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    Liverpool and Everton release joint statement amid fears Storm Darragh’s 80mph winds could postpone Merseyside derby

    LIVERPOOL and Everton have released a joint statement amid fears Storm Darragh could curtail Saturday’s derby.The Merseyside rivals spoke out to offer advice to fans – as the region braces itself for winds of up to 80mph.Goodison Park is expecting fierce conditions for Saturday’s big clashCredit: RexMerseyside is subject to an amber warning, meaning severe windsCredit: MET OfficeThe 12.30pm Premier League match is still expected to go ahead.But the clubs have responded to concerns over travel and playing conditions.They shared identical messages on their official websites.Both statements read: “Supporters attending Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel, and to remain alert to Met Office weather warnings.READ MORE FOOTBALL”An amber severe wind warning has been issued by the Met Office for Merseyside from 1am on Saturday morning, with wind gusts of 60mph to 70mph likely.”That warning for wind is expected to remain in place until 6am on Sunday. “Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and to take extra care.”Fans are also advised to keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning for Saturday’s Premier League fixture.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLiverpool are seven points clear of second-placed Chelsea in the Prem, while Everton are three above the drop zone.Meanwhile, Goodison is likely to escape the worst of Storm Darragh.John O’Shea says teams all over Europe will try to sign Caoimhin Kelleher from LiverpoolThe Met Office is anticipating winds of 70 to 80mph around exposed coasts and headlands on Merseyside.But the predicted speed in the area drops to around 60-70mph inland.Wales and south west England might suffer the most severe effects in Britain.The Met Office has put out a rare red alert for that region – including an emergency warning – to around 3million people.Winds there could reach a life-endangering 90mph in some places. More

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    Championship fixtures POSTPONED by weather chaos including Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth with 90mph Storm Darragh set to hit

    TWO Championship fixtures have been postponed as Storm Darragh is set to batter Wales and the South West with winds up to 90mph. Wayne Rooney’s struggling Plymouth will not face Oxford United tomorrow while Cardiff vs Watford has also been called off. Under-fire Wayne Rooney has seen his Plymouth side’s Championship game get postoponedCredit: RexThe Football Association of Wales (FAW) had earlier announced that ALL matches scheduled in Wales would be postponed with flooding and travel chaos expected. Cardiff have now confirmed they will not face the Hornets “in the interest of supporter safety” after receiving advice from the Met Office.Plymouth’s home clash had already been axed earlier in the day, with under-fire Rooney handed a reprieve following a dismal run.The Man Utd legend was reported to have two games left to save himself from the sack, although this was refuted by the Pilgrims’ chairman.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt came after a week in which his side got thrashed 6-1 by Norwich and then 4-0 by Bristol City, leaving them just outside the relegation zone. Storm Darragh is sweeping across the Atlantic with the Met Office issuing a rare red ‘danger to life’ warning across parts of Wales, Bristol and north Somerset. The FAW said in a statement: “The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.”It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury and The Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.Most read in Football”Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences etc.”Potential postponements of fixtures on Friday 6 December and Sunday 8 December will be considered on a case-by-case basis, in line with each individual league’s policy.”Other games in the area that could be hit by the weather include Bristol Rovers vs Bolton in League One, and Yeovil Town’s FA Trophy clash with Weymouth. Meanwhile Haverfordwest County announced their Welsh Premier League clash with Briton Ferry tonight was also postponed. Red warnings are extremely rare, with today’s announcement just the 19th such warning since records begin in 2011. The alert, issued on the Met Office website, warns of danger to life due to flying debris and falling trees. Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, are also expected – with power cuts potentially affecting other services including mobile coverage. Brits are urged to avoid travelling and stay indoors if possible. There is a 39-hour yellow wind warning for the whole of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and much of Scotland, until 6am on Sunday. Cardiff City also announced their fixture has been postponedCredit: Alamy More

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    Non-league stars go SWIMMING on their pitch as entire stadium covered in water as Storm Bert wreaks havoc

    NON-LEAGUE stars enjoyed a spot of swimming after their entire stadium pitch was left covered in water by Storm Bert.The amazing moment came as the UK was hit by a plethora of wet and windy weather.Non-league players enjoyed a swim after their pitch was flooded by Storm BertGames were called off across the country due to the stormy conditions.And non-league side Lydney Town saw yesterday’s home fixture against Roman Glass St George among the matches that were called off.However, some players rocked up on Sunday to check out the extent of the damage.And they could not believe their eyes when they saw that the pitch had been completely submerged in water.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHilariously, the Lydney players decided to take advantage of the situation.A football was booted into the middle of the flooded field.And several dived into the water before swimming around in joyFans certainly found the moment amusing.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne said: “Wait until the subs come on.”Another declared: “Great game of water polo that.”Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersOne noted: “Class lads, we’re in the same boat quite literally.”Another yelled: “Fans need to sort themselves out…“Biggest game of the season and it’s empty!”One added: “Did tell you it was playable.” More

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    Man Utd fans face travel chaos as Storm Bert threatens to ruin chance of seeing Amorim’s first game in charge vs Ipswich

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans are facing a travel nightmare as the country continues to feel the full force of Storm Bert.New manager Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first game this afternoon against Ipswich.Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first game as United bossCredit: GettyFans are facing travel chaos getting to IpswichCredit: PABut some away supporters are having difficulty getting to Portman Road for the 4:30pm kick-off.Train lines between Manchester and Stoke-on-Trent have been flooded, causing cancellations and huge delays.There are also several road closures and lengthy detours in place in the North West.For United fans living in the capital, there is disruption on trains from London to Ipswich.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning as torrential rain, heavy snow and strong winds continue to batter the UK.These conditions are set to continue into the evening, giving United fans potential difficulty getting home from Ipswich too.Liverpool supporters are facing similar challenges as they travel down to face Southampton this afternoon.The police are advising against non-essential travel due to the dangerous weather in some areas.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSStorm Bert has already caused chaos in the EFL after several matches were postponed yesterday. In the Championship, Blackburn vs Portsmouth was called off due to flooding and League Two games Bradford vs Accrington Stanley and Fleetwood vs MK Dons also got axed.’Thunder and hail’ on route amid flooding & second overnight Storm Bert warningAll Premier League games are set to go ahead this weekend, including tomorrow’s clash between Newcastle and West Ham.The North East has been hit with 70mph winds and the storm could wreak havoc for the Hammers’ travel plans. More

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    Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski’s home flooded as wife Anna shares video after ‘extreme danger’ red alert

    ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI’S home suffered flooding as Catalonia was hit by an “extreme danger” red alert.Flash floods have devasted Spain following heavy rain.Robert Lewandowski’s wife revealed their rented home was floodedCredit: GettyAnna Lewandowska dipped her toes in the floodwater in the garageCredit: Instagram @annalewandowskaA river of water ran down the streetCredit: Instagram @annalewandowskaAnd now severe flooding has hit the region around Barcelona, with more rainfall forecast.That includes at Lewandowski’s home in the prestigious neighbourhood of Castelldefels – 15 miles west of Barcelona along the coast.His wife and mum-of-two Anna Lewandowska shared a video on her Instagram story, thought to be of the garage at their £3.3million home they are renting off Marc Bartra.She uploaded the post on Monday – the day after Lewandowski played in Barca’s 3-1 win over rivals Espanyol. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the clip, the personal trainer and former karate star dips her toes into the massive pool of water before showing the shocking river running past the home outside.The floodwater in the garage looked to be approximately two inches deep – but thankfully did not appear to have risen enough to spread into the rest of the house. Lewandowska, 36, also posted another clip of the devastating impact of the floods, with a car almost fully submerged. At least 217 people have died as a result of the flooding – with Valencia initially hit further down the east coast.Most read in FootballTragic photos of homes, cars, buildings and transport services such as train tracks severely damaged or even completely wrecked revealed the extent of the impact – with rivers of floodwater gushing down streets. Valencia was due to host the season finale of the 2024 MotoGP but will be moved to another location so that the full focus of resources can be put into aiding the recovery response. Mikel Arteta’s wife Lorena beams with pride as he wins Best Premier League Manager at Globe Soccer AwardsHowever, Catalonia is now feeling the full force of the extreme weather conditions. Commuter trains have been cancelled, more than 80 flights have been delayed, diverted or scrapped altogether and some major roads are currently closed. Residents are being told not to travel unless it is “strictly necessary”.Tottenham defender Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to help fund the clear-up in Valencia. The right-back wanted to be back in his homeland to help practically – but decided giving financially was the next best option.Porro, speaking after playing in Spurs’ 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, said: “First of all, I just want to say that, well, for a Spaniard, today, for all Spaniards, it’s a sad day.“I think we’ve had three, four, five days of terrible suffering. I can’t even imagine what it’s like for everyone involved in Valencia.“I want to dedicate this victory to them.“There’s a sense of helplessness.“Helplessness about not being there, because I know what it’s like to be ‘in the mud’.“I’d be the first one there to help, to show up, but I’m in London, I have competitions, I can’t.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’d say it’s helplessness because I’d like to help.“But I’ve already spoken to my agents, and I’m going to donate part of my salary to cover whatever they need, to buy shovels, food, especially anything they need.”Water caused havoc at the airport in BarcelonaCredit: APThe Lewandowski family live in the Castelldefels region near BarcelonaCredit: GettyCars were swept away and piled up following the floodingCredit: EPAThe MotoGP race at Valencia scheduled for later in November has been cancelledCredit: ReutersValencia has been hit hardest by the devastationCredit: Reuters More

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    Formula 1 chaos as Brazilian GP qualifying POSTPONED due to heavy rain with drenched fans left waiting for hours

    THE Brazilian Grand Prix has descended into chaos after intense storms saw qualifying cancelled.Torrential rain drenched both the track and F1 fans in Sao Paulo prior to the start of Saturday’s Q1. Storms have hit Sao Paulo during the Brazilian Grand PrixCredit: APPools of water formed on the track at the Autodromo Jose Carlos PaceCredit: AlamyMarshals attempted to clear the track but the FIA has since cancelled racingCredit: APLando Norris had earlier won the sprint race at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace before heavy rain halted proceedings. Following hours of delays, qualifying was eventually postponed until Sunday.A statement released by the FIA said: “The decision was taken due to the lack of visibility caused by the level of rain we have experienced in the past few hours. “There is a lot of standing water on parts of the circuit which renders conditions unsafe.READ MORE ON F1″As much as we would all like to see competition on track, the safety of drivers, team members, volunteers, officials and spectators is our main priority.”A decision on a start time for qualifying tomorrow morning will be taken as soon as possible.”Qualifying will now take place before the Grand Prix, which is scheduled to start at 2pm local time (5pm GMT).McLaren’s Norris cut Max Verstappen’s lead to 45 points in the Drivers Championship thanks to help from teammate Oscar Piastri.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN-UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPiastri moved over to allow Norris through just two laps before the end of the race on team orders.Following the race, Norris said: “Not proud about it, but we worked well as a team together. I thank Oscar.Beloved Race track destroyed and swept away with car park underwater just two weeks before hosting huge Moto GP race “Today was the result we wanted, Oscar deserved it but I thank him and the team.”It was yo-yoing a little bit. The dirty air costs you a lot of lap time.F1 reporter Isabelle Barker’s predictionI EXPECT Max Verstappen to go all guns blazing over the next six-rounds. I also think his experience and aggression could give him the edge.It seems too little too late for Norris showing consistency, despite that dominant win in Singapore last time out.You can’t help think what could have been had he sorted out his first-lap issues sooner.Norris needs to prove he has the mental fortitude, because we all know he’s got the speed, the team and the fastest car.Verstappen has endured an eight-race winless streak, but he has still managed to score points, with three second-places during that time.So I think the Dutchman will lift his fourth world-title this season, by the skin of his teeth. “I felt a bit quicker but I couldn’t get close enough to pass.”I felt we were quicker than the guys behind but it’s difficult in the sprint to know how much to manage [the tyres].” More

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    Valencia vs Real Madrid postponed as club release statement after city left ‘devastated’ by ‘catastrophic’ Dana floods

    VALENCIA’s LaLiga clash with Real Madrid has been postponed following devastating floods in Spain.More than a year’s worth of rain fell in just eight hours in some regions around Valencia this week, leaving at least 95 people dead. Valencia’s game on Saturday with Real Madrid has been postponedCredit: GettyThe Valencia region has been hit by horrendous flooding, washing away cars and bridgesCredit: APMore than 95 people have been killed, with a huge rescue operation underwayCredit: APResidents are facing a mammoth clean-up operation after the stormsCredit: EPAValencia were due to host second-placed Madrid at the Mestalla on Saturday night.But in a statement, the club announced the game has now been postponed by LaLiga. It read: “Valencia has received confirmation of the postponement of the match of Matchday 12 of La Liga, initially scheduled for this Saturday, November 2.”[This is] due to the severity of the Dana that has left numerous fatalities and affected people in the province of Valencia. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”At this difficult time, we wish to convey our deepest condolences and our love to the families, friends of the deceased and those affected by this catastrophe that leaves us devastated and that puts football on a secondary.”As yet, no new date for the game has been confirmed.The floods have hit areas in the south and east of the country hardest.Torrential rain fell in the provinces of Valencia and Malaga, causing flash flooding and overflowing rivers.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCars and bridges have been swept away by the flood waters, with hundreds trapped and requiring rescue from the air.Barcelona’s Ferran Torres, a native of the area, spoke of his “heartbreak” in a social media post on Wednesday.More rain pounds flood-blitzed Spain TODAY after people drown ‘like rats’ as Brit killed & final toll feared to hit 100sHe wrote: “My heart breaks seeing my people and my homeland, Valencia, devastated by the floods. “I know it’s no consolation, but I want to send all my encouragement and support to the victims and their families from here. “Stay strong, Valencia.”Villarreal’s top-flight clash with Rayo Vallecano has also been postponed. Three games in the lower leagues have also been abandoned, with replay dates yet to be confirmed.They include Castellon vs Ferrol, Eldense vs Huesca and Levante vs Malaga. More

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    Beloved race track destroyed and swept away with car park underwater just two weeks before hosting huge MotoGP event

    FLOODING in the Valencia region of Spain has left the season finale of MotoGP in jeopardy.The final round of the major motorcycle race is due to take place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo on November 17.The Valencia Circuit Ricardo Tormo has been hit by the severe flooding in SpainCredit: XFootage showed the entrance to the track as completely impassable with debris littered across itCredit: XHuge cracks in the road had also been shownCredit: XIt could have major repercussions for the MotoGP season finaleCredit: AlamyHowever, devastating flash floods in the south-east of the country have caused extensive damage to the race track and surrounding area.Footage captured on social media showed the main entrance to the race track – opened in 1999 – swept away and impassable with cracks and sinkholes in the road with detritus littered across it.The Race have reported that the circuit’s external car parks have been flooded.The surrounding villages of Cheste and Chiva near the circuit have been hit hard by the floods, with water in some areas said to have risen to three metres.READ MORE IN MOTORSPORTAt least 62 people are confirmed to have been tragically killed by the extreme weather conditions, with many more still missing.Ricardo Gabaldon, the mayor of Utiel, a town in Valencia, told national broadcaster RTVE: “Yesterday was the worst day of my life.”We were trapped like rats. Cars and trash containers were flowing down the streets. The water was rising to three metres.”MotoGP organisers Dorna are unlikely to want to place local authorities under more unnecessary pressure given the toll relief efforts are taking.Most read in MotorsportThe major sporting event would be expected to bring around 100,000 people into the area.Earlier this season, extensive flooding in Kazakhstan saw what should have been the inaugural race at the Sokol circuit delayed before being cancelled.Inside abandoned F1 track that was £300m ‘spectacular flop’ with just four races held and rubbish left rotting in bins Should Valencia follow suit, it leaves Dorna with a headache on finding a substitute venue on just two weeks notice.This consequence of this could see this weekend’s penultimate race of the season at the Malaysia Grand Prix be the season decider.Just 17 points separate Prima’s championship leader Jorge Martin from Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia.There is a chance European circuits such as ex-Formula One circuit Portimao, Portugal or Jerez in south-west Spain could be emergency hosts.However, this has its own major logistical hurdles for both organisers and the teams and would need to happen at a reduced capacity.MotoGP is not the only motorsport event hit by floods, with Formula E’s pre-season testing due to take place next week now under threat.A statement from Formula E said: “Our thoughts go out to those directly affected by the extreme weather conditions in Spain.”We are working closely with the local authorities and representatives of the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia ahead of the scheduled FIA Formula E official test next week.”We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates in due course.”Football in the region has also been postponed, with first round Copa del Rey matches between Parla Escuela-Fair Play and Valencia and Pontevedra CF and Levante postponed.The Valencia circuit was also hit last year when a man was rushed to hospital following an explosion in a team garage before Formula E testing.F1 was hit by floods at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in May 2023, with the Imola race being cancelled because it was not safe to hold the event due to emergency services dealing with floods at the time.Earlier this year, it was announced that F1 owners Liberty Media were set to complete a £3.6billion purchase of MotoGP from Dorna at the end of 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIESDorna have owned the sport since 1992, and will retain a 14 per cent share once the deal has concluded. But a Belgian MEP asked the European Commission to investigate the deal over fears it would create a monopoly in motorsport.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 More