Former Sheffield United and Everton defender Phil Jagielka announces retirement
Former England defender Phil Jagielka has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 41. Jagielka has decided the bring the curtain down on his career after making over 800 appearances across 23 years. Jagielka started his career with Sheffield United and spent eight season with the Blades before moving to Everton in 2007. He would go on to spend 12 years at Goodison Park and became club captain in 2013, but returned to the Blades after being released by the Toffees in 2019. Jagielka spent two seasons back at Bramall Lane following the club’s promotion to the Premier League before spending six months at Derby, while he finished his career with Stoke. Jagielka won 40 caps for England between 2008 and 2016 and featured at Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. It's been an absolute honour to step onto the grass for every match Phil Jagielka Announcing his retirement on Instagram, Jagielka wrote: “All good things come to an end and after just over 800 appearances my playing career is done. “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would get to play football at the highest level for some amazing clubs as well as my country. “It’s been an absolute honour to step onto the grass for every match and I have so many people to thank for that.” Read More Bruno Fernandes excited for ‘amazing’ atmosphere at Galatasaray Man City unveil statue of club greats Mike Summerbee, Colin Bell and Francis Lee Football rumours: Juventus eyeing swoop for Thomas Partey
2023-11-28 21:53
Welcome to Hell – Erik ten Hag confident Man Utd can handle Gala atmosphere
Erik ten Hag says Manchester United must keep calm and in control of their emotions if they are to emerge from their ‘Welcome to Hell’ experience at Galatasaray with their Champions League hopes alive. It is 30 years since the Red Devils’ first trip to the Istanbul giants, who progressed on away goals from that highly-charged encounter punctuated by hostility and intimidation. United have visited Galatasaray twice in the Champions League since then and are now preparing for a huge clash for both sides amid an ear-splitting backdrop at Rams Park on Wednesday. The Turkish champions are well placed to qualify having won the reverse fixture 3-2 and Ten Hag knows his side will be unable to reach the knockout phase if they lose the Group A encounter. “We know we can (win away in Europe) and we are confident,” Ten Hag said. “The last games away from home in the league were also very hostile environments. We played very well. We were very calm and composed. “This team also last year in Barcelona (in the Europa League did well), so we know how to deal with it and I’m sure it will be tomorrow a confident team on the pitch.” Asked if he will stress to his players to keep their heads and remain disciplined, Ten Hag said: “Absolutely. You have to stay calm in your head and don’t get too emotional. You need the emotions but you have to control it. “That you don’t give them anything, that you don’t give the referee as well at that moment that they’re going to take, so you have to stay away from such moments. “We know how to deal with it. You have to play confident and you have to make it your game, so it’s not that important how the opponent is playing. “It’s important how we are playing, how we are dealing with possession, how we are dealing with out of possession, so normal stuff. We will make a good plan but then, at the end of day, the players have to decide, they have to manage the game.” United have failed to so much as score in their three visits to Galatasaray, who have embraced the ‘Welcome to Hell’ phase made famous in their 1993 meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side. There are few more hostile environments in European football and Ten Hag was asked by a Turkish journalist what his plans were “to get out of hell” on Wednesday. “We have to make it our game and it’s the history,” the Dutchman said. “Obviously Manchester United has a great history, but you can’t take any guarantee from it in the future, so we have to make our own future. It’s the past, so tomorrow, it’s about the future, so we have to make it our game. It’s on us.” The last games away from home in the league were also very hostile environments. We played very well. We were very calm and composed Erik ten Hag United head to Istanbul without a variety of first-team players, with Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez and Christian Eriksen among those injured. Jonny Evans, Mason Mount, Tyrell Malacia and Amad Diallo are also sidelined, while Jadon Sancho remains banished from the squad and Donny van de Beek was not registered for the Champions League. Marcus Rashford serves a one-match ban for his sending off in the 4-3 loss at Copenhagen earlier this month, but striker Rasmus Hojlund and winger Antony are available. Ten Hag confirmed “they are in the squad” after missing Sunday’s 3-0 win at Everton through injury – a match in which Kobbie Mainoo shone on his first Premier League start. The highly-rated 18-year-old put in an eye-catching display at Goodison Park and Ten Hag would have no hesitation throwing him in again. “No, we don’t have fear (of starting Mainoo again),” Ten Hag said. “If players are good enough, then they are old enough.” Read More Former Sheffield United and Everton defender Phil Jagielka announces retirement Bruno Fernandes excited for ‘amazing’ atmosphere at Galatasaray Man City unveil statue of club greats Mike Summerbee, Colin Bell and Francis Lee Football rumours: Juventus eyeing swoop for Thomas Partey On this day in 2015: Jamie Vardy scores in 11th game in a row Chicago Bears end their losing run against Minnesota Vikings
2023-11-28 21:49
Maddy Cusack’s spirit was ‘allowed to be broken’ by football before tragic death
The family of Maddy Cusack say a “thorough external investigation” has been launched into the death of the Sheffield United midfielder after claiming her spirit “was allowed to be broken” by football. Cusack died at her home address in Derbyshire on September 20, aged 27. Derbyshire Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. On Monday night the Maddy Cusack Foundation, launched by the footballer’s family, shared a speech on Instagram and X attributed to Cusack’s mother, Deborah, originally spoken at a memorial service for the former Blades vice-captain in late October. It read: “The saddest and most utterly heartbreaking reason why I am having to stand here and speak to you today is because of football. “From February this year, the indomitable, irrepressible spirit, the spirit called Maddy, the spirit that I had so fearlessly protected was allowed to be broken. Taking her away from me.” The foundation’s post continued: “Those who knew Maddy well will be aware that she had no long-standing mental health issues or troubles. Not that there would be anything to be ashamed of if there were, but there were not. Those that didn’t know her need to know that. “Maddy was a happy-go-lucky, carefree girl with everything to live for and by last Christmas could be described as being at her happiest. This all changed gradually from February this year. “It is no secret, nor should it be, that Sheffield United Football Club have agreed at the request of Maddy’s family to carry out a thorough external investigation into the events that her family believe contributed significantly to her passing at the tender age of 27.” Sheffield United declined to comment when approached by the PA news agency. Prior to her death, Cusack had just started her sixth season with the Blades in the Women’s Championship and was the longest-serving player in their squad, with over 100 appearances, and also worked as a marketing executive for the club. The former England youth international signed a new contract extension with the Blades in July. Read More Sheffield United probe alleged racist incident during home loss to Bournemouth Brighton boss explains ‘big, big celebration’ and says no disrespect was meant Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola full of praise for two-goal Marcus Tavernier
2023-11-28 21:48
Russell Westbrook Confronted a Heckler Again
Russell Westbrook once again had a passionate exchange with a fan seated courtside after he heard some heckling that crossed clear red line. It happened last ni
2023-11-28 21:17
NFL Playoff Bracket if the Season Ended Today
A look at what the NFL playoff bracket would look like if the season ended today.
2023-11-28 20:27
Roundup: Jennifer Lawrence Fires Back at Plastic Surgery Rumors; CM Punk Returns to Raw; Bears Shut Down Vikings
Jennifer Lawrence fires back at plastic surgery rumors, CM Punk returned to WWE Raw, the Bears beat the Vikings and more in the Roundup.
2023-11-28 20:18
Ex-Hedge Fund Boss Fights SEC at Supreme Court With Musk’s Help
Hedge-fund manager George Jarkesy said he didn’t recall more than 800 times during questioning at the SEC about
2023-11-28 18:56
Bruno Fernandes excited for ‘amazing’ atmosphere at Galatasaray
Bruno Fernandes is relishing the hostile atmosphere at Galatasaray as Manchester United look to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Erik ten Hag’s side look unlikely to be playing at European football’s top table in the new year after defeats in three of their four Group A matches left them rooted to the bottom of the table. United have lost away to Bayern Munich and Copenhagen and at home to Galatasaray, meaning another defeat in Istanbul on Wednesday would end their Champions League dreams with a match to spare. “In the (playing) group the feeling is that we have to win both games we have ahead to hope to go through,” United captain Fernandes said ahead of the trip to Galatasaray and home game against already-qualified Bayern. “We know that’s going to be tough, it’s going to be difficult but we have to think that we can do it because we have done it in the past in difficult situations. “We get through some difficult periods, so we just have to do it again.” Asked about the boost that United will get having won 3-0 at Everton before heading out to Turkey, he said: “We always feel confident because we know the qualities we have on the team. “Obviously sometimes you don’t get the results you want but we feel confident because we have confidence in the team we have, in the players we have, in the process we are (going) through. “We know that it’s already the second year with this manager, so some of the things have to be better and we have to improve that on the road to win games.” I think when you are a kid you want to play in this kind of atmosphere Bruno Fernandes United lost to Galatasaray 3-2 in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford last month and now face one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Europe – something Fernandes believes will help his performance rather than hinder it. “We prepare for that,” the Portugal international said. “I think when you are a kid you want to play in this kind of atmosphere. “You know that Galatasaray away is going to be great, is going to be an amazing atmosphere. “I think, me as a player I love playing (in these) kind of stadiums because it’s a big boost for you. “I know it’s going to come against you, but it has to be a big boost playing in stadiums with a crowd like that. “We’re pretty sure that our away fans will really give us something too.” United will need to dig deep and stick together if they are to leave Istanbul with the victory they require. Beyond the difficulties presented by the host team and fans, Ten Hag’s side will also be without the suspended Marcus Rashford and a string of a first-team players in Istanbul. “The other ones have to step (up),” Fernandes said. “They have to step like Kobbie (Mainoo) did (at Everton). “Everyone else that gets the chance, they have to make a big step and make a statement to be in the squad.” Read More Man City unveil statue of club greats Mike Summerbee, Colin Bell and Francis Lee Football rumours: Juventus eyeing swoop for Thomas Partey On this day in 2015: Jamie Vardy scores in 11th game in a row Chicago Bears end their losing run against Minnesota Vikings Carolina Panthers sack head coach Frank Reich after one win in 11 games Mike Phelan warns Man Utd not to get distracted by fierce Galatasaray atmosphere
2023-11-28 18:17
Eddie Howe has made huge Newcastle improvements – yet even more is needed for his biggest test yet
As the Saudi money rolled in, some might have thought Eddie Howe’s days were numbered. With big-money, marquee player signings coming through the door, an elite, high-profile coach would surely not be too far behind. At the start of this season, it appeared Howe had reached his limitations. Three defeats in Newcastle United’s opening four league games gave credence to claims all that was missing from the PIF Toon revolution was a new figurehead. However, despite having to work with a squad so injury-ravaged, Howe has Newcastle buzzing again. His lack of willingness to be drawn on Newcastle’s Middle Eastern overlords does not make him universally popular, but what Howe is doing with his team, a threadbare one at that, is nothing short of remarkable. A recent uptick in results is no fluke – Howe has accepted having to work with 14 fit players and academy kids as backups and is getting on with it, eking every inch out from his shell of a side, with some innovative thinking and a gameplan his players need not stray too far from. “The gaffer, that’s it. The gaffer,” defender Jamaal Lascelles insisted after Saturday’s win over Chelsea, when asked what the difference between playing for Newcastle before the takeover compared to now was. “Everything he’s done, the philosophy, the culture, the way he gets us working. I could stand here all day and talk about it. He’s improved everyone as a player, he’s improved us as a team, everyone knows what they have to do on the pitch.” That last point was illustrated perfectly in Saturday’s encounter with Chelsea. Newcastle had no right to win that game – against a Blues team on the up, with three goalkeepers and four academy players on the bench – and after Raheem Sterling equalised in the first half, there appeared likely to be only one winner. Yet, somehow, with Mauricio Pochettino able to turn to £300m worth of cavalry, Newcastle dug deep, stuck to their jobs, and ran out rampant 4-1 winners. One was a collection of individuals, the other was a team. And that is down to Howe. He is really trying everything possible to gain an advantage. The full-to-bursting St. James’ treatment room and a crucial clash in Paris leaves him with no alternative. One look at Newcastle’s set pieces tells you all you need to know about the work that is going on at the training ground. The scene is more akin to the NFL. The majority of black and white shirts in the box are “blockers” creating plenty of space for their most lethal options from Kieran Trippier’s excellent deliveries into the penalty area. One particular routine worked out perfectly on Saturday, but Joelinton still somehow headed wide with the goal at his mercy. The results are startling, nonetheless. Having been one of the least threatening teams from set plays previously, Since the start of the 2022-23 Premier League season, no club have a better expected goal (xG) difference per 100 set pieces than Newcastle. No stone is left unturned as Howe tries to find an edge to revive his side’s Champions League campaign. “A change of feel, just a different routine, you never know how these things affect your performance,” Howe said of his side’s decision to train on the Parc des Princes pitch ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Paris Saint-Germain, as opposed to remaining at home on the day of the game as they did in their previous two away group games. “The results you can never guarantee, but performance, we’re looking for an improvement from our two away games. So that’s why we’ve done what we’ve done today.” PSG come into the contest as favourites having hit five past Monaco at the weekend, and a defeat would end Newcastle’s Champions League hopes. Without half of his squad, against one of the best sides in the world, Howe and his side really shouldn’t stand a chance. As Chelsea will testify to, however, count them out at your peril.
2023-11-28 16:29
Is Manchester City vs RB Leipzig on TV? Kick-off time, channel and how to watch Champions League fixture
Manchester City take on RB Leipzig hoping to secure top spot in Champions League Group G. Pep Guardiola’s side are unbeaten so far in their European campaign and are averaging three goals per game in European competition. Their opponents are also already sure of a place in the knockout stages with their defeat in the reverse fixture the sole blemish thus far for the German club. Marco Rose knows his side will face a tough task at the home of the defending champions, though. Here’s everything you need to know. Get the latest Champions League odds and tips here. When is Manchester City vs RB Leipzig? Manchester City vs RB Leipzig is due to kick off at . How can I watch it? Viewers in the United Kingdom will be able to watch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage on the channel from 7.45pm GMT. Subscribers can stream the action via discovery+. If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch the event, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN round-up is here to help and includes deals on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider. Team news John Stones was back on the bench for a depleted Manchester City at the weekend, though Pep Guardiola suggested before kick off that the England international might not yet be quite ready to play. Jack Grealish missed the encounter with Liverpool due to illness and may be back amongst things here, which may be necessary with Kevin de Bruyne, Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes all seemingly still absent. Timo Werner and Dani Olmo are among those currently sidelined at RB Leipzig, who were beaten by Wolfsburg in their weekend league action. Emil Forsberg started that Bundesliga encounter on the bench and may be promoted into the starting side. Predicted line-ups Manchester City XI: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Akanji; Foden, Alvarez, Silva, Doku; Haaland. RB Leipzig XI: Blaswich; Henrichs, Simakan, Lukeba, Raum; Schlager, Haidara; Simons, Forsberg; Openda, Poulsen. Odds Manchester City win 1/3 Draw 9/2 RB Leipzig win 15/2 Get all the latest football betting sites offers here. Prediction A comfortable home win. Manchester City 3-1 RB Leipzig Read More Football rumours: Juventus eyeing swoop for Thomas Partey Gvardiol’s reminder of how far he’s come - and what he needs to succeed at City Pep Guardiola provides Kevin De Bruyne injury update Guardiola describes ‘incredible’ impact of Venables at Barcelona Guardiola makes plea to Man City fans in pursuit of continued success Pep Guardiola pays tribute to Terry Venables: ‘A true gentleman’
2023-11-28 16:24
Football rumours: Juventus eyeing swoop for Thomas Partey
What the papers say Juventus have emerged as potential suitors for Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, 30, according to the Daily Mirror. The Gunners have been linked with Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz, 25. Chelsea are streamlining their transfer policy with a “one in, one out” approach. The Daily Telegraph says the move could see a number of players making way for new signings. Among those who could leave the Blues are 39-year-old Brazilian defender Thiago Silva, whose contract is set to expire next summer, according to the Evening Standard. England Under-21 defender Trevoh Chalobah, 24, who is up for sale is another who coule be on the way out. Social media round-up Players to watch Tristan Aldcroft Panduro: Manchester City and Arsenal have sent scouts to watch the 15-year-old FC Copenhagen midfielder, reports the Daily Mail. Marc Guehi: Manchester United have made Crystal Palace’s 23-year-old centre-back their primary January target, according to Football Insider. Read More On this day in 2015: Jamie Vardy scores in 11th game in a row Chicago Bears end their losing run against Minnesota Vikings ‘What is the point of VAR?’ asks angry Gary O’Neil as Wolves lose at Fulham
2023-11-28 14:59
On this day in 2015: Jamie Vardy scores in 11th game in a row
Jamie Vardy scored for the 11th match in a row on this day in 2015 to break Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Premier League record and earn Leicester a 1-1 draw with Manchester United. The England forward opened the scoring against Manchester United in the 24th minute to surpass Van Nistelrooy’s 10-game mark, which had stood since 2003. Vardy found his 14th goal of the season when he got on the end of Christian Fuchs’ pass and rifled past David De Gea from close range and become the first player to score in 11 consecutive games in the Premier League era. Manchester United managed to find an equaliser when Bastian Schweinsteiger cancelled out Vardy’s opener with a powerful header from close range to make it 1-1. The 28-year-old started the run of consecutive games with a late penalty in a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth three months earlier in August which included doubles against Arsenal and Southampton, a winner against Watford and the record-equalling strike in a 3-0 win at Newcastle the week before. Vardy’s incredible run came after he was made an England international in June, just three years after becoming non-league football’s first £1million player following a move to the King Power Stadium from Fleetwood in 2012. After breaking the record, Vardy said: “It’s unbelievable. I think I got a bit carried away with myself. “Obviously we’ve got a lot of pace in the team and I think counter-attacking is a big advantage for us. “If we can break as quick we have, then obviously it is going to benefit the team.” Vardy’s goals helped power the Foxes to the Premier League crown under Claudio Ranieri and he finished the season as the league’s second top scorer behind Golden Boot winner Sergio Aguero. No player has yet to break Vardy’s record which still stands and he went on to win more silverware with Leicester, lifting the FA Cup trophy in 2021 before being relegated with the club in 2023. Read More Chicago Bears end their losing run against Minnesota Vikings ‘What is the point of VAR?’ asks angry Gary O’Neil as Wolves lose at Fulham Gary O’Neil says Wolves loss at Fulham may have ‘finally turned him against VAR’
2023-11-28 14:18