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      in Soccer

      Zirkzee slammed by Koeman as ‘not good enough’ as he snubs Man Utd flop for Holland despite being ‘limited up front’

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      NETHERLANDS manager Ronald Koeman has claimed that Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee is not good enough to play for the national team.Zirkzee has struggled to find his feet since joining the Red Devils in a £36.5million transfer from Bologna in July.Joshua Zirkzee is not good enough for the Dutch national team, according to Ronald KoemanCredit: GettyKoeman decided against calling up Zirkzee to the Netherlands squad despite ‘limited’ options in attackCredit: GettyIn 42 club appearances this season the 23-year-old has scored just six goals and provided two assists.His form has left many United fans and pundits disappointed – and it appears Koeman isn’t best pleased either.The Netherlands boss has decided against handing Zirkzee a call-up for the next international break later this month.He insists the striker must “earn” his place in the squad.READ MORE ON MAN UTDKoeman said: “He wasn’t in the preliminary selection because I don’t think he’s good enough at the moment.”Especially scanning when turning or passing often goes wrong.”Yes, in principle form and fitness are always leading, but that is not always possible.”We have a lot of central defenders and midfielders, but we are somewhat limited up front.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”But even then, I still think that you have to earn your selection, and I think he doesn’t deserve that now, but that could be the case again in another period.”Zirkzee has represented the Dutch national team in the last three international breaks.Harry Maguire reveals he sent private message to Joshua Zirkzee after Man Utd star was cheered off vs NewcastleHowever, Memphis Depay is expected to get the call-up this time instead.Netherlands face Spain in both Nations League fixtures this month.Should they win across two legs, they will reach the semi-finals of the competition.Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Man Utd signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as everIT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.Arsenal’s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances. More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Motorsport

      ‘We miss you’ – Emotional moment Michael Schumacher’s son and Sebastian Vettel pay tribute to stricken F1 legend

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      EMOTIONAL tributes have been made to stricken F1 legend Michael Schumacher.The seven-time F1 world champion suffered a brain injury in 2013 after a skiing accident.A touching tribute to Michael Schumacher was made at the Race of ChampionsCredit: GettyThe F1 legend suffered a brain injury in 2013Credit: AFPMick Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel led the tributeCredit: GettyAt the Race of Champions in Sydney, Australia over the weekend, motorsport stars came together to honour the beloved German.Schumacher’s son, Mick, and close friend Sebastien Vettel honoured him at the Accor Stadium.The pair unveiled a banner that read: “Keep fighting Michael – We miss you.”It was accompanied by the website for the “Keep fighting foundation”.READ MORE ON SPORTThe site was set up as part of the charity created by Schumacher’s family in 2017.It promotes health, safety and perseverance.All 20 drivers from the Race of Champions joined in the tribute as they showed their support for the icon.A video was posted on social media and touched the hearts of racing fans.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne posted: “Legendary.”A second commented: “A touching tribute to a true F1 legend. Michael Schumacher’s legacy continues to inspire generations of drivers.”Martin Brundle’s most-awkward Formula 1 grid moments from Cara Delevingne to Ozzy OsbourneThe banner urged Schumacher to ‘keep fighting’Credit: GettyA third wrote: “What a great tribute. Seb is one of a kind.”Another said: “Keep Fighting Michael. Thank you Seb and wish you the best always.”While one added: “Keep fighting Michael never forgotten.”Stars such as David Coulthard, Kurt Busch and Valtteri Bottas were also involved in the touching scenes.Schumacher, 56, is widely considered one of the best F1 drivers of all time.Along with his seven world titles, he held the record for the most Grand Prix wins (91) until Lewis Hamilton leapfrogged him in 2020.READ MORE SUN STORIESSchumacher’s wife recently broke her silence after a sentence was handed out following a £12million blackmail plot against the family.In February, Corina sought to appeal the trial handed down to the ex-bodyguard, Markus Fritsche who was accused of supplying blackmailers with private images. More

    • 263 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Incredible moment Gary Neville joins rock band on stage to play bass hours before being on Man Utd vs Arsenal comms

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Gary Neville stunned fans by appearing on stage with a rock band on Saturday.Neville made a surprise appearance with the Reytons at Aviva Studios in Manchester just hours before covering United’s Premier League clash with Arsenal for Sky Sports.Gary Neville joined rock band the Reytons on stage in ManchesterCredit: https://x.com/TheReytonsThe United legend previously joked he was joining the bandCredit: https://x.com/TheReytonsThe 50-year-old joined the band on stage for their hit song, Low Life, while playing the bass guitar.His shock arrival sent the sold-out crowd of 5,000 fans wild.The Reytons then shared a clip of the performance on social media the following day.They said: “Manchester!!! Last night was unbelievable… What a way to end the tour!!Read More in Football”Thank you to every single one of you who joined us across the UK and Ireland… It’s been incredible!”Thanks to our amazing team of family and friends for all the hard work, commitment, late nights and early mornings!! From pubs to arenas… Who’d have thought it?”Is there a better community out there? I f***ing doubt it.”Fans flocked to the comments, with one person writing: “Amazing night as always. But what an unexpected treat to see @GNev2on stage. Absolute riot!”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsAnother joked: “Why did Gary Neville sub himself off halfway through the song?!”A third said: “This just made the hairs on the back of my neck stand. Absolutely smashing it @TheReytons. Superb.”‘Absolute s***fest of management’ – Gary Neville follows Roy Keane in unleashing angriest Man Utd rant yetWhile a fourth commented: “Yep that’s me convinced we’re in the simulation Gary Neville is playing bass for the Reytons on a big night in Manchester.”Back in September, Neville offered to play bass guitar for the band when bassist Lee Holland suffered a broken arm – even though he had no experience playing the instrument.Just hours after the gig, Neville joined the Sky Sports crew at Old Trafford for Man Utd vs Arsenal in the Premier League.A second-half goal from Declan Rice cancelled out a Bruno Fernandes free kick as the teams took a point each. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend spotted consoling Rasmus Hojlund and giving struggling striker pep talk after 14-minute cameo vs Arsenal

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Peter Schmeichel was spotted consoling struggling striker Rasmus Hojlund outside Old Trafford.The under-fire forward made just a 14-minute cameo in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal. Peter Schmeichel was spotted consoling struggling striker Rasmus Hojlund outside Old TraffordCredit: XThe moment was caught by a fanCredit: XHojlund played just 14 minutes against ArsenalCredit: PAPressure is mounting on the £72million man amid reports United’s coaching staff are becoming impatient and frustrated with Hojlund’s form.But he got a pep talk from former United captain and fellow Dane Schmeichel outside the ground – sharing a hug together. Schmeichel – who won FIVE Premier League titles with United – was working as a pundit for Viaplay at the Theatre of Dreams. Bruno Fernandes gave the hosts the lead before half-time before Declan Rice levelled on 74 minutes.READ MORE ON MAN UTDJoshua Zirkzee started up front for Ruben Amorim’s side with Hojlund replacing him on 76 minutes. Hojlund managed just one shot after coming off the bench – failing to hit the target. The attacker has seven goals in 37 games this season – with only two coming in the league.Hojlund scored 16 in his debut campaign last year after being signed by Erik ten Hag for around £72m in August 2023 from Atalanta.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd United great Wayne Rooney has thrown his support the 22-year-old’s way. Rooney, 39, said on Match of The Day: “A striker for Manchester United, when you’re not scoring goals, there’s a lot of pressure, a lot of people talking about you. Amorim ‘pleased’ with Man Utd performance despite missed chances against Arsenal “Can you do it for Manchester United? I think the best thing to do is simplify it and obviously making the runs into penalty boxes is as easy as it comes – you have to make them runs.”But simplifying the game, getting the ball, laying it off, getting in the box, getting the ball out wide, getting in the penalty box, putting yourself in the best position to score goals.”Nine times out of 10 you’re relying on your team-mates to give you chances and put the ball in the box or slide balls in behind.”Maybe he hasn’t been doing that – he hasn’t been getting that service of late. But I’ve got faith in him.”I think he is a good player and he works hard. I think that’s really important as well. “I think he just needs that goal and once he gets it, they’ll all start coming.” More

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      in Soccer

      Furious Ter Stegen issues statement after claims he is divorcing wife Daniela after she ‘cheated on Barcelona star’

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      MARC-ANDRE TER STEGEN has slammed a bombshell report which claimed he was cheated on by his wife with her personal trainer.The Barcelona goalkeeper has been married to wife Daniela Jehle for eight years, having met in 2012 before tying the knot in 2017 and having two children together.Marc-Andre ter Stegen slammed a report he has separated from his wife after allegedly finding out she cheated on himCredit: AFPTer Stegen and wife Daniela, who met in 2012 and have two children togetherCredit: InstagramThe pair announced their separation last week but Ter Stegen today denied reports of alleged cheatingCredit: InstagramHowever, the pair announced they had split up in a social media post last week.A bombshell report on Catalunya Radio from Spanish journalist Juliana Canet claimed the separation came after Ter Stegen found out his wife was cheating on him with her personal trainer.The report alleges Ter Stegen and Daniela have been living apart for two months.The German goalkeeper has reportedly been staying in the five-star Hyatt Hotel in Barcelona while she remained living in their family home.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCanet explained the 32-year-old had used the excuse of renovations being carried out on the mansion the couple had bought last summer as the reason for him staying in the hotel.El Nacional added Daniela had been working with two personal trainers at Edan Studios in Barcelona, owned by Robert Lewandowski’s wife Anna.But following the bombshell news report, Ter Stegen slammed Catalunya Radio & 3Cat Group for “distributing false news and violating personal rights”.In a statement to social media, he said: “Dear all.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”I am shocked and disappointed of the poor management and lack of Leadership and Control at Catalunya Radio & 3Cat Group – distributing false news and violating personal rights.”Journalists Juliana Canet, Roger Carandell and Marta Montaner are liars that have distributed false news, offending my wife Daniela and her reputation publicly in a very bad manner.Ronaldinho scores stunning free-kick aged 44 as Barcelona legend proves he’s still got it in El Clasico Legends game “There has not been any infidelity of Daniela. No third person involved. Fact.”As communicated, Dani and I have decided to go different ways in good circumstances where we maintain trustful communication.”It is completely unacceptable that the leading government-owned media is spreading this, where Daniela being falsely accused and personally been attacked.”The damage is irreparable. Thank you. Marc.”Ter Stegen and Daniela’s statement on social media declared their joint-focus was on what was best for their children; five-year-old Ben and one-year-old Tom.The statement said: “After careful consideration, Dani and I have decided to go our separate ways.”This decision was not an easy one, as you can imagine, but we both believe it is the best step for us.”Our joint focus is on doing what is best for our children, ensuring they continue to have a loving and stable environment.”We remain committed to working together as parents and treating each other with respect and appreciation as we always have.”During this personal time, we kindly ask for your understanding and for respecting our privacy – especially that of our children.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTer Stegen has been sidelined from football since September after suffering a complete rupture of the patellar tendon in his right knee.He recently shared photos showing he is back in training and could be close to a return.Ter Stegen has been sidelined through a knee injury since SeptemberCredit: Rex More

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      in Soccer

      Gianluigi Buffon’s son, 17, handed professional debut by his former team-mate just two years after Italy icon retired

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      LOUIS Buffon, the son of Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon, made his professional debut for Serie B side Pisa.Buffon, 17, was handed his first senior minutes by Gianluigi’s former team-mate and Pisa boss Filippo Inzaghi.Louis Buffon made his professional debut for Serie B side Pisa on SundayBuffon Jr got the nod after impressing for Pisa’s under-17 and under-19The Pisa winger is the son of Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi BuffonFilippo Inzaghi and Buffon spent most of their careers at JuventusUnlike his legendary father, who made more than 1000 senior appearances as a goalkeeper, Louis operates as a left winger.He was introduced as a late substitute in Pisa’s 3-2 defeat at Spezia, replacing Marius Marin in the 84th minute on Sunday.Buffon Jr got the nod after impressing for Pisa’s under-17 and under-19 sides this season, scoring four goals in 19 appearances.Pisa, who are second in the table, are looking to return to the top flight for the first time since 1991.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDad Buffon retired from football with Serie B side Parma in 2023 at the age of 45.Inzaghi and Buffon spent most of their careers at Juventus and also played together on the Italy national team. It comes weeks after the teenager’s first international under-18 call up.Turin-born Louis recently elected to represent the Czech Republic, where his mother is from, at under-18 level.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLouis would still be available to eventually play for Italy, with only senior competitive caps cementing a national team position for a footballer’s entire career.Dad Buffon played 176 times for his country before retiring in 2018, helping them win the World Cup in 2006.Watch Italy and Juventus goalkeeper legend Gianluigi Buffon prove he is also the GOAT of Rock, Paper, Scissors at ParmaGianluigi is the most capped player in the history of the national team and fourth-most capped European international player ever.The shot-stopper won 28 honours for club and country, as well as over 70 individual awards in his 28-year-long career. Buffon started at Parma in 1995 and won an Italian Cup, Italian Super Cup and Uefa Cup before joining Juventus in 2001.He made 656 appearances for the Bianconeri, winning nine Serie A titles, a Serie B title, five Italian Cups and six Italian Super Cups.Buffon then made a surprise move to Paris Saint-Germain for the 2018/19 campaign, playing 25 times and winning the Ligue 1 title before returning to Juventus.He made a further 29 appearances in Turin while winning a tenth Serie A title before rejoining Parma in 2021. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Eddie Hearn leaps to defence of Jake Paul after Canelo fight is blocked… and compares HIMSELF to YouTube star

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      EDDIE HEARN leaped to Jake Paul’s defence amid the collapse of his Canelo Alvarez fight – and even compared HIMSELF to the YouTube star.YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul and Mexican great Canelo were close to announcing a shock May 3 bout in Las Vegas. Eddie Hearn leaped to Jake Paul’s defence after the Canelo Alvarez fight collapsedCredit: RexCanelo walked away from a deal to fight Jake PaulCredit: GettyBut Canelo pulled the plug at the last minute to instead sign a bumper four-fight deal with Saudi supremo Turki Alalshikh. Paul claimed the powers that be did everything they could to prevent the mega-fight – sickened at the thought of him fighting boxing’s best.And Hearn actually agrees with the American’s sentiment – even seeing a bit of himself in the self-proclaimed Problem Child. He told SunSport: “I do believe that Jake Paul was ready to fight Canelo Alvarez.READ MORE IN boxing “I know that there’s criticism that he’s never fought a real fight before while he was trying to.”I think anyone that has power, anyone that has a little bit of a big mouth, people will try and block, disrupt. I mean, I have it myself.”So yeah, there’s gonna be a lot of people that will try and stop Jake Paul in his tracks but he’s a very determined young man, smart man. I’m sure he’ll be just fine.”Paul, 28, and Canelo, 34, were on the verge of confirming a cruiserweight clash to be streamed on Netflix. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut powerful Saudi advisor Alalshikh stepped in to offer Canelo a May 4 bout in Riyadh before his super-fight against Terence Crawford, 37, in September. Paul now looks set to turn his attention to a new opponent with SunSport understanding an announcement is close. Eddie Hearn reveals latest on Anthony Joshua’s boxing returnMeanwhile, Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions and Hearn struck a deal to confirm Katie Taylor’s trilogy with Amanda Serrano on July 11.Taylor, 38, has won two controversial decisions over Serrano, 36, in New York’s Madison Square Garden in 2022 and Texas last November. Now they renew their epic rivalry once more at the famous MSG live on Netflix in an all-women’s card. Hearn said: “I felt the size of the second fight, obviously the size of the first fight, the platform as well. “Amanda and Katie could fight 100 times and it would be Fight of The Year contenders every time. “So we were pleased to get a deal done with MVP and looking forward to the trilogy.” Katie Taylor, Hearn, Jake Paul and Amanda SerranoCredit: RexTaylor won the rematch against Serrano in TexasCredit: GettySerrano lost a controversial decision to Taylor in 2022 in New YorkCredit: AP More

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      in Soccer

      ‘The duo we didn’t know we needed’ – Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann team up to become managers of Baller League team

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      MAYA JAMA and Alisha Lehmann have teamed up to become managers of a Baller League team.Baller League UK kicks off today with the draft, as managers pick the teams that will serve them throughout the six-a-side competition.Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann have teamed up to become managers of a Baller League teamCredit: Instagram / ballerleagueukLehmann has already won a Baller League titleCredit: Instagram / ballerleagueukThe pair ‘called’ each other in a promo video announcing their teamCredit: Instagram / ballerleagueukMaya and Lehmann become the first all-female managerial duo in the league.It follows Chloe Kelly being announced as the first female manager – the England star is joined by Ian Wright.Maya, Lehmann and Baller League announced the news with a video showing the pair calling one another, with Maya telling the Juventus Women’s star to pack her bags.Lehmann captioned the post: “London 🔜 @ballerleagueuk let’s go! 🏆READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”See you all at the draft tonight! MVPs United 🤝”Lehmann has plenty of Baller League experience having managed Lehmann’s Streets United in Germany – where the inaugural tournament took place after being founded by ex-Arsenal star Lukas Podolski and Mats Hummels.In fact, Lehmann’s side won the first Baller League competition, so her partnership with Maya could prove a fruitful one.Fans are excited to see the pair link up, with one reacting to the news saying: “The duo we didn’t know we needed.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnother added: “We’re ready 🚀”And a third wrote: “Now or never!! The stage is set 🔥⚽️”Baller League lands major UK broadcast deal ahead of draft with star-studded competition to be shown on TV YouTube superstar KSI has been named as president of the UK league, with streamer IShowSpeed fronting the American version.Football legends Gary Lineker, John Terry and Luis Figo have been lined up as team managers for the new format.Meanwhile, Micah Richards, Alan Shearer, Freddie Ljungberg, Jens Lehmann and Robert Pires are among those who have signed up as coaches.Every match from the debut campaign is set to be shown live on Sky Sports on Monday nights from the Copper Box Arena in London.What are the Baller League rule?THE Baller League promises to be “excitingBut what are the rules?Matches will be played in a six-a-side format on an smaller indoor pitch.Each half set to last 15 minutes.Shock rule twists to be introduced for the final three minutes of each half including a three vs three format, long-range goals counting as double, and goalkeepers not allowed to use their hands.These rule twists for the final three minutes will be randomised.MLS style one-vs-one penalties to be used.12 teams in the league with the top four going through to the playoffs.League set to start in March 2025, with the final four play-off in May to crown the winner.Baller League managersLuis Figo – Trebol FCTBJZL – VZN FCAlan Shearer, Gary Lineker, Micah Richards – DeportrioSharky – SDS FCJohn Terry – 26ersAngry Ginge – YanitedJens Lehmann, Robert Pires, Freddie Ljungberg – N5 FCMiniminter – M7 FCDave – Santan FCClint 419 – FC Rules the WorldIan Wright and Chloe Kelly – Wembley Rangers AFCMaya Jama and Alisha Lehmann – Team Name TBC More