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    Gary Lineker returns to BBC for first time since post likening supporters of Israel to rats as host fronts FA Cup final

    GARY Lineker has returned to the BBC for the first time since being accused of sharing a “anti-Semitic” post.The outgoing Match of the Day host sparked fury over the Instagram upload, which has since been deleted.Lineker has returned to the BBC for the first time since his postCredit: GettyHe presented coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace from Wembley todayLineker has “apologised unreservedly” after sharing the pro-Gaza video that likened supporters of Israel to rats.A rat has been used as an anti-Semitic insult referring to language used by Nazi Germany to characterise Jewish people.The rat accompanied footage of a Canadian-Palestinian lawyer attacking the war in Gaza with the caption “Zionism explained in two minutes.”In a statement, Lineker said: “On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references.”I very much regret these references.”I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in.”The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue.”Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.Most read in Football”I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views.”It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly.”Gary Lineker gets a grilling over Maradonna’s infamous hand of God goal in hilarious new The Assembly teaserLast November Lineker announced he would be stepping down from presenting Match Of The Day.The former England and Barcelona striker will make his final appearance on the highlights show on May 25.But he will still host World Cup and FA Cup coverage.And Lineker returned to TV screens this afternoon for the first time since the row erupted.He presented coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace from Wembley.Lineker appeared alongside Wayne Rooney.But a source said: “He is hosting the Cup final this weekend but beyond that we don’t know at this stage.”Staff are annoyed with him after this week — and he is annoyed with himself too.”This comes after the director general of the BBC said people need to follow the broadcaster’s social media rules when asked about the row involving the Lineker post.Tim Davie, after giving a wide-ranging speech, speaking of trust, disinformation and impartiality, was asked if Lineker had broken the BBC’s rules.Speaking at The Lowry arts centre in Salford, Mr Davie said: “The BBC’s reputation is held by everyone and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.”And I think we absolutely need people to be the exemplars of BBC values and follow our social media policies, simple as that.”Lineker’s agent told the BBC the presenter immediately deleted the post when he learned about the image’s symbolism, which he had previously not appreciated.Meanwhile, earlier this week Lineker fired savage digs at the new BBC boss as the ex-footballer revealed why he left Match of the Day.The TV veteran slammed BBC’s new director of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, claiming he “has no TV experience” in a brutal interview with The Telegraph.Lineker, 64, warned the BBC not to tamper too much with the iconic show, saying: “He has his reasons, he wants to change Match of the Day a bit.”Ultimately, I don’t think they will, because I don’t see how you move a highlights show away from being about highlights.”Lineker presented Match of the Day for a staggering 26 years.However, the 64-year-old claims that much has changed since the new BBC boss took charge last year.”I think he wants more journalists – he has come from that background,” Gary added.In March 2023 Lineker was temporarily suspended from the BBC after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then-government’s new asylum policy.He was also among 500 other high-profile figures who signed an open letter in February urging the BBC, to re-broadcast a documentary, Gaza: How To Survive A War Zone, to BBC iPlayer.But the legendary footballer has vowed to steer clear of entering the world of politics when he does end his punditry career in 2026.He said previously: “I won’t get involved in politics, I never really have.”Apart from the Brexit vote, because I did a lot of research on that and decided, ‘This could be worse than we think’.”I never back a government. I might criticise Sir Keir Starmer on Israel. But nobody knows my politics.”Read More on The SunLineker is the co-founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, makers of the popular The Rest Is History series and its spin-offs about politics, football, entertainment and money.He is being replaced as Match of the Day host by Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates and Mark Chapman next season. More

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    Chelsea vs Man Utd interrupted as Rasmus Hojlund left in hysterics after referee takes issue with his smart wath

    CHELSEA’s Premier League match with Manchester United was temporarily stopped due to an unexpected kit violation. Red Devils hitman Rasmus Hojlund was the guilty party in the second half of the Stamford Bridge showdown on Friday night, which Chelsea won 1-0.Rasmus Hojlund appeared to be wearing a fitness tracker in the second half of Manchester United’s trip to ChelseaCredit: ESPNReferee Chris Kavanagh orders the Norwegian to remove the strapCredit: REUTERSThe Denmark international returned to the pitch after the second-half interval wearing what appeared to be a fitness tracker. Hojlund’s wearing of the device didn’t go unnoticed, with the referee Chris Kavanagh briefly halting the game and instructing him to remove it. And the Dane couldn’t help but laugh as he made his way to the touchline to hand over the device. The bizarre incident stunned footie fans, who flocked to X to give their thoughts.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOne wrote: “Hojlund really came on the pitch with an Apple Watch.” Another said: “[He was] counting his steps.”And another said: “Counting his steps cos (sic) he knows he won’t score.” One remarked: “Bruv just wanted to get his steps in.” Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMarc Cucurella broke the deadlock in the 71st minuteCredit: GettyUnited thought they’d taken the lead in the 16th minute thanks to a neat finish from Harry Maguire. But the defender’s strike was ruled out for a marginal offside. Man Utd legend spotted consoling Rasmus Hojlund and giving Man Utd striker pep talk after 14-minute cameo vs Arsenal Many of the Old Trafford faithful were adamant that Blues defender Marc Cucurella played Maguire onside and that the goal should’ve stood. And Spain international Cucurella rubbed salt into their wounds by breaking the deadlock in the 71st minute, with his strike proving to be the only goal of the game. More

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    ‘Should be illegal’ – Man Utd and Spurs fans face staying in £2,000 Squid Game-like hostel for Europa League final

    A BILBAO hostel has been slammed for charging football fans over £2,000 – to stay in beds reminiscent of Netflix show Squid Game. Manchester United and Tottenham fans are desperate for accommodation in the Spanish city ahead of the Europa League final. A hostel that reminds fans of Squid Game has gone viral for its Europa League pricingCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel is charging fans over £2000 for a three-day stayCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe hostel is just a short distance from the Europa League final stadiumCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsFans will be treated to bunk beds and lockers in the shared roomsCredit: Jam Press/Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh HotelsThe Prem sides are set to do battle at the Estadio de San Mamés next Wednesday. But the Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel – just a nine-minute drive from the ground – has been accused of cashing in. Disgruntled supporters have likened the bedroom set-up to the dorms in Squid Game, which became a global phenomenon in 2021. Contestants are forced to sleep in a warehouse full of bunk beds in the South Korean show.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd fans were outraged to learn the price for a three-night stay in similar digs at the Bossh Hotels hostel. Four adults would need to fork out a whopping £2,338 if they wanted to stay from Tuesday, May 20 to Friday, May 23, as reported by NeedToKnow.Fans flocked to social media to complain about the hostel raising prices so dramatically ahead of Wednesday’s showpiece. One fan wrote in response: “Sleeping in Squid Game for £2,000.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnother joked: “You could win 45 billion Korean Won.”While a third added: “Should be illegal to take advantage like they are.”Bruno Fernandes matches Cristiano Ronaldo record as he wins Man Utd award – but admits he DOESN’T want itAnd a fourth countered: “Surely no one’s paying £2,000 for a hostel. I wouldn’t even pay £200. Would rather sleep in the airport.”Bossh Hotels has been approached for a comment.Last week, it was revealed United are not going to be giving staff free tickets to the final.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clashBoth clubs have been allocated around 15,000 seats each by Uefa.It’s been reported that Spurs are offering all full-time employees a complimentary ticket for the match – a stance that United are not following.The Mail claim that United are instead holding a ballot with a small number of tickets available for their staff, but will see the majority of workers go without the opportunity to watch the club in Spain. More

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    Cole Palmer eats jam sandwich and Brit music legend makes cameo in brilliant Chelsea kit video that was leaked

    CHELSEA’s kit launch video for the 2025/26 campaign had it all.The Blues have revealed their new home kit for next season with a brilliant video on social media.Cole Palmer featured in Chelsea’s new kit launchCredit: https://x.com/ChelseaFCHe ate his favourite jam sandwichCredit: https://x.com/ChelseaFCThe new kit is inspired by LondonCredit: https://x.com/ChelseaFCLauren and Reece James feature in the promo videoCredit: https://x.com/ChelseaFCThe club’s new kit keeps the traditional blue shirt and shorts with white socks.The shirt and shorts have neat detailing on the body with a white collar.But it was the video that took centre stage as it featured star player Cole Palmer eating his favourite jam sandwich.The midfielder was filmed entering a cafe and ordering the dish before tucking in while wearing the new shirt.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLChelsea 2025/26 Home Kit: Available Now!*If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue.The promo also featured Madness singer and Chelsea fan Graham ‘Suggs’ McPherson.The British singer-songwriter stars as a taxi driver who gives a lift to the club’s women’s captain and Lionesses’ star Millie Bright.During his scene in the cab, he turns the radio over to play Madness’ iconic song Our House which serves as the music for the remainder of the video.Chelsea stars Reece and Lauren James also appear with the men’s captain having his haircut at a barbershop.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSLauren jokes that the trim is better than when their “dad did it”.Fans have loved the brilliant video as they flooded social media.Arsenal reveal new home kit for 2025/26 season with major change to badge and eye-watering price More

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    Arsenal star Jakub Kiwior turns director as he films twerk queen Wag doing raunchy dance routine in water

    JAKUB KIWIOR has tried his hand at directing after filming his partner doing a raunchy dance routine in water.The Arsenal star is dating Claudia Kowalczyk, who made her name as a twerking champion.Claudia Kowalczyk showed off her stunning dance movesCredit: https://x.com/ArsenalN7/status/1922887165404643375She performed the routine whilst drenched in waterCredit: https://x.com/ArsenalN7/status/1922887165404643375She was filmed by partner and Arsenal star Jakub KiwiorCredit: https://x.com/ArsenalN7/status/1922887165404643375He was very focused on his taskCredit: https://x.com/ArsenalN7/status/1922887165404643375Kiwior, 25, was spotted by fans filming his impressive dancing partner in a new video.The defender can be seen holding a camera and concentrating on capturing the moment.Claudia, 30, meanwhile takes centre stage as she performs a stunning dance in water while wearing a tight-fitted leotard.Fans were stunned on social media as they reacted to the moment.READ MORE ON ARSENALOne posted: “Is that Jakub Kiwior behind the camera?”A second wrote: “My guy is so serious.”A third commented: “Winning on and off the pitch.”A fourth said: “Guy can do anything, what a legend.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnother added: “They said teamwork makes the dream work, and this is the most glamorous example I’ve ever seen.”Claudia, who goes under the moniker ‘Claudia Redheaded’ has a fanbase of 80k followers on Instagram.Jakub Kiwior’s stunning twerk queen Wag shakes bum in the sea in Greece as he prepares to star for Poland at Euro 2024It is not the first time she her performed in waterCredit: Instagram / @claudia.redheaded_babeClaudia is a twerking queenCredit: https://www.instagram.com/claudia.redheaded_babe/Her and Kiwior have been together before he joined ArsenalCredit: Instagram @claudia.redheaded_babeShe has a big fan base on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @claudia.redheaded_babeShe has often caught the attention of her followers as she previously stunned in a black leather cat mask.The beauty has also caught the eye in a hot tub while on holiday with Kiwior.And after wiggling her bum on the beach as she soaked up the sun in Dubai.The defender endured a slow start to life at Arsenal following his £21million switch from Italian outfit Spezia.He had been tipped with an exit from the Emirates Stadium with AC Milan interested.However, he has established himself as a key member of the squad following the injury to Gabriel Magalhães earlier this year.She has 80,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @claudia.redheaded_babeShe regularly posts twerking tutorials on social mediaCredit: Instagram @claudia.redheaded_babeThe couple appear very loved up with eacthotherCredit: Instagram / @claudia.redheaded_babe More

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    Madelene Wright sends fans wild in lacy robe as they call glamorous football star ‘prettiest girl’

    MADELENE WRIGHT showed fans a nightie to remember as she swapped the beach for the bedroom.The footballer sent her social media following soaring with the temperature when she posed in a bikini on a sunny holiday last month.Madelene Wright wore a silky numberCredit: Credit: X formerly Twitter / @WrightMadelene_She is happy to pose around her homeCredit: X formerly Twitter / @WrightMadelene_Madelene’s classy taste in vases caught the eye hereCredit: instagram @madelene_wrightNow the OnlyFans star been called “the prettiest girl” and a “dream woman” after sharing a snap from a more cosy venue.Revealing a thigh in a lacy nightgown, Madelene captioned the selfie “home” and added a white heart emoji.In the background was a bed in a similar off-white colour to her robe.And as Madelene gazed coolly for her picture, one fan responded on Instagram: “She’s a baddie.”READ MORE ON MADELENE WRIGHTAnother wrote: “Ah Man Maddie you’re just incredible.”A third posted: “Wow, just wow, you’re so beautiful.”Madelene has revived her playing career over the past year.The former Millwall player was axed by Charlton in 2020 after posting controversial videos on Snapchat.Most read in FootballShe was seen apparently inhaling a balloon and also drinking champagne at the wheel of a Range Rover.At the same time she started raking it in by becoming a big hit on adult content website OnlyFans.Glam footballer Madelene Wright shows off her new glasses with smouldering video before sharing cheeky bum pic A footballing comeback with Leyton Orient was short-lived before she returned once again – with Chesham United Ladies last year.However, that on-pitch activity has far from curtailed her online offerings.The 26-year-old is now up to 323,000 followers on Instagram – not to mention her huge following on other forms of social media.She sported long straight blonde hair in her new bedroom snap – which soon racked up thousands of hits.As for her next daring photo adventure, perhaps she has decided to sleep on it.A glimpse into the life of the influencer…Wright lives a glamourous lifestyleShe often wows her fans with raunchy picturesCredit: InstagramMadelene has over 300k followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @madelene_wrightShe recently celebrated her 25th birthdayCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wrightThe football also has an OnlyFans accountCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wrightShe claimed to have made over £500,000 from the platformCredit: Instagram @madelene_wrightThe footballer has recently signed for Leyton OrientCredit: Instagram/@madelene_wrightShe has continued her OnlyFansCredit: twitter @MaddieMadeleneShe often dresses in revealing outfitsCredit: InstagramMadelene used to play for CharltonCredit: Instagram @Madelene_Wright More

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    Ferrari star forced to pull out of media duties through illness as F1 team confirm he ‘will not be coming to the track’

    CHARLES LECLERC has pulled out of media duties due to illness ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.The race on the famous Imola circuit in Italy is scheduled for Sunday and will be the home debut for Lewis Hamilton since switching to Ferrari.Charles Leclerc has pulled out of media duties ahead of the Emilia Romagna GPCredit: AFPHis team-mate Lewis Hamilton will have to represent FerrariCredit: GettyBut the Englishman will not be joined by his team-mate for media duties.Ferrari confirmed that the Monegasque driver will not be heading to the track due to sickness.The F1 team insisted that he would be expected in the car for practice ahead of qualifying on Saturday.A statement read: “Charles is feeling unwell and will not be coming to the track today.READ MORE ON F1″He will rest and focus on recovering and we expect him to be in the car tomorrow.”Leclerc is currently 5th in the Driver’s Standings with 58 points but he is yet to win a race this season.He finished on the podium in 3rd in the Saudi Arabian GP back in April.Hamilton, however, is currently 7th in the driver’s standings with only 41 points and is yet to finish in the top three.Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThis performance has left Ferrari well off the pace in the constructor’s standings with only 94 points.They trail Red Bull Racing, Mercedes and leaders McLaren.Lewis Hamilton and Charles LeClerc arrive on red carpet at F1 02 car launch in styleMeanwhile, the Emilia-Romagna GP is at risk of being axed from the F1 calendar.F1 president Stefano Domenicali has admitted that it is difficult for two races to be based in Italy.He told RAI radio: “Italy has always been and will be an important part of Formula 1.”It will be increasingly difficult to have two races in the same country because interest in F1 is growing and it’s a situation we will have to deal with in the coming months.”It’s hard for this situation with Imola and Monza to continue together on the calendar for long.” More

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    Jordan Henderson’s Ajax choke away title after 99th-minute equaliser – having needed just six points from five games

    JORDAN HENDERSON is set to miss out on the Eredivisie title after Ajax suffered the ultimate choke.The Dutch giants saw victory against Groningen snatched away in the 99th-minute.Jordan Henderson could be about to miss out on the Eredivise titleCredit: GettyHis Ajax side were favourites to win the league with just five games to goCredit: Shutterstock EditorialAjax have now fallen behind PSV, ahead of the final game of the seasonCredit: GettyPSV are now the favourites to win the Dutch league titleCredit: Shutterstock EditorialAjax had taken the lead through Anton Gaaei but were pegged back by Thom van Bergen in the second half.Former Manchester United and Burnley striker Wout Weghorst would have thought his 68th-minute goal was going to be enough for a vital three points.But it was the ten men of the hosts that struck the heartbreaking goal through Thijmen Blokzijl in the dying seconds of added time.The result sees Ajax fall to second place and one point behind title rivals PSV.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHenderson and co were the favourites for their 37th title with just five games left of the season.Ajax needed to pick up just six points to be confirmed as league champions.However, they have stumbled to defeats against Utrecht and NEC as well as a draw with NEC and Groningen before the final game of the season.Peter Bosz’s side took full advantage of Ajax’s slips to eradicate the nine-point gap, having won their previous six matches.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis means that with one game to go, the title is PSV’s to throw away.PSV face 11th-placed Sparta Rotterdam while Ajax will take on FC Twente.Furious Jordan Henderson goes off at journalist after being grilled over ‘wanting Monaco transfer’Ajax now need PSV to slip up in their final game of the seasonCredit: Shutterstock EditorialAjax will have to win and hope PSV slip up as their goal difference is significantly worse.After Blokzijl’s last-gasp goal fans on social media were left stunned by Ajax’s drop off.One posted: “How does Ajax give away a 9-point lead in 4 games? I have no words for it.”A second wrote: “Ajax have bottled it what is happening in the Netherlands.”A third commented: “In rap battles, we call that choking.”A fourth said: “How did Ajax bottle the league title?”Another added: “As a fan, my head would be on Pluto until the last games bc HOW?”Henderson is yet to win a trophy with AjaxCredit: GettyFrancesco Farioli has issued a defiant call ahead of the final game of the seasonCredit: GettyThe probabilities have changed drasticallyCredit: OptaFootage was captured from the PSV game of the club’s supporters and coaches waiting to hear the result of the Ajax match.Many appeared stressed and expecting the Amsterdam-based club to win but were quickly overjoyed when the late goal went in.PSV were beaten by Ajax 2-0 on March 30, which left the now favourites with just a one per cent chance of winning the league.Before last night’s drama, Opta could barely split the two sides, with Ajax being given a 50.1 per cent chance of landing the title.Whereas PSV were ranked with a 49.9 per cent chance of toppling Ajax.After the games, this has shifted dramatically in PSV’s favour who now have an 81.2 per cent chance of being named champions.However, the race is not fully over as Ajax manager Francesco Farioli issued a rallying call.He said: “It’s never easy to speak after conceding a last-minute equaliser.”It’s not over yet. We’ve got one more match to play: let’s go.”We gave it our all, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. Still, football teaches us that anything can happen.”Read More on The SunHenderson, 34, joined Ajax back in January 2024 after leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.He has been given the captain’s armband but is yet to lift a trophy with the club.How the tables have turnedHere is how Ajax’s horrific form has changed the table…Eredivisie table on April 27:1. Ajax – 74 pts (+40 GD)2. PSV – 67 pts (+55 GD)Eredivisie table on May 15:1. PSV – 76 pts (+62 GD)2. Ajax – 75 pts (+33 GD) More