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    Football club president sacks manager on live TV in astonishing post-game interview before blaming PLAYERS for decision

    THIS is the shocking moment a top football club president sacked his manager LIVE on TV after seeing his side lose 5-0.The chief of Ligue 1 side Montpellier shocked viewers by publicly announcing that Michel Der Zakarian had been given the boot.Montpellier president publicly announced the club’s decision to sack the managerBoss Michel Der Zakarian was axed after a disastrous run of formLaurent Nicollin blamed the PLAYERS in his astonishing post-game interview after Sunday’s 5-0 pummelling against Marseille.Montpellier are languishing at rock bottom of the French top flight.The French side have lot six of their opening eight matches, taking just four points so far this term.And the club have conceded a staggering 26 goals since the opening day of the season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMontpellier’s latest nightmare struck on Sunday as Marseille ran riot to move three points behind league leaders Paris Saint-Germain.But the biggest fireworks went off after full-time at Stade de la Mosson as club president Nicollin SACKED the club’s manager on live TV.Nicollin, 51, told DAZN France: “We can’t change 25 players, so, unfortunately, I’ve taken the initiative to stop Michel tonight.”We talked in the locker room after the game. I told him it was over tonight.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”And I said to the players that, thanks to their great job, they had fired the coach and that they need to take their responsibilities next week against Toulouse.”Der Zakarian’s public departure brings an end to the Armenian’s second spell in charge of Montpellier, whom he initially took charge of for four years between 2017 and 2021 before leaving for Brest.Mason Greenwood SIGNS for Marseille as Man Utd release brief statement after transferElye Wahi’s first-minute strike set the tone before Amine Harit and ex-Spurs loanee Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg made it three before half-time.And former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood rounded off a stunning counter attack to make it 4-0 in the 58th minute.Greenwood ended his four game streak without a goal to leave a timely reminder to new England boss Thomas Tuchel.Luis Henrique concluded the scoring, adding a fifth in the 73rd minute, which spelt doom in bold for Der Zakarian.The 61-year-old – who also represented Montpellier as a player from 1988 to 1997 – becomes the first manager to lose his job in Ligue 1 this term. More

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    Is Fabrizio Romano a time traveller? Fans spot his eerie sub ‘leak’ during Liverpool’s win over Chelsea

    FORGET mystic meerkats, uncanny octopuses and even good old-fashioned crystal balls – this eerie Anfield tale might freak you out.Fans reckon Fabrizio Romano metamorphosed from transfer guru to “time traveller” – as he spooked them out with his mid-match messages in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Chelsea.Liverpool’s Diogo Jota was at the centre of a fun ‘time-travel’ conundrum after he got injured in the 2-1 victory over ChelseaCredit: APJota had to be replaced by Darwin Nunez after just 30 minutesCredit: RexThe journalist’s millions of followers already believe he is in the loop with his transfer insights – but never before in a TIME loop.Romano saw the Reds return top of the Premier League with Arne Slot’s 10th victory in 11 matches since his summer arrival as boss.But amid a new blitz of VAR dramas, the Italian sparked a conspiracy – with the mysterious timing of his posts about Diogo Jota.The Liverpool winger was caught up in a major first-half talking point.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith the score goalless, the Portuguese hero escaped through the middle but was hauled down by Tosin Adarabioyo.The Chelsea centre-back was only booked, leaving Arsenal fans furious as they claimed William Saliba’s red-card foul 24 hours earlier was identical.Jota never fully recovered from the knock, meaning he was replaced by Darwin Nunez on the half-hour.Unfortunate, you might think, but nothing untoward.Most read in FootballHere’s how Fabrizio Romano sparked a mystical mysteryFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSExcept, as one fan posted: “16:43pm: Fabrizio Romano tweets Diogo Jota has left the pitch with an injury despite him not.”17:02pm: Diogo Jota leaves the pitch with an injury. Is this brother a time traveller…?”Watch Wolves’ incredible player announcement video that savages both Chelsea and Fabrizio Romano in single strokeA second observer added: “At least now we know why he knows all the transfer news? He’s a time traveller.”A third supporter noted: “He also got the replacement correct.”And a few went even further down the “sub leak” rabbit hole with suggestions like: “This just proves that football is scripted.”But others attempted to ease the conundrum by pointing out: “He left the pitch for a few minutes earlier and Nunez was warming up.”At least Romano didn’t share extra-early details of how Jota suffered his blow.Otherwise it might have been a case of Whack to the Future.Romano baffled his millions of followers by posting as fact something that only happened 19 minutes laterCredit: Sportsfile More

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    Steve Bruce’s four-month old grandson Madison tragically passes away as Blackpool release heartfelt statement

    STEVE BRUCE’s fourth-month old grandson Madison has tragically passed away.The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the manager’s club, Blackpool, on social media.Steve Bruce’s four-month old grandson has diedCredit: GettySteve Bruce’s son and Madison’s uncle, Alex Bruce, will miss Salford’s clash against CreweCredit: GettyThe club announced that Bruce will miss the clash against Barnsley following Madison’s passing.A statement read: “The club can announce that Head Coach Steve Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture against Barnsley due to the tragic passing of his four-month old grandson, Madison.”Everyone at the football club send their love to Steve and his family.”We ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBruce’s son Alex, who is currently working as the assistant manager at Salford City, will also miss his game against Crewe.Salford released their own statement sending support to the family.A statement read: “Salford City announces that Assistant Manager Alex Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture away at Crewe Alexandra due to the tragic passing of his four-month old nephew, Madison.”All at the football club send our love and full support to Alex, Matt Smith and the family.Most read in FootballWhat tributes clubs have madeClubs up and down the country have sent their condolences…Preston North End”Devastating news. Sending our thoughts and condolences to Steve and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”West Bromwich Albion”Everybody at West Bromwich Albion sends their condolences, thoughts and love to Steve Bruce’s family at this desperately sad time.”Norwich City”Heartbreaking news. We’re sending our love and support to Steve and his family at this difficult time”Birmingham City”Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”Bristol City”Everybody at Bristol City sends their condolences, thoughts and love to the family at this tragic time.”Lincoln City”Deepest condolences from everyone at the Imps to Steve and his family.”Northampton Town”Sending the condolences of everyone at Sixfields to Steve and his family.”Leeds United”Everybody at Leeds United sends their condolences and thoughts to Steve’s family at this tragic time.”Bristol Rovers”Everyone at Bristol Rovers sends our condolences, thoughts and love to Steve and the Bruce family.”Barnsley”Incredibly sad news. The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to Barnsley Football Club are with Steve and his family.””We request that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”Tributes have flooded in for Maddison, with the footballing world in mourning.One person posted: “Horrible. We’re all with you Steve.”A second wrote: “Jesus, prayers with Steve Bruce and his family.”A third commented: “Thoughts are with Brucey and his family.”A fourth said: “Many many heartfelt condolences Steve our thoughts are with you and the family.”Another added: “Absolutely tragic, thoughts with everyone in the family.”Bruce was named Blackpool manager in September but has had a long career in management.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has taken charge of the likes of West Brom, Newcastle United, Sheffield Wednesday, Aston Villa, Hull City, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, Birmingham City, Crystal Palace, Huddersfield Town and Sheffield United.As a player, he made 309 league appearances for Manchester United and won the Premier League three times between 1993 and 1996. More

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    Bayern Munich make TWO subtle changes to iconic badge but can you spot it?

    BAYERN MUNICH have changed their iconic badge, but traditional fans will be happy to know it’s nothing major.Bayern are one of the greatest football clubs in the history of the game having won a staggering 33 Bundesliga titles and six Champions League trophies.Bayern Munich have made changes to their iconic badge – with this the version they had been usingThis is the NEW version – can you spot the two changes?Harry Kane and his Bayern team-mates are embarking on a ‘new era’Credit: RexHowever, Harry Kane and co are set to embark on a new era with a new logo.But the Bavarians look set for a very smooth transition as the two changes imposed on their popular badge are so subtle fans can barely notice.Can you tell by looking at the before and after badges above?Spoiler: Bayern officials basically maintained the same design but adjusted the colours with the blue and red shades getting brighter and lighter respectively.Read More on FootballFans stormed social media immediately after the grand unveiling and of course many of them can’t spot any major difference.And that of course led to a series of sarcastic comments on Instagram.One fan posted: “A new era.”Another commented: “NGL, even though there’s barely a difference the new one looks worse.”Most read in BundesligaA third wrote: “Bro just turned the brightness up on his device.”BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis one said: “The designer took 3 months to create this!”That one stated: “Someone got paid a lot of money for this.”Bayern Munich kick off pre-season with huge 14-1 victory – but German giants beat same team 27-0 last yearAnd another fan used the popular meme from The Office’s US version where Jenna Fischer’s character Pam Beesly says: “They’re the same picture”.Harry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.” More

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    Watch Romania U21s’ ‘disrespectfully glorious’ team goal to qualify for Euros as fans ask ‘is this Brazil?’

    ROMANIA’S Under-21 side left fans in disbelief with a “disrespectfully glorious” goal.The nation were taking on Switzerland during a Euro U21 qualification match, the winner of which would seal qualification to the tournament next year.Ianis Stoica rounded off a brilliant Romania Under-21 team goalCredit: EPARomania won the game 3-1 and secured their spot at Euro 2025Credit: EPADaniel Pancu’s side got off to a flying start after Ianis Stoica scored after 16 minutes.A red card for Vladislav Blanuta in the 29th minute threatened to undo that, but those fears were soon placated as Stoica, 21, netted again ten minutes before the break.However, it was the remarkable nature of the goal that left fans in awe.After Louis Munteanu won the ball back, Octavian Popescu picked up the loose ball on the left wing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then dribbled to the touchline before playing a one-two with 22-year-old Munteanu.With two defenders closing him down, Popescu, 21, then chipped the ball over the pair.Munteanu controlled the ball with his head before volleying the ball down the wing for his team-mate who had made a move.Popescu then got the ball back, beat his marker at the byline to then cut the ball back to team-mate Constantin Grameni.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 21-year-old then back-heeled the ball to Munteanu, who then threaded a pass towards Stoica just outside of the six-yard area.He then rifled a shot into the top corner of the net to out his nation 2-0 ahead and complete the stunning sequence.Watch fan’s incredible goal in half-time competition that saw him win life-changing jackpotReacting on social media, one fan said: “Well that’s just disrespectfully glorious.”A second said: “Is this Brazil?”A third added: “That is team football!! Wonderful to watch.”Another said: “PlayStation.”A fifth said: “Am I watching at an eFootball action in real life?”Switzerland managed to rally after the break and halve the deficit through Albian Hajdari.Although just three minutes later Umit Akdag scored a third goal to give Romania some safety.Three red cards were shown throughout the game, with Pancu and a substitute from the team being sent to the stands.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result saw Romania top Group E of the Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.However, in defeat Switzerland were eliminated as they dropped to third place as Finland recorded a win over Montenegro to climb into second. More

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    Inside ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt’s jet-setting summer after amazing trips to Italy, Thailand and Maldives

    ALICA SCHMIDT had fans longing for the beach as she shared pics from her glamorous sunny holidays.Schmidt, 25, is a German runner who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer but failed to qualify for the women’s 4x400m relay final.Alica Schmidt shared pics of her glamorous sunny holidayCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt went to Italy, Thailand and the MaldivesCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of bikini snaps for her fansCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt enjoyed the crystal waters with some jet-skiingCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of glam pics for her followersCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdThe athlete has amassed a huge following on social media with her glamorous persona seeing her dubbed the “world’s sexiest athlete”.And she took Instagram by storm as she shared pictures of her recent trips to Italy, Thailand and the Maldives.The German posted photos and videos of her in a bikini enjoying the sun and crystal waters. She also showcased her jet-skiing skills for her fans during her time off.Read More on SportSchmidt posted: “Life is worth living.”The former Olympics competitor’s 5.8million followers were left gobsmacked as they took to the comments section.One fan wrote: “Beautiful caption & video.”Another commented: “I cannot get enough views of that gorgeous water!!!”Most read in AthleticsA third posted: “Life is beautiful and worth living – live it.”This one said: “Absolutely amazing.”Alica Schmidt gives fans glimpse behind scenes at final day at Olympic village and closing ceremony And that one gushed: “Strong and beautiful.”SEE MORE OF ALICA SCHMIDT’S GLAMOROUS LIFE…Schmidt is one of Germany’s top athletesCredit: GettyShe competes in track and field for her countryCredit: GettySchmidt was part of the relay squad for the Tokyo Olympic Games but didn’t competeCredit: ReutersSchmidt has acquired a cult following onlineShe has five million Instagram followersCredit: alicasmd/InstagramThe German is very particular about working with brands More

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    Bloodied Zlatan Ibrahimovic shows off gruesome head injury but Andy Carroll tells him ‘I’ve had worse from the missus’

    ANDY CARROLL gave a hilarious response to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s post showing off a bloody injury.The Swedish legend posted a picture of his scalp, which had suffered a nasty cut.Zlatan Ibrahimovic showed off a gruesome injury on InstagramCredit: Instagram @iamzlatanibrahimovicAndy Carroll had a hilarious responseCredit: AFPIbrahimovic, 43, shared the snaps on social media with the caption “part of the game”.He also added a trigger warning for people who may be squeamish to gore.Plenty of his 64.3million followers share their sympathy for the former AC Milan and Manchester United star.However, Andy Carroll also joined in the many comments as he gave a funny response.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joked: “Grow up, I’ve had worse from the missus.”Fans found the joke funny as they commented on Carroll’s post.One wrote: “The legend has spoken.”A second commented: “Lotta time for that comment.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third said: “Big Andy’s not messing.”Another added: “Hahaha amazing.”Watch Andy Carroll score twice in a ‘PARK’ and celebrate wildly as he tears up fourth tier of French football Ibrahimovic retired from football in 2023Credit: GettyIbrahimovic retired from professional football in 2023 after his second stint at AC Milan.Carroll, 35, however, is still playing and, in the summer, joined French fourth-division side Bordeaux.The striker has already become a cult hero at the club, having dropped down to help the club climb back up the divisions.He was recently spotted in Mallorca on holiday with his new girlfriend Lou Teasdale.He was previously married to Billy Mucklow, but their 11-year relationship came to an end earlier this year.Carroll starred for the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool and West Ham before he left England in 2023 for France.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Puzzled fans say ‘this is so random’ as snooker royalty spotted ringside for Beterbiev vs Bivol

    RONNIE O’SULLIVAN couldn’t get enough as Artur Beterbiev edged out Dmitry Bivol for undisputed light-heavyweight glory.Boxing fan O’Sullivan was seated ringside as Bivol suffered a tight and contentious loss to his Russian counterpart Beterbiev by a majority decision.Ronnie O’Sullivan was sat ringside for Beterbiev’s controversial win over BivolO’Sullivan is an ambassador for Saudi Arabian snookerFans were left stunned at the result as many thought Bivol had done enough to retain his WBC, IBF and WBO belts.Yet the judges scored the bout 114-114, 115-113 and 116-12 in Beterbiev’s favour.Bivol’s promoter Eddie Hearn labelled the decision “absolutely disgusting” and viewers called it a “robbery”.But O’Sullivan, 48, was one person who enjoyed the fight in the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.READ MORE BOXING NEWSThe seven-time world snooker champ posted a close-up from his ringside seat with the caption: “What a fight!!!!”And fans were left stunned by his involvement, with one writing: “Ronnie O’Sullivan being there is so random😂.”While another said: “What is O’Sullivan doing ringside?”A third wrote: “I did not expect to see Ronnie O’Sullivan there… so random.”Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother replied: “The Rocket is in the house!”While another added: “From Ronnie O’Sullivan to Medvedev at the Beterbiev vs Bivol fight, who would have thought.”Ronnie O’Sullivan explains heartwarming reason behind snooker walk-on song and says he used to play it on repeatBut fans shouldn’t be that surprised as O’Sullivan agreed to become an ambassador for Saudi Arabian snooker in April.He penned terms on a three-year deal with the Gulf State and will commit to playing in all World Snooker Tour (WST) events in Saudi Arabia.The Rocket lost 6-4 to Si Jiahui at the quarter-final stage of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Masters in Riyadh last month and has backed the venue as “one of the world’s best”.Meanwhile, O’Sullivan wasn’t the only random sporting star in attendance.Neymar appeared in the ring after Chris Eubank Jr to retain his IBO middleweight titleFootball star Neymar, who plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, was pictured in the ring after Chris Eubank Jr’s seventh-round KO win over Kamil Szeremeta.The former Paris-Saint Germain and Barcelona star was caught in-between Eubank’s face off with Conor Benn to the confusion of fans.Tennis star Danil Medvedev, who was beaten by Jannik Sinner in the quarter-finals of the US Open last month, was also spotted in the crowd.READ MORE SUN STORIESAll surely witnessed Frazer Clarke’s brutal first-round knockout at the hands of Fabio Wardley in their rematch.Clarke will undergo an operation to repair his jaw and cheekbone. More