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    Premier League LIVE SCORES: Haaland STARTS but City goalless, latest from Ipswich vs Brighton & two other fixtures

    SATURDAY’S Premier League action features some huge matches in the race for Europe.Manchester City travel to rock bottom Southampton as Pep Guardiola’s side look to chase down Arsenal in second.Elsewhere, Fulham look to give their European aspirations a boost as they take on Everton.Wolves host top-8 hopefuls Brighton, and Ipswich face a Brentford side who also have a chance of qualifying for Europe.In the evening kick off, two sides with ambitions for continental football next season, Bournemouth and Aston Villa, go head-to-head at the Vitality.Kick off times: 3pm/5.30pm BSTCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…From Jack Rosser at St Mary’sWhat a ridiculous afternoon.That is the loudest cheer at St. Mary’s since they earned their place in the Play-Off final a year ago.Guardiola has marched onto the pitch and looks furious – aggressively congratulating Southampton players in a way only he can. Copy linkCopiedFull time – Fulham 1-3 EvertonEverton take the honours on the banks of the Thames, and Fulham’s slim hopes of making the Europa Conference League have come to an end.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Wolves 0-2 BrightonBrighton follow Brentford’s lead and claim a vital – and impressive -three points that has them fully in the hunt for eighth spotCopy linkCopiedFull time – Southampton 0-0 Man CityA surprise on the south coast! The Saints move on to 12 points and away from the 11-point low set by Derby County in 2008. Copy linkCopiedFull time – Ipswich 0-1 BrentfordThe Bees survive a late scare to register their fourth win in a row, and Thomas Frank’s team are on course for Europe.Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 0-0 Man City90. Substitute Omar Marmoush almost wins it for Manchester City!The Egyptian takes charge on the edge of the box, and rockets a shot past Aaron Ramsdale that cannons back off the crossbar.It’s the closest City have come this afternoon.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Wolves 0-2 Brighton85. Brighton are on the charge for Europe!Brajan Gruda seals the deal at Molineux, cooling dinking over Jose Sa for his first goal for the Seagulls.Copy linkCopiedFrom Graham Hill at MolineuxThe jaw-dropping stat of the day – in Wolverhampton at least – is that this is the first time Danny Welbeck, 34, has scored 10 Premier League goals in a season.Considering his career has stretched over 17 seasons, that is some revelation.He netted nine in a campaign twice, but the last time was 11 years ago. Incredible, he has never reached double figures until today’s penalty which, right now, looks to be enough to win the game.Meanwhile, Wolves boss Vitor Pereira has seen enough – and made a QUADRUPLE substitution.Wolves have been getting nowhere fast today, and the Portuguese coach will hope Jorgen Strand Larsen, Rodrigo Gomes, Pablo Sarabia and Jean Bellegarde can bring their side back into this.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Fulham 1-3 Everton74. Fulham’s season is collapsing upon itself.Beto has made it 3-1, and the Cottagers are going to be comfortably beaten in a game that they could have won by the half hour mark.The hosts are caught cold as they try to find an instant reply, allowing Everton to break at pace.Carlos Alcaraz picks out Beto on the left, and he lets rip with a shot that seems to go through Bernd Leno on its way to the back of the net. Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Fulham 1-2 Everton70. The Toffees have turned it around at Craven Cottage!Dwight McNeil’s corner is met emphatically by Michael Keane at the far post, who beats Bernd Leno in the Fulham goal.There’s a VAR check for both a foul and an offside, but Carlos Alcaraz is deemed not to have impacted the game on both counts.David Moyes’ men hit the front!Copy linkCopiedIpswich 0-1 Brentford67. A lengthy VAR check takes place after Axel Tuanzebe and Nathan Collins wrestle each other to the ground at a Michael Kayode long throw.The Brentford centre-half is convinced he’s been fouled and wants a penalty, but Samuel Barrott does not agree.Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 0-0 Man City63. City are turning up the gas on the south coast.Last season’s Premier League champions have had the last 11 attempts on goal in this game, and Bernardo Silva has just come the closest so far to breaking the deadlock.Southampton have only kept two clean sheets in the last 47 Premier League games. Surely they don’t hold out this afternoon?Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 0-0 Man City58. Southampton continue to frustrate Manchester City at St Mary’s.Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva have just had a couple of shots blocked, but Saints are digging in.Jeremy Doku is already on for Pep Guardiola’s side, but how long will it be until the City boss turns to others on his bench?Copy linkCopiedFulham 1-1 Everton49. Harry Wilson almost restores Fulham’s lead!Kenny Tete picks out the Welshman with a ball over the top, and Wilson responds by attempting a delicate lob over Jordan Pickford.It initially looked perfect, but somehow the England goalkeeper got back and clawed the ball away.In saving Everton, Pickford looks to have landed awkwardly on his elbow and requires a bit of magic sponge action.Copy linkCopiedFrom Jon West at Portman RoadReferee Barrott was inevitably booed off at the break but the truth is Brentford deserve to be ahead. Just. It’s not a classic by any stretch but the Tractor Boys have barely threatened.Copy linkCopiedFrom Graham Hill at MolineuxBrighton have edged the first half and might have had more than their one goal but for some hesitancy going forwards.Danny Welbeck’s penalty separates the sides after he had a goal ruled out for an offside against Yankuba Minteh – which VAR took around four minutes to decide.Matheus Cunha might have been lucky to escape a red card for bringing down Mats Wieffer for the penalty – ref Michael Oliver only showed him a yellow.Wolves look out-of-sorts all over the pitch, but it might not be too long before Jorgen Strand Larsen makes an appearance from the subs’ bench.Copy linkCopiedFrom Jack Rosser at St Mary’sA very odd first half on the south coast.Southampton have parked all of their outfield players within 20 yards of their goal and City have struggled to create anything of note.Haaland and Guardiola have both been talking about a lack of hunger this week. and there does not look to be too much of it here.You would get a more intense encounter at Soccer Aid.Copy linkCopiedThe half-time scoresAll four afternoon games in the Premier League have reached the break, and this is the current state of play:Fulham 1-1 EvertonIpswich 0-1 BrentfordSouthampton 0-0 Man CityWolves 0-1 BrightonCopy linkCopiedGOAL! Fulham 1-1 Everton45+3. On the stroke of half-time, Everton find a fortuitous equaliser!Vitalii Mykolenko has his first goal since November 2023, and he has a huge deflection off Andreas Pereira to thank for it.Bernd Leno fails to get distance when opting to punch a corner, and that allows Abdoulaye Doucoure to nudge it back for Mykolenko to strike. Fulham concede from outside the box AGAIN and now have work to do.Copy linkCopiedFulham 1-0 Everton43. Harry Wilson goes close to a second!The Welsh wing wizard dribbles in on the left, teasing the Everton defence, and then strikes low towards the bottom corner.Jordan Pickford has to wait for it to travel through a crowd, but then gets down brilliantly to push the shot around the post.Copy linkCopiedFrom Graham Hill at MolineuxIt’s been a strange few minutes for Brighton, first, they had a goal controversially ruled out by VAR, then they took the lead two minutes later from the penalty spot.Danny Welbeck looked to have given Brighton the lead when his shot found the net after being left by Yankuba Minteh.There then followed a VAR check of around four minutes, which brought a chant of ‘Boring, boring’ from Wolves fans.But the final verdict was that Minteh was deemed to be in an offside position and interfering with play, despite not touching the ball.Hope that’s clear.Brighton’s response was to win a penalty when Matheus Cunha and Mats Wieffer tangled outside the box and then the Brazilian carried it inside the area. Ref Michael Oliver showed Cunha a yellow card, but it looks like the Seagulls’ bench wanted a red.Welbeck cooly dispatched the penalty for his 10th Premier League goal of the season.Copy linkCopiedFrom Jon West at Portman RoadIpswich fans are venting their fury at referee Sam Barrott for allowing (in their opinion) Brentford to carry on taking a corner until they scored.Jacob Greaves was lucky to escape a |VAR penalty call for a rugby tackle on Sepp van den Berg initially, Barrott booked Christian Norgaard and Jack Taylor from the next attempt. And Kevin Schade headed in the third.”1-0 to the referee” and “Premier League, corrupt as f***” chanted Town fans.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Wolves 0-1 Brighton28. Now Danny Welbeck has his goal, and it comes from the penalty spot!In the absence of the suspended Joao Pedro, the former England international stepped up and calmly placed his spotkick beyond Jose Sa!It’s a deserved lead, and there was no debating the decision that led to the opener.Matheus Cunha was caught in possession just outside his own 18-yard box, and in his bid to get back and make amends, he tripped Mats Wieffer just as the Brighton man was about to shoot.Cunha is yellow carded for his part, and – to be honest – he’s fortunate not see red as I’m really not sure if that was a genuine attempt to win the ball.Copy linkCopiedWolves 0-0 Brighton24. Danny Welbeck has the ball in the back of the net at Molineux!But no sooner had the striker wheeled away in celebration, he saw the linesman’s flag up on the far side.However, it’s not that clearcut.In fact, Welbeck was definitely onside when he steered a centre from the right into the far corner.However, Yankuba Minteh who followed the ball towards goal was offside, and he has been adjudged to have been interfering with play.VAR take a long look at it, and eventually uphold the on-field decision.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Ipswich 0-1 Brentford18. West London delight!Seconds after Fulham took the lead, Brentford have followed suit at Portman Road.Kevin Schade has his third in a week, following his double against Manchester United with another header here.The German gets on the end of Bryan Mbeumo’s corner, and cooly beat Alex Palmer in the Ipswich goal.Copy linkCopied More

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    ‘Don’t agree with it’ – Paul Scholes slams Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd team selection as it leaves ‘bad taste in your mouth’

    PAUL SCHOLES has blasted Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim for sacrificing the Premier League in favour of a Europa League run.The Red Devils reached the final of Europe’s secondary club competition this week with a 7-1 aggregate win over Athletic Bilbao.Manchester United booked their place in the Europa League final this weekCredit: ALAMYWinning the tournament will paper over the cracks of an incredibly poor domestic seasonCredit: REUTERSManager Ruben Amorim has seemingly prioritised the competition over the Prem in recent weeksCredit: SHUTTERSTOCKClub legend Paul Scholes is far from happy with the Portuguese’s approach as of lateCredit: SHUTTERSTOCKUnited’s European run has brought some respite from their woeful league form, which has left them in 15TH PLACE in the table.Amorim has clearly prioritised the Europa League with his team selections in recent weeks, giving rising stars including Tyler-Fredricson and Harry Amass more game time than he might otherwise have done.TNT Sports pundit Scholes wrote in his column for the broadcaster: “Manchester United should be able to play in two or three competitions at once without sacrificing something, and they’ve clearly sacrificed the league.”I don’t like it and I don’t agree with it and I believe there has to be some sort of standards required in a Premier League team.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS”It’s almost as if they go into Premier League games and there’s an acceptance that they’re not going to win the game, which is madness.”I think the acceptance has come from everyone.”Scholes firmly believes one figure is to blame for United seemingly being resigned to losing their league matches.He continued: “I think it’s come from the manager, even though he won’t admit it. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMan Utd ratings vs Bilbao as magnifent Mount sends Red Devils to Europa League final but ineffective Garnacho hooked earlyMANCHESTER UNITED all-but booked their spot in the Europa League final a week ago.And, despite a brief first-half wobble, it was never really in doubt at Old Trafford on Thursday night as the Red Devils secured a comeback 4-1 win at home over Athletic Bilbao.Mikel Jaureguizar sent a nervous shiver around the ground with his fine effort on the half-hour mark.United struggled to click and no doubt some feared of an almighty collapse.But, when Ruben Amorim turned to the bench, it made all the difference – as Amad Diallo, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount were all involved in Mount’s delightful equaliser.Casemiro scored with a clever header and even Rasmus Hojlund got in on the act to tap in.Then Mount finish the job in style with his long-range effort into an empty net. Smiles all round. Now United have an all-English blockbuster with Spurs later this month to save their dreadful season.Roll on, Bilbao…Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Ruben Amorim’s men at Old Trafford…”He’s not playing teams to win games of football in the league.”I think even fans are thinking, ‘Let’s get these league games out of the way because the league has been a disaster.’Casemiro STAYING at Man Utd? Amorim’s Shock U-Turn Explained!”They’re probably thinking, ‘Play whoever you want, we don’t care.’ “There’s an acceptance to it, which I think is wrong, because the Premier League is your bread and butter.”But if you’re going to get Champions League football by winning the Europa League, it’ll all be forgotten, I hope.”There is that bad taste in your mouth that the Premier League form is so bad, and they might regret it next year.”I think the manager should be using this time to learn how to win games when you’re not playing that well, because it’s going to happen again next year.”I don’t think you can just switch a button next season and, all of a sudden, you’re going to see them play brilliantly in the league.Read More on The Sun”I think it’s quite risky sacrificing the Premier League for the sake of Champions League football next year.”United will face familiar opposition in Tottenham – who bested Bodo/Glimt in their semi-final tie – in this month’s Europa League final in Bilbao. More

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    Steven Gerrard lined up for emotional return to former club but faces competition from sacked Premier League bosses

    STEVEN GERRARD could be set for a sensational return to Rangers.Gerrard, 44, has been a free agent since January after his acrimonious exit from Saudi outfit Al-Ettifaq and is looking for his next challenge.Steven Gerrard has been pencilled in for a potential return to RangersGerrard won the Scottish Premiership at IbroxGerrard is a free agent after a hapless stint in Saudi ArabiaAccording to The Telegraph, that could lead the Liverpool legend back to Ibrox, where his managerial career officially kicked off.The former England international joined the Gers in 2018 and enjoyed tremendous success during his three-year spell as he won the Scottish Premiership in 2021.And Rangers are keen on a reunion with the Scouse tactician as they are seeking a permanent replacement for Philippe Clement, who was sacked in February. Former midfielder has been in temporary charge since.Gerrard is part of a long list of candidates that is said to run into double figures.Read More on FootballThe likes of former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil, ex-Luton Town boss Rob Edwards and Russell Martin, who was recently dismissed by Southampton, are also being considered.O’Neil had a short but impressive stint with Bournemouth and Wolves before becoming a free agent.Edwards stood out at Luton as he led them to the Premier League two years ago.And Martin has history with Rangers as he underwent a loan spell as a player in 2018 before managing at MK Dons, Swansea and of course Saints.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThere are also foreign head coaches being monitored by club chiefs amid the closing stages of the season.Nevertheless, it is thought to be an open race with no clear favourite for the top job. Steven Gerrard gives update on return to management after Liverpool legend left Al-Ettifaq Rangers could offer Gerrard a second chance in his new career as he has seen his stock plummet after two unsuccessful stints at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq.The legendary midfielder joined Villa on November 2021 – the same year he ended Celtic’s nine-year dominance in the Scottish Premiership.After a positive first season at Villa Park, Gerrard failed to keep it up and was dismissed following a run of poor results and performances on October 2022.The Liverpool great then made the big leap to the Saudi Pro League in 2023 but left 18 months later with his team 12th in the table and five points above the relegation zone.Former Bournemouth and Wolves boss Gary O’Neil is also being targeted by RangersEx-Southampton boss Russell Martin is also part of Rangers’ longest of candidatesThe same goes for ex-Luton Town boss Rob Edwards, while there are also foreign candidates More

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    Former England U20 star who’s dating Coronation Street actress wakes up unemployed after release from EFL club

    FORMER England U20 ace and Everton academy graduate Ryan Ledson has been released by Preston North End. Ledson, who is dating Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon, leaves Deepdale after seven years following the expiration of his contract.Ryan Ledson has been released by Preston North EndCredit: GettyLedson is dating Lucy FallonCredit: SplashFallon stars as Bethany Platt in ITV soap Coronation StreetCredit: Instagram/@lucyfallonxThe 27-year-old midfielder joined Preston back in 2018, having spent time at Cambridge United and Oxford United after graduating from Everton’s academy.And now he will be searching for the next step in his career after being included on Preston’s 2025 retained list as an “out of contract and released” player.It’s not a surprise to Preston fans, who were made aware of Ledson’s imminent exit earlier in the week.In a statement, the Liverpool-born star said: “I’ve had the best seven years that I could have asked for. This club means so much to me.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I want to thank everyone at the club, from the staff behind the scenes to the owner and Peter.“Thank you to the fans too for all the support you’ve given me over the years. I’m glad my last game for the club went as well as it did and I could have that moment with the fans at the end.“I’ve absolutely loved my time here and I wish everyone at the club nothing but the best for the future.”Ledson’s final game for the club was a 2-2 draw against Bristol City, a result that was just enough to keep the Lilywhites afloat in the Championship.Most read in FootballPreston North End full retained listHere’s a look at who is staying and going for Preston North End…Contracted ProfessionalsAli McCannAndrew HughesBen WhitemanBrad PottsDai CornellFelipe Rodriguez-GentileJack WhatmoughJames PradicJeppe OkkelsJordan StoreyKitt NelsonLewis GibsonLiam LindsayMads FrøkjærMax WilsonMilutin OsmajićNoah MaweneStefán ThórdarsonWill KeaneIn NegotiationsChed Evans (coaching role)Josh SearyKacper PasiekRobbie BradyOut of Contract and ReleasedEmil RiisFreddie WoodmanKian BestKian TaylorPatrick BauerRyan LedsonLoan Players Returning To Parent ClubsKaine Kesler-HaydenJayden MeghomaRyan PorteousSam GreenwoodCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe leaves PNE having played 215 games, scoring seven goals and registering 14 assists.Ledson’s partner Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt on ITV soap Coronation Street, supported him by re-sharing his exit announcement on her Instagram.Former England star Trevor Sinclair facing bankruptcy battle over £36k unpaid tax bill after ‘hiding head in the sand’The pair, who have been dating since the Covid-19 lockdown, share two children together – a son named Sonny and a daughter called Nancy.Clubs up and down the country are now announcing their retained lists as the season comes to a close, meaning top stars are being released all over the place.Former Chelsea, Manchester City and Celtic star Scott Sinclair was another big name to wake up unemployed this week after his release from Bristol Rovers.Club captain Sinclair, who shares three children with his former Corrie star ex Helen Flanagan, was let go by Rovers following their relegation into League Two.Scott Sinclair has been released by Bristol RoversCredit: GettySinclair’s ex is former Corrie star Helen FlanaganCredit: Instagram More

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    ‘Marco Silva won’t be happy with this’ – Moment Fulham star is FLOORED by Adama Traore in dressing room wrestling match

    FULHAM star Adama Traore went viral for FLOORING team-mate Calvin Bassey TWICE in two dressing room wrestling matches.Traore, 29, and Bassey, 25, locked horns in a friendly bout in front of their team-mates at the Cottagers’ training ground at Motspur Park.Fulham stars Adama Traore and Calvin Bassey wrestled in the dressing roomAnd Traore showcased his monstrous power by slamming Bassey on the concrete floorThe two heavyweights faced off in two rounds that required each participant to pin his opponent’s back on the floor.Traore showed his monstrous strength as he won the first round with relative ease by slamming his opponent on the concrete floor.And Bassey joked later that the result would be different if he just had more “grip”, perhaps in reference to the fact he had sliders on for the first bout.The second round didn’t go any better for the centre-back, who had trainers on by this point, as the winger floored him again in another dominant display that justified his reputation as the Premier League’s biggest powerhouse.Read more on FootballThe friendly bout was met with laughs and cheers from team-mates.And some fans joined in on the fun as they wondered what would happen if manager Marco Silva had walked in.One supporter tweeted: “Marco Silva won’t be happy with this video…”Another commented: “When he [Silva] comes in.. PAUSE.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA further comment read “Bet the manager was p***** they was doing this”While others jokingly advised Traore to consider a career in UFC or MMA.Fulham star Calvin Bassey shows Arsenal fans his bum at worst time possible A fan wrote: ” Lol, [Traore] would’ve had better chances with UFC than with football.”Another said: “His [Traore] agent should call Dana White. A summer UFC fight won’t be bad.”But there were also some Fulham fans who weren’t too impressed with what they saw in the dressing room as they pointed out that could have led to a serious injury.This comes amid the West Londoners’ bid for a rare European qualification as they chase an eighth-place finish, which would lead to the Conference League if Crystal Palace don’t win the FA Cup.One fan tweeted: “What if they get injured in the process?! Who’s paying the wages?”Another commented: “Wrestling on concrete. Great idea…”A third wrote: “Imagine being a pro footballer and you get injured like this…”Fulham star Traore showcased his monstrous strengthBassey joked he would do better if he had more ‘grip’ More

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    Hilarious moment Lamine Yamal gives fake name to woman who asks him to take photo with no idea who Barcelona star is

    LAMINE YAMAL went to extreme lengths to keep a low profile during a recent outing and even gave a woman a FAKE NAME.The Barcelona and Spain winger is one of the most recognisable footballers on the planet.Lamine Yamal was asked for his name after being asked to take a photo of a woman and her friendsCredit: INSTAGRAM@THEUNDERDOGS.AGENCYThe Barcelona and Spain star said his name was ‘Ryan’Credit: INSTAGRAM@THEUNDERDOGS.AGENCYBut one of the group of women cottoned on to the white lie and said his real nameCredit: INSTAGRAM@THEUNDERDOGS.AGENCYYamal, 17, is usually instantly recognised everywhere he goes and mobbed by scores of footie fans.A woman, however, wasn’t quite sure of the wing wizard’s identity after asking him to take a photo of her and her pals.But she had a sneaky suspicion he might be famous, saying to him as he held the camera: “Excuse me, what is your name?As he attempted to take the snap, Yamal replied: “Ryan.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe woman, however, wasn’t buying what the Barca star was selling. She asked him: “And in reality?”Yamal doubled down on his fake name, once again saying: “Ryan.”The group of women behind the inquisitive lady, however, didn’t believe Yamal, shouting “noo” before one of them said his name.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSLamal has been superb in La Liga this seasonYamal and his pals urged them to get into position for the photo, with one of them shouting: “Photo, photo, photo! It’s now or never.”Yamal completed his photographer duties after the group eventually posed in front of a picturesque background.Craig Burley praises Lamine Yamal’s clutch goal in Spain’s win Footage of the bizarre incident went viral and received a slew of comments from footie fans, one of whom wrote on Instagram: “Just wow.”Another wrote with a laughing emoji: “Ryan Yamal.”And another said: “How can they even be asking again?”One remarked: “Good disguise, Ryan.”Another chimed in: “Lamine is a joker.”Euro 2024 winner Yamal has enjoyed yet another stellar season with Barcelona, who were dumped out of the Champions League semi-finals by Inter Milan this week.The teenager has scored 15 goals in all competitions so far this season and provided a whopping 24 assists for his team-mates. More

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    Albanian Laura Woods goes braless in pink top as she bags new presenting role in completely different sport

    EVA MURATI is no stranger to turning heads with bold outfits.And her latest get-up left little to the imagination. Eva Murati has been dubbed the ‘Albanian Laura Woods’ due to her Champions League coverageCredit: INSTAGRAM@EVAMURATIThe 29-year-old has a massive following on social mediaCredit: Instagram / evamuratiMurati stunned during her live coverage of Stage One of the Giro d’ItaliaCredit: INSTAGRAM@EVAMURATIShe proudly showed off her bold outfit on her InstagramCredit: INSTAGRAM@EVAMURATIThe Champions League presenter has been dubbed the “Albanian Laura Woods” by legions of smitten footie fans.The Tring TV and Vizion Plus presenter has garnered quite the social media following thanks to her insight and bold outfits. Murati, 29, has garnered a whopping 1.1 million followers on Instagram alone. And she gave them a breathtaking display during her recent coverage of the Giro d’Italia, which kicked off in her homeland on Friday.READ MORE SPORTS NEWSMurati went braless as she donned a tight pink strappy top and flowy white trousers. She proudly showed off her outfit, as well as some of her coverage of Stage One of the race, to her Instagram stories and main grid.Scores of her followers rushed to the comments section, with one saying: “Beautiful.” Another said: “You are my love.” Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSEva Murati has shown her versatility as a presenter with her coverage of the Giro d’ItaliaCredit: INSTAGRAM@EVAMURATIAnd another said: “It is impossible to stop gazing at your beautiful eyes.” One remarked with love-heart emojis: “So beautiful, Eva.”Meet glam Champions League host Eva MuratiAnother chimed in with two fire emojis: “Stupendous.”Stage One of the Giro d’Italia was won by Mads Pedersen, who wears the pink shirt going into Stage Two. More

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    How WSL rivals have fared in the 2024-25 battle for points and top-flight survival

    FROM a few surprise managerial departures to Chelsea making Naomi Girma the WSL’s first million dollar signing, this season has been eventful. While the battle for the title and top-flight survival have been settled, today could see champions Chelsea go unbeaten. Sonia Bompastor hopes to guide her side to their 19th win in 22 games thisCredit: GettyThe Blues aim to round off their march to a sixth straight title win by going this termCredit: GettyAhead of the 12:30pm kick-off of the final six games that will wrap up this season, here is a brief look at how teams have fared this term.Chelsea While Champions League glory has eluded them, domestically Chelsea have been almost unstoppable this term. A home win or draw against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge today would see Sonia Bompastor’s side achieve their goal of an invincible run.  The team, who will be given a guard of honour from their visitors, would also become the first to complete 22 games without defeat in the WSL. Read More Football StoriesFor Bompastor the opportunity to create history in her first season at the Blues’ helm would be one of the highlights of her stellar career. Ahead of today’s game the Blues boss said: “It means a lot because probably it will be the only time in my career to be in that situation. “In the women’s or men’s game when the team is able to achieve that, they stay in history as I already said. “I’m thinking about Arsenal, the men’s team, when they have been invincible. People always talk about it.Most read in Football”When you have this opportunity being that close to make history, you just need to make sure you do that because it will stay forever. “I think even for your kids later to have this history to tell to some other people, it would be nice.”While Chelsea could end this term with 60 points than they did last season, not all their displays have been completely flawless. West Ham fought from 2-0 down to claim an away draw the champions with Brighton and Leicester also bagging points.However the champions have been very more tenacious in their capturing of silverware with a league and title double achieved. And they hope to make it a treble when they face Man United in this year’s Women’s FA Cup Renee Slegers’ players will be eager to bounce back from two losses in a row by beating Man UnitedCredit: GettyArsenalFollowing early season wobbles and Jonas Eidevall’s standing down as Gunners boss last October, Arsenal have been mostly impressive under Renee Slegers. With Slegers at the helm the team went on a 13-game unbeaten run earlier this term that was halted by 1-0 loss to Chelsea at the end of January. In the Champions League they have been comeback queens overcoming two and one-goal deficits to knock out Real Madrid and Lyon in the quarters and semi-finals. While Arsenal will battle in the final for the first time in 18 years, the team with the most FA Cup and League Cup wins bowed out of both contests this term. For the first time in three years a Women’s League Cup decider did not feature the Gunners.And surprise losses to Aston Villa and Brighton included them shipping nine goals in their last two WSL games.Against Manchester United at the Emirates today in their final league match this season they will be keen to prove those results  were a blip. Victory today would seal a second spot for Arsenal and their highest finish in the league since the 2021-22 campaign.  A Man United win against Arsenal would see them end their WSL season in second place before their FA Cup final clash with ChelseaCredit: ReutersManchester UnitedFollowing the disappointment of missing out Champions League action this season, Man United have achieved their target of claiming a place in next term’s contest. Defeat of Arsenal at the Emirates today would see the Red Devils end this term second in the top tier for the second time in their history. It would also be a considerable improvement on the fifth place finish that led to Marc Skinner facing criticism from some United supporters. His side have one of the best defensive records in the league this term with Phallon Tullis-Joyce shining in goal. Ahead of United’s Arsenal visit the USA shot stopper has kept 13 clean sheets in 21 top-flight games. Having missed out on a Champions League spot Man City are a targeting an end-of-season hope win before competing in the World Sevens tournament this monthCredit: GettyManchester City Injury struggles derailed Man City’s trophy chase this season with star striker Khadija Shaw among the players currently sidelined.The team pipped to last term’s title on goal difference was among the favourites to push Chelsea all the way. They are currently the only team to have beaten Barcelona in Europe this term. However the high of that 2-0 group stage October win has been followed by some tumultuous moments. These include Chloe Kelly’s loan transfer to Arsenal and the sacking of boss Gareth Taylor Having suffered Champions League and FA Cup heartbreak, the Cityzens are eager to end this term with a home win against Crystal Palace.This month along with Man United they will be competing in the megabucks inaugural seven-a-side tournament World Sevens. Brighton are on course to claim fifth spot which would be their highest finish so far in the WSLCredit: GettyBrightonUNDER Dario Vidosic Brighton look set to achieve their highest ever finish in the league.The head coach, who has previously spoken of his admiration of the playing style of Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona sides, has revamped Brighton.The team’s expansive style has earned them plaudits with Fran Kirby, Nikita Parris, Vicky Losada, Marisa Olislagers among the players who have impressedMichelle Agyemang, on loan from Arsenal and midfielder Maisie Symonds have also shone for the Seagulls. Albion have at times been punished playing out from the back, with their heaviest loss this term occurring at Arsenal last November when they were beaten However this week saw Albion get revenge with their 4-2 defeat of the Gunners in their final home game this term. Their first defeat of Arsenal in the WSL has put them on course for their highest finish with the team in fifth spot. Canada forward Olivia Smith has been one of Liverpool’s most impressive players this seasonCredit: GettyLiverpoolMATT BEARD’s March exit from the Reds’ helm came as a surprise to some WSL observers. Before being axed from his job the ex-Liverpool gaffer had expressed concerns in regard to investment and budget for the team. Interim women’s team boss Amber Whiteley has been doing a solid job overseeing the side who hope to end a run of three losses. Highlights this season include their solid 3-1 defeat of Man United at Anfield in March.Gifted Canada forward Olivia Smith was among their best performers in that game scoring twice. Away from WSL action they knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup and gave Chelsea a run for their money in the semi-finals before falling to a narrow 2-1 defeat. Having finished fourth last term, the Reds hope to drop no lower than sixth this season.Rehanne Skinner’s Irons have had some solid results in the second half of the season including a 2-2 draw away at ChelseaCredit: AlamyWest Ham Rehanne Skinner’s Irons have had a stunning turnaround to their season. Their upturn in form has been followed by the experienced head coach signing a one-year contract extension last month. In late March West Ham were in a relegation scrap and second from bottom following a 2-0 home loss to Chelsea. Since then the Irons resurgence has been remarkable with the team sitting seventh and unbeaten in six of their last eight games. The signing of Shekiera Martinez last July from Freiburg has proved to be a masterstroke.The Germany Under-23 striker has scored 10 goals in 11 WSL appearances.  Defeat of Leicester, if Chelsea beat Liverpool, would see the Irons claim sixth spot, their highest league finish in three years.  Everton hope to build on their impressive 2-0 defeat of Liverpool at Anfield by beating Tottenham at home todayCredit: GettyEvertonTHE Toffees have struggled with injuries at times this term with seven players including experienced midfielder Maren Mjelde currently sidelined. Fitness concerns aside Brian Sorensen’s players have impressed in the second half of this season. Standout results include a 2-1 home defeat of Man City last December and a derby triumph over Liverpool at Anfield last Sunday. Twins Karen and Sara Holmgaard have been among their side’s most impressive performers in this campaignHigh points include Sara providing Karen with an assist during Everton’s 2-1 draw with City last month. Aston Villa have scored eight goals in their last two games ahead of their end-of-season clash with BrightonCredit: GettyAston Villa Natalia Arroyo’s side look set for a strong finish after a topsy turvy season which included a managerial sacking.The Villans parted company with head coach Robert de Pauw last December following a  tough run of one win in nine games The team faced a fierce fight for WSL after a run of seven winless games from January 25 to March 23.However the team have been on a roll since then with four straight victories and Arroyo winning April’s WSL manager of the month award. Their dramatic recovery was capped by a 5-2 trouncing of Arsenal last month. With Villa bidding farewell to Rachel Corsie, Jordan Nobbs, Danielle Turner and Maz Pacheco, they will be keen to end this season with a home win against Brighton.Tottenham will be keen to avoid an end-of-season loss away against Everton having been narrowly beaten Chelsea last time outCredit: PATottenham Compared to their achievements last term, including an FA Cup final debut, Tottenham have had it tough at times this season. A difficult run from February 2 this year has left Robert Vilahamn’s side on the verge of going winless in 10 games. These results have also left his side tenth – four places lower than their sixth-place finish last term. Vilahamn will want Spurs to avoid an unwanted milestone when they visit Everton today.They hope to avoid losing on the last day of the season for the first time in their WSL history. Leicester City could end their season in tenth spot if Tottenham are beaten by EvertonCredit: GettyLeicester CityGritty performances against their rivals in the bottom half of the table helped Leicester survive their battle to avoid the dropThe team are currently seven points above relegated Crystal Palace who they drew with last time out. While they struggled earlier this term, going winless in their first six games, they gathered a bit of momentum in the season’s second half. Among their players who have impressed are skipper Janice Cayman and Wales forward Hannah Cain. High points for their team include them claiming a draw last December against eventual champions Chelsea. A result that led to the Foxes ending the champions’ 13-game winning run at that stage of the season. Crystal Palace face a toughduel with Man City in their final game as a WSL side Women’s Championship nextCredit: GettyCrystal Palace While their two opening WSL encounters ended in brutal 4-0 and 7-0 losses (to Tottenham and Chelsea), Palace occasionally showed they could hold their own The now-relegated Eagles, guided to the top tier by Laura Kaminski, were seen as strong favourites for the drop. However a defeat of Leicester last October followed by draws with Liverpool and Everton suggested they could be a threat to rivals in the lower half of the table Read More on The SunThe sacking of head coach Kaminski in late February was followed by the Eagles picking up one win and a draw from their next seven games. Under boss Leif Smerud the team were unable to build on an impressive March defeat of Aston Villa losing their next five matches.  More