Sport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      Champions League winning Porto legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa dies aged 87 as Jose Mourinho leads tributes

      by

      PORTO legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed away aged 87.The former club president led the club to 69 titles during his tenure, including the Champions League in 2004.Porto’s former president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed awayCredit: AFPPorto won 69 titles under Da CostaCredit: AFPJose Mourinho has led tributes on social mediaCredit: GettyDa Costa left his role at Porto in May 2024 and was succeeded by former Chelsea manager Andre Villas Boas.But it was another former Blues boss who led tributes on social media.Jose Mourinho took to Instagram to post a touching statement about his old employer.He wrote: “‘Mourinho, you were the coach who brought me the greatest joys’.READ MORE ON SPORT”Those were your words, Mr. President.”My words are: ‘I feel a tremendous honor to be part of your history and I will always be grateful for your trust and the influence you had on my career.'”This is how we said our goodbyes last summer in your beloved city.”The smile from the first day and the joy of the last time we were together.”Most read in FootballFormer Porto manager Sergio Conceicao took the news very hard after AC Milan’s win over Hellas Verona.He was due to face the media after the victory at the San Siro but was to “shaken” to do so.Watch Jose Mourinho slap Fenerbahce translator after comical ‘toilet’ mistake during press conference Sergio Conceicao was too sad to speak to the mediaCredit: GettyHe worked with Da Costa during his time as Porto managerCredit: GettyThis was confirmed by club adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who spoke to the press instead.He said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Porto fans also paid tribute to the club legend by gathering outside the Estadio do Dragao Stadium.They could be heard chanting songs after the news of the former president’s death.A huge tifo with Da Costa’s picture was hung from a nearby bridge and surrounded by flairs.Former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba also shared a tribute for Da Costa on his X account.He joined the Portuguese giants back in 2018 after three years on Tyneside.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe wrote: “Rest in peace President Pinto Da Costa, I am grateful for the chance you gave me to join the great club of FC Porto.”My sincere condolences to the relatives and to the whole great family of the Portistas.”Porto statement on Jorge Nuno Pinto da CostaPorto released a statement after the death of former club president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa…It read: “The departure of the President of Presidents leaves Futebol Clube do Porto orphaned of its greatest figure, the main organiser of great victories and the person most responsible for building an unmistakable identity and legacy.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa will live on forever in the memory and hearts of all Porto fans.”Between 23 April 1982 and 7 May 2024, the biggest club in the North became the best club in Portugal and grew from local and regional to European and world level.”Without ever forgetting its roots, FC Porto grew with the city and the city grew with FC Porto.”The club has more than 131 years of history, but there is a before and after Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa.”Since then everything has changed.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa transformed FC Porto the Portuguese club with the most official titles by lifting 23 championships, 22 Super Cups, 15 Portuguese Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, a European Champion Clubs’ Cup, Champions League, a UEFA Cup and a Europa League, a European Super Cup and a League Cup.” More

    • 225 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘There is no easy game as every team is getting closer to each other’, says Tottenham’s Luana Buhler 

      by

      LUANA BUHLER has no qualms about overcoming big obstacles in football – having battled back from two serious knee injuries in her teens. Today the versatile Switzerland defender, 28, wants Tottenham to pull off the big challenge of dispatching Arsenal in their WSL derby duel.Luana Buhler hopes Tottenham can defeat Arsenal for the first time at the Emirates in a WSL derbyBuhler and her team-mates hope to return to winning ways following a narrow 1-0 loss to Man United last time outCredit: GettyIt was at the age of 15 playing with Swiss boys team FC Schotz, and then at 19 in for women’s side FC Zurich, that Buhler suffered anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures. For Buhler, who began her senior playing career at FC Zürich in 2016, having the support of family and friends and the determination to come back stronger to fulfil her football dream was key. The 54-capped Switzerland, who spent five years at German side Hoffenheim before her 2023 Tottenham move said: “The first injury was (sustained whilst playing) with a boys’ team. “It was at an age where you grow a lot as a girl but maybe don’t have the support yet that was needed back then. Read More Football Stories “At that time, the support with athletic coaches, even strength training, wasn’t even a topic yet, so I think that was something that was also caused a little bit by the circumstances. “With my second one (ACL injury) I was quite lucky with the medical staff and everything around being developed much better. “I was in a women’s environment already (at FC Zurich) and there I had more professional help during my rehab“That also helped me to come back in a better state and quite strong. Most read in Football“When you have an injury that big, all you just want to do is come back and play again. “I was quite young when those injuries came. “It was probably one of the toughest times during my career. It challenged me emotionally and physically.“But these were also the times where I would learn the most about being patient and showing resilience.”Resilience is something that Buhler and her Tottenham team-mates have had to rely on at times this season since losing their last derby clash with Arsenal. Following that 3-0 home loss last November her side, who are sixth in the WSL, have won five and drawn one of their last nine games across all competitions. Buhler sees this term as one of ups and downs for Robert Vilhamn’s aces who are yet to beat the Gunners away in the top tier. But the defender is confident Tottenham can give Arsenal a run for their money at the Emirates this afternoon, having beaten them for the first time in a top-flight duel in December 2023. She adds: “We could see when we won our first (WSL) game against Arsenal, that the gap is, in my opinion, closing (in these games). “There’s no easy game anymore because every team is getting closer to each other. “We want to challenge them as much as we can.”Today’s 12:30pm clash could see Buhler, who was born in Lucerne, central Switzerland, battle her national team-mate Lia Walti. Like Buhler, the tenacious midfielder played in Germany’s top-flight for Turbine Potsdam before making a move to the WSL and joining Arsenal in 2018. Since then Walti has won three trophies with the Gunners, who are third in the league including a WSL title back in 2019. Buhler said: “Lia is a really great player and also a leader for us in the national team. “As a team we are really lucky to have her. On the other hand she’s a tough player to play against. “There are so many good individual players at Arsenal who will challenge us as a team. “I’m really looking forward to it because it’s the greatest thing to go against the best players in Europe.”Prior to joining Tottenham Buhler, who is studying for a masters degree in business, has experienced playing in the Champions League with her former clubs FC Zurich and Hoffenheim. And long with Walti the Tottenham ace is looking forward to making history with her national team, when Switzerland hosts the Women’s Euros for the first time this year. Her side, currently ranked as the 23rd best side in the world, will take on Norway in their group stage opener on July 2 in Basel. And Buhler hopes the tournament will lead to greater support for girls’ grassroots teams in her country and improving the infrastructure of the women’s game there. The Switzerland international said: “We’re still a little bit behind in the whole development of infrastructure and grassroots teams. “I hope this can give a real boost to women’s football and sports in general for girls and women in Switzerland. “There are not enough opportunities for girls in comparison to the boys. “There is, on basic levels, infrastructure missing and even teams are missing. Tottenham hope to produce a repeat of the performance that led to their 1-0 defeat of Arsenal in the top tier in December 2023Credit: Sunday Times“I know from girls in my hometown that they still struggle to find a (football) team with whom they can participate.READ MORE SUN STORIES“That’s one of the first things we need to change, to have those infrastructures for all the boys and girls at the same level.“I would like to see more visibility of women’s football in general.” More

    • 213 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Kyle Walker hauled off at HALF-TIME for AC Milan then watches replacement set up winner vs Verona

      by

      KYLE WALKER was hauled off at HALF-TIME during AC Milan’s clash with Hellas Verona.The defender joined the Italian giants on loan during the January transfer window.Kyle Walker was subbed off after 45 minutes against VeronaCredit: GettyHe joined AC Milan on loan in JanuaryCredit: ReutersHis replacement Alex Jimenez (left) helped set up the winning goalCredit: GettyWalker, 34, would have been hoping that a switch to Italy would help him find his form after early season struggles in the Premier League.He has thus far made five appearances for AC Milan, with his latest coming in Serie A.Milan faced 15th-placed Verona at the San Siro on Saturday night, but Walker did not make it past the break.The Englishman was hauled off at half-time by manager Sergio Conceicao.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Porto boss replaced Walker with Alex Jimenez, who went on to help set up the winning goal for the hosts.The Spanish full-back played in a delicate chipped pass into the Verona box, which was cleverly flicked on by Rafael Leao and finished off by Santiago Gimenez.Conceicao did not explain his decision to replace Walker after the game, as he did not attend any media duties.The manager instead sent club advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic in his place.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe reason behind this was due to the death of Porto president Pinto da Costa on Saturday.The Swede said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner set to get £750k to star in Celeb Big Brother – but only if bosses agree to strict ruleSergio Conceicao has won eight of his 13 matches at MilanCredit: AP”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Meanwhile, Walker’s substitution appeared to be more tactical as Milan were pressing for the win.The defender saw plenty of the ball and won all five of his duels, and even helped in the attack with four crosses.He did not concede a single foul and only misplaced two passes during the first half.Conceicao’s decision could have also come with an eye on the club’s Champions League clash against Feyenoord on Tuesday.The seven-time winners must come back from a first-leg 1-0 defeat to progress past the Dutch team.Walker was run ragged in the first game as he struggled to contain Brazilian winger Igor Paixao. More

    • 288 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      Harry Redknapp: I would choose to boss this Spurs side over Man Utd EVERY time – and I’d make young starlet my captain

      by

      WHEREVER that old saying about the darkest nights making the brightest stars comes from, it certainly isn’t Tottenham.But if you had to pin it to a Premier League club, it’d be Ange Postecoglou’s side every day of the week.I would much rather manage this Tottenham squad over Man UtdCredit: Darren FletcherAnge Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad but is being let down by injuriesCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is the right man to turn around Man Utd but it will take years to get the right playersCredit: GettyAnge would probably be glad of it, to be honest, as there’s been little else to light up the place this season.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.I do think Ruben Amorim is the right man to turn United around but there is so much work that it will take years.If I had the choice of who I’d like to manage, it is Spurs every time as Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it doesn’t count for much when they’re in the treatment room rather than the dressing room — and loads are.At times Postecoglou has been without a whole team of injured players, which is where that stuff about dark nights and bright stars comes in.And with so many key men missing, Ange has had to rely on some of his kids at a time he needs players AND leaders.But in Archie Gray he has a young man who ticks both boxes despite only making his full Premier League debut in December. And if everyone was available he may still be waiting.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSGray’s dad Andy had a long playing career, his grandad Frank is a Leeds legend, and his uncle Eddie an all-time great.So although he’s only 18, Archie has had more experience of football life than many senior players before he joined Spurs from Leeds last year.Ruben Amorim admits he and Man Utd players ALL fighting for their jobs between now and the end of the seasonAnd while all the lads who’ve been thrown in have done well, Gray has been an absolute diamond — and I have to say it doesn’t surprise me.Everything I’ve seen about him has been positive from day one, wherever he’s played, which is three different defensive positions and midfield already.The way the teenager strolls around at the back reminds me of Franz Beckenbauer or Alan Hansen, which is some comparison.I’m not saying he will ever be that good, of course, as not many got within a mile of those two legends.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.But there is a real style and elegance in everything he does.There was a moment at Aston Villa last week when Marcus Rashford tried to run at him one-on-one, but Archie got his body across, won the ball and shut down the danger. It was class.From what I hear, he is a good talker too, despite being so young. He’s confident, says the right things, and is not afraid to put his message across in the dressing room.So you can forget his age as he is already a natural leader — and Ange certainly needs one with his team in this position.I would make Archie Gray the club captainCredit: RexCloser to the bottom three than the top six in the Prem — like United — out of both domestic cups and just the Europa League left with just over three months of the campaign to go.Spurs may have a team with no inspiring voice on the pitch but at least Amorim has a couple in Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes.Even with a fully fit squad, Ange has no obvious choice for the armband. As much as I love Son, who has it now, he’s never struck me as a captain.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does.There’s more to it than just calling heads or tails, believe me. As a manager, the skipper is someone you can rely on.You will pick his brains, he will be the link with the rest of the team and almost your right arm in many ways. So it is a vital role.READ MORE SUN STORIESI have said for ages that Gray is a captain of the future — and maybe even an England one — but up to the job at Tottenham already.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does. More

    • 213 Shares110 Views

      in Soccer

      All this week’s red-hot transfer exclusives from SunSport’s man in the know including Liverpool’s shock goalkeeper swoop

      by

      SUNSPORT’S Alan Nixon is the Boss of Goss.Check out this week’s red-hot transfer whispers from our man in the know…Everton are keen on Maxime Esteve from Burnley if they lose Jarrad BranthwaiteCredit: RexMAX EFFORTEVERTON want Burnley’s centre-half Maxime Esteve — but will need to sell Jarrad Branthwaite.French defender Esteve will be a big target for many clubs in the summer, whether Scott Parker’s side go up or not.But the 22-year-old is rated in the £30million-plus class so David Moyes may need to balance their books.Everton accept that Branthwaite, 22, will likely leave for financial fair play reasons this summer — but a £60m pricetag will fund two or three signings.Everton are eyeing Rotherham teenager Harrison Duncan as one for the future.Millers boss Steve Evans has had the 16-year-old centre-back on the bench in League One and he started in the EFL Trophy against Newcastle in October.Toffees are keen to have a close look at the defender, who is in the John Stones mould.And they may ask for him to spend some time with them.Duncan has an amazing record at youth level, scoring 11 goals this season.Declan Rice’s cringeworthy Valentine’s Day pick-up lines re-emerge in incredible video years before Arsenal transfer KOP SHOP FOR KOBELLIVERPOOL are taking a shock interest in Borussia Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel.Kop spies are hot on the trail of the Swiss international, 27, ahead of a summer move.The Reds fear Alisson Becker will be tempted to leave Anfield by a lucrative deal.They already signed Giorgi Mamardashvili, who arrives in July, but the Georgian has been in below average form for struggling Valencia in LaLiga.He is still due to come but may not be first choice.There will have to be a decision on Kobel soon as Chelsea and Barcelona have shortlisted him for a move too.Liverpool are looking at Dortmund keeper Gregor KobelCredit: GettyFOXES OSO KEENLEICESTER hope to make a £10million bid for red-hot Chile winger Dario Osorio.The Foxes have tracked the international’s progress at Danish side Midtjylland and a work permit will not be an issue.Osorio, 21, joined from Universidad de Chile in 2023 and fancies bigger things — with the Prem in his sights.Leicester will still have a crack even if they do not stay up.Dario Osorio is a target for LeicesterCredit: AFPDERRY WELLCHELSEA  have  their  eyes  on   controversially raiding Crystal Palace for young winger Jesse Derry.Derry can operate on either side and has been with the Eagles since he was a kid — his dad Shaun played and worked there.But Derry Jr, 17, is out of contract in the summer — and Palace will only get minimal training compensation.The Blues also signed Reggie Watson, son of Palace old boy Ben, when he was 14.YOU WAT?BRIGHTON plan to offer LESS for winger Tommy Watson at Sunderland.Albion’s £8.5million-plus-extras January bid for Watson, 18, was turned down.A smaller summer offer will follow as they are out of the frantic market.And Watson may not even get a game to up his value.WHICH top manager is giving all his players major concerns about his well-being?The gaffer has been around for years but his team are now concerned he starts sentences but does not then complete them.The situation is a bit more serious than just dressing-room banter and nobody is laughing.Some have known the chief for years — and are feeling on edge about it.WELL-WARNEPAUL WARNE will be top of the list at Rotherham if manager Steve Evans cannot turn round their League One season.Warne, 51, is still admired by the Millers from his previous spell in charge and knows the club inside out.His reputation has not been hurt by his Derby spell.WELL INLEYTON ORIENT have put a £250,000 pricetag on the head of their manager Richie Wellens.Wellens, 44, is on the shortlist to take over at managerless Blackburn.He has caught the eye during Orient’s surprise League One play-off bid this seasonJohn Eustace quit Ewood Park for Derby last week.And Rovers are due to meet candidates this week, including Gary O’Neil and some foreign hopefuls.Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens is wanted by BlackburnCredit: RexBrighton are looking for a permanent home for Valentin BarcoCredit: GettyVALENTIN’S DAYBRIGHTON will sell Argentinian left-back Valentin Barco for the right price.Barco, 20, cost £7.8million from Boca Juniors in January 2024 but has failed to reach the levels wanted.The wing-back spent the first half of this season on loan in LaLiga at Sevilla.But he is now in the shop window with French club Strasbourg.And the Seagulls are attempting to find him a permanent home.SHOR THINGHUDDERSFIELD are keen to move for teenage midfielder Jackson Shorrocks.The Blackburn academy youngster captains Rovers’ under-18 side but has been told he can leave Ewood Park.And the Terriers will be first to have a look. More

    • 163 Shares102 Views

      in Soccer

      Millionaire Prem star loses court battle with HMRC over thousands in unpaid tax

      by

      MILLIONAIRE Premier League star Alexander Zinchenko has lost a court battle with HMRC which was chasing him for thousands in unpaid tax.Tax officials wanted to close his company Alex Zinchenko Image Rights over an unpaid tax bill, but representatives promised the bill would be settled at a High Court hearing.Alexander Zinchenko has lost a court battle with HMRC which was chasing him for thousands in unpaid taxCredit: GettyThe company channelled some of his lucrative earnings from a hugely successful career which includes four Premier League titles with Manchester City before a £30million move to Arsenal.Last accounts for the business covering 2023 showed it had a corporation tax bill of £893,133 in 2023 and £834,164 the year before.No figures of the tax owed were made public at the hearing which lasted only a few minutes.The company accounts also showed that Zinchenko, who earns a reported £150,000 a week, had a £1.879 million loan from the business.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHMRC began the action to wind up the company in September last year, but at the hearing in London this week the court heard a settlement had been reached and it would be confirmed in March.Zinchenko was a director of the company and owned the company’s only share until November 3, when fellow director Artemijs Rjabovs, an official who works for the Ukrainian FA took over.Ukrainian Zinchenko has been a vocal opponent of Russia’s war on his homeland and told the BBC he would fight for his country if he was called up.The star told a BBC interview that he donated more than £1million to help refugees suffering in the conflict and that he knew of hundreds of children whose parents have died in the war.Most read in FootballZinchenko reveals ‘secret agent’ turned up at his door with Arteta inside to convince him to complete Arsenal transferUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

    • 263 Shares178 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘People are losing their jobs… it’s on us’ – Amorim says Man Utd flops are to blame for owner Ratcliffe’s redundancies

      by

      RUBEN AMORIM says his Manchester United flops should carry the can for the savage Old Trafford redundancies.The club’s new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans to axe 200 more staff in brutal cost-cutting measures, which have also seen ticket price hikes.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim believes the club’s failure on the pitch has cost people their livlihoodsCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe is planning on axing 200 more jobs at Man UtdCredit: AlamyAnd United boss Amorim admits better results on the pitch could have saved people’s jobs.He said: “Our team for a long period of time is not performing.“We are buying players, spending money.“And then we don’t have that return. So, it’s on us, these problems. People are losing their jobs so we have to acknowledge that.“The biggest problem is the football — we’re not in the Champions League, so revenues aren’t the same.Read more Man Utd news “Everybody here knows it’s really hard on people who are losing jobs.“The fans are always supporting us, they are amazing and we’re increasing ticket prices.“We know that is our fault in the football department. We are responsible for that.“It’s really important to not ignore that.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“So the only way to help is to win games, to go to the Champions League.Most read in Football“Then you don’t fire a lot of people. So, we need to step up.”‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerIn autumn, 250 staff were laid off, ticket prices have rocketed and concessions for children and pensioners were scrapped.Legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been axed as an ambassador, while head of team operations Jackie Kay — regarded as a “mum” by the players — is also in danger of losing her job.It is now understood to be affecting morale ahead of Sunday’s visit to fellow strugglers Tottenham.An insider said: “Job losses and spending cuts have shocked the players.“It has left them unsettled, with some fearing they could be sold.”Amorim added: “People are losing their jobs and it affects the environment.“The first thing to do is to win at Tottenham.” More

    • 250 Shares131 Views

      in Boxing

      Gutted Jack Catterall blows world title dream in split decision loss to Arnold Barboza in front of ringside Luke Littler

      by

      JACK CATTERALL blew his world title dreams in front of darts world champ Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler with a loss to Arnold Barboza.The 31-year-old Chorley southpaw – who was robbed of 2022 undisputed glory – looked like landing a home decision.Jack Catterall saw his world title dream crumble with defeat to Arnold BarbozaCredit: GettyThe ace lost via a split decision in ManchesterCredit: GettyDarts star Luke Littler sat ring-side with Eddie Hearn for the spectacleCredit: GettyCatterall had plenty to say about Barboza’s controversial win afterwardsCredit: GettyBut he failed to land anything explosive in front of the 18-year-old arrows ace and lost out on split decision.The judges at the Co-Op arena in Manchester called it: 115-113 Catterall, 115-113 Barboza and 115-113 Barboza.Catterall banked the opener with clever counter combinations when the Mexican-American barged in.The 33-year-old landed a pair of eye-catching rights in the third, when Catterall’s waiting game worked against him.READ MORE IN BOXINGCatterall’s crisp one-twos cooled the visitor’s momentum at the start of the fourth.But Barboza kept pressuring him and pushing the Brit backwards and nicked the fifth by being on the front foot.Catterall had a mare in the seventh and was wobbled right at the end of the round and the tide started turning against him.A left hook was Catterall’s best punch of round eight. Most read in BoxingJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSYet Barboza’s industriousness should have been impressing the judges.El Gato’s crowd purred when a left backhand from their hero smacked right into the middle of Barboza’s forehead.’Greedy Belly has been my best opponent’ – Oleksandr Usyk reveals how he really feels about Tyson Fury Barboza’s backside met the canvas with a thud in the tenth.But referee Steve Gray rightly called it an accidental trip.The final stanza was boxed on a knife edge and both tough men celebrated at the last bell before the officials added up the scorecards and Barboza landed the bullseye.Catterall said: “Tricky fight, no complaints. I want to see him go on and win the world title now.”But I’ll be back in the gym on Monday”. More