List of All Articles with Tag 'football'

World Cup winning Spain captain Iker Casillas has slammed the president of the Spanish football association (RFEF) after Luis Rubiales refused to resign at an extraordinary press conference. Rubiales has been widely condemned after appearing to forcefully kiss midfielder Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s Women’s World Cup final triumph in Australia. The RFEF president had been expected to announce he would be stepping away from his role after Fifa opened disciplinary proceedings against him on Thursday. But, after media had been briefed on a potential replacement, Rubiales refused to resign, insisting that the kiss had been “mutual, euphoric and consensual”. Casillas, who captained Spain’s men to World Cup victory in 2010, has led the renewed criticism of the RFEF president. “I’m ashamed for you,” the former goalkeeper tweeted. “We should have spent these 5 days talking about our girls! Of the joy they gave us all! To boast of a title that we did not have in women’s football, but...” Rubiales also appeared to grab his crotch in celebration during Spain’s final win while stood close to the Queen of Spain in the Stadium Australia stands. “I want to apologize unreservedly for something that happened in the presidential box, when in a moment of euphoria I grabbed a part of my body,” Rubiales said, before continuing to explain that he had got “very excited” and “lost control”. “I have to apologise to the royal family because it is a very unedifying gesture.” Javier Tebas, the president of La Liga, believes that the behaviour of his Spanish FA counterpart is indicative of the 46-year-old ex-professional’s character. “I must admit that it has been very difficult to explain what is happening with Luis Rubiales during these years,” Tebas said on social media. “I have the feeling that many people, until now, did not understand what the members of the football organisations have to leave withdealing with him as president of the RFEF. “The misogynistic gestures, the profane expressions, the protocol disaster and the insults of this latest global embarrassment are not a surprise...The list of women and men aggrieved by Luis Rubiales these years is too long and this must stop.” Meanwhile, the Second Deputy Prime Minister of Spain has urged the government to step in. “What we have seen today in the Federation Assembly is unacceptable,” Yolanda Diaz said. “The Government must act and take urgent measures: impunity for macho actions is over. Rubiales cannot continue in office.” Read More Spanish FA president kissing midfielder at World Cup final ‘ruined’ celebration, says Lioness Jess Carter Fifa opens disciplinary proceedings against Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales Spanish FA chief blames player for World Cup kiss and shouts ‘I am not resigning!’ in chaotic press conference Juanma Lillo in ‘continuous contact’ with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola Erik ten Hag evades Mason Greenwood questions and gives injury updates Ange Postecoglou keen to trim Tottenham squad after James Maddison fitness boost

Manchester City assistant boss Juanma Lillo says he will be in continuous contact with absent manager Pep Guardiola this weekend. Lillo is set to take charge of the champions’ next two fixtures – starting with Sunday’s trip to Sheffield United – as Guardiola recovers from back surgery in Spain. Guardiola underwent the procedure earlier this week and is not due to return until after next month’s international break. However, Lillo – who rejoined the City backroom staff this summer after a year away – insists all his direction will still come from his fellow Spaniard. The 57-year-old, who took the club’s pre-match press conference, said: “The contact is continuous. Telephone, video call – everything. “He is watching Sheffield United right now. What’s important is his health – that’s what matters – but that doesn’t keep him from being who he is. “He’s fully focused on the team, fully focused on the match. “We’re not going to do a video conference because he doesn’t want that. He wants us to have a face to face here but he is within the messages that are going to be relayed.” Lillo says Guardiola is in good spirits after what the club described as an “emergency” but “routine” operation. “What he is telling us is that the surgery has been successful, but that his recovery has to take the necessary time,” Lillo said. “He feels fine and I’m happy to see him. He’s recovering correctly.” After winning the treble last season and starting the new campaign with back-to-back Premier League wins, the set-up Guardiola has left in Lillo’s hands seems well-tuned. The experienced Lillo, whose coaching career has taken him to countries including Mexico, Colombia, Mexico, Japan and China, said: “If Pep is here he directs the sessions, he is focused and there are certain habits but plenty of the staff have been working here for a while and we’re trying. “Nevertheless whenever Pep is here it’s so much better.” City have bolstered their squad this week with the signing of highly-rated Belgium winger Jeremy Doku but Lillo is wary of expecting too much of the 21-year-old too soon. He said: “Every time a new player arrives we think that they’re going to bring something, they’re going to help the team. “But right now it’s not about him and placing responsibility upon him.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Ange Postecoglou keen to trim Tottenham squad after James Maddison fitness boost ‘This is unacceptable’ – Alexia Putellas after Luis Rubiales refuses to resign Mikel Arteta: Saudi Pro League transfer window should shut same time as Europe’s

Tottenham are set to have James Maddison fit for Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth, but head coach Ange Postecoglou has fired a warning to the players on the fringes of his bloated squad. Maddison trained for the first time this week on Friday after he sat out a number of sessions with a sore ankle sustained during last weekend’s impressive 2-0 win over Manchester United. Spurs have handed minutes to 18 members of their squad during the opening two Premier League games of the season but face a busy final week of the summer transfer window, with outgoings a priority for the club. Offers will be listened to for former captain Hugo Lloris, Djed Spence, Eric Dier, Japhet Tanganga, Sergio Reguilon and Tanguy Ndombele while Davinson Sanchez, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Bryan Gil could exit if the right bid comes in. Youngsters Alfie Devine and Troy Parrott have departed on loan to Port Vale and Excelsior Rotterdam respectively during the past 24 hours, but Tottenham still have 31 players aged 21 or over and will need to submit a list of 25 to the Premier League on September 13. “At the moment you can see by doing the maths, we have got too many players,” Postecoglou said. “In terms of when we submit our final list, there will be guys here who won’t be on that list if nothing changes so I am pretty sure that will change. “From now until the end of the window I am sure there will be some movement.” Postecoglou was asked specifically if Lloris could remain at the club despite the Frenchman stating back in June his desire for a new challenge. The Australian did not completely rule it out but referenced the fact Guglielmo Vicario is his number one and Fraser Forster will be his back-up goalkeeper. He added: “You can’t just have any number of players you want. There is a list and it is unlikely we will have three goalkeepers on our final Premier League list.” Spurs look set to be boosted by Maddison’s presence for the Saturday lunchtime kick-off at Bournemouth despite fears of a potential injury lay-off. The summer signing left Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on crutches and in a protective boot last Saturday night after he took a blow to his ankle during a challenge with Manchester United’s Antony in the second-half. But Postecoglou said: “Madders trained today unrestricted. We’ll see how he pulls up but at this stage it looks like he will be available. We’ll assess how he feels but, yeah, he trained. “I think it was the incident when (Cristian) Romero got brought down. He had a shot and it was a block-tackle. His ankle was a bit sore after that but the medical team looked after him. “There was no real push to have him available. It was down to him. “People would have seen him in a moon boot but it was more precautionary. He has felt good and probably could have trained yesterday. “He trained today unrestricted, so obviously nothing serious.”

Kirby Smart made it abundantly clear that when he told his Georgia football players that they were going 7-5, it was meant as a joke. Truth be told, it was an incredible motivating tactic.

Luis Rubiales refused to resign from his role as president of the Spanish FA and blamed World Cup star Jenni Hermoso for his kiss in a wild press conference. Rubiales has been widely criticised after kissing Hermoso on the mouth in the aftermath of Spain’s first-ever Women’s World Cup victory. Video later emerged of Rubiales grabbing his crotch in celebration in close proximity to the Queen of Spain and her 16-year-old daughter. Speaking to media on Friday, when he had been expected to resign and with the media briefed on his replacement, Rubiales doubled down on his position saying that he would fight to clear his name in court if necessary and calling out a “false feminism” witchhunt for the criticism. He loudly told those gathered: “No I am not going to resign,” and reiterated himself a number of times, while some of the audience, including controversial Spain women’s head coach Jorge Vilda and Spain’s men’s head coach Luis de la Fuente, applauded his statement. It was a bizarre press conference. He defended the kiss, saying: “Jenni was the one who lifted me up. I told her to ‘forget about the penalty’ and I said to her ‘a little peck?’ and she said ‘OK’. It was a spontaneous kiss. Mutual, euphoric and consensual. That’s the key. “A consensual ‘peck’ is enough to get me out of here? I will fight until the end.” Hermoso herself said after the match, when asked about the kiss: “Er...no I did not like that,” and has released a statement along with her union Futpro calling for measures against Rubiales. However, the president added in his speech: “Whoever watches the video will see the desire in that kiss is the same as with one of my daughters. There is no desire or dominance. “It’s not what is being pushed in the media and feminism. The kiss was spontaneous, mutual and consensual.” In an even more strange turn of phrase, he said that a “social assassination was taking place here” and that “I am ready to be vilified to defend my ideals”. He added: “I apologise unreservedly but I don’t deserve this manhunt I have been suffering.” Rubiales added, on his actions in the box: “I want to apologise unreservedly for something that happened in the presidential box, when in a moment of euphoria I grabbed a part of my body,” he said. “Look, I got very excited and I lost control. I have to apologise to the royal family because it is a very unedifying gesture.” Yesterday, the 46-year-old was being described as “cornered” by those with knowledge of the situation, as large amounts of public criticism have led to three formal complaints over whether his behaviour constituted an infraction of Spain’s sports law, which sanctions against sexist acts. Fifa also opened its own investigation on Thursday and released the statement: “The events may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs 1 and 2 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code. The Fifa disciplinary committee will only provide further information on these disciplinary proceedings once it has issued a final decision on the matter. Fifa reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary.” The sections of the disciplinary code referenced in the Fifa statement cover “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play”. A further dimension to the story is that it is now being seen as potentially influencing Spain’s World Cup bid for 2030, which Rubiales has been central to. Read More ‘This is unacceptable’ – Alexia Putellas after Luis Rubiales refuses to resign Jess Carter: Spanish FA president kissing midfielder ‘ruined’ celebration Fifa opens disciplinary proceedings against Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales Spanish soccer president faces general assembly amid reports he will resign for kissing a player Luis Rubiales resists calls to resign but walls are closing in on Spanish football president Spain boss Jorge Vilda appears to grab breast of female coach during World Cup final

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has called for the Saudi Pro League transfer window to close in line with Europe’s – but refused to rule out selling players beyond September 1. Some of football’s top names have made the move to Saudi Arabia this summer as PIF investment in four of the country’s top clubs has allowed for a vast increase in transfer fees. Arsenal host Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday and, while the Gunners have not lost any of their squad to Saudi, their visitors will be without talismanic forward Aleksandar Mitrovic, who moved to Al-Hilal last week. Head coach Marco Silva rejected overtures from the Gulf before the start of the new season while winger Willian was also unsettled by transfer speculation. The Premier League window closes next Friday but Saudi clubs will be able to sign and register new players until September 20, something Arteta believes needs to be addressed. Asked if the extra two and a half weeks to conclude business was fair, the Spaniard replied: “No, because it is a competitor now. No, I think we have to change that.” Pushed on whether the Pro League deadline should fall in line with Europe, Arteta continued: “That is my opinion, yes. “It is another competitor and it brings other opportunities for players, for managers and for people that work in the industry to decide. “In the end, we are free to decide when clubs, players or whoever has to agree to something, you have to have the intention to go and find agreements, that is why there are contracts. It is another competitor and it brings other opportunities for players, for managers and for people that work in the industry to decide Mikel Arteta on the Saudi Pro League transfer window “If people agree to go it is because someone agrees to go there but that someone agreed to sell him, so it goes two or three different ways.” No Arsenal players have headed to the Middle East this summer but there has been reported interest from Saudi clubs in both Gabriel Magalhaes and Thomas Partey. While he wants to see a uniform transfer deadline, Arteta stopped short of saying Arsenal will refuse to sell players beyond the Premier League’s window closing on September 1. “Well, the principle would be that (we would not consider offers),” he said. “But I cannot make the decision for the club. It is a lot of people involved in that process and they would have for sure a say, the ownership, would do the same. “It would be on the table like with any offer and you have to look at it. The only thing I’m saying is it’s not ideal because they are a competitor.” Asked if losing a player after the window closed would be destabilising, he added: “Yes, very much. Yes.” Arsenal welcome their London rivals having won their first two league games and could welcome Gabriel Jesus back from knee surgery to play a part on Saturday. The Brazil forward went under the knife for a minor procedure before the start of the campaign but Arteta is hopeful he could feature against Fulham. “It was a big blow for him after the pre-season he had to have another surgery. He’s looking really sharp. He trained the full week good. He’s ready to go, that is great,” he added. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live ‘This is unacceptable’ – Alexia Putellas after Luis Rubiales refuses to resign Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag avoids questions about Mason Greenwood Kevin Sinfield says England’s pre-World Cup setbacks are bringing squad together

World Cup winner Alexia Putellas says the current situation in Spanish football is “unacceptable” after Luis Rubiales refused to resign as FA president amid strong criticism of his behaviour at last weekend’s final in Sydney. The Spanish media had widely reported on Thursday evening that Rubiales was about to stand down at an extraordinary general assembly of the Spanish federation (RFEF) on Friday. FIFA had opened disciplinary proceedings against him on Thursday, after he grabbed his crotch in celebration of Spain’s victory over England despite being just metres away from Spain’s Queen Letizia and her teenage daughter in the stadium VIP area. He then kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips at the medal and trophy presentation, something she later admitted on social media she “didn’t like”. Rubiales apologised for his behaviour in the VIP area, but insisted in his speech on Friday that the Hermoso kiss was “spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual”. He said he had been the target of a “social assassination” and repeatedly and emphatically stated “I will not resign”, words which drew applause from the gathered delegates. Rubiales’ defiant stance prompted fresh calls for the Spanish government to take action, while world players’ union FIFPRO said UEFA – for whom Rubiales is an executive committee member and vice-president – must open disciplinary proceedings. But perhaps the most damning response of all came from Barcelona star Putellas, who posted on X: “This is unacceptable. It’s over. With you my team-mate @Jennihermoso.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live

Premier League clubs have spent a fraction under £2billion in this summer’s transfer window already – with a week of business still to go. Data released by financial services firm Deloitte showed that as of 12pm on Friday top-flight teams’ spending had reached £1.95bn. That is already higher than the total, record figure calculated by Deloitte for last summer – £1.92bn. Deloitte said spending was £500m higher this summer compared to the same point last year, suggesting the final total could be around £2.5bn. Two of this summer’s deals so far have been worth over £100m – Arsenal’s signing of Declan Rice from West Ham and Chelsea’s recruitment of Moises Caicedo from Brighton. Premier League clubs’ net spend is calculated at £825m by Deloitte, 25 per cent lower than last summer (£1.1bn), which the firm attributes to a more active global transfer market. Calum Ross, assistant director in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group, said: “For the second year in a row, the summer transfer spending by Premier League clubs has surpassed the previous record and looks set to rise above £2bn for the first time before the window closes on September 1. “This sensational level of spending appears to be the new norm for Premier League clubs. They are generating unprecedented levels of revenue, which for some clubs is combined with the receipt of significant investment from new ownership. “As we approach the end of the transfer window, it remains imperative that clubs manage the buying and selling of players carefully and remain compliant with relevant financial regulations. “Sustainable business plans are essential to support continued competitiveness and long-term growth.” Chelsea’s spending in the last three windows – since a consortium led by American businessman Todd Boehly took charge – is believed to be edging close to the £1billion mark.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has urged midfielder Bruno Guimaraes to learn a lesson after hitting back at “stupid” criticism on social media. The 25-year-old Brazil international has become something of a cult hero at St James’ Park since his £35million arrival from Lyon in January last year and has established an online following with his regular posts. However, he felt moved to mount a staunch defence of his team after Saturday evening’s 1-0 defeat at Manchester City, who he described as “maybe one of the best teams in the world”, accusing some detractors of having “short stupid memories” in a message since deleted. Asked about Guimaraes’ response, head coach Howe said: “I’m certainly not going to criticise the supporters here. I think it’s more a lesson for us. “I choose not to be on social media for that exact reason, because I want a clear thought process. I don’t want to pollute my thoughts with things that I read and avoid certain situations, so I take myself out of that environment. “The players can choose to be on it, that’s absolutely fine because that’s their individual choice, but I think it’s important that we don’t overly react emotionally to certain things. “Now, Bruno is a very emotional person and I think you’ve seen on the pitch, it’s so positive for us, that emotion. He uses it brilliantly, he has used it brilliantly to not just perform well, but build a feeling with the supporters because I think the supporters see how much it means to him. It's all positive in terms of that feeling that Bruno has, but this is just maybe a little lesson for him. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe “It’s all positive in terms of that feeling that Bruno has, but this is just maybe a little lesson for him.” Howe admitted that the advent of social media has brought a new element to the lives of players which can have an impact, both positively and negatively. Asked how that can be managed, he said: “A lot of the young players now will have been on social media all of their lives or from a certain age, so it just becomes part of their daily routines, potentially, to look and to read and to be in that world. “Once you’re in it, it’s slightly more difficult to come away from it, whereas when I was growing up, it wasn’t there.” Guimaraes and his team-mates will hope to do their talking on the pitch on Sunday, when they return to action against Liverpool, the only side to beat them home and away in last season’s Premier League. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has aimed a series of barbs at the newly-enriched Tyneside club and, asked if he had a relationship with the German, Howe said: “I don’t really have a relationship with any manager. “I’m competing against them, I find it very difficult to have personal relationships with competitors. “I respect Jurgen a lot. I think he’s done an incredible job. He’s an unbelievable football manager, but I draw the line at friendships because they don’t exist for me.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Steve Borthwick has work to do – England v Fiji talking points He’s essential to Liverpool: Jurgen Klopp dismisses Mohamed Salah transfer talk Football rumours: Arsenal and Tottenham eye Ivan Toney once betting ban ends

A defiant Luis Rubiales has said he will not resign as president of the Spanish football federation despite facing widespread criticism and disciplinary proceedings over his behaviour at last Sunday’s Women’s World Cup final. The 46-year-old kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy and medals presentation after Spain’s victory over England in Sydney. He had earlier grabbed his crotch in celebration while stood metres away from Spain’s Queen Letizia and her teenage daughter in the stadium’s VIP area. Football’s world governing body FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales on Thursday over his conduct, but he told an extraordinary general assembly of Spain’s football federation, the RFEF, on Friday, that he would not step down. “I will not resign,” he said multiple times. “I apologise for my mistakes. I’m going to continue fighting as my parents and my coaches taught me. Those who know me, know that we are going to get to the end.” Rubiales issued an apology via video message on Monday, but Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez described that as “insufficient”. Hermoso’s interests in the case are being managed by the FUTPRO union, which expressed its “firm and resounding condemnation” for behaviour “which violates the dignity of women” in its own statement issued on Wednesday. Rubiales is a member of UEFA’s ruling executive committee and a vice-president of European football’s governing body, and is also leading a Spanish bid to co-host the 2030 men’s World Cup finals. FIFA Congress is expected to appoint the hosts of the centenary tournament late next year. FIFA, in opening proceedings against Rubiales on Thursday, said it remained committed to “respecting the integrity of all individuals, and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary”. It said Rubiales’ conduct may constitute violations of article 13 paragraphs one and two of the FIFA disciplinary code. That section of the code covers “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play”. The code cites examples of behaviour which could lead to disciplinary measures being taken, including “insulting a natural or legal person in any way, especially by using offensive gestures, signs or language” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute”. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Underdog Daniel Dubois looks back in a bid to take a big step forward Iain Henderson wants Ireland team-mates to prove they deserve World Cup spot Eddie Howe urges Bruno Guimaraes to learn from social media criticism

After Chelsea experienced their worst season since the establishment of the Premier League, American owner Todd Boehly has taken significant measures to bring about change at Stamford Bridge. The Blues went through a revolving door of three managers last season, including Thomas Tuchel (now at Bayern Munich), Graham Potter, and interim manager and club legend Frank Lampard. Now, Mauricio Pochettino, who previously led London rivals Tottenham to a Champions League final, will take over the reins and attempt to restore stability to a club that won the Champions League as recently as 2021. This summer, the club has witnessed an astonishing number of departures already, with several key players leaving who played pivotal roles at Stamford Bridge over the past few seasons. Among those having exited are Edouard Mendy, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Mateo Kovacic, Kalidou Koulibaly, N’Golo Kante, Kai Havertz, Mason Mount, and Christian Pulisic. These departures mark the beginning of a new era at Chelsea and may be the transformative change required for the club to regain its place in Europe. Here are the latest transfer rumours regarding the Blues: Moises Caicedo With Kovacic, Kante and Mount departing, Chelsea will look to bring in some central midfield replacements. One such player that the Blues may target is Brighton’s Moises Caicedo. The Ecuadorian was a key player as Brighton finished sixth but has been the subject of much interest from the league’s biggest club. Chelsea’s latest bid of £80m bid has been rejected, with Brighton holding firm on their £100m valuation. It is thought that Brighton would have been willing to accept a deal that also involves Levi Colwill returning to the Amex on a permanent basis after his successful loan spell last year, but that appears unlikely with The Guardian reporting that the 21-year-old is ready to sign a six-year-deal to stay at the London club. Michael Olise After a summer of outgoings so far for the west London club, Chelsea now appear to be turning their focus to incomings as they look to assemble a squad that can improve on last season’s miserable campaign. One player reportedly being eyed up is Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise, with RMC Sport suggesting that the Blues have tabled a bid for the French winger. Olise is said to have a £35m release clause in his contract, which runs until 2026, with Chelsea willing to pay above the buyout clause to secure preferable terms of payment for the 21-year-old. Chelsea are not alone in their interest in the playmaker, with Arsenal, Manchester City and PSG also said to be interested in Olise. Romelu Lukaku The Belgian has endured a torrid spell at the club since returning in 2021 and now looks set to leave the club for the second time this summer. The 30-year-old is unlikely to return to Inter, where he spent last season on loan, but could be staying in the Serie A with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Juventus are interested in the striker and a swap deal with Dusan Vlahovic. Chelsea turned down a similar deal in July but are said to be re-considering the deal now. Trevor Chalobah Wesley Fofana’s second long-term knee injury had meant that Trevor Chalobah was likely to stay at Stamford Bridge to provide cover at centre-back. However, with the imminent arrival of Axel Disasi, the Englishman now looks to have his eyes set on leaving this window to ensure playing time next season. The Evening Standard are reporting that the Blues would be willing to accept a bid of £45million for the 25-year-old with Inter one of the clubs with a long-standing interest in the centre-back. Robert Sanchez With Edouard Mendy leaving for the Saudi Pro League, Chelsea look set to dip into the market as they search for a replacement to provide competition to Kepa Arrizabalaga. That man could be Brighton’s Robert Sanchez who lost his place in the team to Jason Steele last season and did not travel to the US for Brighton’s pre-season tour. According to The Athletic, Chelsea have made an offer for the Spaniard but have yet to receive a response from Brighton. Mohammed Kudus Playing for Ajax, Kudus can play in a more attacking central midfield role as well as out on the right wing and could be the latest player to leave the Dutch club as they continue their cost-cutting measures having failed to qualify for the Champions League. The Ghanaian international could cost up to £40m and has attracted interest from Arsenal, according to The Daily Mail. Despite this, Chelsea are also said to be interested in the player with David Ornstein reporting that Chelsea have made contact with the Dutch side about a move for the 22-year-old. Callum Hudson-Odoi Chelsea’s outgoings are not done for the summer, however, with Callum Hudson-Odoi the latest to be linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge. The 22-year-old had an unsuccessful loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen last season and is reportedly training with the Under-21’s currently. Hudson-Odoi only has one year left on his contract with The Evening Standard reporting that the winger has agreed personal terms with Fulham ahead of a move to the Premier League side. Lazio are another team said to be interested in the winger but the Serie A club are yet to table a formal bid. Conor Gallagher The Chelsea midfielder has featured during the club’s pre-season tour to America but reportedly is being offered out to clubs as the west London outfit continue their clearout after a hugely disappointing season last year. Gallagher has been at Chelsea since he was six but has just two years left on his current deal. Tottenham are said to be interested but they will also face competition from West Ham who have made a move for the Englishman as they look to fill the void left by Declan Rice’s record-breaking move to Arsenal. According to Sky Sports, the Hammers’ initial bid of £40m has been rejected with Chelsea wanting £50m for their 23-year-old midfielder. Read More ‘I felt free’: Lauren James explains starring role to inspire England at World Cup Chelsea agree fee with Monaco for France international defender Axel Disasi Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leaves for Marseille as Chelsea exodus gathers pace Chelsea transfer news: Balogun, Olise, Lukaku, Chalobah and more Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink calls for patience at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino Chelsea suffer blow with Carney Chukwuemeka injury update

Mike Dean has admitted he failed to correct a mistake in a Chelsea-Tottenham match last season to prevent his friend Anthony Taylor receiving extra “grief”. Former Premier League referee Dean was on VAR duty at Stamford Bridge in August 2022 when Chelsea wanted Spurs defender Cristian Romero sent off for pulling Marc Cucurella to the floor by his hair. Dean says he made a “really bad call” in not sending Taylor to review his decision. Harry Kane equalised for Spurs from the following stoppage-time corner and the game finished 2-2. Both managers – Chelsea’s Thomas Tuchel and Tottenham’s Antonio Conte – received red cards from Taylor following an angry exchange at the end of the match. “I missed the stupid hair pull at Chelsea versus Tottenham which was pathetic from my point of view,” Dean told Simon Jordan’s Up Front podcast. “It’s one of them where if I had my time again, what would I do? I’d send Anthony (Taylor) to the screen. “I think I knew if I did send him to the screen…he’s cautioned both managers. “I said to Anthony afterwards: ‘I just didn’t want to send you to the screen after what has gone on in the game’. “I didn’t want to send him up because he is a mate as well as a referee and I think I didn’t want to send him up because I didn’t want any more grief than he already had.” Wirral-born Dean started his career as a top-flight referee in 2000 and went on to take charge of 553 Premier League matches. Dean retired from refereeing at the end of the 2021-22 campaign and became a dedicated Premier League VAR last season. But he was stood down from VAR duty for two months after the Stamford Bridge incident and admitted the role was something he ended up “dreading”. Dean said: “That was a major error. If they don’t score from the corner it is not as big an issue. “But I knew full well then I would be stood down the week after. I asked to take a bit of time off because it wasn’t for me. “I used to get in the car on a Friday and was dreading Saturday. I was thinking, ‘I hope nothing happens’. I used to be petrified sitting in the (VAR) chair.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Football rumours: Arsenal and Tottenham eye Ivan Toney once betting ban ends On this day in 2019: Ben Stokes seals an Ashes win for the ages Rory McIlroy three behind lead despite muscle spasms leading into tournament