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      Mo Salah made secret pact with Arne Slot before the season that helped Liverpool win Premier League title

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      MO SALAH and Arne Slot made the secret pact that took Liverpool to the title and made him Player of the Year.The campaign began with Anfield shrouded in doubts – especially over whether Salah would sign a new deal and how Slot might handle the strain of being Jurgen Klopp’s successor.Mo Salah and Arne Slot made a pact at the start of the seasonCredit: EPABut Salah revealed how he was certain he could make the Dutchman a Prem champ in exchange for a pledge from the new manager.Slot kept his word and so did the Kop’s Egyptian king as he reveals how over a series of discussions between the pair he declared: “I was very honest.“I told him: ‘with me, you are going to win the Premier League but I have to feel really comfortable with the way we play.’“He was very honest with me, we had a few honest conversations and he said to me: ‘OK, I will get the best out of you. I will put you in a situation where you feel comfortable but I need you to provide the numbers’.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLProvide those numbers Salah, just crowned the Football Writers Association’s player of the year for a third time, certainly did.In what became a cruise to the crown he has set a new Prem high for a 38 – game season of 28 goals and 18 assists.He needs two more goal involvements in tomorrow’s last game of the season against Crystal Palace to claim history by overtaking the joint record of 47 held by Alan Shearer and Andy Cole set over 42 matches.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWhat’s more Salah will spend at least two more seasons with Liverpool having agreed a near – £400,000 a week new deal when he admits that the one pre – season doubt he did have was whether the club would come up with the numbers to make him stay.Most read in FootballPart of his concern was over the fact that owners Fenway Sports Group had always made age a number for older players.Cheeky Mo Salah reveals Liverpool’s Premier League title felt way better without Klopp, Mane and FirminoHe explained: “There is always a time either now or later when it is going to happen (Salah leaving) but I love this club.“I always wanted to stay but I know my value and I was waiting for the club to arrive to the right point where me and the club are both going to be happy so that’s why the contracts took so long.“Based on the club history, because the club treated players of 30 or 31 in different ways I wasn’t clear in my head that I was going to stay 100 percent.”Salah, who has equalled Thierry Henry’s record of three FWA awards, couldn’t be happier with the way it has all worked out for him – and for the former Feyenoord manager.His content is based not only on his own personal pride over what he says was a “crazy season, a crazy year” but also on the warm respect he has developed for Slot.The 32-year-old stresses: “It’s so special, I have a good relationship with him and I am very respectful towards him and his staff because we all work really hard.“At the beginning, we had that conversation, he asked me for stuff he wanted me to do.“I asked him and put me in the positions and situations where I can really provide numbers and our relationship is very good and it’s working well.“And he has improved me, absolutely. Now he will have to deal with me a bit longer!“I’ve always believed there’s always room to improve and I think he did it very well and you see the numbers this year and I feel very happy about it.Salah has been incredible this seasonCredit: ReutersHe is set to win the Premier League Golden Boot yet againCredit: Reuters“I would give him half the credit and the other half to my teammates because they always help me in the situations to give me the ball or be at the right spot so they can pass the ball and I score.”Salah also speaks warmly of the bond he has always had with the fans, even throughout a campaign of questions over whether he would go, or like skipper Virgil van Dijk, also sign on for another two years.He says: “My relationship with the fans, I see it as very special.“They see me as an honest guy and they could see that straight away.“I think that’s why our relationship is special and that’s why they love me. I don’t hide the stuff, I always share.”He has improved me, absolutely. Now he will have to deal with me a bit longer!Mo Salah on Arne SlotHaving picked up the FWA prize at an awards dinner on Thursday night he can now look forward to an even brighter future with Slot – and makes another vow.He says: “One game to go, I broke the record for 38 games so I am going to go fully focused for the last game and hopefully I can get two goals or assists.“So I go again next year to break records again!”There are no doubts for him that he can keep doing so either, even if he turns 33 next month.The daddy of them all throughout Liverpool’s Prem history insists: “People need to realise that in the last five or ten years players start hitting their peak when they are 30 and upwards.“When they have more experience and can manage their emotions and can provide big numbers.Read More on The Sun“Football has changed now, people take care of themselves, if you try to do everything right you are going to play until you decide it’s time to retire.“I said the other day I will probably play until I’m 39, 40 … until the kids tell you: ‘It’s OK, you leave football now and you stay with us!” More

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      Napoli win Serie A LIVE: Conte’s side pip Inter to Scudetto as McTominay and Lukaku score in crucial Cagliari triumph

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      NAPOLI have confirmed their status as Serie A champions with a comfortable 2-0 win against Cagliari.Antonio Conte’s side went into the final day with one more point than title rivals Inter Milan, who also won 2-0 at Como on Friday night.Goals from former Manchester United stars Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku was enough for Napoli to claim their second Scudetto in three years as fans inside the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona went wild.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Napoli lift the trophySkipper Giovanni Di Lorenzo lifts the Scudetto as the fans inside the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona go wild for their champions.Queen’s We Are The Champions rings around the stadium as the Napoli players take it in turns to lift the trophy.Copy linkCopiedHere comes RomWhat a contribution this man has made this season!Lukaku is his side’s top goalscorer with 14 and has provided 10 assists, the most in the league.The former Man Utd striker was also on the scoresheet this evening.Copy linkCopiedMcTominay gets great receptionScott McTominay has certainly established himself as a home favourite in Naples.The Scot has made his way to the podium, ready to lift the Scudetto.Copy linkCopiedGilmour presented with medalGilmour was seen sporting dyed blue hair as he was presented with his medal. Copy linkCopiedInter pay tribute to Napoli titleInter have sent a message to Napoli congratulating them on their Serie A win.Taking to social media, the club said: “Congratulations to @sscnapoli for winning the Scudetto.”Copy linkCopiedPlayers are coming outThe Napoli players are now coming out of the tunnel to be presented with their medals.The spotlight is on the blue carpet as the players emerge one by one to their names being called and introduced by the stadium announcer.Copy linkCopiedStars blue lookMany of the players have dyed their hair blue for the trophy presentation.McTominay is among that number.Copy linkCopiedFans have not movedDespite the strangely long wait for the trophy ceremony to begin, fans have not budged an inch while they wait to see their team lift the title.Copy linkCopiedTrophy presentationThe trophy presentation is up next.We have just seen Conte’s press conference with reporters be interrupted by jubilant Napoli stars celebrating the title.The trophy has had the named engraved in it for some time now.And fans have waited patiently to see it lifted and the medals presented.Copy linkCopiedKvaratskhelia gets two titles this seasonWhile tonight is all about the achievement of Napoli, the player who left them in the middle of the season to join PSG, Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, has won a second for himself tonight.The winger’s contribution in the first half of the season have earned him a Scudetto medal, while he has also won the Ligue 1 title with PSG.He could top of his campaign by winning the Champions League next weekend.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedSerie A awards confirmedHere are the Serie A Player of the Season awards in full:Player of the Season: Scott McTominayGoalkeeper of the Season: Mile SvilarDefender of the Season: Alessandro BastoniMidfielder of the Season: Tijjani ReijndersAttacker of the Season: Mateu ReteguiUnder-23 Player of the Season: Nico PazCopy linkCopiedMcTominay awarded Player of the SeasonAhead of the trophy ceremony McTominay was presented with the Serie A Player of the Season award with a 96-rated EA Sports FC Player Card.Safe to say it is well deserved considering his and Napoli’s achievements this season.Conte was also handed the Manager of the Season award for taking Napoli from 10th last season to champions.Copy linkCopiedWatch: Scenes in Naples after goalsNapoli fans went wild for McTominay’s goal.Lukaku’s goal was a huge settler for them winning the game.And fans in the city watching on screens made sure to celebrate them appropriately.Copy linkCopiedPictures paint a thousand wordsThey say pictures can paint a thousand words. And the pictures of Napoli fans celebrating their title win don’t need any extra description.Copy linkCopiedAntonio Conte makes historyFormer Chelsea and Tottenham boss was unable to show his enthusiasm by the pitch due to serving a touchline ban. However, he has gone down to the pitch to celebrate winning his TENTH Serie A title.He also becomes the first boss to win the title with three different clubs; Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedMcTominay and Gilmour make Scotland historyBy winning the Serie A, McTominay and Gilmour have become the first Scots to win the title in Italy since Jack Diment and James Squair won it at Juventus in 1905.McTominay was seen in tears at full-time. He was greeted like a hero upon his arrival from Man Utd last summer.And he his heroics on the pitch this season have almost certainly earned him cult hero status in the city.Copy linkCopiedNAPOLI PARTY BEGINS WITH MCTOMINAY IN TEARSThe party will begin in earnest for Napoli as the full-time whistle is blown for them.Fans have lit off flares outside of the stadium which makes for the most stunning of views from the air.McTominay, who got tonight’s first goal and who has been so important all season, was seen in tears on the pitch at full-time.Copy linkCopiedNAPOLI WIN THE SERIE AThe full-time whistle has blown in Como for Inter. Naples is in full voice now with Cagliari going through the motions of seeing out the match.The Napoli staff are preparing to run on to the pitch, with the club’s president now also pitchside.Napoli 2-0 CagliariComo 0-2 Inter FTCopy linkCopiedMinutes away from the end of the seasonWe are now moments away from a historic title victory for Napoli. There are four minutes of injury time to play out before that dream becomes a reality.It will be disappointment for Inter this time around, but they can take heart from an impressive campaign which could yet yield a win in the Champions League final.Inter play just three minutes of injury time against ten-man Como.Napoli 2-0 CagliariComo 0-2 InterCopy linkCopiedNapoli party moodNapoli fans and players are in a party mood at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.The subs bench are waving their arms in the air and the fans are singing their hearts out.It is set to be a second title in three years for the Italian giants.Napoli 2-0 CagliariComo 0-2 InterCopy linkCopiedGoing through the motionsNapoli are in complete control against Cagliari.They don’t need to turn the needle anymore than they already have.Inter are still trying to add some goals to their tally but know whatever they do is not enough as it stands.Napoli 2-0 CagliariComo 0-2 InterCopy linkCopiedLukaku stunning missNeres repays the favour of trying to assist Lukaku with a cross to the far post.The former Everton, Chelsea and Man Utd ace jumps up but the cross is a bit too high for him as he makes contact with his head but cannot guide the ball down towards goal.Napoli 2-0 CagliariComo 0-2 InterCopy linkCopied More

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      Postecoglou drops huge hint over Spurs future in incredible mic-drop moment as 200,000 fans greet Europa League heroes

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU dropped a huge hint he will STAY at Spurs, telling fans: “In all the best TV shows, season three is better than season two.”The Aussie’s future has been in major doubt, with 17th-placed Tottenham a terrible watch in the Premier League.Ange Postecoglou dropped a massive hint over his managerial futureCredit: ReutersHe made the announcement during Spurs’ victory paradeCredit: GettyHe helped the club win their first trophy in 17 yearsCredit: Shutterstock EditorialSpurs won the Europa League on Wednesday nightCredit: PASupporters hailed the players as they went past on the busCredit: AlamyBut they were a must-see on Wednesday as they ended their 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League with victory over Manchester United in Bilbao.It backed up manager Postecoglou’s bold claim in September that he “always wins trophies in his second season”.And Euro glory could now spare him the sack.Speaking at Spurs’ trophy parade yesterday, he roared: “I told them and they laughed. I told them and they didn’t believe. But here we are.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“We’re here because of this unbelievable group of people, players and staff.“Absolute heroes led by the legend Son Heung-min, Cristian Romero, James Maddison and Guglielmo Vicario.“All of them, heroes. And they did it all for you, because you deserve it.“This club deserves it. And I’ll leave you with this — all the best television series, season three is better than season two. Thank you.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSChairman Daniel Levy was not seen on the parade bus but did attend the celebrations.He had been expected to axe the Spurs boss, 59, despite their trophy win — but the gaffer’s third-season claim hinted at otherwise.Inside Tottenham’s wild Europa League open-top bus parade as 200,000 fans greet heroesPostecoglou’s mic-drop moment was followed by Brennan Johnson, skipper Son Heung-min and vice-captain James Maddison all turning the air blue in front of around 200,000 fans outside the club’s stadium.This was a party — one described as “insane” by sleep-deprived goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario — that was 34 years in the making.The North Londoners’ previous trophy may have come in 2008 with the League Cup.But their last parade actually took place in 1991 after Gary Lineker, Gary Mabbutt and Gazza clinched the FA Cup.The music was pumping, from football classics like Sweet Caroline to the new fans’ favourite ‘We won it in Bilbao’ to the tune of Shakira’s 2010 World Cup song Waka Waka (This time for Africa).The players, clad in shirts with champions and 25 inscribed on the back and sporting, rather bizarrely, ski goggles, then turned up and the bus got going, flanked by a sea of blue-and-white waving flags and flare smoke.Richarlison was bouncing up and down at the front, Bissouma had his shirt off, Cristian Romero, the Europa League player of the season, was on the beer.Thousands turned out to watch Spurs’ victory paradeCredit: GettyThe players toured North London on two team busesCredit: AlamySon, who won a first trophy in his tenth year at the club, told the crowd: “I f**ing love you, we f***ing won the Europa League and you all deserve it.”Johnson said the feeling of scoring the only goal in the final was “f***ing unbelievable”.While Maddison pointed out with an expletive that it was his mate Johnson’s 24th birthday yesterday.And the Wales star added: “It’s definitely up there (with birthdays), I can’t think of many better! An unbelievable day.”Defender Micky van de Ven added: “If you experience this, you want to do it over and over again.The celebration continued on to a stage outside the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumCredit: GettyIt is believed 150,000 people turned up to cheer on their heroesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial“We’re going to try to do the same beautiful things next season.”Postecoglou is also set for a stunning £2million bonus after winning the Europa League.And fans have had a mixed reaction to his mic drop moment on social media.One posted: “Dude, it better be. We almost got relegated.”A second wrote: “Levy needs to back him.”A third commented: “I’m no longer Ange out! Bring on season 3.”Read More on The SunA fourth said: “He’s dragged me back in.”Another added: “Man doesn’t just drop mics, he beats his haters over the head with it.”Tottenham ratings: Bissouma dominates Europa League final as occasion gets to UdogieBRENNAN JOHNSON was Tottenham’s hero as they finally ended their 17-year trophy drought in the Europa League final.Despite being without James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski for the clash in Bilbao, Spurs came up with a massive win against Manchester United.Johnson scored the goal as he helped bundle in from a corner in a tussle with Luke Shaw to send fans into dreamland.But Spurs also owe a huge thanks to Yves Bissouma who was totally dominant in midfield.At the other end, Destiny Udogie struggled to get up to the pace of the match as he was up against Manchester United’s Amad Diallo.Spurs had just three shots, only 27 per cent of the ball, and completed a mere 115 passes over 90 minutes.But it didn’t matter, as United never really looked like finding a leveller to take it to extra time.SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson gave his ratings for the Tottenham players… More

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      Scott McTominay sparks wild Napoli Serie A title party with epic BICYCLE KICK… despite not good enough for Man Utd

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      SCOTT MCTOMINAY’s outrageous bicycle kick started a wild title party in Naples.The Scot’s first-half acrobatics raised the roof at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona as the hosts saw off Cagliari 2-0 to clinch the Serie A crown in a final day shootout with Inter.Scott McTominay opened the scoring as Napoli sealed the Serie A titleCredit: GettyThe Man Utd reject netted with a brilliant scissor kickCredit: ReutersThe flares were out in Naples as Romelu Lukaku doubled the hosts’ leadCredit: ReutersThe 2-0 win secured Napoli’s second title in three yearsCredit: ReutersMcTominay was spotted in tears at the final whistle after being mobbed by teammatesCredit: TNT SportMcTominay and Co knew three points would secure just a second title since 1990. After back-to-back draws, there were nerves in Naples ahead of kick-off against mid-table Cagliari.Inter Milan faced off with Como and were the only team that could catch Napoli, should they drop points. Napoli dominated the first half, coming close through Leonardo Spinazzola and Billy Gilmour. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd it was Manchester United outcast McTominay who would break the deadlock – in stunning fashion.Ghosting into the box, the Scot checked his run on the penalty spot to connect first time with Matteo Politano’s cross.McTominay rifled in a brilliant scissor-kick past Cagliari keeper Alen Sherri.The 28-year-old’s goal sparked wild celebrations in the terraces and across the south Italian city.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnother former Red Devil Romelu Lukaku doubled the lead just after the break to get the party truly started. McTominay was spotted in tears at the final whistle after being mobbed by team-mates. Incredible moment Scott McTominay’s car is mobbed by Napoli fans as punters rush to get glimpse of their heroNapoli lifted a second Serie A crown in three years after a dramatic final dayCredit: APTheir win sparked a massive title party across the cityCredit: ReutersSpeaking after the game McTominay said: “I’m lost for words.”It’s incredible you know, the sacrifice that every single player in the group has put forward to the cause.”And the people deserve it because they’ve been behind us from day one, and for me to come and experience this is a dream.”It has been a stunning turnaround for the Scot, who was deemed surplus to requirements by United chiefs just 12 months ago.McTominay joined Napoli for £25million last summer – a deal which now looks like a bargain. And boss Antonio Conte has employed him in a more attacking role, flourishing in the final third.The United outcast has bagged 12 goals in 34 Serie A matches, chipping in with 4 assists.Following Friday’s game, he was named Serie A’s Player of the Season.It marks the end of a dream season for McTominay who has cemented himself a fan favourite in Naples.He became the side’s main man and passionate supporters quickly found a variety of ways to honour their Scottish import – from Maradona-style shrines to tattoos, flags and even kilts.AC Milan legend Joe Jordan recently told SunSport that McTominay could ultimately prove to be Serie A’s greatest EVER Brit. Antonio Conte has now won five Serie A titles as a managerCredit: EPAJordan told SunSport: “I would say Scott McTominay has made much more of an impact in Italy than I did in my first season.“He’s already much more popular than I ever was.”I got on well with the Milan fans but it took me a bit of time to settle down to the Italian game. “Since his introduction the Napoli supporters have taken to Scott right away.“He has done exceptionally well, in a team that is consistently winning.Read More on The SunThey love him in Naples and I know what the Napolitani, are like, they’re incredible fans, absolutely fanatical about their club and their heroes. “In Naples, they only support one team and that’s Napoli.” More

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      Tyson Fury whisks wife Paris away on private jet and head straight to Como vs Inter Serie A title decider

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      TYSON FURY has jetted for an Italian getaway with wife Paris – and treated himself to a Serie A title decider.The former heavyweight champion of the world took a private jet to Como on Friday morning. Tyson Fury was in attendance as Como took on Inter Milan on Friday nightCredit: AlamyThe Gypsy King flew in to watch the game with wife ParisCredit: GettyThe pair took a private jet to Lake Como, where he’d hired out some digsCredit: Instagram / tysonfuryThe pair enjoyed a romantic trip out onto the lakeCredit: Instagram / tysonfuryThey shared a drink in the sun before heading to the Serie A title deciderCredit: Instagram / tysonfuryFury, who announced his retirement from boxing in January, treated his wife of 16 years to a lavish day in the Italian sun.The pair enjoyed a romantic meal with views of Lake Como before hitting the open water on a boat.Tyson – a Manchester United fan – was clearly hoping to banish the memory of Wednesday’s Europa League defeat to Spurs.He later whisked Paris for an evening at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, where Como welcomed Inter Milan. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLInter and Napoli were vying for the Serie A title going into the final match of the season.Milan needed to beat Como and hope Napoli – who had drawn their last two games – failed to get the best of Cagliari at home.The Fury’s saw two Inter goals – through Stefan de Vrij and Joaquin Correa – as the Champions League finalists did their part 2-0 in the Lakes.But it was a night of disappointment as ex-United star Scott McTominay sent Napoli on their way to the title with an acrobatic volley as they also won 2-0 to claim the Serie A title.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIt won’t have dampened Tyson and Paris’ mood though, with the pair celebrating after their Netflix reality show was renewed for series two.At Home With The Furys follows the Gypsy King, his father John, Paris and the couple’s seven children. Eddie Hearn teases Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury in 2025?! + Allen KOs Fisher | Split Decision | Sun SportTyson and Paris enjoyed a night out at the footballCredit: GettyFury stepped away from the ring in January after a bruising loss to Oleksandr Usyk.The Wythenshawe warrior performed an unsurprising U-turn late last month in an expletive-filled rant at his two-time conqueror.And the 36-year-old has been putting in some hard work in the gym since returning from a luxury holiday in the Bahamas.Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn recently declared the long-awaited showdown between Fury and Anthony Joshua was still possible.AJ is currently suffering from a serious elbow injury but is hoping to be fight-ready by the end of the year. View of The Sun’s boxing expert: ‘I think it’s a ploy’By Wally Downes JrCALL ME a miserable fat little boxing cynic, but Tyson Fury’s latest retirement just doesn’t wash with me.It wasn’t too long ago we were hearing he had a ten-fight deal with Saudi Arabia, that he was gonna fight Anthony Joshua twice, then he was going to face Joseph Parker twice.He was planning on doing every fight in the world – there was even talk he’d rematch Francis Ngannou and do a better job.IF he has retired, then he goes out with an incredible career having made over £300million in boxing events alone, let alone all the extra stuff.He does so having sacrificed bundles of his own life for such success.We know his wife Paris suffered a miscarriage going into the first Olesandr Usyk fight.We know for Deontay Wilder III, his little girl was put in intensive care, he barely even trained for that fight, he was sleeping on the hospital floor.IF he has retired, IF it is genuine, then it’s been an incredible career.And for the big showman, it’s probably a nice little short sharp way to go out by just posting a video while sat inside his car.But I can’t help but think that it’s a bit of a ploy to drive AJ a little bit crazy.AJ was at the Ring Awards the other day and put out a social media post saying “Fury, where are you? I’m looking for you.”It’s the only fight that AJ wants, and Fury being wise and looking at the Floyd Mayweather playbook, knows that once you retire, you have to be coaxed out of retirement.And how do you coax someone out of retirement? Loads more readies.The fact of the matter is, Fury has always told us: I’m a prize fighter, I do it for money, I’m gonna do it for as long as I can and make as much money as I can.So the idea that he suddenly ducks out now doesn’t seem to ring quite true.As Fury made the announcement, I was with Frank Warren and he said hadn’t spoken to Tyson about it today, but that he hopes that it’s true, that Fury’s done enough and made enough money.IF it’s true, then what an incredible career.Fury and AJ have put British boxing on the map where it’s not been for decades, not since Lennox Lewis 25 years ago.So thank you, but rather than being at his leaving party, which I’m sure The Sun would be invited to, I suspect we’ll see him boxing AJ in Riyadh in a few months. Hearn said: “Look, AJ’s got to have a little keyhole surgery on his elbow. “He’ll be back post-September. It’s there, isn’t it? Read More on The Sun”Let’s just make it happen. I just feel like it’s time. This is the moment. “We’re reliant upon Tyson Fury.” More

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      Premier League will see more rule changes next season – when will this ever end? I have NO idea what football rules are

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      CLAUDIO RANIERI earned the nickname ‘Tinkerman’ during his spell at Chelsea as he was forever changing his player line-ups but that meddling moniker should surely now be passed on to football’s governing bodies.Next season there will be more new rule changes. When will this ever end and are you, like me, ­baffled and bamboozled in equal measure as to what the actual rules of football are?Referees will punish goalkeepers for time-wasting with a corner for the opposition next seasonCredit: GettySunSport columnist Karren Brady thinks if it aint broke, don’t fix itCredit: GettyFrom next season goalkeepers will be penalised for holding on to the ball for more than eight ­seconds, with the punishment a corner to the attacking team.Referees are supposed to indicate when a keeper has held the ball for three seconds, giving him five more seconds to release it. Apparently, this new rule has been tried and tested and will be in place for next season.So what was wrong with the old rule which gave keepers six seconds to release, with punishment in the form of an indirect free-kick? Beats me. It was hardly ever enforced anyway.The body which has come up with this latest daft tinkering, I meant well-researched brainstorm, the International Football Association Board, must have spent ages on it. Probably in a well-stocked five-star hotel somewhere near Fifa’s Swiss Alps headquarters.Read more football newsThe purpose of this newest change is to cut down on time-wasting but how can extending possession from six to eight seconds do that?And also the fact that the ‘old’ rule was almost never imposed surely means it was a good rule.A bit like competent refereeing, if you don’t know they are there, chances are the official is doing a decent job.Every year we are told greedy water companies will clean up their act and every season football makes changes which confuses the hell out of fans. Dirtying the waters, so to speak.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWe have had ‘golden’ goals, ­‘silver’ goals, the advance ten-metre rule, you name it. If anyone can ­successfully tell me what the current rules around handball are, please let me know.As for VAR, well let’s just say the jury is still out on that one.We have been told the introduction of Semi-Automated Offside Technology will solve the ridiculous amount of time it has taken Stockley Park assessors to actually reach a decision.’In one year the decision will be made’ – Wenger demands new offside rule that will be ‘impossible to defend against’Well, that wasn’t true last weekend at the West Ham v Forest game, as that quick check we were promised turned into an excruciating six-minute delay as the offside technology was not working.And don’t get me started on the financial fair play rules.Professor Brian Cox might be able to name all the stars in the sky but even he would struggle with that.I’m the first to admit that some changes have been of great benefit. In 1992, the introduction of the backpass rule where keepers cannot handle the ball when it has been deliberately kicked to them by a team-mate is one.When will this ever end and are you, like me, ­baffled and bamboozled in equal measure as to what the actual rules of football are?Karren BradyGoal-line technology came in 2012 following the uproar over the Frank Lampard World Cup ‘goal-that-never-was’. That was another. But in recent seasons the dribble of rule changes has become a downpour.From allowing the kick-off to be taken in any direction, to teams now requiring a mandatory captain, complete with armband, to additional subs if a player has received a concussion injury.Have any of these actually improved fans’ enjoyment?Just leave the game alone please. The International Football Association Board should adhere to the wise man, more likely wise woman, who said, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. Or to put it another way, stop bloody tinkering.I’m just waiting for the first referee next season who awards a corner after a keeper has transgressed this newest rule change.Read More on The SunCue hundreds of examples by irate fans where the ‘offence’ was not spotted.Football. They say it used to be a simple game which involved two jumpers and a ball. Not any longer. More

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      James Maddison nearly FALLS OFF Tottenham open-top bus as ‘CEO of the afterparty’ pays classy tribute to Son Heung-min

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      JAMES MADDISON nearly FELL OFF the Tottenham bus during the club’s wild Europa League parade.North London was taken over by 200,000 jubilant fans on Friday night as Spurs celebrated finally ending their 17-year trophy drought.James Maddison appeared to nearly fall off the Tottenham busHe had to steady himself after the fallCredit: YouTubeHe also made a touching tribute to Son Heung-minCredit: ReutersThousands of Spurs fans turned out to see the paradeCredit: GettyMaddison, 28, was one of the keenest to celebrate despite being ruled out for the final in Bilbao.And he could have suffered an even worse injury, as he almost took a horror fall while being interviewed by club media.He had declared himself the “CEO of the afterparty” while on top of the team bus parading around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.But the midfielder came close to making an early exit as he lost his balance before having to grab onto his interviewer.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFans spotted the moment and reacted on social media.One posted: “James Maddison stumbling on top of and on the edge of a tour bus is ANOTHER type of anxiety.”A second wrote: “That was close to another injury to Maddison.”After composing himself, he made a classy tribute to club captain Son Heung-min.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe England international said: “He’s one of the best humans I’ve met and I’m so happy he had that moment in Bilbao. You will not meet a nicer man.“How he treats everyone, my family, my children. He’s just a magnificent man.Inside Tottenham’s wild Europa League open-top bus parade as 200,000 fans greet heroesSon sounded croaky when he took the microphoneCredit: AlamySupportershailed the players as they went past on the busCredit: AlamyThe parade ended at the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumCredit: AlamyThe team lifted the trophy on a stage outside the groundCredit: Reuters“We had a moment on the pitch at the end.”We don’t always say exactly how we feel, especially men, but that was my opportunity to tell him I adore him. He’s a top man.”Meanwhile, a croaky-sounding Son, who won his first trophy in his tenth year at club, said: “The last two days have gone so fast.“I felt like I just slept five hours, but it’s already Friday. It was incredible.“I waited, I dreamed of this moment. It finally happened.“I said many times that I wanted to make it here. But today is the day that is special. I’m very lucky, I was captain, it’s even better. I’m all over the moon, so so happy.”This was a party — one described as “insane” by sleep-deprived goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario — that was 34 years in the making.The North Londoners’ previous trophy may have come in 2008 with the League Cup.But their last parade actually took place in 1991 after Gary Lineker, Gary Mabbutt and Gazza clinched the FA Cup.Richarlison leant out to share a moment with a fan who had climbed a traffic lightCredit: GettyBoss Ange Postecoglou just took it all in after a tough seasonCredit: Shutterstock EditorialSpurs were expecting 150,000 supporters to turn up yesterday but in the end it may well have been another 50,000 on top of that.As midfielder and reveller-in-chief Yves Bissouma put it: “Look how north London is fully white.”Streets starting from Edmonton a couple of miles north of the ground down to the stadium itself were packed hours before the open-top bus parade began at 5.30pm.People were climbing up on to roofs — including the one above the Harry Kane mural — and on top of bus shelters to catch a glimpse of their heroes.Two female fans had come all the way over from South Korea to be part of the celebrations, having watched on television back home their icon Son lifting the trophy in Bilbao.One said of skipper Son: “He’s a national hero. He’s the first (South Korean) captain of the Premier League. We’re so proud of him.”The music was pumping, from football classics like Sweet Caroline to the new fans’ favourite ‘We won it in Bilbao’ to the tune of Shakira’s 2010 World Cup song Waka Waka (This time for Africa).The players, clad in shirts with champions and 25 inscribed on the back and sporting, rather bizarrely, ski goggles, then turned up and the bus got going, flanked by a sea of blue-and-white waving flags and flare smoke.Richarlison was bouncing up and down at the front, Bissouma had his shirt off, Cristian Romero, the Europa League player of the season, was on the beer.A croaky-sounding Son, who won his first trophy in his tenth year at the club, said: “The last two days have gone so fast. I felt like I just slept five hours but it’s already Friday. It was incredible.“I waited, I dreamed of this moment. It finally happened.Read More on The Sun“I said many times I wanted to make it here. But today is the day that is special.“I’m very lucky, I was captain, it’s even better. I’m all over the moon, so so happy.”Tottenham ratings: Bissouma dominates Europa League final as occasion gets to UdogieBRENNAN JOHNSON was Tottenham’s hero as they finally ended their 17-year trophy drought in the Europa League final.Despite being without James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski for the clash in Bilbao, Spurs came up with a massive win against Manchester United.Johnson scored the goal as he helped bundle in from a corner in a tussle with Luke Shaw to send fans into dreamland.But Spurs also owe a huge thanks to Yves Bissouma who was totally dominant in midfield.At the other end, Destiny Udogie struggled to get up to the pace of the match as he was up against Manchester United’s Amad Diallo.Spurs had just three shots, only 27 per cent of the ball, and completed a mere 115 passes over 90 minutes.But it didn’t matter, as United never really looked like finding a leveller to take it to extra time.SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson gave his ratings for the Tottenham players… More

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      Maxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp: Start time, TV channel, stream and full card as TWO belts are up for grabs in Doncaster

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      MAXI HUGHES fights in front of his home fans as he clashes with Archie Sharp in Doncaster.The vacant WBA Continental and WBC Silver titles will be on the line at Eco-Power Stadium, home of League Two side Doncaster Rovers.Maxi Hughes is looking to add to his 28-7-2 recordCredit: GettyArchie Sharp comes into the fight with a record of 25-1-0Credit: Zac Goodwin/PA WireMaxi “Maximus” Hughes comes into the bout with a record of 28-7-2, having won three of his last five fights, losing two of them.He has won six of his 28 victories by KO.26-year-old Archie Sharp comes into the bout looking to beat the veteran, and has a record of 25-1-0, with nine of his wins coming by KO.Sharp has an age advantage, but still has racked up almost as many wins as 37-year-old Hughes has over his career.Read more BoxingHow to watch Maxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp and is there a live streamMaxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp comes LIVE from Doncaster Rovers Eco-Power Stadium.The clash will be shown on DAZN to over 200 countries. Streaming options start at £14.99 for a yearly commitment, or £24.99 for a monthly commitment. When does Maxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp start?Maxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp is LIVE on Friday, May 23.The pair will clash on the undercard of the Terri Harper vs Natalie Zimmermann, and are the penultimate fight on the night.Hughes and Sharp are expected to make their ringwalks around 9pm BST.Full cardTerri Harper v Natalie Zimmermann (WBO lightweight title)Maxi Hughes v Archie Sharpe (WBA Continental & WBC Silver lightweight titles)Reece Mould v Lewis Sylvester (IBO Continental lightweight title)Tysie Gallagher v Ebonie Jones (British & Commonwealth super-bantamweight titles)What has been said?Maxi Hughes told SunSport: “I was out in the front garden about three weeks ago, mowing the lawn or doing some DIY, and a fella I had never met before, from three doors down, came over and leaned on my fence. Most read in Boxing“He went; ‘Eh-up young’un, can I have a word?’ “I walked over worrying he wanted a row about something but he says: ‘I’m coming to your fight but I’ll not be drinking. So, if you want a lift there and back, let me know’.“I thanked him and explained that this sort of stuff is all arranged for us. More