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England players are still in the process of deciding which of FIFA’s eight approved armbands captain Millie Bright might wear in the Lionesses’ World Cup opener, midfielder Jordan Nobbs has revealed. Controversy surrounding the rainbow ‘OneLove’ armband sparked the threat of sanctions being issued to countries – including England and Wales – during the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar. In an effort to pre-empt a similar situation in Australia and New Zealand, FIFA has partnered with the United Nations to create sanctioned options that can be swapped out or worn throughout the month-long women’s tournament, with England kicking off their campaign on Saturday against Haiti. Speaking from the Lionesses team hotel in Brisbane, Nobbs said: “We’ve had some brief conversations, but I think that will be discussed a little bit closer to the game. “But obviously we know our values and equality etc, so that will be finally finalised soon.” While FIFA’s ‘Unite’ armbands will highlight a number of social issues, amongst them inclusion, gender equality, indigenous people and peace, there is no specific armband that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community and none contain the rainbow colours commonly associated as the colours of pride. While that decision has drawn criticism, England boss Sarina Wiegman has said she thinks her players are happy with the solution. On Tuesday, Wiegman’s squad collectively released a statement on social media addressing their stance on ongoing discussions with the Football Association surrounding issues such as performance bonus payments and commercial structures. I'm truly honoured to be part of such a successful team and be here to compete with the best Jordan Nobbs In a message from the team posted by Bright, the Lionesses said they were “disappointed that a resolution has still not been achieved” but would “pause discussions, with full intentions of revisiting them following the tournament”. Asked if the uncertainty ahead of England’s push for a first World Cup has been difficult, Nobbs replied: “I don’t think it’s difficult. I think we’ve had a lot of these conversations, probably over the last however many years, just not everything’s always seen by the public. “I think together as a team we’re pausing the conversations to obviously focus on the World Cup, but we just want to keep growing the women’s game. “[Compared to previous negotiations] we have a different group of players, the game’s grown so quickly. So I think conversations have been different, but I think it’s just been to try and fight in the right area of where the game is right now. “So I think together, between the players and the FA, we’re just trying to go on the same path and obviously have questions between each other. “It’s not just about money, it’s not just about care, or facilities, I think there’s so many areas we’re trying to grow. And we’re trying to obviously just do it in the way that the women’s game has grown as well. So I think it’s about us as a team believing in the next generation as well, having the best possible situation to play football.” Nobbs’ injury-plagued career has kept her out of action for several major tournaments. In 2015, she played just one World Cup match in Canada before sustaining a hamstring problem. A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruled her out of the 2019 World Cup in France and a knee issue made her unavailable for England’s triumphant Euro 2022 campaign. But the 30-year-old’s bold move from Arsenal to Aston Villa in the January Women’s Super League (WSL) transfer window paid off after she impressed Wiegman and earned a ticket to Australia – where so far she is fit and healthy. Nobbs added: “It’s huge. I am unlucky with all the injuries, so this is a big one that I wanted to be at. I think when you miss something it makes you want something even more, so I’m truly honoured to be part of such a successful team and be here to compete with the best.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live On This Day in 2005 – England striker Peter Crouch signs for Liverpool Courtney Brosnan says playing for Republic gives her ‘connection’ to family MLS All-Star boss Wayne Rooney struggles to take lessons out of Arsenal thumping

Former England star Wayne Rooney called Arsenal one of Europe’s best sides and aired some frustrations after seeing his MLS All-Star team comprehensively beaten on Wednesday. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners ran out 5-0 victors in stifling conditions in Washington DC, where Gabriel Jesus’ fine opener was followed by a thumping Leandro Trossard strike. Jorginho’s penalty, a fine Gabriel Martinelli effort and Kai Havertz’s first goal since joining Arsenal wrapped things up on a one-sided night for the Premier League runners-up. Recent acquisitions Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber made their first appearances since joining the club and Manchester United great Rooney was impressed by the visitors. “Obviously the result is what it is and Arsenal showed the quality they have,” the MLS All-Star boss said. “I thought the All-Star lads looked a little nervous and hesitant, especially the first half when we got into some good areas, to get their shots off. “I think you see a difference, of course you do. Arsenal are one of the best teams in Europe. “I thought it was a bit stop-stop. The referee made the game a little bit about himself once again, so I think that’s something that needs improving in the MLS. “I’ve said that all season so it’s a good opportunity for me to bring it up again. “But, yeah, it was a disappointing result but I think most importantly it’s a good event for the fans, especially the fans in DC, to come and see some really good players.” Rooney praised the occasion and opponent in the post-match press conference at Audi Field, but he also laid bare some irritation with aspects of the event. Asked what he took out of the game as an up-and-coming coach, the former England forward said with a smile: “Absolutely nothing. “Listen, it’s difficult. On Monday the players all arrived and we did a small-sided game. “On Tuesday, as a I suggested, I didn’t want them training at the National Mall but that’s where we trained and we can’t do anything. “We did head tennis so literally had not time whatsoever to do any tactics whatsoever so you put the players out there and you hope they can figure things out and against a team like Arsenal that’s very difficult to do.” Another matter that got under Rooney’s skin around the All-Star game revolved around broadcasters Apple, who he claims prevented some of his staff working as usual. “I think everything around the game is great and it’s great publicity for the league moving forward,” he said. “Obviously Apple coming into the league as well has been great – although they didn’t allow my staff to sit in their seats today. “My staff got kicked out of their seats today by members of Apple. “And I wouldn’t be doing my staff a service if I didn’t bring that up because if you’re getting asked to do the game with your staff, you expect your staff to have seats to sit in although I do think Apple will help the league moving forward.” As for Arsenal counterpart Arteta, he was quick to allay concerns over Trossard after the Belgium international limped off early in the second half. “Trossard got a knock and we don’t want to take any risks at this stage,” he said. “He had some pain. We’ll see how he is tomorrow but I don’t expect it to be anything big.” It was a fine start to Arsenal’s pre-season tour, which continues onto New Jersey and Los Angeles to take on Manchester United and Barcelona. “It was a great occasion, great atmosphere,” Arteta added. “Great to see so many Arsenal supporters fill the stadium. “We had great moments in the game, moments especially in the first half that weren’t that great but we’re still very early in pre-season. “It was great to see some debuts with Jurrien, with Auston (Trusty) and with Declan obviously. Really pleased with the result.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Today at the World Cup: Co-hosts Australia and New Zealand play in opening games Shane Lowry determined to win another major as Open gets under way Day two of fourth Ashes Test: England racing to beat Australia and the weather

A ticket sold in California has won the $1 billion Powerball jackpot in Wednesday night's drawing -- among the largest in the game's history, according to Powerball's website.

After a sweep by the Los Angeles Angels, the New York Yankees are melting down. From Aaron Boone criticizing Carlos Rodon, to Tommy Kahnle throwing a fit.When it seems like the New York Yankees couldn't reach a new low, they have reached rock bottom. Well, at least for now.The Yankees h...

Co-hosts New Zealand and Australia are in action on the opening day of the World Cup finals as their big moment finally arrives. The Football Ferns kick off the tournament against Norway at Eden Park in Auckland before the Matildas host the Republic of Ireland side in front of a sold-out 80,000 crowd at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Here, the PA news agency takes a look at an eagerly-anticipated opening day. A different ball game New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimkova has challenged her players to make football as popular as rugby in the southern hemisphere nation with their exploits in the tournament. The All Blacks are three-times Rugby World Cup winners, while the Black Ferns have lifted the women’s version on six occasions and are the current holders. Klimkova told a press conference: “I really believe this is an incredible opportunity for this country to not be just a rugby country, but to actually really also wake up the love of football.” The Football Ferns, who are playing at their sixth finals but are yet to win a match, are ranked 26th in the world by FIFA and will have to upset the odds if they are to launch their campaign with a victory over the 12th-placed Norwegians. Play it again, Sam Sam Kerr is happy to bear the weight of expectation as Australia target World Cup glory. The Matildas’ record goalscorer with 63, Chelsea striker Kerr insists she is used to the pressure of having to deliver on the big stage. She told a press conference: “I guess for me the expectation has been growing over four years so it’s been something I’ve learned to deal with. “I think I’ve really enjoyed it. I’m really proud we have a home World Cup, and to be part of this journey is amazing. I’m really excited for it. “Of course everyone in Australia has a lot of expectations, but it’s something I take in my stride and I try to just enjoy. “Back at Chelsea I’ve done that too, just enjoyed it, and that’s when I’m my best me.” Dictionary corner Republic of Ireland boss Vera Pauw is predicting her team’s “outbelieve” slogan will end up in the dictionary if they continue to defy expectations. Ireland got the better of Sweden, Finland and, in a dramatic play-off, Scotland to reach the finals of a major tournament for the first time, and they will need to scale new heights if they are the emerge from a group which includes top-10 sides Australia and Canada, as well as Nigeria. Pauw said: “That word will end up in the dictionary because we outbelieve we can do something special here. “That is how we ended up here because we outbelieve and we did something that nobody expected, but we are realistic. “We are very realistic, otherwise you cannot succeed, but the key thing everybody will feel is we have no fear of failure.” Picture of the day Quote of the day We must play every match as if it's our last. We need to really bleed for each other and bleed for our uniform, because nothing comes free Norway striker Ada Hegerberg Post of the day Up next July 20 Group A: New Zealand v Norway (8am, Eden Park, Auckland)Group B: Australia v Republic of Ireland (11am, Stadium Australia, Sydney)

Big money signing Declan Rice made his first Arsenal appearance as his new side opened their US tour by comprehensively beating Wayne Rooney’s MLS All-Stars. The 24-year-old midfielder completed his £105million switch from West Ham on Saturday and just four days later made his bow 3,660 miles away from the Emirates Stadium. Rice was introduced as a second half substitute in Washington DC as Arsenal swept aside the Rooney-managed MLS All-Stars 5-0 in sweltering conditions. Gabriel Jesus’ audacious clipped effort gave the Gunners an early lead that Leandro Trossard added to with a lasered effort from the edge of the box. Jorginho’s penalty, a fine Gabriel Martinelli finish and Kai Havertz’s first goal in an Arsenal shirt completed the win on a night when new boys Jurrien Timber and Rice made their first appearance for the club. There was a hearty Arsenal contingent at Audi Field, where director Josh Kroenke received a warm cheer before Rooney, the Manchester United and England great, was jeered. The Gunners supporters in attendance only had to wait five minutes before celebrating a moment of magic. The All-Stars appeared to have stopped a dangerous attack, only for Jesus to meet a loose ball with an audacious clipped effort from the edge of the box that curled in off the far post. Rooney’s side responded with determination but were unable to unlock the visitors, who extended their lead midway through the first half. Bukayo Saka was sent behind down the right and passed across to Trossard, who cut away from his man and scored a thumping right-footed drive from 22 yards. Arsenal’s opening goalscorers nearly combined for a third soon after but Jesus could only head Trossard’s deep cross into the side netting. Impressive Trossard sent a free-kick just wide before an opening period that somehow featured five bookings was called to an end. Within seconds of the restart a Tim Parker handball gave Arsenal the chance to score a third. Jorginho scored the resulting spot-kick and the Gunners will be hoping Trossard avoided any major issue after limping off in the 55th minute. Referee Ted Unkel did not award another Arsenal penalty despite the VAR advising him to review a decision, instead indicating for the visitors to make their planned substitutions. Timber came on for his first appearance and Rice received the biggest cheer. Arsenal continued to control proceedings and Martinelli coolly struck home in the 84th minute after being played in by an excellent Martin Odegaard pass. Havertz completed the one-sided victory when controlling and finishing from close range in the 89th minute. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Women’s World Cup to ‘proceed as planned’ despite shooting incident in Auckland Ryan Searle requires new hotel after shocking Peter Wright in Blackpool Wayne Rooney remaining patient at DC United in bid to ‘develop’ as manager

Looking at The Open Championship ticket prices to see how much it costs fans to get in and attend the 2023 tournament at Royal Liverpool.For many golf fans who aren't in the United Kingdom, it's a full-on marathon to watch The Open Championship, one that we're all prepared for thi...

AUCKLAND (Reuters) -At least two people and an armed attacker were killed and five others wounded in a shooting in

FIFA has confirmed the Women’s World Cup opener in Auckland will “proceed as planned” after a shooting in the city’s central business district on Thursday morning left three people dead. Co-hosts New Zealand are set to play Norway at Eden Park this evening with kick-off scheduled for 08.00 BST. New Zealand Police said they have contained what they believe was an “isolated incident” and “not a national security risk”. A FIFA statement revealed the decision was made to move forward with the match after consulting with New Zealand authorities and the participating teams, who have both confirmed players and staff are safe. FIFA has been informed that this was an isolated incident that was not related to football operations and the opening match tonight at Eden Park will proceed as planned FIFA statement The FIFA release read: “FIFA extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the incident which occurred this morning in Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau, Aotearoa New Zealand, and our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident. “Immediately following the incident, President Gianni Infantino and FIFA Secretary-General Fatma Samoura were in communication with the Aotearoa New Zealand authorities. FIFA has also been in constant contact with the participating teams affected by this incident. “FIFA has been informed that this was an isolated incident that was not related to football operations and the opening match tonight at Eden Park will proceed as planned. “The opening hours of the FIFA Fan Festival in Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau city centre will be confirmed in due course. The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place.” New Zealand Police on Thursday morning shared via their official Twitter account that in addition to the three deceased – among them the person they believe to be the male offender – an officer and four members of the public were injured in the incident which took place at a building under construction in the lower Queen Street area. New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins also addressed the match, telling a press conference: “Clearly with the FIFA World Cup kicking off this evening there are a lot of eyes on Auckland, the government has spoken to FIFA organisers this morning and the tournament will proceed as planned. “Aucklanders and those watching around the world can be assured that the police have neutralised the threat and they are not seeking anybody else in relation to the incident. “New Zealanders safety and the safety of our visitors is our first priority. “We have been in regular contact with FIFA, they are proceeding as planned, there will be an increased police presence obviously around Auckland to provide public reassurance, but the police have indicated that they don’t think there is an ongoing security or safety risk.” Both teams involved in tonight’s contest have assured the public that their players and staff are safe. Norway’s team hotel is located about 300-400m from where the shooting took place, but a team spokesperson told the PA news agency that everything is calm in the Norwegian squad and preparations for the match are proceeding as normal. Captain Maren Mjelde, through a statement, said: “Being informed about the consequences, the Norwegian team’s thoughts are with those affected and their families. “Everyone probably woke up quite quickly when the helicopter hovered outside our hotel window and a large number of emergency vehicles arrived. “At first we didn’t know what was going on, but eventually there were updates on TV and the local media. We felt safe the whole time. FIFA has a good security system at the hotel and we have our own security officer in the squad. “Everyone seems calm and we are preparing as normal for the game tonight, then we may have to adapt if there are any instructions from the authorities.” New Zealand Football tweeted: “New Zealand Football are shocked by the incident in Auckland CBD this morning. “We can confirm that all of the Football Ferns team and staff are safe but we will not be able to comment further while details are still emerging. “Please refer to New Zealand Police for further information. Preparations for the game tonight at Eden Park will continue as planned.” The United States women’s national team, who are also based in New Zealand, responded in a tweet posted to their official account, saying: “US Soccer extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims who were killed in the shooting in downtown Auckland today. “We are saddened by the inexcusable loss of life to gun violence and our thoughts are with the people of Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau and Aotearoa New Zealand.” A previous US tweet read: “Regarding the incident in downtown Auckland, all of our USWNT players and staff are accounted for and safe. Our security team is in communication with local authorities and we are proceeding with our daily schedule.” The Philippine Women’s National Team also confirmed via social media that all members of their delegation were safe. An Eden Park statement read: “Eden Park Trust extends its deepest condolences to the Whanau of the victims in the incident which took place in Auckland’s CBD this morning. It is a sad day for Auckland on what should be a day of celebration. “Eden Park has been working with all relevant agencies regarding this morning’s incident and the impact on services and staffing.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Ryan Searle requires new hotel after shocking Peter Wright in Blackpool Wayne Rooney remaining patient at DC United in bid to ‘develop’ as manager Wayne Rooney backs Declan Rice to be ‘leader’ for Arsenal

Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants failed to reach a deal on a new contract and now the star running back is mulling skipping the 2023 season.It's about to get ugly with Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants. Or, well, even uglier.After failed contract negotiations prior to the Jul...

Phillies star Bryce Harper needs to plug his controller back in after this exceptionally strange at-bat that resulted in a swingless strikeout.The Philadelphia Phillies came out of the All-Star break hot, the way they had been trending coming into the break too (aside from dropping two against M...

Picking a football team isn't as simple as a line on a map for people living in Northern Ireland.