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      in Soccer

      Ange Postecoglou appears to angrily STARE DOWN Tottenham fan as flops are booed off after Ipswich shock

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU appeared to angrily stare down a Tottenham fan after his flops were booed off the pitch against Ipswich.Spurs looked to be flying high several weeks ago when they dumped Man City out of the Carabao Cup.Ange Postecoglou appeared to angrily stare down a Tottenham fanThe incident came as Spurs lost 2-1 at home to IpswichCredit: GettyThey then thrashed Champions League outfit Aston Villa 4-1 at home.And despite seeing their B team lose 3-2 in the Europa League to Galatasaray, supporters were extremely confident of a big victory against struggling Premier League newbies Ipswich.Kieran McKenna’s promoted side were yet to win a game this season.But the Tractor Boys upset the odds to seal an incredible 2-1 triumph in North London.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpurs fans were left enraged by the result as they jeered players off at the final whistle.However, that wasn’t the only incident at full time.As Tottenham boss Postecoglou headed to the tunnel, he zoned in on one fan giving it large.It is not known what the supporter – or supporters – said or did.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut Postecoglou was clearly annoyed by it. And he stopped dead in his tracks at the tunnel entrance before looking upwards and staring at the naughty fan.Chelsea fans LOVE Eden Hazard’s reaction as Blues legend is pranked by barber with Tottenham shirtThe result marked Ipswich’s first win of the seasonCredit: GettyPostecoglou insisted he should take the blame for Spurs’ inconsistencyCredit: GettyTottenham’s boss held his glare for several seconds, with some staff members also joining him.But Postecoglou eventually headed inside and undoubtedly gave his Spurs players a dressing down.Speaking in the tunnel, the Australian said: “We were very passive, we didn’t get the tempo or intensity right. Ultimately, it’s my responsibility.“It’s got nothing to do with the players. The inconsistency we’re having this year is down to me.“I’ve got to make sure that I try and find a way for us to become a more consistent side.“The fans will be disappointed, they have a right to be. Like I said, the responsibility lies with me to fix it.”Big Ange also hit out at Ipswich for perceived time wasting, adding: “I think it’s the way the Premier League is going.“It’s pretty strategic now. It’s funny – I always liked the Premier League because it wasn’t like that.“You’d watch teams play in Europe and get frustrated by it, but now it’s part of the game here as well. There’s nothing we can do about it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“For us, if we want to mitigate those things – because we don’t do it and we want the game to be played – then we shouldn’t give opportunities for the opposition to do that.”Postecoglou has the international break to “fix” things – then faces Man City away in the first game back. More

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      in Soccer

      Bizarre reason Ivan Toney is loving life in Saudi Arabia revealed – and it reminds him of home

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      ENGLAND striker Ivan Toney is loving Saudi — because it reminds him of Milton Keynes.The star, 28, is “idolised” in Jeddah, which boasts modern buildings dotted around grid-like roads.England striker Ivan Toney is loving Saudi — because it reminds him of Milton KeynesCredit: GettyIgnoring the hot temperatures, there are similarities to the Bucks city in which Ivan previously lived — and where he met Katie Bio, mother to his two children.A pal said: “Ivan is loving life there because it reminds him of MK.”They have the same system of roads and buildings.“If it wasn’t for the sunshine, you could think you were in Buckinghamshire.”read more on ivan ToneyToney lived there when playing for Peterborough before moving to Brentford. He is said to be on £20million a year after a transfer to Al-Ahli in the summer.Saudi’s strict betting laws are also good for the star, previously banned for gambling.Ivan also has special permission to live out of wedlock.Most read in FootballThe pal added: “The lack of temptation suits Ivan after everything he’s been through. “Getting out and about because of the culture and heat is tough — but that means he’s getting quality time with the family.” Ivan Toney makes very generous offer to pals in leaving speech before Britain’s new highest-paid player jets to SaudiIvan is said to be earning £20million a yearCredit: GettyIvan transfered to Al-Ahli in the summerCredit: GettyA pal of Ivan’s said Jeddah has ‘the same system of roads and buildings’ as Milton KeynesCredit: GettyJeddah boasts much warner tempreturesCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Kai Havertz gets instant karma as he SHUSHES Chelsea fans after scoring against former side but VAR ruins it immediately

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      KAI HAVERTZ received instant karma for shushing Chelsea fans in a goal celebration as VAR ruled the effort out for offside.The German was heavily involved in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.Kai Havertz received instant karma as he shushed Chelsea fans after scoring against his old sideCredit: GettyThe Arsenal star was deemed offside by VAR as the Gunners drew 1-1 at Stamford BridgeGabriel Martinelli opened the scoring in the second half with a pinpoint strike at close range.But Pedro Neto’s blaster from distanced ensured Chelsea bagged a point at home.Things could have turned out differently though had an earlier Arsenal goal from Havertz been allowed to stand.The former Blues star was routinely booed by the Stamford Bridge faithful, 16 months after swapping West London for the capital’s north.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, despite Havertz scoring the goal that secured Chelsea’s second Champions League triumph in 2021, it appeared the feeling ran both ways.The German slipped in behind during the first half of the game to slot past Robert Sanchez and give Arsenal the lead.Havertz immediately burst into jubilant celebrations and even SHUSHED Chelsea fans as he goaded them with gleeful intent.The Bridge was shocked into silence at seeing a former son come back to haunt them in such brutal fashion.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the smirk was quickly wiped from Havertz’s face when it was announced that VAR was taking a look for a potential offside.Refs back at Stockley Park took their time to examine Havertz’s body when he moved to receive the ball.Arsenal player ratings v Chelsea (1)Havertz looked to have given Arsenal the lead against ChelseaCredit: GettyVAR quickly intervened as fans reacted to Havertz’s choice of celebrationCredit: GettyAnd the lines were then drawn up to reveal he was fractionally offside.Chelsea fans cheered loudly as Havertz’s goal was then ruled out on the big screen.The forward’s head immediately dropped as karma took its course instantly.And supporters reacted on social media in mixed fashion.One said: “Shame on him.”Another declared: “This is so painful.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “He will score again.”Another added: “Was he meant to not celebrate?” More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd set unwanted Premier League record despite thumping Leicester 3-0 in Van Nistelrooy’s final game

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      MANCHESTER UNITED broke an unwanted club record despite Ruud van Nistelrooy signing off in style.The Red Devils beat Leicester 3-0 in the interim manager’s final match at the helm.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s spell as interim boss has come to an endCredit: GettyVan Nistelrooy’s future is unclear with the incoming Ruben Amorim set to appoint his own assistant coaches.The Dutch legend has overseen cup wins against Leicester and PAOK, as well as a Premier League draw with Chelsea and today’s victory over the Foxes for a second time.Despite the upturn in form, United are still languishing in 13th.And it is the first time the club has ever gone into the November international break in the bottom half of the table in Prem history.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYet they are only four points away from third after Chelsea and Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw.Van Nistelrooy was serenaded by the Stretford End as he lapped up the love from supporters on his way to the tunnel after today’s game.The club icon, who scored 150 goals for United as a player, said after the game: “It is a closure to the block of four games and the future is open.”It was a beautiful moment to be able to share that with the supporters, it was special.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”A beautiful moment and to show gratitude to them [the fans], I can’t thank them enough.”On his efforts since Erik ten Hag’s sacking, he added: “We tried to stabilise after a difficult and emotional period.’That is so disrespectful’ says fans as Alejandro Garnacho snaps back in altercation with Man Utd fan”We wanted to get players performing at their best, we got the right feeling to them and got them believing in themselves.”This spell was a big responsibility, I took it very seriously. “I wanted to help and get United into a better place, that was my goal.”With three wins and a draw it is a standard where you want to grow to as a club.”Man Utd ratings v LeicesterHere’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the Red Devils.ANDRE ONANA – 7Stood tall when Ndidi went through on goal and a decent tip round the post from Ayew as Leicester tried to get back in it.NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 6Lucky to escape tackle on Buonanotte without any punishment. Supplied the cross from the left which led to United’s second goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Made a key second half clearance when the Foxes were trying to find their way back into the game. Fairly comfortable afternoon for home defenders.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Spent the first hour at centre half then showed his versatility by switching to left-back when Dalot was forced off.DIOGO DALOT – 6Did a steady job keeping the Foxes at bay but then taken off on the hour – presumably due to injury as United had to reshuffle their defence.CASEMIRO – 7Better from the veteran Brazilian who helped United take command of the game before getting the chance to put his feet up late on.MANUEL UGARTE – 6Great challenge on Soumare showed what he is all about and some signs he is finding his feet. Will be looking forward to arrival of former boss Amorim.AMAD DIALLO – 7Delightful backheel for Fernandes to curl home the opener and could have scored himself. The Ivorian has had a good week.  BRUNO FERNANDES – 8Presented with a shirt to mark his 250th appearance before the game and will be getting more plaudits for his performance here. Involved in all three goals.MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Given the nod to start ahead of Garnacho but did not do enough to justify the faith of Van Nistelrooy. No surprise when he was replaced by the Argentine on the hour.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5A largely ineffective afternoon for the Danish forward before he was subbed late on. Nothing wrong with his work-rate but does he have the quality Amorim will want? More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd slammed for selling burnt pie at Old Trafford as sickened fans say ‘fitting for the season they’re having’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have been used to half-baked performances this season.This time they got a performance at full heat on the pitch – but a burnt pie off it that was as dark as any display under Erik ten Hag.Supporters responded with scorching comments to this grim fareBruno Fernandes was the main man as Man Utd beat Leicester 3-0Credit: GettyOld Trafford supporters loved Sunday’s 3-0 win over Leicester, with Bruno Fernandes notching a goal and an assist.But they found one fan’s shocking picture of an overdone offering from the catering department too tough to chew. Perhaps United only “singe when they’re winning” – as the crusty calamity in the stands coincided with a tasty triumph out in the middle.And caretaker chief Ruud van Nistelrooy certainly got a rousing response at the end, after bowing out with three wins and a draw before incoming boss Ruben Amorim jets in this week.READ MORE TOP FOOTBALLBut United supporters were animated with anger rather than approval when seeing a snap of the BLACK-CRUSTED pie, which was sold for £4.80.Meanwhile, rival fans pounced on the chance to troll the Red Devils, who still sit just 13th in the Premier League.One said: “A bit like Ten Hag… well fired.”Another added: “Typical United. An overcooked, over priced mess.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third observer warmed to the theme with: “It’s fitting for the season they are having to be fair.”A fourth kept the insults sizzling by claiming: “Looks as good as their title chances this season.”Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureAnd a fifth fan maintained the culinary comparisons as he posted: “Burnt offerings, bit like what they serve up on the pitch.””Absolute shambles,” was a more blunt reaction from another supporter after the pie was spotlighted on Sports Scran, a social media site featuring the best and worst “cuisine” available for fans.It came after Ten Hag was toast following only four wins in 14 games, leading to Van Nistelrooy’s short and sweet stint in charge.Now Amorim will arrive from Sporting Lisbon hoping to give United fans something to savour after a raw deal for years.Man Utd ratings v LeicesterHere’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the Red Devils.ANDRE ONANA – 7Stood tall when Ndidi went through on goal and a decent tip round the post from Ayew as Leicester tried to get back in it.NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 6Lucky to escape tackle on Buonanotte without any punishment. Supplied the cross from the left which led to United’s second goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Made a key second half clearance when the Foxes were trying to find their way back into the game. Fairly comfortable afternoon for home defenders.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Spent the first hour at centre half then showed his versatility by switching to left-back when Dalot was forced off.DIOGO DALOT – 6Did a steady job keeping the Foxes at bay but then taken off on the hour – presumably due to injury as United had to reshuffle their defence.CASEMIRO – 7Better from the veteran Brazilian who helped United take command of the game before getting the chance to put his feet up late on.MANUEL UGARTE – 6Great challenge on Soumare showed what he is all about and some signs he is finding his feet. Will be looking forward to arrival of former boss Amorim.AMAD DIALLO – 7Delightful backheel for Fernandes to curl home the opener and could have scored himself. The Ivorian has had a good week.  BRUNO FERNANDES – 8Presented with a shirt to mark his 250th appearance before the game and will be getting more plaudits for his performance here. Involved in all three goals.MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Given the nod to start ahead of Garnacho but did not do enough to justify the faith of Van Nistelrooy. No surprise when he was replaced by the Argentine on the hour.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5A largely ineffective afternoon for the Danish forward before he was subbed late on. Nothing wrong with his work-rate but does he have the quality Amorim will want? More

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      in Boxing

      How Mike Tyson & Jake Paul’s $80m clash became ‘boxing’s biggest freak show’ with lie detector gaffes and $2m VIP seats

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      AS the dust settles on the US election, America is bracing itself for another epic and unpredictable showdown.And once again, it pits a controversial, motor-mouthed veteran against a far younger contender many predict is not cut out for the job.Boxing legend Mike Tyson famously won 44 of his 58 fights by knockoutsCredit: GettyIron Mike is set to take on 27-year-old YouTuber Jake PaulCredit: GettyCritics have dubbed Mike Tyson and Jake Paul’s boxing match the biggest freak show in boxing historyCredit: GettyMore than 60,000 fans will pile into Texas’s AT&T arena on Saturday to watch the spectacle of former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson, 58, take on 27-year-old YouTuber Jake Paul in what critics have dubbed the biggest freak show in boxing history.VIP ringside seats are being sold for a record £1.55million — and millions more will tune into the event which, in a groundbreaking move, is being streamed live on Netflix.But it remains to be seen whether Paul can solve the conundrum that has seen fighters with twice his class pummelled to the canvas by the self-styled Baddest Man On The Planet.In Tyson’s famous words: “Everyone has a plan ’til they get punched in the mouth.”READ MORE ON MIKE TYSONThe stats behind Mike Tyson vs Jake PaulUntil his retirement in 2005, the human pitbull famously won 44 of his 58 fights by knockouts.Yet even Tyson — whose training regime includes microdosing magic mushrooms and smoking weed — can’t win against Old Father Time.The three-decade age gap between the men is the largest in professional boxing history.Gutsy Paul, rated a decent if inexperienced pugilist, may use his youth to give the ex-champ the runaround before delivering a knockout blow.Most read in BoxingSo is this simply a circus act or a legitimate contest in the spirit of the Marquess of Queensberry?What’s certain is that it will be box office gold.Jake Paul had vision of himself fighting Mike Tyson while high on psychedelics three years agoRather than the usual pay per view, the fighters have signed a deal said to be around £31million each for Saturday’s early hours bout.It is already predicted to be one of the most-viewed boxing matches of all time, and media analysts suggest it could usher in a new dawn for how live sports are consumed, with further plans to broadcast NFL and WWE events on Netflix.Tyson is characteristically bullish ahead of the fight in Arlington, Texas.Before Paul had his most recent and 11th fight, Iron Mike insisted: “Regardless of how old I am, this guy only has ten fights.“If I can fight ten per cent of what I was, he only has ten fights, he couldn’t match that.”‘Weak and flawed person’Not everyone shares his optimism. Boxing great and promoter Barry McGuigan told a newspaper he fears Tyson will tarnish his legacy if he is remembered for “that sham of a fight with that YouTuber”.The former featherweight, who will appear on this year’s I’m A Celebrity, added: “A 58-year-old man shouldn’t be fighting. He just shouldn’t.“At that age your punch resistance invariably disappears. And while we see all these clips of Tyson doing the pads, that’s not real. What’s real is sparring against good-quality opposition and seeing how you look then.”The younger man’s route to the Texas ring was as a celebrity You- Tuber whose maiden fight was a so-called white-collar boxing contest for office workers.He has won ten of his 11 professional bouts with seven knockouts.Nicknamed The Problem Child, Paul’s only loss was to Tommy Fury — but it was a split decision and he knocked the Love Island star down in the eighth round.Love Island’s Tommy Fury on the way to beating Jake Paul in Riyadh last yearCredit: GettyJake Paul’s skater girlfriend Jutta LeerdamCredit: Instagram / @uttaleerdamIt is a record that lends him legitimacy, though his opponents included a YouTuber, a retired basketball star and four Mixed Martial Arts fighters.The opponents were well-picked — seven were 35 or older — and purses huge. Paul has earned tens of millions from his fights including almost £24million from the bout with Fury.Yet Tyson has fought genuine ring legends including Larry Holmes, Michael Spinks, Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno.In August at a press conference with Iron Mike, Paul bragged: “I’m here to make 40million dollars and knock out a legend.“I don’t give a f* about anything else. And he’s the one that wanted it to be a pro fight. “So he’s gonna get his ass knocked out for real on a real record.”One glamorous figure in Paul’s corner is his Dutch girlfriend Jutta Leerdam, an Olympic speed skating silver medallist who admits to more anxiety over the clash.She told the Netflix documentary Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson: “I’m a little scared. “I think, ‘Hey, stay away from my boyfriend.’ But it’s also the sport, so I understand that.”And when hooked up to a lie detector machine on the endless social media promo trail, Paul’s trash talk bluster disappeared. Asked if he would beat the former undisputed champion, he answered: “Yeah.”Mike Tyson famously chewing Evander Holyfield’s ear in 1997Credit: SkyMike Tyson being led away by cops after rape arrest in 1991Credit: RexBut the lie detector begged to differ, suggesting Paul’s cocky facade hid his real belief that he would lose.When a clip of the test went viral, Tyson shared it with his 30million Instagram followers with three laughing emojis emblazoned on it.The pair were originally scheduled to meet on July 20 but Tyson was taken ill two months earlier in an plane toilet after an ulcer flare-up.On the plane, I went to the bathroom, and I threw up blood,” he revealed. “Next thing I know I’m on the floor and I was defecating tar.” In his Eighties prime, Tyson was the most destructive heavyweight of his generation.Menacing in black trunks, black ankle-high boots and no socks, he would pace the ring before the first bell like a caged lion.Psyching out many before a punch was thrown, he won his first 19 professional fights by knockout, 12 of them in the first round.In 1992 he was convicted of raping 18-year-old Miss Black America contestant Desiree Washington and received a six-year prison sentence, serving less than half that time.I’d rather live a short life of glory than a long life of obscurity.Mike TysonOn his release, he fought two losing fights against Evander Holyfield. In the second, Tyson sank his teeth into Holyfield’s ear, biting the fleshy top off before spitting it out on to the canvas.Teddy Atlas, his former trainer, called Tyson “a very weak and flawed person”.His penultimate contest — against Brit Danny Williams in 2004 — saw him unable to beat the count after being knocked down in a bloodied heap in the fourth round.In his last professional fight in 2005, he threw in the towel against Irishman Kevin McBride before the seventh round.Announcing his retirement afterwards, a downbeat Tyson insisted: “I’m not going to disrespect the sport any more by losing to this calibre of fighter.”A 2020 exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr was judged a draw. Tyson admitted he was high on marijuana during the fight, revealing afterwards: “I smoke every day.” He credits weed for helping him beat a destructive cocaine and booze habit.‘I’m a glutton for pain’Asked by US TV host Jimmy Kimmel recently if he intends to be “high on marijuana” during his bout with Paul, Tyson replied: “That’s a possibility.”Also a magic mushroom user, Tyson says he takes the psychedelics during his workouts “because I feel beautiful”.Now he has been lured back to his beloved ring partly, at least, for the adulation. “I’m a glory junkie,” the fighter with a Maori-inspired face tattoo admitted. “I love people thinking about me all day.“I’d rather live a short life of glory than a long life of obscurity.“This is all I started fighting for — to get all this fing status.“I’m going to be chasing it for the rest of my life. I know that. “I’m never going to get what I want, because I’m one of those gluttons for pain. I can never get enough.”The giant purse might help too, with punters paying through the roof to get close to the action.The arena’s most expensive ticket is a record $2million VIP package, which will seat two people less than six feet from the action in a private booth.If Mike lands one clean punch, and if he makes him miss, he will make him pay.Jeff FenechFurther perks include the chance to visit both fighters backstage before the fight, an open bar and gourmet all-inclusive food menu, plus a personal security escort to accompany guests across the venue.And even at 58, the allure of an Iron Mike knockout remains undimmed.Jeff Fenech, who trained Tyson to defeats against Williams and McBride, believes the fallen champ still has what it takes to dispatch upstart Paul.The cornerman said: “If Mike lands one clean punch, and if he makes him miss, he will make him pay. “If he doesn’t try and strike at the same time and is patient, the fight could be over in one minute.”Thankfully — perhaps for both fighters — the rounds will be two minutes long rather than the usual three for men’s bouts.Dad-of-seven Tyson explained: “I wanted the shorter rounds because I wanted more action. “If we only have two minutes, we’ll fight more.”And the fighters will wear 14oz gloves rather than the usual 10oz to lend greater protection.Neither man will wear headguards.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe prospect of a potentially stoned former heavy-hitting champ battling a rookie almost young enough to be his grandson may not warm the cockles of boxing purists.“People say it’s s*t,” Gypsy King Tyson Fury said. “But I bet they still watch it.” More

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      in Soccer

      Sheffield Wednesday fan ‘mocks death of ex-Premier League star George Baldock with sick pic’ as cops launch probe

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      A SHEFFIELD Wednesday fan has been spotted appearing to mock the tragic death of ex-Premier League star George Baldock.Pictures show a man holding a phone up to rival Sheffield United supporters with the sick question “Where’s Baldock?” plastered across the screen.A fan was seen holding a phone up to rival Sheffield United supporters with the question ‘Where’s Baldock?’ across the screenCredit: XGeorge Baldock, a Sheffield United legend, died back in October after drowning in GreeceCredit: GettyBaldock, a Sheffield United legend, died back in October after drowning in Greece – as cops launch a probe over the “abhorrent act”.United played Wednesday in the local Steel City derby for the first time since the defender’s death.The derby match is known as one of the UK’s fiercest footballing contests with a number of high profile incidents in recent years.An image of the man holding up his phone has been shared online by angry fellow supporters hitting out at his actions.read more in footballDressed in a black hoodie the Wednesday fan can be seen staring directly into the camera with his phone in his left hand.Across the black screen reads the words “Where’s Baldock?” in white text.Sheffield Wednesday have put out a statement regarding the incident condemning the “appalling behaviour” by their own fan.They said: “The club are aware of an image circulating on social media and roundly condemn this abhorrent act. Most read in Football”We are working together with South Yorkshire Police on an immediate investigation and make it absolutely clear that there is no place in football or society for such appalling behaviour.”Wife of Wednesday captain Barry Bannan also blasted the fan.Chloe Bannan said: “That is absolutely abhorrent, and they’re nothing to do with Wednesday.”George Baldock’s heartbreaking summer farewell message to Sheffield Utd fans re-emerges after star found dead aged 31The Sun has reached out to South Yorkshire police for comment.Sheffield United took home all three points in the game after winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Tyrese Campbell.Just one season earlier, young Bradley Lowery – a loyal Sunderland fan who died of cancer – was also mocked by Sheffield Wednesday fans at a game.Vile yobs flashed a picture of Lowery in the stands of a match at Hillsborough as they laughed at their own sick joke.Baldock’s funeral was held at the end of October with fellow footie stars Dele Alli and Dean Henderson among the players at the sombre ceremony. Born in Buckinghamshire, Baldock had Greek roots through his grandmother and played for the country 12 times.He graduated from MK Dons’ youth set-up, where Alli also played before his move to Tottenham in 2015.Baldock is regarded as a Sheffield United legend for his stint at the clubCredit: GettySheffield United players held up a shirt to Baldock in a touching tributeCredit: GettyPaying a heartbreaking tribute to Baldock earlier this month, Alli said it had been an “honor to know” him.He wrote on Instagram: “No words I could type or pictures I could use would ever be enough.”May your spirit, ambition, determination and humility live on through those who had the honour of knowing you!”I love you brother and will miss you forever!”My thoughts, prayers and heart goes out to your family! Rest in peace Balders.”Baldock made his name with the Blades, playing over 200 times for the club 2017 and 2024.He had joined Panathinaikos from the South Yorkshire side this summer.The defender made four appearances for the Greek side this season, including three in the league.READ MORE SUN STORIESBaldock was found unresponsive in his private swimming pool just a day after his final match.He was also due to fly back to the UK to see his fiancee Annabel and son Brody hours after he was discovered. Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 Premier League minutes – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to.Baldock’s funeral took place in his native BuckinghamshireCredit: LNPBaldock was playing in Greece after joining Panathinaikos in the summerCredit: Rex More

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      in Soccer

      Ruben Amorim CAN’T start work for Man Utd on Monday with work permit still yet to be granted

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      RUBEN AMORIM will NOT be able to start work at Manchester United just yet, reports suggest.When he was announced as the next permanent Red Devils boss, it was said that Amorim would officially take over the role on November 11.Ruben Amorim won’t be able to take his position at Man Utd due to not having a work permit yetCredit: RexWith Ruud van Nistelrooy’s time in interim charge of the team now at an end after the 3-0 win over Leicester, the Sporting Lisbon boss is now the head coach picked to lead the team forward.However, the 39-year-old – leading Sporting into his final game against Braga tonight – has not yet been granted a work permit.According to the Daily Mail, this means he is unable to “get his feet on the grass”.Many players will be away from the club on international duty, while the first game of the Amorim era will not take place until United face Ipswich on November 24.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAmorim will not be revealed to the media until his pre-match press conference for that game.However, it is expected that he will speak to club media before then.The Mail report adds that the lack of a work permit is not a setback in his appointment, with this being standard procedure with obtaining a work visa in the UK.The two-week break between club football will be used in an effort to get Amorim settled in England as quickly as possible, including finding somewhere for him to live.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFive members of his backroom coaching staff are set to join him in swapping Lisbon for Manchester, which cost United an additional £4million after already paying £8.3m to buy him out of his contract.It has left the future of Van Nistelrooy and other United staff uncertain, though the Dutchman has declared he wants to help the club get back to success in any capacity he can.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureFollowing his four-game spell in charge, of which he won three and drew one, he said: “This block of four games, it felt like a closure and the future is open.”I appreciated the clear communication of the club. It was an interim spell for a short-term. They kept me in the loop. It was four games, and for me it was important to have that clarity.”The communication was after the block of four, there will be communication towards you and your colleagues. “The most important thing is the football club. I am here to support that, and I want to continue that.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. 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