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    Former Man Utd wonderkid tipped to replace Wayne Rooney wakes up unemployed aged 29 as 11 stars are released

    FORMER Manchester United starlet James Wilson has woken up unemployed after being released by Northampton Town.The striker, 29, is one of ELEVEN players who have been let go by the League One side.Former Man Utd starlet James Wilson has been released by NorthamptonCredit: GettyWilson failed to score in 12 outings for NorthamptonCredit: GettyWilson only joined Northampton on a free transfer last summer.But the forward, once tipped to replace Wayne Rooney at United, failed to score one single goal in 12 outings.And he is now on the hunt for a new club after Northampton released him following a disappointing 19th place finish.But Wilson isn’t the only star to depart, with ten others also axed by Northampton.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTyler Magloire, Jack Sowerby, Nik Tzanev, Ali Koiki, Liam McCarron, Harvey Lintott, Akin Odimayo, Will Hondermarck, TJ Eyoma and Reuben Wyatt have also been shown the door.Manager Kevin Nolan confirmed: “We have made some difficult decisions and it is never nice having to tell a player that their contract is not being renewed.”Some of these players have been at the club a number of years and have played a big part here, helping the club enjoy some good times over the last few years, and all of the departing players will leave with our thanks and best wishes.“We believe we have a good core of players here, both in terms of ability and culture, which is very important, and we are excited to be entering into discussions with our chosen targets to build on and add to that over the course of the summer.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWilson joined United in 2002 when he was just seven years old.He made his senior debut in May 2014 against Hull, netting twice in a 3-1 win.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reveals just THREE Man Utd players have spoken to him since he was sackedWilson was once tipped to replace Wayne Rooney at Old TraffordCredit: GettyThe following season saw Wilson play 17 times for United, scoring a further two goals.Disappointing spells then followed at Brighton, Derby, Sheffield United and Aberdeen as Wilson only ever made a further two appearances for the Red Devils.He joined Abdereen permanently in 2019.But after failing to net in 16 games, he returned to England six months later with Salford City.Wilson spent 18 months there before joining Port Vale, where he netted 23 goals in 105 outings over three seasons.Several injury setbacks ended his time there, leading to his most recent opportunity at Northampton.Wilson was once tipped by ex-United manager Louis van Gaal as the successor to legendary striker Rooney.Van Gaal chose Wilson over Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez, who were both sold by the Dutchman.Read More on The SunAnd at the time, fellow Red Devils icon Ryan Giggs hailed Wilson as one for the future.He said: “Wilson is a natural goalscorer, but he has got more to his game than that. He can run at people, he has got pace and he is a clever player.” More

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    Cristiano Ronaldo a ‘proud’ dad after son gets international call-up to Portugal U15s squad to face England

    THE son of Cristiano Ronaldo has been called up to Portugal Under-15s ahead of an upcoming match against England.Ronaldo posted confirmation of the international call-up on his Instagram.Cristiano Ronaldo Jr has been called up to Portugal U15sCredit: Instagram @cristianojr.xCristiano Jr will play against Japan, Greece and England later this monthCredit: AFPCristiano Jr is following in his dad’s footstepsCredit: AFPHe used a fire emoji against his son’s name which was first on the list of squad members.The 40-year-old also wrote: “Proud of you, son.”Ronaldo Jr currently plays in Al-Nassr’s academy having followed his dad to Saudi Arabia over two years ago.The 14-year-old has also represented youth teams at Juventus and Mancheter United so far in his career.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut now he will get his first taste of international football.Ronaldo Jr will be in the Portugal U15s squad to face Japan, Greece and England later this month.Back in 2022, five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo revealed that his son was determined to play alongside him one day.He said: “My son tells me: dad, hold on a few more years, I want to play with you!”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS’Proud’ Ronaldo congratulated his son on his Instagram storyCredit: Instagram: CristianoHowever, the Real Madrid legend claims he will never pressure his first born to succeed.He continued: “I will never pressure him. He will do what he wants. Cristiano Ronaldo appears to argue with himself as he fights back tears after Al-Nassr cup KO”Also what I want the most for Cristianito and everyone else is that they’re happy and that they choose what they want.”I will support in any way.” More

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    PSG vs Arsenal referee served six-month ban for match-fixing after accepting bribe and was blasted by Bellingham

    THE REFEREE taking charge of Arsenal’s Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain previously served a six-month ban for match fixing.Felix Zwayer, 43, has been tasked with officiating Wednesday night’s semi-final second leg clash at the Parc des Princes.Arsenal’s referee against PSG previously served a six-month ban for match fixingCredit: RexThe German is one of Uefa’s top-ranked referees and took charge of England’s semi-final win over the Netherlands at last summer’s Euros.Zwayer now faces another major night as Arsenal look to come back from their 1-0 loss to PSG in the first leg.The two sides are set to go hammer and tongs in search of a place in the final against either Barcelona or Inter Milan.But ahead of kick-off, Zwayer’s chequered past has now come to light.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn 2005, he was punished for accepting a bribe from fellow ref Robert Hoyzer.Zwayer was a linesman at the time and took £250 to fix a second division match in Germany.An investigation revealed that Hoyzer had been accepting money from a Croatian gambling syndicate connected to an organised crime group.He was banned from football for life while also receiving a prison sentence of two years and five months.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAs for Zwayer, he was suspended from football for six months before returning to eventually become a Bundesliga ref in 2009.His bribery scandal has not gone unnoticed by players though, with Jude Bellingham referencing it while blasting Zwayer for a controversial penalty decision against former club Borussia Dortmund.Arsenal tipped to finish FOURTH by Jamie Carragher as he predicts race for Champions League placesZwayer was blasted by Jude Bellingham during the ace’s Borussia Dortmund daysCredit: GettySpeaking after a defeat to rivals Bayern Munich three years ago, Bellingham said: “For me it wasn’t a penalty. You can look at a lot of the other decisions in the game.“You give a referee that has, you know, match fixed before, the biggest game in Germany – what do you expect?” More

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    Jermaine Jenas was ‘prepared to be unhappy for the rest of his life’ to stay with wife before she divorced him

    JERMAINE JENAS has admitted that he would have been willing to be “unhappy for the rest of his life” in order to stay with wife Ellie Penfold.Ellie announced her split with former Tottenham and England star Jenas in March.Jermaine Jenas and wife Ellie split up in MarchCredit: GettyJenas, 42, opened up on his break-up during a podcast appearanceCredit: YouTube/FILTHYFELLASTheir break-up came six months after Jenas was axed by the BBC following a sexting scandal.The 42-year-old was relieved of his services by the Beeb after being accused of sending X-rated texts to two female colleagues.Jenas, who has four children with Ellie, went on to admit to sending the messages, but stressed that the texts were consensual and that he had not broken the law.The former One Show host told The Sun that Ellie was “raging” following the allegations – but that he hoped to work through their issues.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn March, however, Ellie took to Instagram to reveal that their marriage was over after 14 years.Jenas, who returned to punditry work with talkSPORT in February, has now opened up on his marriage ending during an appearance on the Filthy Fellas podcast.Speaking candidly about his break-up, Jenas said: “It was her decision and one that I had to accept.”If it was up to me – and I think a lot of men are like this – I’d probably be prepared to be unhappy for the rest of my life if [it meant] I had my kids in it. If I have my kids, I’m quite happy to sacrifice.”Most read in FootballThe former couple have four children togetherCredit: InstagramJenas then went on to add: “It’s a man thing. Relationships are what they are – they have highs, they have lows and people cheat – some people do, some people don’t, but you figure a lot of things out.”The reality is we both were in a position where we were like ‘are we really happy?’Jermaine Jenas says he’s ‘coming back a better person’ as he returns to talkSPORT after ‘inappropriate’ texts”From her side of things, she’d ran the course more than probably me. But I was much more happy to go ‘I’ll be unhappy if I can stay in this house with you and these kids’.”It wasn’t to be for her, so we went our separate ways and that is that.”Speaking frankly about the situation, Jenas said of why he and Ellie broke up: “The reality is, me and my wife haven’t split up because I sent some text messages to some people at work.”We had issues for a period of time, it all comes to a head and you eventually make a decision to say, as adults, we will be better parents for our children if we just remain friends and that’s it.’DRAGGED ME OUT THE GUTTER'”We had 16 amazing years together, me and my wife, how many people last that long? Sixteen years. Ups and downs. She caught the wrong end of my [playing] career, bless her.”She was the one that dragged me out of the gutter when my knee was hanging off, career done. She’s the one that picked me back up and gave me the belief and the strength to go ‘get yourself back out there, I believe in you’.”Upon his return to talkSPORT in February, Jenas vowed to learn from his mistakes.’WORK ON YOURSELF’The former Match of the Day pundit said: “The biggest thing in this whole situation is about taking responsibility and that has been at the forefront of my mind…”There’s a reason why you’re in this position and there’s a reason why this has happened.”Once you accept those things, then you can work on yourself and you can work on the other things and you can work on your family and work towards a brighter future.”Confirming their split a month later, Ellie wrote on Instagram: “I never imagined I would have to share something so personal with the public, but given the situation, I feel it’s necessary.Read More on The Sun”After 16 years together and 4 wonderful children, Jermaine and I have decided to part ways. We will remain friends and continue to co-parent.”We kindly ask that you respect our children’s privacy during this challenging time. Thank you, Ellie.”Jermaine and Ellie are hoping to remain friendsCredit: AlamyEllie confirmed their break-up on Instagram in MarchCredit: Instagram @elliejenas More

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    Arsenal consider cut-price transfer for PSG midfielder, 24, following Champions League semi-final

    ARSENAL are considering another move for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-In.Mikel Arteta was interested in the South Korean in January, and new Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta will encourage him to make room in his squad for the 24-year-old.Arsenal are considering a move for Lee Kang-InCredit: GettyBerta was the driving force behind a failed bid from Atletico Madrid for Lee in 2023 when he left La Liga outfit Mallorca for the Parc des Princes.But it has not worked out for him in Paris as he remains a fringe member of Luis Enrique’s squad after almost two seasons at the club.The former Valencia playmaker has started 18 league games this season, the same number as in his first season at the club, but doubled his 2023-24 goal tally by registering six times in Ligue 1.Last week, L’Equipe named Lee on a list of players the French champions will look to offload this summer.READ MORE ON ARSENALPSG want to recoup their £18.7m outlay and will not listen to any offers below £17m.The French sports daily reported that Lee is dissatisfied with his playing time, and indicated that he will seek a new team this summer.He was an unused substitute for PSG in their 1-0 Champions League semi-final first-leg win at the Emirates.He started their Ligue 1 match against Strasbourg on Saturday but left the 2-1 defeat at half-time because of a shin injury that looks set to keep him out of the return leg.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesEnrique has deployed Lee as a winger, central midfielder and false nine, viewing the Korean as a player with the tactical awareness to switch positions seamlessly.A move for Lee could be completed relatively quickly because of PSG’s desire to sell and that could mean the Korean is on board the plane when Arsenal jet out to the Far East for their pre-season matches in Singapore and Hong Kong.How PSG tricked Arsenal to gain Champions League semi-final advantage More

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    Who was Owen Jenner and what happened to the British Superbike rider at Oulton Park?

    OWEN JENNER sadly passed away after a devastating crash at a British Superbikes event at Oulton Park. The 21-year-old was involved in an 11-man ‘chain reaction’ collision after the first turn of Monday’s race in Cheshire, killing him and fellow rider Shane Richardson. Owen Jenner tragically died in Monday’s awful incidentCredit: https://x.com/everythingmraceOwen, from East Sussex, raced for Rapid Honda and became British GP2 champion in 2024 after winning 18 out of 20 races.Rapid Honda has previously said: “Owen has impressed us all at Rapid Honda over recent seasons and his career is on a clear ascendancy. “He should be a title challenger in British Supersport in 2025.”What happened to Owen Jenner?The incident happened at the first turn when one rider lost control and skidded across the tarmac into another, resulting in a ‘chain reaction’ crash. Read More in SportOne bike caught fire within the pile-up, which saw medics race onto the track before the event was abandoned. Owen, racing under number 86, initially received immediate medical attention trackside before being rushed to the circuit’s medical centre. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, Owen passed away due to a “catastrophic head injury”. New Zealander Shane Richardson, 29, also died as a result of the crash while fellow Brit Tom Tunstall was taken to hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries. Most read in MotorsportFive other riders were treated for minor injuries but did not require additional medical assistance. In an official statement, MotorSport Vision Racing, who are responsible for circuit operations at Oulton Park, confirmed the heartbreaking news about Shane and Owen’s passing. It read: “At the start of this afternoon’s Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one, Old Hall corner on the first lap, there was a chain reaction incident involving 11 riders falling. The race was immediately stopped and trackside medical services deployed.”Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled.”This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured, and another sustaining significant injuries.”Fellow British Superbike rider Glenn Irwin posted on social media to pay tribute to Owen and Shane.He said: “Owen you were always smiling, just a young kid chasing your dream and having fun along the way.“Shane, I didn’t know you personally but watching videos and photos of you and your little family I can see how much of an amazing dad and partner that you are along with being a top rider.”Rest in peace boys – life can be so so cruel. We will continue to offer support to your families in the coming times ahead, my thoughts go to the entire British Superbike team of organisers, Marshals, medics and the wider community.”Isle of Man TT race winner and British Superbike rider Peter Hickman said: “Gutted beyond belief. Our sport can be so cruel sometimes. “My thoughts are with all the families of everyone involved in that tragic accident yesterday. Ride in peace boys.”National Superstock rider Kam Dixon said he “lost a brother today”.“There really wasn’t anyone like our OJ [Owen Jenner]. This kid was such a talent and will always be in my heart, he was the best mate.“Not many people can say they have won three British Championships. Love you mate.”Why is Owen Jenner’s death being investigated by police?An investigation has been launched by Cheshire Police following the tragic crash. Cheshire Police said: “Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon.“Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries.“The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Police.”Owen Jenner’s racing historyOwen had a prolific racing career, being crowned Superstock champion in 2020 and 2023. Read More on The SunThe Brit also became GP2 champion in 2024, winning the title with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes. The 21-year-old was predicted by many, including his team – Rapid Honda, to reach the top of British Superbikes. More

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    Watford SACK Tom Cleverley as manager in controversial move as sporting director says ‘the time has come for a change’

    TOM CLEVERLEY has controversially been sacked by Watford.The former Manchester United midfielder, 35, took over at Vicarage Road in March 2024, replacing Valerien Ismael initially as interim boss.Tom Cleverley was sacked as Watford boss on TuesdayCredit: RexHe took the head coach role on a permanent basis the following month, making him the 21st Hornets manager since Gino Pozzo took over the club in 2012.Watford were in contention for a Championship play-off spot heading into the second half of the season.But just five wins in 2025 but pay to those promotion dreams.They finished the 2024-25 season 14th in the Championship on Saturday, concluding with a 1-1 home draw against Sheffield Wednesday.That meant Cleverley was the club’s longest-serving manager since Javi Gracia – and the first to last more than a season since the Spaniard’s sacking in 2019.But this year’s drop off was enough for the trigger-happy Hornets to dismiss their former midfielder in their latest controversial managerial axing – four months after having to release a statement to confirm he was still in the dugout.The decision did not go down well with Watford supporters while a disappointed Cleverley took to Instagram with a classy statement.He said: “After nine-and-a-half years of my life – as a loanee, player, captain, academy coach and head coach – my time at the club has come to an end.Most read in ChampionshipCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”After the sadness wears off, I will forever have a feeling of gratitude and happiness towards the club and the place and people of Watford.”Football and football clubs are special. They make you feel truly part of something. I wasn’t born in Watford or raised in Watford but this honestly feels like home.”To the club, I’m grateful for the opportunity, the player for their efforts and the supporters myself and my family will forever appreciate the love and support you have given me on this journey.”I repeat I will be sad that it’s over but full of happiness that it ever happened. And I hope it’s not the final time out paths cross. You ‘Orns.”Sporting director Gian Luca Nani added: “We thank Tom for his service – not just in his role as Head Coach but for everything he has given Watford as a player and member of staff.“But the time has come for a change and to build on what we believe is a young and talented squad that will have benefited from the experience of the Championship this season.“It has been a privilege to work closely with Tom; to understand how he sees the game and his enthusiasm for everything here. “He deserves to be recognised for this and I’m sure he will have a bright future in the game.“Tom will always be part of Watford in recognition of all that he has achieved over so many years.”Cleverley came through the youth system at Old Trafford and made 79 first-team appearances for the Red Devils, winning the Premier League in 2012-13 under Sir Alex Ferguson. He had various loan spells – including at Watford – before joining Everton in 2015.Just 18 months later, the 13-cap England international was on the move again as he headed to Watford again, initially on loan before making the switch permanent for the 2017-18 season. He was relegated in 2020 but helped the Hornets straight back up again before retiring in 2023 to step into coaching. Cleverley departs Vicarage Road with a record of 20 wins, 14 draws and 25 defeats from his 59 games in charge – with a win rate of 34 per cent. Read More on The SunAlberto Garrido is the early 4-1 favourite to become the next Watford manager, according to talkSPORT Bet.Gary O’Neil (5-1), Sean Dyche (6-1) and Rob Page (6-1) are also in contention with Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard both at 16-1. More

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    Bayern Munich cause fury with club to celebrate Harry Kane’s first trophy in ‘ugly as hell’ new kit

    BAYERN MUNICH fans were left enraged after the club announced plans to celebrate their latest title win in an “ugly as hell” new kit.The German giants got back to winning ways by sealing another Bundesliga victory at the weekend.Bayern Munich will celebrate Harry Kane’s first trophy and Thomas Muller’s final home game this weekendCredit: GettyFans are raging as the club will wear an ‘ugly’ new white away kit for the occasionCredit: XBayern lost last year’s title race to unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen.But Harry Kane finally got his hands on a trophy as Vincent Kompany’s men toasted their victory with a raucous party on Sunday.Now, the players are set to celebrate with fans when Bayern play their final home match this weekend.The Bavarians welcome Borussia Monchengladbach to the Allianz Arena on Saturday and hope to make it an occasion to remember.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNot only will it mark Kane’s first-ever trophy party with supporters, but it will also be the last-ever home game for club legend Thomas Muller.The 35-year-old, who is set to make his 750th appearance, is leaving after 13 titles and two Champions Leagues in 17 seasons.But Bayern have enraged fans by revealing they will wear their new white away kit this weekend.The strip has been unveiled as a tribute to the Allianz Arena, which is turning 20 years old.Most read in BundesligaBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe first-ever game Bayern played there was against Saturday’s opponents Gladbach.However, supporters have been less than impressed with the style of the kit.Harry Kane puffs on cigar as Bayern champions drink champagne and dance to Michael Jackson in early hours of morningWhile they also feel not wearing their classic red jersey is a mistake considering the importance of the occasion.One said: “This kit is ugly as hell and will ruin all photos of a historic day.“Muller’s last home game for Bayern and they don’t even wear red jerseys.”Another declared: “Why pay tribute to your home arena with your away kit?”One noted: “It looks horrible.”Another added: “This raises the question why the home jersey is not a tribute to the Allianz Arena?” More