Transfer Deadline Day

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.And Bayern Munich’s Thomas Muller has also been accused of animal cruelty after his racehorse was injured while “rehearsing” for the breeding season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
The Blues are also said to have offered Antonio Rudiger a bumper deal worth almost £200,000-a-week to prevent him leaving on a free transfer.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Messi mixes brands
Lionel Messi stars in Paris Saint-Germain’s latest Nike kit launch… despite wearing adidas boots.
The French giants unveiled their latest mid-season Nike x Jordan design in a campaign that features the likes of Messi, Kylian Mbappe and other stars.
But in featuring Messi, photographers were forced to get creative to hide his rival adidas footwear.
In some images, a box with the words ‘Jordan Paris Saint-Germain Spring 22′ written sits at Messi’s feet.
While in another Mbappe sits on the floor, his outstretched leg blocking view of Leo’s boots.

Tottenham’s transfer plans
Tottenham will look to sign young players and those with expiring contracts in the summer, according to reports.
Spurs’ director of football Fabio Paratici is thought to have identified three players that the club will try to secure at the end of the season.
According to The Mail, the first name on that shortlist is Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly.
The U18 French international’s deal with the Ligue 1 side is set to be up at the end of the current campaign.
And Paratici, who has connections in the French transfer market, will look to take full advantage of that by luring him to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Looking away from England
Fifa has approved on-loan Leicester ace Ademola Lookman’s nationality switch from England to Nigeria.
Lookman, 24, came through the youth ranks with England at both U19 and U21 level.
But with Lookman far off a senior international call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad, Lookman decided he’d make the switch to play for Nigeria.
And according to The Associated Press, Fifa have approved the switch.
Shearer’s statue’s on the move
Alan Shearer statue is finally set to be moved on to Newcastle home turf… six years after it was erected.
The £250,000 sculpture was put up outside St James’ Park by the city council way back in 2016.
But former owner Mike Ashley refused to have it on the grounds owned by Newcastle United.
However, as reported by the Newcastle Chronicle, a change in ownership looks on course to mean a change in location.
Planning application has been submitted to get the 16ft bronze bust brought inside the Toon’s official boundary.
If there are no objections, the switch should get the green light.
Southampton troll Antonio Conte
Southampton have brutally trolled Antonio Conte after the Tottenham boss ‘shushed them’… only to later lose.
The Italian, 52, was clearly upset at something that occurred during the match and let his emotions get the better of him.
And he was evidently feeling boastful after Son Heung-min scored to put his side 2-1 up with 20 minutes to go.
Conte turned towards the Saints bench, put his finger to his lip and began to shush his opposite bench.
But unfortunately for Conte he was left to rue that act as Southampton scored twice in five minutes to turn the game on its head.
And it was Southampton manager Ralph Hassenhuttl who had the last laugh as his side came away with a 3-2 win.
The Saints social media admin also had a good chuckle, posting a video of the shush before cutting to a miserable looking Conte at full-time.
And several Saints fans also chimed in to mock the Italian.
Broj of honour
Chelsea loanee Armando Broja was seen beating the Southampton badge on his chest after scoring in Thursday’s 3-2 win at Tottenham.
The striker, 19, netted his sixth Premier League goal of the season as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s Saints completed an incredible comeback in north London.
Reports claim Southampton are willing to break their transfer record with a £25million bid for Broja this summer.
And the Albanian international did little to downplay talks of a permanent move as he proudly beat the Saints crest on his jersey after a 23rd minute equaliser against Spurs.
It prompted Southampton fans to dream of an incredible summer heist, having already pinched top young right-back Tino Livramento from Stamford Bridge.
One gushed: “We gotta buy him.”
In the wink of an eye
Harry Winks thought his Tottenham career was ‘dead and buried’ under Jose Mourinho and Nuno Espirito Santo.
The Spurs academy product and lifelong fan feared his time at his boyhood idols was up when he was frozen out by his previous two bosses.
But new boss Antonio Conte has brought him back in from the cold to the first-team since taking over in November.
Winks said: “The manager’s come in and given me a chance, given me confidence again.
“Every game I play, every training session I have that hunger to try to impress him and do everything I can to try to improve.
“My career at Tottenham was probably dead and buried but he’s come in and given me an opportunity to show myself and prove myself.
“And for that, every time I get an opportunity I really want to impress the manager and show myself and repay that faith he’s shown in me and put it back to me.”
Real love in Paris
Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain’s owners will have dinner together on Valentine’s Day, according to reports.
The two clubs have not always seen eye to eye with Real’s approach for Kylian Mbappe putting a strain on relations.
But with Mbappe’s future uncertain the pair are set to meet in a bid to clear the air and improve their relationship.
Real president Florentino Perez and his PSG counterpart Nasser Al-Khelaifi will sit down for dinner before their teams play in the Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday, report Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV.
The meeting will take place in Paris as the French side host Real the following day.
Joe Cole’s got faith in Lampard
Joe Cole is backing ex-Chelsea pal Frank Lampard to ‘definitely keep Everton up’ this season for three key reasons.
Lampard, 43, was confirmed as Rafa Benitez’s successor last month – a year after he was sacked by the Blues.
Cole told Coral: “The Everton job is a great opportunity for Frank, one of the best. You will never get a better chance to take Everton up the table.
“They still have an owner who is committed and will spend money, the fans hated the previous manager so will get behind you, and the players have been underperforming but will get better.
“He will definitely keep them up. Give it a couple of weeks and results will begin to turn and I don’t think they will be in a relegation battle.
“Then next season he can really get to work with backing from the owner and a new stadium on the horizon. The future looks so bright.”
England’s World Cup rankings
England have been confirmed as top seeds for the 2022 World Cup – despite dropping one place in the latest Fifa world rankings.
Gareth Southgate’s side were leapfrogged by Argentina – who won their World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia – to fall to fifth.
But with the top seven in the rankings joining hosts Qatar in the elite group of eight for the April 1 draw in Doha, England cannot lose their top berth.
Belgium, Brazil and France are ahead of Argentina and England in the latest rankings while seventh-placed Spain are also guaranteed a seeding spot.
And the final seed will be either Italy or Portugal – assuming one of them wins their World Cup play-off mini-group next month.
If neither go through, it would open the door for Denmark or Holland to sneak into the top seeding bracket.
Meanwhile, Brazil are set to end Belgium’s three and a half year reign at the top of the rankings when they complete their qualifying campaign next month, with the Red Devils only playing friendlies.
Of the other Home Nations, Wales stay 20th, Scotland are 40th and Northern Ireland 54th.
Man United’s new sponsors
Man United have announced a £20million-a-year kit sponsorship with blockchain platform Tezos.
The brand will feature on both the men’s and women’s training kits.
United‘s training kit has been left bare so far this season after their deal with Aon expired last season.
Tezos’ branded kit will make its debut this week ahead of United’s first-team game against Southampton.
Arsenal keen on keeping Saka
Arsenal will hold talks with Bukayo Saka over a new contract.
The exciting 20-year-old still has two more years to run on his current agreement, which is thought to be worth just £35,000 a week.
But Mikel Arteta wants to recognise Saka’s increasing importance to his team by making him one of the highest-paid players at the club.
With Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United all monitoring Saka’s situation, Arteta knows that Arsenal’s position will be enhanced if they can secure Champions League qualification this season.
The Gunners boss said: “We are going to have a conversation with the player and then with his family and his agent so that everybody is on board.
“Obviously our desire is to keep Bukayo for as long as possible because we are really happy with him.
“He is part of our DNA who is growing and maturing all the time.
“His importance to the team is unquestionable and we want to keep our best talent at the club, that’s for sure.”
Prem clubs financial winners and losers
Man United and Arsenal have made staggering transfer losses in the last five years.
The two Premier League giants have made losses north of £150million.
United’s reckless spending has put them in a hole to the tune of £192m.
Arsenal don’t look any better with the Gunners recording a loss of £163m in the past five years.
Fellow members of the ‘Big Six’, Manchester City and Tottenham, have also made losses in player sales.
City are in the red by £132m whereas Spurs are only at £52m.
On the other hand, Liverpool and Chelsea have turned a profit on player sales in the last five years.
Liverpool are up by a tasty £93m and Chelsea have made an eye watering £199m.
Calls for Zouma prosecution
Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted for animal cruelty as more than 150,000 people sign a petition calling for justice.
More than 150,000 Brits have signed a petition calling for the Met to launch a probe.
The Change.org petition, started by Matthew Dixon, says: “Professional football player Kurt Zouma was filmed horrendously abusing a defenceless animal.
“He should be prosecuted for his actions.”
Muller accused of animal cruelty
Thomas Muller has become the latest footballer to be accused of animal cruelty… after his prize stallion was injured ‘rehearsing’ for the breeding season.
Germany striker Muller has been blasted by animal rights charity Peta after revealing the bizarre injury suffered by his horse D’Avie, referred to as ‘Dave’.
Peta spokesperson Jana Hoger fumed: “It is awful that self-styled horse lovers force the animals in their care into unnatural sex acts in order to make the maximum profit from them.
“The injuries that D’Avie suffered under Lisa and Thomas Muller’s supervision were avoidable and unnecessary.”
Antonio’s view on Zouma row
Michail Antonio has given a powerful response following West Ham team-mate Kurt Zouma’s horrific cat attack.
The 27-year-old Frenchman has received widespread criticism for the sickening clip which showed him kicking and slapping his pet cat.
Antonio turned things around on an interviewer when he was quizzed about the incident.
The West Ham striker said: “I’ve got a question for you. So, do you think what he has done is worse than racism?”
To which the interviewer responded: “It’s two different things isn’t it.”
Antonio then continued: “I’m not condoning a thing that he has done. I don’t agree with what he has done at all.
“But there’s people that have been convicted and caught for racism and they have played football afterwards.
“They got punished, they got an eight-game punishment or something like that. But people are now calling for people to be sacked, to lose their livelihood.
“I’ve just got to ask this question to everybody out there. Is what he’s done [Zouma] worse than what the people have done that are convicted for racism?”
Not Keane on Sunderland job
Roy Keane is OUT of the running for the vacant Sunderland job.
The Manchester United legend managed the Black Cats between 2006-08 and looked certain to return after two interviews in the last week with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.
According to The Athletic, it is thought that Keane was offered the position on Wednesday.
But as of Thursday morning, Keane will NOT be the man on the touchline at the Stadium of Light.
Keane is said to be no longer under consideration for the role.
Arsenal’s Saka contract worry
Arsenal are reportedly concerned they could struggle to tie Bukayo Saka down to a new contract.
The Mail claims Gunners chiefs have made it a priority to extend the deal of their brightest star, 20.
Saka’s current contract expires in 2024, and Arsenal want to boost his £35,000-a-week wages to match their highest earners.
However, those behind the scenes are concerned that Saka could snub an extension should Mikel Arteta fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
And Champions League veterans Liverpool and Man City are said to be interested in the winger.
Moonpig’s Ronaldo card backlash
Moonpig have removed a Cristiano Ronaldo Valentine’s Day card and apologised for its distasteful content.
The product was being sold on their website but has now been taken down after backlash.
The front of the card featured Ronaldo in a Manchester United kit underneath the words: “Nothing will stop me scoring this Valentine’s Day.”
In light of Ronaldo being accused of sexual assault by Kathryn Mayorga, Moonpig have apologised for any upset caused.
Ronaldo has consistently denied claims he sexually assaulted Mayorga.
Man United target’s wage demands
Man United transfer target Manuel Akanji reportedly wants to DOUBLE his wages as Borussia Dortmund set their asking price for the defender.
Dortmund have been trying to tie him down to a new deal – improving his contract worth £4.2million to a more lucrative £6.75m.
But Akanji has refused to sign as he is holding out for a figure in the region of £8.4m.
Liverpool need more than Diaz
Glen Johnson reckons Liverpool need more than Luis Diaz to help them catch Prem league leaders Man City.
Johnson thinks Diaz will be a good addition to the Reds’ squad, but he doubts one signing is enough for Jurgen Klopp’s side to close the gap between them and City.
Speaking to bettingodds.com, Johnson said: “I’m excited and he’s a good player. He looks like he’s already settled but I don’t want to judge him too soon.
“His signing will have given other players a boost, but if they want to catch Manchester City then they’re going to need a boost.
“I don’t think one player is good enough to bridge the gap with Manchester City, but I do think they’ve made a good addition to their squad.
“Luis Díaz will be knocking on the door for a place in the first eleven. If they were aiming to close the gap quicker then they may have needed a couple more players of the same quality to come in.”
Spurs line up NFL hosting bid
Tottenham are reportedly preparing a stunning bid to host the 2026 Super Bowl at their new £1billion stadium.
It would be the first time ever the NFL showpiece is staged on foreign soil.
As first revealed by SunSport back in 2019, the North Londoners are lining up their offer should the grand finale be taken overseas.
Spurs already have a ten-year contract in place to stage two matches per season at their new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
However, as reported by the Daily Mail, they may face hurdles hosting the 2026 Super Bowl due to the time difference.
It would need to be a very late kick-off in London to hit the prime US viewing slot, with more than 100million usually watching the biggest event of the year.
That could cause problems with Haringey Council – but an earlier time may put off advertisers if viewing figures will drop.
West Ham lose second sponsor
A second West Ham sponsor has withdrawn support for the club after Kurt Zouma was recorded kicking one of his cats like a football.
Experience Kissimmee, the tourism authority for Osceola County in Florida, has now dropped its support of West Ham.
In a tweet, the organisation said: “Experience Kissimmee announced today that it has ended its sponsorship of West Ham United Football Club.”
Vitality has also suspended its sponsorship with “immediate effect”.
The company said it was “hugely disappointed” by the club after Zouma was allowed to play – hours after The Sun exclusively revealed the video.
France manager Deschamps slams Zouma
France manager Didier Deschamps has slammed defender Kurt Zouma after the emergence of a video showing him abusing his cat.
 Deschamps is just the latest individual in football to condemn Zouma’s actions.
He said: “I was very surprised by Kurt. This is something that is inadmissible, intolerable and cruelty without a name.
“I’m sure he became aware of it but these images are shocking and unbearable.”
Mourinho explains Sanchez’s Man United hell
Jose Mourinho has revealed why Alexis Sanchez was not happy at Manchester United.
The Chilean international arrived at Old Trafford in January 2018 following four impressive years with Arsenal.
But he failed to replicate that level of performance for the Red Devils, scoring just five times in 45 games.
Eventually, in the summer of 2019, he secured a move to Inter Milan – where he still is now.
And Roma boss Mourinho, who coached Sanchez for the first 12 months of his spell at the Theatre of Dreams, spoke with the player during Inter’s 2-0 win over his side on Tuesday.
He said: “In England he was not happy, it was not his natural habitat, it is here.”
Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.The Metropolitan Police are not investigating the incident, while Zouma’s brother Yoan’s future is in jeopardy with his club Dagenhan & Redbridge after appearing in in the damning footage.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
And Chelsea are over in Abu Dhabi for the Club World Cup this week.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Crock ‘n roll star Wayne
Wayne Rooney has revealed he hid the injury that should have ruled him out of the 2006 World Cup.
In a stunning admission, Rooney admitted that he was not fit to play in the tournament that ended with his red card as England went out on penalties to Portugal at the quarter-finals.
But the Three Lions’ record goalscorer’s problem was NOT the fractured metatarsals that saw Sven-Goran Eriksson go to war with Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Instead, he explained in the Amazon documentary “Rooney”: “The first training session with the team was the next day.
“We went out on to the pitch jogging and there was a ball by the halfway line.
“I kicked it trying to hit the crossbar and pulled my groin. I had a 6cm tear in my groin which I didn’t report to the physios.”
Eriksson, shown footage of Rooney’s confession, admitted “I didn’t know that.”
And Rooney went on: “I don’t know what the fans will think about it. It was naive of course but you want to play, you want to play for your country. I was thinking I will be OK.
“I was never right at that tournament physically. I was getting pain that was non-stop.”
Gerro tips Ramsey for England
Steven Gerrard hailed his two-goal kid sensation Jacob Ramsey and claimed he will be an England star soon.
Villa’s 20-year-old homegrown midfielder expertly polished off two Philippe Coutinho assists – after the little Brazilian cancelled out Dan James’ opener for Leeds – as Villa came from behind to storm into a 3-1 lead.
However James struck again on the stroke of half-time before Diego Llorente earned Leeds a valuable point after the break, before Villa’s Ezri Konsa was sent off late in this six-goal thriller.   
Afterwards Gerrard heaped praise on his midfield starlet and said: “I don’t want to make any headlines, I want Jacob to continue to make his own headlines with his football.
“It’s my job to keep everyone calm. But he’s a top talent and I’m loving every minute of working with him.
“I know the level of the England players, I’ve been around it and know it is only a matter of time in my opinion. But let’s all be sensible and keep calm about it.
“He’s getting stronger and better with each game because we’ve given him a platform to go and express himself. His performance and his finishes tonight were wonderful.
“That’s the type of midfielder we want, someone who can run without the ball, carry the ball, who is dangerous and can score. He’s in a wonderful place at the moment and credit to him and everyone who’s worked with him over the years.”
Zaha fortunes go Upside Down
Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha channelled his inner Diana Ross as he dragged his penalty five yards wide during the 1-1 draw at Norwich.
The Ivory Coast international, 29, went from hero to zero at Carrow Road after he equalised with an emphatic curling strike in the 60th minute.
I thought Ronaldo and Elanga’s penalties were bad the other night.

Zaha whipped in an effort from the edge of the box into the top right corner for one of the best goals of the season.
But he was then guilty of missing one of the worst spot-kicks in Premier League history just THREE minutes later.
The former Manchester United winger stepped up confidently, but his effort trickled past Angus Gunn’s right-hand post.
Zaha’s shot bobbled off his standing foot and away from goal to leave the player shocked by what just happened.about:blank
It turned out to a decisive moment in the match as the Eagles had to settle for a point to make it four top-flight matches without a win.
Unsurprisingly, social media was sent into a meltdown over the miss as fans likened the attempt to Diana Ross’ failed penalty during the USA 1994 World Cup opening show.
Rudi big pay offer
Chelsea have made a huge contract offer to star defender Antonio Rudiger in a bid to stop him leaving in the summer, according to reports.
Rudiger, 28, is said to have turned down a £140k-a-week offer earlier in the season.
GOAL have reported that the Blues have now offered closer to £200k-a-week.

The German international is out of contract at the end of the season and has been strongly linked with a move away.
The club are supposedly desperate for him to stay as they struggle to keep hold of key defenders.
Chelsea are eager to extend the expiring deals of Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen.
Reports also suggest that there are ‘large signing-on fees’ and ‘competitive salary packages’ waiting for the 28-year-old if he lets his contract expire.
European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are believed to have already thrown offers at the Champions League winner.
Nev slams Wag circus
Gary Neville slammed the Wag circus that turned Baden Baden into a paparazzi paradise during the 2006 World Cup.
Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen was one of the leaders of the England players’ partners’ group.
She said: “There were nights when we went out and had a good time but we didn’t do anything wrong.

“The players went out with us and we never dragged them out at the hotel to come out with us.
“Out of all the tournaments I’d say that was the most memorable one that we felt like a big England family.”
But Neville raged: “Elite sports teams should have no distraction.
“It’s a World Cup. We had distractions like you would not believe.
“When I look back on that 2006 tournament and think about how it was handled, the build up to it, that was obviously the Wags and the families travelling, Wayne’s injury, coming late, ‘the big man’s here’ and all that sort of crap, it was just a nonsense.”

‘What can he not do?’
Former Arsenal left-back Armand Traore has backed Manchester United starlet James Garner to reach the top following his dazzling loan displays for Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old linked up with the Reds for the second half of last campaign where he scored four goals in 20 Championship games.
And after committing his long-term future to the Red Devils in August, the England youth international was sent back to the City Ground for the entirety of this term.
Garner has cemented himself as a key player under boss Steve Cooper, with the midfielder supplying one goal and three assists from 27 outings this term.
He starred in Forest’s 4-1 win against Leicester on Sunday where they dumped the FA Cup holders out at the fourth round stage.
Ex-Forest ace Traore told SunSport via Freebets.com, Traore said: “He’s an absolute baller. What a player! And he’s only 20. “You watch him play with such maturity, he reminds me of Xabi Alonso
“This guy makes everything simple and look so easy. He’s hard in the tackle, he’s not scared, his long-range passing, his short range passing is amazing.
“I’ve seen him score goals with both feet, what can he not do? I’d not be surprised if United tried recalling him, but that would a huge mistake for Garner if he did.”

Zouma video made me sick
DAVID SEAMAN: I’LL never forget how Arsenal manager George Graham used to tell us: “Remember who you are, where you are and who you represent.”
Kurt Zouma has very clearly lost sight of who he is representing and has really let his team down.
After The Sun published the video of him abusing that poor cat, so many fans were rightly disgusted.

To see him starting on Tuesday night horrified many Hammers supporters.
When me and my wife Frankie saw the video we felt sick.
We found it really hard to sleep that night. We’re relieved to hear his cats have been taken into care.
After The Sun published the video of him abusing that poor cat, so many fans were rightly disgusted.
To see him starting on Tuesday night horrified many Hammers supporters.
When me and my wife Frankie saw the video we felt sick. We found it really hard to sleep that night. We’re relieved to hear his cats have been taken into care.
Both of us have always had cats and now we have two rescues from Cats Protection — Willow and Smokey.
We also often foster pregnant and feral cats which we keep in their own room — some having been treated horribly in abusive situations. This episode really shows that, no matter who you are, abusing animals is never OK.
Utd players want Poch
Manchester United stars want Mauricio Pochettino to take over in the summer, writes MARTIN BLACKBURN.
The Red Devils are set to step up their search for a permanent boss now new chief executive Richard Arnold is in place.

And the word from the dressing room is that they want former Tottenham chief Poch to get the nod.
Ajax manager Erik ten Hag will also be closely looked at by United’s hierarchy in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile — as SunSport reported last month — interim boss Ralf Rangnick still has an opportunity to convince the board he is the man for the long term.
However the fact that current Paris Saint-Germain coach Pochettino has worked in the Premier League before is seen as a major positive by the current squad.
Devastated Mo might play for Reds
Mo Salah still has the devastating Afcon final shootout loss ‘on his mind’, says Jurgen Klopp.
Egypt captain Salah, 29, missed out on an Afcon title as Reds team-mate Sadio Mane and Senegal took home the trophy.
The Liverpool winger was due to take the fifth and final penalty in the shootout, but unfortunately for Egypt, it didn’t get that far.
Mane buried the winning penalty to help Senegalese win the trophy for the first time.

Klopp told Sky Sports that Salah was back training with his club on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s clash with Leicester.
The Reds boss said: “Yesterday everyone could see he has the final on his mind.
“He’s very disappointed, it was a massive thing.
“Losing a final is always really hard, I can sing that song, but losing the way they did was especially hard.
“He is happy to be back but is disappointed as well, massively so.”
Cout of this world
Philippe Coutinho bagged a goal and two assists but Villa wasted a 3-1 lead to draw.
Here’s our match report from: Aston Villa 3 Leeds 3.
Result: Aston Villa 3 Leeds 3
Ezri Konsa’s late red card left Villa holding on for a draw after they blew a 3-1 lead.
Zaha stunner foils Canaries
Read how Eagles’ main man Wilfried Zaha denied the lowly Canaries victory.
Here’s our match report:Norwich 1 Crystal Palace 1
Rooney trawled Manchester as a kid for fights
Wayne Rooney has admitted he and his pals used to trawl MANCHESTER looking for punch-ups, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
The Scouser who was to become United’s record scorer would make the short trip from Merseyside to watch concerts by some of his favourite bands.
But he always expected the night to end with a major scuffle – and on one occasion he was left with a broken jaw.

Rooney said: “I wasn’t the nicest kid at that age. “I did some things which were wrong and had a lot of fights when I was younger.
“I wouldn’t say I was a bully but there were things I shouldn’t have done and I crossed the line.”
He added: “I don’t know if it was anger. Sometimes you got hit and that’s not nice but I used to get some sort of enjoyment out of it.
“I remember getting my jaw snapped in Manchester. I was about 13 and some guy grabs hold of me and hit me.  He went to hit me again and I just dropped and threw a big haymaker at him and caught him and then I ran off.We wouldn’t go knowing there was going to be a fight but we knew there was a chance. 
“”I’ve come back from Southport with my eye all stitched up and again my mum wasn’t happy. I was probably about 12. You get taught you have to fight to survive.”
Read our Prem reports here
Man City 2 Brentford 0Tottenham 2 Southampton 3
Purple Rush
Ian Rush was on target in the fashion stakes as he donned a statement purple suit for a night out with his model fiancee.
The Liverpool legend took to the red carpet with partner Carol Anthony, who is 22 years his junior.
The pair were attending a reception to celebrate the British Asian Trust at the British Museum in London.

And while Anthony looked stylish in a classy dress-and-shawl combination, it was her hubby turning most heads with his voguish tuxedo.
The couple got engaged back in 2019 after five years of dating. Plans for a secret wedding in Mauritius 12 months later were scuppered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Their relationship flourished just a year after Rush, 60, split with his partner of 25 years, Tracy.
Speaking to the Irish Independent in 2019, former pop star Anthony told of her delight at the announcement.
She said: “We’ve been speaking about it for a long time. “We don’t feel any different as we always knew we would be together for the long haul.
“When we travel together, Ian always introduces me as his wife. Two weeks ago, I corrected him and said, ‘Ian, I’m not your wife.’ He said: ‘Yes, but I want you to be. That is, if you want to be?'”
Andreas off to Flamengo
Manchester United have finalised Andreas Pereira’s £9million permanent switch to loan side Flamengo, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says.
It’s claimed United have also landed a 25% sell-on clause for the one-cap Brazil midfielder, 26.
Credit: Getty
Pereira has also had loan spells with Granada, Valencia and Lazio.
And the Red Devils will surely be happy to offload a player who never won a regular senior place since arriving at Old Trafford in 2011.

United and Milan could vie for Nicolo
AC Milan are said to have joined Manchester United’s pursuit of Roma winger Nicolo Zaniolo.
Calciomercato report journalist Enrico Camelio as claiming the Italian giants have indirectly asked about the Italy star, 22.
It’s thought Roma would consider cashing in for around £45million.
United and Juventus have been the early frontrunners – until now.
Cooper tipped to be top Prem boss
Steve Cooper is destined for a Premier League dugout regardless of whether he guides Nottingham Forest to promotion this season.
That is the view of former Reds left-back Armand Traore who has waxed lyrical over his managerial abilities.
Forest picked up just one point from their opening seven league games under Chris Hughton – but now lie just two points off the play-offs in ninth spot with three wins in their last four Championship games.

Speaking to SunSport via Freebets.com, the ex-Gunners ace said: “It’s been an unbelievable turnaround.
“They’re doing it consistently, they look good, the players know what they’re doing, they know their roles and they’ve got a really young squad which is very important. 
“Steve Cooper has won the World Cup with the Under-17s for England so he knows how to deal with young players.
“With young players, they have no fear, they have hunger and drive. If you couple that with the right coaching and management, it’s a winning combination. 
“If Steve Cooper doesn’t take Forrest into the Premier League, he will end up there as a manager anyway. The job he’s doing is amazing. He’s a very underrated manager.”
Klopp: Sad Salah’s not shaken off Afcon woe
Mo Salah still has the devastating Afcon final shootout loss ‘on his mind’, says Jurgen Klopp.
Egypt captain Salah, 29, missed out on an Afcon title as Reds team-mate Sadio Mane and Senegal took home the trophy.
The Liverpool winger was due to take the fifth and final penalty in the shootout, but unfortunately for Egypt, it didn’t get that far.
Mane buried the winning penalty to help Senegalese win the trophy for the first time.

Klopp told Sky Sports that Salah was back training with his club on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s clash with Leicester.
The Reds boss said: “Yesterday everyone could see he has the final on his mind.
“He’s very disappointed, it was a massive thing.
“Losing a final is always really hard, I can sing that song, but losing the way they did was especially hard.
“He is happy to be back but is disappointed as well, massively so.”
Everton target Hitchen
Everton want ex-Tottenham transfer guru Steven Hitchen to be their new director of football and replace Marcel Brands.
The highly-rated Hitchins left his director of technical performance role at Spurs last week.
Now he is ‘emerging as the Toffees’ first-choice’ for the post ahead of ex-Wolves sporting director Kevin Thelwell.
Everton sacked Brands in December after a number of disastrous and costly transfer signings throughout his reign.
Following the arrival of Frank Lampard as manager, the Premier League strugglers are now reviewing their whole recruitment and executive operations.
The Mail Online claim that Hitchen has already held talks with Goodison chiefs and is ‘understood to have impressed’ with his vision for the future.
The 45-year-old is believed to have significant support from with Everton’s boardroom as they look to finally announce a new man.
The report states that Thelwell also has his admirers at the Merseyside club.

Shock Shaq switch to Chicago
Ex-Liverpool playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri has moved to MLS side Chicago Fire for £5.5million – just six months after joining Lyon.
The Switzerland midfielder, 30, signed a Designated Player contract transfer in the USA.
Fire sporting director Georg Heitz said: “Xherdan is a game-changing player and someone who will bring joy to our supporters and the city of Chicago.
“As one of the most accomplished Swiss athletes of his generation, Xherdan joins us at a very important time for the club and fully believes in what we are aiming to accomplish.
“We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Chicago very soon.”
Credit: EPA
Garner be special
Former Arsenal left-back Armand Traore has backed Manchester United starlet James Garner to reach the top following his dazzling loan displays for Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old linked up with the Reds for the second half of last campaign where he scored four goals in 20 Championship games.
And after committing his long-term future to the Red Devils in August, the England youth international was sent back to the City Ground for the entirety of this term.

Garner has cemented himself as a key player under boss Steve Cooper, with the midfielder supplying one goal and three assists from 27 outings this term.
He starred in Forest’s 4-1 win against Leicester on Sunday where they dumped the FA Cup holders out at the fourth round stage.
Ex-Forest ace Traore told SunSport via Freebets.com, Traore said: “He’s an absolute baller. What a player! And he’s only 20. “You watch him play with such maturity, he reminds me of Xabi Alonso
“This guy makes everything simple and look so easy. He’s hard in the tackle, he’s not scared, his long-range passing, his short range passing is amazing.
“I’ve seen him score goals with both feet, what can he not do? I’d not be surprised if United tried recalling him, but that would a huge mistake for Garner if he did.”
Utd and Chelsea eye Arsenal target
Chelsea and Manchester United have joined Arsenal and Tottenham in chasing Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, reports say.
French s  Newcastle were also understood to be in for the Frenchman, 19, in transfer deadline week.
And 90m say Chelsea and United scouts watched take on Bordeaux on Sunday.
Chelsea sub ratings
N’Golo Kante on for Jorginho (HT) – 6
Some sloppy passes from Kante but other than that he worked hard and put a few good tackles in.
Mason Mount on for Ziyech (72 mins) – 6
Tried to inject some energy and gain some control, but Chelsea continued to struggle. 
Malang Sarr for Alonso (86 mins) – N/A
More Chelsea ratings vs Al Hilal
Hakim Ziyech – 8
Another very bright game for him as a lot of what Chelsea did good in an attacking sense came through the Moroccan once again. He came off in the second half for Mason Mount as Chelsea looked for more control.
Kai Havertz – 7
Worked very well combining with Lukaku and Ziyech up top for Chelsea, set up the first goal for Lukaku with some good work as well. A very nice technical game from him and he could have and probably should have got a goal himself too and was a little wasteful in the final third. 
Romelu Lukaku – 6
First half goal gave him some needed confidence and he looked a bit more comfortable today. He still wasn’t involved anywhere near enough as he should be and faded a lot in the second half.
Load more entries… More

KURT ZOUMA has been condemned by club West Ham after a shocking video of him attacking his cat was revealed by The Sun.The Metropolitan Police are not investigating the incident, while Zouma’s brother Yoan’s future is in jeopardy with his club Dagenhan & Redbridge after appearing in in the damning footage.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.
Chelsea are over in Abu Dhabi for the start of the Club World Cup this week.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Kurt Zouma latest
Thousands of people have signed a petition calling for shamed West Ham ace Kurt Zouma to be prosecuted for animal cruelty.
Zouma was filmed kicking one of his two cats like a football and slapping it out of a child’s hands in disturbing footage filmed at his multimillion-pound mansion.
The defender has since issued a grovelling apology after the clip, shared by his brother Yoan on Snapchat, was exclusively featured by The Sun.
But the France international could still face a criminal prosecution if the RSPCA deems the clip contains illegal behaviour.
The Met Police say they won’t be investigating but the charity has its own powers to prosecute if it sees fit.
But more than 7,000 Brits have signed a petition calling for the Met to launch a probe.
The Change.org petition, started by Matthew Dixon, says: “Professional football player Kurt Zouma was filmed horrendously abusing a defenceless animal.
“He should be prosecuted for his actions”
Rice in, Kante out?
Chelsea could have the best chance of signing West Ham star Declan Rice next summer but N’Golo Kante may have to leave first.
Rice is reportedly keen on joining the Blues over Premier League foes Manchester United and Manchester City.
But the west Londoners would first need to sell Kante to free up a position in their squad for the star midfielder, which is a possibility given the France international’s age, according to The Mail.
That is a blow for United who have made the England international their top transfer priority ahead of the summer
Hornets combine youth and experience
Roy Hodgson has only been in charge of Watford for a fortnight but already the affable old timer is breaking records in his new job.
The 74-year-old oversaw the Hornets first Premier League clean sheet in 31 matches during his first game – a goalless draw at Burnley – and tonight takes his side the short distance to West Ham.
And at Turf Moor, the former Fulham and England manager put his faith in some young talent including 20-year-old Brazilian Joao Pedro.
At 54 years and 48 days younger than Hodgson, the age gap to the forward marked the biggest in Premier League history between a manager and a player who had started a match.

Pep reacts to Grealish video
Pep Guardiola has just completed his press conference ahead of tomorrow evening’s game with Brentford, and has responded to questions regarding the video of Jack Grealish appearing to be drunk on a night out.
The Manchester City manager was in good humour as he gave his views, insisting his players behaved well, and that nothing should be assumed from a short social media video.
I am upset because they didn’t invite me and I don’t like it. Hopefully next time they will invite me and we’ll do dinner together correctly at 8pm. All of them – Riyad, Kyle and Jack – they were perfect, but they will be fined because they didn’t invite me.Pep Guardiola
Kurt behaviour disrupts Hammers preparation
The build-up to West Ham’s match with Watford this evening has been thrown into chaos by the emergence of a video that shows defender Kurt Zouma mistreating a cat.
The Frenchman has apologised for the footage of him punching and kicking the family pet, but animal protection groups are not satisfied.
Calls to drop Zouma have been made while a petition has been lobbied at the RSPCA to investigate the incident further.
Zouma’s club were quick to release a statement strongly condemning their player’s behaviour, but the necessity has disrupted preparations in the West Ham camp.
The Hammers face struggling Watford tonight as they continue their challenge for Champions League football.
Major milestone for Clarets
Burnley host Manchester United this evening in what will be the 5,000th league game in their history.
The Clarets will become only the second club in the English game to reach the milestone, following in the footsteps of their Lancashire neighbours Preston North End.
Indeed, it was a match between the two clubs that marked Burnley’s first ever match as a founder member of the Football League. Preston prevailed on that day back in 1888, winning 5-2 at Deepdale.
Salah back in Liverpool contention
Mo Salah returned to Liverpool this morning following his African Cup of Nations heartbreak, and could now be in line for the Reds’ Premier League match with Leicester on Thursday.
The Egyptian was due to take a short break, having played all seven games for his country at Afcon – four of which went to extra-time – but he instead wishes to return to domestic football at the first opportunity.
Manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that the Premier League’s top scorer could play some part in the midweek match at Anfield.
Egypt were beaten on penalties in the final by Senegal on Sunday with Salah’s clubmate Sadio Mane scoring the winning spotkick.
Lampard preparing for huge clash
Frank Lampard is set to take charge of his first Premier League game with Everton this evening, and the stakes could not be higher.
The 16th-placed Toffees face relegation-threatened Newcastle at home with just four separating the two sides.
Lampard saw his new team power past Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday, and has now been boosted for the run-in by the return from injury of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The former Chelsea boss is also likely to hand debuts to new signings Dele Alli, Donny van de Beek and Anwar El Ghazi.
The last Everton manager to lose his first league game in charge of the Goodison Park club was Gordon Lee in February 1977.
Twelves new bosses have avoided defeat since then, will Lampard continue the 45-year-run or will it be unlucky number 13 for Frank?
Toon could conquer Europe
Newcastle United can win the Champions League, according to their new signing Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian star joined the Magpies from Lyon at the end of January for a fee that could rise to £42million, and is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton.
Now the 24-year-old has explained why he snubbed a move to Arsenal in favour of the north-east, and that’s because Newcastle are destined to become a global power.
“We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more – we want to win the Champions League.”
Ralph ready to call time
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is considering retirement when his contract comes to an end in 2024, reports HampshireLive.
The popular Austrian took charge at St Mary’s in December 2018, and feels that half a decade in charge of a Premier League outfit is enough for one career.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”

Jack the lad about town
Jack Grealish has endured a difficult first season at Manchester City, and may now face the wrath of manager Pep Guardiola after footage emerged of the player supposedly being ‘turned away from a bar for being too drunk.’
A video was posted on TikTok that appears to show the £100million footballer swaying as he was led away from Albert’s Schloss in Manchester city centre by a member of his entourage.
Grealish had been out with teammates Kyle Walker and Riyad Mahrez, but an accompanying comment with the video on social media stated that “Man like Jacky too drunk to get in.”
Along with Phil Foden, Grealish was reprimanded by Guardiola earlier in the season after the City boss was unhappy with the state in which the pair reported back for training after a night out.
The leaders are scheduled to host Brentford in the Premier League on Wednesday night.
Muller time at St James’ Park?
Big-spending Newcastle United are reportedly interested in bringing German superstar Thomas Muller to St James’ Park in the summer.
The Magpies supposedly made tentative enquiries about the 32-year-old during the January transfer window, but were given short shift by Bayern Munich.
However, Eddie Howe’s team remain interested in the attacking midfielder, as well as his compatriot Bernd Leno.
Muller is out of contract at the Allianz Arena next summer, and Newcastle officials are hopeful that he may be swayed by a large payday.
A legend for club and country, Muller has been capped over 100 times, and has scored 136 goals for Bayern in 404 Bundesliga appearances.

Zouma act far from purr-fect
West Ham have “unreservedly condemned” the actions of defender Kurt Zouma after he was filmed kicking and slapping his cat.
The Frenchman has also apologised after the video of him mistreating his pet surfaced.
The player admitted he was sorry for and ashamed of the incident via a statement: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
“They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again.”
Good morning football fans
Bruno Guimaraes claims he snubbed Arsenal and Juventus as Newcastle can win the Champions League.
The Brazil anchorman says he quit Lyon for the newly-rich, Saudi-backed Magpies as they are ‘definitely going to be a world power’.
Meanwhile, RB Leipzig handed the Gunners another blow in their search for a defensive midfielder.
The Germans vowed to battle to keep Frenchman Christopher Nkunku.
With Emile Smith Rowe blossoming, the Gunners’ need for a new playmaker is far less.
But Arsenal, like the rest of the Premier League, will surely cast a curious eye towards Brentford, where ex-Tottenham stylist Christian Eriksen has begun training following his deadline-day arrival.
Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has urged his players to sort out any grievances with him ‘directly’ – not on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial both rocked the boat at Old Trafford by contradicting claims from Rangnick.
But Lingard and Edinson Cavani are back in the United squad as the Premier League returns at Burnley tonight.
Newcastle host Everton while West Ham are at home to Watford in this evening’s other two fixtures.
Hasenthuttl quit hint
Ralph Hasenhuttl has hinted he is planning on quitting management in two years, writes TOIM BARCLAY.
The Southampton boss, 54, says he does not want to be a veteran boss like Roy Hodgson.
Speaking to German publication Kicker, Hasenhuttl has revealed he wants to leave Saints on a “very healthy footing by 2024” and then walk away.
He said: “I always wanted to prove to myself that I could very well work for a club for a longer period of time. 
“Hopefully, it will be five and a half years here, that’s a damn long time in modern football, and then that’s probably it.
“Five and a half years in the Premier League, that’s a lot of energy, regardless of job satisfaction. I can’t imagine that I want to do anything else in the coaching job after that.”
Should Hasenhuttl stay in his current role for another two years, he would be Southampton’s longest-serving manager since Chris Nicholl who was in post from 1985-91.
He is said to have already informed Saints’ new owners Sport Republic of his ambitions.
Hasenhuttl added: “Saying no to everything else is also a yes to yourself, and I want that.
“That’s the solid plan and I hope I have the strength to pull it off. [I want to] put Southampton on a very healthy footing by 2024, but then that was it.
“Then I’ll be 57 years old. I’d like to experience other things and not sit on the bench like Roy Hodgson at 74. Definitely not.”
Are RU kidding?
FA bosses face a hostile battle with Russia to host Euro 2028. writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five-nation bid — the UK and Ireland — after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 final.
But they now face the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 deadline.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine, it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
England PULL OUT of ‘doomed’ 2030 World Cup bid as FA chiefs turn attention to hosting Euro 2028 instead
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 World Cup bid to  concentrate on Euro 2028.
He said: “For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and when we assess everything we can put together a highly-competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic.
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa — and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact.
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Eriksen’s hunger to return
Brentford new boy Christian Eriksen revealed he wanted to return to football just “two days” after his shock cardiac arrest, writes ISABELLE BARKER.
The Denmark star, 29, also reassured fans that even with his implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) he can “run marathons and deep dive” if he wanted to.
But he says on the journey to the hospital from the Parken Stadium following his Euro 2020 collapse, he was close to leaving his boots at the ground because he thought his career was finished. 
When asked about how long it took for him to change his mind about returning to the pitch, Eriksen said: “Two days later. It was in the moment and I recognised what happened to me later on in that night and the next few days about what was really going on.
“The feeling of getting to hear from the doctors that even with an ICD there are no limits and with your condition there are no limits not to (play).
“People can run marathons, swimming, deep diving, whatever, all sorts. It just depends on the diagnosis and how you feel about it 
“I told Sabrina ‘I’m saying this now I’ll leave my boots but don’t be certain if a few days goes by and I’ll probably change my mind if everything is ok’ and luckily everything after was ok.”
Utd are ‘biggest transfer losers’
Manchester United have made by far the biggest loss on transfers in the Prem in the past 10 years, research says.
CIES Football Observatory say United were £78million more in debit than neighbours City.
The Red Devils’ worst-value big buys probably include Angel Di Maria (£67.5m), Anthony Martial (£54m) and Harry Maguire (£78m).
And so far the £112m double buy of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane could, so far, hardly be called money well spent.
Toon can win Champions League
Bruno Guimaraes revealed he snubbed Arsenal because Newcastle CAN win the Champions League, writes OSCAR PAUL.
The Brazilian midfielder star is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton and vowed to turn Newcastle into a global power.
Guimaraes, 24, signed for the Saudi Arabia-owned Toon from Lyon for a fee rising to £42million amid January interest from Arsenal.

Asked if relegation-threatened Newcastle are as big as the Gunners, he declared: “Definitely. We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more — we want to win the Champions League. The owners were very up front and honest. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.
“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and to eventually win the Champions League.
“I believe in the project and I believe in everything they told me.”
EXCLUSIVE: Stop complaining on social media
Ralf Rangnick has told his players to stop moaning at him on social media.
Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial have both caused a storm at Manchester United after contradicting their manager’s comments.

Asked if it would be better sorted behind closed doors, Rangnick said: “It’s always better. I never ever read or communicate by those social media accounts.
“I don’t exist there and wouldn’t have time to do that so therefore it’s always better and I always communicate with the players directly.
“I did that with Anthony Martial and Jesse but maybe I’m a different kind of generation. My generation didn’t grow up with those kind of things.
“I can even remember a time when there were no mobile phones or internet so for me it’s always better to communicate directly.
“I know in both cases what I said to the players and what happened so for me there’s no reason to discuss this anymore.”
Is Gnab worth a grab?
Ex-Arsenal youth winger Serge Gnabry is reportedly at loggerheads with Bayern Munich over a new deal.
So what price a bid from his old club or other Premier League giants for the 31-cap Germany star?
Gnabry, 26, has 18 months left on his current Bayern deal.
Credit: Getty
FA in ‘Cold War’ with Russia
The FA face leading a “Cold War” battle with Russia after ditching plans to bid for the 2030 World Cup in an attempt to land Euro 2028, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Uefa chiefs are understood to be keen on the five nation British Isles bid after signalling there would be no consequences for the chaos and carnage of the Euro 2020 Final.
But the prospect of Russia laying down a challenge before the March 23 bidding deadline is a real one.
And with tensions between the UK Government and Moscow hardening over the possible invasion of Ukraine it could see Wembley chiefs once again caught up with global politics.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the five home associations had agreed to drop the proposed 2030 bid in favour of concentrating on Euro 2028.
Bullingham said: “We looked at two fantastic, multi-billion pound economic impact events.
“For the Euros we have a clearer bidding timeline and landscape and when we assess everything for that we know we can put together a highly competitive bid.
“It has always been about winnability. 
“Uefa have been very transparent with all 55 countries that they want to use the 2024 and 2028 Euros to rebuild their coffers and the reserves that they had to use during the pandemic. 
“We can put together an incredibly strong tournament with a really strong commercial return for Uefa and feel that puts us in a strong position.
“This is the third biggest sports event in the world and we’ve got a good opportunity to bring it to our countries and make a massively positive impact. 
“The economics are really positive, the impact it will have on encouraging people to get out and be active and play football will be really positive as well. We’re incredibly excited.”
Kein and willing
Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper says says striker Keinan Davis is in good shape mentally and physically for Wednesday’s Championship trip to Blackburn Rovers, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
The 23-year-old was attacked and punched by a fan during Sunday’s 4-1 FA Cup victory over their East Midlands rivals.
After the game, Davis – currently on loan from Aston Villa – Tweeted: “What a win, but I got a headache,” while Leicester City confirmed his assailant, who was arrested, faces a lifetime ban.
However Cooper was quick to assure Forest fans their new striking hero has come through his ordeal and can’t wait to return to action against Tony Mowbray’s second-placed Rovers at Ewood Park.
“When I spoke after the game I hadn’t seen the incident.
“I’ve now seen it back and there is obviously no place for any supporter to enter the pitch at any time at any club.
“Certainly the act that was done, there is no place for that in society, never mind the game.
“I believe both clubs and the police and the governing bodies are in control of everything and I am sure the right process will take place in dealing with it.”
Zouma filmed kicking and slapping pet cat
West Ham defender Kurt Zouma could be prosecuted after being filmed booting his cat like a football across his kitchen floor.
The 27-year-old is also seen slapping his pet’s face.
The club has condemned his actions and will “deal with the matter internally”.
Zouma is seen attacking the pet at his £2million mansion while his brother films him.
He drops the moggy and boots it in mid air across the kitchen floor.
Premier League defender Kurt Zouma seen in sick video drop kicking a cat – and slapping it across his kitchen
The French international then chases the animal around his dining room in front of a child as the cameraman laughs.
Zouma also hurls a pair of designer shoes at the pet — which frantically tries to escape.
In a final clip, he is seen forcefully slapping the cat in the face — and out of the child’s arms.
Last night, Zouma issued a grovelling apology for the attack and insisted it was an isolated incident.
He said: “I want to apologise for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
Prem chiefs to debate fan flare-ups
Premier League chiefs will discuss this week how to tackle the alarming recent spate of ugly scenes involving supporters, writes TOM BARCLAY.
The issue will be one of the key points on the agenda at Thursday’s shareholders meeting where an urgent update from league bosses and the police is expected.
Leicester issued a lifetime ban to a fan who ran onto the pitch and punched Nottingham Forest striker Keinan Davis during their FA Cup defeat at the City Ground on Sunday.
It was arguably the worst incident in an alarming trend of supporter misbehaviour of late, not only in the Premier League but across English football.
Other shameful episodes have included spectators entering the field of play, missiles being thrown, flares being set off and allegations of racial abuse directed towards players.
Prem supremos raised the issue at their last get-together on January 26, which was held predominantly to discuss protocol surrounding match postponements due to Covid-19.
During that meeting, clubs agreed to hold talks with the FA, EFL and Football Policing Unit which took place a few days later.
Top-flight clubs are expecting to be given feedback from those talks on Thursday as their fears grow over this escalating fan problem.
One Premier League chief told SunSport: “This is a huge issue. We predicted a player would get hurt, and it’s happened. 
Load more entries… More

CHELSEA will have to sell N’Golo Kante to sign Declan Rice, according to reports.And the Africa Cup of Nations final did not disappoint with drama involving Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.
Egypt star Salah told his keeper Gabaski which way to dive to stop Mane’s early spot kick, but he Senegalese star had the last laugh after extra time as he scored the winning penalty after 120 minutes without a goal for either side.
For Barcelona, Dani Alves had a rollercoaster afternoon during their 4-2 win over Atletico Madrid as he provided an early assist, then scored but was later sent off for foul play.
Antonio Rudiger has REJECTED Chelsea’s new offer of a £200,000 per week contract, according to reports.
The Blues star defender is out of contract in the summer, with Spanish giants Real Madrid interested.
While Liverpool are eyeing Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka after the Reds added Porto’s Luis Diaz in the January window.
Though the Reds may MISS out on Fabio Carvalho this summer, who came agonisingly close to joining from Fulham on deadline day.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Reece misses Club World Cup
Reece James is OUT of Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad – despite travelling to Abu Dhabi.
But Edouard Mendy looks set to feature in the tournament just days after winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.
James, 22, was included in the travelling party heading out to the Middle East on Sunday.

The right-back has not featured since picking up a hamstring injury against Brighton in December.
But despite returning to training and being in the UAE, the updated Fifa squad list does not include ten-cap England international James.
However, it does include goalkeeper Mendy.
The shot-stopper made one save during the penalty shootout, parrying Mohanad Lasheen’s tame effort away.
That set Sadio Mane up with the winning penalty, smashing into the bottom corner to get one over his Liverpool pal Mo Salah.
Nike drop Greenwood
Nike have dropped their sponsorship deal with disgraced Mason Greenwood after he was arrested on suspicion of rape and GBH.
His lucrative agreement with the company was suspended last week following the allegations, but the sports giant has now completely cut ties with the Manchester United striker.
Greenwood, 20, was quizzed by cops and spent three nights in a police cell after being re-arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.
He was arrested at his home in Bowden, Greater Manchester, after a series of allegations were made on social media.

The images and allegations were reportedly visible on the woman’s Instagram on January 30, but have since been deleted.
Greenwood has since been bailed, but the sportswear giants, who provided his boots, have now completely dropped him.
A spokesman for Nike told the Athletic: “Mason Greenwood is no longer a Nike athlete”.
The company previously said that they would be “monitoring” the situation after the “disturbing” allegations were made.
Rodgers is shock favourite for aack
Leicester’s humiliating 4-1 FA Cup defeat to Nottingham Forest has left boss Brendan Rodgers as the surprise favourite to be the next Premier League chief sacked.
Rodgers, who has been linked with top rivals in recent months, is rated 7/2 ahead of no manager to leave at 4/1, with Burnley’s Sean Dyche 6/1.
Next come Eddie Howe and Roy Hodgson at 8/1, with Antonio Conte at 9/1.
Ladbrokes’ Alex Apati said: “Brendan Rodgers looked set to leave Leicester of his own accord just a few months ago, seemingly having his pick of a range of top jobs.
“But a humiliating defeat at the hands of Forest, coupled with a poor season in the Premier League suggests he could ultimately pay the price in the coming weeks.”
Hard Call to make
Newcastle United’s survival hopes have been hit today by the revelation that injured striker Callum Wilson has only just come off his crutches and is unlikely to return until ‘the last few games of the season.’
Eddie Howe initially hoped to have Wilson back in training this month, but now admits that his inclusion in his 25-man squad is something of a risk.
The news has also left the Toon Army short in the attacking department despite the arrival of Chris Wood from Burnley for £25million.
A move for Reims’ Hugo Etikite collapsed on deadline day, leaving only Dwight Gayle as a centre-forward to provide competition to Wood.
Sadio the main Mane
Sadio Mane scored the winning penalty to crown Senegal African Cup of Nations champions last night, and then picked up the Player of the Tournament award.
The Liverpool forward went from zero to hero as he made up for his penalty miss in normal time by netting the decisive kick to earn his country their first Afcon title.
“It’s the best day of my life and the best trophy of my life,” the 29-year-old said after the match.
“I have won the Champions League and other trophies, but this is the special one for me. This is most important for me.”
The Senegal star was even seen commiserating with his clubmate Mo Salah, a runner-up with Egypt, following the conclusion of the shootout.

Johnstone tipped for Premier League return
West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper is preparing for Premier League football next season – even if the Baggies aren’t.
West Ham and Southampton are said to be heading the queue to sign the goalkeeper, who has three England caps, on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and has turned down a new deal at the Hawthorns.
Johnstone’s reluctance to put pen to paper led to him being dropped by Valerien Ismael, but he will now be targeting game time following Steve Bruce arriving as the Frenchman’s replacement.
Bielsa baffled by Bamford injury
Another striker who looks to be no nearer to regaining fitness is Leeds’ Patrick Bamford with manager Marcelo Bielsa admitting the situation is a real concern.
Bamford has been out with a foot problem since December, sustained when celebrating a late goal versus Brentford on his return from another injury.
The forward has played only six games in total this campaign, and his absence has been felt by Leeds, who are languishing near the relegation zone.
He hasn’t played for 15 games now, how can I not worry? We can’t predict when he will return because it depends on the pain going away so he can start jogging again.Marcelo Bielsa
Toon dealt further Wilson blow
Newcastle United’s survival hopes have been hit today by the revelation that injured striker Callum Wilson has only just come off his crutches and is unlikely to return until ‘the last few games of the season.’
Eddie Howe initially hoped to have Wilson back in training this month, but now admits that his inclusion in his 25-man squad is something of a risk.
The news has also left the Toon Army short in the attacking department despite the arrival of Chris Wood from Burnley for £25million.
A move for Reims’ Hugo Etikite collapsed on deadline day, leaving only Dwight Gayle as a centre-forward to provide competition to Wood.
Breaking – Ashworth resigns from Brighton
Dan Ashworth has resigned from his role as Technical Director at Brighton and Hove Albion, and will soon take on a similar role at an unnamed Premier League club.
The former FA Director of Elite Development had been linked with a move to Newcastle United, who recently bought defender Dan Burn from Brighton for a fee of £13million.
Former Everton and Rangers centre-back David Weir will take over as acting Technical Director at the AMEX as Albion begin searching for Ashworth’s replacement.

Good morning football fans!
West Ham boss David Moyes warned the Premier League big boys interested in Declan Rice that they will have to splash more than £100million.
Rice has been linked with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.
Moyes said: “You will need humongous money to get close.
“I said in the summer that I thought Declan Rice was £100m. That was your chance to get him cheap. You can make your mind up over what I’m talking about now.
“I feel his commitment. He’s under contract and we’re really pleased to have him. He’s here for certainly a few years.
“He’s like a special edition Declan Rice, there’s not many like him.
“He’s arguably playing as well as any midfielder in European football, and the prices were expensive in January weren’t they?”
Elsewhere, Real Madrid have pulled out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland this summer.
Real have long been favourites to beat the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City to Haaland’s signature.
But according to the Star, Los Blancos have decided against making a move for the striker.
They claim that Madrid have deemed it too expensive to land Norway international and No1 target Kylian Mbappe in the same summer transfer window.
Real are set to sign Mbappe on a free transfer at the end of the season, with some reports claiming that the Paris Saint-Germain superstar has agreed a contract worth £800,000-a-week.
Another striker is also attracting interest with Manchester United and Chelsea joining Arsenal in the bidding war for Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak.
Isak has a £75million release clause in his deal with Sociedad and has a host of admirers across the continent such as United, the Gunners and the Blues.
According to the Daily Mirror, the Red Devils are looking to swoop in for the centre-forward.
The Manchester giants view the Sweden international as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 37 on Saturday, should the club legend leave this summer.
The west Londoners may also be on the look-out for a forward at the end of the season if Romelu Lukaku fails to hit top form.
And, of course, Arsenal require a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after he signed with Barcelona.
De Ligt transfer war
Manchester United, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are interested in landing Juventus star Matthijs de Ligt in the summer.
According to Calciomercato, United, Barca and Bayern have entered a bidding war for De Ligt.
The Italian outlet reports: “Juventus is preparing for a summer in which Matthijs de Ligt will be considered as one of the most valuable pieces in the market.”
The Red Devils’ interim boss Ralf Rangnick, who is expected to take over as a consultant in June, is keen to bring in another defender to increase his team’s chances of challenging for silverware
Tevez on the move
Ex-Manchester United and Manchester City star Carlos Tevez is ‘in talks’ with DC United over a potential move to the MLS.
Tevez is currently a free agent after leaving Boca Juniors in the summer.
But now Wayne Rooney’s former team DC United have offered the 38-year-old a return to football, according to The Athletic.
They claim a move is ’25 per cent’ likely to happen, and hinges on whether the club and centre-forward can thrash out an agreement over a financial package.
The former Argentina international’s representatives are said to have offered their client to the American side ‘multiple’ times in the last few years, but the club declined on each occasion
Mertens situation
Napoli star Dries Mertens, who has been previously linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, is out of contract in June.
Cristiano Giuntoli told DAZN: “We’ve an option to extend Mertens current contract until June 2023.
“We’ll decide together with Dries.
“We’re gonna meet at the end of the season to make a decision on Dries’ future”
GETTY IMAGES
Martial problems
Manchester United loanee Anthony Martial has been told he ‘has to give more’ by his new Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui following his innocuous debut against Osasuna.
Lopetegui said: “He has to give us more.
“It was his first game, it’s not easy to adapt.
“He comes with a bit of baggage because he’s hardly played. Bit by bit he has to get up to speed”
Chelsea injury worries
Chelsea are sweating on the fitness of three key players going into the Club World Cup.
The Blues could be without Mason Mount, captain Cesar Azpilicueta and Hakim Ziyech.
Coach Michel Arnos, who took charge in manager Thomas Tuchel’s absence, admitted afterwards: “We have a few problems.
“Mason we had to take out, Hakim we had to take out, Azpi felt his hamstring.
“We had a few muscle problems, but they’re hopefully only little ones”
Liverpool eye promising talent
Liverpool are keeping tabs on Le Havre youngster Andy Elysee Logbo, dubbed the next Romelu Lukaku – reports suggest.
That is according to Foot Mercato, who report that the Reds are lining up a bid to bring Logbo over to Anfield during the summer transfer window.
The striker is seen by the second-division club as the next big thing as he has amassed eight goals and four assists in 13 appearances for the youth side this season.
The Frenchman has also attracted comparisons to Chelsea star Lukaku due to his imposing stature as he stands at 1,88m
Lyon on Lacazette
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas confirmed the team’s interest in bringing Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette back.
Lacazette’s deal with the Gunners expires in the summer and he is expected to become a free agent.
Aulas said: “We will do our best to sign Lacazette in June.
“We will make every effort possible for his return to Lyon”
GETTY IMAGES
Lacazette transfer future
Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette has started ‘discussions with Lyon’ over a potential return this summer.
Lacazette will become a free agent in June and football.london states he has already begun discussing personal terms with his former team regarding a transfer.
The reports claims the centre-forward is ‘currently in discussions with several European teams’.
However, Lyon ‘remain the frontrunners’ in the chase to re-sign the France international
Isak reacts to transfer rumours
Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak didn’t rule out a move amid interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.
Isak told Mundo Deportivo: “I am not talking about other clubs.
“I am a Real player, I work here and this is my club. My work is on the pitch, and as I told you before, there are other people who work outside.
“You can never be sure of anything.
“As I always say, you never know what can happen in football but in the end I’m here, happy, and nothing more”
GETTY IMAGES
Isak transfer war
Manchester United and Chelsea have joined Arsenal in the bidding war for Real Sociedad star Alexander Isak.
Isak has a £75million release clause in his deal with Sociedad and has a host of admirers across the continent such as United, the Gunners and the Blues.
According to the Daily Mirror, the Red Devils are looking to swoop in for the centre-forward.
The Manchester giants view the Sweden international as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 37 on Saturday, should the club legend leave this summer.
The west Londoners may also be on the look-out for a forward at the end of the season if Romelu Lukaku fails to hit top form.
And, of course, Arsenal require a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after he signed with Barcelona
Man Utd’s Pochettino hope
Manchester United are ‘growing increasingly confident’ that they will appoint Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino at the dugout.
Pochettino is coming under more pressure in France following PSG’s penalty shoot-out elimination to Nice in the Coupe de France.
According to Le Parisien, the Argentine head coach’s final hope is winning the Champions League this season.
But the former Tottenham boss’ future will hinge on whether they progress past 13-time winners Real Madrid in the Last-16.
The Mirror reports Pochettino is the ‘No1 candidate’ to take over from interim manager Ralf Rangnick at Old Trafford.
Rangnick is set to move into a consultancy role for the club at the end of the season
Haaland transfer boost
Real Madrid have pulled out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland this summer.
Real have long been favourites to beat the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City to Haaland’s signature.
But according to the Star, Los Blancos have decided against making a move for the striker.
They claim that Madrid have deemed it too expensive to land Norway international and No1 target Kylian Mbappe in the same summer transfer window.
Real are set to sign Mbappe on a free transfer at the end of the season, with some reports claiming that the Paris Saint-Germain superstar has agreed a contract worth £800,000-a-week
Triple Summer Splash reminder
Arsenal are planning the largest spending spree in their history with up to £180million for summer signings at the end of the season.
The Gunners’ owner Stan Kroenke is keen to show his faith in boss Mikel Arteta by providing the funds for a major squad upgrade.
SunSport understand Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak, Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Wolves’ Ruben Neves have been identified as the players required to take the north Londoners to the next level.
But Arteta understands he will need to secure Champions League qualification this season if he is going to land such targets
GETTY IMAGES
Liverpool Carvalho blow
Liverpool may MISS out on Fulham wonderkid Fabio Carvalho.
Carvalho is reportedly attracting interest from the Serie A, specifically AC Milan.
A move before the January window slammed shut failed to materialise meaning the Reds will have to agree a pre-contract.
But according to Calciomercato, Milan are looking to hijack any potential deal
Moyes advice reminder
West Ham boss David Moyes warned the Premier League big boys interested in Declan Rice that they will have to splash more than £100million.
Rice has been linked with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.
Moyes said: “You will need humongous money to get close.
“I said in the summer that I thought Declan Rice was £100m. That was your chance to get him cheap. You can make your mind up over what I’m talking about now.
“I feel his commitment. He’s under contract and we’re really pleased to have him. He’s here for certainly a few years.
“He’s like a special edition Declan Rice, there’s not many like him.
“He’s arguably playing as well as any midfielder in European football, and the prices were expensive in January weren’t they?”
Load more entries… More

PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are looking to get last-minute deals over the line as the transfer window closes at 11pm TONIGHT.Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looked all set for a move to Barcelona and has now landed in Spain ahead of a loan switch from Arsenal.
But the club are adamant that no agreement has been reached on the striker’s £350,000-a-week wages.
Tottenham meanwhile are for in Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur, which leaves Dele Alli likely to make his exit later today.
But his destination remains uncertain, with Everton currently favourites for his signature.
New Toffees boss Frank Lampard has made Donny van de Beek his first signing after being confirmed as boss earlier today.
The England and Chelsea legend could also be in the market for a striker, with Luka Jovic touted as a potential target.
And we bring you the very latest from Stamford Bridge, where the Blues are said to be lining up a £50m bid for Leeds and Brazil star Raphinha.
Ousmane Dembele is also reported to be keen on a move to Chelsea, but so far only Tottenham have shown an interest.
While reports suggest that Newcastle and Tottenham are set to miss out on Atletico Madrid winger Yannick Carrasco after late interest.
Follow ALL the latest transfer gossip and news with our live blog below…
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
Wout of this world
Burnley boss Sean Dyche revealed new striker Wout Weghorst has been on their radar for ages.
The Holland star, 29, has hit 59 goals in 118 Bundesliga appearances for Wolfsburg.
Dyche said: “Wout is a player that our scouts have been strong on for some time and we feel that he can add to all that we do at Burnley.
“His signing is a continued show of the club’s and team’s development. We wish Wout well as he earns the right to push our group forwards.”
Update on Nat Phillips move
Nat Phillips appears to be closing in on a loan move to Bournemouth, having been spotted signing a fan’s shirt outside the ground.
The centre-back will be aiming to boost the Cherries’ chances of promotion.
And should Bournemouth get promoted with Phillips impressing it is possible both parties will seek to change the loan into a permanent move.
He’s our Guy again
Tanguy Ndombele has sealed his return back to Lyon.
The Tottenham flop has re-joined the Ligue 1 outfit on loan until the end of the season.
Ndombele made the move to North London from the French club in 2019.

Alli in potential Everton move
Dele Alli could be set for a shock move to Everton, writes Mark Irwin.
Toffees new boss Frank Lampard has asked his new Goodison Park chiefs to try to sign the fallen Spurs and England star.
The move would be a permanent one as the Merseysiders have already taken up their loan quota.
The clubs are believed to be in talks over a proposed transfer but there are doubts whether it could be sealed with Tottenham chairman unlikely to be willing to accept any fee under £30million.
Aubameyang set for Arsenal stay?
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s loan move to Barcelona is in danger of collapsing despite the player flying to Spain today, writes Mark Irwin.
Arsenal are adamant that no agreement has been reached on the striker’s £350,000-a-week wages.
And with less than eight hours to go before the transfer window closes, the chances of a deal going through are now looking distinctly remote.
Aubameyang, 32, shocked everyone when he arrived at Barcelona airport this morning.
His father, Pierre, lives in the Barcelona beach resort of Sitges but the club were not expecting him while they were still haggling over how much of his salary they would be expected to cover.
Suggestions that Aubameyang was undergoing a medical ahead of his dream move to the Nou Camp have been dismissed by Barca.
Newcastle in Ekitike blow
Hugo Ekitike’s move from Stade Reims to Newcastle looks OFF after the striker turned down a switch to Tyneside. 
A £33million deal was agreed with the French club this morning but Ekitike, 19, was concerned about the amount of game time he would get at St James’ Park. 
The Magpies are now turning their attention to Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard but face late competition from West Ham. 
Lingard, 29, is keen on the move but Newcastle recently baulked at the Red Devils’ demand for a ‘survival bonus’ which would have taken the whole package to more than £15m for a four-month rental.
Lingard back to West Ham?
West Ham have made a stunning late move for Jesse Lingard, writes Jordan Davies.
The Hammers made an enquiry about the Manchester United midfielder this month before being rebuffed.
But SunSport understands West Ham have now approached Lingard’s representatives for a second time in a bid to get a loan deal over the line.
Interim United boss Ralf Rangnick has given Lingard his blessings to leave the club this month – if he can find a suitable club that can pay the loan demands before the deadline.
Newcastle have also been interested but United have asked for a £2.5m loan fee plus a £12m survival fee.
It certainly would be a coup for West Ham to get Lingard, who had a successful spell in east London after joining on loan last January.
Lingard has talks with Rangnick
Manchester United star Jesse Lingard reportedly held crunch talks with Ralf Rangnick this morning in a bid to force a loan move to Newcastle.
The out-of-favour midfielder has been strongly linked with an exit this month but with tonight’s 11pm deadline fast approaching he’s running out of time.
The Athletic say the 29-year-old held talks with Rangnick on Sunday over the proposed loan deal and would again meet him this morning at training to ask for his help in completing a move.
Freddy is cherry picked
Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman has completed a loan move to Bournemouth until the end of the season. 
Woodman, 24, started the season between the sticks for the Magpies when Martin Dubravka and Karl Darlow were sidelined. 
But after four appearances he was dropped and is now third choice, with Toon boss Eddie Howe sanctioning his move to the Championship Cherries. 
His departure frees up a place in the Newcastle squad as they look to complete deadline day deals for Dan Burn, Matt Targett and Hugo Eikitike. 
Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark have attracted late interest from Middlesbrough while Howe could also let left-back Jamal Lewis leave on loan.
Jovic to stay at Real
Real Madrid will reportedly not allow Luka Jovic to leave this month.
Everton had been touted as a possible destination for the Serbian striker.
But El Chiringuito have stated he will remain at the Bernabeu.
They have said that Real boss Carlo Ancelotti and Jovic are in agreement that he will not be leaving.
Done deal
Manchester City have announced the signing of Argentine striker Julian Alvarez from River Plate.
The young forward, who has penned a deal until 2027, will remain at River until at least July.
Speaking of the player, Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said: “Julian is a player we have monitored for some time.
“He is capable of operating in a number of attacking roles, and we firmly believe he’s one of the best young attacking players in South America.
“I am so happy we have managed to bring him to Manchester City. I really believe we can provide him with the right conditions to fulfil his potential and become a top player.”
We are delighted to confirm that we have completed the signing of Julian Alvarez from River Plate ✍️⬇️ DETAILS ⬇️— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 31, 2022

No way, Jose
Espanyol director Jose Maria Duran has revealed Arsenal have enquired about signing striker Raul de Tomas.
But he has stated that he will not be leaving unless the Gunners pay his £62.4million release clause.
Duran said: “Arsenal called for Raúl de Tomás but we didn’t even want to talk.
“We won’t let him go now, no way.
“His release clause is €75m [£62.4m].”
Frank assessment at Goodison Park
Frank Lampard has declared it is an honour to take charge at Everton.
He said: “It is a huge honour for me to represent and manage a club the size and tradition of Everton Football Club. I’m very hungry to get started.
“After speaking to the owner, Chairman and the Board, I very much felt their passion and ambition. I hope they felt my ambition and how hard I want to work to bring it together.
“You can feel the passion Everton fans have for their club. That will be hugely important. As a team – the competitive level that the Premier League brings and the position we are in the table – we certainly need that.
“It’s a two-way thing. I think Everton is a unique club in that you can really understand what the fans want to see. The first thing they want is fight and desire and that must always be our baseline.
“My first message to the players will be that we have to do this together. We’ll try to do our job and I know the fans will be there backing us.”
Lampard appointed at Everton
Frank Lampard has been confirmed as the man Everton hope will save their season.
The Chelsea legend has taken over as manager after beating Vitor Pereira and Duncan Ferguson to the job.
Lampard succeeds Rafa Benitez in the Goodison Park hotseat after the Spaniard was given the chop in angry fashion earlier this month.
The pair worked together when Benitez was temporarily in charge at Stamford Bridge back in 2012/13.
Now Lampard takes over from his old boss having himself been sacked as Chelsea manager a year ago.
The 43-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year contract on Merseyside.

Barcelona offer up Ousmane Dembele
Barcelona have investigated whether Ousmane Dembele could go to Arsenal as part of a deal to send Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang the other way.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants the 32-year-old out of his squad and Barcelona are one of the few possible options interested, but they need to clear up space on their wage bill.
The Catalan club may struggle to afford the Gabon international’s wages otherwise and a deal could hinge on Dembele leaving on deadline day, report The Independent.
While Barcelona have agreed preliminary terms with Arsenal and Aubameyang over a loan deal, a further issue is that he has higher wages than Dembele.
Early suggestions are that it may be too difficult to strike a deal this late that involves both, with Dembele being offered to a number of clubs.
Donny on the way out
Donny van de Beek has reportedly completed a medical ahead of his loan switch to Everton, per 90min.com.
Crystal Palace had been interested in the midfielder but Everton hijacked the move with Frank Lampard keen to make the Dutchman his first signing.
Van de Beek will be desperate for more game time after struggling for starts at Old Trafford since his 2020 transfer.
Hammer time at London Stadium
West Ham are considering a second Deadline Day bid for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, writes Jordan Davies.
The Hammers have had a £37m plus add-ons offer rejected by the Portuguese striker for the 22-year-old.
SunSport understands Benfica are still keen to do business and that the previous deal was not far away from what they believe is a suitable fee.
West Ham are desperate to bring in a back-up striker to provide cover for first choice goal-getter Michail Antonio.
Fighting both in the Europa League and the race for the top four, West Ham chiefs understand this deal could make or break their season.
But they are running out of time and will need to file a second bid in the next few hours to stand any chance.
Uruguayan forward Nunez has scored 15 goals in 16 league games so far this campaign, as well as 20 goals in 25 games in all competitions.
West Ham have also been linked with Liverpool’s Divock Origi.
No Prem return for Morata
Alvaro Morata will NOT be heading back to the Premier League despite interest from Arsenal, Tottenham and Barcelona.
That is according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
He tweeted: “Alvaro Morata has decided to stay at Juventus until the end of the season.
“No Arsenal, no Tottenham, no Barca move on Deadline Day.
“Allegri wants him to stay and play alongside Dusan Vlahovic.”
Raheem to Real?
Real Madrid have been linked with a shock last-gasp move for Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling.
But SunSport understands there is NO chance the 27-year-old England winger will leave on deadline day.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish giants are interested in bringing the ex-Liverpool man to the Bernabeu.
Sterling is out of contract in 2023, and there have been no talks over new terms yet.
PSG have also looked at landing the Three Lions hero, as his deal runs into the last 18-months.
But Sterling is set to stay at the Etihad today, and more discussions over his future will take place in the summer.
Defoe on way back to Sunderland
Sunderland are closing in on Jermain Defoe having contacted him again having sacked Lee Johnson as manager on Sunday night, writes Oscar Paul.
The Black Cats had been in discussions with Defoe since he became a free agent after leaving Rangers earlier this month.
But talks stalled because Johnson held reservations about signing the 39-year-old.
However, Sunderland are now confident of beating fellow League One side Oxford to his signature.
It would be an emotional return to the Stadium of Light for the former England striker, who scored 34 Premier League goals for the Wearsiders between 2015-17. 

Mbappe heading to Madrid
Real Madrid have agreed an eyewatering £800,000-a-week deal with Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe, according to reports.
The Spanish giants have long courted the striker’s signature, having a number of bids rejected last summer.
Mbappe, 23, is now eligible to speak to other clubs now that he has entered the final six months of his PSG deal.
And according to Bild, he has agreed terms on a contract worth a mind-boggling £41.6million-a-year.
Nothing is expected to be announced, however, until after the two sides’ meet in the Champions League round of 16.
The pair do battle in Paris on February 15, before clashing again in the Spanish capital on March 9.
A pre-contract announcement is then expected to be revealed.

Outgoings at Tottenham
Tottenham flop Tanguy Ndombele is edging closer to a loan move back to Lyon, writes Paul Jiggins.
The midfielder has been seen in the French city ahead of talks about a return to the club Spurs signed him from in a club record £65million deal in July 2019.
Ndombele has failed to impress for the North Londoners and has not played for them since being booed by their fans in their 3-1 FA Cup third round win over Morecambe earlier this month.
He was hoping to link up again with former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino at Paris-Saint Germain.
But with the Ligue 1 leaders needing to offload players before being able to bring new ones in, Ndombele now looks to be heading back to Lyon for the rest of this season at least.
He may not be the only member of the Spurs squad heading out the door today.
Spanish winger Bryan Gil is having a medical at Valencia – just six months after joining from Sevilla for £21m and only 72 hours since he posted a tweet, rubbishing a report which claimed he was desperate to leave Tottenham “at all costs”.
Auba lands in Barcelona
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has landed in Barcelona ahead of a loan move to the Catalan giants.
The 32-year-old has not featured for Arsenal since being stripped of the captaincy following a disciplinary issue last month.
And now he looks set to secure a move away from the Emirates until the summer as he closes in on a short-term deal with Barcelona.

Scotland switch for Ramsey?
Juventus star Aaron Ramsey could be about to make a shock deadline day switch to RANGERS.
The Scottish champions are reportedly in talks with Juve about a permanent move for the ex-Arsenal man.
The Athletic claim he will decide his future within the next hour.
They state he is at a private terminal in the UK as he mulls over three options.
Though he is not keen on a deal to join Burnley.
Yan the man
Tottenham and Newcastle are preparing to move for Atletico Madrid winger Yannick Carrasco, according to reports.
The 28-year-old Belgian, who had a £50million release clause which has now expired, returned to Spain for a second spell under Diego Simeone in 2020 following two seasons in the Chinese Super League with Dalian Professional.
And he has become an integral part of Atletico’s set-up in the current campaign, starting 18 of their 21 LaLiga games.
So far this season he has scored two goals and provided six assists for the Spanish champions.
SunSport understands Atletico are reluctant to let him go.
But, according to Foot Mercato, Spurs and Newcastle are ready to try and secure the player before the January window shuts.

Load more entries… More