More stories

  • in

    Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson LIVE RESULTS: Card on NOW – fight start time and stream ahead of blockbuster Netflix main event

    HISTORY will be made TONIGHT as Jake Paul and Mike Tyson battle it out in the first-ever combat sports event LIVE on Netflix!Fans have flocked to the Texas AT&T Stadium to see this blockbuster bout that was postponed earlier this year due to 58-year-old Iron Mike’s health scare in May.Before the main event unfolds, Katie Taylor puts her undisputed light-welterweight title on the line in a huge rematch against Amanda Serrano, while Mario Barrios battles Abel Ramos for the WBC welterweight crown.Plus, there are four more incredible bouts on tonight’s historic Netflix card.Main card start time: 1am GMT/8pm ETMain event ring-walk time: 4am GMT/11pm ETLive stream/TV: Netflix (No additional cost to subscribers)How to watch prelims FREEJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: BETTING TIPS AND ODDSFollow ALL the action from this historic Netflix event with our live blog below…Carrington vs Coolwell R6Carrington continues to dominate the fight and is showing no signs of slowing down.Plenty of strikes to the body of Coolwell are landing, but no real major blows of note just yet.Two to go in this one.Copy linkCopiedCarrington vs Coolwell R4Carrington DOWNS Coolwell after landing a big left hook.To his credit, Coolwell was back on his feet in seconds and ended the round the better of the two with some excellent counter punching.Carrington will likely be ahead on the scorecard, but he will be wanting a knockout win on the undercard of his icon Mike Tyson.Copy linkCopiedCarrington vs Coolwell R3Coolwell beginning to take a lot of heavy strikes, but he is showing no signs of slowing down.Carrington’s corner demanding more work to the body of Coolwell.Copy linkCopiedCarrington vs Coolwell R2Coolwell came out the traps at speed, trying to initiate the jab for the first time in the fight.Carrington lands a big right mid-way through the round after soaking up many strikes from his opponent.The undefeated Carrington ends the round in style, landing a superb combination, but Coolwell stays on his feet.This one is beginning to heat up!Copy linkCopiedCarrington vs Coolwell R1The undefeated Carrington is the huge favourite in tonight’s opener, coming into the bout with undefeated after 13 fights.His opponent Coolwell took the fight at very short notice but will be looking to pull off a huge shock on the biggest stage.Carrington certainly the more dominant in the opening round as he looks to figure out his rival.Coolwell on the back foot as you would expect, but certainly holding his own in thereCopy linkCopiedCarrington vs Coolwell first upThe fighters are on their way to the ring for the opening fight of tonight’s blockbuster card.The bout will be eight three minute rounds in the featherweight division.Copy linkCopiedA reminder of the all-important timingsJake Paul vs Mike Tyson – 4am/11pm ETKatie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano – 3am/10pm ETMario Barrios vs Abel Ramos – 2am/9pm ETNeeraj Goyat vs Whindersson Nunes – 1am/8pm ETShadasia Green vs Melinda Watpool – 12am/7pm ETLucas Bahdi vs Armando Casamonica – 11.15pm/6.15pm ETBruce Carrington vs Dana Coolwell – 10.30pm/5.30pm ETCopy linkCopiedReason why Tyson slapped Paul during weigh-inMike Tyson unleashed a slap onto the cheek of Jake Paul during the pair’s weigh-in yesterday.And it now seems that one of Tyson’s friends has revealed exactly why he felt the need to lay hands on the YouTube star before tonight’s bout.Things often get feisty ahead of blockbuster fights, with pushing and shoving not uncommon during pre-bout weigh-ins.However, Tyson’s slap on Paul’s cheek seemed somewhat unprovoked during yesterday’s face-off.That was until a “close friend of Tyson” explained what led the 58-year-old boxing legend to hit Paul on stage.Speaking to USA Today Sports, Tyson’s pal Tom Patti said: “Jake stepped on Mike’s foot, that prompted the reaction. I was there and Mike just told me.’’Unseen reason Mike Tyson slapped Jake Paul at weigh-in ‘revealed by pal after YouTuber’s act angered boxing legend’ Copy linkCopied10 minute warningTonight’s opening fight of the night will get underway at approximately 10.30pm/5.30pm ET.The prelims will feature the following bouts:Shadasia Green vs Melinda Watpool – 12am/7pm ETLucas Bahdi vs Armando Casamonica – 11.15pm/6.15pm ETBruce Carrington vs Dana Coolwell – 10.30pm/5.30pm ETOnce the prelims conclude, the main card featuring Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson will begin on Netflix.Copy linkCopiedPaul vs Tyson TOTTCopy linkCopied‘He must die,’ says Paul in chilling message to TysonJAKE PAUL has warned Mike Tyson “he must die” after their Netflix fight was made “personal” by a shocking on-stage slap.Fans are eagerly awaiting tonight’s boxing clash at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas after months of hype.Tyson set a new tone for the contest when he clashed with Paul during their weigh-in.The boxing icon delivered a powerful slap to the face of his social media star opponent.With his face still ringing from Tyson’s hand, Paul declared: “Mike Tyson, that was a cute slap buddy.“But tomorrow, you’re getting knocked the f**k out. I’m f*****g him up, I’m f*****g up.“He hits like a b***h. It’s personal now, it’s personal now. He must die.”Copy linkCopiedPaul vs Tyson rulesThe huge bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will be a maximum of eight rounds of two minutes each.It has been confirmed that the pair will both use 14oz gloves instead of 10oz.Both fighters will be in the ring without headguards as the fight has been professional sanctioned.And knockouts WILL be allowed in the fight.As mentioned above, the fight has been sanctioned by the Texas Athletic and is a fully professional content that will count towards the career records of both Paul and Tyson.Rules at a glance:Eight two-minute roundsNo headguardsKOs allowedProfessionally sanctioned14oz glovesCopy linkCopiedUp firstTonight’s first fight will see Bruce Carrington take on Dana Coolwell from around 10.30pm GMT/5.30pm ET.Heavy favourite Carrington has an impressive unbeaten record of 13-0, with eight wins coming by way of knockout.The featherweight bout should not disappoint in our opener this evening.Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedRunning order of tonight’s showHere are the timings for all seven of tonight’s bouts (subject to change)Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson – 4am/11pm ETKatie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano – 3am/10pm ETMario Barrios vs Abel Ramos – 2am/9pm ETNeeraj Goyat vs Whindersson Nunes – 1am/8pm ETShadasia Green vs Melinda Watpool – 12am/7pm ETLucas Bahdi vs Armando Casamonica – 11.15pm/6.15pm ETBruce Carrington vs Dana Coolwell – 10.30pm/5.30pm ETCopy linkCopiedWhat time can we expect Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson?Ring-walks for Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson are expected to get underway at approximately 4am GMT/11pm ET.The bout will begin at around 4.30am GMT/11.30pm ET.Timings are subject to the length of the undercard fights.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHigh stakesJake Paul has boasted that he is set to pocket a staggering £31million ($40m) for his Netflix showdown against Mike Tyson.While Tyson has accepted a reported £15.4m ($20m).Paul even cheekily released a video offering Tyson an extra $5m if he can last more than four rounds in their fight.However, the caveat to the bet states that if Iron Mike fails to get past the fourth round then he must get a tattoo that reads ‘I love Jake Paul’.Tyson responded to the offer saying: “He should offer more.”Tell him probably about 20 (million).”Copy linkCopiedWho is on the star-studded undercard?Tonight’s main event is not the only blockbuster bout fans will be treated to…Katie Taylor will go head-to-head with Amanda Serrano for a second time.Taylor will put her undisputed super-lightweight status on the line in one of the most anticipated fights of the night.Here is tonight’s card in FULL:Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson (heavyweight)Katie Taylor (defending champion) vs Amanda Serrano 2 (undisputed women’s super-lightweight titles)Mario Barrios (interim C) vs Abel Ramos (WBC welterweight title)Shadasia Green vs Melinda Watpool (vacant women’s WBO super-middleweight title)Lucas Bahdi vs Armando Casamonica (lightweight)Bruce Carrington vs Dana Coolwell (featherweight)Neeraj Goyat vs Whindersson Nunes (middleweight)Copy linkCopiedWeigh-in results58-year-old Mike Tyson will go into tonight’s bout more than 1lbs heavier than his opponent, Jake Paul.Here are each fighter’s official weights:Jake Paul – 227.2lbsMike Tyson – 228.4lbsCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAbout last nightMike Tyson threatened to kick off his fight with Jake Paul a day early after landing a SLAP on him during their final face-off.The heavyweight legend returns to the ring for a controversial comeback bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul in Texas.And Tyson looked in sensational shape as he hit the scales at 228.4lb (16st 3lb) while wearing a pair of Versace briefs.That was just before Paul came in a career-heaviest 227.2lb (16st 2lb) nearly TWO STONE above his usual fighting weight.The two squared off for the final time but Tyson landed a slap on Paul – before the prankster-gone-prizefighter could get close.It sparked a near-brawl on the stage as the two camps and security intervened and pulled the pair apart.Paul, 27, walked off with an unconvincing roar while Tyson, 58, was calmed down by his entourage before sending out one final warning.He said: “The talking’s over.”Mike Tyson SLAPS Jake Paul before being pulled apart by security in chaotic weigh in before controversial Netflix fightCopy linkCopiedIs Paul vs Tyson on a standard Netflix subscription or is it on PPV?The question a lot of fans have been asking.Paul vs Tyson on your standard Netflix sub seems too good to be true – but the fight IS available on a standard subscription at NO EXTRA COST.A current ads-supported subscription will set you back £4.99-a-month (or $6.99 in the US), while a standard one, which allows you to watch on two devices at once, is £10.99-a-month ($15.49).Both of those options allow you to watch the action in Full HD.There is a premium subscription which costs £17.99-a-month ($22.99), however.And that allows users to watch on four devices at the same time, the option to add two members of a different household AND the ability to watch in Ultra HD quality.Copy linkCopiedGood evening and welcome to SunSport’s live blog of Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson!Tonight, the feud between internet sensation Paul and boxing icon Tyson will finally get settled in the ring.The pair were originally scheduled to fight in July, but the fight was delayed after Iron Mike had a health scare on a flight.Tyson suffered an ulcer flare-up in May, which led to the bout being moved to tonight.The blockbuster bout has been viewed as highly controversial, with Tyson taking to the ring at the age of 58 against someone 31 years his junior.Tonight’s main event will be streamed LIVE on Netflix, which is the streaming giants’ first venture into combat sports.Credit: APCopy linkCopied More

  • in

    Man Utd wonderkid eyed by Premier League rivals Aston Villa for shock transfer after missing out on signing before

    MANCHESTER UNITED wonderkid Harry Amass is being targeted by Premier League rivals Aston Villa, reports suggest.Amass, 17, has been considered as a very promising young prospect at United ever since his arrival from Watford in 2023.Aston Villa are keeping tabs on Manchester United wonderkid Harry AmassCredit: GettyVilla have been monitoring Amass, front, third left, since last year, before Man Utd signed himCredit: GettyThe left-back impressed former manager Erik ten Hag, who called him up to train with the first team in February.Ten Hag also issued the England Under-18 international his first ever senior call-up with the Red Devils.Amass was included in the matchday squad against Liverpool in April but remained an unused substitute.However, the teenage sensation has yet to play for the senior squad and mostly featured for Man Utd’s Under-18s and Under-21s last season.Read More on Man UtdAccording to TEAMtalk, that has led to to interest from Villa who are monitoring developments around the young defender.The Villans have been keeping tabs on Amass since last year when they missed out on his signature by losing the bidding war to United.The full-back is under contract until 2027 and the Manchester giants would probably not welcome any interest in the youngster.However, reports suggest Man Utd may look to strengthen at left-back despite Amass impressing during pre-season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPlus, both Ten Hag and former interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy wouldn’t use him despite injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.But Ten Hag was sacked last month and Van Nistelrooy will not be included in new manager Ruben Amorim’s coaching staff.Man Utd fans claim Ruben Amorim could be ‘new Jurgen Klopp’ after heartwarming gesture on stadium tourAmorim is planning to try new things at Old Trafford and could continue the same tactics he used at Sporting Lisbon that saw him fielding three defenders at the back.But in order for that formation to work the Portuguese tactician will need very capable wing-backs, which could create an opportunity for Amass. More

  • in

    Bethany England backs ‘underdogs’ Tottenham to find their mojo in derby duel with Arsenal

    BETHANY ENGLAND would love nothing more than a return to Sarina Wiegman’s England fold. But on Saturday the Tottenham captain’s focus will be on attempting to lead her team-mates to a derby victory over Arsenal. Tottenham hope to pick up their third win in the league this term when they host Arsenal at Spurs StadiumCredit: GettySpurs’ last WSL outing ended as a 4-0 away loss to Man City following a derby win against West HamCredit: GettyArsenal won their last league encounter against Tottenham at the Emirates avenging their first loss to their neighbours in the WSL last DecemberCredit: GettyThe 1:45pm clash at Spurs Stadium will take place three days before Wiegman’s squad announcement ahead of the Lionesses’ two final matches this year. Up first is a November 30 friendly clash with the United States at Wembley followed by a Bramall Lane match against Switzerland on December 3. The last time England, 30, featured for the Lionesses was as a substitute last August, when they competed in a World Cup final for the first time. A hip injury following the team’s 1-0 loss to Spain in that game, kept the striker sidelined for the first three months of last seasonRead More Football StoriesEngland, who was part of Wiegman’s 2022 Euros winning side, has not featured for the national side since. And while an international return before next year’s European Championships would be “amazing”, the Spurs’ skipper’s focus is on her club’s performance. England, who has 26 senior caps, said: “Obviously I’d love nothing more than to be named in that squad. “The next international camp is coming up and it’s up to Sarina (Wiegman) . Most read in Football”I can only control what I can control and make sure when I am on the pitch with Tottenham, I’m doing the best that I can. “We all know how football works and I’ve had a really amazing time with England. “Whether there will be more time in the future, I would welcome that with open arms. “All I can do now is control my own performances at my club.”Since joining Tottenham from Chelsea last January for a then British-record WSL transfer fee England has been influential in their recent history-making moments. Among them is captaining the side to a first North London derby victory in the top tier last December and leading them to an FA Cup final for the first time in May. The beauty of the game is so many things can happen and being the underdog isn’t always a bad thing. Bethany England Tottenham’s 1-0 win against Arsenal last December was preceded by England’s return to action from her hip injury in an away clash with Manchester United. A duel that Spurs, who are seventh, lost 4-0 before winning their next four games across all competitions. England, whose side have one win from their last four games, adds: “We were able to come off the back of an even worse defeat last year and turn it around. “I don’t see why it’s not impossible to do it this time. Both teams are going in (to this game) in different situations. “Arsenal haven’t had the best of runs (in the WSL) either but they’re going into the game off the back of a 5-0 win (against Brighton). “It’s going to be a completely different mindset for them coming to this compared to us. It’s not an impossible task.”Under Renee Slegers, the Gunners’ form has improved with the team having won four of their five games under their stand-in boss. However, England, who has scored twice in seven WSL games this term, said: “We’ve beaten them before. “We have the calibre of players to be able to do it again. But we won’t underestimate them.”Hopefully this week we can show we can step up our form and get the win.”With six points currently separating third-placed Brighton from Tottenham, England feels the competition this term is an exciting one for neutrals. And the striker who recorded a Transport for London announcement for fans arriving at White Hart Lane station tomorrow, believes a Spurs win could be a turning point for their season. She said: “For me it’s nice to see different teams being near the top. “It shows how much the game is growing and it’s not always going to be the same teams in (third or) fourth. “It makes it more exciting and interesting to the fans who watch us.”The beauty of the game is so many things can happen and being the underdog isn’t always a bad thing going into a game like this one. “If this can be the turning point for us, it will change the trajectory of our season. “We’ve just got to find our mojo again. Hopefully we can bring that this weekend.”Since head coach Robert Vilahamn took charge of the team last July, Tottenham have undergone a bit of an overhaul.Among the seven players who sealed Spurs transfers this summer are Australia forward Hayley Raso, 30, and Spain midfielder Maite Oroz, 26, who like Raso, joined from Real Madrid. And young Lionesses defender Ella Morris, 22, made a June move from Southampton. Morris’ England Under-23’s team-mate Lenna Gunning-Williams, is among the promising prospects to have come through Tottenham’s academy ranks in recent years. Lenna Gunning-Williams has made four top-flight appearances for Tottenham so far this termCredit: AlamyThe London-born forward, who joined Spurs at 16 and scored 38 goals in 39 games for their Under-21s, has made four substitute appearances for their WSL side. This followed her making her senior Tottenham debut two years ago ahead of a season-long loan move to Ipswich last term England said: “I also want that family environment for the youth coming through.”It’s important for the youngsters to know they’re having to work just as hard because this league is getting harder and harder every year.”You look at Lenna – she’s coming on in a lot more games and was on loan last year. Arsenal have gone five games unbeaten across all competitions following Renee Slegers taking charge of the team last monthCredit: Getty”She’s come in this season, put in some good performances and helped us get the win at West Ham. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You’ve seen the youth development here and this club has got huge ambition. “To be a part of that ambition and the history going forward is a huge honour for me.” More

  • in

    Ruben Amorim says Man Utd are ‘the engine of the Premier League’ and reveals how his team will play under his management

    RUBEN AMORIM vowed to lead Manchester United into a new era of no-fear football.And the boss, 39, promised not to hang around in making it full steam ahead for the Red Devils — who he branded “the engine of the Premier League”.Ruben Amorim vowed to lead Manchester United into a new era of no-fear footballCredit: GettyAmorim described Man Utd as the ‘engine of the Premier League’Credit: GettyAmorim is the sixth manager to try and haul United to their feet after the dismal decade since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013Credit: GettyAmorim takes charge of 13th-placed United for the first time at Ipswich on November 24.The Portuguese gaffer, whose deal runs to June 2027, said: “We know it will take time and we will try to win time with the games.“But from day one we have to play without fear, without thinkingthey are not used to playing like this. This is not on my mind. They will start on the first day with our idea, no matter what.”Amorim is the sixth manager to try and haul United to their feet after the dismal decade since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.Read More on Man UtdJose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal were among those post-Fergie gaffers to fall short.And there was more fear than flair in two-and-a-bit seasons under Erik ten Hag.Yet Amorim is not fazed by the weight of history.He added: “It’s a great responsibility but you feel honoured and excited to be part of that.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“If the team plays well and wins games, everything looks so much better. We are the engine of football — Manchester United is the engine of the Premier League in my opinion.“For a long time we haven’t won the Premier  League but United is the biggest club in England.Man Utd fans claim Ruben Amorim could be ‘new Jurgen Klopp’ after heartwarming gesture on stadium tour“This is part of the history but it isn’t now, so we have to address that and try to win again.“All the people are hungry for success and this is the place I want to be because of that — because you can be part of something special.”That opportunity convinced Amorim to leave Sporting Lisbon — where he ended a 19-year title drought with two in four years.He leaves the Portuguese giants with a perfect record of 11 wins from 11 league games this season — yet the lure of Old Trafford was too good to turn down. And for all he was on the radar of others at times — including Liverpool and Chelsea — he claims he would not have left his homeland for anyone else.Amorim added: “I’m really honoured to be here. It was my only choice because I feel how big this club is. I will do everything for the team.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I will defend my players if I have to and I will do everything to put this club in the place it belongs. And I believe we are going to succeed.”For the full interview check out manutd.com, MUTV and the club’s social-media outlets. More

  • in

    When choosing Match of the Day’s new host, BBC must take a good look at Football Focus & do the EXACT opposite

    SOME advice for the BBC team choosing the new Match Of The Day presenter and their team.Take a good look at Football Focus and then do the exact opposite. Gary Lineker will be replaced as host of Match of the DayCredit: BBCAlex Scott sees it as her divine mission to re-educate the herd and often punctuates her speeches with the phrase: ‘Football is for everyone’Credit: GettyI promise them, if they go in the polar opposite direction, the show won’t go far wrong.For, on the face of it, both shows should be performing the same basic task.They show some football highlights and then the host engages in some tactical analysis and light-hearted banter with two knowledgeable ex-pros.It’s almost impossible to screw up, yet this is precisely what the BBC has achieved by allowing Football Focus to be captured by host Alex Scott and the cult of woke.Read More on SportTo the extent that football is no longer even the chief focus of the show.Despite the title, it’s now a political propaganda exercise which would much rather tell you about Black History Month, a trans referee or Russell Martin’s veganism than look forward to the weekend’s games and back at the previous week’s goals.Last Saturday, for instance, the Chelsea v Arsenal preview was left to an obscure Afro beats jazz group called the Ezra Collective and there were updates from the England women’s amputee team and the performance of England’s partially sighted futsal squad at the European championships, but not a word about the Scottish League Cup semi-finals.And in case you think this is just the fringe carping of a bitter Tartan Army obsessive, it’s not. Most read in FootballWell, not entirely, because Alex and her woke agenda have crushed everything in their path, including the giants of the game and even ignored the 30th anniversary of Bobby Moore’s death last year, because they were too busy covering the Football v Homophobia awards and updating viewers on the mental health struggles of a random French female footballer, Wendie Renard.Alex Scott, who’s rarely off her high horse, sees it as her divine mission, of course, to re-educate the herd and often punctuates her speeches with the phrase: “Football is for everyone.”Gabby Logan backed to replace Gary Lineker on Match Of The Day by Lorraine Kelly saying she’d be ‘fantastic and amazing’She doesn’t mean it, obviously. Watch Football Focus with its new generation of tedious young female pundits who’ve all swallowed the coaching manual, and out-of-their-depth reporters like Love Island’s Jordan Mainoo-Hames, and you’ll quickly realise, as a middle-aged bloke, you’re the last person the BBC wants to watch the showWe’ve taken the hint as well and Football Focus viewing figures have fallen from 849,000, in 2019, to 564,000, by 2023. Alex Scott’s over-entitled reaction to this “go woke go broke” disaster is perhaps telling.Rather than realise the viewers have a point and change the show accordingly, she has threatened to quit hosting Football Focus and move to America due to a perceived lack of support from management.The BBC should use her threat as guidance during their MOTD recruitment process and as an opportunity to pull its sport content back from the brink of total destruction.READ MORE SUN STORIESIf Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan both want to replace Gary Lineker, choose the better candidate.And if Alex Scott threatens to quit and go to America if she doesn’t get it, drive her to the airport. More

  • in

    Paul Pogba finally free to make Prem return as Juventus rip up ex-Man Utd star’s contract with blunt 34-word statement

    JUVENTUS have ripped up Paul Pogba’s contract after his recent doping ban.Pogba, 31, was initially handed a four-year ban from football for a doping offence, before the suspension was reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.Paul Pogba and Juventus reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contractCredit: GettyEx-Manchester United star Pogba’s future is currently uncertainCredit: APIt meant he was able to return to training with Juve from January and could have played as soon as March.However, the Bianconeri and the former Manchester United star have mutually decided to terminate his contract.The Serie A giants confirmed the news with a short and blunt 34-word statement that stated Pogba will become a free agent on November 30.It read: “Juventus Football Club and Paul Pogba announce that they have reached a mutual agreement for the termination of their contract as of 30 November, 2024.Read More on Football”The club wishes Paul the very best for his professional future.”Pogba, 31, tested positive for banned substance DHEA — which naturally boosts testosterone production — in August 2023.The former Manchester United star claimed he took it by accident.But the Anti-Doping Prosecutor’s Office dismissed Pogba’s pleas and handed him a four-year ban in February — effectively ending the French World Cup winner’s playing career.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, Pogba was handed a major lifeline this month after taking his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.They reduced his ban from four years to 18 months.Paul Pogba ban reducedPogba’s future is currently unknown but the ex-France star appears keen to return at top level and that has sparked immense speculation about a potential Premier League return.And Arsenal heroes Emmanuel Petit and Bacary Sagna have urged their former club to sign the midfielder.Petit claims his fellow Frenchman would make a perfect addition to Mikel Arteta’s side due to his motivation to “wash his name”.Sagna, on the other hand, argues Pogba would be bringing a lot of Premier League experience combined with a “desire” to start fresh.The ex-France captain issued a touching farewell message to Juventus fans after his contract was terminated.Pogba posted on Instagram: “There are moments when things don’t go the way we want, but one thing is certain: the bond I have with you, dear fans, will remain unforgettable. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You have given me so much, more than I can put into words, and I will always carry with me all the affection you gave me. “You’ll be in my heart, aways. Good luck @juventus.”What is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023.DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production. It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket. More

  • in

    Coote’s language is warm air in thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour… what about the poor ref PUNCHED by club chief?

    QUESTION of the week — who would be a referee?One faces the sack after using a naughty word about Jurgen Klopp.David Coote’s outburst was as nothing compared to other incidentsCredit: APCoote was captured sniffing white powder at Euro 2024His future in officiating is clearly in doubtCredit: XAnother in Turkey at least got some justice after being whacked in the face by a club president.We can dispense quickly with ref David Coote’s angry little outburst against the former Liverpool manager.His addition of “German” to a part of a woman’s anatomy is not going down well with the FA,  which ordered an investigation.Coote failed to prevent the release of a private video which recorded his comment and this particular coot was out of the bag and flying at Klopp.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt wasn’t much of an insult really, one heard all the time on the field and in the stands — without the “German” bit.No doubt even the full curse has been heard by Klopp himself.Even so, with the subsequent other videos which have surfaced in this newspaper to add to the first, you can expect Coote’s sacking to be confirmed.If you require something rather more painful, try MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca’s right-hander that broke the eye socket of Halil Umut Meler.Most read in FootballEx-Liverpool chief Jurgen Klopp was the subject of Coote’s little rantCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKoca was furious after Ankaragucu conceded an equaliser to ten-man Caykur in the 97th minute of a game in December 2023. Who blew the final whistle — if it was ever blown — has been lost in translation.Snorting ref David Coote set up drugs party in Travelodge before Man City game – & even sent half time text about itShocking David Coote Klopp video in fullFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.“Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.“So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.“Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”As Meler collapsed to the floor,  other men started kicking him.He was taken to hospital for emergency surgery as politicians and football gentry queued to say how appalling the incident was.That incident led to all Turkish Super Lig football being suspended for a week.Yet last week, that self-anointed sage of world football Jose Mourinho suggested officiating in the country’s top flight “smells bad”.Mourinho — Fenerbahce boss since June — questioned why fans from other countries would watch the game there.The former Chelsea manager has complained about refs wherever he has coached.But his views have forceful support, even if many people in football see his criticism as an application for a job elsewhere.However, Meler has a good reputation as a top Fifa and Uefa ref and officiated West Ham in the Conference League last season.Meler recalled: “Faruk Koca punched me under my left eye.Faruk Koca is appealing against a jail term for punching a refereeCredit: GettyJose Mourinho blasted refereeing in the Turkish top flightCredit: Getty“I fell. While I was on the ground, other people kicked me in the face and other parts of my body many times.”Koca was this week sentenced to 3½ years in jail. But he is yet to start that term pending an appeal, with Ankaragucu chairman Ismail Mert Firat arguing “no disgraceful crime” was committed.There isn’t a football-playing country in the world without conflict between fans and referees — and Turkey isn’t alone in featuring furious club officers.In Brazil, a fourth-division president punched a referee last year and was banned for 30 days.In DR Congo, a referee was chased from the field by women players and supporters for failing to award a penalty. Women! I thought better of us.Verbal attacks and match violence all over the world.In Spain, they count offences in the hundreds. In the UK, too.Ivan Savvidis, the gun-carrying owner of Greek side Thessaloniki and his bodyguards marched on to the pitch after the ref disallowed a last-minute goal during a game with AEK Athens in 2018.And in the United States, a player was jailed for a minimum eight years in 2015 after punching a ref — who died two days after.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe world  seems to be suffering from a social disease and at the centre of it is the poor old ref.By comparison, Coote’s language is warm air in a thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour.No referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.” More

  • in

    Jude Bellingham shows he can be Tuchel’s main man for England but Cole Palmer and Phil Foden will struggle for minutes

    JUDE BELLINGHAM’S comments were as pointed as the rampaging run through the Greek defence which led to England’s second goal.“A lot was made of the lads that weren’t here but the lads that were here, who showed up, were amazing,” said the Real Madrid Galactico.Jude Bellingham put on a masterclass as England beat Greece 3-0Cole Palmer withdrew from the squad after picking up a knock his last two Prem gamesBellingham showed up, big time, in Athens on Thursday, with a leader’s performance which propelled England to the top of their Nations League and confirmed him as his nation’s first-choice No 10.Since the Euros we have spent a lot of time wondering whether Lee Carsley – and, soon, Thomas Tuchel – could fit England’s three great attacking midfield talents into the same team.The conundrum surrounding Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer – who all prefer to play in that No 10 role – has become like the old Gerrard-Lampard riddle writ large.Interim boss Carsley started with all three in central positions – and no recognised centre-forward – in the chaotic 2-1 home defeat by Greece last month.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut when Foden and Palmer were part of a mass withdrawal from this England squad, Bellingham bossed Thursday night’s 3-0 victory over the same opposition.The feeling – shared by skipper Harry Kane – is that certain players who pulled out of Carsley’s squad would have been present had Tuchel taken up his post before these final two Nations League matches against Greece and at home to Ireland on Sunday.Chelsea talisman Palmer and Manchester City’s Footballer of the Year Foden both played the full 90 minutes for their clubs last weekend and, if you were a betting man, you might fancy them to do the same next weekend too.In their absence, England thrived in a hostile environment producing the sort of truly convincing performance which has been rare in 2024.  Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBellingham has often been shoved into unfavoured positions on the left and in a deeper midfield role for Real but he is surely the man Tuchel will build his England team around.Palmer and Foden, as outstanding as they are at club level, will struggle to nail down places in the starting line-up when everyone is fit.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probePhil Foden started the season injured and again withdrew from England dutyFoden has rarely impressed in 43 international appearances and during this summer’s Euros, he and Bellingham did not co-exist effectively.Could Palmer or Foden be accommodated on the right by Tuchel? It is difficult to imagine them starting ahead of Bukayo Saka or Noni Madueke, whose pace and intelligence were key to England’s win over Greece.“There would have been a million and one excuses if we hadn’t played well or not got over the line,” said Bellingham, “but the lads did their business so professionally.”Curtis Jones enjoyed an excellent debut in central midfield and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers shone as a second-half sub on his first senior appearance for the Three Lions.The absentees have inadvertently given Tuchel plenty of food for thought because those who stepped into the breach proved their own credentials against a Greek side who wiped the Wembley floor with England last month.Lee Carsley will go back to the under-21s after this international breakThomas Tuchel will begin work as England manager in JanuaryWhile Carsley’s brief reign has often felt confusing, he will leave a decent legacy of having promoted several members of his European champion Under-21 side into the senior ranks.Jones, Madueke, Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White all triumphed at that tournament in Georgia last year and all have enjoyed their elevation to the first team.Asked about their impact, Carsley said: “They’ve put themselves in a really good position.“We spoke about the amount of players who weren’t here but it’s given six or seven players some opportunity to be in a venue like that, to experience that kind of atmosphere. They’ve done themselves a lot of good.“To get an opportunity to play and be as exciting and attacking as they were is good to watch. We want to see a side that’s playing with energy, enthusiasm, creating chances and we had that.“They won at under-18 level as well and I think it definitely helps. We’ve seen that with Germany in the past and with Spain so why can’t that be England?”Carsley sees Bellingham, 21, as a leader for the clutch of emerging England players – even though some of them are older than the Real man.He added: “Jude always plays with responsibility. You only see it during games but he does it in training, he leads by example.“He’s a really good person to have around because people want to aspire to him.”As for Carsley’s biggest gamble of Thursday night – benching Kane in favour of Ollie Watkins – that was a ballsy move which paid off when the Villa man netted the early opener.Yet he will revert to starting Kane against the Irish and tried to claim that England’s record goalscorer had been rotated rather than dropped – a euphemism which the skipper is unlikely to appreciate.Carsley said: “Harry’s playing on Sunday, he’ll start. He’s captain, he’s so important to the team. Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.“It was just a case of having a look at something different, giving someone else the experience who has not had a lot of chances.“I definitely didn’t drop Harry Kane. He’s done well for me every game he’s played and been involved with. It wasn’t a case of being dropped, far from it.“Ollie is playing in the Champions League with Villa, he’s doing really well, the same with Morgan Rogers. It’s great he got a goal, it looks like a great decision then doesn’t it?”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt certainly did look like a great decision from Carsley.Just as it looked like a terrible decision for several others not to turn up.England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money. More