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      in Soccer

      ‘It’s pretty good for Tottenham!’ – Ange Postecoglou sends clear message to Daniel Levy amid sack fears

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU has told Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy to stop firing managers so often.The Aussie is in danger of becoming the THIRTEENTH permanent boss to be axed by Levy.Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has told chairman Daniel Levy to stop firing managers so oftenCredit: AlamyLevy has fired 12 permanent managers at TottenhamCredit: PAPostecoglou clashed with Tottenham fans at ChelseaCredit: RexSpurs supporters were furious with the team after the loss at ChelseaBut with Spurs on course for their worst finish in 17 years, Postecoglou said: “At some point, the club needs to stick to something. “I’ve almost lasted two years, it’s pretty good for Tottenham.“If I say it now it sounds self-serving, and defeats the purpose. But if you want to change the course of your events, you need to change materially a lot of things in terms of your outlook as a club.”Postecoglou’s comments echo those of predecessor Antonio Conte, who attacked the club’s “mentality” and claimed consistently firing managers will not change anything.Read More on FootballAnd asked why so often trophy-winning bosses come to Spurs and fail to replicate that success, Postecoglou replied: “I just don’t think it’s about the managers.“My perspective, while I’m in this chair, is to find a way to navigate where others have struggled.”Spurs, who have not won a trophy since 2008, are 14th in the Prem.And fuming fans chanted, “You don’t know what you’re doing” at the manager during Thursday’s defeat at Chelsea.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Aussie responded by cupping his ear at the away end when sub Pape Matar Sarr levelled — only for it to be ruled out.While his tone was far calmer, Postecoglou’s words were reminiscent of the fiery rant Conte produced in his final press conference as Tottenham boss in March 2023.’People like you will be happy’ – Postecoglou snaps at Sky Sports reporter in ‘generational meltdown’ after Chelsea lossPostecoglou added: “There’s never any sort of defending of the club or the club defending itself.“I hear plenty of people defending other clubs but with Tottenham wherever there’s a sore there’s a real pile-on to stick a finger in and then we accept our fate. The only voice you hear is me.”Postecoglou echoed former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte’s rantCredit: AFP More

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      in Soccer

      Roy Keane hailed as an ‘absolute gentleman’ after visiting a superfan with dementia in hospital

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      FOOTIE great Roy Keane has been hailed an “absolute gentleman” after visiting a superfan with dementia in hospital.The former Manchester United captain agreed to meet ailing Pat O’Sullivan, 77, after a radio plea from his family.Roy Keane has been hailed an ‘absolute gentleman’ after visiting a superfan with dementia in hospitalCredit: GettyRoy spent 35 minutes at Mercy hospital in his home city of Cork with PatCredit: corksredfm / InstagramPat, who regards Roy as a “total legend”, wept as the two embraced.Irishman Roy, 53, spent 35 minutes at Mercy hospital in his home city of Cork with Pat, his wife Catherine, and sons Derek, 44, and Rob, 41.Rob said: “What an amazing thing for Roy to do. “My dad was absolutely delighted.”Read More on FootballThe footballer grew up close to the family home in Cork and he once shared a pint with Pat in the Temple Acre pub.Rob added: “My dad always talks about his friend Roy Keane. “He was so happy to meet him that he cried twice.“Roy put his arm around him and shared a joke with him. Most read in Football”He loved it.”‘As a player yeah but…’ – Luke Littler forces Roy Keane to agree on Bruno Fernandes but Man Utd legend still makes digRoy and Pat pose for a photoCredit: corksredfm / Instagram More

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      in Boxing

      Hughie Fury vs Dan Garber LIVE RESULTS: Fury gets lacklustre TKO win in mismatch with injured hand as he targets Whyte

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      HUGHIE FURY beat Fan Garber in York Hall – but Dave Allen was far from impressed at the performance.The White Rhino was on commentary duty for DAZN but said the fight was “completely pointless” and a “total mismatch” before Fury scored a fifth round TKO win with two brutal body shots.It was then said that Fury, 30, was boxing with an injured hand and was fighting at a slow pace to try and get rounds in.New promoter Izzy Asif has now promised that Fury will have a big fight on June 27 – with Dillian Whyte marked as a potential opponent.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Joyce vs Hrgovic – full cardHere’s how the action in Manchester will unfold:Joe Joyce vs Filip HrgovicJack Rafferty vs Cory O’Regan – for Commonwealth super-lightweight titleDavid Adeleye vs Jeamie TKV – for vacant British heavyweight titleKhaleel Majid vs Alex MurphyJuergen Uldedaj vs Gerardo MelladoMark Chamberlain vs Miguel Angel ScaringiRoyston Barney-Smith vs Cesar Ignacio ParedesNelson Birchall vs Rodrigo Matias ArecoAlfie Middlemiss vs Alexander MoralesDelicious Orie vs Milos VelecticRamtin Musah vs Robbie ChapmanLouis Szeto vs Nabil AhmedCopy linkCopiedMore boxing actionDon’t forget we have an absolutely MASSIVE night of boxing coming up on Saturday.There’s a strong card that features some very tasty clashes on the undercard, including the grudge match between David Adeleye and Jeamie TKV – who have been feuding all week.That one is for the vacant British title.The bill also features the highly anticipated debut of Olympian Delicious Orie and Turki Alalshikh’s favourite fighter, Mark Chamberlain.The top of the bill, of course, features a huge heavyweight dust-up between Joe Joyce and Filip Hrgovic.Both men are at a real crossroads in their careers and will see the fight as a must win.Copy linkCopiedFull resultsHere’s how the night’s action unfolded: Ben Crocker SPLIT DRAW Tiernan Bradley – for European super-lightweight titleHughie Fury TKO Dan GarberEmma Dolan UD Lauren Parker – for British and Commonwealth super-flyweight titleKieran Molloy TKO Riccardo CrepaldiLouie O’Doherty PTS Reuquen ArceGradus Kraus TKO Tony AmoakuCopy linkCopiedHughie hamperedHughie Fury did start slow before going through the gears to score a fifth-round TKO win against a massively outmatched opponent. In his defence, it was later revealed that the heavyweight had hurt his hand in the build-up this week, leaving him unable to properly throw shots.Copy linkCopiedLack of FuryHeavyweight contender Dave Allen was on commentary for DAZN tonight but was far from impressed at Hughie Fury’s performance… Copy linkCopiedFury vs Whyte?The big news of the night was Hughie Fury is set to be involved in a big fight in the summer.New promoter Izzy Asif confirmed that one would be taking place on June 27 in Galway, Ireland. Hughie called out Dillian Whyte earlier this week and was pushed on the prospect of facing the Body Snatcher. Both Hughie and trainer Peter appeared to be more than game.But earlier this week, Whyte was quoted as saying: “Hahahahaha, that is news to me. I think he’s been hit too hard.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAll overThat’s it for the action from York Hall after Daniel Dos Santos pulled OUT of his fight at very short notice at the start of the evening.A bit of a shocker from him after Bradley Rea was drafted in at the last minute to replace Shakan Pitters.Copy linkCopiedRematch on the cardsBoth men were interviewed after the fight and it seems like we WILL be heading for a rematch some time soon.Crocker and Bradley both believe they won the fight and “did enough” to get the result.That was a tough one to call but after an entertaining 10 rounds it looks like we will do that one all over again.Copy linkCopiedSPLIT DRAWBen Crocker keeps his belt! It’s a bit of a shock here as Bradley is denied the title, and both fighters keep their unbeaten records.Rematch? Who says no?Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R10Bradley ends the fight as the more confident fighter and looks very energetic, too.For me, a new champion will be crowned here despite a spirited comeback from Crocker.But how will the judges see it?Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R9Bradley continues to put Crocker on the back foot as the champion looks out of ideas.For me, the Irishman is well up on the scorecards heading into the last.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R8Crocker is now starting to throw combinations as he attempts to slow Bradley down.But is it too late for the champion? A knockout is needed for the Welshman for him to retain his title.Into the ninth.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R7Bradley very quick out of the corner again and lands a right hand, the Irishman certainly looking the fresher of the two after the previous round left Crocker dazed.The champion not punching enough and will need to get back on the front foot if he wants to turn this fight around.Bradley is certainly up on the scorecards after seven rounds.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R6Bradley is coming at Crocker at pace, throwing combinations right at the champion.Bradley very quick with his punches and is hunting down Crocker.The Welshman is very much on the back foot as Bradley lands multiple right hands and hurts the champion.Crocker’s legs look shaky and has some damage under his left eye.The champion is hanging on here.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R5Crocker reacts brilliantly to hit Bradley with a right hook to the shoulder, which looks to be swelling.The champion now the more dominant of the two.Bradley does end the round well, though and catches Crocker with a few skilful shots.The challenger doesn’t look to be slowing down as we head into the sixth.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R4Crocker is starting to put Bradley on the back foot as he looks to assert his dominance in this fight.Bradley looks like the one who possesses more knockout power, but Crocker is certainly better physically.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R3Both fighters jabbing and fainting well, but no big shots have landed just yet.Bradley looks the more focused of the two, but will it last 10 rounds?Crocker is the more experienced fighter and will grow into this one as it goes on.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R2 Crocker lands an uppercut, but only the gloves of Bradley.Bradley hits a neat combination and hurts the champion.The challenger is moving well with the jab, and the crowd is right behind him.Crocker is not quite finding his range early on and leaving himself open.Copy linkCopiedCrocker vs Bradley – R1There goes the bell! The main event of the night is underwayCrocker makes a dominant start, landing multiple jabs to the body of Bradley.The champion is towering over his opponent, with his size making him look like a middleweight.Both are keeping apart in the early stages, but Bradley will need to close the gap as Crocker clearly has the height advantage.Bradley does close the gap as the round ends, as he pins the champion on the ropes and unleashes, but only to the gloves of Crocker.Copy linkCopiedUp next…Ben Crocker will put his European Super Lightweight title on the line against Tiernan Bradley.Can the Swansea-native retain his strap? Copy linkCopiedDillian Whyte next?This was Hughie’s first fight with new promoter Izzy Asif and while it failed to set the pulses racing, it was all part of a warm up for a big one coming on June 27.Asif paid credit to Fury for continuing on with the fight despite entering the ring with an injured hand.He then said: “We think he can mix it with the big boys – he’s going to be in a serious fight on June 27.”It’ll be a 50-50. They can all get it.”We’re talking to top heavyweights in the country.”Asif is then pressed on if Dillian Whyte – who was meant to fight tomorrow night against Joe Joyce but had to withdraw because of injury – is one of the names in the running.”In the next couple of weeks we’ll announce it,” he says.Copy linkCopiedInjured handTrainer Peter Fury revealed that Hughie injured his hand earlier this week, which may have been the reason for the slightly slower paced fight than we may have expected.Peter said: “He’s just got to get rounds. He could’ve stepped through the gears.”But it was a case of relaxing, getting through it. Fair play to Dan Garber.”[Hughie] needs big fights and hopefully he gets them.”He’s only boxing with one hand anyway as he has a problem with it.”He got the rounds, but let’s get the big fights.”[Promoter Izzy Asif] has promised us a big fight on June 27. Let’s get on with it.”Copy linkCopied’Get the rounds in’Speaking after the win, Fury said: “I just wanted to ease back and get the rounds in.”I wanted to get in as many as possible.”It was just about working and getting the right shots in.”Fury was then asked about Dillian Whyte and other potential opponents and said’ “I’m ready for any one of them, if [Dillian Whyte] wants it then sign the contract.”Copy linkCopiedAllen’s thoughtsDave Allen wasn’t impressed by the matchmaking there at all.After earlier calling the fight “completely pointless”, he then questions why he took this fight.Allen says: “He could’ve just hit a heavy bag.”I have no idea where he is right now.”With the level he’s boxed at tonight I don’t know. “I don’t know how much Dillian Whyte has left.”But put him in [with Whyte] and see where he is.”Copy linkCopiedFury vs Garber – R5 – Fury wins!The referee has a long look at Garber in the corner as Allen calls for his corner to throw in the towel.Fury clearly senses blood and very quickly gets on top of his man, unleashing a real volley of shots.Fury then smashes in a left hook to the body that sends Garber to one knee! Credit to Garber for beating the eight count and getting back up.The fight lasts another 20 or so seconds but it’s clear that Garber doesn’t want any more of it and the referee steps in.It’s all over – Fury wins!Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal could be forced to rip up transfer plans thanks to ‘big question marks’ over two players, reveals Arteta

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      MIKEL ARTETA says there are “big question marks” over Kai Havertz and Gabriel’s post-surgery recoveries that could force Arsenal to change their transfer plans.The Gunners are still reeling after Brazilian star Gabriel was ruled out for the season following an operation on a hamstring injury picked up in Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Fulham.Mikel Arteta says there are ‘big question marks’ over Kai Havertz and Gabriel’s post-surgery recoveriesCredit: GettyGabriel has been ruled out for the rest of the seasonCredit: ReutersArteta said Arsenal may have to adapt their targets based on how Gabriel and Havertz recoverCredit: GettyHe joins striker Havertz in the medical room — with the German plotting a return next term following hamstring surgery in February, while forward Gabriel Jesus and defender Takehiro Tomiyasu are out until the end of 2025.Arsenal boss Arteta as previously said this summer’s transfer window — with new sporting director Andrea Berta through the door — will be a “big one” as they look to sign an elite No 9.Yet the Spaniard now says they may have to adapt their targets based on how Gabriel and Havertz return to pre-season and whether a much deeper squad is required to protect the pair from being pushed too hard  on their returns.Ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Everton on Saturday, on how tough it is to plan for the  summer with the injuries they have, Arteta explained: “It makes it harder. READ MORE ON ARSENAL“There are some players who will start the season after surgical intervention and that’s always a big question mark.“We don’t know how  capable those players are going to be to sustain  congested periods.“Let’s see if it affects our transfer plans but we have to be very conscious of that.“There are a lot of uncertainties in relation to what some of those players are going to be able to cope with, especially for the first five, six months of the season.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArsenal have now had four players suffer from hamstring injuries this season.Gabriel Martinelli was out for a month earlier this year, while Bukayo Saka only made his comeback against the Cottagers in midweek from an op in December.’He’s got a sense of humour’ – Sky Sports panel in stitches after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s stunt in live TV interviewHavertz could be back in training by June but Gabriel faces an uphill battle to return before the start of next season in early August.Arteta has hit back at those who criticise the club’s training and medical methods, suggesting it is something they “cannot control”.He was forced to rest centre-back Gabriel for games against Manchester United and Fulham back in December with a tight hamstring and he added: “I was very tempted to play him.“If I would’ve played him and he has the injury that he’s sustained now and misses four months (cut throat gesture), I would be hammered.“So, sometimes when the player is totally protected, this happens as well. There is an element we cannot control.”Timber was also forced off against FulhamBen White and Jurrien Timber, both with knee issues, are also doubts for today as well as Tuesday night’s Champions League quarter-final first leg at home to Real Madrid.Timber hobbled off late on against Fulham and the defensive duo will face late fitness tests on Saturday morning before the Goodison clash.Read More on The SunMeanwhile, Saka is pushing to start for the first time since December 21, after scoring seven minutes into a cameo off the bench in Tuesday’s comeback.Arteta added: “He needs exposure and he’s going to have exposure. It’s clear in the last two days, he’s demanding more, so that’s a good sign.”Arsenal ratings v FulhamARSENAL had a night of mixed fortunes as they beat Fulham 2-1 at the Emirates.Bukayo Saka not only returned but also scored after 101 days out.But injuries to Gabriel and Jurrien Timber ahead of next week’s visit of Real Madrid took the gloss off the win.Here’s How SunSport’s Josh Hall rated Mikel Arteta’s men on the night.DAVID RAYA – 7Week by week Raya is staking a claim as one of the best goalkeepers in the league.He doesn’t have to face a barrage of shots as part of this Arsenal team, but rarely falters when he is called upon.His distribution and preventative high claims are also among the best around.There was little he could have done to stop Rodrigo Muniz’s deflected goal.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6It looked like the Dutchman’s night was going to be cut short around the half an hour mark when he went down clutching his knee.Fortunately, he was able to play on and even managed to test Bend Leno with a stinging effort in the second half.Unfortunately his earlier knock proved too much and he was taken off with a niggle in the 75th minute.Arsenal could now be without at least two starting defenders for their clash with Real Madrid.GABRIEL – N/AJust when Arsenal fans thought they were creeping out of their injury crisis with the return of Bukayo Saka, they lose another top star.Gabriel hobbled off after just 15 minutes to be replaced by Jakub Kiwior.Arteta – and every Arsenal fan up and down the country – will be hoping the wall at the back will be fighting fit for their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid next week.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Stepped up to the plate in Gabriel’s absence and looked assured both on and off the ball.His frame did wonders to prevent Raul Jimenez from fashioning any chances in dangerous areas.However, he wasn’t able to do enough to stop Rodrigo Muniz from batting it against him to pull a late goal back for Fulham.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 7Every time you see Lewis-Skelly play you wonder how he’s only 18 and not a seasoned pro with years of experience at the top.He didn’t set the world alight against the Cottagers, but looked just as assured and comfortable as he always does – this time without Gabriel by his side.While he also made an important bloke to prevent Muniz after Fulham had pulled back a late goal.Mikel Arteta has splashed the cash to have a plethora of options at left-back, yet it seems like the Hale End academy graduate is now the number one choice for that position.THOMAS PARTEY – 7Almost gifted Fulham a golden opportunity with a loose header in the first half, but saw David Raya pop up to save the day.Despite a few loose touches he did enough to keep the ball moving in central areas.He’s become an important starter for Arsenal this season, yet still seems to be on his way out in the summer on the expiration of his deal.DECLAN RICE – 6He’s not a glamorous footballer, but he’s always going to give 100 per cent no matter what.Certainly not his worst game in an Arsenal shirt, but by no means his best.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Another frustrating night for the Arsenal captain who seems to have been unable to find the keys to unlock the low block his side faces each week.The Norwegian is certainly one of the best talents in the league, but has only shown it in glimpses this season.Arsenal as a whole looked a bit laboured and lacklustre at times, often that’s a result of the way Odegaard is playing. When he ticks, the whole team does too.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 9Regularly made Timothy Castagne look silly throughout the match and get into dangerous positions by the byline.But despite fashioning plenty of opportunities, the Brazilian was – as per usual – struggling with his end product in the first half.It almost seemed as if every shot or final pass was rushed or snatched at for the opening 45 minutes.That changed in the second half when his delightful flick perfectly teed up Bukayo Saka for a dream return to action.Finally looked like he had the goal to top off a spectacular performance in the dying moments, but was deemed to be marginally offside when his effort found the back of the net.ETHAN NWANERI – 7Bright spark in the opening exchanges and volleyed one right down the throat of Bernd Leno in the 21st minute as he looked the most likely to find the back of the net at first.Instead it was his cutback that helped open the scoring when he placed it on to the boot of Mikel Merino to poke home the first goal of the night.Replaced by Saka in the second half in perhaps a foreshadowing of what might happen to his role in the squad for the remainder of the season.MIKEL MERINO – 8Merino has stepped up the role of of make-shift striker with the sort of professionalism you would want from any player in your team.He might not make darting runs behind the back four, or curl delightful efforts round the keeper, but he’s certainly got a knack for goal.His punt towards goal took a healthy deflection off Jorge Cuenca to send it into the corner, but he won’t care – now netting an impressive five goals in eight games as a centre-forward.He almost made that six when he rifled another effort goalward from a corner in the 60th minute.SUBS: JAKUB KIWIOR – 4 (ON FOR GARBRIEL 15mins)Always a tough task to replace one of the best defenders in the league, but didn’t do enough to impress at all.Sloppily gave the ball away to gift a golden opportunity to Adama Traore in the second half, but was lucky to see the shot blazed wide.He was partly to blame for leaving Rodrigo Muniz wide open for his wayward header on the 80th minute mark – once again saved by sloppy finishing.With each game that passes it seems to be more obvious that the Polish international just isn’t at the required level.BUKAYO SAKA – 8 (ON FOR NWANERI 66mins)The Emirates erupted in its loudest cheer of the night when Saka made his return to action after 21 games and 101 days on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.That was until he nodded home the Gunners’ second just six minutes after crossing the line and an even louder roar bellowed around N5.Arsenal have missed him dearly, and a return right before perhaps the biggest European game in the Emirates era could be crucial for Mikel Arteta’s side.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5 (ON FOR TIMBER 77mins)Had very little impact on the match coming on so late, but did nick the ball off the foot of captain Odegaard who was lining up a thunderous effort. 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      in Soccer

      Gvardiol is ‘Crossword King’ who bought his fisherman dad a house and is helping steer Man City through choppy waters

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      MANCHESTER CITY’S alarming slump over this season has been something of a puzzle.Some say the clues had been there for some time — but even the old master himself Pep Guardiola has struggled to solve it.Josko Gvardiol’s development has delighted Pep GuardiolaCredit: GettyOne thing the Etihad boss knows is the campaign would have been even more difficult without City’s ‘Crossword King’.Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol was given the nickname by veteran 39-year-old keeper Scott Carson as he has recently started doing word games.And this week Guardiola plucked out a good word to describe his versatile defender — calling him a ‘warrior’.With many of Pep’s backline going down injured, Gvardiol has started all but two of his team’s 30 Prem matches this season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former RB Leipzig man has also proved himself to be a box-to-box defender — and is currently joint third in City’s top scorers in the league this term.Earlier this week, Guardiola said: “Josko has been like a warrior — all the time he is there.“I cannot imagine what would happen without him.“I’m grateful for his focus and that he is ready all the time.”Most read in FootballPEP’S STILL THE MAGIC MANBy MARTIN BLACKBURNJOSKO GVARDIOL insists Pep Guardiola is not losing his magic, despite his side’s worrying slide.Gvardiol has worked with the Manchester City  boss for two years but wishes they could have linked up earlier.The Croatian defender feels  Pep’s team talk before last Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final  win at Bournemouth showed why the ex-Barcelona chief is rated so highly.Former RB Leipzig man  Gvardiol, 23, said: “When I got back home from Bournemouth, I was thinking about the meeting we had before the game.“I said to myself ‘I’m  so unlucky I haven’t joined earlier’ — I mean that I didn’t have the opportunity to work with him earlier.“He said something that really changed my mind a little bit. I’m not going to tell you what it was.“But I wish that you could have the opportunity to sit with him and listen to his speech.“It was inspiring, yes, especially after the whole season.”BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKGuardiola will need his £77million man to stay focussed and ready if his team are to win the FA Cup and claim a Champions League spot over the next couple of months.So in the build-up to Sunday’s Manchester derby at Old Trafford,  Gvardiol will have his head buried in a newspaper from back home.Pep Guardiola talks about Kevin De Bruyne’s decision to leave Man City after 10 years Gvardiol said: “I just started doing crosswords a few days ago. So I got a new nickname from Scott Carson, it’s ‘Crossword King’.“I’ve been getting them from newspapers in Croatia.“Kristijan Jakic, who plays for Augsburg in Germany, is a friend of mine and when we were with the national team, one day I went to his room and I saw him doing a crossword.“I was like, ‘what are you doing’ but to be honest I am addicted now.“What I like to do is wake up, grab a coffee and do it for an hour or two.“Even yesterday on the plane, on Saturday, I went to Bournemouth — and on the way back as well.“I feel like we spend too much time on phones and things we should avoid, especially before the game, to stay focused, to stay in the game. And follow the match plan.”Hard work and focus runs in the Gvardiol family.His father Tihomir was a fisherman back in Croatia for many years. Even now, he still gets up in the early hours to sell seafood at Zagreb’s biggest market — with his octopus considered a speciality.Guardiola has lost none of his managerial mastery, says GvardiolCredit: RexWhen the Croatia international got his first pay cheque at RB Leipzig, he fulfilled a promise to buy a house with a garden for his parents back home.Gvardiol  said of his father: “He still works. He’s still doing it and I don’t know why to be honest — I’ve told him that many times.“He needs to wake up at 4am or 5am prepare everything, put the ice, everything has to be fresh.“But yeah, I think that’s just inside of him. He’s proud of the job, I guess.”Gvardiol Sr has lost one customer in recent years — with young Josko moving away and also getting a bit bored of eating up all the leftover fish.The  City centre-back said: “You know what the problem is? When I was younger we used to eat a lot of fish — every two or three days.“Obviously because he works with the fish. I wouldn’t say that I don’t like  it, but I’m a bit sick of it. You eat it every day.“But now when I go home I have it.  He likes to do octopus salad with some potatoes.”Gvardiol has compiled impressive stats this seasonTihomir was an amateur footballer himself and is full of advice for his boy.He will be watching the Manchester derby at home on television as he can get a better feel for it there.For a while the family wondered if Josko might fancy following in his father’s footsteps with a career as a fisherman — but it was clear when he ventured out  to sea the first time that this would  not happen.He said: “I went out just once. I wouldn’t recommend it to you guys. It’s too loud. I was young and I wanted to sleep in the cabin.“But the engine was too loud and the smell and everything, it is just chaos on the boat.”Chaotic is a good word to describe City’s season but Gvardiol has provided some stability in the choppy waters.Yet he almost decided to bail out of football altogether when the former Dinamo Zagreb player was a teenager — and focus on becoming a basketball player instead.“I said, ‘I’m going to wait one more year and see what will happen’. As you can see, I’m still a footballer.”Josko GvardiolHe recalled: “Back when I was 16 or 17 I had some problems with the manager. I wasn’t happy because I was on the bench most of the games.“At that time I was thinking, because I’m good at basketball as well, I wasn’t sure if I should continue with football or move to basketball.“It’s like that in our family, we love every sport. Not just football, but also handball.“My sister plays handball, my other sister plays volleyball.“At the end, I spoke to my father about it. He said that every year there is a new manager coming.Read More on The Sun“I said, ‘I’m going to wait one more year and see what will happen’. As you can see, I’m still a footballer.”Ahead of tomorrow’s trip across Manchester, City fans will be grateful for that. More

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      in Soccer

      Baller League is an expensive gamble and might be a football circus act but if it entertains, it is no worse for that

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      THE NEWEST of football clones has popped up on our screens — with “baller” introduced to millions of people who, like me, had no idea such a sport had been invented.All of football’s components are there bar the size of the playing pitch and the number of players in a team.Baller League has seen the likes of Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann getting involvedCredit: GettyKarren Brady claims Baller League might be an expensive gambleCredit: GettyKSI is among the celebrities behind the conceptCredit: AFPLove Island host Maya Jama is a taking charge of a Baller League teamCredit: GettyAs a professional game it certainly has possibilities. One of them is work for part-time footballers who, I believe, are being paid £400 a time for the programme showing weekly on Sky TV.Evidently, the objective is for baller to be shown when there is no professional action: summer, some evenings and afternoons.Every fair-sized city has a potential venue and I guess crowds of a thousand or so would make it viable.The Baller League — headlined by rapper KSI for the UK version — sees former Premier League stars, futsal players and celebrities face one another in 12 teams to win the league.Read More on FootballIt is featured every Monday until June 2 on indoor football pitches at London’s Copper Box Arena.Matches are in 15-minute halves and favour strong tacklers and skilled ball players, while teams are six-a-side with, in all, 12 players available.There are no corners — but it is vital the ball is kept in play or penalties will be awarded.Bafflingly, different rules are added in the last three minutes of each half while at another point it becomes three against three.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAs players of indoor or five-a-side football know — let alone of rugby sevens — repeated acceleration quickly becomes exhausting. In baller, emergency dashes are even demanded regularly of goalkeepers.The essence is speed and accuracy with plenty of goals, perhaps too many for the purist. The match I saw ended 7-3 and latterly scoring became too common.Fans joke Baller League is the ‘future’ as madcap footage of debut night emerges Over a long time, ingenious people have been inventing football games, from five-a-side to Subbuteo, street footie by children to underwater football, never mind a distant relation, American football.And then there is futsal, which claims 12 million players worldwide.In 2014, more than 56,000 turned up to watch a match between Brazil and Argentina in Brasilia.A baller bid for such popularity as a spectator sport would entail many millions of pounds of investment and club costs would initially be considerable.Baller League at least provides live rather than deadbeat action The weekly programmes on Mondays are shoot or bust for the future and could fall into the category of “don’t call me!”.But plenty of professional players, along with others who have passed skill tests, will earn those £400-a-time cheques.I don’t know how much John Terry, Ian Wright, Alan Shearer or Gary Lineker receive as managers but their names alone suggest seriousness of purpose.The whole enterprise is an expensive gamble in which generally third-rate or retired players must entertain viewers in a league of no importance.Read More on The SunThe same could be said of most TV competitions and baller at least has the virtue of providing live rather than deadbeat action.It might be a football circus act but if it entertains millions of people, it is no worse for that.Lehmann is helping Baller League attract a large audienceCredit: PAJohn Terry has linked up with the likes of Gary Lineker and Ian WrightCredit: PA More

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      in Boxing

      ‘Completely pointless’ – British boxer calls for Tyson Fury’s cousin’s fight to be stopped MID-BOUT

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      HUGHIE FURY’S heavyweight fight against Dan Garber was deemed “completely pointless” by boxer Dave Allen.Tyson Fury’s cousin won by a TKO in the fifth round at York Hall – but Allen wasn’t too impressed with the level of opposition.Hughie Fury beat Dan Garber by a fifth round TKOCredit: PAIt was later revealed that Fury was carrying an injuryCredit: PAThe heavyweight clash took place at the famed York HallCredit: @HennessySportsBritish boxer Dave Allen was on hand to commentate at York HallCredit: The SunFormer Commonwealth challenger Allen – who was on comms on Friday night – even called for the fight to be cancelled mid-bout.Fury (29-3) was just going through the motions and rarely stepped into second gear.However, his consistent body shots eventually wore Bradford heavyweight Garber, 39, down.But Allen, 33, had seen enough by round 4, as he fumed: “This is completely pointless, it’s a complete mismatch.READ MORE IN BOXING”For me now, the fight should be over – Garber’s four rounds down. It’s completely pointless.”Fury clearly sensed blood and went on to finish the contest within minutes.The 30-year-old from one of Britain’s most famous boxing families began unleashing a volley of shots to Garner’s body.And it was Fury’s heavy left hook to the body that sent Garber to one knee in round 5.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHis 9-4 opponent gasped for breath before beating the eight count and getting back up.But the fight lasted just 20 more seconds, before another body shot saw Garber’s face change as the referee stepped in.Tyson Fury’s cousin Hughie builds personal gym in back garden defended by two giant Rottweilers ahead of Hammer fightAnd Allen’s ruthless commentary didn’t end there as the White Rhino went on to slam the matchmakers.He said: “Fury could’ve just hit a heavy bag. I have no idea where he is right now.“With the level he’s boxed at tonight I don’t know. I don’t know how much Dillian Whyte has left. “But put him in with Whyte and see where he is.”With Fury eyeing a world title fight down the line, he really needed to put on a show, with many fans expecting a big KO win.Dillian Whyte has been talked about as a possible opponent for FuryCredit: GettyBut promoter Izzy Asif then revealed that Fury was fighting with one hand due to injury.Asif explained: “He busted his hand in sparring, he won’t be using it. Credit to him to sticking with it.“We think he can mix it with the big boys – he’s going to be in a serious fight on June 27.”Fury could’ve just hit a heavy bag. Dan AllenThe plan is to fight a big name in the summer – and fellow fringe world-level contender Whyte has been named.Speaking after the win, Fury said: “I just wanted to ease back and get the rounds in. I wanted to get in as many as possible.”It was just about working and getting the right shots in.”Fury was then asked about Whyte and other potential opponents and said: “I’m ready for any one of them. If Dillian wants it then sign the contract.”Whyte was brutally KO’d by Fury’s superstar cousin Tyson in front of 94,000 fans at Wembley in April 2022.He is yet to fight on the big stage since an adverse drugs test in 2023, which led to the cancellation of his rematch with Anthony Joshua that summer. Whyte was cleared to continue his career after an investigation confirmed that the drugs test was caused by a contaminated supplement.The Brixton-based big man was scheduled to take on Joe Joyce in Manchester this weekend until withdrawing due to injury.Read More on The SunHughie meanwhile had three comeback victories in 2024 after a three-year absence from boxing amid health issues.Former cruiserweight Garber was beaten for the first time in 2023 against Lamah Griggs on points – with mixed results following.Fury is coached by dad Peter, who is Tyson’s uncle More

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      in Soccer

      Wife of Man Utd goalkeeper Andre Onana ‘robbed of £62K handbag and Rolex’ in horror theft as man, 25, charged

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      THE wife of Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana was reportedly robbed of her £62,000 Hermes Birkin bag and a Rolex watch.Model Melanie Kamayou had her bling snatched outside an Italian restaurant in Cheshire on March 29.Andre Onana’s wife was reportedly robbed outside an Italian restaurantCredit: INSTAGRAM @melaniekamayouThe alleged thief is said to have taken Melanie Kamayou’s Birkin bag and Rolex watchCredit: Instagram @melaniekamayouThe Hermes Birkin bag (pictured) that was snatched was worth £62,000Credit: Instagram @melaniekamayouLiam Ross, 25, from the Wibsey area of Bradford, has been charged with the high-value robbery, the Daily Mail reports.The alleged thief is claimed to have taken the ultra-luxury designer goods in the heart of the picturesque Cheshire village.Ross appeared before Chester Magistrates Court on Friday, also facing a charge of supplying cannabis. He’s due back in court at Chester Crown Court in May.Melanie, who describes herself online as a pharmacist, businesswoman and philanthropist, often poses up with her luxury possessions online.One of these items in a £62,000 Hermes Birkin bag – a brand widely considered the rarest and most sought-after in the world.Hermes Birkin bags can fetch hundreds of thousands of pounds with the priciest one ever sold going for a jaw-dropping £1.5million.The high-end handbag owner has been married to football star Onana since 2023 and the pair are reported to have a son together.Most read in FootballThey moved to the UK when Onana signed for United from Inter Milan last summer.He’s since made 92 appearances for the Red Devils, including in their 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.Which Manchester United stars should stay and go?The couple now live in Alderley Edge, a magnet for Premier League stars past and present. It’s been nicknamed the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’ and is home to some of football’s biggest names and flashiest cars.The likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney have all called the village home.More recently, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson, as well as Man City’s Raheem Sterling and Virgil van Dijk, have been spotted in the area.It’s also a hotspot for supercar enthusiasts, with Porsches, Lamborghinis and Ferraris lining the leafy streets – and drawing photographers from across the country.The Sun has contacted Cheshire Police for more information.Melanie often posts glamorous snaps flaunting her designer bagsCredit: Instagram @melaniekamayouAndre Onana and Melanie tied the knot in 2023Credit: AlamyThe pair moved to the UK last summerCredit: Instagram @melaniekamayou More