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    Keir Starmer vows to BLOCK English clubs joining new European Super League as he slams hated plot to revive it

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    ENGLISH clubs will be BLOCKED from joining the newly-proposed European Super League, Sir Keir Starmer vowed today. The footie-mad PM went studs up on the latest threat of a breakaway tournament and said Premier League sides would not participate “on his watch”. Sir Keir Starmer has attacked plans for a European Super LeagueCredit: ReutersA22 have written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for permission to form a new league of 96 teamsHe is currently passing laws for a new football regulator with powers to ban teams from joining adjacent competitions. Downing Street hit out after promoter A22 Sports announced proposals for a 96-team series.The bizarre “Unify League” worships the EU – with its four divisions named Star, Gold, Blue and Union after the bloc’s flag. Arsenal-fan Sir Keir’s spokesman said: “Clearly this is not something the Prime Minister supports.Read more on politics“You’ve heard him previously say that on his watch, there’ll be no Super League-style breakaway from English football. “And as part of the strength in the Football Governance Bill, the regulator will be able to prevent English clubs from joining future breakaway competitions by taking into account factors such as sustainability, heritage and fairness should be at the heart of our game.They added they hope to pass the legislation – currently going through the Lords before coming to the Commons – “as quickly as possible”.Ex-Sports Minister Tracey Crouch – who first proposed the regulator in her Fan Led Review – slammed this “latest wheeze”.Most read in FootballShe told The Sun: “While this is a matter for UEFA, after the huge fan reaction to the breakaway super league that ultimately led to the Bill now going through Parliament to protect the long term future of English football, it will be a brave move for any Premier League club to support this latest wheeze without the approval of its fans.”Niall Couper, chief executive of football campaign group Fair Game, added: “The spectre of a new Super League needs to be killed immediately. And that is exactly why football needs a regulator with real teeth and why it needs one now.”The owners of elite clubs cannot be allowed to run roughshod over football.”But it is not just about urgency, it is also about ensuring the regulator has real power.”Without the ability to stand up to the top clubs, then it will betray not just the fans but the entire football pyramid that the success of our national game has been built on.”What’s the ‘Unify League’ and which Prem teams would play in new version of European Super League?Revived Super LeaguePromoter of the new league, A22 Sports, unveiled plans for a radical revamped format named the “Unify League” on Tuesday.The Madrid-based firm, backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez, said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement for the league.The previous attempt by the firm to form a breakaway league announced in April 2021 was met by huge fan backlash.But the new refined league will see 96 teams spread across four divisions – Star, Gold, Blue and Union – and crucially include promotion and relegation, meaning inclusion will be based on merit.As many as TEN Premier League teams will be offered the chance to take part in the new competition.Participation in the league would NOT affect membership of the Premier League, but the tournament would effectively spell the end of the Champions League.SunSport understands a significant number of Prem clubs have privately said they would be willing to take part in the new league.A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its latest proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.And the league’s bosses are confident the latest iteration of their “Super League” will receive authorisation from Uefa, according to The Guardian.The report adds that Uefa is unlikely to respond in haste and that authorising the league, in essence calling A22’s bluff, will be an option under consideration.The prize fund for the tournament is yet to be confirmed, but A22 has promised £330million in “solidarity” payments for smaller clubs and countries.The total pot is expected to exceed the current £2billion Uefa fund for the Champions League and the £700m for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeasures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it More

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      Premier League clubs keen on new European Super League with bosses ‘confident Uefa will accept Unify League plans’

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      A NUMBER of Premier League clubs have privately signalled their support in taking part in the new European Super League.Promoter of the new league, A22 Sports, unveiled plans for a radical revamped format named the “Unify League” on Tuesday.A number of Premier League clubs have privately signalled their support for the new European Super LeagueCredit: GettyA22 have written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for permission to form a new league of 96 teamsCredit: A22A22 is backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino PerezCredit: AlamyAs many as ten Premier League clubs will be offered the chance to star in the leagueCredit: EPABut unlike the 2021 proposal the Unify League will feature promotion and relegationCredit: PAThe 2021 proposal caused a tsunami of backlash among fansCredit: AFPThe Madrid-based firm, backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez, said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement for the league.The previous attempt by the firm to form a breakaway league announced in April 2021 was met by huge fan backlash.But the new refined league will see 96 teams spread across four divisions – Star, Gold, Blue and Union – and crucially include promotion and relegation, meaning inclusion will be based on merit.As many as TEN Premier League teams will be offered the chance to take part in the new competition.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLParticipation in the league would NOT affect membership of the Premier League, but the tournament would effectively spell the end of the Champions League.SunSport understands a significant number of Prem clubs have privately said they would be willing to take part in the new league.A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its latest proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.And the league’s bosses are confident the latest iteration of their “Super League” will receive authorisation from Uefa, according to The Guardian.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBOWING TO FAT CATSBy Will Barker, Sun newsman and Villa fanJUST when you thought the greedy clubs had learnt their lesson from the last Super League chaos, here comes another crazy idea.And this time, the EU has laid out the red carpet for fat cat clubs to sponge even more money off fans.My team, Villa, have been battling since the very start of the Champions League to hear the famous anthem played at Villa Park.Previous memories of 1982 when we won the European Cup are all faded now.But now we have been able to experience first hand what a great competition it is rather than jealously watch our Premier League rivals from afar.Incredibly, Villa have had a great run in the tournament so far — even beating giants Bayern Munich, which led to some of the wildest celebrations in the Midlands I’ve seen for years.Football is about the fans.It isn’t about the rich owners and it certainly isn’t about the politicians in Brussels, who need to get their hands off our great game.The report adds that Uefa is unlikely to respond in haste and that authorising the league, in essence calling A22’s bluff, will be an option under consideration.The prize fund for the tournament is yet to be confirmed, but A22 has promised £330million in “solidarity” payments for smaller clubs and countries.Unify League explained after European Super League launches again in new format The total pot is expected to exceed the current £2billion Uefa fund for the Champions League and the £700m for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.Measures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it. 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      Fury over revamped European Super League as it’s revealed four new divisions would be based on EU flag

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      FOUR divisions for a new 96-club European Super League would be inspired by the EU flag — Star, Gold, Blue and Union.Promoter A22 Sports yesterday unveiled its format for a “Unify League” and said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement.Footie fans slammed a plot to revive the hated European Super League, above protesters outside Stamford Bridge in 2021Credit: GettyFour divisions would be inspired by the EU flag — Star, Gold, Blue and UnionCredit: AlamyMadrid-based A22 is backed by Real Madrid, its chief Florentio Perez and Barcelona, above Jude Bellingham during a UEFA Champions League matchCredit: GettyThe firm’s previous plan for a closed 20-team league folded in April 2021 amid a fan backlash — as reported by The Sun.But A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.An A22 spokesperson confirmed last night: “The names of the leagues are named after the EU Flag/Flag of the Council of Europe.“The Unify proposal is aligned with the principles of the European Union and compliant with its laws.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It is open to all clubs from across the 55 countries.”Teams would earn a place on merit and not be guaranteed entry.Games would be streamed free on a direct-to-fan Unify platform, with viewers likely to pay a ­subscription to go ad-free.But one fan blasted: “They’ve used an EU ruling as the justification, and now the flag seems to have inspired the leagues. It stinks.”Most read in FootballA senior Uefa figure called the plan “bulls***t” and “a Christmas pantomime”.Tim Payton, from the Arsenal Supporters Trust, added: “We utterly condemn these proposals and are against any breakaway or super leagues.”Fans ask ‘how’s Henry spotted that?’ as they are left stunned by Arsenal icon’s analysis of Man Utd star’s goal vs Man City He urged the football regulator currently being set up by the UK government to block the proposal.Top Unify League division Star would involve 16 clubs in two pools of eight.Second league Gold would be the same. The remaining 64 teams would be in Blue and Union divisions.Each of those would be split into four pools of eight.A women’s competition would run alongside.Madrid-based A22 is backed by Real Madrid, its chief Florentino Perez, and Barcelona.A22 CEO Bernd Reichart said the Unify League aimed to address challenges such as increased TV subscription costs, an overloaded calendar, insufficient investment in women’s football, and dissatisfaction with the format and governance of current competitions.We utterly condemn these proposals and are against any breakaway or super leaguesTim Payton, from the Arsenal Supporters TrustHe cited the ECJ 2023 ruling that states “any competition where qualification is inclusive and meritocratic, and which complies with the overall match calendar can be officially established”.Mr Reichart said A22 had consulted with clubs, leagues and other groups.But Arsenal fan Mr Payton said: “I don’t believe they’ve had any meaningful discussions with supporter groups.“We have pushed Arsenal in our meetings with them since the Super League — and they always tell us they are committed to the existing structures and competitive balance.“We would urge the club to ­condemn and ignore moves like this. “It is a breakaway and being proposed by people outside the FA, Premier League and Uefa structure.BOWING TO FAT CATSBy Will Barker, Sun newsman and Villa fanJUST when you thought the greedy clubs had learnt their lesson from the last Super League chaos, here comes another crazy idea.And this time, the EU has laid out the red carpet for fat cat clubs to sponge even more money off fans.My team, Villa, have been battling since the very start of the Champions League to hear the famous anthem played at Villa Park. Previous memories of 1982 when we won the European Cup are all faded now.But now we have been able to experience first hand what a great competition it is rather than jealously watch our Premier League rivals from afar. Incredibly, Villa have had a great run in the tournament so far — even beating giants Bayern Munich, which led to some of the wildest celebrations in the Midlands I’ve seen for years.Football is about the fans. It isn’t about the rich owners and it certainly isn’t about the politicians in Brussels, who need to get their hands off our great game.”They are badging it up as being a bit more competitive but it’s still a breakaway and propagated by Real Madrid and Barcelona.”Manchester United fan and football writer Andy Mitten added: “I don’t think this is a goer and it seems to be being pushed by Real Madrid. “I am not in favour.”The first European Super League plan guaranteed entry to 12 rebel clubs including the Prem Big Six, above Liverpool star Mohamed SalahCredit: GettyManchester City ace Phil Foden copetes in the UEFA Champions LeagueCredit: GettySpurs fan Doug Sanders wrote online: “Just no! “It is clear that player injuries are increasing due to the fixture lists, leaving hardly any free time during the year.“This is solely about making money for A22. “I suppose this would be televised on another obscure channel that fans would need a separate contract for.”One supporter said: “Perez doesn’t take no for an answer, does he?”Another added: “No one wants this. “Stop this nonsense now.”No one wants this. Stop this nonsense nowOne supporterAnd a third wrote: “Massive waste of everyone’s time. “As useless as the new World Club Cup.“Stop trying to please faceless clubs. “Fans want competitive local football.”The new format could involve up to ten Premier League teams compared to four in this year’s Champions League, two in the Europa League and one in the Conference League.The Premier League would have three teams in Star, two in Gold and up to five further teams across the remaining divisions.The first Super League plan guaranteed entry to 12 rebel clubs including the Prem’s Big Six — Liverpool, Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs and Man Utd.All positions in the Unify League would be earned by domestic performances in the previous season.A22 envisages 14 league phase games being played between September and April.The top four in each group would then reach a two-legged quarter- final, with the winners progressing to a “final four” week of one-off matches to decide the competition.It means footballers, already ­complaining of burnout, would face playing even more games. No ­formal start date has been set but it is understood A22 hopes to launch in September 2026.The prize fund is yet to be confirmed but A22 promises £330million in “solidarity” payments to smaller clubs and countries.The total pot is expected to exceed the current fund of £2billion for the Champions League, and £700million for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.Measures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.The Premier League, Uefa and UK teams have not commented.But clubs are likely to be mindful of angry fan reaction. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2021 thousands flocked to demonstrations at Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd.They let off smoke bombs, called for club owners who had backed plans to go and branded the proposed format the “Super Greed”.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it. More

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      Fuming Ukrainian FA blast Fifa over ‘unacceptable error’ during World Cup 2026 qualifying draw

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      THE Ukrainian FA sent a furious letter to Fifa and Uefa complaining about an “unacceptable error” during the World Cup qualifying draw. Ukraine learnt who they will face to try and book their spot at the 2026 tournament in North America. Ukraine hit out at Fifa and Uefa following an ‘unacceptable error’Credit: ReutersThe World Cup qualifying draw map excluded Crimea from UkraineCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCHowever, the country was left apoplectic following a map graphic depicting countries which could not cross borders to face each other – such as Ukraine and Belarus, Spain and Gibraltar and Kosovo versus either Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia.On it, though, the shaded Ukrainian region excluded the territory of Crimea.The peninsula in the Black Sea – officially the Autonomous Republic of Crimea – is classed as an administrative division of Ukraine after previously being annexed by Russia in 2014.Russia occupy the territory and have several military air bases stationed there during the war between the two nations, which has now claimed the lives or injured a million people since Vladimir Putin ordered the illegal invasion in February 2022. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUkraine, though, continue to view the region as part of their country so they were understandably indignant following Friday’s draw.And the Ukrainian Association of Football wrote to Fifa Secretary General Matthias Grafstrom and Uefa Secretary General Theodore Theodoridis to express their anger. The raging letter said: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024. “The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.Most read in Football”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable. “It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion ok his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukranian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time.SunSport has contacted Fifa for comment.  Ukraine were pitted in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and the winners of the two-legged France vs Croatia Nations League quarter-final.Thomas Tuchel’s England, meanwhile, got Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra in a five-team Group K. World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar More

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      New ‘Mikel Arteta law’ to be introduced to football after Arsenal manager’s Champions League antics

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      MIKEL ARTETA has helped bring about a change in the laws of football – to stop coaches being sent off for innocent mistakes.Arsenal chief Arteta was booked for grabbing the ball a fraction of a second before it went out of play for a Gunners throw on the touchline during his side’s Champions League defeat at Inter Milan.Mikel Arteta was booked during his side’s Champions League clash with Inter MilanCredit: GettyThe Gunners boss interfered with play at San SiroCredit: TNT SportsUefa confirmed that Arteta should have been dismissed for his action.But Lawmakers on the International FA Board have now agreed to propose that from next season it would just be an indirect free-kick and no disciplinary action against the coach or any substitute who accidentally infringed.Ifab technical director and former Premier League ref David Elleray explained: “It’s currently a direct free-kick, or a penalty if it happens inside the box as was the case in a match in Germany a few years ago, and a red card.“Of course, the coach might still get a yellow card if he comes out of his technical area to do it but if the Laws are applied rigorously we feel they are too draconian.”READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe Law change will be confirmed at The Ifab’s annual general meeting in Belfast in February, along with two other minor alterations.The first will allow Prem refs and officials in other domestic competitions to explain changed VAR decisions over stadium tannoys to give more explanation to fans in the ground over why a call has been overturned.That was trialled at the Women’s World Cup in 2023 and has been used more widely since.Prem clubs will decide if they want to adopt the measure for next season, in addition to the extra information now being displayed on giant screens.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the last change will relate to drop ball situations where play is just outside the penalty box.Currently the ball has to go to the defending team if they have cleared it but from next term that will revert to the attacking side if they would clearly have taken up possession.Mikel Arteta fumes over penalty decisions as Arsenal lose to Inter Milan More

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      Michael Olise risks Uefa punishment after cheeky antics while coming on as sub against PSG

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      MICHAEL OLISE could be sanctioned by Uefa over his antics against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.The Bayern Munich star was brought on as a second-half substitute in the 1-0 win.Michael Olise was told to put a shinguard in by the fourth officialCredit: TNT SportsHe put one down his sock but then changed his mindCredit: TNT SportsOlise cheekily threw the shinguard behind him when the officials weren’t lookingCredit: TNT SportsHe then appeared to take to the pitch without wearing a shinguardCredit: TNT SportsOlise risks being sanctioned by UefaCredit: GettyBut he had an issue with the fourth official who spotted that Olise was trying to enter the pitch without wearing shinguards.The winger then fetched his shinguards and put one down his right sock.He then pretended to do the same with his left but quickly threw it behind him towards the dugout when the officials were not looking.Olise, 22, could now be investigated by Uefa as Ifab rules stipulate shinguards must be worn.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIfab Law 4.2 states: “Shinguards – these must be made of a suitable material and be of an appropriate size to provide reasonable protection and be covered by the socks. “Players are responsible for the size and suitability of their shinguards.”There have been concerns in recent years over the shrinking of shinguards but Ifab, who are football’s lawmakers, have no plans to regulate shinguard dimensions.They ruled players – or the parents or guardians of youth players – must take responsibility for their own safety on the pitch.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNew Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink.A spokesman said: “Players’ legs are all different sizes and there are so many different materials”Ifab’s view is that this is the responsibility of the individual player and not the referee. Where young players are concerned, that responsibility [should be taken by the coach, parents or guardians].”Harry Kane and Bayern Munich team mates take the Audi Q6 e-tron for a drive Bayern’s win puts them back in contention to finish in one of the coveted top eight Champions League places which qualifies them for the next round.Meanwhile PSG have slipped out of the play-off places after picking up just one win in five games. More

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      UEFA opens investigation into Premier League ref David Coote over video of him snorting white powder during Euro 2024

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      UEFA have opened an investigation into suspended Premier League referee David Coote after he was filmed snorting white powder in a shocking video taken while he was on duty at Euro 2024.In the eight second Whatsapp film the under-fire VAR specialist is wide-eyed as he uses a rolled up US bank note to snort a four inch line of what appears to be cocaine.David Coote was filmed snorting the white powderThe video was filmed during Euro 2024Coote is expected to quit as a referee before he’s sackedCredit: GettyCoote, 42, was suspended by the PGMOL, governing body for professional referees, this week after a separate video emerged of him, again wide-eyed,  calling former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a “German c**t”.The Sun’s exclusive new video was taken on July 6 – a day after the Euro 2024 quarter final clash between France and Portugal, where he acted  as a support VAR official.UEFA confirmed in a statement today they have now opened an investigation into the ref for a potential violation of its regulations.It read: “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by the referee, Mr. David Coote.”Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”UEFA have already taken action against the Prem ref by removing him from their list of officials for the upcoming international fixtures.In the viral video, the bedside table alongside the white powder are seen scattered with packets of prescription drugs, a credit card, and the Terry Hayes novel The Year of The Locust.He sent the clip to a pal and it’s believed he filmed himself in his Uefa-funded hotel room he used during the tournament.Most read in FootballNo referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”The ref sent another photo from Frankfurt on July 1 which showed his credit cards on a saucer either side of six chopped-up lines of suspicious white powder. He was staying in hotel rooms appointed by tournament organiser UEFA.The pal, who wishes to remain anonymous, also reveals that the referee made other remarks about Everton football club and Liverpool player Andy Robertson.Coote’s previous comments about Klopp are now at the centre of both a PGMOL and FA investigation into his conduct.As the scandal grew this week, Uefa also took him off their roster for games during this weekend’s international break.Other videos were sent over the summer from France, where Coote officiated at three football matches at the Paris Olympics. They included the Israel versus Japan clash on July 30, where he was in charge of VAR.Coote also branded Goodison Park – the ground of Liverpool’s rivals Everton – as the worst place to referee due to the fans “shouting abuse so close to the pitch”.He hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it’s “too far away” and moaned he was “too big” to have to ref at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena for their Championship clash against Oxford United on August 16.The pal is speaking out to highlight Coote apparently bragging of taking drugs repeatedly during tournaments and big Prem matches.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”A PGMOL spokesperson told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”Coote was suspended by PGMOL bosses earlier this week after a leaked video showed the ref abusing Liverpool and their ex manager Jurgen Klopp.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe footage was said to have been taken during the Covid-19 pandemic.An investigation is now taking place and the FA are also initiating their own probe, as Coote could be charged with an aggravated breach of FA rules after mentioning Klopp’s nationality in the initial leaked video. More

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      David Coote booted off Uefa match list and facing sack after vid of him calling Jurgen Klopp a ‘German c***’ leaked

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      DAVID COOTE has been booted off UEFA’S match list as the fallout grows from his astonishing video rant at Jürgen Klopp.The Premier League ref faces the sack after being captured on film calling the former Liverpool boss a “German c***” among other things.He admitted the viral video of him slamming Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool is of himCredit: XDavid Coote has been booted off of Uefa’s match list following the leaking of his Jurgen Klopp rant videoCredit: ReutersDavid Coote takes on the fourth official role at the San Siro for a Champions League gameCredit: AlamyHe was immediately suspended by his bosses at the PGMOL and now Europe’s governing body are taking similarly strong action.Coote is a VAR specialist for Uefa and was involved in Champions League action only last week when Dutch side PSV Eindhoven beat Girona 4-0 on November 4.Coote was down to work at one of Uefa’s Nations League games taking place during this current international round of fixtures.  But he has now been removed.RAD MORE IN FOOTBALLEurope’s refereeing chiefs have followed their English counterparts and Coote will not be appointed to any UEFA matches for the foreseeable future.The PGMOL have launched an investigation into the sensational footage which emerged online on Monday afternoon.Coote is seen sitting with a male friend also labelling Klopp an “arrogant c***”.Coote has not denied the authenticity of the footage but says he “cannot recall” recording the footage which is several years old.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe goes on to dismiss Liverpool as ‘s***’ and says he had  ‘no interest in speaking to somebody as f****** arrogant’. I do my best not to speak to him. My God… German c***. F*** me.”Coote has history with ex Liverpool boss Klopp.They clashed after Burnley drew at Anfield in July 2020 when the football season was extended due to COVID.Coote was criticised as being too lenient. Premier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantKlopp said at the time: “The referee let lots of challenges go.”Nottinghamshire official Coote’s career as an official faces ruin as his comments about Liverpool and Klopp will be viewed as evidence that he had an axe to grind with the Anfield club.Coote, a Prem ref since 2018, has been involved in a number of controversies involving Liverpool and their title rivals as both a referee and VAR over recent seasons.That includes a Marcus Rashford goal way back in 2019 which saw Divock Origi seemingly fouled in the build-up – but VAR Coote did not intervene.He was also at Stockley Park when Jordan Pickford crunched Virgil van Dijk, rupturing the Liverpool defender’s ACL – but again Coote did not step in as the Reds did not even get a penalty.And he was once again the VAR when he denied Klopp’s side a penalty last season despite a clear handball from Martin Odegaard at Anfield.READ MORE SUN STORIESA PGMOL statement on Monday said: “David Coote has been suspended with immediate effect pending a full investigation.”PGMOL will be making no further comment until that process is complete.”Coote insists he does not remember making the comments about KloppCredit: ReutersShocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.” More

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      Uefa boss sends thinly-veiled threat that stars will see their salaries SLASHED amid row over playing too many games

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      UEFA boss Aleksander Ceferin claims that reducing the number of matches played by top stars will cut the wages of the entire game.Ceferin remains sceptical about Fifa’s new 32-team Club World Cup, which will include Chelsea and Manchester City when it launches in the USA in June.Aleksander Ceferin has warned reducing the number of matches could cost playersCredit: PAMajor European leagues are backing the international players’ union Fifpro in their European Court case against Fifa, seeking to block the new competition and bring in a fixed maximum of matches played by stars each season.But while Ceferin hinted at his unhappiness over Fifa’s latest expansion project – despite being part of the world body’s ruling Council which backed the plan – he warned that the knock-on effects of a court victory for the union might end up hitting their own members in the pocket.Ceferin said: “When we say that footballers are modern gladiators, we are exaggerating a bit.“The better the footballer, the bigger the star, the more protected he is by the referees, who are also constantly in the fans’ teeth.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It is true that the players play a lot and that the match calendar could not be more full.“But I would not agree that only those at the highest level are the most burdened.“The players from my country, Slovenia, play as often as, for example, those from Real Madrid. Except that they are paid 500 times less.“If we were to reduce the number of matches, we would end up with the result that the salaries of football players would also fall, because the clubs would have less income.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“It’s a vicious cycle. The compromise is that no new competitions are introduced.”Fifa are, of course, introducing one, with the draw for the clubs – which also include Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich, Jude Bellingham’s Real, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and major sides from Brazil and Argentina – scheduled for the start of next month.Rodri sensationally claims players are close to STRIKING over schedule after Alisson says ‘our opinion does not matter’Ceferin added: “The rhythm of matches for football players is already at the upper limit.“The problem is that the new Club World Cup will take five weeks after the end of the season every four years.“Meanwhile, we already have the World Cup, the European Championship.“I saw that the union of professional footballers with the European leagues has already filed a lawsuit against FIFA.“The problem is that European clubs want the competition, as it would increase revenue and make it easier to pay footballers.“So, as I said, it’s a vicious cycle. It will be necessary to sit down with the professional footballers’ union and find out what they want.“If we reduce the number of matches, wages will have to be reduced as well. There is no other way.” More