83. THAT WAS NEARLY SMASH AND GRAB!
      The City defence momentarily went to sleep presenting Raphinha with a one-on-one opportunity.
      But Ederson tackled his fellow Brazilian in his usual unorthodox style.
      Is there anything the Manchester City can’t do?
      TORRIFIC GOAL
      Ferran Torres putting the Cityzens level in this mouth-watering contest.

      MAN CITY 1-1 LEEDS
      80. You can bet your house on it that Manchester City will be sending wave after wave of attacks to find the winner.

      Leeds had been coping with City’s quick passing all half but Fernandinho’s intricate pass to Bernardo Silva finally caught them out.
      The Portuguese then rolled it to Ferran Torres who was in acres of space.
      And the rest was history.
      MAN CITY 1-1 LEEDS
      GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!
      FINALLY THE CITYZENS HAVE THEIR GOAL!
      AND FERRAN TORRES ENDS HIS DROUGHT!
      MAN CITY 0-1 LEEDS
      73. More reinforcements have arrived for Manchester City.
      Phil Foden on for Benjamin Mendy.
      MAN CITY 0-1 LEEDS
      72. It’s like shooting practice in the Etihad today.
      This time Joao Cancelo cut inside and had a pop with his left-foot but again, the young Leeds keeper was equal to the ball.
      MAN CITY 0-1 LEEDS
      70. Fernandinho with 35-yard-strike!
      But comfortable for Illan Meslier as he palms the ball away.
      MAN CITY 0-1 LEEDS
      68. I don’t think the visitors have been in City’s box once this half.
      Leeds are really having to dig deep to not concede this afternoon.
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