Thursday, May 31, 2018

Russia Lose To Austria In FIFA World Cup 2018 Warm-Up Game

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
Russia Lose To Austria In FIFA World Cup 2018 Warm-Up Game
Russia's defensive weakness was on display as the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts fell 1-0 to Austria, who failed to qualify for the tournament.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Pulisic to Premier League 'hogwash', insists father

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Pulisic to Premier League 'hogwash', insists father
Pulisic to Premier League 'hogwash', insists father
The father of Borussia Dortmund star Christian Pulisic has branded reports of a potential move to one of the Premier League's top clubs "hogwash". The 19-year-old has developed into one of the Bundesliga's brightest young players since joining Dortmund in 2016, prompting rumours of interest from a number of clubs. Tottenham are the latest to be linked with the winger, while Liverpool and Manchester United have also been said to be admirers. However, his father insists there is no truth to the suggestions the player will soon move to England. "He was linked to Tottenham. Last week it was Liverpool. The week before Man United. The week before this… it's hogwash," Mark Pulisic told Sky Sports News. "He's linked with a different club every week. I have no idea. His agent right now is working and looking, in close relation with me and Christian, and we're just trying to see what the best phase of his next development will be. "Now is the time that the season has just ended that we'll sit down with Dortmund, we'll sit down with, I don't know whether other clubs are in the mix, [and see what] Dortmund's idea is and their plans for Christian. "But there's nothing concrete. Right now, Christian plays for Dortmund and that's where he is planning on playing again next year." Christian 'The Kid' Pulisic in "60 Seconds Under Pressure" by @TAGHeuer  #DontCrackUnderPressure  pic.twitter.com/Kw72CsS90Y — Bundesliga English (@Bundesliga_EN) 27 February 2018

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

FIFA World Cup: Mario Balotelli Gives Italy 2-1 Win Over Saudi Arabia In Warm-Up Match

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
FIFA World Cup: Mario Balotelli Gives Italy 2-1 Win Over Saudi Arabia In Warm-Up Match
Mario Balotelli got new Italy coach Roberto Mancini off to a winning start by scoring the opener in a 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia in a pre-World Cup friendly in Saint Gallen on Monday.

Monday, May 28, 2018

Police Probe Loris Karius Death Threats After Champions League Misery

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
Police Probe Loris Karius Death Threats After Champions League Misery
Karius was responsible for two of Real's goals in their 3-1 victory over Liverpool in Kiev on Saturday.

Sunday, May 27, 2018

Future unclear for Ronaldo, Bale after Champions League win

Sportsnet.ca
Future unclear for Ronaldo, Bale after Champions League win
Future unclear for Ronaldo, Bale after Champions League win

KIEV, Ukraine — Straight after a third successive Champions League title was secured, Cristiano Ronaldo was talking about Real Madrid in the past tense.

Real’s biggest star hinted he was unsure he’d stay with the club. Its best player in the Champions League final, Gareth Bale, looks more likely to be departing.

"In the next few days I’ll give the fans an answer because they are the ones who have always been by my side," Ronaldo said. "It was very beautiful to be with Madrid."

Keeping up the cryptic tone, he added: "The future of any player is not important. We made history."

After soaring to score a magnificent bicycle kick for Madrid’s second goal, Bale brought his fans back down to earth with his announcement that he’ll discuss his future with his agent this summer.

The Welshman was a substitute in four of seven Champions League games this season, including his super-sub display in the final.

Real coach Zinedine Zidane responded very differently to the two players’ comments.

On Ronaldo, Zidane was clear Sunday: "He will stay with us at Real Madrid," and predicted the Portuguese star’s tone would soon change. "Perhaps in three or four days’ time he might say something else."

On Bale, Zidane was circumspect.

"It’s a little bit of a complicated situation but everyone has their own interests, their own future to think about," he said. "It’s true some players deserve more playing time on the pitch but this is a decision that has to be made by the manager."

Where Bale could go is less clear.

Tottenham is widely reported to have a buy-back option as part of Bale’s 2013 transfer to Real, but seems highly unlikely to be able to afford his wage bill. Other destinations are unclear, though Manchester United has been reported in British media as a possible destination.

If he goes back to England this summer, Bale would leave Madrid with a curiously lopsided record of four Champions League titles yet only one in La Liga.

Ronaldo has the same number of Champions League wins and two Spanish titles but his performances have been era-defining in a way Bale’s are not.

Even more so than the Welsh player, Ronaldo’s future is likely to be determined by the very small number of clubs capable of affording his demands — supposing he actually wants to leave Madrid — and the 33-year-old has never indicated any desire to take a pay cut for the sake of pastures new.

Both would leave Madrid with a rich store of memories. Bale has his moments of genius like Saturday’s goal, but is increasingly a super-sub, a player who falls short of the crushingly consistent brilliance of Ronaldo.

Saturday, May 26, 2018

Champions League Final: Liverpool Hoping Experience Not Everything vs Real Madrid

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
Champions League Final: Liverpool Hoping Experience Not Everything vs Real Madrid
Real Madrid are targeting their fourth Champions League title in five years and their third in a row.

Friday, May 25, 2018

Transfer news live updates: Fred blow for Manchester United plus latest Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham updates

Football news - transfers, fixtures, scores, pictures | The Sun
Transfer news live updates: Fred blow for Manchester United plus latest Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham updates

IT is that time of year again!

The transfer window is back up and running again.

What will happen with wantaway Neymar? And what does Paul Pogba’s future hold?

Follow all of the twists and turns with our live blog right here ðŸ‘‡

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Southampton striker Charlie Austin and wife Bianca enjoy Barbados holiday together

Football news - transfers, fixtures, scores, pictures | The Sun
Southampton striker Charlie Austin and wife Bianca enjoy Barbados holiday together

CHARLIE AUSTIN gets in some diving practise while on holiday in Barbados.

The Southampton striker is not known for going down easy – but appears to be working on a new strategy for next season.

Charlie Austin makes a splash during family holiday in BarbadosCharlie Austin makes a splash during family holiday in BarbadosThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin walks hand-in-hand along the beach with wife BiancaCharlie Austin walks hand-in-hand along the beach with wife BiancaThe Mega Agency

Wife Bianca watches him from the beach while dad-of-two Austin, 28, takes a dip in the ocean.

Wearing matching yellow swimming trunks and bathing suit, the pair are also seen walking hand in hand along the sand.

The searing 25 degree Caribbean heat is just what the doctor ordered for injury-prone Austin, who scored seven goals this season.

A hamstring KO kept the former QPR hitman out of action for almost three months of the campaign but he returned in March to help Southampton beat the drop.

Charlie Austin practises his diving technique during Barbados holidayCharlie Austin practises his diving technique during Barbados holidayThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin dives into the ocean while enjoying his Caribbean holidayCharlie Austin dives into the ocean while enjoying his Caribbean holidayThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin's wife Bianca watches her husband diving into the ocean from the beachCharlie Austin’s wife Bianca watches her husband diving into the ocean from the beachThe Mega Agency Bianca Austin looks relaxed in a yellow dress during Barbados holidayBianca Austin looks relaxed in a yellow dress during Barbados holidayThe Mega Agency Bianca Austin walks along the beach in searing 25 degree Barbados heatBianca Austin walks along the beach in searing 25 degree Barbados heatThe Mega Agency Southampton striker Charlie Austin climbs back onto platform to jump back in the oceanSouthampton striker Charlie Austin climbs back onto platform to jump back in the oceanThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin dries himself off after taking dip in the oceanCharlie Austin dries himself off after taking dip in the oceanThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin soaks up the sun during Barbados holiday with wife BiancaCharlie Austin soaks up the sun during Barbados holiday with wife BiancaThe Mega Agency

The Sun on Sunday revealed Austin had a two-month fling with a hairdresser behind Bianca’s back.

Bianca, 27, accused him of cheating in a tweet last June – but later said it was over a game of Monopoly.

Austin had a relationship with fitness fanatic hairdresser Rissy Gannon in February 2016.

Bianca tore into her love rival in a searing “customer review” on Facebook, in which she called her a “dirty slag”.

Charlie Austin enjoys his summer holiday after finishing season with SouthamptonCharlie Austin enjoys his summer holiday after finishing season with SouthamptonThe Mega Agency Bianca Austin accused Southampton striker Charlie of cheating last year - but claimed it was over a game of MonopolyBianca Austin accused Southampton striker Charlie of cheating last year – but claimed it was over a game of MonopolyThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin jumps around in the ocean while in BarbadosCharlie Austin jumps around in the ocean while in BarbadosThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin relaxes on a pier as he enjoys summer holidayCharlie Austin relaxes on a pier as he enjoys summer holidayThe Mega Agency Charlie Austin cools off in the 25 degree Caribbean heatCharlie Austin cools off in the 25 degree Caribbean heatThe Mega Agency How The Sun reported Bianca's explosive messages last weekHow The Sun reported Bianca’s explosive messages in June

The fling lasted two months and Rissy believed Austin and Bianca were broken up.

But she began receiving messages from Bianca, who has been with Austin for ten years.

Heartbroken Bianca slammed Rissy in a customer review, accusing her of sleeping with her husband and passing STIs.

Rissy declined to comment when approached by The Sun on Sunday.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

BREAKING NEWS: Arsenal confirm Emery appointment

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BREAKING NEWS: Arsenal confirm Emery appointment
BREAKING NEWS: Arsenal confirm Emery appointment
Arsenal have named former Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain boss Unai Emery as their new head coach. Emery completed his two-year stint with PSG as a domestic treble winner this season, although he was unable to deliver the Champions League success the club's Qatari owners craved. The 46-year-old enjoyed a superb spell in charge of Sevilla, winning the Europa League in three consecutive seasons from 2013-14 to 2015-16 – a competition Arsenal will enter once more next term after a sixth-place Premier League finish. It marked an underwhelming end to Arsene Wenger's celebrated 22-year reign and one of Emery's primary tasks will be bringing Champions League football back to Emirates Stadium. "I am thrilled to be joining one of the great clubs in the game," he said in a statement. "Arsenal is known and loved throughout the world for its style of play, its commitment to young players, the fantastic stadium, the way the club is run. "I'm very excited to be given the responsibility to start this important new chapter in Arsenal’s history." 7 - Unai Emery won seven of the eight domestic competitions he competed in with Paris Saint-Germain (Trophée des Champions x2, Coupe de la Ligue x2, Ligue 1, Coupe de France x2); only Laurent Blanc (11) won more trophies at the club. Winner. pic.twitter.com/kqiJaGOeKA — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 23, 2018

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Brazil wants to lower Neymar’s expectations for World Cup

Football – Inquirer Sports
Brazil wants to lower Neymar’s expectations for World Cup
Brazil wants to lower Neymar's expectations for World Cup

RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil wants to reduce the expectations on Neymar. The world’s most expensive footballer is at the end of his recovery from a foot operation, and joined 16 Brazil teammates on Monday for physical and medical tests at their Granja Comary camp in Teresopolis, outside Rio de Janeiro. Neymar was also going […]

The post Brazil wants to lower Neymar’s expectations for World Cup appeared first on Inquirer Sports.

Monday, May 21, 2018

Lionel Messi Wins 5th Golden Shoe

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
Lionel Messi Wins 5th Golden Shoe
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi has won his fifth European Golden Shoe after his team beat Real Sociedad 1-0 in their final La Liga match of the season.

Sunday, May 20, 2018

No stone unturned

Football – Inquirer Sports
No stone unturned

The Philippine Azkals will leave no stone unturned in preparing for two major tournaments in the next eight months.

The post No stone unturned appeared first on Inquirer Sports.

Saturday, May 19, 2018

FIFA World Cup 2018: Sergio Aguero Says Club Link-Up With Lionel Messi 'Impossible'

Latest Football News, Football Info, Sports News Updates - NDTVSports.com
FIFA World Cup 2018: Sergio Aguero Says Club Link-Up With Lionel Messi 'Impossible'
Aguero scored 21 goals for City in the Premier League this season despite it being cut short after he aggravated an injury to his right knee.

Friday, May 18, 2018

How old is John Motson, what’s his iconic sheepskin coat and how long had he commentated on Match of the Day?

Football news - transfers, fixtures, scores, pictures | The Sun
How old is John Motson, what’s his iconic sheepskin coat and how long had he commentated on Match of the Day?

JOHN Motson has one of the most recognisable voices in world football.

The legendary football commentator hung up his mic this weekend after covering Crystal Palace’s home clash against West Brom and has received a BAFTA TV 2018 special award

John MotsonPA:Empics Sport John Motson is the most recognisable voice in football[/caption]

Who is John Motson and how old is he?

Born July 10, 1945, John Walker Motson is an English football commentator.

Motson, known as Motty, is married to Anne and has one son, Frederick.

They live in Hertfordshire and he is a Barnet supporter.

Since 1971, he has presided over 2000 games on television and radio and was awarded an OBE for services to sports broadcasting.

The 72-year-old has covered ten World Cups, ten European Championships, 29 FA Cup finals and more than 200 England games during his distinguished career.

He is a much-loved voice on Match of the Day, with his last report coming from Crystal Palace vs West Brom.

Motson became the first UK broadcaster to be honoured with his own emoji to celebrate his legendary career.

John MotsonJohn Motson is renowned for regularly wearing a swanky sheepskin coatPA:Press Association What is his iconic sheepskin coat?

Aside from his fabled voice, Motty is also renowned for regularly sporting a stylish sheepskin coat.

He bought his first one when a woman at a party invited him into her garage and showed him a load of the woolly jackets on the floor.

These days he buys them from London’s Savile Row and in September 2017, John told The Sun: “I’ve just ordered a new one for this season, I thought I would get one more in.

“I will probably keep it for a couple of years, but won’t buy anymore after that.”

Since then, it’s become a staple of his attire and in January 2018, The Beeb icon revealed he forked out £2,000 for a new one.

“The last sheepskin,” he exclusively told The Sun, “full-length, so warm. It cost two grand.”

“I’ve always paid for my own. People think the BBC pay for them but they don’t.”

How long has he commentated on Match of the Day?

Motson was first hired by the BBC as a sports presenter on BBC Radio 2 before he gained a role with Match of the Day during the 1971-2 season.

His reaction to Ronnie Radford’s 30-yard screamer in non-league Hereford ’s shock FA Cup win over Newcastle in 1972 put the then 26-year-old on the map.

In September 2017, he revealed he is quitting Match of the Day at the end of the current season, to mark a landmark 50th year with the Beeb.

Motson was presented with a Special Award at the TV Baftas hours after finishing his final shift, covering Crystal Palace’s home clash against West Brom.

He said: “I’m truly humbled that the BBC is dedicating such a special evening to me.”

Thursday, May 17, 2018

New director of football Marcel Brands eager to get started at Everton

Sport: : BreakingNews.ie
New director of football Marcel Brands eager to get started at Everton
Former Toffees boss Sam Allardyce was sacked after just six months on Wednesday.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Brazil pulls level with Germany atop 2018 World Cup odds

Sportsnet.ca
Brazil pulls level with Germany atop 2018 World Cup odds
Brazil pulls level with Germany atop 2018 World Cup odds

With less than a month to go before the start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup it has turned into a dead heat at the top of the odds, with Brazil joining defending champion Germany as the +450 co-favourites in World Cup betting at sportsbooks monitored by OddsShark.com.

Brazil helped its case with a 1-0 victory as a +140 favourite over the defending World Cup champions in a March 27 friendly at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, improving its win-draw-loss record to 15-3-1 in its past 19 outings across all competitions.

The Brazilians will be looking to continue their recent strong play in upcoming friendlies against Croatia and Austria before opening their group stage schedule against Switzerland on June 17 as -300 betting favourites.

For Germany, the loss to Brazil as a +180 bet extends a worrisome trend that has seen them go winless in four friendlies since closing out UEFA World Cup qualifying with a decisive 5-1 win over Azerbaijan.

Die Mannschaft followed up with a trio of unsatisfying draws with European rivals England, France, and Spain, but have ample opportunity to right the ship with pre-tournament friendlies against Austria and Saudi Arabia before hitting the ground running at Russia 2018 with a huge group stage matchup with Mexico on June 17, in which they are pegged as -225 favourites.

Spain has held steady on the World Cup futures, closely trailing the favourites at +600, followed by France at +700, while Argentina rounds out the top of the odds at +900.

The Spaniards have remained undefeated since compiling a 9-1-0 record during UEFA World Cup qualifying. In addition to playing level with Germany as heavy +230 underdogs, Spain also played Russia to a 3-3 draw, and dominated in a 6-1 win over Argentina as -120 chalk in their last outing, extending their unbeaten streak across all competitions to 18 matches.

France has seen its odds dip from +550 after going 1-1-1 in three recent friendlies, including a 3-2 loss to Colombia as a -230 favourite on March 23.

Conversely, Argentina has held steady despite carrying over its struggles during CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying into recent friendlies. In addition to their lopsided loss to Spain, the Argentines also dropped a 4-2 decision to Nigeria as -190 chalk, and own an 8-5-6 overall record since losing to Chile on penalties in the Copa America Centenario final two years ago.

Elsewhere on the 2018 World Cup odds, Belgium leads the best of the rest at +1100, followed by England at +1600, and Portugal at +2500, while Uruguay, Croatia, and host nation Russia sit deadlocked at +3300.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Manchester United and Liverpool among ten ‘confirmed participants’ for first Fifa Super Club World Cup in 2021

Football news - transfers, fixtures, scores, pictures | The Sun
Manchester United and Liverpool among ten ‘confirmed participants’ for first Fifa Super Club World Cup in 2021

MANCHESTER UNITED and Liverpool are among the “ten confirmed participants” in the 24-team Fifa Super Club World Cup in 2021 which could take place in China.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has pushed the idea since his election and it looks like it will now be going ahead in three years’ time.

Real Madrid are first team to publicly back Fifa's new World Cup proposalReal Madrid are first team to publicly back Fifa’s new World Cup proposalAFP Barcelona will be among sides invited to first-ever Fifa Super Club World CupBarcelona will be among sides invited to first-ever Fifa Super Club World CupGetty Images

Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno revealed Los Blancos were in favour of the proposal, becoming the first major to club to openly back the idea.

And Mundo Deportivo report they, along with United and Liverpool, will be among the sides guaranteed a place in 2021.

Barcelona, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Inter, Juventus, Ajax and Paris Saint-Germain are the other teams who will definitely be present.

Europe will have 12 places in total and the other two will be selected from a group which includes Manchester City, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Porto and Benfica.

Liverpool could make it six European Cup victories this seasonLiverpool could make it six European Cup victories this seasonREUTERS German giants Bayern Munich are likely to be Fifa Super Club World Cup regulars German giants Bayern Munich are likely to be Fifa Super Club World Cup regularsAFP

The other 12 sides will be made up of teams from around the globe.

Legendary South American giants Boca Juniors, River Plate, Santos, Flamengo and either Penarol or Nacional will also be included.

HOLD TITE Brazil announce World Cup 2018 squad with Neymar, Philippe Coutinho, Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino selected

Dates for the event have been established. It will run from June 10 to 28, containing eight groups of three teams, followed by a quarter-final, semi-final and final.

It means there will be minimum of two matches and a maximum of five. No location has been decided, but China are keen to become the first hosts.

Multiple European Cup/Champions League-winners

Real Madrid: 12 — (1955-56, 1956-57, 1957-58, 1958-59, 1959-60, 1965-66, 1997-98, 1999-2000, 2001-02, 2013-14, 2015-16, 2016-17)

AC Milan: 7 — (1962-63, 1968-69, 1988-89, 1989-90, 1993-94, 2002-03, 2006-07)

Bayern Munich: 5 — (1973-74, 1974-75, 1975-76, 2000-01, 2012-13)

Liverpool: 5 — (1976-77, 1977-78, 1980-81, 1983-84, 2004-05)

Barcelona: 5 — (1991-92, 2005-06, 2008-09, 2010-11, 2014-15)

Ajax: 4 — (1970-71, 1971-72, 1972-73, 1994-95)

Manchester United: 3 — (1967-68, 1998-99, 2007-08)

Inter: 3 — (1963-64, 1964-65, 2009-10)

Benfica: 2 — (1960-61, 1961-62)

Nottingham Forest: 2 — (1978-79, 1979-80)

Juventus: 2 — (1984-85, 1995-96)

Porto: 2 — (1986-87, 2003-04)

 

Inter Milan are Italy's second-most successful side in European Cup with three victories Inter Milan are Italy’s second-most successful side in European Cup with three victoriesEPA

For the first edition, there will be special invitations for the most prestigious and successful clubs on the planet — but after that, it will be a qualification process.

For the following tournament, the 12 European participants will be made up from the past four Champions winners, the four finalists and the next four sides with the best coefficients.

There will be four guaranteed South American entrants, with a fifth team facing a play-off against the leading Oceania side.

Africa, Asia and North America will have two clubs each, with the host nation’s title winner making up the final side.

Monday, May 14, 2018

Man City's Maffeo to make permanent Stuttgart switch

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Man City's Maffeo to make permanent Stuttgart switch
Man City's Maffeo to make permanent Stuttgart switch
Pablo Maffeo will leave Manchester City for Stuttgart in a reported €9million move at the end of the LaLiga season. No details of the contract signed by the 20-year-old full-back - currently on loan at Girona - have been announced by Stuttgart. Maffeo made just three appearances for City between a trio of separate loan spells at Girona, who he helped achieve promotion to LaLiga in 2016-17 and top-flight safety this term. His next step takes him to Stuttgart, who will participate in the Europa League next season if Bayern Munich overcome Eintracht Frankfurt in the DFB-Pokal final on Saturday. Best of luck to @pablomaffeo who has signed for Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart on a permanent deal. #mancity pic.twitter.com/YEjsPQsqxl — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2018 Girona sporting director Quique Carcel thanked Maffeo for his part in a proud era for the club. "Pablo Maffeo has been one of the integral pieces of the team in the last few seasons," said Carcel. "We are very fortunate to have been able to count on him for the last three years and to have contributed to his growth as a player. "I would like to thank him personally and in the name of the club for his effort, as well as wish him all the success in the future."

Sunday, May 13, 2018

Man City not 'huge power' in world football like United, says Hughes

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Man City not 'huge power' in world football like United, says Hughes
Man City not 'huge power' in world football like United, says Hughes
Manchester City must add European trophies to sustained domestic dominance before they can be considered among world football's elite. That is the view of former City boss Mark Hughes, whose Southampton side host Pep Guardiola's champions on the final day of the Premier League season. City have broken records en route to the title this term and head into Sunday's match with 105 goals and one win shy of reaching a century of points.  But their Champions League campaign was ended by Liverpool at the quarter-final stage and Hughes feels they are still some way short of the sport's super powers, including rivals United. "It is still early days for them in terms of their standing in European and world football," said the Welshman, whose side are practically assured of safety. "The name of Man City does not resonate like the Real Madrids, Barcelonas and Man Uniteds of this world, yet. "I say 'yet' because if they continue in the same vein and have the resources to go into the market like they have done in recent times, then clearly they will become a huge power in world football. "But it takes time and it is only the early stages." 1 - Pep Guardiola is the first Spanish manager to win the English top-flight title. Pioneer. pic.twitter.com/9Br1HQZxyt — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) 15 April 2018 Hughes was at the City helm from mid-2008 until December 2009, with his successor Roberto Mancini going on to win the club's first Premier League crown. Since then they have become firmly entrenched as one of the division's leading lights, but Hughes insists they have to win silverware at home and abroad in order to be elevated to greatness. "When I ­became manager of Man City they were just a mid-table Premier League team. What is that, eight years ago?" added Hughes, who won two top-flight titles with United.  "They have come a huge distance in a short space of time, so you can't start saying they are the best there has ever been ­because you need to do it over a longer period. "They have the potential and ­resources to be able to affect the top end of the ­Premier League and European trophies for 10, 15 years. "And they could well become the team of this generation, like United and Liverpool before and Chelsea and Arsenal in between. It is up to everybody else to try to stop that."

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Sexton kicking distractions to touch ahead of clash with Racing 92

Sport: : BreakingNews.ie
Sexton kicking distractions to touch ahead of clash with Racing 92
Sexton kicking distractions to touch ahead of clash with Racing 92
Johnny Sexton waited almost a decade to experience the satisfaction of playing a central role in an Ireland Grand Slam success, but he will try not to scratch a similar itch when Leinster contest their first Champions Cup final in six years in Bilbao today.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Man United clinch 2nd in Premier League with draw at West Ham

Sportsnet.ca
Man United clinch 2nd in Premier League with draw at West Ham
Man United clinch 2nd in Premier League with draw at West Ham

LONDON — Manchester United clinched second place in the Premier League with a 0-0 draw at West Ham on Thursday.

In a dull game with few quality chances, United defender Luke Shaw came closest to scoring when he had a shot turned onto the post in the first half.

The point means United are ensured of finishing second behind runaway champion Manchester City, while David Moyes’ West Ham remained in 15th place — but just two points from 10th with one game remaining.

United manager Jose Mourinho reacted to Friday’s 1-0 loss at Brighton by making eight changes, introducing a back three and utilizing fit-again Alexis Sanchez as his main striker.

West Ham’s Marko Arnautovic hit an early strike straight at David De Gea before the Austria international could only head over from six yards after Chris Smalling made a mess of clearing Aaron Cresswell’s cross.

Jesse Lingard forced West Ham goalkeeper Adrian into his first save as the visitors started to take control of the contest, with Sanchez drawing another stop before the Spanish keeper turned Shaw’s follow-up strike onto the post.

It was the closest either side came to scoring, although the match flared up toward the end Paul Pogba’s foul on West Ham skipper Mark Noble led to a fracas.

Both players grabbed hold of one another but it was Noble who was arguably the luckier of the pair to only be booked following his angry reaction.

The away supporters in attendance paid near-constant tributes to former manager Alex Ferguson, the 76-year-old now out of intensive care having had an operation on a brain haemorrhage over the weekend.

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Barcelona stays unbeaten, Real Madrid loses to Sevilla

Football – Inquirer Sports
Barcelona stays unbeaten, Real Madrid loses to Sevilla
Barcelona stays unbeaten, Real Madrid loses to Sevilla

MADRID — Ousmane Dembele scored twice and Lionel Messi added to his league-leading tally as champion Barcelona stayed on track to finish unbeaten in the Spanish league with a 5-1 rout of Villarreal on Wednesday. A depleted Real Madrid, without Cristiano Ronaldo and many other regular starters, lost 3-2 at Sevilla to remain in third […]

The post Barcelona stays unbeaten, Real Madrid loses to Sevilla appeared first on Inquirer Sports.

Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Liverpool fan Sean Cox 'remains in a critical condition but he is a fighter'

Sport: : BreakingNews.ie
Liverpool fan Sean Cox 'remains in a critical condition but he is a fighter'
Liverpool fan Sean Cox 'remains in a critical condition but he is a fighter'
Liverpool fan Sean Cox remains in a critical condition after being attacked before the Champions League match against Roma, the Cox family has said in a statement.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Levante cruises past Leganes for 5th win in 6 La Liga games

Sportsnet.ca
Levante cruises past Leganes for 5th win in 6 La Liga games
Levante cruises past Leganes for 5th win in 6 La Liga games

MADRID — Levante defeated 10-man Leganes 3-0 for its fifth win in six matches in the Spanish league on Monday.

Jose Luis Morales, Enis Bardhi and Jorge "Coke" Andujar each scored second-half goals for the visitors.

Levante, which was in the fight against relegation for most of the season, overcame Leganes for 16th place with two rounds to go.

Both teams had already avoided demotion in advance. The relegated teams were Deportivo La Coruna, Las Palmas and Malaga.

Leganes played with 10 men after Joseba Zaldua was sent off in the 57th minute, just after Levante’s first goal.

Barcelona won its 25th league title in advance.

Monday, May 7, 2018

How old is Sir Alex Ferguson, what is his condition following brain haemorrhage surgery, and who is Manchester United legend’s wife Cathy?

Football news - transfers, fixtures, scores, pictures | The Sun
How old is Sir Alex Ferguson, what is his condition following brain haemorrhage surgery, and who is Manchester United legend’s wife Cathy?

THE FOOTBALL world was stunned on Saturday night by the news Sir Alex Ferguson had been rushed to hospital.

The legendary former Manchester United boss won a staggering 49 trophies in management, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues.

Sir Alex Ferguson is seriously ill in hospitalSir Alex Ferguson is seriously ill in hospitalAFP - Getty

Reports claimed that Fergie was “seriously ill” and was taken to the Salford Royal hospital.

Here’s what we know so far:

Who is Sir Alex Ferguson?

Sir Alexander Chapman Ferguson is a Scottish former football player and legendary boss of Manchester United.

He was in charge of the Red Devils from 1986 until 2013.

Fergie guided United to 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles, during his 26 years in charge.

He began his playing career with Queen’s Park before going on to represent St Johnstone, Dunfermline, Rangers, Falkirk and Ayr United.

After hanging up his boots in 1974 he began his management career with East Stirlingshire before moving onto St Mirren for a four-year spell.

Fergie guided Manchester United to Champions League success twiceFergie guided Manchester United to Champions League success twiceBradley Ormesher - The Times He won the Premier League title 13 times during his 26-year reign as managerHe won the Premier League title 13 times during his 26-year reign as managerAFP

In 1978 Aberdeen appointed him as boss, and he led them to three titles and the Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup in 1983.

He answered the call of his country in 1985 following the death of Jock Stein and was in charge for the 1986 World Cup – although he gave up the role after the Tartan Army failed to get out of the group stage.

On November 6, 1986 he was appointed manager of Manchester United but it was not instant success for him at Old Trafford.

He survived huge pressure after several trophyless years by guiding the club to FA Cup success in 1989.

But the big moment came in 1993 when he managed to end their title-drought by winning the Premier League.

More and more joy followed over the years, including two Champions League wins in 1999 and 2008, before retiring from the dug-out in 2013.

He is the longest-serving manager in the club’s history.

Fergie's son Darren is the manager of Doncaster RoversFergie’s son Darren is the manager of Doncaster RoversPA:Press Association What is the latest on Sir Alex Ferguson’s condition after his brain haemorrhage surgery?

A Manchester United statement said on Saturday: “Sir Alex Ferguson has undergone surgery today for a brain haemorrhage.

“The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to aid his recovery.

“His family request privacy in this matter. Everyone at Manchester United sends our very best wishes.”

Sir Alex Ferguson married Cathy in 1966 and the couple have three sonsSir Alex Ferguson married Cathy in 1966 and the couple have three sonsAFP How old is Sir Alex Ferguson?

Sir Alex Ferguson is 76-years-old.

He was born in Glasgow, Scotland.

His date of birth is December 31, 1941.

Who is Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy?

When Alex wanted to retire, his family convinced him to remain in charge of Manchester United, with Cathy listing her reasoning as “One, your health is good. Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”

Ferguson went on to retire a few years later, saying his wife needed him after her sister died.

The couple married in 1966 and have three sons called Mark, Darren and Jason.

Darren is the manager of Doncaster Rovers but missed their League One clash with Wigan on Saturday to be by his father’s side.

Sunday, May 6, 2018

What is a Guard of Honour and why aren’t Real Madrid performing one at Barcelona while Huddersfield are for Man City?

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What is a Guard of Honour and why aren’t Real Madrid performing one at Barcelona while Huddersfield are for Man City?

BARCELONA are set to be crowned La Liga champions – just in time for El Clasico

After a 4-2 win at Deportivo, Barca will lift the title in front of fierce rivals Real Madrid.

Chelsea were crowned Premier League champions on Friday nightChelsea were crowned Premier League champions on Friday nightPA:Press Association

But will Zinedine Zidane’s side form a guard of honour? Here is all you need to know…

What is a Guard of Honour? And could Real Madrid have to give one to Barcelona?

A guard of honour is when a person or group of people line up to congratulate other(s) on an achievement.

Essentially, it is seen as a mark of respect.

But sporting opponents don’t have to form them.

Barcelona did form a guard of honour for Real Madrid when Los Blancos won the title in 2008.

Will Real Madrid give a Guard of Honour?

Zinedine Zidane has announced that Real Madrid will NOT give Barcelona a Guard of Honour under any circumstances.

A year ago Barcelona went against apparent tradition by refusing to honour Real with a Guard of Honour after they won the Club World Cup.

And the French boss said: “I don’t know how much you are going to ask me, but my response is very clear.

“It is my decision and that is it.

“I don’t understand the guard of honour and it won’t take place, although we are far from the end of the season.

“Barcelona broke the tradition.”

Are Huddersfield giving a Guard of Honour for Man City?

Even if the Barcelona team will not get a Guard of Honour from Real Madrid, one man from Catalunya will be receiving one.

As is the tradition in England, David Wagner’s Huddersfield will line up for Pep Guardiola’s Man City at the Etihad.

The blue half of Manchester won the title three weeks ago when rivals Manchester United were beaten by West Brom, but have not had a home game since.