Sport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Millwall fans give minute’s applause for goalkeeper Liam Roberts following horror challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta

      by

      MILLWALL fans conducted a minute’s applause for suspended star Liam Roberts during their Championship clash with Bristol City.The Lions were playing their first game since crashing out of the FA Cup with a 3-1 defeat to South London rivals Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.Millwall fans gave a minute’s applause to suspended goalkeeper Liam RobertsCredit: @BroadcastMooseRoberts was sent off in the eighth minute of the FA Cup clash against Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersRoberts’ tackle forced Mateta to go to the hospitalCredit: GettyRoberts was subjected to vile abuse online after the incidentCredit: GettyThat game was overshadowed by a shocking challenge from goalkeeper Roberts after he inexplicably rushed out of goal and fly-kicked Eagles’ ace Jean-Philippe Mateta in the head.Mateta was rushed to hospital as a result of the collision and needed 25 stitches, with Roberts being given his marching orders by Michael Oliver after a VAR review upgraded a yellow card to a red.Palace chairman Steve Parish said the tackle had “endangered his life” during an astonishing half-time rant to BBC Sport.Roberts, 30, had been subjected to a huge barrage of abuse on social media following the incident.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn a statement released on Monday, Millwall said: “The club are disgusted by abuse directed towards goalkeeper Liam Roberts following Saturday’s unfortunate collision with Jean-Philippe Mateta.”The reporting on the matter, as well as disgraceful suggestions made by certain news organisations and high-profile figures within the sport that Liam intended to harm Jean-Philippe, has contributed to the unwarranted character assassination of Liam and fuelled abhorrent online abuse towards him.”And Millwall fans paid tribute to Roberts by applauding him in the eighth minute of the clash, the same time he was sent off against Palace.Roberts, who could have his suspension extended to beyond three games for serious foul play, reportedly apologised to Mateta in the evening following the game.Most read in FootballIn a message on social media after being released from hospital, 27-year-old Mateta said: “Thanks for all your kind messages. “I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon and stronger than ever. Well done, guys, for the great job today. I love you. JP.”‘Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall starMillwall added: “No player at Millwall Football Club steps on to the pitch with the intent to harm another, and the club will continue to support Liam, who reached out to Jean-Philippe personally on Saturday evening with an apology which was accepted immediately.”The club are pleased to hear positive updates from Jean-Philippe and wish him the best in his recovery.”Vile chants of “let him die” from some of the travelling supporters drew condemnation from BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce.Meanwhile, the FA are set to investigate alleged homophobic chants aimed at Ben Chilwell – on loan to Palace from the Blues.Elsewhere, Mark Halsey slammed the state of English referees after Oliver originally only awarded a yellow card for the tackle. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Former Tottenham star Ivan Perisic does ‘Spursiest’ thing ever as Arsenal hammer his PSV side

      by

      IVAN PERISIC has done the “Spursiest” thing ever having been on the wrong end of a hammering by Arsenal.The former Tottenham winger started for PSV against the Gunners in the first-leg of the round of 16 clash in the Champions League.Ivan Perisic made a dig at Arsenal before facing in the Champions LeagueCredit: GettyHis PSV side were humiliated by Arsenal in the matchCredit: RexJurrien Timber netted Arsenal’s first of the evening with his headCredit: AFPRiccardo Calafiori wrapped up the scoring late onCredit: GettyThe match did not go well for Perisic or the rest of his Dutch side in the Philips Stadion.Jurrien Timber netted the opener before Ethan Nwaneri and Mikel Merino made it 3-0.Noa Lang did get one back for PSV before the break to offer a slim chance of a positive result.But all chances of a comeback were quickly put to bed as the Gunners hit FOUR more in the second half to win 7-1.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSFollowing the match, Perisic’s quotes about the match resurfaced on social media.The Croatian had fired a dig at his former rivals by suggesting that they were “always missing something” in the hunt for trophies.He was referring to the Gunners’ failures in the Premier League in recent seasons, which has seen them miss out on the title to Manchester City.The North London outfit also look set to miss out on the title yet again this season but this time to Liverpool.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “It’s going to be tough, they are a really good team, a young team,”Good coach, but in the last years they are always missing something to step up to win something.Mikel Arteta urges Arsenal to ‘step up’ as focus switches to Champions League He could only watch as Arsenal hit his side for SEVENCredit: GettyPSV have more than a mountain to climb in the second legCredit: Getty”We have to be ready and I know we are going to have a good chance to beat them.”I really believe in my team.”We have trained well and tactically we have to be on the top level to show something good against them.”Fans were quick to bring up to the bold comment following the match as they poked fun at the former Spurs star.One posted: “Spoke too soon.”A second wrote: “You can get Ivan out of Tottenham but you can’t get Tottenham out of Ivan.”Another said: “Spursiest thing ever that is.”A fourth added: “You’ll never wash the Tottenham out of him.”Perisic will somewhat be feeling he has some egg on his face following the full-time whistle in Holland.The Croatian signed for PSV in September, having signed a one-year contract after leaving Hajduk Split.He left Spurs in January 2024 for Hajduk initially on loan before the move was made permanent in the summer.Odegaard hailed Arsenal’s performance at full-time as he spoke to Amazon.He said: “Unfortunately we conceded one goal but apart from that it was a top performance.”We work hard every day to improve, especially after performances like the West Ham one, we want to do better. We always work hard, and today it clicked.”Of course, I think every player in my position wants to influence the game. For me this season I haven’t been good enough.”The result leaves PSV with the biggest mountain ever to climb to have any hope of progressing to the quarter-finals.READ MORE SUN STORIESElsewhere, Real Madrid celebrated their 500th game in the competition as they beat Atletico Madrid 2-1.Borussia Dortmund were held to a 1-1 draw by French side Lille while Aston Villa won the earlier kick off 3-1 against Club Brugge.Martin Odegaard was named man of the matchCredit: GettyPerisic played for Tottenham between 2022 and 2024Credit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Six ways Sir Jim Ratcliffe can win Man Utd fans back – from 100,000-seater new stadium to keeping Mainoo and Garnacho

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED fans are being urged to make their feelings clear at Sunday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal.The green and gold protests against the Glazer takeover are long gone, with supporters now being told to wear funeral black.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has faced the wrath of United fansA Manchester United supporters’ group has unveiled plans for a protest on March 9But what could Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos, or even the Glazers do to bring the increasingly angry fans back into the Old Trafford fold?SunSport’s MARTIN BLACKBURN and MARTIN LIPTON look at the various moves that might be possible — and assess how realistic they are.BUILD, BABY BUILDStarting work on the “new Old Trafford” would be a visible and popular signal of the club’s  ambition.Confirming a new 100,000-capacity stadium, at the heart of an entertainment and regeneration complex on land adjoining the club’s home since 1910, would certainly alter the dynamics of the conversation.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe long-term benefits on income streams — likely to see an uplift to £8m in gate money every game — would be felt by the club’s power in the transfer market.In addition, the current site would have a significant redevelopment value as well. Win-win for everybody.An AI impression of the new project, which could see United build a 100,000-seater stadium Credit: CanvaIT’S GOOD TO TALKFans are desperate to feel wanted by the club — and better communication might have an immediate effect.Justifying ticket-price increases, a second round of job cuts and cost-cutting by email and press release was hardly going to bring a feel-good factor.Most read in FootballRaising the lowest price ticket to £66, with Ratcliffe having argued they should not be cheaper than at Fulham — their FA Cup conquerors on Sunday — will raise around £2m, seen by fans as a drop in the ocean given the latest record income of £662m.With bitter rivals Liverpool having recently announced a freeze on  season-ticket prices for next term, following that lead and explaining how much they value supporters would be a welcome, if unlikely, move.But equally important, for many fans, would be actually hearing from the men at the top. It is felt that Ratcliffe and Ineos sporting chief Sir Dave Brailsford are reluctant to give out any information over long or even short-term plans — when supporters are crying out to see a real vision for the club.For many, it represents no change from the remote Flordia-based ownership they became used to when the Glazers were in full control.Man Utd fans protested the rise in ticket prices at Old Trafford in DecemberSHARE AND SHARE ALIKEMUST — the Manchester United Supporters Trust — has long been urging a new share issue to allow fans to invest and take a tangible stake in the club.United do not have a shortage of wealthy fans who might be ready to put hands in their pockets even if Ineos retained full control of the sporting side of United.Inside Fulham’s wild dressing room celebrations as rowdy stars launch bottles and dive around after win over Man UtdGET THE GLAZERS GONEProbably the biggest demand of many fans — but also the least likely.The Glazer family have used United as a lucrative cash cow, taking a staggering £1.3bn from share sales and dividend payment  — while late patriarch Malcolm paid less than £800m to buy the club in 2005.They earned £715m from selling Ratcliffe his stake 12 months ago and have continued to rake in the cash over the past year.But so far there is no reason whatsoever for the Glazers to sell their remaining 75 per cent shareholding — and even less when it is Ratcliffe and Ineos who are now getting it in the neck from supporters and not them.United fans want the Glazer family to fully sell upA PROPER STRATEGYUnited’s shocking transfer market record over the past few seasons has left a squad that does not seem fit for purpose — and definitely unsuited to Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.What the fans want to see from this summer is a coherent and structured approach to the market.Supporters recognise that not every signing will work out. But they want to see players arrive who have a clear  and defined role and who are part of a focused and not scatter gun approach.If it looks like every new player shares an agent with the manager — which many felt was the case under Erik ten Hag — that is bound to cause concern.United have splurged a staggering amount on transfersLikewise, there needs to be a clear chain of command and responsibility — the club must be the one to blame if things go wrong, not necessarily the manager.Paying out millions every 18 months to the latest managerial fall-guy is hardly a smart play — and increases the pressures over Profitability and Sustainability Rules as well.United fans, arguably more than supporters of any other club, want to see the Carrington production line bearing fruit.The proposed sales of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo this summer would be viewed as a  massively retrograde step.United should be cultivating the crop for their own use, not be a producer for other clubs to benefit from their efforts.United fans are desperate for Kobbie Mainoo to sign an extensionAlejandro Garnacho was linked with a move away in JanuaryGET IT RIGHT ON THE PITCHA winning side, under a manager with authority, can provide cover to let the other longer-term issues be fixed with far less scrutiny  on them.Amorim arrived with expectations that have not been met and doubts are starting to swirl around the Portuguese.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut assuming he gets this summer to reshape his squad, the next step must be to show obvious positive signs on the field.Without that, the mood can only become increasingly mutinous.Man Utd ratings vs FulhamMANCHESTER UNITED crashed out the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham.Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee had poor spot-kicks saved as the Red Devils slipped to their sixth home defeat under Ruben Amorim.Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked corner.Antonee Robinson darted to the near post and flicked it onto Calvin Bassey who directed his header into the bottom corner brilliantly.Just as United’s frustrations were brewing, Bruno Fernandes was the saviour yet again.He picked up Diogo Dalot’s perfect cut back and fired it beyond the stretch of Bernd Leno.United had chances towards the end of the second-half, with subs Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi unable to finish.There was nothing to separate the sides in extra-time and penalties were needed.Despite well-taken kicks from Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Casemiro, Lindelof and Zirkzee woefully fired directly at Fulham hero Leno.But which Man Utd players could hold their heads up and which flopped?Here, SunSport’s Ken Lawrence reveals his player ratings. More

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid 2 Atletico Madrid 1: Man City old boys show Pep Guardiola what he’s missing in derby with THREE wondergoals

      by

      REAL MADRID celebrated their 500th game in the Champions League with hard-fought victory over bitter local rivals Atletico.Los Blancos have put themselves in a strong position ahead of the second leg of the round of 16 tie.Rodrygo netted the opening goal after just four minutesCredit: APFormer Man City forward Julian Alvarez also netted a sublime goalCredit: APBrahim Diaz scored a wonderful winnerCredit: ReutersThe goal sent the crowd into raptures for celebrationsCredit: GettyRodrygo gave the hosts the perfect start as he curled home after just four minutes.But just as it looked like Carlo Ancelotti’s side would have a perfect night, former Manchester City star Julian Alvarez stepped up.The Argentine forward bettered his Brazilian counterpart’s effort in the 32nd minute.Alvarez took on his man and then whipped a shot in off the post from the corner of the box.READ MORE ON CHAMPIONS LEAGUEAtletico started to dominate the game as they looked to spoil Real’s big night.But it was the hosts that would find the next goal and it was another former Man City ace on target.Brahim Díaz jinked his way past two defenders with some brilliant footwork before firing past Jan Oblak in the 55th minute.The two goals must have left Pep Guardiola scratching his head back at home.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSManchester City were dumped out of the tournament in the playoff round by Real.The team has failed to defend its Premier League title and has been knocked out of European competition and the Carabao Cup.’I could have been tidier’ Jamie Carragher addresses controversial Afcon comments and explains his ‘mistake’Pep Guardiola must have some regret for selling Alcaraz and DiazCredit: GettyThe Cityzens only have a spot in the top four to play for and an FA Cup trophy to salvage any success from what has been a disappointing season.Fans watching on felt the need to take to social media to vent their frustrations.One posted: “Will never understand why City sold him.”A second commented: “Blame Pep for not playing him alongside Erling Haaland.”Meanwhile, Real will be hoping that the one-goal lead can boost them in the return leg next week.They will not have to travel far as there is only four miles between the two clubs’ stadiums.The 15-time tournament winners will be hoping to make it 16 by the end of the season.Elsewhere in the Champions League, Arsenal marched to a 7-1 away win over PSV to virtually seal their spot in the quarter-finals.READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite the dominant scoreline, Myles Lewis-Skelly was lucky to avoid a first half red card for two reckless challenges.Borussia Dortmund drew 1-1 with French side Lille while Aston Villa beat Club Brugge 3-1 in the early kick off. More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      PSV 1 Arsenal 7: Martin Odegaard nets brace as Mikel Arteta’s men put goal woes behind them in record-breaking victory

      by

      MIKEL ARTETA’S goal-crazy Arsenal can smell the quarter finals with a stunning result that eclipsed one of the greatest European nights in their history.Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles battered Inter Milan 5-1 at the San Siro back in November 2003 – Thierry Henry running rings around Javier Zanetti and co.Arsenal are all but through to the Champions League quarter-finalsCredit: APJurrien Timber opened the scoring with a back post header inside 18 minutesCredit: GettyBefore Ethan Nwaneri doubled the Gunners lead three minutes laterCredit: EPAMikel Merino capitalised on some horrendous defending for 3-0Credit: APPSV’s Noa Lang’s penalty gave the home side hope before half-timeCredit: APMartin Odegaard extended made it 4-1 seconds into the second halfCredit: GettyLeandro Trossard added a fifth as Arsenal rout PSV in EindhovenCredit: AFPClub captain Odegaard hit PSV for sixCredit: GettyRiccardo Calafiori made it a magnificent seven!Credit: GettyTwenty two years on and a woeful PSV outfit could have done with Zanetti – even at his current age of 51 – at the back as the Gunners went two better with a seven-goal Euro humbling.In fact, they were the first team EVER to score seven in an away knockout tie.While Wenger had Henry, Robert Pires and Freddie Ljungberg at his disposal, Arteta has pulled off the same feat without a recognised striker and Mikel Merino leading the line.The Spanish midfielder got in on the act – alongside Jurrien Timber, Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, Riccardo Calafiori and a Martin Odegaard double in this Eindhoven rout.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSIt is the first time Arsenal have ever scored more than three goals in a Champions League knock-out game away from home.Regardless, Arteta will be praying to have the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli back for a near-confirmed blockbuster last eight clash with either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid next month.The last meeting between these two in December 2023 produced one of the dullest group stage dead-rubbers in living memory, finishing 1-1.Fifteen months on, PSV’s Philips Stadion redeemed itself by hosting a real humdinger of a last 16 first leg tie with goals, gaffes and gasps aplenty – largely in Arsenal’s favour.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Dutch giants did their best to give the Gunners a near-perfect perfect European away-day with some diabolical defending.But Arteta’s boys this term love to flirt with danger as Myles Lewis-Skelly somehow escaped a THIRD red card in 38 days for two quick-fire fouls before being hauled off after 35 minutes.Mikel Arteta bizarrely hints Arsenal should be mid-table but still won’t give up on title A comical implosion from the hosts in their own backyard should have seen the visitors home and hosed in Eindhoven after Merino’s 31st minute strike to make it 3-0.But an unnecessary clothesline of Luuk de Jong in the box from Thomas Partey handed PSV a lifeline in the form of a Noa Lang penalty just before the break.Arteta labelled this a “big moment” in Arsenal’s season, and one can only imagine the size of the meltdown had they somehow managed to muck this one up.Luckily for them, they saved one of their best performances for months to face a team with leakier foundations than Old Trafford.Within two minutes of the second half, Odegaard and Leandro Trossard ensured it was job done – the Arsenal skipper grabbing another late on.Arsenal ratings vs PSV as Nwaneri comes of age in Champions League drubbing but rash Lewis-Skelly is hooked earlyARSENAL steamrolled a hapless PSV side to all-but book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.The Gunners started without a recognised striker once again but unlike at Nottingham Forest last week, goals were not a problem in Eindhoven.A quick-fire double from Jurrien Timber and Ethan Nwaneri around the 20th minute put the Gunners in control in what was an assured display.Every Arsenal player impressed and they were clinical with their finishing.Only Myles Lewis-Skelly will feel a little disappointed as he was hooked after half an hour to avoid him picking up a second yellow.It was a shame as the youngster was performing well on the ball – he played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal.But he could not be trusted by Mikel Arteta after he dived and caught his man with a challenge that could easily have resulted in a second booking.It was another careless moment that allowed PSV back into the match as Thomas Partey conceded a penalty that was converted on the stroke of half-time.But the Gunners did not rest on their laurels and came out racing after the break, scoring twice in two minutes to put the match, and the tie, to bed.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Gunners’ display…Whisper it quietly, but in this sort of form, could Arsenal produce a special European journey this season? Perhaps, but they will come up against better defences than this in their own training sessions.Arteta made two changes from the drab 0-0 showing at Nottingham Forest last week, bringing in Lewis-Skelly for Calafiori and Partey for Jorginho.And despite failing to score in their last two Prem outings with the makeshift front three of Trossard, Nwaneri and Merino, that trio was entrusted again for this one.Nwaneri’s start broke more records, becoming Arsenal’s youngest ever player at 17 years and 348 days to start in a Champions League knock-out game and the third youngest Englishman to do so after Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.The teenager started with a swagger, a beautiful cross to the far post almost putting it on a plate for Gabriel, while Odegaard had a tame shout for a penalty waved away after a VAR check.Arsenal were purring. Declan Rice found the net but for a very tight automated offside call.It almost came back to bite them with PSV’s one and only decent chance in the 16th minute – Ismael Saibari smacking the post with an open goal gaping and Flamingo firing wide.Two minutes later and Arsenal were ahead – Rice’s peach of a delivery headed in by Timber. The away end was still bouncing when Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri instantly combined to add another.But keeping with recent form, Lewis-Skelly, 18, showed his immaturity with two clumsy tackles inside two minutes that should have resulted in a red card.Myles Lewis-Skelly escaped a red card against PSVCredit: RexSpanish ref Jesus Gil Manzano decided to show incredible leniency.That was enough of a warning for Arteta, wisely subbing off the kid in the 35th minute for Calafiori.The worst defending of the lot gave Merino a third goal in four games in all competitions, Flamingo laughably falling over on one leg like a… flamingo.The penalty for Lang would have angered Arteta, but he was soon smiling again in the second half with PSV keeper Walter Benitez gifting Odegaard one before Trossard tucked away by the 48th minute.READ MORE SUN STORIESEven the Arsenal fans were losing count, deliriously so up in the heavens. Odegaard made it seven in the 73rd minute and Calafiori in the 85th minute.Eat your heart out, Arsene. This is a REAL Champions League romp. More

    • 200 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I could have been tidier’ – Jamie Carragher addresses controversial Afcon comments and explains his ‘mistake’

      by

      JAMIE CARRAGHER has addressed his controversial comments after he claimed the African Cup of Nations was not a “major tournament”.The ex-Liverpool star triggered huge outcry after he suggested Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or claim would not be as strong because he did not play in one of the major international tournaments. Jamie Carragher has addressed the comments he made about AfconCredit: CBS SportsCarragher had suggested Afcon was not a ‘major tournament’ which would hurt Mohamed Salah’s Ballon D’Or chancesCredit: GettyCarragher admitted he could have used ‘tidier’ language when expressing his pointCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskSpeaking after the Reds’ 2-0 win over Manchester City in February, he said: “I think the problem is the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in a major tournament as such, or maybe got a great chance of winning.”I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament. Normally, the player who excels in that.”The likes of Rio Ferdinand, John Obi Mikel, Jay Jay Okocha and Ahmed Elmohamady had levelled brutal replies towards the former defender.Ferdinand said it was an “ignorant thought process”, while Obi Mikel told him in no uncertain terms to “f*** off”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Carragher has now addressed those claims while appearing on CBS Sports.Appearing alongside Micah Richards, who had called Carragher out live on Sky Sports when he made the original comment, Thierry Henry and presenter Kate Abdo (now Scott), he admitted he had used “clumsy” language, but stood by his overall point.He said: “I have got very strong opinions on the game, I love debate, and that will never change.”But what I would never want to be described as, as a pundit, is ignorant or disrespectful so that was never my aim. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”And whether that’s to a player, a club, a country, a continent, a continental tournament, whatever that may be. “What I would say is, where I got it wrong was, I was clumsy describing Afcon as not a major tournament. Jamie Carragher brutally shut down by Daniel Sturridge live on Sky Sports over controversial AFCON take “I was trying to explain the merits of Mo Salah winning the Ballon d’Or, and I feel that not just Afcon, I would say the Asia Games, the Gold Cup, not so much the Copa America.”But there are five major tournaments out there besides the World Cup that are for their continent and are a major tournament.”But some of them don’t resonate with the people who vote for the Ballon d’Or. “That for me was not an opinion, that was a fact in terms of looking who had won the Ballon d’Or in the last 40 or 50 years.What I would never want to be described as, as a pundit, is ignorant or disrespectful so that was never my aim.Jamie Carragher”Yes, I’ve been banging the drum for Mo Salah to become the first African player to win the Ballon d’Or since George Weah in the mid ’90s. “As I said, I should have been a lot tidier with my language around that, so yes, that’s something I’ll look at. “But as I said, you do look at the Euros, where it’s at right now, and other competitions, and some of them resonate with the Ballon d’Or voters, who sometimes are journalists, national coaches, national captains. “And one of the reasons might be, sometimes we forget, the Ballon d’Or was the European Footballer of the Year. All winners of the Ballon d’Or this century2024: Rodri, Man City and Spain2023: Lionel Messi, Inter Miami and Argentina2022: Karim Benzema, Real Madrid and France2021: Lionel Messi, PSG and Argentina2020: Not Awarded2019: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2018: Luka Modric, Real Madrid and Croatia2017: Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid and Portugal2016: Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid and Portugal2015: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2014: Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid and Portugal2013: Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid and Portugal2012: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2011: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2010: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2009: Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina2008: Cristiano Ronaldo, Man Utd and Portugal2007: Kaka, AC Milan and Brazil2006: Fabio Cannavaro, Real Madrid and Italy2005: Ronaldinho, Barcelona and Brazil2004: Andriy Shevchenko, AC Milan and Ukraine2003: Pavel Nedved, Juventus and Czechia2002: Ronaldo Nazario, Real Madrid and Brazil2001: Michael Owen, Liverpool and England2000: Luis Figo, Real Madrid and Portugal”So maybe there is a bias towards the Euros or European football in the past. “It was definitely not my aim to offend anybody – I know I’ve done that a lot in the past in different guises about different players and teams.”But that was certainly not the case. yes, hopefully that’s now addressed it.”I’ve been banging the drum for Mo Salah to become the first African player to win the Ballon d’Or since George Weah in the mid ’90s.Jamie CarragherAfcon is a tournament played out every two years and is scheduled during European winter time.Only one African nation has ever reached the last four of the World Cup, with Morocco doing so in 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe only African player to win the Ballon d’Or was former AC Milan and Liberia striker George Weah in 1995.Ex-Liverpool and Senegal star Sadio Mane is the only African to be voted into the top three in the 21st century – with Salah finishing fifth that year and in 2019. More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Is Carrington that bad?’ – Antony’s reaction to seeing Real Betis facilities revealed as Man Utd flop stars on loan

      by

      ANTONY has told Real Betis he would be open to extending his loan from Manchester United by a further 12 months.The Brazilian winger, 25, endured a nightmare stay at Old Trafford after making the £85 million move from Ajax in summer 2022.Manchester United loanee Antony is open to extending his stay at Real BetisCredit: GettyThe Brazilian has impressed during his first month in SpainCredit: GettyAntony joined United for £85 million in the summerCredit: GettyBut he agreed to join the Spanish club in a loan deal in January and so far the move has worked out well.Betis chief exec Ramon Alarcon said: “The other day Antony told me that he wanted to stay another year.“The player is very comfortable here and was surprised by the facilities we gave him to settle in the city as soon as he arrived.”The statement has left many United fans questioning the supposed state-of-the-art conditions at their own HQ.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSOne fan fumed: “Is Carrington that bad?”A second said: “Wow another player hinting at the under par facilities at United.”Another added: “Surely the facilities at Betis CANNOT be better than United’s.”One more wrote: “Maybe Cristiano Ronaldo was right.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAs things stand, Antony will return to United in the summer – but a longer spell in Spain has not been ruled out.Antony’s electric performances for Betis have certainly put him in the spotlight for potential buyers.Sir Alex Ferguson filmed enjoying Zimbabwe holiday as legendary ex-Man Utd boss forgets about Red Devils woesHe has already scored three goals and provided two assists in seven matches for Betis and had a straight red overturned.The winger’s mid-season switch has reinvigorated him, and he now has designs on winning his place back in the Brazil squad. Upon leaving United in 2022 for Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo described Carrington as “stopped in time”.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said: “Nothing changed, surprisingly. Not only the pool, the jacuzzi, even the gym. “Even the kitchen, the chefs, whom I appreciate – lovely people. They stopped in time. It surprised me a lot.”I thought I would see other things, technologies, and infrastructure. “Unfortunately, we see a lot of what I used to see at 21, 22, and 23 years old. It really surprised me.”Cristiano Ronaldo was reportedly unhappy with Man United’s training facilitiesCarrington’s swimming pool as it looked in 2000It comes after United stars were reportedly stopped from ever visiting the Glazer-owned Tampa Bay Buccaneers.The Red Devils have often toured around the US for pre-season, but have never been near Tampa.However, it has now been revealed United were stopped from visiting their sister team over fears it would spark a player revolt.READ MORE SUN STORIESESPN’s Mark Ogden explained it was believed if players from United saw the training facilities in Tampa they would then rebel due to their own relatively poor facilities.A United supporters’ group has unveiled plans for a protest before the club host Arsenal on Sunday, March 9.Man Utd ratings vs FulhamMANCHESTER UNITED crashed out the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham.Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee had poor spot-kicks saved as the Red Devils slipped to their sixth home defeat under Ruben Amorim.Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked corner.Antonee Robinson darted to the near post and flicked it onto Calvin Bassey who directed his header into the bottom corner brilliantly.Just as United’s frustrations were brewing, Bruno Fernandes was the saviour yet again.He picked up Diogo Dalot’s perfect cut back and fired it beyond the stretch of Bernd Leno.United had chances towards the end of the second-half, with subs Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi unable to finish.There was nothing to separate the sides in extra-time and penalties were needed.Despite well-taken kicks from Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Casemiro, Lindelof and Zirkzee woefully fired directly at Fulham hero Leno.But which Man Utd players could hold their heads up and which flopped?Here, SunSport’s Ken Lawrence reveals his player ratings. More

    • 188 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly subbed just 34 minutes into PSV clash after escaping red card

      by

      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY was dragged off just 34 minutes into Arsenal’s stunning 7-1 Champions League win over PSV.The young defender was fortunate to escape being sent-off in the match for two yellow card challenges during the round of 16 first leg.Myles Lewis-Skelly escaped a red card against PSVCredit: ReutersHe was already on a yellow cardCredit: RexHe was subbed off by Mikel Arteta before half timeCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly, 18, was booked in the 24th minute for a foul deep inside his own half.He was then penalised for a very late challenge on Richard Ledezma just two minutes later.There were calls from the PSV players that Lewis-Skelly should be sent off by the referee, Jesus Gil Manzano kept his cards in his pocket.Arsenal then stormed into a three-goal lead thanks to efforts from Jurrien Timber, Ethan Nwaneri and Mikel Merino.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSAfter the goal from Merino went in, Mikel Arteta made the decision to sub Lewis-Skelly out of the action.Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori was sent on in place of the youngster.Lewis-Skelly looked disappointed with himself as he slumped down on the bench to watch the remainder of the match.BBC pundit Alan Shearer backed the substitution and admitted leaving him on would have been a “risk”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “Myles Lewis-Skelly is in a risky situation there having just been shown a yellow card.”If he hadn’t received one just moments ago, then that would definitely be one. Arsenal have got away with one there.Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey gives his verdict on Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card vs West HamAlan Shearer believes leaving Lewis-Skelly on would be a riskCredit: PA”It was always going to be a matter of time before that change, Riccardo Calafiori for Lewis-Skelly took place.”They have put themselves in a good position, three goals up, so why run the risk of going down to ten men. Sensible decision.”He only picked up a red card in Arsenal’s recent 1-0 defeat to West Ham in the Premier League.The defender was the last man as he dragged down Mohammed Kudus who looked through on goal.This followed the controversial dismissal for fouling Matt Doherty in the game against Wolves.Arsenal ratings vs PSV as Nwaneri comes of age in Champions League drubbing but rash Lewis-Skelly is hooked earlyARSENAL steamrolled a hapless PSV side to all-but book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.The Gunners started without a recognised striker once again but unlike at Nottingham Forest last week, goals were not a problem in Eindhoven.A quick-fire double from Jurrien Timber and Ethan Nwaneri around the 20th minute put the Gunners in control in what was an assured display.Every Arsenal player impressed and they were clinical with their finishing.Only Myles Lewis-Skelly will feel a little disappointed as he was hooked after half an hour to avoid him picking up a second yellow.It was a shame as the youngster was performing well on the ball – he played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal.But he could not be trusted by Mikel Arteta after he dived and caught his man with a challenge that could easily have resulted in a second booking.It was another careless moment that allowed PSV back into the match as Thomas Partey conceded a penalty that was converted on the stroke of half-time.But the Gunners did not rest on their laurels and came out racing after the break, scoring twice in two minutes to put the match, and the tie, to bed.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Gunners’ display…He later saw his three-match ban overturned and Ref chief Howard Webb insisted that the decision, while wrong, was not a “horrendous” one.Meanwhile, PSV were offered a route back into the match as Noa Lang converted from the spot before the break.However, all hopes of a comeback looked over just three minutes into the second half as Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard both scored to make it 5-1.READ MORE SUN STORIESOdegaard made it two for himself and six on the night in the 73rd minute.Lewis-Skelly’s replacement Calafiori wrapped up the scoring with Arsenal’s SEVENTH in the dying stages.He was recently sent off against West HamCredit: ReutersHe was controversially sent off against Wolves earlier in the seasonCredit: PA More