More stories

  • in

    ‘He’s in the doghouse’ – Mikel Merino dedicates Arsenal heroics to wife after revealing his Valentine’s Day blunder

    MIKEL MERINO dedicated his late Arsenal double to his wife Lola… after forgetting to buy her a Valentine’s Day present.The Spaniard, 28, rose from the bench to net both of the Gunners’ goals in their 2-0 win at Leicester.Mikel Merino bagged Arsenal’s late doubleCredit: GettyMerino’s wife Lola did not receive a Valentine’s presentCredit: Instagram @lolaliberalAfter the game, Merino made a cheeky admission while speaking to TNT Sports.He told reporter Becky Ives: “It’s the first time in my career that I’ve played as a striker. The manager told me to use my strengths and I think I did that.”On if he expects to play up top more, he added: “I don’t think so, to be honest.”But it’s a good day to score because I forgot to give my wife a Valentine’s Day present, so I think she’ll appreciate this more than a rose or some chocolates.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSeeing Merino’s interview, one fan joked: “Brother, you are in the doghouse.”While a second joked: “How romantic.”A third quipped: “Merino is so locked in he forgot to get his wife a valentine’s.”Despite the makeshift forward’s double, Ethan Nwaneri was awarded TNT Sports’ player of the match award.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSOn the 17-year-old, Merino added: “He’s an amazing player.”Every time I do an interview, you guys ask me for him!Kai Havertz ruled out for rest of SEASON with torn hamstring in devastating blow to Arsenal’s title dreams”That’s natural because he is such a talent.”He has such a wonderful left foot and he put the ball right on my head so that all I could do was score.”Arsenal’s win saw them reduce their deficit to Liverpool at the top of the table to four points.Arne Slot’s men will play their game in hand tomorrow, hosting Wolves at Anfield.LEICESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Arsenal FC at The King Power Stadium on February 15, 2025 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)Credit: Getty More

  • in

    ‘Was that an apology?’ – Martin Keown and Ruud van Nistelrooy in awkward exchange live on TNT Sports

    MARTIN KEOWN finally apologised for his iconic scream in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s face live on TV.The former Arsenal defender famously celebrated wildly when the ex-Manchester United striker slammed his 2003 penalty against the crossbar. Martin Keown and Ruud van Nistelrooy were reunited at the King Power StadiumCredit: TNT SportsThey had a long, slightly tense handshakeCredit: TNT SportsThe pair were in a good mood and buried their old rivalryCredit: TNT SportsKeown famously celebrated Van Nistelrooy’s penalty miss at Old Trafford in 2003Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdKeown got right up to the dejected Dutchman following his miss in the final moments of the pulsating Premier League showdown between the Gunners and Red Devils at Old Trafford.The no-nonsense centre-half has constantly defended his behaviour for more than two decades.But as Keown and Van Nistelrooy were reunited at the King Power Stadium on Saturday, the ex-England defender did say sorry – although did not explicitly mention what for.As Leicester manager Van Nistelrooy spoke to TNT Sports before kick-off against Arsenal, the pair put their past clashes behind them.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe duo shook hands for a long while and Van Nistelrooy asked: “Martin how are you? Good to see you.”Keown replied: “Nice to see you after all these years.”Van Nistelrooy, 48, added: “It has been a while. I have seen you once, at Villa Park, remember?”Then Keown offered out his olive branch.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “Apologies for all the shenanigans that went on back in the day.”But Van Nistelrooy clearly holds no grudges.Arsenal legend Martin Keown suffers embarrassing blunder live on TV and Declan Rice has no idea what to sayHe responded: “Nah. What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch.”Joe Cole piped up: “He’s never apologised for kicking me, ever.”Keown, 58, then joked: “I thought you were going to stamp on me.”Van Nistelrooy then added: “I’m happy to have him in front of me, not in the back of me.”It was good. It was a good rivalry, wasn’t it?”Keown quipped: “Great days. I’m glad you’re standing there and not next to me because you used to love to stand on me.”Van Nistelrooy laughed: “I would like to block you – and then fall over.” The panel then briefly discussed Van Nistelrooy and TNT host Lynsey Hipgrave climbing mountains in Rio de Janeiro together – before moving on to the task at hand for the relegation-threatened Foxes.Once Van Nistelrooy headed off back to the home dressing room, Keown denied he had really said sorry by asking: “Was that an apology?”He then continued: “Since I’ve finished playing, the number of strikers I’ve had to apologise to… “It was never personal – I treated every striker exactly the same, maybe a bit of extra special spice for Ruud. “He was very clever, he would stamp on your feet, his movement off the shoulder, really clever.”Fans on social media enjoyed the interaction from the two old foes.One said: “Class act from both.”Another wrote: “Heartwarming banter. Love it.”A third added: “Actually quite nice to see a moment like this.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd a final user posted: “Glad he finally admitted to diving. Such a cheat when he was a player.”Others referenced the infamous “sorry” scene from The Inbetweeners, one labelled Keown “soft” and plenty tweeted the clip to Simon Jordan to add fuel to his rivalry with the former Arsenal man. Keown said sorry for the ‘shenanigans’ of yesteryearCredit: Getty More

  • in

    TNT Sports denied Arne Slot interview as presenter briefly forgets little-known rule after Everton vs Liverpool clash

    TNT SPORTS were denied the chance to interview Arne Slot due to a little-known rule after Liverpool drew with Everton.The Reds dropped two points after James Tarkowski’s dramatic injury-time equaliser in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.TNT Sports could not interview Arne Slot after Liverpool’s draw against EvertonCredit: TNT SPORTSHe was given a red card by Michael Oliver after full timeCredit: GettyBeto had given Everton the lead inside 11 minutes before Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah hit back for the visitors.Tarkowski’s goal came late in the day and sent the Everton fans into raptures of celebration.However, after full-time, Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of the Liverpool fans, which led to a clash between the teams.The midfielder was handed a red card as was Curtis Jones for their part in the clash.READ MORE LIVERPOOL NEWSReferee Michael Oliver also dismissed Slot for his protests on the pitch.The Dutch manager was due to speak to TNT Sports after the match, with the broadcaster showing the match.However, presenter Lynsey Hipgrave forgot a little-known rule that denied them the chance to speak to the coach.She said: “We will be hearing all the post-match thoughts of Liverpool manager Arne Slot after the break.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”In fact, we won’t because he was sent off at the end, so he can’t even speak to us.”One reason behind the ban on immediately speaking to the media is to protect the managers from saying something they could later regret.Former Liverpool Champions League winner, 44, completes incredible 24-hour treadmill run covering 106 milesTNT Sports did get the chance to speak to Everton boss David Moyes after the game.He was not happy with Doucoure being sent off as he will now be suspended.He said: “I’m disappointed with Doucoure because we need him, we’re down on numbers at the moment.”We’ve got to be careful what we do.”Discipline is never easy in these games and tonight was a game where quite easily sending offs happen.”Meanwhile, Everton will be relieved that their cheeky matchday programme cover featuring Mikel Arteta did not backfire.Liverpool fans also poked fun at their hosts with a banner hinting at Everton’s trophy drought.Merseyside Derby record at Goodison ParkHonours have ended evenly between Everton and Liverpool in terms of results at Goodison Park…Everton wins: 41Draws: 38Liverpool wins: 41 More

  • in

    ‘Obsessed’ – Fans baffled as Rio Ferdinand takes issue with Virgil van Dijk’s HAIR during Everton vs Liverpool clash

    RIO FERDINAND left fans baffled during the Merseyside derby – by obsessing over Virgil van Dijk’s flowing locks.The ex-England defender, 46, joined the TNT Sports commentary crew for the thrilling 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.Rio Ferdinand’s bizarre moment on commentary baffled TNT viewersCredit: AlamyThe ex-England defender singled out Virgil van Dijk and his hairCredit: ReutersFerdinand wanted Everton striker Beto to make life harder for the Liverpool skipperCredit: AlamyFerdinand was alongside Ally McCoist and Darren Fletcher in the TV gantry on co-comms duty. The 46-year-old urged Everton forward Beto to get more aggressive on Liverpool skipper Van Dijk during a pulsating first half.Van Dijk sported his usual locks, gelling back his long hair into a bun.But Ferdinand indicated he wanted Beto to “ruffle him up” and get more involved in a physical battle. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Man Utd defender then bizarrely said: “I don’t want Van Dijk’s hair all pristine and nicely gelled. “I want it ruffled and over his face.”Ferdinand would go on to mention the Dutchman’s hair again before the half-time whistle – prompting a flood of comments on social media. One fan responded on X: “Rio’s obsession with Virgil’s hair is concerning.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother said: “The main thing I’ve learnt so far is that Rio Ferdinand has a weird obsession with Van Dijk’s hair.”While a third joked: “Can you sack Rio Ferdinand mid game please lads? If he mentions Van Dijk’s hair one more time I’ll scream.”Everton and Liverpool stars sent off in post-match brawl as police intervene with Slot seeing red for handshake stuntA fourth laughed: “This has to be the weirdest commentary ever.”And a fifth drily added: “And people say punditry is dead?”On the field, it was a feisty affair at Goodison during a frantic first 45 minutes.Beto put the Toffees into an early lead, finishing brilliantly after Liverpool fell asleep at a freekick.But a teasing Mo Salah cross was headed in by Alexis Macallister to level the scores at the break. Referee Michael Oliver was kept busy as both sides launched themselves into tackles.There were five bookings in the first half alone as tempers flared under the lights.Liverpool looked set to win the contest when Salah netted midway through the second period.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut James Tarkowski equalised with a banging goal at the death.And the action didn’t finish with the final whistle, as a huge brawl broke out after the game and Arne Slot was sent off. More

  • in

    When is Derek Chisora retiring from boxing?

    DEREK CHISORA’S sparkling in-ring career will come to an end very soon.Chisora, now 41, has decided that he will step away from the ring once he reaches 50 fights.Derek Chisora, 41, faces Otto Wallin on Saturday nightBefore he reaches 50 fights, he takes on Otto Wallin at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, looking to add to his 35 career wins.Chisora has also expressed a desire in who he wants to fight last, with Dillian Whyte and Francis Ngannou both mentioned by the former heavyweight champion.However, the fight has now become an eliminator for the IBF heavyweight title – meaning the winner will be in line for a world title shot.Has Derek Chisora had a successful career?The short answer is yes – Chisora has gone toe to toe with most of the best fighters the heavyweight division has to offer.Never one to duck a fight, the only name missing from his stellar resume is Anthony Joshua.A former British, European and Commonwealth champion, Chisora has twice fought for a world title.He has faced – and lost – three times to Tyson Fury, their latest meeting a world title bout at Tottenham Hostpur.Chisora had first fought for a world title in 2012, when he lost a tough unanimous decision to Vitali Klitschko.He was also involved in famous feuds with David Haye and Dillian Whyte. Chisora was knocked out in the fifth round at West Ham’s old stadium, Upton Park, by Haye.His brutal 2018 rematch with Whyte is considered one of the best heavyweight fights of all-time.Chisora also gave heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk – in his first fight in boxing’s top division – a torrid team before eventually losing via unanimous decision.Two of the judges had Del Boy winning five rounds in that battle.He also fought two narrow defeats to Joseph Parker in 2021.Going into his penultimate fight, Chisora has a record of 35-13-0. Who will Derek Chisora’s last fight be against?Chisora is planning to retire after fight No 50 and expects that to take place in Summer 2025.While nothing is confirmed, Chisora had expressed his desire for his last fight to be against Francis Ngannou.Chisora had also expressed an interest to end his career with a trilogy fight against old rival Whyte.However, his plans may have changed now that the fight with Wallin has become an eliminator for the IBF heavyweight title.That means the winner of the bout will get a world title shot.Daniel Dubois is the current holder of the IBF belt and faces a huge fight against Joseph Parker on February 22.Should Chisora beat Wallin, a third title fight would be an incredible and fitting end to a storied career.However, should he lose, Chisora previously expressed interest in fighting Ngannou in Africa.Chisora was born in a suburb of Harare, Zimbabwe.He said: “If I can get Francis Ngannou in Africa for our own African people to see us perform instead of us performing in European countries and Saudi [Arabia].”It will give a taste to our young up-and-coming talent in Africa to see African warriors go at it.”Who is Derek Chisora fighting next?Derek Chisora will take on Otto Wallin in his 49th and penultimate bout on Saturday, February 8.The fight will take place at Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.Chisora vs Wallin will be available for on TNT Sports and Discovery+The event will start at 6pm GMT, with ring walks expected at 10pm GMT.SunSport will also offer full coverage of the fight and the undercard with our live blog. More

  • in

    Four-way tug of war for Wayne Rooney with Man Utd legend set for new job just weeks after Plymouth sacking

    MANCHESTER UNITED legend Wayne Rooney has been receiving a lot of job offers just two months after his dismissal as Plymouth boss.However, Rooney, 39, is not being courted for a return to the dugout after also being sacked by Birmingham on the same year as his Pilgrims axing.Wayne Roooney has been approached by four major broadcastersCredit: PAInstead, the Man Utd record goalscorer is being chased by four major broadcasters, making him the most sought-after name in football punditry.SunSport exclusively revealed the England legend is wanted by Match of the Day.The former striker is eyeing up a lucrative move to the rejigged show following long-term presenter Gary Lineker’s departure at the end of this season.Rooney hopes to join new hosts Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates on the BBC highlights show as a rotating guest pundit.Read More on FootballThe ex-Derby boss could command up to £200,000 for the year, depending on how many appearances he makes.According to GB News, Amazon, Sky Sports and TNT Sports are also keeping tabs on the Everton hero.Amazon have emerged as a frontrunner for his signature, with discussions already underway.The same source claims the streaming service wants Rooney in time for the crunch Champions League play-off clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid – the first leg of which will be played next Tuesday.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWayne Rooney’s record-breaking careerWAYNE Rooney took the football world by storm when he made his debut for 2002 with Everton.He quickly became the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer aged 16 years and 342 days and was named the BBC’s Young Sports Personality of the Year.The striker joined Manchester United in 2004 and spent 13 years at Old Trafford. He went on to make 559 appearances for the Red Devils and scored 253 goals. To this day he is still the club’s all-time leading goalscorer.Following his spell with United, Rooney returned to Everton for a season. He also spent one-season stints with D.C. United and Derby County at the end of his career.As well as his impressive club career, Rooney is also England’s second-highest goalscorer with 53 goals in 120 appearances, behind only Harry Kane.After hanging up his boots, the England icon turned to a career in management.He took charge of Derby County in 2020 and managed to just about save the club from relegation from the Championship at the end of his first season.However, with Derby handed a 21-point deduction the following campaign, he was unable to keep them up again and subsequently left.Then came a 15-month spell in charge of MLS side D.C. United. He failed to impress during his time in Washington and parted ways with the club at the end of the 2023 regular season.Rooney was controversially handed the Birmingham job in October 2023, replacing John Eustace with the club doing well and sixth in the Championship table.However, in 15 games he suffered nine defeats and managed just two wins. He was sacked in January 2024 with Birmingham down in 20th. The club were relegated to League One at the end of the campaign.He returned to management in May with Plymouth Argyle but managed just five wins in 25 games. The United legend now finds himself out of work once again.The legendary forward would be joining the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Alan Shearer as well as presenter Gabby Logan if he signed with Amazon.The broadcaster hosts select Champions League matches and a few rounds of Premier League games over the course of a season.’Are you alright-‘ – Gary Neville stunned as Wayne Rooney admits he STILL wants to manage and reveals unusual next stepBut Rooney has also been approached by Sky Sports and TNT Sports after impressing in recent appearances.Those two are the chief broadcasters of the Premier League and would be able to offer a busier role to Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer.Meanwhile, Rooney’s wife Coleen has been inundated with offers following her stint in the I’m A Celebrity jungle, where she finished as a runner-up.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

  • in

    Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin: Start time, TV channel, live stream, undercard for heavyweight clash

    DEREK CHISORA and Otto Wallin prepare for battle as they go head to head in a heavyweight clash in Manchester.Derek Chisora has already vowed to end his sparkling career after his 50th fight, and enters his 49th and penultimate fight on Saturday, February 8.Derek Chisora saw off Joe Joyce last summer in LondonCredit: GettyOtto Wallin looks for a 28th victory against Derek ChisoraCredit: ReutersWith a record of 35-13-0, Chisora has fought the best of the best in the heavyweight division.His last bout was a sensational unanimous decision victory over Joe Joyce in July last year, but with only two more to retirement, Otto Wallin will want to put a stopper in his retirement tour.Swedish boxer Wallin has a record of 27-2-1 after 30 fights, most recently in a losing effort to Anthony Joshua in Riyadh.His first loss was to Anthony Joshua’s fellow British fighter, Tyson Fury, in 2019.When is Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin?Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin will take place on Saturday, February 8The card will be live on TNT Sports from around 6pm GMT.Ring walks are expected around 10pm GMT.The CO-OP Live in Manchester will host the event.What TV channel is Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin and can it be live streamed?Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin will be live of TNT Sports.TNT Sports will stream the action live to viewers in the UK.Non-members can take out a monthly subscription for £29.99 to watch the fight.Coverage is expected to get underway at around 6pm GMT.Full cardDerek Chisora vs Otto WallinWilly Hutchinson vs Zach Parker for the vacant WBC silver light-heavyweight championshipNathan Heaney vs Sofiane KhatiJack Rafferty vs Reece MacMillan for the British, Commonwealth & WBC super-lightweight championshipMasood Abdulah vs Zak Miller for the Commonwealth featherweight championshipNelson Hysa vs Todorche Cvetkov for the WBO European heavyweight championshipWalter Fury vs Joe HardyJoe Copper vs Artjom SpatarLewis Williams vs Cristian UwakaLeighton Birchall vs TBAJermaine Dhilwayo vs Mark Butler More

  • in

    ‘That looks serious’ – Tottenham star Dragusin forced off injured in yet another blow leaving TNT Sports pundit worried

    TOTTENHAM suffered yet another injury blow as Radu Dragusin was forced off.Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou vented his frustration with recent squad setbacks ahead of Thursday’s Europa League win over Elfsborg.Radu Dragusin was forced off injuredCredit: AFPIt is yet another injury blow for SpursCredit: GettyHe planned to take off centre-back Micky van de Ven at half-time against to ensure he keeps his backline fresh. But it was replacement Dragusin who picked up a knee injury when the defender went down off the ball after a tussle with striker Jalal Abdullai.He was taken off – replaced by forward Dane Scarlett – as replays revealed Dragusin coming down on his knee awkwardly. TNT Sports’ Glenn Hoddle: “That looks quite serious because look, he plays the ball there and then he’s landed and wow, he holds his knee.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpurs have NINE first-team players sidelined through injury, including defenders Djed Spence, Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie. Keeper Guglielmo Vicario, Wilson Odobert, Timo Werner, Brennan Johnson, Dominic Solanke and James Maddison are also out. Postecoglou – who has blamed Tottenham’s woeful league form on injuries – did make light of Dragusin’s knock. The outspoken Aussie pretended to pull his hamstring when stretching for a ball that went out of play. Most read in FootballSpurs cruised into the last 16 of the Europa League thanks to goals in the final 20 minutes from Scarlett, Oyindamola Ajayi and Mikey Moore. And on Dragusin’s injury, he said: “It is too early to say what it is, we will need to investigate further. The rise and fall of Ange Postecoglou as Spurs boss”But it was his knee which is not good.”We have another game on Sunday. The club will be working hard behind the scenes to see if we can get something done.”Ange Postecoglou celebrates victoryCredit: Getty More