More stories

  • in

    Johnny Fisher opens up on backstabbers who turned on him after controversial Dave Allen win ahead of huge rematch

    JOHNNY FISHER says the boxing backstabbers were ready and waiting to twist the knife after his controversial win over Dave Allen.Fisher was dropped in the fifth round against Allen in December but edged out a contentious split-decision victory in Saudi Arabia. Johnny Fisher controversially beat Dave Allen on pointsCredit: GettyUp until that point, it had only been love and adulation for the hugely popular Romford Bull and his social media star dad Big John.But Fisher – one of Britain’s most prolific ticket sellers – says he felt backs being turned on him in the aftermath of the bout. He told SunSport: “If you’re a professional boxer or an athlete of any perspective or any person in some sort of public eye, you’re gonna get negative comments.”And when it is a close fight, people with their knives are waiting to dig in and and defame you, but people who know their boxing thought it was a close fight.READ MORE IN BOXING”I believe I won by one round. I don’t, don’t dispute people that thought it could have gone around the other way or it was a draw.”But objectively looking at it, I thought I won by a round and that’s a close fight. So we can do it again.”Fisher’s popularity has been boosted hugely by the online love for his Chinese takeaway-loving dad. But Fisher Sr bared the brunt of his son’s disputed decision win in Riyadh, taking to social media in defence of his boy.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe passionately backed Johnny against criticism coming from those they deemed their closest confidants. And Fisher Jr said: “It’s my dad, we’re the same person.”And if my son was in that position and people who you thought you were friends, people would be around your house were making it hysterical and creating a hysteria, I’ll do the same thing for my son.”Fisher ended up in hospital after the 12 brutal rounds against Allen – and revealed he relished the damaging slugfest.He said: “They’re the things you dream of as a professional fighter. “Can’t do it all the time but to show people I’m not just a knockout artist, I can dig in, that’s another good positive.”That’s what you live for, that’s why we entertain people.” Fisher, 26, now rematches Allen, 33, on Saturday at his adopted home of the Copper Box Arena, ready to silence the deafening doubters.He said: “It was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to do it again because it was a close fight.Read More on The Sun”But then I watched it back and thought I won by one round. There’s always other opportunities – my life don’t revolve around this rematch.”But something in the back of my mind wanted to do it again – so let’s do it.”Johnny Fisher with his dad Big JohnCredit: Jamie McPhilimeyFisher and Allen ahead of their rematchCredit: PA More

  • in

    Man Utd legend Eric Cantona poses in rival kit as fans announce fresh protests against 20 years of Glazer ownership

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans marked the 20th anniversary of the Glazer ownership by announcing plans for another protest.Supporters group ‘The 1958’ will again make their feelings known when Old Trafford stages the final home match of the season on May 25.Manchester United fans are planning a fresh protest against the Glazer ownershipCredit: PAThe Glazers took over the club in 2005Credit: AFPFans claim the owners have ‘betrayed’ the clubCredit: PAEric Cantona wore the colours of FC United to show his supportCredit: X/FCUnitedMcrIt is now two decades since the American family completed their controversial takeover of the Red Devils.And a spokesman for the 1958 said their legacy is ‘greed, decay and betrayal’.They said: “May 2005 marked one of the darkest days in the history of Manchester United.“The Glazer family became majority shareholders – triggering a compulsory takeover that was completed in June that year.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“That moment signalled the beginning of the end for the soul and community of our once great club – sacrificed at the altar for corporate greed.“We will march as one fanbase to make it clear that 20 years on the fire still burns red with fury and defiance. We protest, once again, at the Villa game.“Lifelong supporters are being driven away from the club they love – priced out and pushed aside – another dagger to the heart of our football community.“We want the Glazers out of our club. They were never welcome, they are not welcome now. They will never be welcome.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe group said legendary former boss Alex Ferguson has been a staunch defender of the Glazer family but his success had only masked the problems.Club legend Eric Cantona has also joined in the protest.’I lived at the training ground’ – Former Man Utd transfer chief lifts lid on most expensive window in club historyThe Frenchman was pictured wearing an FC United of Manchester kit and bucket hat on social media.He has done so as “Football belongs to the fans.”United are currently enduring their worst domestic season in 51 years, although they still have the chance to salvage something by winning the Europa League.Their statement said: “Since his retirement, the rot beneath has been laid bare for all to see — the true cost of 20 years of financial exploitation and mismanagement.“The club is drowning in over a billion pounds of debt, our fanbase Is fractured and divide and our stadium neglected.“All while the Glazers continue to pocket dividends, year after year, regardless of failure on the pitch.“Old Trafford, once the Theatre of Dreams, is crumbling from decades of neglect. They’ve taken everything.”Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

  • in

    ‘No offence lads’ – Gary Lineker gives no-nonsense Match of the Day verdict in savage goodnight message

    GARY LINEKER issued a no-nonsense sign off on Match of the Day after a hapless round of Saturday Premier League fixtures.Southampton and Manchester City played out a drab goalless draw at St Mary’s, Everton won 3-1 at Fulham, Brighton prevailed 2-0 at Wolves, Brentford beat Ipswich 1-0 at Portman Road and 10-man Aston Villa picked up a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth.Gary Lineker issued a no-nonsense sign off on Match of the DayLineker blasted a hapless round of Saturday Premier League fixturesThe games left much to be desired and Lineker, 64, suggested the BBC found it hard to put together an exciting highlight reel.So much so that the famous presenter described Saturday’s action as “probably one of the worst”. Lineker issued the following savage verdict: “After 26 years of Saturday nights, I think that was probably one of the worst – no offence, lads.”Time to move on, I reckon. Goodbye!”Read More on FootballMatch of the Day shared a clip of that remark with the following caption: “No sugar-coating from @GaryLineker there.”Several football fans were left in stitches with that unique sign-off and took to social media.One fan tweeted: “The man Gary.”Another laughed: “Bahahahaha!”Most read in FootballA third commented: “Keepin’ it real, yess!”Wayne Rooney cracks up live on BBC Sport after Gary Lineker’s brutal Micah Richards gagAnd a further post read: “Straight shooter Gaz.”Lineker dropped that tongue-in-cheek statement in one of his last ever appearances on Match of the Day as he will step down as presenter in May after 26 years in the esteemed show.The former England international will also leave the BBC altogether in 2026 after next season’s FA Cup and World Cup.The Leicester legend will be replaced by a three-person presenting team consisting of Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan from next season.Lineker insists he will not be seen on any TV rival after leaving the Beeb and will instead be doing podcasts while also focusing on his personal life. More

  • in

    Sevilla flops forced to spend night at training centre after defeat as ‘violent’ fans launch horrific attacks

    SEVILLA stars were forced to spend the night at their training ground after angry fans stormed it following their defeat to Celta Vigo.The club’s poor season continued on Saturday thanks to a 3-2 defeat away to Celta Vigo.Sevila suffered a 3-2 defeat to Celta Vigo on SaturdayCredit: EPAFurious Sevilla fans took out their season’s frustrations by attacking the club’s training groundCredit: XFootage on social media showed fans storming the ground after breaking through a gateCredit: XSevilla’s 15th league defeat of the campaign has left them in 16th place in the La Liga table and dangerously close to the relegation zone with three matches remaining.And a small number of the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan faithful showed their anger by attacking the club’s training ground.Footage on social media showed an angry mob attacking and breaking through the training ground’s protective gate.Joaquin Caparros’ troops had to take refuge in their training ground for the night due to fears for their safety after heading there on their return from the Celta Vigo game.READ MORE FOOTIE NEWSSevilla issued a scathing statement on the incredible act of violence, in which they urged the authorities to take serious action.It read: “Sevilla FC strongly condemns the organised vandalism that took place this Saturday night at the Jose Ramon Cisneros Palacios Sports City, following the first team’s arrival at the facilities after the match against Celta de Vigo.“Sevilla FC requests that the Security Forces and Corps exercise the utmost diligence to locate those responsible for these despicable acts, perpetrated by a gang of organized radicals who acted with extreme violence.“Beyond the complaints, Sevilla FC is committed to doing everything in its power to assist in the pursuit of the perpetrators of these crimes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSSevilla are six points above the relegation zone with three La Liga matches remainingCredit: REX”It will try to help identify those involved in these actions and will act relentlessly in the event that they are Sevilla FC fans and members.“Finally, Sevilla FC expresses its absolute condemnation of any protest that involves violence and criminal acts like those seen this Saturday, May 10.Ex-Premier League star Jesus Navas breaks down in tears as he plays final home game for Sevilla“The club is certain that these actions do not represent the Sevilla fans, who are also aware of the significance of Tuesday’s match against UD Las Palmas at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan.”Sevilla are a mere six points above the relegation zone following Saturday’s defeat to Celta.Hot on their heels are 18th-placed Las Palmas, whom they’ll host at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan on Tuesday night for a relegation six-pointer.Defeat to Los Amarillos could all but condemn Sevilla to the Segunda Division as they face tricky ties against Real Madrid and Villarreal in their last two matches of the season. More

  • in

    ‘Please delete this’ – Southampton send cringeworthy message to Derby after passing lowest Premier League points tally

    SOUTHAMPTON fans have blasted the club’s social media account after it celebrated passing Derby County’s lowest ever Premier League points tally.The already-relegated Saints earned their 12th point of the season after a 0-0 draw with Manchester City, to overtake Derby’s 11 points secured in 2007-2008.Southampton beat officially beat Derby’s worst-ever Premier League side points tallyThe already-relegated Saints won their 12th point of the season against Manchester CitySouthampton tagged Derby County in an X post at full-timeRock bottom and Championship-bound Southampton survived 26 shots at goal to hold Champions League-chasing City on Saturday afternoon.And it even prompted a cheeky dig from the official Saints X account at full-time, which read: “Sorry if we got your hopes up, @dcfcofficial.”But other supporters were left fuming with the “humiliating” post and begged the club, who have now drawn six games, to rip it down.One wrote: This is embarrassing as f***. Please delete this. On behalf of Every saints fan.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA second said: “Even for bait this is proper tragic, head would be on Mars if I was a Saints fan.”A third added: “This is embarrassing 😶.”While another footie supporter chimed in with: “Imagine bragging about being the second worst team in Premier League history 😂.”And Saints fans probably won’t want to hear what proud goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale had to say about passing Derby’s tally.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe former Arsenal stopper said: “Delighted. We’re not happy about how the season has gone but we’re happy we’ve avoided that record.”We’re under no illusions that it’s not a great points tally. The fans are happy in the sun smiling.Ivan Juric leaves Southampton after woeful relegation from Premier League with club on track to make unwanted history “Everyone knows it’s been a difficult season for us. That one was for the fans and also the lads who have given everything. “A lot of Mondays coming in after heavy defeats. Today is a relief.”When Rusky came in he asked us to be extraordinary in concentration and personality and we showed that in abundance today.”Credit to the lads and way they defended. We made it hard for them.”In fairness to Southampton, much has been made about whether or not they can beat Derby’s unwanted record. And now they’ve done it.And interim manager Simon Rusk did urge his side to leave the Premier League “with as much dignity as possible” before kick-off.Read More on The SunMeanwhile, City failed to sew up a top-five finish in the race for the Champions League, and missed out on the chance to move level on points with Arsenal in second.Pep Guardiola’s side now stay within touching distance of their fellow Champions League chasers Newcastle, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, with 65 points in third place. More

  • in

    ‘Good way to find out’ – Championship star sees he’s been released on INSTAGRAM before sending snide message to club

    KIAN BEST took a swipe at Preston North End after apparently finding out he was released by his boyhood club via Instagram.Best, 19, spent his entire career at Preston after joining the Championship outfit’s academy at a very young age and signed a scholarship deal in 2021 before going pro two years later.Kian Best was released from Preston North EndBest suggested he found out about his release on social mediaDespite a promising start, the left-back found opportunities hard to come by at Deepdale and was ultimately loaned out to Bohemians in the League of Ireland Premier Division in January.That spelled the end of his long stint with the Lilywhites, who announced the ex-England Under-19 international’s release on Saturday.Preston issued a post on social media, along with a slideshow of players who are set to leave. It read: “We’d like to wish the players leaving us this summer the very best of luck for the future.”It included an image of Best with the following caption: “Thank you Besty”.Read More on FootballThe full-back then immediately took to social media where he shared a screenshot of Preston’s announcement and suggested he wasn’t informed about his release before the attached post was published. Best issued the following story: “Good way to find out through Instagram.”The youngster appears to have since deleted his post on social media.SunSport have approached Preston for comment.Most read in ChampionshipBest’s contract was due to expire at the end of the season and the player reportedly held no discussions with the club over an extension.Preston also announced the release of Freddie Woodman, Emil Riis, Patrick Bauer and Ryan Ledson, whose partner is a soap star.Kian Taylor was also included in the released section. More

  • in

    Stamford Bridge erupts in brawls as Chelsea launch probe into ‘most serious breach of stadium security in recent memory’

    CHELSEA have launched a probe after hundreds of away fans infiltrated the home end for Thursday’s Conference League match.Supporters of Swedish side Djurgarden were able to buy tickets in almost every section of Stamford Bridge for the semi-final second leg.Djurgarden fans packed into every section of the Stamford Bridge during the Conference League second legCredit: GettyFans were seen climbing the barriers between themCredit: GettyFans were seen clashing in the standsCredit: XFans from both sides came to blows during the gameCredit: XChelsea Supporters Trust called it a ‘serious security breach’Credit: XCops and stewards had to intervene to keep the peaceCredit: AlamyPolice have confirmed a number of arrests were madeCredit: AlamyCops and stewards had to intervene to keep the peace during the game, which Chelsea won 1-0.Chelsea claim to be cracking down on illegal ticket sales and are going digital with seat allocation from next season in a bid to beat the touts.The visiting supporters made no attempt to remain anonymous and sang loudly throughout the 90-minute match.Footage from inside the ground on the night shows one section of Stamford Bridge being completely taken over by visiting fans, which saw Chelsea release an update during the game and relocate fans in the impacted areas.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne fan captured a video showing fans clashing in the Matthew Harding Stand of the stadium during the match, with another showing fans brawling in the West Stand concourse at half-time.The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust released a damning statement following the game and asked fans to come forwards to present evidence for an formal investigation.The statement said: “During Thursday’s UEFA Conference League vs. Djurgården, a huge number of away supporters were able to infiltrate large areas of the home end.”This is the most serious breach of stadium security in recent memory, and it significantly undermines any security protocols Chelsea FC put in place ahead of the fixture.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford Bridge”As a result, the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust will formally write a letter of complaint to Chelsea FC’s COO and Head of Security. “We will call for a formal investigation by the club into the ticket sales process and Chelsea FC’s security response during the match.Chaos at Stamford Bridge as Djurgarden fans jump over barriers and clash in away end against Chelsea”The findings of this investigation and any subsequent recommendations must be made available to supporters.”The CST invites all supporters who attended the fixture on Thursday to submit written, photographic, and video evidence they captured during the fixture.”The CST will then collate this evidence and then submit it to Chelsea FC.”A Chelsea statement read: “We will be reviewing all ticketing arrangements following this evening’s match and commit to implementing all necessary changes following this review. “We will also share all our findings with the Fan Advisory Board.”Large numbers of police were on duty as they were in the previous round when the notorious Legia Warsaw ultras also gained entry into home sections of the ground.Chelsea’s own chairman Todd Boehly owns a stake in US-based Vivid Seats which is an unauthorised ticket resale site.A Met Police spokesperson said: ‘Officers were deployed to support stewards at Stamford Bridge last night after a number of away fans were identified in home stands. “The fans had purchased tickets but not for the appropriate part of the ground.“A number of away fans who had found themselves in the home stands climbed into the designated away stand where they remained without incident.Read More on The Sun“Where away fans remained in home areas, officers and stewards provided a visible presence to ensure any incidents or altercations could be dealt with.“While there were six arrests outside the ground for various offences including assault and possession of drugs, there were no arrests within the ground.” Chelsea ratings vs Djurgarden as Dewsbury-Hall makes most of rare start but Sancho should have done betterCHELSEA coasted their way into the Conference League final thanks to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s first-half finish.Enzo Maresca’s men had done the difficult work last week with a thumping first-leg win.But Dewsbury-Hall gave the home fans something to cheer about with a smart finish.Tyrique George fed the midfielder, who cut inside Djurgarden defender Miro Tenho before slotting home.From there, Chelsea were going through the motions – and no wonder given how poor their Swedish visitors were.Here’s how SunSport’s Jack Rosser rated the Chelsea stars… More

  • in

    Liverpool fans convinced one star is ‘starting on Sunday’ after hearing new Pope say his name in Vatican speech

    LIVERPOOL fans are convinced that Federico Chiesa is set for a rare start on Sunday after hearing his name in the new Pope’s speech.Cardinal Robert Prevost from the US was named as the successor to Pope Francis and will take the name Pope Leo XIV.Pope Leo XIV made his first address after being anointedCredit: Shutterstock EditorialHe said ‘Chiesa’ several times during his speechCredit: APFans are convinced that Federico Chiesa could start for Liverpool on SundayCredit: AlamyLeo XIV was elected the 267th pontiff and previously served as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru.He made his first address from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica as he paid tribute to his predecessor.During the speech made in Italian, he said “Chiesa” multiple times, meaning “church”.And Liverpool fans have taken it as a sign that Chiesa is set to start against Arsenal on Sunday.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLeo XIV said “Chiesa” seven times, which happens to be two more than Premier League appearances the former Juventus star has made this season.One posted: “POPE KEEPS SAYING CHIESA, HE’S STARTING ON SUNDAY.”A second wrote: “New Pope stood up there talking about Chiesa. Presumably urging Slot to give him more playing time.”A third commented: “Thoughts on the Pope mentioning Chiesa a few times? Reckon the Vatican will chuck a cheeky bid for him in the summer window?”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA fourth said: “New pope LOVES Chiesa. Said his name about seven times. Also heard Totti a few times. Knows ball.”Another added: “Federico Chiesa was mentioned in the new Pope’s speech more times than he has Liverpool appearances.”Robert Prevost becomes first ever American Pope after secret two-day ConclaveChiesa joined the club last summer in a £12.5million deal from Juventus but has failed to establish himself.He has only made five appearances in the Premier League and has failed to score or assist a single goal.He scored in the FA Cup against Accrington Stanley and the League Cup final against Newcastle.Liverpool take on Arsenal at Anfield, having already wrapped up the Premier League title.The Reds sealed their 20th league title in their win over Tottenham Hotspur in April.However, it has not been all good news following the success in England’s top-flight.Last week, they lost 3-1 at Stamford Bridge to Chelsea as their guard of honour was spoiled.Read More on The SunStar defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed he will be walking away from the club at the end of the season.The England international’s contract is set to expire and he is expected to join Real Madrid. More